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In Bed with the Opposition
In Bed with the Opposition by Stephanie Draven
Armed with a sassy haircut, a sharp wit, and a personal list of rules for all life's exigencies, Grace Santiago has everything under control. At least until Ethan Castle walks back into her life. Grace hasn't forgotten their disastrous affair in law school, but she can't resist his bad boy charm. When Grace learns that Ethan has been hired by the other side, her loyalties--and her heart--are torn in two. Though their sexual chemistry can't be denied, they find themselves deadlocked. Ethan believes that all is fair in love and war, but he won't give up the fight--not even to win Grace's heart. So what can a good girl like Grace do, but learn to play dirty?
Armed with a sassy haircut, a sharp wit, and a personal list of rules for all life's exigencies, Grace Santiago has everything under control. At least until Ethan Castle walks back into her life. Grace hasn't forgotten their disastrous affair in law school, but she can't resist his bad boy charm. When Grace learns that Ethan has been hired by the other side, her loyalties--and her heart--are torn in two. Though their sexual chemistry can't be denied, they find themselves deadlocked. Ethan believes that all is fair in love and war, but he won't give up the fight--not even to win Grace's heart. So what can a good girl like Grace do, but learn to play dirty?
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2012
12 people are currently reading
883 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Draven
18 books203 followersStephanie Draven lives in a city of ravens and purple night skies with her favorite nocturnal creatures. And when she is not busy with dark domestic rituals, she writes her books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
December 14, 2012
In Bed with the Opposition by Stephanie Draven
First I have to say this book really surprised me, I thoroughly enjoyed Stephanie Draven’s writing, it flows well, the character descriptions were great and you felt like you got to meet everyone and understood their personalities good or bad. This novel is filled with romance and politics. And yet it’s a great story and I really got into it. I had a hard time putting it down and stayed up a bit late so I could finish it.
We meet Grace, she was attending school to become a lawyer but ended up dropping out, now she is back home working on a political campaign with the one man she thinks she is madly in love with. Grace is funny, loves her lists and pretty much is waiting around for Ethan. Ethan and Grace’s relationship is more like a friend with benefits situation but she really believes eventually he will step up and pick her.
Then Grace runs into a man she met in school name Ethan who she had a lot of fun with but the relationship ended badly. As her and Ethan reconnect you see why she had so much fun with him, he really made her let go. Ethan decides to stay in town and work on the opposition’s campaign so he can be close to Grace. Of course nothing is easy for Grace and Ethan some secrets are revealed and Grace has to figure out what she wants for herself.
In Bed with the Opposition is a great read, I would recommend anyone who loves a good romance story to pick this one up. I definitely will be reading anything Stephanie Draven writes as I said before I thoroughly enjoyed the novel.
First I have to say this book really surprised me, I thoroughly enjoyed Stephanie Draven’s writing, it flows well, the character descriptions were great and you felt like you got to meet everyone and understood their personalities good or bad. This novel is filled with romance and politics. And yet it’s a great story and I really got into it. I had a hard time putting it down and stayed up a bit late so I could finish it.
We meet Grace, she was attending school to become a lawyer but ended up dropping out, now she is back home working on a political campaign with the one man she thinks she is madly in love with. Grace is funny, loves her lists and pretty much is waiting around for Ethan. Ethan and Grace’s relationship is more like a friend with benefits situation but she really believes eventually he will step up and pick her.
Then Grace runs into a man she met in school name Ethan who she had a lot of fun with but the relationship ended badly. As her and Ethan reconnect you see why she had so much fun with him, he really made her let go. Ethan decides to stay in town and work on the opposition’s campaign so he can be close to Grace. Of course nothing is easy for Grace and Ethan some secrets are revealed and Grace has to figure out what she wants for herself.
In Bed with the Opposition is a great read, I would recommend anyone who loves a good romance story to pick this one up. I definitely will be reading anything Stephanie Draven writes as I said before I thoroughly enjoyed the novel.
October 21, 2012
Sometimes I amaze myself when it comes to picking books....because this one is fucking great! I’m sounding big headed and cock sure of myself but I have every right to be, this book as jumped into my favourite book and favourite character list, that’s how good it is!
The humour, oh god the humour is so good! The sassiness of Ethan and the quick witted one liners and dialogue are just superb. Honestly, it as to be read to appreciate how well this book was written. The political storyline was easy to follow and the sex...well, what can I say. It was all build up and tension it was like Mount Vesuvius! Ethan was like every sex toy you could ever imagine rolled up and turned into human form. His a frisky little devil!
A fantastic story with a wonderful basket of characters! Loved it
Watch out goodreads here’s another recommendation
The humour, oh god the humour is so good! The sassiness of Ethan and the quick witted one liners and dialogue are just superb. Honestly, it as to be read to appreciate how well this book was written. The political storyline was easy to follow and the sex...well, what can I say. It was all build up and tension it was like Mount Vesuvius! Ethan was like every sex toy you could ever imagine rolled up and turned into human form. His a frisky little devil!
A fantastic story with a wonderful basket of characters! Loved it
Watch out goodreads here’s another recommendation
October 10, 2012
I enjoyed this book so much! It's sexy, funny, and so smartly written! Grace is an awesome heroine and I couldn't help but route for her. And the sexual tension between Ethan and Grace is off the charts! I highly recommend it!
September 26, 2012
Reviewed by Desere
This was the very first Stephanie Draven book I have ever read and I shall be looking for more ! The passion,intrigue,mystery and political drama really packed a punch !
The characters were fun,sassy and wonderfully realistic,yes like I was inside the book behind the scenes. And boy what wonderful scenes this author created !
I loved how they challenged each other around every corner and at the same time could not deny each other. And the wonderful rekindling of old flames was beautifully incorporated by in my books a very talented author who certainly knows what she is doing and just what to say and how much detail to go into to make me as reader keep reading.
The characters were delightful and very addictive ! I only have one complaint the book was some what too short at the end it felt like I needed it to go one for say one or two more chapters. But none the less a excellent read!
5/5 star review
This was the very first Stephanie Draven book I have ever read and I shall be looking for more ! The passion,intrigue,mystery and political drama really packed a punch !
The characters were fun,sassy and wonderfully realistic,yes like I was inside the book behind the scenes. And boy what wonderful scenes this author created !
I loved how they challenged each other around every corner and at the same time could not deny each other. And the wonderful rekindling of old flames was beautifully incorporated by in my books a very talented author who certainly knows what she is doing and just what to say and how much detail to go into to make me as reader keep reading.
The characters were delightful and very addictive ! I only have one complaint the book was some what too short at the end it felt like I needed it to go one for say one or two more chapters. But none the less a excellent read!
5/5 star review
January 3, 2013
This story is so cute. We've all been there (or at least I have) where you doubt your inner feelings and think with your head, and what you think you're supposed to do rather than what you really want to do. The romance is hot, but not too and both the heroine and hero are likeable. A lot! Based on the author’s experience in the real world makes the story all the more believable.
December 30, 2012
There wasn't one line in this novel that I didn't like. From the sass to the crass and the passion between the two characters - I was sold! I've been waiting to read this from the moment I first heard about it - and I wasn't disappointed!
December 31, 2012
I received an ebook copy of this manuscript to read and review on my blog, Babushka's Baile. My first time reading an ebook, my first time reading Stephanie Draven. In neither case will it be my last.
Here's that review: http://bohemianbabushka.blogspot.com/...
Here's that review: http://bohemianbabushka.blogspot.com/...
December 31, 2012
Loved this one
February 15, 2022
Found this while cleaning out my Kindle files, and had never read it, so decided to give it a try. But it proved a major disappointment.
Grace Santiago grew up as an adjunct of sorts to Senator Holloway's family—her mother is the family cook—and now works as a special staffer in the Senator's office after flunking out of the law school that Senator Holloway paid for. A past indiscretion with fellow law student Ethan Castle, an indiscretion that led to a blackmail attempt by another student, derailed her pursuit of her degree years ago. But Ethan, now a political consultant and TV talking head, is back in Washington, looking for a new candidate to work with, and wants to know why Grace abruptly dumped him all those years ago. The resulting story is one of those "he wants me, I want him, but I have to keep saying 'no'" storylines, with increasingly escalating but not always plausible plot reasons for Grace's "no" arriving every few chapters. Until we're at the point where Ethan is running the election campaign for a primary challenger to Halloway, while a not-quite-qualified Grace is running the Senator's. Of course, it is at this point that Grace finally gives in and starts sleeping with the pushy Ethan. Neither character's motivations make much sense, emotional-wise, but they're needed to keep the plot going.
Grace is annoyingly wishy washy and passive, especially in her support of the Senator, who is increasingly prone to sexist and racist gaffes. Ethan is aggressive and bossy, but not in an appealing way. The story's only 10 years old, but it feels very dated post #metoo.
Additional weirdness #1: The 80-year-old senator .
Additional weirdness #2: Ethan's candidate, Professor Kim, is
The romance's main message—that a woman doesn't have to be either a good girl or a sexy girl, but can be both—is the one thing I liked about Draven's story, although it seems rather dated ten years on. But otherwise, I found the entire thing majorly annoying.
Try Emma Barry's Party Lines, or Kennedy Ryan's Queen Move for a far more rewarding het romance political read.
Grace Santiago grew up as an adjunct of sorts to Senator Holloway's family—her mother is the family cook—and now works as a special staffer in the Senator's office after flunking out of the law school that Senator Holloway paid for. A past indiscretion with fellow law student Ethan Castle, an indiscretion that led to a blackmail attempt by another student, derailed her pursuit of her degree years ago. But Ethan, now a political consultant and TV talking head, is back in Washington, looking for a new candidate to work with, and wants to know why Grace abruptly dumped him all those years ago. The resulting story is one of those "he wants me, I want him, but I have to keep saying 'no'" storylines, with increasingly escalating but not always plausible plot reasons for Grace's "no" arriving every few chapters. Until we're at the point where Ethan is running the election campaign for a primary challenger to Halloway, while a not-quite-qualified Grace is running the Senator's. Of course, it is at this point that Grace finally gives in and starts sleeping with the pushy Ethan. Neither character's motivations make much sense, emotional-wise, but they're needed to keep the plot going.
Grace is annoyingly wishy washy and passive, especially in her support of the Senator, who is increasingly prone to sexist and racist gaffes. Ethan is aggressive and bossy, but not in an appealing way. The story's only 10 years old, but it feels very dated post #metoo.
Additional weirdness #1: The 80-year-old senator .
Additional weirdness #2: Ethan's candidate, Professor Kim, is
The romance's main message—that a woman doesn't have to be either a good girl or a sexy girl, but can be both—is the one thing I liked about Draven's story, although it seems rather dated ten years on. But otherwise, I found the entire thing majorly annoying.
Try Emma Barry's Party Lines, or Kennedy Ryan's Queen Move for a far more rewarding het romance political read.
November 25, 2012
This was election year so it was sort of fitting to read a contemporary romance with a political election as the backdrop. I found this to be one of those books for me that when I started reading it I wasn't that impressed with it due to my feelings about the heroine (it was not getting my vote at that point). Thankfully I'm rarely a quitter so I read on and after the first half of the book found myself delightfully surprised (book started pulling ahead in the polls) and glad that I pushed forward (it got my vote when Election day came around).
The story revolves around Assistant to Senator Halloway, Grace Santiago. Grace has know the Senator since she was a young girl when her mother went to work for him as a cook. He encouraged her through her father walking out on her and her mother, he mentored her, he helped pay her way to attend university and now she's giving back by working on his staff. The Senator is near eighty, but he determines that he's got one more campaign for office in him though Grace privately thinks his health won't stand up to it and he's slipping a little. She finds herself busting tail to keep up with his vague memory, faux pas and demanding needs. She devotes so much time to him that she doesn't have a life outside of work and now its just going to get worse with a campaign going on.
And into this atmosphere walks Ethan Castle her old flame from law school. In her mind, he is the reason that she never finished school and never started the political career she set out on. Ethan remembers Grace too, but he remembers the past a bit differently than Grace when she inexplicably left school and left him with no explanation. Now years later, when he's become a huge success as a campaign manager, he is surprised to see her at a social function with the Senator. He is determined more than ever to get to the bottom of why she disappeared and to figure out why Grace is the only memorable woman in his past.
Grace and Ethan play a bit of cat and mouse, but things really start to heat up when he accepts the position of campaign manager for a rival for Halloway's Senate seat.
The plot on this one was good. I loved the insider's view of a Senatorial race and what it's like in a Senator's day and about their office. I enjoyed the possibilities of a romance that 'crossed enemy lines' so to speak.
What I wasn't too fond of- at first- was Grace's wishy-washy personality and issues. Yes, I understand how it must have been for her to be caught in a compromising photograph that was taken by a supposed friend and used as blackmail and yes, I get it that it would be hard to deal with having a father walk out and feel rejected. I do get all that, but what I didn't get was where it was alright to first blame Ethan for his part in the compromising pose (she was a consenting adult and whole-heartedly into what they were doing) and then to hold him at arms length with all her rules years later. I didn't like that she was so selfishly wrapped up in her issues. But then she started to grow. She owned to her mistakes and started to live a little with Ethan's help. It ended up being very satisfying to see Grace grow so much from the first part of the book to the end.
Just as an aside, I got to where I was eager to see what spectacular sexy clothing stunt she was going to pull around each holiday. Its a toss-up between the Wonder Woman costume at Halloween or the hint that she wore shamrock printed undies on Paddy's Day.
Now Ethan, he was Grace's opposite in some ways. He was confident about his career and his sex appeal to the point of arrogance, but he mostly did it to get Grace to lighten up. I liked how this confident arrogance was juxtaposed with his vulnerability of giving Grace his heart. He really grew too from the beginning when he was more mercenary about his job to the end when he started considering career choices that actually touched him.
If you're looking for a nice Contemporary Romance where the romance is steamy between two people that really come into their own by the end, give this one a try.
The story revolves around Assistant to Senator Halloway, Grace Santiago. Grace has know the Senator since she was a young girl when her mother went to work for him as a cook. He encouraged her through her father walking out on her and her mother, he mentored her, he helped pay her way to attend university and now she's giving back by working on his staff. The Senator is near eighty, but he determines that he's got one more campaign for office in him though Grace privately thinks his health won't stand up to it and he's slipping a little. She finds herself busting tail to keep up with his vague memory, faux pas and demanding needs. She devotes so much time to him that she doesn't have a life outside of work and now its just going to get worse with a campaign going on.
And into this atmosphere walks Ethan Castle her old flame from law school. In her mind, he is the reason that she never finished school and never started the political career she set out on. Ethan remembers Grace too, but he remembers the past a bit differently than Grace when she inexplicably left school and left him with no explanation. Now years later, when he's become a huge success as a campaign manager, he is surprised to see her at a social function with the Senator. He is determined more than ever to get to the bottom of why she disappeared and to figure out why Grace is the only memorable woman in his past.
Grace and Ethan play a bit of cat and mouse, but things really start to heat up when he accepts the position of campaign manager for a rival for Halloway's Senate seat.
The plot on this one was good. I loved the insider's view of a Senatorial race and what it's like in a Senator's day and about their office. I enjoyed the possibilities of a romance that 'crossed enemy lines' so to speak.
What I wasn't too fond of- at first- was Grace's wishy-washy personality and issues. Yes, I understand how it must have been for her to be caught in a compromising photograph that was taken by a supposed friend and used as blackmail and yes, I get it that it would be hard to deal with having a father walk out and feel rejected. I do get all that, but what I didn't get was where it was alright to first blame Ethan for his part in the compromising pose (she was a consenting adult and whole-heartedly into what they were doing) and then to hold him at arms length with all her rules years later. I didn't like that she was so selfishly wrapped up in her issues. But then she started to grow. She owned to her mistakes and started to live a little with Ethan's help. It ended up being very satisfying to see Grace grow so much from the first part of the book to the end.
Just as an aside, I got to where I was eager to see what spectacular sexy clothing stunt she was going to pull around each holiday. Its a toss-up between the Wonder Woman costume at Halloween or the hint that she wore shamrock printed undies on Paddy's Day.
Now Ethan, he was Grace's opposite in some ways. He was confident about his career and his sex appeal to the point of arrogance, but he mostly did it to get Grace to lighten up. I liked how this confident arrogance was juxtaposed with his vulnerability of giving Grace his heart. He really grew too from the beginning when he was more mercenary about his job to the end when he started considering career choices that actually touched him.
If you're looking for a nice Contemporary Romance where the romance is steamy between two people that really come into their own by the end, give this one a try.
December 20, 2012
The short version: Loved, Loved, LOVED this story! It was funny, sexy and heart-warming, everything one could wish for! Now if only there were a film adaptation...
The longer version:
I can't remember the last time I enjoyed a story this much, that my enthusiasm and happiness lasted well after I reached "The End". I found In Bed with the Opposition utterly delightful, and I urge all of you who love their contemporary romances witty and sexy to pick it up and not miss out on this terrific story because "it must be so boring since it has a political setting" (as many blogger friends have said), because it couldn't be farther from the truth! In Bed with the Opposition is not at all boring, I was either chuckling aloud while reading the witty repartee between Grace and Ethan or sighing/swallowing when they turned up the heat with their scorching and sensual romance. ;-)
Both Grace and Ethan were great, very lovable characters, with a lot of unique traits/quirks and a whole lot of heart. I found it especially wonderful that Ethan, the very virile hero had a softer side, him being more comfortable and certain in his love for Grace than her about her feelings for him. I just loved how in In Bed with the Opposition it was the man who wanted commitment and take their relationship to the "next step" and not the usually "clingy" woman.
"Ethan lifted an eyebrow. “Is there something I’m missing here? I’m fine with taking things slow sexually, but I feel like we’re taking things slow in other ways, too. I already know how you kiss, how you taste, how you feel. I know you love waffles and holidays. I know you can’t get out the door in the morning without making a list and that you can’t sit at a table if the salt and pepper shakers aren’t lined up. I know you keep a lint brush in your purse to obsessively brush off the cat fur on your clothes. But I want to meet the cat. I want to spend time with your friends. I want to see where you live. Let me in.”"
This story was a wonderful blend of heartwarming romance, sizzling chemistry and chuckle worthy humour:
"Oh, sure, he hadn’t done a great job of romancing Grace. No flowers, no fancy dinners out. He hadn’t been rolling in dough back then. But he’d given her his prized DVD set of The West Wing. That had to count for something."
"“Of course I let him go. What else was I supposed to do?”
“Jump him!” Molly said. “I would have.”"
Verdict: I loved, Loved, LOVED In Bed with the Opposition so much that it became one of my Favourite Reads of 2012! It was funny, sexy and heart-warming, everything one could wish for! Stephanie Draven was meant to write sexy and witty contemporary romances, her writing style flows easily and I'm sure you'll find the story highly entertaining and ending way too soon. Put this one on your wishlists, In Bed with the Opposition is a wonderful romance you definitely shouldn't miss!
I give In Bed with the Opposition 5 winning stars!
Plot: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Writing: 10/10
Ending: 10/10
Cover: 7/10 - I still prefer the old one (above) even though she looks like she's wearing a bit too much make up... I realy dislike the new one. The cover model looks nothing like Ethan, who is dark and sweet and compassionate and does not smirk smugly :-/
The longer version:
I can't remember the last time I enjoyed a story this much, that my enthusiasm and happiness lasted well after I reached "The End". I found In Bed with the Opposition utterly delightful, and I urge all of you who love their contemporary romances witty and sexy to pick it up and not miss out on this terrific story because "it must be so boring since it has a political setting" (as many blogger friends have said), because it couldn't be farther from the truth! In Bed with the Opposition is not at all boring, I was either chuckling aloud while reading the witty repartee between Grace and Ethan or sighing/swallowing when they turned up the heat with their scorching and sensual romance. ;-)
Both Grace and Ethan were great, very lovable characters, with a lot of unique traits/quirks and a whole lot of heart. I found it especially wonderful that Ethan, the very virile hero had a softer side, him being more comfortable and certain in his love for Grace than her about her feelings for him. I just loved how in In Bed with the Opposition it was the man who wanted commitment and take their relationship to the "next step" and not the usually "clingy" woman.
"Ethan lifted an eyebrow. “Is there something I’m missing here? I’m fine with taking things slow sexually, but I feel like we’re taking things slow in other ways, too. I already know how you kiss, how you taste, how you feel. I know you love waffles and holidays. I know you can’t get out the door in the morning without making a list and that you can’t sit at a table if the salt and pepper shakers aren’t lined up. I know you keep a lint brush in your purse to obsessively brush off the cat fur on your clothes. But I want to meet the cat. I want to spend time with your friends. I want to see where you live. Let me in.”"
This story was a wonderful blend of heartwarming romance, sizzling chemistry and chuckle worthy humour:
"Oh, sure, he hadn’t done a great job of romancing Grace. No flowers, no fancy dinners out. He hadn’t been rolling in dough back then. But he’d given her his prized DVD set of The West Wing. That had to count for something."
"“Of course I let him go. What else was I supposed to do?”
“Jump him!” Molly said. “I would have.”"
Verdict: I loved, Loved, LOVED In Bed with the Opposition so much that it became one of my Favourite Reads of 2012! It was funny, sexy and heart-warming, everything one could wish for! Stephanie Draven was meant to write sexy and witty contemporary romances, her writing style flows easily and I'm sure you'll find the story highly entertaining and ending way too soon. Put this one on your wishlists, In Bed with the Opposition is a wonderful romance you definitely shouldn't miss!
I give In Bed with the Opposition 5 winning stars!
Plot: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Writing: 10/10
Ending: 10/10
Cover: 7/10 - I still prefer the old one (above) even though she looks like she's wearing a bit too much make up... I realy dislike the new one. The cover model looks nothing like Ethan, who is dark and sweet and compassionate and does not smirk smugly :-/
October 16, 2012
Reviewed for Confessions From Romaholics
To see review at Confessions
Grace Santiago is lucky to have landed where she is after flunking out of law school thanks to the devastating Ethan Castle who she was dating at the time. Fast forward seven years and she is now working for Senator Kip Holloway, a family friend who had been there for her ever since her mother started working for him. She got the job she wanted but she’s on the straight and narrow path with no time for guys like Ethan. Besides, she’s got her eyes on Blaine Holloway, grandson of Kip, who she has been in love with since she was all of thirteen.
As fate would have it, she bumps into Ethan when she is out following the Senator at a Crab Fest because the senator doesn’t want to miss one and is forced into having a conversation with Ethan. Ethan Castle has become a successful freelancer who helps campaigns and Grace is the only one in his dating past that he still has feelings for. He can’t over the fact that Grace just walked out of his life and law school one day and that he never heard back from her again. He thinks he wasn’t the perfect gentleman to her but he believes he did the best, given the situation that left me, the reader, ROFL. Seriously a DVD set?!
‘Oh, sure he hadn’t done a great job of romancing Grace. No flowers, no fancy dinners out. He hadn’t been rolling in dough back then. But he’d given her his prized DVD set of The West Wing. That had to count for something.
Ethan wants to pick things back up with Grace and she is forced to use a lame excuse that doesn’t sway the determined Ethan from seeing her again. But little they know what is about to happen.
Senator Holloway decides, despite being eighty and retirement material (which most of his family wants and some of his key staff does as well), to run for re-election. Determined to win, he needs the wonderboy Ethan Castle to help him. Which leaves Grace not so happy as there is a reason that she has been keeping distance between them She is not happy that the senator wants her to use her personal relationship to Ethan to get his services.
All of which leads to a happy Ethan and a furious Grace as Ethan comes up with an idea to promote Senator Holloway to the younger generation. Ethan and Grace having a campaign romance is getting on people’s nerves for all the wrong reasons. Will they be able to make a thing out of this relationship or will the secret Grace is keeping stop them?
Welcome to political games, love, blackmail and who knows what else (well I do, but you need to read for yourself to find out because I’m not giving it away!). For those who want something different from an established writer who has made her name in paranormal stories, this is the book for you. Draven surprised me and won herself a fan in contemporary category romances. Who knew she could write like this about politics in a fun and sexy way? 5 couples.
To see review at Confessions
Grace Santiago is lucky to have landed where she is after flunking out of law school thanks to the devastating Ethan Castle who she was dating at the time. Fast forward seven years and she is now working for Senator Kip Holloway, a family friend who had been there for her ever since her mother started working for him. She got the job she wanted but she’s on the straight and narrow path with no time for guys like Ethan. Besides, she’s got her eyes on Blaine Holloway, grandson of Kip, who she has been in love with since she was all of thirteen.
As fate would have it, she bumps into Ethan when she is out following the Senator at a Crab Fest because the senator doesn’t want to miss one and is forced into having a conversation with Ethan. Ethan Castle has become a successful freelancer who helps campaigns and Grace is the only one in his dating past that he still has feelings for. He can’t over the fact that Grace just walked out of his life and law school one day and that he never heard back from her again. He thinks he wasn’t the perfect gentleman to her but he believes he did the best, given the situation that left me, the reader, ROFL. Seriously a DVD set?!
‘Oh, sure he hadn’t done a great job of romancing Grace. No flowers, no fancy dinners out. He hadn’t been rolling in dough back then. But he’d given her his prized DVD set of The West Wing. That had to count for something.
Ethan wants to pick things back up with Grace and she is forced to use a lame excuse that doesn’t sway the determined Ethan from seeing her again. But little they know what is about to happen.
Senator Holloway decides, despite being eighty and retirement material (which most of his family wants and some of his key staff does as well), to run for re-election. Determined to win, he needs the wonderboy Ethan Castle to help him. Which leaves Grace not so happy as there is a reason that she has been keeping distance between them She is not happy that the senator wants her to use her personal relationship to Ethan to get his services.
All of which leads to a happy Ethan and a furious Grace as Ethan comes up with an idea to promote Senator Holloway to the younger generation. Ethan and Grace having a campaign romance is getting on people’s nerves for all the wrong reasons. Will they be able to make a thing out of this relationship or will the secret Grace is keeping stop them?
Welcome to political games, love, blackmail and who knows what else (well I do, but you need to read for yourself to find out because I’m not giving it away!). For those who want something different from an established writer who has made her name in paranormal stories, this is the book for you. Draven surprised me and won herself a fan in contemporary category romances. Who knew she could write like this about politics in a fun and sexy way? 5 couples.
October 10, 2012
Ever heard of a political romance? No, neither did I. It's not that there aren't novels set in the political world with romances in them (C.P. Snow's CORRIDORS OF POWER comes to mind, not to mention many a Jeffrey Archer novel), but I've never heard of them within the context of category romance. We probably will from now on, if Stephanie Draven has anything to do with it.
This novel is different from most of the romance novels I've read. Maybe it's because politics is different from any other realm of life. It's a very dirty game, where the winds of change can blow and completely change the scenario in an entirely unexpected way.
Firstly, most category romance novels take place in a period of a couple of days or weeks, with an epilogue for the 'one year later' or 'six months later' scenario if needed. This one took place over a period of months, which I found unusual. One minute, the heroine was ready for the Hallowe'en party. Next, it was Christmas and then New Year. Then Valentine's Day came up, then St. Patrick's Day. I couldn't help wondering why the heroine and her man saw so little of each other. Working hard, obviously. Well, apparently, politics is not a good area to work in if you relish your love life. It also gave the impression that the affair/story was moving rather slowly.
For consenting adults, Grace and Ethan seemed to have nowhere to go when they wanted to get it together. The cloakroom at a function? I couldn't believe it! I mean, it's not that I'm not into a bit of spontaneous romance when the mood grabs you, but this pair were like homeless folk the time came to make love. I mean, they both had their own apartments. Couldn't Grace do what every other girlfriend in the world does, at least now and again, and cook dinner for her man at home? Obviously, her job as Girl Friday to Senator Kip Halloway took precedence over her entire existence. Well obviously, that's political life (how severe is that?).
I enjoyed reading about Grace's dilemma, her attraction to her old college boyfriend Ethan Castle who is now a political handler for an opposing campaign to Grace's Senator boss. I could also sense her attraction to the Senator's grandson, as he is someone she always idolized, someone who could give her entry into a family she loves. The Senator looms large in this story and is a really inspired piece of characterization. In fact, the book actually reads like mainstream fiction rather than a romance novel. So if you're looking to read something romantic with an extra dimension, this could be the one for you.
I enjoyed Stephanie Draven's writing and will certainly look out for her work in future
This novel is different from most of the romance novels I've read. Maybe it's because politics is different from any other realm of life. It's a very dirty game, where the winds of change can blow and completely change the scenario in an entirely unexpected way.
Firstly, most category romance novels take place in a period of a couple of days or weeks, with an epilogue for the 'one year later' or 'six months later' scenario if needed. This one took place over a period of months, which I found unusual. One minute, the heroine was ready for the Hallowe'en party. Next, it was Christmas and then New Year. Then Valentine's Day came up, then St. Patrick's Day. I couldn't help wondering why the heroine and her man saw so little of each other. Working hard, obviously. Well, apparently, politics is not a good area to work in if you relish your love life. It also gave the impression that the affair/story was moving rather slowly.
For consenting adults, Grace and Ethan seemed to have nowhere to go when they wanted to get it together. The cloakroom at a function? I couldn't believe it! I mean, it's not that I'm not into a bit of spontaneous romance when the mood grabs you, but this pair were like homeless folk the time came to make love. I mean, they both had their own apartments. Couldn't Grace do what every other girlfriend in the world does, at least now and again, and cook dinner for her man at home? Obviously, her job as Girl Friday to Senator Kip Halloway took precedence over her entire existence. Well obviously, that's political life (how severe is that?).
I enjoyed reading about Grace's dilemma, her attraction to her old college boyfriend Ethan Castle who is now a political handler for an opposing campaign to Grace's Senator boss. I could also sense her attraction to the Senator's grandson, as he is someone she always idolized, someone who could give her entry into a family she loves. The Senator looms large in this story and is a really inspired piece of characterization. In fact, the book actually reads like mainstream fiction rather than a romance novel. So if you're looking to read something romantic with an extra dimension, this could be the one for you.
I enjoyed Stephanie Draven's writing and will certainly look out for her work in future
December 6, 2012
In Bed With the Opposition by Stephanie Draven
Received by Entangled Publishing
Release Date: August 15, 2012
Reviewed by: Middle Sis Jenn
The Sisters Say: The kind of politics worth paying attention to!
I originally read this right before the Presidential elections, and I will say, this was the side of politics I like! My husband is a huge political nut, so I had been hearing about the election for the past year, so it was nice to read something in the realm of politics, but with some seduction and sass! Plus, politics wasn’t something that I have ever read about in a romance novel before, so it was a nice change of pace.
I really enjoyed Grace as the strong female main character. She is smart and sassy, but she has a secret that has kept her from really letting loose since she was in law school. That secret ruled her life, and as a result, she found herself missing out on the best parts of living. Then Ethan comes sauntering back into her life with a smile that would melt your “insert whatever clothing you would like” right off, and he has his sights set on Grace.
I found myself laughing and enjoying the witty banter between Grace and Ethan. It was like watching a sexy game of cat and mouse, only when one finally catches the other, it’s like an explosion of desire. The steam in this one is off the charts—with scenes that you will definitely want to go back and read twice. (No judging—this is a safe zone!)
But it’s not just the romance that makes this a fun read, it’s the relationships. Grace and Ethan felt real, and their emotions and actions were all over the place just like ours are in real life—awkward at times, seductive at others. Now, Grace and Ethan are not the only ones that will draw your attention in this book. Grace is also torn because she has feelings for Blain, the Senator’s (her boss and closes thing to a father she has) grandson. The dynamics between Grace and Blain were interesting to read about because, like the political world in real life, there is so much pressure on them. Blain is always trying to please the public and his grandfather, with his work and his relationships. I can’t help but think this is probably true for many political families out there.
Overall, I really enjoyed Stephanie’s look into the world of politics and romance. It was a nice break from the normal spy or mystery or murder type of romances, and the romances that you love but know could never happen in real life. I would definitely recommend this to lovers of contemporary romance.
Received by Entangled Publishing
Release Date: August 15, 2012
Reviewed by: Middle Sis Jenn
The Sisters Say: The kind of politics worth paying attention to!
I originally read this right before the Presidential elections, and I will say, this was the side of politics I like! My husband is a huge political nut, so I had been hearing about the election for the past year, so it was nice to read something in the realm of politics, but with some seduction and sass! Plus, politics wasn’t something that I have ever read about in a romance novel before, so it was a nice change of pace.
I really enjoyed Grace as the strong female main character. She is smart and sassy, but she has a secret that has kept her from really letting loose since she was in law school. That secret ruled her life, and as a result, she found herself missing out on the best parts of living. Then Ethan comes sauntering back into her life with a smile that would melt your “insert whatever clothing you would like” right off, and he has his sights set on Grace.
I found myself laughing and enjoying the witty banter between Grace and Ethan. It was like watching a sexy game of cat and mouse, only when one finally catches the other, it’s like an explosion of desire. The steam in this one is off the charts—with scenes that you will definitely want to go back and read twice. (No judging—this is a safe zone!)
But it’s not just the romance that makes this a fun read, it’s the relationships. Grace and Ethan felt real, and their emotions and actions were all over the place just like ours are in real life—awkward at times, seductive at others. Now, Grace and Ethan are not the only ones that will draw your attention in this book. Grace is also torn because she has feelings for Blain, the Senator’s (her boss and closes thing to a father she has) grandson. The dynamics between Grace and Blain were interesting to read about because, like the political world in real life, there is so much pressure on them. Blain is always trying to please the public and his grandfather, with his work and his relationships. I can’t help but think this is probably true for many political families out there.
Overall, I really enjoyed Stephanie’s look into the world of politics and romance. It was a nice break from the normal spy or mystery or murder type of romances, and the romances that you love but know could never happen in real life. I would definitely recommend this to lovers of contemporary romance.
November 1, 2012
Grace is a nice girl... and that is the problem... she's a nice girl panting after a man who knows she's there for him if he wants her but he really doesn't have to do anything to keep her. She works for a Senator and has been basically a step-daughter to him for most of her life. The man she thinks is perfect for her (she just needs him to finally admit it) is Blain (Senator's son) and while he hasn't made the formal move of making their on/off again relationship permanent she just keeps being the faithful puppy she is. However, back in law school she made one big mistake in an all-consuming love affair with Ethan and unfortunately someone managed to get compromising photos that Blain helped keep hushed up by getting the scum a job on the Hill. Other than that one moment of insanity Grace has been the model of propriety and control. She's seen Ethan on TV many times since then but has never run in to him again since she left law school abruptly.
Ethan has a great life with money, fame, power and almost anything he wants when he wants it. He runs in to Grace at an event and immediately remembers their "fling" in law school and that she left without any warning or reason. He's always wondered about the one that got away as he really wanted her for more than just the fun times they had. He was falling for the quirky woman she is under all the levels of control. He's interested in her again but knows she's not cut out for anything other than the real thing and he isn't sure he's the one for that. They have quite a bit of chemistry that when it blows up man oh man is it hot but behind this both of them realize it is more than just a fling but how can they make anything work while they are working for opposing candidates. There is quite a bit of misunderstanding between the two of them and at times you just want them to actually talk to each other rather than saying what is needed for the campaigns but... eventually love wins out and watching them work through their issues was a fun ride.
Thanks to NetGalley.com and Entangled Publishing for the chance to read this in exchange for my honest review.
Ethan has a great life with money, fame, power and almost anything he wants when he wants it. He runs in to Grace at an event and immediately remembers their "fling" in law school and that she left without any warning or reason. He's always wondered about the one that got away as he really wanted her for more than just the fun times they had. He was falling for the quirky woman she is under all the levels of control. He's interested in her again but knows she's not cut out for anything other than the real thing and he isn't sure he's the one for that. They have quite a bit of chemistry that when it blows up man oh man is it hot but behind this both of them realize it is more than just a fling but how can they make anything work while they are working for opposing candidates. There is quite a bit of misunderstanding between the two of them and at times you just want them to actually talk to each other rather than saying what is needed for the campaigns but... eventually love wins out and watching them work through their issues was a fun ride.
Thanks to NetGalley.com and Entangled Publishing for the chance to read this in exchange for my honest review.
October 22, 2012
3.5 stars
Grace Santiago is the senate staffer for a lifer senator, Kip Halloway. But she is more than just an employee. Her mom works for the senator and since she was a young girl she's been a part of the Halloway family and she strongly believes in everything that Halloway stands for. She's also infatuated with his grandson and thinks that they are meant to be together.
She grew up with him and has leaned on him in the past. He was her first everything. Until she met Ethan Castle in law school and she was tempted to do things that she would normally never consider. Something happens though and it forces her to ask Blaine for help and then drop out of law school, leaving Ethan puzzled and demanding answers he never gets.
Years later, they are once again together and their attraction can't be denied... or ... maybe it can.
I liked this book. I didn't love it, but it was well written and the characters were likable. Even though at times I found Grace a bit irritating I still thought she was a good character.
This is where I struggle when writing reviews because with this story, I was kind of middle of the road. I didn't dislike it, but there was nothing to this that really made me feel like I couldn't read it fast enough and that's the feeling I'm always looking for when reading a book.
The characters were likable, the story was pretty good and the plot was interesting. I just ... wanted more I think. The chemistry was there between the characters, but it was more of a lukewarm than a hot for me.
Give this a read if you're looking for some smart, witty dialogue and you enjoy political drama. Definitely something light and fun!
This review can be found on my blog, Fic Fare:
Grace Santiago is the senate staffer for a lifer senator, Kip Halloway. But she is more than just an employee. Her mom works for the senator and since she was a young girl she's been a part of the Halloway family and she strongly believes in everything that Halloway stands for. She's also infatuated with his grandson and thinks that they are meant to be together.
She grew up with him and has leaned on him in the past. He was her first everything. Until she met Ethan Castle in law school and she was tempted to do things that she would normally never consider. Something happens though and it forces her to ask Blaine for help and then drop out of law school, leaving Ethan puzzled and demanding answers he never gets.
Years later, they are once again together and their attraction can't be denied... or ... maybe it can.
I liked this book. I didn't love it, but it was well written and the characters were likable. Even though at times I found Grace a bit irritating I still thought she was a good character.
This is where I struggle when writing reviews because with this story, I was kind of middle of the road. I didn't dislike it, but there was nothing to this that really made me feel like I couldn't read it fast enough and that's the feeling I'm always looking for when reading a book.
The characters were likable, the story was pretty good and the plot was interesting. I just ... wanted more I think. The chemistry was there between the characters, but it was more of a lukewarm than a hot for me.
Give this a read if you're looking for some smart, witty dialogue and you enjoy political drama. Definitely something light and fun!
This review can be found on my blog, Fic Fare:
March 11, 2013
Ah yes, if you follow politics closely at all, politics and romance or sex often seem to go hand in hand. Just think about how many of the recent political scandals or the big political scandals from history that have to do with sex. Nothing heats up a romance like passion and politics seems to bring out some of the most passionate people. When you have these two things together, you know you're going to get something explosive. "In Bed with the Opposition" takes this equation and forms a thoroughly engaging and entertaining story around it! This book definitely proves that politics is anything but boring!
I read this book on the train ride to NYC that I went on recently. It was the perfect book for traveling. It had a little bit of everything; great characters, great romance, steamy love scenes (like really steamy and totally delectable! I blushed a little, which is the mark of any good romance novel, eh?) and a great back story to tie everything together. Let's put it this way: it made time pass really quickly on the train.
I loved the story between Grace and Ethan. Grace is a lady after my own heart. She's smart, she's strong, and she's a real go getter. She knows how to take care of herself and isn't afraid to navigate the murky waters of Washington politics. Ethan is also incredibly smart and terribly sexy. He was really the perfect love match for Grace. I liked that the characters both had really full back stories. You understand where they're coming from and why they fall for each other. I find that a lot of times, you don't really get that in romance novels.
Overall: This book is a great romance with fantastic characters!
I read this book on the train ride to NYC that I went on recently. It was the perfect book for traveling. It had a little bit of everything; great characters, great romance, steamy love scenes (like really steamy and totally delectable! I blushed a little, which is the mark of any good romance novel, eh?) and a great back story to tie everything together. Let's put it this way: it made time pass really quickly on the train.
I loved the story between Grace and Ethan. Grace is a lady after my own heart. She's smart, she's strong, and she's a real go getter. She knows how to take care of herself and isn't afraid to navigate the murky waters of Washington politics. Ethan is also incredibly smart and terribly sexy. He was really the perfect love match for Grace. I liked that the characters both had really full back stories. You understand where they're coming from and why they fall for each other. I find that a lot of times, you don't really get that in romance novels.
Overall: This book is a great romance with fantastic characters!
October 16, 2012
Grace loves lists, her rules and her well ordered life. When a chance encounter at a crab festival with ex-boyfriend Ethan Castle throws everything into chaos. Ethan has been hired by a rival, the battle lines are drawn and boy do the sparks start to fly! Can she keep herself on the right track and her feelings in check with handsome, sexy Ethan close by?
These characters have so much chemistry it practically leapt off the page! Grace is torn between Blain – the Senator’s grandson, who she’s had a thing for since childhood and Ethan – the man she met in Law school who she can’t seem to get out of her mind.
As the story progresses we get to see more and more of Grace and how she deals with so many changes in her life. She’s thrust into the political ring after an accident takes the campaign manager out of the game. Can she pick up the pieces, before disaster strikes?
I really loved Grace – her lists , her rules and the witty banter between her and Ethan. She has spunk, she’s driven and keeps everyone on their toes. I loved the unexpected moments, the tension and the light hearted humour! I wasn’t expecting to love the political aspects, but they were amazing!
Will I recommend this? Most definitely, it’s a fun, light hearted, sexy, witty story of two characters who are getting a second chance; with a love triangle tossed in for good measure! Would I read more by this author? Yes, I loved her writing style, the characters and the pace of the story!
These characters have so much chemistry it practically leapt off the page! Grace is torn between Blain – the Senator’s grandson, who she’s had a thing for since childhood and Ethan – the man she met in Law school who she can’t seem to get out of her mind.
As the story progresses we get to see more and more of Grace and how she deals with so many changes in her life. She’s thrust into the political ring after an accident takes the campaign manager out of the game. Can she pick up the pieces, before disaster strikes?
I really loved Grace – her lists , her rules and the witty banter between her and Ethan. She has spunk, she’s driven and keeps everyone on their toes. I loved the unexpected moments, the tension and the light hearted humour! I wasn’t expecting to love the political aspects, but they were amazing!
Will I recommend this? Most definitely, it’s a fun, light hearted, sexy, witty story of two characters who are getting a second chance; with a love triangle tossed in for good measure! Would I read more by this author? Yes, I loved her writing style, the characters and the pace of the story!
November 22, 2013
Just, so much to like. An appealing heroine, who I was rooting for even in her most exasperatingly insecure moments. A larger than life and yet sweet and sensitive hero, who impressed me permanently by pulling back from a heated moment when the heroine threw up a stop sign almost at the last second. Until then I found his internal anger a bit worrying, but he proves able to keep from acting destructively because of it. Snappy writing and solid plotting. Well-sketched backstory and well-placed secondary characters.
A few small problems I couldn't help noting - some inconsistency on whether the break-up and associated events were 7 or 5 years ago (maybe an editing error?); a few infodumpy moments; and for some reason I left the story feeling a bit worried about whether there was a strong enough relationship to underlie the HEA. I mean, they're super hot together, and also super cute together, but the whole thing starts because of past misunderstandings about sex, and I'm not sure how it is they fall in love during the book...but they definitely do, so maybe that's just me.
Looking forward to more from this author! I love her sense of humor and writing style, and hope to see more contemporaries from her (that being said, I also loved her historical short story collection, It Stings So Sweet).
A few small problems I couldn't help noting - some inconsistency on whether the break-up and associated events were 7 or 5 years ago (maybe an editing error?); a few infodumpy moments; and for some reason I left the story feeling a bit worried about whether there was a strong enough relationship to underlie the HEA. I mean, they're super hot together, and also super cute together, but the whole thing starts because of past misunderstandings about sex, and I'm not sure how it is they fall in love during the book...but they definitely do, so maybe that's just me.
Looking forward to more from this author! I love her sense of humor and writing style, and hope to see more contemporaries from her (that being said, I also loved her historical short story collection, It Stings So Sweet).
February 22, 2013
Why-oh-why did I just read this book now?! I have been eyeing it for ages but did not get around reading it! But now EXTREMELY PLEASURED that I FINALLY have! The every second I spent on this book was so goddamn worth it!
This is the first book I read from Stephanie Draven and I assure you, not one bit did she let me down!
Story was so refreshingly good that I devoured every page of it!
Lines were engagingly witty and the sexy banter between the characters were oh-so-great!
Ethan Castle, a sex-charged Romeo and a real gentle lad at the same time will leave you sighing and panting as this delicious devil can tickle every nook and cranny of your body and imagination! Whilst the heroine, Grace Santiago, a neat freak but you will absolutely love, was the perfect example of a good girl gone bad, who always refers to her self made rules and who had a knack for dressing up from superheroes to Disney characters down to holidays costumes. She's quirky, loyal and naughty.
The story line was easy to follow and the sex...Ooohh boy! Don't get me wrong, there was no detailed vulgarities but oh my word! The tension that was built up left me screaming to my loins to be still! Yes, BIG LOL!
Verdict: 10 stars out of 5!
Highly recommended
And to you Ms Stephanie Draven, I absolutely adore you and your writing skills!
This is the first book I read from Stephanie Draven and I assure you, not one bit did she let me down!
Story was so refreshingly good that I devoured every page of it!
Lines were engagingly witty and the sexy banter between the characters were oh-so-great!
Ethan Castle, a sex-charged Romeo and a real gentle lad at the same time will leave you sighing and panting as this delicious devil can tickle every nook and cranny of your body and imagination! Whilst the heroine, Grace Santiago, a neat freak but you will absolutely love, was the perfect example of a good girl gone bad, who always refers to her self made rules and who had a knack for dressing up from superheroes to Disney characters down to holidays costumes. She's quirky, loyal and naughty.
The story line was easy to follow and the sex...Ooohh boy! Don't get me wrong, there was no detailed vulgarities but oh my word! The tension that was built up left me screaming to my loins to be still! Yes, BIG LOL!
Verdict: 10 stars out of 5!
Highly recommended
And to you Ms Stephanie Draven, I absolutely adore you and your writing skills!
November 19, 2012
Also on http://sillymelody.blogspot.com
So yesterday I started Stephanie Draven's In Bed with the Opposition. I have to say that I was pretty amaze with the story, because I'm not really into politics. However, this was pretty good read. So, let me share with you a political caper and my thoughts.
Growing up in unstable life, Grace Santiago made sure her life mission was stable. Which is pretty hard when your working in politics. However, she has manage with her Personal Life Handbook and tries to follow those rules to a T. Yet, whenever Ethan Castle is around those rules go out the window.
Ethan has had a thing for Grace and he's not going to let her get away this time around. Even it means working for the opposition to be close her. This should be interesting.
As I said in the beginning, I'm not really into politics. However, in this story it wasn't bad. I actually enjoyed the story. I really like the chemistry between Grace and Ethan. I think being on the opposite side made the story engaging. I absolutely love how Ethan brought out Grace's true self out. So, if you are looking for a quick read that has a political twist to it, you might enjoy In Bed with the Opposition. So, happy reading.
Copy provide by the author
So yesterday I started Stephanie Draven's In Bed with the Opposition. I have to say that I was pretty amaze with the story, because I'm not really into politics. However, this was pretty good read. So, let me share with you a political caper and my thoughts.
Growing up in unstable life, Grace Santiago made sure her life mission was stable. Which is pretty hard when your working in politics. However, she has manage with her Personal Life Handbook and tries to follow those rules to a T. Yet, whenever Ethan Castle is around those rules go out the window.
Ethan has had a thing for Grace and he's not going to let her get away this time around. Even it means working for the opposition to be close her. This should be interesting.
As I said in the beginning, I'm not really into politics. However, in this story it wasn't bad. I actually enjoyed the story. I really like the chemistry between Grace and Ethan. I think being on the opposite side made the story engaging. I absolutely love how Ethan brought out Grace's true self out. So, if you are looking for a quick read that has a political twist to it, you might enjoy In Bed with the Opposition. So, happy reading.
Copy provide by the author
February 22, 2013
It's alright. I've read better political romances and I've read much worse. The story here was a bit slow for me though. Fairly predictable and not terribly exciting.
Grace didn't do much for me. She comes across to me as whiny and annoying. Yes, she does get a bit better as the book progresses, but never really goes away. She needs everything to be about her- but isn't exactly obvious about it. I did enjoy her never ending array of holiday themed undies!
Ethan, I have a feeling was supposed to come off as a bit of a bad ass- but he didn't. Playboy- maybe a little bit, but not much. He comes through as too nice to fit into what the other characters say about him and his political celebrity way. If some sort of incident between him and PolitiGal (love that name btw!) had occurred then he would have lived up to what we're being told about how Ethan is.
I think if we had seen more from Ethan and delved more into the issues with Dale and the law school photos then this could have been a better story. Like I said- it's not the best and it's not the worst, but there is room for improvement. It needed some sort of a better twist to throw us off. Instead- as you read- what you think is going to happen next probably does.
Grace didn't do much for me. She comes across to me as whiny and annoying. Yes, she does get a bit better as the book progresses, but never really goes away. She needs everything to be about her- but isn't exactly obvious about it. I did enjoy her never ending array of holiday themed undies!
Ethan, I have a feeling was supposed to come off as a bit of a bad ass- but he didn't. Playboy- maybe a little bit, but not much. He comes through as too nice to fit into what the other characters say about him and his political celebrity way. If some sort of incident between him and PolitiGal (love that name btw!) had occurred then he would have lived up to what we're being told about how Ethan is.
I think if we had seen more from Ethan and delved more into the issues with Dale and the law school photos then this could have been a better story. Like I said- it's not the best and it's not the worst, but there is room for improvement. It needed some sort of a better twist to throw us off. Instead- as you read- what you think is going to happen next probably does.
October 20, 2012
A pleasant mix of a quirky heroine, a witty Casanova on a mission to win her heart, and their head-to-head banter which only brings out their undeniably sizzling chemistry together in the middle of political crosshairs. If these aren't the perfect ingredients for a no-hassle and feel-good romance story, I don't know what is!
Stephanie Draven brought out a fresh twist to the phrase 'good girl gone bad' in a pleasantly endearing way that makes you appreciate your own quirks. And she did this in the form of the heroine Grace Santiago. I mean, who doesn't love a heroine with a knack for pumpkin-printed bras?
Every once in a while, it's nice to take a break from the slew of mystery books which tickle the mind and pique the curiosity, and settle for something less complicated. Stephanie Draven's In Bed with the Opposition is exactly just that - a less complicated and sexy romance story. It's the perfect book to choose when you're looking for a quick read, romance story to lift your mood.
Stephanie Draven brought out a fresh twist to the phrase 'good girl gone bad' in a pleasantly endearing way that makes you appreciate your own quirks. And she did this in the form of the heroine Grace Santiago. I mean, who doesn't love a heroine with a knack for pumpkin-printed bras?
Every once in a while, it's nice to take a break from the slew of mystery books which tickle the mind and pique the curiosity, and settle for something less complicated. Stephanie Draven's In Bed with the Opposition is exactly just that - a less complicated and sexy romance story. It's the perfect book to choose when you're looking for a quick read, romance story to lift your mood.
January 15, 2020
I enjoyed this book thoroughly, and the characters made me care more about politics and their far-reaching lives. Grace was a lovely heroine, who--although frustrating at times--really inspired me and made me believe in who she was with Ethan. Most heroines claim that the heroes of the story make them "better people", but following Grace through her struggle and being with her during her epiphany was very realistic and just made me like her even more. Ethan was a realistic sweetheart who wasn't afraid to push Grace (most of the time) and wasn't afraid of admitting his stupid mistakes (which I admire in a person).
Just about the only character I couldn't connect with was Kip Holloway, which was surprising considering how offensive both Blain and Dale were to Grace. Kip seemed too demeaning and demanding of someone he supposedly saw as "family", and I really had no sympathy for him in the end. Overall, it was a lighter and more comical romance read that I would definitely recommend for a warm autumn day. Or when you're feeling particularly political or sexually combative.
Just about the only character I couldn't connect with was Kip Holloway, which was surprising considering how offensive both Blain and Dale were to Grace. Kip seemed too demeaning and demanding of someone he supposedly saw as "family", and I really had no sympathy for him in the end. Overall, it was a lighter and more comical romance read that I would definitely recommend for a warm autumn day. Or when you're feeling particularly political or sexually combative.
October 1, 2012
I'd say it was more 4.5 stars but I rounded up. I really enjoyed the book even though I thought at first it would be boring (its not by any means). Grace is your typical overachiever type A work alcoholic. She spends most of her life working for a man she idolizes and pining away for a man who thinks of her as a friend with the occasional benefits. When Grace was away at college she met Ethan and the chemistry was explosive between them but something happened and now she thinks of him as a mistake. Ethan cute, funny commentator on cable political shows does not know why his college sweetheart up and left one day with no warning. Their lives collide in as political oppositions in a Senate race. The chemistry is still there but there is animosity on both sides that drive a wedge between then. I loved the battles between them and the ending was great.
September 29, 2012
IN BED WITH THE OPPOSITION by author Stephanie Draven is an Entangled Publishing release for October 2012.
Grace Santiago met Ethan Castle after ten years and realised that she was still attracted to him. She felt the jolt of awareness every time he looked at her. Dare she let him back in her heart again? After all she had an explosive secret in her past.
Now both of them work for opposing political parties and were competitors. Would Ethan act on his attraction for Grace or would he let politics determine his decision?
IN BED WITH THE OPPOSITION is a very sensual romance amid the political drama. The dialogue is witty and fast. The story itself is a very fast paced. This was my first Stephanie Draven story and I loved her writing.
My rating 4.5 out of 5 stars.
November 1, 2012
This is a political romance. The romance is set during a campaign for senate. SD's voice is very captovating. The political background is very well written. The secondary characters are very lively.The main characters are likeable & well portrayed. Grace is a quirky & uptight h who likes lists, rules & order in her life. Ethan is a campaign manager & talk show celebrity. They had a hot affair at law school and when they meet again, 10 years later, sparks starts to fly. Grace is torn between her loyalty to her boss, whom she knew all her life, & her on-off relation with his grandson Blain and the attraction she feels for Ethan, who is now managing the campaign of the opposition.
A compelling read with witty dialogue, sizzling attraction & entertaining political debate.
A compelling read with witty dialogue, sizzling attraction & entertaining political debate.
January 13, 2016
I loved the political setting of this contemporary love story: perfect for an election year read. Grace was a strong heroine with quite a few quirks that made her lovable while Ethan just made me fall head over heels. I really liked all the West Wing references (I'm a dork, I know). The main issue I had with the book was that I didn't like all the time jumps. I thought Ethan and Grace were a fun couple to read about and I wanted a little bit more about the development of their relationship. I'll definitely look for more of Ms. Draven's work in the future especially if she is going to do more politically-set romances.
October 28, 2012
This was a Netgalley Arc an I give it 4 stars.
I'm usually not into politics and I follow zilch but I was happy to see this story didn't challenge me too much on that front. It was a smart funny story about two people who's lives crossed in the past and ended abruptly due to unfortunate circumstances. They meet suddenly and find themselves on opposite sides, one is willing to fight to make things work and the other is blow hot blow cold and doesn't know what she wants, and follows the road that she should versus the road she's dying to travel. It's a bumpy steamy ride and the outcome is wonderful.
I'm usually not into politics and I follow zilch but I was happy to see this story didn't challenge me too much on that front. It was a smart funny story about two people who's lives crossed in the past and ended abruptly due to unfortunate circumstances. They meet suddenly and find themselves on opposite sides, one is willing to fight to make things work and the other is blow hot blow cold and doesn't know what she wants, and follows the road that she should versus the road she's dying to travel. It's a bumpy steamy ride and the outcome is wonderful.
May 9, 2015
2.5 stars Grace and Ethan. This book is from the Entangled Indulgence line, which come to find out is much tamer on the sizzle factor than their Brazen line, which I prefer. I liked the setup and I liked Ethan, but I didn't like Grace. She was too wimpy and I couldn't respect her, and that made me not care about anything she did. Parts of the drama that drove the story, especially the past for Grace and Ethan, didn't make sense - it just wasn't that big of a deal. I was a bit bored overall. I like the cover, which may be why I bought in the first place.
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