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The McLaughlins #2
Kilty Pleasure
The line between lust and hate is often blurred...
The McLaughlins, Book 2
After being ditched at the altar over a year ago, Deputy Colin McLaughlin is fine with being single. Despite the fact that nearly every eligible female on the island wants him, he isn't looking for love.
But something stirs his blood when Hailey starts showing up more on the island. And it's not just the conviction that the apple doesn't fall far from her troublemaking, drugged-out family tree. His frustration mounts that even after she ruined his twin brother's life, the desire he's felt for her since high school still simmers.
Hailey Alexander knows her past is littered with mistakes. She's done her best to make amends and move on, but a certain Scottish-born deputy doesn't seem in any hurry to forgive or forget.
More than just fighting the attraction that's compromising their hearts, they face a new threat from Hailey's past that may threaten her life.
Contains sexy Scottish men living in America. The occasional kilt. A hero deputy who can't forgive or forget, and a nurse immune to bullshit. Angry kisses. Scalding sex. And a drugged-out stalker ex to keep these two on their toes.
EXCERPT
"You're deliberately provoking me, Hailey."
"Oh, is that what I'm doing?" The car sped up as she hit the accelerator.
"And might I point out you're now legally speeding?"
"Point it out all you want, Deputy. Your ass is off duty and hitching a ride."
He wasn't really worried about the speed of the car right now, rarely
would he pull someone over for a few miles above the speed
limit--Charles Richland being the exception.
He shifted in his seat and turned to look at her.
Her lips were pursed, her cute little nose lifted in the air, and her
breathing seemed a little uneven. She was angry, but there was
something else there. Something else that had the blood in his body
stirring.
Sliding a quick gaze down her body, he lingered briefly on the curve
of her breasts and then the golden thigh peeking out below her denim
shorts.
She must've sensed his gaze because she stiffened and drew in another deep breath that had her chest rising.
"Stop checking me out."
That knocked the wind right out of him. "What did you say?"
"You heard me, Colin. Do you think I'm stupid?" The look she shot him
showed overly bright brown eyes that shone with anger and heat. "It
occurred to me why your bitterness focuses mostly on me. Why you can be
so damn cruel when it's outside your personality."
His teeth snapped together. "Oh, please do enlighten me."
"Because you're attracted to me."
She said it so casually, so matter-of-factly, that again he struggled to breathe.
"Am I?" Somehow he kept his tone bored. Steady.
"Yeah. You are. And you would've been much happier if I were some
fugly chick you could just happily hate and ignore from a distance."
"That's complete shite."
"It's really not and you know it. In fact, you've always been attracted to me, Colin McLaughlin."
All right, he'd bloody well had enough.
The McLaughlins, Book 2
After being ditched at the altar over a year ago, Deputy Colin McLaughlin is fine with being single. Despite the fact that nearly every eligible female on the island wants him, he isn't looking for love.
But something stirs his blood when Hailey starts showing up more on the island. And it's not just the conviction that the apple doesn't fall far from her troublemaking, drugged-out family tree. His frustration mounts that even after she ruined his twin brother's life, the desire he's felt for her since high school still simmers.
Hailey Alexander knows her past is littered with mistakes. She's done her best to make amends and move on, but a certain Scottish-born deputy doesn't seem in any hurry to forgive or forget.
More than just fighting the attraction that's compromising their hearts, they face a new threat from Hailey's past that may threaten her life.
Contains sexy Scottish men living in America. The occasional kilt. A hero deputy who can't forgive or forget, and a nurse immune to bullshit. Angry kisses. Scalding sex. And a drugged-out stalker ex to keep these two on their toes.
EXCERPT
"You're deliberately provoking me, Hailey."
"Oh, is that what I'm doing?" The car sped up as she hit the accelerator.
"And might I point out you're now legally speeding?"
"Point it out all you want, Deputy. Your ass is off duty and hitching a ride."
He wasn't really worried about the speed of the car right now, rarely
would he pull someone over for a few miles above the speed
limit--Charles Richland being the exception.
He shifted in his seat and turned to look at her.
Her lips were pursed, her cute little nose lifted in the air, and her
breathing seemed a little uneven. She was angry, but there was
something else there. Something else that had the blood in his body
stirring.
Sliding a quick gaze down her body, he lingered briefly on the curve
of her breasts and then the golden thigh peeking out below her denim
shorts.
She must've sensed his gaze because she stiffened and drew in another deep breath that had her chest rising.
"Stop checking me out."
That knocked the wind right out of him. "What did you say?"
"You heard me, Colin. Do you think I'm stupid?" The look she shot him
showed overly bright brown eyes that shone with anger and heat. "It
occurred to me why your bitterness focuses mostly on me. Why you can be
so damn cruel when it's outside your personality."
His teeth snapped together. "Oh, please do enlighten me."
"Because you're attracted to me."
She said it so casually, so matter-of-factly, that again he struggled to breathe.
"Am I?" Somehow he kept his tone bored. Steady.
"Yeah. You are. And you would've been much happier if I were some
fugly chick you could just happily hate and ignore from a distance."
"That's complete shite."
"It's really not and you know it. In fact, you've always been attracted to me, Colin McLaughlin."
All right, he'd bloody well had enough.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 28, 2014
604 people are currently reading
849 people want to read
About the author
Shelli Stevens
71 books735 followersShelli is a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author who read her first romance novel when she snatched it off her mother’s bookshelf at the age of eleven. She is a true pluviophile (lover of rain) who currently lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two daughters. She loves Disney, taking sunset pics (follow her on Instagram), baking, nature walking, and spontaneously bursting into song. She’s written various genres of romance, but is most known for her contemporary series such as The McLaughlins, The Bro Code, Marshall Ranch, and A is for Alpha.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
March 12, 2018
This is coming out tomorrow, check out my review up on the blog: Under the pages
March 13, 2018
This contemporary romance goes to show just how close the emotion of hate can be to love! Deputy Colin McLaughlin has never forgiven Hailey Alexander for something she did as a teenager that almost ruined his brother’s life. He definitely bears her a huge grudge and when she turns up with some of her nursing colleagues at his family’s pub he finds it hard to even be pleasant with her and can’t understand the more tolerant attitudes of his siblings. Hailey had a dreadful childhood and escaped an abusive relationship but has worked hard to improve her situation and is now a respected nurse with a real knack of connecting with and reassuring her young patients. However, she also knows that Colin is unlikely to ever forgive her for her mistakes even though the attraction between them is still as powerful as it was when he was her teenage crush. Can they forget the past to move on to a future together? Can he forgive her teenage mistakes or will they prevent them having any chance of finding their HEA together?
This is a story of uncovering reasons for what happened in the past, discovering that life isn’t always a case of right and wrong, black and white. It involves accepting the motivations for past interactions and being willing to move on to a more promising future with trust and love. The characters are brilliantly developed and the plot has some real loops in it to throw the reader off track! The story hooked me from the start and I thoroughly enjoyed escaping into it, so have no hesitation in recommending it to anyone who enjoys a contemporary romance where the hero eventually discovers he’s jumped to some erroneous conclusions!
I requested and received a copy of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
This is a story of uncovering reasons for what happened in the past, discovering that life isn’t always a case of right and wrong, black and white. It involves accepting the motivations for past interactions and being willing to move on to a more promising future with trust and love. The characters are brilliantly developed and the plot has some real loops in it to throw the reader off track! The story hooked me from the start and I thoroughly enjoyed escaping into it, so have no hesitation in recommending it to anyone who enjoys a contemporary romance where the hero eventually discovers he’s jumped to some erroneous conclusions!
I requested and received a copy of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.
January 24, 2018
Received an ARC at no cost to author. This is the second book in this series. This is Colin's book with love interest Hailey. Colin was angry at Hailey since she set up Ian years ago, and due to that Ian and Sarah had suffered a lot of heartache and Ian missed years of Emily's upbringing. Hailey claims that she regretted what she did, but supposedly it was the only way for her to keep her brother from going to the foster system. Now the author kind of wanted us to have sympathy for Hailey, now don't get me wrong, her life was not easy, but I am sorry I really didn't see her regretting what she did. It took her eleven years to admit what she did, and she only did it because of Emily. I don't get that, it took you 11 years to own up to what you did? No, the McLaughlin's are way better people than me.. However, I still will read the next book, I want to know what happens to Kenzie.
January 28, 2014
Slick's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
I have to admit, I was really excited to be back with the McLaughlin family. I love being back in Washington state and I most definitely loved watching Colin realizing that all things in life aren’t black and white. I can’t help it, I love when a hero has to come to terms with the fact that he was wrong with his assumptions about the heroine. Author Shelli Stevens has given us a love/hate relationship that turns into a lust fest followed by love; it wasn’t pretty but damn it was fun!
Deputy Colin McLaughlin has a hard time letting go of his anger when someone does his family wrong. He’s fiercely loyal and often refuses to forgive no matter what the circumstances. Being left at the altar has only intensified is need for loyalty. So when the woman who broke his twin brother’s high school love resulting in the family not knowing of his now 10 year old daughter resurfaces, he’s not too thrilled to see her. Unfortunately his body can’t deny the attraction he’s had for the woman who was once best friend’s with his little sister and his soon to be sister in law.
Hailey Alexander has tried very hard to make amends for the things she did in the past to keep a roof over her and her little brother’s head and food on the table. She’s not proud of the part she played in breaking apart her best friend Sarah’s relationship even though she did it to survive. Now a nurse, she takes her job seriously and is dedicated to making her patient’s lives better. She tries to stay out of the way of the McLaughlin family’s way but when a work celebration takes her to to their pub; she’s put straight in their path once again.
Despite Colin being completely pigheaded at times, I couldn’t help but love him while at the same time I wanted to kick him in his tight little kilted ass. The whole family, including the two who were most affected by Hailey’s betrayal, was willing to leave it in the past and move on but Colin just couldn’t let it go. Yes, he has reason to not trust women but he was really hard on Hailey so much so I was surprised she allowed him to get close at all. The undeniable chemistry between these two boiled over whenever they were together proving there is a VERY thin line between love and hate. What was most telling about Colin’s character though was when Hailey was in danger; he did everything in his power to protect her.
I very much enjoyed watching these two figure out their feelings for one another and moving past what happened years ago. Their intimate moments were sometimes out of control, sometimes sweet but always fiercely explosive. Hailey learning how to forgive herself was also huge and I loved how both Sarah and Kenzie embraced her and worked to make her feel welcome back in their lives.
With each story in this series I fall more in love with the McLaughlin family and I can’t wait to see what happens next. A sinfully sexy story filled with forgiveness, understanding, and love makes Kilty Pleasure one hell of a good book!
Review copy provide for an honest review.
I have to admit, I was really excited to be back with the McLaughlin family. I love being back in Washington state and I most definitely loved watching Colin realizing that all things in life aren’t black and white. I can’t help it, I love when a hero has to come to terms with the fact that he was wrong with his assumptions about the heroine. Author Shelli Stevens has given us a love/hate relationship that turns into a lust fest followed by love; it wasn’t pretty but damn it was fun!
Deputy Colin McLaughlin has a hard time letting go of his anger when someone does his family wrong. He’s fiercely loyal and often refuses to forgive no matter what the circumstances. Being left at the altar has only intensified is need for loyalty. So when the woman who broke his twin brother’s high school love resulting in the family not knowing of his now 10 year old daughter resurfaces, he’s not too thrilled to see her. Unfortunately his body can’t deny the attraction he’s had for the woman who was once best friend’s with his little sister and his soon to be sister in law.
Hailey Alexander has tried very hard to make amends for the things she did in the past to keep a roof over her and her little brother’s head and food on the table. She’s not proud of the part she played in breaking apart her best friend Sarah’s relationship even though she did it to survive. Now a nurse, she takes her job seriously and is dedicated to making her patient’s lives better. She tries to stay out of the way of the McLaughlin family’s way but when a work celebration takes her to to their pub; she’s put straight in their path once again.
Despite Colin being completely pigheaded at times, I couldn’t help but love him while at the same time I wanted to kick him in his tight little kilted ass. The whole family, including the two who were most affected by Hailey’s betrayal, was willing to leave it in the past and move on but Colin just couldn’t let it go. Yes, he has reason to not trust women but he was really hard on Hailey so much so I was surprised she allowed him to get close at all. The undeniable chemistry between these two boiled over whenever they were together proving there is a VERY thin line between love and hate. What was most telling about Colin’s character though was when Hailey was in danger; he did everything in his power to protect her.
I very much enjoyed watching these two figure out their feelings for one another and moving past what happened years ago. Their intimate moments were sometimes out of control, sometimes sweet but always fiercely explosive. Hailey learning how to forgive herself was also huge and I loved how both Sarah and Kenzie embraced her and worked to make her feel welcome back in their lives.
With each story in this series I fall more in love with the McLaughlin family and I can’t wait to see what happens next. A sinfully sexy story filled with forgiveness, understanding, and love makes Kilty Pleasure one hell of a good book!
Review copy provide for an honest review.
March 22, 2018
This is the second book in the McLaughlins series. It is a stand alone book, but I recommend reading the first book in the series to understand the characters and family history. I am loving the Scottish family. I like the chemistry between Colin and Hailey. There is a bad history between these two that may be hard to overcome. Shelli Stevens keeps the reader glued to this story and eager for the next book.
February 3, 2018
We met the H (Colin) and h (Hailey) in the previous book in the series. In the previous book, we learned that the h set up her best friend(Sarah) and our H's twin brother (Ian) into believing that the twin and this book's h had slept together. She was monetarily paid by her best friend's father and this book's h needed the money in order to keep her brother out of foster care. Colin hates her, because she set up his twin and his GF causing them all to miss their baby's (Emma) growing up years. As much as we didn't like Hailey in the first book, we are supposed to like her now?
This review is based on the ARC received from the author and/ or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
This review is based on the ARC received from the author and/ or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
March 15, 2018
I didn't really like the vibe of the first book in this series (it felt a little more coercive than romantic to me) but I liked the characters and the writing enough to try the second book. Unfortunately I'm even more squicked out by the vibe of this one. Spoiler alert, I guess: Ehhhh. I'm sure that does it for some people and my criticism is more a matter of personal taste than objectivism, but I doubt I'm the only one who feels this way, so I'm just putting it out there.
I did enjoy the writing and the characters, again, and so I'm going to continue onto the third book. Its characters don't have a bad history together so I'm hoping that whatever is the conflict in that book will skeeze me out less.
Grammar police beware: there are quite a few errors in this book. Not completely systemic, which would make it impossible to read, but definitely more errors than an insomniac at 3 a.m. should have been able to catch.
I did enjoy the writing and the characters, again, and so I'm going to continue onto the third book. Its characters don't have a bad history together so I'm hoping that whatever is the conflict in that book will skeeze me out less.
Grammar police beware: there are quite a few errors in this book. Not completely systemic, which would make it impossible to read, but definitely more errors than an insomniac at 3 a.m. should have been able to catch.
November 25, 2018
Straight, No Chaser is Book 2 of The McLaughlins series but you can definitely read it as a standalone.
To be honest, I had a hard time getting into the story at the start. The hatred Colin has for Hailey put me off a bit. But then, I picked it up again and the rest of book kind of flowed.
Hailey did something horrible to Colin's family, but she had her reasons for doing so. Reasons that everybody finally accepted except Colin.
So, he basically makes her pay the price by being horrible to her in return but it's apparent that Hailey used to mean something to him and that's why he reacts so strongly.
Anyways, the story goes on like this, he's mean to her and then admits he went too far so he makes it up to her and this way they kind of grow closer.
What made me like this book is The McLaughlins, I love big and loving families' stories. This was one of them. I kind of liked Colin and Hailey together in the end. Not my favorite love story but still cute in its own way.
*ARC was provided by NetGalley*
To be honest, I had a hard time getting into the story at the start. The hatred Colin has for Hailey put me off a bit. But then, I picked it up again and the rest of book kind of flowed.
Hailey did something horrible to Colin's family, but she had her reasons for doing so. Reasons that everybody finally accepted except Colin.
So, he basically makes her pay the price by being horrible to her in return but it's apparent that Hailey used to mean something to him and that's why he reacts so strongly.
Anyways, the story goes on like this, he's mean to her and then admits he went too far so he makes it up to her and this way they kind of grow closer.
What made me like this book is The McLaughlins, I love big and loving families' stories. This was one of them. I kind of liked Colin and Hailey together in the end. Not my favorite love story but still cute in its own way.
*ARC was provided by NetGalley*
February 6, 2014
Very cute, i enjoyed the romance between this couple a little bit more than the first book. Looking forward to Kenzie and Aleck's books!
April 7, 2018
This book opens up with Deputy Colin McLaughlin who is a tough opinionated man and it is only worse when he sets his eyes on Hailey Alexander. Once his sister best friend she in his eyes should not be welcomed in the family bar or on the island if he had his way. At the same time that he is angry over something she did to his family not to him, and the two people forgave her is one hardheaded son of a gun. Each of them find the other attractive and have since high school which is still frustrating to both of them. Now when one day he is watching his niece and takes his eye off the prize for one second it turns out he needs her help, for she is a nurse. After that day they seem to be more together and when he finds out about a problem she has going on with an ex-boyfriend he decides maybe it should be time for him to get over his issues with her. A good story about family forgiveness and just how close love and hate can be and how they can keep you apart or perhaps bring you together. Read this wonderful story. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 4 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
January 23, 2018
For a story that on its way to a HEA, it took a fantastic and unexpected route through some tense and gripping moments that were expertly weaved into Colin and Hallie's journey. With charismatic characters, a smart and quickly moving dialog, I was hooked from the onset.
I've also read the first book in the series, Ian and Sarah's story, and truly look forward to Kenzie and Aleck stories in books three and four.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
I've also read the first book in the series, Ian and Sarah's story, and truly look forward to Kenzie and Aleck stories in books three and four.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
March 8, 2018
So. Freaking. Awesome! I am loving this series with the McLaughlin family. This is Hailey and Colin's story and it's one you don't want to miss.
Years ago Colin McLaughlin may have had a crush on Hailey Alexander. That was before she betrayed his family and almost ruined his brother's life. The rest of his family may have accepted her late explanation and apology but Colin isn't so quick to forgive. So what if there is an intense attraction between himself and Hailey. He's strong enough to resist it. Isn't he???
I highly recommend this one and I can't wait for the next book.
Years ago Colin McLaughlin may have had a crush on Hailey Alexander. That was before she betrayed his family and almost ruined his brother's life. The rest of his family may have accepted her late explanation and apology but Colin isn't so quick to forgive. So what if there is an intense attraction between himself and Hailey. He's strong enough to resist it. Isn't he???
I highly recommend this one and I can't wait for the next book.
March 17, 2018
Straight, No chaser has everything I look for in a book: Sizzling romance, witty banter and likable characters. A must-read for those who enjoy love-hate relationships between the main characters.
April 20, 2019
Colin + Hailey = 💛
I was so happy to be reading about Colin and Hailey! They were definitely meant to be. It was simply amazing! Can't wait to read about Kenzie and Brett next! ☺💛
I was so happy to be reading about Colin and Hailey! They were definitely meant to be. It was simply amazing! Can't wait to read about Kenzie and Brett next! ☺💛
February 7, 2014
Oh how I love these McLaughlin books!
Yes, I'm biased, I am a friend of Shelli's, and I live on Whidbey Island, but I really do like these books!
So. Colin and Hailey... Where to start. Colin is a good man, looking to settle down, with a big chip on his shoulder about Hailey. And his ex-fiancee, who left him at the alter. He has a attitude! And he's a cop, so that comes with the territory.
Hailey has some family issues. Serious family issues! Her mother is a drug addict, and Hailey has fought to not follow down that path, and to keep her brother out of it as well. As a high school girl, she made a really bad decision, and took money to say she'd slept with Ian, (from book one in the series)to break him up from his then girl friend Sarah. The McLaughlin clan has been angry with Hailey ever since! It started to calm down in book one when we learn why Hailey did what she did, but Colin can't let it go.
On to their story! Colin is a stubborn snot, Hailey is a proud girl. This makes for a wonderful, fun, hot story! Throw in a nasty ex-boyfriend of Hailey's, and Colin's interferring family, and you have a fabulous book.
I've read a bunch of Shelli's books, certainly not all of them, but a good handful. I've liked them all, haven't disliked any, but these two are by far my favorite. Yes, I know, they are set on my island, but the writing in these is just excellent. I think she's really come in to her own as an author, and I am so proud of her!
Yes, I'm biased, I am a friend of Shelli's, and I live on Whidbey Island, but I really do like these books!
So. Colin and Hailey... Where to start. Colin is a good man, looking to settle down, with a big chip on his shoulder about Hailey. And his ex-fiancee, who left him at the alter. He has a attitude! And he's a cop, so that comes with the territory.
Hailey has some family issues. Serious family issues! Her mother is a drug addict, and Hailey has fought to not follow down that path, and to keep her brother out of it as well. As a high school girl, she made a really bad decision, and took money to say she'd slept with Ian, (from book one in the series)to break him up from his then girl friend Sarah. The McLaughlin clan has been angry with Hailey ever since! It started to calm down in book one when we learn why Hailey did what she did, but Colin can't let it go.
On to their story! Colin is a stubborn snot, Hailey is a proud girl. This makes for a wonderful, fun, hot story! Throw in a nasty ex-boyfriend of Hailey's, and Colin's interferring family, and you have a fabulous book.
I've read a bunch of Shelli's books, certainly not all of them, but a good handful. I've liked them all, haven't disliked any, but these two are by far my favorite. Yes, I know, they are set on my island, but the writing in these is just excellent. I think she's really come in to her own as an author, and I am so proud of her!
February 13, 2018
Given that the couple meets in a pub, that's the only connection of the title to the story. I find it shallow. And then there is my issue on insta-love. Colin hates Hailey but he quickly beds her. There are too much sex scenes, the story lost its content. Hailey's character is complex and it would've been the center of my review but I lost all interest in the entire book. The irrelevant sex scenes was a turn-off.
There is potential in the story, if only it concentrated with the characters instead of sex. I hate that the story went in an insubstantial direction.
There is potential in the story, if only it concentrated with the characters instead of sex. I hate that the story went in an insubstantial direction.
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March 2, 2018
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
Straight No Chaser by Shelli Stevens is book two of The McLaughlins series. I look forward to reading more about the McLaughlin family. Straight No Chaser is a complicated romance of two people who have crazy chemistry but are they willing to open their hearts to love??
The main character Hailey Alexander is a single woman who works as a nurse. She grew up on Whidbey Island with her mom and brother. Long ago, Hailey made a bad decision that hurt Colin’s family. She hasn’t forgiven herself for that one moment of weakness. She lost her two best friends that day but she had to do it to keep her family together. As soon as she could she moved away from the island and cut off ties with her mother. Now she's back and her history of picking the wrong men may have followed her in the form of the last loser.
Deputy Colin McLaughlin follows the straight and narrow path. When Colin was younger, he had a crush on Hailey. Colin refuses to believe she has changed and assumes she has followed in her mother’s footsteps. The more Colin gets to know Hailey, he discovers his assumptions about her are completely wrong. Their chemistry is off the charts and they soon give into it. But due to being burned in the past, Colin is hesitant to pursue a relationship with Hailey.
Hailey’s poor self-esteem has guided most of the decisions she makes in the book. She really needs to realize that she is not the little girl from the wrong side of town anymore! Colin starts out with a cocky cop attitude but the reader soon realizes he’s really a sweetheart underneath. Soon Colin and his family are coming to Hailey’s rescue when the old boyfriend shows up to cause trouble. Colin’s former fiancee makes an appearance and causes feelings of jealousy and insecurity for Hailey.
I would recommend you read this book. In the end, it’s an action packed love story with a HEA after a little danger. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series starring Colin’s sister Kenzie.
Four stars
***Review by Kara, Late Night Reviewer for Up All Night with Books***
Straight No Chaser by Shelli Stevens is book two of The McLaughlins series. I look forward to reading more about the McLaughlin family. Straight No Chaser is a complicated romance of two people who have crazy chemistry but are they willing to open their hearts to love??
The main character Hailey Alexander is a single woman who works as a nurse. She grew up on Whidbey Island with her mom and brother. Long ago, Hailey made a bad decision that hurt Colin’s family. She hasn’t forgiven herself for that one moment of weakness. She lost her two best friends that day but she had to do it to keep her family together. As soon as she could she moved away from the island and cut off ties with her mother. Now she's back and her history of picking the wrong men may have followed her in the form of the last loser.
Deputy Colin McLaughlin follows the straight and narrow path. When Colin was younger, he had a crush on Hailey. Colin refuses to believe she has changed and assumes she has followed in her mother’s footsteps. The more Colin gets to know Hailey, he discovers his assumptions about her are completely wrong. Their chemistry is off the charts and they soon give into it. But due to being burned in the past, Colin is hesitant to pursue a relationship with Hailey.
Hailey’s poor self-esteem has guided most of the decisions she makes in the book. She really needs to realize that she is not the little girl from the wrong side of town anymore! Colin starts out with a cocky cop attitude but the reader soon realizes he’s really a sweetheart underneath. Soon Colin and his family are coming to Hailey’s rescue when the old boyfriend shows up to cause trouble. Colin’s former fiancee makes an appearance and causes feelings of jealousy and insecurity for Hailey.
I would recommend you read this book. In the end, it’s an action packed love story with a HEA after a little danger. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series starring Colin’s sister Kenzie.
Four stars
***Review by Kara, Late Night Reviewer for Up All Night with Books***
March 13, 2018
Straight, No Chaser by Shelli Stevens
Deputy Colin McLaughlin is never looking for love, but something stirs his blood when former high school crush Hailey strolls back into his family’s Whidbey Island pub. He wants to keep nursing his anger at the woman who betrayed his family and nearly ruined his brother’s life. Instead, the desire burns hotter than ever… Not that he’d ever act on it.
Hailey Alexander knows her past is littered with mistakes. She’s worked hard to move on, but a certain Scottish-born deputy isn’t in any hurry to forgive or forget.
Can they fight the attraction that’s compromising their hearts?
this is Hailey Alexander and Colin McLaughlin’s story.
Hailey finished adding notes to one of her patients’ charts, hit Save and then took a quick sip from her water bottle. Fifteen minutes ’til her shift ended.
She was protective of kids by nature—always had been after essentially having to raise her younger brother.
What sounded amazing was going home, drawing a bubble bath and listening to Mumford and Sons until her mind was empty.
Colin yawned, more than ready to call it a day at his job as a sheriff’s deputy.
Right now a pint at his family’s pub sounded pretty fantastic, actually. He was contemplating heading back to the precinct when he spotted a familiar black Porsche racing by, going northbound on the island.
Can they fight the attraction that’s compromising their hearts?
Straight, No Chaser by Shelli Stevens is a 3 star book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Shelli's Books with Tule:
Protect Me, Cowboy
Marshall Ranch
The 78th Copper Mountain Rodeo
Falling for the Hometown Girl
Marshall Ranch
One More Round
The McLaughlins
Straight, No Chaser
The McLaughlins
Top Shelf
The McLaughlins
Deputy Colin McLaughlin is never looking for love, but something stirs his blood when former high school crush Hailey strolls back into his family’s Whidbey Island pub. He wants to keep nursing his anger at the woman who betrayed his family and nearly ruined his brother’s life. Instead, the desire burns hotter than ever… Not that he’d ever act on it.
Hailey Alexander knows her past is littered with mistakes. She’s worked hard to move on, but a certain Scottish-born deputy isn’t in any hurry to forgive or forget.
Can they fight the attraction that’s compromising their hearts?
this is Hailey Alexander and Colin McLaughlin’s story.
Hailey finished adding notes to one of her patients’ charts, hit Save and then took a quick sip from her water bottle. Fifteen minutes ’til her shift ended.
She was protective of kids by nature—always had been after essentially having to raise her younger brother.
What sounded amazing was going home, drawing a bubble bath and listening to Mumford and Sons until her mind was empty.
Colin yawned, more than ready to call it a day at his job as a sheriff’s deputy.
Right now a pint at his family’s pub sounded pretty fantastic, actually. He was contemplating heading back to the precinct when he spotted a familiar black Porsche racing by, going northbound on the island.
Can they fight the attraction that’s compromising their hearts?
Straight, No Chaser by Shelli Stevens is a 3 star book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Shelli's Books with Tule:
Protect Me, Cowboy
Marshall Ranch
The 78th Copper Mountain Rodeo
Falling for the Hometown Girl
Marshall Ranch
One More Round
The McLaughlins
Straight, No Chaser
The McLaughlins
Top Shelf
The McLaughlins
March 18, 2018
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Colin and Hailey have a history, a family history, and one that Colin is not letting go of any time soon. That makes his attraction to her a very rough issue in this romance. Yes, Hailey did some really bad things. There really are no excuses, although there are explanations and regret, so much regret.
With Hailey back on the island, and his twin brother and his wife willing to forgive, it places Colin in that uncomfortable spot of being the holdout in the “welcome Hailey back committee”. He is certainly not looking for love, been there, done that – have the broken heart and the didn’t happen wedding to show for it. Yet Hailey keeps drawing him in.
Hailey knew that coming back and trying to make amends would not be easy. Yet she’s trying. Her attraction to a man who cannot stand the sight of her hurts, there’s no denying that. But maybe Colin can begin to see that she’s different now from the girl he once knew. Sure she admits that she, and her family were trouble back then – but right now trouble is following her and this reluctant man, this cop may be her only hope not only to survive but to find out that love can be so very real.
Straight, No Chaser is an emotional story, full of anger, hope and that thin line between hate and love that eventually crosses over to one side or the other. I enjoyed my time in this world. Watching Hailey and Colin work through their past and toward their future was a rocky, emotional journey.
This is a re-release title. It was originally released as Kilty Pleasures in 2014. Simply be aware that you may have already read this story.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Colin and Hailey have a history, a family history, and one that Colin is not letting go of any time soon. That makes his attraction to her a very rough issue in this romance. Yes, Hailey did some really bad things. There really are no excuses, although there are explanations and regret, so much regret.
With Hailey back on the island, and his twin brother and his wife willing to forgive, it places Colin in that uncomfortable spot of being the holdout in the “welcome Hailey back committee”. He is certainly not looking for love, been there, done that – have the broken heart and the didn’t happen wedding to show for it. Yet Hailey keeps drawing him in.
Hailey knew that coming back and trying to make amends would not be easy. Yet she’s trying. Her attraction to a man who cannot stand the sight of her hurts, there’s no denying that. But maybe Colin can begin to see that she’s different now from the girl he once knew. Sure she admits that she, and her family were trouble back then – but right now trouble is following her and this reluctant man, this cop may be her only hope not only to survive but to find out that love can be so very real.
Straight, No Chaser is an emotional story, full of anger, hope and that thin line between hate and love that eventually crosses over to one side or the other. I enjoyed my time in this world. Watching Hailey and Colin work through their past and toward their future was a rocky, emotional journey.
This is a re-release title. It was originally released as Kilty Pleasures in 2014. Simply be aware that you may have already read this story.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
March 12, 2018
3.5 Stars!
Straight, No Chaser is the second book in the ‘The McLaughlins’ series. I had not read the first book and was able to follow along.
This one is about Colin McLaughlin and Hailey Alexander.
These two start off a little more than rocky. Colin can't seem to get past what Hailey had done to his family. He holds a ton of resentment towards her and makes his feelings quite clear. That said, he can't deny the attraction he has always had towards her.
Hailey is a nurse now, and she's tried to find a more fulfilling life. She deeply regrets the mistakes of her past. She's not proud of what she "had to do" to get by. She had an awful childhood, but she's done her best to prove; your past does not define you.
When Colin and Hailey's paths cross, things get a little crazy, a little steamy and little...tense.
I liked the chemistry between the two characters.
What I didn't much care for was how big of a jerk Colin was to Hailey. Once they get to know each other better and started to open up, their romance seemed a bit more believable.
I wish there was a little more attention given to them and building their relationship. I kinda felt like the heavy feelings came out of nowhere.
It could've been due to the extra side characters (though I enjoyed some of them) and incidents with a person from Hailey's past, that I couldn't quite get myself to care about.
Overall, this was a fast-paced, enjoyable enough romance with steamy scenes and likable characters.
** I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the publisher - through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own**
Straight, No Chaser is the second book in the ‘The McLaughlins’ series. I had not read the first book and was able to follow along.
This one is about Colin McLaughlin and Hailey Alexander.
These two start off a little more than rocky. Colin can't seem to get past what Hailey had done to his family. He holds a ton of resentment towards her and makes his feelings quite clear. That said, he can't deny the attraction he has always had towards her.
Hailey is a nurse now, and she's tried to find a more fulfilling life. She deeply regrets the mistakes of her past. She's not proud of what she "had to do" to get by. She had an awful childhood, but she's done her best to prove; your past does not define you.
When Colin and Hailey's paths cross, things get a little crazy, a little steamy and little...tense.
I liked the chemistry between the two characters.
What I didn't much care for was how big of a jerk Colin was to Hailey. Once they get to know each other better and started to open up, their romance seemed a bit more believable.
I wish there was a little more attention given to them and building their relationship. I kinda felt like the heavy feelings came out of nowhere.
It could've been due to the extra side characters (though I enjoyed some of them) and incidents with a person from Hailey's past, that I couldn't quite get myself to care about.
Overall, this was a fast-paced, enjoyable enough romance with steamy scenes and likable characters.
** I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the publisher - through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own**
March 7, 2018
* I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher so thank you to them *
3.5*
Hailey is a nurse with a dark past. Due to some mistakes she had made, she has been discriminated from the McLaughlin family. She ends up going to the bar of the McLaughlin family and all of those past feelings are stirred up.
Colin never wanted to see Hailey again. She ruined his brother’s life, his love life at least. Which is why he is so angry when she walks into his family’s bar.
These two end up revisiting these old feelings for each other while the truth comes to light. But to add to the stress, Hailey’s ex-boyfriend, whom she has a restraining order out against, comes to visit Hailey, willing to use her in any way to get to the McLaughlin’s.
I really enjoyed this book. I wish I had read the first book first, though. I can’t say I lost anything by not reading it but there was one relationship I missed out on because of it.
I had an arc of this so I can’t say whether or not these next issues are in the final copy or not.
There were a lot of consistency issues. Like, the use of the wrong names at certain points. But I hope that was fixed in the finished copy.
That being said, I wish the story itself was spaced out differently. To me, there was a hint of a conflict then continuous hints until about 85% then the conflict became a major part. This book ends at like 97%. It had my heart racing and I was freaking out inside but I wish we could have had more of the conflict hitting throughout the story.
3.5*
Hailey is a nurse with a dark past. Due to some mistakes she had made, she has been discriminated from the McLaughlin family. She ends up going to the bar of the McLaughlin family and all of those past feelings are stirred up.
Colin never wanted to see Hailey again. She ruined his brother’s life, his love life at least. Which is why he is so angry when she walks into his family’s bar.
These two end up revisiting these old feelings for each other while the truth comes to light. But to add to the stress, Hailey’s ex-boyfriend, whom she has a restraining order out against, comes to visit Hailey, willing to use her in any way to get to the McLaughlin’s.
I really enjoyed this book. I wish I had read the first book first, though. I can’t say I lost anything by not reading it but there was one relationship I missed out on because of it.
I had an arc of this so I can’t say whether or not these next issues are in the final copy or not.
There were a lot of consistency issues. Like, the use of the wrong names at certain points. But I hope that was fixed in the finished copy.
That being said, I wish the story itself was spaced out differently. To me, there was a hint of a conflict then continuous hints until about 85% then the conflict became a major part. This book ends at like 97%. It had my heart racing and I was freaking out inside but I wish we could have had more of the conflict hitting throughout the story.
July 3, 2020
Straight, No Chaser is the 2nd book in The McLaughlins series. It's a stand alone Contemporary Romance with a troupe that fits into a few categories but mainly a love/hate thing. The interconnecting characters are based on the McLaughlin siblings who are from Scotland but now live on the Puget Sound in Washington State. This book was previously published as Kilty Pleasure with a new cover.
Hailey and Colin once had a crush on each other back in high school, she was best friends with his sister and brothers girlfriend until one foolish mistake destroyed their lives. Colin, a Deputy Sheriff, has held onto his anger and refuses to forgive her so, at every opportunity he is nasty mean to her which is so unusual for his normal personality. Hailey understands his hatred because she can't forgive herself either. She has moved off the island, become a nurse and tried to better her life.
Their paths cross again and it's apparent they have a love/hate relationship that can't disguise the simmering heat burning between them. They try to keep it ONLY sex until Colin decides to protect her from an abusive ex and his ex decides she wants him back... How long will their game of Tug and War last until someone stumbles and falls?
Hailey and Colin once had a crush on each other back in high school, she was best friends with his sister and brothers girlfriend until one foolish mistake destroyed their lives. Colin, a Deputy Sheriff, has held onto his anger and refuses to forgive her so, at every opportunity he is nasty mean to her which is so unusual for his normal personality. Hailey understands his hatred because she can't forgive herself either. She has moved off the island, become a nurse and tried to better her life.
Their paths cross again and it's apparent they have a love/hate relationship that can't disguise the simmering heat burning between them. They try to keep it ONLY sex until Colin decides to protect her from an abusive ex and his ex decides she wants him back... How long will their game of Tug and War last until someone stumbles and falls?
January 12, 2021
Kilty Pleasure or the republished and retitled Straight, No Chaser is the 2nd book in The McLaughlins series. It's a stand alone Contemporary Romance with a troupe that fits into a few categories but mainly a love/hate thing. The interconnecting characters are based on the McLaughlin siblings who are from Scotland but now live on the Puget Sound in Washington State. This book was previously published as Kilty Pleasure with a new cover.
Hailey and Colin once had a crush on each other back in high school, she was best friends with his sister and brothers girlfriend until one foolish mistake destroyed their lives. Colin, a Deputy Sheriff, has held onto his anger and refuses to forgive her so, at every opportunity he is nasty mean to her which is so unusual for his normal personality. Hailey understands his hatred because she can't forgive herself either. She has moved off the island, become a nurse and tried to better her life.
Their paths cross again and it's apparent they have a love/hate relationship that can't disguise the simmering heat burning between them. They try to keep it ONLY sex until Colin decides to protect her from an abusive ex and his ex decides she wants him back... How long will their game of Tug and War last until someone stumbles and falls?
Hailey and Colin once had a crush on each other back in high school, she was best friends with his sister and brothers girlfriend until one foolish mistake destroyed their lives. Colin, a Deputy Sheriff, has held onto his anger and refuses to forgive her so, at every opportunity he is nasty mean to her which is so unusual for his normal personality. Hailey understands his hatred because she can't forgive herself either. She has moved off the island, become a nurse and tried to better her life.
Their paths cross again and it's apparent they have a love/hate relationship that can't disguise the simmering heat burning between them. They try to keep it ONLY sex until Colin decides to protect her from an abusive ex and his ex decides she wants him back... How long will their game of Tug and War last until someone stumbles and falls?
January 12, 2021
Straight, No Chaser is the 2nd book in The McLaughlins series. It's a stand alone Contemporary Romance with a troupe that fits into a few categories but mainly a love/hate thing. The interconnecting characters are based on the McLaughlin siblings who are from Scotland but now live on the Puget Sound in Washington State. This book was previously published as Kilty Pleasure with a new cover.
Hailey and Colin once had a crush on each other back in high school, she was best friends with his sister and brothers girlfriend until one foolish mistake destroyed their lives. Colin, a Deputy Sheriff, has held onto his anger and refuses to forgive her so, at every opportunity he is nasty mean to her which is so unusual for his normal personality. Hailey understands his hatred because she can't forgive herself either. She has moved off the island, become a nurse and tried to better her life.
Their paths cross again and it's apparent they have a love/hate relationship that can't disguise the simmering heat burning between them. They try to keep it ONLY sex until Colin decides to protect her from an abusive ex and his ex decides she wants him back... How long will their game of Tug and War last until someone stumbles and falls?
Hailey and Colin once had a crush on each other back in high school, she was best friends with his sister and brothers girlfriend until one foolish mistake destroyed their lives. Colin, a Deputy Sheriff, has held onto his anger and refuses to forgive her so, at every opportunity he is nasty mean to her which is so unusual for his normal personality. Hailey understands his hatred because she can't forgive herself either. She has moved off the island, become a nurse and tried to better her life.
Their paths cross again and it's apparent they have a love/hate relationship that can't disguise the simmering heat burning between them. They try to keep it ONLY sex until Colin decides to protect her from an abusive ex and his ex decides she wants him back... How long will their game of Tug and War last until someone stumbles and falls?
March 13, 2018
Wow, by the end of this book, I imagine the McLaughlin family dinners to be very interesting to say the least. Straight, No Chaser by Shelli Stevens brings back the bad girl talked about in book one, One More Round. Years later, Hailey comes back to Whidbey Island, ready to make amends with Ian, who is totally in love with Sarah. It is his brother, Deputy Colin McLaughlin who falls for her against his better judgement. Really that made this story interesting since he is the last guy I thought would be.
Everyone has regrets and baggage, but Hailey has way more than I would think most families could handle. To welcome her at all into the McLaughlin group seemed more than possible. I know forgiveness is divine but to do more than tolerate Hailey seems incredible.
The story is well-written, interesting but just not believable for me. Still more secrets are revealed, more drama and more romance are all packed into Colin and Hailey’s story.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Everyone has regrets and baggage, but Hailey has way more than I would think most families could handle. To welcome her at all into the McLaughlin group seemed more than possible. I know forgiveness is divine but to do more than tolerate Hailey seems incredible.
The story is well-written, interesting but just not believable for me. Still more secrets are revealed, more drama and more romance are all packed into Colin and Hailey’s story.
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 15, 2018
I found Straight, No Chaser by Shelli Stevens, book two in her McLaughlins series a wonderful story about how people and things aren’t always what they seem. Sort of a don’t judge a book by its cover theme. There are also parts that reminded me of the fine line between hate and love. Colin McLaughlin and Hailey Alexander each had a crush on the other in high school and now ten years later that attraction is still there. Colin has not moved on from being angry at Hailey after she almost ruined his twin brother’s life; despite how hard Hailey worked to move past her mistakes in her past. These two share not just an attraction but an off the charts chemistry. This desire for each other burns hotter than HOT. Colin needs to see how Hailey has changed and learn to forgive her for the past before he can move on to a future with her.
I really loved reading this book and didn’t want to put this book down, reading it in one day. Ms. Porter is a wonderful story teller and she always draws me into her books, making me forget the world around me. I highly recommend this book to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I really loved reading this book and didn’t want to put this book down, reading it in one day. Ms. Porter is a wonderful story teller and she always draws me into her books, making me forget the world around me. I highly recommend this book to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
March 8, 2018
This is the second story of the McLaughlin siblings, transplants from Scotland and all very protective of each other. Though the book is considered a stand alone, the reader would benefit from reading book one as this one is a follow up to it.
The story centers around Colin McLaughlin, a deputy, and Hailey, a nurse, and the girl that caused a great deal of heartache to sibling Ian and his HS girlfriend, Sarah , ten years before. Though Hailey apologized in book one, there is still a lot of resentment held by Colin.
As the story progresses , we are told why the young Hailey did what she did, and feelings are revealed.
The story is filled with heartbreak, emotional revelations, and family dynamics. A reminder that life is not black and white , but rather different shades of gray, that relationships require honestly and that love can overcome many obstacles.
Though this story is not my favorite to date of the series, it’s still one worthy of your time.
I am looking forward to the next book, Kenzie’s story.
I was gifted this copy by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
The story centers around Colin McLaughlin, a deputy, and Hailey, a nurse, and the girl that caused a great deal of heartache to sibling Ian and his HS girlfriend, Sarah , ten years before. Though Hailey apologized in book one, there is still a lot of resentment held by Colin.
As the story progresses , we are told why the young Hailey did what she did, and feelings are revealed.
The story is filled with heartbreak, emotional revelations, and family dynamics. A reminder that life is not black and white , but rather different shades of gray, that relationships require honestly and that love can overcome many obstacles.
Though this story is not my favorite to date of the series, it’s still one worthy of your time.
I am looking forward to the next book, Kenzie’s story.
I was gifted this copy by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
March 17, 2018
This was such a fun story! Light and flirty and yes, just a little bit sexy, it had me all the way through.
I love Hailey, the girl from the wrong side of the tracks who has done all she could to prove she is a good and decent human being. This is a strong woman with strength and purpose about her, and yet a touch of vulnerability that says she’s not as strong as she’d like people to think. I couldn’t help but admire her!
Colin too is worthy of respect and yes, just a little second glance or two. All that muscle and Scottish charm is sure to turn a head or two after all.
In between the palpable sexual attraction between Hailey and Colin there was something more and it drew me in. That sense of protectiveness that Colin showed when Hailey was threatened, that sense of rightness that Hailey felt when she was with Colin, all of this kept me hooked and invested in their story and ultimately it was worth it. This is a really satisfying read and one I’ll quite likely enjoy again.
I love Hailey, the girl from the wrong side of the tracks who has done all she could to prove she is a good and decent human being. This is a strong woman with strength and purpose about her, and yet a touch of vulnerability that says she’s not as strong as she’d like people to think. I couldn’t help but admire her!
Colin too is worthy of respect and yes, just a little second glance or two. All that muscle and Scottish charm is sure to turn a head or two after all.
In between the palpable sexual attraction between Hailey and Colin there was something more and it drew me in. That sense of protectiveness that Colin showed when Hailey was threatened, that sense of rightness that Hailey felt when she was with Colin, all of this kept me hooked and invested in their story and ultimately it was worth it. This is a really satisfying read and one I’ll quite likely enjoy again.
March 14, 2022
This is the second book in The McLaughlins series. Ms Stevens’ characters are easy to relate to and the storyline flowed throughout the book. Her writing style is witty, upbeat, and fast-paced. The first book was about Ian McLaughlin, this one is about his twin, Colin. The betrayal that separated Ian and Sarah eleven years ago is very much on Colin’s mind when Hailey comes back into town. She was, after all, the reason Ian and Sarah split. Ian has forgiven. Colin just can’t do it. However, he can’t deny that he is attracted to Hailey.
Straight, No Chaser is a story of family loyalty, assumptions, and forgiveness. It definitely shows how close the emotions of hate and love are. Pretty much two sides of the same coin. It was fun to interact with the McLaughlins again and visit Whidbey Island, to hang out at the pub, and to watch Colin admit that perhaps he had assumed just a little too much in regards to Hailey.
Straight, No Chaser is a story of family loyalty, assumptions, and forgiveness. It definitely shows how close the emotions of hate and love are. Pretty much two sides of the same coin. It was fun to interact with the McLaughlins again and visit Whidbey Island, to hang out at the pub, and to watch Colin admit that perhaps he had assumed just a little too much in regards to Hailey.
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