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Perspectives #1
Extreme Close-Up
Approx. 40,000 words; standalone novel
Recommended for readers 18+ due to adult language and situations
He’s hot, young, and way off-limits... But he might be just what she needs to get over the past and on with her life.
Lisa Taylor’s life stalled after her divorce three years ago, and she never got it started up again. Now her shit-paying catalogue photography job is boring her to death, she can’t bear to look in the mirror, and she hasn’t had a man since her asshole ex left.
When a gorgeous younger man reappears in her life, he promises to be the solution to all those problems. Tempting as he is -- and god almighty, he is! -- taking what he offers could destroy what little she has left.
Recommended for readers 18+ due to adult language and situations
He’s hot, young, and way off-limits... But he might be just what she needs to get over the past and on with her life.
Lisa Taylor’s life stalled after her divorce three years ago, and she never got it started up again. Now her shit-paying catalogue photography job is boring her to death, she can’t bear to look in the mirror, and she hasn’t had a man since her asshole ex left.
When a gorgeous younger man reappears in her life, he promises to be the solution to all those problems. Tempting as he is -- and god almighty, he is! -- taking what he offers could destroy what little she has left.
113 pages, ebook
First published March 10, 2014
About the author
Julie Jaret
7 books120 followersJulie Jaret is an American screenwriter with one feature film produced and some others on deck. Her alter-ego needed an outlet, so here we are.
Julie lives in the southeast U.S. with her sexy and supportive husband, two funny and beautiful kids, and one big doofus of a dog. She enjoys living vicariously through her fictional characters, often to the point of distraction... (Luckily, her hubby and kids know not to expect dinner at a certain time. Or at all.)
Julie lives in the southeast U.S. with her sexy and supportive husband, two funny and beautiful kids, and one big doofus of a dog. She enjoys living vicariously through her fictional characters, often to the point of distraction... (Luckily, her hubby and kids know not to expect dinner at a certain time. Or at all.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
June 9, 2014
I picked this book up on a recommendation from a friend. It is a quick read, but don't let the cover fool you, there is some great unexpected stuff in this book.
First there is a taboo about their relationship - I am not going to spoil it for you with what! As a reader it was really refreshing to see that not only the young (NA set) go through life changing events and still need a boost in confidence. There is a sweetness to their relationship in which both have for years seen deeper things in each other that the rest of the world does not see.
I also enjoyed that this is a stopover relationship, its a HFN. Most of life is that way and it made this novel relatable by the reader.
Don't get me wrong there are some hot sexy scenes in this book. If you read closer though there are scenes that will bring you to tears. A book that can take a reader a whole range of emotions is always worth it in my book. Check out this book you won't be disappointed.
First there is a taboo about their relationship - I am not going to spoil it for you with what! As a reader it was really refreshing to see that not only the young (NA set) go through life changing events and still need a boost in confidence. There is a sweetness to their relationship in which both have for years seen deeper things in each other that the rest of the world does not see.
I also enjoyed that this is a stopover relationship, its a HFN. Most of life is that way and it made this novel relatable by the reader.
Don't get me wrong there are some hot sexy scenes in this book. If you read closer though there are scenes that will bring you to tears. A book that can take a reader a whole range of emotions is always worth it in my book. Check out this book you won't be disappointed.
March 28, 2014
Someone told me that all stories have already been told – the trick is finding new and interesting ways to tell them.
Extreme Close-Up begins with a rather common storyline. An older woman falls for a very off limits younger man. It is the telling of the story and the details that make it unique.
Ms. Jaret manages to create a believable, yet very erotic romantic fantasy. The evolution of Lisa and Brady’s relationship is very realistic. It begins with the typical “This can’t happen” feeling, but quickly moves to “I want this all the time”, and finally to “What happens now” in seamless and natural way. The story isn’t real, but it feels possible, which makes the fantasy that much better.
Just under the basic plot-line runs a deeper theme of what we see shaping our life’s vision. Lisa struggles with her self-image while being forced to photograph less than exciting mechanical pencils. She sees things she doesn’t like, and her life is less than desirable. As Brady helps Lisa become more comfortable with herself, she is able to take more control over the things she sees both in front of and behind her camera lens. By the end, Lisa is living a beautiful and even enviable life. Blake helps her see what is really in front of her, which is not what she sees on her own. As the series notes, it really is a matter of perspective. A change in perspective, be it extremely close up, or taking a step back, can make all the difference.
This review is 4 stars rather than five because the story starts a bit slow. Of course, a common tale must start somewhere, but it is about 1/3 of the way into the novel that things really start to get good. Most erotic scenes have been told before, but they haven’t been told like this. The erotic scenes are extremely hot, and although plentiful, are never redundant or boring.
It takes true skill to tell a relatively common story in a new and exciting way. This novel is delicious and doesn’t disappoint. I can't wait to see what the next perspective is!
Reviewer's Note: This novel was received as an ARC.
Extreme Close-Up begins with a rather common storyline. An older woman falls for a very off limits younger man. It is the telling of the story and the details that make it unique.
Ms. Jaret manages to create a believable, yet very erotic romantic fantasy. The evolution of Lisa and Brady’s relationship is very realistic. It begins with the typical “This can’t happen” feeling, but quickly moves to “I want this all the time”, and finally to “What happens now” in seamless and natural way. The story isn’t real, but it feels possible, which makes the fantasy that much better.
Just under the basic plot-line runs a deeper theme of what we see shaping our life’s vision. Lisa struggles with her self-image while being forced to photograph less than exciting mechanical pencils. She sees things she doesn’t like, and her life is less than desirable. As Brady helps Lisa become more comfortable with herself, she is able to take more control over the things she sees both in front of and behind her camera lens. By the end, Lisa is living a beautiful and even enviable life. Blake helps her see what is really in front of her, which is not what she sees on her own. As the series notes, it really is a matter of perspective. A change in perspective, be it extremely close up, or taking a step back, can make all the difference.
This review is 4 stars rather than five because the story starts a bit slow. Of course, a common tale must start somewhere, but it is about 1/3 of the way into the novel that things really start to get good. Most erotic scenes have been told before, but they haven’t been told like this. The erotic scenes are extremely hot, and although plentiful, are never redundant or boring.
It takes true skill to tell a relatively common story in a new and exciting way. This novel is delicious and doesn’t disappoint. I can't wait to see what the next perspective is!
Reviewer's Note: This novel was received as an ARC.
December 7, 2014
5 Mouth Watering Toe Curling Stars
Wow where to start on this book!!! Julie Jaret has written a phenomenal story about a 40 something year old lady who has in recent years been divorced. Most romance/erotic books today are about young gorgeous perfectly fit 20 something year olds. This is a refreshing story that so many readers in this genre will be able to relate to on different levels. Divorce, middle age, identity issues, career questions and so much more.
Julie has written a lovely story about how to fall back in love with yourself so you can learn to love another. Lisa Taylor, the main character in this story, is at a cross roads, she is divorced, hates her job and does not recognize the lady she sees staring back at her when she looks at her self in the mirror.
Braden Healey is the boy who grew up watching her son Jake. Braden was a fixture in Lisa's household as he would babysit Jake, taught him how to swing a bat, and helped Jake with his homework. But now Braden was back and he was all grown up now and down right gorgeous!
Would you if you had the chance allow your self to have a fling with a younger stud? Braden is all to willing to offer his services to Lisa. Can Lisa look past her flaws and recognize that she still is a beautiful woman who has a lot she can offer a man?
Julie's writing style will have you at one moment agreeing that Lisa should not given in but other times Julie will have you begging for these two to give into their lust for each other.
Can Braden with his sexy ways help Lisa out of her rut and make her see herself the way he sees her as a beautiful woman! Braden will do everything he can to seduce Lisa. And you will love Lisa's best friend Natalie who is also pushing Lisa along to "hit that" (Braden).
This is a hot sexy read that I encourage all my book friends to read this hot sexy book!
Wow where to start on this book!!! Julie Jaret has written a phenomenal story about a 40 something year old lady who has in recent years been divorced. Most romance/erotic books today are about young gorgeous perfectly fit 20 something year olds. This is a refreshing story that so many readers in this genre will be able to relate to on different levels. Divorce, middle age, identity issues, career questions and so much more.
Julie has written a lovely story about how to fall back in love with yourself so you can learn to love another. Lisa Taylor, the main character in this story, is at a cross roads, she is divorced, hates her job and does not recognize the lady she sees staring back at her when she looks at her self in the mirror.
Braden Healey is the boy who grew up watching her son Jake. Braden was a fixture in Lisa's household as he would babysit Jake, taught him how to swing a bat, and helped Jake with his homework. But now Braden was back and he was all grown up now and down right gorgeous!
Would you if you had the chance allow your self to have a fling with a younger stud? Braden is all to willing to offer his services to Lisa. Can Lisa look past her flaws and recognize that she still is a beautiful woman who has a lot she can offer a man?
Julie's writing style will have you at one moment agreeing that Lisa should not given in but other times Julie will have you begging for these two to give into their lust for each other.
Can Braden with his sexy ways help Lisa out of her rut and make her see herself the way he sees her as a beautiful woman! Braden will do everything he can to seduce Lisa. And you will love Lisa's best friend Natalie who is also pushing Lisa along to "hit that" (Braden).
This is a hot sexy read that I encourage all my book friends to read this hot sexy book!
November 13, 2014
Oh my! I really enjoyed this read, I could have actually kept on reading so much more. Mrs Taylor, first name Lisa is a divorcee with a 15 year old son called Jake, who is currently at camp, while Lisa is trying to make ends meet to pay the bills, as her ex husband is late in his child payment, he's an asshole to be honest, so I won't even bother giving you his name. Lisa is a photographer and obviously takes on any jobs that come along no matter how dull and boring. Her best friend, called Natalie is the only excitement in her life, until one day she wakes to the sound of a lawn being mowed, not just any lawn but her lawn in her garden, weird since she would never hire a gardener because of the cost, she goes to tell the man he has the wrong address, she stops dead in her tracks as she appreciates his fine torso, he was seriously hot, she tells him you have the wrong house, he thought she wouldn't be home, all pretty confusing till he takes his shades off and she realises it is Brady now known as Braden her babysitter who she hasn't seen for years, Braden is 23 years old now, Lisa is 17 years his senior . So while reading this great story I find out why Lisa is now divorced, how Braden came to help her out, and read some utterly amazing passionate sex scenes, (boy oh boy!) they were HOT!. I thought I knew how this story was going to end but like every good story, I was so wrong, I actually did want to cry at one point, I was thinking to myself get a grip it has to be this way, I believe this is the sign of a good writer when they evoke emotions from me. I would recommend this book to any reader who likes to read hot sex scenes, loving romance with a great story, and they don't mind the story taking a new direction. Thank you for a great read Julie Jaret can you please write more about Lisa.
July 18, 2015
Really enjoyed this book. This was this was Lisa's Story a divorced women and a photographer who thought so very little of her body. Thinking she is to fat and not sexy at all. Braden who lives around the corner whom she has know most of his life shows up one day to help with her lawn and watch over her while her son Jake is away at camp. He used to baby Lisa's son Jake when he was little. What Lisa did not know is he has fantasized about her for years.
Braden shows Lisa just how beautiful and desirable she really is. Their story is very interesting. Lisa's ex-husband is now married to he used to be best friend and Braden's mom. Yes Vance is and was always a jerk. Braden always though he was an a**. Lisa was tired of the photo shoot job she had and decided enough was enough. Find out what happens with Branden and Lisa and a very sexy photo shoot. Braden develops deep feelings for Lisa so he thinks but they know it just can not continue.
So much more to the story but I do not want to ruin it for anyone. This book is a great read. I love how you get to know how they knew each other in the past and how the relationship evolved. It was a fun read really kept my attention the entire time. Julie does a great job with all the characters in the book. For a debut book well all I can say is great job. We got to meet Lisa, Braden, Jake (Lisa's Son) and Natalie is the crazy fun best friend striving to become a partner at the firm she works for. (Set up maybe for next book) I look forward to the next book in this series can not wait to jump right into it and fight out what happens next. I hope we get more of Lisa and the possible new man in her life. I also hope Vance gets what coming to him lol.
I was gifted this book for an honest review. Loved it.
Kate from Two Angels and A Devil Blog
Braden shows Lisa just how beautiful and desirable she really is. Their story is very interesting. Lisa's ex-husband is now married to he used to be best friend and Braden's mom. Yes Vance is and was always a jerk. Braden always though he was an a**. Lisa was tired of the photo shoot job she had and decided enough was enough. Find out what happens with Branden and Lisa and a very sexy photo shoot. Braden develops deep feelings for Lisa so he thinks but they know it just can not continue.
So much more to the story but I do not want to ruin it for anyone. This book is a great read. I love how you get to know how they knew each other in the past and how the relationship evolved. It was a fun read really kept my attention the entire time. Julie does a great job with all the characters in the book. For a debut book well all I can say is great job. We got to meet Lisa, Braden, Jake (Lisa's Son) and Natalie is the crazy fun best friend striving to become a partner at the firm she works for. (Set up maybe for next book) I look forward to the next book in this series can not wait to jump right into it and fight out what happens next. I hope we get more of Lisa and the possible new man in her life. I also hope Vance gets what coming to him lol.
I was gifted this book for an honest review. Loved it.
Kate from Two Angels and A Devil Blog
January 13, 2015
I won this book from a Facebook takeover and I am so glad I did. Not only is the writing excellent, but it wasn’t what I expected and that’s a good thing.
If you are expecting a typical Cougar or even older woman with some self-esteem issues gets hot, confident young man with the cookie cutter plot then you will be completely disappointed. It is completely refreshing to have an author who isn’t afraid to bring something a little new, a little different to the erotic romance genre.
The book starts how you expect but things change drastically by the end.
The main heroine, Lisa, hasn’t been with a man (date or otherwise) since the divorce of her husband. Due to this and a bad ending to a not so great marriage, she isn’t confident in herself physically and sexually. She needs Brandon the hot young man in her neighborhood to help her understand how desirable she is.
They both need each other at that moment and to me, that’s the best part about the book. It’s the most realistic take on a ‘hot’ romance in this genre. There are reasons people date each other at the time they are in each other’s lives. This book showed that. So, when the twist happens at the end I totally understood why it occurs. In a way, it was needed and necessary. Some readers may not see that but everyone is different.
Get this book if you want good writing, thought out plot, super-hot sex scenes and well-rounded characters in a story that is slightly outside the box,
Do not get this book if you are expecting typical characters and the same type of plot you have always read.
If you are expecting a typical Cougar or even older woman with some self-esteem issues gets hot, confident young man with the cookie cutter plot then you will be completely disappointed. It is completely refreshing to have an author who isn’t afraid to bring something a little new, a little different to the erotic romance genre.
The book starts how you expect but things change drastically by the end.
The main heroine, Lisa, hasn’t been with a man (date or otherwise) since the divorce of her husband. Due to this and a bad ending to a not so great marriage, she isn’t confident in herself physically and sexually. She needs Brandon the hot young man in her neighborhood to help her understand how desirable she is.
They both need each other at that moment and to me, that’s the best part about the book. It’s the most realistic take on a ‘hot’ romance in this genre. There are reasons people date each other at the time they are in each other’s lives. This book showed that. So, when the twist happens at the end I totally understood why it occurs. In a way, it was needed and necessary. Some readers may not see that but everyone is different.
Get this book if you want good writing, thought out plot, super-hot sex scenes and well-rounded characters in a story that is slightly outside the box,
Do not get this book if you are expecting typical characters and the same type of plot you have always read.
November 13, 2014
***Copy given in exchange for an honest review***
Ever lost yourself to self doubt? Stuck on the non stop roundabout of the mundane and habit? Meet our leading lady...divorced three years ago as her husband left her for the family friend (think Jerry Springer) in a dead end soul sucking job that just about covers the bills, with the bitter aftertaste of a failed marriage flavoring her every thought. She is just past forty and has retained every negative comment ever made about her so she can no longer look at herself in the mirror.
Braden is the older brother her son never had, returning home after a nasty accident on the football pitch, he decides he is now mature enough to reveal his true intentions. This is a story of self discovery as he teaches her to reconnect with who she really is. He shows her how to view herself as others do and instills confidence. In return she encourages him to bit just be a pretty face and make something of his talents.
It is a love story, full of passion and the added eroticism of the slight wrongness of the situation. She's a cougar although a resistant one at first! The plot is beautifully written, engaging and realistic so you connect strongly to the main character and empathise completely.
I recommend this to anyone looking for something hot, steamy but with a strong positive vibe to it too. She is like the ugly duckling ...she turns into a self confident, successful, beautiful swan.
Ever lost yourself to self doubt? Stuck on the non stop roundabout of the mundane and habit? Meet our leading lady...divorced three years ago as her husband left her for the family friend (think Jerry Springer) in a dead end soul sucking job that just about covers the bills, with the bitter aftertaste of a failed marriage flavoring her every thought. She is just past forty and has retained every negative comment ever made about her so she can no longer look at herself in the mirror.
Braden is the older brother her son never had, returning home after a nasty accident on the football pitch, he decides he is now mature enough to reveal his true intentions. This is a story of self discovery as he teaches her to reconnect with who she really is. He shows her how to view herself as others do and instills confidence. In return she encourages him to bit just be a pretty face and make something of his talents.
It is a love story, full of passion and the added eroticism of the slight wrongness of the situation. She's a cougar although a resistant one at first! The plot is beautifully written, engaging and realistic so you connect strongly to the main character and empathise completely.
I recommend this to anyone looking for something hot, steamy but with a strong positive vibe to it too. She is like the ugly duckling ...she turns into a self confident, successful, beautiful swan.
September 12, 2014
3.5 STARS!
I am really mixed about what I want to say in this review and that doesn't happen to me often. I liked this book but the ending left me confused (mouth hanging open and all) and wanting a better resolution. This book was full of humor, funny one-liners, sexual tension, sexy times, naughty talk, and one seriously twisted relationship.
This is Lisa's story. I like to this of this book as "How LISA got her groove back." After a crappy divorce with her cheating ex-husband, Lisa is looking to reclaim herself and her identity, but being an older woman with low self esteem, it can be challenging. But when someone from her past reappears, it awakens a part of her that hasn't been alive in years, if ever. Get ready for a hot, sexy, and funny roller coaster with Lisa as she reclaims herself.
I liked Braden. I loved his humor and persistence and boy could he talk dirty. The guy was sex on a stick that I would love to jump. To me, he really made the book.
I do recommend this book. The parts I didn't like of this book are that terrible one-liner "its me not you.". This book has high stars and many people who rave about it so one click it today. You won't be disappointed!
Blog Tour---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2014...
I am really mixed about what I want to say in this review and that doesn't happen to me often. I liked this book but the ending left me confused (mouth hanging open and all) and wanting a better resolution. This book was full of humor, funny one-liners, sexual tension, sexy times, naughty talk, and one seriously twisted relationship.
This is Lisa's story. I like to this of this book as "How LISA got her groove back." After a crappy divorce with her cheating ex-husband, Lisa is looking to reclaim herself and her identity, but being an older woman with low self esteem, it can be challenging. But when someone from her past reappears, it awakens a part of her that hasn't been alive in years, if ever. Get ready for a hot, sexy, and funny roller coaster with Lisa as she reclaims herself.
I liked Braden. I loved his humor and persistence and boy could he talk dirty. The guy was sex on a stick that I would love to jump. To me, he really made the book.
I do recommend this book. The parts I didn't like of this book are that terrible one-liner "its me not you.". This book has high stars and many people who rave about it so one click it today. You won't be disappointed!
Blog Tour---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2014...
November 13, 2014
This is my first book by Julie and may I say I am now a fan girl.
Lisa has recently been through a difficult and embarrassing divorce. She is left to regain her dignity, promote her struggling photography business and attempt to place herself back on the dating scene. This may be difficult when she doesn't see herself as an attractive sexual woman anymore.
Then we have Brayden. He was once the babysitter of Lisa's son. He appears back in her life and things begin to become different between them. The relationship is believable and the characters are amazing together. The banter, sexual tension and undeniable sexual attraction is wonderful! I was loving the cast of characters. I am so looking forward to reading Lisa's friend Natalie's story!!!
I was gifted this book for an honest review.
~~Michele McMullen~~
Lisa has recently been through a difficult and embarrassing divorce. She is left to regain her dignity, promote her struggling photography business and attempt to place herself back on the dating scene. This may be difficult when she doesn't see herself as an attractive sexual woman anymore.
Then we have Brayden. He was once the babysitter of Lisa's son. He appears back in her life and things begin to become different between them. The relationship is believable and the characters are amazing together. The banter, sexual tension and undeniable sexual attraction is wonderful! I was loving the cast of characters. I am so looking forward to reading Lisa's friend Natalie's story!!!
I was gifted this book for an honest review.
~~Michele McMullen~~
December 29, 2014
My Rating:
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
“Her bank account had dropped below the ‘art vs. commerce’ threshold, and she was considering offers from lenders who wanted her soul.”
“’He’s twenty-three. I’ve got clothes older than that,’ Lisa argued. ‘Nothing that fits, but still.’”
“Lisa’s camera whirred as she finally coaxed a lukewarm smile out of Mrs. Byington. The woman looked like she should smell of moth balls, but at least her portrait wouldn’t do the same.”
My Review:
Extreme Close-Up is a funny and naughty little tale to indulge yourself with during an afternoon. A quick, steamy, and entertaining read that had me smirking and gasping. I look forward to reading the next the series and am hoping for more of the same.
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
“Her bank account had dropped below the ‘art vs. commerce’ threshold, and she was considering offers from lenders who wanted her soul.”
“’He’s twenty-three. I’ve got clothes older than that,’ Lisa argued. ‘Nothing that fits, but still.’”
“Lisa’s camera whirred as she finally coaxed a lukewarm smile out of Mrs. Byington. The woman looked like she should smell of moth balls, but at least her portrait wouldn’t do the same.”
My Review:
Extreme Close-Up is a funny and naughty little tale to indulge yourself with during an afternoon. A quick, steamy, and entertaining read that had me smirking and gasping. I look forward to reading the next the series and am hoping for more of the same.
September 12, 2014
3.6 Stars
I liked this book but at the end I was left hanging out to dry and wondering what the hell just happened.....
I loved Braden in this story. He was hot, funny, and sweet at the same time. But you really don't get to understand a whole lot about him.
Lisa is an older woman who thinks she is not good enough for anyone let alone Braden. She feels she is caring a lot of extra weight. Can Braden convince her differently?
A lot of push and pull in the story which keeps you interested but the end totally through me.....
I recommend this story.
http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2014...
I liked this book but at the end I was left hanging out to dry and wondering what the hell just happened.....
I loved Braden in this story. He was hot, funny, and sweet at the same time. But you really don't get to understand a whole lot about him.
Lisa is an older woman who thinks she is not good enough for anyone let alone Braden. She feels she is caring a lot of extra weight. Can Braden convince her differently?
A lot of push and pull in the story which keeps you interested but the end totally through me.....
I recommend this story.
http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2014...
November 1, 2014
Well wow word of warning. Read this book somewhere secluded,
I took this with me to Read while I waited for an appointment. Big mistake, as I was blushing a older lady
asked what I was reading. I looked up and she asked again
then said if it made me blush
like that she needs to read it. Totally still blushing I told her.
So to say this is one hot sexy
book is not an understatement. This is a story about a women
on the way to realizing
that she is sexy and her ex was totally wrong and all it took was
one hot sexy young man
to show her what he saw. I plan to read book two next. But in the safety of my home.
I took this with me to Read while I waited for an appointment. Big mistake, as I was blushing a older lady
asked what I was reading. I looked up and she asked again
then said if it made me blush
like that she needs to read it. Totally still blushing I told her.
So to say this is one hot sexy
book is not an understatement. This is a story about a women
on the way to realizing
that she is sexy and her ex was totally wrong and all it took was
one hot sexy young man
to show her what he saw. I plan to read book two next. But in the safety of my home.
March 19, 2014
From the very first page I was hooked. The author dropped me into a real world of emotional tug of war. I felt for Lisa and rode all the emotions she was going through. The story was tense, funny, steamy, sizzling, seductive, and oh, my so much more. The interaction between Lisa and Braden was fantastic. I loved how he loved her. I love the author's voice, her writing, the way it flowed with ease, and how she kept me turning the page. While the elements were certainly erotic, the message of life, divorce, self-esteem, kids and growing as a person was fantastic. A great book!
August 27, 2014
Summary:
Sometimes life after divorce can be so so good.
According to Lisa, she is too fat, too saggy, and no longer desirable. She doesn’t realize that the boy down the street, Braden, has grown up, is no longer a boy, and will stop at nothing to get his hands all over Lisa. She knows it can never be anything more than a friendly relationship, or can it? Lisa’s ex-husband is an asshole and never treated her the way she deserved to be treated, especially according to man-boy Braden. At twenty-three years old, Braden helps forty-one year old Lisa rediscover herself, her body and her life after divorce.
What I loved:
The characters had a back story that was connected, entwined, and deep. Lisa’s ex husband, is now her ex best friend’s husband. To complicate matters more, Braden is her ex best friends son. Braden was very close to Jake, Lisa’s son, at one point when they were younger. Braden was asked by Jake to look after his mom’s house and help her out. This just added to the character background and development.
The author, a former screenwriter, definitely shines as her dialogue pops off the pages and brings every interaction to life. The way it’s woven into the different emotions of the characters is a true testament to her background. It also allows the personalities of the characters to really be heard.
The story has PIPING HOT SEX, chemistry, and laugh out loud humor that makes you feel like you have grown up with all of the characters!! There is none of the repetition that most novels have. The quality of the story is all there without beefing it up for length. (ohhh…length)
What I didn’t love:
Honestly, the one and only thing I did not love was that it ended. I wanted to keep laughing. I wanted to know more about life after divorce and how good it looked on Lisa. Julie Jaret has tapped into a story not often explored, at least not in modern times. There is something special in her writing. Something sustainable. She is an author to watch!!!
Overall:
Julie has a gift and experience in a writing world not many novelists can say they have. As a debut novel, she did everything right and it shows. Extreme Close-Up is a refreshing take on older woman/younger man scenario. Julie uses photography for the main character’s career, and parallels the photographs to her sex life. The more exciting the sex, the more her creative side is awoken and by the end she has it figured out all around. Keep them coming Julie!!!! Can’t wait for more!!!!
Sometimes life after divorce can be so so good.
According to Lisa, she is too fat, too saggy, and no longer desirable. She doesn’t realize that the boy down the street, Braden, has grown up, is no longer a boy, and will stop at nothing to get his hands all over Lisa. She knows it can never be anything more than a friendly relationship, or can it? Lisa’s ex-husband is an asshole and never treated her the way she deserved to be treated, especially according to man-boy Braden. At twenty-three years old, Braden helps forty-one year old Lisa rediscover herself, her body and her life after divorce.
What I loved:
The characters had a back story that was connected, entwined, and deep. Lisa’s ex husband, is now her ex best friend’s husband. To complicate matters more, Braden is her ex best friends son. Braden was very close to Jake, Lisa’s son, at one point when they were younger. Braden was asked by Jake to look after his mom’s house and help her out. This just added to the character background and development.
The author, a former screenwriter, definitely shines as her dialogue pops off the pages and brings every interaction to life. The way it’s woven into the different emotions of the characters is a true testament to her background. It also allows the personalities of the characters to really be heard.
The story has PIPING HOT SEX, chemistry, and laugh out loud humor that makes you feel like you have grown up with all of the characters!! There is none of the repetition that most novels have. The quality of the story is all there without beefing it up for length. (ohhh…length)
What I didn’t love:
Honestly, the one and only thing I did not love was that it ended. I wanted to keep laughing. I wanted to know more about life after divorce and how good it looked on Lisa. Julie Jaret has tapped into a story not often explored, at least not in modern times. There is something special in her writing. Something sustainable. She is an author to watch!!!
Overall:
Julie has a gift and experience in a writing world not many novelists can say they have. As a debut novel, she did everything right and it shows. Extreme Close-Up is a refreshing take on older woman/younger man scenario. Julie uses photography for the main character’s career, and parallels the photographs to her sex life. The more exciting the sex, the more her creative side is awoken and by the end she has it figured out all around. Keep them coming Julie!!!! Can’t wait for more!!!!
February 3, 2015
This wasn’t at all what I expected, and you have to appreciate that in a literary world where everything’s being done and rehashed 1,000 times over. I went into this read expecting a scorned woman finding new and more meaningful love with a younger man, and in a way that’s true. Lisa’s husband ripped her heart out and left her lonely, and when Braden came back into her life he was the perfect breath of fresh air. But, here’s the rub…Braden was her son’s friend and almost two decades her junior.
I’m all for age differences in a romance story so long as it works and flows well, but it was really hard for me to wrap my mind around Lisa and Braden. She was likable enough, with her newfound willingness to grab life by the horns and move on after pain. But when the sexy and self-assured Braden waltzed in all ready to show her how grown up he was, I couldn’t get past the fact that this was a young man in his early twenties acting out his attraction to a friend’s mom. They really had nothing in common, were at completely different places in their lives, and had known each other in a way that made them being together just awkward for me. Sure, the steamy scenes were sexy and well-written, but I wanted different characters to be acting them out!
I have to hand it to Juliet Jaret, because despite all of my misgivings about the setup for this story, it was different and didn’t have the cliché’d happily ever after ending you’d expect. So as much as I might not have loved how we got there, I was pleasantly surprised with Lisa and Braden’s choices when everything was coming to a close. Overall, this may not have been something I’d gravitate towards, but it was a good story that brought something new to the table.
Quotes:
She squinted as the sun became too bright for her dilated pupils.
I’m so sex-starved, I could eat this kid alive.
Go for it—he looks yummy.
Who am I, Mrs. Robinson? ~Loc 147
His free hand absently petted the soft velour on the sofa arm, and Lisa found herself jealous of a piece of fucking furniture. ~Loc 394
The glint in his eye went from mischievous to predatory in an instant. “If you need any more before I haul you onto this table, you’d better get them quick,” he said in a deep rasp. ~Loc 1644
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May 11, 2014
I began reading the book last night, picked it up this morning, and finished it before 10 am…
That's how great Extreme Close-Up was for me.
I went into this book expecting a fun and flirty story, and Ms. Jaret delivered. What I didn't expect was the underlying message of self-acceptance that came through loud and clear. Myself being a woman who is nearing the age of forty (Lord, did I just type that?!?) and one who has had children, we all go through days of wishing we were younger and wishing this or that looked different. As the novel progressed, I was surprised to find this story was not just pages of sexy fun (although it does not disappoint in that department!), it was an eye-opening experience for Lisa and a nod to loving oneself.
Lisa Taylor is forty-one, divorced, and bored. Although she works a job she loves (photography), she's stuck taking pictures of office supplies to pay the bills. Her son is away at camp, her friend Natalie keeps her company when she can, and her ex-husband is off with his new wife, her former best friend.
Enter Braden, or Brady, as Lisa remembers him. Braden is her former BFF's son, and he used to hang around quite a bit when the families were close. He was like an older brother to her son, Jake. Jake has asked Braden to help out around the house while he's away, and, well…let's just say Brady's all kinds of grown up ;)
I won't go into every detail of the story (you can get the jist from the blurb), but what I will say is Extreme Close-Up is funny, well-written, fast-paced, and touches your heart (amongst other body parts). Lisa isn't confident or happy when Braden unexpectedly appears in her life again, and he legitimately helps her to see past the stigma she's placed on herself. Lisa helps Braden as well, with certain aspects of his life, and I saw what each person brought to the party, despite their age difference.
Extreme Close-Up was the first of Julie Jaret's books I've read, and it won't be the last. Kudos to the author! This book was a lot of fun.
That's how great Extreme Close-Up was for me.
I went into this book expecting a fun and flirty story, and Ms. Jaret delivered. What I didn't expect was the underlying message of self-acceptance that came through loud and clear. Myself being a woman who is nearing the age of forty (Lord, did I just type that?!?) and one who has had children, we all go through days of wishing we were younger and wishing this or that looked different. As the novel progressed, I was surprised to find this story was not just pages of sexy fun (although it does not disappoint in that department!), it was an eye-opening experience for Lisa and a nod to loving oneself.
Lisa Taylor is forty-one, divorced, and bored. Although she works a job she loves (photography), she's stuck taking pictures of office supplies to pay the bills. Her son is away at camp, her friend Natalie keeps her company when she can, and her ex-husband is off with his new wife, her former best friend.
Enter Braden, or Brady, as Lisa remembers him. Braden is her former BFF's son, and he used to hang around quite a bit when the families were close. He was like an older brother to her son, Jake. Jake has asked Braden to help out around the house while he's away, and, well…let's just say Brady's all kinds of grown up ;)
I won't go into every detail of the story (you can get the jist from the blurb), but what I will say is Extreme Close-Up is funny, well-written, fast-paced, and touches your heart (amongst other body parts). Lisa isn't confident or happy when Braden unexpectedly appears in her life again, and he legitimately helps her to see past the stigma she's placed on herself. Lisa helps Braden as well, with certain aspects of his life, and I saw what each person brought to the party, despite their age difference.
Extreme Close-Up was the first of Julie Jaret's books I've read, and it won't be the last. Kudos to the author! This book was a lot of fun.
April 29, 2014
Lisa can’t believe the day she is having. She pays the bills (just barely!) by photographing office supplies for catalogs and to top it all off, she feels every year of her forty-one years. But finding her son’s childhood hero cutting her lawn one morning changes her perception of love, of life and of herself.
“As your lawyer and best friend, it’s my expert opinion that you should totally hit that.” She looked at her friend and snorted, “Right. You’re insane.” “Eye for an eye,” Natalie shrugged as they turned down the stone path toward the driveway. “He’s twenty-three,” Lisa argued. “I’ve got clothes older than that. Nothing that fits, but still.”
Braden was once known to Lisa as just “Brady.” But now he’s all grown up and determined to show Lisa that regardless of their age differences, love and desire know no bounds.
“I swear, somehow, I’m gonna make you see yourself the way I see you.” He licked and bit one nipple, then the other. “But first, I’m gonna make you scream again.”
Extreme Close-Up was one fabulously hot read! Julie put her own mark on the older woman/younger man dynamic and actually made the story inspirational and realistic. I knew that heartbreak would be around the corner given their real world circumstances, but I wanted them to be together. Braden was not only smoldering, he was sweet and wickedly smart. I couldn’t help but fall madly in love with him! He honestly cared about Lisa and helped her transform from someone who was just surviving to actually living her life as a vibrant woman. Lust with a lesson. Can’t beat that!
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March 20, 2014
I received a complementary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This story was fantastic and I absolutely LOVED it! In Extreme Close-Up we meet Lisa who is a 40ish divorced mother with one son. She has been divorced for two years but not dated and thinks her body is unattractive due to the ten pounds she kept on after having a baby - 15 years ago! Lisa is a photographer with her own business where she struggles to earn enough to pay the bills. Her son is away at camp so an old friend of his comes to cut the grass. Lisa sees a gorgeous young man cutting her grass so goes to tell him he is at the wrong address when she realizes it's is her son's friend, Brady, who is doing the job and he is in the right place. Lisa can't believe Brady is so grown up and looks so hot - oh yea, Brady is eight years older than Lisa's son.
Turns out that Brady (now called Braden) has had a thing for Lisa since he was 12 and now at 23 he still does. Braden was a football player in college but an injury ended that path. He wasn't disappointed because he wanted to use his brain, not body, to make a career. Braden is a really nice young man, being very respectful and polite. Since Braden was still attracted to Lisa he thought this was his chance to act on that attraction.
The story and characters were very believable. The author amazed me in writing a story about an older woman and younger man and made it seem completely acceptable. Braden helped Lisa accept herself the way others saw her which was much better than she saw herself. Lisa helped Braden realize that he could go back to school and take the career path he really wanted.
It was so nice to see the wonderful way the author had Lisa finally accept herself as a beautiful woman both physically and mentally. This story had some very sad, emotional times near the end but many laugh out loud moments throughout. The only thing that I wasn't comfortable with was Lisa's feelings for Braden since she had known him as a kid.
The ending was perfect. I had no idea how this book would end and have everyone content but Julie did it.
This story was fantastic and I absolutely LOVED it! In Extreme Close-Up we meet Lisa who is a 40ish divorced mother with one son. She has been divorced for two years but not dated and thinks her body is unattractive due to the ten pounds she kept on after having a baby - 15 years ago! Lisa is a photographer with her own business where she struggles to earn enough to pay the bills. Her son is away at camp so an old friend of his comes to cut the grass. Lisa sees a gorgeous young man cutting her grass so goes to tell him he is at the wrong address when she realizes it's is her son's friend, Brady, who is doing the job and he is in the right place. Lisa can't believe Brady is so grown up and looks so hot - oh yea, Brady is eight years older than Lisa's son.
Turns out that Brady (now called Braden) has had a thing for Lisa since he was 12 and now at 23 he still does. Braden was a football player in college but an injury ended that path. He wasn't disappointed because he wanted to use his brain, not body, to make a career. Braden is a really nice young man, being very respectful and polite. Since Braden was still attracted to Lisa he thought this was his chance to act on that attraction.
The story and characters were very believable. The author amazed me in writing a story about an older woman and younger man and made it seem completely acceptable. Braden helped Lisa accept herself the way others saw her which was much better than she saw herself. Lisa helped Braden realize that he could go back to school and take the career path he really wanted.
It was so nice to see the wonderful way the author had Lisa finally accept herself as a beautiful woman both physically and mentally. This story had some very sad, emotional times near the end but many laugh out loud moments throughout. The only thing that I wasn't comfortable with was Lisa's feelings for Braden since she had known him as a kid.
The ending was perfect. I had no idea how this book would end and have everyone content but Julie did it.
September 1, 2016
I was given an e-copy of Extreme Close-up in exchange for an honest review.
Lisa's in a place in her life where she never expected to be. She's been divorced for 3 years, her ex-husband is now married to someone who was a very good friend to her. Her professional photography career is stifling her creativity. And her 15 year old son is off at baseball camp, leaving her alone for the summer. But one lawn mowing hottie (where can I get one of those for myself?) is about to change everything for her.
Without taking into account that this was a novella and not a 200+ page book, I could not put it down!
It was a little bit slow to get started, but I think that was necessary to let us get to know Lisa a little better before jumping into the steamy story. But once it started, the steam didn't let up. Most refreshing is that it had a realistic feel to it. As a 40-something myself, I could grasp Lisa's hesitation in becoming involved with a man half her age and her self-esteem issues about her body, which is no longer like a 20-something's body. But I loved how Braden was able to help her get through her issues and move her confidence up so many levels, both on a personal level and on a professional level with her career.
I loved Braden. So hot, so sexy, so passionate and so smart. What a combination that any woman would be lucky to have. He gave Lisa so much, even beyond the multiple O's that she had been missing out on over the past 3 years! I loved Lisa too and how much she grew through her journey. I'm not sure that I would have picked the same path that she took at the end, but I could understand it and it worked for her so all is good!
I'm looking forward to reading more by Julie Jaret and continuing on with Lisa's friend, Natalie, in the next part of the Perspectives series.
Lisa's in a place in her life where she never expected to be. She's been divorced for 3 years, her ex-husband is now married to someone who was a very good friend to her. Her professional photography career is stifling her creativity. And her 15 year old son is off at baseball camp, leaving her alone for the summer. But one lawn mowing hottie (where can I get one of those for myself?) is about to change everything for her.
Without taking into account that this was a novella and not a 200+ page book, I could not put it down!
It was a little bit slow to get started, but I think that was necessary to let us get to know Lisa a little better before jumping into the steamy story. But once it started, the steam didn't let up. Most refreshing is that it had a realistic feel to it. As a 40-something myself, I could grasp Lisa's hesitation in becoming involved with a man half her age and her self-esteem issues about her body, which is no longer like a 20-something's body. But I loved how Braden was able to help her get through her issues and move her confidence up so many levels, both on a personal level and on a professional level with her career.
I loved Braden. So hot, so sexy, so passionate and so smart. What a combination that any woman would be lucky to have. He gave Lisa so much, even beyond the multiple O's that she had been missing out on over the past 3 years! I loved Lisa too and how much she grew through her journey. I'm not sure that I would have picked the same path that she took at the end, but I could understand it and it worked for her so all is good!
I'm looking forward to reading more by Julie Jaret and continuing on with Lisa's friend, Natalie, in the next part of the Perspectives series.
September 12, 2014
Click here to read my entire review!
What I Loved:I really appreciated that the protagonist in this book wasn’t young, but was a 40 something year old mother of a teenage boy and as asshole for an ex-husband. I love that it took a very young and very hot man to make her wake up and finally see her own value. The sex scenes in this book were HOT! I was definitely left a little flushed after some of those scenes and I have to thank Julie Jaret for that very much.
I also really loved that this story went in a whole new direction towards the end which surprised me. Most don’t really shock me anymore and this one did, which I really appreciated it. I thought this story would end one way and it didn’t, which was really kind of awesome!
Not So Much:I really enjoyed reading Extreme Close-Up, it was a quick easy read that definitely hit the spot. But I do wish this story was about 100 pages longer. I just felt like a lot of the scenes could have been followed through more and just more detailed. There wasn’t a lot of background detail as far what Lisa’s house looked like, or how it reflected her personality. I would’ve loved to have seen how she made her house a home for her and her son. I also wish that the supporting characters were included more in the story. Lisa’s son is talked about a lot but is only in one scene, and we don’t really delve too much into Natalie. I know her story is next but I just wish there was a little bit more of their friendship in this story. Lisa’s ex-husband Vance is talked about a lot but you never meet him or his new wife.
What I Loved:I really appreciated that the protagonist in this book wasn’t young, but was a 40 something year old mother of a teenage boy and as asshole for an ex-husband. I love that it took a very young and very hot man to make her wake up and finally see her own value. The sex scenes in this book were HOT! I was definitely left a little flushed after some of those scenes and I have to thank Julie Jaret for that very much.
I also really loved that this story went in a whole new direction towards the end which surprised me. Most don’t really shock me anymore and this one did, which I really appreciated it. I thought this story would end one way and it didn’t, which was really kind of awesome!
Not So Much:I really enjoyed reading Extreme Close-Up, it was a quick easy read that definitely hit the spot. But I do wish this story was about 100 pages longer. I just felt like a lot of the scenes could have been followed through more and just more detailed. There wasn’t a lot of background detail as far what Lisa’s house looked like, or how it reflected her personality. I would’ve loved to have seen how she made her house a home for her and her son. I also wish that the supporting characters were included more in the story. Lisa’s son is talked about a lot but is only in one scene, and we don’t really delve too much into Natalie. I know her story is next but I just wish there was a little bit more of their friendship in this story. Lisa’s ex-husband Vance is talked about a lot but you never meet him or his new wife.
April 17, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
In this hot little ditty we meet; Lisa, a forty-something divorcee, who is struggling to make her career work and lives inside a little emotional bubble and Braden, the twenty-something hottie who is trying to figure out what to do with his life. Lisa and Brady have known each other for a long time and they reconnect one summer while he is taking care of her lawn.
This was a one sitting book for me. It flowed quickly, the story was engaging and I liked the characters. It was very much about Lisa finding herself. She was overly self-conscious of how she looked and about her age. She had tough go of it in the relationship department and was never made to feel like she was beautiful. She was also struggling with an un-thoughtful ex and bills that needed paid. With Braden help, much of her life gets turned around.
Braden had been in love with Lisa for half of his life and he was really the one to pull her out of her shell. While the sex seemed pretty awesome, what he did for her was more so, just the same as what she did for him. He was known for his pretty face and athleticism but underneath he actually had a brain. Lisa helped push him into the right direction for his life and not be afraid to go after what he wanted.
While I originally thought the age difference was going to be awkward for me, the way it developed really wasn't because there was a connection with the characters outside of the bedroom, or truck, or the whole house for that matter. I was also pleasantly surprised by the ending. I really wasn't sure how I wanted the story to end and I really was hoping that the author would find a good way to end it and she did. I liked where she took the characters and did what seemed right for them.
In this hot little ditty we meet; Lisa, a forty-something divorcee, who is struggling to make her career work and lives inside a little emotional bubble and Braden, the twenty-something hottie who is trying to figure out what to do with his life. Lisa and Brady have known each other for a long time and they reconnect one summer while he is taking care of her lawn.
This was a one sitting book for me. It flowed quickly, the story was engaging and I liked the characters. It was very much about Lisa finding herself. She was overly self-conscious of how she looked and about her age. She had tough go of it in the relationship department and was never made to feel like she was beautiful. She was also struggling with an un-thoughtful ex and bills that needed paid. With Braden help, much of her life gets turned around.
Braden had been in love with Lisa for half of his life and he was really the one to pull her out of her shell. While the sex seemed pretty awesome, what he did for her was more so, just the same as what she did for him. He was known for his pretty face and athleticism but underneath he actually had a brain. Lisa helped push him into the right direction for his life and not be afraid to go after what he wanted.
While I originally thought the age difference was going to be awkward for me, the way it developed really wasn't because there was a connection with the characters outside of the bedroom, or truck, or the whole house for that matter. I was also pleasantly surprised by the ending. I really wasn't sure how I wanted the story to end and I really was hoping that the author would find a good way to end it and she did. I liked where she took the characters and did what seemed right for them.
August 6, 2014
I was intrigued when I initially read the synopsis for Extreme Close-Up but when I saw the cover... yeah, I was a little put off. Thank goodness I overlooked the cringe-worthy cover because this was a totally enjoyable read.
I can't recall having read an older woman/younger man romance before but this was done so well and wasn't at all cheesy or salacious. Lisa is a 40-ish divorced woman with a teenage son who is still struggling to find her footing. Her photography skills are being wasted on photo shoots for office supply catalogs - a job that doesn't cover all the bills. The end of her marriage - her husband leaving her for her former best friend - has left her feeling unattractive and struggling with her self-image.
Enter Braden. The son of her former friend, Lisa remembers Braden from numerous vacations the two families took together. Now 23, Braden shows up and reveals he has long had a crush on her and is more than willing to act on it.
The evolution of Lisa and Braden's relationship was completely believable and plenty steamy. Braden was a young man sure of his feelings and determined to make Lisa see herself as he saw her. Lisa's turmoil over her feelings for Braden was portrayed so well. She covered all the aspects that you would imagine yourself considering in the same situation. The sexytimes between the two were seriously hot and that Braden... wow, hot stuff. Very *talented* hot stuff. :)
Although aspects of the ending were bittersweet, I thoroughly enjoyed the story from start to finish. Looking forward to another entry in this new series from Julie Jaret!
I can't recall having read an older woman/younger man romance before but this was done so well and wasn't at all cheesy or salacious. Lisa is a 40-ish divorced woman with a teenage son who is still struggling to find her footing. Her photography skills are being wasted on photo shoots for office supply catalogs - a job that doesn't cover all the bills. The end of her marriage - her husband leaving her for her former best friend - has left her feeling unattractive and struggling with her self-image.
Enter Braden. The son of her former friend, Lisa remembers Braden from numerous vacations the two families took together. Now 23, Braden shows up and reveals he has long had a crush on her and is more than willing to act on it.
The evolution of Lisa and Braden's relationship was completely believable and plenty steamy. Braden was a young man sure of his feelings and determined to make Lisa see herself as he saw her. Lisa's turmoil over her feelings for Braden was portrayed so well. She covered all the aspects that you would imagine yourself considering in the same situation. The sexytimes between the two were seriously hot and that Braden... wow, hot stuff. Very *talented* hot stuff. :)
Although aspects of the ending were bittersweet, I thoroughly enjoyed the story from start to finish. Looking forward to another entry in this new series from Julie Jaret!
October 15, 2014
Dani's review:
Thank you to Julie who sent this book to me as an ARC for an honest review.
You know how they always say that you can't always judge a book by it's cover? Well with this book I did, and I was so wrong!
Lisa, Lisa, Lisa. Where to start with her? Somewhat sucessful photographer whose current model is office supplies. Divorced. Her husband left her for her 15 year old son Jake's best friends mother. Oh and Lisa doesn't think she's beautiful.
Braden: HOT YOUNG STUD
You have Lisa, a 41 year old mother, photographer extraordinaire. Once divorced from her 15 year old Jake's father. Her now ex-husband left her for her son's best friends's mother. Lisa has her ups and downs struggling to pay for things like every person does. Jake's camp is ridding her for a payment as her ex-husband forgot to pay for it as agreed before he left for his honeymoon. Jake tends to be a worry wart when it comes to his mother so he sends his best friend Braden to help out with things that he would do for her
Queue Braden's entrance back into Lisa's Life
Braden, 23 year old heart throb, football player extraordinaire, that is until he gets hurt and is no longer able to play. Braden has known Lisa most of his life and has always had this hidden attraction to her that is, until he corners her when Lisa is at her lowest. Lisa doesn't quite see herself clearly but Braden is hell bent on making her see what he see's, her beauty.
This is definitely one of my favorite reads when it comes to the cougar category.
Thank you to Julie who sent this book to me as an ARC for an honest review.
You know how they always say that you can't always judge a book by it's cover? Well with this book I did, and I was so wrong!
Lisa, Lisa, Lisa. Where to start with her? Somewhat sucessful photographer whose current model is office supplies. Divorced. Her husband left her for her 15 year old son Jake's best friends mother. Oh and Lisa doesn't think she's beautiful.
Braden: HOT YOUNG STUD
You have Lisa, a 41 year old mother, photographer extraordinaire. Once divorced from her 15 year old Jake's father. Her now ex-husband left her for her son's best friends's mother. Lisa has her ups and downs struggling to pay for things like every person does. Jake's camp is ridding her for a payment as her ex-husband forgot to pay for it as agreed before he left for his honeymoon. Jake tends to be a worry wart when it comes to his mother so he sends his best friend Braden to help out with things that he would do for her
Queue Braden's entrance back into Lisa's Life
Braden, 23 year old heart throb, football player extraordinaire, that is until he gets hurt and is no longer able to play. Braden has known Lisa most of his life and has always had this hidden attraction to her that is, until he corners her when Lisa is at her lowest. Lisa doesn't quite see herself clearly but Braden is hell bent on making her see what he see's, her beauty.
This is definitely one of my favorite reads when it comes to the cougar category.
September 9, 2014
I was gifted a copy of this in exchange for my honest review. This was a cute read and I zipped right through it. My favorite thing about Extreme Close-Up was the fact that her husband had left her for another woman and she starts a relationship with said women's 23 year old son. IN THEIR FACES!!Fist Pump for her!! haha!. I love a good revenge or girl got her groove back book!. I give this one 4 Stars. Book #2 in the Perspectives series releases this fall as well so I will be watching for that.
At 41 Lisa Taylor is starting her life over. When her marriage falls apart she finds herself in unchartered territory. She's starting a new life and supporting her teenaged son, Jake. Bills are pilling up and her hobby turned career is not making ends meet. While her son Jake is away at baseball camp for the summer he asks his old neighbor / babysitter Braden to look out for his mom. Lisa gets the shock of a lifetime when she realizes the gardener she's been ogling through the kitchen window is none other the Braden "Brady", the same teenaged boy that used to babysit her son. The instant chemistry and pull these two share heats up quickly and a teenaged crush Braden has dreamed about finally becomes a reality. Braden also happens to be the son of the woman Lisa's husband left her for. After years of feeling like she's not good enough Braden just may be what changes her opinion of herself.
Reviewed by Shannon
At 41 Lisa Taylor is starting her life over. When her marriage falls apart she finds herself in unchartered territory. She's starting a new life and supporting her teenaged son, Jake. Bills are pilling up and her hobby turned career is not making ends meet. While her son Jake is away at baseball camp for the summer he asks his old neighbor / babysitter Braden to look out for his mom. Lisa gets the shock of a lifetime when she realizes the gardener she's been ogling through the kitchen window is none other the Braden "Brady", the same teenaged boy that used to babysit her son. The instant chemistry and pull these two share heats up quickly and a teenaged crush Braden has dreamed about finally becomes a reality. Braden also happens to be the son of the woman Lisa's husband left her for. After years of feeling like she's not good enough Braden just may be what changes her opinion of herself.
Reviewed by Shannon
June 29, 2014
Extreme Close-Up
Julie Jaret
I was given this ARC for an honest review.
What do you get when you cross a struggling 41-year old divorced photographer and a 23 year old college student? Hot sex, a great light read and an Extreme Close-up.
Book one in the Perspective Series, Extreme Close-Up was my first read from author Julie Jaret. I was pleasantly surprised by her complete writing style, the light plot and the character development.
Lisa Taylor is a photographer for an office supply catalog, struggling to make ends meet after a crappy divorce. She’s low on self-esteem and money. Her 15 year old son is away at camp, when a surprise shows up to mow her lawn. Braden, an old family friend and the son of the woman her husband left her for. Hot, young and full of himself, he forces Lisa to come to terms with her sexy side. Pushes her buttons and tempts her with his sexy body.
This story follows Lisa through her sexual awakening, the ultimate taboo situation of a much older woman with a much younger man.
It’s off the charts sex scenes, the flow of the writing and the ultimate happiness the characters display, made this a book a great way to spend a nice relaxing summer afternoon.
Extreme Close-Up
Julie Jaret
I was given this ARC for an honest review.
What do you get when you cross a struggling 41-year old divorced photographer and a 23 year old college student? Hot sex, a great light read and an Extreme Close-up.
Book one in the Perspective Series, Extreme Close-Up was my first read from author Julie Jaret. I was pleasantly surprised by her complete writing style, the light plot and the character development.
Lisa Taylor is a photographer for an office supply catalog, struggling to make ends meet after a crappy divorce. She’s low on self-esteem and money. Her 15 year old son is away at camp, when a surprise shows up to mow her lawn. Braden, an old family friend and the son of the woman her husband left her for. Hot, young and full of himself, he forces Lisa to come to terms with her sexy side. Pushes her buttons and tempts her with his sexy body.
This story follows Lisa through her sexual awakening, the ultimate taboo situation of a much older woman with a much younger man.
It’s off the charts sex scenes, the flow of the writing and the ultimate happiness the characters display, made this a book a great way to spend a nice relaxing summer afternoon.
Extreme Close-Up
December 29, 2014
Well hot damn! If you’re an older woman and you want to fantasize about a younger man without feeling like a cougar, this is the book for you! Sexy, personal, and will make you want a younger, hot man to do your yard work right away! Also, for me, I love photography and this made me immediately want to grab a hot young man and start photographing him naked!
When Lisa wakes up to find Brady mowing her lawn (not that she knows it’s him at first), she becomes irritated, thinking that her ex-husband had set something up. Then when it’s revealed who he is, the dirty thoughts she’d been entertaining went south… and yet, Brady, for all his young years, knows exactly how to talk to a woman and make her feel wanted and lusted after… And he’s definitely a boob man. I won’t go into detail (buy the book and read it yourself) but one scene between the two with Brady wanting to see her breasts, admitting that he’s been lusting after them since he was a young teenager… just.. -fans herself- my goodness!
It’s a short book, only 134 pages, but holy jeesum crow, it’s a good one. There’s also a second in the series entitled “Over-Exposed” — also sexy.
Do yourself a favor, grab the books, and float away on a sea of sexy time, and feel sexy yourself, vicariously through the eyes of the heroines.
When Lisa wakes up to find Brady mowing her lawn (not that she knows it’s him at first), she becomes irritated, thinking that her ex-husband had set something up. Then when it’s revealed who he is, the dirty thoughts she’d been entertaining went south… and yet, Brady, for all his young years, knows exactly how to talk to a woman and make her feel wanted and lusted after… And he’s definitely a boob man. I won’t go into detail (buy the book and read it yourself) but one scene between the two with Brady wanting to see her breasts, admitting that he’s been lusting after them since he was a young teenager… just.. -fans herself- my goodness!
It’s a short book, only 134 pages, but holy jeesum crow, it’s a good one. There’s also a second in the series entitled “Over-Exposed” — also sexy.
Do yourself a favor, grab the books, and float away on a sea of sexy time, and feel sexy yourself, vicariously through the eyes of the heroines.
December 3, 2014
3.5 STARS
Not your typical love story, but rather the story of a divorced woman & mother of one who re-discovers herself and her passions when she indulges in a relationship with a much younger man.
Lisa finds herself stuck in a rut both professionally and personally, with a shitty ex husband, a soul-destroying job & the bills piling up, something needs to change and soon. Enter one absolutely gorgeous and confident younger man who takes Lisa by surprise and opens her mind to the possibility of more.
While the circumstances surrounding their relationship aren't ideal, they are both consulting adults who have amazing sexual chemistry together that can't be denied. While still young at twenty-three, Brady is definitely ALL MAN and on top of his sexy body, he is a smart and caring guy that any woman would be lucky to have. While he helps teach Lisa to learn to love herself again, she also encourages him to use his intelligence rather than his looks to make something of himself.
The ending was unexpected but realistic to the story with the possibility for the author to re-visit Lisa's story again. It was a different look at what is a realistic situation in everyday life and a fantasy for both young men and older women. Lisa & Brady are steamy together as they burn it up between the sheets and the story is entertaining from beginning to end :)
Not your typical love story, but rather the story of a divorced woman & mother of one who re-discovers herself and her passions when she indulges in a relationship with a much younger man.
Lisa finds herself stuck in a rut both professionally and personally, with a shitty ex husband, a soul-destroying job & the bills piling up, something needs to change and soon. Enter one absolutely gorgeous and confident younger man who takes Lisa by surprise and opens her mind to the possibility of more.
While the circumstances surrounding their relationship aren't ideal, they are both consulting adults who have amazing sexual chemistry together that can't be denied. While still young at twenty-three, Brady is definitely ALL MAN and on top of his sexy body, he is a smart and caring guy that any woman would be lucky to have. While he helps teach Lisa to learn to love herself again, she also encourages him to use his intelligence rather than his looks to make something of himself.
The ending was unexpected but realistic to the story with the possibility for the author to re-visit Lisa's story again. It was a different look at what is a realistic situation in everyday life and a fantasy for both young men and older women. Lisa & Brady are steamy together as they burn it up between the sheets and the story is entertaining from beginning to end :)
October 26, 2014
Extreme Close-Up by Julie Jaret
FIVE AMAZINGLY BLAZING STARS!!!!!
Holy hell!!!!!! Talk about HOT!!!!!! I don't even know where to begin with this...
Let's see... Braden- friend of Lisa's son and now the step-son of her sleeze ball ex-husband, who has morphed into an incredibly sexy hunk of young man over the years. Good gravy, BRING HIM TO ME NOW!!!!! Twenty-three and ready to confess his life-long crush on the now forty-one year old Lisa, this guy is seriously delicious and sinfully gorgeous with his dimples grin and unabashedly open propositions to Lisa. If she didn't want him, I damn sure would take him!!!
With Braden's parents on a lengthy vacay to Europe and Lisa's son at summer camp, the time couldn't be better for a roll in the sheets. Or on the floor. Or on the kitchen table. Or in the shower. Hell, just EVERYWHERE!!! These two have amazing chemistry in and out of bed like few other pairs in books these days. Their continued side-splitting antics and deals kept me laughing when I wasn't squirming in my seat from the steamy scenes conjures deep within the confines of Jaret's mind.
My applause to you, Julie. I fully intend to continue reading your works and enjoying the hell out of them!!!
Meagan
FIVE AMAZINGLY BLAZING STARS!!!!!
Holy hell!!!!!! Talk about HOT!!!!!! I don't even know where to begin with this...
Let's see... Braden- friend of Lisa's son and now the step-son of her sleeze ball ex-husband, who has morphed into an incredibly sexy hunk of young man over the years. Good gravy, BRING HIM TO ME NOW!!!!! Twenty-three and ready to confess his life-long crush on the now forty-one year old Lisa, this guy is seriously delicious and sinfully gorgeous with his dimples grin and unabashedly open propositions to Lisa. If she didn't want him, I damn sure would take him!!!
With Braden's parents on a lengthy vacay to Europe and Lisa's son at summer camp, the time couldn't be better for a roll in the sheets. Or on the floor. Or on the kitchen table. Or in the shower. Hell, just EVERYWHERE!!! These two have amazing chemistry in and out of bed like few other pairs in books these days. Their continued side-splitting antics and deals kept me laughing when I wasn't squirming in my seat from the steamy scenes conjures deep within the confines of Jaret's mind.
My applause to you, Julie. I fully intend to continue reading your works and enjoying the hell out of them!!!
Meagan
January 17, 2015
I was given this book in exchange for a honest review (thank you).
I'm part of a great book club on facebook, that we are gifted books, we read, review, and we get together and do a q&a via facebook with the author. This has allowed my to try out some authors that I may have never read, Julie Jaret falls into this group.
MS Jaret wove a funny sexy tale that makes a song come to mind. Stacey's Mom - "Stacey's Mom really has it going on- you know I'm not the little boy I used to be, I'm all grown up now- she's all I wanted for so long.... yeah that song. Well that almost fits this book perfectly.
The banter that Lisa has with herself and her best friend over what to do about her neighbor's son Braden is absolutely hilarious. I could really see myself saying some of those things.
Then she starts to heat things up and she goes over in her mind what will people think? Which that again is exactly what I would do, but even with all of that she just can't help herself. Jaret finally turns the heat to scorching and curls my toes.
MS Jaret has a few surprises up her sleeve and things may or may not end the way you think they should, but they made me want to read the next book so MS Jaret gets a job well done.
I'm part of a great book club on facebook, that we are gifted books, we read, review, and we get together and do a q&a via facebook with the author. This has allowed my to try out some authors that I may have never read, Julie Jaret falls into this group.
MS Jaret wove a funny sexy tale that makes a song come to mind. Stacey's Mom - "Stacey's Mom really has it going on- you know I'm not the little boy I used to be, I'm all grown up now- she's all I wanted for so long.... yeah that song. Well that almost fits this book perfectly.
The banter that Lisa has with herself and her best friend over what to do about her neighbor's son Braden is absolutely hilarious. I could really see myself saying some of those things.
Then she starts to heat things up and she goes over in her mind what will people think? Which that again is exactly what I would do, but even with all of that she just can't help herself. Jaret finally turns the heat to scorching and curls my toes.
MS Jaret has a few surprises up her sleeve and things may or may not end the way you think they should, but they made me want to read the next book so MS Jaret gets a job well done.
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