What do you think?
Rate this book
Madden Brothers #2
The Heat Is On
Oh, dear. Bella Manchelli is "so" not having a good day. First, she's deliciously exhausted from last night's sizzling one-night stand. Second, there's a (gulp) dead body at her back door. Third...um, that scrumptious one-nighter is at her front door... and he's wearing a badge!Police Officer Jacob Madden is all about duty. Until he shows up looking for a homicide...and runs right into last night's slice of sexy heaven! Damn, he just can't think straight when he's around Bella. All he wants to do is lick her up one side and down the other....
Can duty and smoking-hot sex blend for a while? Definitely! Until Jacob discovers that several of the guys Bella's dated have turned up dead. Jacob loves being around Bella. But is he ready to be used as target practice?
Can duty and smoking-hot sex blend for a while? Definitely! Until Jacob discovers that several of the guys Bella's dated have turned up dead. Jacob loves being around Bella. But is he ready to be used as target practice?
464 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
59 people are currently reading
1373 people want to read
About the author
Jill Shalvis
386 books13.8k followersJill Shalvis is a NYT, USA Today, and Amazon Top 100 bestselling author of small-town romance and romcoms, known for big feels, found family, and plenty of shenanigans.
If you love small-town chaos, meddling friends and neighbors, sizzling chemistry, and heroes who fall hard for the one woman they absolutely did not plan on, you’re in the right place. Jill’s books blend laugh-out-loud moments with emotional gut punches, slow-burn tension, and deeply earned happily ever afters.
She writes the stories she loves to read: small-town romance and romantic comedies packed with heart, heat, second chances, grumpy/sunshine sparks, and the kind of found-family vibes that make you want to move right into the pages. Many of her series are perfect for binge-reading, and a number of her books are available in Kindle Unlimited and at major retailers.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably plotting new ways to torture her characters, avoiding laundry, or daydreaming about fictional men and the strong, complicated women who bring them to their knees—and then making them work for it.
You can follow Jill here on Goodreads to keep up with new releases, add her books to your shelves, and discover which small town you want to get lost in next.
If you love small-town chaos, meddling friends and neighbors, sizzling chemistry, and heroes who fall hard for the one woman they absolutely did not plan on, you’re in the right place. Jill’s books blend laugh-out-loud moments with emotional gut punches, slow-burn tension, and deeply earned happily ever afters.
She writes the stories she loves to read: small-town romance and romantic comedies packed with heart, heat, second chances, grumpy/sunshine sparks, and the kind of found-family vibes that make you want to move right into the pages. Many of her series are perfect for binge-reading, and a number of her books are available in Kindle Unlimited and at major retailers.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably plotting new ways to torture her characters, avoiding laundry, or daydreaming about fictional men and the strong, complicated women who bring them to their knees—and then making them work for it.
You can follow Jill here on Goodreads to keep up with new releases, add her books to your shelves, and discover which small town you want to get lost in next.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
August 19, 2010
I really like Jill Shalvis's writing. She knows how to write fun and sexy stories with very likable characters, and The Heat Is On was no exception. Jacob and Bella's chemistry was off the charts but believable, and I was very satisfied with their HEA. The mystery surrounding the dead body found at her back door was easy to figure out, but that was OK since the main focus of this story is the romance between Jacob and Bella. All in all, this was another good read by one of my favorite authors.
Note: Jacob was introduced in "Friendly Fire", one of the short stories from the anthology Born on the 4th of July. Cord, the hero in that story, is one of Jacob's brothers. They have two other brothers, Austin and Wyatt, and I hope Ms. Shalvis writes their stories soon. After all, they're still single and need to find their HEA...
Note: Jacob was introduced in "Friendly Fire", one of the short stories from the anthology Born on the 4th of July. Cord, the hero in that story, is one of Jacob's brothers. They have two other brothers, Austin and Wyatt, and I hope Ms. Shalvis writes their stories soon. After all, they're still single and need to find their HEA...
January 23, 2013
[image error]
★★★★☆ (This is a review of the audiobook.) It isn’t easy to read steamy romance; not every reader can pull it off. Nevertheless, Gayle Hendrix does a really nice job on this one. I’ve never heard her read before, but I went as far as to see what else she has narrated. She does a nice job with inflection and conveying those notes in a character’s voice when they think something is funny, worrisome, sad, perplexing, sexy, or ironic.
Isabella Manchelli – or Bella – isn’t one to stick around any place for very long. She is currently working as a baker in Santa Rey, California. Though she’s just passing through, she signed up for Eight Dates in Eight Nights. The previous evening she finally hit the jackpot that ended with a sinfully wonderful one-night-stand, which has left a wide grin on her face.
However, the dead body at the back door of Bliss Cakes & Pastries wipes it off. Can you guess who shows up to investigative. Yup. Mr. Tall, Dark and Drop-dead Sexy – better known as Detective Jacob Madden.
I’ve long been a fan of author Jill Shalvis, and Harlequin Blaze’s “The Heat Is On” is surprisingly steamy. Though there is no great mystery here, or in-depth character study, the hero and heroine are likable and it caused me a few smiles, mainly because Ms. Shalvis chooses just the right phrases for their dialogues.
★★★★☆ (This is a review of the audiobook.) It isn’t easy to read steamy romance; not every reader can pull it off. Nevertheless, Gayle Hendrix does a really nice job on this one. I’ve never heard her read before, but I went as far as to see what else she has narrated. She does a nice job with inflection and conveying those notes in a character’s voice when they think something is funny, worrisome, sad, perplexing, sexy, or ironic.
Isabella Manchelli – or Bella – isn’t one to stick around any place for very long. She is currently working as a baker in Santa Rey, California. Though she’s just passing through, she signed up for Eight Dates in Eight Nights. The previous evening she finally hit the jackpot that ended with a sinfully wonderful one-night-stand, which has left a wide grin on her face.
However, the dead body at the back door of Bliss Cakes & Pastries wipes it off. Can you guess who shows up to investigative. Yup. Mr. Tall, Dark and Drop-dead Sexy – better known as Detective Jacob Madden.
I’ve long been a fan of author Jill Shalvis, and Harlequin Blaze’s “The Heat Is On” is surprisingly steamy. Though there is no great mystery here, or in-depth character study, the hero and heroine are likable and it caused me a few smiles, mainly because Ms. Shalvis chooses just the right phrases for their dialogues.
August 22, 2019
The chemistry between pastry chef Bella Manchelli and police officer Jacob Madden worked well, although it didn’t sizzle and snap of the pages. The romance component of this book was quite nice, the suspense part a little meh. Jacob and Bella’s interactions were meant to be confined to just a one night stand, at least as far as Bella was concerned, but when she finds a dead body on her doorstep, Jacob and she cross paths once again, and as danger gets closer and closer to Bella, she finds herself unable to resist the attraction/connection she feels towards Jacob.
The start of this had me smiling, especially as I appreciate good chocolate as much as Bella seems to – I did just about resist the urge to get up and get some (I know such self-control).
I also rather enjoyed the interactions between Jacob and his brothers. The conversation between Bella and the bad guy near the end had me grinning, simply because the villain was so ridiculous/deluded.
99p on Amazon 21st August 2019.
The start of this had me smiling, especially as I appreciate good chocolate as much as Bella seems to – I did just about resist the urge to get up and get some (I know such self-control).
I also rather enjoyed the interactions between Jacob and his brothers. The conversation between Bella and the bad guy near the end had me grinning, simply because the villain was so ridiculous/deluded.
99p on Amazon 21st August 2019.
April 10, 2012
I cannot believe I didn't read this book before, it was a pretty good read and connected to a novella I read, as in the hero here has a lot of brother's and I have read the stories of one brother, I do hope there are stories in store for the others.
Anyways, the heroine is a pastry chef for now, she has this travel gene and not putting down roots. She comes from a big family and being the youngest felt kind of rootless even though she knows her family adores her. She likes her new job and friends but isn't sure she is gonna stay and when the book opens she is working while reminiscing about the date that didn't end up until the wee hours of the morning and then she finds a dead body and runs into the guy she spent the night with since he is the Detective on the case.
The hero is shocked to see her and immediately discloses to his superiors his conflict of interest. Being a cop he has see relationships fail since his job demands a lot and he wants to keep things casual, for some reason their chemistry is scorching and they can't keep their hands off each other.
It turns out that someone is targeting the men the heroine dated. What I enjoyed was that we saw these two share a deeper connection as time passed even with the sex and we also see the heroine panicking about her growing feelings and attempt to pull back, so no miraculous cure for her commitment issues. All in all I liked the book, it was short, sweet and sexy.
Anyways, the heroine is a pastry chef for now, she has this travel gene and not putting down roots. She comes from a big family and being the youngest felt kind of rootless even though she knows her family adores her. She likes her new job and friends but isn't sure she is gonna stay and when the book opens she is working while reminiscing about the date that didn't end up until the wee hours of the morning and then she finds a dead body and runs into the guy she spent the night with since he is the Detective on the case.
The hero is shocked to see her and immediately discloses to his superiors his conflict of interest. Being a cop he has see relationships fail since his job demands a lot and he wants to keep things casual, for some reason their chemistry is scorching and they can't keep their hands off each other.
It turns out that someone is targeting the men the heroine dated. What I enjoyed was that we saw these two share a deeper connection as time passed even with the sex and we also see the heroine panicking about her growing feelings and attempt to pull back, so no miraculous cure for her commitment issues. All in all I liked the book, it was short, sweet and sexy.
January 4, 2019
Harlequin kedua yang kubaca di awal tahun XD sekali lagi dapat payung cantik! Jadi gimana yah, buku ini berisi 70% konten dewasa 30% misteri pembunuhan. Bercerita tentang Bella dan teman kencannya yang dikenal melalui biro perjodohan delapan hari, di mana pria kedelapan adalah satu-satunya pria yang melaju ke tahap selanjutnya, ehm. Dan pria yang beruntung itu adalah Jacob, seorang detektif kepolisian.
Berharap kisah mereka hanya sekadar cinta satu malam saja, rupanya pertemuan kembali berlanjut dikarenakan ada insiden pembunuhan di depan toko kue tempat Bella bekerja. Malam-malam berikutnya bisa ditebak sendiri kejadiannya seperti apa. Dan rupanya, pembunuhan kembali terjadi, dan seterusnya, mengikuti porsi persentase cerita yang sudah kusinggung di atas. Seru sih, pertanyaan tentang siapa pelaku pembunuhan bisa menjadi pengikat supaya terus membacanya hingga akhir.
Berharap kisah mereka hanya sekadar cinta satu malam saja, rupanya pertemuan kembali berlanjut dikarenakan ada insiden pembunuhan di depan toko kue tempat Bella bekerja. Malam-malam berikutnya bisa ditebak sendiri kejadiannya seperti apa. Dan rupanya, pembunuhan kembali terjadi, dan seterusnya, mengikuti porsi persentase cerita yang sudah kusinggung di atas. Seru sih, pertanyaan tentang siapa pelaku pembunuhan bisa menjadi pengikat supaya terus membacanya hingga akhir.
August 27, 2010
It's been a while since I read a Blaze romance, but I still enjoy the light and easy reads Harlequin has to offer. This was a hot little story with some suspense thrown in the mix. The killer/stalker storyline was a bit simple and too easy to figure out, but that was okay. Jacob's and Bella's chemistry made up for that entirely! Both were great protags and together they were smexy! My only niggle concerns the wrap-up of Bella and Jacob's HEA: I thought that the 'misunderstanding' was a bit artificial and drawn out too much and then suddenly (with one voicemail message) all was solved in a blink of the eye. But Jill Shalvis' writing is a delight. I've enjoyed a few of her other Blaze books and her sports contemporary Double Play. Her writing is just so witty, funny and sexy. I'm looking forward to the stories of Jacob's brothers.
February 7, 2012
3.25/5; 3 stars; B
This was the first Jill Shalvis book I've ever read. I wanted to check her out after reading good reviews by several people I follow on GR. This was the only one on the shelf at my library so I picked it up.
It was a well done, fast paced contemporary romance. I liked it. I liked this author and definitely want to read more of her.
This was the first Jill Shalvis book I've ever read. I wanted to check her out after reading good reviews by several people I follow on GR. This was the only one on the shelf at my library so I picked it up.
It was a well done, fast paced contemporary romance. I liked it. I liked this author and definitely want to read more of her.
March 16, 2017
Pas membaca buku ini, dan melihat nama tokohnya Bella dan Jacob, saya harap-harap cemas jangan-jangan ini fan fictionnya Twilight lagi...
Bella menjalani Delapan Kencan dari biro perjodohan. Dan baru semalam dia mengakhiri kencan ke-delapannya dengan perasaan puas. Mungkin lebih dari puas. Tapi sudah menjadi kebiasaan Bella untuk tidak menetap di suatu tempat, termasuk di Santa Rey ini. Jadi, dia berbohong akan pindah ke Siberia kepada pria tinggi, berkulit gelap dan seksi setengah mati itu.
Tapi ternyata Bella ditakdirkan bertemu kembali dengan Jacob, pria kencan ke-delapannya.Bella menemukan mayat di depan toko kue tempatnya bekerja, dan tentu saja Jacob sebagai detektif di Santa Rey yang menjawab panggilan dari 911. Namun karena keterlibatan personal dengan Bella, Jacob harus melepas kasus itu.
Bukan berarti Jacob tidak lagi bertemu dengan Bella. Mayat yang ditemukan di depan toko itu ternyata salah satu kencan Bella. Penembakan berikutnya yang terjadi juga masih berhubungan dengan kencan Bella. Nyawa Bella terancam, dan Jacob memastikan keamanan dan keselamatan Bella. Selain dia tidak bisa benar-benar melepaskan diri dari Bella. Setiap berada di dekat Bella, yang terbayang hanyalah bagaimana mereka sangat cocok bersama.
Lucunya novel ini karena heroine-nya yang tidak bisa betah di satu tempat dan menunjukkan ciri-ciri anti komitmen. Sementara hero-nya sebaliknya. Padahal biasanya kan hero-nya yang anti komitmen. Ketika mereka melanjutkan kencan semalam menjadi dua malam, tiga malam dan beberapa malam berikutnya Bella dan Jacob mulai merasakan kebutuhan yang berbeda satu sama lain.
Dialognya lucu, dan adegan steamy-nya bertaburan nyaris sepanjang novelnya. Nggak heran sih...soalnya ini salah satu Harlequin Blaze. Cerita yang sexy dengan sedikit unsur suspense di dalamnya. Sepertinya saya akan melirik karya Jill Shalvis lainnya.
Bella menjalani Delapan Kencan dari biro perjodohan. Dan baru semalam dia mengakhiri kencan ke-delapannya dengan perasaan puas. Mungkin lebih dari puas. Tapi sudah menjadi kebiasaan Bella untuk tidak menetap di suatu tempat, termasuk di Santa Rey ini. Jadi, dia berbohong akan pindah ke Siberia kepada pria tinggi, berkulit gelap dan seksi setengah mati itu.
Tapi ternyata Bella ditakdirkan bertemu kembali dengan Jacob, pria kencan ke-delapannya.Bella menemukan mayat di depan toko kue tempatnya bekerja, dan tentu saja Jacob sebagai detektif di Santa Rey yang menjawab panggilan dari 911. Namun karena keterlibatan personal dengan Bella, Jacob harus melepas kasus itu.
Bukan berarti Jacob tidak lagi bertemu dengan Bella. Mayat yang ditemukan di depan toko itu ternyata salah satu kencan Bella. Penembakan berikutnya yang terjadi juga masih berhubungan dengan kencan Bella. Nyawa Bella terancam, dan Jacob memastikan keamanan dan keselamatan Bella. Selain dia tidak bisa benar-benar melepaskan diri dari Bella. Setiap berada di dekat Bella, yang terbayang hanyalah bagaimana mereka sangat cocok bersama.
Lucunya novel ini karena heroine-nya yang tidak bisa betah di satu tempat dan menunjukkan ciri-ciri anti komitmen. Sementara hero-nya sebaliknya. Padahal biasanya kan hero-nya yang anti komitmen. Ketika mereka melanjutkan kencan semalam menjadi dua malam, tiga malam dan beberapa malam berikutnya Bella dan Jacob mulai merasakan kebutuhan yang berbeda satu sama lain.
Dialognya lucu, dan adegan steamy-nya bertaburan nyaris sepanjang novelnya. Nggak heran sih...soalnya ini salah satu Harlequin Blaze. Cerita yang sexy dengan sedikit unsur suspense di dalamnya. Sepertinya saya akan melirik karya Jill Shalvis lainnya.
April 3, 2019
Isabella memang sedang ketiban sial. Saat koki pembuat kue yg cantik ini sedang berkencan dgn pria ke-8, alias si detektif seksi Jacob Madden, dia "dihadiahkan" sesosok mayat di depan pintu rumahnya.
Sialnya lagi mayat tsb adalah salah satu dari 8 pria yg dikencaninya selama 8 hr lagi. Sudah jadi tugas Jacob utk menyelidikinya. Masalahnya dia tidak bisa menjauhkan tangannya dari Bella.
Dan saat Jacob ditembak, hebatnya libido Jacob tetap kencang. Bella menjadi sukarelawati yg merawat Jacob di rumahnya. Tapi saat Jacob hanya menganggap hubungan kasual, Bella merasa sudah saatnya dirinya pergi dari Santa Rey.
Sedangkan si pembunuh tetap berkeliaran. Siapakah si tersangka tsb?
Alurnya ringan saja, khas Harlequin. Tetapi banyak cipoa-nya juga spt Jacob yg kena luka tembak bisa "main" 3 kali dgn Bella. Staminanya sungguh luar biasa. Lumayan hot utk ukuran HQ.
Sialnya lagi mayat tsb adalah salah satu dari 8 pria yg dikencaninya selama 8 hr lagi. Sudah jadi tugas Jacob utk menyelidikinya. Masalahnya dia tidak bisa menjauhkan tangannya dari Bella.
Dan saat Jacob ditembak, hebatnya libido Jacob tetap kencang. Bella menjadi sukarelawati yg merawat Jacob di rumahnya. Tapi saat Jacob hanya menganggap hubungan kasual, Bella merasa sudah saatnya dirinya pergi dari Santa Rey.
Sedangkan si pembunuh tetap berkeliaran. Siapakah si tersangka tsb?
Alurnya ringan saja, khas Harlequin. Tetapi banyak cipoa-nya juga spt Jacob yg kena luka tembak bisa "main" 3 kali dgn Bella. Staminanya sungguh luar biasa. Lumayan hot utk ukuran HQ.
March 28, 2017
unexpectedly good
September 2, 2010
Let me get this random thought out of the way first...the character's names. Bella...Jacob; Bella...Jacob...Whaaaa??? Wait was I reading Twilight this week LOL? You think this means Ms. Shalvis is Team Jacob?
In this day and age of social networking and hooking up, on-line dating seems like the perfect way for Bella Manchelli and Jacob Madden to meet. In The Heat is On, Bella's experience can best be summed up by: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly.
The Good:
As someone who never stays in one place long enough to get bored, you meet a group of guys (no last names required), have fun and then move on since you have no interest in any long term commitment to tie you down. If you're really lucky, you meet a tall, dark and drop-dead sexy guy, get your freak-on on the first date and slink away before that morning after awkwardness descends. Saving the best for last...date #8 was GRRREAT!
The Bad:
The men of dates #1-#7 are getting shot at and when one of them is discovered murdered at the back door of your place of employment...turns out they weren't quite so lucky and now neither are you.
The Ugly:
You have a deranged stalker after you determined to eliminate the competition for your affections so he can have you all to himself.
Back to The Good: The cop investigating the murder? Well it's none other than Jacob Madden...hot, sexy date #8. Imagine his surprise when he turns up in cop mode the "morning after" only to discover you really weren't planning on moving to Siberia like you told him and are in fact, at the center of his police investigation.
The Heat is On is a quick easy read, with lots of sizzle and a nice balance between the romance and suspense action. Shalvis' trademark witty style of writing is of course always a plus.
Got a few hours to kill? Don't spend it trolling those on-line dating sites...read The Heat is On!
In this day and age of social networking and hooking up, on-line dating seems like the perfect way for Bella Manchelli and Jacob Madden to meet. In The Heat is On, Bella's experience can best be summed up by: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly.
The Good:
As someone who never stays in one place long enough to get bored, you meet a group of guys (no last names required), have fun and then move on since you have no interest in any long term commitment to tie you down. If you're really lucky, you meet a tall, dark and drop-dead sexy guy, get your freak-on on the first date and slink away before that morning after awkwardness descends. Saving the best for last...date #8 was GRRREAT!
The Bad:
The men of dates #1-#7 are getting shot at and when one of them is discovered murdered at the back door of your place of employment...turns out they weren't quite so lucky and now neither are you.
The Ugly:
You have a deranged stalker after you determined to eliminate the competition for your affections so he can have you all to himself.
Back to The Good: The cop investigating the murder? Well it's none other than Jacob Madden...hot, sexy date #8. Imagine his surprise when he turns up in cop mode the "morning after" only to discover you really weren't planning on moving to Siberia like you told him and are in fact, at the center of his police investigation.
The Heat is On is a quick easy read, with lots of sizzle and a nice balance between the romance and suspense action. Shalvis' trademark witty style of writing is of course always a plus.
Got a few hours to kill? Don't spend it trolling those on-line dating sites...read The Heat is On!
September 7, 2010
This book is what a Harlequin Blaze is all about - sexy, fun and with the kind of heroine you'd love to have as one of your girlfriends. Jill Shalvis is a damn good author and I really enjoyed this story that started with a bang, literally, and never let up.
You'll root for both the hero and heroine and I couldn't find a thing I didn't like about them. I loved how realistic Police Officer Jacob Madden was and Bella was like the embodiment of a lot of modern women today - feeling restless, wanting to travel the world, and scared of settling for life.
The suspense in this story mixes well with the love story and did contribute to the central story very well instead of taking away from it. In fact, the suspense was written so well that it helped showcase who the characters really where and why they belonged together.
A really solid book with something a little extra that will make you smile and keep you reading straight through, The Heat Is On is an excellent book and I really recommend it for lovers of contemporary and romantic suspense.
You'll root for both the hero and heroine and I couldn't find a thing I didn't like about them. I loved how realistic Police Officer Jacob Madden was and Bella was like the embodiment of a lot of modern women today - feeling restless, wanting to travel the world, and scared of settling for life.
The suspense in this story mixes well with the love story and did contribute to the central story very well instead of taking away from it. In fact, the suspense was written so well that it helped showcase who the characters really where and why they belonged together.
A really solid book with something a little extra that will make you smile and keep you reading straight through, The Heat Is On is an excellent book and I really recommend it for lovers of contemporary and romantic suspense.
July 26, 2016
Both of the stories in this book are really cute.
In the Jill Shalvis book The Heat Is On, things happen fast. For the most part that's a good thing, but the story seems rushed in a few places. Especially the end. But I'm not going to complain because this was a fun and quick read, perfect for the beach.
In the Natalie Anderson book Blame It On The Bikini, I found the beginning a bit confusing. In fact, if I hadn't read the description I may not have known what was happening. I'm happy to say it got better from there. This is my first introduction to this author and it piqued my interest enough that I'll try another of her books. As usual, when it comes to an author that is not American, my selfish and egotistical American brain had a bit of an adjustment to some of the language and slang. But it wasn't too out there and didn't detract from the story for me.
In the Jill Shalvis book The Heat Is On, things happen fast. For the most part that's a good thing, but the story seems rushed in a few places. Especially the end. But I'm not going to complain because this was a fun and quick read, perfect for the beach.
In the Natalie Anderson book Blame It On The Bikini, I found the beginning a bit confusing. In fact, if I hadn't read the description I may not have known what was happening. I'm happy to say it got better from there. This is my first introduction to this author and it piqued my interest enough that I'll try another of her books. As usual, when it comes to an author that is not American, my selfish and egotistical American brain had a bit of an adjustment to some of the language and slang. But it wasn't too out there and didn't detract from the story for me.
April 2, 2012
*3.5 Stars*
This was a nice story, not exceptional, but nothing wrong either. It may be suffering a little in my opinion because the book I was reading while I was listening to this one was very similar, but just had a little more substance. Both the hero and heroine were very likable, but I would have been happier if they had spoken their feelings sooner. They both wanted the same thing, but were afraid to say it.
I listened to the audio of this book, the narrator, Gayle Hendrix, was just ok to me. My biggest complaint is that the men's voices were very stilted and that felt a little uncomfortable. I really had no complaints about the rest of the narration, it didn't make the book better, but it didn't make it worse either.
This was a nice story, not exceptional, but nothing wrong either. It may be suffering a little in my opinion because the book I was reading while I was listening to this one was very similar, but just had a little more substance. Both the hero and heroine were very likable, but I would have been happier if they had spoken their feelings sooner. They both wanted the same thing, but were afraid to say it.
I listened to the audio of this book, the narrator, Gayle Hendrix, was just ok to me. My biggest complaint is that the men's voices were very stilted and that felt a little uncomfortable. I really had no complaints about the rest of the narration, it didn't make the book better, but it didn't make it worse either.
May 15, 2013
The title of the book describes the story to a tee as it's absolutely sizzling. Wow! I loved the way the author starts off the novel; that the one-night stand between the two protagonists, Bella and Jacob, has already taken place. Instead, she has the two already reliving the passion between the two right off the bat, and when Jacob arrives on the scene - let's just say I'm surprised my Kindle didn't start smoking. Don't fret ladies, you still have a front row seat to some hot sizzling sex between the two. I had to fan myself thru the entire book as I couldn't get enough of Jacob - he's a cop, drives a motorcycle, and owns a couple of horses. What's not to love?
Oh yeah, it's a good story full of romance with some suspense thrown in.
Oh yeah, it's a good story full of romance with some suspense thrown in.
August 4, 2010
Other than the somewhat overused "irresistible chemistry" thing, this was a very enjoyable story. Well-written and well-paced. I did figure out the suspense pretty early on, but that's okay. I loved both main characters, and would liked to have seen more of Willow and even Ethan. The shorter series format doesn't leave much room for secondary character development, but Shalvis did a lot with the limited space. I also liked how Jacob pulled himself from the case. That seemed realistic.
There are two more brothers (we met Cord in the Shalvis's very good short story Friendly Fire in the book, Born on the Fourth of July. July HQ Blaze) so I'm looking forward to Austin and Wyatt's stories!
There are two more brothers (we met Cord in the Shalvis's very good short story Friendly Fire in the book, Born on the Fourth of July. July HQ Blaze) so I'm looking forward to Austin and Wyatt's stories!
April 30, 2012
Not bad, though Bella's insistence that Jacob tell her he needed her to stay with him (when she herself told him over and over she was only going to be temporary, and never once indicated to him that she was beginning to feel differently) got to be a bit much. I also wasn't crazy about the narration. I might have given it a higher rating--a half star, most likely--if I'd read the print or ebook instead; the narrator had odd little quirks that annoyed.
Still, though, it was a decent story with fun characters. Jill Shalvis and Blaze can't be a bad combo!
Still, though, it was a decent story with fun characters. Jill Shalvis and Blaze can't be a bad combo!
September 9, 2013
This book is based only on the story by Jill Shalvis.
I thought this one was cute. For some reason I really loved Bella's Siberia excuse, especially when she was busted with it. I liked how things seemed to progress with Bella and Jacob, with the police and Jacob's brothers butting in and with Bella running away. I especially loved it when fantasy #2 was ruined by one brother. The ending was just right for this one.
I thought this one was cute. For some reason I really loved Bella's Siberia excuse, especially when she was busted with it. I liked how things seemed to progress with Bella and Jacob, with the police and Jacob's brothers butting in and with Bella running away. I especially loved it when fantasy #2 was ruined by one brother. The ending was just right for this one.
August 22, 2010
I loved the relationship between Jacob and Bella. Their sexual tension makes the book blazing! I really enjoyed it!
September 12, 2011
4.5 stars
Loved the hero & heroine in this story - like, a lot. Unique storyline, just long enough to keep me interested, but not so long as to frustrate. Sexy, fun, flirty and funny.
Loved the hero & heroine in this story - like, a lot. Unique storyline, just long enough to keep me interested, but not so long as to frustrate. Sexy, fun, flirty and funny.
July 7, 2017
Terlalu tipis novelnya, jadinya alurnya serba cepat..
Tapi aku suka, love it..
Tapi aku suka, love it..
September 14, 2017
Bella Manchelli didn't stick, not to places, or to people. Even though she liked the coastal town of Santa Rey, California, and her job as a pastry chef, she never made promises and she never got hurt. So when she signed up for Eight Dates in Eight Days, it was just for fun. And when she went home with Date Eight, she crept out of his room in the morning and never expected to see him again.
Until she found a body on her doorstop. The detective on the case? None other than Mr. Date Eight—Jacob Madden. Bella was glad to see him, because there was definitely chemistry between them. She felt safe and protected with Jacob, and for the first time Bella felt at home. But he wasn't looking for forever…and they both knew the killer wasn't finished.
Love this book. Shalvis is my go to author. She has never let me down. 5 stars.
Until she found a body on her doorstop. The detective on the case? None other than Mr. Date Eight—Jacob Madden. Bella was glad to see him, because there was definitely chemistry between them. She felt safe and protected with Jacob, and for the first time Bella felt at home. But he wasn't looking for forever…and they both knew the killer wasn't finished.
Love this book. Shalvis is my go to author. She has never let me down. 5 stars.
July 29, 2017
When I started reading this book, I fully thought that I would be giving it just an average 3 star rating, but quickly I absolutely fell in love with this story. Once the quirky and witty dialogue began between Bella and Jacob I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. I truly enjoyed my time reading this book and was very happy that I decided to pick it up. It really was a wonderful read.
I've read Jill Shalvis's work before and enjoyed it, and once again I was not disappointed. Shalvis created such a interesting story and delivered it so smoothly that I was thoroughly satisfied.
I've read Jill Shalvis's work before and enjoyed it, and once again I was not disappointed. Shalvis created such a interesting story and delivered it so smoothly that I was thoroughly satisfied.
April 11, 2025
If you like reading about nonstop sex this book is for you. I love Jill Shalvis but this book is not up to her usual by a long shot. Very little plot or real character development. I love a well written love story with a little steam, but you can’t interest me in a book with 3/4 sex scenes. Also, having sex, thinking about sex and talking about sex does not equal love. There has to be a little more depth and this book failed at that.
February 16, 2018
I liked this one... it's a good, quick, steamy read! The chemistry is great between the hero & heroine, and there's even a bit of a mystery to keep the story moving along. The story pulled me right in & held my attention until the end. My only complaint is that the ending is a bit abrupt... I would have liked maybe one more chapter.
December 16, 2018
Novel dewasa nan Erotis
Iseng2 baca, lah ternyata
Aku bukannya mengatakan bahwa novel ini jelek, tidak. Tentu saja tidak.
Alurnya mudah dipahami dan ikuti.
Cuma ya itu, ini bukan novel yang cocok untukku.
Sorry 💛
Iseng2 baca, lah ternyata
Aku bukannya mengatakan bahwa novel ini jelek, tidak. Tentu saja tidak.
Alurnya mudah dipahami dan ikuti.
Cuma ya itu, ini bukan novel yang cocok untukku.
Sorry 💛
August 5, 2019
Too hot for HR. Bella-Jacob, of course my mind thought about Twilight and hope this story wouldn't absurd. But... yeah, in the fact this is pure harlequin romance. Truthfully, I don't like Bella's character. Too bitchy and naughty.
March 18, 2020
A great Harlequin Blaze book. Bella is new in town and just got off a series of set ups, ending in a great one night stand. Then her dates start getting targeted and she has to rely on that same one night stand for protection. Easy read. Good amounts of tension. Good quarantine reading.
July 9, 2022
The Heat Is On by Jill Shalvis
First, let me explain how I got my hands on this really awesome read. It’s rather a big deal for me. I was at a library that offers books via the honor system. I had five seconds to pick a book. In those few seconds Jill Shalvis’ name jumped out at me, the book cover had a smiling couple embracing on a beach, smiling at each other, wearing two of my favorite colors; I saw the Harlequin symbol and the title, “The Heat Is On” which triggered a memory of that song by Glen Fry, which prompted me to start singing it. In five seconds, I broke tradition by grabbing it without reading the synopsis! If you’ve read any of my reviews, then you know that is a shock to my system. I always choose a book based on the synopsis.
I started reading while I was at a swim team practice, sitting on metal bleachers surrounded by parents, in the hot sun. You could say the heat was really on! It certainly was in the story right from the get-go. From the first paragraph, “Oh, yeah baby, that’s good,” she whispered. So good that she wanted more. She couldn’t help herself; she’d never been known for having much self-control.” See what I mean? But the second paragraph set the hook, “Not when it came to chocolate. Isabella Manchelli loved desserts, all of them.” I busted out laughing, embarrassing myself and I didn’t care. That was the moment when I fell in love with this book and the heroine, Isabella. She was a character after my own heart. I’m obsessed with chocolate.
The cast of characters are well developed and relatable making the story come to life. Bella finds the first dead body on page six. I went from chocolate coma to the edge of my seat pretty quick. I didn’t want to put the book down at the end of swim practice. This was a fast-paced story that I couldn’t get enough of. I did guess who the killer was, but I was never a hundred percent positive. The ending was breathtaking and sigh-worthy.
Oh, I did get a chance to read the synopsis, it hooked me. It sounded like the perfect murder mystery romance book. I considered the plot to be realistic and original. Isabella signed up to participate in the local recreation center’s singles club’s, “eight dates in eight days”. I fell in love with “Mr. Date Eight-Jacob Madden”, the hero, right along with Isabella aka Bella. The chemistry between them was instant, intense and heat inducing. I couldn’t believe how lucky I was to pick this book up in five seconds. The best part is that it has a bonus book!
The next story is called “Blame it on the Bikini” by Natalie Anderson. Now I know I’ve never read a book by her but I’m excited to start it. All the reader knows about it is that the heroine, Mya, sends a text to the wrong person by accident. Who hasn’t done that? I know I have.
Blame it on the Bikini by Natalie Anderson
The story starts right away with Mya texting the picture to the wrong person which immediately caught my interest in the story. The pace was quick and fun as I read along. There were humorous moments throughout the book that I enjoyed.
The story uses the trope of a hero rich in money but poor in love and affection from his family, and a heroine poor in finances but rich and surrounded by the love of her family. The heroine, Mya, was best friends with Brad’s sister Lauren, and Brad was clueless for years that Mya had a crush on him. He got a clue when he was the recipient of that wayward text.
The hero, Brad, has the emotional baggage of women only wanting him for his money and never seeing him as a person. The heroine, Mya, had a front row seat to his living the life of a playboy, so she doesn’t trust him. She also has her own issues of not wanting to be a charity case. Brad and Mya are both extremely independent, strong willed and smart. Considering how intelligent and educated they were, it amazed me that at the same time, they were both block heads. It was a long struggle for them to realize that it wasn’t just lust they were experiencing, but love. They were also slow to figure out that they could trust each other with their hearts.
The plot was cute and definitely contemporary. I enjoyed the story but I felt there could have been better verbal communication between Brad and Mya. It’s kind of funny because Brad and Mya were getting frustrated with each other. I wanted to tell them that I was frustrated with them too. Lord knows they had no issue communicating physically.
There were a few secondary characters, but they were minimally developed, the majority being hearsay as Mya and Brad shared their personal information. I got to meet both Brad and Mya’s parents, and of course, Mya’s best friend, Brad’s sister, Lauren. I also met Mya’s employers and co-workers.
The pace was quick and fun as I read along. There were even some truly funny moments. I was buckled in to see their HEA and I can say the ride was worth it. I’m happy for them. I would consider reading another Natalie Anderson book.
Overall, I enjoyed both stories. They are completely different from each other which was nice. I went from the edge of my seat to lounging on my couch. I’d recommend The Heat Is On: An Anthology without hesitation.
First, let me explain how I got my hands on this really awesome read. It’s rather a big deal for me. I was at a library that offers books via the honor system. I had five seconds to pick a book. In those few seconds Jill Shalvis’ name jumped out at me, the book cover had a smiling couple embracing on a beach, smiling at each other, wearing two of my favorite colors; I saw the Harlequin symbol and the title, “The Heat Is On” which triggered a memory of that song by Glen Fry, which prompted me to start singing it. In five seconds, I broke tradition by grabbing it without reading the synopsis! If you’ve read any of my reviews, then you know that is a shock to my system. I always choose a book based on the synopsis.
I started reading while I was at a swim team practice, sitting on metal bleachers surrounded by parents, in the hot sun. You could say the heat was really on! It certainly was in the story right from the get-go. From the first paragraph, “Oh, yeah baby, that’s good,” she whispered. So good that she wanted more. She couldn’t help herself; she’d never been known for having much self-control.” See what I mean? But the second paragraph set the hook, “Not when it came to chocolate. Isabella Manchelli loved desserts, all of them.” I busted out laughing, embarrassing myself and I didn’t care. That was the moment when I fell in love with this book and the heroine, Isabella. She was a character after my own heart. I’m obsessed with chocolate.
The cast of characters are well developed and relatable making the story come to life. Bella finds the first dead body on page six. I went from chocolate coma to the edge of my seat pretty quick. I didn’t want to put the book down at the end of swim practice. This was a fast-paced story that I couldn’t get enough of. I did guess who the killer was, but I was never a hundred percent positive. The ending was breathtaking and sigh-worthy.
Oh, I did get a chance to read the synopsis, it hooked me. It sounded like the perfect murder mystery romance book. I considered the plot to be realistic and original. Isabella signed up to participate in the local recreation center’s singles club’s, “eight dates in eight days”. I fell in love with “Mr. Date Eight-Jacob Madden”, the hero, right along with Isabella aka Bella. The chemistry between them was instant, intense and heat inducing. I couldn’t believe how lucky I was to pick this book up in five seconds. The best part is that it has a bonus book!
The next story is called “Blame it on the Bikini” by Natalie Anderson. Now I know I’ve never read a book by her but I’m excited to start it. All the reader knows about it is that the heroine, Mya, sends a text to the wrong person by accident. Who hasn’t done that? I know I have.
Blame it on the Bikini by Natalie Anderson
The story starts right away with Mya texting the picture to the wrong person which immediately caught my interest in the story. The pace was quick and fun as I read along. There were humorous moments throughout the book that I enjoyed.
The story uses the trope of a hero rich in money but poor in love and affection from his family, and a heroine poor in finances but rich and surrounded by the love of her family. The heroine, Mya, was best friends with Brad’s sister Lauren, and Brad was clueless for years that Mya had a crush on him. He got a clue when he was the recipient of that wayward text.
The hero, Brad, has the emotional baggage of women only wanting him for his money and never seeing him as a person. The heroine, Mya, had a front row seat to his living the life of a playboy, so she doesn’t trust him. She also has her own issues of not wanting to be a charity case. Brad and Mya are both extremely independent, strong willed and smart. Considering how intelligent and educated they were, it amazed me that at the same time, they were both block heads. It was a long struggle for them to realize that it wasn’t just lust they were experiencing, but love. They were also slow to figure out that they could trust each other with their hearts.
The plot was cute and definitely contemporary. I enjoyed the story but I felt there could have been better verbal communication between Brad and Mya. It’s kind of funny because Brad and Mya were getting frustrated with each other. I wanted to tell them that I was frustrated with them too. Lord knows they had no issue communicating physically.
There were a few secondary characters, but they were minimally developed, the majority being hearsay as Mya and Brad shared their personal information. I got to meet both Brad and Mya’s parents, and of course, Mya’s best friend, Brad’s sister, Lauren. I also met Mya’s employers and co-workers.
The pace was quick and fun as I read along. There were even some truly funny moments. I was buckled in to see their HEA and I can say the ride was worth it. I’m happy for them. I would consider reading another Natalie Anderson book.
Overall, I enjoyed both stories. They are completely different from each other which was nice. I went from the edge of my seat to lounging on my couch. I’d recommend The Heat Is On: An Anthology without hesitation.
December 11, 2019
Fast, captivating read... I enjoyed the characters...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews