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Raising the Bar
Did you hear the one about the woman who gets fired, then busted for speeding on a country road and falls for the cop who pulled her over?
Sergeant Jude Davis barely has enough hours in the day to protect and serve the small town of Kelly Lakes and take care of his ailing father. After his bitter divorce, he learned the hard way that he doesn’t have time for romantic relationships.
If only he could get everyone to stop trying to set him up on blind dates…
When the grouchy officer pulled over a speeding driver, he wasn’t prepared for Claudia. The sunshiney beauty is only in town long enough to nurse her professional wounds before heading back to Brooklyn. She’s gorgeous, fiery, and everything he doesn’t have time to enjoy.
Jude can’t afford to get close to her, so no one is more shocked than he is when he finds himself asking her for a favor. A few fake public cuddles and longing looks should be enough to put off his determined matchmakers, right?
For the first time in years, this grumpy cop has something to smile about as the friendship develops certain “benefits.” But when Claudia’s temporary stay takes a turn for the permanent, Jude has to face facts. He can’t be the man she deserves…but he’s definitely not willing to watch her end up with someone else.
Sergeant Jude Davis barely has enough hours in the day to protect and serve the small town of Kelly Lakes and take care of his ailing father. After his bitter divorce, he learned the hard way that he doesn’t have time for romantic relationships.
If only he could get everyone to stop trying to set him up on blind dates…
When the grouchy officer pulled over a speeding driver, he wasn’t prepared for Claudia. The sunshiney beauty is only in town long enough to nurse her professional wounds before heading back to Brooklyn. She’s gorgeous, fiery, and everything he doesn’t have time to enjoy.
Jude can’t afford to get close to her, so no one is more shocked than he is when he finds himself asking her for a favor. A few fake public cuddles and longing looks should be enough to put off his determined matchmakers, right?
For the first time in years, this grumpy cop has something to smile about as the friendship develops certain “benefits.” But when Claudia’s temporary stay takes a turn for the permanent, Jude has to face facts. He can’t be the man she deserves…but he’s definitely not willing to watch her end up with someone else.
342 pages, ebook
First published November 3, 2023
249 people are currently reading
690 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Rose
30 books2,944 followersStephanie Rose is a badass New Yorker, a wife, a mother, and lover of all things chocolate. Most days you'll find her trying to avoid standing on discarded LEGO or deciding which book to read next. Her debut novel, Always You, released in 2015 and since then she's written several more—some of which will never see completion—and has ideas for hundreds to come.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
February 18, 2024
Claudia (35) was laid off after 13 years of working for the same company, and since she didn't have any concrete plans for what to do after, she decided to stay with her best friend, Peyton (from An Unexpected Turn)
Jude (43) is one of the town's sergeants, who came back to take care of his father. He was already grumpy even before, but became more closed off after his divorce (his wife cheated on him). He doesn't have time for anything and wants to focus his energy and time on his father and his job.
Back to the story: On her way to Peyton's house, Claudia was pulled over by Jude for overspeeding. After apologizing and explaining to him that she was not normally reckless and just had a bad day, he let her go and told her to be careful. Then they met again in a park, where Jude was kind of ambushed by this woman, who was matchmaking her daughter to Jude. Claudia saw that he needed some help to get out of this conversation and inserted herself in the situation by pretending to act like they're more than friends. The woman got the signal clearly and assumed that Jude and Claudia were in a relationship, or probably halfway there. This is how the fake dating scheme started for them.
But I wouldn't say the fake dating happened a lot in this story; it was only done a few times, just when people were around, and that's very few and far between in this small town. So sure, there may be a bit of fake dating, but that's barely a part of this book. In the first half, nothing really happened between the MCs, and it was pure torture because this was a slowburn, but something has to give, right? Build some anticipation so that when these two finally give in, the slow burn will be worth it, yet I didn't feel that buildup.
There was an attraction between them, but the should-I or shouldn't-I attitude irked me. Given that these two were more mature characters than I usually read, I did hope for them to have at least gotten their act together a little sooner. But nope, it was not until the 55%, I think, before they both decided to give the mutual attraction a real chance. Honestly, the push and pull, mostly on Jude's end, got old. However, Claudia was an understanding woman who saw things half-full, so she patiently waited for him.
Of course, they eventually got together, but by that point, I was already mildly interested. The slow burn felt like it was dragging, and it didn't make me look forward to when the MCs were going to officially date. So when it happened, my reaction was very meh, like, "Okay? So what's next?"
It wasn't a bad story per se; it's probably the flow of the events or how much nothing was really happening between the MCs for a huge part of it. They acted more like acquaintances, which they were in the beginning, but I hoped for them to be friendly, at least much sooner. He has problems; I know that, but who doesn't? I'd probably end up loving this more if he decided early on what he really wanted out of life and not because his father told him that he's being stupid for letting Claudia slip away.
Jude's walls were so high, and it took quite awhile for Claudia to gradually wear him down. She was so open and honest, so it was disappointing to see him not even make much effort to be the same for her. Tbf, he did become different around her, but I feel like that was his bare minimum. I think he only started making a significant effort at the 65% mark of the story.
So yeah, I don't know how to feel about this story. It was still a good one, but the miscommunication and constant push-pull attitude were making it difficult to really love this. I suppose I should still be satisfied, because in the end, they made the decision to choose each other and actively sought out the things that would bring them happiness and fulfillment in their lives.
Book info:
- Small town romance
- Grumpy-Sunshine
- No cheating, opd, breakup
- Non-virgin MCs
- Physical Assault
- Loss of loved one (Past)
- Amputee parent
- Interracial FMC (Asian)
- HEA
- Bonus epilogue (1 year later, married with a son)
Jude (43) is one of the town's sergeants, who came back to take care of his father. He was already grumpy even before, but became more closed off after his divorce (his wife cheated on him). He doesn't have time for anything and wants to focus his energy and time on his father and his job.
Back to the story: On her way to Peyton's house, Claudia was pulled over by Jude for overspeeding. After apologizing and explaining to him that she was not normally reckless and just had a bad day, he let her go and told her to be careful. Then they met again in a park, where Jude was kind of ambushed by this woman, who was matchmaking her daughter to Jude. Claudia saw that he needed some help to get out of this conversation and inserted herself in the situation by pretending to act like they're more than friends. The woman got the signal clearly and assumed that Jude and Claudia were in a relationship, or probably halfway there. This is how the fake dating scheme started for them.
But I wouldn't say the fake dating happened a lot in this story; it was only done a few times, just when people were around, and that's very few and far between in this small town. So sure, there may be a bit of fake dating, but that's barely a part of this book. In the first half, nothing really happened between the MCs, and it was pure torture because this was a slowburn, but something has to give, right? Build some anticipation so that when these two finally give in, the slow burn will be worth it, yet I didn't feel that buildup.
There was an attraction between them, but the should-I or shouldn't-I attitude irked me. Given that these two were more mature characters than I usually read, I did hope for them to have at least gotten their act together a little sooner. But nope, it was not until the 55%, I think, before they both decided to give the mutual attraction a real chance. Honestly, the push and pull, mostly on Jude's end, got old. However, Claudia was an understanding woman who saw things half-full, so she patiently waited for him.
Of course, they eventually got together, but by that point, I was already mildly interested. The slow burn felt like it was dragging, and it didn't make me look forward to when the MCs were going to officially date. So when it happened, my reaction was very meh, like, "Okay? So what's next?"
It wasn't a bad story per se; it's probably the flow of the events or how much nothing was really happening between the MCs for a huge part of it. They acted more like acquaintances, which they were in the beginning, but I hoped for them to be friendly, at least much sooner. He has problems; I know that, but who doesn't? I'd probably end up loving this more if he decided early on what he really wanted out of life and not because his father told him that he's being stupid for letting Claudia slip away.
Jude's walls were so high, and it took quite awhile for Claudia to gradually wear him down. She was so open and honest, so it was disappointing to see him not even make much effort to be the same for her. Tbf, he did become different around her, but I feel like that was his bare minimum. I think he only started making a significant effort at the 65% mark of the story.
So yeah, I don't know how to feel about this story. It was still a good one, but the miscommunication and constant push-pull attitude were making it difficult to really love this. I suppose I should still be satisfied, because in the end, they made the decision to choose each other and actively sought out the things that would bring them happiness and fulfillment in their lives.
Book info:
- Small town romance
- Grumpy-Sunshine
- No cheating, opd, breakup
- Non-virgin MCs
- Physical Assault
- Loss of loved one (Past)
- Amputee parent
- Interracial FMC (Asian)
- HEA
- Bonus epilogue (1 year later, married with a son)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2023
Raising the Bar is just a wonderful comfort read about making choices and embarking on a new journey in your life. Claudia is on this road and meets the brooding and cute Jude. These two were so great together. They made me smile and swoon. An instant attraction and a lovely slow burn so when they finally collide it was amazing.
As much as I liked Claudia and Jude the side characters were incredible too especially Jude’s dad. George cracked me up. He and Jude delivered the son and dad banter flawlessly. Also Claudia’s bestie Peyton and her hubby Jake from An Unexpected Turn played a role in this story and I enjoyed them all together so much.
Raising the Bar was fabulous feel good small town romance. Low angst, character driven and some lovely romance. Need an escape then I recommend this book.
As much as I liked Claudia and Jude the side characters were incredible too especially Jude’s dad. George cracked me up. He and Jude delivered the son and dad banter flawlessly. Also Claudia’s bestie Peyton and her hubby Jake from An Unexpected Turn played a role in this story and I enjoyed them all together so much.
Raising the Bar was fabulous feel good small town romance. Low angst, character driven and some lovely romance. Need an escape then I recommend this book.
January 21, 2024
’My grandmother had once told me that sometimes the big decisions in life were made for us. Maybe that was why it didn’t seem like I was supposed to be here, but I couldn’t find it in myself to go back.’
Raising The Bar by Stephanie Rose is our first book by this Author, and we loved both the story and the writing. This is a standalone in a series, with Raising The Bar being the last. We didn’t feel as if we’d missed anything as it stands perfectly on its own. However, we have added the previous books to our reading list as we fell in love with the small town, Kelly Lakes, and its people!
”I see a woman with guts and fire and so much beauty it hurts to look at her sometimes.”
Claudia is a fabulous heroine. She’s a thirty-five-year-old workaholic who has paused her personal life to succeed in her working life. That is until she receives some unwelcome news which sends her back to Kelly Lakes and the sanctuary of her best mate. On the way she meets Seargeant Davis who plays an integral part in Claudia’s life doing a complete turnabout. Her life isn’t the only one to be impacted by this meeting, the forty-three-year-old Jude Davis falls and falls hard. We loved the story development and the self-realisations these two characters made along the way. Claudia and Jude needed each other for different reasons and helped each other find the best in themselves and each other.
’He’d said he was better with me, and he was the part of my life missing all this time that I’d never thought to look for.’
Claudia and Jude’s story is beautiful, heartfelt, and emotional. Whilst it has low angst it does have a bit of drama and it kept us reading. We fell in love with Claudia and Jude! Oh, and we have to mention Jude’s dad too, George is a brilliant man and father who had us smiling big. Such a wonderful story of second chances, family, and friendships, with sincere love at its very heart. If you love Catherine Cowles, Samantha Young and Devney Perry, you will love Raising The Bar by Stephanie Rose.
’Saying it might’ve been hard, but loving Jude was the easiest thing I’d ever done.’
October 21, 2023
When Claudia Ng gets pulled over by the handsome yet grumpy Sergeant Jude Davis they never thought they would see each other again. Well, in a small town like Kelly Lakes you’re bound to bump into everyone at least a few times. Claudia is there to start over after some bad news and Jude is trying to juggle work and taking care of his father. Maybe they can find some peace together. This is such a feel good, small town romance. I loved the realistic situations they’re in and that the characters are a little older in their 30s but still struggle with what they want in life. The scenes between Jude and his father are wonderful, not to mention funny. Fans of a great slow burn, “find where you belong” romance with love this one. Get Ready To Fall in Love with this broody cop And the one that opens up his heart! Told in dual POV.
November 3, 2023
My heart was not ready for all these swoony, heartwarming, sweetest feels from Raising the Bar by Stephanie Rose. Jude and Claudia are so perfect together! Claudia's sassy, witty and sunshine personality is exactly what Jude's grumpy brooding heart needed to fall in love. This adorable small town romance will also surprise you with sizzling hot slow burn chemistry. I am so in love with everything about this book and let me bask in the glorious emotions for a while!
Claudia was caught for speeding.. by the handsome cop with serious level of delicious brooding while she was running to her best friend's home after being dismissed from the job she dedicated so many years of her life. The small town has always been a sanctuary for her. And it happens that Jude Davis has just moved back in town to take care of his sick father. He has some big chips on his shoulder but Claudia is something else too. And the game changes when she decides to put her roots down by buying the only bar in the town before the owner closes it. Jude has to open his heart though.
I absolutely love Claudia's energy. It was so refreshing to read an Asian character and I can absolutely relate to her protective parents. She is an incredible woman. She is smart, independent, successful in her career and a bada## boss lady. But I love her big heart even more. She loves so openly and unconditionally. She sees the best part in every person. Anyone who meets her cannot resist her charm. Jude Davis was no exception but his walls were high. He has been deceived and hurt in his marriage and he has just been through divorce. He is the kind of man who wants to carry every responsibility on his shoulder and burn down himself on the way. He has an intensity that comes out at everything. His job. His family. And now..about Claudia. He was immediately attracted to her beauty inside out but he was holding himself back because he didn't think himself deserving to be with her. But, bless Claudia and his father..they pushed him out of his lonely shell. Now once he decided to give their relationship a chance, he was all in. He can be a closed off stoic man for everyone. But for Claudia, he shows his sweetness and charm. Jude has so many sides and I love them all. He can a complete caveman for Claudia..growling possessive over protective alpha all the way. And he can be impossibly sweet. Taking care of her when our firecracker had some difficult times, little gestures to make her happy..my heart was ready to burst out. Their chemistry was built up so beautiful and I savored the slow burn. I love the calming loving positive energy of a small town and they rallied behind Jude and Claudia. What a spectacular hard earned heartwarming happily ever after!
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Claudia was caught for speeding.. by the handsome cop with serious level of delicious brooding while she was running to her best friend's home after being dismissed from the job she dedicated so many years of her life. The small town has always been a sanctuary for her. And it happens that Jude Davis has just moved back in town to take care of his sick father. He has some big chips on his shoulder but Claudia is something else too. And the game changes when she decides to put her roots down by buying the only bar in the town before the owner closes it. Jude has to open his heart though.
I absolutely love Claudia's energy. It was so refreshing to read an Asian character and I can absolutely relate to her protective parents. She is an incredible woman. She is smart, independent, successful in her career and a bada## boss lady. But I love her big heart even more. She loves so openly and unconditionally. She sees the best part in every person. Anyone who meets her cannot resist her charm. Jude Davis was no exception but his walls were high. He has been deceived and hurt in his marriage and he has just been through divorce. He is the kind of man who wants to carry every responsibility on his shoulder and burn down himself on the way. He has an intensity that comes out at everything. His job. His family. And now..about Claudia. He was immediately attracted to her beauty inside out but he was holding himself back because he didn't think himself deserving to be with her. But, bless Claudia and his father..they pushed him out of his lonely shell. Now once he decided to give their relationship a chance, he was all in. He can be a closed off stoic man for everyone. But for Claudia, he shows his sweetness and charm. Jude has so many sides and I love them all. He can a complete caveman for Claudia..growling possessive over protective alpha all the way. And he can be impossibly sweet. Taking care of her when our firecracker had some difficult times, little gestures to make her happy..my heart was ready to burst out. Their chemistry was built up so beautiful and I savored the slow burn. I love the calming loving positive energy of a small town and they rallied behind Jude and Claudia. What a spectacular hard earned heartwarming happily ever after!
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
November 5, 2023
Raising The Bar is live and available on Kindle Unlimited!
One-click here:
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October 21, 2023
I love getting a new Stephanie Rose book on my kindle. And her characters are so lovable and fun. Or learning to have fun in Jude’s case. Claudia is just what this man needs. And really the rest is history! Plus the meet cute, yea still can’t get over that. Do yourself a favor and take another adventure to Kelly Lakes!
October 31, 2023
Taking place in the small town of Kelly Lakes, readers who have read other books by this author will see some familiar characters around Jude and Claudia. This new book can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA. It is written in first person from an alternating dual POV.
I loved Claudia when she appeared in other books set in this town. She is the perfect best friend for Peyton. Strong, smart, successful, lovable, and loving; Claudia is a character I want to hang out with too. When her successful career in the city takes an unexpected turn, she returns to Kelly Lakes for an extended visit to regroup and heal at Peyton’s house. I adore their friendship and the support that her found family in Kelly Lakes offers her. I also really appreciated that Claudia is an Asian character that has a strong family support system with her parents and cousins. I actually really adored her relationship with her father and the way he encourages and supports her in her new path.
Jude is a stoic police Sergeant who has returned home to Kelly Lakes after a divorce. He is the primary caregiver for his dad, George, who is recovering from surgery. Their interactions are sometimes funny and very realistic. As one who has been in that role, I appreciated Jude’s concern, George’s frustration, and the complex relationship they have. Honestly, I adored George. The way he is with Claudia and Jude as he encourages their relationship is just plain fun and very special. Jude has some high walls around his heart, but behind them he is a loving, all-in kind of guy who cannot resist Claudia’s sunshine. His protective and possessive nature is seriously hot.
I appreciated that both characters are mature and that they communicate in a mature manner. At 35 (Claudia) and 43 (Jude), they have learned how to act like adults. They have an intense chemistry and attraction that is almost a slow burn before they finally go for it. I adored how Claudia accepted Jude at each stage as she gained his trust. Her love and acceptance help him lower his walls and enjoy his life instead of just existing within it. There is heat, emotional depth, and a little drama on the way to their happy ending. One of the things I love about this author is that the romance in her books feels real. The couples have disagreements, occasionally argue, and resolve their relationship disconnects just like I do with my husband. This was a joy to read, and I definitely recommend grabbing this one.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
I loved Claudia when she appeared in other books set in this town. She is the perfect best friend for Peyton. Strong, smart, successful, lovable, and loving; Claudia is a character I want to hang out with too. When her successful career in the city takes an unexpected turn, she returns to Kelly Lakes for an extended visit to regroup and heal at Peyton’s house. I adore their friendship and the support that her found family in Kelly Lakes offers her. I also really appreciated that Claudia is an Asian character that has a strong family support system with her parents and cousins. I actually really adored her relationship with her father and the way he encourages and supports her in her new path.
Jude is a stoic police Sergeant who has returned home to Kelly Lakes after a divorce. He is the primary caregiver for his dad, George, who is recovering from surgery. Their interactions are sometimes funny and very realistic. As one who has been in that role, I appreciated Jude’s concern, George’s frustration, and the complex relationship they have. Honestly, I adored George. The way he is with Claudia and Jude as he encourages their relationship is just plain fun and very special. Jude has some high walls around his heart, but behind them he is a loving, all-in kind of guy who cannot resist Claudia’s sunshine. His protective and possessive nature is seriously hot.
I appreciated that both characters are mature and that they communicate in a mature manner. At 35 (Claudia) and 43 (Jude), they have learned how to act like adults. They have an intense chemistry and attraction that is almost a slow burn before they finally go for it. I adored how Claudia accepted Jude at each stage as she gained his trust. Her love and acceptance help him lower his walls and enjoy his life instead of just existing within it. There is heat, emotional depth, and a little drama on the way to their happy ending. One of the things I love about this author is that the romance in her books feels real. The couples have disagreements, occasionally argue, and resolve their relationship disconnects just like I do with my husband. This was a joy to read, and I definitely recommend grabbing this one.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
December 14, 2023
4.5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5 (rounded up)
* Thankyou to Rick & the author for a copy of this ARC
"I love that we have the kind of friendship that we always unload bad news to each other first. It's nice." Peyton crinkled her nose at me. "Same. Thanks for being my safe place." I glanced around the kitchen. "Both figuratively and literally."
This book was so so so good. I actually finished it in one day. I am super into small town romance right now, and this was exactly what I was looking for. I loved that the FMC was of Asian background and gave a perspective of how someone multicultural can be treated in a small town.
Since I also came from a big city to a small town, I really enjoyed that the FMC found her sense of home, while a lot of people would journey out for bigger prospects.
"Saying it might've been hard, but loving Jude was the easiest thing I'd ever done."
All of the characters were so amazing in this book, and I loved seeing the MMC come out of his shell.
You get:
• Dual POV
• Fake dating
• Multicultural representation
• Small town
• Slow burn
• Grumpy × sunshine
• Pull over meet cute
• No third act breakup
• Spice
• Touch her and die
This book is available now! I would be adding it to my TBR if I were you.
"I wanted to step into my house and feel her everywhere. I wanted her to own everything I had, like she'd owned me from almost the beginning. "And I want you to make our house as beautiful as you made this place." I swiped the tears streaming down her cheeks with my thumbs. "Please, baby. Come home with me for the rest of my life."
* Thankyou to Rick & the author for a copy of this ARC
"I love that we have the kind of friendship that we always unload bad news to each other first. It's nice." Peyton crinkled her nose at me. "Same. Thanks for being my safe place." I glanced around the kitchen. "Both figuratively and literally."
This book was so so so good. I actually finished it in one day. I am super into small town romance right now, and this was exactly what I was looking for. I loved that the FMC was of Asian background and gave a perspective of how someone multicultural can be treated in a small town.
Since I also came from a big city to a small town, I really enjoyed that the FMC found her sense of home, while a lot of people would journey out for bigger prospects.
"Saying it might've been hard, but loving Jude was the easiest thing I'd ever done."
All of the characters were so amazing in this book, and I loved seeing the MMC come out of his shell.
You get:
• Dual POV
• Fake dating
• Multicultural representation
• Small town
• Slow burn
• Grumpy × sunshine
• Pull over meet cute
• No third act breakup
• Spice
• Touch her and die
This book is available now! I would be adding it to my TBR if I were you.
"I wanted to step into my house and feel her everywhere. I wanted her to own everything I had, like she'd owned me from almost the beginning. "And I want you to make our house as beautiful as you made this place." I swiped the tears streaming down her cheeks with my thumbs. "Please, baby. Come home with me for the rest of my life."
October 28, 2023
Raising the Bar by Stephanie Rose
5/5 stars
This was a fantastic return to Kelly Lakes with Jude and Claudia! It was so good to see so many familiar faces with these two as characters!
Jude!! I loved his broodiness and once he got out of his head, how fast he fell for Claudia and just his relationship with his dad. There were so many points that I enjoyed him being grumpy and a protector!
Claudia! I admired her strength and her light in the what she faced and how she didn’t let it get her down! I enjoyed her balance to Jude and the all fun and joy that she brought to everyone around her!
With laughter, spice, and love SR has added a sweet addition to the Kelly Lakes series. Wonderful job, Stephanie! X
A huge thank you to @authorstephanierose and @rick_283 for an eARC copy of the book.
5/5 stars
This was a fantastic return to Kelly Lakes with Jude and Claudia! It was so good to see so many familiar faces with these two as characters!
Jude!! I loved his broodiness and once he got out of his head, how fast he fell for Claudia and just his relationship with his dad. There were so many points that I enjoyed him being grumpy and a protector!
Claudia! I admired her strength and her light in the what she faced and how she didn’t let it get her down! I enjoyed her balance to Jude and the all fun and joy that she brought to everyone around her!
With laughter, spice, and love SR has added a sweet addition to the Kelly Lakes series. Wonderful job, Stephanie! X
A huge thank you to @authorstephanierose and @rick_283 for an eARC copy of the book.
October 22, 2023
From the first page to the last, I was beyond captivated by Jude & Claudia and their story.
Claudia was having a bad day and the last thing she expected was to meet Jude by him pulling her over. I loved the banter and chemistry between Claudia & Jude.
I loved these characters and their world! I loved seeing previous characters from other books and where they are today.
I voluntarily reviewed this book.
Claudia was having a bad day and the last thing she expected was to meet Jude by him pulling her over. I loved the banter and chemistry between Claudia & Jude.
I loved these characters and their world! I loved seeing previous characters from other books and where they are today.
I voluntarily reviewed this book.
January 29, 2024
La escritura y el ritmo están bien elaborados y es fácil de entender. Los personajes son agradables, identificables y maduros. Me gustó la trama y cómo se desarrolló todo. Disfruté mucho las interacciones entre todos los personajes y en especial, las apariciones de los personajes de los libros anteriores.
January 16, 2025
"To hell with it, I own this place right!?"
"Just like you own me"
This is a two POV book, told by the POV´s of Jude and Claudia.
I felt like both characters where a bit two dimensional in their characters. Claudia was always bubbly and friendly and chatty and Jude was this broody cop with the tragic backstory. A bit too stereotypical sunshine and grumpy for me, but it isn´t too much on the nose for it to be annoying or overly cringe.
Regarding side characters I really liked Peyton and Jake, I feel like their romance story would have been an interesting one as well and I loved the little glimpses to it that we got from Peyton.
This book itself felt pretty "mid". Everything was okay but didn´t really make me go "oh wo". I would say the romance itself is pretty fast and like a "love at first sight" romance. The pacing of the book itself felt fine, a little slow at times. There is chemistry between the characters but not any real tension in my opinion. You can expect a few spicy scenes in here as well as no 3/4 break up scene. I would say the vibes for this book overall are pretty sweet/fluffy and cinnamon roll.
Overall it was an okay read and I am sure you would love this if you are into fluffy love at first sight romances.
trigger warnings: mentions of cheating (not done by the love interest), physical abuse (not caused by the love interest)
"Just like you own me"
This is a two POV book, told by the POV´s of Jude and Claudia.
I felt like both characters where a bit two dimensional in their characters. Claudia was always bubbly and friendly and chatty and Jude was this broody cop with the tragic backstory. A bit too stereotypical sunshine and grumpy for me, but it isn´t too much on the nose for it to be annoying or overly cringe.
Regarding side characters I really liked Peyton and Jake, I feel like their romance story would have been an interesting one as well and I loved the little glimpses to it that we got from Peyton.
This book itself felt pretty "mid". Everything was okay but didn´t really make me go "oh wo". I would say the romance itself is pretty fast and like a "love at first sight" romance. The pacing of the book itself felt fine, a little slow at times. There is chemistry between the characters but not any real tension in my opinion. You can expect a few spicy scenes in here as well as no 3/4 break up scene. I would say the vibes for this book overall are pretty sweet/fluffy and cinnamon roll.
Overall it was an okay read and I am sure you would love this if you are into fluffy love at first sight romances.
trigger warnings: mentions of cheating (not done by the love interest), physical abuse (not caused by the love interest)
October 29, 2023
Raising the Bar is a standalone set in the small town of Kelly Lakes. I just adore this author and always look forward to entering the world she creates through her beautiful words. She always writes heroes who are worthy of the title and this slow burn is no exception.
I immediately knew I’d like this book when Sergeant Jude Davis pulls Claudia over for speeding and that they met by chance. I read so many “billionaire/coworker,” “nanny,” and “brother’s best friend” romances, and meeting and falling in love with a stranger is my favorite troupe.
He’s all business as she was wrong for speeding, and I admired how she was honest about her bad day and contrite for her actions. Claudia was taking a breather to reflect on the next stage of her life and decided to escape for a while. She had an effect on him and he wasn’t quite sure what to do with that. There was an instant attraction on both of their parts and then as fate would have it, they continued to run into one another–it is a very small suburban town after all!
The author writes such very likeable characters and Claudia is staying with her BFF whom we met in the previous book. Her husband is a general contractor and Jude often helps him in his free time, and boy do I love a hero who knows how to swing a hammer! I loved Jude’s dad whom he was living with to help take care of for health reasons. His dad was a hoot and made me laugh and cry. He loved his son unconditionally and just wanted to see him happy. Jude was so selfless, never wanting anything in return for helping others, and someone I would want to marry in a hot minute!
Love how everyone calls him Sergeant and she is allowed to call him Jude. It’s in all the little details that the author incorporates into her stories that make her books so enjoyable to me. This establishes right out of the gate that he considers Claudia special and I couldn’t wait to see where they were headed.
Claudia is Asian-American and is very close to her parents who run a restaurant in her hometown of NY, and I really admired their support and general respect for one another. They were concerned for her as she recently lost her job of many years, and couldn’t be more loving.
There is a slow build as Jude and Claudia get to know one another, and I really liked how they brought out the best in each other. He was feeling the after effects of a past relationship and was closed off, and she is trying to reflect on her previous workaholic tendencies and where did it get her.
While others may find Jude standoffish, our girl knew he was a giant loveable teddy bear with very big feelings. He was sweet yet possessive, and his police training had him all protective of her and it made me swoon. He was really lonely until he met her, and I just loved their romantic relationship once they committed to one another.
Love how she took a chance with her new business venture and really took time to think about her future happiness and learned from the past, and her future included a life with the sexy Sergeant. Readers are gifted with two bonus epilogues which are super swoony and give you glimpses into their HEA in the future.
I immediately knew I’d like this book when Sergeant Jude Davis pulls Claudia over for speeding and that they met by chance. I read so many “billionaire/coworker,” “nanny,” and “brother’s best friend” romances, and meeting and falling in love with a stranger is my favorite troupe.
He’s all business as she was wrong for speeding, and I admired how she was honest about her bad day and contrite for her actions. Claudia was taking a breather to reflect on the next stage of her life and decided to escape for a while. She had an effect on him and he wasn’t quite sure what to do with that. There was an instant attraction on both of their parts and then as fate would have it, they continued to run into one another–it is a very small suburban town after all!
The author writes such very likeable characters and Claudia is staying with her BFF whom we met in the previous book. Her husband is a general contractor and Jude often helps him in his free time, and boy do I love a hero who knows how to swing a hammer! I loved Jude’s dad whom he was living with to help take care of for health reasons. His dad was a hoot and made me laugh and cry. He loved his son unconditionally and just wanted to see him happy. Jude was so selfless, never wanting anything in return for helping others, and someone I would want to marry in a hot minute!
Love how everyone calls him Sergeant and she is allowed to call him Jude. It’s in all the little details that the author incorporates into her stories that make her books so enjoyable to me. This establishes right out of the gate that he considers Claudia special and I couldn’t wait to see where they were headed.
Claudia is Asian-American and is very close to her parents who run a restaurant in her hometown of NY, and I really admired their support and general respect for one another. They were concerned for her as she recently lost her job of many years, and couldn’t be more loving.
There is a slow build as Jude and Claudia get to know one another, and I really liked how they brought out the best in each other. He was feeling the after effects of a past relationship and was closed off, and she is trying to reflect on her previous workaholic tendencies and where did it get her.
While others may find Jude standoffish, our girl knew he was a giant loveable teddy bear with very big feelings. He was sweet yet possessive, and his police training had him all protective of her and it made me swoon. He was really lonely until he met her, and I just loved their romantic relationship once they committed to one another.
Love how she took a chance with her new business venture and really took time to think about her future happiness and learned from the past, and her future included a life with the sexy Sergeant. Readers are gifted with two bonus epilogues which are super swoony and give you glimpses into their HEA in the future.
March 15, 2024
I will literally eat up any and every book that Stephanie Rose writes. Her Kelly Lakes standalones are my absolute favorite and I’m so glad to be brought back into this work for Claudia and Jude’s story. Things to look for in this book:
Small town romance ✔️
Grumpy/sunshine ✔️
Broody cop MMC ✔️
Fiery FMC ✔️
Fake dating ✔️
A meet cute to remember ✔️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
Angst level: 💔
Claudia is back in Kelly Lakes and staying with Peyton and Jake from An Unexpected Turn while she figures out what she wants to do next with her life. While driving into town after losing her job of thirteen years, she gets pulled over by the towns broody, no nonsense cop named Jude, but miraculously he doesn’t give her a ticket.
While in town, Claudia and Jude seemingly keep getting pushed together. And when an opportunity arises to save Jude from the town nosey body, Claudia pretends that they are dating. From there, they keep pretending when in public to help keep everyone from bothering him about his love life. But the whole time they are both secretly attracted to one another. So will they be able to get together? Or will their current hardships keep them from trying something that could be really good?
Claudia and Jude are absolute perfection. They are so different, but fit perfectly together. The way that Claudia helped Jude relax and how Jude was so protective and supportive of Claudia. They truly were just meant to me.
But aside from them, George really stole the show! I loved his bickering with Jude and his sweetness with Claudia. He brought an element to this book that brought it up a level!
I loved seeing Peyton and Jake (and Mike - so adorable seeing him grown up!) and Kristina and Leo, who are my favorite couple of Stephanie Rose! I just love seeing the Kelly Lakes crew all together and really being there for Claudia and Jude while they found their way.
Small town romance ✔️
Grumpy/sunshine ✔️
Broody cop MMC ✔️
Fiery FMC ✔️
Fake dating ✔️
A meet cute to remember ✔️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
Angst level: 💔
Claudia is back in Kelly Lakes and staying with Peyton and Jake from An Unexpected Turn while she figures out what she wants to do next with her life. While driving into town after losing her job of thirteen years, she gets pulled over by the towns broody, no nonsense cop named Jude, but miraculously he doesn’t give her a ticket.
While in town, Claudia and Jude seemingly keep getting pushed together. And when an opportunity arises to save Jude from the town nosey body, Claudia pretends that they are dating. From there, they keep pretending when in public to help keep everyone from bothering him about his love life. But the whole time they are both secretly attracted to one another. So will they be able to get together? Or will their current hardships keep them from trying something that could be really good?
Claudia and Jude are absolute perfection. They are so different, but fit perfectly together. The way that Claudia helped Jude relax and how Jude was so protective and supportive of Claudia. They truly were just meant to me.
But aside from them, George really stole the show! I loved his bickering with Jude and his sweetness with Claudia. He brought an element to this book that brought it up a level!
I loved seeing Peyton and Jake (and Mike - so adorable seeing him grown up!) and Kristina and Leo, who are my favorite couple of Stephanie Rose! I just love seeing the Kelly Lakes crew all together and really being there for Claudia and Jude while they found their way.
October 28, 2023
I am so glad that Stephanie Rose decided to head back to Kelly Lakes. Jude and Claudia are just amazing!
Their story is full on fun banter, sizzling chemistry, low angst and no third act breakup. It was exactly what I needed.
Stephanie Rose has created such a wonderful small town with Kelly Lakes and Claudia’s much anticipated arrival just adds to it.
Jude is such a well-rounded character. He has such a vulnerability after his marriage and divorce. His worry about his father’s health and the issues they have with role reversal now that he is the caretaker. His gruff and straight-laced Sergeant role with the KLPD. And the soft and protective side that only appears with Claudia.
I envy Claudia her sass and confidence. She is thrust into a crossroads with losing her job. It takes strength to not immediately go back to the familiar and ‘safe’ but to take the time to make decisions and ultimately chose a new path.
Neither of them were looking for a relationship. I love how theirs evolves slowly and organically, gradually merging their lives together naturally.
Their banter is so much fun, numerous times I laughed loudly. Claudia pushes Jude’s buttons and really starts to pull him out of the funk that he has been in. But she seems to know just how much he needs, doesn’t push too much. They are a perfect match.
I love how much they support each other – Claudia understanding the importance of Jude caring for his Dad, no questions asked and Jude supported Claudia in her career changes and decisions.
Stephanie Rose wrote the most amazing parents for Jude and Claudia. Claudia’s parents are just gorgeous and you can tell they love her unconditionally. George – fell in love with him, how he supports Jude but gives him a much needed push sometimes. And the banter between them is just perfect.
Raising the Bar was so much more than I anticipated when Claudia went country!
Their story is full on fun banter, sizzling chemistry, low angst and no third act breakup. It was exactly what I needed.
Stephanie Rose has created such a wonderful small town with Kelly Lakes and Claudia’s much anticipated arrival just adds to it.
Jude is such a well-rounded character. He has such a vulnerability after his marriage and divorce. His worry about his father’s health and the issues they have with role reversal now that he is the caretaker. His gruff and straight-laced Sergeant role with the KLPD. And the soft and protective side that only appears with Claudia.
I envy Claudia her sass and confidence. She is thrust into a crossroads with losing her job. It takes strength to not immediately go back to the familiar and ‘safe’ but to take the time to make decisions and ultimately chose a new path.
Neither of them were looking for a relationship. I love how theirs evolves slowly and organically, gradually merging their lives together naturally.
Their banter is so much fun, numerous times I laughed loudly. Claudia pushes Jude’s buttons and really starts to pull him out of the funk that he has been in. But she seems to know just how much he needs, doesn’t push too much. They are a perfect match.
I love how much they support each other – Claudia understanding the importance of Jude caring for his Dad, no questions asked and Jude supported Claudia in her career changes and decisions.
Stephanie Rose wrote the most amazing parents for Jude and Claudia. Claudia’s parents are just gorgeous and you can tell they love her unconditionally. George – fell in love with him, how he supports Jude but gives him a much needed push sometimes. And the banter between them is just perfect.
Raising the Bar was so much more than I anticipated when Claudia went country!
November 5, 2023
Did you hear the one about the woman who gets fired, then busted for speeding on a country road and falls for the cop who pulled her over?
Sergeant Jude Davis barely has enough hours in the day to protect and serve the small town of Kelly Lakes and take care of his ailing father. After his bitter divorce, he learned the hard way that he doesn’t have time for romantic relationships.
If only he could get everyone to stop trying to set him up on blind dates…
When the grouchy officer pulled over a speeding driver, he wasn’t prepared for Claudia. The sunshiney beauty is only in town long enough to nurse her professional wounds before heading back to Brooklyn. She’s gorgeous, fiery, and everything he doesn’t have time to enjoy.
Jude can’t afford to get close to her, so no one is more shocked than he is when he finds himself asking her for a favor. A few fake public cuddles and longing looks should be enough to put off his determined matchmakers, right?
For the first time in years, this grumpy cop has something to smile about as the friendship develops certain “benefits”. But when Claudia’s temporary stay takes a turn for the permanent, Jude has to face facts. He can’t be the man she deserves… but he’s definitely not willing to watch her end up with someone else.
Loved Jude and Claudia's story. I was hooked from the first few pages. The best was how they initially met. As polar opposites as they were, they totally worked. Lots of chemistry between these two. I absolutely adored Jude's Dad. This story had all the feels. Highly recommend.
Sergeant Jude Davis barely has enough hours in the day to protect and serve the small town of Kelly Lakes and take care of his ailing father. After his bitter divorce, he learned the hard way that he doesn’t have time for romantic relationships.
If only he could get everyone to stop trying to set him up on blind dates…
When the grouchy officer pulled over a speeding driver, he wasn’t prepared for Claudia. The sunshiney beauty is only in town long enough to nurse her professional wounds before heading back to Brooklyn. She’s gorgeous, fiery, and everything he doesn’t have time to enjoy.
Jude can’t afford to get close to her, so no one is more shocked than he is when he finds himself asking her for a favor. A few fake public cuddles and longing looks should be enough to put off his determined matchmakers, right?
For the first time in years, this grumpy cop has something to smile about as the friendship develops certain “benefits”. But when Claudia’s temporary stay takes a turn for the permanent, Jude has to face facts. He can’t be the man she deserves… but he’s definitely not willing to watch her end up with someone else.
Loved Jude and Claudia's story. I was hooked from the first few pages. The best was how they initially met. As polar opposites as they were, they totally worked. Lots of chemistry between these two. I absolutely adored Jude's Dad. This story had all the feels. Highly recommend.
October 26, 2023
What a fantastic book about starting over and opening yourself up to love! Claudia and Jude's story is truly beautiful with so much heart.
Claudia is a firecracker with beauty and brains! You can't help but be sucked into her orbit and fall in love with her. She's genuine and real, beautiful and sweet. I love how she first meets Jude. He is intense and dedicated, but just going through the motions instead of really living. The man has had a rough few years so I can't blame him. Both of their lives change the moment he pulls her over for speeding!
These two are absolute fire together! Once Jude decides to stop fighting the pull he feels toward Claudia, we find out he has a deliciously dirty side. I think I loved it as much as Claudia! She really helps him to live and feel appreciated. He has some pretty deep hurts from a past relationship and I think she helps him heal. Of course we also get to see couples from previous books and Jude's father is such an amazing addition to this already heartfelt story.
I highly recommend reading this emotional, slow burn, steamy book! It has so much love, new beginnings, and everything great books are made of. It will leave a smile on your face long after you finish reading!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Claudia is a firecracker with beauty and brains! You can't help but be sucked into her orbit and fall in love with her. She's genuine and real, beautiful and sweet. I love how she first meets Jude. He is intense and dedicated, but just going through the motions instead of really living. The man has had a rough few years so I can't blame him. Both of their lives change the moment he pulls her over for speeding!
These two are absolute fire together! Once Jude decides to stop fighting the pull he feels toward Claudia, we find out he has a deliciously dirty side. I think I loved it as much as Claudia! She really helps him to live and feel appreciated. He has some pretty deep hurts from a past relationship and I think she helps him heal. Of course we also get to see couples from previous books and Jude's father is such an amazing addition to this already heartfelt story.
I highly recommend reading this emotional, slow burn, steamy book! It has so much love, new beginnings, and everything great books are made of. It will leave a smile on your face long after you finish reading!
I received an ARC for an honest review.
November 4, 2023
What is there to say about Jude and Claudia that will !ale you want to read their story? Well what I could say is the plot of the story but you would miss out on the small parts that make it theirs
Claudia well has been handed her walking papers so to say but in her haste and upset move to unemployment from her former company she doesn't realize she's speeding till that hot cop pulled her over. Though that was the start of the pull she felt for him.
Jude is just doing his job keeping Kelly lakes safe but when her pulls her over he doesn't realize this is the moment when she steals his heart and he doesn't even want to give it up
Your going to wnt to read this one as the slow burn love they have for each other blooms and together they find who they really are together. But I can't wait to see what possibly comes next for this small town
Claudia well has been handed her walking papers so to say but in her haste and upset move to unemployment from her former company she doesn't realize she's speeding till that hot cop pulled her over. Though that was the start of the pull she felt for him.
Jude is just doing his job keeping Kelly lakes safe but when her pulls her over he doesn't realize this is the moment when she steals his heart and he doesn't even want to give it up
Your going to wnt to read this one as the slow burn love they have for each other blooms and together they find who they really are together. But I can't wait to see what possibly comes next for this small town
November 11, 2023
Thank you to Rick and Stephanie Rose for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I wasn’t expecting to enjoy this book as much as it did, and it absolutely blew me away! This was my first Stephanie Rose book and I can’t wait to read more of her (especially to go back and read the rest of the Kelly Lakes series!). Claudia and Jude were amazing MCs. They both had great character development throughout the story that really drew you in. I also loved how open and up front the communication between the two of them was. The side characters were hilarious and lovable. Jude’s dad stole the show. And the two epilogues? I freaking loved them. Overall a great and solid read!
I wasn’t expecting to enjoy this book as much as it did, and it absolutely blew me away! This was my first Stephanie Rose book and I can’t wait to read more of her (especially to go back and read the rest of the Kelly Lakes series!). Claudia and Jude were amazing MCs. They both had great character development throughout the story that really drew you in. I also loved how open and up front the communication between the two of them was. The side characters were hilarious and lovable. Jude’s dad stole the show. And the two epilogues? I freaking loved them. Overall a great and solid read!
October 23, 2023
Jude and Claudia are a great meet cute couple!
They meet when he is pulling her over for speeding into town. His small town. The same small town she’s headed to visit her best friend. And guess what? He sometimes moonlights for her best friend’s husband. Small towns - gotta love them!
I thought this was a great story that will have you laughing out loud several times while reading. I enjoyed the characters and the dynamics of those characters. Yes, this is a stand-alone story, but people from previous stories are featured.*
They meet when he is pulling her over for speeding into town. His small town. The same small town she’s headed to visit her best friend. And guess what? He sometimes moonlights for her best friend’s husband. Small towns - gotta love them!
I thought this was a great story that will have you laughing out loud several times while reading. I enjoyed the characters and the dynamics of those characters. Yes, this is a stand-alone story, but people from previous stories are featured.*
October 24, 2023
There is something about a Stephanie Rose book that brings comfort. A feeling of coming home and being found and loved. I felt that all over again in Claudia and Jude’s story. I adored how brave Claudia was, and how she said what she thought and didn’t hold back when she went after the things she wanted. Jude’s love, and the way he decided to make Claudia his even after all his pain was beautiful. The hint of suspense was on point, and the cast of family and friends were small-town butter I couldn’t put down. I seriously can’t recommend this story enough.
November 3, 2023
A perfect small town romance… Claudia and Jude…. So so good! Stephanie Rose gives readers another incredible book. Claudia heads to Kelly Lakes after losing her job, literally is pulled over by the Sergeant… and it goes from there.
This book shows 2 people struggling with different things, the love of friends and family and finding a different way to happiness when life throws you curveballs.
Both Claudia and Jude are really good people. Loyal to family and friends and when they allow themselves to open up to each other and truly feel, it’s amazing!!
Go read it now!!!
This book shows 2 people struggling with different things, the love of friends and family and finding a different way to happiness when life throws you curveballs.
Both Claudia and Jude are really good people. Loyal to family and friends and when they allow themselves to open up to each other and truly feel, it’s amazing!!
Go read it now!!!
November 3, 2023
Slow burn with a lot of heat. Claudia and Jude's story starts with an amazing meet cute that will hook all romance readers. They both downplay and fight their attraction to each other before finally giving in to their feelings (with some help from others). This book had a great flow and had no lull like some books can. Great story from a great author.
October 30, 2024
This standalone interconnected series is so good. It seems I’m working backward with these Kelly Lakes books and I’m loving it. I love the grumpy/sunshine trope. This couple is just too cute together. It was sweet, with just the right amount of steam between the pair. What really hooked me was the pace and journey the author took us on. There was no third act breakup which I found refreshing. I just discovered this author not too long ago so I’m making my way through her backlist. I’ve found her stories to be easy reads that I can’t seem to put down. This was a great story. On to the next.
November 8, 2023
All the romance and swoon, with a heaping dash of dirty talk
This was such a swoony romantic read. It’s set in Kelly Lakes world, though you can read it as a complete standalone. Everything about this is comfort read - it’s a perfect mix of true romance, and all the things that just make you swoon. I adore the fact that there is no unnecessary or forced conflict, no third act break up. It wasn’t drawn out with angst just to fill pages. It was brilliantly written and felt natural and real.
Claudia has a life upheaval with the loss of her job and runs to Kelly Lakes to lick her wounds and try to figure out her next steps. She has a less than grace full meet cute with Jude, and they both have some insta attraction. He’s had a bad divorce and is hiding behind his father’s health issues though, so he has no intention of giving into any attraction. She’s been focused on her job and now her lack of one. She’s the beautiful, sweet, fun person that draws everyone in. He’s the broody rule follower that is quite the opposite. They agree to pretend to be in a relationship, but I love that it’s a natural progression. There’s not a lot of angsty “i like you , buuuut….” They manage to behave like the mature adults they are, and it’s beautiful. And Sargeant Davis may be the broody silent type to everyone else, but he is ::fire:: when they are alone!
I love this Kelly Lakes world, the characters, and this book was just the right mix of everything to keep me pulled in from beginning to end.
This was such a swoony romantic read. It’s set in Kelly Lakes world, though you can read it as a complete standalone. Everything about this is comfort read - it’s a perfect mix of true romance, and all the things that just make you swoon. I adore the fact that there is no unnecessary or forced conflict, no third act break up. It wasn’t drawn out with angst just to fill pages. It was brilliantly written and felt natural and real.
Claudia has a life upheaval with the loss of her job and runs to Kelly Lakes to lick her wounds and try to figure out her next steps. She has a less than grace full meet cute with Jude, and they both have some insta attraction. He’s had a bad divorce and is hiding behind his father’s health issues though, so he has no intention of giving into any attraction. She’s been focused on her job and now her lack of one. She’s the beautiful, sweet, fun person that draws everyone in. He’s the broody rule follower that is quite the opposite. They agree to pretend to be in a relationship, but I love that it’s a natural progression. There’s not a lot of angsty “i like you , buuuut….” They manage to behave like the mature adults they are, and it’s beautiful. And Sargeant Davis may be the broody silent type to everyone else, but he is ::fire:: when they are alone!
I love this Kelly Lakes world, the characters, and this book was just the right mix of everything to keep me pulled in from beginning to end.
February 6, 2024
Claudia had the worst day, she was fired from her job and just wanted to get the hell out of NYC to her bestie’s as fast as she could. Well apparently that’s what happens as she gets pulled over by the local cop who doesn’t take lightly to those who speed through his small town of Kelly Lakes. Looking for a grumpy / sunshine with a meet-cute that is awkwardly cute & fun? You have to check out Raising the Bar by Stephanie Rose.
I adored the dynamic author Stephanie Rose created. Claudia hides in her best friend’s basement while trying to figure out her life. Her confidence grows even as she approves the favor her ticket avoiding police officer asks - to be her fake girlfriend. To keep the nosy neighbors off his dating life, so he can focus on taking care of his aging father. How long can this fake dating ruse stay fake if they start to catch feelings for each other.
I adored this story. I loved the found family, good girl, asian representation and mature protagonist. Looking for a romance with heartfelt emotion and fun times pick up Raising the Bar today!
I adored the dynamic author Stephanie Rose created. Claudia hides in her best friend’s basement while trying to figure out her life. Her confidence grows even as she approves the favor her ticket avoiding police officer asks - to be her fake girlfriend. To keep the nosy neighbors off his dating life, so he can focus on taking care of his aging father. How long can this fake dating ruse stay fake if they start to catch feelings for each other.
I adored this story. I loved the found family, good girl, asian representation and mature protagonist. Looking for a romance with heartfelt emotion and fun times pick up Raising the Bar today!
November 3, 2023
4.5 stars!!! Every time I start a Stephanie Rose book I am so excited for the new characters we get and the amazing story. How does it get better every time!? I loved Claudia and Jude! I can never get enough of a man who sticks by his family. And Jude does exactly that, and maybe a little too much if you ask his dad. He is just trying to protect himself. That all ends when he meets Claudia and he can’t get her off his mind. I really enjoyed the characters in this book and the entire premise. A strong woman and a protector man makes for an interesting story! I also loved seeing so much of Peyton and Jake!
November 4, 2023
Big city girl meets small town romance in this delightful trip to Kelly Lakes. Claudia is independent, smart and fun. She’s got an all around good vibe. Jude has that grumpy/broody thing going. He’s got the whole I only smile for her vibe *swoon*……
Claudia unexpectedly finds herself in Kelly Lakes for am extended vacation. Jude was burned badly in a last relationship, and isn’t really interested in starting one. The instant traction and mega chemistry between these two burns bright, but so so slow. This book has everything you need: chemistry, spice, drama and mega feelings.
I will definitely be returning to Kelly Lakes in the future. ~Lauren💜
Claudia unexpectedly finds herself in Kelly Lakes for am extended vacation. Jude was burned badly in a last relationship, and isn’t really interested in starting one. The instant traction and mega chemistry between these two burns bright, but so so slow. This book has everything you need: chemistry, spice, drama and mega feelings.
I will definitely be returning to Kelly Lakes in the future. ~Lauren💜
November 8, 2023
I love to see two people falling deeply for each other. They were precious and intense. Smiles, long glances and steamy kisses! This had all that and more. Jude was an alpha male and couldn’t take his eyes off her. Stephanie Rose wrote a feel good, spicy romance that left me with a big smile on my face. I loved it. They were precious and intense.
Things I loved:
• George and his sense of humor
• The chemistry
• The steam
• Claudia’s sass
• The bath tub, “You’re my favorite”
• HEA
Thanks Rick and I recommend this book.
Things I loved:
• George and his sense of humor
• The chemistry
• The steam
• Claudia’s sass
• The bath tub, “You’re my favorite”
• HEA
Thanks Rick and I recommend this book.
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