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Pine Mountain #2
Gimme Some Sugar
Updated and re-releasing in May 2023
Desperate to escape the spotlight of her failed marriage to a fellow celebrity-chef, Carly di Matisse left New York City for a tiny town in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The restaurant she's running these days may not be chic, but in Pine Mountain she can pretend to be the tough cookie everybody knows and loves. Until she finds herself spending too much time with a way-too-hot contractor whose rugged good looks melt her like butter. . .
Jackson Carter wasn't looking for love. But he's not the kind of man to walk away from a worksite--or from a fiery beauty whose passionate nature provides some irresistible on-the-job benefits. . .
It's the perfect temporary arrangement for two ravenous commitment-phobes--except that Jackson and Carly keep coming back for seconds. . .and thirds. . .and fourths. . .
Desperate to escape the spotlight of her failed marriage to a fellow celebrity-chef, Carly di Matisse left New York City for a tiny town in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The restaurant she's running these days may not be chic, but in Pine Mountain she can pretend to be the tough cookie everybody knows and loves. Until she finds herself spending too much time with a way-too-hot contractor whose rugged good looks melt her like butter. . .
Jackson Carter wasn't looking for love. But he's not the kind of man to walk away from a worksite--or from a fiery beauty whose passionate nature provides some irresistible on-the-job benefits. . .
It's the perfect temporary arrangement for two ravenous commitment-phobes--except that Jackson and Carly keep coming back for seconds. . .and thirds. . .and fourths. . .
343 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 3, 2014
60 people are currently reading
1040 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Kincaid
61 books2,671 followersUSA Today best-selling author Kimberly Kincaid writes romantic suspense that sizzles and contemporary romance with heart and heat. Equal parts action and emotion, her firefighters and first responders always save the day. When she's not finding adventure with her family and naughty Whippets, Olive, Daisy, and Jack, she can be found practicing obscene amounts of yoga, whipping up anything from enchiladas to éclairs in her kitchen, or curled up with her nose in a book.
Kimberly's series include The Intelligence Unit, Remington Medical, Station Seventeen, and her brand-new Remington Rescue Squad series. All titles stand alone for easy reading.
Kimberly's series include The Intelligence Unit, Remington Medical, Station Seventeen, and her brand-new Remington Rescue Squad series. All titles stand alone for easy reading.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
November 14, 2016
Carly di Matisse is a top chef, who escaped to the small town Pine Mountain to get away from her awful, almost ex-husband. The restaurant she’s the main chef for might not be as famous as the one she used to work at, but she enjoys being the only main chef. But she longs to return to New York, and she refuses to get attached to Pine Mountain or anyone there, especially the rugged and sexy contractor, Jackson Carter.
Jackson doesn’t believe in love for himself. With his DNA from his father, he refuses to fall in love. But the moment he sees Carly, her passionate and fiery nature pulls him in. And the fact that she’s only temporary in his town, make her even more irresistible.
But temporary soon turns into a lot more serious emotions.
I had a hard time connecting with the main characters in this book. At first Carly came across as a bit of a bitch, and I didn’t like how she treated Jackson. And then Jackson kept pushing Carly away, even made her think that he was cheating on a girlfriend of his (which he wasn’t), just because he didn’t want her to get attached to him, and him to her. It was all just too much pushing away for me, and I eventually lost interest in their romance.
I’m pretty sure my issues with the book were more a case of “it’s me, not you”, and that most readers who love small town romances will enjoy this book.
October 16, 2017
My thoughts and feelings while reading:
0.0% ARC received by Kimberly Kincaid via Netgalley Finally starting this book after a hectic weekend! :)
0.0% Sorry for the lack of updates the last couple days Im currently sorting out my uni room as Im moving back home for the summer - I should be able to post them all tomorrow :)
4.0% He needed to walk away, and he needed to do it pronto.
Nope. Not happening. This woman was fucking beautiful. Even if she did sound like a bag full of pissed off kittens. Lool this book sounds like its going to be a good one! :)
9.0% He might've discovered it ages ago, but he'd have to be dead in the ground to forget why staying out of love was the smartest thing he could do.
And the safest. ?! Why?? Oh now I'm intrigued!!
15.0% Jackson blew out a breath and pasted a smile to his face. "That would be great. Why do I think this is going to backfire BIG time on Jackson - I really really hope Im wrong!!
17.0% God, damn, Jackson thought with a shake of his head. Who knew kitchen banter could be so sexy? I definitely loved it!! <3
19.0% Christ, the heat coming off of her was incredible, and all he could think was more. <3 I cant wait to see them finally give in to temptation - their chemistry is sooo HOT!
24.0% "Come on, Carly. Its okay to admit youre human. Getting horizontal with a nice, hot bene-friend might be good for you." Sloane's lips gave a devilish twist before parting on a dreamy smile. "Unless you're looking for a swan." I love the friendship between Sloane and Carly! <3
26.0% Jackson stopped short, a fistful of canvas twisting in his palm. His answer shot out before he could reel it back. Okay I really really wanna know about Jackson and his past and why he doesnt want to fall in love now! So curious though I think I know the reason! :) :)
36.0% In the decade and a half since Jackson had left puberty in the rearview mirror, he'd never once lost control with a woman. In fact, he'd made it a point to stay detached for this very reason. It was dangerous, and he wouldnt put himself - or anybody else, for that matter - in a position to be hurt. Oh Jackson! :( although I love that the only one who can make him lose control is Carly!
40.0% "Oh, Jenna!" Shit .... Here we go - and its going to be worse than I thought :'(
47.0% "Gotta say, the humble apology is a pleasant surprise. Not a lot of men go for that," Sloane said, her voice tinged with awe. Just another reason why I'm falling for Jackson! <3
53.0% Carly raised her eyes to meet his heavily-lidded gaze. "You did say that backwards could be fun," she pointed out, borrowing his maddening smirk. Yes these two are definitely HOT!! <3 <3
54.0% "Tell you what. Why dont we warm up some of those leftovers, and then we can watch TV on the couch. You can eat and hold me at the same time. What do you say?" Haha I'm officially IN LOVE with these two! :) <3
62.0% Holy. Shit. For a second, Jackson thought he might be in love with her, until he realized he didnt do that kind of thing. You keep believing that Jackson, youll realize soon enough haha :)
66.0% "You made me a PB and J?"
He swallowed. "Yeah. I know it's not fancy, but..."
"It's perfect."
Awww! Jackson is really really cute!
67.0% "I like it when you talk to me, too. So tell me again. Tell me I'm driving you crazy. Tell me whatever you want."
"I just want you."
The words were barely out of his mouth before Jackson was inside her
Jackson and Carly are definitely HOT together! :) <3
77.0% "Sorry. I thought ... when you said home, I thought you meant pine mountain. I guess it's been a long day." :) Hope Carly realizes that pine mountain IS home soon enough!! :) <3
82.0% "It's not a risk I'm willing to take." Oh Jackson! What the hell happened that night?!
91.0% "You're bleeding. Oh, God, you're really bleeding."
Jackson!! :'( :'( 3
96.0% Feed her. FEED HER.
In that instant, everything snapped into place with gut-wrenching clarity.
Aww now it makes sense! I was wondering what the hell that meant! :) <3
98.0% "I belong here now. Pine Mountain is my home." Yayayayayayayay!! <3 that scene was amazing - I LOVE THESE TWO TOGETHER!
100.0% Loved this book but there was just something missing for me to give it 5 stars but I dont know what :/ I think it was the fact I've been so busy this week and I had to keep stopping :( All I know is I loved being back in pine mountain, Carly and Jackson are sooo perfect together and I can't wait for the next installment in this series! :) <3"
0.0% ARC received by Kimberly Kincaid via Netgalley Finally starting this book after a hectic weekend! :)
0.0% Sorry for the lack of updates the last couple days Im currently sorting out my uni room as Im moving back home for the summer - I should be able to post them all tomorrow :)
4.0% He needed to walk away, and he needed to do it pronto.
Nope. Not happening. This woman was fucking beautiful. Even if she did sound like a bag full of pissed off kittens. Lool this book sounds like its going to be a good one! :)
9.0% He might've discovered it ages ago, but he'd have to be dead in the ground to forget why staying out of love was the smartest thing he could do.
And the safest. ?! Why?? Oh now I'm intrigued!!
15.0% Jackson blew out a breath and pasted a smile to his face. "That would be great. Why do I think this is going to backfire BIG time on Jackson - I really really hope Im wrong!!
17.0% God, damn, Jackson thought with a shake of his head. Who knew kitchen banter could be so sexy? I definitely loved it!! <3
19.0% Christ, the heat coming off of her was incredible, and all he could think was more. <3 I cant wait to see them finally give in to temptation - their chemistry is sooo HOT!
24.0% "Come on, Carly. Its okay to admit youre human. Getting horizontal with a nice, hot bene-friend might be good for you." Sloane's lips gave a devilish twist before parting on a dreamy smile. "Unless you're looking for a swan." I love the friendship between Sloane and Carly! <3
26.0% Jackson stopped short, a fistful of canvas twisting in his palm. His answer shot out before he could reel it back. Okay I really really wanna know about Jackson and his past and why he doesnt want to fall in love now! So curious though I think I know the reason! :) :)
36.0% In the decade and a half since Jackson had left puberty in the rearview mirror, he'd never once lost control with a woman. In fact, he'd made it a point to stay detached for this very reason. It was dangerous, and he wouldnt put himself - or anybody else, for that matter - in a position to be hurt. Oh Jackson! :( although I love that the only one who can make him lose control is Carly!
40.0% "Oh, Jenna!" Shit .... Here we go - and its going to be worse than I thought :'(
47.0% "Gotta say, the humble apology is a pleasant surprise. Not a lot of men go for that," Sloane said, her voice tinged with awe. Just another reason why I'm falling for Jackson! <3
53.0% Carly raised her eyes to meet his heavily-lidded gaze. "You did say that backwards could be fun," she pointed out, borrowing his maddening smirk. Yes these two are definitely HOT!! <3 <3
54.0% "Tell you what. Why dont we warm up some of those leftovers, and then we can watch TV on the couch. You can eat and hold me at the same time. What do you say?" Haha I'm officially IN LOVE with these two! :) <3
62.0% Holy. Shit. For a second, Jackson thought he might be in love with her, until he realized he didnt do that kind of thing. You keep believing that Jackson, youll realize soon enough haha :)
66.0% "You made me a PB and J?"
He swallowed. "Yeah. I know it's not fancy, but..."
"It's perfect."
Awww! Jackson is really really cute!
67.0% "I like it when you talk to me, too. So tell me again. Tell me I'm driving you crazy. Tell me whatever you want."
"I just want you."
The words were barely out of his mouth before Jackson was inside her
Jackson and Carly are definitely HOT together! :) <3
77.0% "Sorry. I thought ... when you said home, I thought you meant pine mountain. I guess it's been a long day." :) Hope Carly realizes that pine mountain IS home soon enough!! :) <3
82.0% "It's not a risk I'm willing to take." Oh Jackson! What the hell happened that night?!
91.0% "You're bleeding. Oh, God, you're really bleeding."
Jackson!! :'( :'( 3
96.0% Feed her. FEED HER.
In that instant, everything snapped into place with gut-wrenching clarity.
Aww now it makes sense! I was wondering what the hell that meant! :) <3
98.0% "I belong here now. Pine Mountain is my home." Yayayayayayayay!! <3 that scene was amazing - I LOVE THESE TWO TOGETHER!
100.0% Loved this book but there was just something missing for me to give it 5 stars but I dont know what :/ I think it was the fact I've been so busy this week and I had to keep stopping :( All I know is I loved being back in pine mountain, Carly and Jackson are sooo perfect together and I can't wait for the next installment in this series! :) <3"
May 21, 2023
I freaking loved this book and it's gone straight to my keep/re-read list. I don't hide the fact that I love this authors writing and with this the second full length novel in the Pine Mountain series she has done it again. I could not put this book down once I started. If Pine Mountain existed, I would be packing my bags for a visit.
In this book we get uber hot contractor Jackson and chef Carly's story. You will be laughing when they meet in hilarious circumstances and that humour plays out through the whole book. Plus boy do these two have chemistry. It sparks immediately and just gets hotter and hotter.
"Damn those white cotton panties, the way something so demure could cover up something so wicked just turned him in like runway lights. It was almost unfair".
We met Jackson in Turn up the Heat and since then I've been itching to read his story and I was not disappointed. Jackson has quickly become one of my favourite book boyfriends. When you read this book you will see why. He is 6'4 of pure hotness with a closed heart, a wonderful family, a hot best friend in Shane and a job that keeps him busy. But he won't let love in his heart not after an incident when he was a kid.
He has met his match in chef extraordinaire Carly. I really liked Carly. If she was real I would totally want to be in her and her best friend Sloane's newest friend. Carly is a woman working in a tough field but she absolutely owns her kitchen and runs her staff to her own high standard. I loved her backbone. She is dealing with an arse of an future ex-husband and the consequences and fall out of his actions.
Carly is coming off a divorce and doesn't want another a man in her life. But fate has other plans. Jackson keeps crossing her path and soon she can't see the reasons for not giving in.
" Screw complicated. She was on fire for this guy".
Jackson doesn't do love. He's a uncommitted type of guy till his little chef comes in to the picture and totally screws up his plans to stay single. What with her talk of food, out of this world cooking and her plans and zest for setting up a garden for her restaurant.
Carly and Jackson are just perfect for each other and it's fun to see what happens when each realises this. My favourite was towards the end of the book and what Jackson does to prove his feelings.
Throw in some major family dramas, a protective sous chef not to mention big brothers, Jackson's wonderful mother and a surprise that continues the storyline from the last book and you get another 5 star read from Kimberly Kincaid.
I've said it before and I stand buy it, this author is going to be big. As in giving Jill Shalvis a run for her money big. This is a series I can't get enough of and I can't wait for the next book. And as Kimberly Kincaid always says "Don't read hungry ".
Edited to add: I can't change a thing about this review except to say the author had updated the book and made it even better if that's possible. If you haven't had the pleasure to read it before, change that now!
In this book we get uber hot contractor Jackson and chef Carly's story. You will be laughing when they meet in hilarious circumstances and that humour plays out through the whole book. Plus boy do these two have chemistry. It sparks immediately and just gets hotter and hotter.
"Damn those white cotton panties, the way something so demure could cover up something so wicked just turned him in like runway lights. It was almost unfair".
We met Jackson in Turn up the Heat and since then I've been itching to read his story and I was not disappointed. Jackson has quickly become one of my favourite book boyfriends. When you read this book you will see why. He is 6'4 of pure hotness with a closed heart, a wonderful family, a hot best friend in Shane and a job that keeps him busy. But he won't let love in his heart not after an incident when he was a kid.
He has met his match in chef extraordinaire Carly. I really liked Carly. If she was real I would totally want to be in her and her best friend Sloane's newest friend. Carly is a woman working in a tough field but she absolutely owns her kitchen and runs her staff to her own high standard. I loved her backbone. She is dealing with an arse of an future ex-husband and the consequences and fall out of his actions.
Carly is coming off a divorce and doesn't want another a man in her life. But fate has other plans. Jackson keeps crossing her path and soon she can't see the reasons for not giving in.
" Screw complicated. She was on fire for this guy".
Jackson doesn't do love. He's a uncommitted type of guy till his little chef comes in to the picture and totally screws up his plans to stay single. What with her talk of food, out of this world cooking and her plans and zest for setting up a garden for her restaurant.
Carly and Jackson are just perfect for each other and it's fun to see what happens when each realises this. My favourite was towards the end of the book and what Jackson does to prove his feelings.
Throw in some major family dramas, a protective sous chef not to mention big brothers, Jackson's wonderful mother and a surprise that continues the storyline from the last book and you get another 5 star read from Kimberly Kincaid.
I've said it before and I stand buy it, this author is going to be big. As in giving Jill Shalvis a run for her money big. This is a series I can't get enough of and I can't wait for the next book. And as Kimberly Kincaid always says "Don't read hungry ".
Edited to add: I can't change a thing about this review except to say the author had updated the book and made it even better if that's possible. If you haven't had the pleasure to read it before, change that now!
October 19, 2014
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Another sweet and sexy winner from Kimberly Kincaid. I can tell you this lady has one bubbly personality (totally bouncing in person)and it really shows in her writing. The passionate dialogue and layers of emotions encountered in her story telling keeps me hooked from page one.
I really loved Jackson.
I mean just his name made me sigh.
He had a jaded outlook on his ability at long term relationships, but I just knew that once he let those walls down that his ability to love would be so huge. He just had that good guy vibe and I liked him right away.
Carly was just what he needed because although she had every reason to be against love or marriage or even long term hookups she still had an open personality and didn't shy away from taking risks.
These two had chemistry from the very first moment they encountered each other and even though some of those moments were pretty darn funny they still ooozed sexuality and I loved it!
It took them both some time to get where they needed to be but this love story really charmed itself into my heart. I look forward to Sloane's story but most of all give me Adrian's. I want this big sexy guy to fall hard as he can for some sassy lady. Come on Kim, gimme MORE ..now. :)
Nichole's Sizzling Reviews
Sizzling Pages @ Facebook
Twitter:@Sizzlingpages
Email: sizzlingpages@gmail.com
Another sweet and sexy winner from Kimberly Kincaid. I can tell you this lady has one bubbly personality (totally bouncing in person)and it really shows in her writing. The passionate dialogue and layers of emotions encountered in her story telling keeps me hooked from page one.
I really loved Jackson.
I mean just his name made me sigh.
He had a jaded outlook on his ability at long term relationships, but I just knew that once he let those walls down that his ability to love would be so huge. He just had that good guy vibe and I liked him right away.
Carly was just what he needed because although she had every reason to be against love or marriage or even long term hookups she still had an open personality and didn't shy away from taking risks.
These two had chemistry from the very first moment they encountered each other and even though some of those moments were pretty darn funny they still ooozed sexuality and I loved it!
It took them both some time to get where they needed to be but this love story really charmed itself into my heart. I look forward to Sloane's story but most of all give me Adrian's. I want this big sexy guy to fall hard as he can for some sassy lady. Come on Kim, gimme MORE ..now. :)
May 15, 2014
I absolutely adored this book!
I have not read book one, but I will definitely be going back to read it. I love the town, I love the characters, and overall I just love the flow of this book! This is my first time reading a book by Kimberly Kincaid, But I am so excited to read more!
This book was sweet, funny, and heartwarming. I really loved Carly and Jackson by themselves, but together they were so cute. I love reading romance, and watching them fall in love with each other was beautiful! I thought they were perfect for each other. I was hooked from start to finish.
The author has whipped up a sweet love story that I just can't get enough of! This is one of those books that you take to the beach or the pool with you when you want to relax, and loose yourself in a great story. All of the food and recipes that were in this book made me wish I was there!
I am going to Pine Mountain, who would like to go with me? Pick a copy of this book up! It is a nice heart warming read!
** Book provided by publisher on NetGalley.**
I have not read book one, but I will definitely be going back to read it. I love the town, I love the characters, and overall I just love the flow of this book! This is my first time reading a book by Kimberly Kincaid, But I am so excited to read more!
This book was sweet, funny, and heartwarming. I really loved Carly and Jackson by themselves, but together they were so cute. I love reading romance, and watching them fall in love with each other was beautiful! I thought they were perfect for each other. I was hooked from start to finish.
The author has whipped up a sweet love story that I just can't get enough of! This is one of those books that you take to the beach or the pool with you when you want to relax, and loose yourself in a great story. All of the food and recipes that were in this book made me wish I was there!
I am going to Pine Mountain, who would like to go with me? Pick a copy of this book up! It is a nice heart warming read!
** Book provided by publisher on NetGalley.**
April 25, 2014
Loved Jackson right off, "hey. Just so you know, I'm behind you. I want to cover all my bases for personal safety." Carly whirled around only to find herself face-to-sternum with Mr. Fix-It." I loved his thoughts, "sh**. Sh**crapsh**! How was he supposed to manage a casual conversation with her now that he had the anatomical equivalent of the goddamn Empire State Building in his pants? Jackson winced and adjusted his jeans." There's only so much a girl can take before she starts asking questions, "that's twice now that you've kissed me and called it a mistake." Carly's expression was blank, her smoldering heat dimmed down to nothing in the span of a breath." Jackson is just plain adorable when he's stuttering, "he stilled, eyes flickering over hers. "Well, yeah, but I thought....I mean, I'm supposed to...well, I can hold you for a while first. If you want." And he can just be oh so sexy! "You can have me later. I'm taking you first." I loved reading this book there was never a dull moment with Jackson and Carly.
April 20, 2014
Come back to Pine Mountain! "Gimme Some Sugar" Book#2 in Kimberly Kincaid's Pine Mountain Series brings the story of Carly and Jackson, we met Jackson in the first book of this series "Turn Up The Heat". What do you get when you put sexy contractor Jackson and NYC Chef Carly trying to re-establish her career after a disaster of a marriage? You get flames! The chemistry between these two is so hot you feel the sparks coming out of the pages. Both have issues they need to deal with, some fun moments and definitely moments when your heart just hurts for this couple. Read it! You won't be able to put it down. Looking forward to the next book in this series.
An ARC copy was provided by the Author for an honest review
An ARC copy was provided by the Author for an honest review
April 29, 2014
Received a complimentary copy via Netgalley
Once again Kimberley dishes up a veritable treat! (Bad food pun I know but hey ho!)
I had been looking forward to Carly's story since we first met her in the The Sugar Cookie Sweetheart Swap - she is a feisty character and getting to know her in this book made me what to be her friend.
Jackson - well what can I say about Jackson - he is sweet, caring, loving, drop dead gorgeous, a contractor - I could go on and on ...
The moment these two met the chemistry was there on the page and it just kept getting better and better.
As with ALL of Kimberley's books - do not eat whilst hungry. The recipes in the back had me drooling.
Once again Kimberley dishes up a veritable treat! (Bad food pun I know but hey ho!)
I had been looking forward to Carly's story since we first met her in the The Sugar Cookie Sweetheart Swap - she is a feisty character and getting to know her in this book made me what to be her friend.
Jackson - well what can I say about Jackson - he is sweet, caring, loving, drop dead gorgeous, a contractor - I could go on and on ...
The moment these two met the chemistry was there on the page and it just kept getting better and better.
As with ALL of Kimberley's books - do not eat whilst hungry. The recipes in the back had me drooling.
May 3, 2023
Gimme Some Sugar by Kimberly Kincaid, book two in her Pine Mountain series; a reworking and re-release of a book by the same name from 2014, is an amazing, heartfelt, humorous story you won’t be able to put down.NYC celebrity-chef Carly di Matisse moved to Pine Mountain to re-establish her career after a disaster of a marriage. There she meets contractor Jackson Carter, a determined bachelor, when he arrives to fix the deck on Carly's rental house. With the sparks flying and flames burning bright, these two commitment-phobes believe being friends with benefits will work best for them; until it doesn’t as they end up falling in love with each other. Both Carly and Jackson have issues they need to deal with, some fun moments and definitely moments that will make your heart hurt for this couple.
Once again Ms. Kincaid dishes up a real treat (bad food pun intended). This small town in the mountains is a wonderful place to escape. All the friendships the characters have created, male and female, adds a layer and depth to this series. Also the recipes in the back will make your mouth water. I highly recommend Gimme Some Sugar to other readers and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Once again Ms. Kincaid dishes up a real treat (bad food pun intended). This small town in the mountains is a wonderful place to escape. All the friendships the characters have created, male and female, adds a layer and depth to this series. Also the recipes in the back will make your mouth water. I highly recommend Gimme Some Sugar to other readers and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
August 11, 2016
review also found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/
I received and advanced copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The expected publication date is June 3 2014.
This is the second in the Pine Mountain series and I had not read the first instalment. Luckily this can be read as a stand alone and it did not impact the ability to enjoy this read. This was a fun and sexy read all on its own.
Kincaid does a wonderful job of creating two characters who have amazing chemistry from the get go. Carly is a spit-fire and Jackson is the usual drool worthy leading man. They seemed to be destined for each other from the beginning of the story. Let me tell you that some parts of the story were downright steamy! My only criticism and it is not just limited to this story is the physical descriptions of the characters. While Jackson is 6 feet 4, Carly comes in at an even 5 feet. This is typical among many stories. I have a hard time picturing them because in reality it makes a rather awkward looking couple. While I am all for the leading ladies to be short I don't know why they tend to be below the average female height which I believe is somewhere around 5'3. That being said if that is my only complaint then it really doesn't impact the story.
As Carly is a chef, a lot of the story is focused around food. Either Kincaid has a second occupation as a chef, an intense love of food or completed a lot of research on food. I found myself hungry throughout the story with all of the delicious sounding dishes described. It was a nice surprise to be rewarded with some recipes at the end since I could all but taste the food as I was reading.
This is my first introduction to Kincaid's works and I can say it will not be the last. I will now go back to read the first story and I look forward to the third instalment. I will also be eager to check out some of her other work
I received and advanced copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The expected publication date is June 3 2014.
This is the second in the Pine Mountain series and I had not read the first instalment. Luckily this can be read as a stand alone and it did not impact the ability to enjoy this read. This was a fun and sexy read all on its own.
Kincaid does a wonderful job of creating two characters who have amazing chemistry from the get go. Carly is a spit-fire and Jackson is the usual drool worthy leading man. They seemed to be destined for each other from the beginning of the story. Let me tell you that some parts of the story were downright steamy! My only criticism and it is not just limited to this story is the physical descriptions of the characters. While Jackson is 6 feet 4, Carly comes in at an even 5 feet. This is typical among many stories. I have a hard time picturing them because in reality it makes a rather awkward looking couple. While I am all for the leading ladies to be short I don't know why they tend to be below the average female height which I believe is somewhere around 5'3. That being said if that is my only complaint then it really doesn't impact the story.
As Carly is a chef, a lot of the story is focused around food. Either Kincaid has a second occupation as a chef, an intense love of food or completed a lot of research on food. I found myself hungry throughout the story with all of the delicious sounding dishes described. It was a nice surprise to be rewarded with some recipes at the end since I could all but taste the food as I was reading.
This is my first introduction to Kincaid's works and I can say it will not be the last. I will now go back to read the first story and I look forward to the third instalment. I will also be eager to check out some of her other work
February 1, 2015
I received an ARC from the publisher for an honest review and I don’t know where to begin, because in my opinion, it was honestly that good of a story.
This story had a wonderful pace to it and kept you hooked and rooting for Jackson and Carly to the very end. This is a wonderful series and I can’t wait to read more from Pine Mountain.
I absolutely LOVED this book.
Going into it I didn’t think that there was any way that I could put anybody before Shane (from Turn Up The Heat), but O.M.G Jackson totally rocked.
He is her very hot and distracting contractor, but from their very first bump into each while Jackson is repairing her damaged deck, neither can forget about the other. Carly is going through a divorce and Jackson doesn’t do serious relationships because of his troubled past with his father. They both go into it thinking friends-with-benefits/sex and they end up falling in love with each other.
Carly has always said that she was going back home and Jackson said that he didn’t want a relationship, so in the end while doing what he thought was best for Carly since she was leaving for New York – He hurts her in more ways than one, because he didn’t think that he could protect her from himself and that he would lose control.
He is her SWAN!!
This story had a wonderful pace to it and kept you hooked and rooting for Jackson and Carly to the very end. This is a wonderful series and I can’t wait to read more from Pine Mountain.
I absolutely LOVED this book.
Going into it I didn’t think that there was any way that I could put anybody before Shane (from Turn Up The Heat), but O.M.G Jackson totally rocked.
He is her very hot and distracting contractor, but from their very first bump into each while Jackson is repairing her damaged deck, neither can forget about the other. Carly is going through a divorce and Jackson doesn’t do serious relationships because of his troubled past with his father. They both go into it thinking friends-with-benefits/sex and they end up falling in love with each other.
Carly has always said that she was going back home and Jackson said that he didn’t want a relationship, so in the end while doing what he thought was best for Carly since she was leaving for New York – He hurts her in more ways than one, because he didn’t think that he could protect her from himself and that he would lose control.
He is her SWAN!!
June 2, 2014
Carly di Matisse celebrity-chef, left a disastrous marriage and moved to Pine Mountain to restart to her life, on a temporary basis. Meet contractor Jackson Carter, forever bachelor. Jackson is fixing the deck on Carly's rental when they first meet. Neither one wants to admit the sparks are flying immediately. Both are commitment phobes so maybe friends with benefits will work. Not!!
I am absolutely in love with this small town in the Mountains. This is the second book in the series but can be read as a stand alone. I love the friendship these characters have especially Jackson and Shane, nice to see male bonding, along with the girl friendships. The sexual chemistry of Jackson and Carly is fun. Of course no book of Ms. Kincaid's can be without food, recipes included. So, romance and food how can you go wrong, highly recommend this book. Can't wait for book three. I received this book from Net Galley for an honest review.
I am absolutely in love with this small town in the Mountains. This is the second book in the series but can be read as a stand alone. I love the friendship these characters have especially Jackson and Shane, nice to see male bonding, along with the girl friendships. The sexual chemistry of Jackson and Carly is fun. Of course no book of Ms. Kincaid's can be without food, recipes included. So, romance and food how can you go wrong, highly recommend this book. Can't wait for book three. I received this book from Net Galley for an honest review.
June 3, 2014
With a tension filled divorce swirling, Chef Carly di Matisse has left New York City to help revamp a restaurant in the Pine Mountains. Carly is not sure she ever wants to be in another relationship, but she can't help but wonder when contractor Jackson Carter walks into her life. The chemistry sizzles, but can she commit to just a fling.
Jackson wants Carly, he doesn't necessarily want a commitment but a temporary fling fits his normal mantra. Every instinct though is telling Jackson she is his one, but knowing she is only in Pine Mountain is making Jackson face memories from his past that he has yet to resolve.
I liked this one a lot, as a food tv fan I enjoyed the descriptions of all of the foods Carly and Jackson talk about, very visual. I was rooting for Carly and Jackson from the first minute Jackson entered Carly's life. Fantastic read.
Jackson wants Carly, he doesn't necessarily want a commitment but a temporary fling fits his normal mantra. Every instinct though is telling Jackson she is his one, but knowing she is only in Pine Mountain is making Jackson face memories from his past that he has yet to resolve.
I liked this one a lot, as a food tv fan I enjoyed the descriptions of all of the foods Carly and Jackson talk about, very visual. I was rooting for Carly and Jackson from the first minute Jackson entered Carly's life. Fantastic read.
February 8, 2017
Welcome back to Pine Mountain! A friendly little rural town set in the mountains of Pennsylvania. Enter the lives of a very hot local contractor who is great with his hands, and a top chef who escapes the big city and put her marriage to an ego-tripping ex behind her. Find out of Jackson has “all the right tools” to satisfy “a really sexed-up tuning fork” known as Carly. Enjoy all the fun and exploits they have while getting to know each other and fall in love. A HOT, fun, charming read! Can’t wait to return to Pine Mountain. HINT: Could be dangerous to the waistlines with all the awesome recipes and dinner ideas.
July 22, 2016
Gimme Some Sugar is Book 2 in the Pine Mountain series, but can be read as a stand-alone novel. Carly and Jackson's story is a heartwarming combination of delicious chemistry, humor, wonderful secondary characters and a place I wish was real so I could visit! Warning: you will devour this book! And, one reading isn't enough...you will go back for seconds and thirds. Hands down, another satisfying read from a fabulous author!
June 3, 2014
Carly and Jackson . . . I loved their story, their characters. From page one you are rooting for them and it kept me turnign the pages long past my bedtime. Run . .. do not walk . . . and collect your share of the sugar!
April 6, 2016
4.5 * Me ha gustado mucho. La relación entre Carly y Jackson es creíble y muy dulce. Los secundarios me han encantado, estoy deseando leer el tercero.
pd: ¡no leer con el estómago vacío! que hambre con los platos que Carly prepara.
pd: ¡no leer con el estómago vacío! que hambre con los platos que Carly prepara.
April 10, 2014
This is my new favorite series!! I want more!!
May 6, 2023
All the emotions, the connections and the swoons
I loved Carly and Jackson’s small town romance with a side of relationship avoidance. This is a heartwarming, funny and steamy romance. Carly and Jackson are portrayed as real, relatable people who have flaws, but are really trying to just do their best as messy humans living in a messy world. Jackson is a contractor in small town Pine Mountain. Due to his past, he thinks being single is the best choice for him. Carly is a well known chef from NYC. Escaping from her manipulative cheating husband and former business partner, she takes over as chef for the restaurant in the resort located in Pine Mountain. Their meet cute involves horrible singing, revealing clothing, and a construction estimate. There is instant and explosive chemistry and attraction between them but there is also lots of baggage and life circumstances holding each of them back. Despite neither one of them being interested in a relationship, each interaction nudges them closer and closer toward their HEA. The story was well written and included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline as told through sweet moments, steamy scenes, chuckles, supportive friends, messy families, painful pasts, secrets, surprises, big feels, and all the love. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I loved Carly and Jackson’s small town romance with a side of relationship avoidance. This is a heartwarming, funny and steamy romance. Carly and Jackson are portrayed as real, relatable people who have flaws, but are really trying to just do their best as messy humans living in a messy world. Jackson is a contractor in small town Pine Mountain. Due to his past, he thinks being single is the best choice for him. Carly is a well known chef from NYC. Escaping from her manipulative cheating husband and former business partner, she takes over as chef for the restaurant in the resort located in Pine Mountain. Their meet cute involves horrible singing, revealing clothing, and a construction estimate. There is instant and explosive chemistry and attraction between them but there is also lots of baggage and life circumstances holding each of them back. Despite neither one of them being interested in a relationship, each interaction nudges them closer and closer toward their HEA. The story was well written and included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline as told through sweet moments, steamy scenes, chuckles, supportive friends, messy families, painful pasts, secrets, surprises, big feels, and all the love. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
May 1, 2023
GIMME SOME SUGAR is the second full-length story in Kimberly Kincaid’s Pine Mountain series. Chef Carly di Matisse is the new resort chef, licking her figurative wounds and rebuilding her reputation after her can’t-be-soon-enough dishonorable ex-husband both broke her heart and dragged her name through the dirt. Jackson Carter is an excellent contractor who loves his family fiercely and guards his own heart just as carefully, not wanting to ever repeat the mistakes of his father, who did a real number on those he claimed to love.
Carly and Jackson build a friendship that fairly quickly intensifies into much more, and though their lips keep saying, “we’re just friends,” the rest of them is writing those benefits checks like they’re going out of style.
Kimberly Kincaid balances the emotional intensity and passionate expressions of it with the warmth of the comforting and sometimes agonizing familial relationships and friends who call us out and defend us in equal measure. Gimme Some Sugar is a terrific small-town romance!
Carly and Jackson build a friendship that fairly quickly intensifies into much more, and though their lips keep saying, “we’re just friends,” the rest of them is writing those benefits checks like they’re going out of style.
Kimberly Kincaid balances the emotional intensity and passionate expressions of it with the warmth of the comforting and sometimes agonizing familial relationships and friends who call us out and defend us in equal measure. Gimme Some Sugar is a terrific small-town romance!
April 24, 2025
Delicious
She's a top Chef, trying to get Her divorce finalized. Moves to his small town. Neither are looking for long term. He's sweet, sexy and, attracted to Carly at first meet. Easy to read, great characters, though I feel like her pending divorce was glossed over. Still worth the investment.
She's a top Chef, trying to get Her divorce finalized. Moves to his small town. Neither are looking for long term. He's sweet, sexy and, attracted to Carly at first meet. Easy to read, great characters, though I feel like her pending divorce was glossed over. Still worth the investment.
June 10, 2014
I love a great foodie book and I really fell in love with the Pine Mountain series after book one. I have to tell you, Gimme Some Sugar (Pine Mountain #2) by Kimberly Kincaid is another hit out of the park in my personal opinion. It has drama, it has humor, it has enough angst to keep the story moving, and it has two HOT main characters in Carly di Matisse and Jackson Carter. OH, and we also get to visit some of our favorites from the first books. Let's review.
Carly di Matisse is a exceptional chef. She had her own TV show, 'Couples in the Kitchen', she had a booming career, and she had what appeared to be a wonderful marriage. Until she finds her husband and fellow chef is sleeping with the manager of Gracie's. Now with her reputation in ruins because of a soon to be ex who only made a name for himself but hanging on to her coat tails, Carly needs to get away, let the dust settle, professionally and decide what her next move will be. Getting the job as head chef at the elite Pine Mountain resort might be just the thing to help her get her life back on track. What she doesn't expect is the explosive and electrifying chemistry that seems to erupt every time the hot, hunky Jackson Carter walks into the room.
Jackson Carter has only one rule, no falling in love, EVER! After seeing his father abuse his mother at an early age, Jackson is terrified that if he loves someone too much, he will only end up hurting them, just as his father did is mother. But as hard as he tries, Jackson cannot get the sexy little chef out of his mind. Knowing that a relationship with Carly will not go anywhere, her intentions to move back to New York are very clear, Jackson feels confident that if they stick to the rules, don't get emotionally involved, than their bene-friends arrangement will work out perfectly.
But when a series of events have Jackson riding to Carly's rescue, and a accident causes Jackson to run scared, can these two injured souls with trust issues take the biggest leap of faith before it's too late or are will they realize that they have the perfect recipe for a HEA?
Ok, what I loved about Jackson and Carly's relationship, is that they both were so anti-commitment, that they were in the middle of a relationship before they knew it. Both of them tried to deny it, but the truth was as clear as day. They had such natural chemistry, such caring and protective natures, that it just felt right that they would end up together. I loved how Jackson took care of Carly, giving her the support and the strength that she needed when things got too tough for her. I loved how Carly did not push Jackson about his past, letting him tell her in his own time and in his own way. Oh, and add in the humor of friends like Shane, Bellemy, and Sloane, and you have the perfect recipe for a summertime hit. If you have not read book one in the series, don't worry, this book was not dependent on book one, although, characters such as Shane and Bellemy reappear in this story. I would suggest this series to anyone looking for a sexy little foodie book for a summertime read. I loved it so much I gave it 5 sexy stars.
Carly di Matisse is a exceptional chef. She had her own TV show, 'Couples in the Kitchen', she had a booming career, and she had what appeared to be a wonderful marriage. Until she finds her husband and fellow chef is sleeping with the manager of Gracie's. Now with her reputation in ruins because of a soon to be ex who only made a name for himself but hanging on to her coat tails, Carly needs to get away, let the dust settle, professionally and decide what her next move will be. Getting the job as head chef at the elite Pine Mountain resort might be just the thing to help her get her life back on track. What she doesn't expect is the explosive and electrifying chemistry that seems to erupt every time the hot, hunky Jackson Carter walks into the room.
Jackson Carter has only one rule, no falling in love, EVER! After seeing his father abuse his mother at an early age, Jackson is terrified that if he loves someone too much, he will only end up hurting them, just as his father did is mother. But as hard as he tries, Jackson cannot get the sexy little chef out of his mind. Knowing that a relationship with Carly will not go anywhere, her intentions to move back to New York are very clear, Jackson feels confident that if they stick to the rules, don't get emotionally involved, than their bene-friends arrangement will work out perfectly.
But when a series of events have Jackson riding to Carly's rescue, and a accident causes Jackson to run scared, can these two injured souls with trust issues take the biggest leap of faith before it's too late or are will they realize that they have the perfect recipe for a HEA?
Ok, what I loved about Jackson and Carly's relationship, is that they both were so anti-commitment, that they were in the middle of a relationship before they knew it. Both of them tried to deny it, but the truth was as clear as day. They had such natural chemistry, such caring and protective natures, that it just felt right that they would end up together. I loved how Jackson took care of Carly, giving her the support and the strength that she needed when things got too tough for her. I loved how Carly did not push Jackson about his past, letting him tell her in his own time and in his own way. Oh, and add in the humor of friends like Shane, Bellemy, and Sloane, and you have the perfect recipe for a summertime hit. If you have not read book one in the series, don't worry, this book was not dependent on book one, although, characters such as Shane and Bellemy reappear in this story. I would suggest this series to anyone looking for a sexy little foodie book for a summertime read. I loved it so much I gave it 5 sexy stars.
August 20, 2014
Title: Gimme Some Sugar
Author: Kimberly Kincaid
Publisher: Zebra Books
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Series: A Pine Mountain Novel
Rating: 5
Review:
"Gimme Some Sugar" by Kimberly Kincaid....
Book Description...
"Desperate to escape the spotlight of her failed marriage to a fellow celebrity-chef, Carly di Matisse left New York City for a tiny town in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The restaurant she's running these days may not be chic, but in Pine Mountain she can pretend to be the tough cookie everybody knows and loves. Until she finds herself spending too much time with a way-too-hot contractor whose rugged good looks melt her like butter...
Jackson Carter wasn't looking for love. But he's not the kind of man to walk away from a worksite—or from a fiery beauty whose passionate nature provides some irresistible on-the-job benefits...
It's the perfect temporary arrangement for two ravenous commitment-phobes, except that Jackson and Carly keep coming back for seconds... and thirds... and fourths..."
What I enjoyed from this read....
This heroine Carly was just out of a bad marriage leaving New York City and was trying to start her new life in Pine Mountain where she was a celebrity chef (La Dolce Vita) at the Blue Ridge Mountain Resort in Pennsylvania. Will Carly be able to get her on with her life in her new place with the help from Jackson?
I found this novel quite interesting how this author brings these two(Carly and Jackson) together. As a matter of fact it was humorously done throughout the read and I don't want to leave out the hot steamy chemistry that they seemed to have with each other. However, with Carly just coming out of a bad marriage and Jackson being one that doesn't do love. What will come of all of this? Now, I know you are wondering what is going on with Jackson who was a hot local contractor? Will this author be able to get these two together who just seemed to be perfect for each other by keeping it simple. Will there be some reluctance to commit to each other? Here is where I say you must pick up "Gimme Some Sugar" to find out. Be ready to have some family drama thrown into the mix, a protective chef, humor, big brothers, romance, Jackson's mothers to name a few found in this well written script and in the end after all is said and done I believe the reader will be given a excellent read. I don't want to leave out the beautiful descriptions of this rural town with all the food and recipes along with some very interesting secondary characters who played a large part also in this novel. You will be definitely made to feel as though you are right there in beautiful Pine Mountain.
What I also liked about this novel...
I found "Gimme Some Sugar" a very attentive, humorous, beautiful and heartfelt read that once you start reading you will not want to put it down because you will become hooked turning the pages to see what will be happening next. This novel is the second in the Pine Mountain series that is a good charming read which can be a stand alone read. So, if you are looking for a enjoyable romance read I would recommend "Gimme Some Sugar."
Author: Kimberly Kincaid
Publisher: Zebra Books
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Series: A Pine Mountain Novel
Rating: 5
Review:
"Gimme Some Sugar" by Kimberly Kincaid....
Book Description...
"Desperate to escape the spotlight of her failed marriage to a fellow celebrity-chef, Carly di Matisse left New York City for a tiny town in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The restaurant she's running these days may not be chic, but in Pine Mountain she can pretend to be the tough cookie everybody knows and loves. Until she finds herself spending too much time with a way-too-hot contractor whose rugged good looks melt her like butter...
Jackson Carter wasn't looking for love. But he's not the kind of man to walk away from a worksite—or from a fiery beauty whose passionate nature provides some irresistible on-the-job benefits...
It's the perfect temporary arrangement for two ravenous commitment-phobes, except that Jackson and Carly keep coming back for seconds... and thirds... and fourths..."
What I enjoyed from this read....
This heroine Carly was just out of a bad marriage leaving New York City and was trying to start her new life in Pine Mountain where she was a celebrity chef (La Dolce Vita) at the Blue Ridge Mountain Resort in Pennsylvania. Will Carly be able to get her on with her life in her new place with the help from Jackson?
I found this novel quite interesting how this author brings these two(Carly and Jackson) together. As a matter of fact it was humorously done throughout the read and I don't want to leave out the hot steamy chemistry that they seemed to have with each other. However, with Carly just coming out of a bad marriage and Jackson being one that doesn't do love. What will come of all of this? Now, I know you are wondering what is going on with Jackson who was a hot local contractor? Will this author be able to get these two together who just seemed to be perfect for each other by keeping it simple. Will there be some reluctance to commit to each other? Here is where I say you must pick up "Gimme Some Sugar" to find out. Be ready to have some family drama thrown into the mix, a protective chef, humor, big brothers, romance, Jackson's mothers to name a few found in this well written script and in the end after all is said and done I believe the reader will be given a excellent read. I don't want to leave out the beautiful descriptions of this rural town with all the food and recipes along with some very interesting secondary characters who played a large part also in this novel. You will be definitely made to feel as though you are right there in beautiful Pine Mountain.
What I also liked about this novel...
I found "Gimme Some Sugar" a very attentive, humorous, beautiful and heartfelt read that once you start reading you will not want to put it down because you will become hooked turning the pages to see what will be happening next. This novel is the second in the Pine Mountain series that is a good charming read which can be a stand alone read. So, if you are looking for a enjoyable romance read I would recommend "Gimme Some Sugar."
July 1, 2017
LOVE, LOVE, LOVED this book! Kimberly Kincaid has a fluent and polished writing style and yet manages the impression of being so casually personal I felt right at home in the Pine Mountain setting and with the characters. GIMME SOME SUGAR follows Turn Up The Heat, the first book in the Pine Mountain series.
The main characters in Gimme Some Sugar are celebrity-chef, Carly di Matisse and Jackson Carter, a sexy, six-foot-four, loaded with muscle and charm construction worker. Jackson is best friends with Shane Griffin and Carly is Bellamy Blake's boss at the resort restaurant (the main characters from Turn Up The Heat) and they both have prominent page time in Jackson and Carly's story.
Jackson is a great guy with strong family ties and a loyal friend, who only dates casually and never really gets involved. The classic bachelor with commitment issues. He meets Carly in a hilarious and somewhat accidental way and she immediately gets under his skin, whether he realizes it or not, because he can't get her out of his thoughts. He can't help but keep coming back and finding more ways to spend time in her company.
Carly is in Pine Mountain escaping with a divorce pending from her ex, who not only cheated, but tried to take down her reputation in the New York restaurant scene. She's there to focus on restoring her name and making the big comeback and has no time to be thinking about getting involved with another man. Even if he is a hunky contractor who brings her temperature to a boil every time he's near. Even if, like Jackson, she can't stop thinking about him.
The chemistry between these two is sizzling hot. The banter is funny, sexy, and filled with innuendo. The story line kept my interest and a smile on my face, except when I was reading about Carly's dirt-bag ex, Travis, or the stress her mother was putting on her to reconcile with the cheater. Both Jackson and Carly have good relationships with their family and friends. Lots of humor, teasing and honest moments go down in that way only a family member or good friend can get away with when there is obvious unconditional love. The interactions with all the characters is just so enjoyable and well written. I felt like I was hanging out with the gang and chiming right in with all that was happening. Not every writer can pull that off. Kimberly Kincaid does it with style and grace. Certainly don't miss out on this book, but check out Turn Up The Heat and the rest of her back list as well. You'll be glad you did, I know I am. 5 stars
~Complimentary copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
The main characters in Gimme Some Sugar are celebrity-chef, Carly di Matisse and Jackson Carter, a sexy, six-foot-four, loaded with muscle and charm construction worker. Jackson is best friends with Shane Griffin and Carly is Bellamy Blake's boss at the resort restaurant (the main characters from Turn Up The Heat) and they both have prominent page time in Jackson and Carly's story.
Jackson is a great guy with strong family ties and a loyal friend, who only dates casually and never really gets involved. The classic bachelor with commitment issues. He meets Carly in a hilarious and somewhat accidental way and she immediately gets under his skin, whether he realizes it or not, because he can't get her out of his thoughts. He can't help but keep coming back and finding more ways to spend time in her company.
Carly is in Pine Mountain escaping with a divorce pending from her ex, who not only cheated, but tried to take down her reputation in the New York restaurant scene. She's there to focus on restoring her name and making the big comeback and has no time to be thinking about getting involved with another man. Even if he is a hunky contractor who brings her temperature to a boil every time he's near. Even if, like Jackson, she can't stop thinking about him.
The chemistry between these two is sizzling hot. The banter is funny, sexy, and filled with innuendo. The story line kept my interest and a smile on my face, except when I was reading about Carly's dirt-bag ex, Travis, or the stress her mother was putting on her to reconcile with the cheater. Both Jackson and Carly have good relationships with their family and friends. Lots of humor, teasing and honest moments go down in that way only a family member or good friend can get away with when there is obvious unconditional love. The interactions with all the characters is just so enjoyable and well written. I felt like I was hanging out with the gang and chiming right in with all that was happening. Not every writer can pull that off. Kimberly Kincaid does it with style and grace. Certainly don't miss out on this book, but check out Turn Up The Heat and the rest of her back list as well. You'll be glad you did, I know I am. 5 stars
~Complimentary copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
April 29, 2014
Received from the author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
"Gimme some sugar". I've said it many times, usually to sweet little children with cherub cheeks that begged to be pinched and kissed. Carly di Matisse uses it quite differently. Let's get close...but not too close. Hey, let's have some fun...but remember, I am only here temporarily. I really like you...but I am not going to fall in love with you. Been there, done that, have the ragged, distrusting heart to show for it. Sort of the nice girl's way to say, "Let's hook up". Her heart is hard of hearing.
Celebrity Chef Carly di Matisse is not having a good week or month or year for that matter. Her husband of five years has been caught with his pants down...literally, connived his way into 'her' job as top chef at a trendy restaurant in New York City and made it almost impossible for her to find another, similar position in the city she calls home. Too many cooks do spoil the soup. Thinking 'out-of-sight, out-of-mind', is her best defense until the talk dies down and the divorce is final, Carly accepts the head chef position at La Dolce Vita, an upscale restaurant at the luxury Pine Mountain resort in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Pennsylvania. However grateful she is for the job and opportunity to run her own kitchen, Carly still feels isolated in this small town and is incredibly homesick and lonely. Jackson Carter, the hot contractor hired to repair Carly's deck which was damaged in a storm, may be just the temporary distraction she needs as she waits. She might just have to 'cook something up' with Mr. Fix-it. He certainly looks like just the man to 'fix' what ails her. Gimme some sugar.
Jackson has the same idea as Carly. Have some fun, don't fall in love, no one gets hurt. His issues don't arise from a broken heart. It does break MY heart when I discover them, though. Just as some dishes tend to get better the longer they simmer, Jackson and Carly's 'temporary' romance takes on a life of its own and threatens both of their plans to 'keep it simple'.
Although a little slow to start, Ms. Kincaid soon had me enthralled with this second book in her Pine Mountain series. Between Jackson and Carly's witty back-and-forth banter, the appearance of old friends from, "Turn Up the Heat", and the introduction of new, interesting friends like Sloane (loved this smart-mouth BFF),I raced through this second book and am anxiously awaiting the third in the series. And, as if a good story is not enough, Ms. Kincaid includes actual recipes at the end. Mmm...mmm...good! You certainly did 'give us some sugar'. Thanks so much, Ms. Kincaid.
"Gimme some sugar". I've said it many times, usually to sweet little children with cherub cheeks that begged to be pinched and kissed. Carly di Matisse uses it quite differently. Let's get close...but not too close. Hey, let's have some fun...but remember, I am only here temporarily. I really like you...but I am not going to fall in love with you. Been there, done that, have the ragged, distrusting heart to show for it. Sort of the nice girl's way to say, "Let's hook up". Her heart is hard of hearing.
Celebrity Chef Carly di Matisse is not having a good week or month or year for that matter. Her husband of five years has been caught with his pants down...literally, connived his way into 'her' job as top chef at a trendy restaurant in New York City and made it almost impossible for her to find another, similar position in the city she calls home. Too many cooks do spoil the soup. Thinking 'out-of-sight, out-of-mind', is her best defense until the talk dies down and the divorce is final, Carly accepts the head chef position at La Dolce Vita, an upscale restaurant at the luxury Pine Mountain resort in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Pennsylvania. However grateful she is for the job and opportunity to run her own kitchen, Carly still feels isolated in this small town and is incredibly homesick and lonely. Jackson Carter, the hot contractor hired to repair Carly's deck which was damaged in a storm, may be just the temporary distraction she needs as she waits. She might just have to 'cook something up' with Mr. Fix-it. He certainly looks like just the man to 'fix' what ails her. Gimme some sugar.
Jackson has the same idea as Carly. Have some fun, don't fall in love, no one gets hurt. His issues don't arise from a broken heart. It does break MY heart when I discover them, though. Just as some dishes tend to get better the longer they simmer, Jackson and Carly's 'temporary' romance takes on a life of its own and threatens both of their plans to 'keep it simple'.
Although a little slow to start, Ms. Kincaid soon had me enthralled with this second book in her Pine Mountain series. Between Jackson and Carly's witty back-and-forth banter, the appearance of old friends from, "Turn Up the Heat", and the introduction of new, interesting friends like Sloane (loved this smart-mouth BFF),I raced through this second book and am anxiously awaiting the third in the series. And, as if a good story is not enough, Ms. Kincaid includes actual recipes at the end. Mmm...mmm...good! You certainly did 'give us some sugar'. Thanks so much, Ms. Kincaid.
May 31, 2014
Chef Carly de Matisse was cheated on by her husband of five years. So she has serious trust issues but not just in the home front but in her professional arena too. You see her husband was not only a local boy from the neighborhood she fell in love with they also went to culinary school with him, she had secured a chef and co-chef jobs at a new up and coming trendy restaurant. He was riding her coat tails.
Then she was being courted by a cable company for a cooking show that her ex-Travis turned into a couples cooking show. Once they were the talk of the town in New York. Travis has an affair with the owner’s daughter who’s the manager. Carly walks in on them in her marital bed. She files for divorce and in turn she gets fired and has her mom mad at her for she is a Catholic girl who is not supposed to divorce.
This story picks up with Carly now the exclusive chef at the Blue Ridge Mountain Resort. Some four hours from New York. When the life her sous chef left with her and came to be her right hand again, Adrian. She is renting a cabin there with her friend Sloan who is a romance writer. Well, there is a mad storm that comes through and knocks down a tree that takes out the back porch. So, she calls the land load who calls a contractor who sends Jackson Carter, 6’4”, blue eyes and all muscle.
The thing is Carly doesn’t know he’s coming. When he arrives the music is blaring so loud Carly doesn’t hear the doorbell he rings twice. So, he goes around back, where he hears her singing like two skinned cats on her short robe in a thin see through tank he knows he shouldn’t be starring but she is just so beautiful to him when she sees him. Before, he can say the first word all he can do is duck…
So, starts this story which is very cute. The characters are all very well developed, interesting, and funny. The problems are true to life to where anyone can relate. Like want to please our parents to the point of lying even as adults. Or denying our hearts what it wants for fear we might get hurt so we bail first or we just don’t try for it at all. Sometimes our hearts want what it wants. We just have to be smart enough to listen when it is time and follow with a clear and honest spirit and heart. I give this story 5 stars. Provided by netgalley.com.
Find us at: www.1rad-readerreviews.com
She can't decide if Jackson is the oldest or the youngest of the family is my only gripe with this author.
Then she was being courted by a cable company for a cooking show that her ex-Travis turned into a couples cooking show. Once they were the talk of the town in New York. Travis has an affair with the owner’s daughter who’s the manager. Carly walks in on them in her marital bed. She files for divorce and in turn she gets fired and has her mom mad at her for she is a Catholic girl who is not supposed to divorce.
This story picks up with Carly now the exclusive chef at the Blue Ridge Mountain Resort. Some four hours from New York. When the life her sous chef left with her and came to be her right hand again, Adrian. She is renting a cabin there with her friend Sloan who is a romance writer. Well, there is a mad storm that comes through and knocks down a tree that takes out the back porch. So, she calls the land load who calls a contractor who sends Jackson Carter, 6’4”, blue eyes and all muscle.
The thing is Carly doesn’t know he’s coming. When he arrives the music is blaring so loud Carly doesn’t hear the doorbell he rings twice. So, he goes around back, where he hears her singing like two skinned cats on her short robe in a thin see through tank he knows he shouldn’t be starring but she is just so beautiful to him when she sees him. Before, he can say the first word all he can do is duck…
So, starts this story which is very cute. The characters are all very well developed, interesting, and funny. The problems are true to life to where anyone can relate. Like want to please our parents to the point of lying even as adults. Or denying our hearts what it wants for fear we might get hurt so we bail first or we just don’t try for it at all. Sometimes our hearts want what it wants. We just have to be smart enough to listen when it is time and follow with a clear and honest spirit and heart. I give this story 5 stars. Provided by netgalley.com.
Find us at: www.1rad-readerreviews.com
She can't decide if Jackson is the oldest or the youngest of the family is my only gripe with this author.
May 24, 2014
Gimme Some Sugar is the second book to Kimberly Kincaid's Pine Mountain series. While it can be read as a stand alone, there are characters from the first book, Turn Up The Heat, that you'll see again, as well as relationships moving forward.
Chef Carly di Matisse, escapes from a high profiled life in New York to Pine Mountain to lay low and out of the news press while her divorce from her husband blows over, and she's able to return to New York and restore her chef name back the elite status of New York.
Due to a litte trauma as a child, Jackson Carter isn't looking for love, much less anything close to a serious relationship. But when Jax sees Carly for the first time, he battles with himself to stay away for her safety or to "FEED HER."
I enjoyed watching Carly and Jax find their way. This book is filled with so much fun, great banter, and was really easy going.
I liked how Carly made the best of her situation. She took the lemons that life threw at her, said GIMME SOME SUGAR and limes, and made the most delicious lemonade. I love how even though she was wronged in so many ways by her husband and job in New York, she didn't become bitter and vindictive. She stayed strong, and didn't let anyone tell her what to do, didn't let anyone back her into a corner to agree to something she didn't want, and fought for what she did want.
Until you see why Jax is so against relationships you'll want to throw a spatula at him! I know I wanted to. He was so attracted to Carly, that it was interesting to see him fight it. Even though he was adamant he didn't want anything serious, he was so good at it. He was attentive, patient, and just plain sweet. Carly teaches him about food, and Jax teaches her a thing or two about relationships, even though that was not his intent. He even went as far as cooking for Carly in his kitchen. It's the small, simple things that are the sweetest. Know what I mean?
I can't think of a single thing about Gimme Some Sugar that I didn't like. Well, except that it came to an end. I can't wait for more stories from Pine Mountain.
Chef Carly di Matisse, escapes from a high profiled life in New York to Pine Mountain to lay low and out of the news press while her divorce from her husband blows over, and she's able to return to New York and restore her chef name back the elite status of New York.
Due to a litte trauma as a child, Jackson Carter isn't looking for love, much less anything close to a serious relationship. But when Jax sees Carly for the first time, he battles with himself to stay away for her safety or to "FEED HER."
I enjoyed watching Carly and Jax find their way. This book is filled with so much fun, great banter, and was really easy going.
I liked how Carly made the best of her situation. She took the lemons that life threw at her, said GIMME SOME SUGAR and limes, and made the most delicious lemonade. I love how even though she was wronged in so many ways by her husband and job in New York, she didn't become bitter and vindictive. She stayed strong, and didn't let anyone tell her what to do, didn't let anyone back her into a corner to agree to something she didn't want, and fought for what she did want.
Until you see why Jax is so against relationships you'll want to throw a spatula at him! I know I wanted to. He was so attracted to Carly, that it was interesting to see him fight it. Even though he was adamant he didn't want anything serious, he was so good at it. He was attentive, patient, and just plain sweet. Carly teaches him about food, and Jax teaches her a thing or two about relationships, even though that was not his intent. He even went as far as cooking for Carly in his kitchen. It's the small, simple things that are the sweetest. Know what I mean?
I can't think of a single thing about Gimme Some Sugar that I didn't like. Well, except that it came to an end. I can't wait for more stories from Pine Mountain.
June 4, 2014
Gimme Some Sugar by Kimberly Kincaid is the second book in her Pine Mountain series. Although I had not read book one, Turn Up The Heat, this is a standalone book and I had no problems connecting with the characters or the small town of Pine Mountain.
This is the story of Chef Carly diMatisse and contractor/construction worker, Jackson Carter. Their first meeting was hilarious. His description of Carly when he first sees her “This woman was f@#$ing beautiful. Even if she did sound like a bag of pissed off kittens” set the tone for the rest of the story.
Carly left New York City to re-establish her career as a chef after she found her low-life husband, Travis, cheating on her with the restaurant owner’s daughter. They were co-chefs at a restaurant and when she gave the owner a choice of her or him, the owner chose Travis. She is now the chef at the Pine Mountain Resort’s restaurant La Dolce Vita and loves being in charge of her own kitchen. She plans to only be there until the divorce is final and she can go “home” again to NYC.
Jackson is 6’4” all muscles and gorgeous. He loves his family and his job. His best friend, Shane, and Jackson have a close relationship that speaks volumes about a friendship that has survived years. Jackson however is commitment phobic thanks to his dad and a scarred childhood. He’s afraid to love because he might turn into his “dad”.
The secondary characters of Carly’s best friend, Sloane, Adrian, Carly’s sous chef, Jackson’s friend, Shane, and Jackson’s family were great and helps the reader to understand the main characters. Their insights into their personalities really rocked the plot.
The story is filled with witty, sometimes sexy, banter between Jackson and Carly, food references, humor and steamy love between two people who are falling hard for each other.
I will definitely be reading the first book in this series so that I can learn more about Shane and Bellamy’s love story.
I received this book from NetGalley and the publisher for an honest review.
This is the story of Chef Carly diMatisse and contractor/construction worker, Jackson Carter. Their first meeting was hilarious. His description of Carly when he first sees her “This woman was f@#$ing beautiful. Even if she did sound like a bag of pissed off kittens” set the tone for the rest of the story.
Carly left New York City to re-establish her career as a chef after she found her low-life husband, Travis, cheating on her with the restaurant owner’s daughter. They were co-chefs at a restaurant and when she gave the owner a choice of her or him, the owner chose Travis. She is now the chef at the Pine Mountain Resort’s restaurant La Dolce Vita and loves being in charge of her own kitchen. She plans to only be there until the divorce is final and she can go “home” again to NYC.
Jackson is 6’4” all muscles and gorgeous. He loves his family and his job. His best friend, Shane, and Jackson have a close relationship that speaks volumes about a friendship that has survived years. Jackson however is commitment phobic thanks to his dad and a scarred childhood. He’s afraid to love because he might turn into his “dad”.
The secondary characters of Carly’s best friend, Sloane, Adrian, Carly’s sous chef, Jackson’s friend, Shane, and Jackson’s family were great and helps the reader to understand the main characters. Their insights into their personalities really rocked the plot.
The story is filled with witty, sometimes sexy, banter between Jackson and Carly, food references, humor and steamy love between two people who are falling hard for each other.
I will definitely be reading the first book in this series so that I can learn more about Shane and Bellamy’s love story.
I received this book from NetGalley and the publisher for an honest review.
May 25, 2014
Gimme Some Sugar (A Pine Mountain Novel)
Kimberly Kincaid
This story was gifted to me in exchange for an honest reveiw.
Carly di Matisse has found herself both relocated and in the middle of a nasty divorce. She was part of a cooking team with her husband Travis but she caught him cheating on her and then he took all the credit for her culinary efforts. To save her reputation she accepts a job at the Pine Mountain restaurant "La Doce Vita."
During a particularly violent thunderstorm a large tree crashes into her back porch and thus she meets Jackson Carter, the contractor who is replacing the porch.
Even thought neither one of them is looking for romance the attraction is strong and instant. After a little bit of a mix up involving a girl pretending to be his girlfriend, they start a steamy relationship. They are so very sweet together, he feeds her PB & J sandwiches, plays Monopoly with her and holds her hand, calming her fears when she is afraid of the boat when they go fishing together. I thoroughly enjoyed watching them fall in love.
Now things are not going to be a walk in the park here, he has some serious hang ups about marriage and does not want anything long term. She is only in town temporarily until the dusk from her divorce settles and then she is planning to return to the city and resume her life.
Yeah right, love is kind of funny that way, just sneaks up on an unsuspecting couple. I am hoping that they both realize what a beautiful thing they could be together and give it a chance. I really enjoyed the writing style of this author. The story line was well defined and the characters nicely fleshed out. I loved how the secondary characters did play a large part in the story line, made for a better overall picture, it was easy for the reader to feel right at home in the story. I would rate this story 5/5 and would definately read more by this author.
Kimberly Kincaid
This story was gifted to me in exchange for an honest reveiw.
Carly di Matisse has found herself both relocated and in the middle of a nasty divorce. She was part of a cooking team with her husband Travis but she caught him cheating on her and then he took all the credit for her culinary efforts. To save her reputation she accepts a job at the Pine Mountain restaurant "La Doce Vita."
During a particularly violent thunderstorm a large tree crashes into her back porch and thus she meets Jackson Carter, the contractor who is replacing the porch.
Even thought neither one of them is looking for romance the attraction is strong and instant. After a little bit of a mix up involving a girl pretending to be his girlfriend, they start a steamy relationship. They are so very sweet together, he feeds her PB & J sandwiches, plays Monopoly with her and holds her hand, calming her fears when she is afraid of the boat when they go fishing together. I thoroughly enjoyed watching them fall in love.
Now things are not going to be a walk in the park here, he has some serious hang ups about marriage and does not want anything long term. She is only in town temporarily until the dusk from her divorce settles and then she is planning to return to the city and resume her life.
Yeah right, love is kind of funny that way, just sneaks up on an unsuspecting couple. I am hoping that they both realize what a beautiful thing they could be together and give it a chance. I really enjoyed the writing style of this author. The story line was well defined and the characters nicely fleshed out. I loved how the secondary characters did play a large part in the story line, made for a better overall picture, it was easy for the reader to feel right at home in the story. I would rate this story 5/5 and would definately read more by this author.
May 9, 2014
Welcome back to Pine Mountain, a small but friendly town in the Blue Ridge Mountains. I loved Jackson, when I met him in "Turn Up the Heat", the first book in this series, but learned so much more about him in this book. He is a contractor, works hard, has a body that just won't stop, sexy, smart and the list goes on, but he has one small flaw, created in him when he was very young. Also, met Carly in the same book, she is a celebrity chef who is going through a divorce, that at some times gets messy, thus her reason for living in Pine Mountain. But don't let Carly's petite size fool you, she is feisty but she also has a heart of gold. When the results of a raging thunderstorm bring Carly and Jackson together, the storm turns and begins to rage between the two of them. The only problem, both of them have commitment issues, for totally different reasons. I really enjoyed following these two, through fun filled dates, with lots of sexual banter, food, good times and bad. I absolutely fell in love with Jackson, when he tried his best to cook a meal for Carly. The man was cooking for a chef and totally rocked it!! If you love a book that is sexy, funny, charming, and gives you a good feeling when you turn the last page, then this book is definitely for you. I loved all the supporting characters and would not change anything about it. Hope to get another glimpse of Jackson and Carly in the next book in this wonderful series. Great job, Kimberly Kincaid, keep 'em coming. By the way, don't read while hungry.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley, for a honest review. I honestly loved it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley, for a honest review. I honestly loved it!
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