Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Anchor Island #2

Up to the Challenge

Rate this book
Opposites attract in a sexy tale of unexpected love
When the Dempsey patriarch suffers a heart attack, Lucas Dempsey steps up to keep the doors of the family restaurant open. The proverbial prodigal son returns home to Anchor Island—putting family first and his quest to make partner at his high-powered law firm on hold. Sporting a bruised ego after losing his fiancée to his older brother, Lucas would rather walk on glass than spend six weeks within spitting distance of the happy couple. But family duty calls. And that duty includes working side-by-side with a tantalizing spitfire intent on driving him mad.

Tough-as-nails boat mechanic Sid Navarro is happy to trade her tools for an apron to help the Dempseys in their time of need. That is, until she realizes she’ll be working alongside Lucas, the man she’s loved from afar since she first laid eyes on him in high school. Lucas could charm the paint off a schooner, but Sid knows she doesn’t fit his girl-next-door type. To show her true feelings would mean certain heartbreak, but the temptation of Lucas in her bed might be more than she can resist.

After a rocky start punctuated by verbal barbs and exasperating arguments, things heat up between them—big-time—but their steamy affair turns more than casual in a matter of weeks. Sid’s life has become the dream she’s always wanted, and Lucas has fallen hard for the last woman he ever expected to love.

But this affair has an end-date, as Lucas must return to his life and career in the big city, a place where Sid would never fit in. When the end comes earlier than expected, walking away turns out to be a challenge neither of them wants to win.

Up to the Challenge is a sexy, fast-paced, romantic story of family, island life, and finding love in unexpected places.

347 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 22, 2013

970 people are currently reading
1551 people want to read

About the author

Terri Osburn

35 books932 followers
Bestselling and award winning author Terri Osburn writes contemporary romance with heart, hope, and lots of humor. She fell in love with the written word at a young age and the genre of romance beckoned during her teen years. Since her debut in 2013, her work has been translated into five languages, and sold more than 1.5 million copies worldwide. Terri resides in Pittsburgh, PA, with a menagerie of high-maintenance pets. You can learn more about this international bestselling author by visiting her website at www.terriosburn.com.

Amazon http://bit.ly/TOAmazonpg
Facebook http://bit.ly/TOFacebookpg
Pinterest http://bit.ly/TOPinterestpg

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
2,471 (40%)
4 stars
2,398 (38%)
3 stars
1,052 (17%)
2 stars
182 (2%)
1 star
61 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 301 reviews
Profile Image for Duchess Nicole.
1,275 reviews1,578 followers
October 8, 2013
It's officially official...I stumbled across a favorite author purely by accident. This is my second Terri Osburn novel. Her debut, Meant to Be, blew me away. After reading this second installment in the Anchor Island series, my mind is made up. I'm in love with Terri Osburn. She writes what I want to read.

Anchor Island, (actually Ocracoke Island), which is the place Terri acknowledges as her inspiration:

Sid is a boat mechanic on Anchor Island. She's not an island lifer, but loves it like she's been here forever. She's tough, somewhat abrasive, and quite the tomboy. And she's been in love with Lucas Dempsey since high school.


Lucas Dempsey is a big shot lawyer over on the mainland. He grew up on Anchor Island but his goal was always to leave. Recovering from the humiliation of his fiancee leaving him for his brother isn't all that easy, even if he knows that they are perfect together. He knows Sid only as the tough mechanic chick in the baggy greasy clothes.


Now Lucas has come home. His father is in bad health and no matter Lucas' faults, he loves his family. So while his dad recovers from his ordeal, Lucas takes some much needed time away from the law firm to help out at the Dempsey family bar. Sid is there to help as well, and the forced time together begins to bring out the woman in Sid...and certainly makes Lucas see her in a different light!

Sid's friends see the attraction, and gives Sid the push for a little visual encouragement geared toward the clueless Lucas.
"...you're more the boy next door trapped in a porn star's body."

What I found great about Sid's little mini-transformation is how everyone on the island has always seen how gorgeous she is and yet never acted like it. But once Sid starts to put herself out there, the attention she gets is awesome...both for her self esteem...because she really was clueless...and for bringing out Lucas' possessive side. Nothing makes a man want you more than another man poaching!

So there is a major push and pull between these two extremely strong willed people. Which makes for SUCH a fun read. Their banter is hilarious.
"You might be the first woman I've ever met with a Napoleon complex."

and
"A little old for this rebel teen act, don't you think?"


The beach that Sid and Lucas go running (and the wave to end all waves lets loose on Lucas' naughty bits)

If you're wondering about the sexy times, wonder no more! In Terri's first novel, the grande finale was a long time coming, but that was not the case with Sid and Lucas.
"...before she could respond, he took her mouth in a way he never had before. This wasn't just a kiss but a claiming."


The problem isn't their wild sexual and emotional attraction. The problem is that their time is limited.

Sid isn't cut out for life as a lawyer's wife.
"Sid just didn't fit the mold. Partner's wife. Smiling hostess. Pleasant and diplomatic. Strolling into the office for a lunch date wearing a shirt that read "Life's a bitch and then you marry one." would not go over well."

And Lucas has his dream job across the pond. They are SO VERY DIFFERENT. But they say opposites attract, and Osburn knocks it out of the park again with this second installment to her Anchor Island series. Not only does she give us a beautiful, sweet romance between a frumpy, greasy tomboy and a stuffed shirt, uptight lawyer, but she gives us more insight to the rest of the island and the people who call it home. I truly feel like each time I've picked up one of this author's books, I'm coming home to a place I've never been, as if these places and people are just waiting for me to arrive. I'm already anxiously awaiting the next installment.

Copy provided by Montlake Romance via NetGalley
Profile Image for Jen .
814 reviews625 followers
October 30, 2013
4.5 Love Me Some Anchor Island Stars

”You turn on the charm and that man doesn’t stand a chance. Remember, the bigger they are, the harder they fall.” With a wicked grin she added, “You might as well be under him when he does.

I’ll start off by saying after reading this book, along with the equally strong Meant to Be, I’m ready to pack my bags and move to the Anchor Island. Hush, I know this particular Anchor Island is fictional, but a girl can dream! Boat mechanic and all around tomboy Sid Navarro has been in love with Lucas Dempsey since high school. Unfortunately for Sid, Lucas barely knows she exists and wants nothing to do with Anchor Island, a place where Sid’s managed to make a good life. When Lucas’s father has a heart attack, attorney Lucas is forced to come home for a few weeks and help keep the family bar and restaurant running alongside Sid. Things start off rocky but by the time Lucas learns to stop being such a judgmental prick and, at the same time, realizes Sid just may be an exceptional person with an even more exceptional set of curves, we have all the makings for an entertaining and wonderful romance.

To be honest, I wasn’t sure how well this book was going to work for me. I strongly disliked Lucas in the first book of the series and wasn’t sure he could be rehabilitated enough for me to become invested in his character. I shouldn’t have worried. Terri Osburn had me liking Will within the first couple of chapters. Yes, he still needed the stick removed from his ass on more than one occasion, but getting his POV for some of the story helped me understand where he was coming from and why he acted the way he did. I liked Sid in Meant to Be and only grew to love her more as this story rolled on. She’s completely unapologetic about who she is, as she should be, and comfortable in her own skin. She does have some reservations about whether or not Lucas could ever see her as more than a friend, but the two soon embark on a no strings attached affair and all of those thoughts vanish.

My only complaint about this book was the ending. The final resolution happened very abruptly to say the least and for as life altering as the decision making was concerned, I needed more from the characters. An epilogue would’ve helped, too. Just something so I’m not left saying “wow, that’s it?”

This could’ve been a fairly boring and mundane contemporary romance but Terri Osburn’s truly fabulous writing made it so much fun! I had a wonderful time reading this book and I can’t tell you how glad I am to have discovered Ms. Osburn’s books. I’ve read other reviews that have compared her style to Jill Shalvis and that comparison works for me for the most part. As this is only Terri’s second book I have only one thing to say to the CR writers of the world…take notice and watch your backs! Terri Osburn is just that good.


ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Antonella.
4,073 reviews613 followers
May 1, 2020
when this author managed to win me over with the first book storyline I knew I would like this one, especially as heroine is someone I would be friends with... this was a perfect opposite attract romance centered around a charming small town!! enjoyed it...

side note; our hero apparently doesn't remember anyone he went to school with..okay one or two person but almost everyone you vent to school with..& his prom date..come on!! and it hasn't been that long ago...Lucas boo are you having any brain damage?!
Profile Image for Mo.
1,402 reviews2 followers
April 7, 2014
Everytime he saw her, she was either snarling at someone, or covered in grease and cursing a blue streak. She had to be the least ladylike chick he’d ever met.




Sid and Lucas are a case of opposite attracts. Lucas is back on Anchor Island to help out at the family bar and restaurant as his Dad suffered a heart attack. Lucas had always want to leave the island and never live there again. He was a Lawyer in Richmond and apart from the glitch where his fiancée left him for his brother, his life if fine, thank you very much.

Tough-as-nails boat mechanic Sid Navarro is happy to trade her tools for an apron to help the Dempseys in their time of need. That is, until she realizes she’ll be working alongside Lucas, the man she’s loved from afar since she first laid eyes on him in high school. Lucas could charm the paint off a schooner, but Sid knows she doesn’t fit his girl-next-door type. To show her true feelings would mean certain heartbreak, but the temptation of Lucas in her bed might be more than she can resist.



Sidney loves living on the island. She has adored Lucas from afar since high school. She is a real tomboy, a mechanic who never dresses in girly clothes and is usually dropping the f-bomb a lot. The total opposite to what Lucas usually goes for.

“You’ve got some alpha thing going on. I get it. If playing captain gets you through the day, that’s fine. If you need to do the man act to make up for shortcomings in other areas, go for it.

“Move your hand a little higher, and you’ll know there are no shortcomings.”

“You wish, pretty boy.”




“At least I’m not dressed like a pansy.”



Loved the description of her house.


After a rocky start punctuated by verbal barbs and exasperating arguments, things heat up between them—big-time—but their steamy affair turns more than casual in a matter of weeks. Sid’s life has become the dream she’s always wanted, and Lucas has fallen hard for the last woman he ever expected to love.



I really liked this one. Loved the bickering between them.

“Don’t flatter yourself dickhead. I didn’t say I wanted you to kiss me, I said you were going to try it. You’re lucky that wave hit or I’d have kneed you in the nuts.”




But things don’t always go according to plans and when love is in the air, priorities change.



The next book is about Randy and Willow. Not sure if I cared enough about them in the previous book and this one but I am sure this author can change my mind.



Profile Image for Christina ~ Brunette Reader.
187 reviews358 followers
August 29, 2015

4,5 Romantically Mouthy Stars

Back to quaint and cosy Anchor Island with book 2 in the series, this time is Lucas Dempsey and Sid Navarro's turn to take central stage, the careerist lawyer and the gutsy boat mechanic, for a prime example of the "opposites attract" kind of romance.

It's an emergency bringing Lucas again to the place where he grew up in, the confining island of his teens he left right after finishing high-school to pursue his ambitions. Nothing could have dragged him there for more than a quick visit but a serious matter such as the heart attack his father has just suffered and the duty to temporarily lend a hand in running the family business, one of Anchor's most appreciated restaurants.
In his youthful restlessness, Lucas has overlooked many extraordinary things the tiny island could have instead bestowed him, one of the most extraordinary that soft-eyed young girl who used to have a huge crush on him, now the woman standing a few feet away and tempting him at every turn while, as long-time family friend and occasional waitress, she helps the Dempseys navigating this crisis.
Sid Navarro didn't expect to find herself at close quarters with the man still haunting her dreams, but how to turn this twist of events into the chance of finally showing the stubborn hunk that there's a lot of (sexy)fun to be had on Anchor? Problem is "she's been one of the guys for too long". What, with her job and the rest, her feminine charms are a little rusty, the art of subtle flirting is definitely not her forte and her vocabulary... well, never mind. Tough for all the sophisticated trophy-wife qualities she lacks, Sid has never been the type to let a challenge pass and convincing Lucas that a summer affair can lead to more, a more with a capital M, may be the riskiest her heart has ever faced.

All the ingredients I've loved in the first story of the series are present here too, some even more pronounced than before like, I'm happy to say, the humour and the playfulness. The same smooth and engaging writing interspersed with snappy dialogues and both the leads, as much as all the sidekicks, well-drawn and rendered unique by the endearing characterisation.
Once again, shaking up the old formula while staying true to it, Terri Osburn has created another couple who felt real and was so easy to root for. Surrounded by the relaxed Outer Banks island atmosphere, Lucas and Sid's interactions are alternatively moving and explosive, just like the great chemistry they share, and their contrasting personalities are each other's perfect foil. And if the essence of the book remains that of a lighthearted romantic comedy, room for some solid characters' growth is not denied. Lucas may have to stop for the first time in his life and reconsider his priorities and Sid, brash and confrontational Sid, may have to learn to show her softer side and embrace her vulnerabilities. They will try your patience a few times, like they did with mine, but it's where the best part of this fun game is.

Up To The Challenge works fine as a standalone read, though starting from book 1, Meant to Be, you'll get a further glimpse into all the characters' backgrounds and motivations as well as into some of the secondary ongoing dynamics.
Profile Image for KatLynne.
547 reviews597 followers
December 4, 2013
4.5 Happy Stars!!

Up To The Challenge is the second installment in Terri Osburn’s Anchor Island series and I LOVED IT!!

I’ve been anxious for this book since meeting both Lucas and Sidney (Sid) in the first book, Meant to Be. As much as I enjoyed the first story, this is now my favorite. Once again, the author has produced a well written, engaging romance with many laugh-out- loud moments. My only quibble would be the ending was somewhat rushed, otherwise, this would be a full 5 star read.

Lucas Dempsey and Sid Navarro are total opposites. He left Anchor Island soon after graduating High School with a heart full of youthful ambition and looking for more than what small island living could offer. He’s now a very successful attorney hoping to make partner in the prestigious Law Firm where he’s employed. She’s the local boat mechanic, loves living on Anchor Island and has no plans of ever leaving. And where Lucas is refined and sophisticated, Sid is outspoken, brash and often confrontational. Yet underneath, you’ll find a vulnerable young woman with a body much like a pin-up model. Oh, the fun you’ll have experiencing Lucas’ surprise at all the revelations from this extraordinary young woman.

Due to his father’s heart attack, Lucas has put his career on hold and is now back on Anchor helping with his parent’s Bar & Grill. The next six weeks will be a challenge but he’s more than willing to do his share to help family. Sid has volunteered to help and finds herself partnered with Lucas. This has her more than a little anxious as she’s secretly pined for him for more than ten years. Knowing his time is limited, Lucas is trying hard to resist this enticing enigma.

There are so many things to love about this book. It’s very rare to find a story where you love both the hero and heroine. It’s very well written and I found myself engaged from the very beginning. The cast of secondary characters are endearing and the small island setting is like icing on the cake. Up to the Challenge is the perfect mix of fun, sexy, and sizzling chemistry and I loved it all!

ARC courtesy of Montlake via NetGalley
Profile Image for Ian.
1,426 reviews184 followers
October 14, 2013
Sid Navarro is Anchor Island's smart-mouthed boat mechanic. She has been in love with Lucas Dempsey since high school, but Lucas always had his sights set on bigger and better things and as soon as he finished school he left the island.

After his father suffers a heart attack, Lucas returns to the island to look after the family business. He's thrown together with Sid and sparks immediately fly, but the women in his world are quiet, reserved...pastels, and Sid is anything but. She's brash and in your face, she could swear a sailor under the table.

Despite her not being his usual type, Lucas is attracted to Sid. But he needs to return to the mainland by the end of the summer so the best he can offer her is a summer fling. What he doesn't know is that beneath her hard shell is a vulnerable young woman and when he leaves, he will break her heart.


It's difficult to know what to say about Up to the Challenge. Whatever I say, it just won't be enough. If I take the very best books by Jill Shalvis and Robyn Carr, wave my magic wand and somehow make them 20% better, then we are probably getting close to how good this is. She really is that good. Solid gold 5 Stars!

Many thanks to Montlake Romance and Netgalley for providing me with this ARC


Profile Image for Carol (StarAngel's Reviews) Allen.
1,691 reviews635 followers
September 20, 2013
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

*****5 AMAZING STARS*****

This is the 2nd book in "The Anchor Island" series but I didn't read the 1st. I wish I had but it isn't necessary in order to understand .

Up to the Challengecan be read as a "stand-alone" or as the series. This book delves into the relationship between Lucas and Sid.

Lucas is a high profile lawyer in Richmond and is called home after his father suffers a heart-attack. He is just coming down off of a bad break-up with Beth his ex-fiancee who is now dating Lucas' older brother in Anchor Island. For his whole life, Lucas wanted nothing but to get off the small island and make it big as a lawyer. He wanted the dream of a classy wife, but it all crashed around him after returning to Anchor Island to take over his father's restaurant for 6 weeks.

Sid is an out-spoken, crude boat mechanic with a "perfect set of knockers" and a "centerfold body". She has been half in love with Lucas since high school but never let her feelings show and as far as she knows, Lucas has never even noticed her......until.....they are thrown together running the bar.

Sparks FLY....sexual, physical, and emotional - this book takes us through a joyous ride full of outrageous and hysterical banter; then through sex coupled with love; until heartbreak.

I recommend this book to everyone who loves a good romance with a few sniffles added in!!
Profile Image for Saly.
3,437 reviews576 followers
December 11, 2013
Terri Osburn was my discovery with her first book, she had a great voice and an author who can make me fall in love with a character who is engaged to one brother and falls for another is definitely one to watch out for.

This is the book about the jilted brother Lucas, the one who left the island and wants to become a partner in his law firm. Well six weeks after his fiancee chose his brother over him, he is back in town because his father is in the hospital and that means he has to stay back and make nice. He left the island as soon as he could, he doesn't fit in and in his mind doesn't measure up to his brother.

Now, Sid, the heroine, I loved her in the last book, she's a mechanic, unafraid of speaking her mind and unaware of just how sexy she is underneath the baggy clothes she wears and oh she has had a thing for Lucas forever. Lucas' new situation has him working with Sid on a daily basis and he starts noticing her and it doesn't take time for them to get competitive and personal. I loved their whole who earns more challenge and how Sid beats him. I was like you go girl!!

But the thing standing in their way in the book is the fact that Lucas needs to leave while Sid likes the island and has her own dreams that she is working towards. Honestly, I loved the romance and how Lucas could be so blind about so many things, doing something he thought was hugely romantic but which ends up blowing up on his face.

The only thing that stopped me from giving the full five stars was how quickly certain things got resolved but beyond that I love Terri Osburn and can't wait for the next book.


ARC provided by the publisher.
Profile Image for Jacob Proffitt.
3,290 reviews2,129 followers
January 6, 2015
Better than the first, but then, Sidney has so much more personality than Beth ever did. Lucas, too, is light-years ahead of his brother, Joe.

With a better romance, better story, and the rest holding even, you'd think this would jump a star on its predecessor, but I just didn't feel it. I think it followed the standard romance script a little too closely. This is nowhere more evident than with Lucas. He pulled some really clueless blunders and remained way too committed to his crap mainland job for somebody who was supposed to be smart.

At least Sid pans out every bit as well as I had hoped. And Drillbit was a hoot. So kudos for the improvement.

A note about steamy: About the same as well—i.e. mid-level for me with two explicit scenes that were not short.
Profile Image for Didi.
865 reviews284 followers
October 13, 2013
**** 4.5 GET-ME-A-PLANE-TICKET-NOW STARS!! ****

The second installment in the Anchor Island series proves once again that a new author can weave magic with the best of them. Up to the Challenge was beautiful. It was so well written and captured that atmosphere of living on such a tucked away piece of heaven that it's forerunner, Meant to Be--one of my all time favourites--did.

This time around we get Lucas and Sid's story. Lucas is still trying to come to terms with his ex-fiancee, Beth, leaving him for his big brother Joe. Six weeks later he finds himself once again on Anchor dealing with another blow, his father's sudden heart attack.

But this time Lucas is sticking around and helping out with the family restaurant with Joe, Beth and Sid Navarro. Sid has harboured a long-time crush on Lucas and now she has to work with him. He doesn't seem all that enthusiastic but the six weeks required of him until his dad can get back to the grind prove to be quite the surprise. For him and Sid.

What ensues is a beautiful opposites attract story that had me rooting for the unlikely couple.
Sid is tough as nails and independent. She hides her feelings from Lucas knowing she isn't exactly his type.
But Sid has a softer, vulnerable side that is rarely seen and blossoms wonderfully with Lucas' attention. She wants him and wants to be wanted by him.

Lucas is truly a great guy and although he has ambitions that overshadow Anchor he really grows and starts to question his priorities.

Sid makes him feel things he never felt before and has him doubting his intentions to go back to Richmond. Lucas always had a plan in mind but what he wants and what he needs are two different things that Lucas has to come to terms with.

I loved both of them and the way their love blossomed so naturally. I loved everything about this book but wished the ending continued for at least a few pages.

And although Lucas and Sid were the main characters and their story the main emphasis, there were other secondary stories that gave the book more depth. Everything rounded out so perfectly making Terri Osburn one of my favourite writers!

The most exciting thing is we get another book to look forward to in this fantastic series!! CANNOT. WAIT!

Loved it!

*** Copy provided by Netgalley and Terri Osburn for an honest review ***
356 reviews137 followers
November 1, 2013
Arc provided via Netgalley in exchange for honest review

This review is posted on Way Too Hot Books.

I didn't read anything by Terry Osburn until this book, so I had no expectations when I started reading it. What dragged my attention at first was the pretty & romantic cover and the premise with a promise of a fun, easy and romantic story and I was in desperate need for one of those after a couple of heavy reads. I was already a few pages into the story when I realized that this book is a part of the series and that this is actually the 2nd book with Meant To Be (Anchor Island, #1) as the first one, but fortunately, both books can be read a s standalones.

"We've got six weeks. You want to make this a pissing contest, give it your best shot." He leaned so close, she could feel his breath on his lips.
"Move your hand a little higher, and you'll know there are no shortcomings here." Sid jerked back, the heat from his body still imprinted on her hand. Her heart beat double time, and she feared he'd see how tempted she was.
"You wish, pretty boy."


Just like the premise promised- this was a fun, romantic and fast-paced story which I liked very much. It's a true rarity for me nowadays to find a book with such a likable female heroine, so imagine my surprise when I found it in this one. Yes, I had a big girl-crush on Sid Navarro. She is definitely my favorite character in the book. I liked her even better from the main male character Lucas. Why is that? Well, the main reason is that she isn't your typical girly-girl, but more of a tomb-boy who is totally oblivious to her beauty, isn't afraid to speak her mind no matter the situation or the people involved and whose favorite word in the dictionary is "fuck." In short, she is everything that Lucas didn't look for in a woman.

"You're more the boy next door trapped in a porn star's body."

"Is that what you're wearing?" Sid looked down. "What's wrong with this?"
He tucked the menu under his arm. "Your shirt says 'Mechanics Do It With Lube.'" His shirt should have said Captain Obvious. "Yeah, so?"


Sid was in love with Lucas since high school, but he was always going for those Barbie-type of girls and didn't notice her. Stupid, stupid guy. Another thing I loved about her is that despite of her strong feelings for him, she wasn't one of those clingy and whiny women who threw themselves on their feet when the guy in question walks in the room, but more of those feisty and independent types who don't need a guy to fight their battles. Lucas, on the other hand, was exactly the opposite- calm, closed-off with that "I know the best" attitude and he preferred city life over island. That's why Sid's main goal, when he came back home, becomes to show him how wrong he was in all aspects.

Lucas was one tough cookie to break, but he never had a "opponent" like Sid who live for challenges and when she makes up her mind about something, you can consider that thing already a done deal. There was an undeniable chemistry between them from the very beginning which ended up in some pretty hot & steamy scenes. It made me wanna play pool again (you'll get it, when you read it ;). The plot of the story to be honest wasn't anything spectacular or new. What won me over is the humor and strong family bonds and friendships on the island which give you that warm and fuzzy feeling.

The book would definitely be a fun romantic comedy if it were ever made into a movie. I would highly recommend it to readers who want a drama-free, cheerful & romantic story. See, I don't read only masochist reads! ;)

...When she didn't respond, Lucas scooted closer. "What do you say? Are you up to the challenge?"
"Fuck yes", she said...

Profile Image for Geri Reads.
1,232 reviews2,135 followers
October 17, 2014
4.5 stars!

Needs an epilogue but still worth the read.

Now I'm off to listen to the audio version and then write my review...
Profile Image for CrazyForRomance.
1,713 reviews252 followers
April 25, 2017
Quattro stelle e mezzo.
La Serie Anchor Island a quanto pare migliora di libro in libro, infatti dopo Scritto nel destino che mi ha piacevolmente intrattenuto, questo secondo libro mi ha proprio convinto, mi ha coinvolto e mi ha fatto arrivare alla fine della lettura soddisfatta, impresa non facile con me!
La storia di Sid e Lucas, seppur autoconclusiva, fonda le sue basi nel primo libro, di cui consiglio la lettura a priori in modo da poter apprezzare tutti i riferimenti e anche poter seguire gli sviluppi della prima coppia che continuano in questo secondo libro.
La mia sfida più grande Anchor Island Terri Osburn
Sid Navarro è la donna maschiaccio che aiuta Joe Dempsey, fratello di Lucas, a riparare barche. Lei nasconde le sue sinuose forme sotto informi magliette simpaticissime ed enormi pantaloni da lavoro, è abituata da sempre a vedersela con gli uomini e per questo il suo modo di parlare è spesso senza filtri, diretto e coloratissimo. La famiglia Dempsey la tratta come una di famiglia e Joe è un po' il fratellone che l'ha sempre guardata da lontano per proteggerla. Quando Lucas, un famoso e ambizioso avvocato di Richmond, torna ad Anchor Island e si offre volontario per portare avanti il ristorante di famiglia fin tanto che il padre non si riprenderà dall'infarto, tutti sono increduli, soprattutto dopo il duro colpo subito dal fratello maggiore, che solo pochi mesi prima gli ha soffiato la fidanzata perfetta da sotto il naso. Ad aiutarlo in questa impresa ci sarà Sid, che ha da sempre ha una cotta per il tanto elegante avvocato per niente adatto alla vita dell'isola. La loro collaborazione sarà subito animata da tante piccole sfide, che accenderanno giorno dopo giorno la fiamma della passione fra i due protagonisti così diversi. Entrambi sono animati dalla voglia di raggiungere i propri obbiettivi: Sid ha voglia di realizzarsi in proprio aprendo un'officina tutta sua sull'isola, mentre Lucas aspira a diventare socio dello studio in cui lavora da anni in città. Obiettivi inconciliabili per due che stanno per intraprendere una storia, una storia che entrambi vogliono rilegare nella definizione "avventura estiva", che ha lo scopo di poter godere di benefit il più possibile senza strascichi o impegni a lunga scadenza... ce la faranno però i nostri protagonisti a chiudere il cuore sotto chiave per tutta l'estate? Continua a leggere la recensione su: CrazyForRomance
Per acquistare il libro clicca qui
Profile Image for Carmen Bruni.
Author 21 books184 followers
April 25, 2017
4,5 STARS
Sono dieci anni che Sid è segretamente innamorata di Lucas.
Nonostante il tempo che scorre e il fatto che lui viva lontano da Anchor Island, il sentimento che nutre è sempre lì, imprigionato nel suo cuore speranzoso.
Quel piccolo vuoto che sente però, non le impedisce di godersi appieno la vita, di fare il lavoro che ama e di sognare, sognare in grande. Perché Sid ha un desiderio che vuole esaudire a tutti i costi: aprire un’officina tutta sua.
Sì… per una donna è un’ambizione un po’ strana, ma non per Sid Navarro, cresciuta in mezzo agli uomini da altri uomini e che di sicuro non ha paura di sporcarsi le mani. Lei è una tutta d’un pezzo, che non si scompone mai nemmeno davanti ai maschi più burberi.
E anche quando si ritroverà davanti a Lucas – tornato ad Anchor Island per un problema del padre – rimarrà nella sua bolla intimidatoria e non lascerà trasparire niente di ciò che prova.
Ma come farà a rimanere così impassibile visto che dovranno lavorare insieme nel ristorante della famiglia di lui?

La prima risposta la dà il titolo stesso: La mia sfida più grande. Infatti mantenere l'equilibrio e non farsi trasportare dagli eventi sarà la più grande sfida di Sid. Peccato che Lucas non ha intenzione di starsene buono in un angolo e ben presto i battibecchi e le divergenze sfoceranno in vere e proprie sfide, oltre che in un'attrazione travolgente.

Ma mentre Sid ha già la consapevolezza di amarlo, Lucas non la vede neppure; è così diversa dalle donne che ha sempre frequentato, così diretta e maschiaccio, con quei vestiti che nascondono le forme e i capelli trattenuti in una coda. Inoltre lui non è ad Anchor Island per trovare l'amore e l'ex ragazza che l'ha lasciato per suo fratello è una cosa che ancora non riesce ad accettare.
Eppure...

Che bello questo libro, l'ho letto in un paio di giorni! E ogni volta che dovevo staccarmi la mia testa rimaneva fra le pagine e la curiosità di scoprire la prossima sfida che si sarebbero lanciati mi divorava.

Ho trovato Sid una protagonista splendida nel suo essere fuori dagli standard. Una donna che non si vergogna di avere sogni diversi dalla maggior parte delle altre e che se una mattina vuole uscire di casa in tuta e senza trucco non si fa il minimo scrupolo. Fiera e coraggiosa non permette a nessuno di intromettersi nella sua vita e di certo non passerà mai per una donzella da salvare.

Lucas nelle prime pagine mi aveva fatto storcere il naso, mi sembrava un perfettino con la puzza sotto il naso, un bello che non sa ballare, ma precisamente al 10% della lettura mi ha dato un input pazzesco e ho capito che lo avrei amato. Sarà lui ad avere un'evoluzione più importante e a capire certi valori un po' dimenticati.

La serie di Anchor Island inizia con Scritto nel destino, il secondo è appunto La mia sfida più grande. Sono libri autoconclusivi, quindi si possono leggere indipendentemente dagli altri, anche se seguire l'ordine ci evita qualche grosso spoiler indesiderato.
Consigliato!
Profile Image for Wendy.
323 reviews7 followers
September 21, 2013
This book had me torn. I liked the story. Girl had crush on guy since high school but he never noticed until now when he comes home to help the family out during a crisis. What I didn't like was everyone seem to blame the guy for everything. No one else took responsibility for any of their wrong doings. From Lucas being a bit bitter that his fiance left him for his brother. To his ever having left the island for a life elsewhere to his relationship with Sid.

Lucas came home to help run the family restaurant after his dad has a heart attack and needs time to recover. His fiance left him for his brother and 6 weeks later when he lets the occasional smart remark out due to his hurt and bruised ego everyone thinks he should just get over it. He was the one who encouraged his brother to go for her after she left him wanting the two to be happy.

Lucas then offers to stay and help run the restaurant along with his brother. Sid also agrees to help Lucas out during the days. Normally she helps his brother with his charter boats or is repairing boats. She is a small foul-mouthed firecracker he barely remembers from high school. Lucas is intrigued by her and everyone keeps telling him she isn't as tough as she seems. The are both attracted to each other but she prefers to fling insults. They ended up in a kiss that knocks them both over but Lucas tells her he isn't staying and she isn't the casual fling kind of girl so it is not going to happen. She refuses that and sets her sites on a fling with Lucas. During a hurricane she gets her wish. They embark on a summer fling. Only problem is they both fall for each other but refuse to let on.

Time comes to an end abruptly when Lucas is called back to work. He tries to tell Sid how he feels but she retreats back to insults so he does too. Again everyone blames only him. Will they find their way back to each other?

I gave this 3 stars due to the first half of the book spent on Lucas and Sid doing not much more than bickering. It was very frustrating to getting to the actual story. Also, the fact that Lucas could do nothing right. No matter what he did everyone blaming him and telling him he was doing wrong.
Profile Image for Irene.
1,908 reviews127 followers
September 30, 2013
4.5 stars

I can't find the words to describe how much I enjoyed this book.

Loved the characters, both Sid and Lucas won me over from the beginning actually, I loved Sid from the first book Meant to Be. She has this tough front going on and heaven help anyone think they can tell her she can't do something.

It took me a little longer to warm up to Lucas, if you've read Meant to Be you'll know what I'm talking about. He comes across as though he is better than most.
Finding himself back on Anchor Island the place he couldn't wait to escape brings the awareness that the life he thought he wanted wasn't making him as happy as he thought.

Seeing Lucas and Sid together made my heart smile, they would fight and challenge each other on everything. Sid was not one to say no to a challenge ;P

It was heartwarming watching them fall in love, as much as Lucas thought Sid was not the girl for him and as hard as he tried to deny his feelings for Sid she was perfect for him. She made him feel things he never felt before and he finally felt like he belonged.

sigh... yep loved it :)

I highly recommend this series, I've enjoyed both books. Home to Stay is book 3 and it's due to come out next April.
Can't wait to read it as it's about Willow and Randy! :D

Thank you Terri Osburn for writing the Anchor Island series.

Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing, Montlake Romance for the arc in exchange for my honest review.

Profile Image for Gawelleb.
724 reviews22 followers
July 24, 2018
J'aimais beaucoup ma lecture jusqu'aux trois derniers chapitres! J'en ai marre de ces romances qui victimisent les héroïnes et donnent toujours le mauvais rôle aux hommes. Pourquoi, le héros devrait porter le chapeau du méchant parce qu'il a des rêves et qu'il ne peut pas les réaliser dans le trou perdu que l'héroïne ne veut pas quitter? Ca me gonfle ... sans parler du girl power où toutes ces donzelles se tiennent les coudes.. mouais ... Le côté "friends" c'est pas trop mon truc ... et puis c'est TOUJOURS le héros le méchant! Ici personne n'a de reproches à faire à la nana qui ne veut pas quitter son île.
Profile Image for Patrizia.
1,909 reviews40 followers
August 24, 2018
All'inizio il libro non mi piaceva un granché, i due protagonisti mi sembravano due animali in calore che non risucivano ad arrivare al punto. Poi la storia è finalmente decollata e Sid è una protagonista interessante, certamente migliore di Beth (che, però, in questo libro si fa apprezzare). Quindi posso dare lo stesso voto del libro precedente, in attesa di leggere il successivo, visto che Will e Randy mi attirano assai.
Profile Image for Jennifer☠Pher☠.
2,970 reviews270 followers
October 21, 2013
**ARC provided by Montlake Romance via NetGalley for an honest review**

Such a great romance!! I am so lucky to have been given the opportunity to read and review this book. Once again I was taken completely away to Anchor Island. I am just so in love with the setting for this series. As I said in my review of Meant to Be I love Ocracoke and knowing that Terri Osburn is using that as her reference for Anchor just takes me away on my own mini vacation while reading. This was a great second installment with a beautiful story of unrequited love. The heat was kicked up in this one too which is much appreciated. I knew I would enjoy the book because of the first but I’ll admit, I was nervous about what I was going to feel for Lucas. I didn’t feel anything but ick towards him in the first book and just didn’t know how he was going to be redeemed. Why was I even nervous again? I actually ended up really, really liking Lucas, a lot. I think he was validated in his feelings but wasn’t a crazy jerk about it and it flowed with the story. Getting to kind of have it out with Beth was needed and I think a major turning point for my feelings toward him and her. Sid. Tough as nails beautiful Sid. Since I got to like her in the first book I kind of couldn’t wait for her to get her story and her man. I have a feeling that this series will just get better and better. I think I have a good idea where the author is going next and I can’t wait! This was a great second installment in the series.
Profile Image for StScho.
246 reviews26 followers
July 2, 2015


It was amazing!!!

I can't even tell you how much I love the female character Sid. (Why does her name conjure up images of a hairy uncle? Don't worry she is far from it.)



She was just all of that and a bag of chips. Hilarious. Ridiculous. And a balls-out bad ass. Plus, it was an unrequited love story.



This is why I read through all the mediocre stuff. To get to the needle in the haystack.


Profile Image for Hollie.
1,680 reviews
June 21, 2015
3.5stars

Ok. This was another sweet romance but upon completion I defiantly wanted more. Also, numerous things about this one felt far to similar to book one. It was good but upon completion left me a bit disappointed.
Profile Image for Marnee Blake.
Author 7 books213 followers
June 13, 2013
Another winner! Those of you waiting for Sid and Lucas's story won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Pattrycia.
351 reviews
April 22, 2015
God yes! So much better than the first one. Love seeing Sid & Lucas together. The sexual tension between them is enough to combust a whole room.
Profile Image for Vikki Vaught.
Author 12 books158 followers
May 27, 2017
Wow, so glad I decided to read this series. Up to the Challenge is even better than Meant to Be. I just love, love Sid!!!! What a fantastic character. Really enjoyed Lucas as well, and of course, revisiting the characters from the first book. I can't wait to read Home to Stay, the last book in this series. Ms. Osburn is truly a gifted author. Happy reading!
Profile Image for Kim Reads (Read Your Writes Book Reviews).
1,472 reviews142 followers
October 21, 2013
Reviewed by Kim
for Read Your Writes Book Reviews

We first met Lucas Dempsey in Meant to Be, the first book in the Anchor Island Series. Initially, in that book, Lucas seemed to be a selfish, money-hungry, power-driven guy. But Lucas is a man who sacrificed his own happiness for that of his brother Joe and former fiancée, Beth. He's lost and is always looking for something better because he doesn't think he's good enough for his family. After losing his edge in the courtroom, Lucas’ law firm forces him to take a break. His break just so happens to be at the same time his family needs him the most.

Sidney Navarro is a little Tinker Bell who’s feisty, brash, curses like a sailor and is more beautiful than she gives herself credit for. She likes to pretend to be this tough, hard as nails woman, but inside she’s just a softy who is looking for love. But Sid isn’t looking for love from just anyone. No...for years, Sid has had a MAJOR crush on Lucas.

Lucas comes back to Anchor Island approximately six weeks after Meant to Be. Lucas is back because his father suffers a heart attack. With Tom Dempsey unable to run the family restaurant for at least six weeks, the Dempsey family (Joe, Beth and Sid) make adjustments to their work schedules to make sure the restaurant doesn’t close down. To everyone’s surprise, Lucas agrees to step in and run the restaurant during the day alongside Sid.

Once Sid and Lucas start working side by side, personalities clash and sparks start to fly. It’s not long before these two agree to a six week summer fling with no strings attached. But you know how it goes. It turns out that Lucas and Sid need each other more than they could ever possibly know.

Usually with me, I find that sequels have a hard time living up to their predecessors. But not this one. Up to the Challenge exceeded Meant to Be pretty much in every way imaginable. This is one of those books that I like so much I don't know what to say in order to convey how much I like it. I know this sounds cheesy, but I feel really honored to be able to watch these two go on their journey to fall in love and find out if they were up to the challenge.

To give a little spoiler, Joe and Lucas finally make up like men do. (Eye rolls. Meaning with as few words as possible.) But one of the best quotes in the book comes from Joe in this moment, “Sometimes you have to be willing to give up what you think you want to get the thing you need.”

Source: Montlake via NetGalley
Profile Image for Shai.
176 reviews12 followers
August 8, 2015
This book frustrated me so much that I only had the patience to skim it! So many annoying things in this book! ARGH!

Why is this a recurring theme in small town romance novels where everyone repeatedly tells you what you should want or even what your goals and dreams should be, or even what would someone be better off with? I swear to god, I lost count of how many times, how many people acted like they knew what was better for Lucas. It's like they somehow could know his deepest desires even when he himself didn't know it and then predict he was better off living in their small little town. What's so bad about big city life, huge law firms and ambitions? The whole acting like his job is insignificant or he should be unhappy because he is part of a team of lawyers instead of just being by himself and getting the gratification of results through his solo efforts is just bullshit.

I can't with authors that have this ridiculous recurring them of everybody and everyone knowing what is better for the main character than the main character themselves. Give me a break! and the constant lucas getting mad/being bitter with his brother/ then turning cold at the very next minute and forgiving them was just confusing. Either give the brother shit for what he did to you and properly confront him (which he never really did), or just completely be indifferent and let it go. It was annoying to see the hot/cold reactions. Frustrating read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 301 reviews

Join the discussion

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.