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Thank You for Riding
The last train of the night might just be the start of something good.
A Strangers on a Train Story
Stung ego or not, Caitlin’s relieved her fizzling relationship is over, even if she’s just been unceremoniously dumped between the copier and a dead ficus tree. At least she has an excuse to ditch the lousy office Christmas party in time to catch the last subway home…to her cat, and early-onset spinsterhood.
Instead of a lonely, chilly ride, she gets an unexpected holiday treat in the form of a nearly familiar face—a handsome stranger she encountered last week at the blood drive.
At the end of the line, neither can seem to let their chance meeting end—until their extended flirtation finds them facing the prospect of spending a frigid winter night locked in an unheated subway station. And they wonder if keeping each other warm is merely a delightful form of rebound therapy…or a memorable first of many more dates to come.
Contains dorky, harmless flirtation that heats up into some spicy, third-base action.
72 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2013
13 people are currently reading
436 people want to read
About the author
Meg Maguire
31 books270 followersSince she began writing in 2008, Meg Maguire has published nearly forty romances and erotic novels with a variety of publishers, sometimes under the pen names Cara McKenna and C.M. McKenna. Her stories have been acclaimed for their smart, modern voice and defiance of convention. She was a 2015 RITA Award finalist, a 2014 RT Reviewers’ Choice Award winner, a 2012 and 2011 RT Reviewers’ Choice Award nominee, and a 2010 Golden Heart Award finalist. She lives with her husband and baby son in the Pacific Northwest, though she’ll always be a Boston girl at heart.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
March 22, 2019
Qué gustito da leer a esta mujer.
Este es un relato cuqui, divertido y sexy sobre dos desconocidos que se quedan encerrados una noche en el metro y para combatir el frío hacen unas guarreridas 🤣. Dentro de lo inverosímil de la situación (y de encontrarte un hombre tan maravilloso), Cara McKenna lo hace todo real y es muy agradable de leer. Ideal para limpiar la cabeza y disfrutar un ratito!
Este es un relato cuqui, divertido y sexy sobre dos desconocidos que se quedan encerrados una noche en el metro y para combatir el frío hacen unas guarreridas 🤣. Dentro de lo inverosímil de la situación (y de encontrarte un hombre tan maravilloso), Cara McKenna lo hace todo real y es muy agradable de leer. Ideal para limpiar la cabeza y disfrutar un ratito!
March 23, 2019
Mi primer libro de esta autora y lo cierro con una sonrisa en la boca y un 3,5. Se trata de una historia muy cortita y entretenida, que se lee en un plis y que tiene a un protagonista masculino maravilloso. Y aunque me ha sobrado un poco tanto monólogo interior de la protagonista femenina (sobre todo en los momentos más hot), lo recomiendo para pasar un buen rato.
Radio Patio #RetoAlicia Libro 3: Donde aparezca un gato, da igual que sea en la portada, en el título o como personaje
Radio Patio #RetoAlicia Libro 3: Donde aparezca un gato, da igual que sea en la portada, en el título o como personaje
April 8, 2013
Thank You For Riding is a short story written by author Meg Maguire. Meg Maguire writes smart and sexy romance under the same name and also writes smart sexy erotica under the name of Cara McKenna. An up front admission – I am a fan of Cara McKenna’s writing, regardless of what name she is writing under. I recently went on a “hunt” and bought several of her books simply because I was beyond excited to have her backlist just waiting for me on my e-reader (I am reading Trespass by Meg Maguire right now). I was first introduced to this author’s style and writing with Willing Victim. I have since read that novella maybe 4-5 times and I will likely read it again. I just finished After Hours and I plan to read it again soon. Okay, so now you know my dirty secret – I am more than a huge fan of Meg Maguire/Cara McKenna.
Why? What is so special about the way she writes? She is doing something new, unique and interesting in the romance genre. Her focus is not on getting to that perfect happily ever after ending. Instead, it is more about seeing how the characters interrelate, how they act in certain situations. Her stories are about the characters. So a romance without a happily ever after? Well, kinda but no and yes …. Maguire/McKenna delivers steam, sweetness, sexiness, great character snapshots and development and a happy ending. Whether the characters stay together for the long haul, well who knows and isn’t that more like real life anyway? So what else do I love about her books and what did I love about Thank You For Riding ….
Characters. Maguire is so good at writing characters. Her stories are about the characters rather than her characters being tools to tell a story. Not that plot driven stories are bad, but well, I just prefer character driven tales. So we have Caitlin, who is sort of stuck in her busy professional life and thanks to a mishap at a subway station gets decidedly and deliciously unstuck.
Coming together. Thank You for Riding, like many of Maguire’s books, is about two people meeting and coming together in a romantic sexy sort of way. You know that initial fun spark between two people who are attracted to each other? Well Thank You For Riding nails that feeling and the readers get to watch it unfold. Two people who are attracted to each other, meet a few times and eventually are officially drawn together. It is fun to watch.
Witty flirty, banter. Damn funny, this story is. I highlighted so many parts and went back and re-read them. Here is an example:
Captures real life/Real imaginable situations. Thank You For Riding is about two people working, donating blood and riding the subway. There is nothing exotic here, just normal life and that is somehow refreshing and completely engrossing.
Raw and real, not cookie cutter. Crappy stuff happens, embarrassing circumstances take place and Maguire writes them for her readers. These scenes seem to help readers get to know Caitlin, the main character, and appreciate her.
Man always always comes undone. She always does this so well. What is sexier than a man who is completely enraptured and out of control during love making that he comes undone and exposes his vulnerability? Not much in my opinion and Maguire knows how to write this so well. Readers of Thank You For Riding will not be disappointed.
So who would like this novella? Readers who enjoy sexiness and steam and like to see less than perfect characters in real life situations.
Check out this review and others like it at BadAssBookReviews
Why? What is so special about the way she writes? She is doing something new, unique and interesting in the romance genre. Her focus is not on getting to that perfect happily ever after ending. Instead, it is more about seeing how the characters interrelate, how they act in certain situations. Her stories are about the characters. So a romance without a happily ever after? Well, kinda but no and yes …. Maguire/McKenna delivers steam, sweetness, sexiness, great character snapshots and development and a happy ending. Whether the characters stay together for the long haul, well who knows and isn’t that more like real life anyway? So what else do I love about her books and what did I love about Thank You For Riding ….
Characters. Maguire is so good at writing characters. Her stories are about the characters rather than her characters being tools to tell a story. Not that plot driven stories are bad, but well, I just prefer character driven tales. So we have Caitlin, who is sort of stuck in her busy professional life and thanks to a mishap at a subway station gets decidedly and deliciously unstuck.
She ought to have a life outside of her clients’ balances and returns, but it was a hard habit to break.
Coming together. Thank You for Riding, like many of Maguire’s books, is about two people meeting and coming together in a romantic sexy sort of way. You know that initial fun spark between two people who are attracted to each other? Well Thank You For Riding nails that feeling and the readers get to watch it unfold. Two people who are attracted to each other, meet a few times and eventually are officially drawn together. It is fun to watch.
Wow. A cute, platelet-donating, library-card carrying man.
Witty flirty, banter. Damn funny, this story is. I highlighted so many parts and went back and re-read them. Here is an example:
I’d been willing you to ask me out with telepath, so really its my fault. You were just doing my bidding.
Captures real life/Real imaginable situations. Thank You For Riding is about two people working, donating blood and riding the subway. There is nothing exotic here, just normal life and that is somehow refreshing and completely engrossing.
Raw and real, not cookie cutter. Crappy stuff happens, embarrassing circumstances take place and Maguire writes them for her readers. These scenes seem to help readers get to know Caitlin, the main character, and appreciate her.
Did I mention I live alone with a cat? Just got dumped, workaholic who occasionally eats half a bag of shredded cheese for dinner? With chopsticks? Get on this hot mess with your man broom before someone else sweeps me up!
Man always always comes undone. She always does this so well. What is sexier than a man who is completely enraptured and out of control during love making that he comes undone and exposes his vulnerability? Not much in my opinion and Maguire knows how to write this so well. Readers of Thank You For Riding will not be disappointed.
So who would like this novella? Readers who enjoy sexiness and steam and like to see less than perfect characters in real life situations.
Check out this review and others like it at BadAssBookReviews
April 2, 2013
This is the most adorable novella ever. Oh the cuteness! While giving blood, Caitlin notices a very cute guy come in. He is a big, built guy, wearing paint-splattered jeans and is scared to watch the needle go in. He wears reading glasses and they kind of do an awkward flirting dance with their eyes as they both give blood. Caitlin feels slightly bad about this, as she has been seeing someone for a few months, so she leaves without making eye contact.
Soon afterwards, Caitlin decides to go all out and dress up super sexy for her company Christmas party. But instead of her boyfriend (who is also her co-worker) getting the hots for her, he dumps her. Depressed but not really (the relationship wasn’t that great), Caitlin leaves and grabs the late subway home. And guess who is also on the train? Mark from the blood donation center. They start chatting, a lot and eventually exchange numbers. But before they can even make it home to call the other one, they get trapped in the subway station after hours. It’s cold and windy but they make the most of it. And by that I mean they continue to have adorable flirting and then a make-out session.
This book only takes place over one night, but it works so well. Both Mark and Caitlin are just adorable. They have the best banter between them. And going from just meeting to making out works really well in this story.
The highlight for me though is Caitlin’s internal dialogue as she tells the story. Examples:
“Sleep. Lots and lots of sleep. And I got brunch at a café, since I haven’t had time to buy groceries since October. You?” Tell me how awesome I look. Say it all huskily, under your breath. All clandestine and horny.
AND…
Here, let me help you with that…How do you like your eggs? Call in sick to work and have sexy with you all day? Oh, Mark, I really mustn’t. But I will. Paint my front hall wearing nothing but your mangy work jeans, you say? Excuse me while I orgasm.
“Caitlin?”
She started, blinking to bring his face into focus.
She is adorable and their romance is super sweet. Only 70ish pages, but so worth the read!
Rating: A
Soon afterwards, Caitlin decides to go all out and dress up super sexy for her company Christmas party. But instead of her boyfriend (who is also her co-worker) getting the hots for her, he dumps her. Depressed but not really (the relationship wasn’t that great), Caitlin leaves and grabs the late subway home. And guess who is also on the train? Mark from the blood donation center. They start chatting, a lot and eventually exchange numbers. But before they can even make it home to call the other one, they get trapped in the subway station after hours. It’s cold and windy but they make the most of it. And by that I mean they continue to have adorable flirting and then a make-out session.
This book only takes place over one night, but it works so well. Both Mark and Caitlin are just adorable. They have the best banter between them. And going from just meeting to making out works really well in this story.
The highlight for me though is Caitlin’s internal dialogue as she tells the story. Examples:
“Sleep. Lots and lots of sleep. And I got brunch at a café, since I haven’t had time to buy groceries since October. You?” Tell me how awesome I look. Say it all huskily, under your breath. All clandestine and horny.
AND…
Here, let me help you with that…How do you like your eggs? Call in sick to work and have sexy with you all day? Oh, Mark, I really mustn’t. But I will. Paint my front hall wearing nothing but your mangy work jeans, you say? Excuse me while I orgasm.
“Caitlin?”
She started, blinking to bring his face into focus.
She is adorable and their romance is super sweet. Only 70ish pages, but so worth the read!
Rating: A
April 6, 2013
If you are looking for a light and fun read, look no further because this is it. This is witty, charming and it will have you cracking up in no time. Enjoy!
December 27, 2017
Cara McKenna can knock a novella into the park. With a Christmassy feel, this was unexpected wonderfulness and the heat was perfect.
December 27, 2017
What a fun, sexy, little gem this freebie was. While I thought the heroine's tendency to get a little ahead of herself in her head a bit much, and maybe it's a tad unrealistic to think their initial conversation on public transit would have them sharing so much life history, overall I really loved this holiday novella. It's a crazy bit of circumstance (locked in a subway station overnight, no ability to reach the outside world) but in an attempt to keep from freezing there is real heat and sweetness between these two almost-strangers; I really like the idea of them having this experience to kickstart a relationship.
3.75 "get on this hot mess with your man-broom before someone else sweeps me up" stars
3.75 "get on this hot mess with your man-broom before someone else sweeps me up" stars
December 28, 2017
That was so lovely, all the gorgeous writing of Cara McKenna in a bite-size form
March 31, 2013
THANK YOU FOR RIDING is my first Meg Maguire book, however I am a big fan of this author’s other work as Cara McKenna. Right off the bat, I noticed the differences in voice and writing style. Maguire’s writing is a little more upbeat and charming, with that little spice. It’s the perfect voice for a sweet story like this one.
These two lovebirds, Caitlin and Mark first meet at the Red Cross where they are both donating blood. Not your usual place you’d think for a romantic meet up, but I thought it was charming and very funny at the same time.
After a horrible breakup that leaves Caitlin both flabbergasted and undignified, she takes the subway home, expecting to just jump into bed with her cat and moap about. But there she runs into Mr. Cute and they hit it off!
THANK YOU FOR RIDING is a great, fun-filled story that brings forth the charm and seduction in spades! With a lovable heroine and a hero who can literally charm your pants off, this isn’t a story you want to miss. It will have you smiling and even laughing out loud; it’s playfulness will make you fall in love.
* ARC provided by publisher
March 28, 2022
Such a sweet story. Classic McKenna style of richly woven characters you want to spend more time with.
April 3, 2013
I found this charming and irritating in equal doses. The heroine kept referring to her womanly area and lady zone (or similar terms), which seemed like a joke but I wasn't sure. She considers herself flawed because 1. she got dumped 2. has a cat 3. eats shredded cheese out of a bag sometimes. Pfft. The hero struck me as a paragon with no flaws whatsoever. And yet I smiled throughout the story, enjoying the ride anyway.
February 26, 2019
A sexy little novella. Yes, it's insta. But Cara McKenna has such a way with writing that a mere kiss can be sexier and more intimate than most authors manage in an erotic sex scene.
December 15, 2021
One of the more inventive meet-disasters I’ve read in a while! Caitlin notices Mark while they’re both donating platelets. There’s some mild “across the room” flirtation but she has a boyfriend and that’s that. Then Caitlin’s boyfriend breaks up with her at the work holiday party (this is more of a holiday-adjacent romance) and she and Mark wind up on the same train home. And then disaster strikes when they’re locked in the subway station overnight! Oops. There was so much I enjoyed about this meet-disaster and the way their relationship evolved, although I was also shivering at the thought of being in a Boston subway station in December. I’m not sure I’d be capable of any sexy times in those conditions but good for them!
This was part of the Strangers on a Train series, which includes the stellar Big Boy by Ruthie Knox. It was originally published in 2013 and there were a number of things that didn’t age well. Most notable is Caitlin’s weird fixation about her company calling it a “holiday party” instead of a “Christmas party.” She was really riled up over what she deems as political correctness and kept bringing it up, which I would have found odd even in 2013 but especially now. What is the big deal about being more inclusive, Caitlin?! There’s a ton of gender essentialism and genitalia being referred to in very gendered ways (e.g. “lady-region”). She also thinks about sexually assaulting Mark if he doesn’t quit smiling at her a certain way—I don’t think she meant she’d really assault him but it’s still not great. Then there was her self-imposed internalized sexual shame and she actually asks him for permission to come because she thinks it’s happening too soon. Maybe that reflected some odd puritanical values within romance in 2013, which wasn’t that long ago but it’s the only thing I could think of.
Anyway, yay for a train meet-disaster, boo for all the stuff that robbed me of full enjoyment.
Characters: Caitlin is a white finance firm account manager. She has a cat named Sarge. Mark is a 32 year old white youth center sports coordinator. This is set in Boston.
Content notes: blood/platelet donation, internalized sexual shame, past death of sister (leukemia), on page sex, alcohol, multiple gendered euphemisms for genitalia (e.g. “lady-region,” “woman-area,” etc.), gender essentialism, ableist language
This was part of the Strangers on a Train series, which includes the stellar Big Boy by Ruthie Knox. It was originally published in 2013 and there were a number of things that didn’t age well. Most notable is Caitlin’s weird fixation about her company calling it a “holiday party” instead of a “Christmas party.” She was really riled up over what she deems as political correctness and kept bringing it up, which I would have found odd even in 2013 but especially now. What is the big deal about being more inclusive, Caitlin?! There’s a ton of gender essentialism and genitalia being referred to in very gendered ways (e.g. “lady-region”). She also thinks about sexually assaulting Mark if he doesn’t quit smiling at her a certain way—I don’t think she meant she’d really assault him but it’s still not great. Then there was her self-imposed internalized sexual shame and she actually asks him for permission to come because she thinks it’s happening too soon. Maybe that reflected some odd puritanical values within romance in 2013, which wasn’t that long ago but it’s the only thing I could think of.
Anyway, yay for a train meet-disaster, boo for all the stuff that robbed me of full enjoyment.
Characters: Caitlin is a white finance firm account manager. She has a cat named Sarge. Mark is a 32 year old white youth center sports coordinator. This is set in Boston.
Content notes: blood/platelet donation, internalized sexual shame, past death of sister (leukemia), on page sex, alcohol, multiple gendered euphemisms for genitalia (e.g. “lady-region,” “woman-area,” etc.), gender essentialism, ableist language
July 30, 2019
TOO SHORT-
November 13, 2020
Only flaw in this story is...that it is short! 4.5 ☆☆☆☆
I gave it -0.5 ☆ because it could really be longer, has potential, I need a sequel! Meg Maguire, please write more Mark and Caitlin! And winter stories!
It's cute, hot and congenial! I was a bit surprised how author managed to fit in so much in few chapters, but really, just as the story got better and better, it ENDED! :(
“Here.” He spread his legs wider and patted the floor between them. “You’ll be warmer, and I promise I won’t grope you or anything.”
Yes, because getting groped by a handsome, charming man hours after getting dumped by a workaholic iceberg was such a repulsive notion.
Talking with Mark: "Women can’t resist a man with strong squeezing hands. Tells us you must be great at, oh, I don’t know…making juice. Opening jars. Crushing beer cans."
Unique setting (train station) was so attractive,of course, we knew where it was leading, but still, it was hottttt!♥ Read it, you won't regret it.
I gave it -0.5 ☆ because it could really be longer, has potential, I need a sequel! Meg Maguire, please write more Mark and Caitlin! And winter stories!
It's cute, hot and congenial! I was a bit surprised how author managed to fit in so much in few chapters, but really, just as the story got better and better, it ENDED! :(
“Here.” He spread his legs wider and patted the floor between them. “You’ll be warmer, and I promise I won’t grope you or anything.”
Yes, because getting groped by a handsome, charming man hours after getting dumped by a workaholic iceberg was such a repulsive notion.
Talking with Mark: "Women can’t resist a man with strong squeezing hands. Tells us you must be great at, oh, I don’t know…making juice. Opening jars. Crushing beer cans."
Unique setting (train station) was so attractive,of course, we knew where it was leading, but still, it was hottttt!♥ Read it, you won't regret it.
April 11, 2013
Hands down, without a doubt, my favorite in the entire series. I love, love, love Maguire's writing. She has this amazing knack of bringing characters to life that make them seem real and approachable and relatable. I loved how Mark and Caitlin met. Their interaction had me grinning from ear to ear. As did all subsequent interactions. Seriously. Meg has a wonderful, magical way of making me cheese like a fool when I read any of her writing.
The only thing I didn't like? Well, my e-book said I was at 83% when I actually finished the story. EPIC disappointment. I thought we still had another date coming between our H/h. Alas, she left me wanting more, which is better than me wishing it'd just end already.
The only thing I didn't like? Well, my e-book said I was at 83% when I actually finished the story. EPIC disappointment. I thought we still had another date coming between our H/h. Alas, she left me wanting more, which is better than me wishing it'd just end already.
September 20, 2013
Fun, hot and amazing read.
This and other reviews can also be found on my blog (un)Conventional Bookviews.
Caitlin has big hopes for her company’s holiday party she wants to spend some quality time with her boyfriend, and has even bought him an expensive present. In Thank you for Riding, however, things do not go according to Caitlin’s plans.
This and other reviews can also be found on my blog (un)Conventional Bookviews.
Caitlin has big hopes for her company’s holiday party she wants to spend some quality time with her boyfriend, and has even bought him an expensive present. In Thank you for Riding, however, things do not go according to Caitlin’s plans.
December 24, 2014
LOVED the banter between the hero and heroine. Fun, cute, and flirty. Heroine's thoughts took the relationship WAY further than I expected though - especially that early in their meeting (ie., they'd just said a few sentences to each other). I wanted more at the end. More, more, more. I was actually surprised it ended when it did. This is really just the meet cute.
July 23, 2016
I want more!!! ahh it sucks when you love a short story *sigh*
This book is amazing, the main characters are real people! like real everyday living human beings.
Forget the Billionaires, Bikers and Rock-stars for a while and delve in the story that this Author made.
its hilarious, sexy and something to relate too. I want my Mr. Cute too hehehe♥♥♥
This book is amazing, the main characters are real people! like real everyday living human beings.
Forget the Billionaires, Bikers and Rock-stars for a while and delve in the story that this Author made.
its hilarious, sexy and something to relate too. I want my Mr. Cute too hehehe♥♥♥
May 11, 2013
This is a very short read, but really delightful. Maybe 5 stars are too much, but 4 stars are not enough! I fell in love with the characters caught overnight in the freezing train station and now would love to know more as their relationship develops.
December 17, 2015
Funny heroine. I wish it were longer and we go to see the hero's POV but the heroine was entertaining enough for me to stick it out for this short length so it worked.
Gotta find more from this author...
Gotta find more from this author...
April 20, 2013
Was sad when it ended.
July 5, 2015
Sweet novella with a HFN; 3.5 stars.
May 5, 2022
Novela muy cortita (¡no llega a las cien páginas!) y que originalmente se publicó bajo el nombre de Meg Maguire en abril de 2013. Cara McKenna la revisó y la publicó en digital bajo su propio nombre en diciembre de 2017. Esta es la versión que yo leí.
Caitlin y Mark se conocerán en el metro (o tren ligero, no sé). Empiezan a hablar, se gustan, compartirán unas memorables horas que sin darse cuenta, pasará a ser su primera cita. Una historia muy cuqui, con unos personajes reales como la vida misma. La autora refleja muy bien la forma fluida de hablar de la gente normal, el flirteo, o tonteo, o simplemente nos estamos conociendo,… ¡Qué auténtico suena todo…! De verdad, las aficionadas a romántica no necesitamos príncipes ni princesas, ni superdeportistas o megaestrellas del pop, ni millonarios, no,... Se puede crear erótica muy intensa con personas normales.
Reseña algo más extensa, en mi blog.
Caitlin y Mark se conocerán en el metro (o tren ligero, no sé). Empiezan a hablar, se gustan, compartirán unas memorables horas que sin darse cuenta, pasará a ser su primera cita. Una historia muy cuqui, con unos personajes reales como la vida misma. La autora refleja muy bien la forma fluida de hablar de la gente normal, el flirteo, o tonteo, o simplemente nos estamos conociendo,… ¡Qué auténtico suena todo…! De verdad, las aficionadas a romántica no necesitamos príncipes ni princesas, ni superdeportistas o megaestrellas del pop, ni millonarios, no,... Se puede crear erótica muy intensa con personas normales.
Reseña algo más extensa, en mi blog.
September 18, 2023
This was cute for like a prologue, I wish there was more to it. I love how McKenna writes conversations, the just seem so organic. Caitlin’s inner dialogue seemed like a normal thought process a woman has while making out with someone for the first time. Kind of disappointed there wasn’t more than hand stuff, it is Cara McKenna for crying out loud
January 28, 2019
This was a sweet short story. Really enjoyed the characters and the context! Satisfying read right to the end without the ubiquitous epiloguing! Caitlyn was funny and realistic and Mark was smokin' hot and super sweet. Great story! Could have finished faster if life didn't get in the way!
December 18, 2017
Loved it! Sweet, funny, and sexy.
March 17, 2013
Reviewed for Sara at www.HarlequinJunkie.com! :D
Review copy courtesy of the publisher.
Thank You for Riding by Meg Maguire rounded out my Strangers on a Train series. Although I had a couple of minor issues with this novella, I still really enjoyed it!
Caitlin is a thoroughly modern woman, in every sense of the word. Especially in the Sexy Time sense. She knows what she wants/needs and she's planning on gettin' it! LOL! Caitlin works in finance and apparently, the finance world is SUPER busy towards the end of the year, which is when this book takes place. So she's been working like 70-hour work weeks for the past few weeks and she is beyond ready for some down time. Her first order of business would be to spend time with her boyfriend but she has to attend a company Holiday Party first. But she's hoping that since her boyfriend works in the same office, maybe she can get "lucky" before they even leave! As you can tell from reading the blurb, things don't work out the way Caitlin had hoped and soon, she's on her way home, on the last train of the night. The more I read, the more I liked Caitlin. But at first, I thought she was a little abrasive maybe? And her inner monologues sounded like the author was trying way to hard to make her hip or cool. Like I was reading a novel written by Diablo Cody or something. It was a little much. But as I got to know Caitlin a little better, her sense of humor really came through and you know I'm a sucker for some funny in my romance!
But you can't have a romance without a partner, right? Well, that's where Mark comes in. Caitlin spotted him across the walkway while they were both donating blood and they engaged in a little harmless flirting. But now after she's had a crappy night, she finds a wonderful surprise on the train - Mark is taking the same way home! I thought Mark was great. He was maybe a teeny tiny bit too much of a goody-two-shoes but I think most people would really like Mark. He donates blood and works with kids at the youth program. What's not to like? Also, he has a hilarious sense of humor. He and Caitlin hit it off immediately on the train and they have a great time chatting during the ride.
But when they get locked inside the train/subway station, things get a little iffy. Nevermind that it's freezing out and Caitlin is wearing a sexy little dress that doesn't keep her very warm. The issue is going to be the attraction between them and Caitlin's raging hormones. Is she going to be able to keep her hands off of him? Would he want her to keep her hands off of him? Well, you won't find out from me! You'll have to read this one to find out!
Overall, I enjoyed this novella. Again, I didn't love Caitlin's inner monologue at first. I really think this girl was seriously sex-starved. But it gets much better, especially when Caitlin calls herself a freak after having some naughty mental images about her and Mark. Too funny. The only other thing I didn't like is that the book ended at 88%. After that 88% was the bio on the author and ads/snippets of other books. I really don't like that. I felt like I was going to get more of Caitlin and Mark but nope. Its over and done with. Even with those two issues, I would still wholeheartedly recommend this book. There are no tears but plenty of chuckles and laugh out loud moments to be had. Give this one a try; I think you just might love it!
Review copy courtesy of the publisher.
Thank You for Riding by Meg Maguire rounded out my Strangers on a Train series. Although I had a couple of minor issues with this novella, I still really enjoyed it!
Caitlin is a thoroughly modern woman, in every sense of the word. Especially in the Sexy Time sense. She knows what she wants/needs and she's planning on gettin' it! LOL! Caitlin works in finance and apparently, the finance world is SUPER busy towards the end of the year, which is when this book takes place. So she's been working like 70-hour work weeks for the past few weeks and she is beyond ready for some down time. Her first order of business would be to spend time with her boyfriend but she has to attend a company Holiday Party first. But she's hoping that since her boyfriend works in the same office, maybe she can get "lucky" before they even leave! As you can tell from reading the blurb, things don't work out the way Caitlin had hoped and soon, she's on her way home, on the last train of the night. The more I read, the more I liked Caitlin. But at first, I thought she was a little abrasive maybe? And her inner monologues sounded like the author was trying way to hard to make her hip or cool. Like I was reading a novel written by Diablo Cody or something. It was a little much. But as I got to know Caitlin a little better, her sense of humor really came through and you know I'm a sucker for some funny in my romance!
But you can't have a romance without a partner, right? Well, that's where Mark comes in. Caitlin spotted him across the walkway while they were both donating blood and they engaged in a little harmless flirting. But now after she's had a crappy night, she finds a wonderful surprise on the train - Mark is taking the same way home! I thought Mark was great. He was maybe a teeny tiny bit too much of a goody-two-shoes but I think most people would really like Mark. He donates blood and works with kids at the youth program. What's not to like? Also, he has a hilarious sense of humor. He and Caitlin hit it off immediately on the train and they have a great time chatting during the ride.
But when they get locked inside the train/subway station, things get a little iffy. Nevermind that it's freezing out and Caitlin is wearing a sexy little dress that doesn't keep her very warm. The issue is going to be the attraction between them and Caitlin's raging hormones. Is she going to be able to keep her hands off of him? Would he want her to keep her hands off of him? Well, you won't find out from me! You'll have to read this one to find out!
Overall, I enjoyed this novella. Again, I didn't love Caitlin's inner monologue at first. I really think this girl was seriously sex-starved. But it gets much better, especially when Caitlin calls herself a freak after having some naughty mental images about her and Mark. Too funny. The only other thing I didn't like is that the book ended at 88%. After that 88% was the bio on the author and ads/snippets of other books. I really don't like that. I felt like I was going to get more of Caitlin and Mark but nope. Its over and done with. Even with those two issues, I would still wholeheartedly recommend this book. There are no tears but plenty of chuckles and laugh out loud moments to be had. Give this one a try; I think you just might love it!
March 28, 2013
Review originally posted at http://fictionvixen.com/review-thank-...
The first time Caitlin met Mark they were both sitting in the Red Cross donating platelets. They share a brief flirtation from across the room, mouthing words to each other, sharing a laugh and admiring the other’s ability to squeeze their stress balls. Caitlin leaves without finding out her handsome stranger’s name. She’s an overworked account manager at a financial firm, with a boyfriend she never sees and nothing but a cat to come home to at night. She leaves the donation center thinking of the good-looking man, but never expecting to see him again.
The second time Caitlin met Mark she’s getting on the train heading home after a disastrous office holiday party. Being dumped near the copy machine by your distant co-worker/boyfriend is not the best way to stay in the holiday spirit. Instead of the depressing ride home she expects, she hears someone saying hello. A familiar face greets her, the hottie from the Red Cross sits down next to her and they start-up a conversation. Mark is a youth counselor and sports coach at the local Y, he’s charming, handsome and quite funny. They have a wonderful, witty banter between the two of them and neither wants to say goodnight. After walking slowly and agreeing to exchange numbers they find themselves locked in the train station after closing hours with only each other to snuggle up to.
I loved Caitlyn, she has these wonderful conversations with herself inside her own head:
Caitlyn and Mark share a chilly night in the train station, where they do a lot of kissing and making out. Since this is a short story, only about 70 pages, I liked the fact that these two only get to rounding third base. A lot of making out, some dry humping, and plenty of talking and getting to know each other. They have a lovely chemistry. There isn’t an HEA, but more a “I can’t wait to see you again” ending. I’d like to think they ended up falling in love and having those 9 kids they were joking about. Final Grade: B
Favorite Quote:
The first time Caitlin met Mark they were both sitting in the Red Cross donating platelets. They share a brief flirtation from across the room, mouthing words to each other, sharing a laugh and admiring the other’s ability to squeeze their stress balls. Caitlin leaves without finding out her handsome stranger’s name. She’s an overworked account manager at a financial firm, with a boyfriend she never sees and nothing but a cat to come home to at night. She leaves the donation center thinking of the good-looking man, but never expecting to see him again.
The second time Caitlin met Mark she’s getting on the train heading home after a disastrous office holiday party. Being dumped near the copy machine by your distant co-worker/boyfriend is not the best way to stay in the holiday spirit. Instead of the depressing ride home she expects, she hears someone saying hello. A familiar face greets her, the hottie from the Red Cross sits down next to her and they start-up a conversation. Mark is a youth counselor and sports coach at the local Y, he’s charming, handsome and quite funny. They have a wonderful, witty banter between the two of them and neither wants to say goodnight. After walking slowly and agreeing to exchange numbers they find themselves locked in the train station after closing hours with only each other to snuggle up to.
I loved Caitlyn, she has these wonderful conversations with herself inside her own head:
What if he never wants to see you again after you show him you’re tacky enough t make out with him in a subway station?
Fuck you, rational brain. I thought we were feminists.
Caitlyn and Mark share a chilly night in the train station, where they do a lot of kissing and making out. Since this is a short story, only about 70 pages, I liked the fact that these two only get to rounding third base. A lot of making out, some dry humping, and plenty of talking and getting to know each other. They have a lovely chemistry. There isn’t an HEA, but more a “I can’t wait to see you again” ending. I’d like to think they ended up falling in love and having those 9 kids they were joking about. Final Grade: B
Favorite Quote:
I’m going to kiss him again soon, she decided. Kiss him hello before dim sum on a weekend morning, kiss him thank you afterward and taste salt and spices on his lips. Or if all things went well, kiss him good night. Or if they went really well, kiss him awake the next morning.
April 6, 2013
Caitlin has been crazy busy at work for the last couple of months, putting in 70 hour weeks that left her exhausted and with very little time or energy to socialise. She is looking forward to taking a break over the holidays and is hoping to reconnect with her boyfriend who she has hardly seen even though they work in the same office. It comes as quite a shock when he dumps her at the Christmas party but if she's honest she can't really find it in herself to be all that upset about losing him, she's more annoyed at the circumstances and that she didn't see it coming. Catching the train home alone she bumps into Mark, a guy that she's only seen from a distance before but someone that she hasn't been able to get out of her mind. When the two of them are stranded together in an empty train station they need to get close to stay warm but is the passion that flares between them going to burn out quickly or could it be the start of something more?
Thank You for Riding is one of the five stories in the Strangers on a Train series published by Samhain, each of the stories has been written by a different author (the authors involved in the collaboration are Ruthie Knox, Meg Maguire, Serena Bell, Donna Cummings & Samantha Hunter) and is currently available as an ebook but I believe there will be a print bind up containing the whole series published sometime next year. These stories can be read in any order, they are linked only by the common theme that each couple start out as strangers who meet each other on a train, so there is no cross over of characters or story lines.
This was my favourite story in the Strangers on a Train series, Caitlin and Mark are just so cute together and I loved the way they bantered with each other. They had an instant connection but it was done in a believable way, they fancied the pants of each other but they got on well too and although we only see them get a happy for now I could believe that they had a future together. In fact I'd love to revisit them further down the line and see how they're getting on! Thank You for Riding was laugh out loud funny, had great characters and just enough spice to raise my temperature and I can't recommend it highly enough. This is a perfect story for when you're looking for something light hearted and fun that can be read in about an hour.
Thank You for Riding is one of the five stories in the Strangers on a Train series published by Samhain, each of the stories has been written by a different author (the authors involved in the collaboration are Ruthie Knox, Meg Maguire, Serena Bell, Donna Cummings & Samantha Hunter) and is currently available as an ebook but I believe there will be a print bind up containing the whole series published sometime next year. These stories can be read in any order, they are linked only by the common theme that each couple start out as strangers who meet each other on a train, so there is no cross over of characters or story lines.
This was my favourite story in the Strangers on a Train series, Caitlin and Mark are just so cute together and I loved the way they bantered with each other. They had an instant connection but it was done in a believable way, they fancied the pants of each other but they got on well too and although we only see them get a happy for now I could believe that they had a future together. In fact I'd love to revisit them further down the line and see how they're getting on! Thank You for Riding was laugh out loud funny, had great characters and just enough spice to raise my temperature and I can't recommend it highly enough. This is a perfect story for when you're looking for something light hearted and fun that can be read in about an hour.
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