Turn Up the Heat: Love Won't Wait\Beach House Beginnings\Strong Enough to Love

The Carlisles #2

by Lori Foster, Christie Ridgway, Victoria Dahl

Three sizzling tales from three bestselling authors 

Love Won't Wait 

Lori Foster 

Brendan "Brick" Carlisle is used to women falling at his feet, so shy waitress Merrily Loveland is a breath of fresh air�and an irresistible challenge. But before he can make his move, Merrily comes to him with an offer he can't refuse. If only their "no-strings" pact didn't leave him wanting so much more…. 

Beach House Beginnings 

Christie Ridgway 

She might have avoided Crescent Cove, California, for years, but no-nonsense Meg Alexander is confident she can handle a brief trip home. What she doesn't count on is the spark of desire she feels for Caleb McCall. Can a weekend in paradise convince her to give love a second chance? 

Strong Enough to Love 

Victoria Dahl 

Photographer Eve Hill had always told herself that sexy Brian Stewart was off-limits. But now he's back in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and Eve can't resist their long-denied attraction. When the reality turns out to be hotter than the fantasy, Eve might end up getting more than she bargained for….

Genres: Romance, Anthologies, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Adult, Fiction, Short Stories

240 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 1, 2013

About the author

Since first publishing in January 1996, Lori Foster has become a USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and New York Times bestselling author. Lori has published through a variety of houses, including Kensington, St. Martin’s, Harlequin, Silhouette, Samhain, and Berkley/Jove. She is currently published with HQN.

Lori hosts a very special annual “Reader & Author” event in West Chester, Ohio. Proceeds from the event have benefited many worthy causes, including the Hamilton County YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter, the Animal Adoption Foundation, The Conductive Learning Center for children with spina bifida and cerebral palsy, and The One Way Farm, Children’s Home.

Each year Lori donates all proceeds from one book to charity. You can see the benefit romance books here: http://lorifoster.com/benefit-books/

Career Highlights
•In 2001, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Series Romantic Fantasy.

•In 2002, Lori’s book Too Much Temptation was the top-selling romance title for Amazon books.

•In 2003, Say No To Joe was the second “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for Waldenbooks.

•In 2004, Lori Foster was a clue in the New York Times crossword puzzle.

•In 2004, The Secret Life of Bryan was the “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for the BGI group.

•In 2005, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Contemporary Romance.

•In 2006, Jude’s Law was the “Bestselling Romantic Comedy” romance title for the BGI group.

•In 2007, Lori launched a new “urban fantasy” series under the name L.L. Foster. See more on her “dark side” at www.llfoster.com.

•In 2007, Causing Havoc was among Amazon’s Top Ten Editor’s picks in Romance.

•In 2008, Hard to Handle made #2 on The New York Times.

•In 2009, Servant: The Acceptance was Amazon’s #1 Editors’ Pick in Romance.

•In 2010, Lori was a clue in the USA Today Quick Cross puzzle.

Reviews

[Darcy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not the strongest collection of stories.

Lori Foster - I was so so on the romance of this one, Merrily (hate the name) seemed to wide eyed and innocent to me, while Brick came off as a big player, not sure why either would be attracted to each other. I actually found the friendship between Brick and Jesse and their talks of women to be the highlight of the book.

Christie Ridgway - This one was meh, for me. Meg seemed so disconnected, but then again when you hear what happened with Peter it made sense. Caleb seemed a little too good to be true, but with his new look on life that also made sense.

Victoria Dahl - I read this story when it was originally released.
I have some issues with this one, mostly the same ones that Eve had, but unlike Eve I can't bring myself to like Brian. I sort of hate him for the choices he made. I sort of understand him wanting to try to save his marriage. I did seem a little odd to me though as it was the third separation and they had been apart for 2 years. Was there anything to save at that point? I get that Brian and Eve grew closer working together, was even glad that they didn't act on their developing feelings. But what I had issue with was Brian confessing all to Eve, then leaving her to go back to his wife. She really didn't need to know that and then be told/shown that she still wasn't enough. I hated him even more that he would come back and expect to pick up like nothing happened. I wish that Eve could have found someone in the mean time, that she could have been happy during that time, instead of knowing where he was and what he was doing. It was because of those issues that I am ambivalent about the ending.

[Tabatha · Rating 3 out of 5]

I just love to read anthologies because I get to preview new to me authors along with some I know. This anthology consisted of three pretty fast reading novellas with two new to me authors. Each was a good read, but one definitely stood out from the pack.

Love Won't Wait by Lori Foster (3 stars)

Definitely a good read, but not my favorite of Foster's. Brick was cute and I loved the clear communication he had with Merrily (hate that name though). They both go into the relationship with clear expectations, and things evolve from there. Pretty typical storyline, and nothing I haven't read before.

Beach House Beginnings by Christie Ridgway (2 stars)

Ridgway is a new to me author, and I so wanted to like this story because all the right components were there. Lost love, heartache, new love with lots of emotions... but the story didn't work for me. The characters seemed kind of flat and it was a tad on the cheesy side when it could have been a great emotional read instead.

Strong Enough to Love by Victoria Dahl (4 stars)

Another new to me author, and this was the strongest point in the book for me because it was written quite beautifully. It was jam packed with emotions and had me in tears, because I could really feel Eve's frustration and all of her heartache. Brian was only doing what he felt was right and honorable. Unfortunately his actions didn't keep him from hurting Eve in the worst way, but he knows this. She's spent the last two years with terrible what if questions and not being able to move on because she knows he was it for her. I know some might think that things moved fast where her forgiveness was concerned, but with so much emotion going on in this story I could see why she wouldn't punish him or herself anymore by keeping him away.

*I received a review copy of this from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*

[Ashley Rothberg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Lori Foster and Victoria Dahl, I swear if they started only writing historical biographies I would read them! Lori's stories never fail to disappoint, I ate up this one with gusto. I am now looking forward to meeting the other brother in one of her previous stories. I liked Merry and Brick, both were relate-able and it was a good story. I hope we get the next story soon, I am dying to see what happens!
The Christie Ridgway story was not my cup of tea. I felt it had too much melodrama and sadness to it for me to enjoy. I did not like the way the story was written, I will not be reading any more of hers.
And Victoria Dahl- love her! I have read the other Jackson hole stories and it was nice to finally get Eve's story. I felt her pain as she worked through her past and I loved her commitment to working on her relationship with Brian. My favorite thing about Victoria's writing is it is grounded more in reality, her characters' reactions are how I would react and not everyone ends up pregnant or married at the end. Keep 'em coming please!

[ShannonCC · Rating 1 out of 5]

Well. Anthologies by different authors are hard to rate, aren't they? They're all different. But really, the first two were DNF and the third was a 3, so . . . yeah, not great.

Love Won't Wait by Lori Foster - DNF. This is such a good example of why I usually run away from virgin stories. Our hero, Brick, is such a tool and Merrily is a prize because he'll be "the first" to get in there. Jesus christ, seriously? Give me a bag, I have to barf. Because of a few comments by Merrily I got the idea that maybe later on in the story they'll go deeper into what a problem this is, but I couldn't stick with it to see if I was right. After the hot next door neighbor is offered up as "a gift" from Brick to his friend (not kidding!), I realized this is just not the author for me. I got through the rest of that chapter and decided I just had zero interest in continuing.

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Beach House Beginnings by Christie Ridgway - DNF. Better than the first story, but eventually I was rolling my eyes too much. First of all, 10 years after the death of her first love she still isn't over him. She changed her name and has apparently embraced a life of "meh" (her word). Really? Yes, it was tragic, but come on. Get some counseling. Meds. Something.

Then the cousin of her first love has a dream about her so sets out to get her for his own, with the help of his magical dog who goes into her house and then brings her a video for her (from her house - it was her parents video). It turns out to be a home video of her and the first love which apparently awakens something in her. That was a little out there for me. Maybe the story was going to get more supernatural after that?

That, plus the cousin being really pushy (and in my opinion, obnoxious) about how he's going to have her and I finally just gave up and stopped reading.

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Strong Enough to Love by Victoria Dahl

I already read this last year and gave it a 3 star. Not Dahl's best. The hero comes across as an ass and the heroine as a sucker.

---

So yeah, not great.

[Jessica · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was acceptable for a collection of short stories if you are looking for something easy to read really quickly.

The first one was by an author i often like and was the reason i picked up the book in the first place. This wasn't my favorite Lori Foster story, but it was OK.

I liked Beach House Beginnings the best. The setting was nice and there was a too sweet dog. And of course, hot sex, including a classic make out session on the beach scene. This was maybe a 3 star read because of the really smart pet that is destined to be a therapy dog.

I did not care for the last story at all. Why wouldn't any woman want a man to honor his marriage first? If he doesn't honor the first wife, he surely isn't gonna honor the second. Of course, if he was truly honorable, he would have walked away from Eve sooner and he also would not have left some messed up love note. For that he deserves Ahole status. I did not want to read about either one of these characters. This was a 1 star.

In all of the stories, the women were emotionally immature and maybe a little stupid too. I dislike this plot devise though it was easier to take in the short story format. I can't recommend this book as anything more than a beach read.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Won't Wait by Lori Foster

Brendan "Brick" Carlisle is used to women falling at his feet, so shy waitress Merrily Loveland is a breath of fresh air--and an irresistible challenge. But before he can make his move, Merrily comes to him with an offer he can't refuse. If only their "no-strings" pact didn't leave him wanting so much more....

Good story. Brick has had the hots for Merrily since he first saw her. Just as he's trying to figure out the next step, Merrily asks for his help, which gives him the chance to get closer to her. He doesn't want to rush things, so plans to use the time building a doggie door for her to enable them to get to know each other better. Once she has him at her house, she has an additional proposition for him. She wants a no-strings chance for him to teach her what desire is all about.

He is stunned, but willing. I liked seeing him ease into things, giving her the chance to get to know him first. I liked the way that, even though he starts out as a no commitment kind of guy, as Brick gets to know Merrily better he realizes she's everything he could want. She's sweet, loves animals, and is straightforward about what she wants. All he needs to do is convince her.

Merrily had been engaged to a guy who seemed to especially like the idea that she was a virgin. She wasn't ready to go further with him, especially while she was caring for her sick mother. He dumped her because of it, and after her mother passed away she moved away, determined to do things her way. After a month of waiting on Brick and hearing others talk about him, she decided to ask his help with her "problem". She's surprised by his desire to take things slow, but his way of doing things has her falling for him quickly, even though he had said he doesn't do long term relationships. I loved the confrontation with her ex and the push it gave to them both.

Besides the heat between Brick and Merrily, there was a lot that was fun in the story. I really liked Merrily's critters and how they and Brick took to each other right away. There was also a great friendship between Brick and Jesse. It was fun to see the way that Jesse teased Brick about his preoccupation with Merrily, but he was also supportive of Brick when he needed it. I also liked the growing relationship between Jesse and Tonya and would like to see a story starring them.






Beach House Beginnings by Christie Ridgway
Series: Crescent Cove CA (Book .5)

She might have avoided Crescent Cove, California, for years, but no-nonsense Meg Alexander is confident she can handle a brief trip home. What she doesn't count on is the spark of desire she feels for Caleb McCall. Can a weekend in paradise convince her to give love a second chance?

Meg has gone back to Crescent Cove after ten years away, in order to help out while her sister is away. Ten years earlier she had lost Peter, the young man she loved when he drowned while kayaking. Since then she has relegated all thoughts of love to the realm of fairy tales, refusing to believe that it really exists.

On her first day there, Meg meets Caleb, who is Peter's cousin. Caleb has come back to Crescent Cove in an effort to make some changes to his life. He is recovering from major surgery, during which he experienced what he calls a vision. He saw Meg at the Cove with him, and sees it as guidance on what he's supposed to do. There are sparks between them that Caleb wants to pursue and Meg wants to ignore.

Caleb is gently persuasive and soon Meg agrees to spend some time with him. The chemistry between them is hot, and she decides that giving in for one night is just what she needs. She doesn't intend to let it go further than that, but Caleb is persistent.

Meg's fear of loss has caused her to close off her heart from ever experiencing love again. At first, her memories of Peter at the Cove just bring pain, but with a neat little twist from the dog, she is reminded of all the good things. Caleb's new zest for life helps bring happiness back into her life. Her fears nearly keep her from embracing the future she could have, and it isn't until she faces those fears that she can accept the love that Caleb has to offer her.






Strong Enough to Love by Victoria Dahl
Series: Jackson Hole (Dahl) (Book 1.5)

Photographer Eve Hill had always told herself that sexy Brian Stewart was off-limits. But now he's back in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and Eve can't resist their long-denied attraction. When the reality turns out to be hotter than the fantasy, Eve might end up getting more than she bargained for....

Two years ago Eve had had feelings for her boss, feelings that she couldn't do anything about. Brian was married, although separated from his wife (for the third time). Their friendship had started to change. But when Brian's wife wanted to try again, he left Eve behind, feeling honor bound to make the attempt. Eve was devastated and has still not really recovered.

Now Brian has returned, finally divorced, and wants a chance with Eve. He knows that he hurt her, but hopes that they can move past it. Eve is afraid to let herself believe that he won't hurt her again. The way he makes her feel is too intense and she fears that she wouldn't be able to recover a second time. She thinks that if she gives him one night, she can get him out of her system and move on. I really understood her reluctance to get involved with Brian again.

I had mixed feelings about Brian. I respected the fact that he didn't give in to his feelings while he was still married. But I hated the way that he went back to his wife even though he knew he cared for Eve, After three separations it should have been obvious that the marriage was over. Telling Eve that he cared for her but was still leaving did a number of her self confidence, as she felt that she wasn't good enough for him to want to stay. I would have liked to see him have to work a little harder to get her back.

[Amy · Rating 2 out of 5]

The first two stories, I give 2 stars, and the third I give 3 stars. The first story by Lori Foster drove me absolutely nuts! The author is obsessed with virginity. If people are so obsessed with whether a person is a virgin or not, they really are shallow and one-dimensional. And then there was the several-long page discussion about who was "hotter"--Merrily or her next-door neighbor. Sounded like a couple of teenagers having this discussion.

"Beach House"--second story. I found the motivations and background stories of these two characters confusing.

The third story about Eve and Brian was the best of the lot. Still, not much going on, except that she holds him accountable for his past discretions and her feelings. Not much of a plot.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Three steamy short stories. “Love Won’t Wait” by Foster is about Merrily, a shy waitress who fantasizes about a good-looking hunk. Brendan (Brick) fantasizes about her but she’s a virgin and he thinks she is probably one of those happy ever afters. That is not his thing or is it? “Beach House Beginnings” by Ridgway is about second chances. When her boyfriend drowned, Meg moved away from the coast. Now back, she falls for Caleb but she’s afraid and tells him she doesn’t believe in happy endings. He proves to her that they do exist. “Strong Enough to Love” by Dahl is about a love Eve had for Brian that never died. He was married and they never acted on their attraction but now he’s back and divorced and wants her to give them a chance.

Of the three, Ridgway's story was my favorite!

[Jackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Info
Paperback, 384 pages
Expected publication: December 31st 2013 by Harlequin HQN
ISBN 0373778384 (ISBN13: 9780373778386)
series The Carlisles #2
other editions None found
Source:Netgalley EARC

Book Buy Links
AMAZON
B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS

Three sizzling tales from three bestselling authors

Love Won't Wait by Lori Foster

Brendan "Brick" Carlisle is used to women falling at his feet, so shy waitress Merrily Loveland is a breath of fresh air—and an irresistible challenge. But before he can make his move, Merrily comes to him with an offer he can't refuse. If only their "no-strings" pact didn't leave him wanting so much more….


Beach House Beginnings by Christie Ridgway

She might have avoided Crescent Cove, California, for years, but no-nonsense Meg Alexander is confident she can handle a brief trip home. What she doesn't count on is the spark of desire she feels for Caleb McCall. Can a weekend in paradise convince her to give love a second chance?


Strong Enough to Love by Victoria Dahl

Photographer Eve Hill had always told herself that sexy Brian Stewart was off-limits. But now he's back in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and Eve can't resist their long-denied attraction. When the reality turns out to be hotter than the fantasy, Eve might end up getting more than she bargained for….

My Thoughts

Beginning Novella “Love Won't Wait” is the 2nd story in The Carlisles series by author Lori Foster and to be quite frank it is my hands down favorite for the simple reason that as a lover of animals the menagerie that stole Merrily and Brick's story right out from under them also stole my heart!

As a longtime fan of Lori Foster I expect humorous banter and flirty dialogue between the main male and female characters, heated romantic tension, steamy bedroom scenes and a secondary character “sidekick” who at some point will manage to find their way to being the lead in their own book.

Got all that and more with the addition of the gang of pets that Merrily owns. What is not to love when you are confronted with the soulful eyes of a pair of dogs and three cats? Each animal had a clear and complete character and believe me they stole the show over and over and I loved every second spent with them in a scene!

Author Christie Ridgway is new to me and her offering is “Beach House Beginnings” and it takes place when Meg Alexander returns to her childhood town of Crescent Cove California 10 years after leaving due to the tragic loss of her teenage sweetheart Peter McCall. Losing him drove her to leave and in the intervening years she has steered away from ever feeling the pain of love and loss again.

Having gone through a “life after death” eye opening experience Caleb McCall decides that he needs to learn how to slow down and find happiness other than from his demanding work. His dream of Meg leads him to go to Crescent Cove and convince her that they both deserve a second chance together.

This was a very bittersweet romance story of finally letting go of a lost love and allowing an even stronger connection to forge that has the possibility of lasting a lifetime for Caleb and Meg. Again there was a bit of scene stealing by Bitzer, the now aging mixed breed dog that Peter left behind and that Caleb considers to be his best friend.

Victoria Dahl is also a new to me author and her contribution “Strong Enough to Love” about Eve Hill and Brian Stewart takes us through the fallout following falling in love with your best friend who is married leaves.

Eve has now finally 2 years later reconciled herself to having lost Brian since he moved from Wyoming to try and make his marriage work. Funny thing is she still feels the empty space his absence has left in her life, even though they never acted on their mutual attraction that fact has caused Eve both pain at her loss and pride that her morals were not compromised.

Brian shows up unexpectedly at Eve’s gallery on a night she has gone to a friends birthday party, when she comes home he is standing outside the window admiring a photographic display.

All of Eve’s mixed feelings come rushing back when Brian tells her that he is now divorced and wishes to have a chance for he and Eve to be together as he still loves her.

Will Eve decide that she deserves to finally win Brian’s heart or will she turn her back on this second chance at love? You will be glad when you read for yourself how the author answered that question.

This amalgamation of contemporary romances will indeed "turn up the heat" for those of us who are caught in winter's icy grip these days.

[EArc from Netgalley in exchange for honest review]

[Limecello · Rating 2 out of 5]

So this one is a bit tricky because it has 3 novellas.

I liked the Lori Fsoter one - started the Ridgeway but DNF'd it ... and same with the Dahl. So :X
[I even left it for a few days and tried to go back to the other novellas...]

Carlisle book 2 was cute but the whole ... "obsessed/not obsessed" with the virginity thing...

The pets were super cute.
This was probably my least favorite of the Carlisles though

C- for the Foster

DNF for the other two

[Gerri · Rating 1 out of 5]

I have read a lot of Lori Foster's books and like them and several of Victoria Dahl's and enjoy them for light reading. This is the first book of read of Christie Ridgway.

I only read 3/4 of the Christie Ridgway's book and couldn't finish it. I did not like the other two stories and felt it was a waste of time. All three books had low self esteem women who needed a man to complete herself. Where are the strong women that we should all want to read about.

[Camille · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not the "heat" I was expecting and too quick of a read. The first story seemed to have promise, but of course being a short story the "romance" is rushed and the whole story was too cliche. The other two stories were just "meh."

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love Won't Wait by Lori Foster
Brendan "Brick" Carlisle is used to women falling at his feet, so shy waitress Merrily Loveland is a breath of fresh air—and an irresistible challenge. But before he can make his move, Merrily comes to him with an offer he can't refuse. If only their "no-strings" pact didn't leave him wanting so much more….

Beach House Beginnings by Christie Ridgway
She might have avoided Crescent Cove, California, for years, but no-nonsense Meg Alexander is confident she can handle a brief trip home. What she doesn't count on is the spark of desire she feels for Caleb McCall. Can a weekend in paradise convince her to give love a second chance?

Strong Enough to Love by Victoria Dahl
Photographer Eve Hill had always told herself that sexy Brian Stewart was off-limits. But now he's back in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and Eve can't resist their long-denied attraction. When the reality turns out to be hotter than the fantasy, Eve might end up getting more than she bargained for….

Heather's Notes
While I did like all of these stories, I thought Strong Enough need a little more grovel. After all Brian left her and I don't think all his I'm sorrys really cut it.

[Raquell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Non of these authors best work. But cute short stories of some characters from their other series finding love.

[Peni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Please see individual stories for review.

[Shelly Ash · Rating 5 out of 5]

Turn Up the Heat Anthology:

Love Won't Wait by Lori Foster: Merrily had plenty of responsibility in her life and an ex-boyfriend that wasn't a real hardship to lose. Deciding to give herself a new start in life, she moved to a new town. What she found was a sweet and sexy local guy she could finally lose her blasted virginity to. She new Brick wasn't into any long term commitments, but that was okay with Merrily. She just wanted to have a little fun, become a real woman, and get on with her life. Although that seemed like a simple plan, it quickly backfired on her when she realized she was quickly falling in love with Brick. What Merrily didn't know was that Brick was falling for her just as fast and already knowing he'd never get enough of her.

I loved this story and it was an added bonus that Brick and Merrily were animal lovers. Ms. Foster worked that into the story perfectly. I also enjoyed the jealousy factors added in with Merrily's landlord, Tonya, and Brick's friend Jesse. That meshed quite well also. It gave each character the added edge of possibly losing the other. That made everything play out in a much more tender yet sexy way throughout the story. The hero and the heroine had sparks of chemistry from beginning to end and the added characters, their friends, had their own chemistry going on. I wanted Love Won't Wait to go on and on and I highly recommend it!


Beach House Beginnings by Christie Ridgway: Meg hasn't been back to the cove since she'd lost her teenage love, Peter. She no longer believes in love or happily ever after. She's only back to take care of things since her sister is away on vacation. She's surprised by a man she thinks is Peter, but quickly realizes it's his cousin, Caleb. From the moment Caleb awoke from his near death experience, he's wanted to come back to the cove to see Meg. He needs to see if his "dreams" are leading him to a future with her, but Meg is resisting any connection, afraid she'll lose him like she lost Peter. The attraction is immediate and Caleb quickly leads Meg into a relationship, even as she fights it.

I loved this tender, sexy, erotic love story right away! I only wish it was longer! The chemistry between the hero and heroine is immediately obvious and the sex was sizzling hot and extremely erotic. Caleb was perfect, always attentive and loving. Who could ask for more?! The detail was so carefully incorporated, you didn't even notice it was necessary to the story because you were so intent on the romance between Meg and Caleb. It was very well written and captured my complete attention immediately and held it to the very end. I loved it!


Strong Enough to Love by Victoria Dahl: Eve fell in love with a married man. Brian had been separated from his wife when he fell for Eve. As much as he wanted Eve, he had to try to make things work with his wife, one last time. He didn't want to hurt Eve, but felt he owed it to his wife to try. Eve was heartbroken and did everything she could to erase Brian from her life. When he returned two years later, she didn't want to forgive him. Before he could walk back out of her life she gave him only one night, needing to have him one time, wanting him out of her system. Brian now wants Eve forever, but he'll take what he can get and hope to change her mind…

While I'm not fond of the "in-love-with-a-married-man" scenario, I was pleasantly surprised by this story. At first I was prepared to dislike the hero, but wow, how quickly Ms. Dahl turned that around for me and I was loving him just like the heroine, Eve. The chemistry was oozing from Eve and Brian, their love intense, along with the sex. I guess in this story we should most definitely call it making love, because that's exactly how it makes the reader feel. I really got into this book and gosh, would I have loved it to go on and on. Those warm fuzzy feelings were out in full force for me reading this one!

I absolutely adored Turn Up the Heat! All three stories were fantastic and I wouldn't have missed this book for the world. I very highly recommend it to all romance readers. Not only is it a Must Read, but it's a Keeper too!

[Maura · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love Won’t Wait – Lori Foster – 3/5 – Brick is kind of a player and has been interested in local waitress Merrily. He hears she’s a virgin and his interest sky rockets because he wants to be her first. Merrily returns Brick’s attraction and very much wants him to be her first, but she rather thinks she’d like something a bit more long-lasting and Brick is up front about it just being sex. So I think I might be alone in thinking that Brick came across as a kind of sleazy, player. I think it was just the way he kept focusing on wanting to take her virginity and actually thinking that it didn’t matter if his being her first caused her to form an emotional attachment – it wouldn’t change things, but he’d try to be gentle about breaking her heart. Jesse and Brick’s conversations, however authentic, sounded like two teenage boys getting together to talk “chicks.” It just emphasizes that men never quite mature… Merrily wasn’t so bad (other than the name), but I couldn’t figure out what she saw in Brick.

Beach House Beginnings – Christie Ridgway – 3/5 – Meg Alexander lost the love of her 19-year-old life and was so distraught that she moved away from home and the family’s Beach Cottage Rental Business for 10 years. She comes back to cover for her sister and struggles with memories and fear. Especially when she encounters Caleb McCall, her lost love’s cousin who recently faced his own mortality and came out all the more appreciative of life. Now he’s trying to save Meg from living the rest of her life in fear. This was cute and had a touch of supernatural…like destiny, dreams from beyond, that sort of thing. Meg irritated and I struggled to truly believe that she’d be so traumatized from losing a guy she’d known for a few months when she was 19…so much so that 10 years later she still fears getting involved. But accepting that it was a fairly decent story considering the limitations of a novella.

Strong Enough to Love – Victoria Dahl – 4/5 – Wow. Total angst fest, had me on the verge of tears for a good portion of the story. Brian and Eve were best friends and co-workers. Brian was married, but separated for the third time and Eve was in love with him. Brian fell in love with Eve as well, but when he realized how Eve felt, he decided to take the noble way and return to his wife to try to fix the marriage once and for all, leaving Eve broken-hearted. 2 years later and Brian returns for their chance together, but Eve is too hurt to accept him. But Brian isn’t giving up until he convinces Eve to forgive him and finally give them the chance to be together. This author was incredible at getting Eve’s emotions across – I mean Eve was really hurt and it was a complicated hurt. She was devastated by his honesty and also hated herself for her petty feelings, since in wishing he’d never left she was wishing their marriage wouldn’t work out, but also feeling like, in his being able to leave, that he’d risked their potential future and that meant she wasn’t enough for him to sacrifice his marriage for. And although she loved him she wanted him to hurt the way she had, because it didn’t seem to her like he understood. See complicated feelings. And unlike many of these kinds of stories, I completely understood her feelings and felt she was justified. I even wanted Brian down on his knees and begging, even though he did only what he could do. My only gripe is that Eve forgave a bit too suddenly and Brian didn’t quite indicate that he really understood the whole of what he’d done to her.

[Trish · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Won't Wait
4 Stars

Lori Foster is a master at creating sizzling romance with engaging characters. A perfect blend of sweet and spicy to steam up the pages and just the right amount of depth for a story featured in an anthology.

Brick was amazingly sexy, funny, and he knows how to make a girl's first time unbelievably HAWT.

Merrily is a sweet and funny virgin who plans to give up her "V" card to the very charming Brick. Although not an original plot line, this story had me chuckling aloud and swooning in all the right places. Foster is amazing at writing sizzling chemistry between her characters.

And the secondary character of Jesse should get his own story. Just sayin'.

Love Won't Wait is a great example of Lori Foster's writing style.


Beach House Beginnings
3.5 Stars

Meg Alexander has returned to Crescent Cove where she runs into Caleb McCall. Both are recovering from their own heartache.

Although Caleb is from Meg's past, she only had eyes for Peter as a young girl. Now, with Peter gone, can Caleb convince Meg to give love another chance?

I would have loved to had more of the past in this short story. It was difficult to get a true feel for Meg and Caleb's character. I am a sucker for the nerdy, skinny kid who's crushing on the girl who is out of his league. That story would have grabbed my attention more, I think.

All in all, Beach House Beginnings is a sweet/sad story about second chances at love with a little bit of magic tossed in for good measure.


Strong Enough To Love
3.5 Stars

Eve Hill has spent the past two years putting her life back together after having her heart shattered by Brian Stewart. He had started out as her boss, her mentor, and her best friend. And she had fallen in love with him.


Brian was separated from his wife, Julia, for the third time. But when he leaves Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to return to his wife, he leaves behind a devastated Eve. The only goodbye Eve got was a letter he had sent telling him that he was falling in love with her, but he had to leave.

Now, two years later, Brian shows up at Eve's door. Divorced and wanting a second chance with Eve.

To say that Eve is angry is an understatement. Angry at him for thinking he can return after so long and think that she would just be waiting with open arms.

Despite his begging, Eve struggles to turns him away. But unresolved sexual feelings and unbelievable sexual chemistry has Eve telling Brian that she will give him one night. No commitments, no promises.

Strong Enough To Love deals with a lot of complicated feelings--should Brian get another chance after leaving the way he did? Was he right to stay with his wife and try to work on their problems when he obviously had feelings for Eve. Was it fair for him to ask Eve to give him another chance?

I was frustrated while reading this short story and felt a boat love of anger for Eve and what had been done to her. But in the end, this story (for me, at least) was about choices and the power they have in our lives. And while I wasn't Brian's biggest fan, Dahl did an great job in explaining both points of views. Brian hated the choice he made, but he stuck with it. Moved away and gave his twenty year marriage another try. And Eve was rightfully hurt and angry and didn't let Brian back into her heart.

But after one mind boggling night of passion will Eve be be strong enough to love him again?

[Book Reading Gals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Turn Up the Heat

Series: The Carlisles #2, Beach House No. 9 # .5, Jackson Hole #1.6

Authors: Lori Foster, Christie Ridgway and Victoria Dahl

Genre: Contemporary

Three sizzling tales from three bestselling authors

Love Won't Wait by Lori Foster - Brendan "Brick" Carlisle is used to women falling at his feet, so shy waitress Merrily Loveland is a breath of fresh air—and an irresistible challenge. But before he can make his move, Merrily comes to him with an offer he can't refuse. If only their "no-strings" pact didn't leave him wanting so much more….

Beach House Beginnings by Christie Ridgway - She might have avoided Crescent Cove, California, for years, but no-nonsense Meg Alexander is confident she can handle a brief trip home. What she doesn't count on is the spark of desire she feels for Caleb McCall. Can a weekend in paradise convince her to give love a second chance?

Strong Enough to Love by Victoria Dahl - Photographer Eve Hill had always told herself that sexy Brian Stewart was off-limits. But now he's back in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and Eve can't resist their long-denied attraction. When the reality turns out to be hotter than the fantasy, Eve might end up getting more than she bargained for….


This anthology first caught my attention because I was already reading the Victoria Dahl series. I was pleasantly surprised that I enjoyed all three reads and love that I discovered a new-to-me author in Christie Ridgway!

Love Won't Wait by Lori Foster (The Carlisles #2)
Grade B+
There are not many authors that I would put on an auto buy list… And not because I don't love to read but because that could get really expensive. LOL! LF would be one of those on my auto-buy list and she would be at the top!! I love the story of Brick and Merrily. Their chemistry and the way this sexy, feisty perpetual bachelor fell so totally and unexpectedly makes me **sigh**! And I love that LF left an opening for a potential Jessie and Tonya story! (fingers-crossed)

Beach House Beginnings by Christie Ridgway (Beach House No. 9 # .5)

Grade B+
This is a quick and fast pace read featuring Meg and Caleb. It seems they meet and fall fast but with their shared past and emotional baggage it's easy to see how they could bond quickly. There was a lot of backstory to cover in a short time and I feel like it was well done by Christie Ridgway. This was my first time to read this author but I can definitely see that she will be taking me on an emotional roller coaster with this series. I'm excited and plan to enjoy the ride ASAP!

Strong Enough to Love by Victoria Dahl (Jackson Hole #1.6)
Grade A
I'm already a huge fan of Victoria's and when I saw this Jackson series I knew she was writing the stories just for me! Especially in this installment about Eve and Brian. The story of an unrequited love fulfilled years later always screams to me and makes that happy place inside me giggle and dance when the characters find their HEA! VD wrote at the beginning of the book that Eve and Brian have a very special place in her heart and that she hopes her readers feel the same. Well this reader absolutely does! When you add the humor and the flow that she puts in her stories it makes them unforgettable!! I recommend her stories and characters to all of my friends every chance I get!
Review by: Jeananna
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com

[♡ Sassy ~ Amy ♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although this anthology read fast (each story it's own), it took me forever to get through.

I liked Lori Foster's story the best, but I have been in so many houses of late with multiple animals. They all smell like animals & are covered in pet hair. When you sit down or move around it gets all over you and floats in your mouth. Then you have this light cat hair stuck on your tongue making you cough & eventually sticking your fingers in your mouth trying to get rid of it. And I do not care about what people think about their 3 cats sharing a litter box, especially in a small townhouse, because no matter what they think of their clean house... Truth is... It stinks! And, all 5 animals followed everyone around to every room including the kitchen, that the girl refused to dump a cat off one of the only chairs??? Ewwww! Those animals were up in their faces all the time & on purpose. They had a definite place in that house & Merrily's (stripper name & I hate it!) new boyfriend, Brick loved them.

I am a fan of animals/pets. We have at least one in every category of the apex pyramid... cat, dog, birds, reptiles, etc. We've been through hamsters, fish & puppies. I know my smells. We live n the country.

All of that said... I read the story smelling cat box & having fur in my mouth sensations the whole time... And I couldn't get past so many animals in a small place. AND don't lie to yourself, they have secret accidents that you can find as soon as you lift the carpet years later...

A pet lover, animal rescue person or animal hoarder might find this cute. Me no. The dog in the next story? LOVED him!! He had learned boundaries!! Amazing & a beautifully described dog.

The second story was good. A little cheesy when it came to all the destiny & dreams & dead guy sent you there, although I do strongly believe in that sort of thing... The deliverance was slightly cheesy. AND Meg/Starr was sometimes stupid to me. Just too stand offish & witchy. It was ok though. Still enjoyable. I liked Caleb's smooth moves though out. It kind of made me laugh sometimes, but I'm not sure if I was supposed to.

The third story was good, because it made me mad. No one's life is perfect, so I can't fault all that, but who wants to be second? Oh, that didn't work, so now I want you. Whatever asshole!

I always like her stories/books. They are always light easy cute Awwwe! stories. I didn't ever like "whatshisname" in this one & this story made me mad. He reminded me of those guys who kill their wives & then go for the new woman now that old wife is gone... That's not what this story was about, but his personality seemed that way. I think though that I liked this story because I got a rise out of it. Besides irritation, any other feeling brought out by a story, I think is good. Sooo I say this was good.

My summation of this book is that NONE of these stories were good representations of the authors' work. I like Lori Foster's books 20 times better than this story & Victoria Dahl's as well. I'm not sure of Christie Ridgway's, but I'd say the same thing. I would give them all another shot, because I know they are better than this!

[Margreet Asselbergs · Rating 4 out of 5]

http://ripeforreader.blogspot.ca/2013...

My rating: 4 of 5 ⭐️


LOVE WON'T WAIT by Lori Foster

Not one for long term entanglements, it has been unusual for Brick Carlisle to be so taken with one and the same girl for this long. But the new waitress at his favorite diner is something special and if the stories are to be believed, she is about as innocent as the driven snow.

Needing a change of scenery after her mother's passing, Merrily Loveland recently moved into a duplex with her animals and started work at the diner while finishing her studies. After serving him lunch for about a month, she finally works up the courage to ask the hot hardware store manager for some advice.

Seeing his opening, Brick grabs the opportunity to, quite literally, get a foot in the door with Merrily and noting the returned interest in him, it doesn't take much to convince her to try him on for size!

***

A sweet, sexy short, where the hunky and popular town native falls head over heels for the innocent and shy newcomer!

⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️

BEACH HOUSE BEGINNINGS by Christie Ridgway

Coming back to Crescent Cove, ten years after the loss of her first love there, was more of a homecoming than Meg Alexander had expected. Still the memories were bittersweet. Bumping into a very familiar canine and his very handsome owner a bit of a surprise.
Returning to the familiar vacation spot of his youth, was something Caleb McCall had thought about for quite some time, and running into Meg part of his plans. She barely remembers him, but he hasn't forgotten one thing about her, and is determined to find out everything.
Past hurt has made Meg resistant to the possibility of romantic entanglements, but Caleb's calm and convincing zest for life has her wavering.....
***
A compelling, seductive and hopeful story of letting go and allowing life back in.

⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️

STRONG ENOUGH TO LOVE by Victoria Dahl

Two years ago, Eve Hill's outlook on life took a dramatic dive. Just as she had finally found a professional future she could believe in, her heart was shredded and she had never quite recovered from the blow. When, under pressure from her friends, Eve finally decides to go out again, what are the odds she finds the cause of her heartbreak right on her doorstep?
Saddled with obligations he needed to honour, Brian Stewart knew he had hurt Eve when he left town two years ago. Free of responsibilities but with Eve still very much on his mind and in his heart, he is back. To stay, if she'll have him.
Even though Eve's feelings still run deep, she drew the short end of the stick once before and that still hurts today. She is not eager to forgive or likely to forget. The question is, what hurts more??
***
Gripping, sultry and poignant novella in which a heartbroken woman tries to find courage to say yes to her love......again.


⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️❌⭕️

✨A striking and steamy collection by an impressive trio of authors✨

**ARC provided by NetGalley and Harlequin HQN in return for an honest review.**

[Beverly Diehl · Rating 4 out of 5]

The hot cover does not belie the contents - don't read this unless you like your love stories smokin' hot.

I received an ARC of this anthology via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.


Love Won't Wait - Lori Foster

This novella features a virgin heroine, Merrily Loveland (I'm sorry, but I think that name is AWFUL), who's also a hottie. She's also annoying insecure about her long-legged blonde neighbor/landlady, and is afraid the man she's chosen to pop her cherry, Brick Carlisle, will be more interested in the woman next door.

It's well-written, the sex scenes are hot, the lead-up is tantalizing, but I couldn't sink into this story, possibly because I gritted my teeth every time the goofy name Merrily was mentioned. The barrier keeping this couple apart seemed artificial and a control move on Brick's part, which also annoyed me. I'm developing something of a pet peeve for hot men who seem to have no other demands on their time than lovemaking (perhaps because I've never found such sex partners). I did enjoy the intrusion/inclusion of a menagerie of cats and dogs, each with his/her own distinct name and personality.


Beach House Beginnings - Christie Ridgway

At 19, Starr Alexander had found the love of her life, for one golden summer at her family's Crescent Cove beach rental complex, until Peter went kayaking and drowned. Ten year's later, she's changed her name to Meg for Meh, how's she's felt about life, and has reluctantly returned to cover for her sister. When Peter's look-alike cousin Caleb McCall shows up, she has no intention of getting involved... but of course, we know differently. Slow build, wonderful consummation.

This includes a hint of magick realism, and an NDE (Near Death Experience) dream for Caleb that may annoy some readers, but for me, it added to the charm of this short story, which was my favorite of the three.



Strong Enough to Love - Victoria Dahl

Set in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, this is a tale of forbidden love, and I could REALLY feel it. Eve Hill and her boss Brian Stewart were best friends, as well as co-workers. She secretly was carrying a torch for him, because he was married, if separated. When he sold her the photography studio and returned to his wife to try to patch things up, it broke her heart. Did she date in the meantime? Yes. Did the other men "do it" for her? Not really. This short story carries the most emotional punch of the three, IMO, and although I felt the whole thing was quite raw and real, I am not sure heartbreak can be overcome with lots of talking and incredible sex (though I'd like to try).

Kudos to all three stories for responsible and unobtrusive condom use. All in all, very enjoyable.

[Adria's Musings · Rating 3 out of 5]

Originally posted on Adria's Romance Reviews

The only author I was familiar with was Lori Foster and I have to admit that's why I wanted to read this anthology but I was happy to give the other two stories a try.

Love Won't Wait by Lori Foster - Lori Foster delivers both humor and passion in such a short amount of time. Brick and Merrily are great characters on their own but together they really make things interesting. I enjoyed the attraction between Brick and Merrily and of course the quick dialogue that is common in Foster's stories. She even manages to give readers two secondary characters to think about, Jesse and Tonya. I'd love for them to have their own story since it seems that Tonya has a lot of secrets and Jesse really seems to care for her. What I did find a little off putting was the reason Brick had for perusing Merrily, that put him in borderline "asshole" territory.

Beach House Beginnings by Christie Ridgway - I genuinely liked this second chance/near death experience love story. It's definitely a bittersweet romance but that was part of its appeal. I sympathized with Meg and her reasons for leaving her childhood home and her birth name behind. I admired her for trying to move on after such a tragic event as well. Caleb seemed almost too good to be true and I began to fear that he was one of those dull, perfect heroes but thankfully it was just a surface act. He too had secrets and his share of tragedies that changed his life drastically. My one issue was that every thing seemed to fall into place a little too easily towards the end. However I'll chalk it up to the fact that Beach House Beginnings is a novella, not a full length novel.

Strong Enough to Love by Victoria Dahl - I think this might have been my favorite. I love angst ridden stories, the kind where both characters are yearning for each other, they're half way in love with one another yet they feel that there are too many circumstances that are keeping them apart. In this case, it's one big one! I had a few moments of wanting to strangle Eve because of the reason she walks away from Brian but then again, I could understand why she did it. Brian's actions not only hurt her, they made her doubt her self worth. Brian, poor guy, he can't catch a break. He's damned if he does and damned if he doesn't. As much as I wanted to blame him for his choice to leave Eve, I understood and respected him for it. These two were passionately in love and in lust! I'm definitely checking out more of Victoria Dahl's stories.


Final Verdict: Turn Up the Heat has a bit of everything, humor, passion, romance and even angst. It's a great sampler for those looking to try a new set of authors.

[Kay Pratt · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the books that have a collection of stories by various authors. Of course, it's a great way to try out new authors and to get a lot of bang for your book budget. (Who wouldn't want to do that?) Of course, you cannot go wrong with any collection that includes Lori Foster in it. Foster is one of those staple author who has written tons of books with lots of variety in the style. She has written something that appeals to just about every type of romance reader. If she isn't on your list of favorite authors, then you haven't read her books yet, or you are just a rare type of romance lover.Lori Foster starts off this trilogy of stories (which were pretty long-I might add).

In "Love Won't Wait", Brendan "Brick" Carlisle is a hot hunk who is used to women falling at his feet, so shy waitress Merrily Loveland is a breath of fresh air—and an irresistible challenge. But before he can make his move, Merrily comes to him with an offer for "no strings attached" fun that he can't refuse, but then he realizes he wants much more from her. This was a fun book and a great story and those "hot" love scenes that Foster is well known for. It was my favorite of the three.

Beach House Beginnings by Christie Ridgway was the second story.

Meg Alexander has avoided returning to her home town because of the death of the man she loved. But, she is confident she can handle a brief trip home. What she doesn't count on is the spark of desire she feels for Caleb McCall. Her lost love's charming and handsome cousin who looks a lot like him. This was a good story, but it was slow to get started, and never really caught or kept my interest. It was missing the "wow factor" in the plot that keeps it interesting and sets it apart from the thousands of other romance stories. For me it was just a good story.

In Strong Enough to Love by Victoria Dahl photographer Eve Hill had always told herself that sexy Brian Stewart was off-limits. But now he's back in town, and Eve can't resist their long-denied attraction. When the reality turns out to be hotter than the fantasy, Eve might end up getting more than she bargained for. I really liked this story. Eve and Brian were characters that I really was able to get into. It was well written and I will be reading other books by Victoria Dahl.

Overall, this book is well worth the cost. I would recommend that you try it just to experience new authors. My only complaint is that I wish there were more authors and stories included in it.

[JG · Rating 4 out of 5]

Turn Up the Heat, is a pretty entertaining and good read. This anthology is made up of three stories written by three well known and talented writers. All three stories have a common theme, the one night stand or sex without any strings. All three stories delivered on the heat and steam factors. Amazingly all three stories are definitely unique despite the common theme. In Lori Foster's Love Won't Wait, we are introduced to Brick and Merrily. Their story is cute, funny, sweet and steamy. Brick likes Merri, more than any other woman he's met. Its so unlike him not to make a move on her but she seems so innocent. But Merri has other plans, plans that involve getting naked with Brick even for just a night. A lighthearted romance guaranteed to keep you turning the pages. In Christie Ridgeway's Beach House Beginnings, Meg comes back to her childhood summer home. She hasn't been back in 10 years mostly because of the lost of her first love. Then she meets Caleb and with it a brewing sexual attraction. She's willing to give him a night but only for sex because anything else would be too much. This was a bit melancholy, but the vivid imagery of the backdrop, the waves, the sands gives it a depth into their story. In Strong Enough to Love, Victoria Dahl's penned a story that is both heartbreaking and moving (get the tissues!). Eve and Brian had a past, but he left her with her heart in pieces. Trying to move on after two years seemed a long uphill battle, one she's willing to do just to move forward. But Brian has come back, to her, to try picking up from where they left off. Eve is angry and feels she wasn't as important before and now that his life is all settled, she has become an afterthought. She will only give him one night and Brian will take it even if it isn't enough. This one was definitely different. Brian's circumstance two years prior was something in a logical level Eve was willing to accept. But emotionally she really felt abandoned, unimportant and to just proceed as if nothing has happened would be too much. The stories might feel short but they all were good and would definitely would make you want to read more.

*The ARC for this novel was provided by the publisher and NetGalley in return for an honest review*

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received "turn up the heat" as a free give away book. It has three stories in one book. It was a pretty good book.
1. Love Won't Wait by Lori Foster. Brick runs the family hardware store. Merrily moved to town a month ago, to start over. He is a waitress at a bar, plus she goes to college part time. She has had a boyfriend but never sex. When she started working at the bar, Brick started going there every day for lunch just to see Merrily. After a month Merrily can tell Brick is interested in her. She goes to Brick and asked if he would be her first sex partner. Brick says he will never settle down and get married. They end up falling in love. In the mean time her ex-boyfriend, who dumped Merrily because she wouldn't leave her very sick mother and she wouldn't have sex with him, he showed up once he hears her mother has passed on.
2. Beach House Beginnings by Christie Ridgway. Meg visits her family hometown resort. She is working there for a few days. Ten years ago her boyfriend drown. Meg hasn't been back since. Caleb comes to visit for a few days. He is the cousin to the boyfriend who drown. Caleb has his cousins dog. Caleb has a dream and in it he dreams of him and Meg being together. This was a different story line.
3. Strong Enough To Love by Victoria Dahl. Eve worked for Brian running a photo studio, and taking pictures. Two years ago Eve bought the business from Brian. He has been married for 20 years. It was a rocky marriage. His wife left him three different times. His wife wanted to try to save the marriage AGAIN. Brian figured he should give it a try again even though he had feelings for Eve. After two years he returns and wants Eve for his girl friend. I didn't care for this part. After three times his wife leaving Brian, I think he should have stayed with Eve. I don't think she should have taken him back. It wasn't my favorite book of these three in one.

[Jeananna w/The Book Reading Gals · Rating 4 out of 5]

Turn Up the Heat

Love Won't Wait by Lori Foster
4 stars
There are not many authors that I would put on an auto buy list… And not because I don't love to read but because that could get really expensive. LOL! LF would be one of those on my auto-buy list and she would be at the top!! I love the story of Brick and Merrily. Their chemistry and the way this sexy, feisty perpetual bachelor fell so totally and unexpectedly makes me **sigh**! And I love that LF left an opening for a potential Jessie and Tonya story! (fingers-crossed)

Beach House Beginnings by Christie Ridgway
4 stars
This is a quick and fast pace read featuring Meg and Caleb. It seems they meet and fall fast but with their shared past and emotional baggage it's easy to see how they could bond quickly. There was a lot of backstory to cover in a short time and I feel like it was well done by Christie Ridgway. This was my first time to read this author but I can definitely see that she will be taking me on an emotional roller coaster with this series. I'm excited and plan to enjoy the ride ASAP!


Strong Enough to Love by Victoria Dahl
5 stars
I'm already a huge fan of Victoria's and when I saw this Jackson series I knew she was writing the stories just for me! Especially in this installment about Eve and Brian. The story of an unrequited love fulfilled years later always screams to me and makes that happy place inside me giggle and dance when the characters find their HEA! VD wrote at the beginning of the book that Eve and Brian have a very special place in her heart and that she hopes her readers feel the same. Well this reader absolutely does! When you add the humor and the flow that she puts in her stories it makes them unforgettable!! I recommend her stories and characters to all of my friends every chance I get!

[☕️Kimberly (Caffeinated Reviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

Love Won’t Wait by Lori Foster- You all know I have mad love for Foster’s romantic suspense series, and this was really the first contemporary I have tried of hers. I fell in love with Brick Carlisle and Merrily Loveland. I still can’t believe this was a novella. Foster completely developed the characters and even had me invested in secondary characters. The tale was sweet, funny and Foster delivered some heat, as well. Apparently this is the second novella featuring the Carlisles, and now I am going to need to buy the Love Bites Anthology. I am so hoping there is a third because I want the neighbors’ romance too.

Beach House Beginnings by Christie Ridgway- The tale takes us to Crescent Cove, California and shares Meg Alexander’s journey of letting go and taking a chance on romance again. Both Caleb and Meg were sweet. Each has suffered loss. Caleb has learned to embrace life again and is determined that Meg love again. This was sweet and had a little supernatural element to it. I enjoyed the tale but didn’t become completely immersed in the romance, which surprised me because I have enjoyed so many of Ridgeway’s contemporaries.

Strong Enough to Love by Victoria Dahl- Holy hotness, this was my first read by Dahl, but it won’t be my last. I am sure this is tame compared to some erotic novels, but I had to fan myself a few times. I connected with Eve Hill and Brian Stewart despite my initial nervousness. Dahl gave them a solid history and made their emotions and physical attraction to each other very believable. I wanted them to find their happy, and woozier the ride there was smoking hot.

Copy received in exchange for unbiased review​. ​Review​ originally published @ Caffeinated Book Reviewe​r​

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book consists of three great fast reading novella's from three authors. Lori Foster, Christie Ridgway and Victoria Dahl each give us a romantic stories that are emotional but with some fun too. I'll start out by saying Lori Foster is always a must read for me. I'm almost always 100% sure I'm going to like what i read. I was not disappointed. Brock and Merrily are a breath of fresh air. Brick is as hot as they come and Merrily the exact opposite and when they get together kaboom! Christie Ridgway i have actually never read before and this one was good and very emotional. Caleb has to help her overcome her ideas about love and help her deal with a great loss from when she was younger. Lastly was Victoria Dahl. Her novella is not a new one i read it before when it was first released. I liked it but was very torn about the hurt Eve was carrying and i can't figure out how she brought herself to forgive Brian. I don't think i could do that. Yes he was married and no they didn't do anything about the attraction which is commendable. What doesn't work much for me is Brian and his wife had been separated several times and this last time was 2 years. They had no kids and if he felt that strongly for Eve why the heck would be cut and run on her and go spend a year trying to figure out if his marriage could work and then even wait til he was divorced to show up and expect open arms. I think this might have been better as a longer book with more time for him to grovel. Overall i liked the first two novellas and the third was just meh. If your looking for a quick read this is a good book for you though. You can take your time reading it and not worry about racing to the finish because there are three distinct stories. One of the fun things about anthology books.

[Kathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love Won't Wait - Lori Foster...

Brick (Brendon. Carlisle) - ladies man, no strings attached... Merrily Loveland - virgin, lunch waitress, cared for her mother in HS and college, when mother passed, she moved to new town, with 2 dogs and 3 cats, going to college.

after a month of friendly conversation at lunch, Brick finally asks her out... and she propositions him... and though she loves him, knows to keep it light.. and after embracing her animals also, and doing odd jobs around her home... he is there to stay... ahhh

Beach House Beginnings - Christie Ridgway

Meg Alexander - grew up in movie-set/ beach cabins - Neverland, Southern California's Crescent Cover... and at 19 fell in love - and after 3 wonderful months, died in a boating accident... and she left, and made a life for herself in San Francisco... 10 years later - her sister asks her to come back and cover - and Griffin Lowell shows up - Peter's cousin, recovered from open heart surgery, and he felt / dreamed of her... and with gentle, persistent persuasion, he reaches below her defenses... and they connect... and she finally excorcises Peter's ghost, and embraces him...

Strong Enough to Love - Victoria Dahl

Eve Hill - 3 years ago gave up her career in finance to follow her dream of photography - under the mentorship of Brian - who became her best friend, and she fell in love - but he was married, and 2 years ago left his business to her to try one more time with his wife...

and he returns - having divorced, and resolved the emotional issues with her... and wants another chance - throwing her into a tizzy... at first it's no... then one night (one perfect, fabulous hour)... then dinner... and baring souls, and finding forgiveness and trust... and love!