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The Billionaire's Matchmaker
An Anthology by Shirley Jump, Susan Meier, Jackie Braun and Barbara Wallace
Can a feisty four-legged matchmaker help four best friends find the romance of their dreams?
When a handsome man from Gabby’s past agrees to a cross-country road trip, her master plan to re-launch her art career quickly morphs into an unexpected, romantic reunion.
Marney’s 9-1-1 emergency help arrives in the form of a rugged, blue-eyed cop. Now she has the perfect bodyguard to keep her safe during those dark, steamy nights…
The last thing Mia wants is a relationship…yet the headstrong florist can’t keep her hands off her sexy-as-sin ex-boyfriend. Will she open her heart before he leaves town for good?
Jenny is a woman on a mission – she’ll even resort to dognapping to make her point! But can she teach a reclusive, emotionally-wounded tycoon that love heals all things?
Can a feisty four-legged matchmaker help four best friends find the romance of their dreams?
When a handsome man from Gabby’s past agrees to a cross-country road trip, her master plan to re-launch her art career quickly morphs into an unexpected, romantic reunion.
Marney’s 9-1-1 emergency help arrives in the form of a rugged, blue-eyed cop. Now she has the perfect bodyguard to keep her safe during those dark, steamy nights…
The last thing Mia wants is a relationship…yet the headstrong florist can’t keep her hands off her sexy-as-sin ex-boyfriend. Will she open her heart before he leaves town for good?
Jenny is a woman on a mission – she’ll even resort to dognapping to make her point! But can she teach a reclusive, emotionally-wounded tycoon that love heals all things?
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2013
1 person is currently reading
79 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Wallace
197 books173 followersBestselling author Barbara Tanner Wallace makes her living making up stories. When not writing, she's either reading, crocheting or bowing to her cats' whims.
She's a life-long New Englander with two hundred years of Yankee history behind her. She currently lives just outside of Boston with her husband. They have one son who lives in the middle of nowhere and apparently likes it.
She's a life-long New Englander with two hundred years of Yankee history behind her. She currently lives just outside of Boston with her husband. They have one son who lives in the middle of nowhere and apparently likes it.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 12, 2013
This collection of novellas is decadent and alluring, especially the first novella, Driving Mr. Wrong Home, by Shirley Jump. When artist Gabby Wilson meets up with her former classmate T.J. Shepherd, a man who had been bookish and quiet but is now sexy and dangerous, we follow the two willingly across country on their spicy trip towards an uncertain future.
As a lover of art, I was intrigued from page one by Jump's description of Gabby's pursuit of art blended with mixed digital media, a fitting metaphor for blending Gabby's old relationship and way of life as a hell-raising teen with this man, T.J., who is both old and new to her life. Not only did the romance interest me, but Gabby's quest to complete her 3D art did as well.
It didn't hurt that Jump threw in a bison as well -- did she mine everything I love for this novella?
I won't spoil the tender ending (which may or may not involve the world's largest popcorn ball), but it's worth the read, as are the other novellas in the collection. Very.
As a lover of art, I was intrigued from page one by Jump's description of Gabby's pursuit of art blended with mixed digital media, a fitting metaphor for blending Gabby's old relationship and way of life as a hell-raising teen with this man, T.J., who is both old and new to her life. Not only did the romance interest me, but Gabby's quest to complete her 3D art did as well.
It didn't hurt that Jump threw in a bison as well -- did she mine everything I love for this novella?
I won't spoil the tender ending (which may or may not involve the world's largest popcorn ball), but it's worth the read, as are the other novellas in the collection. Very.
October 18, 2013
What a great set of stories this was. I think this is the third of this kind of anthology I've read from Entangled and they've all been great.
The four novellas are nicely linked by the antics of Charlie, the pedigreed pooch of Mr B. a dark mysterious billionaire recluse. Dog sat in turn by Gabbie, Marnie, Mia and finally Jennie, he is the matchmaker of the title, bringing each woman a happy ever after with the man of their dreams.
Gabbie's story is first, a sweet reunion by Shirley Jump. When picking up Charlie she bumps into TJ, the computer nerd she loved and rejected back in her school days. This is a road trip story, with TJ finagling his way into travelling with Gabbie on a work trip to take photographs for a potential exhibition. Naturally with Charlie's help everything comes out right.
Marnie is not interested in a relationship and neither is the sheriff Dell O'Neill. Unfortunately, or fortunately Marnie discovers he has a secret and when Charlie takes a shine to the hunky sheriff it brings them together to discover that if nothing else, they have an explosive chemistry...and perhaps a friendship. It takes Charlie and a lot of soup to get this story to it's conclusion.
Mia is the tough case of the four girls. She's decided that Gideon's offer of marriage is only going to leave to an inevitable loss. The fact that Gideon is the town vet and Charlie is in need of attention may be purely coincidental, but it starts a chain of events that will catch at your heart.
Jenny's story starts when Charlie's misbehaviour brings her to the door of the reclusive billionaire. Nick has very good reasons for his reclusiveness but Jenny is just the person to make that difference. Along with Charlie's romance with her dog Lulu. This was very sweet and a lovely conclusion to the anthology.
The four novellas are nicely linked by the antics of Charlie, the pedigreed pooch of Mr B. a dark mysterious billionaire recluse. Dog sat in turn by Gabbie, Marnie, Mia and finally Jennie, he is the matchmaker of the title, bringing each woman a happy ever after with the man of their dreams.
Gabbie's story is first, a sweet reunion by Shirley Jump. When picking up Charlie she bumps into TJ, the computer nerd she loved and rejected back in her school days. This is a road trip story, with TJ finagling his way into travelling with Gabbie on a work trip to take photographs for a potential exhibition. Naturally with Charlie's help everything comes out right.
Marnie is not interested in a relationship and neither is the sheriff Dell O'Neill. Unfortunately, or fortunately Marnie discovers he has a secret and when Charlie takes a shine to the hunky sheriff it brings them together to discover that if nothing else, they have an explosive chemistry...and perhaps a friendship. It takes Charlie and a lot of soup to get this story to it's conclusion.
Mia is the tough case of the four girls. She's decided that Gideon's offer of marriage is only going to leave to an inevitable loss. The fact that Gideon is the town vet and Charlie is in need of attention may be purely coincidental, but it starts a chain of events that will catch at your heart.
Jenny's story starts when Charlie's misbehaviour brings her to the door of the reclusive billionaire. Nick has very good reasons for his reclusiveness but Jenny is just the person to make that difference. Along with Charlie's romance with her dog Lulu. This was very sweet and a lovely conclusion to the anthology.
October 13, 2013
Loved all the stories included in this anthology! I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Although I could have stopped after the first story, I was compelled to find out if the rest of the stories were as good as the first one.
There is a running theme in this anthology. This is a compendium of four stories dealing with four girlfriends and one very astute and interesting Jack Russell Terrier - Charlie. Charlie also has his happy ending... so watch for it!
Charlie's owner has to entrust him to someone who can take care of him. Let's face it, this dog has a mind of his own and none of the staff at his owner's is willing to deal with his mischief. So Charlie is entrusted in the first story to a local artist name Gabby Wilson. Her story begins as she meets an old friend from High School by chance. After so many years, are embers of an old crush capable to spark a roaring fire? Of course, Charlie is involved. Gabby must drive to the Los Angeles to a gallery where she hopes to get a chance at an exhibition of her work. Her long lost crush from High School endears himself to travel with her and Charlie to Los Angeles. What happens next is a roaring good time for Charlie and a trip to remember for Gabby and T.J. ... and YES, embers can in fact bring back that roaring fire of passion and forever love!
The other stories follow Charlie as he is entrusted to each of the four girlfriends. Like magic, Charlie has his own "doggie-intuition" and he plays Cupid to help his friends and himself to a happy ending.
There is a running theme in this anthology. This is a compendium of four stories dealing with four girlfriends and one very astute and interesting Jack Russell Terrier - Charlie. Charlie also has his happy ending... so watch for it!
Charlie's owner has to entrust him to someone who can take care of him. Let's face it, this dog has a mind of his own and none of the staff at his owner's is willing to deal with his mischief. So Charlie is entrusted in the first story to a local artist name Gabby Wilson. Her story begins as she meets an old friend from High School by chance. After so many years, are embers of an old crush capable to spark a roaring fire? Of course, Charlie is involved. Gabby must drive to the Los Angeles to a gallery where she hopes to get a chance at an exhibition of her work. Her long lost crush from High School endears himself to travel with her and Charlie to Los Angeles. What happens next is a roaring good time for Charlie and a trip to remember for Gabby and T.J. ... and YES, embers can in fact bring back that roaring fire of passion and forever love!
The other stories follow Charlie as he is entrusted to each of the four girlfriends. Like magic, Charlie has his own "doggie-intuition" and he plays Cupid to help his friends and himself to a happy ending.
October 12, 2013
This Anthology was 4 different books written by 4 different authors. The entire series was about 4 friends with different goals and problems. They all take turns taking care of an overactive Jack Russell, that has a mind of his own. Through each story because of the Jack Russell they get thrown together with a different man. Charlie, the Jack Russell was hilarious in his tactics. All four authors did an excellent job of working together to come up with a great Anthology. Every single women in this Series was against Love for their own reasons, Charlie was creative in finding ways to forget. The Billionaire' s Matchmaker: An Indulgence Anthology had me laughing out loud. This is a great read, that I highly recommend! I was given an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. My review can be found at http://booksbooksmorebooks.blogspot.c...
October 6, 2013
First of all, thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the opportunity to read this book and provide an honest review.
I loved it! Pure and simple, the stories were so appealing and the characters intertwined so well between the stories that I could hardly tell when one ended and the other began. Love stories always fill my heart with gladness and take me to a place where everything and everyone is happy. I think my favorite story was the last one - it was a perfect ending.
I loved it! Pure and simple, the stories were so appealing and the characters intertwined so well between the stories that I could hardly tell when one ended and the other began. Love stories always fill my heart with gladness and take me to a place where everything and everyone is happy. I think my favorite story was the last one - it was a perfect ending.
October 13, 2013
I really enjoyed this 4 novella anthology. All 4 authors are strong contributors, and the premise was interesting enough to tie them together. Each story could stand alone quite easily, but together they made for a great afternoon's reading.If you enjoy well-written short stories that feature three dimensional, fully developed characters, these are for you. They were all lovely, sweet, light romances.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
*I received my copy from NetGalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
November 9, 2013
**ARC Provided by Netgalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC for an honest review**
This is an anthology, four different authors, writing for each of the four friends who each find love and a four legged friend that helps them all out.
Driving Mr. Wrong Home
Gabby is an artist who has an impulsive side that tends to get her into trouble. In order to re-launch her career, she is about to travel across America taking picture of famous sites on her way.
The day before she leaves she is asked via email to visit Mr Bonaparte. She hopes its a commission, yet on the doorstep she meets T.J. Shephard, her high school best friend. They guy that left the area for college and never looked back, even to help her when she needed it most.
She soon learns via his butler Cyrus that Mr Bonepart is about to go abroad and he wants her to look after his dog Charlie who always escapes and finds his way to her studio.
T.J. was a computer geek and at college started a business that has earned him millions. He wants to reconnect with the girl he has never forgotten, Gabby. The girl he always wanted as a girlfriend but never had the guts to pursue. When he finally did, she turned him down. So he left for college and never looked back. He wanted to make it on his own. especially without his controlling father.
Withholding the truth and using little white lie his get his wish to spend time with her and goes along on the road trip. They both reconnect and find there is now a definite spark between them. Both find that they both wanted each other but were scared to go further as they didn't want to lose each other.
However Gabby finds out the truth from a text on his phone and she runs. T.J doesn't want to lose her and tracks her down via helicopter. He refuses to leave until she admits that she wants him permanently. After a whirlwind romance they are married and T.J start to move his office to Chandler's Cove.
The Sheriff's Secret
Marney is hiding in her closet because she has heard a noise in her house. Thinking it could be a burglar, she calls the police. Not too long later she hears footsteps in her house and they are edging closer. When the closet door opens she goes to attack only to find Sheriff Dell O'Neil, she has only seen glimpses of the man before. The sight of him has her off kilter ad she acts like a love sick puppy.
Not impressed, her tells her off for wasting his time, thinking she only got him there to drool over him. Knowing she won't get any help from him again, and not wanting to be alone she asks her newly married friend Gabby is she can borrow Charlie, the dog she is looking after for a while.
However after a trip to a gallery in Chicago, she finds out the Sheriff's secret. He is the son of a millionaire and watches as the women fall all over him. When he sees her he looks terrified and asks her not to tell his secret. He wants to be known for being him, not as his fathers son.
Charlie has a habit of running off however. As she is cooking one evening there is a knock on the door. It is the sheriff with the dog under his arm. As a peace offering she offers him food as she always cooks too much. He takes up the offer after an enjoyable evening her leaves saying that he would love to have sex with her but on his conditions only.
The next day she goes over with soup but they end up having sex with he totally initiates, taking control over the situation. Once she's gone he feels guilty as it was her husband that was controlling. So the next day he takes over soup to apologise and they end up having sex again.
However the feelings change between them and after their secret affair, Dell decides he doesn't want to be alone after all and tell Marney that he wants her for good.
Love Unleashed
Charlie is dropped off at Mia's when Marney and Dell go on their honeymoon. Gabby and T.J are still moving hi office over and can't look after him. She wants to give him back but Marney speeds off after telling her that the dog has a check up booked for later that day. This is a problem for Mia as the vet it her ex-boyfriend. The man that asked her to marry him and she said no. Her issue of trust and loving another getting in the way.
Taking the dog to the vet she sees that his house is for sale, he is moving to another job as he no longer has a reason to stay in Chandler's Cove. The dog is fine, but we find that he has not been fixed. A while later however Mia comes back after a few hours out to find a sorry looking dog. On her floor is a pile of chewed up recycling, rubbish and a bra. The dog is sick and she worries. She rings up Gideon and asks if can see the dog.
They take x-rays and the dog is sick a good few more times, they all end up asleep on the floor at the vets. A feeling of rightness takes over waking up together and she invites him home for breakfast which they eat like their a couple again. She suggests he uses her shower so he won't be late for work, but they end up in bed together and are both late for work Gideon knowing this could be the last time he touches her.
A while passes before they see each other again, he needs roses for his mothers birthday. She already knows what colour they will be and what will be put on the card. Knowing she has to give the dog back and knowing she will have an empty house she invites him over for pizza. She realises just how good he was at compromising for her whilst she never had.
Unfortunately she ends up keeping the dog longer but Gid turns up with the pizza and they chat about old times and end up in bed together that night and nights after. But the time is ticking down before he leaves. One morning he tells her that the house has been sold and he asks what would happen if he didn't move.
Mai turns round and says that he has never asked about her past. Saying he knew that she would tell him when she was ready, she starts to tell him about her painful past and why she finds in hard to trust, to love. But she ends up telling him that she loves him. He knows in that instant that he is staying put.
After a discussion with her friends she ends up asking if Gideon would like to move in with her. A very big step and Gideon is glad and understands. Packing up the rest of his boxes however, she sees and email asking him to reconsider saying no to moving. She realises how much he compromises for her. So she says she wants them to live in Chicago, so he can have his dream job.
He tells her that where ever she is he will be happy. Besides he knows she thinks of this place as home and her friends as her family. His family is also there.
Love in the Shadows
Jenny is now looking after Charlie the dog. But unfortunately as the dog was not fixed her dog is now pregnant and as she is a pure breed she was hoping to breed her and get some cash from the puppies.
Now Mr Bonaparte has returned home and has requested his dog back. She wants the man to pay the now loss of earning she will have along with the vets bills. After meeting Cyrus she tells him she must see Mr Bonaparte. She is given a five minute meeting, in a dark room, and a sexy sounding man.
Her temper gets the better of her when she sees how coldly he acts. In a fit of temper she takes the dog back with her storming out especially as he will not compensate her for her loss. But her friends are quite shocked and says she can be done for kidnapping. But she has not been reckless in the five years she has been in Chandler's Cove. She has rebuilt herself after giving herself to anyone who would show her a little love.
Going to find the dogs, she finds the door open and both dogs, Charlie and a pregnant Lulu have gone. She goes out on foot to get them back, she follows their trail and finds them in the outskirts of Bonaparte's property. But she doesn't see him in the shadows, where he has taken a walk with Jenny on his mind.
Seeing her and after a long abstince he finds he can't help himself and he kisses her. Jenny responds but stables back when she believes herself to be falling into an old cycle. Picking up her dropped torch she puts the light in his face and sees his disfigurement. He sees the horror on her face and believes the worst. But she is horrified with her reaction to how she felt and she scarpers.
The next day realising her mistake she goes over to explain her reaction, knowing he probably thought it was about his looks. She explains her past and they come to a better understanding of each other before she leaves.
Her dog is restless and doesn't like the bed she has made for her, the due date is any day now. The next morning however she can't find Lulu, so she rings Mr Bonaparte to see if she has turned up there. But she hasn't s she goes out on foot to look for her, she even goes to Bonaparte to look in the grounds and finds Nick looking too, limping.
When Gabby rings and tells her to get to the studio, Nick decides to come out of the shadows and drives her himself. They find Lulu in the back with a litter of four puppies and Charlie goes and sits next to his family. When the dog family are back safe at Nicks house and she sees him limping again. So she tells him to sit and starts to massage his back. Her fingers work over his clothes before she tells him to take off his top. She runs her fingers over his skin and starts to kiss his spine before running her hands in front.
Not surprisingly they start to make out before they head to the bedroom and have a fantastic time together, healing each others wounds and knowing that they have found their own perfect other half.
This is an anthology, four different authors, writing for each of the four friends who each find love and a four legged friend that helps them all out.
Driving Mr. Wrong Home
Gabby is an artist who has an impulsive side that tends to get her into trouble. In order to re-launch her career, she is about to travel across America taking picture of famous sites on her way.
The day before she leaves she is asked via email to visit Mr Bonaparte. She hopes its a commission, yet on the doorstep she meets T.J. Shephard, her high school best friend. They guy that left the area for college and never looked back, even to help her when she needed it most.
She soon learns via his butler Cyrus that Mr Bonepart is about to go abroad and he wants her to look after his dog Charlie who always escapes and finds his way to her studio.
T.J. was a computer geek and at college started a business that has earned him millions. He wants to reconnect with the girl he has never forgotten, Gabby. The girl he always wanted as a girlfriend but never had the guts to pursue. When he finally did, she turned him down. So he left for college and never looked back. He wanted to make it on his own. especially without his controlling father.
Withholding the truth and using little white lie his get his wish to spend time with her and goes along on the road trip. They both reconnect and find there is now a definite spark between them. Both find that they both wanted each other but were scared to go further as they didn't want to lose each other.
However Gabby finds out the truth from a text on his phone and she runs. T.J doesn't want to lose her and tracks her down via helicopter. He refuses to leave until she admits that she wants him permanently. After a whirlwind romance they are married and T.J start to move his office to Chandler's Cove.
The Sheriff's Secret
Marney is hiding in her closet because she has heard a noise in her house. Thinking it could be a burglar, she calls the police. Not too long later she hears footsteps in her house and they are edging closer. When the closet door opens she goes to attack only to find Sheriff Dell O'Neil, she has only seen glimpses of the man before. The sight of him has her off kilter ad she acts like a love sick puppy.
Not impressed, her tells her off for wasting his time, thinking she only got him there to drool over him. Knowing she won't get any help from him again, and not wanting to be alone she asks her newly married friend Gabby is she can borrow Charlie, the dog she is looking after for a while.
However after a trip to a gallery in Chicago, she finds out the Sheriff's secret. He is the son of a millionaire and watches as the women fall all over him. When he sees her he looks terrified and asks her not to tell his secret. He wants to be known for being him, not as his fathers son.
Charlie has a habit of running off however. As she is cooking one evening there is a knock on the door. It is the sheriff with the dog under his arm. As a peace offering she offers him food as she always cooks too much. He takes up the offer after an enjoyable evening her leaves saying that he would love to have sex with her but on his conditions only.
The next day she goes over with soup but they end up having sex with he totally initiates, taking control over the situation. Once she's gone he feels guilty as it was her husband that was controlling. So the next day he takes over soup to apologise and they end up having sex again.
However the feelings change between them and after their secret affair, Dell decides he doesn't want to be alone after all and tell Marney that he wants her for good.
Love Unleashed
Charlie is dropped off at Mia's when Marney and Dell go on their honeymoon. Gabby and T.J are still moving hi office over and can't look after him. She wants to give him back but Marney speeds off after telling her that the dog has a check up booked for later that day. This is a problem for Mia as the vet it her ex-boyfriend. The man that asked her to marry him and she said no. Her issue of trust and loving another getting in the way.
Taking the dog to the vet she sees that his house is for sale, he is moving to another job as he no longer has a reason to stay in Chandler's Cove. The dog is fine, but we find that he has not been fixed. A while later however Mia comes back after a few hours out to find a sorry looking dog. On her floor is a pile of chewed up recycling, rubbish and a bra. The dog is sick and she worries. She rings up Gideon and asks if can see the dog.
They take x-rays and the dog is sick a good few more times, they all end up asleep on the floor at the vets. A feeling of rightness takes over waking up together and she invites him home for breakfast which they eat like their a couple again. She suggests he uses her shower so he won't be late for work, but they end up in bed together and are both late for work Gideon knowing this could be the last time he touches her.
A while passes before they see each other again, he needs roses for his mothers birthday. She already knows what colour they will be and what will be put on the card. Knowing she has to give the dog back and knowing she will have an empty house she invites him over for pizza. She realises just how good he was at compromising for her whilst she never had.
Unfortunately she ends up keeping the dog longer but Gid turns up with the pizza and they chat about old times and end up in bed together that night and nights after. But the time is ticking down before he leaves. One morning he tells her that the house has been sold and he asks what would happen if he didn't move.
Mai turns round and says that he has never asked about her past. Saying he knew that she would tell him when she was ready, she starts to tell him about her painful past and why she finds in hard to trust, to love. But she ends up telling him that she loves him. He knows in that instant that he is staying put.
After a discussion with her friends she ends up asking if Gideon would like to move in with her. A very big step and Gideon is glad and understands. Packing up the rest of his boxes however, she sees and email asking him to reconsider saying no to moving. She realises how much he compromises for her. So she says she wants them to live in Chicago, so he can have his dream job.
He tells her that where ever she is he will be happy. Besides he knows she thinks of this place as home and her friends as her family. His family is also there.
Love in the Shadows
Jenny is now looking after Charlie the dog. But unfortunately as the dog was not fixed her dog is now pregnant and as she is a pure breed she was hoping to breed her and get some cash from the puppies.
Now Mr Bonaparte has returned home and has requested his dog back. She wants the man to pay the now loss of earning she will have along with the vets bills. After meeting Cyrus she tells him she must see Mr Bonaparte. She is given a five minute meeting, in a dark room, and a sexy sounding man.
Her temper gets the better of her when she sees how coldly he acts. In a fit of temper she takes the dog back with her storming out especially as he will not compensate her for her loss. But her friends are quite shocked and says she can be done for kidnapping. But she has not been reckless in the five years she has been in Chandler's Cove. She has rebuilt herself after giving herself to anyone who would show her a little love.
Going to find the dogs, she finds the door open and both dogs, Charlie and a pregnant Lulu have gone. She goes out on foot to get them back, she follows their trail and finds them in the outskirts of Bonaparte's property. But she doesn't see him in the shadows, where he has taken a walk with Jenny on his mind.
Seeing her and after a long abstince he finds he can't help himself and he kisses her. Jenny responds but stables back when she believes herself to be falling into an old cycle. Picking up her dropped torch she puts the light in his face and sees his disfigurement. He sees the horror on her face and believes the worst. But she is horrified with her reaction to how she felt and she scarpers.
The next day realising her mistake she goes over to explain her reaction, knowing he probably thought it was about his looks. She explains her past and they come to a better understanding of each other before she leaves.
Her dog is restless and doesn't like the bed she has made for her, the due date is any day now. The next morning however she can't find Lulu, so she rings Mr Bonaparte to see if she has turned up there. But she hasn't s she goes out on foot to look for her, she even goes to Bonaparte to look in the grounds and finds Nick looking too, limping.
When Gabby rings and tells her to get to the studio, Nick decides to come out of the shadows and drives her himself. They find Lulu in the back with a litter of four puppies and Charlie goes and sits next to his family. When the dog family are back safe at Nicks house and she sees him limping again. So she tells him to sit and starts to massage his back. Her fingers work over his clothes before she tells him to take off his top. She runs her fingers over his skin and starts to kiss his spine before running her hands in front.
Not surprisingly they start to make out before they head to the bedroom and have a fantastic time together, healing each others wounds and knowing that they have found their own perfect other half.
October 11, 2013
Posted on What I'm Reading
Welcome to Chandler Cove where we meet four lucky young ladies: Gabby, Marney, Mia, and Jenny. They don't know but they are going to get some help finding love by a Jack Russell Terrier by the name of Charlie in The Billionaire's Matchmaker. How you may ask? Well, in each of the story Charlie is the key for them finding love, with his effervescent charm.
Driving Mr. Wrong Home
Shirley Jump
Road trips can either spell fun or disaster. You never know what's going to happen. Two things can happen: 1) They end up being the best of friends or 2) One of them ends up dead out in the middle of no where. Fortunately, Gabby and TJ ended becoming more than friends.
Actually Gabby and TJ use to be good friends in high school, but fell away from each other cause one was afraid to admit they like the other. The other ended having hurt feelings because they admitted they had feelings. Now they have a chance to reconnect on more than one level.
This story is really cute. I like how TJ and Gabby reconnect on the road-trip to California. However, there are a couple hurdles to overcome between these two. This a short quick read and it is enjoyable. A simple plot, but sometimes you just don't want to dive into something too deep.
The Sheriff's Secret
Susan Meier
First off, we all know that friends with benefits never ever work, so why go through the hassle. In theory it should work just find as long as either party doesn't develop feelings. If they do, they need to develop feelings at the same time which helps.
In this story Marney ends up calling 9-1-1, because she heard a strange noise. Low and behold her neighbor Dell comes to her aid. However, he thought she was trying to get him to come over. Well, Marney finds out some stuff about the good sherif would like to keep underwraps. They start to hangout a little more.
Really quick real and I did enjoy the story. Some may criticize on how quickly Marney and Dell for each other. It's fine. Overall, a cute story if you don't have a hang up for quick storyline, which I don't.
Love Unleashed
Jackie Braun
Growing up in foster care is never easy for children and sometimes it spills over into adulthood. Mia's greatest fear is getting into a relationship and ended getting abandon in the long run. So, the best way to avoid this situation is to keep relationships at arms length. Mia did a good job at that when she broke up with Gideon.
Gideon wanted to marry Mia, but that totally freaked her out. So, he figure the best way to forget Mia is to pack up and leave. However, Mia and Gideon end up spending more time together cause of Charlie. Who knows maybe Mia will overcome her abandonment issues.
I like this story. I normally don't do second chance romances, because one or both parties were stupid. Yes, Mia might have been a little dumb to breakup with Gideon, but her reasons were logical to herself. Plus, it was a cute quick read.
Love in the Shadows
Barbara Wallace
In this story we finally meet the recluse Nicholas Bonaparte who happens to be Charlie's owner. The last person to have Charlie is Jenny. Poor Jenny, her plans went awol when Charlie decided to mess her around her Lulu. So, she goes to Nick's home to get compensated for the terror Charlie inflicted. Well, let's just say things don't turn out peachy right away.
This one is a good story. You come to learn the reason why Mr. B is a recluse. I like how Jenny is so understanding towards him. Both of them bring baggage to the relationship, but each of them is will to each others flaws.
Overall thoughts on The Billionaire's Matchmaker: They are all cute stories that all tie to one little town and effervescent dog. Each of them find love when they have Charlie around. Even Mr. B is able to find love at last. So, if you are looking for cute, simple, quick reads, you might want to give The Billionaire's Matchmaker a try.
Copy provided by publisher
Welcome to Chandler Cove where we meet four lucky young ladies: Gabby, Marney, Mia, and Jenny. They don't know but they are going to get some help finding love by a Jack Russell Terrier by the name of Charlie in The Billionaire's Matchmaker. How you may ask? Well, in each of the story Charlie is the key for them finding love, with his effervescent charm.
Driving Mr. Wrong Home
Shirley Jump
Road trips can either spell fun or disaster. You never know what's going to happen. Two things can happen: 1) They end up being the best of friends or 2) One of them ends up dead out in the middle of no where. Fortunately, Gabby and TJ ended becoming more than friends.
Actually Gabby and TJ use to be good friends in high school, but fell away from each other cause one was afraid to admit they like the other. The other ended having hurt feelings because they admitted they had feelings. Now they have a chance to reconnect on more than one level.
This story is really cute. I like how TJ and Gabby reconnect on the road-trip to California. However, there are a couple hurdles to overcome between these two. This a short quick read and it is enjoyable. A simple plot, but sometimes you just don't want to dive into something too deep.
The Sheriff's Secret
Susan Meier
First off, we all know that friends with benefits never ever work, so why go through the hassle. In theory it should work just find as long as either party doesn't develop feelings. If they do, they need to develop feelings at the same time which helps.
In this story Marney ends up calling 9-1-1, because she heard a strange noise. Low and behold her neighbor Dell comes to her aid. However, he thought she was trying to get him to come over. Well, Marney finds out some stuff about the good sherif would like to keep underwraps. They start to hangout a little more.
Really quick real and I did enjoy the story. Some may criticize on how quickly Marney and Dell for each other. It's fine. Overall, a cute story if you don't have a hang up for quick storyline, which I don't.
Love Unleashed
Jackie Braun
Growing up in foster care is never easy for children and sometimes it spills over into adulthood. Mia's greatest fear is getting into a relationship and ended getting abandon in the long run. So, the best way to avoid this situation is to keep relationships at arms length. Mia did a good job at that when she broke up with Gideon.
Gideon wanted to marry Mia, but that totally freaked her out. So, he figure the best way to forget Mia is to pack up and leave. However, Mia and Gideon end up spending more time together cause of Charlie. Who knows maybe Mia will overcome her abandonment issues.
I like this story. I normally don't do second chance romances, because one or both parties were stupid. Yes, Mia might have been a little dumb to breakup with Gideon, but her reasons were logical to herself. Plus, it was a cute quick read.
Love in the Shadows
Barbara Wallace
In this story we finally meet the recluse Nicholas Bonaparte who happens to be Charlie's owner. The last person to have Charlie is Jenny. Poor Jenny, her plans went awol when Charlie decided to mess her around her Lulu. So, she goes to Nick's home to get compensated for the terror Charlie inflicted. Well, let's just say things don't turn out peachy right away.
This one is a good story. You come to learn the reason why Mr. B is a recluse. I like how Jenny is so understanding towards him. Both of them bring baggage to the relationship, but each of them is will to each others flaws.
Overall thoughts on The Billionaire's Matchmaker: They are all cute stories that all tie to one little town and effervescent dog. Each of them find love when they have Charlie around. Even Mr. B is able to find love at last. So, if you are looking for cute, simple, quick reads, you might want to give The Billionaire's Matchmaker a try.
Copy provided by publisher
October 14, 2013
*ARC from NetGalley and Publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
The running thread here is the care of a reclusive millionaire’s (Mr. Bonaparte) dog – Charlie. Charlie proves to be a cupid in canine form bringing love to all 4 friends and fellow care-takers and finding love himself at the end of it all.
We start with Gabby Wilson & TJ Shepherd. They have a shared past that went south, he left, she stayed behind, he severed all contact, she got hurt. Fast forward to today and a chance meeting which leads to a road trip with said Canine Cupid. They resolve their differences and find out that the spark is still there. He comes clean, she forgives him and they ride off in the sunset or shall I say helicopters into the future?
Next is Marney Fields, local jewelry designer and Sheriff Dell O’Neil, billionaire hunk and incognito as the town sheriff. A 911 call (she thinks there’s someone in her house) brings them together…he lives next door, comes in and thinks Marney just wants to meet him. Next scene is a fundraiser in the city – she finds out his secret and he’s horrified…how to shut her up? Kiss her! That starts a no strings relationship. Of course, Marney falls…Dell refuses to. Dell learns that the heart wants what the heart wants though and they make soup (you’ll get this after you read the story) happily ever after.
Charlie is then shifted off to Mia where he then proceeds to make himself sick with her accessories. She has no choice but to take Charlie to the vet, her ex, Gideon. They split because he wanted forever and she was sure nobody could promise forever. They get thrown back together, she still has reservations, he’s still in love with her. Mia’s friends help her along on her journey to realizing that love involves trust – putting your life and heart into someone else’s keeping and trusting them to care for it and vice versa.
Last on the Charlie nanny rotation is Jenny, a local teacher (bad girl done good) whose own Lulu has been compromised by Charlie. She demands damages and Mr. Bonaparte (remember him?) thinks she is an extortionist. While this isn’t the most promising start, their mutual care and affection for their canine companions bring them together. Both carry scars from their past – he on the outside (a result of an explosion) and her on the inside (looking for love in all wrong and dangerous places). Proving that what matters most is heart, these two come together in a bumpy but enjoyable ride. Owner(s) and canine(s) get their happily ever after in the last story of this anthology.
All the stories were enjoyable but it seems weird that Chandler’s Cove (setting) seems to be a magnet for millionaires who fall for commoners. Where is it and how can I get there? All in all, a good read and definitely recommend.
The running thread here is the care of a reclusive millionaire’s (Mr. Bonaparte) dog – Charlie. Charlie proves to be a cupid in canine form bringing love to all 4 friends and fellow care-takers and finding love himself at the end of it all.
We start with Gabby Wilson & TJ Shepherd. They have a shared past that went south, he left, she stayed behind, he severed all contact, she got hurt. Fast forward to today and a chance meeting which leads to a road trip with said Canine Cupid. They resolve their differences and find out that the spark is still there. He comes clean, she forgives him and they ride off in the sunset or shall I say helicopters into the future?
Next is Marney Fields, local jewelry designer and Sheriff Dell O’Neil, billionaire hunk and incognito as the town sheriff. A 911 call (she thinks there’s someone in her house) brings them together…he lives next door, comes in and thinks Marney just wants to meet him. Next scene is a fundraiser in the city – she finds out his secret and he’s horrified…how to shut her up? Kiss her! That starts a no strings relationship. Of course, Marney falls…Dell refuses to. Dell learns that the heart wants what the heart wants though and they make soup (you’ll get this after you read the story) happily ever after.
Charlie is then shifted off to Mia where he then proceeds to make himself sick with her accessories. She has no choice but to take Charlie to the vet, her ex, Gideon. They split because he wanted forever and she was sure nobody could promise forever. They get thrown back together, she still has reservations, he’s still in love with her. Mia’s friends help her along on her journey to realizing that love involves trust – putting your life and heart into someone else’s keeping and trusting them to care for it and vice versa.
Last on the Charlie nanny rotation is Jenny, a local teacher (bad girl done good) whose own Lulu has been compromised by Charlie. She demands damages and Mr. Bonaparte (remember him?) thinks she is an extortionist. While this isn’t the most promising start, their mutual care and affection for their canine companions bring them together. Both carry scars from their past – he on the outside (a result of an explosion) and her on the inside (looking for love in all wrong and dangerous places). Proving that what matters most is heart, these two come together in a bumpy but enjoyable ride. Owner(s) and canine(s) get their happily ever after in the last story of this anthology.
All the stories were enjoyable but it seems weird that Chandler’s Cove (setting) seems to be a magnet for millionaires who fall for commoners. Where is it and how can I get there? All in all, a good read and definitely recommend.
October 15, 2013
This is a fun anthology featuring four best friends and Charlie the precocious pup who helps them find love. As expected Charlie stole the show (and my heart) right from the start. He belongs to the town’s reclusive Billionaire and is left with local artist Gabby Wilson while he goes on an extended trip to Europe. As the stories progress Charlie ends up being passed around as each woman meets (or becomes reacquainted with) the love of her life. In the first story Gabby is reunited with TJ, her childhood best-friend who cut ties with her (and everyone else) when he left town after high school. He wants a second chance and goes on a cross country road trip with Gabby and Charlie to try and get one. The second story Charlie goes to stay with Gabby’s friend Marney who is getting a little spooked in her big house all alone at night. After an embarrassing encounter with the local sheriff, Dell O’Neil, she decides the little dog will make a good companion for her (and send up a warning if someone actually IS in the house). Marney and Dell have both been hurt in the past and decide to turn their mutual attraction (these two are SCORCHING) into a friends with benefits arrangement (you can guess how that’s going to end). The third story is Mia and Gideon. Mia takes Charlie so that her friends can settle into their new married lives without extra distraction. Charlie decides that her undergarments would make yummy treats and this necessitates a trip to the vet, who happens to be Mia’s ex. Gideon loves Mia and wanted to marry her but her (REALLY awful) past prevents her from opening her heart to him. Mia has to figure out if she can love Gideon and take the risk of trusting his promise of forever. The fourth and final story is Jenny who is tasked with returning Charlie to the reclusive Nick Bonaparte. There’s a problem however as Charlie has had his way with Jenny’s LuLu and they are expecting puppies. Jenny wants to hold Bonaparte accountable (for not having neutered his dog) and he thinks she’s an extortionist. The dogs throw them together frequently and they have great chemistry. They both have scars and have to see what they are willing to risk to have a chance at real love. This is s great anthology with a running theme of forgiveness, healing and not letting the past hold you back; everyone (including Charlie) gets their happy ending. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
October 6, 2013
I admit that I'm picky when it comes to anthologies. I tend to only read them if they feature characters I know from full length books or feature an author I love. This book has completely altered my perception. For a start I haven't read anything by any of the authors, secondly the characters are unique to the book and thirdly I enjoyed each couple's story.
Each of the four stories is its own, yet all four are perfectly entwined. Granted they are short so the emotional attachment to the characters was less, but nevertheless each was endearing in their own special way. With four ladies who are friends, and four men trying to win their hearts/deny their feelings, we have a geek who has transformed to chic, the town's sexy sheriff, an adorable vet and mysterious millionaire hermit with a cheeky matchmaking terror of a terrier.
It's a lovely, easy-read, escape-from-reality romance with some steam, heartwarming and touching moments and couples to love whose journeys will make you smile. But I have to say the final novella stole it for me. Mr. B was a very different hero, I loved him and it was a touching journey of self-acceptance that had me welling up at one point.
I received this book as an ARC from the publisher for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Each of the four stories is its own, yet all four are perfectly entwined. Granted they are short so the emotional attachment to the characters was less, but nevertheless each was endearing in their own special way. With four ladies who are friends, and four men trying to win their hearts/deny their feelings, we have a geek who has transformed to chic, the town's sexy sheriff, an adorable vet and mysterious millionaire hermit with a cheeky matchmaking terror of a terrier.
It's a lovely, easy-read, escape-from-reality romance with some steam, heartwarming and touching moments and couples to love whose journeys will make you smile. But I have to say the final novella stole it for me. Mr. B was a very different hero, I loved him and it was a touching journey of self-acceptance that had me welling up at one point.
I received this book as an ARC from the publisher for an honest and unbiased opinion.
October 15, 2013
Introducing Charlie, a cute little puppy with a bit of an issue with hyperactivity and the determination to find matches for a group of his friends. Charlie was the binding element to the four short stories of single friends finding love. While Charlie was a hit in each story, the first and last story were really the best for me. The middle two fell just a tad short.
The first story, where we get to meet the energetic Charlie and his dog-sitter Gabby was definitely my favorite of the batch. Her story of high school love separated by tough circumstances was fantastic - and I loved Gabby! She is the outgoing artsy type and even if you don't read the rest of the stories, this one is worth getting the book.
Marney's love comes in the shape of an unnecessary 911 call and a visit from the local sheriff. There's was a bit rushed for me, even for a short story. Mia's story just wasn't very memorable, although I love Charlie's bra-eating escapade. The dog will stop at nothing to get his chosen people together.
The book closes with Jenny - a teacher and dog lover that actually kidnaps Charlie for a short period of time, but all is good because in this story we have two happily ever afters and it was the perfect ending to this little mini-series.
The first story, where we get to meet the energetic Charlie and his dog-sitter Gabby was definitely my favorite of the batch. Her story of high school love separated by tough circumstances was fantastic - and I loved Gabby! She is the outgoing artsy type and even if you don't read the rest of the stories, this one is worth getting the book.
Marney's love comes in the shape of an unnecessary 911 call and a visit from the local sheriff. There's was a bit rushed for me, even for a short story. Mia's story just wasn't very memorable, although I love Charlie's bra-eating escapade. The dog will stop at nothing to get his chosen people together.
The book closes with Jenny - a teacher and dog lover that actually kidnaps Charlie for a short period of time, but all is good because in this story we have two happily ever afters and it was the perfect ending to this little mini-series.
October 3, 2013
This was a book I received in exchange for an honest review from netgalley. I loved the idea of the rich guys dog bringing couples together.
Our first pair are high school friends who loved each other then just didn't handle it well. T.J. left everything behind after school including Gabby. Gabby is contacted by Mr. B. To watch Charlie while he is out of town. Charlie works on getting them together.
Our next story is about Gabbys friend Marney n the sheriff. Dell is hiding from his past in his new home. A chance meeting at an event Marney figures it out. He doesn't want a relationship, she's okay with that until she falls. Read it to find out how Charlie brings these two together.
The third story is about friend number three Mia and the town Vet Gideon. While in Mias care Charlie gets sick n Mia needs her ex boyfriends help. Trust, love, and Charlie brings these two back together.
And finally we have Jenny the towns teacher. And...Mr. Bonaparte. Charlie has found his own love and with Nick back in town wat are his secrets? Watch as Charlie and Jenny work together to heal scars inside and out.
Our first pair are high school friends who loved each other then just didn't handle it well. T.J. left everything behind after school including Gabby. Gabby is contacted by Mr. B. To watch Charlie while he is out of town. Charlie works on getting them together.
Our next story is about Gabbys friend Marney n the sheriff. Dell is hiding from his past in his new home. A chance meeting at an event Marney figures it out. He doesn't want a relationship, she's okay with that until she falls. Read it to find out how Charlie brings these two together.
The third story is about friend number three Mia and the town Vet Gideon. While in Mias care Charlie gets sick n Mia needs her ex boyfriends help. Trust, love, and Charlie brings these two back together.
And finally we have Jenny the towns teacher. And...Mr. Bonaparte. Charlie has found his own love and with Nick back in town wat are his secrets? Watch as Charlie and Jenny work together to heal scars inside and out.
October 7, 2013
When you get caught checking out your hot-as-sin late-night 911 rescuer and your sole confidant is a borrowed Jack Russell terrier named Charlie, chances are pretty good your life is going to get complicated. Throw in some sex, scandal, and soup -- yes, soup! -- and you have The Sheriff's Secret, Susan Meier's contribution to The Billionaire's Matchmaker, an Indulgence Anthology.
Sheriff Dell O'Neil doesn't want to like jewelry designer Marney Fields. He certainly doesn't want to WANT the crazy woman. But when she agrees to sex -- on his terms -- his heart didn't stand a chance. However, intimacy is no longer an issue when Dell deliberately makes a tactical error, and Marney sacrifices sexual pleasure to protect herself from falling in love with him.
Count on Susan to consistently infuse love and lust into believable characters without being crass or vulgar. The delight of finding reliably enjoyable adventures explains why legions of readers are so loyal to her. She always delivers a strong story from the heart!
Sheriff Dell O'Neil doesn't want to like jewelry designer Marney Fields. He certainly doesn't want to WANT the crazy woman. But when she agrees to sex -- on his terms -- his heart didn't stand a chance. However, intimacy is no longer an issue when Dell deliberately makes a tactical error, and Marney sacrifices sexual pleasure to protect herself from falling in love with him.
Count on Susan to consistently infuse love and lust into believable characters without being crass or vulgar. The delight of finding reliably enjoyable adventures explains why legions of readers are so loyal to her. She always delivers a strong story from the heart!
August 14, 2016
Are you looking for a great book with not one but four stories! Check out The Billionaire's Matchmaker: An Indulgence Anthology. The story surrounds the cute fox terrier Charlie who helps four best friends find love. Gabby reunites with a man from her past. Marney find her security with the sheriff in town, Mia rekindles love with her ex-boyfriend. Jenny finds help healing with an emotionally-wounded tycoon.
I love the whole book! I enjoyed how each of the stories were told from a different author. Each had their own style. Together it was a great book! I love how the authors incorporated Charlie and the main characters in each of the stories being told. It help keeps the book well connected and flow very nicely. I would high recommend this book!
I love the whole book! I enjoyed how each of the stories were told from a different author. Each had their own style. Together it was a great book! I love how the authors incorporated Charlie and the main characters in each of the stories being told. It help keeps the book well connected and flow very nicely. I would high recommend this book!
October 13, 2013
I'm generally not a big reader of short stories unless they're follow ups or prequels to a story involving characters I've read about before but this was a nice light read. Involving Charlie into everything was a nice way to weave the story together. I really liked the idea of having each story be about one of the women in a group of friends. I would have liked the stories to have been full length but that's just me. This is perfect when you want something sunny to read and don't have a lot of time.
October 28, 2013
These stories were absolutely wonderful! All of them were very touching. I was a little disappointed how the last story ended, but that is probably just me. I wanted more! I liked how all of the stories were woven together and the dog, Charlie, what a handful! I think I shall check out these authors individual works.
March 1, 2014
3.5 stars
review to come
review to come
October 12, 2013
This review also appears on my blog All The Bookish Love
Disclaimer: I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Of all the ARC’s I received this month, I chose this one first. I was in need of a light read and thought this would do the job. I’m not a big fan of anthologies, but this one sparked an interest. It follows the lives of four girlfriends, and surprisingly, you don’t even notice the differences in authors. But it just didn't do all that much for me. Surprisingly the only stand-out character was the dog.
Gabby Wilson is an artist with a bit of troublemaker past. She changed her ways as people do, only to get a blast from the past when she bumps into T.J Wilson, her lab partner and friend from high-school. He still harbours a huge crush on her, so much so that he never got over her in all the years since he last saw her. He proceeds to lie to her (what an ass) in attempt to win her heart. As you can guess, things don’t go so well, but in the end all works out as it should.
Marney Fields has just been through a messy divorce and attempts to try casual, no-strings attached sex for the first time. She’s a woman, she has needs. Enter the sexy town sheriff, Dell O’Neil kept coming across as an arrogant man. He harbours a secret that he doesn't want the town to know and Marney unwillingly stumbled onto it. Sneaking around so no-one knows about their illicit affair, is a huge feature of this story.
Mia Andale has commitment issues, a shady history and trust issues. So when her very hot boyfriend, Gideon Roth had said he loved her, she obviously dumped him. Now Gideon is about to sell his veterinarian practice, and his house and high-tail it down to California for the job of a lifetime. Something which Mia is not happy about but also not willing to admit.
Jenny Travolini is a school teacher, hell-bent on getting some sort of recompense from the reclusive billionaire Nicholas Bonaparte, who’s dog impregnated hers. He is hell bent on pursuing her but seems a bit like The Beast from Beauty and the Beast. This was in fact, the best story of this anthology, it had what the others were lacking.
But as I said, anthologies really aren't my thing. I didn't hate this book, but I also didn't have that can’t-put-it-down moment.
Disclaimer: I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Of all the ARC’s I received this month, I chose this one first. I was in need of a light read and thought this would do the job. I’m not a big fan of anthologies, but this one sparked an interest. It follows the lives of four girlfriends, and surprisingly, you don’t even notice the differences in authors. But it just didn't do all that much for me. Surprisingly the only stand-out character was the dog.
Gabby Wilson is an artist with a bit of troublemaker past. She changed her ways as people do, only to get a blast from the past when she bumps into T.J Wilson, her lab partner and friend from high-school. He still harbours a huge crush on her, so much so that he never got over her in all the years since he last saw her. He proceeds to lie to her (what an ass) in attempt to win her heart. As you can guess, things don’t go so well, but in the end all works out as it should.
Marney Fields has just been through a messy divorce and attempts to try casual, no-strings attached sex for the first time. She’s a woman, she has needs. Enter the sexy town sheriff, Dell O’Neil kept coming across as an arrogant man. He harbours a secret that he doesn't want the town to know and Marney unwillingly stumbled onto it. Sneaking around so no-one knows about their illicit affair, is a huge feature of this story.
Mia Andale has commitment issues, a shady history and trust issues. So when her very hot boyfriend, Gideon Roth had said he loved her, she obviously dumped him. Now Gideon is about to sell his veterinarian practice, and his house and high-tail it down to California for the job of a lifetime. Something which Mia is not happy about but also not willing to admit.
Jenny Travolini is a school teacher, hell-bent on getting some sort of recompense from the reclusive billionaire Nicholas Bonaparte, who’s dog impregnated hers. He is hell bent on pursuing her but seems a bit like The Beast from Beauty and the Beast. This was in fact, the best story of this anthology, it had what the others were lacking.
But as I said, anthologies really aren't my thing. I didn't hate this book, but I also didn't have that can’t-put-it-down moment.
November 24, 2013
AWESOME anthology! Written by four award-winning romance authors this antho was a delicious read! And not just because one of the featured couples cooked up hot sex along with mouth-watering pastas and soups that whetted the primal appetites. Author Susan Meier displays her skill with sensual description as successful jewelry designer Marney Fields keeps finding herself sprawled into the arms of the local sheriff. I always wondered where the expression 'strong arm of the law' came from and now I think I know. Dell O'Neil is no typical small town sheriff. A big city boy, he has escaped his roots after military service by relocating to a small town--one where everyone knows everybody's business. What they don't know are Dell's secret lives: his background and the fact he has a lover under wraps, a woman he can't resist in a friends-with-benefits agreement. With the scampish antics of an adorable Jack Russel terrier, Charlie, the two embark on a blissful affair that begs the question: Can two perfectly matched lovers only be friends?
Meier's The Sheriff's Secret was an enjoyable page-turner. Equally delightful are the other three novellas, Shelley Jump's Driving Mr. Wrong Home; Jackie Braun's Love Unleashed; and Barbara Wallace's Love in the Shadows. Each author has written stories about four best friends, Marnie and her BFFs, Marney, Gabby, Jenny and Mia--and their struggles to accept love and new beginnings. The themes of overcoming past hurts and finding 2nd chances are woven throughout these entertaining love stories, and are also tied together by the mysterious Charlie. His uncanny instincts and ability to run loose from his dog-sitters are endearing! While his uber-rich owner is away on an extended trip overseas, this furry little Cupid is driven to find happiness for his favorite human companions. Don't miss this one. It's the best anthology I've read in a long dry spell!
Meier's The Sheriff's Secret was an enjoyable page-turner. Equally delightful are the other three novellas, Shelley Jump's Driving Mr. Wrong Home; Jackie Braun's Love Unleashed; and Barbara Wallace's Love in the Shadows. Each author has written stories about four best friends, Marnie and her BFFs, Marney, Gabby, Jenny and Mia--and their struggles to accept love and new beginnings. The themes of overcoming past hurts and finding 2nd chances are woven throughout these entertaining love stories, and are also tied together by the mysterious Charlie. His uncanny instincts and ability to run loose from his dog-sitters are endearing! While his uber-rich owner is away on an extended trip overseas, this furry little Cupid is driven to find happiness for his favorite human companions. Don't miss this one. It's the best anthology I've read in a long dry spell!
October 11, 2013
So far I have only the first novella in this anthology, Driving Mr. Wrong Home by Shirley Jump. It is a story about Gabby, a woman who is trying to change her wild-child ways and start acting like a responsible adult and T.J., her childhood nerd friend who grew up and moved away in order to prove to himself that he could succeed out from under his father's control. These 2 end up driving together across country so Gabby can do photography for a book and T.J. can get to California for a supposed job interview. The interplay between these 2 is fun, interesting and keeps you fascinated to the very end. It is a quick and pleasant read and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
I'm sure the rest of the book will, I'm sure, be just as enjoyable!
I'm sure the rest of the book will, I'm sure, be just as enjoyable!
October 14, 2013
Chandler's Cove, Illinois is home to four friends who love and support each other through the good and bad times. Gabby, Marney, Mia and Jenny are afraid to take a chance on love and commitment. Little did they know that they have a matchmaker who is determined that they will all find their Mr. Right. Who is this miracle worker? It's St. Clair Charles Osgood, better known as Charlie. He is the Jack Russell terrier owned by the reclusive Mr. Bonaparte. I loved this anthology. The stories flow smoothly together. I loved them all. They are filled with wonderful romance, tenderness and a HEA. Charlie is funny, feisty and a perfect cupid. I hated for this book to end. Don't miss it.
February 17, 2016
This was a collection of four stories about four friends finding love. Gabby, Marney, Mia, and Jenny are best friends and each take a turn watching the reclusive billionaire's dog Charlie. Each woman watches Charlie and while doing so Charlie finds them their other half...the love of their lives. The stories are light, funny, hot, and Charlie is totally irresistible :) I also felt that even though these stories were written by different authors the stories meshed well and didn't feel forced.
December 8, 2013
Awesome read...sweer, short romances....i love short novels and if all the stories come under same series with four friends finding happily-ever-afters, it is the best read for me!
August 21, 2014
***Review to come*** :D
March 21, 2019
★★★★☆ Driving Mr. Wrong Home by Shirley Jump
★★★☆☆ The Sheriff's Secret by Susan Meier
★★★☆☆ Love Unleashed by Jackie Braun
★★★★☆ Love in the Shadows by Barbara Wallace
★★★☆☆ The Sheriff's Secret by Susan Meier
★★★☆☆ Love Unleashed by Jackie Braun
★★★★☆ Love in the Shadows by Barbara Wallace
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews