What do you think?
Rate this book
Hott Springs Eternal #2
Hott Take
The hard part isn’t acting like we’re falling for each other. It’s pretending we’re not.
Shane: My grandfather’s will has me between a rock and a Hott place. If I don’t score a celebrity wedding, my sister will lose her wedding planning business—and our family’s land. As a playboy movie star, I know Hollywood’s ins and outs. But finding two celebrities in love is tougher than it looks.
Enter Ivy Scofield—the beautiful star of one of TV’s most beloved failures. She’s hiding from her past in Rush Creek, running a community theater for troubled kids. She needs my family’s wedding barn to save her program. So we make a deal: I give her the barn—she gives me her hand in fake marriage. Lights, camera, action—and cut—right?
Not so fast. Planning our fake wedding is way more personal than I was expecting. I’m learning Ivy’s quirks, preferences, and pet peeves—and that’s before I walk in on her enjoying my most infamous on-camera scene. Plus she’s slowly peeling back my layers—the ones I’ve built up to protect myself. If someone doesn’t do something soon, we might discover that the only thing fake about this wedding is the way we keep pushing each other away.
A spicy, movie star, marriage of convenience, fake relationship standalone romantic comedy set in the beloved small town of Rush Creek.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 16, 2024
47 people are currently reading
4533 people want to read
About the author
Serena Bell
54 books748 followersNewest Release!
USA Today bestselling author Serena Bell writes contemporary romance with heat, heart, and humor. A former journalist, Serena has always believed that everyone has an amazing story to tell if you listen carefully, and you can often find her scribbling in her tiny garret office, mainlining chocolate and bringing to life the tales in her head.
Serena’s books have earned many honors, including an RT Reviewers’ Choice Award, Apple Books Best Book of the Month, and Amazon Best Book of the Year for Romance.
When not writing, Serena loves to spend time with her college-sweetheart husband and two hilarious kiddos—all of whom are incredibly tolerant not just of Serena’s imaginary friends but also of how often she changes her hobbies and how passionately she embraces the new ones. These days, it’s stand-up paddle boarding, board-gaming, meditation, and long walks with good friends.
Sign up for new release updates here! http://www.serenabell.com/newsletter
USA Today bestselling author Serena Bell writes contemporary romance with heat, heart, and humor. A former journalist, Serena has always believed that everyone has an amazing story to tell if you listen carefully, and you can often find her scribbling in her tiny garret office, mainlining chocolate and bringing to life the tales in her head.
Serena’s books have earned many honors, including an RT Reviewers’ Choice Award, Apple Books Best Book of the Month, and Amazon Best Book of the Year for Romance.
When not writing, Serena loves to spend time with her college-sweetheart husband and two hilarious kiddos—all of whom are incredibly tolerant not just of Serena’s imaginary friends but also of how often she changes her hobbies and how passionately she embraces the new ones. These days, it’s stand-up paddle boarding, board-gaming, meditation, and long walks with good friends.
Sign up for new release updates here! http://www.serenabell.com/newsletter
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
April 14, 2024
I enjoyed this fake engagement romance! Ivy is happy to be away from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood, enjoying her new quiet existence in Rush Creek. When her community theater endeavour needs a location, she finds herself in a bind, until a solution presents itself - an engagement and possible wedding to Hollywood superstar Shane Hott who needs to fulfill a task from his grandfather's will and help his sister keep her wedding planning business by hosting a celebrity wedding - in this case, his own. I loved watching Shane and Ivy get to know each other, and what starts as a fake romance to play out for the cameras ends up as the real thing. As always, the author presents likable characters (even if the circumstances that bring them together are a bit out there!) and the Hott and Wilder families, while they have their challenges, always come together in the end. It's another great entry in the series and I'm intrigued to read the next Hott brother's story!
A copy of this story was provided by the author.
A copy of this story was provided by the author.
April 4, 2024
3 Stars
I am a huge fan of Serena Bell's Wilder series which is linked to and in the same town as this new series. I also loved the first book in this new series, however although I did enjoy this book, sadly it was my least favourite by Serena so far.
The story is based around Hollywood actor Shane Hott and acting teacher Ivy. Ivy used to be in a very successful TV series and so is a celebrity in her own right but gave up fame for small town life and a job she loves. Shane's sister Hanna owns a ranch and Wedding event business but each of their siblings have to follow orders from their late Grandfather's will to hold onto Hanna's land. It is Shane's turn and he has to get a celebrity wedding at Hanna's venue. There is lots of back and forward but Shane and Ivy become entangled in a fake engagement and future wedding. However as they get closer, it seems not to be as fake as it started out.
The story is a good one and I love a fake turned real relationship so loved that trope. I am personally not a fan of Hollywood actor characters/stories which is definitely a me thing and not an issue with this story. However I sadly did find the story to be a little shallow and needed more depth overall. I found the ending to be too quick of a change and it made what I did enjoy tp seem less real. I also wanted more character development as I liked both Shane and Ivy but felt they needed more depth.
Ivy is a very sweet person and has been through some tough times with men. She is very open and loving but doesn't have many friends and is a little lonely. I did want a bit more in Ivy's character as she felt quite 2D especially compared to other characters by Serena Bell. I actually found Shane to be a lot more complex and I guess his past issues gave him that needed depth.
The romance was a good one, it was sweet at times but generally leaned towards physical attraction and sex a lot more. I love a good bit of smut but I was missing a real connection between them unfortunately.
Overall, a good romance but it doesn't live up to Serena's other books in my view. I HIGHLY recommend reading her Wilder Adventures series which is utterly fantastic.
Please note that I was given this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
I am a huge fan of Serena Bell's Wilder series which is linked to and in the same town as this new series. I also loved the first book in this new series, however although I did enjoy this book, sadly it was my least favourite by Serena so far.
The story is based around Hollywood actor Shane Hott and acting teacher Ivy. Ivy used to be in a very successful TV series and so is a celebrity in her own right but gave up fame for small town life and a job she loves. Shane's sister Hanna owns a ranch and Wedding event business but each of their siblings have to follow orders from their late Grandfather's will to hold onto Hanna's land. It is Shane's turn and he has to get a celebrity wedding at Hanna's venue. There is lots of back and forward but Shane and Ivy become entangled in a fake engagement and future wedding. However as they get closer, it seems not to be as fake as it started out.
The story is a good one and I love a fake turned real relationship so loved that trope. I am personally not a fan of Hollywood actor characters/stories which is definitely a me thing and not an issue with this story. However I sadly did find the story to be a little shallow and needed more depth overall. I found the ending to be too quick of a change and it made what I did enjoy tp seem less real. I also wanted more character development as I liked both Shane and Ivy but felt they needed more depth.
Ivy is a very sweet person and has been through some tough times with men. She is very open and loving but doesn't have many friends and is a little lonely. I did want a bit more in Ivy's character as she felt quite 2D especially compared to other characters by Serena Bell. I actually found Shane to be a lot more complex and I guess his past issues gave him that needed depth.
The romance was a good one, it was sweet at times but generally leaned towards physical attraction and sex a lot more. I love a good bit of smut but I was missing a real connection between them unfortunately.
Overall, a good romance but it doesn't live up to Serena's other books in my view. I HIGHLY recommend reading her Wilder Adventures series which is utterly fantastic.
Please note that I was given this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
August 29, 2023
Serena Bell begins a new series of stand alone books. It takes place in the same world as her last series, The Wilder Adventures. (There is a cross connection of the sister Hanna is this series is married to Easton, a brother in that one.) The Hott family gathers for the reading of their grandfather’s will. And much to their consternation the old man has tied inheriting the family ranch to tasking each of the siblings with challenges. (Each will become a new book.) So they don’t walk away from the inheritance the ranch goes to a mining company if they don’t do what is asked.
Quinn Hott runs a successful business and lives across the country. His drugs have improved lives and made him wealthy. He believes he is a grumpy loner and doesn’t enjoy interacting with people. His task is to be the receptionist at the Hott Springs Eternal Spa and Salon for sixty days. The Spa is run but the people pleaser Sonya Rossi. And to top it off she lives in housing provided by company and he is assigned to her spare room.
Of course he starts off as his grumpy self. And Sonja is working so hard run the business, take care of her father and support her friends. She never feels she is deserving to ask for help herself. Sonja and Quinn both have had different but challenging backgrounds that have shaped them. Without them realizing it they are the perfect balance for each other. They just have to be willing to help each other see their own strengths and weaknesses and rely on each other.
This is a cute story with likable characters. Enjoyable tropes include, grumpy vs. sunshine, small town, and forced proximity. There is some sadness in their unbringing that brings more depth to both. The story includes lots of passion and of course family and friends in the mix. This is a fun beginning and I look forward to more Hope Springs stories. Thank you to NetGalley, Serena Bell and the author Collective 20 for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
Quinn Hott runs a successful business and lives across the country. His drugs have improved lives and made him wealthy. He believes he is a grumpy loner and doesn’t enjoy interacting with people. His task is to be the receptionist at the Hott Springs Eternal Spa and Salon for sixty days. The Spa is run but the people pleaser Sonya Rossi. And to top it off she lives in housing provided by company and he is assigned to her spare room.
Of course he starts off as his grumpy self. And Sonja is working so hard run the business, take care of her father and support her friends. She never feels she is deserving to ask for help herself. Sonja and Quinn both have had different but challenging backgrounds that have shaped them. Without them realizing it they are the perfect balance for each other. They just have to be willing to help each other see their own strengths and weaknesses and rely on each other.
This is a cute story with likable characters. Enjoyable tropes include, grumpy vs. sunshine, small town, and forced proximity. There is some sadness in their unbringing that brings more depth to both. The story includes lots of passion and of course family and friends in the mix. This is a fun beginning and I look forward to more Hope Springs stories. Thank you to NetGalley, Serena Bell and the author Collective 20 for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
May 18, 2024
please note that the trigger warnings and topes/themes may contain spoilers
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
HEA: yes
POV: dual 1st person POV
spice: several open-door spicy scenes
TWs: death of a loved one (off page before book, nondescriptive), death of a parent (recounted), parental abandonment, public humiliation, cheating (not MCs), mentions of sexual harassment and stalking
standalone: book 2 in the Hott Springs Eternal series (While I read book 2 first, I think these could be read as standalone without missing too much, though I think it would be beneficial to read them in order)
final thoughts: what a cute book!! I’ll definitely be reading the rest of this series to get to know the rest of the Hott siblings. I love the trope of people needing to leave their comfort zones by force of the will of a loved one who has passed. I liked seeing the relationship bloom between the MCs, seeing Ivy become more confident, and watching Shane fall hard. The chemistry was immediate for both of them, and I love that we didn’t have to wait long for them to say “why not” and give into it!
I loved the relationships with the Hott siblings and the female friendships that were gained in this book. I can’t wait to read the rest of this series.
.
read this book if you love
🎥 actor
🍿 celebrity
💏 fake dating
💞 mutual pining
💘 instalove vibes
💖 marriage of convenience
🌍 world building
💘 he falls fast and hard
🏡 small town
🧑🤝🧑 great side characters
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
HEA: yes
POV: dual 1st person POV
spice: several open-door spicy scenes
TWs: death of a loved one (off page before book, nondescriptive), death of a parent (recounted), parental abandonment, public humiliation, cheating (not MCs), mentions of sexual harassment and stalking
standalone: book 2 in the Hott Springs Eternal series (While I read book 2 first, I think these could be read as standalone without missing too much, though I think it would be beneficial to read them in order)
final thoughts: what a cute book!! I’ll definitely be reading the rest of this series to get to know the rest of the Hott siblings. I love the trope of people needing to leave their comfort zones by force of the will of a loved one who has passed. I liked seeing the relationship bloom between the MCs, seeing Ivy become more confident, and watching Shane fall hard. The chemistry was immediate for both of them, and I love that we didn’t have to wait long for them to say “why not” and give into it!
I loved the relationships with the Hott siblings and the female friendships that were gained in this book. I can’t wait to read the rest of this series.
.
read this book if you love
🎥 actor
🍿 celebrity
💏 fake dating
💞 mutual pining
💘 instalove vibes
💖 marriage of convenience
🌍 world building
💘 he falls fast and hard
🏡 small town
🧑🤝🧑 great side characters
September 24, 2024
✧.*
2.75 stars!
this book was a mix of blurry lines, flirty moments, good banter and small town coziness.
➳ ivy used to be a star and now hides from her hollywood life in rush creek, a small town where she meets shane, movie star who is in desperate need of a celebrity wedding. In a way of killing two birds with one stone, they enter a risky deal: a fake engagement - but not much about it ends up being fake in the end.
the premise of this sounded so good to me. I love fake dating, i think it’s a trope that leaves a lot of room for the authors to have fun with and it is particularly enjoyable to read! This definitely had a lot of potential.
starting off with the characters, i liked most of them. ivy and shane seemed funny and lovable from the start and i got, throughout the book, very intrigued by the other characters too and their own stories! the only thing that didn’t allow me to grow too attached to these characters was the fact that they seemed too 2D for my taste.
shane was probably the one we got most depth from, which probably comes from his “traumatic” upbringing, but even for ivy, the other main character, i felt as though i was left wanting.
i think the book was written in a pretty clever way, that left me wanting more every time i put the book down. the characters had good chemistry and i enjoyed their banter a lot. i found the book to be a bit shallow, but maybe thats just the feeling i was left with because of the dimension of the characters and the fact that this is a more fast paced story.
➳ can definitely be a fun book to read, it’s great if you’re looking for a quick read or even a way to get out of a reading slump! 💞
thank you netgalley, serena bell and the publisher for granting me access to this arc!
2.75 stars!
“she’s a small town girl, and I'm bright lights, big city all the way.”
this book was a mix of blurry lines, flirty moments, good banter and small town coziness.
➳ ivy used to be a star and now hides from her hollywood life in rush creek, a small town where she meets shane, movie star who is in desperate need of a celebrity wedding. In a way of killing two birds with one stone, they enter a risky deal: a fake engagement - but not much about it ends up being fake in the end.
the premise of this sounded so good to me. I love fake dating, i think it’s a trope that leaves a lot of room for the authors to have fun with and it is particularly enjoyable to read! This definitely had a lot of potential.
starting off with the characters, i liked most of them. ivy and shane seemed funny and lovable from the start and i got, throughout the book, very intrigued by the other characters too and their own stories! the only thing that didn’t allow me to grow too attached to these characters was the fact that they seemed too 2D for my taste.
shane was probably the one we got most depth from, which probably comes from his “traumatic” upbringing, but even for ivy, the other main character, i felt as though i was left wanting.
i think the book was written in a pretty clever way, that left me wanting more every time i put the book down. the characters had good chemistry and i enjoyed their banter a lot. i found the book to be a bit shallow, but maybe thats just the feeling i was left with because of the dimension of the characters and the fact that this is a more fast paced story.
➳ can definitely be a fun book to read, it’s great if you’re looking for a quick read or even a way to get out of a reading slump! 💞
thank you netgalley, serena bell and the publisher for granting me access to this arc!
March 20, 2024
Title: Hott Take By Serena Bell
Release Date: April, 16th 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars
"Hot Take" by Serena Bell is like a warm hug for your heart, guaranteed to make you grin from ear to ear!
Shane finds himself in a bind due to his grandfather's will, which requires him to arrange a celebrity wedding to save his family's land. He turns to Ivy Scofield, a former TV star running a theatre program for troubled youth, for help. They strike a deal: Shane provides Ivy with his family's wedding barn, and she agrees to a fake marriage. However, as they plan the wedding, they find themselves growing closer and uncovering each other's vulnerabilities. Their fake relationship begins to feel more real, but unresolved issues threaten to drive them apart.
The main characters portray a strong connection, and their journey towards love combines passion and gentleness beautifully.
One of the highlights of the book is the found family dynamic, which adds depth and warmth to the story. The interactions between the characters are full of humour and genuine emotion.
“Hott Take” is a charming romance novel that combines humour, passion, and heart in all the right ways. If you're looking for a feel-good read with plenty of sizzle, this book is sure to hit the spot.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.
Release Date: April, 16th 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars
"Hot Take" by Serena Bell is like a warm hug for your heart, guaranteed to make you grin from ear to ear!
Shane finds himself in a bind due to his grandfather's will, which requires him to arrange a celebrity wedding to save his family's land. He turns to Ivy Scofield, a former TV star running a theatre program for troubled youth, for help. They strike a deal: Shane provides Ivy with his family's wedding barn, and she agrees to a fake marriage. However, as they plan the wedding, they find themselves growing closer and uncovering each other's vulnerabilities. Their fake relationship begins to feel more real, but unresolved issues threaten to drive them apart.
The main characters portray a strong connection, and their journey towards love combines passion and gentleness beautifully.
One of the highlights of the book is the found family dynamic, which adds depth and warmth to the story. The interactions between the characters are full of humour and genuine emotion.
“Hott Take” is a charming romance novel that combines humour, passion, and heart in all the right ways. If you're looking for a feel-good read with plenty of sizzle, this book is sure to hit the spot.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.
April 27, 2025
4 stars ⋆✴︎˚｡⋆
this actually surprised me!
yes it was corny and cliched in some place but i honestly had a great time reading this book. i wish there was more publicity, paparazzi & tabloids involved in making their fake romance seem real. for a celebrity couple they didn’t have to do much to fake their romance to the public and i feel like there should have been more.
i wish we got to see them interact with the other’s world a bit more too. like him being hands on with her theatre nonprofit and her helping with his family which could have made their bond seem that much stronger & connected.
also but randomly dressing up as your characters for the proposal & fan service wedding is just a bit cringey cause i couldn’t imagine any of my favourite celebrities doing that lol.
this actually surprised me!
yes it was corny and cliched in some place but i honestly had a great time reading this book. i wish there was more publicity, paparazzi & tabloids involved in making their fake romance seem real. for a celebrity couple they didn’t have to do much to fake their romance to the public and i feel like there should have been more.
i wish we got to see them interact with the other’s world a bit more too. like him being hands on with her theatre nonprofit and her helping with his family which could have made their bond seem that much stronger & connected.
also but randomly dressing up as your characters for the proposal & fan service wedding is just a bit cringey cause i couldn’t imagine any of my favourite celebrities doing that lol.
April 3, 2024
I’m a longtime fan of Serena Bell's books and Hott Take is an enjoyable and relaxing comfort read. It's the second book in the Hott Springs Eternal series that takes place at Hanna’s Hott Springs Spa in Rush Creek, Oregon.
The story opens with all of the brothers returning home to hear what their granddad chose as Shane’s task. (Their grandad’s will stipulates that each brother must complete a specific task to save the family's landfrom being sold to a mining company.) This is Shane’s story and his task is to organize a celebrity couple’s wedding in Rush Creek. The Hott Springs Spa is owned by the Hott family and was a working ranch until a few years ago when Hanna (Shane’s sister) and her granddad decided to convert it into a wedding venue and spa.
I liked both Shane and Ivy, who were actors in popular fantasy shows. Shane is trying to decide which part to choose for his next project and Ivy and her sister run a children’s theater in Rush Creek. Shane is having trouble finding a celebrity couple willing to marry in Rush Creek and so he asks Ivy to marry him (He explains the situation about the will.) He also shares that he doesn’t think he can fall in love. She has her own reasons to say yes. They are a perfect match together but have some things to work through.
This is a short, sweet read and stands well alone but I think it’s helpful to have read the first book in the series, Hott Shot, to get familiar with Shane’s family first - plus it’s fun! I gave Hott Take 4 ½ stars and rounded up to 5 here. It looks like the next one up is Preston’s story, Some Like it Hott. I think readers who like romcoms with weddings and those who enjoyed the Wilder Series will have fun reading Hott Take.
The story opens with all of the brothers returning home to hear what their granddad chose as Shane’s task. (Their grandad’s will stipulates that each brother must complete a specific task to save the family's landfrom being sold to a mining company.) This is Shane’s story and his task is to organize a celebrity couple’s wedding in Rush Creek. The Hott Springs Spa is owned by the Hott family and was a working ranch until a few years ago when Hanna (Shane’s sister) and her granddad decided to convert it into a wedding venue and spa.
I liked both Shane and Ivy, who were actors in popular fantasy shows. Shane is trying to decide which part to choose for his next project and Ivy and her sister run a children’s theater in Rush Creek. Shane is having trouble finding a celebrity couple willing to marry in Rush Creek and so he asks Ivy to marry him (He explains the situation about the will.) He also shares that he doesn’t think he can fall in love. She has her own reasons to say yes. They are a perfect match together but have some things to work through.
This is a short, sweet read and stands well alone but I think it’s helpful to have read the first book in the series, Hott Shot, to get familiar with Shane’s family first - plus it’s fun! I gave Hott Take 4 ½ stars and rounded up to 5 here. It looks like the next one up is Preston’s story, Some Like it Hott. I think readers who like romcoms with weddings and those who enjoyed the Wilder Series will have fun reading Hott Take.
March 15, 2024
4.5 ⭐️!!
Thank you Serena Bell for the ARC of this book. I absolutely loved the first book in the Hott Springs Eternal series (be sure to check out Hott Shot, it’s so freaking good!!) as well as all the Wilder series books, so I was super excited to get to read this early!
This book follows Shane (another one of the Hott brothers) and Ivy. Once again the Hott family is called in for their grandfather’s will reading and this time it’s Shane in the hot seat. (“Hott seat?! Haha) In order to get his inheritance and help his sister save the family land and business, Shane has to pull off a celebrity wedding. When his original celebrity couple falls through, he and Ivy (both TV stars) decide the next best thing would be to pretend to be in love and have their own fake wedding. They’re both super attractive to each other and start falling for each other.
This was such a cute book and easy read… I read it in one day! ❤️ I just couldn’t put it down. There was just the right amount of heart and heat (I loved the spicy scenes!) I also really love how we get to see the other brothers and their wives from the other books and see how their lives and relationships are going. Such a good installment in the Hott Springs Eternal books! I can’t wait to hear Preston’s story!
Thank you Serena Bell for the ARC of this book. I absolutely loved the first book in the Hott Springs Eternal series (be sure to check out Hott Shot, it’s so freaking good!!) as well as all the Wilder series books, so I was super excited to get to read this early!
This book follows Shane (another one of the Hott brothers) and Ivy. Once again the Hott family is called in for their grandfather’s will reading and this time it’s Shane in the hot seat. (“Hott seat?! Haha) In order to get his inheritance and help his sister save the family land and business, Shane has to pull off a celebrity wedding. When his original celebrity couple falls through, he and Ivy (both TV stars) decide the next best thing would be to pretend to be in love and have their own fake wedding. They’re both super attractive to each other and start falling for each other.
This was such a cute book and easy read… I read it in one day! ❤️ I just couldn’t put it down. There was just the right amount of heart and heat (I loved the spicy scenes!) I also really love how we get to see the other brothers and their wives from the other books and see how their lives and relationships are going. Such a good installment in the Hott Springs Eternal books! I can’t wait to hear Preston’s story!
Currently reading
April 17, 2024NOW LIVE!!
❤️ Hott Take ❤️ is here! Book #2 in the Hott Springs Eternal series is now available in ebook and paperback.
The hard part isn’t acting like we’re falling for each other. It’s pretending we’re not.
✔️ Fake engagement
✔️ Movie star with a bad rep
✔️ Wedding planning shenanigans
✔️ She gets caught watching the hottest scene in his movie
✔️ So. Many. Hott. Brothers.
“I am a huge fan of Serena Bell. Her books are a heartwarming blend of romance, humor, and steam! This is the second book in the Hott Springs Eternal series, and it did not disappoint!” —Meg’s Book Blog
Read the ebook ➤➤➤
AMAZON: http://serenabell.com/r/HottTake-Amazon
APPLE: http://serenabell.com/r/HottTake-Apple
NOOK: http://serenabell.com/r/HottTake-Nook
KOBO: http://serenabell.com/r/HottTake-Kobo
GOOGLE: http://serenabell.com/r/HottTake-Google
Universal link ➤➤➤ http://serenabell.com/r/HottTake
Read the paperback ➤➤➤
➤➤➤https://www.amazon.com/Hott-Take-Romantic-Springs-Eternal/dp/1953498302
➤➤➤https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hott-take-serena-bell/1143707389
Support indie bookstores! ➤➤➤
➤➤➤https://www.eagleharborbooks.com/book/9781953498304
➤➤➤"https://www.libertybaybooks.com/book/...
❤️ Hott Take ❤️ is here! Book #2 in the Hott Springs Eternal series is now available in ebook and paperback.
The hard part isn’t acting like we’re falling for each other. It’s pretending we’re not.
✔️ Fake engagement
✔️ Movie star with a bad rep
✔️ Wedding planning shenanigans
✔️ She gets caught watching the hottest scene in his movie
✔️ So. Many. Hott. Brothers.
“I am a huge fan of Serena Bell. Her books are a heartwarming blend of romance, humor, and steam! This is the second book in the Hott Springs Eternal series, and it did not disappoint!” —Meg’s Book Blog
Read the ebook ➤➤➤
AMAZON: http://serenabell.com/r/HottTake-Amazon
APPLE: http://serenabell.com/r/HottTake-Apple
NOOK: http://serenabell.com/r/HottTake-Nook
KOBO: http://serenabell.com/r/HottTake-Kobo
GOOGLE: http://serenabell.com/r/HottTake-Google
Universal link ➤➤➤ http://serenabell.com/r/HottTake
Read the paperback ➤➤➤
➤➤➤https://www.amazon.com/Hott-Take-Romantic-Springs-Eternal/dp/1953498302
➤➤➤https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hott-take-serena-bell/1143707389
Support indie bookstores! ➤➤➤
➤➤➤https://www.eagleharborbooks.com/book/9781953498304
➤➤➤"https://www.libertybaybooks.com/book/...
April 16, 2024
3.75 stars⭐️
Today is publication day! So I thought it would be the perfect time to post my Hott Take review.
This was my first time reading one of Serena Bell’s books, and I really liked it! The storyline was very appealing to me and I’m glad I got the chance to read it.
In an attempt to save the teacher's job she loves so much, the main character Ivy, a former Hollywood actress who moved to a small town to get away from the world of TV, decides to accept the false marriage proposal of a well-known Hollywood actor, Shane Hott, who offers his help in exchange for a little favor: obtaining his grandfather's legacy to protect his sister Hanna's lands, as required in his grandad’s will. The mission is apparently simple: to be fully in love and get married. No pressure. Ivy seems like the perfect choice and the attraction is right there on the surface. This marriage of convenience and fake dating starts off as an easy task at first, but soon the chemistry between these characters becomes more intense & apparent, so it’s hard to ignore the small gestures, the brief touches, and the longing stares, that gives this marriage of convenience a whole new meaning.
I really enjoyed the story. It was simple and fast paced, with an entertaining and fun banter between the two protagonists. The chapters were easy to read and they always left you wanting to read more, just like the rest of the characters. They were so lovable and I ended up getting really curious to know more about the rest of the brothers and their stories🤭🫶🏼
The fake dating/marriage of convenience trope always does it for me, so it was not difficult to become engaged with the plot. However, I personally think it lacked some depth when it came to character development. Shane came from a tough past with some family issues, which I believe made him more complex and let us readers connect with him, but even though Ivy had had a rough time too dealing with her past relationships with men, and she felt a bit lonely in life, I found myself needing more details, more background and information to work with. I think her character was built more in a surface level, and I personally would’ve liked to go into more detail about her whole personality and life experiences.
The spice was on point, I was giggling and blushing all the time!!!🤭😮💨 But maybe I would’ve liked to read more about their love story, because like I said, I felt like it was missing a bit of emotional depth between them. Other than that, the romance was great and so fun, and the idea well executed, so I’m excited to read more. I guess I’ll have to look for the rest of the series!
If you love a fast paced small town romance, the fake dating trope and a marriage of convenience, I would recommend reading this one!💌
Thank you so much NetGalley, Author Collective 20 and Serena Bell for this ARC!☺️
Today is publication day! So I thought it would be the perfect time to post my Hott Take review.
This was my first time reading one of Serena Bell’s books, and I really liked it! The storyline was very appealing to me and I’m glad I got the chance to read it.
In an attempt to save the teacher's job she loves so much, the main character Ivy, a former Hollywood actress who moved to a small town to get away from the world of TV, decides to accept the false marriage proposal of a well-known Hollywood actor, Shane Hott, who offers his help in exchange for a little favor: obtaining his grandfather's legacy to protect his sister Hanna's lands, as required in his grandad’s will. The mission is apparently simple: to be fully in love and get married. No pressure. Ivy seems like the perfect choice and the attraction is right there on the surface. This marriage of convenience and fake dating starts off as an easy task at first, but soon the chemistry between these characters becomes more intense & apparent, so it’s hard to ignore the small gestures, the brief touches, and the longing stares, that gives this marriage of convenience a whole new meaning.
I really enjoyed the story. It was simple and fast paced, with an entertaining and fun banter between the two protagonists. The chapters were easy to read and they always left you wanting to read more, just like the rest of the characters. They were so lovable and I ended up getting really curious to know more about the rest of the brothers and their stories🤭🫶🏼
The fake dating/marriage of convenience trope always does it for me, so it was not difficult to become engaged with the plot. However, I personally think it lacked some depth when it came to character development. Shane came from a tough past with some family issues, which I believe made him more complex and let us readers connect with him, but even though Ivy had had a rough time too dealing with her past relationships with men, and she felt a bit lonely in life, I found myself needing more details, more background and information to work with. I think her character was built more in a surface level, and I personally would’ve liked to go into more detail about her whole personality and life experiences.
The spice was on point, I was giggling and blushing all the time!!!🤭😮💨 But maybe I would’ve liked to read more about their love story, because like I said, I felt like it was missing a bit of emotional depth between them. Other than that, the romance was great and so fun, and the idea well executed, so I’m excited to read more. I guess I’ll have to look for the rest of the series!
If you love a fast paced small town romance, the fake dating trope and a marriage of convenience, I would recommend reading this one!💌
Thank you so much NetGalley, Author Collective 20 and Serena Bell for this ARC!☺️
April 22, 2025
PHENOMENAL!!! Thank you NetGalley, Serena Bell and Author Collective 20 for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.
After being swept away by the first book in the series "Hott Shot," I wasted no time in eagerly requesting this second book when I spotted it available. I knew I had to read it!! Delightfully, it surpassed all my expectations, and Serena Bell has firmly established herself as one of my top authors! "Hott Take," the second installment in the Hott Springs Eternal series, functions as a standalone story and can be enjoyed independently of the series order. However, I recommend starting with the first book to fully appreciate the depth of the story. This romantic comedy is an enchanting blend of sweetness, humor, and heartwarming moments, all within the endearing backdrop of the small town of Rush Creek. From start to finish, it entertains with its touching storyline and beautifully written prose. I couldn't help but find myself grinning, giggling, swooning, and even shedding a tear or two along the way. So indulge yourself in the charming narrative of a celebrity romance entwined with a marriage of convenience and a fake relationship, where tension and chemistry abound, creating a deliciously sweet experience! This book has truly captured my heart, ranking as one of my favorite rom-coms of 2024 without a doubt!! 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
Navigating the charade of falling for each other is one thing; resisting the genuine connection brewing beneath the surface is another challenge entirely. Meet Shane: tasked with securing a celebrity wedding to save his family's legacy, he's no stranger to Hollywood's games. But finding love on cue proves trickier than expected. Enter Ivy Scofield, a former TV star seeking refuge in Rush Creek. Desperate to preserve her community theater, she strikes a deal with Shane: his family's wedding barn in exchange for a fake marriage. Yet, as they dive into the elaborate ruse, sparks fly unexpectedly. As they delve deeper into each other's worlds, both find themselves unraveling the cascades they've carefully crafted. Will their pretend romance unveil something real, or will their fears keep them apart?
In summary, every aspect of this book was utterly captivating!! I mean, there was not a single thing I didn't adore. Shane and Ivy's love story has firmly etched its place in my heart. Serena Bell has created a masterpiece that is romantic, beautiful, emotionally charged and incredibly realistic! I wholeheartedly recommend this book and believe it deserves all the stars!! 💫💫💫💫💫
After being swept away by the first book in the series "Hott Shot," I wasted no time in eagerly requesting this second book when I spotted it available. I knew I had to read it!! Delightfully, it surpassed all my expectations, and Serena Bell has firmly established herself as one of my top authors! "Hott Take," the second installment in the Hott Springs Eternal series, functions as a standalone story and can be enjoyed independently of the series order. However, I recommend starting with the first book to fully appreciate the depth of the story. This romantic comedy is an enchanting blend of sweetness, humor, and heartwarming moments, all within the endearing backdrop of the small town of Rush Creek. From start to finish, it entertains with its touching storyline and beautifully written prose. I couldn't help but find myself grinning, giggling, swooning, and even shedding a tear or two along the way. So indulge yourself in the charming narrative of a celebrity romance entwined with a marriage of convenience and a fake relationship, where tension and chemistry abound, creating a deliciously sweet experience! This book has truly captured my heart, ranking as one of my favorite rom-coms of 2024 without a doubt!! 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
Navigating the charade of falling for each other is one thing; resisting the genuine connection brewing beneath the surface is another challenge entirely. Meet Shane: tasked with securing a celebrity wedding to save his family's legacy, he's no stranger to Hollywood's games. But finding love on cue proves trickier than expected. Enter Ivy Scofield, a former TV star seeking refuge in Rush Creek. Desperate to preserve her community theater, she strikes a deal with Shane: his family's wedding barn in exchange for a fake marriage. Yet, as they dive into the elaborate ruse, sparks fly unexpectedly. As they delve deeper into each other's worlds, both find themselves unraveling the cascades they've carefully crafted. Will their pretend romance unveil something real, or will their fears keep them apart?
In summary, every aspect of this book was utterly captivating!! I mean, there was not a single thing I didn't adore. Shane and Ivy's love story has firmly etched its place in my heart. Serena Bell has created a masterpiece that is romantic, beautiful, emotionally charged and incredibly realistic! I wholeheartedly recommend this book and believe it deserves all the stars!! 💫💫💫💫💫
March 17, 2024
Shane is the second of the Hott brothers who must carry out the wishes of his grandfather’s will to save the family farm/wedding venue. His task is to find a celebrity wedding to have at the venue his sister manages. Shane knows celebrities, as he is one, but finding a wedding is harder than he thought. Enter Ivy, she is living in quiet Rush Creek, after having stepped out of the Hollywood spotlight after being burned by an ex. She needs a place to hold her drama club and strikes up the deal for a fake marriage with Shane in place of the venue. When planning the venue becomes more personal than expected and feelings become involved they start to realize that this fake relationship may be realer than expected.
Serena’s books are always fun, entertaining reads. You know that you will laugh, you may cry and you end the book with a smile on your face. This was such a fun and easy read, that I found myself not being able to put it down. Shane and Ivy are great characters to get to know and I loved every moment of it. Their chemistry was so good and there were some super hot scenes in this one and I was there for all of it!
As usual, Serena wrote great friendship and family dynamics. I love the friend group that has been created in this and the previous Hott book, as well as bringing in characters from the Wilder family. This is a part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
If you want a lot of laughs, some heartfelt moments and great chemistry, this is the book for you! Thank you to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.
Serena’s books are always fun, entertaining reads. You know that you will laugh, you may cry and you end the book with a smile on your face. This was such a fun and easy read, that I found myself not being able to put it down. Shane and Ivy are great characters to get to know and I loved every moment of it. Their chemistry was so good and there were some super hot scenes in this one and I was there for all of it!
As usual, Serena wrote great friendship and family dynamics. I love the friend group that has been created in this and the previous Hott book, as well as bringing in characters from the Wilder family. This is a part of a series but can be read as a standalone.
If you want a lot of laughs, some heartfelt moments and great chemistry, this is the book for you! Thank you to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.
March 18, 2024
Title: Hott Take By Serena Bell
Release Date: April, 16th 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars
"Hot Take" by Serena Bell is like a warm hug for your heart, guaranteed to make you grin from ear to ear!
Shane finds himself in a bind due to his grandfather's will, which requires him to arrange a celebrity wedding to save his family's land. He turns to Ivy Scofield, a former TV star running a theatre program for troubled youth, for help. They strike a deal: Shane provides Ivy with his family's wedding barn, and she agrees to a fake marriage. However, as they plan the wedding, they find themselves growing closer and uncovering each other's vulnerabilities. Their fake relationship begins to feel more real, but unresolved issues threaten to drive them apart.
The main characters portray a strong connection, and their journey towards love combines passion and gentleness beautifully.
One of the highlights of the book is the found family dynamic, which adds depth and warmth to the story. The interactions between the characters are full of humour and genuine emotion.
“Hott Take” is a charming romance novel that combines humour, passion, and heart in all the right ways. If you're looking for a feel-good read with plenty of sizzle, this book is sure to hit the spot.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.
Release Date: April, 16th 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars
"Hot Take" by Serena Bell is like a warm hug for your heart, guaranteed to make you grin from ear to ear!
Shane finds himself in a bind due to his grandfather's will, which requires him to arrange a celebrity wedding to save his family's land. He turns to Ivy Scofield, a former TV star running a theatre program for troubled youth, for help. They strike a deal: Shane provides Ivy with his family's wedding barn, and she agrees to a fake marriage. However, as they plan the wedding, they find themselves growing closer and uncovering each other's vulnerabilities. Their fake relationship begins to feel more real, but unresolved issues threaten to drive them apart.
The main characters portray a strong connection, and their journey towards love combines passion and gentleness beautifully.
One of the highlights of the book is the found family dynamic, which adds depth and warmth to the story. The interactions between the characters are full of humour and genuine emotion.
“Hott Take” is a charming romance novel that combines humour, passion, and heart in all the right ways. If you're looking for a feel-good read with plenty of sizzle, this book is sure to hit the spot.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.
March 19, 2024
Celebrity Romance
Fake Engagement
Found Family
Small Town
This is the first book I read by this author, and I want to kick myself for not finding her sooner. I absolutely love both the FMC and MMC. They are both so well written and work so well as a couple.
I love this kind of contemporary romance book. This type of feel-good, laughing out loud sometimes, and heartwarming story is just what I need after a hard day. Better yet, even the side characters are awesome. I loved the storyline, even though I was skeptical at first, but the first chapters really pulled me in, and I stayed with this story until the end.
What is not to love about this book? I am bummed I didn't know about the first book before requesting this one. I kind of spoiled it for me, but I will be picking up book 1.
I am so happy to have found d another author to add to my list.
I would highly recommend this book if you love a Good Ole Contemporary Romance.
***I was given this book by NetGalley for my honest review.***
Fake Engagement
Found Family
Small Town
This is the first book I read by this author, and I want to kick myself for not finding her sooner. I absolutely love both the FMC and MMC. They are both so well written and work so well as a couple.
I love this kind of contemporary romance book. This type of feel-good, laughing out loud sometimes, and heartwarming story is just what I need after a hard day. Better yet, even the side characters are awesome. I loved the storyline, even though I was skeptical at first, but the first chapters really pulled me in, and I stayed with this story until the end.
What is not to love about this book? I am bummed I didn't know about the first book before requesting this one. I kind of spoiled it for me, but I will be picking up book 1.
I am so happy to have found d another author to add to my list.
I would highly recommend this book if you love a Good Ole Contemporary Romance.
***I was given this book by NetGalley for my honest review.***
March 18, 2024
I was interested right off the bat because of the cover, but I can tell you that this book is fantastic through and through. This is a romance in which they are both actors, which I thought was really cool and unique. Also, this is a book that features a "marry to satisfy a will" trope and I love when this is done in contemporary romance because we don't often see that. There were some SUPER hot scenes in this book that had me fanning myself. It's so good! I loved Shane and Ivy together and I think they worked so well together, despite their differences. I loved that I felt the tension, I laughed out loud and I enjoyed the steam. This book really had everything you could want from a romance novel and I truly enjoyed it. Who doesn't love a good marriage of convenience romance?!
Thank you to NetGalley, Serena Bell, and Jelsba Media Group for an eARC of this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, Serena Bell, and Jelsba Media Group for an eARC of this book.
April 2, 2024
Let me fan myself a min before I get to the review because let me tell you, this book is HOTT!! Ok pun intended, but whew, the spice is *chefs kiss*
As for the story itself, it is so engaging. I love Shane!! I love his dedication to his family and his swagger and all the angst!!! As for Ivy, she is the BEST. Big hearted, giving, but gun shy and afraid to trust.
Also, can we talk about the therapy representation? Because that is my JAM!!! Yessss, more people realizing they need help and getting it!!!! All in all, this was a brilliant second installment in the series and I cannot WAIT to see where it goes next!!
As for the story itself, it is so engaging. I love Shane!! I love his dedication to his family and his swagger and all the angst!!! As for Ivy, she is the BEST. Big hearted, giving, but gun shy and afraid to trust.
Also, can we talk about the therapy representation? Because that is my JAM!!! Yessss, more people realizing they need help and getting it!!!! All in all, this was a brilliant second installment in the series and I cannot WAIT to see where it goes next!!
May 2, 2024
The difficult thing about Serena Bell's latest books is that they're easy and enjoyable to read so they act as great palette cleansers for me, but this Hott Springs Eternal series is really, really silly. This book was borderline nonsensical.
There are good bones to Serena Bell's books, but I think she's just at a point in her writing career where this is a career and it just reads like a talented author isn't really looking to try much anymore. I always finish reading her books wishing there were more depth or some more meat to bite into, and for some books, it matters less because there's enough plot to hold it together, but for this book in particular where the plot is nonsensical, you really need other elements of the storytelling piece to work harder, and this one really doesn't.
There are good bones to Serena Bell's books, but I think she's just at a point in her writing career where this is a career and it just reads like a talented author isn't really looking to try much anymore. I always finish reading her books wishing there were more depth or some more meat to bite into, and for some books, it matters less because there's enough plot to hold it together, but for this book in particular where the plot is nonsensical, you really need other elements of the storytelling piece to work harder, and this one really doesn't.
January 1, 2024
MF - contemporary romance - white MCs - moderate steam - pov first dual - celebrity (both actors) - fake relationship - found family - small town - ARC - 5 stars. I’m a big fan of Serena Bell and since marry to satisfy a will is so unusual in CR I was excited to read how she did it. There were some super hot scenes, like when the . Yowza.
March 16, 2024
4.5 stars
This is a fun, entertaining, good read. Shane and Ivy are fun, entertaining, intriguing, complex, interesting, relatable characters. I enjoyed them as individuals and a couple. Their romance is so much fun to read with all it’s twists and turns. I love the family aspect of the story. The secondary characters – especially various family members – added to the fabric of the story and my enjoyment. While this is apart of a series, it’s the first book I’ve read and I didn’t feel lost. I put both the first book and the Wilde books on my TBR because now I’m curious 😊. The story is easy to read and get into.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is a fun, entertaining, good read. Shane and Ivy are fun, entertaining, intriguing, complex, interesting, relatable characters. I enjoyed them as individuals and a couple. Their romance is so much fun to read with all it’s twists and turns. I love the family aspect of the story. The secondary characters – especially various family members – added to the fabric of the story and my enjoyment. While this is apart of a series, it’s the first book I’ve read and I didn’t feel lost. I put both the first book and the Wilde books on my TBR because now I’m curious 😊. The story is easy to read and get into.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 16, 2025
This is the second book in this series and it was Hollywood romance type book. I like this book and the characters involved but a slowing burning love story like will they finally get together or keep playing this game and lying to themselves about not having feeling for each other. I love they never gave up on each other and found love with each other.
March 14, 2024
Celebrity romance. Fake engagement. Continuation of the Hott Springs Eternal series (which is a spinoff of the Wilder Adventure series).
Shane needs to provide a celebrity wedding at his family’s resort… may as well be his own. Except… he’s not engaged. Not even dating anyone. Enter Ivy. A fake fiancé is just what she needs to get her ex to leave her along. What could possibly go wrong 😉
Thanks to Serena Bell for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for Hott Shot to come out April 16, 2024!
Shane needs to provide a celebrity wedding at his family’s resort… may as well be his own. Except… he’s not engaged. Not even dating anyone. Enter Ivy. A fake fiancé is just what she needs to get her ex to leave her along. What could possibly go wrong 😉
Thanks to Serena Bell for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for Hott Shot to come out April 16, 2024!
March 17, 2024
A fun fake engagement between two actors to save the Hott land. Great characters, laughs out loud moments, and definitely some smexy times. I think Shane and Ivy are my favorite Rush Creek couple!
April 19, 2024
I really like this author's books, but HOTT TAKE didn't quits do it for me for one reason alone: all chemistry, no connection.
Ivy and Shane gave chemistry off the charts, but these characters have no meaningful conversation or quality time spent together until 70% into the book and only after they have sex. Then they have a meaningful convo in a bar and one might of exchanging childhood stories much later.
I just didn't buy that Ivy and Shane were deeply in love by the end of the book. Horny first each other? Yes. In love? No.
If you want a light and fun romance, without you much drama, and with mad chemistry, you'll love HOTT TAKE. But I was looking for a lot more emotional connection and meaningful moments.
𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝗦𝗣𝗜𝗖𝗘 𝗟𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗟: Rated R / 2-4 descriptive sex scenes, may have harsh language.
𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗚𝗘𝗥𝗦: past death of parent, emotionally distant parent
𝗙𝗘𝗘𝗟𝗦: 2/5 - A bit of drama, but still a pretty light read.
𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗟𝗞 𝗠𝗘 𝗢𝗡𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗘 ➡️ INSTAGRAM
Ivy and Shane gave chemistry off the charts, but these characters have no meaningful conversation or quality time spent together until 70% into the book and only after they have sex. Then they have a meaningful convo in a bar and one might of exchanging childhood stories much later.
I just didn't buy that Ivy and Shane were deeply in love by the end of the book. Horny first each other? Yes. In love? No.
If you want a light and fun romance, without you much drama, and with mad chemistry, you'll love HOTT TAKE. But I was looking for a lot more emotional connection and meaningful moments.
𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝗦𝗣𝗜𝗖𝗘 𝗟𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗟: Rated R / 2-4 descriptive sex scenes, may have harsh language.
𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗚𝗘𝗥𝗦: past death of parent, emotionally distant parent
𝗙𝗘𝗘𝗟𝗦: 2/5 - A bit of drama, but still a pretty light read.
𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗟𝗞 𝗠𝗘 𝗢𝗡𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗘 ➡️ INSTAGRAM
May 2, 2024
I love Serena Bell's books and her latest Hott family series has been the perfect mix of hilarious and romantic 💕
The concept itself is brilliant, and watching each Hott sibling be toyed with by grumpy Grandad from Beyond the grave (with the help of his lawyer) gave me all the giggles. Seeing actors Shane and Ivy fake date their way to a legally binding marriage (with all the obstacles you can imagine) was such a fun story and I love the way the Author writes her HEAs 💕
Thank you to Author Serena Bell and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC! I can't wait for book 3!
The concept itself is brilliant, and watching each Hott sibling be toyed with by grumpy Grandad from Beyond the grave (with the help of his lawyer) gave me all the giggles. Seeing actors Shane and Ivy fake date their way to a legally binding marriage (with all the obstacles you can imagine) was such a fun story and I love the way the Author writes her HEAs 💕
Thank you to Author Serena Bell and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC! I can't wait for book 3!
July 12, 2024
Another one of the Hott brothers is up for a challenge per grandpa Hott’s will, and it’s a doozy. While he is a movie star and his task is not out of the realm of possibilities, Shane needs to make a celebrity wedding happen at Hott Springs so that he’s not the one Hana’s business depends on. And he has 6 months to do it. And the couple has to genuinely be in love. And the executor of the will has to believe it all to be true.
Can his gramps be any more vindictive? Or is he?
Ivy Scofiled, an ex TV actress that’s hiding in Rush Creek, and as a solution for her own annoying ex boyfriend and other volunteering career crisis, she agrees to a plan suggested to her by Shane.
Now when you combine a devastatingly handsome, talented actor who’s also a really good guy, and a beautiful actress in need of an out, and they have few short weeks to dupe everyone into believing they’re in love – that is exactly what happens, only for real.
But since they both have their own issues outside of their deal, things become more challenging.
This is a sweet, sexy and quite funny romance that will basically be your fantasy romance come true in a great weekend read.
Grab yourself a copy as soon as it comes out. It’s worth it.
Can his gramps be any more vindictive? Or is he?
Ivy Scofiled, an ex TV actress that’s hiding in Rush Creek, and as a solution for her own annoying ex boyfriend and other volunteering career crisis, she agrees to a plan suggested to her by Shane.
Now when you combine a devastatingly handsome, talented actor who’s also a really good guy, and a beautiful actress in need of an out, and they have few short weeks to dupe everyone into believing they’re in love – that is exactly what happens, only for real.
But since they both have their own issues outside of their deal, things become more challenging.
This is a sweet, sexy and quite funny romance that will basically be your fantasy romance come true in a great weekend read.
Grab yourself a copy as soon as it comes out. It’s worth it.
April 5, 2024
3.75stars-HOTT TAKE is the second instalment in Serena Bell’s contemporary, adult HOTT SPRINGS ETERNAL erotic, romance series focusing on the HOTT siblings: Quinn, Shane, Preston, Tucker, Rhys, and their sister Hanna (Wilder at Last 5/ Wilder Adventures)-a spin off from the author’s WILDER ADVENTURES series. This is actors Shane HOTT, and Ivy Scofield’s story line.
SOME BACKGROUND: The HOTT Springs Eternal series focuses in the aftermath of the death of the Hott family patriarch. Grandfather Hott has a number of stipulations and guidelines if the siblings are to inherit the family fortune. Each sibling is required to honor their late grandfather’s request if their sister Hanna is to keep the HOTT Springs resort.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Ivy and Shane) HOTT TAKE focuses on Shane Hott. Grandfather Hott has demanded that Shane contract a celebrity wedding for the family owned Hott Springs Resort but with only a six month window, Shane’s chosen couple are not necessarily a guaranteed affair. Meanwhile Ivy Scofield, whose own acting career has stalled in the face of betrayal and lies, runs a community theatre for troubled children but without a venue, Ivy is struggling to keep the theatre afloat until an offer from fellow actor Shane Hott pulls Ivy into a fake relationship and marriage with our story line hero. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between our story line couple, and the potential fall-out when Shane and Ivy’s time together comes to an end.
The world building continues to focus on the demands of their grandfather’s will. The stipulations and directives are overseen by someone who is hoping the siblings fail but Shane is determined to provided a celebrity wedding even if he is one-half of the couple in question.
The relationship between Ivy and Shane begins as a business arrangement: marry Shane, and Ivy’s theatre company can use the Hott family ‘barn’ but from the outset Ivy is determined to keep their relationship from becoming too real, and in the end, heart break will pull Ivy out of Shane’s life. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top sexually graphic language and text.
Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including the Hott siblings. We are introduced to Ivy’s ex-Anthony, attorney Weggers, and Ivy’s sister Nia.
HOTT TAKE is an another story of loss, power and control, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The premise is captivating yet familiar; the romance is seductive; the characters are desperate yet determined.
Copy supplied for review
Www.thereadingcafe.com
SOME BACKGROUND: The HOTT Springs Eternal series focuses in the aftermath of the death of the Hott family patriarch. Grandfather Hott has a number of stipulations and guidelines if the siblings are to inherit the family fortune. Each sibling is required to honor their late grandfather’s request if their sister Hanna is to keep the HOTT Springs resort.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Ivy and Shane) HOTT TAKE focuses on Shane Hott. Grandfather Hott has demanded that Shane contract a celebrity wedding for the family owned Hott Springs Resort but with only a six month window, Shane’s chosen couple are not necessarily a guaranteed affair. Meanwhile Ivy Scofield, whose own acting career has stalled in the face of betrayal and lies, runs a community theatre for troubled children but without a venue, Ivy is struggling to keep the theatre afloat until an offer from fellow actor Shane Hott pulls Ivy into a fake relationship and marriage with our story line hero. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between our story line couple, and the potential fall-out when Shane and Ivy’s time together comes to an end.
The world building continues to focus on the demands of their grandfather’s will. The stipulations and directives are overseen by someone who is hoping the siblings fail but Shane is determined to provided a celebrity wedding even if he is one-half of the couple in question.
The relationship between Ivy and Shane begins as a business arrangement: marry Shane, and Ivy’s theatre company can use the Hott family ‘barn’ but from the outset Ivy is determined to keep their relationship from becoming too real, and in the end, heart break will pull Ivy out of Shane’s life. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top sexually graphic language and text.
Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including the Hott siblings. We are introduced to Ivy’s ex-Anthony, attorney Weggers, and Ivy’s sister Nia.
HOTT TAKE is an another story of loss, power and control, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The premise is captivating yet familiar; the romance is seductive; the characters are desperate yet determined.
Copy supplied for review
Www.thereadingcafe.com
April 21, 2024
REVIEW
cw: abandonment issues, gaslighting
As the next Hott brother forced to bow to his scheming grandfather's will, playboy movie star Shane is tasked with finding a celebrity to marry at Hott Springs Eternal. He thinks he's found the perfect couple, but when he needs to find a replacement at the eleventh hour, he asks Ivy Scofield, the local former actress. Ivy is trying to stay away from fans of her short-lived Hollywood career, instead running the local community theatre. She has no time for Hollywood players, which is fine because Shane says he never falls in love. Their marriage will be strictly business. But as they grow closer, can either of them keep to the rules?
I loved the first in this series, and Hott Take was a lot of fun. It was great to get to know Shane on a deeper level, and he was an interesting character. I really felt for him when he talked about his father's lack of parental love, and how he would dismiss Shane. I loved that he was able to build bridges with his brothers and Hanna. I was kind of obsessed with Shane's character, Mavryx, and yes, especially that spire scene (IYKYK) But I was definitely more obsessed with Shane. I absolutely ADORED how utterly gone he was for Ivy (even when he was in denial), and the scene where he finally let her in was so beautifully written. Meanwhile Ivy was such a sweetheart, and I loved her sense of humour. Her banter with Shane was hilarious, and I loved the part where they plotted their backstory, and the cake tasting was EVERYTHING. Seriously. Their chemistry was a lot of fun. One of my favourite parts was Shane being perplexed when Ivy didn't realise he'd been telling the truth about their first meeting. As for the proposal, I was so giddy with the chemistry, but I also loved how much the spa ladies helped out, and how welcoming they were. If I had one minor niggle, it was that I found the idea of two actors (especially one's who most definitely would have had obsessed fans) making all the details of their engagement and wedding plans quite so public a bit unbelievable.That said, it didn't hinder my enjoyment. As well as the usual humour and banter, there was plenty of swoon-worthy moments, but I particularly adored everything about chapter forty-two.
Of course there were plenty of familiar faces popping up. I loved that the bachelorette took place on Brody's boat (he's still my favourite Wilder), and Hanna and Easton were as adorable as always. I also loved seeing more of Quinn and Sonya together, and I loved Quinn's conversation with Shane in LA , as well as the one's between Sonya and Ivy. I was also even more intrigued by the latest hints about Preston and Tucker's lives, and that ending left me EXTRA excited for Preston's story.
Another fun addition to Rush Creek.
Overall Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️.5
Heat Rating: 🔥🔥
*Thanks to the publisher for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own*
Favourite Quotes:
Never trust a guy so good looking he makes you stupid.
“Thank you,” I say.
She frowns. “For what?”
“For…making me feel like I’m worth fighting for, I guess.”
I’m done. I’m done running from what I want, I’m done running from what I need.
“I don’t get possessive,” he says quietly, his gaze fierce on me. Like he’s musing on it. Trying to puzzle his way to an answer and the answer is on my face. “I don’t get feelings. But right now, I could kill that guy with my bare hands, and I might not even break a sweat. Because that’s how much I want you for myself."
“That’s my ring on her finger, and I intend to keep it there.”
cw: abandonment issues, gaslighting
As the next Hott brother forced to bow to his scheming grandfather's will, playboy movie star Shane is tasked with finding a celebrity to marry at Hott Springs Eternal. He thinks he's found the perfect couple, but when he needs to find a replacement at the eleventh hour, he asks Ivy Scofield, the local former actress. Ivy is trying to stay away from fans of her short-lived Hollywood career, instead running the local community theatre. She has no time for Hollywood players, which is fine because Shane says he never falls in love. Their marriage will be strictly business. But as they grow closer, can either of them keep to the rules?
I loved the first in this series, and Hott Take was a lot of fun. It was great to get to know Shane on a deeper level, and he was an interesting character. I really felt for him when he talked about his father's lack of parental love, and how he would dismiss Shane. I loved that he was able to build bridges with his brothers and Hanna. I was kind of obsessed with Shane's character, Mavryx, and yes, especially that spire scene (IYKYK) But I was definitely more obsessed with Shane. I absolutely ADORED how utterly gone he was for Ivy (even when he was in denial), and the scene where he finally let her in was so beautifully written. Meanwhile Ivy was such a sweetheart, and I loved her sense of humour. Her banter with Shane was hilarious, and I loved the part where they plotted their backstory, and the cake tasting was EVERYTHING. Seriously. Their chemistry was a lot of fun. One of my favourite parts was Shane being perplexed when Ivy didn't realise he'd been telling the truth about their first meeting. As for the proposal, I was so giddy with the chemistry, but I also loved how much the spa ladies helped out, and how welcoming they were. If I had one minor niggle, it was that I found the idea of two actors (especially one's who most definitely would have had obsessed fans) making all the details of their engagement and wedding plans quite so public a bit unbelievable.That said, it didn't hinder my enjoyment. As well as the usual humour and banter, there was plenty of swoon-worthy moments, but I particularly adored everything about chapter forty-two.
Of course there were plenty of familiar faces popping up. I loved that the bachelorette took place on Brody's boat (he's still my favourite Wilder), and Hanna and Easton were as adorable as always. I also loved seeing more of Quinn and Sonya together, and I loved Quinn's conversation with Shane in LA , as well as the one's between Sonya and Ivy. I was also even more intrigued by the latest hints about Preston and Tucker's lives, and that ending left me EXTRA excited for Preston's story.
Another fun addition to Rush Creek.
Overall Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️.5
Heat Rating: 🔥🔥
*Thanks to the publisher for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own*
Favourite Quotes:
Never trust a guy so good looking he makes you stupid.
“Thank you,” I say.
She frowns. “For what?”
“For…making me feel like I’m worth fighting for, I guess.”
I’m done. I’m done running from what I want, I’m done running from what I need.
“I don’t get possessive,” he says quietly, his gaze fierce on me. Like he’s musing on it. Trying to puzzle his way to an answer and the answer is on my face. “I don’t get feelings. But right now, I could kill that guy with my bare hands, and I might not even break a sweat. Because that’s how much I want you for myself."
“That’s my ring on her finger, and I intend to keep it there.”
April 17, 2024
When it comes to the main characters of this story, Shane and Ivy, they are fantastic. Ivy is kind and smart with an understated sense of humor. Shane has the persona of a rake, but that’s not who he is inside. Since this is a dual-POV story, we see the real Shane and how much he cares for his family and Ivy.
I love the concept of this book since I love a marriage of convenience story. Shane and Ivy have amazing chemistry, but they’re both actors. That means both are unsure of what is real and what isn’t when they see emotions in the other. When there is a tender touch, is it because there are cameras around? There is always doubt in the back of their minds. Shane needs their relationship to be believable because of his grandfather’s will or his sister may lose her land and her business. He’s running out of time to fulfill his task so everything is riding on this fake relationship and, ultimately, their wedding.
Here’s where I have a big problem with this story. Ivy’s reason for giving in and doing this for Shane is her theater group of teenagers. They lost their space and needed a new place to practice and perform. They will get the use of a refurbished barn that will be used for weddings for 6 months in exchange for her marrying Shane. Once the deal is made, we seldom see or hear about this group of kids. It’s rarely even brought up in conversation. It’s not that I expected or even wanted long scenes with these kids, but it could have been mentioned that she was at work with the kids or just getting home from the theater. It was like she was never there anymore when, as far as I can tell, it was her only job. Then there is an event that takes place in the epilogue that is unnecessary and actually made the story feel a bit ridiculous to me. It seemed like it was put in for word count that could have been used in rounding out Ivy’s connection to the kids and the theater.
The emotional walls Shane and Ivy had to overcome were well written and helped to cement their relationship when they shared their pasts. That helped to hold this story up and keep it a solid read. I just wish it would have been more fleshed out overall.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
I love the concept of this book since I love a marriage of convenience story. Shane and Ivy have amazing chemistry, but they’re both actors. That means both are unsure of what is real and what isn’t when they see emotions in the other. When there is a tender touch, is it because there are cameras around? There is always doubt in the back of their minds. Shane needs their relationship to be believable because of his grandfather’s will or his sister may lose her land and her business. He’s running out of time to fulfill his task so everything is riding on this fake relationship and, ultimately, their wedding.
Here’s where I have a big problem with this story. Ivy’s reason for giving in and doing this for Shane is her theater group of teenagers. They lost their space and needed a new place to practice and perform. They will get the use of a refurbished barn that will be used for weddings for 6 months in exchange for her marrying Shane. Once the deal is made, we seldom see or hear about this group of kids. It’s rarely even brought up in conversation. It’s not that I expected or even wanted long scenes with these kids, but it could have been mentioned that she was at work with the kids or just getting home from the theater. It was like she was never there anymore when, as far as I can tell, it was her only job. Then there is an event that takes place in the epilogue that is unnecessary and actually made the story feel a bit ridiculous to me. It seemed like it was put in for word count that could have been used in rounding out Ivy’s connection to the kids and the theater.
The emotional walls Shane and Ivy had to overcome were well written and helped to cement their relationship when they shared their pasts. That helped to hold this story up and keep it a solid read. I just wish it would have been more fleshed out overall.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews