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The Stand Off
"And what a delicious little obstacle she is." He would enjoy breaking through her stony exterior. He’d get that property one way or another, he always won… Lux would learn that quickly. She was no match for him; she would learn that as well.
“I bet she f*cks as hard as she fights,” Dean thought to himself before grinning.
Watching her cum would be amusing; watching her break when she changed her mind would be fun and watching her sign over the very building that she’d fought so hard to keep…would be exquisite.
“I bet she f*cks as hard as she fights,” Dean thought to himself before grinning.
Watching her cum would be amusing; watching her break when she changed her mind would be fun and watching her sign over the very building that she’d fought so hard to keep…would be exquisite.
554 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 7, 2014
13 people are currently reading
357 people want to read
About the author
Z. Stefani
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
February 26, 2021
I liked their banter.
Not much food for thought.
But definitely lots of smut🤭😈 with the possessive (what I'm really trying to convey here is POSSESSIVE) man *winks shamelessly*
Not much food for thought.
But definitely lots of smut🤭😈 with the possessive (what I'm really trying to convey here is POSSESSIVE) man *winks shamelessly*
May 26, 2014
4 1/2 stars, So I will admit that I held off on reading this book because it was 554 pages. Now long books don't scare me I read all the time in fact if given the choice I would read before most other activities for myself, but long boring books scare me so I held off. I don't know why I was scared maybe because I had read some boring books lately that I just wanted to finish so the thought of a almost 600 page book being borring and long was daunting to me, I in fact have heard great things about this book so finally deciding to trust the people who recommended this book I started The Stand Off.
I have to say I can't believe this book is almost 600 pages I flew through this book and I mean flew. I wasn't bored yes this book is very descriptive but I liked it it wasn't to much or worth an eye roll it just served to bring me more into the book and become more invested into the world Z. Stefani created and to care more about the characters. The hero Dean was possessive and I don't mean possessive I mean POSSESSIVE if you are looking for a hero who is over the top(in a good way) Dean is your man. And I loved that there is no cheating and that the author actually marked her book as no cheating(which is why I didn't mark this as spoiler) I wish other authors would do this. Yes there are some other sk*nks but they are the past once Dean lays eyes on Lux and whats not to love about that. In fact I liked Dean so much the remembrance of past sk*nks (and not even in an affectionate way) made me frown.
Anna was a great multi dimensional heroine with to much pressure put on her shoulders. She is strong and feisty. She holds her head high and is determined to protect what she loves. I also loved that although she is very attracted to Dean she does turn into a pile of goo when he looks her way *thank you Z. Stefani* Not saying that I want my heroines tuff and buff but I get tired of the heroines back bone disappearing especially about important things just because the hero turns her on. I also have to give props to the author for writing in so many characters well. When I started reading and saw all of Lux's friends/sisters I got worried that the story would be bogged down or that it would take away from the main characters and it didn't in anyway. I'm assuming that the sisters/friends will be getting books and I hope I am assuming correct.
The only good thing that came from Lux's fathers death was that the family was finally able to buy the building they had rented for years, not only housing their home but a music lounge, music store and most importantly a music hall that teaches children how to play. So when Dean one of the most powerful men around threatens to bulldoze the portion of the building he owns(something no one was aware of) Lux is determined to do whatever it takes to stop him. Even when nothing else works Lux continues to fight and starts to play dirty.
Dean always gets what he wants so when Lux walks into the meeting he is shocked at her beauty but more so that she tells him no. The more they argue and the more heated to situation gets, the more Dean finds himself wanting Lux. When Lux shows some of her secret cards to stop him Dean is shocked at her determination and more interested in Lux than any woman ever. Soon Dean starts to want Lux more than the building and for a man who never stands down that's unthinkable.
Lux can't deny she is attracted to Dean and wishes they had met under other circumstances so when he comes up with an offer he thinks will serve them both Lux is shocked. But the more time they spend together the more Dean see's Lux as the woman he wants to get to know and keep, and Lux soon can't deny that its not only attraction she feels for Dean. But a rich man like Dean is bound to have enemy's especially with the life he has lead and those enemies are more than happy to tear away the only thing Dean has ever cared about.
This wasn't only a hot book but it was also funny I loved the bickering between Lux and Dean and I found myself laughing though out this book. This is the first book by this author that I have read but after reading The Stand Off it won't be the last. I can't recommend this book enough if you like a crazy possessive hero a great spicy story with funny thrown in for good measure.
I have to say I can't believe this book is almost 600 pages I flew through this book and I mean flew. I wasn't bored yes this book is very descriptive but I liked it it wasn't to much or worth an eye roll it just served to bring me more into the book and become more invested into the world Z. Stefani created and to care more about the characters. The hero Dean was possessive and I don't mean possessive I mean POSSESSIVE if you are looking for a hero who is over the top(in a good way) Dean is your man. And I loved that there is no cheating and that the author actually marked her book as no cheating(which is why I didn't mark this as spoiler) I wish other authors would do this. Yes there are some other sk*nks but they are the past once Dean lays eyes on Lux and whats not to love about that. In fact I liked Dean so much the remembrance of past sk*nks (and not even in an affectionate way) made me frown.
Anna was a great multi dimensional heroine with to much pressure put on her shoulders. She is strong and feisty. She holds her head high and is determined to protect what she loves. I also loved that although she is very attracted to Dean she does turn into a pile of goo when he looks her way *thank you Z. Stefani* Not saying that I want my heroines tuff and buff but I get tired of the heroines back bone disappearing especially about important things just because the hero turns her on. I also have to give props to the author for writing in so many characters well. When I started reading and saw all of Lux's friends/sisters I got worried that the story would be bogged down or that it would take away from the main characters and it didn't in anyway. I'm assuming that the sisters/friends will be getting books and I hope I am assuming correct.
The only good thing that came from Lux's fathers death was that the family was finally able to buy the building they had rented for years, not only housing their home but a music lounge, music store and most importantly a music hall that teaches children how to play. So when Dean one of the most powerful men around threatens to bulldoze the portion of the building he owns(something no one was aware of) Lux is determined to do whatever it takes to stop him. Even when nothing else works Lux continues to fight and starts to play dirty.
Dean always gets what he wants so when Lux walks into the meeting he is shocked at her beauty but more so that she tells him no. The more they argue and the more heated to situation gets, the more Dean finds himself wanting Lux. When Lux shows some of her secret cards to stop him Dean is shocked at her determination and more interested in Lux than any woman ever. Soon Dean starts to want Lux more than the building and for a man who never stands down that's unthinkable.
Lux can't deny she is attracted to Dean and wishes they had met under other circumstances so when he comes up with an offer he thinks will serve them both Lux is shocked. But the more time they spend together the more Dean see's Lux as the woman he wants to get to know and keep, and Lux soon can't deny that its not only attraction she feels for Dean. But a rich man like Dean is bound to have enemy's especially with the life he has lead and those enemies are more than happy to tear away the only thing Dean has ever cared about.
This wasn't only a hot book but it was also funny I loved the bickering between Lux and Dean and I found myself laughing though out this book. This is the first book by this author that I have read but after reading The Stand Off it won't be the last. I can't recommend this book enough if you like a crazy possessive hero a great spicy story with funny thrown in for good measure.
February 14, 2017
3.5 stars
I wasn't sure what to expect when I started this as the synopsis doesn't give much away and the cover doesn't reveal anything. I don't usually say much about the storyline when I write a review, but in this case I'll give you a bit more detail.
Lux lives in a building called the Music Hall with her Mum and sisters. It's a home, a club, a shop, a place were they teach the underprivileged neighbourhood kids to play instruments for free. The whole family dedicate their lives to this place. It turns out that when Lux's Mum bought the deeds to the building a small section wasn't included and now the owner of that part wants to pull the whole building down.
This is of course were Dean comes in. He's an almighty womanising arrogant jerk, who gets whatever he wants whenever he wants it and he wants The Music Hall. He has no interest in finding out what the building is used for, all he cares about is winning.
Enter Lux with her feisty never give up attitude. The last thing Dean expects is for her to refuse his offer to buy the building from her. That starts a game of cat and mouse as each one tries to outdo the other and get their hands on the deed. You can see were that's going to lead.
I enjoyed the banter between them, you could feel the tension mounting. Lux was such a good character, she was strong and didn't take any of Dean's shit. He'd never been told NO by anyone before and it just made him want her more and more. Add into their games an array of quirky side characters, a bit of slightly kinky sex and a 'bad' guy - it made for an enjoyable read.
The only thing I would say is that I didn't particularly like Lux always saying vagina. It's not a sexy word, it's too clinical for me. Apart from that it was good. No unnecessary drama or other women.
Also it's listed here as 554 pages but Amazon has it as 307, my version was 307 so it's a lot shorter than listed here.
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March 21, 2018DNF
I think this was supposed to be a contemporary romance…
“Is that a bet?” He slid his hand down her belly and rested his fingers against her sex.
“Don’t touch me.” She tried to grab his hand, but he grabbed both of her wrists and held them tightly.
“Why not? You’re in my office making demands, why can’t I make a few of my own? I warned you how it would be if you came back here.”
….
“Let go of me!” She hissed and tried to pull away from him, but he refused to let her go.
“You’re even sexier when you’re mad. You’re eyes spark, you yell, and your nipples get hard.” He held her tightly as the side of his mouth curled up into a smug smile. “I’m betting you get wet, too.”
“If you don’t let go of me…”
“What are you going to do? Struggle some more? I wish you would. I love the way your tits bounce under your shirt when you struggle. If you struggle hard enough, maybe you’ll pop that top button.”
She instantly stopped struggling and glared at him.
“Or I could pop it for you.” He said as he grabbed the top of her shirt and yanked it apart until just the top button popped off.
A few days later…
“Be warned, next time you barge in, I will send everyone out of that room, bend you over my knee and beat your ass.”
“You and your idle threats,” she shook her head and shifted in her seat as she felt her vagina begin to warm up.
She took a deep breath and answered, “It would never happen.”
“How could you stop me?”
My Dean (hero):
But, in light of all the recent allegations and movements happening around the world, I guess you can safely say this hero is realistic as fuck.
Also, as far as I’ve read, this book consists of the same scene over and over again: he does something shitty, she promptly goes to his office to “confront” him, they “banter” - the previous quotes give you a pretty good idea of the type of banter happening -, rinse and repeat.
I think this was supposed to be a contemporary romance…
“Is that a bet?” He slid his hand down her belly and rested his fingers against her sex.
“Don’t touch me.” She tried to grab his hand, but he grabbed both of her wrists and held them tightly.
“Why not? You’re in my office making demands, why can’t I make a few of my own? I warned you how it would be if you came back here.”
….
“Let go of me!” She hissed and tried to pull away from him, but he refused to let her go.
“You’re even sexier when you’re mad. You’re eyes spark, you yell, and your nipples get hard.” He held her tightly as the side of his mouth curled up into a smug smile. “I’m betting you get wet, too.”
“If you don’t let go of me…”
“What are you going to do? Struggle some more? I wish you would. I love the way your tits bounce under your shirt when you struggle. If you struggle hard enough, maybe you’ll pop that top button.”
She instantly stopped struggling and glared at him.
“Or I could pop it for you.” He said as he grabbed the top of her shirt and yanked it apart until just the top button popped off.
A few days later…
“Be warned, next time you barge in, I will send everyone out of that room, bend you over my knee and beat your ass.”
“You and your idle threats,” she shook her head and shifted in her seat as she felt her vagina begin to warm up.
She took a deep breath and answered, “It would never happen.”
“How could you stop me?”
My Dean (hero):
But, in light of all the recent allegations and movements happening around the world, I guess you can safely say this hero is realistic as fuck.
Also, as far as I’ve read, this book consists of the same scene over and over again: he does something shitty, she promptly goes to his office to “confront” him, they “banter” - the previous quotes give you a pretty good idea of the type of banter happening -, rinse and repeat.
January 9, 2016
3.5 Stars
I really enjoyed the first half of this story, but then at 60% or so, I got tired of the mistrust.
Lux and her family own part of a lounge/music store called The Music Room or Hall, I forgot already. Dean Blake own the second half of the beginning. Team wants to buy the second half of the building from Lux and demolish it, but Lux refuses. Dean threatens Lux, but she is not willing to give in. Dean even provisions her...if she has sex with him, he will sign his half of the building to her, but she even refuses that. As Lux and Dean banter, it is harder for Lux to deny her attraction to Dean and vice versa. I loved the banter. It was a great hate turns to love story. I enjoyed everything until the story got a little ridiculous with the mistrust. It lasted too long.
There is no drama. Dean is very straight forward guy. I do like ex-gf drama which I would have preferred over the pages and pages of the mistrust.
I really do not care for the cover with the cannon ball and the girl in the red dress. If I would have seen that cover instead of the simple black cover with THE STAND OFF on it, I would never have picked up this book.
The sisters and friends were an okay addition. At first they annoyed me, but later I saw how much they loved Lux.
I loved the email and text conversations. I wish there were more of those. This story has mild BDSM. I also am not sure with Dean's history of sleeping with several women, why the mention of protection was not mentioned.
Overall it was a nice read. I will read more by this author.
I really enjoyed the first half of this story, but then at 60% or so, I got tired of the mistrust.
Lux and her family own part of a lounge/music store called The Music Room or Hall, I forgot already. Dean Blake own the second half of the beginning. Team wants to buy the second half of the building from Lux and demolish it, but Lux refuses. Dean threatens Lux, but she is not willing to give in. Dean even provisions her...if she has sex with him, he will sign his half of the building to her, but she even refuses that. As Lux and Dean banter, it is harder for Lux to deny her attraction to Dean and vice versa. I loved the banter. It was a great hate turns to love story. I enjoyed everything until the story got a little ridiculous with the mistrust. It lasted too long.
There is no drama. Dean is very straight forward guy. I do like ex-gf drama which I would have preferred over the pages and pages of the mistrust.
I really do not care for the cover with the cannon ball and the girl in the red dress. If I would have seen that cover instead of the simple black cover with THE STAND OFF on it, I would never have picked up this book.
The sisters and friends were an okay addition. At first they annoyed me, but later I saw how much they loved Lux.
I loved the email and text conversations. I wish there were more of those. This story has mild BDSM. I also am not sure with Dean's history of sleeping with several women, why the mention of protection was not mentioned.
Overall it was a nice read. I will read more by this author.
January 14, 2015
Now that's what I call an alpha male brilliant book.
September 7, 2015
Dean is a powerful man, a man who gets what he wants and has his opponents running the other way when it comes to playing hardball. However when he meets Lux he is stunned. Lux will do anything to save her families music hall, if it means going up against Dean than so be it.
Dean can't say he is often stunned, but Lux has him furious. She is fearless in her pursuit in saving the music hall. He sends wreckers, she creatively puts a stop to it. Frequently storming into his office, Dean quickly goes from furious to lust and decides he needs to have Lux in every sensual way he can think of. Lux though has no plans in getting into bed with Dean and he can take his pursuits and shove them where the sun doesn't shine. Lux vs. Dean, only one victor will reign and what happens when they both realize they are falling for one another?
This was a delicious treat. I was laughing out loud through out and Dean is pure alpha, he acts swiftly in his pursuit of Lux but she is very stubborn. I would reread over and over again. Very fun read.
Dean can't say he is often stunned, but Lux has him furious. She is fearless in her pursuit in saving the music hall. He sends wreckers, she creatively puts a stop to it. Frequently storming into his office, Dean quickly goes from furious to lust and decides he needs to have Lux in every sensual way he can think of. Lux though has no plans in getting into bed with Dean and he can take his pursuits and shove them where the sun doesn't shine. Lux vs. Dean, only one victor will reign and what happens when they both realize they are falling for one another?
This was a delicious treat. I was laughing out loud through out and Dean is pure alpha, he acts swiftly in his pursuit of Lux but she is very stubborn. I would reread over and over again. Very fun read.
October 13, 2014
"Watching her cum would be amusing; watching her break when she changed her mind would be fun and watching her sign over the very building that she’d fought so hard to keep…would be exquisite"
read the blurb,and tell me you don't find it intriguing?*dares anyone to defy it*.plus it's written by Ms.Stefani who also wrote Insufferable Proximity,which I might add,was mighty fine.
so it was only natural to read it,and find it good or acceptable,right?right?
WRONG
this was one of those books which you find highly promising and leave yourself half satisfied after reading it
Lux(who has a name like that?)
she lives in music hall.its her sanctuary,her safe place.so when the hot shot business man wants to destroy his part of the building and build a club there....well,she isn't just going to stand there and let it happened,is she?
Dean(atleast SOMEBODY has a normal name here,thank God!)
Dean wants the music hall,and he wants it bad.But what he wants more is Lux,and he'll go to any lengths to have her.
so he comes up with a brilliant plan.
Basically,the plan consists of becoming his sex slave for a week to get her property back.
her reaction?
My reaction on THAT?
Aaand it goes downhill after that
she refuses,he persists.she refuses,he persists:FOR 60% OF THE BOOK!!??!!
Then her 'family' wanting her to "live a little" create circumstances where she is left with the guy wearing a skimpy dress-part of it is her fault,the whole book is filled with it.
you can guess what happens then
at this point I was O.K with the book.but then It.Went.Haywire.
what went haywire?you have to read the book to find out...and I request you to not do it.seriusly,its not worth 800 pages to find the reason.
Lux and Dean
lets just say that Lux was better in the first half of the book,after that she was a mindless bitch,doing WHATEVER Dean told her.
and Dean was
look,theres possessive,and theres POSSESSIVE but Dean falls in the "psycho possessive" category.not.cool.
he actually ties her to a chain,spanks and fucks the life out of her when he thinks she betrays him AND promiseS TO NEVER LET HER GO
PSYCHO MUCH?
overall,DONT READ IT,RUN,RUN FAR AWAY
but if you still want to?.....well,it's your funeral.
read the blurb,and tell me you don't find it intriguing?*dares anyone to defy it*.plus it's written by Ms.Stefani who also wrote Insufferable Proximity,which I might add,was mighty fine.
so it was only natural to read it,and find it good or acceptable,right?right?
WRONG
this was one of those books which you find highly promising and leave yourself half satisfied after reading it
Lux(who has a name like that?)
she lives in music hall.its her sanctuary,her safe place.so when the hot shot business man wants to destroy his part of the building and build a club there....well,she isn't just going to stand there and let it happened,is she?
Dean(atleast SOMEBODY has a normal name here,thank God!)
Dean wants the music hall,and he wants it bad.But what he wants more is Lux,and he'll go to any lengths to have her.
so he comes up with a brilliant plan.
Basically,the plan consists of becoming his sex slave for a week to get her property back.
her reaction?
My reaction on THAT?
Aaand it goes downhill after that
she refuses,he persists.she refuses,he persists:FOR 60% OF THE BOOK!!??!!
Then her 'family' wanting her to "live a little" create circumstances where she is left with the guy wearing a skimpy dress-part of it is her fault,the whole book is filled with it.
you can guess what happens then
at this point I was O.K with the book.but then It.Went.Haywire.
what went haywire?you have to read the book to find out...and I request you to not do it.seriusly,its not worth 800 pages to find the reason.
Lux and Dean
lets just say that Lux was better in the first half of the book,after that she was a mindless bitch,doing WHATEVER Dean told her.
and Dean was
look,theres possessive,and theres POSSESSIVE but Dean falls in the "psycho possessive" category.not.cool.
he actually ties her to a chain,spanks and fucks the life out of her when he thinks she betrays him AND promiseS TO NEVER LET HER GO
PSYCHO MUCH?
overall,DONT READ IT,RUN,RUN FAR AWAY
but if you still want to?.....well,it's your funeral.
December 23, 2020
Wow! This enemies to lover story is beyond AMAZING!!
Z. Stefani’s writing is SO unique. The author’s style is unlike any other. The Stand Off has deep characters that grow over the length of the book. This is just a gem that I’m so glad I found.
The story is told in third person POV. Our heroine Lux, along with her mother and sisters own music lounge, music store and most importantly a music hall that teaches children how to play. They also live there with their agoraphobic mother.
Dean, our hero is a sexy, dominant, and powerful businessman that is set to tear down Lux’s family’s business. He must expand his business and her little music company as he sees it, isn't worth all the trouble she's causing. Dean doesn't see why she won't just accept his financial offer and go. He is intrigued as he sees past his first impressions and sees her determination and stength.
The sexual chemistry is EXPLOSIVE. Truly one of the hottest enemies to lovers books out there. Other books don’t compare to the deep chemistry and passion between these two characters.
Don’t let the music lounge, music store and most importantly a music hall that teaches children how to play. Length of this novel throw you off because every word will be devoured.
Nothing is bored or drawn out. The author is descriptive, and I could not miss a single word as I was captivated by these two lovable characters. I was lost to the entire world while reading this book.
There are sex scenes that will blow your mind.
The bickering and attraction make this one of the best passionate love stories I’ve read. This truly blew me away and I highly recommend it.
This book is the perfect combination of hate, undeniable attraction that turns into beautiful undeniable love. Dean is my book boyfriend. I won't lie, I want Dean badly and I want him now. Where are the men like this in real life ladies? Sigh...
By the way, insufferableproximity is also AMAZING
We need more Z Stefani please!
Z. Stefani’s writing is SO unique. The author’s style is unlike any other. The Stand Off has deep characters that grow over the length of the book. This is just a gem that I’m so glad I found.
The story is told in third person POV. Our heroine Lux, along with her mother and sisters own music lounge, music store and most importantly a music hall that teaches children how to play. They also live there with their agoraphobic mother.
Dean, our hero is a sexy, dominant, and powerful businessman that is set to tear down Lux’s family’s business. He must expand his business and her little music company as he sees it, isn't worth all the trouble she's causing. Dean doesn't see why she won't just accept his financial offer and go. He is intrigued as he sees past his first impressions and sees her determination and stength.
The sexual chemistry is EXPLOSIVE. Truly one of the hottest enemies to lovers books out there. Other books don’t compare to the deep chemistry and passion between these two characters.
Don’t let the music lounge, music store and most importantly a music hall that teaches children how to play. Length of this novel throw you off because every word will be devoured.
Nothing is bored or drawn out. The author is descriptive, and I could not miss a single word as I was captivated by these two lovable characters. I was lost to the entire world while reading this book.
There are sex scenes that will blow your mind.
The bickering and attraction make this one of the best passionate love stories I’ve read. This truly blew me away and I highly recommend it.
This book is the perfect combination of hate, undeniable attraction that turns into beautiful undeniable love. Dean is my book boyfriend. I won't lie, I want Dean badly and I want him now. Where are the men like this in real life ladies? Sigh...
By the way, insufferableproximity is also AMAZING
We need more Z Stefani please!
June 7, 2015
This is one of my absolute favorite authors and I have been looking forward to reading this since it was released. I was disappointed by the first half of this book which was too repetitive. Basically the H would put up blockades and the h would take them down and threaten him. This went on and on. I was actually a little bored which has never happened when I'm reading a book by this author. I also found the h's sisters to be incredibly annoying. I get that they were supposed to be funny but they were too OTT. I also hate when a h is told that the cure to her problems is to have sex with a hot guy. The h is encouraged by her own sisters to have sex with the H, who is a stranger. The h was not very complex and I admit to not liking her. She spent too much of the book angry and giving everyone an attitude.
Now to what I loved. The second half of this book had everything that I love about this author. The H was so sexy, dominant, OTT possessive and jealous. The sex scenes were very hot and this author writes some of the best I have ever read. I loved when the H believes the h betrayed him and is angry but can't let the h go bc he is so obsessed with her. He was also protective of the her. There was also a mix of danger in this story that I really enjoyed.
Now to what I loved. The second half of this book had everything that I love about this author. The H was so sexy, dominant, OTT possessive and jealous. The sex scenes were very hot and this author writes some of the best I have ever read. I loved when the H believes the h betrayed him and is angry but can't let the h go bc he is so obsessed with her. He was also protective of the her. There was also a mix of danger in this story that I really enjoyed.
April 28, 2014
What Worked For Me:
What a refreshing breath of fresh air! Finally a heroine who doesn’t fall on her back and spread her legs immediately! Lux, our heroine, is simply fantastic! She is quirky, smart, and charming. Lux is desperate and trying to save one part of her building which has been bought by a ruthless and cutthroat businessman. He is as determined to own the whole building and knock it down as she is determined to save it. The battle between these two is hilarious with her giving as good as she gets and both sides taking no prisoners. Dean, our hero, who is used to women who fall at his feet, is intrigued by Lux as she fights him for her building. Their battles are a delicious foreplay and once they give into the attraction they are both feeling, we are left breathless and boneless in a sea of satisfaction. The plot was original and well thought out and there were even a couple didn’t-see-that-coming surprises thrown into the mix. Overall this was an amazing read that I will no doubt re-read in the future!
What Didn’t Work For Me:
This is quite possibly one of the worst blurbs I have ever read. It seriously gives you no indication as to what kind of book you are fixing to read.
Would I Recommend This Book:
Yes
Final Star Rating:
5 of 5 stars
May 2, 2014
Having never read anything by Z. Stefani before, I was pleasantly surprised by The Stand Off. I had to put the book down for a bit because I found it difficult to get into. I thought the characters were quirky and I had a hard time relating to them--unusual names containing a lot of Xs, calling each other "sister, dear", outlandish clothing and hair styles, etc. The first third of the book was filled with these types of character details, and I needed a break.
However, when I revisited Lux and Dean, their relationship really took off from the middle of the book, and Dean was completely over the top possessive. I just LOVE how he loved Lux, so much so that this book will be a re-read at some point in the future--especially if there are follow-up books about Dean's brothers or Lux's sister and friends. I ended up really liking the characters and want to find out more about them.
Overall I recommend The Stand Off if you're in the mood for an offbeat story featuring a kinky, controlling, hard-nosed hero who will settle for nothing less than the love of his life.
However, when I revisited Lux and Dean, their relationship really took off from the middle of the book, and Dean was completely over the top possessive. I just LOVE how he loved Lux, so much so that this book will be a re-read at some point in the future--especially if there are follow-up books about Dean's brothers or Lux's sister and friends. I ended up really liking the characters and want to find out more about them.
Overall I recommend The Stand Off if you're in the mood for an offbeat story featuring a kinky, controlling, hard-nosed hero who will settle for nothing less than the love of his life.
May 3, 2014
The layout is really bad. If you correct this, then the story have not more than 200 pages ... at best.
This story would have been fine if the cohesion of the text and the timeline of events also were not so bad.
This story would have been fine if the cohesion of the text and the timeline of events also were not so bad.
Want to read
September 3, 2016And I bet here's another delicious story just like IP. I can't wait to read it. Yumii!
April 6, 2026
Quite disappointed. Absolutely devoured Love vs Payne and was really looking forward to another book in her unique writing style (which I wish more books were written in) but this was too fast paced. They shared no chemistry, Lux was unattractive lay stubborn and loud, they don’t know a damn thing about each other, and Dean’s quite love came from nowhere.
June 24, 2019
Just bad
This book was so bad I don’t even know where to start. The writing was the worst. Read like a middle schooler had written it. I skimmed most of the book just so I wouldn’t have a DNF but dear Lord I wish I had just done that!
This book was so bad I don’t even know where to start. The writing was the worst. Read like a middle schooler had written it. I skimmed most of the book just so I wouldn’t have a DNF but dear Lord I wish I had just done that!
April 17, 2023
Is Z.Stefani the queen of kinky smut or what?
I loved the banter and the enemies to lovers story-line.
Granted a possessive/rich/romantic/aggressive hero is unrealistic but he can be my imaginary boyfriend any time of the day!
I loved the banter and the enemies to lovers story-line.
Granted a possessive/rich/romantic/aggressive hero is unrealistic but he can be my imaginary boyfriend any time of the day!
May 4, 2017
It was a good read but something was missing. i can't put my finger on what was missing but it felt incomplete. Loved the hero, hot possesive guys are bookboyfriend so yeah
May 8, 2014
I had serious reservations considering the editing issues in Insufferable Proximity 1&2 (both by Z. Stefani) but they all fell away:)
What I loved about this book:
Editing is great, don't know what ZS did differently, but keep it up. Don't get me wrong, I liked Insufferable Proximity 1&2, Lux and Dean's story is actually very similar to IP.
Loved the banter between Lux and Dean. They start off hating each other,one manipulating the other to get their way. Both are obviously attracted to each other but they deny it thru the most of book. Lux has never had time for relationships but when she meets Dean he ignites a fire she can't put out. Dean has never heard the word no from a woman. No one disobeys him until Lux jumps right in his face.
I am glad their sexual relationship didn't overpower the story. It's definitely at the forefront,but just enough where I didn't skip any sex scenes. It's become a ritual for many books in this genre-once the h (usually a virgin)and H become intimate that's all they do.
Loved that Lux took her time getting to trust Dean before they slept together. Again, in a lot of NA, the h jumps right into bed with the H.
I also loved that Lux had a girl posse with her. Her sister Pixie,her BFF &mom (just a little) know that Lux is her worse enemy. They kind of facilitate getting Lux and Dean together.
I would love to read about Dean's brothers Vaughn and Johann,great read!
What I loved about this book:
Editing is great, don't know what ZS did differently, but keep it up. Don't get me wrong, I liked Insufferable Proximity 1&2, Lux and Dean's story is actually very similar to IP.
Loved the banter between Lux and Dean. They start off hating each other,one manipulating the other to get their way. Both are obviously attracted to each other but they deny it thru the most of book. Lux has never had time for relationships but when she meets Dean he ignites a fire she can't put out. Dean has never heard the word no from a woman. No one disobeys him until Lux jumps right in his face.
I am glad their sexual relationship didn't overpower the story. It's definitely at the forefront,but just enough where I didn't skip any sex scenes. It's become a ritual for many books in this genre-once the h (usually a virgin)and H become intimate that's all they do.
Loved that Lux took her time getting to trust Dean before they slept together. Again, in a lot of NA, the h jumps right into bed with the H.
I also loved that Lux had a girl posse with her. Her sister Pixie,her BFF &mom (just a little) know that Lux is her worse enemy. They kind of facilitate getting Lux and Dean together.
I would love to read about Dean's brothers Vaughn and Johann,great read!
June 21, 2014
If you like enemies-to-lovers story, such as Z. Stefani's Insufferable Proximity, you will like this story.
The first part is good cause I like the interaction between Dean and Lux: while they argue with and threaten each other all the time, you can feel the electricity in the air. Lux's sisters and friends are also very funny and they help Dean and Lux get together.
However, I can's accept the second part when the inevitable misunderstanding happens, esp when Dean uses BDSM way to force Lux admits sth she doesn't do. I can accept BDSM in some romance, but some parts of Dean's punishment is annoying due to Lux's innocence. Also, Lux is a strong-willed woman, I don't understand how can she accept Dean's anger without much rage or strongly resistance?
Except the punishment part, the story is good, recommend to those who like Z. Stefani's Insufferable Proximity.
The first part is good cause I like the interaction between Dean and Lux: while they argue with and threaten each other all the time, you can feel the electricity in the air. Lux's sisters and friends are also very funny and they help Dean and Lux get together.
However, I can's accept the second part when the inevitable misunderstanding happens, esp when Dean uses BDSM way to force Lux admits sth she doesn't do. I can accept BDSM in some romance, but some parts of Dean's punishment is annoying due to Lux's innocence. Also, Lux is a strong-willed woman, I don't understand how can she accept Dean's anger without much rage or strongly resistance?
Except the punishment part, the story is good, recommend to those who like Z. Stefani's Insufferable Proximity.
September 11, 2016
OMG this book is so freaking AWESOME! It has the perfect blend of a wealthy, beyond sexy, alpha-male that is determined not to fall in love, with the perfect sassy, beautiful and submissive...only in bed ;)...female that is determined to thwart him and make him desire her more than anything.
The passion between Dean and Lux is out of this world and I loved how they fought their desires in the beginning, but once it was released it was scorching HOT! I also really liked how Z.Stefani created supporting characters that I actually enjoyed reading as well, they were funny and unique and the story felt refreshing and not just the same ole rehashed alpha-sub plot line.
I was incredibly sad to see this story end, only because I wanted MORE! I loved Dean and Lux so much and I'm curious to see if Z.S. will continue with other books - perhaps about Vaughn (?).
This book was definitely a 5 star read, I absolutely loved it and hope to read more from Z. Stefani soon!
The passion between Dean and Lux is out of this world and I loved how they fought their desires in the beginning, but once it was released it was scorching HOT! I also really liked how Z.Stefani created supporting characters that I actually enjoyed reading as well, they were funny and unique and the story felt refreshing and not just the same ole rehashed alpha-sub plot line.
I was incredibly sad to see this story end, only because I wanted MORE! I loved Dean and Lux so much and I'm curious to see if Z.S. will continue with other books - perhaps about Vaughn (?).
This book was definitely a 5 star read, I absolutely loved it and hope to read more from Z. Stefani soon!
June 12, 2014
I had been saving to read this one cause I enjoyed the authors prior works but this one just wasn't put together well enough for me to thoroughly enjoy. The beginning gets to be repetitive with Lux visiting his office all the time, and then the relationship quickly develops but doesn't have much substance. Insert wacky house mates who don't really develop enough to be secondary characters and an odd villain and storyline gets a bit wonky. I also found it hard to believe that Lux could so easily look past Dean's prior history, she didn't even bat an eye to him sleeping with a married woman previously. Also had several spelling/editing issues and epilogue fell short too.
August 31, 2016
4.5 starrr
well i loved how S. Stefani had her own style..i loved how she made the hero character always powerfull, possesive but always warm inside... and the most of all how the hero always talks dirty and made me hot ha ha ha...and the heroine always stand by herself and doesnt let anybody intimidate her...for dean and lux..wow their chemistry really overwhelmed me ha ha..i loved their funny bantered and their intimacy .
Z. stefani always be my fav
well i loved how S. Stefani had her own style..i loved how she made the hero character always powerfull, possesive but always warm inside... and the most of all how the hero always talks dirty and made me hot ha ha ha...and the heroine always stand by herself and doesnt let anybody intimidate her...for dean and lux..wow their chemistry really overwhelmed me ha ha..i loved their funny bantered and their intimacy .
Z. stefani always be my fav
April 15, 2014
Oh Dean
I really enjoyed reading this book. I also liked all of Liz's family. I hope they get their own books
I really enjoyed reading this book. I also liked all of Liz's family. I hope they get their own books
April 25, 2014
Really like this book. I loved Lux she was crazy. And here dynamic with Dean was great. Fast paced.
June 4, 2014
4.5 Alpha Stars...Dean is an uber controlling, possessive, and jealous alpha male that falls for Lux almost from the get go.
March 19, 2015
3 stars for OTT possessive, but the actual story was meh. I'm glad I got it for free.
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