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The Sterling Family #2
Just One More Dare
A runaway bride.
Her older brother’s off-limits friend.
Taking one more shot at love should be easy, right?
Not on a dare.
Samantha Dare had one thought when she found out her fiancé was a lyingcheater. Escape. So, she ran from her wedding…straight into the arms of the man who once gave her the hottest kiss of her life. But rebounding with her brother’s friend would be a huge mistake…wouldn’t it?
The last thing Dex Sterling needed was more chaos in his life. Retiring from football and starting over in broadcasting gave him plenty of that. But even though Samantha is chaos personified, for some reason, he’s still not able to keep his mind—or hands—off her…
Is a little bit of forced proximity and a lot of sexual chemistry enough to earn them a second chance at happily ever after?
Samantha and Dex are about to find out…
Just One More Dare, book 2 in the Sterling Family series, is a light, spicy, best friend’s little sister/forbidden, contemporary sports romance that can be read as a standalone. Download today and get ready to fall for the youngest Dare and the man of her dreams!
For long-time readers: Yes, that Samantha Dare! Yes, you will see Ian Dare!
For new to me readers: A stand-alone story of two people with a history of attraction.
Her older brother’s off-limits friend.
Taking one more shot at love should be easy, right?
Not on a dare.
Samantha Dare had one thought when she found out her fiancé was a lyingcheater. Escape. So, she ran from her wedding…straight into the arms of the man who once gave her the hottest kiss of her life. But rebounding with her brother’s friend would be a huge mistake…wouldn’t it?
The last thing Dex Sterling needed was more chaos in his life. Retiring from football and starting over in broadcasting gave him plenty of that. But even though Samantha is chaos personified, for some reason, he’s still not able to keep his mind—or hands—off her…
Is a little bit of forced proximity and a lot of sexual chemistry enough to earn them a second chance at happily ever after?
Samantha and Dex are about to find out…
Just One More Dare, book 2 in the Sterling Family series, is a light, spicy, best friend’s little sister/forbidden, contemporary sports romance that can be read as a standalone. Download today and get ready to fall for the youngest Dare and the man of her dreams!
For long-time readers: Yes, that Samantha Dare! Yes, you will see Ian Dare!
For new to me readers: A stand-alone story of two people with a history of attraction.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 17, 2024
279 people are currently reading
570 people want to read
About the author
Carly Phillips
419 books9,798 followersNY Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestseller, Carly Phillips is the queen of Alpha Heroes, at least according to The Harlequin Junkie Reviewer.. Carly married her college sweetheart and lives in Purchase, NY along with her crazy dogs who are featured on her Facebook and Instagram pages. The author of over 75 romance novels, she has raised two incredible daughters and is now an empty nester. Carly’s book, The Bachelor, was chosen by Kelly Ripa as her first romance club pick. Carly loves social media and interacting with her readers. Want to keep up with Carly? Sign up for her newsletter and receive TWO FREE books at www.carlyphillips.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews
December 12, 2024
Star Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐
Heat Rating: 2.5/5 🌶️
Audiobook: 5/5 🎧
What to Expect:
- Sports Romance
- Runaway Bride
- Friends to Lovers
- He Falls First
- Friend’s Sister
- Forbidden Romance
- Close Proximity
- Second Chance Romance
- Billionaire Romance
Just One More Dare is the second book in the Sterling Family series and follows Samantha Dare and Dex Sterling. Samantha ditches her cheating fiancé on their wedding day, and jets off to the Bahamas with Dex, her brother’s friend. Having a bit of history, their time together rekindles their connection, and sparks fly. I am a sucker for a runaway bride who is saved by a MMC who falls hard for her. Dex is everything! He is swoony, supportive, protective, and down bad for Samantha. Samantha is brave, resilient, strong, and super sweet. They had amazing chemistry, and I loved the natural progression of their relationship. Samantha needed extra time to decide if a new relationship was right for her, and I loved how patient Dex was with her. It was impossible not to fall in love with this couple and root for their happiness. Their journey to love was filled with heartfelt moments, twists, and enough drama to keep me on my toes. Just One More Dare has the perfect mix of romance, steam, and suspense, and has a found family element that put a smile on my face.
Narration:
Samantha Cook and Connor Crais perform this audiobook in dual narration. They are a wonderful narrating duo and were a delight to listen to. Samantha and Connor did a wonderful job portraying the characters and brought them to life in the best way. Samantha provided the perfect voice for Samantha and put so much emotion into her performance. As always, Connor was amazing and can do no wrong in my eyes. Both are great storytellers, and the narration enhanced my listening experience.
Thanks to Carly Phillips, East House Productions, and Must Love Audio for the gifted advanced listener copy. Opinions expressed are my own.
Heat Rating: 2.5/5 🌶️
Audiobook: 5/5 🎧
What to Expect:
- Sports Romance
- Runaway Bride
- Friends to Lovers
- He Falls First
- Friend’s Sister
- Forbidden Romance
- Close Proximity
- Second Chance Romance
- Billionaire Romance
Just One More Dare is the second book in the Sterling Family series and follows Samantha Dare and Dex Sterling. Samantha ditches her cheating fiancé on their wedding day, and jets off to the Bahamas with Dex, her brother’s friend. Having a bit of history, their time together rekindles their connection, and sparks fly. I am a sucker for a runaway bride who is saved by a MMC who falls hard for her. Dex is everything! He is swoony, supportive, protective, and down bad for Samantha. Samantha is brave, resilient, strong, and super sweet. They had amazing chemistry, and I loved the natural progression of their relationship. Samantha needed extra time to decide if a new relationship was right for her, and I loved how patient Dex was with her. It was impossible not to fall in love with this couple and root for their happiness. Their journey to love was filled with heartfelt moments, twists, and enough drama to keep me on my toes. Just One More Dare has the perfect mix of romance, steam, and suspense, and has a found family element that put a smile on my face.
Narration:
Samantha Cook and Connor Crais perform this audiobook in dual narration. They are a wonderful narrating duo and were a delight to listen to. Samantha and Connor did a wonderful job portraying the characters and brought them to life in the best way. Samantha provided the perfect voice for Samantha and put so much emotion into her performance. As always, Connor was amazing and can do no wrong in my eyes. Both are great storytellers, and the narration enhanced my listening experience.
Thanks to Carly Phillips, East House Productions, and Must Love Audio for the gifted advanced listener copy. Opinions expressed are my own.
July 13, 2024
Just One More Dare is the perfect story to remind you that even in the midst of large supportive families we can sometimes feel inadequate in certain ways, finding ourselves adrift, but reaching out and finding that support is the most important feeling. I loved the feeling of family togetherness, defense, and love that is always found in Carly’s Dare and Sterling stories and seeing it together all in one was masterful. Samantha is a Dare through and through; loving, protective, sassy, smart, and willing to lay down her life for those she loves, Samantha will do whatever it takes to keep her family and friends safe and happy, and when she loses her heart to Dex there is no doubt that he will be her everything. Dex is the most beautiful of alpha males, because even when he manages to make a dumb mistake, he can solve it; I loved watching him work through his fears and worries about building a relationship with Samantha until finally realizing he wasn’t willing to lose her a second time, no matter what it costs him. The heat that flares between these two is unquestionable and even when they are trying to hide their love from others or even themselves you can feel the passion between them. I am dying for the next book in the series and cannot wait for find out which Sterling sibling will lose their heart next, but I know whatever happens, Carly will blow our minds and it’ll be a heartbreaking and ultimately fulfilling story.
For full review check out the blog @ https://romancewitchreviews.blogspot....
For full review check out the blog @ https://romancewitchreviews.blogspot....
March 21, 2025
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
I like this one better than the first one. I loved getting to see more of Ian. I like him better in his siblings books than his own. Samantha and Dex were great though. I do wish we had gotten just a bit more of the Sterling siblings in this book. Overall, it was a good quick read. I’ll be reading the next book as soon as I have it from Libby. The audiobook narrators are good as well.
I like this one better than the first one. I loved getting to see more of Ian. I like him better in his siblings books than his own. Samantha and Dex were great though. I do wish we had gotten just a bit more of the Sterling siblings in this book. Overall, it was a good quick read. I’ll be reading the next book as soon as I have it from Libby. The audiobook narrators are good as well.
September 10, 2025
3 stars
So many supporting characters. Truly, so many of them. This book is clearly far down the list in a long and deeply interconnected series. With it being my first book by the author, the name dropping was just kind of annoying. (I knew it was listed as Book 2, but it’s gotta actually be Book 20 or something.)
Business machinations just aren’t that interesting to me.
Could see the ending, with her ex shooting her, coming from a mile away — as soon as it was mentioned his mom was killed, I knew we were in for some silly ending. Even with the forewarning, it still felt unearned by the story itself.
So many supporting characters. Truly, so many of them. This book is clearly far down the list in a long and deeply interconnected series. With it being my first book by the author, the name dropping was just kind of annoying. (I knew it was listed as Book 2, but it’s gotta actually be Book 20 or something.)
Business machinations just aren’t that interesting to me.
Could see the ending, with her ex shooting her, coming from a mile away — as soon as it was mentioned his mom was killed, I knew we were in for some silly ending. Even with the forewarning, it still felt unearned by the story itself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2024
Lovely second chance romance
5 stars
I always look forward to a new Carly Phillips story and here we’re getting the second book in the Sterling Family series (coming after Just One More Moment). This book also links into the Dare to Love series (and pretty much all the other Dare series’) as our heroine, Samantha, is a Dare. I have read many, many of the previous books but keeping the family connections straight in your head is nigh on impossible. So whether you have read all of Carly Phillips’ books or this is your first - you will understand and enjoy this story without feeling lost.
Samantha Dare is about to get married. Sure, she might not feel all-consuming passionate love for the guy but he’s her business partner. When she realises she’s been fooled, Samantha runs - straight into Dex Sterling - her brother’s friend and a man she shared the hottest kiss of her life with, ten years ago. While Samantha heals, she tries to keep her distance - but maybe Dex has been what her life has been missing all along.
Samantha was a great character and someone who I liked from the start. Her emotions felt real and I loved the way she was determined to heal and to get her life back on track. Although she wanted Dex - and had a sizzling chemistry with him - I also understood her need to keep him at arms length. She was a strong and resilient heroine and exactly who I want to read about. There was also no problem, for me, with the speed of Samantha’s relationship with Dex after her cancelled wedding. It felt right.
And if there was any hero that was more perfect for Samantha than Dex, I don’t think you’d ever find him. He was all in with Samantha within moments of their re-meeting when he almost hits her with his car as she escapes from her wedding. As I said, the chemistry was palpable but Dex was just respectful enough, and just naughty enough, to make me cheer for this pairing. I loved how he was happy to wait for Samantha to be ready for a relationship - but used every dirty trick in the book to make her realise they were forever.
With the pair’s chemistry, the sex scenes were always going to be hot - but then again, they always are with Carly Phillips. But it’s not just them that packed the punch - all their interactions had an emotion and underlying sizzle to them. You can feel that they care about each other and it’s just lovely.
I really liked the pace of the story and there was lots going on - always something different to keep your interest. I was about to say that this was a fairly short story, but I just checked and it’s actually 280 pages long. I must have whizzed through it as it felt short to me. Credit to Ms Phillips’ writing that kept me engaged and interested from beginning to epilogue! Loving these Sterlings and can’t wait for the next in the series. 5 stars.
July 26, 2024
It was so fun to finally get a story for Samantha Dare, who has been dangling since WAY back in the OG Dare series. IYKYK!! And if you DON'T know, you can still start here!!
Samantha Dare is about to walk down the aisle, despite her own instincts, and the advice of her family and friends, when she discovers her fiancé is, in fact, a lying cheater. Talk about lucky timing! She runs off, and is almost hit by a car in the front of the hotel, by none other than ex-pro football player, and her brother's friend, Dex Sterling. She begs him to drive her out of there, which he does.
Dex Sterling isn't expecting to see the woman he shared a hot kiss with years ago running out of her own wedding, but here she is. She needs help, and someone to lean on, and he decides to be that person, despite the feelings of his former boss-turned-friend, and her protective big brother, Ian Dare. They fly off together to her cousin's house in the Caribbean, for her to rest and figure out what she's going to do.
Dex and Samantha had chemistry like whoa, and that was true since the first time they met. But he was new in his career back then, and fully focused on the game, and he let Ian warn him off. He won't be doing that again. He decides pretty quickly that he's all in with her, no matter what. We love a hero who falls first!! Meanwhile, Samantha is falling just as hard, but is fully in denial. She was just about to marry someone else, and she still owns a business with her ex, which is going to be a whole mess to deal with. So, the timing couldn't be worse.
I really loved how much Dex was just THERE for Samantha, in whatever way she needed, and he was willing to wait for her to come to terms with her feelings in her own time. He was also literally there to help her with, and protect her from, her ex, who wasn't willing to walk away so easily. There was a whole side plot with all of her ex's shenanigans, which went in a completely different direction than I thought it would. That was wild, but entertaining.
Overall, this series is off to a great start, and I'm excited for Dex's sister Fallon's story, which is up next. She was a great side character here, and I can't wait to be in her head!
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. This review is my personal opinion, voluntarily given.
Reviewed by Megan from Romanced by the Book
Samantha Dare is about to walk down the aisle, despite her own instincts, and the advice of her family and friends, when she discovers her fiancé is, in fact, a lying cheater. Talk about lucky timing! She runs off, and is almost hit by a car in the front of the hotel, by none other than ex-pro football player, and her brother's friend, Dex Sterling. She begs him to drive her out of there, which he does.
Dex Sterling isn't expecting to see the woman he shared a hot kiss with years ago running out of her own wedding, but here she is. She needs help, and someone to lean on, and he decides to be that person, despite the feelings of his former boss-turned-friend, and her protective big brother, Ian Dare. They fly off together to her cousin's house in the Caribbean, for her to rest and figure out what she's going to do.
Dex and Samantha had chemistry like whoa, and that was true since the first time they met. But he was new in his career back then, and fully focused on the game, and he let Ian warn him off. He won't be doing that again. He decides pretty quickly that he's all in with her, no matter what. We love a hero who falls first!! Meanwhile, Samantha is falling just as hard, but is fully in denial. She was just about to marry someone else, and she still owns a business with her ex, which is going to be a whole mess to deal with. So, the timing couldn't be worse.
I really loved how much Dex was just THERE for Samantha, in whatever way she needed, and he was willing to wait for her to come to terms with her feelings in her own time. He was also literally there to help her with, and protect her from, her ex, who wasn't willing to walk away so easily. There was a whole side plot with all of her ex's shenanigans, which went in a completely different direction than I thought it would. That was wild, but entertaining.
Overall, this series is off to a great start, and I'm excited for Dex's sister Fallon's story, which is up next. She was a great side character here, and I can't wait to be in her head!
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. This review is my personal opinion, voluntarily given.
Reviewed by Megan from Romanced by the Book
July 23, 2024
"Just One More Dare" by Carly Phillips is a delightful blend of forbidden romance and second chances. Samantha Dare, a runaway bride, finds herself drawn to Dex Sterling, her older brother’s best friend. Their chemistry is undeniable, making for a captivating and steamy read.
This is the first book I have read by Carly Phillips, and I can’t wait to go back and read the rest of the Dare series. Samantha Dare and Dex Sterling are pure dynamite. The book is sexy and fun, and it definitely makes me want to explore all of Carly Phillips’ works now.
The story is well-paced, with just the right amount of tension and romance to keep you hooked from start to finish. Phillips does an excellent job of balancing the spicy scenes with heartfelt moments, making this a thoroughly enjoyable read.
If you love contemporary sports romances with a twist of forbidden love, "Just One More Dare" is a must-read.
This is the first book I have read by Carly Phillips, and I can’t wait to go back and read the rest of the Dare series. Samantha Dare and Dex Sterling are pure dynamite. The book is sexy and fun, and it definitely makes me want to explore all of Carly Phillips’ works now.
The story is well-paced, with just the right amount of tension and romance to keep you hooked from start to finish. Phillips does an excellent job of balancing the spicy scenes with heartfelt moments, making this a thoroughly enjoyable read.
If you love contemporary sports romances with a twist of forbidden love, "Just One More Dare" is a must-read.
July 26, 2024
4.5 stars
Samantha Dare is smart and a runaway bride. But it is who she runs away with that makes this story.
We get to see Samantha and Dex get a second chance. One, her brother Ian stopped years ago. But it is the power and lies causing trouble, the secrets and betrayal catching up, and the love between Samantha and Dex that keeps this reader coming back for more.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Samantha Dare is smart and a runaway bride. But it is who she runs away with that makes this story.
We get to see Samantha and Dex get a second chance. One, her brother Ian stopped years ago. But it is the power and lies causing trouble, the secrets and betrayal catching up, and the love between Samantha and Dex that keeps this reader coming back for more.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
July 21, 2024
This was an adorable, breezy, and ideal beach read. Samantha and Dex shared a moment years ago, but it led nowhere. Time has passed, and now, destiny has granted them another opportunity.
Samantha's life is quite complicated currently, but Dex believes she's worth the wait. He's resolved not to lose her again. As the remains of her past relationship fade, they can finally pursue their happily ever after.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads ***
Samantha's life is quite complicated currently, but Dex believes she's worth the wait. He's resolved not to lose her again. As the remains of her past relationship fade, they can finally pursue their happily ever after.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads ***
November 27, 2024
3.5 This was cute and spicy!
December 14, 2024
This was my first book by Carly Phillips. The story was easy to get into and I had such a great time. This is book 2 in The Sterling Family series but I had no issue listening to it as a standalone.
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
runaway bride
forbidden
friends younger sister
forced proximity
billionaire
friends to lovers
sports/athlete
𝐀𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐨𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Narrators: Connor Crais & Samantha Cook
Narration style: Dual
Listening speed: 2.5x
Samantha is about to get married when she finds out that her fiancé is cheating on her. Cue the runaway bride. While leaving the venue, she runs into Dex and he helps her escape. Dex and Samantha have a bit of history but never shared anything other than a kiss. The more time they spend together, they realize that there was always something more there.
I thought this was going to be a sweet, forbidden romance and while it was, Carly shocked me with the unexpected twists. When I thought she couldn’t shock me more, she did. I love when that happens.
The audio was great. Dual narration with Connor Crais and Samantha Cook.
Thank you to Carly Phillips, Must Love Audio and East House Productions for the advanced copy.
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
runaway bride
forbidden
friends younger sister
forced proximity
billionaire
friends to lovers
sports/athlete
𝐀𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐨𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Narrators: Connor Crais & Samantha Cook
Narration style: Dual
Listening speed: 2.5x
Samantha is about to get married when she finds out that her fiancé is cheating on her. Cue the runaway bride. While leaving the venue, she runs into Dex and he helps her escape. Dex and Samantha have a bit of history but never shared anything other than a kiss. The more time they spend together, they realize that there was always something more there.
I thought this was going to be a sweet, forbidden romance and while it was, Carly shocked me with the unexpected twists. When I thought she couldn’t shock me more, she did. I love when that happens.
The audio was great. Dual narration with Connor Crais and Samantha Cook.
Thank you to Carly Phillips, Must Love Audio and East House Productions for the advanced copy.
March 9, 2025
Another beautiful The Sterling Family story. Loved it. ❤️🫦
July 25, 2025
Nothing good to say about this boring and predictable and sort of ridiculous insta love romance. I take that back, at least it was short.
December 11, 2024
This is such a good book, with unexpected twists, and filled with drama and a great second chance love story. After finding out her fiancé has been cheating on her, Samantha runs out on the day of their wedding, and right into Dex. They share a little bit of a past, and he helps her flee the scene. Their chemistry is undeniable, and it was fun following along as their relationship grew from friends to lovers.
I loved that their professions played a big role, with Samantha running a business (with her ex), and Dex a retired football player venturing into broadcasting. Their families are also a large part, and while this can be read as a standalone, the characters are connected to Carly’s other series.
I enjoyed the pace and thought it was quick and entertaining, and I can’t wait to see what’s next in this series!
The audiobook is narrated by Connor Crais and Samantha Cook, and as always, they both did phenomenal jobs portraying the characters. I love listening to them, their voices pair really well together - I highly recommend!
Listen if you like ⇣
•Runaway bride
•Best friend’s sister
•Forbidden romance
•Retired NFL player
•Forced proximity
•Second chance
•He falls first
•NYC setting
•Dual POV
•Spice
Thank you @mustloveaudio @easthouseprods & @carlyphillips for the ALC!
I loved that their professions played a big role, with Samantha running a business (with her ex), and Dex a retired football player venturing into broadcasting. Their families are also a large part, and while this can be read as a standalone, the characters are connected to Carly’s other series.
I enjoyed the pace and thought it was quick and entertaining, and I can’t wait to see what’s next in this series!
The audiobook is narrated by Connor Crais and Samantha Cook, and as always, they both did phenomenal jobs portraying the characters. I love listening to them, their voices pair really well together - I highly recommend!
Listen if you like ⇣
•Runaway bride
•Best friend’s sister
•Forbidden romance
•Retired NFL player
•Forced proximity
•Second chance
•He falls first
•NYC setting
•Dual POV
•Spice
Thank you @mustloveaudio @easthouseprods & @carlyphillips for the ALC!
July 28, 2024
Paint by numbers second chance romance
This is a very slight story. Main characters meet years ago, experience insta-love, separate. (He's focused on football and her big brother team owner puts the kibosh on any romance.) When they meet up years later, she's running away from her wedding to a very toxic partner. He's her knight in shining armor and steps up to help and support. There are threats from the former fiance. Everything is wrapped up tidily in less than 200 pages.
This is a very slight story. Main characters meet years ago, experience insta-love, separate. (He's focused on football and her big brother team owner puts the kibosh on any romance.) When they meet up years later, she's running away from her wedding to a very toxic partner. He's her knight in shining armor and steps up to help and support. There are threats from the former fiance. Everything is wrapped up tidily in less than 200 pages.
December 18, 2024
Hours before she is supposed to get married, Samantha discovers her fiance (and business partner) has been cheating on her. She runs out of the hotel, onto a busy NYC street and is almost hit by a car driven by Dex, a friend of her brother, and someone she shared a steamy kiss with in the past. Samantha asks him for a ride, and the next thing you know, he's on a flight with her to the Bahamas.
Admittedly, I haven't read all the Dare Family or Sterling Family series books, but I've read enough over the years to recognize the characters. The two families connect in this book, which can be read as a standalone. Dex basically drops everything to be with Samantha, not as a lover, but as a friend, keeping those feelings from the past tucked away the best he can. He's also the white knight, somehow being there for Samantha more than once when she really needs him. Samantha has a mess to deal with at work, but has a great support system behind her with her family and friends.
It's been forever since I've listened to Samantha Cook and I've missed her! Connor Crais was the perfect man as always.
Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an advanced copy of this audiobook. Opinions are my own.
THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU IF: You love fast paced romances with a couple who has some history together.
Admittedly, I haven't read all the Dare Family or Sterling Family series books, but I've read enough over the years to recognize the characters. The two families connect in this book, which can be read as a standalone. Dex basically drops everything to be with Samantha, not as a lover, but as a friend, keeping those feelings from the past tucked away the best he can. He's also the white knight, somehow being there for Samantha more than once when she really needs him. Samantha has a mess to deal with at work, but has a great support system behind her with her family and friends.
It's been forever since I've listened to Samantha Cook and I've missed her! Connor Crais was the perfect man as always.
Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an advanced copy of this audiobook. Opinions are my own.
THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU IF: You love fast paced romances with a couple who has some history together.
July 23, 2024
Kindle / Amazon Print / Nook / Apple / Kobo / Google
Carly Phillips Store: eBook / Print
When Samantha Dare overhears a conversation between her about to be husband, and another woman, she knows she has to get out of there. Luckily for her, her brother's friend, Dex, is arriving just as she's running out, and now the two are on their way. Where? Away. Together. Something they shouldn't be because of said older brother's overprotective nature and her cousin, who happens to be Dex's agent. But this Dare and Sterling pair is about to give themselves the chance they didn't get before, regardless of what her brother and cousin have to say about it.
Back when Dex laid a scorching kiss on Samantha, neither was in the right headspace to continue where the kiss might have lead. Dex was a young player on Ian's team, and Samantha was just as young. So he naturally backed off, knowing both their futures could be severely strained if they were to start a relationship. But in the here and now, they can feel free to give into their chemistry, even if Dex has to damage his relationship with Ian and his agent August. He and Samantha just have to decide their relationship is more important than everything else.
Samantha and Dex are hot together! Second chances aren't always deserved, nor are they always meant to be, but Dex and Samantha couldn't have been more meant to be. Their chemistry has never waned over the years since their kiss, and now that they're in the right space and the right time, they have to make it work, despite all the obstacles - her sleazy ex, her brother, and his agent. I can't wait for more Sterling and Dare crossovers now, after having fallen so hard for Dex and Samantha.
ARC provided by Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.
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July 26, 2024
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review
Ranking: 4.5⭐
I enjoyed reading Dex & Samantha much more than I expected! Their love story unfolds beautifully and I LOVED that Carly Phillips added one of my favorite elements to their love, plus I loved reading Remy again, getting to know more about the Sterlings, and a part of the Dare family I haven't read about yet.
Dex is a man with a tragic story that we got to know more about in Just One More Dare, as well as his great love and gratitude towards the Sterling family . Dex is a former football player who is starting a new stage in his life, a sweet, considerate man who loves his family and is willing to fight for love.
Samantha has one of the most interesting stories I've read from this author so far: She's about to marry her long-time boyfriend and partner in her PR firm, but on her wedding day she starts to have doubts, and her instincts are right, so Samantha decides to run away for a few days to start her life over, and I love that in those difficult moments her family is always there to support her, as is Dex and her best friend. I also really enjoyed reading a Samantha willing to fight for what's hers, brave and strong to face Jeremy and who knows very well what she wants from her new present.
Dex & Samantha shared a moment together in the past, a moment that was interrupted by her brother Ian, and I loved that neither of them is willing to let that happen again years later. I also really liked how Carly made everything between Dex & Samantha happen at the perfect time and that further strengthened their friendship and their growing feelings for each other, I loved how Dex was always there for Samantha when she needed him the most and that he validated her feelings like no one else had ever done before, these two were a sweet, tender, very funny couple and I really enjoyed reading them.
🩷Dex: 4/5
🩷Samantha: 5/5
🩷Plot: 4.5/5
🩷Love Story: 5/5
🩷Secondary characters: 3.5/5
🩷Universe: 5/5
🌶️: 2/5
ARC amablemente proporcionada a cambio de una reseña honesta
Puntuación: 4.5⭐
Disfruté leyendo a Dex & Samantha mucho más de lo que esperaba! Su historia de amor se desarrolla de una manera hermosa y AMÉ que Carly Phillips añadiera a su amor uno de mis elementos favoritos, además, me encantó leer de nuevo a Remy, conocer más de los Sterling y a una parte de la familia Dare que no he leído aún.
Dex es un hombre con una historia trágica que conocimos más a fondo en Jus One More Dare, así como su gran amor y agradecimiento hacia la familia Sterling . Dex es un ex jugador de futbol que esta empezando una nueva etapa de su vida, en hombre dulce, considerado, que ama a su familia y que está dispuesto a luchar por amor.
Samantha tiene una de las historias más interesantes que he leído de esta autora hasta el momento: está a punto de casarse con su novio de años y socio en su empresa de PR, pero el día de su boda empieza a tener dudas, y su instinto no se equivoca, así que Samantha decide huir por unos días para empezar de nuevo con su vida, y me encanta que en esos momentos complicados su familia siempre este ahí para apoyarla, al igual que Dex y su mejor amiga. También me gustó mucho leer a una Samantha dispuesta a pelear por lo que es suyo, valiente y fuerte para enfrentar a Jeremy y que sabe muy bien lo que quiere de su nuevo presente.
Dex & Samantha compartieron un momento juntos en el pasado, momento que fue interrumpido por su hermano Ian, y amé que ninguno de los dos esté dispuesto a dejar que eso vuelva a pasar años después. También me gustó mucho que Carly hiciera que todo entre Dex & Samantha pasara en el momento perfecto y eso fortaleciera aún más su amistad y sus crecientes sentimientos por el otro, me encantó que Dex siempre estuviera para Samantha cuando ella más lo necesitó y que validara sus sentimientos como nunca nadie lo había hecho, estos dos fueron una pareja dulce, tierna, muy divertida y me gustó mucho leerlos.
🩷Dex: 4/5
🩷Samantha: 5/5
🩷Trama: 4.5/5
🩷Historia de amor: 5/5
🩷Personajes secundarios: 3.5/5
🩷Universo: 5/5
🌶️: 2/5
Ranking: 4.5⭐
I enjoyed reading Dex & Samantha much more than I expected! Their love story unfolds beautifully and I LOVED that Carly Phillips added one of my favorite elements to their love, plus I loved reading Remy again, getting to know more about the Sterlings, and a part of the Dare family I haven't read about yet.
Dex is a man with a tragic story that we got to know more about in Just One More Dare, as well as his great love and gratitude towards the Sterling family . Dex is a former football player who is starting a new stage in his life, a sweet, considerate man who loves his family and is willing to fight for love.
Samantha has one of the most interesting stories I've read from this author so far: She's about to marry her long-time boyfriend and partner in her PR firm, but on her wedding day she starts to have doubts, and her instincts are right, so Samantha decides to run away for a few days to start her life over, and I love that in those difficult moments her family is always there to support her, as is Dex and her best friend. I also really enjoyed reading a Samantha willing to fight for what's hers, brave and strong to face Jeremy and who knows very well what she wants from her new present.
Dex & Samantha shared a moment together in the past, a moment that was interrupted by her brother Ian, and I loved that neither of them is willing to let that happen again years later. I also really liked how Carly made everything between Dex & Samantha happen at the perfect time and that further strengthened their friendship and their growing feelings for each other, I loved how Dex was always there for Samantha when she needed him the most and that he validated her feelings like no one else had ever done before, these two were a sweet, tender, very funny couple and I really enjoyed reading them.
🩷Dex: 4/5
🩷Samantha: 5/5
🩷Plot: 4.5/5
🩷Love Story: 5/5
🩷Secondary characters: 3.5/5
🩷Universe: 5/5
🌶️: 2/5
ARC amablemente proporcionada a cambio de una reseña honesta
Puntuación: 4.5⭐
Disfruté leyendo a Dex & Samantha mucho más de lo que esperaba! Su historia de amor se desarrolla de una manera hermosa y AMÉ que Carly Phillips añadiera a su amor uno de mis elementos favoritos, además, me encantó leer de nuevo a Remy, conocer más de los Sterling y a una parte de la familia Dare que no he leído aún.
Dex es un hombre con una historia trágica que conocimos más a fondo en Jus One More Dare, así como su gran amor y agradecimiento hacia la familia Sterling . Dex es un ex jugador de futbol que esta empezando una nueva etapa de su vida, en hombre dulce, considerado, que ama a su familia y que está dispuesto a luchar por amor.
Samantha tiene una de las historias más interesantes que he leído de esta autora hasta el momento: está a punto de casarse con su novio de años y socio en su empresa de PR, pero el día de su boda empieza a tener dudas, y su instinto no se equivoca, así que Samantha decide huir por unos días para empezar de nuevo con su vida, y me encanta que en esos momentos complicados su familia siempre este ahí para apoyarla, al igual que Dex y su mejor amiga. También me gustó mucho leer a una Samantha dispuesta a pelear por lo que es suyo, valiente y fuerte para enfrentar a Jeremy y que sabe muy bien lo que quiere de su nuevo presente.
Dex & Samantha compartieron un momento juntos en el pasado, momento que fue interrumpido por su hermano Ian, y amé que ninguno de los dos esté dispuesto a dejar que eso vuelva a pasar años después. También me gustó mucho que Carly hiciera que todo entre Dex & Samantha pasara en el momento perfecto y eso fortaleciera aún más su amistad y sus crecientes sentimientos por el otro, me encantó que Dex siempre estuviera para Samantha cuando ella más lo necesitó y que validara sus sentimientos como nunca nadie lo había hecho, estos dos fueron una pareja dulce, tierna, muy divertida y me gustó mucho leerlos.
🩷Dex: 4/5
🩷Samantha: 5/5
🩷Trama: 4.5/5
🩷Historia de amor: 5/5
🩷Personajes secundarios: 3.5/5
🩷Universo: 5/5
🌶️: 2/5
July 21, 2024
Just One More Dare is book two in the Sterling Family series and continues with the romantic suspense we came to love in Just One More Moment.
This book starts out with Samantha Dare, the bride, having anxiety about her choice to marry Jeremy, her groom. When she overhears a conversation between him and his assistant, she knows it is time to end this farce of a relationship. She confronts him about what she heard, throws her engagement ring at him and runs out of the hotel just minutes before the wedding.
Dex Sterling is pulling in to the same hotel for a meeting with a friend, when he nearly runs Samantha over. After checking to make sure she is okay, she begs him to help her escape her wedding. He loads her in the car and she immediately locks the doors. While the bellman is loading her luggage in his car, Jeremy runs out and confronts Dex about taking his fiance.
Dex and Samantha drive away from the hotel, with no destination in mind. When she finally hears back from her cousin Asher, she asks Dex to take her to Teterboro airport. He asks her what her plans are and she explains her cousin has a home in the Bahamas that she is going to so she can escape from her almost mistake. Dex does not want her to be alone, so he offers to go with her. They stop by his apartment to get a few things and off they go.
Now realize that Samantha is Ian Dare's little sister and Austin Dare's cousin. And Ian is Dex's former boss and Austin is his agent currently. Talk about a tangled web.
Did I mention that Jeremy is not only Samantha's fiance, but also her business partner and roommate. Yet another tangled web.
Upon their return to New York City, Samantha must work through her tangled web, while Dex works to smooth things over with Ian. He is worried about her having to deal with Jeremy at the office and what he might try to do to her and to the business. Lucky for her, Ian knows everyone and connects her with an attorney to terminate the partnership. While the lawyer deals with the business, Samantha deals with the living situation.
Samantha is poking the bear in every way possible while separating from Jeremy. But Dex is there to protect her as best he can. Even to his own detriment. When the paparazzi starts to interfere and reporting on their relationship, Samantha gets stressed, Jeremy fuels the fire and Dex has to make some decisions about his new job.
When Samantha and her best friend and assistant, Brandy go out to dinner after work while Dex is at a business meeting, life will take a drastic change for everyone.
Will Jeremy be able to let Samantha go? Will Dex be able to convince Samantha he loves her, even at his own expense? Will Samantha see Dex as a rebound or a true love interest? Will Ian accept Dex as Samantha's boyfriend? What secrets have been hidden and are now coming to light after the aborted wedding?
So many questions ... so many potential outcomes. This story becomes intense and lives will be impacted and changed forever.
This book starts out with Samantha Dare, the bride, having anxiety about her choice to marry Jeremy, her groom. When she overhears a conversation between him and his assistant, she knows it is time to end this farce of a relationship. She confronts him about what she heard, throws her engagement ring at him and runs out of the hotel just minutes before the wedding.
Dex Sterling is pulling in to the same hotel for a meeting with a friend, when he nearly runs Samantha over. After checking to make sure she is okay, she begs him to help her escape her wedding. He loads her in the car and she immediately locks the doors. While the bellman is loading her luggage in his car, Jeremy runs out and confronts Dex about taking his fiance.
Dex and Samantha drive away from the hotel, with no destination in mind. When she finally hears back from her cousin Asher, she asks Dex to take her to Teterboro airport. He asks her what her plans are and she explains her cousin has a home in the Bahamas that she is going to so she can escape from her almost mistake. Dex does not want her to be alone, so he offers to go with her. They stop by his apartment to get a few things and off they go.
Now realize that Samantha is Ian Dare's little sister and Austin Dare's cousin. And Ian is Dex's former boss and Austin is his agent currently. Talk about a tangled web.
Did I mention that Jeremy is not only Samantha's fiance, but also her business partner and roommate. Yet another tangled web.
Upon their return to New York City, Samantha must work through her tangled web, while Dex works to smooth things over with Ian. He is worried about her having to deal with Jeremy at the office and what he might try to do to her and to the business. Lucky for her, Ian knows everyone and connects her with an attorney to terminate the partnership. While the lawyer deals with the business, Samantha deals with the living situation.
Samantha is poking the bear in every way possible while separating from Jeremy. But Dex is there to protect her as best he can. Even to his own detriment. When the paparazzi starts to interfere and reporting on their relationship, Samantha gets stressed, Jeremy fuels the fire and Dex has to make some decisions about his new job.
When Samantha and her best friend and assistant, Brandy go out to dinner after work while Dex is at a business meeting, life will take a drastic change for everyone.
Will Jeremy be able to let Samantha go? Will Dex be able to convince Samantha he loves her, even at his own expense? Will Samantha see Dex as a rebound or a true love interest? Will Ian accept Dex as Samantha's boyfriend? What secrets have been hidden and are now coming to light after the aborted wedding?
So many questions ... so many potential outcomes. This story becomes intense and lives will be impacted and changed forever.
July 20, 2024
*An advance reader copy was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*
The second book in Carly Phillips’ Sterling Family series opens on Samanatha Dare’s wedding day. As she takes a minute to collect herself on her balcony, she overhears a conversation between her fiancée and his assistant that was never meant for her ears. Now with the clarity she finally feels, Samantha cancels her wedding and flees the hotel on foot, not sure where to go.
At the same moment, former Miami Thunder Football Player, Dex Sterling, is pulling into the same hotel for a meeting, when he almost runs over a blur in white. When Dex realizes it was Samantha, his former boss/now friend Ian Dare’s little sister, a flood of memories comes back to that holiday party when Dex was a rookie with a bright future ahead of him and he shared the hottest kiss of his life with Samantha. But given their young age and the fact that Dex was one of Samantha’s oldest brother’s new players, Dex backed off pretty quickly.
Without a second thought, Dex whisks Samantha away from the hotel and she makes a plan to disappear for a while to her cousin Asher’s private island getaway while she figures out her next steps. Not wanting to be with family nor does she want to be alone, Samantha invites Dex to go with her. He doesn’t hesitate to say yes.
Once in their private island paradise, Samantha alternates between breaking down over how she didn’t listen close enough to her family’s thoughts about her fiancée and how to disentangle herself from his clutches in their shared PR company, which was 51% hers. Dex was there to lend support and be whatever Samantha needed him to be at that moment. With a little help from Ian, she was well on her way to getting her ex out of her life.
Samantha and Dex also had a lot of time to talk. And with some clarity, old feelings resurfaced between the two of them. Dex made Samantha feel safe, cared for and important. And since Dex is no longer playing for Ian, he wasn’t going to let the man dictate his feelings for Samantha again.
Once home in New York City, Samantha goes back into the office with her head held high and with a set of ground rules for her ex-fiancée, while her lawyer makes plans to make the company all hers. But in the meantime, Dex’s livelihood was taking a hit because of some bad press thanks to Samantha’s ex. Were they going to be able to both come out on the other end of this together? Or will the ex get his way in the end and get everything he thinks he deserves?
Whatever story brings me back into Phillips’ Dare orbit, I am here for it. And with every book she writes that’s interconnected with the other families she has beautifully crafted for us, I fall a little further into her storytelling. I can’t wait for the next Sterling sibling to get their Happily Ever After.
The second book in Carly Phillips’ Sterling Family series opens on Samanatha Dare’s wedding day. As she takes a minute to collect herself on her balcony, she overhears a conversation between her fiancée and his assistant that was never meant for her ears. Now with the clarity she finally feels, Samantha cancels her wedding and flees the hotel on foot, not sure where to go.
At the same moment, former Miami Thunder Football Player, Dex Sterling, is pulling into the same hotel for a meeting, when he almost runs over a blur in white. When Dex realizes it was Samantha, his former boss/now friend Ian Dare’s little sister, a flood of memories comes back to that holiday party when Dex was a rookie with a bright future ahead of him and he shared the hottest kiss of his life with Samantha. But given their young age and the fact that Dex was one of Samantha’s oldest brother’s new players, Dex backed off pretty quickly.
Without a second thought, Dex whisks Samantha away from the hotel and she makes a plan to disappear for a while to her cousin Asher’s private island getaway while she figures out her next steps. Not wanting to be with family nor does she want to be alone, Samantha invites Dex to go with her. He doesn’t hesitate to say yes.
Once in their private island paradise, Samantha alternates between breaking down over how she didn’t listen close enough to her family’s thoughts about her fiancée and how to disentangle herself from his clutches in their shared PR company, which was 51% hers. Dex was there to lend support and be whatever Samantha needed him to be at that moment. With a little help from Ian, she was well on her way to getting her ex out of her life.
Samantha and Dex also had a lot of time to talk. And with some clarity, old feelings resurfaced between the two of them. Dex made Samantha feel safe, cared for and important. And since Dex is no longer playing for Ian, he wasn’t going to let the man dictate his feelings for Samantha again.
Once home in New York City, Samantha goes back into the office with her head held high and with a set of ground rules for her ex-fiancée, while her lawyer makes plans to make the company all hers. But in the meantime, Dex’s livelihood was taking a hit because of some bad press thanks to Samantha’s ex. Were they going to be able to both come out on the other end of this together? Or will the ex get his way in the end and get everything he thinks he deserves?
Whatever story brings me back into Phillips’ Dare orbit, I am here for it. And with every book she writes that’s interconnected with the other families she has beautifully crafted for us, I fall a little further into her storytelling. I can’t wait for the next Sterling sibling to get their Happily Ever After.
November 30, 2024
Audiobook Review
🩷 Runaway bride
🖤 Former football star
🩷 Forced proximity
🖤 He falls first
🩷 Second chance
🖤 Older brother’s friend
🩷 Off the charts chemistry
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Narration: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a semi-slow burn that is fast paced. The chemistry between Samantha and Dex is instant, well really, it started years prior with a New Years kiss. One that her older brother, unbeknownst to her, squashed from going further with just one glare at Dex. Now, years later, the two are thrust back into each other’s lives and Dex is one of the most instantly supportive MMCs you will ever encounter. Samantha is in need of support after she found out her cheating bastard of a fiancé was after her money. This intriguing story is narrated by the legend, Connor Crais, and the wonderfully new to me Samantha Cook. The two do a fantastic job bringing these characters to life.
Samantha Dare calls off her wedding moments before she is set to marry her fiancé and business partner. Dex Sterling is a retired football star who was on his way to a meeting when Samantha Dare literally fell in his path. Dex whisks her away to get her out of the situation that she just can’t face. Samantha’s embarrassment over who she almost married and some choices she made in doing so have her dreading facing her family. Namely her brother, Ian Dare, self proclaimed head of the Dare family and Dex’s former boss.
Samantha may be attracted to the insanely hot AF Dex, but it’s too soon to be thinking about getting into another relationship. Dex hasn’t been able to forget Samantha’s turquoise eyes since that kiss, and being so close to her again is bringing all of those suppressed feelings back to the surface. The two are pulled to one another throughout this story, but there are twists, turns, and a two-timing ex to contend with in this short but jam packed story! It will leave the reader wanting more!
I was drawn to this story because of the plot, but also because Connor Crais is a one-click narrator for me. He was ever the protector in this performance, one that enhanced this MMC so well. This is my first Samantha Cook narration, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! She brought out every nuance and vibe of the characters wonderfully. I will definitely be on the lookout for more of her work! These two narrators together were a duo of dual narration that listeners will want to hear again!
Carly Phillips is a new to me author who I was introduced to since Must Love Audio sent me this ALC audiobook. The author’s note at the beginning of the book says that there are some changes made to the family backgrounds; who Samantha is related to. Because this is my first Carly Phillips, book the ‘inconsistencies’ mentioned or that were changed, did not influence my perspective on the book at all. To those who have read the other books in the series just know that there will be changes to the familial structure. I will be seeking out more of Phillips’ books! This was an enjoyable read 😊
💍“I may not be one of your girlfriends, but I have a big shoulder you can lean on.”
💍“See something you like sweetheart, because I know I do.”
💍“If you’re going to c***, it’ll be because I’m letting you.”
🩷 Runaway bride
🖤 Former football star
🩷 Forced proximity
🖤 He falls first
🩷 Second chance
🖤 Older brother’s friend
🩷 Off the charts chemistry
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Narration: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a semi-slow burn that is fast paced. The chemistry between Samantha and Dex is instant, well really, it started years prior with a New Years kiss. One that her older brother, unbeknownst to her, squashed from going further with just one glare at Dex. Now, years later, the two are thrust back into each other’s lives and Dex is one of the most instantly supportive MMCs you will ever encounter. Samantha is in need of support after she found out her cheating bastard of a fiancé was after her money. This intriguing story is narrated by the legend, Connor Crais, and the wonderfully new to me Samantha Cook. The two do a fantastic job bringing these characters to life.
Samantha Dare calls off her wedding moments before she is set to marry her fiancé and business partner. Dex Sterling is a retired football star who was on his way to a meeting when Samantha Dare literally fell in his path. Dex whisks her away to get her out of the situation that she just can’t face. Samantha’s embarrassment over who she almost married and some choices she made in doing so have her dreading facing her family. Namely her brother, Ian Dare, self proclaimed head of the Dare family and Dex’s former boss.
Samantha may be attracted to the insanely hot AF Dex, but it’s too soon to be thinking about getting into another relationship. Dex hasn’t been able to forget Samantha’s turquoise eyes since that kiss, and being so close to her again is bringing all of those suppressed feelings back to the surface. The two are pulled to one another throughout this story, but there are twists, turns, and a two-timing ex to contend with in this short but jam packed story! It will leave the reader wanting more!
I was drawn to this story because of the plot, but also because Connor Crais is a one-click narrator for me. He was ever the protector in this performance, one that enhanced this MMC so well. This is my first Samantha Cook narration, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! She brought out every nuance and vibe of the characters wonderfully. I will definitely be on the lookout for more of her work! These two narrators together were a duo of dual narration that listeners will want to hear again!
Carly Phillips is a new to me author who I was introduced to since Must Love Audio sent me this ALC audiobook. The author’s note at the beginning of the book says that there are some changes made to the family backgrounds; who Samantha is related to. Because this is my first Carly Phillips, book the ‘inconsistencies’ mentioned or that were changed, did not influence my perspective on the book at all. To those who have read the other books in the series just know that there will be changes to the familial structure. I will be seeking out more of Phillips’ books! This was an enjoyable read 😊
💍“I may not be one of your girlfriends, but I have a big shoulder you can lean on.”
💍“See something you like sweetheart, because I know I do.”
💍“If you’re going to c***, it’ll be because I’m letting you.”
July 24, 2024
4.25stars—JUST ONE MORE DARE is the second instalment in Carly Phillips’ contemporary, adult STERLING FAMILY erotic, romance series-a spin off from the author’s Dirty Dare and interconnected series. This is former professional football player Dex Sterling, and PR rep Samantha Dare’s story line. JUST ONE MORE DARE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Dex and Samantha) JUSTS ONE MORE DARE follows in the wake of Samantha discovering her fiancé’s affair with his long time assistant just minutes before the ceremony. Deciding her next move, Samantha finds herself ‘rescued’ by Dex Sterling, the man with whom Samantha will fall in love. Several days together on a secluded island, Samantha will come to terms with the life altering events but their return to society is hindered when Samantha’s now ex begins a smear campaign to destroy their lives. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Samantha and Dex, and the potential fall-out as Samantha is targeted by a sick and twisted man.
The world building focuses on the building relationship; the ultimate betrayal, and the large extended families on both sides. The Dare siblings have their own sordid history that they desperately try to keep out of the news, and the Sterling siblings find themselves supporting one another in the wake of past demons that refuse to let go
The relationship between Dex and Samantha is a friends to lovers, isolated proximity, in which Dex finds himself falling for a woman who just suffered a devastating betrayal. Not wanting to be the rebound boyfriend Dex struggles with his attraction to the woman who stole his heart years before but a woman that is strong enough to overcome the what is about to go down. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, energetic and familiar characters most of whom we have met in the current and interconnected series including Samantha’s older brother Ian Dare.
JUST ONE MORE DARE is a story of betrayal and obsession, secrets and lies, power and madness, acceptance and love. The fast paced, character driven premise is impassioned and fiery; the characters are magnetic and charismatic; the romance is seductive and provocative.
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy supplied
NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.
Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Dex and Samantha) JUSTS ONE MORE DARE follows in the wake of Samantha discovering her fiancé’s affair with his long time assistant just minutes before the ceremony. Deciding her next move, Samantha finds herself ‘rescued’ by Dex Sterling, the man with whom Samantha will fall in love. Several days together on a secluded island, Samantha will come to terms with the life altering events but their return to society is hindered when Samantha’s now ex begins a smear campaign to destroy their lives. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Samantha and Dex, and the potential fall-out as Samantha is targeted by a sick and twisted man.
The world building focuses on the building relationship; the ultimate betrayal, and the large extended families on both sides. The Dare siblings have their own sordid history that they desperately try to keep out of the news, and the Sterling siblings find themselves supporting one another in the wake of past demons that refuse to let go
The relationship between Dex and Samantha is a friends to lovers, isolated proximity, in which Dex finds himself falling for a woman who just suffered a devastating betrayal. Not wanting to be the rebound boyfriend Dex struggles with his attraction to the woman who stole his heart years before but a woman that is strong enough to overcome the what is about to go down. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, energetic and familiar characters most of whom we have met in the current and interconnected series including Samantha’s older brother Ian Dare.
JUST ONE MORE DARE is a story of betrayal and obsession, secrets and lies, power and madness, acceptance and love. The fast paced, character driven premise is impassioned and fiery; the characters are magnetic and charismatic; the romance is seductive and provocative.
www.thereadingcafe.com
copy supplied
July 21, 2024
When Samantha Dare overhears her fiancé with another woman minutes before their wedding, she makes the easy decision, throws the ring in his face and walks away. More humiliated than heartbroken, she leaves the hotel- and almost gets runover by Dex Sterling. Taking it for a sign, she asks Dex to get her out of there. Samantha and Dex had one hot kiss many years ago, but nothing happened then, so nothing will happen now- right? She needs to figure out how to get rid of her former fiance from the business they built together (but she put all the money in) and he doesn't want to be her rebound guy. But when things get tricky, Dex knows he wants to be the guy standing at Samantha's side, for better and for worse.
This was a great second-chance romance, which is usually not a trope I go searching out. But I tend to give anything Carly Phillips writes a chance, even when it isn't my usual cup of romance tea and, as expected, Just One More Dare doesn't disappoint. Samantha's protective older brother Ian may have been the reason Dex didn't pursue a relationship with her the first time they met, but Dex is older and wiser now- and realizes he's in the right place for a permanent relationship when he wasn't years ago. He's got some baggage from watching his parents fight all the time when he was a kid, so he's a goood mix of solid there-for-you guy with his hang-ups to overcome. Samantha shows that you can come from a big, loving and supportive family and still fall through the cracks sometimes. She wants to be there for everyone and hide that sometimes she needs people to be there for you. It's a realistic, vulnerable, mix and make Dex and Samantha a great mix. They are there for each other and where they fall down on their communication is also believable and never intended to hurt the other.
You don't need to have read any of the Dare or Sterling books to jump in here, in fact this is a pretty good introduction to both series. But if you've read those books you'll get some nice cameo crossovers to make you smile.
Fast and fun, 'Just One More Dare' is another win for Carly Phillips and her fans! I enjoyed this book and I think her readers will too.
I received an ARC of this book from Booksprout in exchange for an honest review
This was a great second-chance romance, which is usually not a trope I go searching out. But I tend to give anything Carly Phillips writes a chance, even when it isn't my usual cup of romance tea and, as expected, Just One More Dare doesn't disappoint. Samantha's protective older brother Ian may have been the reason Dex didn't pursue a relationship with her the first time they met, but Dex is older and wiser now- and realizes he's in the right place for a permanent relationship when he wasn't years ago. He's got some baggage from watching his parents fight all the time when he was a kid, so he's a goood mix of solid there-for-you guy with his hang-ups to overcome. Samantha shows that you can come from a big, loving and supportive family and still fall through the cracks sometimes. She wants to be there for everyone and hide that sometimes she needs people to be there for you. It's a realistic, vulnerable, mix and make Dex and Samantha a great mix. They are there for each other and where they fall down on their communication is also believable and never intended to hurt the other.
You don't need to have read any of the Dare or Sterling books to jump in here, in fact this is a pretty good introduction to both series. But if you've read those books you'll get some nice cameo crossovers to make you smile.
Fast and fun, 'Just One More Dare' is another win for Carly Phillips and her fans! I enjoyed this book and I think her readers will too.
I received an ARC of this book from Booksprout in exchange for an honest review
July 23, 2024
This is the book all Dare nation fans have been anticipating, finally we get Samantha Dares story and WOW what a story! It was everything plus more that I expected and did not disappoint!
Carly finally gives us the last original Dare sibling story and pairs her up with the most amazing swoony hero in the Sterling claim.
We start with a runaway bride when Samantha learns of the cheating ways of her soon to be husband. As she's fleeing the scene her hero Dex nearly runs her over. He sees her distress and takes her away, they spend a few days on a secluded island (courtesy of Ashe Dare) and Dex realizes why he never forgot the one who got away.
Several years ago Dex had one amazing evening and even hotter kiss with Samantha but he let Samantha walk away. She was young and her brother Ian, who was also Dex's new boss as the owner of the Miami Thunder, let it be known she was off limits. Dex is now retired and Ian is no longer his boss but his friend, so when he accidently is the one to rescue Samantha on her disastrous day, is determined to be the one to keep her safe and take that chance he lost. Despite what Ian thinks!!
Samantha is taking life one day at a time, putting her life and career back together. After all her ex-fiance, is also her business partner. Dissolving that partnership was turning out to be more than she ever dreamed. She tried to keep Dex at a distance in the friend with benefits zone but soon realized she was failing at that. After all she was just about to marry someone else just a few days before. She couldn't possibly have feelings for a man she hadn't seen in years do quickly.
A great story of family, friends and life and how twists and turns can lead you to the love of your life and the one person who will be there thru it all with you. Plus add in a little Ian Dare and the rest of the clan and this book is simply one of the most enjoyed books for me in a long while. Ian is still the strong alpha male everyone remembers but let me tell you Dex is just as strong and comes right back and fights for Samantha with all he has. It's was such a joy to read.
Thank you Carly for another amazing book with new characters as well as touching on the past. Samantha was everything I wanted her to be and more!!
Carly finally gives us the last original Dare sibling story and pairs her up with the most amazing swoony hero in the Sterling claim.
We start with a runaway bride when Samantha learns of the cheating ways of her soon to be husband. As she's fleeing the scene her hero Dex nearly runs her over. He sees her distress and takes her away, they spend a few days on a secluded island (courtesy of Ashe Dare) and Dex realizes why he never forgot the one who got away.
Several years ago Dex had one amazing evening and even hotter kiss with Samantha but he let Samantha walk away. She was young and her brother Ian, who was also Dex's new boss as the owner of the Miami Thunder, let it be known she was off limits. Dex is now retired and Ian is no longer his boss but his friend, so when he accidently is the one to rescue Samantha on her disastrous day, is determined to be the one to keep her safe and take that chance he lost. Despite what Ian thinks!!
Samantha is taking life one day at a time, putting her life and career back together. After all her ex-fiance, is also her business partner. Dissolving that partnership was turning out to be more than she ever dreamed. She tried to keep Dex at a distance in the friend with benefits zone but soon realized she was failing at that. After all she was just about to marry someone else just a few days before. She couldn't possibly have feelings for a man she hadn't seen in years do quickly.
A great story of family, friends and life and how twists and turns can lead you to the love of your life and the one person who will be there thru it all with you. Plus add in a little Ian Dare and the rest of the clan and this book is simply one of the most enjoyed books for me in a long while. Ian is still the strong alpha male everyone remembers but let me tell you Dex is just as strong and comes right back and fights for Samantha with all he has. It's was such a joy to read.
Thank you Carly for another amazing book with new characters as well as touching on the past. Samantha was everything I wanted her to be and more!!
July 23, 2024
Just One More Dare (The Sterling Family Book 2) by Carly Phillips is a fun novel about retired football player Dax Sterling and runaway bride PR firm co-owner Samantha Dare. Samatha is the little sister of the football team owner and best friend of Dax Sterling. When Dax was just an NFL rookie on the Miami Thunder team, he met Samantha at a New Year’s Eve team party where they spent the evening talking that ended with an explosive kiss that no one else came close to rivaling before or until his present day. At the time, Samantha didn’t understand why Dax kissed her and just walked away as he didn’t share with Samantha that he was pinned with a glaring look of “I will destroy you” from her brother Ian. On the day of her wedding, Samantha tried to settle her nerves by taking fresh air on her hotel balcony when she overheard her fiancé telling his assistant that he loved her and just being patient so he could access all of Samantha’s money when he divorced her. Enter an angry, hurt bride who calls off the wedding, and while running out of the hotel and wedding venue, she runs into Dax coming to the hotel to meet with a friend of his and begs him to take her out of the immediate vicinity. Samantha decides to visit an island resort her cousin Asher owns in the Bahamas, with Dax tagging along to look after her. At the same time, Samantha gets herself together and formulates a plan to handle her ex-fiancé, who lives in her apartment and is part owner of their PR firm. It is as Samatha begins the process of eradicating the ex from all aspects of her life, buying out his part of the business and kicking him out of her apartment, that major drama happens, and Dax steps back in to protect Samantha. Samantha and Dax explore getting to know each other, including giving in to their electric attraction when opposition and consequences begin to strike them and try to derail their budding relationship. Carly Phillips's romance between Dax and Carly experiences an emotional ride as the reader turns each page in the book until the final page is turned over with their HEA at last. Carly Phillips’s writing is the same caliber author as Nora Roberts and Melissa Foster, the reigning queens of fictional romance.
May 20, 2025
Another great novel!
The second book in The Sterling Family series by Carly Phillips, Just One More Dare, is a brilliant story about finding your soulmate, second chance romance, and family love. As much as I love a good spicy romance, I was more impressed by how the two large families, the Sterlings and the Dares, expressed unconditional love and support for the two main characters, Dex Sterling and Samantha Dare. As the oldest child of five, I could relate to the overprotectiveness of Samantha's older brother Ian, the frustration Dex experienced with siblings always in his face, and the overwhelming love and gratitude for their families' undying support when life started to fall apart. Being able to pick up a phone and call a family member, knowing they will move heaven and Earth to support you, is the sweetest gift I have ever received. After reading Just One More Dare, I was compelled to call my siblings and let them know how grateful I was for their presence in my life. The empathy and understanding of families, as demonstrated by Carly Phillips in her beautiful prose, brought me to tears. It was a Hallmark movie quality!
I experienced one problem related to large families: remembering who was who! I am new to the Carly Phillips universe. I started with the Sterling Family, only to discover a whole other family (the Dares) I did not know about. Carly Phillips does a fantastic job of reminding readers who's who in both families. Yet, I had difficulty determining whether a character was a Sterling or a Dare. I needed a family team roster to make relationships more straightforward. Or maybe I should read the Dare family series!
Just One More Dare is a steamy, second-chance romance. I loved every minute reading this novel. I couldn't put it down, sacrificing sleep, fluids, and even bathroom breaks to finish this book in one sitting! See for yourself what the Sterling Family and Carly Phillips have in store for you!
The second book in The Sterling Family series by Carly Phillips, Just One More Dare, is a brilliant story about finding your soulmate, second chance romance, and family love. As much as I love a good spicy romance, I was more impressed by how the two large families, the Sterlings and the Dares, expressed unconditional love and support for the two main characters, Dex Sterling and Samantha Dare. As the oldest child of five, I could relate to the overprotectiveness of Samantha's older brother Ian, the frustration Dex experienced with siblings always in his face, and the overwhelming love and gratitude for their families' undying support when life started to fall apart. Being able to pick up a phone and call a family member, knowing they will move heaven and Earth to support you, is the sweetest gift I have ever received. After reading Just One More Dare, I was compelled to call my siblings and let them know how grateful I was for their presence in my life. The empathy and understanding of families, as demonstrated by Carly Phillips in her beautiful prose, brought me to tears. It was a Hallmark movie quality!
I experienced one problem related to large families: remembering who was who! I am new to the Carly Phillips universe. I started with the Sterling Family, only to discover a whole other family (the Dares) I did not know about. Carly Phillips does a fantastic job of reminding readers who's who in both families. Yet, I had difficulty determining whether a character was a Sterling or a Dare. I needed a family team roster to make relationships more straightforward. Or maybe I should read the Dare family series!
Just One More Dare is a steamy, second-chance romance. I loved every minute reading this novel. I couldn't put it down, sacrificing sleep, fluids, and even bathroom breaks to finish this book in one sitting! See for yourself what the Sterling Family and Carly Phillips have in store for you!
July 23, 2024
Just One More Dare is the newest release in the Sterling Family series, which brings back Samantha Dare, from the original Dare Family series. Dex Sterling is at the right place at the right time to help Samantha get away from her wedding after she discovers her fiancé has been cheating on her with his assistant.
I loved everything about Samantha and Dex's story. Their story was a bit of a second chance romance, as they had shared a New Year's Eve kiss years ago when Dex was playing football for the Miami Thunder, the team Samantha's brother Ian owns. Ian being Ian, of course had warned Dex to stay away from his baby sister. Samantha and Dex had strong chemistry from the moment they saw each other again. Samantha and Dex's romance gave me all the happy feels. Samantha has always been a strong woman but seemed to become even stronger with Dex's support. I adored Dex really seemed to understand Samantha, and she seemed to understand him on the same level.
I loved both Samantha and Dex came from such large families, and they were each close to their families. I felt like that helped them each deal with the nosiness of each other's families. I love how much close families are always a part of any new book from Carly Phillips. The romance is always the main focus of her books, but the closeknit family and connections keep readers coming back for more in each new series.
Just One More Dare was a fantastic addition to the Sterling Family series, and a true gift to all the Dare Family fans. Finally getting to see Samatha Dare find her happily ever after was perfection! The original Dare family series is absolutely one of my most favorite series from Ms. Phillips, and getting to revisit with Ian Dare and the other members of the family made this book absolutely perfect for me. Fans of contemporary romances will adore Samantha and Dex's journey every bit as much as I did.
Rating: 5 Stars (A)
Review copy provided by publisher
I loved everything about Samantha and Dex's story. Their story was a bit of a second chance romance, as they had shared a New Year's Eve kiss years ago when Dex was playing football for the Miami Thunder, the team Samantha's brother Ian owns. Ian being Ian, of course had warned Dex to stay away from his baby sister. Samantha and Dex had strong chemistry from the moment they saw each other again. Samantha and Dex's romance gave me all the happy feels. Samantha has always been a strong woman but seemed to become even stronger with Dex's support. I adored Dex really seemed to understand Samantha, and she seemed to understand him on the same level.
I loved both Samantha and Dex came from such large families, and they were each close to their families. I felt like that helped them each deal with the nosiness of each other's families. I love how much close families are always a part of any new book from Carly Phillips. The romance is always the main focus of her books, but the closeknit family and connections keep readers coming back for more in each new series.
Just One More Dare was a fantastic addition to the Sterling Family series, and a true gift to all the Dare Family fans. Finally getting to see Samatha Dare find her happily ever after was perfection! The original Dare family series is absolutely one of my most favorite series from Ms. Phillips, and getting to revisit with Ian Dare and the other members of the family made this book absolutely perfect for me. Fans of contemporary romances will adore Samantha and Dex's journey every bit as much as I did.
Rating: 5 Stars (A)
Review copy provided by publisher
July 23, 2024
Samantha Dare finally gets her own story! As Ian Dare's youngest sister, she has always been somewhat protected. On the day of Samantha's wedding to Jeremy Rollins, she finds out he is cheating on her with his secretary! Already having doubts of going through with the wedding, Samantha confronts Jeremy and calls off the wedding. Now she just needs to figure out how to get him out of their company partnership.
Samantha decides to escape after telling her family what is going on. While running out of the hotel, who almost runs her over with their car....Dex Sterling, an ex-football player from her brother Ian's team and the man who once kissed her giving her the best kiss of her life. She asks Dex to get her away as fast as he can and he happily agrees. Dex cannot believe that the woman whom he has privately lusted after for years, is finally in his world again. The first time, Samantha's brother Ian strongly scared him away, and considering he was Dex's boss at the time, Dex listened. This time he is not going away so fast!
When Samantha sets up getting out of town, Dex happily agrees to go with her. The time spent together quickly reveals that their chemistry is still alive and soon they cross that line. Dex is ready for a life with Samantha and vows to himself he will get the girl in the end! After heading back home, things with Jeremy get crazy and Dex is ready to prove his commitment. Just when it looks like everything will end up perfect, danger comes into the picture and everything goes awry. In the end, love wins out and Samantha and Dex finally get their happy ever after!
I just loved this steamy, second chance romance. Dex was super dreamy and was so attuned to Samantha's every need and he just wanted to give her the world. I also loved that these two finally got their perfect ending.
Samantha decides to escape after telling her family what is going on. While running out of the hotel, who almost runs her over with their car....Dex Sterling, an ex-football player from her brother Ian's team and the man who once kissed her giving her the best kiss of her life. She asks Dex to get her away as fast as he can and he happily agrees. Dex cannot believe that the woman whom he has privately lusted after for years, is finally in his world again. The first time, Samantha's brother Ian strongly scared him away, and considering he was Dex's boss at the time, Dex listened. This time he is not going away so fast!
When Samantha sets up getting out of town, Dex happily agrees to go with her. The time spent together quickly reveals that their chemistry is still alive and soon they cross that line. Dex is ready for a life with Samantha and vows to himself he will get the girl in the end! After heading back home, things with Jeremy get crazy and Dex is ready to prove his commitment. Just when it looks like everything will end up perfect, danger comes into the picture and everything goes awry. In the end, love wins out and Samantha and Dex finally get their happy ever after!
I just loved this steamy, second chance romance. Dex was super dreamy and was so attuned to Samantha's every need and he just wanted to give her the world. I also loved that these two finally got their perfect ending.
July 21, 2024
This was an amazing read. The characters were phenomenal. The storyline was fantastic.
On the day or her wedding, just minutes before it is to start, Samantha overhears her soon to be husband; Jeremy, talking with his mistress which also happens to be his PA Marley. They were discussing how long she and Jeremy have to wait until they can get all of Samantha’s money and business so he can divorce her to be with Marley.
Fortunately, for Samantha she overheard Jeremy just in time, which leads to her next move, which is to leave the ceremony all together without getting married. Upon leaving, Samantha almost gets hit by Dex’s car. Not only has Samantha known Dex for a long time as he is her brother’s friend, but he is also the man that gave her the one kiss she could never forget, the best kiss of her life.
After almost hitting Samantha with his car, Dex realizes that Samantha is in a wedding dress and finds out she is running away from the wedding, not towards it. Dex doesn’t feel right to just leave Samantha by herself with all the emotions going on inside her, so she gets in his car, and they drive off together. Dex is determined to stay with Samantha as she escapes for a while to get her head around things and figure out what she is going to do next. It’s no hardship for Dex as he’s been hot for Samantha since he was a rookie playing ball. Ian, Samantha’s brother scared Dex away from Samantha once, he isn’t about to let him do it again.
You will feel all emotions with this read. You will laugh, possibly cry and you will definitely feel the chemistry between the characters.
I was shocked by a couple of surprises at the end of the book, but it really did add to the story and made it even better. Highly recommended read!!!
On the day or her wedding, just minutes before it is to start, Samantha overhears her soon to be husband; Jeremy, talking with his mistress which also happens to be his PA Marley. They were discussing how long she and Jeremy have to wait until they can get all of Samantha’s money and business so he can divorce her to be with Marley.
Fortunately, for Samantha she overheard Jeremy just in time, which leads to her next move, which is to leave the ceremony all together without getting married. Upon leaving, Samantha almost gets hit by Dex’s car. Not only has Samantha known Dex for a long time as he is her brother’s friend, but he is also the man that gave her the one kiss she could never forget, the best kiss of her life.
After almost hitting Samantha with his car, Dex realizes that Samantha is in a wedding dress and finds out she is running away from the wedding, not towards it. Dex doesn’t feel right to just leave Samantha by herself with all the emotions going on inside her, so she gets in his car, and they drive off together. Dex is determined to stay with Samantha as she escapes for a while to get her head around things and figure out what she is going to do next. It’s no hardship for Dex as he’s been hot for Samantha since he was a rookie playing ball. Ian, Samantha’s brother scared Dex away from Samantha once, he isn’t about to let him do it again.
You will feel all emotions with this read. You will laugh, possibly cry and you will definitely feel the chemistry between the characters.
I was shocked by a couple of surprises at the end of the book, but it really did add to the story and made it even better. Highly recommended read!!!
July 17, 2024
Written in third person from an alternating dual POV, this book can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA.
Samantha is a fierce heroine who makes immediate changes when she realizes how her fiancé has fooled her before she walks down the aisle. She calls off the wedding and makes a run for it. And when she runs into Dex first thing, he comes along for the ride. I love how Samantha understands her needs, though she doesn’t always cater to them. I love her strength. She is savvy and knows when to get assistance to fully separate herself from her ex-fiancé/business partner. Dex is a recently retired NFL quarterback who has known Samantha for years through his old boss, her oldest brother. I adored his protective streak. I love how he doesn’t try to make Samantha’s decisions for her, but instead is there to offer her any support she needs while she makes her own decisions. I love the friendship between them. They also have an undeniable attraction, which leads to some hot times.
This couple faces some external challenges to their commitment to each other before they fully realize how much they are feeling. They persevere by continually choosing each other and I absolutely adored that.
This writer does an amazing job writing interconnected family series and this is no exception. Each new family member that finds their happy ending only leaves me feeling warm and fuzzy inside. I read this in one sitting and I have no regrets. What is better than sitting outside on a summer day with a book that makes you laugh, gasp, and smile? Absolutely nothing. That’s what.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
Samantha is a fierce heroine who makes immediate changes when she realizes how her fiancé has fooled her before she walks down the aisle. She calls off the wedding and makes a run for it. And when she runs into Dex first thing, he comes along for the ride. I love how Samantha understands her needs, though she doesn’t always cater to them. I love her strength. She is savvy and knows when to get assistance to fully separate herself from her ex-fiancé/business partner. Dex is a recently retired NFL quarterback who has known Samantha for years through his old boss, her oldest brother. I adored his protective streak. I love how he doesn’t try to make Samantha’s decisions for her, but instead is there to offer her any support she needs while she makes her own decisions. I love the friendship between them. They also have an undeniable attraction, which leads to some hot times.
This couple faces some external challenges to their commitment to each other before they fully realize how much they are feeling. They persevere by continually choosing each other and I absolutely adored that.
This writer does an amazing job writing interconnected family series and this is no exception. Each new family member that finds their happy ending only leaves me feeling warm and fuzzy inside. I read this in one sitting and I have no regrets. What is better than sitting outside on a summer day with a book that makes you laugh, gasp, and smile? Absolutely nothing. That’s what.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
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