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Too Charming
She locks away the bad guys. But she can’t lock away her heart . . .
Police Sergeant Megan Taylor has had more than her fair share of ‘nice’ guys. And barrister Scott Armstrong is handsome, suave and . . . just too charming.
She’s been hurt before by just his type. But as much as she tries, she can’t deny the electricity between them.
There’s just one problem. One big problem.
Scott defends the people that Megan works hard to bring to justice.
They couldn’t be more different. But perhaps the one thing they can agree on is how they feel about each other.
Soon Megan begins to see another side to Scott. One she thinks she might just like. And she wonders . . . what really lies beneath the charm?
Police Sergeant Megan Taylor has had more than her fair share of ‘nice’ guys. And barrister Scott Armstrong is handsome, suave and . . . just too charming.
She’s been hurt before by just his type. But as much as she tries, she can’t deny the electricity between them.
There’s just one problem. One big problem.
Scott defends the people that Megan works hard to bring to justice.
They couldn’t be more different. But perhaps the one thing they can agree on is how they feel about each other.
Soon Megan begins to see another side to Scott. One she thinks she might just like. And she wonders . . . what really lies beneath the charm?
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 8, 2013
147 people are currently reading
206 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Freeman
27 books446 followersI was born in Wallingford, England and have spent most of my life living in a village outside Windsor. A former pharmacist, former pharmaceutical industry employee I’m now a self-employed medical writer who also loves to write romance. Some days a racing heart is a medical condition, others it’s the reaction to a hunky hero…
I’ve two teenage boys and a husband who asks every Valentine’s Day whether he has to bother buying a card again this year (yes, he does) so the romance in my life is all in my head. Then again, my husband’s unstinting support of my career change goes to prove that love isn't always about hearts and flowers - and heroes can come in many disguises
I’ve two teenage boys and a husband who asks every Valentine’s Day whether he has to bother buying a card again this year (yes, he does) so the romance in my life is all in my head. Then again, my husband’s unstinting support of my career change goes to prove that love isn't always about hearts and flowers - and heroes can come in many disguises
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
April 25, 2021
Having had her heart broken in the past, Detective Sergeant Megan Taylor has no intention of letting it happen again. The one good thing to come from that time is her young daughter Sally. But the past has left Megan with a suspicion of any charming man, and especially this applies to defence lawyer Scott Armstrong. As far as Megan is concerned Scott is all too self confident and sure of his charms. Plus Megan has trouble understanding how he can possibly defend people who are so obviously guilty. To Megan things are always black or white, right or wrong. She cannot understand, given her feelings, why Scott seems so intent on pursuing her. But Megan is not the only one with issues in her life. Scott has family issues that have greatly affected his life.
This starts off as a rather sexy flirty romp between Scott and Megan. And just when it seems things are heading down a certain path, a family situation creates a threatening situation.
Probably what it needed as I was wondering whether to give up on it, at that point. Had been skimming over sex scenes. But the second half of the book proved more interesting. I liked 6 year old Sally and Megan’s parents who Megan and Sally live with are very supportive. Megan I found whined rather too much and it wasn’t till I learned more about Scott and his past that I started to warm to him.
An enjoyable enough read but not a book that is going to stay in the mind. Just wondered if some issues are too easily dealt with towards the end of the novel.
This starts off as a rather sexy flirty romp between Scott and Megan. And just when it seems things are heading down a certain path, a family situation creates a threatening situation.
Probably what it needed as I was wondering whether to give up on it, at that point. Had been skimming over sex scenes. But the second half of the book proved more interesting. I liked 6 year old Sally and Megan’s parents who Megan and Sally live with are very supportive. Megan I found whined rather too much and it wasn’t till I learned more about Scott and his past that I started to warm to him.
An enjoyable enough read but not a book that is going to stay in the mind. Just wondered if some issues are too easily dealt with towards the end of the novel.
July 21, 2015
The book started off really well and the dynamic between the defence lawyer and the cop was really interesting, especially as the author had went against the norm and cast the male character as the lawyer and the detective as the female character.
the intitial pursuit of Megan by Scott was really entertaining and I did like how that was going. However, it became all rather "the lady doth protest too much" and Megan's rebuttals began to grow boring.
I also had issues with scott and the change of plot in the second half of the book.
Look out for my full review
the intitial pursuit of Megan by Scott was really entertaining and I did like how that was going. However, it became all rather "the lady doth protest too much" and Megan's rebuttals began to grow boring.
I also had issues with scott and the change of plot in the second half of the book.
Look out for my full review
August 27, 2015
A bit of suspense, a tiny bit, some drama and romance. Two people falling, two people being idiots.
Megan is a cop. She was hurt, now she thinks pretty men are no good.
Scott is a defense attorney. He has played around...a lot. But when he sees her, he wants her.
First issue: She is a cop, he defends criminals (or well people accused). Clashes at once. How you can defend that a-hole!? It's my job! You get the point. She thinks like a cop, he like a defense attorney.
Second issue: She can not trust men.
Third issue: Her case, his case, clashes. A new case. Oh no!
SO you can see that they have their work cut out for them. I did feel that she was too I do not trust him. I understood her, but at the same time, trust him a bit wont ya! The chip on her shoulder was too big, I would have left long ago. But that proves what a great man Scott was, he did not leave. He stood by, trying to make her trust him.
So the romance is not really a romance. It's a story about a woman learning to let go. It's also a story about how the past can haunt you, and not just her, him too.
Megan is a cop. She was hurt, now she thinks pretty men are no good.
Scott is a defense attorney. He has played around...a lot. But when he sees her, he wants her.
First issue: She is a cop, he defends criminals (or well people accused). Clashes at once. How you can defend that a-hole!? It's my job! You get the point. She thinks like a cop, he like a defense attorney.
Second issue: She can not trust men.
Third issue: Her case, his case, clashes. A new case. Oh no!
SO you can see that they have their work cut out for them. I did feel that she was too I do not trust him. I understood her, but at the same time, trust him a bit wont ya! The chip on her shoulder was too big, I would have left long ago. But that proves what a great man Scott was, he did not leave. He stood by, trying to make her trust him.
So the romance is not really a romance. It's a story about a woman learning to let go. It's also a story about how the past can haunt you, and not just her, him too.
June 18, 2015
Megan is good at her job, she is strong willed, and she really can be nice. Just not to Scott. I could not connect to or really like Megan at all in Too Charming. She has been hurt once by a man and she is now brushing all men with the same brush, even when examples of good men are staring her in the face. She is mean, bitter, assuming, and judgemental towards Scott, and her attitude really over shadowed almost everything and everyone else in Too Charming, which made it difficult for me to enjoy reading Too Charming because there was such an overwhelming sense of negativity radiating off of Megan.
Scott is a man of many layers, not all of which he talks about openly. He is also good at his job,and he has purpose. He is great with Megan's daughter Sally, and deals with his own issues in his own way. His feelings were believable and realistic. I liked him, but for the life of me I could not understand what he saw in Megan and why he put up with being treated so poorly.
I liked Megan's parents and what they brought to Too Charming.
Unfortunately Too Charming was not a great read for me, but that doesn't mean someone else won't enjoy it.
Scott is a man of many layers, not all of which he talks about openly. He is also good at his job,and he has purpose. He is great with Megan's daughter Sally, and deals with his own issues in his own way. His feelings were believable and realistic. I liked him, but for the life of me I could not understand what he saw in Megan and why he put up with being treated so poorly.
I liked Megan's parents and what they brought to Too Charming.
Unfortunately Too Charming was not a great read for me, but that doesn't mean someone else won't enjoy it.
April 10, 2014
I was sent a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Megan Taylor does not like how she reacts to Barrister Scott Armstrong. She finds him arrogant and too self - assured but can't help finding him attractive. She has been hurt in the past so doesn't want to fall for someone like him again, besides he works for the 'other side' defending the people she builds a case against as a police officer. She soon finds that Scott is not as he appears and begins to fall for him, but is he too charming?
I found myself racing through this book. I thought that there was lovely chemistry between Scott and Megan and the path of true love was strewn with the usual and not so usual obstacles. The relationship between the pair develops at a realistic pace which made it all the more pleasant to read. Being an ex criminal solicitor there were a couple of things that niggled me and which jumped out at me every time I read them, but that's just an issue with me!
All in all a lovely, light romantic read and one I enjoyed.
Megan Taylor does not like how she reacts to Barrister Scott Armstrong. She finds him arrogant and too self - assured but can't help finding him attractive. She has been hurt in the past so doesn't want to fall for someone like him again, besides he works for the 'other side' defending the people she builds a case against as a police officer. She soon finds that Scott is not as he appears and begins to fall for him, but is he too charming?
I found myself racing through this book. I thought that there was lovely chemistry between Scott and Megan and the path of true love was strewn with the usual and not so usual obstacles. The relationship between the pair develops at a realistic pace which made it all the more pleasant to read. Being an ex criminal solicitor there were a couple of things that niggled me and which jumped out at me every time I read them, but that's just an issue with me!
All in all a lovely, light romantic read and one I enjoyed.
January 4, 2014
I was delighted to find that the heroine's mistrust of 'too smooth and charming' hero, defence lawyer Scott Armstrong, was completely off. In fact, he was utterly gorgeous with a really fascinating background that I won't spoil by revealing here.
So, Scott's real character was the first expectation to be debunked. And I must say, I love stories which are unpredictable but press all the right buttons at the right time.
This is a book that will suck you in, if you love intense romances with plots that don't take you where you expect to go, but that deliver you to the finish line feeling happy and exhilarated and gooey inside.
So, Scott's real character was the first expectation to be debunked. And I must say, I love stories which are unpredictable but press all the right buttons at the right time.
This is a book that will suck you in, if you love intense romances with plots that don't take you where you expect to go, but that deliver you to the finish line feeling happy and exhilarated and gooey inside.
May 27, 2015
This book offers romance and mystery in equal measure.
DS Megan Taylor is a good policewoman – but she’s had her fingers burnt in the romance stakes previously. She meets Scott a very sexy defence lawyer- but she’s determined to resist his charms. After all he spends his working life trying to get the people she arrests, released! She tries to avoid him- but he is on the charm offensive. But is he as charming as he appears? Can she let down her guard and trust him?
It draws you in wondering where the case will go – and the romance!
.With many thanks to Choc Lit and Net Galley for the chance to read this one.
DS Megan Taylor is a good policewoman – but she’s had her fingers burnt in the romance stakes previously. She meets Scott a very sexy defence lawyer- but she’s determined to resist his charms. After all he spends his working life trying to get the people she arrests, released! She tries to avoid him- but he is on the charm offensive. But is he as charming as he appears? Can she let down her guard and trust him?
It draws you in wondering where the case will go – and the romance!
.With many thanks to Choc Lit and Net Galley for the chance to read this one.
May 22, 2015
With dashes of wit, introspection and crime, this is a charming (yes, pun intended) tale of finding love in the most unlikely of places.
DS Megan Taylor may be good at her job as a policewoman but, emotionally, she's as insecure as they get. So when confident and suave defence barrister Scott Armstrong turns on the charm offensive, she tries to run a mile. Unsuccessfully.
The constant battling between the two leads, each representing different aspects of the law, makes for a rollercoaster read, and romantic fiction doesn't get more relentless (in a good, page-turning way) than this. Read it.
*I received a free copy from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.
DS Megan Taylor may be good at her job as a policewoman but, emotionally, she's as insecure as they get. So when confident and suave defence barrister Scott Armstrong turns on the charm offensive, she tries to run a mile. Unsuccessfully.
The constant battling between the two leads, each representing different aspects of the law, makes for a rollercoaster read, and romantic fiction doesn't get more relentless (in a good, page-turning way) than this. Read it.
*I received a free copy from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.
September 16, 2013
I loved this book. It was one of those that I really didn't want to put down. Will look out for this author again!
June 24, 2023
Irritating
I’ve read and enjoyed a few of the author’s books but this was one was a bit disappointing.
Det Sgt Megan Taylor was thoroughly irritating on a few fronts, her assertions that all men are untrustworthy and that defence lawyers are enemies of the police because they use their guile and expertise to put guilty people back on the streets. Both statements are ludicrous but all her decisions seem to be based on those beliefs and her constant reiterations of same got very wearing. In contrast, Scott the barrister was mostly likeable, her daughter was sweet and her parents were kind, supportive and well balanced.
The first half of the book seemed to be an on-off romance, with little romance and the second a bit like a crime story but with no real depth and some strange coincidental revelations.
I did not really enjoy the read and was glad when it was over, normally I devour books like this in one sitting, this took about five to complete.
I’ve read and enjoyed a few of the author’s books but this was one was a bit disappointing.
Det Sgt Megan Taylor was thoroughly irritating on a few fronts, her assertions that all men are untrustworthy and that defence lawyers are enemies of the police because they use their guile and expertise to put guilty people back on the streets. Both statements are ludicrous but all her decisions seem to be based on those beliefs and her constant reiterations of same got very wearing. In contrast, Scott the barrister was mostly likeable, her daughter was sweet and her parents were kind, supportive and well balanced.
The first half of the book seemed to be an on-off romance, with little romance and the second a bit like a crime story but with no real depth and some strange coincidental revelations.
I did not really enjoy the read and was glad when it was over, normally I devour books like this in one sitting, this took about five to complete.
August 31, 2020
In this book we follow the lives of Megan, a feisty cop, and Scott, the charming defence attorney. The two are opposites, one spends her days putting people behind bars, the other spends his days trying to get them set free. This is something that does not at all bother Scott, he wants Megan and nothing will get in his way. Megan who was previously hurt is very against getting too close to Scott, however, after a case that sends Scott's world crumbling down around him it is him and Megan against the world.
I really enjoyed this book, it was flirty and funny as well as following such a serious plot. I would recommend.
I really enjoyed this book, it was flirty and funny as well as following such a serious plot. I would recommend.
June 22, 2017
I have listen to a few audio books, and the reader make or break the book..... in this case she was not helping making the story better. The story line was so-so. Action, booze and criminals. Misunderstandings, prejudice and broken hearts. All well that ends well.
November 19, 2017
I really enjoyed this read, there are loads of books similar to it on the market so I was reluctant to pick it up, but I'm glad I did. I was charmed by the characters most of all, although the dynamic was a bit repetitive. If you are at a loose end give this a read.
July 28, 2017
Boooooriiiiiiiing
April 13, 2018
Was a boring read for me but that doesn’t mean others will love it!
May 8, 2019
A good romance with a twist.
March 2, 2020
Loved this story all the way through got it larger print from my library over 300 pages in this cersion
March 13, 2021
Awesome
This author really doesn’t disappoint. You really can get swept away with the characters and story line and enjoy each part of the book.
This author really doesn’t disappoint. You really can get swept away with the characters and story line and enjoy each part of the book.
December 29, 2024
Loved. I have yet to find a Kathryn Freeman book that I didn't love. Her writing style just clicks with me.
December 31, 2015
First reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I did enjoy Too Charming. Yet there were so many times throughout this story that I simply wanted to shake Megan and say Get Real – Grow Up – Stop Living In The Past. Yes, I really was that annoyed with the character. I get that Megan was hurt badly in the past by a charming man. I get it, we were told over and over again about the stupid Luke. Still up to the very last chapter, Megan is still convinced that Scott doesn’t know his true feelings. I’ll be honest, it wasn’t Megan that gave this novel a 4 star rating from me – it was Scott, Sally and the overall story that took it to that rating.
Authors create their characters in certain ways for their own reasons. So I’m not saying that Megan was a bad character, she certainly added to the enjoyment and the frustration of the story. Her constant disbelief that a true romance could ever be possible between her and Scott because of the surface he showed to the world was simply annoying. If you care for someone as much as we are lead to believe she cared for Scott then for crying out loud – have a little faith in him.
Scott’s development throughout the story was engaging and entertaining. As we got to know his reasons for the charming, smooth talker that he showed to the world, he became more real and more likeable. Scott grew from what he was to what he could become. Megan stayed a petulant child who was hurt once and forever ever after blamed all men for the actions of one jerk. She never grew up (for me).
There are a couple mysteries within Too Charming that we get to see solved. Through those mysteries we get to understand Scott so much more as well.
I would recommend Too CHarming. Just because I didn’t fall in love with one character does not mean it wasn’t an entertaining, engaging story to read. I simply wished I could root for them as a couple and not just for Scott to find his happy ending.
*I received an e-ARC of Too Charming from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
**Any review is just one person’s opinion. You might feel the same or totally different. The only way to know for certain is for you to read it. This was my opinion of this particular book.**
I did enjoy Too Charming. Yet there were so many times throughout this story that I simply wanted to shake Megan and say Get Real – Grow Up – Stop Living In The Past. Yes, I really was that annoyed with the character. I get that Megan was hurt badly in the past by a charming man. I get it, we were told over and over again about the stupid Luke. Still up to the very last chapter, Megan is still convinced that Scott doesn’t know his true feelings. I’ll be honest, it wasn’t Megan that gave this novel a 4 star rating from me – it was Scott, Sally and the overall story that took it to that rating.
Authors create their characters in certain ways for their own reasons. So I’m not saying that Megan was a bad character, she certainly added to the enjoyment and the frustration of the story. Her constant disbelief that a true romance could ever be possible between her and Scott because of the surface he showed to the world was simply annoying. If you care for someone as much as we are lead to believe she cared for Scott then for crying out loud – have a little faith in him.
Scott’s development throughout the story was engaging and entertaining. As we got to know his reasons for the charming, smooth talker that he showed to the world, he became more real and more likeable. Scott grew from what he was to what he could become. Megan stayed a petulant child who was hurt once and forever ever after blamed all men for the actions of one jerk. She never grew up (for me).
There are a couple mysteries within Too Charming that we get to see solved. Through those mysteries we get to understand Scott so much more as well.
I would recommend Too CHarming. Just because I didn’t fall in love with one character does not mean it wasn’t an entertaining, engaging story to read. I simply wished I could root for them as a couple and not just for Scott to find his happy ending.
*I received an e-ARC of Too Charming from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
**Any review is just one person’s opinion. You might feel the same or totally different. The only way to know for certain is for you to read it. This was my opinion of this particular book.**
June 9, 2015
There’s a lot to enjoy in this romantic tale between the police detective and the defense lawyer, dealing with a woman who’s lost all her faith in men and a man who has never been in love before. Megan is a hardworking single mother, with an adorable daughter, and who’s dedicated to her work with the police force. She wants to lock away the bad guys and stop them from harming anyone else. And she knows too much about too handsome, too charming men like Scott to ever trust one with her heart.
Yet Scott is a bit of a surprise. Sure, he’s confident and good looking and more than a touch charming, but he’s also hardworking, surprisingly sensitive and definitely has a vulnerable side. In fact he’s a bit of a sweetie. I loved the scenes between him and Sally, Megan’s little girl. He’s so good with her, despite his own troubled childhood, and the way he keeps trying with Megan was pretty impressive considering how she treats him.
If I had any problems with this book it would be how Megan treats Scott. I like her as a character, almost as much as I like him, but her behaviour towards him is awful. She’s so judgemental, and the more she gets to know Scott, the more good points she finds in him, the worse she judges him. It’s almost as if she refuses to admit she’s wrong. She labelled him as one thing, so he has to live up to it or she simply can’t see him again. I found it quite frustrating, especially towards the end where it didn’t even make any sense anymore.
Away from that, though, this is an enjoyable romance. I loved the way the pair of them grew closer and how supportive Megan could be when she wasn’t judging Scott for things he hadn’t done. There’s also a darker side to the tale with murder and crime and battles for justice, but there’s no mystery to it and the darkness doesn’t really infect the tale. Mostly this is sweet and fairly light, enjoyable and fun amidst the arguments and kisses.
If you like your romance with a bit more of an edge that usual lovely fluff, this provides it without ever crossing the grim-dark border. I found it easy and enjoyable, Scott is a real sweetheart and I adored Sally. A truly charming tale.
(I received a free copy of this in exchange for an honest review.)
Yet Scott is a bit of a surprise. Sure, he’s confident and good looking and more than a touch charming, but he’s also hardworking, surprisingly sensitive and definitely has a vulnerable side. In fact he’s a bit of a sweetie. I loved the scenes between him and Sally, Megan’s little girl. He’s so good with her, despite his own troubled childhood, and the way he keeps trying with Megan was pretty impressive considering how she treats him.
If I had any problems with this book it would be how Megan treats Scott. I like her as a character, almost as much as I like him, but her behaviour towards him is awful. She’s so judgemental, and the more she gets to know Scott, the more good points she finds in him, the worse she judges him. It’s almost as if she refuses to admit she’s wrong. She labelled him as one thing, so he has to live up to it or she simply can’t see him again. I found it quite frustrating, especially towards the end where it didn’t even make any sense anymore.
Away from that, though, this is an enjoyable romance. I loved the way the pair of them grew closer and how supportive Megan could be when she wasn’t judging Scott for things he hadn’t done. There’s also a darker side to the tale with murder and crime and battles for justice, but there’s no mystery to it and the darkness doesn’t really infect the tale. Mostly this is sweet and fairly light, enjoyable and fun amidst the arguments and kisses.
If you like your romance with a bit more of an edge that usual lovely fluff, this provides it without ever crossing the grim-dark border. I found it easy and enjoyable, Scott is a real sweetheart and I adored Sally. A truly charming tale.
(I received a free copy of this in exchange for an honest review.)
September 12, 2015
Defence barrister Scott Armstrong is way too charming. Suave good-looking, a lady-killer image and far too many notches on his bedpost, he’s definitely someone single-mum DS Megan Taylor should avoid. Not easy when Scott, smitten by the feisty woman who is the complete opposite of those he prefers his short-term relationships with, pursues her with relentless determination to win her over. Megan has been there though, charmed by just such a man. She’s adamant, for her daughter’s sake as well as her own, she won’t go through the pain of that kind of heartbreak again. Throw the fact that Scott and Megan are on opposite sides, Scott defending the villains Megan has worked hard to bring to justice, and you have a cauldron of frustrated emotion waiting to spill over.
Scott, though, is not the emotion abuser Megan is convinced he is. The author does a fabulous job of peeling away the layers, giving us glimpses of his past until we see the whole of the man whose charm is in fact the suit of armour he hides his vulnerabilities behind. I particularly loved the way Kathryn Freeman handled Scott’s backstory. How, you can’t help but wonder, can such a successful, handsome, smooth-talking man have had anything but the odd blip in his life? No spoilers, but aside from the fact that Scott is naturally, instinctively caring of Sally, Megan’s daughter, his tragic family history is what makes him so determined to make sure even the lowest criminal gets a fair trial.
There are hiccups along the way, a crime case which brings that history and all of Scott’s vulnerabilities to the fore and slowly we see these two coming to see each other’s perspective. Scott begins to understand Megan’s determination to put the bad guys away. Megan realises that Scott’s own heartbreak is what drives him. Can she open her eyes to the fact that he truly loves her though? Can she open her heart? You’ll have to read to find out. If you want an intelligent, riveting romance with a difference, this book is it.
Scott, though, is not the emotion abuser Megan is convinced he is. The author does a fabulous job of peeling away the layers, giving us glimpses of his past until we see the whole of the man whose charm is in fact the suit of armour he hides his vulnerabilities behind. I particularly loved the way Kathryn Freeman handled Scott’s backstory. How, you can’t help but wonder, can such a successful, handsome, smooth-talking man have had anything but the odd blip in his life? No spoilers, but aside from the fact that Scott is naturally, instinctively caring of Sally, Megan’s daughter, his tragic family history is what makes him so determined to make sure even the lowest criminal gets a fair trial.
There are hiccups along the way, a crime case which brings that history and all of Scott’s vulnerabilities to the fore and slowly we see these two coming to see each other’s perspective. Scott begins to understand Megan’s determination to put the bad guys away. Megan realises that Scott’s own heartbreak is what drives him. Can she open her eyes to the fact that he truly loves her though? Can she open her heart? You’ll have to read to find out. If you want an intelligent, riveting romance with a difference, this book is it.
June 9, 2025
Oh dear - how do I rate this?
I,I’ve read several of this author’s more recent books and enjoyed them. However this book, written ten years ago was very disappointing. The reason?the heroine! A more miserable, judgemental, prejudiced woman it would be hard to find. As he Rex had been a good looking charmer and let her down, she decided no good looking man was to be trusted as they were all liable to betray her.
She judged Scott, the barrister who fancied her, with little evidence and refused to change. The way she treated him was so awful, I actually felt embarrassed for her. It didn’t matter what Scott did or said, she was ready to jump in with a cruel, cutting remark. It was impossible to understand why Scott would want to bother with her.
The book then shifted to a crime thriller and the constant disparagement and suspicion towards poor Scott continued. Almost to the last page, Megan is second guessing Scott, mistrusting him and believing the worst of him. That’s no basis for a sound relationship. Such pathological distrust would never go away. I really disliked Megan by the end and thought Scott should have walked away from her. Her refusal to say ‘yes’ at the end but instead said they’d wait six months until she was sure of him - was the very last straw- dreadful heroine, fabulous hero.
I found the underlying misogyny of the heroine’s comments rather disturbing. The idea that women who fall for a man who has good looks and charm, are somehow lacking in intelligence is rather unpleasant.
This was so unremittingly depressing - an adult, professional woman who behaved like a daft adolescent is not what I want to read about. Such a shame because I thought the premise was good.
Scott was absolutely fabulous and I wanted him to do better. Sorry, but this is simply not my cup of tea. I like the author’s more recent books and I think she’s developed her craft over the last ten years and is now avoiding the mistakes in early books.
I,I’ve read several of this author’s more recent books and enjoyed them. However this book, written ten years ago was very disappointing. The reason?the heroine! A more miserable, judgemental, prejudiced woman it would be hard to find. As he Rex had been a good looking charmer and let her down, she decided no good looking man was to be trusted as they were all liable to betray her.
She judged Scott, the barrister who fancied her, with little evidence and refused to change. The way she treated him was so awful, I actually felt embarrassed for her. It didn’t matter what Scott did or said, she was ready to jump in with a cruel, cutting remark. It was impossible to understand why Scott would want to bother with her.
The book then shifted to a crime thriller and the constant disparagement and suspicion towards poor Scott continued. Almost to the last page, Megan is second guessing Scott, mistrusting him and believing the worst of him. That’s no basis for a sound relationship. Such pathological distrust would never go away. I really disliked Megan by the end and thought Scott should have walked away from her. Her refusal to say ‘yes’ at the end but instead said they’d wait six months until she was sure of him - was the very last straw- dreadful heroine, fabulous hero.
I found the underlying misogyny of the heroine’s comments rather disturbing. The idea that women who fall for a man who has good looks and charm, are somehow lacking in intelligence is rather unpleasant.
This was so unremittingly depressing - an adult, professional woman who behaved like a daft adolescent is not what I want to read about. Such a shame because I thought the premise was good.
Scott was absolutely fabulous and I wanted him to do better. Sorry, but this is simply not my cup of tea. I like the author’s more recent books and I think she’s developed her craft over the last ten years and is now avoiding the mistakes in early books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2024
Delightful story with both stars unwilling to fully embrace love and some surprising twists.
May 24, 2015
Too Charming felt to me like a book of two halves. The first half was your typical romance story, boy and girl fight before giving into some serious sexual chemistry. The second half was more of a detective/mystery story, but with the same characters and still the pull of some sexual chemistry.
DS Megan Taylor has issues trusting men, and having fallen for and then had her heart broken from a charming, confident man, she is determined not to let defence lawyer Scott get under her skin.
Megan has a daughter, Sally (6), who is an inquisitive young girl, and was a delight to read about. Scott has never really had any dealings with children before, but seems to know exactly how to treat Sally, which helps Megan's defences lower.
As the book progresses, a case comes up that will make both Megan and Scott see each other far more clearly. Megan's other objection to Scott, other than him being charming, is his job. Although both of them are trying to fight for justice, Megan hates that Scott works for the bad guys and can possibly make it so that they go free. Whereas obviously Megan is on the side of trying to lock up the criminals.
I found that this was part romance and part crime book, but neither genres were covered in enough depth for me. I struggled through the first half of the book, and if the pace and story hadn't improved at that point, I may have given up. As it was the case that interlinks Megan and Scott fully was interesting, and I wanted to know what happened next.
Easy to read book but no real depth, and Megan must have repeated the same mistrust of Scott so many times, it was starting to feel like a broken record. Scott and Sally are the stars of this story.
Thank you to Choc Lit and Netgalley for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
DS Megan Taylor has issues trusting men, and having fallen for and then had her heart broken from a charming, confident man, she is determined not to let defence lawyer Scott get under her skin.
Megan has a daughter, Sally (6), who is an inquisitive young girl, and was a delight to read about. Scott has never really had any dealings with children before, but seems to know exactly how to treat Sally, which helps Megan's defences lower.
As the book progresses, a case comes up that will make both Megan and Scott see each other far more clearly. Megan's other objection to Scott, other than him being charming, is his job. Although both of them are trying to fight for justice, Megan hates that Scott works for the bad guys and can possibly make it so that they go free. Whereas obviously Megan is on the side of trying to lock up the criminals.
I found that this was part romance and part crime book, but neither genres were covered in enough depth for me. I struggled through the first half of the book, and if the pace and story hadn't improved at that point, I may have given up. As it was the case that interlinks Megan and Scott fully was interesting, and I wanted to know what happened next.
Easy to read book but no real depth, and Megan must have repeated the same mistrust of Scott so many times, it was starting to feel like a broken record. Scott and Sally are the stars of this story.
Thank you to Choc Lit and Netgalley for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
June 8, 2015
Kathryn Freeman’s ‘Too Charming’ is the perfect feel-good, romantic read! If you like a strong independent heroine and a cocky, yet gorgeous hero, then this book will have you swooning!
From the word go there was something about ‘Too Charming’ that just sucked me in. From the first page, Megan was a character I knew I would stick with; strong, independent, fiercely protective, and a devoted mother to her young daughter. Just seeing the fierce reaction she had whenever she was around Scott had me beaming, and I was excited to see how he would go about reworking her opinion of him. Scott was a sexy breath of fresh air. His character was developed perfectly, and I went from groaning at how he could be such a typical male, to fanning myself when he did something so sweet and loving that it surprised not just Megan but him too.
Kathryn Freeman did a fantastic job at using Megan and Scott’s jobs as ways of showing their characteristics and morals, and especially comparing their differing work-place opinions to their fears that they have in having a romantic relationship with each other. Megan’s tendency to first assume guilt, due to the nature of her policing career, and Scott’s firm belief that somebody is innocent until proven guilty was beautifully contrasted throughout the development of their relationship, as we see the struggle it takes for them to find a balance that is essential in every relationship.
I adored the chemistry that seeped off the page in this book, and witnessing the transformation that both Scott and Megan made throughout the novel was inspiring and truly a dream come true for any romantic!
5 Stars!
*Review copy was kindly provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
From the word go there was something about ‘Too Charming’ that just sucked me in. From the first page, Megan was a character I knew I would stick with; strong, independent, fiercely protective, and a devoted mother to her young daughter. Just seeing the fierce reaction she had whenever she was around Scott had me beaming, and I was excited to see how he would go about reworking her opinion of him. Scott was a sexy breath of fresh air. His character was developed perfectly, and I went from groaning at how he could be such a typical male, to fanning myself when he did something so sweet and loving that it surprised not just Megan but him too.
Kathryn Freeman did a fantastic job at using Megan and Scott’s jobs as ways of showing their characteristics and morals, and especially comparing their differing work-place opinions to their fears that they have in having a romantic relationship with each other. Megan’s tendency to first assume guilt, due to the nature of her policing career, and Scott’s firm belief that somebody is innocent until proven guilty was beautifully contrasted throughout the development of their relationship, as we see the struggle it takes for them to find a balance that is essential in every relationship.
I adored the chemistry that seeped off the page in this book, and witnessing the transformation that both Scott and Megan made throughout the novel was inspiring and truly a dream come true for any romantic!
5 Stars!
*Review copy was kindly provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
May 31, 2019
Due persone con punti di vista diversi e con lavori diametralmente opposti. Cosa hanno in comune? Probabilmente niente, ma è proprio questo il bello. Ho letto questo libro tutto di un fiato, non per curiosità, ma per interesse. La storia ricalca un po' la tipica scia dei romance, motivo per cui non ho dato il massimo: non ci sono elementi particolarmente innovativi. Lui bello e dannato, lei con il cuore infranto. Tuttavia, una caratterizzazione psicologica così accurata dei protagonisti e dei personaggi secondari è alquanto rara. La protagonista, Megan, cresce a dismisura e affronta le sue paure e il suo dolore. Molto bella anche l'evoluzione di Scott che si rivela essere un personaggio sempre più interessante con lo scorrere delle pagine. La storia che si instaura tra i due è realistica e non lascia spazio all'immaginazione: il romanzo presenta un tocco erotico che non disturba minimamente. Impazzirete per Scott e probabilmente vi rivedrete tanto nelle fragilità di Megan.
L'amore deve però condividere la scena con una serie intricata di casi, processi e indagini investigative. L'ultimo omicidio vedrà protagonista la madre di Scott e tirerà fuori il meglio della Megan sul piano psicologico; inoltre, la donna darà prova di essere totalmente all'altezza del suo mestiere.
Un libro che valorizza l'amore in tutte le sue forme, l'amicizia e soprattutto la donna. Lo consiglio a chiunque ami i romance o i gialli, ma soprattutto a chi non riesce a fare pace con il passato: Attrazione e paura potrebbe aiutarvi tanto!
L'amore deve però condividere la scena con una serie intricata di casi, processi e indagini investigative. L'ultimo omicidio vedrà protagonista la madre di Scott e tirerà fuori il meglio della Megan sul piano psicologico; inoltre, la donna darà prova di essere totalmente all'altezza del suo mestiere.
Un libro che valorizza l'amore in tutte le sue forme, l'amicizia e soprattutto la donna. Lo consiglio a chiunque ami i romance o i gialli, ma soprattutto a chi non riesce a fare pace con il passato: Attrazione e paura potrebbe aiutarvi tanto!
May 26, 2015
Too Charming asks us if it is possible for a man to be too attractive and smooth, according to Detective Sergeant Megan Taylor the answer is a resounding YES!
Once upon a time she was swept off her feet by a gorgeous young man who promised her the world and left her heart shattered in about 27 million pieces; three years later she thinks she’s put it back together and walled it off away from sexy men. It has made her wary and prickly but more than that it’s made her super cynical, and knocked her confidence out of the park.
Defence lawyer Scott Armstrong is definitely too charming, charismatic and ridiculously attractive; and his relationship track record is extremely long, unlike any of his relationships. Scott has set his sights on Megan and even he is not sure why, she is definitely not his usual type and she is proving to be hard work.
Scott and Megan have come across each other at work on more than one occasion, and they always seem to be on opposing sides. DS Taylor spends her time working tirelessly to put the bad guys behind bars and as a defence lawyer Scott has an uncanny way with twisting words and spends all his time trying to keep his clients out of jail. In a black and white world this would have the two on opposite sides but we all know that life is not black and white, you have to explore the shades of grey.
The remainder of the review is available at: bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/book-revie...
Once upon a time she was swept off her feet by a gorgeous young man who promised her the world and left her heart shattered in about 27 million pieces; three years later she thinks she’s put it back together and walled it off away from sexy men. It has made her wary and prickly but more than that it’s made her super cynical, and knocked her confidence out of the park.
Defence lawyer Scott Armstrong is definitely too charming, charismatic and ridiculously attractive; and his relationship track record is extremely long, unlike any of his relationships. Scott has set his sights on Megan and even he is not sure why, she is definitely not his usual type and she is proving to be hard work.
Scott and Megan have come across each other at work on more than one occasion, and they always seem to be on opposing sides. DS Taylor spends her time working tirelessly to put the bad guys behind bars and as a defence lawyer Scott has an uncanny way with twisting words and spends all his time trying to keep his clients out of jail. In a black and white world this would have the two on opposite sides but we all know that life is not black and white, you have to explore the shades of grey.
The remainder of the review is available at: bookgirl.beautyandlace.net/book-revie...
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July 1, 2016I'm not going to rate this book right now. I liked some of the characters (Scott was particularly well-drawn) but Megan drove me mad. She was self-centred, thoughtless, hurtful and totally inconsiderate to her poor used parents! To still be living at home when she was nearly thirty with elderly and yes, I consider mid-seventies to be elderly - they might have been a lot fitter than I am, but pensioners have DONE the 'looking after children' years. They deserve a life of their own, not being on-hand cheap babysitters.
The way Megan left Sally when the child was obviously ill, was unforgivable.
Finally, Scott's mother. This was WAY overdone. Scott is a successful barrister so he must be in his thirties and his mother has been an alcoholic since he was .... about 7?? and yet, at the end, after just a couple of days of being in hospital without any alcohol, there she is, sitting up and telling Scott he should propose to Megan.
Sorry. It doesn't work like that from my experience. Alcoholics don't just 'recover' and sit there all sweetness and light.
I wish I could have liked this more. The writing was good, but the characters were not particularly believable and Megan treated Scott so abominably at times I am surprised he didn't come to his senses and tell her where to go.
The way Megan left Sally when the child was obviously ill, was unforgivable.
Finally, Scott's mother. This was WAY overdone. Scott is a successful barrister so he must be in his thirties and his mother has been an alcoholic since he was .... about 7?? and yet, at the end, after just a couple of days of being in hospital without any alcohol, there she is, sitting up and telling Scott he should propose to Megan.
Sorry. It doesn't work like that from my experience. Alcoholics don't just 'recover' and sit there all sweetness and light.
I wish I could have liked this more. The writing was good, but the characters were not particularly believable and Megan treated Scott so abominably at times I am surprised he didn't come to his senses and tell her where to go.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2015
I am a bit behind the times, as this was released in 2013, but what an incredible debut from Kathryn Freeman!
The characters are likeable (and in Scott's case, absolutely to die for loveable) and the chemistry is the most explosive I've seen in a while. I loved that Scott wasn't a "what you see is what you get" man and I also loved discovering the other side to him, even if it was a frustrating journey that made me want to smack Megan several times over.
I adored his relationship with Megan's little girl and the moments with Megan's parents also brought a smile to my face. All in all, I adored it - it (well let's not kid ourselves, Scott) had my heart and soul hooked and I never wanted to put it down.
The only slight disappointment was the end - when it came, it was too quick and is the sort of ending that screams out for an epilogue and in the absence of that, I would love to revisit these characters in the future to see where they ended up.
The writing is outstanding; I feel like I lived every emotion with Megan and Scott and often found myself holding my breath as the chemistry and tension was so strong. I cannot wait to discover more of Kathryn Freeman.
The characters are likeable (and in Scott's case, absolutely to die for loveable) and the chemistry is the most explosive I've seen in a while. I loved that Scott wasn't a "what you see is what you get" man and I also loved discovering the other side to him, even if it was a frustrating journey that made me want to smack Megan several times over.
I adored his relationship with Megan's little girl and the moments with Megan's parents also brought a smile to my face. All in all, I adored it - it (well let's not kid ourselves, Scott) had my heart and soul hooked and I never wanted to put it down.
The only slight disappointment was the end - when it came, it was too quick and is the sort of ending that screams out for an epilogue and in the absence of that, I would love to revisit these characters in the future to see where they ended up.
The writing is outstanding; I feel like I lived every emotion with Megan and Scott and often found myself holding my breath as the chemistry and tension was so strong. I cannot wait to discover more of Kathryn Freeman.
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