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Unfixable
He’s the last thing she wants…but the only thing she needs.
Willa Peet isn’t interested in love. She’s been there, done that, and has the shattered heart to prove it. Ready to shake the breakup, she heads to Dublin, Ireland. But there’s a problem. A dark-haired, blue-eyed problem with a bad attitude that rivals her own. And he’s not doling out friendly Irish welcomes.
Shane Claymore just wants to race. The death of his father forced him off the Formula One circuit, but he’s only staying in Dublin long enough to sell the Claymore Inn and get things in order for his mother and younger sister. He never expected the sarcastic American girl staying at the inn to make him question everything.
But even as Willa and Shane’s fiery natures draw them together, their pasts threaten to rip them apart. Can Shane give up racing to be with the woman he loves, or will Willa’s quest to resurrect the tough-talking, no-shit-taking girl she used to be destroy any hope of a future together?
Willa Peet isn’t interested in love. She’s been there, done that, and has the shattered heart to prove it. Ready to shake the breakup, she heads to Dublin, Ireland. But there’s a problem. A dark-haired, blue-eyed problem with a bad attitude that rivals her own. And he’s not doling out friendly Irish welcomes.
Shane Claymore just wants to race. The death of his father forced him off the Formula One circuit, but he’s only staying in Dublin long enough to sell the Claymore Inn and get things in order for his mother and younger sister. He never expected the sarcastic American girl staying at the inn to make him question everything.
But even as Willa and Shane’s fiery natures draw them together, their pasts threaten to rip them apart. Can Shane give up racing to be with the woman he loves, or will Willa’s quest to resurrect the tough-talking, no-shit-taking girl she used to be destroy any hope of a future together?
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 7, 2014
231 people are currently reading
10395 people want to read
About the author
Tessa Bailey
105 books66.3k followersNew York Times Bestselling author Tessa Bailey can solve all problems except for her own, so she focuses those efforts on stubborn, fictional blue collar men and loyal, lovable heroines. She lives on Long Island avoiding the sun and social interactions, then wonders why no one has called. Dubbed the “Michelangelo of dirty talk,” by Entertainment Weekly, Tessa writes with spice, spirit, swoon and a guaranteed happily ever after. Catch her on TikTok at @authortessabailey or check out tessabailey.com for a complete list of books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 810 reviews
March 26, 2014
FIVE FIX ME STARS.
"He's the last thing she wants, but the only thing she needs."
It appears that Tessa Bailey can do no wrong in my eyes and with this lovely spin off from her 'Protecting series' hitting the right spot in the New Adult genre she just raised her game all over again. 'Unfixable' is a steamy, adorable love story about two people who could not have been further from looking for true love. If you love a story that has the added tried and tested plot of I-hate-you-so-much-I-want-to-rip-of-all-your-clothing-until-you-are-naked element to it then you don't want to be missing out on this novel. Flirty, steamy, heartfelt and set in the heart of Ireland, I could not have been more willing to lose myself in the romance of this book. I was charmed to distraction and I'm sure you will be too, here's the rest of my 'l love a good romance' thoughts ...
What's it all about?
Willa Peet to the outside world is bad to the bone, she reserves her true feelings and loving side for those that she holds near to her heart. Feeling somewhat of a failure after her last relationship went horribly wrong she escapes the confines of her Chicago life and takes the plunge agreeing to a trip of a lifetime to Ireland. Armed with her camera and her sassy attitude Willa expects to find some healing and time to find herself again after her failed relationship, what she didn't expect to find is an angry but gorgeous blue-eyed Irishman waiting for her at the airport. Shane Claymore already has more than he can handle looking after the family business, his poorly mother and a sister that wants her own way, the last thing he wants to deal with is the beautiful but sarcastic American girl who has come to stay at his family business. His dream is to follow his ambition as a race car driver and say goodbye to his Irish roots, but when sparks fly and feelings that cant be buried away start to make an appearance between this unlikely couple they have to make the decision to avoid all temptation or risk it all for a no entanglements arrangement. Follow the story of Willa and Shane and a explosive connection that is undeniably tempting.
What did I love?
I love it when a couple start out their relationship with the I-hate-you-so-much-I-can't-wait-to-shag you vibe. And it's even better when they think that all they need to do to scratch the surface of their attraction is to give into their dirty no strings attached lust, especially when we all know that love is just around the corner. I don't mind one bit that most of the stories I read are predicable because Tessa Bailey's books are predictably addictive, if I could read her stories all day long, one a day for the whole year, I would do just that. Her books are wildly sexy, hilariously lusty and just to put the cherry on the top they are well written and non stop fabulous. 'Unfixable' was all what I thought a Tessa Bailey book could and should be and more, she has ventured into the new adult genre with celebration of her romance talent and once again I fell in love. I loved the Irish setting of the novel, it gave it a dreamy, holiday feel to the book and added to the story telling of the couple. Everything about this couples adventure stole away at my imagination, Shane and Willa were a terrific couple to read about, their love/hate connection drew me in and held my complete rapt attention. This novel delivered on the content, gave plenty of the hot, sticky, scrumptious naughty bits and last but not least it gave me a hold-your-kindle-to-chest-and-sigh romance story. I'm sold, I'm sure you will be too.
Final thoughts ...
For those who love a well written, sexy new adult story with more swoon than an afternoon spent googling Ryan gosling, then you do not want to miss out. Those who are already fans of Tessa Bailey's writing then I am convinced you will not be disappointed with this latest release and those who have not met her writing yet then this is a great place to start. What are you waiting for? go add this to your ever growing 'to be read' and get one clicking on release day. Enjoy, kisses.
*ARC generously provided by entangled publishing in exchange for an overly excited, but honest review.*
"He's the last thing she wants, but the only thing she needs."
It appears that Tessa Bailey can do no wrong in my eyes and with this lovely spin off from her 'Protecting series' hitting the right spot in the New Adult genre she just raised her game all over again. 'Unfixable' is a steamy, adorable love story about two people who could not have been further from looking for true love. If you love a story that has the added tried and tested plot of I-hate-you-so-much-I-want-to-rip-of-all-your-clothing-until-you-are-naked element to it then you don't want to be missing out on this novel. Flirty, steamy, heartfelt and set in the heart of Ireland, I could not have been more willing to lose myself in the romance of this book. I was charmed to distraction and I'm sure you will be too, here's the rest of my 'l love a good romance' thoughts ...
What's it all about?
Willa Peet to the outside world is bad to the bone, she reserves her true feelings and loving side for those that she holds near to her heart. Feeling somewhat of a failure after her last relationship went horribly wrong she escapes the confines of her Chicago life and takes the plunge agreeing to a trip of a lifetime to Ireland. Armed with her camera and her sassy attitude Willa expects to find some healing and time to find herself again after her failed relationship, what she didn't expect to find is an angry but gorgeous blue-eyed Irishman waiting for her at the airport. Shane Claymore already has more than he can handle looking after the family business, his poorly mother and a sister that wants her own way, the last thing he wants to deal with is the beautiful but sarcastic American girl who has come to stay at his family business. His dream is to follow his ambition as a race car driver and say goodbye to his Irish roots, but when sparks fly and feelings that cant be buried away start to make an appearance between this unlikely couple they have to make the decision to avoid all temptation or risk it all for a no entanglements arrangement. Follow the story of Willa and Shane and a explosive connection that is undeniably tempting.
What did I love?
I love it when a couple start out their relationship with the I-hate-you-so-much-I-can't-wait-to-shag you vibe. And it's even better when they think that all they need to do to scratch the surface of their attraction is to give into their dirty no strings attached lust, especially when we all know that love is just around the corner. I don't mind one bit that most of the stories I read are predicable because Tessa Bailey's books are predictably addictive, if I could read her stories all day long, one a day for the whole year, I would do just that. Her books are wildly sexy, hilariously lusty and just to put the cherry on the top they are well written and non stop fabulous. 'Unfixable' was all what I thought a Tessa Bailey book could and should be and more, she has ventured into the new adult genre with celebration of her romance talent and once again I fell in love. I loved the Irish setting of the novel, it gave it a dreamy, holiday feel to the book and added to the story telling of the couple. Everything about this couples adventure stole away at my imagination, Shane and Willa were a terrific couple to read about, their love/hate connection drew me in and held my complete rapt attention. This novel delivered on the content, gave plenty of the hot, sticky, scrumptious naughty bits and last but not least it gave me a hold-your-kindle-to-chest-and-sigh romance story. I'm sold, I'm sure you will be too.
Final thoughts ...
For those who love a well written, sexy new adult story with more swoon than an afternoon spent googling Ryan gosling, then you do not want to miss out. Those who are already fans of Tessa Bailey's writing then I am convinced you will not be disappointed with this latest release and those who have not met her writing yet then this is a great place to start. What are you waiting for? go add this to your ever growing 'to be read' and get one clicking on release day. Enjoy, kisses.
*ARC generously provided by entangled publishing in exchange for an overly excited, but honest review.*
July 12, 2016
5 I'd let Shane rev my engine Stars
Ladies, be prepared to meet your new book boyfriend. But just in case there's any question about who Shane already belongs to
Yes, I'm more than prepared to let my inner cougar out, and there is no shame in my game here. Once you meet the brooding Irish race car driver you'll see exactly what I mean. Just make sure to return him to his proper owner when you're finished ;)
Did I like this book? No. I fucking loved it. With each new release, Tessa Bailey continues to prove exactly why she's on my list of auto-buy authors. The queen of dirty talk does not disappoint with this one. This New Adult title is a spin off from Tessa's Line of Duty series, but there is no shortage of steam and dirty talk. Beyond that, it's a beautiful love story about 2 broken people finding love in a time and place when they least expect it.
Willa is Ginger's younger sister from Protecting What's His. Since I loved the interaction and snarky humor between the sisters in that book, I knew immediately that I would like Willa in her own book.
Coming off of a difficult break up with her boyfried, Willa is looking for an escape. Winning a trip to Dublin from a photography contest offers the perfect answer to her problem. What she doesn't expect is the broody, rude, and scowling welcome wagon in the form of sexy as hell Irishman when she arrives. To say that these two get off on the wrong foot is an understatement. The insults start flying right away, but the underlying sexual tension between them is what keeps you riveted to turn the pages.
This is not a case of insta-love, or even insta-lust. Tessa creates a perfect slow build between Willa and Shane until you're practically screaming for them to finally get together.
And when they finally do get together? Sweet mother of melting panties everywhere.
I couldn't get enough of Shane and the deliciously dirty things that would come out of his mouth.
Their journey from trading insults, to stolen kisses, to steamy nights and finally to love was wonderfully portrayed. I thought the pacing of the book was absolutely perfect. I couldn't get enough of Shane and I really loved Willa's combination of strong yet endearingly broken. Tessa even managed to give us a little more of Derek and Ginger as the icing on top.
I loved that this was written in first person POV, but I would have liked to get a peek inside Shane's head. I only hope that Tessa makes this into a series.
If you enjoy steamy NA with fantastic characters and a wonderful story (and scorching hot sex scenes), this book is a must read. If you've read and loved Tessa's other books, then you will definitely love this one. And if you haven't yet discovered the brilliance that is this author, I'm not sure what you're doing still reading me review. GO READ THEM!
***ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review***
For more reviews visit
I feel like a battle is being waged inside me, between my attraction to Shane and the scarier, unwanted feelings creeping in. It's no mystery that I will lose the physical battle, but I'm trying to win the overall war."
Ladies, be prepared to meet your new book boyfriend. But just in case there's any question about who Shane already belongs to
Yes, I'm more than prepared to let my inner cougar out, and there is no shame in my game here. Once you meet the brooding Irish race car driver you'll see exactly what I mean. Just make sure to return him to his proper owner when you're finished ;)
Did I like this book? No. I fucking loved it. With each new release, Tessa Bailey continues to prove exactly why she's on my list of auto-buy authors. The queen of dirty talk does not disappoint with this one. This New Adult title is a spin off from Tessa's Line of Duty series, but there is no shortage of steam and dirty talk. Beyond that, it's a beautiful love story about 2 broken people finding love in a time and place when they least expect it.
Willa is Ginger's younger sister from Protecting What's His. Since I loved the interaction and snarky humor between the sisters in that book, I knew immediately that I would like Willa in her own book.
Coming off of a difficult break up with her boyfried, Willa is looking for an escape. Winning a trip to Dublin from a photography contest offers the perfect answer to her problem. What she doesn't expect is the broody, rude, and scowling welcome wagon in the form of sexy as hell Irishman when she arrives. To say that these two get off on the wrong foot is an understatement. The insults start flying right away, but the underlying sexual tension between them is what keeps you riveted to turn the pages.
"I can play nice when I want to."
"That remains to be seen."
"Would you like to see for yourself, tough girl."
"I can't think of anything less appealing."
"Liar."
This is not a case of insta-love, or even insta-lust. Tessa creates a perfect slow build between Willa and Shane until you're practically screaming for them to finally get together.
Damn him, he presses closer.
"Maybe tonight I fancy being bitten."
And when they finally do get together? Sweet mother of melting panties everywhere.
I couldn't get enough of Shane and the deliciously dirty things that would come out of his mouth.
He drags me back from the car and pushes me back against the hard surface, partially heated by the purring engine.
When I start to pull my dress over my head, he stops me.
Their journey from trading insults, to stolen kisses, to steamy nights and finally to love was wonderfully portrayed. I thought the pacing of the book was absolutely perfect. I couldn't get enough of Shane and I really loved Willa's combination of strong yet endearingly broken. Tessa even managed to give us a little more of Derek and Ginger as the icing on top.
I loved that this was written in first person POV, but I would have liked to get a peek inside Shane's head. I only hope that Tessa makes this into a series.
If you enjoy steamy NA with fantastic characters and a wonderful story (and scorching hot sex scenes), this book is a must read. If you've read and loved Tessa's other books, then you will definitely love this one. And if you haven't yet discovered the brilliance that is this author, I'm not sure what you're doing still reading me review. GO READ THEM!
***ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review***
For more reviews visit
March 20, 2015
4.5 stars!
I have been on a Tessa Bailey audiobook kick the last few weeks. This is my third book of hers and by far my favorite. If you’ve read Protecting What’s His you remember Ginger’s younger sister Willa. Willa doesn’t let people get close. She is a little brash, a little standoffish, but she has a huge heart. After a breakup, Willa goes off to Ireland for a photography program. There, she meets Shane. Shane is an Irish guy who doesn’t give her the warmest of welcomes.
Willa and Shane can’t stand each other at first. Is there anything better than that sort of hate/love relationship. I love when feelings start to develop after not getting along at all.
As Willa grows closer to Shane, his sister Faith, and even their wacky mom Kitty, she lets her guard down. For the first time, not counting Ginger and Derek, she lets people in. She lets Shane in. Shane. Shane and that accent. That snarky yet sweet man. Shane who has dreams of being a famous race car driver (and he’s very successful) but is stuck in a hard place needing to help his family. I loved Shane. He made me smile, made me laugh, at times made me infuriated yet always seemed to make me hot and bothered.
Willa was a great heroine, even if she did frustrate me at times. I was happy to see that eventually, she could take some good advice when given.
Unfixable is a fresh, fun, short and sexy read with just the perfect amount of drama and angst. I enjoy Tessa Bailey’s writing style and I can’t wait to read more of her stuff! If I’m looking for something steamy and easy to read, she is a go to author!
I have been on a Tessa Bailey audiobook kick the last few weeks. This is my third book of hers and by far my favorite. If you’ve read Protecting What’s His you remember Ginger’s younger sister Willa. Willa doesn’t let people get close. She is a little brash, a little standoffish, but she has a huge heart. After a breakup, Willa goes off to Ireland for a photography program. There, she meets Shane. Shane is an Irish guy who doesn’t give her the warmest of welcomes.
“I thought Ireland was the land of one thousand welcomes.”
“I’m knocking it down to nine-hundred ninety nine.”
Willa and Shane can’t stand each other at first. Is there anything better than that sort of hate/love relationship. I love when feelings start to develop after not getting along at all.
As Willa grows closer to Shane, his sister Faith, and even their wacky mom Kitty, she lets her guard down. For the first time, not counting Ginger and Derek, she lets people in. She lets Shane in. Shane. Shane and that accent. That snarky yet sweet man. Shane who has dreams of being a famous race car driver (and he’s very successful) but is stuck in a hard place needing to help his family. I loved Shane. He made me smile, made me laugh, at times made me infuriated yet always seemed to make me hot and bothered.
“Don’t you dare,” I manage breathily, when his gaze drops to my mouth. “I bite.”
Damn him, he presses closer.
“Maybe tonight I fancy being bitten.”
Willa was a great heroine, even if she did frustrate me at times. I was happy to see that eventually, she could take some good advice when given.
“This moment, it can be the worst of your live, or the best. Just make it your best. Let it be your best. Okay?”
Unfixable is a fresh, fun, short and sexy read with just the perfect amount of drama and angst. I enjoy Tessa Bailey’s writing style and I can’t wait to read more of her stuff! If I’m looking for something steamy and easy to read, she is a go to author!
April 18, 2014
My casting for Shane ^^
Unfixable was a fun, sexy, and light-hearted romance that kept a smile on my face from start to finish!!
Honestly, it felt exactly like “reading” a romantic comedy movie — it had great banter, a hot hero, a snarky heroine, a little bit of drama thrown in and a happy ending. It was exactly the type of read I was looking for now ;)
The story was about Willa, a sarcastic American girl fresh off a bad break up who escaped away to Ireland (after winning a contest) to find herself again and get back in touch with the part of her that had been pushed away over the course of her failed relationship. The last thing she expected was to be greeted at the airport by a gorgeous dark haired, blue-eyed Irish guy with a thoroughly grouchy attitude who happened to not only own the inn she was staying at but also be a famous race car driver!
"In faded jeans and a bomber jacket, hair finger mussed, he might as well be wearing a sign that says, I'm bad. But in a way that will make you feel really good."
Here's one of the lines that made me chuckle ;)
"Is this about me ditching you and taking a cab from the airport? I'm not going to rat you out to the contest organizers. You'll get your money."
"I received it this afternoon, or you'd be looking for a new place to stay."
"Heartwarming." Jesus. And I though I was mean? "I thought Ireland was the last of one thousand welcomes."
"I'm knocking it down to nine-hundred ninety-nine."
I tilt my head. "Not quite as catchy."
I absolutely loved the writing! It had me smiling, squeeing, chuckling, and laughing from the very beginning. Willa and Shane's sexual chemistry mixed with their intense dislike of each other (at least at first) made for some hilarious scenes....
"If you seeing my underwear was the only thing preventing the destruction of planet Earth and the end of mankind as we know it, I would still have to think about it."
I have to say though that I really like how, despite their attraction to each other, they didn't just jump right into bed immediately. Willa had no intention of just having a casual fling no matter how hot the guy might be and while the romance reader in me might have been a little frustrated with her hesitation at times, the real life person in me was thinking attagirl!
Oh, and the ending was wonderful! Like I mentioned above, it totally felt like a "romantic comedy movie" type scenario. There was a little bit of drama, a few mistakes made, but then the rush to fix things and make everything right again was thrilling in a way that just kept a huge smile on my face.
All in all, this was a great little read. It was kind of on the shorter side (around 200 pages) but long enough to give a complete story. I loved the characters, swooned over the romance, laughed over the banter, and it left me feeling happy. I'd totally recommend giving this a try :)
Rating: 4+ stars. Standalone.
****************************
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January 21, 2022
(2.64 - 3)
that ab sums em up
hmm. okay heres the thing, i liked both characters and them as a couple but the book didnt really have much going on for it. the stuff they did… nah they didnt do anything except maybe go dancing, make out, argue etc. and theyre all so.. ordinary, just. nothing, i meant not one scene stood out for me. i finished it but in the end i was ‘wait thats all? thats their love story??‘ in the i-didnt-feel-a-thing way. it was set in dublin so it had potential to be my next fav but alas
ps. the way shane called her ‘girl’ in the end of every sentence. idk how to feel. its fine but kinda weird. like;
lets just stick to love okay?
”God, Shane, what are you so fucking angry about?”
“I could ask you the same question.”
that ab sums em up
hmm. okay heres the thing, i liked both characters and them as a couple but the book didnt really have much going on for it. the stuff they did… nah they didnt do anything except maybe go dancing, make out, argue etc. and theyre all so.. ordinary, just. nothing, i meant not one scene stood out for me. i finished it but in the end i was ‘wait thats all? thats their love story??‘ in the i-didnt-feel-a-thing way. it was set in dublin so it had potential to be my next fav but alas
ps. the way shane called her ‘girl’ in the end of every sentence. idk how to feel. its fine but kinda weird. like;
”That’s right, girl. Fight me. Show me you give a damn.”
“Let’s go home, then.”
“Where’s home?” I ask, laying my head on his shoulder.
“Wherever you are, girl.”
“That’s right, girl. Scream my fucking name. Only mine.”
lets just stick to love okay?
September 2, 2017
4.5 'I didn’t see you coming' Stars!
My Tessa Bailey fixes are everything! Unfixable has just become one of my favorite novels by this wonderful author. Willa and Shane are absolutely fantastic characters and the building of their relationship is just beautiful!
Unfixable is a New Adult standalone novel by Tessa Bailey but it can be considered a spin-off of her Line of Duty series because it has characters we met there before. This is the hate to love story between two broken people who cannot escape the connection between them.
“Don’t you dare,” I manage breathily, when his gaze drops to my mouth. “I bite.”
Damn him, he presses closer. “Maybe tonight I fancy being bitten.”
“It’s inevitable, Willa. We are inevitable. When you stop fooling yourself, come and find me.”
This is one of my favorite books by Tessa Bailey. There, I’ve said it! Unfixable was a great love journey and it was even better for me because it had all those characters (that I love so much) back in the story. Willa and Shane are such a fantastic couple and they will melt your insides with their out-of-this-world chemistry! (If you read Tessa Bailey before, you absolutely know what I mean..)
“Is this how it’s going to be?” His breath hitches as I start to match his rhythm, meeting each shove of his hips with a twist of my own. He lets me participate for a moment, then pins me against the car with a growl. “Every goddam time is better than the last. How the hell am I supposed to walk away from that? From you?”
Therefore, I am rating Unfixable with 4.5 STARS because, as always, Tessa did not disappoint me at all with this amazing novel. Her stories just get me every single time and her characters steal my heart because they are so good! It was very easy to fall in love with the story and the characters. I wish we had more of these two (and Derek and Ginger too!) because I could not get enough. Unfixable was superb: angsty, emotional and (of course!) smoking hot! I mean.. this is Tessa Bailey, people! Her dirty talking heroes are very much known around here.. And Shane was no exception ;) Highly recommend this one.
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
My Tessa Bailey fixes are everything! Unfixable has just become one of my favorite novels by this wonderful author. Willa and Shane are absolutely fantastic characters and the building of their relationship is just beautiful!
Unfixable is a New Adult standalone novel by Tessa Bailey but it can be considered a spin-off of her Line of Duty series because it has characters we met there before. This is the hate to love story between two broken people who cannot escape the connection between them.
“Don’t you dare,” I manage breathily, when his gaze drops to my mouth. “I bite.”
Damn him, he presses closer. “Maybe tonight I fancy being bitten.”
“It’s inevitable, Willa. We are inevitable. When you stop fooling yourself, come and find me.”
This is one of my favorite books by Tessa Bailey. There, I’ve said it! Unfixable was a great love journey and it was even better for me because it had all those characters (that I love so much) back in the story. Willa and Shane are such a fantastic couple and they will melt your insides with their out-of-this-world chemistry! (If you read Tessa Bailey before, you absolutely know what I mean..)
“Is this how it’s going to be?” His breath hitches as I start to match his rhythm, meeting each shove of his hips with a twist of my own. He lets me participate for a moment, then pins me against the car with a growl. “Every goddam time is better than the last. How the hell am I supposed to walk away from that? From you?”
Therefore, I am rating Unfixable with 4.5 STARS because, as always, Tessa did not disappoint me at all with this amazing novel. Her stories just get me every single time and her characters steal my heart because they are so good! It was very easy to fall in love with the story and the characters. I wish we had more of these two (and Derek and Ginger too!) because I could not get enough. Unfixable was superb: angsty, emotional and (of course!) smoking hot! I mean.. this is Tessa Bailey, people! Her dirty talking heroes are very much known around here.. And Shane was no exception ;) Highly recommend this one.
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
July 2, 2017
4.5 Willa, Shane, Dublin, Tessa Bailey Stars
* * * * 1/2
There are some authors which just know their groove... they have a way of taking the reader by the hand and heart; leading them on path through all the twists and turns of interpersonal relationships, making sure they come out the other end.... better than they went in.
Tessa Bailey is one of those authors for me. She unapologetically shows real emotions; ways those new to being on their own... learning who they are...how they can falter and miss all the good they have inside. They can think they are "Unfixable"... that they are broken and will break those they allow to care or love them.
The character, Willa, is one of those people. She was introduced to us in Protecting What's His, Line of Duty series. She and her sister Ginger fled Nashville, met Derek and how Ginger and Derek fell in love. It was a great book; it was my intro to Ms. Bailey and Entangled/Brazen. In my review I actually wrote, "The sister was really well thought out and almost stole the story", predicting what many of the readers felt. Willa needed her own tale and this is it.
Last time we saw Willa she actually was falling hard for a sweet boy, Evan. He was the perfect guy... high school football star, healthy family life... lots of friends. Everything Willa has never seen herself with... her family life outside of Ginger was horrible; she experienced seeing and hearing things children should never have to... teaching her to close herself off to all.... only Ginger and then Derek were allowed in.
We catch up with her as she is "handling" her break up with Evan as the only way she knows how... by running. She finally realized she was hurting Evan as well as herself because she was never going to be "the normal" he wanted her to be.... oh, he loved her... but it wasn't the type of love which encouraged her to just be Willa... stubborn... observant... hidden and sometimes fearful... He wanted her to just be like all of his friends ... and Willa was tired of pretending... so she broke it off. She entered a photography contest and the winner would go to Ireland for a month and shoot the experience. She won and vowed to let herself just return to the caustic, sarcastic person she was comfortable being.
We meet Shane... beautiful, Irish, manly Shane. Oh, he just happens to be an International Grand Prix driver who's family owns a B & B which not doing well. He is there because his Dad died; his mother has some quirky aging problems and he is planning on selling the place and continue racing. But right now... he is miserable...picking up the contest winner from the airport who is staying at the hotel. He comes smack into all that is defiant Willa; they both take an instant confrontational method of communicating.... the kind that has quick zings... the kind that has an undercurrent of something more... but both parties can never figure out what is causing it.
We, as the readers though, we get to see it all. We get to see Willa become watchful; a little wary but open up to the people and surroundings. Shane, his sister, mother and other characters chip away at all of the barriers she has used over the years to distance herself; she is surprised by all of the feelings and warmth which come with them.
I appreciated all of the "moments" which we were privy to... I also was enchanted by the descriptions of Ireland from Willa viewpoint. When she talked of the mist actually surrounding her ankles like a cat... I could picture it... when she was in the non-tourist bar during a musical contest... I felt the hot sweaty bodies there watching and cheering on the two lads playing with all their might.
I also was touched by how it took a bit for Shane and Willa to connect and become as intense as it finally did. It was not the usual insta lust of seeing someone and an hour later they had hooked up. This was very different ... there was a mental courtship of sorts... Shane knew what he wanted... no doubt.... but he also felt his way with Willa... relishing her pause... her working it through her head at her pace. I actually felt the beauty of their coming together... a recognition of being free to just be the real person we are meant to... and having our someone accept us just as that.
Which brings us to the other part of this story... the heartbreaking impact parents can have in a way which will hurt long after they are gone... children are programed to want their parents to love them and approve of who they are and become. It is something that can be elusive and if the moment when the parent decides to finally be there for the child slips by and doesn't happen... then the child now adult may sometimes think they are the damaged one... rather than the other way around. This was addressed and done with care.
I hope Ms. Bailey decides to tell a novella, at least for more of the friends I have made in Dublin. Faith, Brian and Patrick have left an impression...What do you say, hmmmm....
A gifted copy was provided by Entangled/Brazen for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * 1/2
There are some authors which just know their groove... they have a way of taking the reader by the hand and heart; leading them on path through all the twists and turns of interpersonal relationships, making sure they come out the other end.... better than they went in.
Tessa Bailey is one of those authors for me. She unapologetically shows real emotions; ways those new to being on their own... learning who they are...how they can falter and miss all the good they have inside. They can think they are "Unfixable"... that they are broken and will break those they allow to care or love them.
The character, Willa, is one of those people. She was introduced to us in Protecting What's His, Line of Duty series. She and her sister Ginger fled Nashville, met Derek and how Ginger and Derek fell in love. It was a great book; it was my intro to Ms. Bailey and Entangled/Brazen. In my review I actually wrote, "The sister was really well thought out and almost stole the story", predicting what many of the readers felt. Willa needed her own tale and this is it.
Last time we saw Willa she actually was falling hard for a sweet boy, Evan. He was the perfect guy... high school football star, healthy family life... lots of friends. Everything Willa has never seen herself with... her family life outside of Ginger was horrible; she experienced seeing and hearing things children should never have to... teaching her to close herself off to all.... only Ginger and then Derek were allowed in.
We catch up with her as she is "handling" her break up with Evan as the only way she knows how... by running. She finally realized she was hurting Evan as well as herself because she was never going to be "the normal" he wanted her to be.... oh, he loved her... but it wasn't the type of love which encouraged her to just be Willa... stubborn... observant... hidden and sometimes fearful... He wanted her to just be like all of his friends ... and Willa was tired of pretending... so she broke it off. She entered a photography contest and the winner would go to Ireland for a month and shoot the experience. She won and vowed to let herself just return to the caustic, sarcastic person she was comfortable being.
We meet Shane... beautiful, Irish, manly Shane. Oh, he just happens to be an International Grand Prix driver who's family owns a B & B which not doing well. He is there because his Dad died; his mother has some quirky aging problems and he is planning on selling the place and continue racing. But right now... he is miserable...picking up the contest winner from the airport who is staying at the hotel. He comes smack into all that is defiant Willa; they both take an instant confrontational method of communicating.... the kind that has quick zings... the kind that has an undercurrent of something more... but both parties can never figure out what is causing it.
We, as the readers though, we get to see it all. We get to see Willa become watchful; a little wary but open up to the people and surroundings. Shane, his sister, mother and other characters chip away at all of the barriers she has used over the years to distance herself; she is surprised by all of the feelings and warmth which come with them.
I appreciated all of the "moments" which we were privy to... I also was enchanted by the descriptions of Ireland from Willa viewpoint. When she talked of the mist actually surrounding her ankles like a cat... I could picture it... when she was in the non-tourist bar during a musical contest... I felt the hot sweaty bodies there watching and cheering on the two lads playing with all their might.
I also was touched by how it took a bit for Shane and Willa to connect and become as intense as it finally did. It was not the usual insta lust of seeing someone and an hour later they had hooked up. This was very different ... there was a mental courtship of sorts... Shane knew what he wanted... no doubt.... but he also felt his way with Willa... relishing her pause... her working it through her head at her pace. I actually felt the beauty of their coming together... a recognition of being free to just be the real person we are meant to... and having our someone accept us just as that.
Which brings us to the other part of this story... the heartbreaking impact parents can have in a way which will hurt long after they are gone... children are programed to want their parents to love them and approve of who they are and become. It is something that can be elusive and if the moment when the parent decides to finally be there for the child slips by and doesn't happen... then the child now adult may sometimes think they are the damaged one... rather than the other way around. This was addressed and done with care.
I hope Ms. Bailey decides to tell a novella, at least for more of the friends I have made in Dublin. Faith, Brian and Patrick have left an impression...What do you say, hmmmm....
A gifted copy was provided by Entangled/Brazen for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
October 29, 2014
It would seem that Tessa Bailey cannot write a dud, lol! Dear Lord woman...you are a 5 star magnet!
You see, there is this man...Shane Claymore...and he is an Irish dream...all body, and accent...
and when Willa Peet finally learns to embrace her true self, she needs an escape to deal with the pressures of just living as herself...she needs a place far away from her recent reality.
It is her passion and camera that take her across the world and to the lively Irish landscapes, and more importantly into the life of one Shane Claymore!
Willa is a smart ass, she is hard and sassy, and she is confident! But this is a façade of self doubt and fear of her being defined her rough past, she will never be a "normal girl"....lucky for her, Shane has never fit into the right place and the harder she pushes him the more he enjoys the chase!
Together they are a bundle of fire and tension. From trading insults to pushing each other with attitude and smoldering glances, there is a slow building burn of need, maybe just one night can be enough? When Willa and Shane embrace one another with all guards down, they are rocked at the intensity and the primal connection they have! Neither is prepared for the emotions slamming into their hearts and minds! But is either strong enough to let go of their past and embrace what is right in front of them? Willa does not seem to be as confident as she comes off...Shane challenges her to the fullest...
Tessa Bailey created a fabulously engaging story of young love. It was fast and furious yet deep and emotionally connected. It was hot and tense, but it was mostly beautiful. I am a complete sucker for HEA and I absolutely love a Man who is all in...willing to fight for his woman!
Seems as if Willa and Shane have found themselves and their home in the arms of one another!
You see, there is this man...Shane Claymore...and he is an Irish dream...all body, and accent...
and when Willa Peet finally learns to embrace her true self, she needs an escape to deal with the pressures of just living as herself...she needs a place far away from her recent reality.
It is her passion and camera that take her across the world and to the lively Irish landscapes, and more importantly into the life of one Shane Claymore!
Willa is a smart ass, she is hard and sassy, and she is confident! But this is a façade of self doubt and fear of her being defined her rough past, she will never be a "normal girl"....lucky for her, Shane has never fit into the right place and the harder she pushes him the more he enjoys the chase!
Together they are a bundle of fire and tension. From trading insults to pushing each other with attitude and smoldering glances, there is a slow building burn of need, maybe just one night can be enough? When Willa and Shane embrace one another with all guards down, they are rocked at the intensity and the primal connection they have! Neither is prepared for the emotions slamming into their hearts and minds! But is either strong enough to let go of their past and embrace what is right in front of them? Willa does not seem to be as confident as she comes off...Shane challenges her to the fullest...
Tessa Bailey created a fabulously engaging story of young love. It was fast and furious yet deep and emotionally connected. It was hot and tense, but it was mostly beautiful. I am a complete sucker for HEA and I absolutely love a Man who is all in...willing to fight for his woman!
Seems as if Willa and Shane have found themselves and their home in the arms of one another!
July 2, 2014
♥♥♥ 3.5 'I want me a sexy Irishman' Stars♥♥♥
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
“Love comes in many forms. It’s not always sweet. Or comfortable. Sometimes it’s selfish and consuming. Volatile. It makes choices for you. It demands you obey it, not taking no for an answer. And it’s usually right. It knows you better than you know yourself.”
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When I read about Willa in Ginger's book, Protecting What's His, I could not wait to read her book. I loved Willa's snarky attitude and just how big her personality was. And once again, Jen was gracious enough to Buddy Read this one with me.
The book starts with Willa traveling to Ireland after winning a photography contest. This is where she meets the sexy as sin Irishman, but full of attitude, Shane Claymore. This is not good whatsoever fo Willa. She's trying to get over a break up and is not looking to get involved with anyone any time soon. But resisting him becomes a challenge.
Like I mentioned before, I really liked Willa in Ginger's book, who is also her sister. But I found that Willa's snarkiness was almost no where to be found here. She was confident, that she was, but the attitude that drew me to her wasn't much present. I guess that was only for her teenage days. I did like her in this book too, even if she did feel different. There were moments where I wish she wasn't so stubborn, but overall, I did like her.
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
“How do you manage to see the best in everyone, Willa, but only the worst in yourself?”
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Shane is the owner/bartender of the Inn where Willa will be staying at during her trip. He first came off as moody and a bit abrasive. But you soon find out that he is a really great guy. He tries very hard to stay away from Willa. But, he just can't. He gets jealous when any man comes near her, which I loved because he was all alpha on her. He comes up with the decision to stop fighting it and pursues her.
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“That’s right, girl. Scream my fucking name. Only mine.”
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Oh, Shane, how I loved thee!! He was so freaking hot!! I could not get enough of this man!! He was sexy, and that Irish accent of his...SWOON! I loved how alpha he could be at times, as well as that wonderful dirty mouth of his too. I just loved him, although I could have done without him always calling Willa 'girl', but still loved him.
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“You can’t fix me with a few magic words.”
“Willa….there’s nothing to fix.”
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
I really enjoyed this book, sure it was a tad bit lighter in steam than the other Tessa Bailey book I have read, but I'm assuming it's because this one is New Adult. It was still good, though, and very hot. I enjoyed the secondary characters, like Faith, who reminded me of the Willa I knew in Protecting What's His. I loved the glimpses we got of Ginger and Derek and how they are doing. I loved Shane to pieces and Willa was likeable. Overall, it was a light steamy read I think everyone should try.
~Buddy Read with Jen~
July 3, 2014
3.75 - "Drive it like you stole it" Stars.
I forgot what it meant to be comfortably broken. I thought I was Unfixable before. Now I'm plane-crash wreckage
The Willa Peet we get to know in Unfixable is not the Willa Peet, you meet in His To Protect. Two years have passed and like all teenagers Willa has grown up in that time, the stability she has found in the family unit Derek and Ginger have created has helped ease the snark and sarcasm (although it is still there, and ready to be fired with both barrels when required). Unfixable is Willa's journey to get back to herself, after spending two years trying to be someone else for the sake of a relationship.
Ugliness never entirely goes away...My ugliness is particularly stubborn.
I really enjoyed Unfixable, The only real issue I have with it is the pacing of the story, seeing as Shane is an F1 driver I will use this analogy to put across what I mean - The first 70% was like doing a Grand Prix behind the "Safety Car", then the last 30% felt like "Qualifying" and it was pedal to the metal all the way!
Willa is in Dublin for a month after winning a photography competition. After a sticky start at the airport Willa and Shane Claymore then spend the next 70% of the book circling each other like boxers sizing up their opposition. There are a lot of brooding looks across Claymores Bar, Shane has a penchant for following Willa up to her room, and all they seem to want to initially do is wind each other up!
Willa "Relax, Frosty. I told you I wasn't here to make friends and I meant it."
I loved that as the book progresses we get to see Ireland through Willa's eyes. I found myself Googleing all of the places mentioned so I could visualise her travels as I read. From the Liffey River to St. Stephens Green(above). Dalkey Castle to Killiney Hill (below), it was like being on my own sightseeing tour of Dublin at the same time.
Oh and did I mention that a certain sexy Irishman has a dirty mouth!
"I'm going to use my mouth on you, Willa. Would you like that?"
"What about you?"
"This is for me."
I like that we get too see grown up Willa, and how she develops into her own woman as her month spent in Dublin progresses. Shane and his own family have drama that they are also trying to deal with, and weirdly I felt proud of Willa when, rather than take the easy path and look the other way as she initially want to, she steps up and helps the family out as best she can, her moments with Kitty were particularly poignant.
Shane "How do you manage to see the best in everyone, Willa, but only the worst in yourself?"
As I said the last 30% of this book made it all worth while, the verbal sparring and predatory circling ends and its full steam ahead -
Tessa Bailey certainly knows how to take a reader on a journey, whether it be with the character she is writing or the places they are going. Another great book from a writer who is working her way up my favourites list!
ARC generously provided by Entangled, in exchange for the above honest review.
I forgot what it meant to be comfortably broken. I thought I was Unfixable before. Now I'm plane-crash wreckage
The Willa Peet we get to know in Unfixable is not the Willa Peet, you meet in His To Protect. Two years have passed and like all teenagers Willa has grown up in that time, the stability she has found in the family unit Derek and Ginger have created has helped ease the snark and sarcasm (although it is still there, and ready to be fired with both barrels when required). Unfixable is Willa's journey to get back to herself, after spending two years trying to be someone else for the sake of a relationship.
Ugliness never entirely goes away...My ugliness is particularly stubborn.
I really enjoyed Unfixable, The only real issue I have with it is the pacing of the story, seeing as Shane is an F1 driver I will use this analogy to put across what I mean - The first 70% was like doing a Grand Prix behind the "Safety Car", then the last 30% felt like "Qualifying" and it was pedal to the metal all the way!
Willa is in Dublin for a month after winning a photography competition. After a sticky start at the airport Willa and Shane Claymore then spend the next 70% of the book circling each other like boxers sizing up their opposition. There are a lot of brooding looks across Claymores Bar, Shane has a penchant for following Willa up to her room, and all they seem to want to initially do is wind each other up!
Willa "Relax, Frosty. I told you I wasn't here to make friends and I meant it."
I loved that as the book progresses we get to see Ireland through Willa's eyes. I found myself Googleing all of the places mentioned so I could visualise her travels as I read. From the Liffey River to St. Stephens Green(above). Dalkey Castle to Killiney Hill (below), it was like being on my own sightseeing tour of Dublin at the same time.
Oh and did I mention that a certain sexy Irishman has a dirty mouth!
"I'm going to use my mouth on you, Willa. Would you like that?"
"What about you?"
"This is for me."
I like that we get too see grown up Willa, and how she develops into her own woman as her month spent in Dublin progresses. Shane and his own family have drama that they are also trying to deal with, and weirdly I felt proud of Willa when, rather than take the easy path and look the other way as she initially want to, she steps up and helps the family out as best she can, her moments with Kitty were particularly poignant.
Shane "How do you manage to see the best in everyone, Willa, but only the worst in yourself?"
As I said the last 30% of this book made it all worth while, the verbal sparring and predatory circling ends and its full steam ahead -
Tessa Bailey certainly knows how to take a reader on a journey, whether it be with the character she is writing or the places they are going. Another great book from a writer who is working her way up my favourites list!
ARC generously provided by Entangled, in exchange for the above honest review.
March 29, 2014
4 hot stars!
Just a few thoughts..
- Loved Shane even though I still don't know how old he was exactly. lol!
- Didn't care for Willa at the beginning but she grew on me.
- This book is definitely less explicit than her previous titles but still hot.
- And yes, Derek and Ginger makes an appearance in the book which I absolutely adored!!
Full review to come soonish!!
ARC provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Just a few thoughts..
- Loved Shane even though I still don't know how old he was exactly. lol!
- Didn't care for Willa at the beginning but she grew on me.
- This book is definitely less explicit than her previous titles but still hot.
- And yes, Derek and Ginger makes an appearance in the book which I absolutely adored!!
Full review to come soonish!!
ARC provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
March 24, 2021
Willa and Shane are my fav types of MC's. Two surly assholes who hate each other on first sight and then bang out their frustration and realize they hate each other bc they're perfect for each other 🤗 Simple, well done, had an overall great time.
"I thought Ireland was the land of one thousand welcomes."
"I'm knocking it down to nine-hundred ninety-nine."
"I thought Ireland was the land of one thousand welcomes."
"I'm knocking it down to nine-hundred ninety-nine."
March 23, 2014
"This moment, it can be the be the worst of your life, or the best. Just make it your best. Let it be your best. Okay?"
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1st - it is a Tessa Bailey book and she can get me hooked in her story every damn time.
2nd - it is set in Dublin (the above pic is from Killney Hill).
3rd - I highlighted my copy like you wouldn't believe!
Ms. Bailey made me laugh, cry, swoon. I LOVED this book.
And having a HOT Irish man like Shane... well that did not hurt one bit!
***Tessa, please give me more SHANE... I am pretty sure Shane was telling me how much he wanted us to get to know him! LOL***
*ARC generously provided by entangled publishing in exchange for an honest review.*
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1st - it is a Tessa Bailey book and she can get me hooked in her story every damn time.
"I've lost sight of what she was all about and
frankly I'm mad as hell about it."
"...can't help it. I laugh. It feels really fucking good to laugh"
""Aye. I did start it." His mouth moves over my neck. "And I'm dying to finish it."
2nd - it is set in Dublin (the above pic is from Killney Hill).
3rd - I highlighted my copy like you wouldn't believe!
Ms. Bailey made me laugh, cry, swoon. I LOVED this book.
And having a HOT Irish man like Shane... well that did not hurt one bit!
***Tessa, please give me more SHANE... I am pretty sure Shane was telling me how much he wanted us to get to know him! LOL***
*ARC generously provided by entangled publishing in exchange for an honest review.*
June 29, 2014
I was so excited to start Willa's book, after meeting her in her sister Ginger's book I thought for sure it would be an absolute pleasure for me. Unfortunately, this was just an ok read for me. It didn't have that major spark, and often I found my mind wandering in the middle of my reading.
The sex between Shane and Willa was ok; but it didn't rev my motor in the least! Don't get me wrong; the book wasn't terrible; it was just far from super duper exciting!
In this installment, Willa is off to Ireland after she wins a photography contest. The bar where she is staying is run by a race car driver named Shane; who has a major chip on his shoulder when it comes to Willa. He is not the only one that wants to keep his distance though. Willa would prefer to have nothing to do with him as well. So, these two try their hardest to stay away from one another; but their physical attraction for one another keeps getting in the way..Will they be able to keep their distance, or will they give in to the desire and experience an explosive passion that they have never felt before?
I did enjoy Shane's sister Faith. She was a neat character, and I would have loved to have seen more of her during the story. All in all, this was what I think of as a light read. I do love Tessa Bailey's writing, and in her other books she usually has wicked sex scenes that are sizzling off of the pages. There were a few good ones in here; but I do think they could have been even more steamy. I will still read any future books that Ms. Bailey puts out, as I do enjoy her stories and her style. A lot of fellow readers loved this book, so I would for sure recommend that a person gives it a try--esecially if they have read Willa's sisters book...
Thank you to Meli Mel who Buddy Read this book with me!! I hope you enjoyed this one as much as the first!!
The sex between Shane and Willa was ok; but it didn't rev my motor in the least! Don't get me wrong; the book wasn't terrible; it was just far from super duper exciting!
In this installment, Willa is off to Ireland after she wins a photography contest. The bar where she is staying is run by a race car driver named Shane; who has a major chip on his shoulder when it comes to Willa. He is not the only one that wants to keep his distance though. Willa would prefer to have nothing to do with him as well. So, these two try their hardest to stay away from one another; but their physical attraction for one another keeps getting in the way..Will they be able to keep their distance, or will they give in to the desire and experience an explosive passion that they have never felt before?
I did enjoy Shane's sister Faith. She was a neat character, and I would have loved to have seen more of her during the story. All in all, this was what I think of as a light read. I do love Tessa Bailey's writing, and in her other books she usually has wicked sex scenes that are sizzling off of the pages. There were a few good ones in here; but I do think they could have been even more steamy. I will still read any future books that Ms. Bailey puts out, as I do enjoy her stories and her style. A lot of fellow readers loved this book, so I would for sure recommend that a person gives it a try--esecially if they have read Willa's sisters book...
Thank you to Meli Mel who Buddy Read this book with me!! I hope you enjoyed this one as much as the first!!
May 12, 2016
✔️ Tessa Bailey
✔️ Irish hero
✔️ Sister of Ginger from Protecting What's His
✔️ Loads of sexual tension followed by ridonkulously hot sex.
You really don't need more reasons to read this. Enjoy ;)
✔️ Irish hero
✔️ Sister of Ginger from Protecting What's His
✔️ Loads of sexual tension followed by ridonkulously hot sex.
You really don't need more reasons to read this. Enjoy ;)
![Profile Image for [~Ami~]♥Sexy Dexy♥ .](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1388500902i%2F22427047._UY200_CR8%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
March 30, 2014
3 stars
My least favourite out of the 6 books Ive read by Tessa Bailey. Im sorry, I really struggled to finish it. Willa escapes to Dublin following a bad break up. What she got is a rude sexy Shane with a bad attitude and who owns the Inn she is staying at.
I found Willa quite boring. I didnt understand where their hate for each other started. It was pretty much 'hate at first sight'. I normally like douchey heroes but Shane didnt stand out for me and I didnt care much about him.
After their almost moments, it was a really slooooow build up and I wanted them to shag already. The couple did grow on me eventually which is why I have given 3 stars, it was an 'okay' story.
ARC provided by the Publishers
My least favourite out of the 6 books Ive read by Tessa Bailey. Im sorry, I really struggled to finish it. Willa escapes to Dublin following a bad break up. What she got is a rude sexy Shane with a bad attitude and who owns the Inn she is staying at.
I found Willa quite boring. I didnt understand where their hate for each other started. It was pretty much 'hate at first sight'. I normally like douchey heroes but Shane didnt stand out for me and I didnt care much about him.
After their almost moments, it was a really slooooow build up and I wanted them to shag already. The couple did grow on me eventually which is why I have given 3 stars, it was an 'okay' story.
ARC provided by the Publishers
March 16, 2017
A Fun Travel Vicariously To Ireland Romance
Heroine Is A Tough Snarky Photographer
Hero Has A "Need For Speed" He Is A Formula 1 Race Car Driver With Obligations
They Have A Love/Hate Relationship With Lots Of Banter And Sexual Tension
Sweet Funny Lovable Side Characters
My Favorite Part Of Unfixable Is The Jaunt Through Ireland
Grafton Street
Merrion Square Park
Dalky Castle
Howth Bay
Killiney Hill
Dollymount Strand
Travel With A Side Romance
Heroine Is A Tough Snarky Photographer
Hero Has A "Need For Speed" He Is A Formula 1 Race Car Driver With Obligations
They Have A Love/Hate Relationship With Lots Of Banter And Sexual Tension
Sweet Funny Lovable Side Characters
My Favorite Part Of Unfixable Is The Jaunt Through Ireland
Grafton Street
Merrion Square Park
Dalky Castle
Howth Bay
Killiney Hill
Dollymount Strand
Travel With A Side Romance
March 15, 2017
>love/hate relationship that had sparks flying
>kickass heroine
>enjoyed side characters
>no cheating or OW/OM drama
>sad backgrounds but didn't make the story depressing (subject to personal opinion)
Sometimes I think only having the ability to love a small number of people cranks up the intensity. I have no way of spreading it around, no one else to bestow it on, so it's highly concentrated and fierce.
>kickass heroine
>enjoyed side characters
>no cheating or OW/OM drama
>sad backgrounds but didn't make the story depressing (subject to personal opinion)
Sometimes I think only having the ability to love a small number of people cranks up the intensity. I have no way of spreading it around, no one else to bestow it on, so it's highly concentrated and fierce.
April 8, 2019
Oh, I really loved this story. I loved Willa and Shane.
Ah, Shane...well, hello there! I gotta get me an Irish man!
and what's he sayin':
well, hell with it all. Take me right now! LOL
This started kinda sudden, then went on being angsty and feisty, then a whole lotta lovin' came making me hot and bothered...and then they cracked me open and I was done, melted...swept away by the power of love.
Gosh, I love these youngsters and young love, vivid and kickin' the hell out of the odds...
Did I mention I really loved Shane...his determination, passion...
and in the end just to make sure everybody understands what I'm trying to say here:
Definitely 5 stars from me.
RE-READ April 7th, 2019
A girl running from herself, or the false imagery she sees herself as she thinks she's supposed to be, or feel...
A girl running away from everything she's afraid to feel...UNTIL she runs right into the guy who'll awaken the real her...
yeah, I loved this one...
Ah, Shane...well, hello there! I gotta get me an Irish man!
and what's he sayin':
"I’m bad. But in a way that will make you feel really good."
well, hell with it all. Take me right now! LOL
This started kinda sudden, then went on being angsty and feisty, then a whole lotta lovin' came making me hot and bothered...and then they cracked me open and I was done, melted...swept away by the power of love.
“You would do that? Give it all up for me?”
“You’re not listening. I’d be giving everything up if I walked away from you.”
Gosh, I love these youngsters and young love, vivid and kickin' the hell out of the odds...
Did I mention I really loved Shane...his determination, passion...
“Look at me. I’ve got you, love.”
and in the end just to make sure everybody understands what I'm trying to say here:
"Irish men are a complicated sort. They’ll knock you on your arse when you’re not looking."
Definitely 5 stars from me.
RE-READ April 7th, 2019
A girl running from herself, or the false imagery she sees herself as she thinks she's supposed to be, or feel...
A girl running away from everything she's afraid to feel...UNTIL she runs right into the guy who'll awaken the real her...
yeah, I loved this one...
April 11, 2020
“Love comes in many forms. It’s not always sweet. Or comfortable. Sometimes it’s selfish and consuming. Volatile.”
I loved this so much. I enjoyed Willa and Shane even more than Ginger and Derek. Probably, because I am a sucker for hate to love. They weren't enemies per se but the antagonism was there.
-
Alright, now having read the entire Line of Duty series and this companion book I can honestly say this is one is my favorite.
I loved this so much. I enjoyed Willa and Shane even more than Ginger and Derek. Probably, because I am a sucker for hate to love. They weren't enemies per se but the antagonism was there.
-
Alright, now having read the entire Line of Duty series and this companion book I can honestly say this is one is my favorite.
August 10, 2016
4.25 (Pour me another pint) stars
Unfixable was an adorable read with an Irish theme. I smiled and from start to finish.
Willa is unfixable. She’s had a rough childhood, with a drugged up mom and a non-existent father. Willa has been in a “sweet” relationship for over two years. Finally, she realizes she can’t change for the better so she breaks up with her ex and wins a trip to Dublin. Willa gets to stay in Ireland as a photographer for one month.
Shane is the owner of the Inn/Pub Willa is staying at. He doesn’t want anything to do with the “tough” American girl, but he’s fixated by her.
Review
First off, I love the storyline. I like anything that is set in a different country. I am always leery of the accents and slang when I read, I’m not expert, but none of it annoyed me. It felt real. When Willa first meets Shane, there’s obvious tension. Shane is rude, stressed and pissed off. Willa has a chip on her shoulder and doesn’t take crap from anyone.
At times I did not like Willa’s “tough” girl attitude. I’m never fond of leading ladies being a you- know-what because of past issues. However, she never did anything overly mean that made me hate her and afterwards, you see some improvements.
Willa is there to take pictures, but everyday there’s an interaction with her and Shane’s family. Shane’s family owns the pub, which includes his cute little teenage sister and scatter brain mom. Willa doesn’t have many people in her life, except for her sister, so when Shane’s family kind of involves themselves in Willa’s lives, it’s fun to read.
Of course there are issues. Shane has daddy issues and although daddy issues aren’t original, again, I wasn’t annoyed with the storyline. It wasn’t the main focus of the read, but it was there. What I really enjoyed was the Shane and Willa dynamics.
There’s plenty sexual tension and you will be rooting for them to get together. There’s character development and I guess you can say both Shane and Willa kind of slowly peel their layers. It’s a really sweet and adorable relationship.
What can I say? Tessa Bailey is a new author for me and I’m happy I picked up Unfixable. It was a delight from start to finish and exactly what I wanted.
AMAZON
For more reviews, http://jacquelinesreads.blogspot.com
Unfixable was an adorable read with an Irish theme. I smiled and from start to finish.
Willa is unfixable. She’s had a rough childhood, with a drugged up mom and a non-existent father. Willa has been in a “sweet” relationship for over two years. Finally, she realizes she can’t change for the better so she breaks up with her ex and wins a trip to Dublin. Willa gets to stay in Ireland as a photographer for one month.
Shane is the owner of the Inn/Pub Willa is staying at. He doesn’t want anything to do with the “tough” American girl, but he’s fixated by her.
Review
First off, I love the storyline. I like anything that is set in a different country. I am always leery of the accents and slang when I read, I’m not expert, but none of it annoyed me. It felt real. When Willa first meets Shane, there’s obvious tension. Shane is rude, stressed and pissed off. Willa has a chip on her shoulder and doesn’t take crap from anyone.
At times I did not like Willa’s “tough” girl attitude. I’m never fond of leading ladies being a you- know-what because of past issues. However, she never did anything overly mean that made me hate her and afterwards, you see some improvements.
Willa is there to take pictures, but everyday there’s an interaction with her and Shane’s family. Shane’s family owns the pub, which includes his cute little teenage sister and scatter brain mom. Willa doesn’t have many people in her life, except for her sister, so when Shane’s family kind of involves themselves in Willa’s lives, it’s fun to read.
Of course there are issues. Shane has daddy issues and although daddy issues aren’t original, again, I wasn’t annoyed with the storyline. It wasn’t the main focus of the read, but it was there. What I really enjoyed was the Shane and Willa dynamics.
There’s plenty sexual tension and you will be rooting for them to get together. There’s character development and I guess you can say both Shane and Willa kind of slowly peel their layers. It’s a really sweet and adorable relationship.
What can I say? Tessa Bailey is a new author for me and I’m happy I picked up Unfixable. It was a delight from start to finish and exactly what I wanted.
AMAZONFor more reviews, http://jacquelinesreads.blogspot.com
April 25, 2014
Winning a trip to Ireland couldn’t have come at a more perfect time for nineteen year-old Willa. She’s happy to escape Chicago and head to Ireland after breaking up with her boyfriend of two years, Evan. The two were opposites: Evan was the sweet wholesome, jock-type whereas Willa is all-black wearing, rough around the edges girl. Coming to the realization that she was losing herself by trying to fit into Evan’s world doesn’t erase the pain or the guilt from ending things.
However, her stay in Ireland is going to be anything but restful with Shane Claymore in the picture. The arrogant, hostile, and oh-so-gorgeous owner of Claymore Inn pushes just about every one of her buttons, and these two knock heads on sight!
“And my Shane? You’ve run into him, have you?”
“Oh, yes.”
“Right.” Suddenly, she looked lucid. Not to mention highly amused at my abrupt answer.
“Well, don’t go planning the wedding just yet.”
“Oh, I wouldn’t worry about that. Unless the reception involves a cage match.”
In spite of his repellant qualities, Willa can’t help but get sucked into his family drama even as she fights her growing attraction to him. Without meaning to Willa gets to know Shane and finds they are kindred spirits of sorts. But she’s going back to America in one month, and Shane’s going back his car racing and leaving the Inn behind. If Willa gets beyond wanting to simultaneously smack Shane and tear his clothes off and ravage him, how could things even work out?
Tessa Bailey had me cracking up with Willa’s acerbic wit and humor! A hate-to-love romance is a favorite of mine and I just loved the push and pull between Willa and Shane! Willa is a runner, and the queen of avoidance but this doesn’t deter Shane at all, in fact it excites him:
“Having to chase you only makes me want to pin you down.”
Yes, please!
While I enjoy these antics, I was thrilled when Willa allowed herself to be caught. Shane and Willa just got each other, and I loved that he found Willa perfect just the way she was, not for who he thought she could become.
Tessa Bailey deftly created sexual tension and steamy scenes without every page being sex, sex, sex. She wrote a HOT romance without sacrificing story. Bravo! Fans of her adult series, Line of Duty/Protecting What's His will be pleased to see Willa end up happy, and get a glimpse of Ginger and Derek going strong.
A copy was provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
However, her stay in Ireland is going to be anything but restful with Shane Claymore in the picture. The arrogant, hostile, and oh-so-gorgeous owner of Claymore Inn pushes just about every one of her buttons, and these two knock heads on sight!
“And my Shane? You’ve run into him, have you?”
“Oh, yes.”
“Right.” Suddenly, she looked lucid. Not to mention highly amused at my abrupt answer.
“Well, don’t go planning the wedding just yet.”
“Oh, I wouldn’t worry about that. Unless the reception involves a cage match.”
In spite of his repellant qualities, Willa can’t help but get sucked into his family drama even as she fights her growing attraction to him. Without meaning to Willa gets to know Shane and finds they are kindred spirits of sorts. But she’s going back to America in one month, and Shane’s going back his car racing and leaving the Inn behind. If Willa gets beyond wanting to simultaneously smack Shane and tear his clothes off and ravage him, how could things even work out?
Tessa Bailey had me cracking up with Willa’s acerbic wit and humor! A hate-to-love romance is a favorite of mine and I just loved the push and pull between Willa and Shane! Willa is a runner, and the queen of avoidance but this doesn’t deter Shane at all, in fact it excites him:
“Having to chase you only makes me want to pin you down.”
Yes, please!
While I enjoy these antics, I was thrilled when Willa allowed herself to be caught. Shane and Willa just got each other, and I loved that he found Willa perfect just the way she was, not for who he thought she could become.
Tessa Bailey deftly created sexual tension and steamy scenes without every page being sex, sex, sex. She wrote a HOT romance without sacrificing story. Bravo! Fans of her adult series, Line of Duty/Protecting What's His will be pleased to see Willa end up happy, and get a glimpse of Ginger and Derek going strong.
A copy was provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
November 29, 2018
Reread 7/6/18.
I read Ginger and Derek's story a while ago, and didn't realize that her sister, Willa, had her own story. I was SO missing out. This was such a lovely book.
She's traveled to Dublin, Ireland after winning a photography contest. She's getting over breaking up with her two-year boyfriend. She thinks she's unfixable, destined to drag anyone close to her down because of her inability to fit into the box that her ex tried to put her in. So going to Ireland was definitely not an expedition to find love, but when she sees the guy that is sent to bring her to the Inn, she knows she's screwed.
Shane takes care of his family's Claymore Inn now that his father is gone. He watches out for his sister and mother, but he's sure that he's going to sell the establishment in order to give his family a secure life so he can go back to formula-one racing. He, like Willa, is scarred by a traumatic upbringing - him, with his dad, and she with her mom.
They connect because they can't fit into a box, and they don't want to force the other into one. They're wild together. They can't stop the attraction if they tried.
"If I have you once, I'm going to want you over and over. This doesn't end here. Not by a fucking long shot."
A story about finding the way back to who you really are, and being okay with it. It's about love and taking chances. Another fantastic addition to Tessa's lineup.
Single POV (Willa). Epilogue Shane's POV.
I read Ginger and Derek's story a while ago, and didn't realize that her sister, Willa, had her own story. I was SO missing out. This was such a lovely book.
She's traveled to Dublin, Ireland after winning a photography contest. She's getting over breaking up with her two-year boyfriend. She thinks she's unfixable, destined to drag anyone close to her down because of her inability to fit into the box that her ex tried to put her in. So going to Ireland was definitely not an expedition to find love, but when she sees the guy that is sent to bring her to the Inn, she knows she's screwed.
Shane takes care of his family's Claymore Inn now that his father is gone. He watches out for his sister and mother, but he's sure that he's going to sell the establishment in order to give his family a secure life so he can go back to formula-one racing. He, like Willa, is scarred by a traumatic upbringing - him, with his dad, and she with her mom.
They connect because they can't fit into a box, and they don't want to force the other into one. They're wild together. They can't stop the attraction if they tried.
"If I have you once, I'm going to want you over and over. This doesn't end here. Not by a fucking long shot."
A story about finding the way back to who you really are, and being okay with it. It's about love and taking chances. Another fantastic addition to Tessa's lineup.
Single POV (Willa). Epilogue Shane's POV.
June 12, 2015
3.5 Racing Stars
April 21, 2014
2.5 Stars!
“Love comes in many forms. It’s not always sweet. Or comfortable. Sometimes it’s selfish and consuming. Volatile.”
Well...If I have to be honest- I was really disappointed. This story had soooooo much potential!!!! Seriously...the idea is great! A girl goes to Ireland...meets a hot guy (not just some guy...a F1 RACER!)...the guy is a total alpha...there is sexual tension...drama...and love! Yeah...sounds great but it WASN’T!
Basically the story lacked deep & interesting plot, development and the kind of writing style that grabs you from the first chapter!
I will start with my biggest problem- I couldn’t connect to the characters. After I finished the book I started to think and realized I couldn’t even visualize the characters in my head. I had NO idea how they would look, etc. I didn’t feel their pain or love. I couldn’t understand them/ their decisions.
Another problem: I have said this many times and now I am going to say it again- the sexual tension is not everything in a romance book! Yes, there are really steamy parts buuuuuut it’s just not enough. Furthermore, the ending felt rushed and the hero was seriously confusing me (one moment a total alpha, then really soft...).
I am giving it 2.5 stars because I really believe the idea for the story is great! Unfortunately it didn’t work for me and I was bored most of the time while reading it.
“Love comes in many forms. It’s not always sweet. Or comfortable. Sometimes it’s selfish and consuming. Volatile.”
Well...If I have to be honest- I was really disappointed. This story had soooooo much potential!!!! Seriously...the idea is great! A girl goes to Ireland...meets a hot guy (not just some guy...a F1 RACER!)...the guy is a total alpha...there is sexual tension...drama...and love! Yeah...sounds great but it WASN’T!
Basically the story lacked deep & interesting plot, development and the kind of writing style that grabs you from the first chapter!
I will start with my biggest problem- I couldn’t connect to the characters. After I finished the book I started to think and realized I couldn’t even visualize the characters in my head. I had NO idea how they would look, etc. I didn’t feel their pain or love. I couldn’t understand them/ their decisions.
Another problem: I have said this many times and now I am going to say it again- the sexual tension is not everything in a romance book! Yes, there are really steamy parts buuuuuut it’s just not enough. Furthermore, the ending felt rushed and the hero was seriously confusing me (one moment a total alpha, then really soft...).
I am giving it 2.5 stars because I really believe the idea for the story is great! Unfortunately it didn’t work for me and I was bored most of the time while reading it.
April 5, 2014
ARC generously provided by entangled publishing in exchange for an honest review..
4.5 Shutterclick stars
We get to know more about Willa "WIP" Peet, who we had met in Protecting What's His. She was Ginger's younger sister, who had been fiercely protected and brought up by her big sister.
Attempting to scurry away from a failed relationship, she saw this opportunity as time to reflect, regroup and find the inner Willa that had been hiding.
Her pickup from the airport was the brooding Shane Claymore, who on first sight, caused her to give him the slip and make her own way to the Claymore Inn.
Their resulting snarky banter was extremely entertaining, with the underlying sexual tension I adore. Tessa excelled at that! Once the heat kicked in, it was sublime, but against her previous offerings, we were only cooking at medium gas...
I thoroughly enjoyed this journey of two similar, stubborn characters realising their unquestionable attraction. Shane was luscious, and I'm afraid I just wanted more. Given the entire book was from Willa's POV, it was a delightful treat to have the epilogue in Shane's. We also get a visit from Derek and Ginger, which was great to catch up on their news.
I do hope this isn't the end..would dearly like to hear more from this couple.
4.5 Shutterclick stars
We get to know more about Willa "WIP" Peet, who we had met in Protecting What's His. She was Ginger's younger sister, who had been fiercely protected and brought up by her big sister.
"I had entered Shutterclick Magazine's photojournalism contest knowing I'd win first prize-a one-month trip to Ireland"
Attempting to scurry away from a failed relationship, she saw this opportunity as time to reflect, regroup and find the inner Willa that had been hiding.
Her pickup from the airport was the brooding Shane Claymore, who on first sight, caused her to give him the slip and make her own way to the Claymore Inn.
Their resulting snarky banter was extremely entertaining, with the underlying sexual tension I adore. Tessa excelled at that! Once the heat kicked in, it was sublime, but against her previous offerings, we were only cooking at medium gas...
I thoroughly enjoyed this journey of two similar, stubborn characters realising their unquestionable attraction. Shane was luscious, and I'm afraid I just wanted more. Given the entire book was from Willa's POV, it was a delightful treat to have the epilogue in Shane's. We also get a visit from Derek and Ginger, which was great to catch up on their news.
I do hope this isn't the end..would dearly like to hear more from this couple.
April 20, 2014
Truth be told I was bored pretty much throughout the book. Willa was a damaged girl. She had a whore crack head mom, but a sweet caring sister.
Shane was a damaged boy, from mistreatment by his father. He's a race car driver and runs the Inn owned by his family.
Willa is running from her problems. Shane is starting to face his.
Boy meets girl, she's a smart ass, and eventually gives in.
I seriously don't know why I didn't just quit. I was bored from the start. Willa was damaged because of her mom, dated a great guy that she eventually shit on and I wanted to like her, but I just couldn't find a fuck to give.
Shane was living with his guilt and had his insta love moment with Willa. He was cute and all, but also boring.
They had their tug of war with their emotions, blah blah blah and then it was wrapped up quickly with an HEA. The end thank god.
Shane was a damaged boy, from mistreatment by his father. He's a race car driver and runs the Inn owned by his family.
Willa is running from her problems. Shane is starting to face his.
Boy meets girl, she's a smart ass, and eventually gives in.
I seriously don't know why I didn't just quit. I was bored from the start. Willa was damaged because of her mom, dated a great guy that she eventually shit on and I wanted to like her, but I just couldn't find a fuck to give.
Shane was living with his guilt and had his insta love moment with Willa. He was cute and all, but also boring.
They had their tug of war with their emotions, blah blah blah and then it was wrapped up quickly with an HEA. The end thank god.
April 25, 2014
I need to stop reading New Adult. It’s like joining someone on a therapist’s couch. I wanted it to be over.
I’ve read several New Adult stories and gave them all 2 stars or less. Unless I’m reading the wrong ones, it’s not a genre for me. The plot is all in the head of a broken person. Most of the conflicts are internal and angst. If you’re a New Adult fan, please ignore this review.
This book is first person Willa. She thinks to herself “I can’t let anyone in. I’m broken. So I do what any self-hating coward does when they’re on the ground getting kicked. I lash out.” One guy tries to fix her, she breaks up with him. Another guy tries to understand her and after a while, that works. But she tries to keep a distance because she believes she will ruin him. She lies about her feelings.
Too much of the book has Willa pondering and being angsty. For example: Willa and Shane have fallen for each other. They are driving in the car. Shane is angry and quiet because he is upset about his sister Faith. But Willa gets all angsty, feeling insecure, and wondering if Shane regrets last night and wants to get rid of her. She thinks Shane is angry at her, but he’s not. After Shane talks with Faith, he’s in a good mood again, and Willa is relieved. I’m not interested in that kind of conflict. It’s like every scene is “all about me (Willa).”
DATA:
Narrative mode: 1st person Willa. Kindle count length: 2,989 (197 pages). Swearing language: strong including religious swear words. Sexual language: mild plus the f-word. Number of sex scenes: 3. Setting: current day mostly Dublin, Ireland. Copyright: 2014. Genre: new adult.
I’ve read several New Adult stories and gave them all 2 stars or less. Unless I’m reading the wrong ones, it’s not a genre for me. The plot is all in the head of a broken person. Most of the conflicts are internal and angst. If you’re a New Adult fan, please ignore this review.
This book is first person Willa. She thinks to herself “I can’t let anyone in. I’m broken. So I do what any self-hating coward does when they’re on the ground getting kicked. I lash out.” One guy tries to fix her, she breaks up with him. Another guy tries to understand her and after a while, that works. But she tries to keep a distance because she believes she will ruin him. She lies about her feelings.
Too much of the book has Willa pondering and being angsty. For example: Willa and Shane have fallen for each other. They are driving in the car. Shane is angry and quiet because he is upset about his sister Faith. But Willa gets all angsty, feeling insecure, and wondering if Shane regrets last night and wants to get rid of her. She thinks Shane is angry at her, but he’s not. After Shane talks with Faith, he’s in a good mood again, and Willa is relieved. I’m not interested in that kind of conflict. It’s like every scene is “all about me (Willa).”
DATA:
Narrative mode: 1st person Willa. Kindle count length: 2,989 (197 pages). Swearing language: strong including religious swear words. Sexual language: mild plus the f-word. Number of sex scenes: 3. Setting: current day mostly Dublin, Ireland. Copyright: 2014. Genre: new adult.
September 28, 2022
I want him. He has Boston energy. He has North Whitlock energy. He has if a cowboy was an Irish race car driver energy.
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