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Dirty Words
Mark my Words
Finding the words is easy with the right person...
Giving in to mutual attraction can unlock the boundaries between two people who would never make sense on paper. Can you ever get that little black box of desire closed again when you’ve thrown away the key?
Kristine
The world I grew up in didn’t have much room for girls with big dreams. Dreams that didn’t include stifling my ambitions as an editor to pursue a career my parents wanted. Despite their best efforts to marry me off to their friends’ horrible offspring, I left New York with the intention of never returning. Being fiercely independent ensured I didn’t make many friends on the way up the corporate ladder either. So when Sam Langley stood in my path to a promotion, I wouldn’t let a pretty face get in my way.
Sam
Self-sufficient, spirited, smart, and seriously frustrating women didn’t scare me after growing up in a house with four older sisters. But having to edit a spicy thriller with the office ice queen would test my resolve to resist her fiery wit and sharp tongue. She thought her bristly exterior was a turn-off, but it only made it that much harder to keep her off my mind and out of my bed. Kristine Willard may have thought she could keep me away with her cutting remarks and terrible nicknames. She never expected my ability to read her in a way that showed her true character, and I wanted to explore her every page.
Book 2 in the Dirty Words Series. Can be read as an interconnected stand alone.
Giving in to mutual attraction can unlock the boundaries between two people who would never make sense on paper. Can you ever get that little black box of desire closed again when you’ve thrown away the key?
Kristine
The world I grew up in didn’t have much room for girls with big dreams. Dreams that didn’t include stifling my ambitions as an editor to pursue a career my parents wanted. Despite their best efforts to marry me off to their friends’ horrible offspring, I left New York with the intention of never returning. Being fiercely independent ensured I didn’t make many friends on the way up the corporate ladder either. So when Sam Langley stood in my path to a promotion, I wouldn’t let a pretty face get in my way.
Sam
Self-sufficient, spirited, smart, and seriously frustrating women didn’t scare me after growing up in a house with four older sisters. But having to edit a spicy thriller with the office ice queen would test my resolve to resist her fiery wit and sharp tongue. She thought her bristly exterior was a turn-off, but it only made it that much harder to keep her off my mind and out of my bed. Kristine Willard may have thought she could keep me away with her cutting remarks and terrible nicknames. She never expected my ability to read her in a way that showed her true character, and I wanted to explore her every page.
Book 2 in the Dirty Words Series. Can be read as an interconnected stand alone.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 2, 2023
71 people are currently reading
614 people want to read
About the author
E.L. Koslo
18 books408 followersFind the funny in your life.
That’s what EL Koslo strives to do in her life every day. She spent her youth with her nose in a book, often conjuring up storylines in a composition notebook she hid under her mattress. Her love of writing continued on through high school as she served on the school paper and wrote poetry for the literary magazine.
At University, she studied Art and Art History where she met her own prince charming after kissing a few frogs, of course.
Her love of reading and writing have been a constant in her life with her nose always buried in a book, tablet, or computer—both writing and reading.
She resides in the Midwest United States with her husband and four rambunctious children. Her days are filled with driving kids to school, activities, and sports; frequently squeezing writing time in while waiting in the carpool line.
Koslo’s characters are often developed while running on the treadmill at the gym, and she has a DVR full of Hallmark movies.
Her debut novel, Foreplay on Words, combines her love of steamy romance, awkward but loveable leading males, and headstrong heroines with a dash of humor and a little bit of kink.
Follow her at: https://linktr.ee/elkoslo
Instagram: @elkoslo_writes
Tiktok: @elkoslowrites
Facebook Page: EL Koslo Romance Writer
Facebook Reader Group: Dirty Words Brigade
ELKoslo.com
**** Please do not add any freely published works to my account that you have not asked for permission to add. They will be deleted and you will be reported. Draft work on serial reading apps is not fair game for you to add to an author’s goodreads account. ****
That’s what EL Koslo strives to do in her life every day. She spent her youth with her nose in a book, often conjuring up storylines in a composition notebook she hid under her mattress. Her love of writing continued on through high school as she served on the school paper and wrote poetry for the literary magazine.
At University, she studied Art and Art History where she met her own prince charming after kissing a few frogs, of course.
Her love of reading and writing have been a constant in her life with her nose always buried in a book, tablet, or computer—both writing and reading.
She resides in the Midwest United States with her husband and four rambunctious children. Her days are filled with driving kids to school, activities, and sports; frequently squeezing writing time in while waiting in the carpool line.
Koslo’s characters are often developed while running on the treadmill at the gym, and she has a DVR full of Hallmark movies.
Her debut novel, Foreplay on Words, combines her love of steamy romance, awkward but loveable leading males, and headstrong heroines with a dash of humor and a little bit of kink.
Follow her at: https://linktr.ee/elkoslo
Instagram: @elkoslo_writes
Tiktok: @elkoslowrites
Facebook Page: EL Koslo Romance Writer
Facebook Reader Group: Dirty Words Brigade
ELKoslo.com
**** Please do not add any freely published works to my account that you have not asked for permission to add. They will be deleted and you will be reported. Draft work on serial reading apps is not fair game for you to add to an author’s goodreads account. ****
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
May 17, 2022
I ARC read for EL Koslo. I had some drama going on so I wasn’t able to publish my review yet, so here it is.
This book was STEAMY and I will be adding it to my shelf. It is a steamy hot business romance to be exact. Sam and Christine are the main characters, I will say I have not read the first book in this series. I will be reading the first one now!
If you want a steamy hot business romance this book is for you!
This book was STEAMY and I will be adding it to my shelf. It is a steamy hot business romance to be exact. Sam and Christine are the main characters, I will say I have not read the first book in this series. I will be reading the first one now!
If you want a steamy hot business romance this book is for you!
August 3, 2023
My Love for These Characters!!!😍🫠
🌟 5/5
‼️ While this can be read as a standalone, this is book 2 in the Dirty Words series!
ℙ𝕆𝕍: first person, dual perspectives
𝕊𝕦𝕞𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕪:
Kristine
The world I grew up in didn’t have much room for girls with big dreams. Dreams that didn’t include stifling my ambitions as an editor to pursue a career my parents wanted. Despite their best efforts to marry me off to their friends’ horrible offspring, I left New York with the intention of never returning. Being fiercely independent ensured I didn’t make many friends on the way up the corporate ladder either. So when Sam Langley stood in my path to a promotion, I wouldn’t let a pretty face get in my way.
Sam
Self-sufficient, spirited, smart, and seriously frustrating women didn’t scare me after growing up in a house with four older sisters. But having to edit a spicy thriller with the office ice queen would test my resolve to resist her fiery wit and sharp tongue. She thought her bristly exterior was a turn-off, but it only made it that much harder to keep her off my mind and out of my bed. Kristine Willard may have thought she could keep me away with her cutting remarks and terrible nicknames. She never expected my ability to read her in a way that showed her true character, and I wanted to explore her every page.
𝕄𝕪 𝕋𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤:
Give me anything written by E.L. Koslo, and I'll read it! Give me a reread of one of my favorite books, I'll scream and cry with joy and excitement! I seriously can never get enough of her books!🫶
Kristine is seriously one of my top 10 favorite FMCs EVER. She's sassy, sarcastic, and super smart. All of those things she brings with her in a job that is primarily dominated by men. She rocks it too!
Sam is such a sweetheart! He's got sisters, so he knows how to treat women. Sam's all things soft and sweet. He knows just how to interact and deal with Kristine.😏🥵🌶
Thank you, E.L., for the opportunity of an ARC! I love the world I can disappear into without fear that I will be disappointed!❤️
🌟 5/5
‼️ While this can be read as a standalone, this is book 2 in the Dirty Words series!
ℙ𝕆𝕍: first person, dual perspectives
𝕊𝕦𝕞𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕪:
Kristine
The world I grew up in didn’t have much room for girls with big dreams. Dreams that didn’t include stifling my ambitions as an editor to pursue a career my parents wanted. Despite their best efforts to marry me off to their friends’ horrible offspring, I left New York with the intention of never returning. Being fiercely independent ensured I didn’t make many friends on the way up the corporate ladder either. So when Sam Langley stood in my path to a promotion, I wouldn’t let a pretty face get in my way.
Sam
Self-sufficient, spirited, smart, and seriously frustrating women didn’t scare me after growing up in a house with four older sisters. But having to edit a spicy thriller with the office ice queen would test my resolve to resist her fiery wit and sharp tongue. She thought her bristly exterior was a turn-off, but it only made it that much harder to keep her off my mind and out of my bed. Kristine Willard may have thought she could keep me away with her cutting remarks and terrible nicknames. She never expected my ability to read her in a way that showed her true character, and I wanted to explore her every page.
𝕄𝕪 𝕋𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤:
Give me anything written by E.L. Koslo, and I'll read it! Give me a reread of one of my favorite books, I'll scream and cry with joy and excitement! I seriously can never get enough of her books!🫶
Kristine is seriously one of my top 10 favorite FMCs EVER. She's sassy, sarcastic, and super smart. All of those things she brings with her in a job that is primarily dominated by men. She rocks it too!
Sam is such a sweetheart! He's got sisters, so he knows how to treat women. Sam's all things soft and sweet. He knows just how to interact and deal with Kristine.😏🥵🌶
Thank you, E.L., for the opportunity of an ARC! I love the world I can disappear into without fear that I will be disappointed!❤️
April 15, 2022
Soo good! I had the opportunity to ARC read this and I’m so thankful It was cute funny and spicy all in one loved it so much! I absolutely loved Sam and Christine Sam was so sweet and Christine was so feisty loved it! I so can’t wait for the next one! Amazing job to the author
July 29, 2023
June 19-29
Finding the words is easy with the right person…
Vivid Publishing copy editing intern Christine Willard has grown up knowing that in order to succeed in her world that she has to fight to stay on top.
Her no-nonsense attitude doesn't leave a lot of room for men in her life. Typically, she's okay with that, but when another editor's intern starts to break down her defenses, she fights her building attraction while keeping him at arm's length.
Sam Langley finds himself intrigued by his temperamental co-worker, having grown up in a household of strong females. He enjoys pushing her buttons to see how she'll react. The only problem is, he doesn't account for the fact that if you play with fire, you're likely to get burned.
Can Sam break through that bristly exterior or will she push him away like everyone else when her career is at stake?
Review : I loved this book we met Sam and Christine in foreplay on words . This book was cute and spicy and angsty . Christine is known for being a bitch her family they suck except her Nana. When Sam and Christine are forced to work together . Christine let's down some of her walls and starts to let Sam in then they hook up it was only supposed to be one night but it turned into more but then Christine freaked and fled to her Nana place . Sam really likes Christine but he put the ball in her court . Now they are forced to go on this book tour together with chase and Evan. And things get hot and heavy they are both up for this promotion and then there was this promotion up for grabs in Chicago and Sam took it but he didn't tell Christine and Christine got the Boston one and now Christine is pissed at him but after talking with Kelly and chase she does a romantic gesture and goes to him and wants to stay in Chicago with him .
Quotes :
Are you really going to let your intern talk to me like that?” he asked Isobel, as he pointed over at me. “Are you still talking?” I rolled my eyes and sat down, facing away from him.
it’s that he’s got that whole big dick energy thing going on.” “Excuse me? What?” I laughed, hating that Sam was funny when he wanted to be. Donald’s weakness may have been his penis, but mine was a man with a good sense of humor.
Well, it can go both ways. Sometimes men act like jerks because they’re overcompensating.” I laughed and didn’t even need to think to identify a man like that. “So, Adrian.” “No comment,” Sam chuckled as he winked at me.
Finding the words is easy with the right person…
Vivid Publishing copy editing intern Christine Willard has grown up knowing that in order to succeed in her world that she has to fight to stay on top.
Her no-nonsense attitude doesn't leave a lot of room for men in her life. Typically, she's okay with that, but when another editor's intern starts to break down her defenses, she fights her building attraction while keeping him at arm's length.
Sam Langley finds himself intrigued by his temperamental co-worker, having grown up in a household of strong females. He enjoys pushing her buttons to see how she'll react. The only problem is, he doesn't account for the fact that if you play with fire, you're likely to get burned.
Can Sam break through that bristly exterior or will she push him away like everyone else when her career is at stake?
Review : I loved this book we met Sam and Christine in foreplay on words . This book was cute and spicy and angsty . Christine is known for being a bitch her family they suck except her Nana. When Sam and Christine are forced to work together . Christine let's down some of her walls and starts to let Sam in then they hook up it was only supposed to be one night but it turned into more but then Christine freaked and fled to her Nana place . Sam really likes Christine but he put the ball in her court . Now they are forced to go on this book tour together with chase and Evan. And things get hot and heavy they are both up for this promotion and then there was this promotion up for grabs in Chicago and Sam took it but he didn't tell Christine and Christine got the Boston one and now Christine is pissed at him but after talking with Kelly and chase she does a romantic gesture and goes to him and wants to stay in Chicago with him .
Quotes :
Are you really going to let your intern talk to me like that?” he asked Isobel, as he pointed over at me. “Are you still talking?” I rolled my eyes and sat down, facing away from him.
it’s that he’s got that whole big dick energy thing going on.” “Excuse me? What?” I laughed, hating that Sam was funny when he wanted to be. Donald’s weakness may have been his penis, but mine was a man with a good sense of humor.
Well, it can go both ways. Sometimes men act like jerks because they’re overcompensating.” I laughed and didn’t even need to think to identify a man like that. “So, Adrian.” “No comment,” Sam chuckled as he winked at me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2023
Mark My Words is the second book in this new romantic comedy series! I adored the first book so when E.L gave me an ARC I pretty much screamed.
Tropes:
- [ ] Workplace romance
- [ ] I would say this is a very lose reverse grumpy sunshine.
- [ ] Frenemies with benefits
Mark My Words follows Christine and Sam. They sound familiar? They were both interns to our favourite writing duo in the first book!
This book had quite a bit of back and forth. Christine Is a strong and confident heroine. Shen is unapologetically herself, she works hard for what she has. I love her sarcasm! Christine doesn’t do vulnerability. She doesn’t get vulnerable, she doesn’t do emotions. When she has to work with Sam, her facade is tested. Sam is pretty in tune with his feelings. He knows what he wants and he isn’t afraid to tap into his emotions.
I wasn’t a fan of the back and forth. It felt like the couple only got actually serious in the last 10%. However, this happened because people make mistakes. This was necessary for the character development of both characters.
Christine is a great example of a strong independent woman also learning that it’s okay to fall in love. You’re not losing your independence, you’re gaining so much more. You’re independence isn’t going to disappear. I loved her character. Reading her character development made my day.
I love how in tune Sam was with his emotions. He knows what to avoid so that a relationship doesn’t turn toxic.
I adore how they both help each other. They both grow together and as individuals, which I love to see.
I’m in love with E.L Koslo’s writing, she’s a pretty amazing writer.
Tropes:
- [ ] Workplace romance
- [ ] I would say this is a very lose reverse grumpy sunshine.
- [ ] Frenemies with benefits
Mark My Words follows Christine and Sam. They sound familiar? They were both interns to our favourite writing duo in the first book!
This book had quite a bit of back and forth. Christine Is a strong and confident heroine. Shen is unapologetically herself, she works hard for what she has. I love her sarcasm! Christine doesn’t do vulnerability. She doesn’t get vulnerable, she doesn’t do emotions. When she has to work with Sam, her facade is tested. Sam is pretty in tune with his feelings. He knows what he wants and he isn’t afraid to tap into his emotions.
I wasn’t a fan of the back and forth. It felt like the couple only got actually serious in the last 10%. However, this happened because people make mistakes. This was necessary for the character development of both characters.
Christine is a great example of a strong independent woman also learning that it’s okay to fall in love. You’re not losing your independence, you’re gaining so much more. You’re independence isn’t going to disappear. I loved her character. Reading her character development made my day.
I love how in tune Sam was with his emotions. He knows what to avoid so that a relationship doesn’t turn toxic.
I adore how they both help each other. They both grow together and as individuals, which I love to see.
I’m in love with E.L Koslo’s writing, she’s a pretty amazing writer.
May 6, 2022
4.5 stars!! First, thank you to E. L. Koslo and The Smuthood for allowing me the opportunity for getting an ARC of this!! I’ve never had the pleasure of reading this author before, or actually reading a true office romance but maaaaaaan, I loved it. The chemistry between Sam and Christine was honestly chef’s kiss, the spice was true and wonderfully written, but the only thing keeping me from a 5 star was the rollercoaster of emotions it sent me on!! Don’t keep this from a read though, it’s honestly my personal thing that keeps me from 5-staring many romances unless they’re far into a developed series (I’m working on this for myself, I swear). Otherwise, I got through this in a few hours, it was such a well written, beautiful, sexy, funny read!
August 26, 2023
I was highly anticipating this book and E.L. Koslo delivered! This book was a spicy, workplace, frenemies with benefits romance I could not get enough of!
I absolutely adored the characters and everything about them. Christine was a such a strong, confident, independent heroine while Sam was so open with his emotions. I loved how these two completed each other.
This is the second book in the Dirty Words series and it can be read as a standalone!
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely adored the characters and everything about them. Christine was a such a strong, confident, independent heroine while Sam was so open with his emotions. I loved how these two completed each other.
This is the second book in the Dirty Words series and it can be read as a standalone!
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 24, 2024
A little too much will they won't they for my taste. I feel like it was a little dragged out...they were attracted to each other but Kristine fought it too hard, but I guess that adds some intrigue to the story...maybe it's just my dislike of the miscommunication trope. The characters were likeable and well written, just didn't vibe with the story as a whole.
August 30, 2023
I absolutely loved Sam’s and Kris’ story! Their witty banter and snarky comments had me chuckling as I read. Their chemistry was through the roof and oh so spicy! The push and pull really kept the tension high, but it course they get their happily ever after.
May 7, 2024
Kristine and Sam are wonderful! Sam is especially great!
November 5, 2024
Dnf’d. It just wasn’t for me. I seen all the positive reviews and had high hopes. But I got bored quick. It felt like 500 pages of constant back and forth where no one could decide what they wanted.
June 29, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved that the timeline of this story lined up with Foreplay On Words! Being able to see events from 4 different perspectives was a lot of fun and just shows that you never know what’s going on in someone else’s life.
Again we have a very, very, lovable MMC and a FMC who doesn’t take any 💩 I always love the dynamic between characters like Sam & Christine. The chemistry was off the charts from page one. A story with good banter between characters is ALWAYS my favorite and EL delivered again because this was ON POINT during MMW. The spice doesn’t take away from the story but makes it better because of emotional commitment I developed for Sam & Chris. And it was really nice to have roles switched up a bit when it came down to ensuring they get their HEA.
I loved that the timeline of this story lined up with Foreplay On Words! Being able to see events from 4 different perspectives was a lot of fun and just shows that you never know what’s going on in someone else’s life.
Again we have a very, very, lovable MMC and a FMC who doesn’t take any 💩 I always love the dynamic between characters like Sam & Christine. The chemistry was off the charts from page one. A story with good banter between characters is ALWAYS my favorite and EL delivered again because this was ON POINT during MMW. The spice doesn’t take away from the story but makes it better because of emotional commitment I developed for Sam & Chris. And it was really nice to have roles switched up a bit when it came down to ensuring they get their HEA.
June 29, 2022
This was so good...Spicy and with relatable issues...Christine and Sam are such wonderful characters in this book. Loved the funny moments just as much as the spicy ones. The second book in the series and it did not disappoint...Thanks to the author for sharing this book. A great read.
July 16, 2022
Christine and Sam are forced to work together to edit a book. They have a love/hate relationship. A promotion becomes available that both of them are eligible for. Christine fights the attraction and connection but Sam is all in. He just needs to convince Christine. This book is SPICY! That conference room scene is so hot!
June 25, 2022
Holy crap!!!! Christine and Sam!!!!
These two took it to another level. I COULDNT STOP TURNING THE PAGE! I really loved the chemistry these two had and how much these two had to fight to get through the crazy Rollercoaster of emotions and walls. Great read!
These two took it to another level. I COULDNT STOP TURNING THE PAGE! I really loved the chemistry these two had and how much these two had to fight to get through the crazy Rollercoaster of emotions and walls. Great read!
June 18, 2022
Oh. My. God.
One of my favorite things to read is about a strong-willed woman who fights to keep life at an arms-length in order to preserve what's left inside. When the moment of vulnerability hits and she lets someone in - I find that moment to be the most liberating thing. This book was so well written from beginning to end that it was difficult to put down. Now, add in the snarky comments, fun nicknames, and steamy moments that make you want to either grab a church fan or have a cold shower in hopes to bring you back to reality! Mark My Words hits all the perfect spots.
Sam - Would you make fun of me if I told you that I missed you, not your scathing remarks on my character?
Chris - Yes...
E. L. Koslo has never let me down in her writing and I am excited to see what is next in this series. This is a must-read series.
One of my favorite things to read is about a strong-willed woman who fights to keep life at an arms-length in order to preserve what's left inside. When the moment of vulnerability hits and she lets someone in - I find that moment to be the most liberating thing. This book was so well written from beginning to end that it was difficult to put down. Now, add in the snarky comments, fun nicknames, and steamy moments that make you want to either grab a church fan or have a cold shower in hopes to bring you back to reality! Mark My Words hits all the perfect spots.
Sam - Would you make fun of me if I told you that I missed you, not your scathing remarks on my character?
Chris - Yes...
E. L. Koslo has never let me down in her writing and I am excited to see what is next in this series. This is a must-read series.
June 23, 2022
This is greatest book ever I hope you enjoy it just as much as I do it's romance full of love not throughout this believed everybody needs a little romance in their life she's a great author
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2023
Republished review:
Reading the Dirty Words series again has been amazing from the start. I’m happy to have gotten the chance to read this book once again and read about Sam and Kristine.
Kristine is a one special character. She has a lot of sides to her and I’m sure I was just as frustrated as she was when she wouldn’t let Sam in. Obviously, she had her reasons but I was immensely happy once she finally let herself realize that Sam was the one.
Sam. this boy is so incredible. He has such a kind heart and all he wanted was to give Kristine what she needed even if it meant space. He would give up his happiness for hers and I loved him dearly.
Their relationships started off with one night and that was it. However, it quickly turned to multiple nights especially with the intense sexual tension between these two. Their relationship had a bunch of ups and downs and it was a tough journey. Sam fought hard to break down Kristine’s walls but obstacles kept getting in the way unfortunately.
Overall, this was a spicy, rollercoaster of emotion read but I enjoyed it so much. Now that I’m rereading the series in order, I’m enjoying it so much more so it’s been a fun ride so far.
Thank you E.L. Koslo for the arc copy! Super excited to continue reading what comes next!
——
2022 review:
I devoured this book. holy shit. This book was amazing. We have reverse grumpy sunshine, an office rival romance, forced proximity AND frenemies with benefits. What more could I ask for?
Christine and Sam’s relationship was not easy. It started off with one night which then turned to many nights. But, Christine had many walls built up and a relationship was not something she was looking for…at least in the beginning.
Sam fought to break through the walls but when they both are put up for the same position, it gets a lot tougher. Nonetheless, they shared so many moments that I loved. The tension between was the best and witnessing those steamy moments was 🔥🔥.
Badass heroine and a charming hero. The chemistry was off the charts. I fricking loved this book like utterly obsessed.
My heart broke at the 85% point of the book and I wanted to scream at both Sam and Christine. But, it all ended up working out and I loved Sam and Christine’s ending. I wanted so much more though, I need extra chapters asap PLEASE.
This made me want to read the first book so I’m excited to dive into Foreplay on Words.
I’m so happy I got the opportunity to receive an Arc for this book!
Reading the Dirty Words series again has been amazing from the start. I’m happy to have gotten the chance to read this book once again and read about Sam and Kristine.
Kristine is a one special character. She has a lot of sides to her and I’m sure I was just as frustrated as she was when she wouldn’t let Sam in. Obviously, she had her reasons but I was immensely happy once she finally let herself realize that Sam was the one.
Sam. this boy is so incredible. He has such a kind heart and all he wanted was to give Kristine what she needed even if it meant space. He would give up his happiness for hers and I loved him dearly.
Their relationships started off with one night and that was it. However, it quickly turned to multiple nights especially with the intense sexual tension between these two. Their relationship had a bunch of ups and downs and it was a tough journey. Sam fought hard to break down Kristine’s walls but obstacles kept getting in the way unfortunately.
Overall, this was a spicy, rollercoaster of emotion read but I enjoyed it so much. Now that I’m rereading the series in order, I’m enjoying it so much more so it’s been a fun ride so far.
Thank you E.L. Koslo for the arc copy! Super excited to continue reading what comes next!
——
2022 review:
I devoured this book. holy shit. This book was amazing. We have reverse grumpy sunshine, an office rival romance, forced proximity AND frenemies with benefits. What more could I ask for?
Christine and Sam’s relationship was not easy. It started off with one night which then turned to many nights. But, Christine had many walls built up and a relationship was not something she was looking for…at least in the beginning.
Sam fought to break through the walls but when they both are put up for the same position, it gets a lot tougher. Nonetheless, they shared so many moments that I loved. The tension between was the best and witnessing those steamy moments was 🔥🔥.
Badass heroine and a charming hero. The chemistry was off the charts. I fricking loved this book like utterly obsessed.
My heart broke at the 85% point of the book and I wanted to scream at both Sam and Christine. But, it all ended up working out and I loved Sam and Christine’s ending. I wanted so much more though, I need extra chapters asap PLEASE.
This made me want to read the first book so I’m excited to dive into Foreplay on Words.
I’m so happy I got the opportunity to receive an Arc for this book!
August 3, 2023
If you love office romance, reverse grumpy sunshine, forced hotel room, frenemies with benefits and a whole lot of spice, then Mark My Words, book two in The Words series, is definitely for you. EL Koslos delivers an outstanding book that will have you laughing, blushing and needing a very cold shower. I have been following Ms. Koslos for about 2 years, on various platforms, and have never been disappointed in her stories as well as her writing style.
Mark My Words gives Sam and Kristine, two interns that have this push/pull relationship. They are editing Chase and Evans's, from Foreplay on Words book one, book and it is a spicy one. Kristine is a strong and independent woman that will not let anyone push her around. She is feisty, sarcastic and sassy. She knows what she wants and doesn't want and no one will change her mind, or will they? When she and Sam are forced to work together she keeps her walls up but Sam is determined to break them down. Will the spiciness of Chase and Evan's book help? Can Kristine keep Sam at arm's length? Is Sam just a friends with benefits type of guy?
Sam is a sweetheart and you fall in love with him right from the start. He is the perfect gentleman. He is in tune with his emotions and is not afraid to show them. He is usually level-headed but when it comes to Kristine, all that goes out the window. She just has a knack to get under his skin and he will not stop at anything to get her. He is definitely the sunshine to Kristine's grumpiness.
The banter that happens throughout the book is fantastic. You'll have a couple of tears from laughing so much. The chemistry between the two of them is off the charts. At times you feel sorry for Sam because Kristine can be cruel but there is a reason for it. I wanted to crawl into the story and scream at Kristine but at the same time understood why she did what she did. The two of them had me going from laughing to being frustrated, to sighing and needing a cold drink. You will definitely feel a lot of emotions reading this book.
I highly suggest you read Foreplay on Words, the first book, as you will get a better understanding of all the characters and how they relate to one another. When you go to read both of these exceptional books make sure you have a comfy spot, a lot of time and a cold drink as once you start reading them it will be impossible to put them down.
Mark My Words gives Sam and Kristine, two interns that have this push/pull relationship. They are editing Chase and Evans's, from Foreplay on Words book one, book and it is a spicy one. Kristine is a strong and independent woman that will not let anyone push her around. She is feisty, sarcastic and sassy. She knows what she wants and doesn't want and no one will change her mind, or will they? When she and Sam are forced to work together she keeps her walls up but Sam is determined to break them down. Will the spiciness of Chase and Evan's book help? Can Kristine keep Sam at arm's length? Is Sam just a friends with benefits type of guy?
Sam is a sweetheart and you fall in love with him right from the start. He is the perfect gentleman. He is in tune with his emotions and is not afraid to show them. He is usually level-headed but when it comes to Kristine, all that goes out the window. She just has a knack to get under his skin and he will not stop at anything to get her. He is definitely the sunshine to Kristine's grumpiness.
The banter that happens throughout the book is fantastic. You'll have a couple of tears from laughing so much. The chemistry between the two of them is off the charts. At times you feel sorry for Sam because Kristine can be cruel but there is a reason for it. I wanted to crawl into the story and scream at Kristine but at the same time understood why she did what she did. The two of them had me going from laughing to being frustrated, to sighing and needing a cold drink. You will definitely feel a lot of emotions reading this book.
I highly suggest you read Foreplay on Words, the first book, as you will get a better understanding of all the characters and how they relate to one another. When you go to read both of these exceptional books make sure you have a comfy spot, a lot of time and a cold drink as once you start reading them it will be impossible to put them down.
April 30, 2022
We didn’t need to talk to fill the silence, but I was comfortable sharing parts of myself with her.
🦋 What I Liked 🦋
I’ve never read anything from E.L. Koslo before. But, after reading the premise for Mark My Words, I was intrigued.
Office romance. Enemies-to-lovers. Sign me up! Anything book-related, even better. Christine and Sam work in a publishing house and are in the running for the same promotion.
Even when people come from different backgrounds, they can still recognize a connection with one another. Sam and Christine understand each other and need one another.
There were a lot of quotes that I loved or related to, and I highlighted them. I wanted to include them in my review but can’t have them all because some of them may be too spoilery.
🦋 What I Didn’t Like 🦋
Sam and Christine kept hurting one another. Every decision they make, they believe that it would be the best for the other. If only they talked to one another before making any decisions that may impact the other. The miscommunication gets to be too much. Believing what is best and what is the best are two different things.
Oh, the whiplash. The hot and the cold. I understand indecision, but the degree to which these characters go it hurts to think about.
Christine did not curse, which is fine. What bothered me was that it was inconsistent. She went from going to not cursing, to cursing, to not cursing again.
🦋 Overall Enjoyment/Impact 🦋
3.75 ⭐
I debated about what I wanted to rate Mark My Words. After contemplating between 3.5 and 4 ⭐, I’ve settled on 3.75 ⭐. But I’ll round it up for rating purposes. This doesn’t mean I didn’t like it because I did. On the contrary, 3 ⭐ for me is good, especially if they’re on the higher end. I enjoyed reading Mark My Words; there were just some things that irritated me too much, and I couldn’t look past them.
After finding out there is another book in the Words series set in the same world as Mark My Words, I took a chance without reading it first. However, since the couple had cameos and the glimpses that we could see, it made me want to read Foreplay on Words. I cannot wait to read more from E.L. Koslo.
Thank you, The SmutHood and E.L. Koslo, for letting me be a part of The SmutHood Review Tour.
April 23, 2022
Mark my Words is the second installment in the series, Foreplay on Words being the first.
Mark my Words can be read as a stand-alone, however, I HIGHLY recommend Foreplay on Words, just for the mere fact that the book is too good to miss.
I was lucky enough to be an Alpha reader for the incredibly talented E.L Koslo. This honest review is 100 percent my own.
The story is about intern Christine and her intern co-worker Sam, who are forced to work closely together at the publishing house they are both employed at.
From the first go, you can feel the intense chemistry between the two characters, even though they soon made as rivals.
Christine has a fiery personality that I came to appreciate, while Sam was on the sweeter side. Both though were extremely 🔥🔥🔥 together.
The two were supposed to keep things purely professional between them but in the end they couldn't hold back from one another.
Both Sam and Christine had hoped things were kept purely sexual between them, but that was proven difficult to maintain.
E.L. Koslo brings this delicious book to life with her amazing talent. I love the banter between the two.
There were times when I felt sorry for Sam, especially when Christine kept pushing him away, and there were certain aspects of Christine's life that made my heartbreak for her.
I felt every emotion in this book, fell in love with the characters, and found myself wanting to read more.
I can't express how good this book is and so worth the read.
If you want angst, emotions, forbidden office 🔥🔥🔥, then this is absolutely the read for you!
Mark my Words can be read as a stand-alone, however, I HIGHLY recommend Foreplay on Words, just for the mere fact that the book is too good to miss.
I was lucky enough to be an Alpha reader for the incredibly talented E.L Koslo. This honest review is 100 percent my own.
The story is about intern Christine and her intern co-worker Sam, who are forced to work closely together at the publishing house they are both employed at.
From the first go, you can feel the intense chemistry between the two characters, even though they soon made as rivals.
Christine has a fiery personality that I came to appreciate, while Sam was on the sweeter side. Both though were extremely 🔥🔥🔥 together.
The two were supposed to keep things purely professional between them but in the end they couldn't hold back from one another.
Both Sam and Christine had hoped things were kept purely sexual between them, but that was proven difficult to maintain.
E.L. Koslo brings this delicious book to life with her amazing talent. I love the banter between the two.
There were times when I felt sorry for Sam, especially when Christine kept pushing him away, and there were certain aspects of Christine's life that made my heartbreak for her.
I felt every emotion in this book, fell in love with the characters, and found myself wanting to read more.
I can't express how good this book is and so worth the read.
If you want angst, emotions, forbidden office 🔥🔥🔥, then this is absolutely the read for you!
May 4, 2022
I'll be honest and say at the beginning I really didn't like Christine! Even her inner monologue in the first few chapters was very b**chy and it made it take a while to warm up to her. Sam I adored from the beginning. He was witty and refused to take crap and the way he'd banter with Chris is what really started warming me to her. They play off each other so well, but I will say Sam is a saint for some if the things he puts up with from Christine! I really enjoyed the side characters too and I'm looking forward to whatever extra we're given from their stories. There were romances all over coming together and I want to know more!
The story is really well done, the mixing in of stories they're reading while editing is a really fun way to add a bit more to certain scenes. The spice was *chef's kiss* and there is so much sprinkled in here between Chris & Sam's story and the books they were editing that you get a bit of everything.
The ending was great, and I loved seeing Christine finally acknowledge what she wanted and putting the work in to getting it! I recommend giving this one a chance. You won't be disappointed!
The story is really well done, the mixing in of stories they're reading while editing is a really fun way to add a bit more to certain scenes. The spice was *chef's kiss* and there is so much sprinkled in here between Chris & Sam's story and the books they were editing that you get a bit of everything.
The ending was great, and I loved seeing Christine finally acknowledge what she wanted and putting the work in to getting it! I recommend giving this one a chance. You won't be disappointed!
April 16, 2024
I find it kind of ironic that a book that focuses on book editors and their job could use some heavy editing.
Entirely too long. Lots of repetition. Example fresh on my mind: Sam narrates about a new character being the one that gave Kristen her toys. Then the next chapter Kristen narrates that the new character gave her the toys. Once is permissible, but this happened repeatedly.
The addition of text from the books they were editing was unneeded. I just skipped through those parts. In fact, most of the middle chapters I just scanned the first sentence of each paragraph and it was still too wordy.
Kristen is pretty annoying. The book never showed what was worth him pushing through her 5 million icy layers to find. She was sarcastic and hot? No substance. Just a cardboard cutout. Sam was a bit more fleshed out but not by much. At least he had a personality that varied. And hobbies. And friends. Once again - what did he see in this angry, spoiled, know-it-all??
The spice was good.
Entirely too long. Lots of repetition. Example fresh on my mind: Sam narrates about a new character being the one that gave Kristen her toys. Then the next chapter Kristen narrates that the new character gave her the toys. Once is permissible, but this happened repeatedly.
The addition of text from the books they were editing was unneeded. I just skipped through those parts. In fact, most of the middle chapters I just scanned the first sentence of each paragraph and it was still too wordy.
Kristen is pretty annoying. The book never showed what was worth him pushing through her 5 million icy layers to find. She was sarcastic and hot? No substance. Just a cardboard cutout. Sam was a bit more fleshed out but not by much. At least he had a personality that varied. And hobbies. And friends. Once again - what did he see in this angry, spoiled, know-it-all??
The spice was good.
June 16, 2022
I absolutely loved Sam and Christine's romance!
They're both interns at a publishing house and they start out as "frenemies." They get assigned to a project where their respective authors are working together. And my oh my, we get wild from there!
Their relationship heats up, quickly! I absolutely enjoyed their banter. It was so personal and realistic, and it felt natural. There's nothing I hate more than a forced relationship and this was not that!
The spice was there! Not wild and crazy, but definitely not for those who don't enjoy a little passion.
🌶🌶🌶
You can definitely read this one without reading Foreplay on Words, buuuuut if you decide to go back and read the first one, there are a few spoilers in there.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story! Christine is such a powerhouse character. Even the side characters are so well developed, I greatly enjoyed this and cant wait for another!
They're both interns at a publishing house and they start out as "frenemies." They get assigned to a project where their respective authors are working together. And my oh my, we get wild from there!
Their relationship heats up, quickly! I absolutely enjoyed their banter. It was so personal and realistic, and it felt natural. There's nothing I hate more than a forced relationship and this was not that!
The spice was there! Not wild and crazy, but definitely not for those who don't enjoy a little passion.
🌶🌶🌶
You can definitely read this one without reading Foreplay on Words, buuuuut if you decide to go back and read the first one, there are a few spoilers in there.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story! Christine is such a powerhouse character. Even the side characters are so well developed, I greatly enjoyed this and cant wait for another!
April 26, 2022
I received an ARC for this book and I’m reading it sooo late but omg was this amazing!?
While reading the first book I joined the bet about Christine and Sam. But oh boy was I pleasantly surprised… I didn’t think this was gonna be so fast paced but I guess based on the first I should’ve anticipated.
It was good to see the plot like one beside the other. Chase and Evan and Sam and Christine.
The book was amazing. The smut? Top tier. Omg that balcony scene?????
The plot was so good. It flowed really easily and I was so looking forward to the next event. Their character development really shows.
We love a good grand gesture and it was especially good to come from Christine after all the self doubt and everything
I absolutely loved this book too and can’t wait for Kelly’s story
💜💜💜💜
While reading the first book I joined the bet about Christine and Sam. But oh boy was I pleasantly surprised… I didn’t think this was gonna be so fast paced but I guess based on the first I should’ve anticipated.
It was good to see the plot like one beside the other. Chase and Evan and Sam and Christine.
The book was amazing. The smut? Top tier. Omg that balcony scene?????
The plot was so good. It flowed really easily and I was so looking forward to the next event. Their character development really shows.
We love a good grand gesture and it was especially good to come from Christine after all the self doubt and everything
I absolutely loved this book too and can’t wait for Kelly’s story
💜💜💜💜
May 24, 2022
3.5⭐️
Thank you so much for this ARC in exchange for a free review. E L Koslo was an author I discovered on tik tok and I’m so glad I did.
The downside for me for this book was that personally I did find it too long. There was a lot of repetition within the 50-70% mark of the characters inner monologues and the storyline which I didn’t personally feel added to the story.
I absolute adored these characters though and Sam holds a soft spot in my heart.
I really loved how the author got straight into the action and steam with this story. It’s not something I see a lot of and I really enjoyed that aspect!
I loved that Christine was our grumpy main character, again not something I’ve seen much of. It is usually always the guy so it was really cool seeing that flipped.
I’m really excited to read the next one from this author
Thank you so much for this ARC in exchange for a free review. E L Koslo was an author I discovered on tik tok and I’m so glad I did.
The downside for me for this book was that personally I did find it too long. There was a lot of repetition within the 50-70% mark of the characters inner monologues and the storyline which I didn’t personally feel added to the story.
I absolute adored these characters though and Sam holds a soft spot in my heart.
I really loved how the author got straight into the action and steam with this story. It’s not something I see a lot of and I really enjoyed that aspect!
I loved that Christine was our grumpy main character, again not something I’ve seen much of. It is usually always the guy so it was really cool seeing that flipped.
I’m really excited to read the next one from this author
May 5, 2022
*Office Romance*
*Forced proximity*
*Frenemies w/benefits*
*Reverse grumpy/sunshine*
I LOVED this book! Our two mcs work for a publishing company, and as an avid reader who dreams of doing so for a living, it was awesome to be immersed in that world. Sam and Christine are in competition for a promotion and have to work together along the way. The banter was great and watching Sam press Christine's buttons in an attempt to crack her ice-queen facade was super entertaining. Their chemistry is completely undeniable and when they do come together to uh, "scratch that itch" it is just *chef's kiss*. The spice in this book was phenomenal and plentiful. Definitely recommend and can't wait to read more from this author.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
*Forced proximity*
*Frenemies w/benefits*
*Reverse grumpy/sunshine*
I LOVED this book! Our two mcs work for a publishing company, and as an avid reader who dreams of doing so for a living, it was awesome to be immersed in that world. Sam and Christine are in competition for a promotion and have to work together along the way. The banter was great and watching Sam press Christine's buttons in an attempt to crack her ice-queen facade was super entertaining. Their chemistry is completely undeniable and when they do come together to uh, "scratch that itch" it is just *chef's kiss*. The spice in this book was phenomenal and plentiful. Definitely recommend and can't wait to read more from this author.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
May 5, 2022
Just finished my review copy of Mark My Words. I give it a solid 4 stars. The spice level was about 3.5 stars. I enjoyed the book, but the way Sam and Christine kept hurting each other, dragged a bit and went on for just a hair too long in my opinion. I felt like i had whiplash from the back and forth and definitely rolled my eyes a few times at the antics of the main characters. Outside of that, the character development was on point and the story line was consistent. I havent yet read the 1st book, but i definitely plan too. I do recommend this book, as it was an enjoyable read that definitely got the blood pumping. Enjoy!
June 29, 2022
This is the second book in this series and just as great as the first. Sam and Christine have chemistry and want to see them together. It's sexy, funny, and perfect how the author brings in the characters from first book into this to make a perfect circle.
If you haven't read the first book I highly recommend you do, but not necessary to enjoy this one. You'll love how EL Koslo bring out the fire in her characters, especially if you love a good bedroom or out of the bedroom sex scene. They are HOT!
A must read for any romance/erotica novel.
If you haven't read the first book I highly recommend you do, but not necessary to enjoy this one. You'll love how EL Koslo bring out the fire in her characters, especially if you love a good bedroom or out of the bedroom sex scene. They are HOT!
A must read for any romance/erotica novel.
April 22, 2022
Funny and sexy
Second book of the series and like the first one is a captivating, fun and sexy book. excellent choice of characters, vulnerable and imperfect but with a huge heart.
I loved the fact of having reconnected with the foreplay on words characters, their presence made the story more exciting and emotional
Second book of the series and like the first one is a captivating, fun and sexy book. excellent choice of characters, vulnerable and imperfect but with a huge heart.
I loved the fact of having reconnected with the foreplay on words characters, their presence made the story more exciting and emotional
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