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Forces of Nature
Crystal Hughes is mad as hell. . .No one is going to tear down the farmland that's been in her family since the turn of the century--certainly not multimillion dollar Welco Industries. And until Welco's president meets with her, Crystal will wage a fiery one-woman protest to prove it! But when he finally appears, Douglas Wellington III is far from the elderly curmudgeon she expected. . . Tall, lean, and fabulous, Douglas is in for a surprise of his own. Crystal's cafe au lait beauty takes his breath away. Still, if she had any sense, she'd realize his project will save the impoverished community. With battle lines drawn, Crystal issues Douglas a spend one week on the land he wants to destroy. He agrees, if only to be alone with her. But when nature takes over amid North Carolina's lush countryside, these two warriors just may discover what happens to even the best laid plans. . . "Count on Cheris Hodges to deliver a sassy, sexy romantic read." --Farrah Rochon, author of Always and Forever"This is a winning romance that readers will love." --RT Book Reviews on Too Hot For TV
383 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
6 people are currently reading
250 people want to read
About the author
Cheris Hodges
63 books305 followersCheris Hodges was bitten by the writing bug at an early age and always knew she wanted to be a writer. She is a 1999 graduate of Johnson C. Smith University and a freelance writer in Charlotte, North Carolina. A native of Bennettsville, South Carolina, Cheris loves hearing from her readers.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
September 14, 2014
This was a very good romance novel. My first by this author. I listened to the audio book and Shari Peele did an awesome job. Crystal was an educated woman who loved her family and took over her family farm so that her parents could retire. Crystal had a heart of gold. Douglas was a businessman who took over his father's company after his father died of cancer. Douglas was thought of as a man with a heart of steel.....Until he met Crystal. Crystal and Douglas' story was so different, yet believable. The sacrifices they made for their love and their families was remarkable. I enjoyed how she mixed in the family history of both Crystal and Douglas. Cheris did a great job telling a lovely story. I will definitely read more books by this author. Read it to find out how nature can bring two strong minded individuals together. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a good romance book.
May 6, 2018
Another great read by Cheris Hodges!!
I have owned this book for years and just got around to reading it. What a great story I missed. Cheris never fails me in her writing. Everything I have read by her has always been good. I love a feel good story where even the less fortunate is helped.
#cillasbookmaniacs.
I have owned this book for years and just got around to reading it. What a great story I missed. Cheris never fails me in her writing. Everything I have read by her has always been good. I love a feel good story where even the less fortunate is helped.
#cillasbookmaniacs.
November 2, 2018
The book started out well with the Crystal fighting to save her farm; but the love story between Crystal and Douglas was dull. I was going to return this book to library without finishing it but decided to push through because I do not like starting things but not finishing them. Recipe for Desire is so far my favorite book by this author.
February 25, 2024
I listened to the audiobook version of this novel. Shari Peele does a good job b presenting a complicated family saga sort of story. I read this for a book club meeting, chosen from a list, and it didn’t really fit the criteria for the meeting. I listened to the all of it anyway. It was a little dated (published 11 years ago), but is a well told story.
October 24, 2018
The plotting on this was a little uneven, the end dragged on after the couple had figured their stuff out. Still, a solid enemies-to-lovers story with some generational saga thrown in. It felt a little like Dynasty, in a good way!
I also really liked both the hero and the heroine.
I also really liked both the hero and the heroine.
November 1, 2020
I liked the storyline and the characters! However, the author didn’t focus much on the Starlight House or the farm rather than writing numerous sex scenes between the two main characters. Her sex scene descriptions didn’t come across as realistic to me.
January 23, 2013
Forces of Nature is the tale of two families each trying to defend their legacy for different reasons. We have Crystal Hughes who has been handed the Hughes Farm. She will fight with everything in her to maintain the farm from outside developers. Then we have the sexy, powerful Douglas Wellington, III who is hell bent on taking over the Hughes farm to see his father's last project come to fruition. What neither of them know is that this is not the first time a Wellington tried to take over the Hughes farm. There is a family feud that neither set of parents ever told their children about. An entire generation ago, Douglas Wellington, Jr. tried unsuccessfully to wrangle the farm away from Crystal's dad Joel. Was it just business or was it personal?
When faced with the threat of losing the farm, Crystal Hughes' 1st instinct is fight not flight. She goes down to Welco headquarters and demands a meeting with old Mr Wellington. She's already envisioned him as the devil incarnate but is knocked off her game with the sight of the fiercely fine Douglas Wellington, III. She is annoyed with herself for feeling attracted to the enemy. Why does he have to be so damn fine! How can you be attracted to the man you're "supposed" to despise? Well she is. Meanwhile, Douglas is thinking she sure is beautiful when she's angry.
Crystal comes up with this scheme that challenges Douglas to stay on the farm in a cottage so that he can see and experience the beauty of the farm. Her family attorney who also happens to be best friends with her mom tells her it's a horrible idea but she's thinking that once he sees it there's no way he could want to demolish it. Because of the mutual attraction, you'll have to read for yourself how that plan turns out.
If you are familiar with the writings of Cheris Hodges then you know that she is a "romance" writer who takes that genre very seriously. She takes her time setting up romantic partners and never rushes them into their inevitable liaison. We get the back story of each character and the story that takes them from past to present.
My only disappointment was in the "mentioning" of Douglas, III's mother. I didn't get my curiosity satisfied with her character. She's alive but where is she now? Is there another book when I'll find out more about her? (Wouldn't mind). I also wanted to know more about the reporter Deloris. All in all a very good story
When faced with the threat of losing the farm, Crystal Hughes' 1st instinct is fight not flight. She goes down to Welco headquarters and demands a meeting with old Mr Wellington. She's already envisioned him as the devil incarnate but is knocked off her game with the sight of the fiercely fine Douglas Wellington, III. She is annoyed with herself for feeling attracted to the enemy. Why does he have to be so damn fine! How can you be attracted to the man you're "supposed" to despise? Well she is. Meanwhile, Douglas is thinking she sure is beautiful when she's angry.
Crystal comes up with this scheme that challenges Douglas to stay on the farm in a cottage so that he can see and experience the beauty of the farm. Her family attorney who also happens to be best friends with her mom tells her it's a horrible idea but she's thinking that once he sees it there's no way he could want to demolish it. Because of the mutual attraction, you'll have to read for yourself how that plan turns out.
If you are familiar with the writings of Cheris Hodges then you know that she is a "romance" writer who takes that genre very seriously. She takes her time setting up romantic partners and never rushes them into their inevitable liaison. We get the back story of each character and the story that takes them from past to present.
My only disappointment was in the "mentioning" of Douglas, III's mother. I didn't get my curiosity satisfied with her character. She's alive but where is she now? Is there another book when I'll find out more about her? (Wouldn't mind). I also wanted to know more about the reporter Deloris. All in all a very good story
August 17, 2013
Read my review at Booklist: www.booklistonline.com
Using romance clichés and often-stilted language, Hodges pits two small-town African American adversaries against each other over a family farm. Organic farmer and community do-gooder Crystal Hughes is threatened by scion Douglas Wellington III when his development company wants to buy her land to build a business park. Since Hughes Farm was the first African American land owned in the county and now suppports a house for wayward girls, Crystal refuses to sell it. Douglas, pressured on the one hand by a gung-ho board of directors and on the other by his godfather, is adamant about building there. In between is their instant attraction to each other, which forces long-held grudges and long-buried family history to emerge as others get wind of Crystal and Douglas’ growing love. Plagued by anomalies and inconsistencies, this romance will frustrate readers.
Using romance clichés and often-stilted language, Hodges pits two small-town African American adversaries against each other over a family farm. Organic farmer and community do-gooder Crystal Hughes is threatened by scion Douglas Wellington III when his development company wants to buy her land to build a business park. Since Hughes Farm was the first African American land owned in the county and now suppports a house for wayward girls, Crystal refuses to sell it. Douglas, pressured on the one hand by a gung-ho board of directors and on the other by his godfather, is adamant about building there. In between is their instant attraction to each other, which forces long-held grudges and long-buried family history to emerge as others get wind of Crystal and Douglas’ growing love. Plagued by anomalies and inconsistencies, this romance will frustrate readers.
January 8, 2016
This took it back to the old school when romances were sweet, the heroines were clumsy but endearing, the heroes were sure-footed and classically handsome, the villains were just...misunderstandings.
Overall, an ok read. I gave this writer two tries (this one and Recipe for Desire). Her books are pleasant and charming with uncomplicated plots. The characters are sorta one-dimensional "romantic leads," but likable nonetheless. This is good for anyone who wants a more endearing read, with a happy ending, and without a lot of explicitness or drama.
Also, randomly...this writer tends to spend a lot time in what I call "lover's daydream world." It's when one character is fantasizing about being with the another character so much that when they actually get with the other character, the expectation either doesn't live up, or you're bored reading about it. I prefer a little more interaction and maybe some unpredictability. But again, maybe that's just me. *shrugs*
Overall, an ok read. I gave this writer two tries (this one and Recipe for Desire). Her books are pleasant and charming with uncomplicated plots. The characters are sorta one-dimensional "romantic leads," but likable nonetheless. This is good for anyone who wants a more endearing read, with a happy ending, and without a lot of explicitness or drama.
Also, randomly...this writer tends to spend a lot time in what I call "lover's daydream world." It's when one character is fantasizing about being with the another character so much that when they actually get with the other character, the expectation either doesn't live up, or you're bored reading about it. I prefer a little more interaction and maybe some unpredictability. But again, maybe that's just me. *shrugs*
May 11, 2013
Sparks fly!
I loved the premise of the book. It reminded me of an old black and white movie. A spicy, sassy woman with chip on her shoulder and a charismatic, engaging guy who likes women who are challenging.
Pros: The characters had wonderful chemistry. I loved their dialogue and the power struggle they showcased.
The stakes were set high from the very beginning. There was tension from page one and it continued to build through out the book.
Cheris Hodges writes beautifully. Vivid scenery without over bloating words and descriptions.
NO spoilers but the twist was refreshing.
Cons: I didn't like the book cover. Minor thing but the cover was not strong enough.
Overall, an enjoyable read and look forward to more from Cheris Hodges.
Keleigh Crigler Hadley author of Revenge, Inc.
I loved the premise of the book. It reminded me of an old black and white movie. A spicy, sassy woman with chip on her shoulder and a charismatic, engaging guy who likes women who are challenging.
Pros: The characters had wonderful chemistry. I loved their dialogue and the power struggle they showcased.
The stakes were set high from the very beginning. There was tension from page one and it continued to build through out the book.
Cheris Hodges writes beautifully. Vivid scenery without over bloating words and descriptions.
NO spoilers but the twist was refreshing.
Cons: I didn't like the book cover. Minor thing but the cover was not strong enough.
Overall, an enjoyable read and look forward to more from Cheris Hodges.
Keleigh Crigler Hadley author of Revenge, Inc.
August 30, 2013
Forces of Nature by Cheris Hodges is a wonderful book. I absolutely love Cheris' s writing style. She has a way of drawing you into the storyline and keeping your interest and attention. It took me two days to read this book. it was very hard to put down.
Crystal Hughes definitely got Douglas Wellington III's full attention when she handcuff herself to the receptionist desk in his family's company. As this couple fought over land, they were also fighting their instant attraction to each other. It was nice how Cheris gave us the historical background of the families and how their differences and conflicts evolved.
A really great read and must purchase!
Crystal Hughes definitely got Douglas Wellington III's full attention when she handcuff herself to the receptionist desk in his family's company. As this couple fought over land, they were also fighting their instant attraction to each other. It was nice how Cheris gave us the historical background of the families and how their differences and conflicts evolved.
A really great read and must purchase!
June 17, 2013
Crystal Hughes and Douglas Wellington are not only fighting over land but they are also fighting a growing attraction that is interfering in the plans for Hughes Farms. The chemistry between these two jump off from the initial meeting during which Crystal handcuffed herself to the desk to end of the book. Douglas did not know what hit him when he first saw Crystal but he knew his feelings were true. These two are now at a crossroad and must choose...pursue the attraction or do battle to win the land. Great story and the background was good and allowed to see how past actions and revenge can last a lifetime.
May 16, 2013
This was a really good story. It was so attention grabbing that the story line kept me turning from the first to the last page. It is a quintessential love story. The sparks flew between Douglas and Crystal from their very first meeting. Their bickering made their love scenes even the more spicy. The conflict going on between and around them was quite entertaining. I loved how the author didn't let the story end at the resolution of all the drama. We got to read what happened afterwards and that was a pleasant surprise....well done.
May 25, 2013
I must admit initially Crystal Hughes got on my nerves, but I loved Douglas Wellington III. The instant attraction between the two of them was heated, and I liked when they finally gave in to the lust they felt, I just hate it was liquor soaked. Still their love scenes were an excited part of the story. The mystery behind the original history of the Wellington and Hughes family drama was well written. I especially liked that parts of the story still haven't been told, leading me to believe (see also hope) that there will be of the Hughes/Wellington story in the future.
May 12, 2013
Cheris Hodges did a wonderful job with this book. You never know how much one mans actions can effect so many people but nature takes over and pulls them all together. I really liked the concept of this book although the heroin, Crystal, got on my nerves sometimes. But Douglas didn't let her put the breaks on their love. I hope Dena and Waylon work out their love in the near future.
September 16, 2013
I loved this book! I was hooked from page 1. Family and family legacies are important. Hate should never factor into anything and we all should NEVER forget where we came from, if it's across the tracks on the wrong side of town or from the middle/upper class side. Love who you are and never let your kids (descendants) pay for your hang ups or mistakes. Cheris, this book was great!
November 14, 2016
I hated this book... I mean really hated it. There was NOTHING likable about Crystal. Her constant "my family", "my farm", "free food". Her always lecturing about ice tea this and organic cleaning solution that..... No willingness to compromise. I like the author but this book made my damn head hurt with this foolishness.
March 23, 2018
This was pretty good. Instant attraction, hot and steamy sexy times and an overall story that was interesting. Though, I do think it'sstupid that the parents kept secret the information that may have kept this romance from happening in the first place (however illogical it is). Kind of like Romeo and Juliet without the kids knowing that they were enemies.
October 28, 2013
This book was awesome. It reached the climax a little sooner than I hoped, but it truly kept me interested. I had to make myself put the book down so i would not read it to fast. Great Book!
May 16, 2013
The plot was engaging.
August 29, 2013
Another good book by Cheris Hodges! Two forces collide and fall in love.
November 17, 2013
real good flow
August 20, 2016
I felt like I just kept rereading the same chapter over and over again. Read 122 pages and felt it just wasn't going anywhere interesting so I gave up on it.
January 14, 2014
Moved too quickly for me; seems like I missed something.
June 24, 2014
Boring...the story dragged-on way more than necessary. The only thing that saved it was that it had more than one storyline at a time, but even that got tedious at points.
April 17, 2015
This was a great read...I like the author writing style....romance & she always give you a touch of helping others out.....
July 30, 2013
Great book from start to finish...
March 25, 2017
I have not read a sloppy lusty romance in a long time. Didn't know what I was getting when I checked it out. However it was the Harlequin Romances that got me reading and enjoying it in the first place. Haven't heard of Cheris Hodges, but it is a very different type of book than I have read in many many years.
A property owner and farmland owner has been in Crystal Hughes's family. The company called Wellco has been after their land for many years. Then this tall, lean, really good looking guy names Douglas Wellington III that is so sexy, and they are both seriously attracted to each other. They are fighting over the land. Crystal issues Douglas a challenge--which is to spend one week on the land that he wants to destroy to build and develop into new homes and developments. It keeps on and they are both so irrisitable to each other....without spoiling it gets pretty interesting.
A property owner and farmland owner has been in Crystal Hughes's family. The company called Wellco has been after their land for many years. Then this tall, lean, really good looking guy names Douglas Wellington III that is so sexy, and they are both seriously attracted to each other. They are fighting over the land. Crystal issues Douglas a challenge--which is to spend one week on the land that he wants to destroy to build and develop into new homes and developments. It keeps on and they are both so irrisitable to each other....without spoiling it gets pretty interesting.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews