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Trouble #3
Along Came Trouble
TROUBLE HAS ARRIVED
Elisa Cardoso longs for passion in her life. Though she'd much rather spend her days photographing the stunning Wyoming landscape, food photography is a lucrative, if uninspiring, way to pay her bills. But when her next assignment brings her face to face with sexy restaurant owner Brody McDermott, Elisa can't deny the delicious effect he has on her.
From the minute Brody sees Elisa, he's dying to unleash her inner bad girl. He knows there's more to the sophisticated photographer than meets the eye. Now getting the sexy shutterbug into his bed is on his menu, but when she starts making her way into his heart-big problem. Love has been tricky for Brody, and he's not too eager to try his luck again. But when a golden opportunity means Elisa may be leaving Trouble for good, can Brody find the courage to grab on to love . . . before it slips away?
Elisa Cardoso longs for passion in her life. Though she'd much rather spend her days photographing the stunning Wyoming landscape, food photography is a lucrative, if uninspiring, way to pay her bills. But when her next assignment brings her face to face with sexy restaurant owner Brody McDermott, Elisa can't deny the delicious effect he has on her.
From the minute Brody sees Elisa, he's dying to unleash her inner bad girl. He knows there's more to the sophisticated photographer than meets the eye. Now getting the sexy shutterbug into his bed is on his menu, but when she starts making her way into his heart-big problem. Love has been tricky for Brody, and he's not too eager to try his luck again. But when a golden opportunity means Elisa may be leaving Trouble for good, can Brody find the courage to grab on to love . . . before it slips away?
432 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
8 people are currently reading
1066 people want to read
About the author
Erin Kern
11 books163 followersI started writing back in 2004 and six years later self-published the third book I wrote. Two years after that I landed a contract with Grand Central Publishing.
Now I'm just chugging along, spitting out books faster than my kids can turn my living room into a disaster zone...
Actually, that's not entirely true. I only wish it were true.
But in all seriousness, I write sassy and sexy contemporary romances for Forever Romance. My Trouble series is available online and wherever paperbacks are sold.
Now I'm just chugging along, spitting out books faster than my kids can turn my living room into a disaster zone...
Actually, that's not entirely true. I only wish it were true.
But in all seriousness, I write sassy and sexy contemporary romances for Forever Romance. My Trouble series is available online and wherever paperbacks are sold.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
November 19, 2013
3.5/5 stars
I don't read many Adult romances these days, but the few that I do I have been fortunate enough to enjoy. Recently, I have read books by Candis Terry and Rachel Gibson and I really enjoyed them! When I read the blurb on NetGalley for Along Came Trouble, I knew I needed to check this out.
I'm really glad I did. Along Came Trouble was a fun, cute romance. While it is the third in the Trouble series, I didn't have too much trouble getting acquainted with characters from Kern's other two novels. This book focuses on Brody McDermott, a restaurant owner who is having some trouble with the quality of his restaurant. After receiving a few negative reviews, Brody knows he needs to do something drastic or not only is the fate of his restaurant at stake, but he could find himself without a job if he doesn't turn things around. Brody meets Elisa Cardoso, the stunning woman in charge of taking photos for a photo spread of his restaurant, and the two immediately find themselves attracted to one another.
Elisa and Brody's relationship has its ups and downs throughout the novel. Both find there is definitely more to them than just attraction, yet they both have a difficult time expressing their feelings to each other. Elisa has learned to guard her heart after an ex-boyfriend hurt her deeply, and Brody is haunted by the demons of his past, not believing he is capable of giving or receiving love. Both find themselves falling for each other very quickly, yet Elisa doesn't want this thing with Brody to be a casual thing. Brody understands this and doesn't want that either, but can't define what they are doing.
I liked Brody for the most part- but the way he would close himself off from Elisa over and over began to be a bit much. One minute he would be distant, trying to hold himself back, and the next he would be eyeing her like he wanted to ravish her right there and then. This was what made their relationship a bit harder to buy into.
Brody's life didn't quite turn out as he had pictured it. He began dating his ex-wife Kelly in college, and after she became pregnant, life sort of took its usual course- get married, have the baby, get a job, etc. While Brody cared for Kelly, he wasn't in love with her like she was with him and this of course caused problems. While Brody loves his son Tyler and doesn't regret him for one second, he threw himself into work and Kelly found herself married to someone who just wasn't around. Soon, their problems became heavier and they decided upon divorce. Brody has never forgiven himself for how he treated Kelly and you can tell that still weighs heavily on him, even though she is now re-married. He is afraid of putting himself out there for Elisa- she has a job opportunity of a lifetime, and he knows that whatever they are together is temporary. Again, Brody frustrated me with his back and forth with her. His inner monologue states that he is in love with Elisa, but can't bring himself to tell her. She knows he's in love with her, and it hurts her deeply that he can't find the words to tell her.
I enjoyed reading about Brody's interactions with his family, but it is the moments with his son Tyler that I enjoyed the most. Tyler feels betrayed by his dad for moving out and leaving. He's only 11 and doesn't really understand what went wrong. He remembers his dad making breakfast for his mom, or taking him out to play catch and now he doesn't get that anymore. Brody mistakes Tyler's nonchalance towards him to mean he doesn't care to spend time with him, but it is the opposite. Tyler craves for time with his dad, but doesn't want to get his hopes up either, because he's used to his dad working late and not doing those things with him. Elisa is also good for Tyler. While his mother is away helping take care of her own mother, Tyler goes to Elisa's house after school (as she lives down the street from Kelly) and stays with her until Brody comes to pick him up. Elisa serves as a mother figure for Tyler while his own is gone and I liked how close those two became also.
Elisa is in a difficult position. She has fallen for Brody, yet taking pictures of food is not her passion. She wants to be a landscape photographer and after a former professor calls her to go out on a shoot in Mongolia, Elisa doesn't want to let this opportunity pass her by. She is conflicted by her feelings for Brody and pursuing her dreams. I felt for Elisa. She doesn't want to choose between Brody and Mongolia, but, she doesn't know where she stands with him most of the time. She can't let an opportunity like Mongolia go by, especially if he won't commit to her.
Watching Brody and Elisa both fight their feelings, as well as their intense sexual attraction for one another made this a steamy, yet sweet read. While I found the plot to be a predictable one and felt Brody and Elisa's relationship to be a bit forced, I still would consider this a good read.
*Received a copy of this book via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
I don't read many Adult romances these days, but the few that I do I have been fortunate enough to enjoy. Recently, I have read books by Candis Terry and Rachel Gibson and I really enjoyed them! When I read the blurb on NetGalley for Along Came Trouble, I knew I needed to check this out.
I'm really glad I did. Along Came Trouble was a fun, cute romance. While it is the third in the Trouble series, I didn't have too much trouble getting acquainted with characters from Kern's other two novels. This book focuses on Brody McDermott, a restaurant owner who is having some trouble with the quality of his restaurant. After receiving a few negative reviews, Brody knows he needs to do something drastic or not only is the fate of his restaurant at stake, but he could find himself without a job if he doesn't turn things around. Brody meets Elisa Cardoso, the stunning woman in charge of taking photos for a photo spread of his restaurant, and the two immediately find themselves attracted to one another.
Elisa and Brody's relationship has its ups and downs throughout the novel. Both find there is definitely more to them than just attraction, yet they both have a difficult time expressing their feelings to each other. Elisa has learned to guard her heart after an ex-boyfriend hurt her deeply, and Brody is haunted by the demons of his past, not believing he is capable of giving or receiving love. Both find themselves falling for each other very quickly, yet Elisa doesn't want this thing with Brody to be a casual thing. Brody understands this and doesn't want that either, but can't define what they are doing.
I liked Brody for the most part- but the way he would close himself off from Elisa over and over began to be a bit much. One minute he would be distant, trying to hold himself back, and the next he would be eyeing her like he wanted to ravish her right there and then. This was what made their relationship a bit harder to buy into.
Brody's life didn't quite turn out as he had pictured it. He began dating his ex-wife Kelly in college, and after she became pregnant, life sort of took its usual course- get married, have the baby, get a job, etc. While Brody cared for Kelly, he wasn't in love with her like she was with him and this of course caused problems. While Brody loves his son Tyler and doesn't regret him for one second, he threw himself into work and Kelly found herself married to someone who just wasn't around. Soon, their problems became heavier and they decided upon divorce. Brody has never forgiven himself for how he treated Kelly and you can tell that still weighs heavily on him, even though she is now re-married. He is afraid of putting himself out there for Elisa- she has a job opportunity of a lifetime, and he knows that whatever they are together is temporary. Again, Brody frustrated me with his back and forth with her. His inner monologue states that he is in love with Elisa, but can't bring himself to tell her. She knows he's in love with her, and it hurts her deeply that he can't find the words to tell her.
I enjoyed reading about Brody's interactions with his family, but it is the moments with his son Tyler that I enjoyed the most. Tyler feels betrayed by his dad for moving out and leaving. He's only 11 and doesn't really understand what went wrong. He remembers his dad making breakfast for his mom, or taking him out to play catch and now he doesn't get that anymore. Brody mistakes Tyler's nonchalance towards him to mean he doesn't care to spend time with him, but it is the opposite. Tyler craves for time with his dad, but doesn't want to get his hopes up either, because he's used to his dad working late and not doing those things with him. Elisa is also good for Tyler. While his mother is away helping take care of her own mother, Tyler goes to Elisa's house after school (as she lives down the street from Kelly) and stays with her until Brody comes to pick him up. Elisa serves as a mother figure for Tyler while his own is gone and I liked how close those two became also.
Elisa is in a difficult position. She has fallen for Brody, yet taking pictures of food is not her passion. She wants to be a landscape photographer and after a former professor calls her to go out on a shoot in Mongolia, Elisa doesn't want to let this opportunity pass her by. She is conflicted by her feelings for Brody and pursuing her dreams. I felt for Elisa. She doesn't want to choose between Brody and Mongolia, but, she doesn't know where she stands with him most of the time. She can't let an opportunity like Mongolia go by, especially if he won't commit to her.
Watching Brody and Elisa both fight their feelings, as well as their intense sexual attraction for one another made this a steamy, yet sweet read. While I found the plot to be a predictable one and felt Brody and Elisa's relationship to be a bit forced, I still would consider this a good read.
*Received a copy of this book via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
November 21, 2013
Overall: ★★★☆☆ 2.5 Stars
I hate to review a book that begins with a bad review with a bad review. But, I just wasn't into this one. I felt like it had some really really promising moments, but other times it fell flat. And I had to adjust my star rating accordingly.
You can find the description on Amazon.
Originality: ★★★☆☆
I like the idea. I do. I like the thought of two people coming together over food and photography. But a lot of the story was very predictable (I will get to that later) and it really knocked the originality down for me.
Character Development/Plot: ★★★☆☆
I liked the individual development of the characters... but the overall plot was filled with a lot of holes. I thought starting out with a bad review was a bad idea. I was bored before I even got to the 2nd page. I forced myself to push onward, however, because I wanted to root for the author. I wanted to like this book. But the descriptions drug out, there wasn't as much high stakes drama as their could have been, and at times I felt like I was reading a diary rather than an actual novel. Paragraph after paragraph of feelings and back and forth.
Show, don't tell. Show.
And the predictability... well I knew who Kelly was and what her purpose was as soon as she showed up in the novel. I thought it was too forced, coincidental and threw the entire story off for me. It didn't add an extra element, it just forced me to admit the 4th wall.
Appearance and Editing:★★☆☆☆
The cover really really knocked me off balance here. I picked it up because I thought it was going to be country, not about a restaurateur's son and a photographer who have very little to do with the Wyoming countryside. I imagined more country scenes and a beautiful landscape to backdrop their jobs and lives. But it didn't. It felt like it was just there to pull in people who like country contemporary, but never really touched it.
The Romance/The Sex: ★★☆☆☆
The chemistry doesn't feel natural. It doesn't develop naturally at all. You have two people, an over sexualization of each of them in each other's minds, and then no real push towards each other. I skipped whole paragraphs (that I never even missed), trying to get to their conversations to feel that chemistry... and it was just a big bunch of nothin'.
Veronica Hardy is a professional editor and author who enjoys writing reviews in her spare time, for fun. She is not compensated by authors, publishers or online retail markets for her opinions. If you are interested in a book review or editing services please email her at Veronica.R.Hardy@gmail.com.
I hate to review a book that begins with a bad review with a bad review. But, I just wasn't into this one. I felt like it had some really really promising moments, but other times it fell flat. And I had to adjust my star rating accordingly.
You can find the description on Amazon.
Originality: ★★★☆☆
I like the idea. I do. I like the thought of two people coming together over food and photography. But a lot of the story was very predictable (I will get to that later) and it really knocked the originality down for me.
Character Development/Plot: ★★★☆☆
I liked the individual development of the characters... but the overall plot was filled with a lot of holes. I thought starting out with a bad review was a bad idea. I was bored before I even got to the 2nd page. I forced myself to push onward, however, because I wanted to root for the author. I wanted to like this book. But the descriptions drug out, there wasn't as much high stakes drama as their could have been, and at times I felt like I was reading a diary rather than an actual novel. Paragraph after paragraph of feelings and back and forth.
Show, don't tell. Show.
And the predictability... well I knew who Kelly was and what her purpose was as soon as she showed up in the novel. I thought it was too forced, coincidental and threw the entire story off for me. It didn't add an extra element, it just forced me to admit the 4th wall.
Appearance and Editing:★★☆☆☆
The cover really really knocked me off balance here. I picked it up because I thought it was going to be country, not about a restaurateur's son and a photographer who have very little to do with the Wyoming countryside. I imagined more country scenes and a beautiful landscape to backdrop their jobs and lives. But it didn't. It felt like it was just there to pull in people who like country contemporary, but never really touched it.
The Romance/The Sex: ★★☆☆☆
The chemistry doesn't feel natural. It doesn't develop naturally at all. You have two people, an over sexualization of each of them in each other's minds, and then no real push towards each other. I skipped whole paragraphs (that I never even missed), trying to get to their conversations to feel that chemistry... and it was just a big bunch of nothin'.
Veronica Hardy is a professional editor and author who enjoys writing reviews in her spare time, for fun. She is not compensated by authors, publishers or online retail markets for her opinions. If you are interested in a book review or editing services please email her at Veronica.R.Hardy@gmail.com.
December 7, 2013
Brody is running one of his father's restaurants and is having chef problems. Restaurant reviews are bad, and they're losing customers. Elisa is the photographer they hire to take photos of the food for a desperately needed promotion. Brody is desperate to keep his job while Elisa is looking for that one break that will make her career as a photographer.
Their attraction to each other is instant, but the progress of their relationship is slow and steady. I felt that their doubts and conflicts were very realistic, and I enjoyed their romance. The characters bore both strengths and weaknesses and came across as people I'd like to know.
Along Came Trouble is the third book in the Trouble series, and it stands alone. Although we meet earlier characters, they tie into the plot and pull the story forward.
I recommend this heart-warming story of love, family and small-town life. Immerse yourself in Trouble and enjoy the ride.
Their attraction to each other is instant, but the progress of their relationship is slow and steady. I felt that their doubts and conflicts were very realistic, and I enjoyed their romance. The characters bore both strengths and weaknesses and came across as people I'd like to know.
Along Came Trouble is the third book in the Trouble series, and it stands alone. Although we meet earlier characters, they tie into the plot and pull the story forward.
I recommend this heart-warming story of love, family and small-town life. Immerse yourself in Trouble and enjoy the ride.
December 24, 2013
3.5 stars
This one is high on the angst. Brody just couldn't get it together in his head to make this easy for him and Elisa. We all knew he loved her, even Elise knew he loved her. Brody just couldn't let go of the past that was torturing him enough to give them a fair try. Hence, the angst ;)
For the first 35% of the book I felt like there wasn't anything happening. Then, all of a sudden, I was wrapped up in the story and fell in love with the McDermott family. Even though this is book 3 in the series, it can easily be read as a stand alone. I'd love to read a book about RJ or Courtney. I hope they get their own book cause they have soooo much going on with them.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
This one is high on the angst. Brody just couldn't get it together in his head to make this easy for him and Elisa. We all knew he loved her, even Elise knew he loved her. Brody just couldn't let go of the past that was torturing him enough to give them a fair try. Hence, the angst ;)
For the first 35% of the book I felt like there wasn't anything happening. Then, all of a sudden, I was wrapped up in the story and fell in love with the McDermott family. Even though this is book 3 in the series, it can easily be read as a stand alone. I'd love to read a book about RJ or Courtney. I hope they get their own book cause they have soooo much going on with them.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
Want to read
November 8, 2013Open read on Net Galley
November 22, 2013
I received this Arc from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book 3 in the Trouble series.
The gist: Elisa is a photographer. She's been taking pics of food for magazines and whatnot because it pays pretty well, she's good at it, and she enjoys it. Brody is a the owner of a restaurant that is quickly heading in the out-of-business zone. When the restaurant decides to do a spread in a popular food magazine as a last ditch effort to revive the business, the magazine sends Eliza. Sparks fly immediately between them. When Brody's ex-wife has to leave town to tend to her ill mom, she asks her neighbor, Elisa, if she can help out with her son after school. Elisa doesn't know her friend is Brody's ex-wife or that he even has a kid. That is until that first day when he shows up at her house to pick the boy up. The relationship grows. Brody is a guy (and a romance hero), so he's an idiot when it comes to not letting the woman he loves get away. When Elisa gets a call from her college professor asking her for help on a photo shoot on the other side of the world, she jumps at the opportunity. Elisa leaving is the wake-up call that Brody needed.
Ok, so this book was just "okay" for me for a number of reasons. And let me first say that it MIGHT have been better if I'd already been in love with the series, but I haven't read either of the first two books. They ARE stand alones though.
I did like Elisa. She was sweet, caring, compassionate, full of love and rainbows and all those other positive qualities we like in a romance heroine. She's independent and won't be walked all over. She was a supermodel in college in order to pay her tuition, so she's tall and gorgeous, but she's not an arrogant bitch.
Brody. He has the romance hero dark, GQ good looks and the gray eyes that everyone is obsessing over right now... He's sort of damaged and even though he falls for her just as quickly as she falls for him, he's reticent to admit it (even to himself). He's a single father with joint custody with him having his son 2 weekends a month, so he's struggling with not getting to see his son as much as he'd like. He's stressed because of his restaurant getting ready to go under. He has a lot on his plate. My issue is that his "damage" is small potatoes, in my opinion. It just has to do with his failed marriage, not a sucky childhood or anything. Blah, blah... Naturally I liked him, though.
Since this is an ARC and they give you the disclaimer that it's not the final copy and all that, I don't like to complain about the total lack of editing, but come on! It was BAD! I sure HOPE the book was edited before the final copy went to publishing...
Now to the actual story... This book was LONG. I don't mind a long story as long as stuff actually happens in it. MOST of it was Elisa and Brody both brooding over their feelings for each other, while not telling the other about how the felt or what the wanted or anything. Ya know, in typical romance book fashion to create angst or some such shit. I can deal with that, to a degree. But after awhile, the repetition gets old. And when it's probably AT LEAST a hundred pages (if you took out all the "angsty" parts) of each of them just wallowing in their self pity, I was ready to stab my eyeballs with a rusty nail. She's about 28 and he's about 31 and they've each only had one real relationship. With him, that's fine since he was 20 when his son was born and he got married and have only be divorced about 4 years. With her, it just doesn't make any sense. She had one relationship that ended with the dude deciding he was gay so she's sworn off relationships... REALLY??? Anyway, then you had about 50-100 pages of them thinking about how incredibly sexy the other one is and how their bodies go on high alert when they even THINK about the other person. Uh huh... The rest of the story is random bits and pieces of other things to get the story some substance and break up the monotony, I guess, but it just came off as patchy and random filling to me... Then his sister is in a bad accident of some sort, she's in a coma for a couple weeks, was on death's doorstep, and might not have the full use of one of her legs. And she has a mysterious fiance who shows up at the hospital that no one knew anything about. That's about the extent of THAT part of the story... I assume it's setting it up for her to have her own story in the series later, but it seemed random and then unresolved in this book. And Rebecca and RJ's (who they are really doesn't matter for the purposes of this review) relationship seemed random also and like it was setting itself up for them to have a story later in the series also... Oh and the new bartender gives Brody sketchy vibes but he's thinking about hiring him anyway, although that's where THAT part of the story left off... It just wasn't that great...
If there wasn't so much repetition with the angst and then white hot lust, I might've given this story 3 stars, but as it is, it was WAY too long for no more than happened in it... If you've read the first 2 books in the series, then by all means read this one and enjoy. I don't know that my interest is peaked enough to attempt the first two or any subsequent books in the series...
The gist: Elisa is a photographer. She's been taking pics of food for magazines and whatnot because it pays pretty well, she's good at it, and she enjoys it. Brody is a the owner of a restaurant that is quickly heading in the out-of-business zone. When the restaurant decides to do a spread in a popular food magazine as a last ditch effort to revive the business, the magazine sends Eliza. Sparks fly immediately between them. When Brody's ex-wife has to leave town to tend to her ill mom, she asks her neighbor, Elisa, if she can help out with her son after school. Elisa doesn't know her friend is Brody's ex-wife or that he even has a kid. That is until that first day when he shows up at her house to pick the boy up. The relationship grows. Brody is a guy (and a romance hero), so he's an idiot when it comes to not letting the woman he loves get away. When Elisa gets a call from her college professor asking her for help on a photo shoot on the other side of the world, she jumps at the opportunity. Elisa leaving is the wake-up call that Brody needed.
Ok, so this book was just "okay" for me for a number of reasons. And let me first say that it MIGHT have been better if I'd already been in love with the series, but I haven't read either of the first two books. They ARE stand alones though.
I did like Elisa. She was sweet, caring, compassionate, full of love and rainbows and all those other positive qualities we like in a romance heroine. She's independent and won't be walked all over. She was a supermodel in college in order to pay her tuition, so she's tall and gorgeous, but she's not an arrogant bitch.
Brody. He has the romance hero dark, GQ good looks and the gray eyes that everyone is obsessing over right now... He's sort of damaged and even though he falls for her just as quickly as she falls for him, he's reticent to admit it (even to himself). He's a single father with joint custody with him having his son 2 weekends a month, so he's struggling with not getting to see his son as much as he'd like. He's stressed because of his restaurant getting ready to go under. He has a lot on his plate. My issue is that his "damage" is small potatoes, in my opinion. It just has to do with his failed marriage, not a sucky childhood or anything. Blah, blah... Naturally I liked him, though.
Since this is an ARC and they give you the disclaimer that it's not the final copy and all that, I don't like to complain about the total lack of editing, but come on! It was BAD! I sure HOPE the book was edited before the final copy went to publishing...
Now to the actual story... This book was LONG. I don't mind a long story as long as stuff actually happens in it. MOST of it was Elisa and Brody both brooding over their feelings for each other, while not telling the other about how the felt or what the wanted or anything. Ya know, in typical romance book fashion to create angst or some such shit. I can deal with that, to a degree. But after awhile, the repetition gets old. And when it's probably AT LEAST a hundred pages (if you took out all the "angsty" parts) of each of them just wallowing in their self pity, I was ready to stab my eyeballs with a rusty nail. She's about 28 and he's about 31 and they've each only had one real relationship. With him, that's fine since he was 20 when his son was born and he got married and have only be divorced about 4 years. With her, it just doesn't make any sense. She had one relationship that ended with the dude deciding he was gay so she's sworn off relationships... REALLY??? Anyway, then you had about 50-100 pages of them thinking about how incredibly sexy the other one is and how their bodies go on high alert when they even THINK about the other person. Uh huh... The rest of the story is random bits and pieces of other things to get the story some substance and break up the monotony, I guess, but it just came off as patchy and random filling to me... Then his sister is in a bad accident of some sort, she's in a coma for a couple weeks, was on death's doorstep, and might not have the full use of one of her legs. And she has a mysterious fiance who shows up at the hospital that no one knew anything about. That's about the extent of THAT part of the story... I assume it's setting it up for her to have her own story in the series later, but it seemed random and then unresolved in this book. And Rebecca and RJ's (who they are really doesn't matter for the purposes of this review) relationship seemed random also and like it was setting itself up for them to have a story later in the series also... Oh and the new bartender gives Brody sketchy vibes but he's thinking about hiring him anyway, although that's where THAT part of the story left off... It just wasn't that great...
If there wasn't so much repetition with the angst and then white hot lust, I might've given this story 3 stars, but as it is, it was WAY too long for no more than happened in it... If you've read the first 2 books in the series, then by all means read this one and enjoy. I don't know that my interest is peaked enough to attempt the first two or any subsequent books in the series...
November 21, 2013
Brody is carrying the whole on his shoulders and nothing seems to go right. After a failed marriage and a son who he doesn't see much because all he does is work, even that is failing. They have a photographer to come in and take pictures of there dishes for and article in hopes to boost there customers. Brody sees the photographer and can't take his eyes of her, she the most beautiful woman he's ever seen and even his ex wife didn't get this effect from him. Elisa walks into the restaurant and she sees Brody and just one looks has her tied in knots. After taking the pictures he asked her if she want to eat and even though she really wasn't hungry, she didn't want to leave just yet. After Elisa came home her friend Kelly ask if she could watch her son Tyler after school for a few weeks while she was gone to take care of her mother and Tyler's father would pick him up after he got of work. Elisa was fine with watching Tyler. While waiting for his father to show up, she was teaching Tyler how to develop film. When she answered the door it was Brody and wonder what he was doing there until Tyler said Hi Dad. Brody said so your the babysitter, Kelly didn't give me a name, only the address. As things went on there growing connection for one another was growing fast. Elisa knew Brody was carrying to many demons but she didn't care she wanted him. Brody kept pushing Elisa away because he couldn't do a relationship right now with everything going on but he couldn't stay away from her. Elisa was going to have to get away because she is in love with Brody and he couldn't give her himself. Brody couldn't tell Elisa how he felt because he wasn't good with feelings until he found out the Elisa left the country to photograph in Africa. Brody had to get her back so he and Tyler went to South Africa to get Elisa back forever.
May 27, 2014
I requested and finished this one in one night! I like my time in Trouble and this installment was fun. Brody, the divorced brother who runs one of the family restaurants, is struggling to keep his head above water. With three bad chefs within one year and more bad reviews that his father cares to count, Brody knows that something has to change and but quick!
Unfortunately, the thing that changes is entire personal life. Divorce has left him convinced that he has nothing to give a woman. His ex-wife Kelly’s family crisis means he will likely lose visitation with his son. Then, his complete lack of follow through with Elisa puts his future at risk. What is a guy to do?
I loved Elisa’s patience and confidence in herself and her love for Brody. She calmly continues to love him, care for his son and share compassion for his ex. Too much? Likely, but in love, anything can happen.
A picture can tell a thousand words…but when Elisa only wants three words, my heart ached that she might just end up only photos. Totally a series worth picking up!
Unfortunately, the thing that changes is entire personal life. Divorce has left him convinced that he has nothing to give a woman. His ex-wife Kelly’s family crisis means he will likely lose visitation with his son. Then, his complete lack of follow through with Elisa puts his future at risk. What is a guy to do?
I loved Elisa’s patience and confidence in herself and her love for Brody. She calmly continues to love him, care for his son and share compassion for his ex. Too much? Likely, but in love, anything can happen.
A picture can tell a thousand words…but when Elisa only wants three words, my heart ached that she might just end up only photos. Totally a series worth picking up!
October 17, 2013
I requested and finished this one in one night! I like my time in Trouble and this installment was fun. Brody, the divorced brother who runs one of the family restaurants, is struggling to keep his head above water. With three bad chefs within one year and more bad reviews that his father cares to count, Brody knows that something has to change and but quick!
Unfortunately, the thing that changes is entire personal life. Divorce has left him convinced that he has nothing to give a woman. His ex-wife Kelly’s family crisis means he will likely lose visitation with his son. Then, his complete lack of follow through with Elisa puts his future at risk. What is a guy to do?
I loved Elisa’s patience and confidence in herself and her love for Brody. She calmly continues to love him, care for his son and share compassion for his ex. Too much? Likely, but in love, anything can happen.
A picture can tell a thousand words…but when Elisa only wants three words, my heart ached that she might just end up only photos. Totally a series worth picking up!
Unfortunately, the thing that changes is entire personal life. Divorce has left him convinced that he has nothing to give a woman. His ex-wife Kelly’s family crisis means he will likely lose visitation with his son. Then, his complete lack of follow through with Elisa puts his future at risk. What is a guy to do?
I loved Elisa’s patience and confidence in herself and her love for Brody. She calmly continues to love him, care for his son and share compassion for his ex. Too much? Likely, but in love, anything can happen.
A picture can tell a thousand words…but when Elisa only wants three words, my heart ached that she might just end up only photos. Totally a series worth picking up!
August 1, 2015
I received an ARC for an honest review.
This book was a definite take it or leave it for me. I started it days before finishing it and read books in between. I just didn't feel a connection.
I have read the previous 2 books in this series and I can honestly this is my least favourite in the series. I think that is because I didn't like Brody's character much...just something about him didn't float my boat.
I also felt this book was a little drawn out.
I have enjoyed my visits to Trouble, this just wasn't my favourite.
This book was a definite take it or leave it for me. I started it days before finishing it and read books in between. I just didn't feel a connection.
I have read the previous 2 books in this series and I can honestly this is my least favourite in the series. I think that is because I didn't like Brody's character much...just something about him didn't float my boat.
I also felt this book was a little drawn out.
I have enjoyed my visits to Trouble, this just wasn't my favourite.
March 11, 2018
This is a REALLY good book!
I absolutely loved the length and depth of this story. I felt the characters were well-developed and very likable.
The tension and chemistry between Elisa and Brody was very well done. I also loved getting to know the other characters in the series. Although I haven't read their respective stories (yet!), I really want to read a whole lot more about what happened in Trouble, Wyoming!
Erin is definitely VERY talented and this is the second book of hers I've read, and I would read anything she writes. That being said, in this particular story, I felt a certain element that was introduced later on in the book, and removed shortly thereafter, was unnecessary and didn't really add much to the story. Having experienced the general scenario several times, I felt Elisa's actions were not at all realistic and made me incredibly frustrated with her and the story, flipping through the parts that included this aforementioned element.
I also had a feeling of "loose ends" leftover at the end, but maybe they would be resolved in subsequent books.
But the town and characters of Trouble are absolutely lovely, and I wouldn't hesitate to spend more time there!
(I received a copy of this book in consideration of my honest thoughts)
I absolutely loved the length and depth of this story. I felt the characters were well-developed and very likable.
The tension and chemistry between Elisa and Brody was very well done. I also loved getting to know the other characters in the series. Although I haven't read their respective stories (yet!), I really want to read a whole lot more about what happened in Trouble, Wyoming!
Erin is definitely VERY talented and this is the second book of hers I've read, and I would read anything she writes. That being said, in this particular story, I felt a certain element that was introduced later on in the book, and removed shortly thereafter, was unnecessary and didn't really add much to the story. Having experienced the general scenario several times, I felt Elisa's actions were not at all realistic and made me incredibly frustrated with her and the story, flipping through the parts that included this aforementioned element.
I also had a feeling of "loose ends" leftover at the end, but maybe they would be resolved in subsequent books.
But the town and characters of Trouble are absolutely lovely, and I wouldn't hesitate to spend more time there!
(I received a copy of this book in consideration of my honest thoughts)
November 25, 2013
Slick‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Review copy provided for an honest review
3 STARS
I’ve enjoyed the Trouble series by Erin Kern and I’ve always been a little bit intrigued by Brody who at the start of this series who was in a tumultuous marriage and had a young son so I was pretty excited about this book. After finishing it though, I’m somewhat disappointed. While the first two books held my interest from start to finish, Along Came Trouble, lagged. I found myself having to stop and take a break because I couldn’t go on any longer. It is so over stuffed with plots that the romance seemed to be secondary and many plots that were left unfinished and unsettled. It was both too long (thus the lagging) and too short (unresolved issues) which I know seems confusing and that best describes this story; a frustrating and confusing, yet entertaining mess.
Brody now divorced for several years is managing one of his father’s restaurants that is struggling following the loss of their long term chef. Chefs have come and gone and the bad reviews have taken their toll. In an effort to help the business his assistant has hired a photographer to take some food shots for an article in a local magazine. While Brody isn’t convinced this will help he’s immediately drawn to the beautiful photographer.
Elisa has been photographing food while waiting for her dream job of working with one of her former professors doing outdoor photography for a major magazine. She’s good at what she does and while the food photography pays the bills, it isn’t her passion. Orphaned at 18 and with a brother who lives overseas with his grandparents, she’s been alone for a long time. When she meets Brody she begins to want things that she shouldn’t knowing that her life is in limbo. When she agrees to watch her neighbors son while she races out of town to care for her sick mother, she never expects the boy’s father to be none other than Brody, the man she knows she should still way clear of.
The thing about this book, I liked these characters a lot. I understood Brody’s concerns about being involved and his reservations towards a committed relationship because of his track record. Elisa is one of those people who loves with her whole heart so when she falls fast and hard for Brody she can’t help it, but Brody is stubborn and doesn’t want to talk about it or deal with his issues. I love how she is just there for him, she lets him work through things on his own yet she asks pointed questions that make him think and also get him to look at his life and his world from a different perspective. Brody reads Eliza very easily which not only surprises her but scares the hell out of him. Their relationship isn’t an easy one as they deal with many outside factors that threaten to tear them apart as well as Brody’s insecurities.
Where this book suffered was in the massive amount of plot lines running through it. I felt like I was drowning in the ocean and more and more waves kept crashing over me. There were characters introduced late in the game that did nothing to further the story, the uncertainties at the restaurant were never completely cleared up or dealt with, even Brody’s personal life; the big change with his son, Tyler and how that affected his relationship with Elisa was all just left open.
While I found Along Came Trouble lacking, I wouldn’t have missed reading it because I enjoyed the two main characters and I loved seeing the changes in the couples from the previous books. While disappointed, it won’t keep me from continuing to read this series but it’s my hope that the next book will be more like the first two rather than this one.
Review copy provided for an honest review
3 STARS
I’ve enjoyed the Trouble series by Erin Kern and I’ve always been a little bit intrigued by Brody who at the start of this series who was in a tumultuous marriage and had a young son so I was pretty excited about this book. After finishing it though, I’m somewhat disappointed. While the first two books held my interest from start to finish, Along Came Trouble, lagged. I found myself having to stop and take a break because I couldn’t go on any longer. It is so over stuffed with plots that the romance seemed to be secondary and many plots that were left unfinished and unsettled. It was both too long (thus the lagging) and too short (unresolved issues) which I know seems confusing and that best describes this story; a frustrating and confusing, yet entertaining mess.
Brody now divorced for several years is managing one of his father’s restaurants that is struggling following the loss of their long term chef. Chefs have come and gone and the bad reviews have taken their toll. In an effort to help the business his assistant has hired a photographer to take some food shots for an article in a local magazine. While Brody isn’t convinced this will help he’s immediately drawn to the beautiful photographer.
Elisa has been photographing food while waiting for her dream job of working with one of her former professors doing outdoor photography for a major magazine. She’s good at what she does and while the food photography pays the bills, it isn’t her passion. Orphaned at 18 and with a brother who lives overseas with his grandparents, she’s been alone for a long time. When she meets Brody she begins to want things that she shouldn’t knowing that her life is in limbo. When she agrees to watch her neighbors son while she races out of town to care for her sick mother, she never expects the boy’s father to be none other than Brody, the man she knows she should still way clear of.
The thing about this book, I liked these characters a lot. I understood Brody’s concerns about being involved and his reservations towards a committed relationship because of his track record. Elisa is one of those people who loves with her whole heart so when she falls fast and hard for Brody she can’t help it, but Brody is stubborn and doesn’t want to talk about it or deal with his issues. I love how she is just there for him, she lets him work through things on his own yet she asks pointed questions that make him think and also get him to look at his life and his world from a different perspective. Brody reads Eliza very easily which not only surprises her but scares the hell out of him. Their relationship isn’t an easy one as they deal with many outside factors that threaten to tear them apart as well as Brody’s insecurities.
Where this book suffered was in the massive amount of plot lines running through it. I felt like I was drowning in the ocean and more and more waves kept crashing over me. There were characters introduced late in the game that did nothing to further the story, the uncertainties at the restaurant were never completely cleared up or dealt with, even Brody’s personal life; the big change with his son, Tyler and how that affected his relationship with Elisa was all just left open.
While I found Along Came Trouble lacking, I wouldn’t have missed reading it because I enjoyed the two main characters and I loved seeing the changes in the couples from the previous books. While disappointed, it won’t keep me from continuing to read this series but it’s my hope that the next book will be more like the first two rather than this one.
November 23, 2013
I received this book from Netgalley for an honest review.
The thing I have yet to figure out is why. Why did I stay up till 3 A.M. reading this story? And trust me I know how bad that sounds but I really am not saying this book was terrible. I mean, I did stay up reading it lol. It wasn't horrible but it wasn't great. It just...was. You know?
The characters, wellll what can I say. I liked Elisa some of the time. Well the only times I really liked her were when she wasn't being a twatty idiot. Yes, yes I said twatty. Apparently she is a photographer who is a little down on her luck and men. She sworn off men when her ex broke her heart by admitting he was gay. Ok, so I can kind of understand that but I may have asked to at least watch. Yeah yeah I know, bad me. So anyways she is living in the small town of Trouble, hoping to one day get her big break. One day she gets called about a job to take pictures of some food for an article. And this is how we meet Brody. He is the manager of a restaurant that is having a little trouble, in Trouble. Haha And he has also kind of sworn off women, well serious women anyway, after a nasty divorce. I swooned over this man for quite awhile. I mean he had some cheesy lines going on. Look, I'm sorry but I love me some cheesy lines and thoughts. They make me swoon faster than some smooth talking. Plus some of the talking he did was just hot. And apparently he smells good. He is busy trying to save his restaurant and his relationship with his son when he meets Elisa and the sparks fly. Little do they know that they have a common friend. And through this friend they start to get close. Some walls are broken down and then the author slaps me in the face with one of my biggest "No, Nos" in a book. I have two and this man committed one. I was so done with him after this. My every other note was me telling ol girl to punch him in his balls or to run away. But sigh she loved him and she stayed. But you have to read what all happened in the end. Did he finally give love a chance? Save his restaurant and relationship with his son? And did Elisa finally trust him? Read it and find out what actually takes place in Trouble.
Now onto the story. Oh lord I got so bored during this book, but like I said, for some odd reason there was something about it that hooked me. I will point out that I loved the fact that the author put Elisa in cotton undies. Come on now ladies we all don't wear silk or lace everyday, jeez. And there really was some cheesy lines that I just fell all over. And oh god the part with the dog, I cried like a two year old. But oh the end, that was it? That was really all we got? Come on now, the author brought up a major point with this couple when they first stated kind of seeing each other and it was never mentioned again. Ugh, I hate unanswered questions. Some of the writing drove me crazy. It almost seemed like it was two different people writing at times. Got a little odd. But yeah, I can't really think of much more I can say here. So anyways, the characters were ok and the story was ok. Best parts for me were the lines and the sex.
Song for this book: Poison & Wine by The Civil Wars
My favorite note from this book: A..B...c....PUSSY!
(you'll have to read the book to understand)
The thing I have yet to figure out is why. Why did I stay up till 3 A.M. reading this story? And trust me I know how bad that sounds but I really am not saying this book was terrible. I mean, I did stay up reading it lol. It wasn't horrible but it wasn't great. It just...was. You know?
The characters, wellll what can I say. I liked Elisa some of the time. Well the only times I really liked her were when she wasn't being a twatty idiot. Yes, yes I said twatty. Apparently she is a photographer who is a little down on her luck and men. She sworn off men when her ex broke her heart by admitting he was gay. Ok, so I can kind of understand that but I may have asked to at least watch. Yeah yeah I know, bad me. So anyways she is living in the small town of Trouble, hoping to one day get her big break. One day she gets called about a job to take pictures of some food for an article. And this is how we meet Brody. He is the manager of a restaurant that is having a little trouble, in Trouble. Haha And he has also kind of sworn off women, well serious women anyway, after a nasty divorce. I swooned over this man for quite awhile. I mean he had some cheesy lines going on. Look, I'm sorry but I love me some cheesy lines and thoughts. They make me swoon faster than some smooth talking. Plus some of the talking he did was just hot. And apparently he smells good. He is busy trying to save his restaurant and his relationship with his son when he meets Elisa and the sparks fly. Little do they know that they have a common friend. And through this friend they start to get close. Some walls are broken down and then the author slaps me in the face with one of my biggest "No, Nos" in a book. I have two and this man committed one. I was so done with him after this. My every other note was me telling ol girl to punch him in his balls or to run away. But sigh she loved him and she stayed. But you have to read what all happened in the end. Did he finally give love a chance? Save his restaurant and relationship with his son? And did Elisa finally trust him? Read it and find out what actually takes place in Trouble.
Now onto the story. Oh lord I got so bored during this book, but like I said, for some odd reason there was something about it that hooked me. I will point out that I loved the fact that the author put Elisa in cotton undies. Come on now ladies we all don't wear silk or lace everyday, jeez. And there really was some cheesy lines that I just fell all over. And oh god the part with the dog, I cried like a two year old. But oh the end, that was it? That was really all we got? Come on now, the author brought up a major point with this couple when they first stated kind of seeing each other and it was never mentioned again. Ugh, I hate unanswered questions. Some of the writing drove me crazy. It almost seemed like it was two different people writing at times. Got a little odd. But yeah, I can't really think of much more I can say here. So anyways, the characters were ok and the story was ok. Best parts for me were the lines and the sex.
Song for this book: Poison & Wine by The Civil Wars
My favorite note from this book: A..B...c....PUSSY!
(you'll have to read the book to understand)
November 23, 2013
I don't know how to feel about this book. Let me try to break it down. On Brody, he is not your usual swooning book hero. He is not dominant, not fierce , insecure and doesn't excel on his job. He run his fathers' restaurant but its going down the hill and people has to help him save his ass. He doesn't know how to express his feeling or show romance (and this is a let down because I'm a sucker for romance - it's what keeps me going) On plus side , he was gorgeous and hot. I mean , he was inspired by Henry Cavill image so you cant go wrong with that (My fave part in the book.) He is a good father, a good brother, a good friend, and cares about his employees. He is a bit broken made some bad decision in life, got divorce and trying to save his relationship with his son Tyler , the most important aspect of his life and things keeps going wrong so his brain is a bit messep up too. In a way you'll feel bad for him but a part of me wants to shout " Be a proper Man" . In a way I have to admire his focus - not to mess up by falling in love and break Elisa's heart since he knows he is broken.
On Elisa, a heroine - strong and loving, beautiful - inside and out . She knows what she wants and not afraid to express it. Very supportive and kind but her character doesn't stood out . I feel like she is just at the background until the last half of the book.
My problem on this book. The first half of the book is really "empty". There is no romantic pull between Brody and Elisa, I didn't feel that "magic" or "chemistry". I don't know how they fell in love really because there's not much interaction between them. I read more about the restaurant problem so on so forth. Them suppressing their feelings actually kills the story. Its too cautious, too clean. They actually hooked up , kiss and all at 50% of the book. Seriously! I'm dying for romance and all this sweet nothing . I crave it.
Its all not bad, I love the Brody -Tyler , father & son bonding or trying to bond. I love and cried over the dog Brinkley (this is the saving grace of the book i think) , the forgive-forget between Kelly (ex-wife ) , Elisa left because she was heartbroken , and Brody finally realizing how weak he was , facing it and doing something about it He made an attempt to win back Elisa. This was the best and swooning Brody has done in the book. I feel deprived of the sugary stuff. All these happened on the last 50% of the book.
I wish Erin has spiced the first half of the book and made that intense connection work between Brody & Elisa, Made it more risky and messy because it can be fixed up.
This could be not my cup of coffee , I love my hero as dominant but can be submissive when under the spell of love, I want him to take risk about getting what he wants but at the same time even weak and has demon to face he doesn't let it overruled him. I love a book with loads of romance mixed with love, angst , confusion, fear , messiness but in the end everyone will clean their act.
I would still try to read Erin other books because I've read a lot of good reviews about her.
On Elisa, a heroine - strong and loving, beautiful - inside and out . She knows what she wants and not afraid to express it. Very supportive and kind but her character doesn't stood out . I feel like she is just at the background until the last half of the book.
My problem on this book. The first half of the book is really "empty". There is no romantic pull between Brody and Elisa, I didn't feel that "magic" or "chemistry". I don't know how they fell in love really because there's not much interaction between them. I read more about the restaurant problem so on so forth. Them suppressing their feelings actually kills the story. Its too cautious, too clean. They actually hooked up , kiss and all at 50% of the book. Seriously! I'm dying for romance and all this sweet nothing . I crave it.
Its all not bad, I love the Brody -Tyler , father & son bonding or trying to bond. I love and cried over the dog Brinkley (this is the saving grace of the book i think) , the forgive-forget between Kelly (ex-wife ) , Elisa left because she was heartbroken , and Brody finally realizing how weak he was , facing it and doing something about it He made an attempt to win back Elisa. This was the best and swooning Brody has done in the book. I feel deprived of the sugary stuff. All these happened on the last 50% of the book.
I wish Erin has spiced the first half of the book and made that intense connection work between Brody & Elisa, Made it more risky and messy because it can be fixed up.
This could be not my cup of coffee , I love my hero as dominant but can be submissive when under the spell of love, I want him to take risk about getting what he wants but at the same time even weak and has demon to face he doesn't let it overruled him. I love a book with loads of romance mixed with love, angst , confusion, fear , messiness but in the end everyone will clean their act.
I would still try to read Erin other books because I've read a lot of good reviews about her.
February 15, 2014
"Elisa Cardoso longs for passion in her life. Though she'd much rather spend her days photographing the stunning Wyoming landscape, food photography is a lucrative, if uninspiring, way to pay her bills. But when her next assignment brings her face to face with sexy restaurant owner Brody McDermott, Elisa can't deny the delicious effect he has on her.
From the minute Brody sees Elisa, he's dying to unleash her inner bad girl. He knows there's more to the sophisticated photographer than meets the eye. Now getting the sexy shutterbug into his bed is on his menu, but when she starts making her way into his heart-big problem. Love has been tricky for Brody, and he's not too eager to try his luck again. But when a golden opportunity means Elisa may be leaving Trouble for good, can Brody find the courage to grab on to love . . . before it slips away?"
When I read something under the category "contemporary romance," I prefer more romance, less contemporary, as in less reality. Things like divorce, having to decide on child custody, whether to follow an ex because your child may be leaving with the ex, and other things like that typically suck my interest in a book right out of me. Erin Kern does a great job of not going overboard with it.
What she does do is create just enough conflict to make you root for both main characters and she uses the minor characters rooting for the main characters to make it easier for the reader to do.
The only thing I didn't like in this book is the same thing I don't like in every romance book: characters not communicating, characters hiding information thinking they're doing what's best for someone else, etc. But I've also resigned myself that this is part of the conflict that ignites the fire in the romance and keeps the flame going until it's completely on fire. So while I don't like it, I've come to accept it and don't blame authors for it because it's part of the formula and I would dare an author to write a good romance novel without that element.
One thing I would have preferred in this particular book is more physical shows of romance. In other words, more sex. And that's where my dislike for too much reality comes in. There are too many missed or stunted opportunities for Elisa and Brody mostly because of Brody's eleven year old son. However, I will admit that my lack of appeal of children as part of reality in romance novels actually heightens and enhances my dislike when the presence of kids in general are a blockade. I don't hold this against authors anymore either because kids are a part of reality, especially kids of divorced parents. On a good note, Erin Kern has written Brody's son as a mature, well-behaved eleven year old. So I kind of liked him. He's also one of the characters that was used just a little bit to help the reader root for Elisa and Brody.
I'm giving Erin Kern five stars for this one. It's a good read and well worth the time. If I could have stayed up all night to read, I'd have read this entire book in one sitting over one night.
I received this book from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
From the minute Brody sees Elisa, he's dying to unleash her inner bad girl. He knows there's more to the sophisticated photographer than meets the eye. Now getting the sexy shutterbug into his bed is on his menu, but when she starts making her way into his heart-big problem. Love has been tricky for Brody, and he's not too eager to try his luck again. But when a golden opportunity means Elisa may be leaving Trouble for good, can Brody find the courage to grab on to love . . . before it slips away?"
When I read something under the category "contemporary romance," I prefer more romance, less contemporary, as in less reality. Things like divorce, having to decide on child custody, whether to follow an ex because your child may be leaving with the ex, and other things like that typically suck my interest in a book right out of me. Erin Kern does a great job of not going overboard with it.
What she does do is create just enough conflict to make you root for both main characters and she uses the minor characters rooting for the main characters to make it easier for the reader to do.
The only thing I didn't like in this book is the same thing I don't like in every romance book: characters not communicating, characters hiding information thinking they're doing what's best for someone else, etc. But I've also resigned myself that this is part of the conflict that ignites the fire in the romance and keeps the flame going until it's completely on fire. So while I don't like it, I've come to accept it and don't blame authors for it because it's part of the formula and I would dare an author to write a good romance novel without that element.
One thing I would have preferred in this particular book is more physical shows of romance. In other words, more sex. And that's where my dislike for too much reality comes in. There are too many missed or stunted opportunities for Elisa and Brody mostly because of Brody's eleven year old son. However, I will admit that my lack of appeal of children as part of reality in romance novels actually heightens and enhances my dislike when the presence of kids in general are a blockade. I don't hold this against authors anymore either because kids are a part of reality, especially kids of divorced parents. On a good note, Erin Kern has written Brody's son as a mature, well-behaved eleven year old. So I kind of liked him. He's also one of the characters that was used just a little bit to help the reader root for Elisa and Brody.
I'm giving Erin Kern five stars for this one. It's a good read and well worth the time. If I could have stayed up all night to read, I'd have read this entire book in one sitting over one night.
I received this book from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
January 6, 2014
I started this book with high hopes, wanting a light contemporary fiction romance, loving the cover, the setting, and the premise, but this book pushed several of my hot buttons, and though there were hot sex scenes, I didn't feel enough connection to the hero/heroine to get past them.
I received an ARC of this novel through Netgalley and Grand Central in exchange for an honest review.
I did really like the descriptions of Elisa's photography, and how she arranged food to photograph it to best effect. I wanted to find something to like about Brody, besides his looks, but I came up empty; every admirable action he took, he was pushed into by someone else. I know how hard it is to write a book, and think this author has a lot of promise; it's just not here in this book for ME.
I received an ARC of this novel through Netgalley and Grand Central in exchange for an honest review.
I did really like the descriptions of Elisa's photography, and how she arranged food to photograph it to best effect. I wanted to find something to like about Brody, besides his looks, but I came up empty; every admirable action he took, he was pushed into by someone else. I know how hard it is to write a book, and think this author has a lot of promise; it's just not here in this book for ME.
May 17, 2014
I won Along Came Trouble by Erin Kern from Goodreads.
I liked the main characters of this book. Brody McDermott is a flawed but conscientious man. He impregnated a girl he didn't love while in college and then tried to do the right thing by marrying her and accepting a job he didn't want for the security it offered his family. As the manager of one of his father's restaurants, Brody does the best he can, and, though his marriage ended, he continues to be responsible and supportive.
Elisa Cordoso has also accepted work that she does not love so that she can pay her bills. She has a painful past and misses her family terribly. The surviving members of her family live in another country and Elisa's decision not to live with them is never addressed.
These two protagonists quickly fall in love and then complications set in, most notably, Brody's inability to express his feelings.
On the whole, I liked the story. I have no issues with the predictable main plotline as I read romance novels for their "feel good vibes" and the assurance that everything works out in the end. However, I do have issues with the subplots. Too many plot lines are introduced and then given short shrift.
Warning: some may feel that the following are spoilers.
To save his restaurant, Brody agrees to cater a major charity fundraiser, and, although the catering is mentioned on occasion, the reader feels that each mention is an afterthought. The charity event never takes place within the confines of the book. Also, a very sick dog is found by Elisa and Brody's son, Tyler. While the dog lays suffering at home, Elisa practically abandons him while she persues her career and love interest. While this may be a sad depiction of what real people must do, this plot line feels forced. The dog's suffering is ignored at times, as are the complications created by a seriously ill pet. And, finally, the most complex yet under developed plotline of all, is that Brody's sister is in a serious car accident from which she has many life threatening injuries. Other than the big scene in which all the characters gather at the hospital and a stranger claims to be her fiance, this plotline is also sorely undeveloped. Later in the story, the sister's efforts to recover her health and memory are described with brevity during a conversation between two other characters and then it's on with the rest of the story.
Because the subplots were so undeveloped, I felt cheated. Readers who prefer romances that keep the focus on the relationship between the two main characters may not care that the subplots are awkward and weak. I am guessing that two of these subplots will be developed in future books. They should be as they could make great stories.
I liked the main characters of this book. Brody McDermott is a flawed but conscientious man. He impregnated a girl he didn't love while in college and then tried to do the right thing by marrying her and accepting a job he didn't want for the security it offered his family. As the manager of one of his father's restaurants, Brody does the best he can, and, though his marriage ended, he continues to be responsible and supportive.
Elisa Cordoso has also accepted work that she does not love so that she can pay her bills. She has a painful past and misses her family terribly. The surviving members of her family live in another country and Elisa's decision not to live with them is never addressed.
These two protagonists quickly fall in love and then complications set in, most notably, Brody's inability to express his feelings.
On the whole, I liked the story. I have no issues with the predictable main plotline as I read romance novels for their "feel good vibes" and the assurance that everything works out in the end. However, I do have issues with the subplots. Too many plot lines are introduced and then given short shrift.
Warning: some may feel that the following are spoilers.
To save his restaurant, Brody agrees to cater a major charity fundraiser, and, although the catering is mentioned on occasion, the reader feels that each mention is an afterthought. The charity event never takes place within the confines of the book. Also, a very sick dog is found by Elisa and Brody's son, Tyler. While the dog lays suffering at home, Elisa practically abandons him while she persues her career and love interest. While this may be a sad depiction of what real people must do, this plot line feels forced. The dog's suffering is ignored at times, as are the complications created by a seriously ill pet. And, finally, the most complex yet under developed plotline of all, is that Brody's sister is in a serious car accident from which she has many life threatening injuries. Other than the big scene in which all the characters gather at the hospital and a stranger claims to be her fiance, this plotline is also sorely undeveloped. Later in the story, the sister's efforts to recover her health and memory are described with brevity during a conversation between two other characters and then it's on with the rest of the story.
Because the subplots were so undeveloped, I felt cheated. Readers who prefer romances that keep the focus on the relationship between the two main characters may not care that the subplots are awkward and weak. I am guessing that two of these subplots will be developed in future books. They should be as they could make great stories.
January 28, 2014
Along Came Trouble by Erin Kern
Rating ***.5 3/5
Along Came Trouble is the third book in the romantic Trouble series but can be easily read as a standalone romantic novel.
Trouble is a small town in Wyoming and features the family-owned restaurant, the Golden Glove, managed by Brody McDermott, Martin McDermott’s son. Unfortunately, for the family and in particular, Brody the restaurant is failing due to the incompetence of a succession of chefs and subsequent bad reviews. Martin has given Brody one last chance to make the business viable.
Brody is the very handsome, attractive but insecure father to Tyler; his only child by his ex-wife Kelly. Married at a very young age, although Brody loved his son, he was unable to make the marriage work and has as a consequence has carried his demons for a number of years.
Elisa Cordosa, is a beautiful, intelligent and down to earth former model who has graduated in photography and currently making a living in food photography. Although not the field of her choice, it is one she is very competent in.
The instant attraction when Brody hires Elisa, as a food photographer, is almost tangible but Brody’s inability to commit causes friction in the relationship.
Erin Kern’s skill to develop the relationships in her characters is well done and at times, humorous. Brody’s relationship, fraught with insecurities and angst, with his son is spot on and well written. Anyone who has involvement with split families cannot fail to be moved by this.
The passionate relationship between Brody and Elisa is well written. It is good to read about the developing union in both a romantic and sexual sense rather than reading about constant sexual acts. Do not get me wrong, the passion is all there and some.
There are some really lovely characters; Anthony and Charlene are interesting although I would have liked to have seen a bit more development on these. And who will forget Brinkley.
Without giving away the plot, I felt the character of Courtney was very weak and the situation which she found herself in did not seem to ring true. Who was the mysterious fiancé?
One other thing which slightly jarred, why after only one disastrous relationship would Elisa stayed on the pill? Although as a storyline it fitted in with Brody’s insecurities it just did not seem accurate.
Along Came Trouble is a light romantic novel, easy reading. However, for me it was the introduction of a number of scenarios which stopped it from being mediocre. These were cleverly introduced and well dealt with; they added depths to the story.
I was given ARC from NetGalley for an honest review. Thank you.
Rating ***.5 3/5
Along Came Trouble is the third book in the romantic Trouble series but can be easily read as a standalone romantic novel.
Trouble is a small town in Wyoming and features the family-owned restaurant, the Golden Glove, managed by Brody McDermott, Martin McDermott’s son. Unfortunately, for the family and in particular, Brody the restaurant is failing due to the incompetence of a succession of chefs and subsequent bad reviews. Martin has given Brody one last chance to make the business viable.
Brody is the very handsome, attractive but insecure father to Tyler; his only child by his ex-wife Kelly. Married at a very young age, although Brody loved his son, he was unable to make the marriage work and has as a consequence has carried his demons for a number of years.
Elisa Cordosa, is a beautiful, intelligent and down to earth former model who has graduated in photography and currently making a living in food photography. Although not the field of her choice, it is one she is very competent in.
The instant attraction when Brody hires Elisa, as a food photographer, is almost tangible but Brody’s inability to commit causes friction in the relationship.
Erin Kern’s skill to develop the relationships in her characters is well done and at times, humorous. Brody’s relationship, fraught with insecurities and angst, with his son is spot on and well written. Anyone who has involvement with split families cannot fail to be moved by this.
The passionate relationship between Brody and Elisa is well written. It is good to read about the developing union in both a romantic and sexual sense rather than reading about constant sexual acts. Do not get me wrong, the passion is all there and some.
There are some really lovely characters; Anthony and Charlene are interesting although I would have liked to have seen a bit more development on these. And who will forget Brinkley.
Without giving away the plot, I felt the character of Courtney was very weak and the situation which she found herself in did not seem to ring true. Who was the mysterious fiancé?
One other thing which slightly jarred, why after only one disastrous relationship would Elisa stayed on the pill? Although as a storyline it fitted in with Brody’s insecurities it just did not seem accurate.
Along Came Trouble is a light romantic novel, easy reading. However, for me it was the introduction of a number of scenarios which stopped it from being mediocre. These were cleverly introduced and well dealt with; they added depths to the story.
I was given ARC from NetGalley for an honest review. Thank you.
March 11, 2014
The cover and the blurb led me to believe this would be a western contemporary story, but the actual storyline is far different from expectations. Even the writing style is quite different to the blurb, leading me to believe the writer did not write the back cover blurb.
While I enjoyed the idea of the story, I felt the author left a few bits out and added some info that just didn't need to be there. It wasn't needed to progress the story, and appeared to me to just pad out the story to get a greater word count.
The individual character development worked for me some of the time and frustrated me at other times. I couldn't quite understand Elisa's motivation for swearing off men. Almost a decade prior, a college boyfriend hurt her when he announced he was gay and she's still sworn off men. Ok, I can understand part of that, but why be hurt for almost 10 years. It alludes to her not having dated since and mentions she went to a Christian college, but then with a complete change of character she thinks about having "wicked sex" with Brody. The images the words were creating for me initially just didn't gel. Christian collage, spurns men then to wicked sex in a heartbeat...
Similarly for Brody, I could understand he was hurt by a divorce, but then couldn't understand the reasoning for why he'd be attracted to Elisa but keep pushing her away. In reality, yes the scenario works for me, but the way the character was written just didn't have me believing him all of the time.
The writing style seemed to change from chapter to chapter and at times I was bored with the sentence structure used and other times intrigued. It was like the author had been brainstorming ideas and keeping the writing simple, but then forgot to go back and re-edit some of it.
I persevered because I really liked the plot and wanted to have a great read.
I wasn't aware this was the third book in the series as it didn't say that in the opening pages. There was mention of another 2 books with similar names, but didn't state they were book 1 and book 2. So when I started the book I thought it was a stand-alone and it can certainly be read as such.
It's an interesting story, with some interestingly written parts, but there are also some you would skim over.
Along Came Trouble
While I enjoyed the idea of the story, I felt the author left a few bits out and added some info that just didn't need to be there. It wasn't needed to progress the story, and appeared to me to just pad out the story to get a greater word count.
The individual character development worked for me some of the time and frustrated me at other times. I couldn't quite understand Elisa's motivation for swearing off men. Almost a decade prior, a college boyfriend hurt her when he announced he was gay and she's still sworn off men. Ok, I can understand part of that, but why be hurt for almost 10 years. It alludes to her not having dated since and mentions she went to a Christian college, but then with a complete change of character she thinks about having "wicked sex" with Brody. The images the words were creating for me initially just didn't gel. Christian collage, spurns men then to wicked sex in a heartbeat...
Similarly for Brody, I could understand he was hurt by a divorce, but then couldn't understand the reasoning for why he'd be attracted to Elisa but keep pushing her away. In reality, yes the scenario works for me, but the way the character was written just didn't have me believing him all of the time.
The writing style seemed to change from chapter to chapter and at times I was bored with the sentence structure used and other times intrigued. It was like the author had been brainstorming ideas and keeping the writing simple, but then forgot to go back and re-edit some of it.
I persevered because I really liked the plot and wanted to have a great read.
I wasn't aware this was the third book in the series as it didn't say that in the opening pages. There was mention of another 2 books with similar names, but didn't state they were book 1 and book 2. So when I started the book I thought it was a stand-alone and it can certainly be read as such.
It's an interesting story, with some interestingly written parts, but there are also some you would skim over.
Along Came Trouble
March 7, 2014
Ever read a book that you were really keen to read, so you persist, even though, you have that feeling that you might be somewhat dissatisfied? That was Erin Kern's
Along Came Trouble
for me. For some, this will be a light, enjoyable romance between two characters who you could grow to love. Sadly, for me, having read the first two books in the series, and I use that term lightly, as you could read this as a standalone, I just felt a little disappointed.
For the most part, the story flowed nicely. However, one of my frustrations was the many unfinished plot points. Working as a proof reader, I constantly seek relevance. If issues are raised, there ought to be a reason, and therefore, a resolution. But, with many different story lines overlapping throughout Along Came Trouble, unless the book was double the length, plot holes were inevitable, and in this case, evident. The subplot involving the dog was moving, but, felt a little rushed and haphazard. Again, perhaps this is something that strong proof reading could overcome.
Despite being provided with some sexy schmexy sex scenes, I didn't feel as connected to the characters to see past the stop-start action inside the bedroom, and the roller coaster emotions that both Brody and Elisa experienced throughout.
I did enjoy reading of Brody's struggle to connect with his son. Spots of humour, well written dialogue, and believable situations helped that journey seem credible. For that, I was thankful.
So, I had mixed feelings about this book. I did enjoy it, for the most part, can see Kern's potential, but, there were quite a few things that caused it to fall short of my expectations. I will continue to look for what Kern produces next, as I do believe she can eventually produce magnificence.
Thank you Netgalley for the provision of this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
For the most part, the story flowed nicely. However, one of my frustrations was the many unfinished plot points. Working as a proof reader, I constantly seek relevance. If issues are raised, there ought to be a reason, and therefore, a resolution. But, with many different story lines overlapping throughout Along Came Trouble, unless the book was double the length, plot holes were inevitable, and in this case, evident. The subplot involving the dog was moving, but, felt a little rushed and haphazard. Again, perhaps this is something that strong proof reading could overcome.
Despite being provided with some sexy schmexy sex scenes, I didn't feel as connected to the characters to see past the stop-start action inside the bedroom, and the roller coaster emotions that both Brody and Elisa experienced throughout.
I did enjoy reading of Brody's struggle to connect with his son. Spots of humour, well written dialogue, and believable situations helped that journey seem credible. For that, I was thankful.
So, I had mixed feelings about this book. I did enjoy it, for the most part, can see Kern's potential, but, there were quite a few things that caused it to fall short of my expectations. I will continue to look for what Kern produces next, as I do believe she can eventually produce magnificence.
Thank you Netgalley for the provision of this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 24, 2013
Brody owns a restaurant that is struggling with providing stellar food. The atmosphere is fun but the place has just received its second bad review. Brody is hoping that a photography spread showcasing the place with appetizing food will help turn things around. He has been trying different chefs and is having a hard time finding one that fits.
Elisa is said photographer who makes good money photographing food but would rather be doing landscapes in far away countries. Her and Brody definitely notice each other during her picture session. Brody is divorced and is surprised to find out Elisa is friends with his ex-wife, as Elisa agrees to babysit his son when his ex-wife has to go out of town. So these two start to run into each other a lot and a relationship grows.
You know how sometimes you read a book and the chemistry between the hero and heroine is so strong and comes right off the page? That is not this book. I honestly don’t know how authors write chemistry but sometimes it’s there and sometimes it is lacking. I never felt a true romance between Brody and Elisa. It felt cold and just…off. They went through the motions of courtship, sex, falling in love – but there was no passion or true feelings. Elisa comes off a bit cold and Brody has a harder edge, especially towards his ex-wife that I always didn’t like. There really isn’t a lot that happens in this book either. There is a little drama and conflict at Brody’s restaurant and some conflict comes in to play with his ex-wife. But I found my eyes wandering off the page a lot. I did like how Elisa’s photography career was portrayed. I found that part fascinating and well written. Otherwise, I’d have to pass on this one.
Rating: C
Elisa is said photographer who makes good money photographing food but would rather be doing landscapes in far away countries. Her and Brody definitely notice each other during her picture session. Brody is divorced and is surprised to find out Elisa is friends with his ex-wife, as Elisa agrees to babysit his son when his ex-wife has to go out of town. So these two start to run into each other a lot and a relationship grows.
You know how sometimes you read a book and the chemistry between the hero and heroine is so strong and comes right off the page? That is not this book. I honestly don’t know how authors write chemistry but sometimes it’s there and sometimes it is lacking. I never felt a true romance between Brody and Elisa. It felt cold and just…off. They went through the motions of courtship, sex, falling in love – but there was no passion or true feelings. Elisa comes off a bit cold and Brody has a harder edge, especially towards his ex-wife that I always didn’t like. There really isn’t a lot that happens in this book either. There is a little drama and conflict at Brody’s restaurant and some conflict comes in to play with his ex-wife. But I found my eyes wandering off the page a lot. I did like how Elisa’s photography career was portrayed. I found that part fascinating and well written. Otherwise, I’d have to pass on this one.
Rating: C
August 3, 2016
Along Came Trouble by Erin Kern
4 Stars
Elisa Cardoso spends her days photographing the beautiful Wyoming countryside, food photography is a lucrative, if uninspiring, way to pay her bills. But when her next assignment brings her face to face with sexy restaurant manager Brody McDermott, Elisa can't deny the effect he has on her. The problem - he is her neighbor and friend’s ex-husband.
When Brody sees Elisa, he is drawn to her. Brody has not been lucky in the love department, and is very hesitant to travel that road again. He has a lot on his plate. His restaurant is struggling, and so is his relationship with his 11-year-old son, Tyler. His father owns the restaurant and has given Brody one last chance to restore its reputation – or he loses his job.
The book held my attention throughout. The author’s writing style is fresh and entertaining. I found myself laughing out loud at some of the inner dialogue of the characters. There were trust issues with both Brody and Elisa, which of course leads to moments of angst. The sex scenes were well written and not silly or cliché. The characters did get their HEA, which is a must for me.
This is the third book in a series. I have not read this author’s work before, but the book did well as a stand-alone. I will go back and read the first two books, because I enjoyed the writing style of Erin Kern. I also look forward to future books in this series.
*ARC courtesy of NetGALLEY and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. *
4 Stars
Elisa Cardoso spends her days photographing the beautiful Wyoming countryside, food photography is a lucrative, if uninspiring, way to pay her bills. But when her next assignment brings her face to face with sexy restaurant manager Brody McDermott, Elisa can't deny the effect he has on her. The problem - he is her neighbor and friend’s ex-husband.
When Brody sees Elisa, he is drawn to her. Brody has not been lucky in the love department, and is very hesitant to travel that road again. He has a lot on his plate. His restaurant is struggling, and so is his relationship with his 11-year-old son, Tyler. His father owns the restaurant and has given Brody one last chance to restore its reputation – or he loses his job.
The book held my attention throughout. The author’s writing style is fresh and entertaining. I found myself laughing out loud at some of the inner dialogue of the characters. There were trust issues with both Brody and Elisa, which of course leads to moments of angst. The sex scenes were well written and not silly or cliché. The characters did get their HEA, which is a must for me.
This is the third book in a series. I have not read this author’s work before, but the book did well as a stand-alone. I will go back and read the first two books, because I enjoyed the writing style of Erin Kern. I also look forward to future books in this series.
*ARC courtesy of NetGALLEY and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. *
November 3, 2013
**** EROTICA BOOK CLUB REVIEW ****
Along Came Trouble (Trouble #3)
by Erin Kern
Brody McDermott is manger of the family restaurant that is really struggling, with a few bad reviews he is trying to get the restaurant back to its former glory. Elisa Cardoso is a photographer that is hired to come in and take pictures of the food they serve as part of the plan to get the restaurant's customers in.
They have an instant sexual connection but when Elisa realises that Brody is her friends ex husband she has doubts about starting a relationship.
I really struggled with this book at some points during reading it I am not sure if that is anything to do with this being book 3 and I have not read any of the former books in this series or it could be that I found Brody to one of the most frustrating men I have ever read about. H e really irritated me because he was going hot and cold all the time. The other characters were fine I liked them and I also liked that they were all very close and how this book could lead to a few more books.
Its not a bad read and I read it as a stand alone and at times I got sucked into it and couldn't put it down. There is quite a few hot sex scenes. A well written book but I am not sure if it was for me, So still a little undecided.
I received an ARC copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars for Amazon & 3.5 stars for Amazon
~Jane~
Along Came Trouble (Trouble #3)
by Erin Kern
Brody McDermott is manger of the family restaurant that is really struggling, with a few bad reviews he is trying to get the restaurant back to its former glory. Elisa Cardoso is a photographer that is hired to come in and take pictures of the food they serve as part of the plan to get the restaurant's customers in.
They have an instant sexual connection but when Elisa realises that Brody is her friends ex husband she has doubts about starting a relationship.
I really struggled with this book at some points during reading it I am not sure if that is anything to do with this being book 3 and I have not read any of the former books in this series or it could be that I found Brody to one of the most frustrating men I have ever read about. H e really irritated me because he was going hot and cold all the time. The other characters were fine I liked them and I also liked that they were all very close and how this book could lead to a few more books.
Its not a bad read and I read it as a stand alone and at times I got sucked into it and couldn't put it down. There is quite a few hot sex scenes. A well written book but I am not sure if it was for me, So still a little undecided.
I received an ARC copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars for Amazon & 3.5 stars for Amazon
~Jane~
November 3, 2013
**** EROTICA BOOK CLUB REVIEW ****
Along Came Trouble (Trouble #3)
by Erin Kern
Brody McDermott is manger of the family restaurant that is really struggling, with a few bad reviews he is trying to get the restaurant back to its former glory. Elisa Cardoso is a photographer that is hired to come in and take pictures of the food they serve as part of the plan to get the restaurant's customers in.
They have an instant sexual connection but when Elisa realises that Brody is her friends ex husband she has doubts about starting a relationship.
I really struggled with this book at some points during reading it I am not sure if that is anything to do with this being book 3 and I have not read any of the former books in this series or it could be that I found Brody to one of the most frustrating men I have ever read about. H e really irritated me because he was going hot and cold all the time. The other characters were fine I liked them and I also liked that they were all very close and how this book could lead to a few more books.
Its not a bad read and I read it as a stand alone and at times I got sucked into it and couldn't put it down. There is quite a few hot sex scenes. A well written book but I am not sure if it was for me, So still a little undecided.
I received an ARC copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars for Amazon & 3.5 stars for Amazon
~Jane~
Along Came Trouble (Trouble #3)
by Erin Kern
Brody McDermott is manger of the family restaurant that is really struggling, with a few bad reviews he is trying to get the restaurant back to its former glory. Elisa Cardoso is a photographer that is hired to come in and take pictures of the food they serve as part of the plan to get the restaurant's customers in.
They have an instant sexual connection but when Elisa realises that Brody is her friends ex husband she has doubts about starting a relationship.
I really struggled with this book at some points during reading it I am not sure if that is anything to do with this being book 3 and I have not read any of the former books in this series or it could be that I found Brody to one of the most frustrating men I have ever read about. H e really irritated me because he was going hot and cold all the time. The other characters were fine I liked them and I also liked that they were all very close and how this book could lead to a few more books.
Its not a bad read and I read it as a stand alone and at times I got sucked into it and couldn't put it down. There is quite a few hot sex scenes. A well written book but I am not sure if it was for me, So still a little undecided.
I received an ARC copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars for Amazon & 3.5 stars for Amazon
~Jane~
January 12, 2014
Brody is the manager of one of his father's restaurants. The restaurant is going through hard times. Losing their best chef and not being able to find a good replacement, suffering some bad reviews and a dwindling clientele. At the same time he is sharing custody of his young son with his ex wife. To top it all of he suffers from guilt thinking that the devorce with his wife a few years ago was all his fault.
Elisa is a wildlife photographer who pays the bills by photographing food. When she is hired to take some photos for Brody's restaurant she is instantly attracted to the manager when she meets him. The feeling is mutual and Brody finds reasons to keep bringing her back. Through in the fact that she happens to be watching his son after school for a while and they are spending a lot of time together.
With all the time they are spending in each others company they can't fight the attraction that is between them. However Brody getting over his feelings about relationships is another story. Will he be able to see that just because his marriage didn't work out that doesn't mean that he can't find love with another?
This is a fun read with some great sex scenes. I loved reading about Elisa & Broday but also about the rest of the Characters. Brody's family is awesome and I can't wait to read more about them!
*book received from NetGalley for honest review
for more reviews visit welovekink(dot)com
Elisa is a wildlife photographer who pays the bills by photographing food. When she is hired to take some photos for Brody's restaurant she is instantly attracted to the manager when she meets him. The feeling is mutual and Brody finds reasons to keep bringing her back. Through in the fact that she happens to be watching his son after school for a while and they are spending a lot of time together.
With all the time they are spending in each others company they can't fight the attraction that is between them. However Brody getting over his feelings about relationships is another story. Will he be able to see that just because his marriage didn't work out that doesn't mean that he can't find love with another?
This is a fun read with some great sex scenes. I loved reading about Elisa & Broday but also about the rest of the Characters. Brody's family is awesome and I can't wait to read more about them!
*book received from NetGalley for honest review
for more reviews visit welovekink(dot)com
November 8, 2013
I really enjoy reading this author's work, the books are always entertaining, have romance in them and some naughty bits as well. Brody his mind was like a damn movie pure entertainment, "okay, you're supposed to be saving your restaurant here, and all you can do is admire the photographer's a**?" And he's just like a little boy in a candy shop when it comes to Elisa, "after you're done, you should stay for something to eat." Now, why would you go and say that? Isn't it bad enough you've been staring at her a**, now you have to come on to her? "You're taking pictures for us. The least you could let me do is feed you." Okay, that sounded much more reasonable; not like you're trying to hit on her while sh'e doing a job for you." Brody that man is just all pure hotness, "I bet I could teach you a game or two," he practically growled." Brody doesn't like Elisa having certain unfair advantages, "but I'm naked and you still have clothes on." The boxers landed on the floor." Sometimes Brody will do anything to make his girl happy, "I told you I'm on the pill. We don't need a condom. And I would rather feel all of you." Well, s***, when she put it like that...And how could he refuse when he was right there? Ready to take that deep plunge?" I'm really excited for Courtney's story that one is sure to be an entertaining one.
November 17, 2013
Brody is the manager of a struggling restaurant. Knowing that his job is on the line, he hires Elisa to take pictures of his food for an article. They meet and have an instant attraction. But when Elisa finds out that Brody is her friend's ex-husband, she has second thoughts about her feelings for him. But she can't resist the gorgeous man. They are both damaged from previous relationships and have a hard time communicating, especially Brody.
I thought there were some great elements to the story. I loved Brody's relationship with his son, that he realized that he was missing out on things by working all of the time. I loved the closeness of Brody's family. I have not read the other books in the series so I didn't know the back stories, but the love they all have for each other is obvious.
I had a hard time seeing them together as a couple. I felt their sexual tension, but their relationship was just weird to me. They went days without talking to each other which, to me, is unrealistic. And Brody is so hot and cold with her, I couldn't keep up with his mood swings. Their relationship seemed so one-sided, even though we knew that Brody was in love with Elisa. It was very frustrating.
Overall it's a cute story, I thought the writing was great and I loved all of the secondary characters.
3.5 Stars
I thought there were some great elements to the story. I loved Brody's relationship with his son, that he realized that he was missing out on things by working all of the time. I loved the closeness of Brody's family. I have not read the other books in the series so I didn't know the back stories, but the love they all have for each other is obvious.
I had a hard time seeing them together as a couple. I felt their sexual tension, but their relationship was just weird to me. They went days without talking to each other which, to me, is unrealistic. And Brody is so hot and cold with her, I couldn't keep up with his mood swings. Their relationship seemed so one-sided, even though we knew that Brody was in love with Elisa. It was very frustrating.
Overall it's a cute story, I thought the writing was great and I loved all of the secondary characters.
3.5 Stars
February 26, 2014
This is the third book in a series, but you could read it as a standalone. Brody is running a restaurant that his father owns and the restaurant isn't doing well. Brody is swimming in guilt; guilt over his marriage and how it ended and over his current relationship with his son. He is really feeling the pressure to ensure the restaurant is successful so he can support his family. Brody is a private person and tends to feel the responsibility for the mistakes he believes that he's made. Elisa is working as a food photographer, but she dreams of photographing landscapes.
The chemistry between Elisa and Brody is apparent from their first meeting. Elisa calms Brody in a way that no one and nothing else ever has. His feelings run deep, but he doesn't acknowledge or talk about them. Elisa gets the career opportunity she was looking for, but it means leaving Trouble and Brody.
I enjoyed Along Came Trouble. I found that the book started slowly and I wasn't fully engaged in the characters or story until over a third of the way through the book. A lot of the conflict and problems for Elisa and Brody are introduced fairly early on. I did enjoy the secondary characters and I could see where some of those characters could become main characters in later books. I would rate this as 3.5 stars.
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
The chemistry between Elisa and Brody is apparent from their first meeting. Elisa calms Brody in a way that no one and nothing else ever has. His feelings run deep, but he doesn't acknowledge or talk about them. Elisa gets the career opportunity she was looking for, but it means leaving Trouble and Brody.
I enjoyed Along Came Trouble. I found that the book started slowly and I wasn't fully engaged in the characters or story until over a third of the way through the book. A lot of the conflict and problems for Elisa and Brody are introduced fairly early on. I did enjoy the secondary characters and I could see where some of those characters could become main characters in later books. I would rate this as 3.5 stars.
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 25, 2014
This one starts very slow. After the first 5 chapters, I looked at page 75, the start of chapter 6, with a great deal of apprehension. I still wasn’t into this book, but I hate to give up on a story. I normally don’t read books that are a series, but I liked the description, and the cover. The cover was a bit deceiving. I was excited about reading this book.
Brody’s stuck in his past like being at a dead end road. Trying to connect with his son is his biggest struggle. This causes him to blame himself for everything that goes wrong. He’s running a restaurant that could certainly use a push, and along comes Elisa, a photographer. She and Brody hit it off the minute they meet. Brody is a private individual, unwilling to open up or discuss his feelings, though Elisa manages more so than anyone else, to break down his self built wall. Then there's a chance for Elisa to advance her career. It’s something she’s hoped and waited for. Now what does she do?
The romance between the two was sweet, I had a good laugh in a few places, and the sex scenes were well written. I thought this was basically a good book, but it started so slow, it made it difficult to get into. Had I been able to connect to the characters earlier, I'd have given this 4 stars, because the story was good.
I won this book on Goodreads.
Brody’s stuck in his past like being at a dead end road. Trying to connect with his son is his biggest struggle. This causes him to blame himself for everything that goes wrong. He’s running a restaurant that could certainly use a push, and along comes Elisa, a photographer. She and Brody hit it off the minute they meet. Brody is a private individual, unwilling to open up or discuss his feelings, though Elisa manages more so than anyone else, to break down his self built wall. Then there's a chance for Elisa to advance her career. It’s something she’s hoped and waited for. Now what does she do?
The romance between the two was sweet, I had a good laugh in a few places, and the sex scenes were well written. I thought this was basically a good book, but it started so slow, it made it difficult to get into. Had I been able to connect to the characters earlier, I'd have given this 4 stars, because the story was good.
I won this book on Goodreads.
July 11, 2015
This story is about Brody, who works in his fathers failing restaurant and Elisa, a former model who is a photographer now.
Elisa is hired by Brody to take photo's of the restaurants food to try and boost the place after losing a great chef and then having a bad one, bad reviews and he needs a miracle to get the restaurant back on its feet. Both she and Brody are instantly attracted to each other but Brody has a failed marriage under his belt and does not want to commit to anyone again so this throws up major obstacles in their way.
Elisa is friends and neighbour with Brody's ex-wife so when she needs help with someone to help look after her son Tyler after school till his dad can pick him up, Elisa steps in to help out and her and Brody end up spending time together.
Their relationship has its up and downs and Brody will not commit so Elisa takes a job offered to her in another country and Brody has to decide if he is willing to commit again or lose the woman he loves.
I love the interactions with Brody's family and enjoyed these scenes. I don't want to give too much away but this book made me laugh and I wanted to shake sense into Brody but it would not be the book it is, if not for his fear.
Elisa is hired by Brody to take photo's of the restaurants food to try and boost the place after losing a great chef and then having a bad one, bad reviews and he needs a miracle to get the restaurant back on its feet. Both she and Brody are instantly attracted to each other but Brody has a failed marriage under his belt and does not want to commit to anyone again so this throws up major obstacles in their way.
Elisa is friends and neighbour with Brody's ex-wife so when she needs help with someone to help look after her son Tyler after school till his dad can pick him up, Elisa steps in to help out and her and Brody end up spending time together.
Their relationship has its up and downs and Brody will not commit so Elisa takes a job offered to her in another country and Brody has to decide if he is willing to commit again or lose the woman he loves.
I love the interactions with Brody's family and enjoyed these scenes. I don't want to give too much away but this book made me laugh and I wanted to shake sense into Brody but it would not be the book it is, if not for his fear.
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