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Hearts and Minds #2
Calculated Exposure
She went to Ireland looking for a muse, but found a mathematician instead.
Photojournalist Erica Desoto has spent five weeks in Western Europe hoping for inspiration, with just one decent photo to show for her effort. And that shot was accidental. As her sabbatical comes to a close, she’s ready to give up on her portfolio altogether.
Serial dater Curt Ryan isn’t looking for love...or even a distraction. With a PhD to finish and his family under intense scrutiny by the Irish press, he already has too much on his plate. But when his godchildren barrel into a pretty American who just happens to live a few hours from where he studies in North Carolina, a new distraction is exactly what he gets.
Back in the States, Erica and Curt initiate an incendiary no-strings-attached affair that inevitably has both questioning what they want…and what they’re willing to do to get it. Mathematician Curt risks emotion clouding his logic. For Erica, keeping her muse close may mean embracing the exact things she ran from as a young woman. Is exposing their hearts a calculated risk both are willing to take?
CONTENT Contains Cubana snark, adult language, and explicit sex including back door loving.
55,000 Words
177 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
1 person is currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
Holley Trent
155 books302 followersHolley Trent is a romance author who spins campy yarns set in North Carolina. She has a wicked sense of humor and regularly puts her story characters into unexpected situations.
When she's not writing, she's reading or eating Twizzlers.
Her contemporary and fantasy romances have been published by Crimson Romance, Calliope Romance/Musa Publishing, and she has work due for release by Lyrical Press.
2013 brings a change of pace with her self-published series of paranormal novellas: Shrew and Company. Five women, five romances, one big bear of a problem. Check out boss-lady Dana's story in THE PROBLEM WITH PADDY, available now.
When she's not writing, she's reading or eating Twizzlers.
Her contemporary and fantasy romances have been published by Crimson Romance, Calliope Romance/Musa Publishing, and she has work due for release by Lyrical Press.
2013 brings a change of pace with her self-published series of paranormal novellas: Shrew and Company. Five women, five romances, one big bear of a problem. Check out boss-lady Dana's story in THE PROBLEM WITH PADDY, available now.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
September 2, 2013
Photojournalist Erica spent the past several weeks overseas, hoping to find some inspiration for her new photographs. It's by complete accident that she runs into mathematician Curt when his godchildren accidentally bump into her in Ireland. And what's more incidental is that not only is Curt gorgeous, but he lives pretty close to her back in America. The attraction starts quickly, but both Curt and Erica keep secrets tucked away that risk all that they have.
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The long and short of it: This book just wasn't for me.
I didn't really feel connected to any of the characters, at any point of the story. That fact alone made this hard for me to keep up with the plots at hand, because I wasn't emotionally invested in the drama nor the romance aspects that I know I was supposed to have been. Also, the places that they've been and lived, mixed with their individual cultures, all just kind of muddled to me after awhile.
The romance aspects were decently written, but for me they stayed warm as opposed to sizzling hot. That being said, I do love the cover, and it's steamy enough to have initially interested me in reading the story.
Nothing about this novella was badly written or outlandish, but it just didn't click with me personally. I'd definitely take another stab at reading this author's work, however. Fans of romance would probably enjoy this book.
Thank you to Netgalley and Lyrical Press, Inc. for my copy. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.
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The long and short of it: This book just wasn't for me.
I didn't really feel connected to any of the characters, at any point of the story. That fact alone made this hard for me to keep up with the plots at hand, because I wasn't emotionally invested in the drama nor the romance aspects that I know I was supposed to have been. Also, the places that they've been and lived, mixed with their individual cultures, all just kind of muddled to me after awhile.
The romance aspects were decently written, but for me they stayed warm as opposed to sizzling hot. That being said, I do love the cover, and it's steamy enough to have initially interested me in reading the story.
Nothing about this novella was badly written or outlandish, but it just didn't click with me personally. I'd definitely take another stab at reading this author's work, however. Fans of romance would probably enjoy this book.
Thank you to Netgalley and Lyrical Press, Inc. for my copy. This review can also be found on my blog, Bitches n Prose.
August 27, 2013
Snagged from NetGalley
I have this shelved as contemporary romance, but it's actually more like a women's fiction-y category romance book. An unique hybrid that would never sell to mainstream pubs, but still deserves to be read.
I liked this one primarily for the characters. Erica and Curt felt like real people to me, especially Curt. I felt like I could easily run into his smug, and slightly douchey ass, here on campus. However, I did feel like it was kinda crumbling along the edges. There was a lot of room for the author to add in a layer of emotional resonance. I compared it to a category earlier because it has that same type of style over substance to it. Calculated Exposure doesn't even really end, it just kinda trickles away.
I'd definitely read something else by this author, but it wasn't strong enough to plunge me into my usual back-list reading frenzy. Basically, it was good, but not great.
Edited to add: I feel I should mention that Kobo currently has this listed for $4.99, but this is novella length, clocking in at 165 pages. I'd wait until the price drops or use a coupon.
I have this shelved as contemporary romance, but it's actually more like a women's fiction-y category romance book. An unique hybrid that would never sell to mainstream pubs, but still deserves to be read.
I liked this one primarily for the characters. Erica and Curt felt like real people to me, especially Curt. I felt like I could easily run into his smug, and slightly douchey ass, here on campus. However, I did feel like it was kinda crumbling along the edges. There was a lot of room for the author to add in a layer of emotional resonance. I compared it to a category earlier because it has that same type of style over substance to it. Calculated Exposure doesn't even really end, it just kinda trickles away.
I'd definitely read something else by this author, but it wasn't strong enough to plunge me into my usual back-list reading frenzy. Basically, it was good, but not great.
Edited to add: I feel I should mention that Kobo currently has this listed for $4.99, but this is novella length, clocking in at 165 pages. I'd wait until the price drops or use a coupon.
September 1, 2013
Calculated Exposure centers around the chance meeting of Erica Desoto and Curt Ryan in Ireland while Erica is on sabbatical. I love the cover, however when you read the book you find out that Curt is not a dark haired facial hair hottie, he is blonde with classes. Erica immediately nicknames him 'rubio'. Erica is of Cuban descent and is living in North Carolina where Curt happens to be also studying for his Phd in mathematics. Curt and Erica have a heated exchange before she leaves Ireland and tells Curt she will make it up to him when he arrives in the US.
Curt being the womanizer he is, isn't sure if she wants to play her games plus Curt has other demons to tackle- like his mother's prison release , clearing her name, and handling his father. In addition to Curt's demons we learn that Erica has a not so clean past and has Tate that is always in the background.
Throughout the book we find that Curt is never I with a woman more than once yet he cant seem to get enough of Erica. There are times when we get glimpses of what seem like Curt having feelings for Erica and he even talks to his friends about it, but then he goes and leaves the country without even telling her he is leaving and the when she calls him on it, he acts like an ass. The book really is a relationship book, as Curt and Erica are finding their ways in an area where neither of them have been before. Erica finds her way, her back bone, and love throughout the book and its good to see her finally stand up to Tate and take a chance with her life.
While the book ends on good note, there are still somethings that as a reader I wanted to know more about, like Prism that Curt now works for, and more information about his family issues. Also, where are Curt and Erica going to end up. And Seth- I really want to know more about that big Russian. :)
*This honest review was provided in exchange for an arc through netgalley.*
Curt being the womanizer he is, isn't sure if she wants to play her games plus Curt has other demons to tackle- like his mother's prison release , clearing her name, and handling his father. In addition to Curt's demons we learn that Erica has a not so clean past and has Tate that is always in the background.
Throughout the book we find that Curt is never I with a woman more than once yet he cant seem to get enough of Erica. There are times when we get glimpses of what seem like Curt having feelings for Erica and he even talks to his friends about it, but then he goes and leaves the country without even telling her he is leaving and the when she calls him on it, he acts like an ass. The book really is a relationship book, as Curt and Erica are finding their ways in an area where neither of them have been before. Erica finds her way, her back bone, and love throughout the book and its good to see her finally stand up to Tate and take a chance with her life.
While the book ends on good note, there are still somethings that as a reader I wanted to know more about, like Prism that Curt now works for, and more information about his family issues. Also, where are Curt and Erica going to end up. And Seth- I really want to know more about that big Russian. :)
*This honest review was provided in exchange for an arc through netgalley.*
August 28, 2013
Often when writing a review my style of reviewing tends to go more toward emotion rather than a “book report” review. After finishing Calculated Exposure I am left with a sweet smile curled around my lips and a longing of more. Also gives you a reminder that no matter where you come from you can steer your own path and make changes. This is so not what I expected after reading the first chapter.
I found both Curt and Erica’s characters to be endearing and engaging. What began as a flirt evolved into so much more. I think the recipe for its success is due largely to the fact that it is written much more realistically. Real life is busy and complicated. People do have jobs and family issues that can’t be instantly solved.
I enjoyed the chase in Calculated Exposure as well. Curt is funny and Erica takes no crap. There was good sizzle and the supporting characters all played well and felt comfortable in the story. No awkward weird friends on the fringe. Solid writing and a great set up for more books if a series is to come.
4 Surprising Stars! What can I say…I really liked it :)
T~
ARC given via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
www.ktbookreviews.blogspot.com
I found both Curt and Erica’s characters to be endearing and engaging. What began as a flirt evolved into so much more. I think the recipe for its success is due largely to the fact that it is written much more realistically. Real life is busy and complicated. People do have jobs and family issues that can’t be instantly solved.
I enjoyed the chase in Calculated Exposure as well. Curt is funny and Erica takes no crap. There was good sizzle and the supporting characters all played well and felt comfortable in the story. No awkward weird friends on the fringe. Solid writing and a great set up for more books if a series is to come.
4 Surprising Stars! What can I say…I really liked it :)
T~
ARC given via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
www.ktbookreviews.blogspot.com
August 2, 2015
**ARC kindly provided by NetGalley on behalf of the publishers
Whoa, there's some sparks flying between Erica & Curt!
First meeting I thought - chick's not scared to say what she wants/thinks
Second meeting I think - bitch has some serious balls, I LIKE!
Then she gets home & I'm disappointed to find she's been putting on a show... but you can only keep that up for so long, right?
And "Curt Ryan, you really are an asshole.” well, sometimes...
Both parties are simply too shit scared of coming clean on their pasts/issues, thus leaving them stuck in a limbo of sorts, hating themselves and each other... and it could all be fixed so easily!
Just Plant those seeds.
A hot, fun, light hearted read!
Whoa, there's some sparks flying between Erica & Curt!
First meeting I thought - chick's not scared to say what she wants/thinks
Second meeting I think - bitch has some serious balls, I LIKE!
Then she gets home & I'm disappointed to find she's been putting on a show... but you can only keep that up for so long, right?
And "Curt Ryan, you really are an asshole.” well, sometimes...
Both parties are simply too shit scared of coming clean on their pasts/issues, thus leaving them stuck in a limbo of sorts, hating themselves and each other... and it could all be fixed so easily!
Just Plant those seeds.
A hot, fun, light hearted read!
October 15, 2013
I really liked the characters and wanted to know what happened. The story could have been more fleshed out for me, but I think if I'd read the previous book in the series I would have been more attuned to Curt and his issues. I'll give the next one a try, because the story kept me engaged!
August 29, 2013
http://ripeforreader.blogspot.com/201...
My rating: 3.5 of 5 ⭐
With no formal training as a photographer, and with the only journalistic experience from the job obtained through an ex-lover, Erica Desoto is determined to find a new job, by first bolstering her portfolio. So having taken a leave of absence, she travels Europe to find inspiration, instead, she bumps into hot, Irish mathematician, Curt Ryan.
Curt is in Ireland assisting his family, who are under constant attack by the Irish press after a very public scandal. What he should be focusing on is finishing his PhD in mathematics, which he has been dragging out long enough, and a job offer that demands his urgent attention. He certainly doesn't have time to get distracted by a luscious Cuban beauty, who happens to live close to him, back in North Carolina.
Once back State-side, Erica and Curt hook up for a highly flammable, one night stand. After all, Curt is a serial dater, hardly ever seen with the same girl twice. Erica is a different matter altogether, not normally outgoing and never really dating, she really ventures outside of her comfort zone. Ironically, for neither of them it seems the one night is enough.
Both treading into unknown territory, Curt and Erica explore the parameters of their 'arrangement' as well as their expectations around it, and each come to surprising conclusions.
*****
A surprise!! Judging from the cover, the story was not at all what I expected. It was much more introspective and cerebral, and far less romantic and carnal. Not necessarily a bad thing, mind you.......it was an interesting contemplation, a story of transition and discovery.
A story of 'maturing' in the true sense of the word;
You can only hold your parents/upbringing responsible for your short-comings or hang-ups for so long. At some point in time you have to start owning up to that responsibility yourself.
I think both Curt and Erica took ownership and moved beyond their respective issues. Great character growth - understandable, well described and completely plausible.
I'm not sure why, but I had a difficult time connecting with Erica. I still don't quite grasp, and it was never really explained, why she was unable to perform fellatio. It also never became quite clear how she went from almost bullied and unattached, to instantly forward, challenging and very provocative with Curt, or why?? I get that she wanted a change, she needed out, but it is not an easy thing to adapt a completely different personality, especially one as blatantly flirtatious.
Three and a half stars, because the book is worth reading, it is well written and compelling, but I found the cover somewhat misleading and as mentioned, had some credibility issues with one character.
✨An intriguing, transitional love story with a hint of heat.✨
**ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Lyrical Press Inc in return for an honest review.**
My rating: 3.5 of 5 ⭐
With no formal training as a photographer, and with the only journalistic experience from the job obtained through an ex-lover, Erica Desoto is determined to find a new job, by first bolstering her portfolio. So having taken a leave of absence, she travels Europe to find inspiration, instead, she bumps into hot, Irish mathematician, Curt Ryan.
Curt is in Ireland assisting his family, who are under constant attack by the Irish press after a very public scandal. What he should be focusing on is finishing his PhD in mathematics, which he has been dragging out long enough, and a job offer that demands his urgent attention. He certainly doesn't have time to get distracted by a luscious Cuban beauty, who happens to live close to him, back in North Carolina.
Once back State-side, Erica and Curt hook up for a highly flammable, one night stand. After all, Curt is a serial dater, hardly ever seen with the same girl twice. Erica is a different matter altogether, not normally outgoing and never really dating, she really ventures outside of her comfort zone. Ironically, for neither of them it seems the one night is enough.
Both treading into unknown territory, Curt and Erica explore the parameters of their 'arrangement' as well as their expectations around it, and each come to surprising conclusions.
*****
A surprise!! Judging from the cover, the story was not at all what I expected. It was much more introspective and cerebral, and far less romantic and carnal. Not necessarily a bad thing, mind you.......it was an interesting contemplation, a story of transition and discovery.
A story of 'maturing' in the true sense of the word;
You can only hold your parents/upbringing responsible for your short-comings or hang-ups for so long. At some point in time you have to start owning up to that responsibility yourself.
I think both Curt and Erica took ownership and moved beyond their respective issues. Great character growth - understandable, well described and completely plausible.
I'm not sure why, but I had a difficult time connecting with Erica. I still don't quite grasp, and it was never really explained, why she was unable to perform fellatio. It also never became quite clear how she went from almost bullied and unattached, to instantly forward, challenging and very provocative with Curt, or why?? I get that she wanted a change, she needed out, but it is not an easy thing to adapt a completely different personality, especially one as blatantly flirtatious.
Three and a half stars, because the book is worth reading, it is well written and compelling, but I found the cover somewhat misleading and as mentioned, had some credibility issues with one character.
✨An intriguing, transitional love story with a hint of heat.✨
**ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Lyrical Press Inc in return for an honest review.**
September 9, 2013
Calculated Exposure by Holley Trent.
ARC supplied by publisher.
I'd read and enjoyed Holleys' Saint and Scholar so was excited to see another novel from her. To my shame (blush – I do read ALOT of books so have done maybe 50-60 since then) I hadn't realised that Curt was Curt from one of the fabulous gang of three colleagues in Saint and Scholar til about halfway through. Some of the people and comments made much more sense then. I'm so looking forward to see what Holley has for Seth!!
Anyway, once again a fabulous love story done in an unconventional way. Holley lets the story play out slowly – no “insta love “ here but a gentle, slow burn. Its clear that Erica and Curt are both very, very attracted to each other but as happens Life gets in the way, and their romance has some stutters and blocks before it gets going. They're each holding some secrets close to their chest too, so what with that and the distance the romance unfolds slowly with some hot spicy moments interspersed with backsteps when Curt goes back to his trade mark ar-se holery :) He's done it so long, just been a one date at a time man, and not looked for more in his life that finding he wants Erica shakes him, and she's trying to be independent and not rely on anyone in her life after some horrible experiences that are still tailing her, so the story really keeps you guessing where its going next.
I love Holleys way of writing, there's lots of dialogue which I always like, and I feel so much for poor Erica when she's not sure whether to pursue Curt as she really wants, or just do what she usually would which is let her lack of confidence stop her. Its a fairly short novel at 179 pages but Holley makes each word count, and there's no extraneous padding and filler so the reader is kept into the story all the time. Even until the end I wasn't sure just how things would pan out, its certainly not a bland predictable romance.
There are some spicy sex scenes but nothing that doesn’t fit the story and nothing I felt overly graphic (not that I mind but some readers do). All in all its a romance to be savoured and when Seths' story is out it would be great to have a binge and read all three book back to back.
Stars: one for the keepers file, not quite a five but a good four and a half.
ARC supplied by publisher.
I'd read and enjoyed Holleys' Saint and Scholar so was excited to see another novel from her. To my shame (blush – I do read ALOT of books so have done maybe 50-60 since then) I hadn't realised that Curt was Curt from one of the fabulous gang of three colleagues in Saint and Scholar til about halfway through. Some of the people and comments made much more sense then. I'm so looking forward to see what Holley has for Seth!!
Anyway, once again a fabulous love story done in an unconventional way. Holley lets the story play out slowly – no “insta love “ here but a gentle, slow burn. Its clear that Erica and Curt are both very, very attracted to each other but as happens Life gets in the way, and their romance has some stutters and blocks before it gets going. They're each holding some secrets close to their chest too, so what with that and the distance the romance unfolds slowly with some hot spicy moments interspersed with backsteps when Curt goes back to his trade mark ar-se holery :) He's done it so long, just been a one date at a time man, and not looked for more in his life that finding he wants Erica shakes him, and she's trying to be independent and not rely on anyone in her life after some horrible experiences that are still tailing her, so the story really keeps you guessing where its going next.
I love Holleys way of writing, there's lots of dialogue which I always like, and I feel so much for poor Erica when she's not sure whether to pursue Curt as she really wants, or just do what she usually would which is let her lack of confidence stop her. Its a fairly short novel at 179 pages but Holley makes each word count, and there's no extraneous padding and filler so the reader is kept into the story all the time. Even until the end I wasn't sure just how things would pan out, its certainly not a bland predictable romance.
There are some spicy sex scenes but nothing that doesn’t fit the story and nothing I felt overly graphic (not that I mind but some readers do). All in all its a romance to be savoured and when Seths' story is out it would be great to have a binge and read all three book back to back.
Stars: one for the keepers file, not quite a five but a good four and a half.
August 21, 2014
I got this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review..
alright, first off I have to say that this book wasn't for me.
I could not connect with this book at all, honestly I felt like there was something missing, and i was confused right off the bat.
this story is about two people who are quite alike, they both don't like relationships and are trying to figure out their life. They each have a past that they want to keep secret, but their problems keep creeping up.
Erica goes to western Europe to find her inspiration. little did she know that a man was going to be just that. One day while she was walking around trying to find something to photograph that she got knocked over by two kids. The man that was watching these two kids was a sexy man. After having a nice conversation with him, she found out that he was going back to the U.S.A for school. She offered him a no strings attached fun. Later while she was at work, a woman walked in and she struck up conversation about her husband. Erica quickly found a new friend. she invited Erica to dinner and she gladly accepted. When she got their she wasn't expecting him!
Curt saw the woman of his dreams at his best friend's house. She slammed him against the wall and almost molested him, but right when things started to get hot she left and gave him her business card and told him to call her. He avoided her until one day she looked him up and called him. Everything will change after that.
Erica and Curt will have lots of hot and steamy sex, but things will be strange when his past comes to haunt him and he jumps on a plane and leaves without saying goodbye. When She confronts him he tells her that they have nothing going on so why would he need to check in with her. That hurt a lot.
Meanwhile, Erica doesn't like her job, but doesn't know what to do next. her past is stopping her from getting the dream job, and her current boss is black mailing her to stay. How will see be able to get around her boss, and get the job that she wants? will she finally convince Curt that they should be together? Or will she do what she does best?
alright, first off I have to say that this book wasn't for me.
I could not connect with this book at all, honestly I felt like there was something missing, and i was confused right off the bat.
this story is about two people who are quite alike, they both don't like relationships and are trying to figure out their life. They each have a past that they want to keep secret, but their problems keep creeping up.
Erica goes to western Europe to find her inspiration. little did she know that a man was going to be just that. One day while she was walking around trying to find something to photograph that she got knocked over by two kids. The man that was watching these two kids was a sexy man. After having a nice conversation with him, she found out that he was going back to the U.S.A for school. She offered him a no strings attached fun. Later while she was at work, a woman walked in and she struck up conversation about her husband. Erica quickly found a new friend. she invited Erica to dinner and she gladly accepted. When she got their she wasn't expecting him!
Curt saw the woman of his dreams at his best friend's house. She slammed him against the wall and almost molested him, but right when things started to get hot she left and gave him her business card and told him to call her. He avoided her until one day she looked him up and called him. Everything will change after that.
Erica and Curt will have lots of hot and steamy sex, but things will be strange when his past comes to haunt him and he jumps on a plane and leaves without saying goodbye. When She confronts him he tells her that they have nothing going on so why would he need to check in with her. That hurt a lot.
Meanwhile, Erica doesn't like her job, but doesn't know what to do next. her past is stopping her from getting the dream job, and her current boss is black mailing her to stay. How will see be able to get around her boss, and get the job that she wants? will she finally convince Curt that they should be together? Or will she do what she does best?
August 26, 2013
This has been my first exposure to Holley Trent so I wasn't sure what to expect, but I can tell you I wasn't expecting to get my socks knocked off!
This books on the surface seems to be just the two people accidentally meet and fall in love, typical romance story. It is anything but that! Wile the H/H do meet by chance- what happens when they truly start to connect is not typical at all.
Both characters have different backgrounds and baggage. Curt Ryan is a skilled mathematician whose Irish roots and family have suffered due to a set up that sent his mother to prison. If the beginning of the book after he meets Erica- you see him dealing with his innocent mother's release back into the world. He sets himself up to deal with the media fall out of this and doesn't have time for a relationship or distraction. Erica Desoto is of a sketchy background. She is the middle child of a large family and has always felt like she has slipped through the cracks. She ran away from home when she was seventeen and landed in bad company that gave her quite a checkered past. Because of this she doesn't trust easily and has no friends to speak of.
Through out this story both of the characters grow in different ways that helps them to lay their past to rest and move forward with their lives. While the romance is present, it is not over powering in it's intensity as in some books. The emphasis was on the struggles each character was going through while still trying to maintain a relationship. Their relationship develops slowly but truly and I just absolutely adored it! This has definitely become a author to watch for in the future.
This books on the surface seems to be just the two people accidentally meet and fall in love, typical romance story. It is anything but that! Wile the H/H do meet by chance- what happens when they truly start to connect is not typical at all.
Both characters have different backgrounds and baggage. Curt Ryan is a skilled mathematician whose Irish roots and family have suffered due to a set up that sent his mother to prison. If the beginning of the book after he meets Erica- you see him dealing with his innocent mother's release back into the world. He sets himself up to deal with the media fall out of this and doesn't have time for a relationship or distraction. Erica Desoto is of a sketchy background. She is the middle child of a large family and has always felt like she has slipped through the cracks. She ran away from home when she was seventeen and landed in bad company that gave her quite a checkered past. Because of this she doesn't trust easily and has no friends to speak of.
Through out this story both of the characters grow in different ways that helps them to lay their past to rest and move forward with their lives. While the romance is present, it is not over powering in it's intensity as in some books. The emphasis was on the struggles each character was going through while still trying to maintain a relationship. Their relationship develops slowly but truly and I just absolutely adored it! This has definitely become a author to watch for in the future.
October 2, 2013
This review was posted at Tsuki’s Book Blog on October 2, 2013.
This book had a premise that sounded awesome. I love nerd heroes so I was really excited. Then...well the characters opened their mouths. I thought photojournalist meets a ph.d. candidate would be a great story. One was a serial dater and the other found inspiration in the other. It sounded great but I couldn't seem to like the characters.
Erica started out a bit blah and then immediately spiraled into a stereotype. She was looking for inspiration and only found it in this one guy. She was magically Cuban in order, I guess, to give her depth. She became a caricature pretty much and I didn't much care for her. At the same time the hero was kind of bland and a bit of a whiner.
Now I only read about 30% of the book so maybe they were redeemed later on but by the time they started inching for romance, I was done. I didn't care about the characters or the romance and I figured it was only going to make me more and more irritated to continue. So I pulled the plug.
I'm sure this is a book some will absolutely love but I didn't. I wasn't convinced of the author OR of the story so I figure it will be "DNF"d and the author will be removed from my list for now. It didn't work for me but it will work for others. Let me know what you thought if you read it.
DNF
Published by Lyrical Press
September 2, 2013
177 Pages
Provided by--NetGalley
This book had a premise that sounded awesome. I love nerd heroes so I was really excited. Then...well the characters opened their mouths. I thought photojournalist meets a ph.d. candidate would be a great story. One was a serial dater and the other found inspiration in the other. It sounded great but I couldn't seem to like the characters.
Erica started out a bit blah and then immediately spiraled into a stereotype. She was looking for inspiration and only found it in this one guy. She was magically Cuban in order, I guess, to give her depth. She became a caricature pretty much and I didn't much care for her. At the same time the hero was kind of bland and a bit of a whiner.
Now I only read about 30% of the book so maybe they were redeemed later on but by the time they started inching for romance, I was done. I didn't care about the characters or the romance and I figured it was only going to make me more and more irritated to continue. So I pulled the plug.
I'm sure this is a book some will absolutely love but I didn't. I wasn't convinced of the author OR of the story so I figure it will be "DNF"d and the author will be removed from my list for now. It didn't work for me but it will work for others. Let me know what you thought if you read it.
DNF
Published by Lyrical Press
September 2, 2013
177 Pages
Provided by--NetGalley
October 6, 2013
A copy received from Netgalley and publisher for an honest review.
2.5 to 3 stars
Calculated Exposure is actually #2 in a series. It's an unusual mix of an Irish mathematics whiz getting his PHD in NC and a Latina girl working as a photographer for a Charlotte newspaper. I did not read the first in series, but this book does stand alone.
Erica is frustrated with her life and cannot find inspiration for her photography. She meets a hot Irish guy and decides to step out side herself and be bold. Curt is home in Ireland to help with family problems when Erica teases him to meet up back in NC for a no strings hook up. Curt is ticked off by the tease but does accept her offer when she breaks down and calls him.
Curt and Erica have great chemistry in bed, but Erica is just playing a roll of sassy seductress. Thanks to unhappy family issues, they both have problems with real intimacy. It is struggle for them to get past the hot sex stage to going on a date. I am not sure, but I just never felt the spark here. It was an enjoyable read since it was different, but it felt a bit flat. I think I will read the first in series...maybe it was just Curt being so aloof. I would read the next in series if it's Seth, who seems to be more of a romantic for a Russian astrophysicist. Bit of a Big Bang Theory with hot sex and time ticking on his visa?
2.5 to 3 stars
Calculated Exposure is actually #2 in a series. It's an unusual mix of an Irish mathematics whiz getting his PHD in NC and a Latina girl working as a photographer for a Charlotte newspaper. I did not read the first in series, but this book does stand alone.
Erica is frustrated with her life and cannot find inspiration for her photography. She meets a hot Irish guy and decides to step out side herself and be bold. Curt is home in Ireland to help with family problems when Erica teases him to meet up back in NC for a no strings hook up. Curt is ticked off by the tease but does accept her offer when she breaks down and calls him.
Curt and Erica have great chemistry in bed, but Erica is just playing a roll of sassy seductress. Thanks to unhappy family issues, they both have problems with real intimacy. It is struggle for them to get past the hot sex stage to going on a date. I am not sure, but I just never felt the spark here. It was an enjoyable read since it was different, but it felt a bit flat. I think I will read the first in series...maybe it was just Curt being so aloof. I would read the next in series if it's Seth, who seems to be more of a romantic for a Russian astrophysicist. Bit of a Big Bang Theory with hot sex and time ticking on his visa?
September 13, 2013
OMG. I am floored. I am so seriously surprised. I did not expect much out of this, and it blew me away.
What I liked:
1. A male character that feels genuine! He wasn't a girl with a penis! His dialogue was genuine and realistic, not just want every woman wishes me were like! I really liked Curt. I know many people didn't, but he felt like a real guy. He wasn't some impossible dream women dream up and fantasize about.
2. The whole story just felt real. The characters felt real.
3. The writing was really good. The pacing was perfect.
4. The main character was easy to like, but she wasn't perfect. She was easy to empathize with and understand.
What could be better:
1. This is silly, but people just don't actually wink in real life. So stop it.
2. The sex could have been hotter.... It was a 3.5/5 on steamy
3. The ending felt a tad rushed. She should have told him her whole story.
Overall, just wow. This was a very refreshing, enticing, and addicting read. Highly recommended.
What I liked:
1. A male character that feels genuine! He wasn't a girl with a penis! His dialogue was genuine and realistic, not just want every woman wishes me were like! I really liked Curt. I know many people didn't, but he felt like a real guy. He wasn't some impossible dream women dream up and fantasize about.
2. The whole story just felt real. The characters felt real.
3. The writing was really good. The pacing was perfect.
4. The main character was easy to like, but she wasn't perfect. She was easy to empathize with and understand.
What could be better:
1. This is silly, but people just don't actually wink in real life. So stop it.
2. The sex could have been hotter.... It was a 3.5/5 on steamy
3. The ending felt a tad rushed. She should have told him her whole story.
Overall, just wow. This was a very refreshing, enticing, and addicting read. Highly recommended.
August 27, 2013
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in place of an honest review.
Both Erica Desoto and Curt Ryan has problems with their families and doing things in their pasts that they aren't proud of. Neither wants a relationship and they didn't see anything happening between them. These two meeting each other sounded like fate and their is nothing to do but just go along with it.
I hate to say that I didn't read the first book and I will have to go back and do that and I can't wait for the next one. The author did a great job with her characters. They are spunky and you can't help but love them no matter what. Even though at times they acted a little immature and you just wanted to smack some sense into them.
I was glad that I gave this author a try and I can't wait to read more books by her.
Both Erica Desoto and Curt Ryan has problems with their families and doing things in their pasts that they aren't proud of. Neither wants a relationship and they didn't see anything happening between them. These two meeting each other sounded like fate and their is nothing to do but just go along with it.
I hate to say that I didn't read the first book and I will have to go back and do that and I can't wait for the next one. The author did a great job with her characters. They are spunky and you can't help but love them no matter what. Even though at times they acted a little immature and you just wanted to smack some sense into them.
I was glad that I gave this author a try and I can't wait to read more books by her.
September 9, 2013
This is a romance read and was just "okay" for me. Erica is latina and being that I am latina, I know we can be very passionate women in all aspects. I think the author did good with her character and made that come across. Curt is a geek math man working on his PhD which his life is complicated at the time he meets Erica. It was a fast read for me and considering all things it was okay. I mean there was chemistry between the two characters and there was a shady character in it as well. I think heartbreak is something that happens in every book (most of the time) and it works for some. In this book I didn't feel that when they were no longer together. It just felt "off". If you want a fast okay read. This is the book for you.
I received this ARC from the author via Net Galley. Thank you.
I received this ARC from the author via Net Galley. Thank you.
December 11, 2013
The reason this is a DNF is because I did not feel any chemistry between or compassion for our two leads. The heroine, who's Latina!!!!, was billed as a photographer struggling to find her muse. The hero is a sexy, commitment-phoebe mathematician who's a super-duper senior that has to finish his dissertation this quarter or else. Fantastic setup. Unfortunately, I didn't care enough about these two to continue. There was a spark with the heroine when she met the hero's bestfriend's wife. They had some kindred spirit chemistry. Also, at this time the heroine inner monologued about her Cuban family which was fun and interesting. Other than that? Nada. I struggled for 10% to try and find something to empathize but no, nada.
ARC courtesy of Netgalley for an honest review.
ARC courtesy of Netgalley for an honest review.
September 2, 2013
**Copy kindly provided by the author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
I so wanted to like this book. There's nothing better then a strong independent woman who's over come a rough past, but Erica's character felt really inconsistent. And it was constantly repeated that Curt was an asshole, but honestly he was just kinda boring. Actually the entire book was kind of boring and repetitive. And the supposed erotic scenes were definitely lacking heat. I did love the themes of friendship and Curt's love for his family. And although the brief flash backs of Erica's past gave her character some depth, I wish there had been a little bit more to that story line. The conflict between Erica and Curt was fairly anticlimactic.
I so wanted to like this book. There's nothing better then a strong independent woman who's over come a rough past, but Erica's character felt really inconsistent. And it was constantly repeated that Curt was an asshole, but honestly he was just kinda boring. Actually the entire book was kind of boring and repetitive. And the supposed erotic scenes were definitely lacking heat. I did love the themes of friendship and Curt's love for his family. And although the brief flash backs of Erica's past gave her character some depth, I wish there had been a little bit more to that story line. The conflict between Erica and Curt was fairly anticlimactic.
September 9, 2013
*ARC from NetGalley and Publisher in exchange f or an honest review.*
Erica and Curt couldn’t be more different…background-wise and interest-wise but a chance encounter links them together. Intending to have just a physical affair…one of discovery for Erica and one of many for Curt…is the start of their roller-coaster.
While the chemistry is hot and the interactions are interesting, there are things in their past hinted at but not explored thoroughly (like Tate – I get the gist but not the whole enchilada). The cast of characters around them are certainly entertaining and add enough flavor to the whole thing, though some of them kinda felt thrown in for “color”.
I just wasn’t vested in either of these characters as much as I wanted to be.
Erica and Curt couldn’t be more different…background-wise and interest-wise but a chance encounter links them together. Intending to have just a physical affair…one of discovery for Erica and one of many for Curt…is the start of their roller-coaster.
While the chemistry is hot and the interactions are interesting, there are things in their past hinted at but not explored thoroughly (like Tate – I get the gist but not the whole enchilada). The cast of characters around them are certainly entertaining and add enough flavor to the whole thing, though some of them kinda felt thrown in for “color”.
I just wasn’t vested in either of these characters as much as I wanted to be.
September 1, 2013
I have to call this a novella because of length. However, what it lacks in length, it makes up for in good writing. It is not easy to create foully faceted characters in this format, but the author managed to create a lead couple that I really connected with and felt that I knew. Their Their relationship develops slowly and I enjoyed every moment of the book. The hero exemplifies geek but is certainly not shy during intimate moments, such fun. The dialogue was witty, the setting beautiful, the pacing even and the story - superb. I will look for more from Holley Trent.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2013
Erica is an extremely forward Latina & Curt is a nerdy guy trying to get his PhD. in Math. They meet in Europe & end up in the south where they both actually live.
Erica wants Curt... They have some chemistry & want each other, but I didn't feel the connection. OR actually it wasn't strong.
This was a novella, so it was quickly resolved. I just wish this book went deeper & longer, building more of that third party relationship us readers should get out of a book.
It was a simple short & very fast read. It wasn't bad & I wasn't turned off by the author. I think I would read another book by her.
Erica wants Curt... They have some chemistry & want each other, but I didn't feel the connection. OR actually it wasn't strong.
This was a novella, so it was quickly resolved. I just wish this book went deeper & longer, building more of that third party relationship us readers should get out of a book.
It was a simple short & very fast read. It wasn't bad & I wasn't turned off by the author. I think I would read another book by her.
September 5, 2013
This is the first novel I have read by Holley Trent. And truthfully I had to struggle to finish it. I think that was mainly because I didn't connect with the characters. The potential was certainly there and the plot would normally have appealed to me. However, I just couldn't get into the characters of Curt or Erica. Although if a story were published about Curt's roommate Seth, I might just have to read it.
December 2, 2013
Erica goes to Europe to get away from her job and try to take some pictures that have some meaning. She meets Curt in Ireland and does something she doesn't usually do. She acts bold and sure of herself and she is far from that in real life. She is even the one that calls him when they return to the states. They each have things going own in there own lives that complicate things.
It was a good story, would recommend it to others. I will be looking for more from this author.
It was a good story, would recommend it to others. I will be looking for more from this author.
January 22, 2014
review at love in the margins and booklikes.
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