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The Rebound Guy
New York, new guy, new Kelly!
After Kelly Bradford's past few years, all she wants is a steady life. She certainly doesn't need the hassle of men or dating after everything she's been through. So she absolutely, categorically should not be fantasizing about Jason Knight, her boss and a man whose very smile screams trouble!
But a business trip to New York pushes her resolutions to the max—the adrenaline of the Big Apple has nothing on the excitement Kelly feels around Jason! Maybe a rebound fling is just what she needs to make her feel alive again….
After Kelly Bradford's past few years, all she wants is a steady life. She certainly doesn't need the hassle of men or dating after everything she's been through. So she absolutely, categorically should not be fantasizing about Jason Knight, her boss and a man whose very smile screams trouble!
But a business trip to New York pushes her resolutions to the max—the adrenaline of the Big Apple has nothing on the excitement Kelly feels around Jason! Maybe a rebound fling is just what she needs to make her feel alive again….
224 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
12 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
August 20, 2013
Slick‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Review copy provided for an honest review
4 STARS
As much as I love erotic romance, sometime I like to read a regular romance where there are heated glances, make out sessions, frustration, want, and need. One where the couple fully admits they are hot for one another but the timing in never right or their reasons for resisting are valid so they do. The Rebound Guy is just such a story, be aware there is no sex in this book but that doesn’t mean it’s not a worthy story because honestly this is a great story; one that I had a hard time putting down, one that I fell in love with both of the main characters, and one that experienced a wide range of emotions while reading.
Set is London; the hero is an American playboy who has been running a family company since being banished there by his father. The heroine is a cancer survivor and single mom of two young boys, she’s jaded after her husband left her when she was diagnosed and she lost her home. These two seem like complete opposites on paper but they bring out the best in each other and despite all the reasons they tell themselves they shouldn’t be together, sometimes fate rides in and you can’t fight it.
Jason Knight is hard to resist, and his bedpost proves it. He’s kind of flitted through life doing what he wants and getting women has never been a challenge for him. There’s no doubt he charming and handsome but underneath that fun exterior there’s a lot of pain that he doesn’t acknowledge or discuss ever. He’s been developing a new running shoe and he believes it’s revolutionary. It’s the one accomplishment he’s truly proud of and he’s hoping his family sits up and takes notice.
Kelly Bradford has had a hard couple of years and is now temping for Aspire a leading sporting goods company. But after being sexually harassed by her last placement she’s given one more chance with the CEO. Unfortunately the libido she thought was killed my chemo comes rushing to life the minute she meets her new boss and he’s not making it easy with his charming attitude and flirty nature. But Kelly knows she can’t cross that line, she needs this job to be able to afford the home she wants for her and her sons.
Both Jason and Kelly fight their attraction for different reasons but it’s there and it just sits at a low boil. Jason really wants to make a move but Kelly proves to be much stronger and even after they share a very passionate kiss, she shuts him down and moves past pretending it didn’t happen. Because women have always come easy for Jason, this flummoxes him to no end and then at the company picnic Kelly sees a totally different side of Jason and her need for him comes roaring back.
There is a lot of cat and mouse in this book and it makes it completely entertaining and hard to resist. I do admire Kelly for keeping her distance and thinking about her boys first. As they begin to share their personal histories it becomes clear that both of these people have some issues they need to deal with and sort through. A business trip to New York while they hope to land a spokesman for their new shoe is a turning point but it’s far from easy and just as things are looking up, they are dealt another blow.
The Rebound Guy sounds like a light and fluffy read, but this book is far from that, it’s gripping and emotionally charged. I loved the way their relationship built and the steps they took to make it strong. It was difficult but they persevered with humor, kindness, fun, tears, and love. This is a feel good book that anyone who enjoys a good love story will enjoy thoroughly!
Review copy provided for an honest review
4 STARS
As much as I love erotic romance, sometime I like to read a regular romance where there are heated glances, make out sessions, frustration, want, and need. One where the couple fully admits they are hot for one another but the timing in never right or their reasons for resisting are valid so they do. The Rebound Guy is just such a story, be aware there is no sex in this book but that doesn’t mean it’s not a worthy story because honestly this is a great story; one that I had a hard time putting down, one that I fell in love with both of the main characters, and one that experienced a wide range of emotions while reading.
Set is London; the hero is an American playboy who has been running a family company since being banished there by his father. The heroine is a cancer survivor and single mom of two young boys, she’s jaded after her husband left her when she was diagnosed and she lost her home. These two seem like complete opposites on paper but they bring out the best in each other and despite all the reasons they tell themselves they shouldn’t be together, sometimes fate rides in and you can’t fight it.
Jason Knight is hard to resist, and his bedpost proves it. He’s kind of flitted through life doing what he wants and getting women has never been a challenge for him. There’s no doubt he charming and handsome but underneath that fun exterior there’s a lot of pain that he doesn’t acknowledge or discuss ever. He’s been developing a new running shoe and he believes it’s revolutionary. It’s the one accomplishment he’s truly proud of and he’s hoping his family sits up and takes notice.
Kelly Bradford has had a hard couple of years and is now temping for Aspire a leading sporting goods company. But after being sexually harassed by her last placement she’s given one more chance with the CEO. Unfortunately the libido she thought was killed my chemo comes rushing to life the minute she meets her new boss and he’s not making it easy with his charming attitude and flirty nature. But Kelly knows she can’t cross that line, she needs this job to be able to afford the home she wants for her and her sons.
Both Jason and Kelly fight their attraction for different reasons but it’s there and it just sits at a low boil. Jason really wants to make a move but Kelly proves to be much stronger and even after they share a very passionate kiss, she shuts him down and moves past pretending it didn’t happen. Because women have always come easy for Jason, this flummoxes him to no end and then at the company picnic Kelly sees a totally different side of Jason and her need for him comes roaring back.
There is a lot of cat and mouse in this book and it makes it completely entertaining and hard to resist. I do admire Kelly for keeping her distance and thinking about her boys first. As they begin to share their personal histories it becomes clear that both of these people have some issues they need to deal with and sort through. A business trip to New York while they hope to land a spokesman for their new shoe is a turning point but it’s far from easy and just as things are looking up, they are dealt another blow.
The Rebound Guy sounds like a light and fluffy read, but this book is far from that, it’s gripping and emotionally charged. I loved the way their relationship built and the steps they took to make it strong. It was difficult but they persevered with humor, kindness, fun, tears, and love. This is a feel good book that anyone who enjoys a good love story will enjoy thoroughly!
August 14, 2013
This modern day romance features divorcee Kelly, recently in remission from cancer and mum to two young boys. Desperate to regain her independence, not to mention earn some money to give her boys a better home, she begins temporary work as a PA at Aspire Sports. Kelly is assertive and no-nonsense (all the more so given what she has been through) and also has a strict policy against dating her co-workers, which intrigues handsome playboy Jason Knight. Jason is positively notorious for having flings with his PA’s and when he meets Kelly he is frustrated to realise that she won’t succumb to his advances so easily. Has the playboy boss finally met his match?
This was a quick, easy read that was nicely paced and engaging enough to hold my attention throughout. Some facets of it felt realistic which I liked. Another aspect of the story that I enjoyed was the way that Kelly herself was written. She was assertive and brave, not to mention independent, though typically of romance novels, immediately became a swooning female once she actually kissed Jason, which was a bit cringey and seemed out of character given how she was initially portrayed to be. After what else she had been through however, some of her thoughts and feelings about her illness sadly felt a bit rushed, especially towards the end of the story. I would have perhaps liked to have seen a bit more made of this and the impact that it made on her, not to mention her young boys. It would have provided more depth to her as well as to the plot.
Jason is that ever-typical romantic hero: gorgeous, a real playboy and of course, “misunderstood.” Deep down he was sweet, however given that Kelly witnessed his flirtations with numerous other women right in front of her and he had such a reputation, I’m surprised she was willing to go there in the first place. I would have been a LOT more cautious (not to mention scared of ‘catching’ something), but hey ho... I suppose that wouldn’t have made for as good a story!
The parts of the novel set in New York were by far the strongest for me. I have been to New York and I enjoyed the descriptions of some of the vibrant sights and sounds of the city. Kelly and Jason connected there and it was a romantic setting which added an almost fairytale like quality to the novel. I would have also liked to have seen a bit more made of Jason connecting with his family over there as well, but maybe the author didn’t want to make too big a deal of that, though it did feel like a bit of a wasted opportunity.
Though I wasn’t exactly blown away by ‘The Rebound Guy’, it was certainly an entertaining, escapist read with a guaranteed happily ever after which is pretty much all I ask for when reading a romance novel, though I do think some of the plot threads could have been given a lot more depth. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the author’s writing style and would consider reading more from Fiona Harper in future.
This was a quick, easy read that was nicely paced and engaging enough to hold my attention throughout. Some facets of it felt realistic which I liked. Another aspect of the story that I enjoyed was the way that Kelly herself was written. She was assertive and brave, not to mention independent, though typically of romance novels, immediately became a swooning female once she actually kissed Jason, which was a bit cringey and seemed out of character given how she was initially portrayed to be. After what else she had been through however, some of her thoughts and feelings about her illness sadly felt a bit rushed, especially towards the end of the story. I would have perhaps liked to have seen a bit more made of this and the impact that it made on her, not to mention her young boys. It would have provided more depth to her as well as to the plot.
Jason is that ever-typical romantic hero: gorgeous, a real playboy and of course, “misunderstood.” Deep down he was sweet, however given that Kelly witnessed his flirtations with numerous other women right in front of her and he had such a reputation, I’m surprised she was willing to go there in the first place. I would have been a LOT more cautious (not to mention scared of ‘catching’ something), but hey ho... I suppose that wouldn’t have made for as good a story!
The parts of the novel set in New York were by far the strongest for me. I have been to New York and I enjoyed the descriptions of some of the vibrant sights and sounds of the city. Kelly and Jason connected there and it was a romantic setting which added an almost fairytale like quality to the novel. I would have also liked to have seen a bit more made of Jason connecting with his family over there as well, but maybe the author didn’t want to make too big a deal of that, though it did feel like a bit of a wasted opportunity.
Though I wasn’t exactly blown away by ‘The Rebound Guy’, it was certainly an entertaining, escapist read with a guaranteed happily ever after which is pretty much all I ask for when reading a romance novel, though I do think some of the plot threads could have been given a lot more depth. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the author’s writing style and would consider reading more from Fiona Harper in future.
October 26, 2013
If you’re looking for a fun and feel-good contemporary romance that packs plenty of emotional punch, then look no further than Fiona Harper’s second book for Harlequin Kiss, The Rebound Guy!
Kelly Bradford has had a tough couple of years. After she was diagnosed with breast cancer, her feckless husband walked out on her and she was left facing this horrible disease all on her own. With two young boys to bring up, Kelly refused to crumble and give in to cancer, so she had fought with all her might and emerged victorious in her battle against her illness. All Kelly wants to do now is to get back on her feet and to give her two boys the best possible start in life. The full-time mum is keen to get a good job and to start saving up for a house for her and her children – which is why she cannot afford to lose her job as a temp at Aspire Sports! However, little did feisty Kelly realise that she was going to have to cope with the unwelcome advances of her lecherous manager, Will Payne. When she reaches the end of her tether, Kelly realizes that she’s got no other choice but to hand in her notice and look for another job. Luckily for her, Will is dismissed from his job and she gets transferred to another section of the company where she gets to work up close and personal with Aspire Sports’ drop dead gorgeous chief executive officer, Jason Knight!
Having been sent by his billionaire father to run the London-based office of Aspire Sports, that is seriously under performing, Jason had quickly made himself at home in the British capital. Good-looking, rich and charismatic, the dashing Jason Knight had been welcomed with open arms by the women working in the London office. However, Jason is the love them and leave them type who has got no interest in commitment or in a long-term relationship – much to the exasperation of the human resources department at Aspire who have to find replacements for the personal assistants Jason dates and discards in rapid succession! When he claps eyes on his latest assistant Kelly, Jason is immediately smitten by his fiery new PA. Unfortunately, Jason had just promised his HR manager that he wouldn’t mix business with pleasure and date his employees ever again. But the more time Jason spends with Kelly, the more his resolve weakens…
After her husband had walked out on her when she needed him most, Kelly had vowed never to trust another man ever again. She has got neither the time nor the inclination for a relationship – so why can’t she stop fantasizing about Jason? When she’s taken to New York on a business trip, Kelly finds herself giving into temptation and succumbing to Jason’s tender kisses. But is Kelly ready to put the past behind her and give love another try? Or is she just setting herself up for even more heartbreak by thinking about having a relationship with a playboy like Jason?
Having read and enjoyed every single one of Fiona Harper’s books, my expectations for The Rebound Guy were pretty high. However, no sooner had I read the first chapter that I found myself riveted to this fresh, funny and wonderfully compelling contemporary romance! Fiona Harper juggles heart-stopping emotional drama and witty romance with ease, style and class and you are sure to adore this terrific tale of past wounds, fresh starts and happy endings.
Kelly and Jason are fabulous characters who are smart, gutsy and courageous, but who have a hint of vulnerability that makes them all the more human and believable. You will fall in love with them and cheer them on to their own happy ending.
A first-class romance that’s too good to miss, The Rebound Guy is another outstanding tale by the incredible Fiona Harper.
This review was originally published on Cataromance
Kelly Bradford has had a tough couple of years. After she was diagnosed with breast cancer, her feckless husband walked out on her and she was left facing this horrible disease all on her own. With two young boys to bring up, Kelly refused to crumble and give in to cancer, so she had fought with all her might and emerged victorious in her battle against her illness. All Kelly wants to do now is to get back on her feet and to give her two boys the best possible start in life. The full-time mum is keen to get a good job and to start saving up for a house for her and her children – which is why she cannot afford to lose her job as a temp at Aspire Sports! However, little did feisty Kelly realise that she was going to have to cope with the unwelcome advances of her lecherous manager, Will Payne. When she reaches the end of her tether, Kelly realizes that she’s got no other choice but to hand in her notice and look for another job. Luckily for her, Will is dismissed from his job and she gets transferred to another section of the company where she gets to work up close and personal with Aspire Sports’ drop dead gorgeous chief executive officer, Jason Knight!
Having been sent by his billionaire father to run the London-based office of Aspire Sports, that is seriously under performing, Jason had quickly made himself at home in the British capital. Good-looking, rich and charismatic, the dashing Jason Knight had been welcomed with open arms by the women working in the London office. However, Jason is the love them and leave them type who has got no interest in commitment or in a long-term relationship – much to the exasperation of the human resources department at Aspire who have to find replacements for the personal assistants Jason dates and discards in rapid succession! When he claps eyes on his latest assistant Kelly, Jason is immediately smitten by his fiery new PA. Unfortunately, Jason had just promised his HR manager that he wouldn’t mix business with pleasure and date his employees ever again. But the more time Jason spends with Kelly, the more his resolve weakens…
After her husband had walked out on her when she needed him most, Kelly had vowed never to trust another man ever again. She has got neither the time nor the inclination for a relationship – so why can’t she stop fantasizing about Jason? When she’s taken to New York on a business trip, Kelly finds herself giving into temptation and succumbing to Jason’s tender kisses. But is Kelly ready to put the past behind her and give love another try? Or is she just setting herself up for even more heartbreak by thinking about having a relationship with a playboy like Jason?
Having read and enjoyed every single one of Fiona Harper’s books, my expectations for The Rebound Guy were pretty high. However, no sooner had I read the first chapter that I found myself riveted to this fresh, funny and wonderfully compelling contemporary romance! Fiona Harper juggles heart-stopping emotional drama and witty romance with ease, style and class and you are sure to adore this terrific tale of past wounds, fresh starts and happy endings.
Kelly and Jason are fabulous characters who are smart, gutsy and courageous, but who have a hint of vulnerability that makes them all the more human and believable. You will fall in love with them and cheer them on to their own happy ending.
A first-class romance that’s too good to miss, The Rebound Guy is another outstanding tale by the incredible Fiona Harper.
This review was originally published on Cataromance
October 1, 2013
NOTE: I received this one from Netgalley. Thanks
Serious relationships, and serious guys are pretty hard to find. Kelly knows this, until Jason...
Wow, if I have to take this story for statistical purposes... with the rate of sexual abuse at work that the lead female, Kelly suffers through... lets just say I might never want to w work under the management of a male. Ever. Apparently they could be quite persistent, those bastards, even if you repeatedly tell them no. *sigh*
I respected Kelly for her courage in saying no, moving on and never giving up on her values. And I also liked Julie, the secretary, for making her boss, lead male Jason, hold his 'stuff' in his pants.
If there was ever a story where the main characters were really good for each other, this was it. Something major was lacking in each of their lives before they met, and their personalities evolved because of this amazing relationship, which was mostly not-official.
So, let me backtrack a little here. I really want to make a point in saying how great the writing style is. It's light, captivating and completely appropriate for this story. Also, the romance is clean and develops slowly. There's meaning to each step Kelly and Jason take toward each other, because no matter how much they want this thing between them to be just a fling, it can never be so. It's much much deeper. So deep in fact, that the mere thought of separation makes them both feel completely miserable.
I really loved Kelly because of her strong personality, her values and her positive influence. At the office she was hard working. AT home she took care of her two boys on her won. Her jerk of a husband left them to fend for themselves. And that after all that Kelly had to go through for cancer treatment.
Jason was the ultimate not-yet-grown-and-quite-enjoying-it bad boy. On top of that he was the CEO of a sports shoes company and has issues with this family. He was a jerk too, until Kelly came in the picture and took his reigns in her hands.
Like I said, those two were just made for each other. You'd surely enjoy The Rebound Guy as much as I did.
Serious relationships, and serious guys are pretty hard to find. Kelly knows this, until Jason...
Wow, if I have to take this story for statistical purposes... with the rate of sexual abuse at work that the lead female, Kelly suffers through... lets just say I might never want to w work under the management of a male. Ever. Apparently they could be quite persistent, those bastards, even if you repeatedly tell them no. *sigh*
I respected Kelly for her courage in saying no, moving on and never giving up on her values. And I also liked Julie, the secretary, for making her boss, lead male Jason, hold his 'stuff' in his pants.
If there was ever a story where the main characters were really good for each other, this was it. Something major was lacking in each of their lives before they met, and their personalities evolved because of this amazing relationship, which was mostly not-official.
So, let me backtrack a little here. I really want to make a point in saying how great the writing style is. It's light, captivating and completely appropriate for this story. Also, the romance is clean and develops slowly. There's meaning to each step Kelly and Jason take toward each other, because no matter how much they want this thing between them to be just a fling, it can never be so. It's much much deeper. So deep in fact, that the mere thought of separation makes them both feel completely miserable.
I really loved Kelly because of her strong personality, her values and her positive influence. At the office she was hard working. AT home she took care of her two boys on her won. Her jerk of a husband left them to fend for themselves. And that after all that Kelly had to go through for cancer treatment.
Jason was the ultimate not-yet-grown-and-quite-enjoying-it bad boy. On top of that he was the CEO of a sports shoes company and has issues with this family. He was a jerk too, until Kelly came in the picture and took his reigns in her hands.
Like I said, those two were just made for each other. You'd surely enjoy The Rebound Guy as much as I did.
September 4, 2013
4 1/2 stars At first glance, this was a book I wasn't sure I would enjoy. Slutty one night stand hero who makes everything, including seducing his PA's a game. He actually went so far as to change the no fraternisation rule at his company so he could pursue his female staff. I did put the book aside at that point. But I came back to it.
The heroine is also not the usual heroine I enjoy reading. She is feisty to the point of annoying at times and I'm really wanting to go back to the dawn of time when heroine's appeared to be walkovers but their powerful unflinching love redeemed the unfeeling alpha male hero. (senility probably)
But they both grew on me. We get to see both sides of these characters. Under the bluff, Jason is a guy who is hurting and doesn't realise his fun no strings life isn't solving anything. Until he meets Kelly. Kelly doesn't care that he's changed the no-dating staff rule. She has her own rules and in spite of finding Jason physically tempting, he's too much like her loser ex to take a risk on. Even for a rebound fling.
Kelly has had a rough few years that have taken all her strength to get through. Her two young boys are the centre of her life, her reason to go on living. So when things look tempting with Jason, she has a reason to step back.
This book skims over several months where Kelly and Jason work together and do it very well. They complement each other in the workplace and their strengths and weaknesses are balanced by those of the other. This makes it far more believable when the romance suddenly escalates.
By the time I got to the end of the book, the emotional engagement and beautifully satisfying ending more than made up for the issues I had at the beginning of the book. This is not a book with the smexy but there is a nice bit of sizzle sparking between the two characters which was nice.
The heroine is also not the usual heroine I enjoy reading. She is feisty to the point of annoying at times and I'm really wanting to go back to the dawn of time when heroine's appeared to be walkovers but their powerful unflinching love redeemed the unfeeling alpha male hero. (senility probably)
But they both grew on me. We get to see both sides of these characters. Under the bluff, Jason is a guy who is hurting and doesn't realise his fun no strings life isn't solving anything. Until he meets Kelly. Kelly doesn't care that he's changed the no-dating staff rule. She has her own rules and in spite of finding Jason physically tempting, he's too much like her loser ex to take a risk on. Even for a rebound fling.
Kelly has had a rough few years that have taken all her strength to get through. Her two young boys are the centre of her life, her reason to go on living. So when things look tempting with Jason, she has a reason to step back.
This book skims over several months where Kelly and Jason work together and do it very well. They complement each other in the workplace and their strengths and weaknesses are balanced by those of the other. This makes it far more believable when the romance suddenly escalates.
By the time I got to the end of the book, the emotional engagement and beautifully satisfying ending more than made up for the issues I had at the beginning of the book. This is not a book with the smexy but there is a nice bit of sizzle sparking between the two characters which was nice.
October 11, 2013
After the last book I read by this author I wasn't sure how this one would be. But after two or three chapters I could tell this book had a whole different feel to it. The story is about Kelly and Jason.
Kelly is the sister of Daniel in the last book. She's divorced and has two small sons whose father isn't too nice of a guy. Kelly has beaten cancer and is now trying to earn enough money to buy a house to live in with her sons having lost their other house because of bills and stuff related to her cancer. She works for a temp company and has an office job where she has to fight off the boss. She gets moves to another department when the head boss of the company loses his PA because he's a love 'em and leave 'em kind of guy. Kelly quickly lets him know she's off limits. And Jason likes her because of her spunk.
They end up working well together and find a few issues they get to work through together. She helps Jason see that relationships are two sided and need worked on. And she gets to see that sometimes you just have to take what you can get when you can get it because there's no guarantees how life will go.
I enjoyed the story. I liked that they found they didn't have to hop in bed with each other to make them think they could have a relationship.
Kelly is the sister of Daniel in the last book. She's divorced and has two small sons whose father isn't too nice of a guy. Kelly has beaten cancer and is now trying to earn enough money to buy a house to live in with her sons having lost their other house because of bills and stuff related to her cancer. She works for a temp company and has an office job where she has to fight off the boss. She gets moves to another department when the head boss of the company loses his PA because he's a love 'em and leave 'em kind of guy. Kelly quickly lets him know she's off limits. And Jason likes her because of her spunk.
They end up working well together and find a few issues they get to work through together. She helps Jason see that relationships are two sided and need worked on. And she gets to see that sometimes you just have to take what you can get when you can get it because there's no guarantees how life will go.
I enjoyed the story. I liked that they found they didn't have to hop in bed with each other to make them think they could have a relationship.
August 13, 2013
THE REBOUND GUY is a sweetly seasoned second-chance romance. The story's settings of London and New York, provide interesting backdrops for the charming relationship and sparkling chemistry that simmers between Jason and Kelly.
Hired as Jason's temporary personal assistant, Kelly is all business- not at all interested in flirting with her sexy new boss who she has to work closely with on a daily basis. As a survivor of a nasty divorce and a life-threatening bout of cancer, Kelly is wary of dating and men, especially men who don’t take life or relationships seriously. She determines that the very handsome Jason’s broad shoulders, drive, dynamism and “laughing blue eyes” aren’t meant for her. Falling for him would be “too dangerous.”
Kelly’s effect on Jason is profound. Not only is he wildly attracted to her, he also respects her intelligence, guts and quick wit. She's different from the rest of the women he's tangled with before. Kelly is refreshingly open and honest. She boldly challenges him and speaks her mind. Kelly's presence reveals to Jason just how lonely his life has been without her. She enlivens his spirit and inspires him to "rise above his biology" and be a better man.
Kelly becomes increasingly distracted by her growing affection for Jason. He surprises her by revealing an inherent goodness she didn't know he possessed. He’s proving her wrong about all men. While she’s fighting her own desires, Jason patiently waits for her to come around to what he already knows: they should be together.
Despite a lovely paced romantic progression, Kelly’s and Jason’s passion is never fully satisfied. I was hoping for (as always) that ultimate connection: sex. Unfortunately, the few memorable and breathless embraces they share are halted by choice and reality. The ending takes a sobering turn and resolves on a more mature and (hopefully) healthy and happy ever after.
ARC courtesy of Harlequin via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
(Kelly Bradford's character was first introduced in THE GUY TO BE SEEN WITH)
Hired as Jason's temporary personal assistant, Kelly is all business- not at all interested in flirting with her sexy new boss who she has to work closely with on a daily basis. As a survivor of a nasty divorce and a life-threatening bout of cancer, Kelly is wary of dating and men, especially men who don’t take life or relationships seriously. She determines that the very handsome Jason’s broad shoulders, drive, dynamism and “laughing blue eyes” aren’t meant for her. Falling for him would be “too dangerous.”
Kelly’s effect on Jason is profound. Not only is he wildly attracted to her, he also respects her intelligence, guts and quick wit. She's different from the rest of the women he's tangled with before. Kelly is refreshingly open and honest. She boldly challenges him and speaks her mind. Kelly's presence reveals to Jason just how lonely his life has been without her. She enlivens his spirit and inspires him to "rise above his biology" and be a better man.
Kelly becomes increasingly distracted by her growing affection for Jason. He surprises her by revealing an inherent goodness she didn't know he possessed. He’s proving her wrong about all men. While she’s fighting her own desires, Jason patiently waits for her to come around to what he already knows: they should be together.
Despite a lovely paced romantic progression, Kelly’s and Jason’s passion is never fully satisfied. I was hoping for (as always) that ultimate connection: sex. Unfortunately, the few memorable and breathless embraces they share are halted by choice and reality. The ending takes a sobering turn and resolves on a more mature and (hopefully) healthy and happy ever after.
ARC courtesy of Harlequin via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
(Kelly Bradford's character was first introduced in THE GUY TO BE SEEN WITH)
December 9, 2013
Kelly have been working part time after recovering from cancer and newly divorce with two young kids, all she wanted is to take care of her kids. Facing some lecherous colleagues is a challenge for her and from the way it is, she has no problem in fending off them but it means loses out the job. Jason is a playboy but a serious businessman. Women just come and go in his life and he flitted through them as well. Kelly has been tempting at his company and after being sexually harassed by her colleagues, she was given the last chance to work as part time for the CEO. Jason on the other hand have been warned by his motherly assistance that he should keeps his hand off his secretary or she will leave her job for good.
Both of the main characters have very different but they complement each other so well. But despite all the resistance that they put out to fight the attractions that they have for each other, fate seems to decide otherwise for them.
Both Jason and Kelly have their own reason for fighting the attractions; especially for Kelly. As for Jason, women come easily to him and he encountered someone who doesn’t give in to him, he is intrigue with her. I really admire Kelly for her determination in keeping the distance between them and putting her two kids first. Overall, this book is a sweet read for me and I really like the way the author has built the relationship between them; making them stronger with each obstacles that they overcome together.
Both of the main characters have very different but they complement each other so well. But despite all the resistance that they put out to fight the attractions that they have for each other, fate seems to decide otherwise for them.
Both Jason and Kelly have their own reason for fighting the attractions; especially for Kelly. As for Jason, women come easily to him and he encountered someone who doesn’t give in to him, he is intrigue with her. I really admire Kelly for her determination in keeping the distance between them and putting her two kids first. Overall, this book is a sweet read for me and I really like the way the author has built the relationship between them; making them stronger with each obstacles that they overcome together.
December 1, 2013
//ebook
I won't go into the detail of sharing my version of the blurb, because the title is kind of self-explanatory. (Come to think of it, I think FH could have done with a better title.) The story is more than just about The Rebound Guy.
The cover doesn't even "depict" the two main characters. The models are too happy. Not that I'm saying that Kelly and Jason are stuck-ups, but the mood of the story wasn't exactly relaxed. This was not a tearjerker, but it's not exactly light either.
I want to be careful in sharing too much of the story, less I end up with some spoilers. But I like that FH didn't create a chemistry with her characters in just the physical sense. It's too much of a cliché.
Kelly and Jason were believable. They didn't seem like two made-up characters with a strong attraction for each other. But maybe with the lack of back-up stories and descriptions, Jason seems like years younger than Kelly. Him, being the typical playboy, and Kelly being the single mom. At times, they acted out what I think their ages are. But it wasn't really much of a hindrance.
I enjoyed reading this book. I actually wish there were more pages to it.
I won't go into the detail of sharing my version of the blurb, because the title is kind of self-explanatory. (Come to think of it, I think FH could have done with a better title.) The story is more than just about The Rebound Guy.
The cover doesn't even "depict" the two main characters. The models are too happy. Not that I'm saying that Kelly and Jason are stuck-ups, but the mood of the story wasn't exactly relaxed. This was not a tearjerker, but it's not exactly light either.
I want to be careful in sharing too much of the story, less I end up with some spoilers. But I like that FH didn't create a chemistry with her characters in just the physical sense. It's too much of a cliché.
Kelly and Jason were believable. They didn't seem like two made-up characters with a strong attraction for each other. But maybe with the lack of back-up stories and descriptions, Jason seems like years younger than Kelly. Him, being the typical playboy, and Kelly being the single mom. At times, they acted out what I think their ages are. But it wasn't really much of a hindrance.
I enjoyed reading this book. I actually wish there were more pages to it.
July 17, 2013
This is a cute and fluffy read for anyone that enjoys contemporary romance. I found Kelly to be a refreshing character - a strong female lead. I have to admit that after the very first part of the book, where Kelly stapled her bosses tie to the desk in order to keep him still and prevent further sexual harassment, I expected Kelly to be a little lighter of a character. Although the book does have it's funny moments, the comedy isn't in the forefront. Instead, it's the strength of this woman who's been fighting for years for her independence and health.
Jason is a quirky character that is more prone to giving up, but finds more strength from Kelly. They make a fantastic couple, even with all their differences. I did have a little bit of a problem at first connecting with the characters, but around halfway I was able to finally connect and enjoy the story.
This is a cute story to read if you're looking for a quick HEA.
Note: I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher for honest review.
Jason is a quirky character that is more prone to giving up, but finds more strength from Kelly. They make a fantastic couple, even with all their differences. I did have a little bit of a problem at first connecting with the characters, but around halfway I was able to finally connect and enjoy the story.
This is a cute story to read if you're looking for a quick HEA.
Note: I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher for honest review.
April 12, 2014
This was an interesting story, but it wasn't the kind of romance I usually go for.
This was a book of self-pity, healing & ignoring your boss. With a few 'cute' scenes, but there were no "steamy" or "sexy" at all.
The kisses were described a "all consuming" but sounded flat & like the kind of kiss you give your mom, and the one "kissing on the bed" and pulling on shirts- though that was as far as they got. Was flat. It didn't make me want to find Jason wrapped up & under my tree for Christmas.
The first half of the book was them learning about each other & becoming friends, both lusting after the other.
Plus, I was disappointed in Kelly. She was a single mom, but she didn't run Jason by the kids or anything, just at the picnic which was incidental.
This was a book of self-pity, healing & ignoring your boss. With a few 'cute' scenes, but there were no "steamy" or "sexy" at all.
The kisses were described a "all consuming" but sounded flat & like the kind of kiss you give your mom, and the one "kissing on the bed" and pulling on shirts- though that was as far as they got. Was flat. It didn't make me want to find Jason wrapped up & under my tree for Christmas.
The first half of the book was them learning about each other & becoming friends, both lusting after the other.
Plus, I was disappointed in Kelly. She was a single mom, but she didn't run Jason by the kids or anything, just at the picnic which was incidental.
August 22, 2014
Covered some hefty topics, but the message was beautiful and well delivered. I guess this one hit a little closer to home than some others had. It message is one that I needed to hear and was written so well that it made it easy to take. Not often that a short story like this wraps me so fully, but it did. I also enjoyed the time frame, not some fall in love in a week and it lasts forever bs. It made it feel realistic and believable, which in turn helped the theme really take a hold of issues and feed them to the reader.
To be a nit picker, I did find one continuity error. But it is something that can be easily over looked, like I said me being finicky.
This story has me interesting in looking at the author's other work. Hopefully it is just as good. :-)
To be a nit picker, I did find one continuity error. But it is something that can be easily over looked, like I said me being finicky.
This story has me interesting in looking at the author's other work. Hopefully it is just as good. :-)
September 1, 2013
This novel is suitable for the hardcore romance fan. It's a gentle read (no sex) but a satisfying love story. It is a well plotted simply good story peopled with strong characters. The lead couple has definite chemistry, but their timing is always a beat off center. I experienced a lot of emotions while reading the book, and must say that I found it well worth reading. Fiona Harper showed a lot of skill in creating her characters, they were as realistic as could be, as were the secondary characters. The children were enjoyable without being too cute and precocious.
I would read more from the author.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
I would read more from the author.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
January 30, 2014
Review Posted on HarlequinJunkie.com
Kelly Bradford has had more than her fair share of hardships. After a diagnosis of cancer, her husband leaves her to deal with it – along with their two young sons. (I know, there aren’t enough dirty names to throw at this guy). She is coming out the other side, with her cancer in remission and seeing her brother Daniel find the love of his life. It’s enough to give her hope that her life can be more.Read More
Kelly Bradford has had more than her fair share of hardships. After a diagnosis of cancer, her husband leaves her to deal with it – along with their two young sons. (I know, there aren’t enough dirty names to throw at this guy). She is coming out the other side, with her cancer in remission and seeing her brother Daniel find the love of his life. It’s enough to give her hope that her life can be more.Read More
August 2, 2013
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley and Harlequin for an honest review.
Kelly is a great mom to two boys and struggling to keep it together after beating cancer and divorcing her jerk ex. Her new job lands her with the love em and leave em Jason. She deems him off limits immediately. Through a series of events Kelly and Jason find that they are good for each other. Jason teaches her how to open up again and Kelly shows him how to really love.
Kelly is a great mom to two boys and struggling to keep it together after beating cancer and divorcing her jerk ex. Her new job lands her with the love em and leave em Jason. She deems him off limits immediately. Through a series of events Kelly and Jason find that they are good for each other. Jason teaches her how to open up again and Kelly shows him how to really love.
October 14, 2014
I am enjoying these Harlequinn Kiss books a lot, they are fun and fluffy and definitely less focused on getting the couple into bed together.
This one in fact had no sex at all. But it made sense and felt natural. This doesn't always work in a romance novel, but i think it worked here given the complex nature of what was happening in the plot.
It was a little heavier than I would have liked, but still a nice quick read.
This one in fact had no sex at all. But it made sense and felt natural. This doesn't always work in a romance novel, but i think it worked here given the complex nature of what was happening in the plot.
It was a little heavier than I would have liked, but still a nice quick read.
August 15, 2013
Didn't really enoy this, well didn't really give it a chance!
August 7, 2013
A lovely down to earth romance with a charming hero and a troubled heroine we can relate to.
Read
August 13, 2013DNF
Read
March 11, 2017Received 4 stars @ RT Book Reviews
October 1, 2013
3.5 stars
September 13, 2013
Hmmm...I'm done with these, I think. No more silly contemp romances for me.
October 22, 2013
A nice, touching story. Detailed review to be posted soon.
I give it 3.5 stars
I give it 3.5 stars
March 24, 2014
This was ok for a romance novel.
April 4, 2014
It was a nice read, believable story. Didn't like how it was wrapped up though, it felt like the author realised that she only had a few pages left to fill out to finish her story.
October 3, 2013
Another Salt & Sweet Romance, you get the idea, it has all the flavors of a wonderful romance
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