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Scent of Roses: A Reel Life Romance
Somewhere between their laughs, their fights and their friendship, they fell in love.
When Zoe Parker is tricked by her best friend, Sarah into participating in a reality dating television show, she knows for certain that she would be eliminated in the first round. She knows because she doesn’t want to stay, she would never be bothered about the wealthy, handsome bachelor her fellow contestants are vying for, and most importantly, she has told the bachelor, Dante Dimitriou himself all that. But life couldn’t have taken a sweeter twist when she discovers that she has made it successfully through the first round. What will she do when she discovers that Dante intends she makes it until the very last and win the entire show?
After much deliberation, Dante Dimitriou hesitantly agrees to help his best friend, Connor launch a new dating documentary in which he would be the star bachelor. He believes it’s going to be a torturous three months until he befriends Zoe Parker. Suddenly, the rules of the game changes. He wants Zoe in it as friend and company. She keeps him entertained. But what will he do when he discovers that she begins to rule his heart? Will he risk jeopardizing his friendship for love?
When Zoe Parker is tricked by her best friend, Sarah into participating in a reality dating television show, she knows for certain that she would be eliminated in the first round. She knows because she doesn’t want to stay, she would never be bothered about the wealthy, handsome bachelor her fellow contestants are vying for, and most importantly, she has told the bachelor, Dante Dimitriou himself all that. But life couldn’t have taken a sweeter twist when she discovers that she has made it successfully through the first round. What will she do when she discovers that Dante intends she makes it until the very last and win the entire show?
After much deliberation, Dante Dimitriou hesitantly agrees to help his best friend, Connor launch a new dating documentary in which he would be the star bachelor. He believes it’s going to be a torturous three months until he befriends Zoe Parker. Suddenly, the rules of the game changes. He wants Zoe in it as friend and company. She keeps him entertained. But what will he do when he discovers that she begins to rule his heart? Will he risk jeopardizing his friendship for love?
- GenresRomance
241 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2014
39 people want to read
About the author
Clarissa Cartharn
24 books86 followersClarissa Cartharn is the author of romance novels such as Captive,Perfect Vengeance and the action/romance Jar series.
Traveling, learning new languages and cultures are some of her interests which have inspired her books. She turned her love for writing into a full-pledged passion with her first romance, Winter's End and has since never looked back. After almost ten romance novels, each with eclectic themes ranging from angsty Cinderella inspirations to thrillers set in the barren war torn lands of Afghanistan, Clarissa is currently on a new adventure to find her next love story.
Her Writing Style:
1. A premise
2. Romance
3. Realism
4. Heat. Yep, yep and yep
5. Vulgarity- where needed be. Oh come on, if she's gonna be writing about warlords, arms dealers, drug traffickers and rough-necked soldiers, then please don't expect them to be minding their tenses and grammar.
6. Oh yes, and a plot! Especially, a plot! A darned good one!
If this is your kind of romance too, then please hop on board and check some of her books out!https://www.clarissacartharn.com
For her latest rants on the book world, check out her blog:
https://acupofromance.blogspot.com
If you wish to grab a free copy of any of her books to review, then please feel free to drop her a message at any time or simply follow the link to fill in your details:
https://www.clarissacartharn.com/your...
Traveling, learning new languages and cultures are some of her interests which have inspired her books. She turned her love for writing into a full-pledged passion with her first romance, Winter's End and has since never looked back. After almost ten romance novels, each with eclectic themes ranging from angsty Cinderella inspirations to thrillers set in the barren war torn lands of Afghanistan, Clarissa is currently on a new adventure to find her next love story.
Her Writing Style:
1. A premise
2. Romance
3. Realism
4. Heat. Yep, yep and yep
5. Vulgarity- where needed be. Oh come on, if she's gonna be writing about warlords, arms dealers, drug traffickers and rough-necked soldiers, then please don't expect them to be minding their tenses and grammar.
6. Oh yes, and a plot! Especially, a plot! A darned good one!
If this is your kind of romance too, then please hop on board and check some of her books out!https://www.clarissacartharn.com
For her latest rants on the book world, check out her blog:
https://acupofromance.blogspot.com
If you wish to grab a free copy of any of her books to review, then please feel free to drop her a message at any time or simply follow the link to fill in your details:
https://www.clarissacartharn.com/your...
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
August 24, 2017
'Scent of Roses' revolves around a reality dating television show where the star bachelor, Dante Dimitriou, and the reluctant contestant, Zoe Parker, become fast friends. This friend to lover theme is another attraction of this book.
Zoe is a nice and likeable heroine. I could understand her hesitancy towards Dante as her insecurity didn’t let her accept the fact that he might be interested in more than friendship with her. He, being the exclusive bachelor also didn’t help the matter.
Dante is a very sweet and lovable hero. His initial nervousness around Zoe is very endearing. It mostly happens that the hero is obtuse to the heroine’s feelings; however, it is interesting to see poor Dante being all obvious about his interest and Zoe being the oblivious one. It was fun to watch the self-assured bachelor working up a sweat to impress Zoe.
I really enjoyed this book, more so because of Dante since I find the concept of heroes in pursuit captivating. I especially loved the ending; there seemed to be a fine poetic justice in it.
My thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
Zoe is a nice and likeable heroine. I could understand her hesitancy towards Dante as her insecurity didn’t let her accept the fact that he might be interested in more than friendship with her. He, being the exclusive bachelor also didn’t help the matter.
Dante is a very sweet and lovable hero. His initial nervousness around Zoe is very endearing. It mostly happens that the hero is obtuse to the heroine’s feelings; however, it is interesting to see poor Dante being all obvious about his interest and Zoe being the oblivious one. It was fun to watch the self-assured bachelor working up a sweat to impress Zoe.
I really enjoyed this book, more so because of Dante since I find the concept of heroes in pursuit captivating. I especially loved the ending; there seemed to be a fine poetic justice in it.
My thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2014
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
There's a reason there are so many reality dating shows out there. People are easily captivated by them, because most people are suckers for that sweep you off your feet fairytale romance. And let's not forget the draw a competition adds. Throw in some drama too, and suddenly you have an entranced audience. I'm not faulting this book for this reason its more like I'm explaining its appeal. I couldn't help but to be a captivated member of this book's audience. When I read the blurb, I was hooked at the mere mention of the competition.
I can't deny that I have my own weaknesses when it comes to the idea of a fairytale romance, but I have also been searching for a book like The Selection. The Selection happened to be the first book I read like this, and I loved it. This concept is, as I mentioned, more of a reality TV kind of thing. So as a concept for a book, it is very intriguing to me. I couldn't shake the curiosity. I wanted to know what a modern, real world version would be like in book form.
If I said I didn't like this, I would be lying. It kept my interest. I didn't think about it when I put it down and I didn't crave the next second I'd have again to read it, but I did enjoy it. The novel had a lot of potential. There were technical errors that caused some confusion while I was reading: spelling mistakes, wrong words, and bad sentence structuring. Also at one point Zoe talks about Connor telling her his feelings when really it was supposed to be Kyle. It is in need of editing, but the story is strong and it definitely helps overshadow those things.
The reason this is a two star book for me is simply because of the fact I couldn't identify with or connect to the characters. Sure I wanted to know what happened, and I certainly rooted for the blooming romance, but in the end I didn't care. Dante had moments of arrogance that really hurt his character for me. I couldn't stand it when he told Zoe what to do (it was the way he would say it that really got to me) and the constant threat he threw at her was over used. But on the flip side Zoe's bull headedness and obliviousness was just as annoying, if not more so. I felt like I needed more character background and depth to become fully invested in these characters.
I enjoyed the spin on things. It was the same spin in The Selection. Zoe stays in the competition as merely a friend, but of course friendship is only one thing that develops between the two main characters: Zoe and Dante. Just to make it more fun, Kyle (the host) becomes a third party in this madness, and tries to woe Zoe. And the creator of the show, Connor (Dantes best friend), tries to force Dantes focus away from Zoe. It was definitely a drama filled novel.
The situation with the girls was downplayed. Actually for the most part it took a backseat to literally everything else. Jennifer, one of the girls, gets a chance at a POV from time to time to spice things up, but really the story with the girls wasn't explored as much as I would have liked.
For me, this was a book with great potential, but it felt unfinished. I think that it'd benefit from being expanded even. Just a thought.
There's a reason there are so many reality dating shows out there. People are easily captivated by them, because most people are suckers for that sweep you off your feet fairytale romance. And let's not forget the draw a competition adds. Throw in some drama too, and suddenly you have an entranced audience. I'm not faulting this book for this reason its more like I'm explaining its appeal. I couldn't help but to be a captivated member of this book's audience. When I read the blurb, I was hooked at the mere mention of the competition.
I can't deny that I have my own weaknesses when it comes to the idea of a fairytale romance, but I have also been searching for a book like The Selection. The Selection happened to be the first book I read like this, and I loved it. This concept is, as I mentioned, more of a reality TV kind of thing. So as a concept for a book, it is very intriguing to me. I couldn't shake the curiosity. I wanted to know what a modern, real world version would be like in book form.
If I said I didn't like this, I would be lying. It kept my interest. I didn't think about it when I put it down and I didn't crave the next second I'd have again to read it, but I did enjoy it. The novel had a lot of potential. There were technical errors that caused some confusion while I was reading: spelling mistakes, wrong words, and bad sentence structuring. Also at one point Zoe talks about Connor telling her his feelings when really it was supposed to be Kyle. It is in need of editing, but the story is strong and it definitely helps overshadow those things.
The reason this is a two star book for me is simply because of the fact I couldn't identify with or connect to the characters. Sure I wanted to know what happened, and I certainly rooted for the blooming romance, but in the end I didn't care. Dante had moments of arrogance that really hurt his character for me. I couldn't stand it when he told Zoe what to do (it was the way he would say it that really got to me) and the constant threat he threw at her was over used. But on the flip side Zoe's bull headedness and obliviousness was just as annoying, if not more so. I felt like I needed more character background and depth to become fully invested in these characters.
I enjoyed the spin on things. It was the same spin in The Selection. Zoe stays in the competition as merely a friend, but of course friendship is only one thing that develops between the two main characters: Zoe and Dante. Just to make it more fun, Kyle (the host) becomes a third party in this madness, and tries to woe Zoe. And the creator of the show, Connor (Dantes best friend), tries to force Dantes focus away from Zoe. It was definitely a drama filled novel.
The situation with the girls was downplayed. Actually for the most part it took a backseat to literally everything else. Jennifer, one of the girls, gets a chance at a POV from time to time to spice things up, but really the story with the girls wasn't explored as much as I would have liked.
For me, this was a book with great potential, but it felt unfinished. I think that it'd benefit from being expanded even. Just a thought.
March 17, 2014
First and foremost, thank you Clarissa Cartharn, fir giving me the opportunity to read and review this amazing book.
Asking for an honest opininion???
The book was great!! The plot was set right and the character development amazing.
However, i felt the stiry was a bit rushed. The drama that was to take place in paris was not detailed,
We missed out on the. Drama.....!!
Overall, it was an amazing book, totally awesome
Asking for an honest opininion???
The book was great!! The plot was set right and the character development amazing.
However, i felt the stiry was a bit rushed. The drama that was to take place in paris was not detailed,
We missed out on the. Drama.....!!
Overall, it was an amazing book, totally awesome
March 23, 2014
3.5 Orion Stars
"Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review."
I feel sad. This was going to be a Four Stars Review. It ended up with just 3.5 stars.
This is the kind of book you love to read on sunday morning while eating chocolates and doing nothing but reading. It's not short and it's not long. So in a couple of hours you are done.
I love the ALL the Characters. I love The Story Line and the Love Story. it was a normal paced story until I hit the 80% mark. Suddenly it was Fast. Rush. Kind of "it's the End of the World" Rush. I didn't like it.
I spent 80% of the book Loving Dante. Laughing with the things he did. Loving the tension between Zoe and Dante. I kept telling myself that as soon as they realized what they felt for each other was more than a friendship, The writer was going to give us a well written with lots of details couple of scenes between Dante and Zoe. What i got once i hit the 80% mark was situations were things happened and that's it. Not explanation. No answers. They Just Happened and deal with it. Pretty much i ended up reading and saying WHAT? And yes, I rolled my eyes a couple of times.
Another thing that bothered me was the way the character talked. Don't get me wrong. I LOVE British accents and I love British boys. But . . . If I am reading a book and the characters are american, I just can read a dialogue with "Bloody" or "lass" . . . you get the idea.
Now I must say The ending. I WAS EXPECTING THAT! Believe me Clarissa I was going to be mad if that didn't happen!
" She glanced up again and her eyes widened. “It’s the Centaurus.” “I love you, Zoe Parker,” he whispered in the quiet, starry night. She smiled, resting her back against his warm chest. “And I love you.”
"Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review."
I feel sad. This was going to be a Four Stars Review. It ended up with just 3.5 stars.
This is the kind of book you love to read on sunday morning while eating chocolates and doing nothing but reading. It's not short and it's not long. So in a couple of hours you are done.
I love the ALL the Characters. I love The Story Line and the Love Story. it was a normal paced story until I hit the 80% mark. Suddenly it was Fast. Rush. Kind of "it's the End of the World" Rush. I didn't like it.
I spent 80% of the book Loving Dante. Laughing with the things he did. Loving the tension between Zoe and Dante. I kept telling myself that as soon as they realized what they felt for each other was more than a friendship, The writer was going to give us a well written with lots of details couple of scenes between Dante and Zoe. What i got once i hit the 80% mark was situations were things happened and that's it. Not explanation. No answers. They Just Happened and deal with it. Pretty much i ended up reading and saying WHAT? And yes, I rolled my eyes a couple of times.
Another thing that bothered me was the way the character talked. Don't get me wrong. I LOVE British accents and I love British boys. But . . . If I am reading a book and the characters are american, I just can read a dialogue with "Bloody" or "lass" . . . you get the idea.
Now I must say The ending. I WAS EXPECTING THAT! Believe me Clarissa I was going to be mad if that didn't happen!
" She glanced up again and her eyes widened. “It’s the Centaurus.” “I love you, Zoe Parker,” he whispered in the quiet, starry night. She smiled, resting her back against his warm chest. “And I love you.”
March 12, 2014
I got this ebook for free from the author for a review.
When I first read the synopsis I was intrigued. I personally don't like or watch reality dating shows but this topic being in a book interested me. I wanted to see how it played out. I also like that neither character was really wanting to do this show. You think of people on dating shows as being shallow so since they both didn't do this by choice made it seem more real.
This was hard to read at certain points due to the editing. I had to stop and figure out what the author meant, it interrupted the flow of the story.
Zoe is a bit annoying in how oblivious she is. It is clear that Dante likes her but she has such low self esteem that she is blind to the special treatment she has been getting. Even when people point these things out to her she still brushes it off as nothing. One thing is she is told by his family that he has never brought a girl home before. I have read this before in books and I just want to smack her and say duh he likes you!.
I loved how Dante got jealous of Kyle. That is one of my favorite things to read men being jealous, as long as they aren’t psycho or controlling with it which Dante wasn't. He is really sweet when he isn't being defensive about his feelings or the hurt he felt when Zoe paid attention to another man over him.
This book would have been so much better if Zoe had been more pleasant. The very end was sweet.
When I first read the synopsis I was intrigued. I personally don't like or watch reality dating shows but this topic being in a book interested me. I wanted to see how it played out. I also like that neither character was really wanting to do this show. You think of people on dating shows as being shallow so since they both didn't do this by choice made it seem more real.
This was hard to read at certain points due to the editing. I had to stop and figure out what the author meant, it interrupted the flow of the story.
Zoe is a bit annoying in how oblivious she is. It is clear that Dante likes her but she has such low self esteem that she is blind to the special treatment she has been getting. Even when people point these things out to her she still brushes it off as nothing. One thing is she is told by his family that he has never brought a girl home before. I have read this before in books and I just want to smack her and say duh he likes you!.
I loved how Dante got jealous of Kyle. That is one of my favorite things to read men being jealous, as long as they aren’t psycho or controlling with it which Dante wasn't. He is really sweet when he isn't being defensive about his feelings or the hurt he felt when Zoe paid attention to another man over him.
This book would have been so much better if Zoe had been more pleasant. The very end was sweet.
May 4, 2014
I received this book from the author in exchange for a honest review.
My thoughts: This is the second romance that I have read centered around a dating reality show. I really liked this book. The interactions between the hero and heroine were engaging. Dante Dimitriou (the hero) was likeable from the start. He agrees to do the reality show to help out his friend Connor. I could tell early on that he was attracted to the heroine. It just took him awhile to figure it out. She is definitely not the type he is used to dating. I think her uniqueness is what attracts him in the first place. Zoe Parker (the heroine) is tricked by her best friend Sarah. She thinks she is going on a blind date, but when she arrives finds out it is a reality show. The only reason she stays is so her friend does not get into trouble(she had forged her name on documents). She does not even consider Dante as someone she could be with. She is actually more attracted to the show's host Kyle. Their romance is drawn out slowly, but not in a way that bores you.
The Story: Dante is the bachelor on a reality dating show and Zoe is a reluctant participant. Dante is instantly intrigued by her after seeing her on a hidden camera. Zoe was calling her friend and trying to bail on the show. Dante decides to keep her on the show as a friend. After the initial meet and greet, Dante slips her a note to meet him in a hotel suite. She does and Dante tells her he wants her to stay as his friend. She is kind of insulted and wants to leave so he blackmails her to stay. She does not stay mad at him long. He is just so irresistible.
The next day, they leave for France. On the plane over, Kyle talks and flirts with her. When they land, they go to Dante's chateau. The next morning, Zoe decides to check out the town and Kyle offers to drive her. They spend the day together. When they arrive back for dinner, they are late. Dante is not amused. He is jealous, but does not yet realize why. He requests to talk to her and later that night he berates her over her behavior.
The rest of the book deals with their bumpy road to an eventual HEA. I love the way the ending was written. Zoe's uncles were hilarious.
My thoughts: This is the second romance that I have read centered around a dating reality show. I really liked this book. The interactions between the hero and heroine were engaging. Dante Dimitriou (the hero) was likeable from the start. He agrees to do the reality show to help out his friend Connor. I could tell early on that he was attracted to the heroine. It just took him awhile to figure it out. She is definitely not the type he is used to dating. I think her uniqueness is what attracts him in the first place. Zoe Parker (the heroine) is tricked by her best friend Sarah. She thinks she is going on a blind date, but when she arrives finds out it is a reality show. The only reason she stays is so her friend does not get into trouble(she had forged her name on documents). She does not even consider Dante as someone she could be with. She is actually more attracted to the show's host Kyle. Their romance is drawn out slowly, but not in a way that bores you.
The Story: Dante is the bachelor on a reality dating show and Zoe is a reluctant participant. Dante is instantly intrigued by her after seeing her on a hidden camera. Zoe was calling her friend and trying to bail on the show. Dante decides to keep her on the show as a friend. After the initial meet and greet, Dante slips her a note to meet him in a hotel suite. She does and Dante tells her he wants her to stay as his friend. She is kind of insulted and wants to leave so he blackmails her to stay. She does not stay mad at him long. He is just so irresistible.
The next day, they leave for France. On the plane over, Kyle talks and flirts with her. When they land, they go to Dante's chateau. The next morning, Zoe decides to check out the town and Kyle offers to drive her. They spend the day together. When they arrive back for dinner, they are late. Dante is not amused. He is jealous, but does not yet realize why. He requests to talk to her and later that night he berates her over her behavior.
The rest of the book deals with their bumpy road to an eventual HEA. I love the way the ending was written. Zoe's uncles were hilarious.
March 10, 2014
ARC provided for honest review!
This is a very hard book for me to rate and review. I couldn't give it a four but a three seems too low.
First, I will say I did enjoyed it. There's something about it that was fun and like able and I'd recommend it for a very lazy, easy, read. It's a cute story BUT there are some serious flaws.
The editing was HORRID! So many errors. I found myself re-reading sentences trying to figure out if it was suppose to be like that or even worse, what was meant by a misspelled or a missing word in a sentence. Additionally a few sentences the structure was completely confusing. I'm usually not an editing snob and I don't hold the author accountable for this as I'm sure she has an editor, it happens when you write anything over a paragraph but it was pretty bad. :-(
About 10 pages in I went to look up were the author is from because I knew it wasn't America. The location descriptions & English grammar is obvious in that. I'm totally fine with authors writing about places not of their origin normally but.... Maybe it threw me simply because I've lived in two of the locations the book took place and I expected American English as the books dialect since the characters are American? Not a big deal honestly I simply am a character language snob I guess (ie no matter the language that the characters use the proper dialect of their origin is advisable.)
Honestly, the biggest issue for me... I think his book could be epic with some better editing and flushing out of the story. The characterization was good for such a short book and the writing itself is solid but some of the situations etc needs some more depth. There were too many situations where things just happened. There was no explanation or understanding of why or no real resolution of the situation as it stood in a few scenes. Additionally at times the hero comes off more controlling then loving. I think this has to do with flushing out of the characters/situations because he was rather like able despite this. Additionally some may find them a bit immature and young for their characterization, again, something that could be rectified with a longer more flushed out story.
All-in-all a cute read. :-)
This is a very hard book for me to rate and review. I couldn't give it a four but a three seems too low.
First, I will say I did enjoyed it. There's something about it that was fun and like able and I'd recommend it for a very lazy, easy, read. It's a cute story BUT there are some serious flaws.
The editing was HORRID! So many errors. I found myself re-reading sentences trying to figure out if it was suppose to be like that or even worse, what was meant by a misspelled or a missing word in a sentence. Additionally a few sentences the structure was completely confusing. I'm usually not an editing snob and I don't hold the author accountable for this as I'm sure she has an editor, it happens when you write anything over a paragraph but it was pretty bad. :-(
About 10 pages in I went to look up were the author is from because I knew it wasn't America. The location descriptions & English grammar is obvious in that. I'm totally fine with authors writing about places not of their origin normally but.... Maybe it threw me simply because I've lived in two of the locations the book took place and I expected American English as the books dialect since the characters are American? Not a big deal honestly I simply am a character language snob I guess (ie no matter the language that the characters use the proper dialect of their origin is advisable.)
Honestly, the biggest issue for me... I think his book could be epic with some better editing and flushing out of the story. The characterization was good for such a short book and the writing itself is solid but some of the situations etc needs some more depth. There were too many situations where things just happened. There was no explanation or understanding of why or no real resolution of the situation as it stood in a few scenes. Additionally at times the hero comes off more controlling then loving. I think this has to do with flushing out of the characters/situations because he was rather like able despite this. Additionally some may find them a bit immature and young for their characterization, again, something that could be rectified with a longer more flushed out story.
All-in-all a cute read. :-)
March 12, 2014
4.5 stars
Ever wonder what it is like behind the scenes of "The Bachelor"? What happens when he decides which woman he wants on day one and has to keep with up the show for three months? Come inside this book and get ready to smell the roses...
The last thing Zoe thought she was getting into when she agreed to go on by blind date was ending up on a documentary about dating. After meeting the man, he infuriates her and she can't wait to walk away. But a forged agreement from her friend forces her to stay on and the longer she is there, the more she tries to force herself to feel for anyone but him.
As soon as Dante walks into the room, he spots Zoe. She is so different from all the other women there, how could she not. And when she throws attitude at him whenever possible, Dante knows he has met his match and can't wait to see how their relationship develops.
As production continues both Zoe and Dante are forced to hide their growing affections from others and each other for the sake of the show. As things ramp up with the show, emotions come to a head. Will they be able to admit how they feel for each other and let everything else go or will it all be just too much?
I really liked this book. I am not a huge fan of the bachelor series but this was a really cute behind the scenes take on it. It is a slow build to a sweet love story done in a way that you are sucked in and immediately rooting for the characters to stop fighting each other and just get together already.
My thoughts:
Quick hook or slow starter? 5 (I was hooked from the first chapter)
Character development: 4
Level of Romance between characters: 4.5
Passion/Heat level: 4 (chemistry between these two is pretty instant but they spend most of the story fight it and each other.)
Angst/Heartbreak: 4 (did I mention they fight their feelings for most of the book?)
Cliffhanger?: Nope, this is a nice refreshing stand alone.
Overall, I loved it. My only complaint is I would have liked a little more heat to the love scenes...that would have made this a 5 star read for me but other than that, I thought it was great.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Ever wonder what it is like behind the scenes of "The Bachelor"? What happens when he decides which woman he wants on day one and has to keep with up the show for three months? Come inside this book and get ready to smell the roses...
The last thing Zoe thought she was getting into when she agreed to go on by blind date was ending up on a documentary about dating. After meeting the man, he infuriates her and she can't wait to walk away. But a forged agreement from her friend forces her to stay on and the longer she is there, the more she tries to force herself to feel for anyone but him.
As soon as Dante walks into the room, he spots Zoe. She is so different from all the other women there, how could she not. And when she throws attitude at him whenever possible, Dante knows he has met his match and can't wait to see how their relationship develops.
As production continues both Zoe and Dante are forced to hide their growing affections from others and each other for the sake of the show. As things ramp up with the show, emotions come to a head. Will they be able to admit how they feel for each other and let everything else go or will it all be just too much?
I really liked this book. I am not a huge fan of the bachelor series but this was a really cute behind the scenes take on it. It is a slow build to a sweet love story done in a way that you are sucked in and immediately rooting for the characters to stop fighting each other and just get together already.
My thoughts:
Quick hook or slow starter? 5 (I was hooked from the first chapter)
Character development: 4
Level of Romance between characters: 4.5
Passion/Heat level: 4 (chemistry between these two is pretty instant but they spend most of the story fight it and each other.)
Angst/Heartbreak: 4 (did I mention they fight their feelings for most of the book?)
Cliffhanger?: Nope, this is a nice refreshing stand alone.
Overall, I loved it. My only complaint is I would have liked a little more heat to the love scenes...that would have made this a 5 star read for me but other than that, I thought it was great.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2014
*Thanks to the author who gave me a mobi file of this story in exchange for an honest review.*
Zoe is talked into going on a blind date at the Hotel Carpathia by her friend, but in reality she is going to be on a documentary which features Dante Dimitriou, a successful and very attractive business mogul. Known by all as one who was able to take over his family business at such a young age after this father died, he is very revered as a successful businessman. Talked into doing the documentary by his best friend, Connor, he is very pessimistic about the experience since all women only want him for his money. However that all changes when he sees Zoe, a girl who against all odds intrigues him no matter how much of a contrast she is to other women he's encountered in his past. This whirlwind of a journey brings them both to places that they never thought they would encounter.
This story was very interesting and captivating. It had many aspects of The Bachelor in it; however, there were many different twists that were put into it. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I was actually glad that Zoe wad oblivious to the ever growing attraction between Dante and her. It made him work harder at trying to capture her attention and he usually doesn't have to work that hard at trying to attract a woman at all. He opens up to her like no one else he's been with and she also reciprocates by allowing him to hear of her hardships throughout her life. I thought that their friendship was beautiful because it progressed from this stage to them falling in love with each other without them really planning to. It was like The Bachelor, but with more feeling and passion. It was great seeing such a successful business entrepreneur and 'playboy' have his initial thoughts on love and women change. Also I enjoyed the angst and frustration with Dante and Zoe due to her obliviousness. However, I still wanted to know about what had happened with Zoe and Kyle, but other than that this was a beautiful story and I enjoyed it very much.
Zoe is talked into going on a blind date at the Hotel Carpathia by her friend, but in reality she is going to be on a documentary which features Dante Dimitriou, a successful and very attractive business mogul. Known by all as one who was able to take over his family business at such a young age after this father died, he is very revered as a successful businessman. Talked into doing the documentary by his best friend, Connor, he is very pessimistic about the experience since all women only want him for his money. However that all changes when he sees Zoe, a girl who against all odds intrigues him no matter how much of a contrast she is to other women he's encountered in his past. This whirlwind of a journey brings them both to places that they never thought they would encounter.
This story was very interesting and captivating. It had many aspects of The Bachelor in it; however, there were many different twists that were put into it. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I was actually glad that Zoe wad oblivious to the ever growing attraction between Dante and her. It made him work harder at trying to capture her attention and he usually doesn't have to work that hard at trying to attract a woman at all. He opens up to her like no one else he's been with and she also reciprocates by allowing him to hear of her hardships throughout her life. I thought that their friendship was beautiful because it progressed from this stage to them falling in love with each other without them really planning to. It was like The Bachelor, but with more feeling and passion. It was great seeing such a successful business entrepreneur and 'playboy' have his initial thoughts on love and women change. Also I enjoyed the angst and frustration with Dante and Zoe due to her obliviousness. However, I still wanted to know about what had happened with Zoe and Kyle, but other than that this was a beautiful story and I enjoyed it very much.
August 11, 2016
Reviewed by Natasha Jackson for Readers' Favorite
Scent of Roses is the story of two people, Dante and Zoe, who end up in a dating documentary thanks to their stubborn friends, Connor and Sarah. Unfortunately, Zoe thinks she’s at Hotel Carpathia to meet a blind date, which she is, just not along with more than a dozen other women. Outraged that her friend would do such a thing, Zoe plainly tells Dante she doesn’t want to be there…fully anticipating that he’ll eliminate her first. Unfortunately for Zoe, Dante has found a kindred spirit and plans to keep his new friend with him until the very end. Clarissa Cartharn does a truly fantastic job of illustrating the conflict between Zoe and Dante’s friendship as well as their hidden but burgeoning feelings for one another. How do you help a man you are starting to love, and pick the right woman for him when you’re no longer in the running?
Of course the idea of a reluctant bachelorette isn't a new one, but Clarissa Cartharn puts Zoe tentatively in the friendship zone, giving Scent of Roses just the thing to make it interesting. I love that everything from her looks to her intelligence is in marked contrast to Dante’s usual conquests; and his attraction to her is causing him to rethink what he really wants. Because of the nature of reality show dating, there are plenty of interactions between them so you get to see the chemistry between them rather than just read about it. Zoe was a great character; both a little too romantic and a little too cynical all at once, which made her interesting and easy to empathize with. And Dante, well, Dante is handsome, ridiculously wealthy, and a pretty good guy so it is easy to see how it would be virtually impossible not to fall in love with him. Clarissa Cartharn did a fantastic job with this story. It is both engaging and endearing.
Scent of Roses is the story of two people, Dante and Zoe, who end up in a dating documentary thanks to their stubborn friends, Connor and Sarah. Unfortunately, Zoe thinks she’s at Hotel Carpathia to meet a blind date, which she is, just not along with more than a dozen other women. Outraged that her friend would do such a thing, Zoe plainly tells Dante she doesn’t want to be there…fully anticipating that he’ll eliminate her first. Unfortunately for Zoe, Dante has found a kindred spirit and plans to keep his new friend with him until the very end. Clarissa Cartharn does a truly fantastic job of illustrating the conflict between Zoe and Dante’s friendship as well as their hidden but burgeoning feelings for one another. How do you help a man you are starting to love, and pick the right woman for him when you’re no longer in the running?
Of course the idea of a reluctant bachelorette isn't a new one, but Clarissa Cartharn puts Zoe tentatively in the friendship zone, giving Scent of Roses just the thing to make it interesting. I love that everything from her looks to her intelligence is in marked contrast to Dante’s usual conquests; and his attraction to her is causing him to rethink what he really wants. Because of the nature of reality show dating, there are plenty of interactions between them so you get to see the chemistry between them rather than just read about it. Zoe was a great character; both a little too romantic and a little too cynical all at once, which made her interesting and easy to empathize with. And Dante, well, Dante is handsome, ridiculously wealthy, and a pretty good guy so it is easy to see how it would be virtually impossible not to fall in love with him. Clarissa Cartharn did a fantastic job with this story. It is both engaging and endearing.
August 3, 2014
Thank you so much to the author (Clarissa Cartharn) for gifting me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Just so you can get a better understanding, this book is like the PG-13 version of The Selection condensed into one book and in the modern world. I now see why Kiera Cass wanted to pull The Selection out into a trilogy. I feel like this book would have been better as a duology. It ended rather abruptly in my opinion (it felt like the author looked at the page count all of a sudden and said "oops I already went over my limit time to wrap it up!") and Jennifer and Alicia's role's (kind of like Celeste in The Selection) were a little downplayed.
At the end, I thought there was a bit too much back and forth between if Zoe loved Dante or not. I wish there would have been more of a dialogue inside Zoe's head as she accepted Dante's offer for real.
Other than those things, I absolutely loved it! I know I've been comparing it to The Selection in this review but it actually is it's own book and I wasn't thinking of The Selection when I was reading it. It really is quite unique.
I also loved the multiple POV's. I think they were done very well and you always knew whose head you were in at the moment. It was mostly limited to Dante and Zoe but sometimes Jennifer and other characters had brief sections.
Final Verdict:
This book is a definite page-turner mostly focused on romance. While it could have been turned into a duology, it's good as is. The POV's were amazing but the ending was a bit abrupt. Overall, I absolutely loved it and was engrossed from page 1.
4 stars
Just so you can get a better understanding, this book is like the PG-13 version of The Selection condensed into one book and in the modern world. I now see why Kiera Cass wanted to pull The Selection out into a trilogy. I feel like this book would have been better as a duology. It ended rather abruptly in my opinion (it felt like the author looked at the page count all of a sudden and said "oops I already went over my limit time to wrap it up!") and Jennifer and Alicia's role's (kind of like Celeste in The Selection) were a little downplayed.
At the end, I thought there was a bit too much back and forth between if Zoe loved Dante or not. I wish there would have been more of a dialogue inside Zoe's head as she accepted Dante's offer for real.
Other than those things, I absolutely loved it! I know I've been comparing it to The Selection in this review but it actually is it's own book and I wasn't thinking of The Selection when I was reading it. It really is quite unique.
I also loved the multiple POV's. I think they were done very well and you always knew whose head you were in at the moment. It was mostly limited to Dante and Zoe but sometimes Jennifer and other characters had brief sections.
Final Verdict:
This book is a definite page-turner mostly focused on romance. While it could have been turned into a duology, it's good as is. The POV's were amazing but the ending was a bit abrupt. Overall, I absolutely loved it and was engrossed from page 1.
4 stars
September 1, 2016
Zoe Parker’s best friend Sarah tricks her into going onto a T.V show with 15 women, trying to get the one available rich bachelor, the rich and good looking Dante. Furious, Zoe and Dante decide to become “friends.” But, of course being just “friends” never seems to work out the way you think.
Zoe and Dante’s relationship was very interesting. You have the mix of all these women trying to get Dante’s attention, and then you have Zoe who seems to not want it half the time. She’s still annoyed that her friend tricked her, so of course because she’s not throwing herself at the rich bachelor he takes notice of her. They have a lot of “on and off” moments, and the two are SUPER hot headed with each other. At times I was like “What the heck guys? Pull yourselves together and just LOVE each other!” Good gravy! I did want to slap both of them once and awhile! I really loved Heather, she was so sweet and a great friend in the mix of all the drama going on in Zoe’s life.
The author did a great job in capturing your attention as you are brought through this T.V show’s play outs, the flirting of the girls, and Zoe and Dante’s entanglement into each other’s hearts. If you are a romance fanatic you’ll love this book as it takes you on an emotional ride!
Zoe and Dante’s relationship was very interesting. You have the mix of all these women trying to get Dante’s attention, and then you have Zoe who seems to not want it half the time. She’s still annoyed that her friend tricked her, so of course because she’s not throwing herself at the rich bachelor he takes notice of her. They have a lot of “on and off” moments, and the two are SUPER hot headed with each other. At times I was like “What the heck guys? Pull yourselves together and just LOVE each other!” Good gravy! I did want to slap both of them once and awhile! I really loved Heather, she was so sweet and a great friend in the mix of all the drama going on in Zoe’s life.
The author did a great job in capturing your attention as you are brought through this T.V show’s play outs, the flirting of the girls, and Zoe and Dante’s entanglement into each other’s hearts. If you are a romance fanatic you’ll love this book as it takes you on an emotional ride!
April 11, 2014
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for my honest review, so here it is. Zoe is set up on yet another blind date by her BFF Sarah and can't believe she is going. She has no idea who he is but is meeting him in a 5-star hotel. When Zoe arrives she is lead into a room with other women. When she finds out it is a reality show, she is furious with Sarah and wants to leave. When Dante sees Zoe, he is drawn to her and wants to spend time with her without the cameras following them. he has to keep her around so he tells her to stay and be his friend and help him decide on which beauty to choose. Zoe is OK with that, but can she only be his friend? What is going through Dante's mind and what does he have in store for Zoe? Will Zoe end up getting hurt yet again? Will the other women resort to back-stabbing and lies to win Dante? I have read several other stories by Clarissa Cartharn and I loved this one too. This is a cinderella kinda story and you should read it and enjoy it too.
August 3, 2016
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The premise behind the story is really entertaining. Although I do not watch the television show that this is based on, I found it to be just what I would expect with several women all vying for the love and attention of a wealthy bachelor. Zoe and Dante (the main characters) were equally charming and funny. There was great chemistry between the two of them from the start but that chemistry disappears at the same time as they finally make love towards the end. Several characters show up (the uncles when Zoe was supposedly without any family) from out of the blue, leaving me very confused. The editing (or lack thereof) drove me crazy. There were duplications and word choice errors a plenty. Several times I had to re-read several lines to make sure that I understood what was being discussed. Regardless of all this, this was a very light-hearted read and I really enjoyed it. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Cartharn!
The premise behind the story is really entertaining. Although I do not watch the television show that this is based on, I found it to be just what I would expect with several women all vying for the love and attention of a wealthy bachelor. Zoe and Dante (the main characters) were equally charming and funny. There was great chemistry between the two of them from the start but that chemistry disappears at the same time as they finally make love towards the end. Several characters show up (the uncles when Zoe was supposedly without any family) from out of the blue, leaving me very confused. The editing (or lack thereof) drove me crazy. There were duplications and word choice errors a plenty. Several times I had to re-read several lines to make sure that I understood what was being discussed. Regardless of all this, this was a very light-hearted read and I really enjoyed it. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Cartharn!
March 23, 2014
Scent of Roses is about a couple who meets during a reality dating show. The H is the rich bachelor and the h is a reluctant contestant who got tricked by her bestfriend to participate. After making it obvious she doesn't want to be there Dante purposes a "just friends" deal to get her to stay. But being "just friends" never seems to work out the way you think it will.
Watching Zoe and Dante's relationship develop was very interesting. I loved how Dante would make sweet gestures and Zoe would be completely oblivious. This book was equal parts funny, frustrating and sweet. Zoe's insecurities were a bit much for me at times but Dante made up for her shortcomings. I enjoyed this book more because of him. Although it felt a little rushed towards the end I loved the way it all came together. The book could use a bit of editing but overall it was a great story.
✳✳ Copy provided by the author for an honest review.
Watching Zoe and Dante's relationship develop was very interesting. I loved how Dante would make sweet gestures and Zoe would be completely oblivious. This book was equal parts funny, frustrating and sweet. Zoe's insecurities were a bit much for me at times but Dante made up for her shortcomings. I enjoyed this book more because of him. Although it felt a little rushed towards the end I loved the way it all came together. The book could use a bit of editing but overall it was a great story.
✳✳ Copy provided by the author for an honest review.
August 11, 2016
Cartharn does it again with a lovely romance
I’ve read this author’s work before and like her style of romance writing. 'Scent of Roses' is well rounded with loveable characters, great descriptions of places, and emotions, and an entertaining, satisfying conclusion. I enjoyed the character Dante very much. He’s just so sweet and yet endearingly needs a shake when it comes to ‘getting his girl’. The story is so believable. We see the type of TV show where this story is set, all the time, and here’s a 'behind the scenes' of just such a show, story, that could happen. It’s a teasing, chase romance with steamy kisses when the two main characters do get together at intervals. A page-turner, because you so want the two to end up together too. I loved this story, and can recommend it for a nice read over a few lazy afternoons, five stars.
I’ve read this author’s work before and like her style of romance writing. 'Scent of Roses' is well rounded with loveable characters, great descriptions of places, and emotions, and an entertaining, satisfying conclusion. I enjoyed the character Dante very much. He’s just so sweet and yet endearingly needs a shake when it comes to ‘getting his girl’. The story is so believable. We see the type of TV show where this story is set, all the time, and here’s a 'behind the scenes' of just such a show, story, that could happen. It’s a teasing, chase romance with steamy kisses when the two main characters do get together at intervals. A page-turner, because you so want the two to end up together too. I loved this story, and can recommend it for a nice read over a few lazy afternoons, five stars.
March 8, 2014
Clarissa Cartarn never fails to excite with her books! Her next romance novel, Scent of Roses will take you on an unexpected journey into the world of reality television. I have to however warn you that if you think it is going to be predictable and boring, you will be in for a surprise!
I found the two main characters interesting and diverse. The author developed the plot of the book beautifully,she pulls you into the whole drama of Dante and Zoe! You will definately not be able to pull yourself away from this one.
The only critisism I have is that it was all over too soon, I want more... So maybe, my advise would be to not read it in one sitting, but rather stretch the pleasure out! So in other words, delay your romance gratification!
I found the two main characters interesting and diverse. The author developed the plot of the book beautifully,she pulls you into the whole drama of Dante and Zoe! You will definately not be able to pull yourself away from this one.
The only critisism I have is that it was all over too soon, I want more... So maybe, my advise would be to not read it in one sitting, but rather stretch the pleasure out! So in other words, delay your romance gratification!
November 3, 2014
este libro fue un regalo de la autora, asi que muy agradecida de recibirlo!!
5 Estrellas!!
que puedo decir, me encantó libro, lo amé de principio a fin, Los personajes fueron divinos, Zoe y Dante son genuinos, hacen al libro super entretenido, la lectura es rápida y te hace querer saltar en defensa de ambos todo el tiempo, la verdad que Clarissa creo personajes frescos en un libro que no es super extenso, tiene mucho romance, pero ese que empieza siendo muy sutil, ese cargado de amistad que te hace valorarlo muchísimo más, donde el amor triunfa mas allá del dinero o de la belleza, donde la confianza es fundamental.
En definitiva amé el libro!!!
https://p.gr-assets.com/540x540/fit/h...
5 Estrellas!!
que puedo decir, me encantó libro, lo amé de principio a fin, Los personajes fueron divinos, Zoe y Dante son genuinos, hacen al libro super entretenido, la lectura es rápida y te hace querer saltar en defensa de ambos todo el tiempo, la verdad que Clarissa creo personajes frescos en un libro que no es super extenso, tiene mucho romance, pero ese que empieza siendo muy sutil, ese cargado de amistad que te hace valorarlo muchísimo más, donde el amor triunfa mas allá del dinero o de la belleza, donde la confianza es fundamental.
En definitiva amé el libro!!!
https://p.gr-assets.com/540x540/fit/h...
March 9, 2014
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. This was my first time to read a story from this author and it was amazing. She definitely has me wanting to come back for more. The H goes on a "supposed" blind date which turns out to be so much more. The storyline flowed really easily. The relationship between the H and the secondary characters like Sarah and Heather just made the story that much better. I loved Dante and how instant his pull towards the H was. This was a great book and very fun and romantic. You don't want to pass it up.
May 26, 2014
Fun read. Cute characters and appropriate storyline with all the rave over reality dating shows. This one starts as Zoe's best friend sets her up on a blind date...that just happens to be a competition dating documentary show. Dante is helping out his best friend by being the male lead/bachelor in the show. Chaos ensues as Dante realizes all the girls that are 'his type' are clueless bubbleheads with no brain or personality. Well, all of them except the one that doesn't exactly fit...Zoe. Cute Cinderella story.
May 24, 2014
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the premise of the book and the overall direction of the story. It was an interesting read and I think the author did a good job of developing the relationships in this novel, although I would have liked to see more in-depth looks at the hero and heroine. I enjoy getting to know the characters I read about and a bit more insight to the way they think and feel from their own perspectives would have enhanced the story.
While this is not my usual style, I am sure others will enjoy!
I liked the premise of the book and the overall direction of the story. It was an interesting read and I think the author did a good job of developing the relationships in this novel, although I would have liked to see more in-depth looks at the hero and heroine. I enjoy getting to know the characters I read about and a bit more insight to the way they think and feel from their own perspectives would have enhanced the story.
While this is not my usual style, I am sure others will enjoy!
March 17, 2014
I received it in exchange of an honest review! AMAZING!!! From the beginning this book takes you for a ride! I couldn't put it down! Well written with great characters, a modern setting of a love story and subtile heat this book is a pure pleasure!!! Totally adorable Dante and Zoe's story will make you melt! Well researched, funny and witty i had a smile on my face most of the time! I loved every moment of it!!! Two thumbs up!!!
August 30, 2014
Received an ARC for honest review
This is a cute story that I would give 4.5 stars.
I have to give credit this is the first book I have read that had a reality show story line. So I got caught up into the characters.
The only thing I would like to see differently is an epilogue. Just a little something about how they are fairing.
This is a cute story that I would give 4.5 stars.
I have to give credit this is the first book I have read that had a reality show story line. So I got caught up into the characters.
The only thing I would like to see differently is an epilogue. Just a little something about how they are fairing.
August 26, 2016
review to come...
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