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The McCauley Brothers #4
What to Do with a Bad Boy
Mike McCauley had his soul mate for a precious time before she died giving birth to their son. She left him with the best boy a guy could want, so why is everyone playing matchmaker? He's sick of it... until he meets Delilah Webster.
For some reason, the foul-mouthed, tattooed mechanic sets his motor running. He sees the loving woman buried within. But the closer they get, the more the pain of past wounds throws a monkey wrench into a future he's not sure he can handle...
For some reason, the foul-mouthed, tattooed mechanic sets his motor running. He sees the loving woman buried within. But the closer they get, the more the pain of past wounds throws a monkey wrench into a future he's not sure he can handle...
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published November 4, 2014
201 people are currently reading
2041 people want to read
About the author
Marie Harte
198 books2,360 followersImportant:: Marie Harte is NOT active on GoodReads, so to contact her, please use her website at marieharte.com.
Caffeine addict, boy referee, and romance aficionado, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Marie Harte has over 100 books published with more constantly on the way. She’s a confessed bibliophile and devotee of action movies. Whether hiking in Central Oregon, biking around town, or hanging at the local tea shop, she’s constantly plotting to give everyone a happily ever after. Visit http://marieharte.com and fall in love.
Caffeine addict, boy referee, and romance aficionado, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Marie Harte has over 100 books published with more constantly on the way. She’s a confessed bibliophile and devotee of action movies. Whether hiking in Central Oregon, biking around town, or hanging at the local tea shop, she’s constantly plotting to give everyone a happily ever after. Visit http://marieharte.com and fall in love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews
November 22, 2014
4 stars!
First off, I'm not usually a fan of 'my sainted wife is dead therefore I refuse to love again' type of scenarios in my romance books. But this one won me over.
Mike is a widower who lost his wife giving birth to their son, Colin. Six years after her death, he still couldn't move on and start another relationship. Delilah or Del as she was affectionately called, is a tattooed, brash mechanic who caught his eye. She's the total opposite of his dead wife but Mike is attracted to her and Colin is already recruiting her to his next mom. As much as Mike tries to keep Del at arms length, he falls deeper and deeper into their non-relationship.
I found myself rooting for Del and Mike throughout the book. They got great chemistry and their banter was hilarious. At first, I was a bit worried because Mike sounded like he was still hung up on his wife, and he was. But I got real satisfaction the moment I saw him falling more and more in love with Del without even realizing it. I wanted to hit him upside in the head for being stubborn but the man was hurting. And thankfully, once he got his head out of his ass, he made the grand gesture and I was happy with how things ended.
**ARC provided by NetGalley.**
First off, I'm not usually a fan of 'my sainted wife is dead therefore I refuse to love again' type of scenarios in my romance books. But this one won me over.
Mike is a widower who lost his wife giving birth to their son, Colin. Six years after her death, he still couldn't move on and start another relationship. Delilah or Del as she was affectionately called, is a tattooed, brash mechanic who caught his eye. She's the total opposite of his dead wife but Mike is attracted to her and Colin is already recruiting her to his next mom. As much as Mike tries to keep Del at arms length, he falls deeper and deeper into their non-relationship.
I found myself rooting for Del and Mike throughout the book. They got great chemistry and their banter was hilarious. At first, I was a bit worried because Mike sounded like he was still hung up on his wife, and he was. But I got real satisfaction the moment I saw him falling more and more in love with Del without even realizing it. I wanted to hit him upside in the head for being stubborn but the man was hurting. And thankfully, once he got his head out of his ass, he made the grand gesture and I was happy with how things ended.
**ARC provided by NetGalley.**
November 4, 2014
Woo-hoo! Can't believe I finally won something (Goodreads First reads contest) Can't wait to read this one!:)
Sooo... it was with some trepidation that I started this one. 4th book in a series? How I hate to read out of order! But since I won this book in a Goodreads contest, my conscience wouldn't let me dilly-dally until I had read the previous three. I was going to do the right thing--read it, then review it. For about the first couple chapters, I was regretting that decision. Who were these people? How was I going to remember all the brothers and their significant others? How was I going to keep everything straight?
So I made a decision--don't worry about what came before this book, just concentrate on the hero and heroine, and it will all fall into place. And I'm happy to say, it did!
Now, at first I wasn't too sure I was going to like the heroine for our studtastic, widowed hero, Mike McCauley. Mike's the oldest brother in the family, sort of the caretaker, with a 'nice guy' reputation, and lost his beloved wife when she gave birth to their (now) six year old son, Colin. Mike is dead set against getting married (or having a significant relationship) after that tragedy. He knows he can't go through loving and losing someone again
Mike...
But something about a woman so opposite of what he once had gets his motor running. Delilah Webster is a tattooed, pierced, auto mechanic with a mouth like a sailor. And an attitude. She is nothing like he imagined for himself. Yet his young son adores her. And she's good with him. And he's drawn to her. And so what if they argue and snap at each other all the time? It's what you call chemistry!
'Del'...
Loved loved loved this book (once it got going)! Like I said, I wasn't sure that I would like Del, put she put those fears to rest almost immediately. I loved the smart aleck comments she made to Mike, loved how she sparred with him, and loved the chemistry they had together. And let me say, these two had real magic going on in the bedroom. I mean, this book bordered on the erotic, so be warned--this isn't your standard hot contemporary romance. This book is H-O-T!
This is Del, putting a rival for Mike's affections (one his mother hand-picked for him) in her place:
"For the record, I have no problems with anything anyone thinks of my appearance. You don't have to tell me not to worry about Mike. He'll be damn lucky to have me again."
Grace's lips flattened.
"But you try your best. He's a stud in bed, by the way. And, honey, he ain't all that nice, so don't think batting your eyes and whimpering is gonna have him inside you with that monster cock any sooner."
Marie Harte does a great job fleshing out the characters so you connect with them. There were times that I felt myself tearing up, that's how involved I was in the story. And the supporting cast was fantastic. And Mike's adorable little son? Just amazing.
Everything worked for me in this book. The pacing, the dialogue, the H/h's inner dialogue, the super hot sex scenes, the storyline...the characters just came to life on the page. There were lots of humorous moments and lots of tender moments, and times where my heart ached for Mike, and where it ached for Del. God, did I want these two to make a go of it!
My only regret is that I hadn't read the first three books before this one. Would it have made this a better reading experience? Maybe. But then I would've rated it 5 1/2 stars instead of 5 big stars!
Sooo... it was with some trepidation that I started this one. 4th book in a series? How I hate to read out of order! But since I won this book in a Goodreads contest, my conscience wouldn't let me dilly-dally until I had read the previous three. I was going to do the right thing--read it, then review it. For about the first couple chapters, I was regretting that decision. Who were these people? How was I going to remember all the brothers and their significant others? How was I going to keep everything straight?
So I made a decision--don't worry about what came before this book, just concentrate on the hero and heroine, and it will all fall into place. And I'm happy to say, it did!
Now, at first I wasn't too sure I was going to like the heroine for our studtastic, widowed hero, Mike McCauley. Mike's the oldest brother in the family, sort of the caretaker, with a 'nice guy' reputation, and lost his beloved wife when she gave birth to their (now) six year old son, Colin. Mike is dead set against getting married (or having a significant relationship) after that tragedy. He knows he can't go through loving and losing someone again
Mike...
But something about a woman so opposite of what he once had gets his motor running. Delilah Webster is a tattooed, pierced, auto mechanic with a mouth like a sailor. And an attitude. She is nothing like he imagined for himself. Yet his young son adores her. And she's good with him. And he's drawn to her. And so what if they argue and snap at each other all the time? It's what you call chemistry!
'Del'...
Loved loved loved this book (once it got going)! Like I said, I wasn't sure that I would like Del, put she put those fears to rest almost immediately. I loved the smart aleck comments she made to Mike, loved how she sparred with him, and loved the chemistry they had together. And let me say, these two had real magic going on in the bedroom. I mean, this book bordered on the erotic, so be warned--this isn't your standard hot contemporary romance. This book is H-O-T!
This is Del, putting a rival for Mike's affections (one his mother hand-picked for him) in her place:
"For the record, I have no problems with anything anyone thinks of my appearance. You don't have to tell me not to worry about Mike. He'll be damn lucky to have me again."
Grace's lips flattened.
"But you try your best. He's a stud in bed, by the way. And, honey, he ain't all that nice, so don't think batting your eyes and whimpering is gonna have him inside you with that monster cock any sooner."
Marie Harte does a great job fleshing out the characters so you connect with them. There were times that I felt myself tearing up, that's how involved I was in the story. And the supporting cast was fantastic. And Mike's adorable little son? Just amazing.
Everything worked for me in this book. The pacing, the dialogue, the H/h's inner dialogue, the super hot sex scenes, the storyline...the characters just came to life on the page. There were lots of humorous moments and lots of tender moments, and times where my heart ached for Mike, and where it ached for Del. God, did I want these two to make a go of it!
My only regret is that I hadn't read the first three books before this one. Would it have made this a better reading experience? Maybe. But then I would've rated it 5 1/2 stars instead of 5 big stars!
November 4, 2014
4 Opposites Attract Stars * * * *
Why is it everyone always thinks they know what is best for us... They try to hook you up with the guy or gal you have no interest in... with the resounding phrase of... but they are perfect for you... we know what is best...
Mike keeps hearing this from his Mom and siblings and he does his best to stay clear of it all. He has no interest in being set up for a long term, maybe this is the one relationship. He had his true love and she gave him the most amazing gift in the world; his son Colin. What was tragic was how she was taken from both of them shortly after he arrived. Mike has worked to hold his life together with the support and help from his amazing family. He muddled through the first years, learning with Colin how the two of them were to survive and then flourish. They are a team and Mike is happy, he thinks, devoting himself to his son; understanding he has had his one love... and living this life.
There is just one thing... it seems all of his brothers have found their women... and he is feeling the pull of discomfort ... of being out of sorts... He has made a practice of hooking up when necessary with clear cut rules, so there would be no hard feelings... but lately he is sensing an emptiness which needs filling.
But it will not be with the tough, tatted great looking Del.... oh no... she is just too abrasive, too tough and unfortunately too great looking. She runs a mechanic shop with her family and she happens to be friends with one of the brother's gals... so they now are interacting more and more.... and to top it off, Colin, is crazy about her. Mike is irritated, annoyed and quite frankly confused because on one hand he is angry Colin is learning swear words and will have to see her to take her to task for it... on the other hand... he is thinking of how he wants to paddle her beautiful ass....
Del is of like mind, as well... she has no desire to hang out with Mike; no way is she interested in the big, strong, burly man who can make her feel feminine like no other guy. No... she is a tap it and go gal... leave them before they leave her. She learned that lesson early with a mother who had no mother gene in her body... Del is determined to be strong; take no shit from anyone and just live her life.
And all along Colin, the mastermind, adorable little kid... has a plan which he wants to put in motion... will he be able to accomplish his goal?
This story totally surprised the hell out of me. It held my attention from the start. It had the set up... lead me down the road and I was hook for the entire ride.
The characters had full back stories... each had their own angst as to why they behaved the way they did. Each had great senses of humor and acted like real people... they messed up, said sorry and messed up again.
The chemistry for these two was off the charts and the way Mike talked to Del... Holy Christmas, it was hot...There was scene after scene between the two of them which could have made the firetrucks work over time.
This had heart, caring and a couple of real life lessons that I wish most of us never have to experience. Losing loved ones way too soon is devastating... there never is a right time. To somehow recover and allow yourself to feel again without guilt is a process. It all happens at its own pace... the trick is to allow it to happen.
This is part of a series yet it read easily as a stand alone. I will look for the other books as this author has shown me she knows what she is doing and is doing it well.
A gifted copy was provided by NetGalley and Publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Why is it everyone always thinks they know what is best for us... They try to hook you up with the guy or gal you have no interest in... with the resounding phrase of... but they are perfect for you... we know what is best...
Mike keeps hearing this from his Mom and siblings and he does his best to stay clear of it all. He has no interest in being set up for a long term, maybe this is the one relationship. He had his true love and she gave him the most amazing gift in the world; his son Colin. What was tragic was how she was taken from both of them shortly after he arrived. Mike has worked to hold his life together with the support and help from his amazing family. He muddled through the first years, learning with Colin how the two of them were to survive and then flourish. They are a team and Mike is happy, he thinks, devoting himself to his son; understanding he has had his one love... and living this life.
There is just one thing... it seems all of his brothers have found their women... and he is feeling the pull of discomfort ... of being out of sorts... He has made a practice of hooking up when necessary with clear cut rules, so there would be no hard feelings... but lately he is sensing an emptiness which needs filling.
But it will not be with the tough, tatted great looking Del.... oh no... she is just too abrasive, too tough and unfortunately too great looking. She runs a mechanic shop with her family and she happens to be friends with one of the brother's gals... so they now are interacting more and more.... and to top it off, Colin, is crazy about her. Mike is irritated, annoyed and quite frankly confused because on one hand he is angry Colin is learning swear words and will have to see her to take her to task for it... on the other hand... he is thinking of how he wants to paddle her beautiful ass....
Del is of like mind, as well... she has no desire to hang out with Mike; no way is she interested in the big, strong, burly man who can make her feel feminine like no other guy. No... she is a tap it and go gal... leave them before they leave her. She learned that lesson early with a mother who had no mother gene in her body... Del is determined to be strong; take no shit from anyone and just live her life.
And all along Colin, the mastermind, adorable little kid... has a plan which he wants to put in motion... will he be able to accomplish his goal?
This story totally surprised the hell out of me. It held my attention from the start. It had the set up... lead me down the road and I was hook for the entire ride.
The characters had full back stories... each had their own angst as to why they behaved the way they did. Each had great senses of humor and acted like real people... they messed up, said sorry and messed up again.
The chemistry for these two was off the charts and the way Mike talked to Del... Holy Christmas, it was hot...There was scene after scene between the two of them which could have made the firetrucks work over time.
This had heart, caring and a couple of real life lessons that I wish most of us never have to experience. Losing loved ones way too soon is devastating... there never is a right time. To somehow recover and allow yourself to feel again without guilt is a process. It all happens at its own pace... the trick is to allow it to happen.
This is part of a series yet it read easily as a stand alone. I will look for the other books as this author has shown me she knows what she is doing and is doing it well.
A gifted copy was provided by NetGalley and Publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
April 2, 2015
*spoilers*
I hate the dead spouse trope and generally avoid books with it and I don't know why I thought this book would somehow change my mind. Because it didn't. It just reminded me again just how much I hate it.
I don't find it romantic at all how Del was compared to Lea (Mike's dead wife) and how he would go on about how much he loves Lea and how she was his "true love." Because of that I couldn't enjoy Mike and Del's growing relationship because Lea was always in the back of my mind. And how the hell do you compete with the ghost of another woman?
And even though Lea's been dead for SIX years, Mike still refers to her as his wife. His wife this, his wife that. How you gonna go screw Del and then talk about your "wife?"
And please, talk about Mike's "monster cock" a little more, I didn't catch it the 100 other times you mentioned it. I get it, you're hung, now stop mentioning it so damn much. Del even nicknamed him MC for short.
I also hated the annoying Grace drama. So his mother really wants to see him settling down and decides to shove this prim and proper single mother down Mike's throat, even when he has clearly said he's not interested! I didn't mind his mother in the last book but in this one she really irked me with her judgmental attitude.
Oh and I was so frustrated when he goes over to Del's place and they sleep together and the next day he fucking asks Grace out. Ugh. Mike just annoyed me.
Throughout the whole damn book it's Del who gets jealous time and time again because of Grace. I needed Mike to feel some of the pain as well. What's worse is that he seemed to revel in her jealousy and get a kick out of it when that is NOT a healthy emotion in any relationship!
Another thing that annoyed me was that everyone and their mother was all up in their business. I'm talking fathers, mothers, brothers, cousins, friends, and even children! Like mind yo own damn business!
In the end I needed to feel confident that if Lea were to miraculously come back alive that Mike has moved on enough that he would not go back to her. And I did NOT get that from Mike. I have no doubt in my mind that he would pick Lea over Del. How can I root for this couple when I don't even believe in their "love?"
Lessoned definitely learned: no more dead spouse tropes.
I hate the dead spouse trope and generally avoid books with it and I don't know why I thought this book would somehow change my mind. Because it didn't. It just reminded me again just how much I hate it.
I don't find it romantic at all how Del was compared to Lea (Mike's dead wife) and how he would go on about how much he loves Lea and how she was his "true love." Because of that I couldn't enjoy Mike and Del's growing relationship because Lea was always in the back of my mind. And how the hell do you compete with the ghost of another woman?
And even though Lea's been dead for SIX years, Mike still refers to her as his wife. His wife this, his wife that. How you gonna go screw Del and then talk about your "wife?"
And please, talk about Mike's "monster cock" a little more, I didn't catch it the 100 other times you mentioned it. I get it, you're hung, now stop mentioning it so damn much. Del even nicknamed him MC for short.
I also hated the annoying Grace drama. So his mother really wants to see him settling down and decides to shove this prim and proper single mother down Mike's throat, even when he has clearly said he's not interested! I didn't mind his mother in the last book but in this one she really irked me with her judgmental attitude.
Oh and I was so frustrated when he goes over to Del's place and they sleep together and the next day he fucking asks Grace out. Ugh. Mike just annoyed me.
Throughout the whole damn book it's Del who gets jealous time and time again because of Grace. I needed Mike to feel some of the pain as well. What's worse is that he seemed to revel in her jealousy and get a kick out of it when that is NOT a healthy emotion in any relationship!
Another thing that annoyed me was that everyone and their mother was all up in their business. I'm talking fathers, mothers, brothers, cousins, friends, and even children! Like mind yo own damn business!
In the end I needed to feel confident that if Lea were to miraculously come back alive that Mike has moved on enough that he would not go back to her. And I did NOT get that from Mike. I have no doubt in my mind that he would pick Lea over Del. How can I root for this couple when I don't even believe in their "love?"
Lessoned definitely learned: no more dead spouse tropes.
no-way-jose
September 15, 2018Dead partner/spouse/girlfriend/boyfriend/fiancée/fiancé/significant other/
Big no
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Big no
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
September 12, 2018
We already met Delilah Webster, a tatooed and pierced mechanic and Mike McCauley, a widower and single dad of an adorable six-year-old son. From what we saw, it was obvious that things between them would be intense, explosive and torrid. That's what we got in this book. Del, sassy, fierce and with a big heart. Mike, dominant but not the uber-alpha who can't share control when they both feel the need. They're doing a good job at pretending they can't stand each other, but not so great at acting like they're not strongly attracted to each other. That's why it's so fun for the reader to watch these two trying to deal with their growing feelings. But after losing the love of his life six years ago, Mike gave up on love and Del is not dreaming about happily ever after either, so why not get this blazing chemistry out of their system and enjoy a couple nights of pleasure ?
Last Sunday, my sister and I passed by a garage nearby and she said it made her think about Del and the boys working at her father's repair shop. It made me want to reread my favorite book of the series. I think that if I was reading this book for the first time today, I probably wouldn't enjoy it as much as I did back then. Something to do with what I recently began to call "douchitude" and too many emphasis and talk about the proportion of a certain part of the male anatomy, to name but a few. I can't deny this book is hot and if you like more crude than dirty talk, you're gonna be pleased, but when those kind of details are repeat and repeat, it tend to get on my nerves after a time. I don't think I need to hear about it twenty times in a story, you know. Having said that, the chemistry between Mike and Del was certainly there and very tangible. And Del is the kind of unusual heroine that I like : confident and she doesn't let others dictate who she should be or how she should live her life. You either like her or hate her but she won't apologize for being herself. Authenticity, originality and generosity. It take a strong man to handle her, but he also need to be caring and that's why Mike was the perfect guy for her. Colin, Mike's little boy, was an important character of this book and such a cute kid and a comic-relief too.
For all those reasons, and because I remember what fun it was to fall in love with these characters, I'm keeping my initial rating.
Last Sunday, my sister and I passed by a garage nearby and she said it made her think about Del and the boys working at her father's repair shop. It made me want to reread my favorite book of the series. I think that if I was reading this book for the first time today, I probably wouldn't enjoy it as much as I did back then. Something to do with what I recently began to call "douchitude" and too many emphasis and talk about the proportion of a certain part of the male anatomy, to name but a few. I can't deny this book is hot and if you like more crude than dirty talk, you're gonna be pleased, but when those kind of details are repeat and repeat, it tend to get on my nerves after a time. I don't think I need to hear about it twenty times in a story, you know. Having said that, the chemistry between Mike and Del was certainly there and very tangible. And Del is the kind of unusual heroine that I like : confident and she doesn't let others dictate who she should be or how she should live her life. You either like her or hate her but she won't apologize for being herself. Authenticity, originality and generosity. It take a strong man to handle her, but he also need to be caring and that's why Mike was the perfect guy for her. Colin, Mike's little boy, was an important character of this book and such a cute kid and a comic-relief too.
For all those reasons, and because I remember what fun it was to fall in love with these characters, I'm keeping my initial rating.
January 2, 2015
The last in the McCauley Brothers series focuses on Mike McCauley, the widower with a son and Delilah, aka Del Webster, tatted badass woman who happens to be a mechanic.
The Good, The Bad and Everything In Between
-Good writing: Ms. Harte has a talent for creating a romance that is grounded in well-drawn characters and believable situations. There are no far out overly dramatic plot points, but real character driven angst that comes from two people meeting and overcoming their own foibles to reach out and make a connection. Mike and Del have had a slightly contentious relationship that masked their attraction for each other, and I liked how the drama came from internal conflict as opposed to some great big external plot. It’s just what I was in the mood for, and I completely clicked with their romance.
-Likeable heroine: Del is a strong woman, physically and emotionally. Her body art, piercings and physical strength were easy to picture and set the tone for this woman who works in what’s considered a man’s profession but retains her sexuality. Best of all, she wasn’t a clingy, fragile heroine, but one who takes no crap from the hero or anyone else around her without being too harsh or unsympathetic.
-Hot, slightly jerky hero: I loved that Mike was completely attracted to Del’s strength and the way she challenged him, since he’s the type of hero who could cross into jerk territory. I like them a bit jerky, though just means they’re flawed, and that’s the way I like my heroes. He can be arrogant and dorky, aggressive yet sensitive, loving yet scared of those feelings. I admired that he was so in love with his first wife and it wasn't an easy thing for him to let go of his grief to find love again. He's a well-rounded hero (and the little surprise that Rena spills for Delilah was perfect!) who I really enjoyed and rooted to get it right and be with Del.
-Very sexy sex scenes: There’s never a doubt of the physical attraction between them, and their sex scenes are playful, sexy with a hint of kink.
-Family relationships are the foundation of this series: The McCauleys and their significant others are woven throughout this romance and seeing their interactions grounds this tale in a wonderful way.
-You need to read the series: I hadn’t read anything by Ms. Harte before receiving the ARCs for this book as well as the previous one, Ruining Mr. Perfect. Now, I went into that book cold, with no background, so I was a little lost. Now that I have that one under my belt, I felt much more at home in the McCauley’s world, and my enjoyment went up several notches because of it. The flow of the story is solid, and while there is some exposition to catch up readers new to the series, it never feels like an info dump.
-Mike makes a dummy move: I was cruising right along when Mike make a dumb play Thankfully, nothing happened and I was able to look past it.
The Bottom Line
I enjoyed this book even more than Ruining Mr. Perfect, and I definitely recommend it. I may have come to this series a little late in the game, but I really want to go back and catch up - Ms. Harte has created a great little ‘verse, and the McCauleys are worth getting to know.
**ARC provided by publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest opinion**
The Good, The Bad and Everything In Between
-Good writing: Ms. Harte has a talent for creating a romance that is grounded in well-drawn characters and believable situations. There are no far out overly dramatic plot points, but real character driven angst that comes from two people meeting and overcoming their own foibles to reach out and make a connection. Mike and Del have had a slightly contentious relationship that masked their attraction for each other, and I liked how the drama came from internal conflict as opposed to some great big external plot. It’s just what I was in the mood for, and I completely clicked with their romance.
-Likeable heroine: Del is a strong woman, physically and emotionally. Her body art, piercings and physical strength were easy to picture and set the tone for this woman who works in what’s considered a man’s profession but retains her sexuality. Best of all, she wasn’t a clingy, fragile heroine, but one who takes no crap from the hero or anyone else around her without being too harsh or unsympathetic.
-Hot, slightly jerky hero: I loved that Mike was completely attracted to Del’s strength and the way she challenged him, since he’s the type of hero who could cross into jerk territory. I like them a bit jerky, though just means they’re flawed, and that’s the way I like my heroes. He can be arrogant and dorky, aggressive yet sensitive, loving yet scared of those feelings. I admired that he was so in love with his first wife and it wasn't an easy thing for him to let go of his grief to find love again. He's a well-rounded hero (and the little surprise that Rena spills for Delilah was perfect!) who I really enjoyed and rooted to get it right and be with Del.
-Very sexy sex scenes: There’s never a doubt of the physical attraction between them, and their sex scenes are playful, sexy with a hint of kink.
-Family relationships are the foundation of this series: The McCauleys and their significant others are woven throughout this romance and seeing their interactions grounds this tale in a wonderful way.
-You need to read the series: I hadn’t read anything by Ms. Harte before receiving the ARCs for this book as well as the previous one, Ruining Mr. Perfect. Now, I went into that book cold, with no background, so I was a little lost. Now that I have that one under my belt, I felt much more at home in the McCauley’s world, and my enjoyment went up several notches because of it. The flow of the story is solid, and while there is some exposition to catch up readers new to the series, it never feels like an info dump.
-Mike makes a dummy move: I was cruising right along when Mike make a dumb play Thankfully, nothing happened and I was able to look past it.
The Bottom Line
I enjoyed this book even more than Ruining Mr. Perfect, and I definitely recommend it. I may have come to this series a little late in the game, but I really want to go back and catch up - Ms. Harte has created a great little ‘verse, and the McCauleys are worth getting to know.
**ARC provided by publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest opinion**
December 24, 2014
Mike McCauley has been features in all the book as the lonely widower with the amazing son. WHAT TO DO WITH A BAD BOY has to be my most anticipated book in the series, especially with the lead up that occurred with Del in the last book.
Mike turned out to be different than I expected. Better. Hotter. Bigger. He’s the fun and charming father that loves spending time with his family, but he’s also the guy who loves filthy sex as well. And rightly so because he’s a demon in the sack!
Harte covers all the bases and this book right out of the park. Touching an delicate matters on life, death and grief, I find that Harte handles each with such care and attention to detail. Every moment Mike remembers Lea is believable and yet the moments with Del are organic as well. Harte doesn’t bring Del in to replace or overshadow Lea. They fall in love but process just takes a little while for each to admit it.
Del’s character fascinated me. Known as the badass mechanic, Delilah Webster has her claws, but in this book, we also see a vulnerable side to her. She blushes. She has her own doubts and insecurities. All this just makes her more appealing in my eyes. Also, her dynamic with Colin, Mike’s son is wonderful. It never feels forced. Harte really managed to find a good middle down there.
With this being the last book in the series, I am left feeling devastated. I need more, Harte! You hear me? I’ll beg if I have to!
Smart, sexy and funny – I’d marry this series if I could.
*ARC provided by publisher
October 8, 2014
Finally, Mike and Del get it together. For several books in the series, these two have danced around each other even though they both are attracted. Mike has yet to let go of his grief over the death of his wife 6 years before and Del doesn't think she will measure up. Mike is a neat freak, single dad and Del is a tattooed garage administrator.
This is one of the grittiest of the books in the series with some pretty graphic sex scenes. Both Mike and Del have baggage that they need to get rid of to be happy. Mike's mother interferes and tries to hook him up with a passive aggressive single mom because she isn't thrilled about Del. Del's family is supportive but they are teasers and don't realize when they have gone too far. It's up to Mike and Del to show that they are serious about the relationship to get their families on board.
I loved the glimpses of the other couples in the book and especially the ongoing snarkiness about Vanessa and Cam (from the last book). That said, this could be a book for a new to the series reader and they would have no problems with the story. It looks like this is the end of the McCauleys. I'm waiting to see what Ms. Harte has up her writer's sleeve for future books.
This is one of the grittiest of the books in the series with some pretty graphic sex scenes. Both Mike and Del have baggage that they need to get rid of to be happy. Mike's mother interferes and tries to hook him up with a passive aggressive single mom because she isn't thrilled about Del. Del's family is supportive but they are teasers and don't realize when they have gone too far. It's up to Mike and Del to show that they are serious about the relationship to get their families on board.
I loved the glimpses of the other couples in the book and especially the ongoing snarkiness about Vanessa and Cam (from the last book). That said, this could be a book for a new to the series reader and they would have no problems with the story. It looks like this is the end of the McCauleys. I'm waiting to see what Ms. Harte has up her writer's sleeve for future books.
December 4, 2014
Tori told me to read this one - so I did - and I really enjoyed it. Tori is always right, darn it ;)
Great heroine - tough on the outside, a little more vulnerable on the inside. Loved the hero - big, stubborn, growly.
Great chemistry. Need to read more from this author.
Great heroine - tough on the outside, a little more vulnerable on the inside. Loved the hero - big, stubborn, growly.
Great chemistry. Need to read more from this author.
September 30, 2016
Funny and sexy = great combination.
October 7, 2019
This was a cute read. Mike lost his wife six years earlier and has never really grieved or moved on. We read about how amazing his wife was, how everyone loved her and could do no wrong. Ordinarily, that would make me roll my eyes knowing everyone thought she was a saint and the heroine would be a second-best replacement. Only, that's not what happened. His wife, Lea, came across as sweet and loving, and I really liked that the author didn't try to diminish the love Mike and Lea had for each other. What was also great was despite the love he had for his wife, I genuinely felt him fall in love with the heroine. And there was no competition between the two women. He loved Lea then. He loves Del now. It just worked and I thought the author did a great job handling it.
Points off for Mike's mum. She annoyed me, but I loved Del's family.
Points off for Mike's mum. She annoyed me, but I loved Del's family.
October 10, 2018
Love Marie Harte! This was my favorite couple of the four! Del and Mike are the perfect couple! I wanted to be like Del when I grew up, but alas I'm much more boring.
February 9, 2023
Reconciled, Mike’s parents James and Beth McCauley—were back together again. Happy, smiling, and doting on Colin, Mike’s pride and joy. Or, as his brothers called the boy, Mike’s little clone.
His father agreeing with everything his mother says, Mike leaned closer to his dad and whispered, “Laying it on a bit thick, aren’t you, old man?”
James shrugged. “Hey, I learned my lesson. When your mother’s happy, I’m happy.”
“Del said hi,” Colin said around a mouthful of dough. “Her daddy’s really big. Just like Grandpa.”
Mike started. “Del?”
His mother talked over him. “Isn’t he, though? Liam is just a big sweetie.” Beth smiled, prompting James to scowl. “Oh, stop, James. So we had coffee a few times. Liam is a very nice man. He said encouraging things about you, you know.”
His father’s scowl faded. “Oh?”
“Yep. Said you were so in love with me, you couldn’t help acting like a fool.”
“He’s f-in’ awesome.” Colin beamed.
The table fell silent.
Mike met his mother’s stunned gaze, but his father continued to eat and question the boy, so he figured he hadn’t heard what he thought he had. She shrugged and returned to her dinner as well.
Colin smirked. “Grandma, don’t be such a girl.”
For all that Colin loved his grandmother and crushed on Del, he still had a bias against girls. Not that Mike could blame him. His mother’s recent matchmaking efforts had nearly driven him insane with the opposite sex. Now that she had her hands full dealing with his father, he could ease back into—
“Pass the f-ing potatoes, Dad.” Colin waited.
“What?”
His mother dropped her fork. His father choked on his drink.
Colin blinked innocently. “Pass the potatoes?” The mischief in his blue-eyed gaze was straight-up Brody—another troublesome brother too busy playing house with his girlfriend to come to Sunday night dinner. “Did I say something wrong, Dad?”
“Where did you hear that word? The F-word.” Mike had said his share of choice phrases. He worked in construction with his father, for God’s sake. Swearing was a McCauley way of life. But the F-bomb… From his six-year-old?
“Um, well…”
“It was Del. Wasn’t it?” The woman plagued him, even on a Sunday with his family.
“No.”
Mike knew that tone. “Tell the truth.”
A mulish frown settled over his son’s face. “J.T. said he wanted some f-ing nachos. So Del told him to get his own. Then she told him to ‘mind his damn mouth because of the kid.’ She nodded at me. I’m the kid, Dad.” Colin glowed.
“I get that.”
“So it wasn’t Del. I told you.”
The little smart-ass. “Watch your tone, boy. And your mouth.”
“Well, if that ain’t familiar,” James said in a low voice. “Déjà vu, eh, son?”
His mother coughed to hide a laugh.
Mike narrowed his eyes at his old man. “You know, I remember getting my butt handed to me the first time I said ‘damn’ at this very table.” Trust his folks to turn on him when they’d been the ones hammering him with manners for the first eighteen years of his life.
“Pass the damn potatoes, please.” Colin held out his plate.
“Colin.” Mike glared. “We don’t curse, and we don’t use bad words at the table. Especially when you don’t even know half of what you’re saying. One more smart remark and you’re going to bed early tonight. Understand?”
“Yes, Dad.”
“Try again. How do you ask for the potatoes?”
In an exceedingly polite voice, Colin asked, “Dad, would you please pass the mashed potatoes?”
Funny stuff❗️
Mike’s wife Lea died giving birth to Colin. He was consumed with thoughts of her (I prefer my heroes to be a little less consumed by grief and bemoaning the loss of their loved ones). It took Mike three years before he began dating and then only casual encounters to fill a need.
Mike initially was judgemental of Del and deeply invested in his grief; Colin was fully committed to recruiting Del for a baby brother and mum...with many co-conspirators.
Mike to Del
“Would you shut up? You and that F-word.”
“Sorry, Dad.”
“Del, please. Don’t call me Dad or Daddy. Creeps me out.”
“Oh, well. I get that. You being an actual dad and all.” She grinned.
Liam (Del’s father to her)
“You’re a good girl, Del. No wonder you’re my favorite.” Her dad pulled her close for another hug, this one gentler than the last, and kissed her cheek.
“You know, you’d be much more convincing if you hadn’t called J.T. your favorite on Sunday night. With me standing right behind you.”
“Yes, honey. But he needs the reinforcement. Boy is self-conscious and shy.”
“How you can lie with a straight face I’ll never know.”
Del is brutally honest, the other women in the family embrace and welcome her, yet it was obvious to everyone that Beth is distant and unwelcoming.
She made her disdain clear.
Instead Beth, Mike’s mum shoves every unattached female that resembles Lea at Mike. Del being Amazonian and tatted with a mouth that could make sailors blush, was not her candidate for her son.
Mike was my least favourite character. He remained placid far too long.
His father agreeing with everything his mother says, Mike leaned closer to his dad and whispered, “Laying it on a bit thick, aren’t you, old man?”
James shrugged. “Hey, I learned my lesson. When your mother’s happy, I’m happy.”
“Del said hi,” Colin said around a mouthful of dough. “Her daddy’s really big. Just like Grandpa.”
Mike started. “Del?”
His mother talked over him. “Isn’t he, though? Liam is just a big sweetie.” Beth smiled, prompting James to scowl. “Oh, stop, James. So we had coffee a few times. Liam is a very nice man. He said encouraging things about you, you know.”
His father’s scowl faded. “Oh?”
“Yep. Said you were so in love with me, you couldn’t help acting like a fool.”
“He’s f-in’ awesome.” Colin beamed.
The table fell silent.
Mike met his mother’s stunned gaze, but his father continued to eat and question the boy, so he figured he hadn’t heard what he thought he had. She shrugged and returned to her dinner as well.
Colin smirked. “Grandma, don’t be such a girl.”
For all that Colin loved his grandmother and crushed on Del, he still had a bias against girls. Not that Mike could blame him. His mother’s recent matchmaking efforts had nearly driven him insane with the opposite sex. Now that she had her hands full dealing with his father, he could ease back into—
“Pass the f-ing potatoes, Dad.” Colin waited.
“What?”
His mother dropped her fork. His father choked on his drink.
Colin blinked innocently. “Pass the potatoes?” The mischief in his blue-eyed gaze was straight-up Brody—another troublesome brother too busy playing house with his girlfriend to come to Sunday night dinner. “Did I say something wrong, Dad?”
“Where did you hear that word? The F-word.” Mike had said his share of choice phrases. He worked in construction with his father, for God’s sake. Swearing was a McCauley way of life. But the F-bomb… From his six-year-old?
“Um, well…”
“It was Del. Wasn’t it?” The woman plagued him, even on a Sunday with his family.
“No.”
Mike knew that tone. “Tell the truth.”
A mulish frown settled over his son’s face. “J.T. said he wanted some f-ing nachos. So Del told him to get his own. Then she told him to ‘mind his damn mouth because of the kid.’ She nodded at me. I’m the kid, Dad.” Colin glowed.
“I get that.”
“So it wasn’t Del. I told you.”
The little smart-ass. “Watch your tone, boy. And your mouth.”
“Well, if that ain’t familiar,” James said in a low voice. “Déjà vu, eh, son?”
His mother coughed to hide a laugh.
Mike narrowed his eyes at his old man. “You know, I remember getting my butt handed to me the first time I said ‘damn’ at this very table.” Trust his folks to turn on him when they’d been the ones hammering him with manners for the first eighteen years of his life.
“Pass the damn potatoes, please.” Colin held out his plate.
“Colin.” Mike glared. “We don’t curse, and we don’t use bad words at the table. Especially when you don’t even know half of what you’re saying. One more smart remark and you’re going to bed early tonight. Understand?”
“Yes, Dad.”
“Try again. How do you ask for the potatoes?”
In an exceedingly polite voice, Colin asked, “Dad, would you please pass the mashed potatoes?”
Funny stuff❗️
Mike’s wife Lea died giving birth to Colin. He was consumed with thoughts of her (I prefer my heroes to be a little less consumed by grief and bemoaning the loss of their loved ones). It took Mike three years before he began dating and then only casual encounters to fill a need.
Mike initially was judgemental of Del and deeply invested in his grief; Colin was fully committed to recruiting Del for a baby brother and mum...with many co-conspirators.
Mike to Del
“Would you shut up? You and that F-word.”
“Sorry, Dad.”
“Del, please. Don’t call me Dad or Daddy. Creeps me out.”
“Oh, well. I get that. You being an actual dad and all.” She grinned.
Liam (Del’s father to her)
“You’re a good girl, Del. No wonder you’re my favorite.” Her dad pulled her close for another hug, this one gentler than the last, and kissed her cheek.
“You know, you’d be much more convincing if you hadn’t called J.T. your favorite on Sunday night. With me standing right behind you.”
“Yes, honey. But he needs the reinforcement. Boy is self-conscious and shy.”
“How you can lie with a straight face I’ll never know.”
Del is brutally honest, the other women in the family embrace and welcome her, yet it was obvious to everyone that Beth is distant and unwelcoming.
She made her disdain clear.
Instead Beth, Mike’s mum shoves every unattached female that resembles Lea at Mike. Del being Amazonian and tatted with a mouth that could make sailors blush, was not her candidate for her son.
Mike was my least favourite character. He remained placid far too long.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2014
First off, I’m a fan. I’m a writer’s favorite kind of fan, I own everything she’s put out – some in multiple formats or versions. She’s that good. I personally prefer her science fiction and paranormal stuff but her contemporaries are also excellently written. That said, let’s move on to the review.
Although this could be read as a standalone, it works much better as part of the series. Mike and Del, the hero and heroine, have been dancing for several books now so a lot of anticipation of their story has built up. Mike is a still grief-stricken widower with a small son and a streak of neatness that borders on obsession. [That’s a comment from a totally non-neat person so may be over-reaction on my part.] Del is his blue-collar, tattoo-wearing nemesis with piercings and attitude. He doesn’t approve of her, doesn’t like her, and DEFINITELY doesn’t want her around his son who does like her. He keeps telling himself that. Del is on-board with that – she is totally not interested. Totally. But then there’s Colin, a six-year-old Machiavelli who wants a puppy, a mom and a little brother and is willing to do what he must to get them.
If you’re looking for a sweet and delicate romance, don’t go here. Del brings out the inner bad boy that Mike struggles to keep hidden, even from himself. Family and friends – his, hers, and Colin’s – tumble and meddle around the major players and everybody swears. The sex is hot, graphic and occasionally kinky. But with a story named ‘What to Do with a Bad Boy’ that shouldn’t be a surprise.
The characters are wonderful. One of Ms. Harte’s strengths is her characterizations. Her people live and breathe. Whether they are major or minor players each character is fleshed out and has his or her own voice. She creates people you would like to meet [or in the case of some of her bad guys, run away from.] As for the hero and heroine? Yes, Ms. Harte does sexual chemistry very well – and she does love even better. You are left knowing the hero and heroine are together, forever, and forever is going to be a very hot place…
McCauley Brothers series
#1 The Troublemaker Next Door
#2 How to Handle a Heartbreaker
#3 Ruining Mr. Perfect
#4 What to Do with a Bad Boy
Author:
Caffeine addict, boy referee, and romance aficionado, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author MARIE HARTE is a confessed bibliophile and devotee of action movies. Whether hiking in Central Oregon, biking around town, or hanging at the local tea shop, she’s constantly plotting to give everyone a happily ever after. Visit www.marieharte.com and fall in love.
An Excerpt
He leaned down, so that his nose was all but touching hers. “Sweetheart, you couldn’t handle what I’m really made of.”
Stupid Del wanted to drag his stubborn mouth closer for the kiss she could all but taste. >From the look in his eyes, he wanted the same. Mike might not like her much, but the man wanted her. She could feel the chemistry between them, and it burned.
Self-preservation reared its head, and she ducked under him and hustled to the door leading to the hall. She opened it and waited. “Don’t let it hit you in the ass, Mike.”
He chuckled as he sauntered to join her. “You’ll watch what you say around Colin?”
“Yep. When I see him Wednesday night, I promise to call you a buttwipe instead of an asshole. Fair?”
He sighed. “Guess it’ll have to do. For now.” To her shock, he dragged a rough finger down her exposed neck. “Nice hair, by the way. I like the braids pulled back. Shows off your pretty neck. No tats here, sweetness?”
She didn’t know what to say, frozen by the combustible lust and confusion drowning her system.
He stared into her eyes again, gave a satisfied smile, then left.
She watched his fine ass leave the building, heard a few choice remarks from the guys in the garage who also watched him leave, and yelled at them to get back to work. Then she slammed into her office and plopped her butt in her chair, staring without seeing at the mess on her desk.
She rubbed her neck over the spot he’d touched and tried to be madder about what he’d done. What he’d called her.
Sweetness?
Copy received from Netgalley and publisher for an honest review.
Although this could be read as a standalone, it works much better as part of the series. Mike and Del, the hero and heroine, have been dancing for several books now so a lot of anticipation of their story has built up. Mike is a still grief-stricken widower with a small son and a streak of neatness that borders on obsession. [That’s a comment from a totally non-neat person so may be over-reaction on my part.] Del is his blue-collar, tattoo-wearing nemesis with piercings and attitude. He doesn’t approve of her, doesn’t like her, and DEFINITELY doesn’t want her around his son who does like her. He keeps telling himself that. Del is on-board with that – she is totally not interested. Totally. But then there’s Colin, a six-year-old Machiavelli who wants a puppy, a mom and a little brother and is willing to do what he must to get them.
If you’re looking for a sweet and delicate romance, don’t go here. Del brings out the inner bad boy that Mike struggles to keep hidden, even from himself. Family and friends – his, hers, and Colin’s – tumble and meddle around the major players and everybody swears. The sex is hot, graphic and occasionally kinky. But with a story named ‘What to Do with a Bad Boy’ that shouldn’t be a surprise.
The characters are wonderful. One of Ms. Harte’s strengths is her characterizations. Her people live and breathe. Whether they are major or minor players each character is fleshed out and has his or her own voice. She creates people you would like to meet [or in the case of some of her bad guys, run away from.] As for the hero and heroine? Yes, Ms. Harte does sexual chemistry very well – and she does love even better. You are left knowing the hero and heroine are together, forever, and forever is going to be a very hot place…
McCauley Brothers series
#1 The Troublemaker Next Door
#2 How to Handle a Heartbreaker
#3 Ruining Mr. Perfect
#4 What to Do with a Bad Boy
Author:
Caffeine addict, boy referee, and romance aficionado, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author MARIE HARTE is a confessed bibliophile and devotee of action movies. Whether hiking in Central Oregon, biking around town, or hanging at the local tea shop, she’s constantly plotting to give everyone a happily ever after. Visit www.marieharte.com and fall in love.
An Excerpt
He leaned down, so that his nose was all but touching hers. “Sweetheart, you couldn’t handle what I’m really made of.”
Stupid Del wanted to drag his stubborn mouth closer for the kiss she could all but taste. >From the look in his eyes, he wanted the same. Mike might not like her much, but the man wanted her. She could feel the chemistry between them, and it burned.
Self-preservation reared its head, and she ducked under him and hustled to the door leading to the hall. She opened it and waited. “Don’t let it hit you in the ass, Mike.”
He chuckled as he sauntered to join her. “You’ll watch what you say around Colin?”
“Yep. When I see him Wednesday night, I promise to call you a buttwipe instead of an asshole. Fair?”
He sighed. “Guess it’ll have to do. For now.” To her shock, he dragged a rough finger down her exposed neck. “Nice hair, by the way. I like the braids pulled back. Shows off your pretty neck. No tats here, sweetness?”
She didn’t know what to say, frozen by the combustible lust and confusion drowning her system.
He stared into her eyes again, gave a satisfied smile, then left.
She watched his fine ass leave the building, heard a few choice remarks from the guys in the garage who also watched him leave, and yelled at them to get back to work. Then she slammed into her office and plopped her butt in her chair, staring without seeing at the mess on her desk.
She rubbed her neck over the spot he’d touched and tried to be madder about what he’d done. What he’d called her.
Sweetness?
Copy received from Netgalley and publisher for an honest review.
January 3, 2020
Trying too hard, DNF
I was excited about the premise of this book. Female mechanic with an enemies to lovers theme sounded like it would be right up my alley. It quickly became apparent that this wasn’t the book for me. Some thoughts while reading:
1. The heroine was supposed to be this bad girl with tattoos and piercings but it feels forced. She just never gave off this vibe. Every time she tried to be “tough” it made me cringe.
2. The chemistry was nonexistent. There was no tension and no anticipation of these two getting together. I felt their interactions were stilted and awkward. I also felt like the description blatantly misled me in saying these two disliked each other initially because there wasn’t even the “hate” tension. In fact, the roughly two times they interact before they get intimate is them flirting with each other... What??? Where’s the annoyance and the “can’t stand each other” that the description hinted at? I did make it to the first sex scene and even that is disjointed and cheesy. The hero actually has this train of thought... “Nothing so standard as white cotton for his exotic playmate.” Seriously, what? Exotic playmate? It was just weird and seemed like the kind of lines and back and forth found in a cheesy and bad, ahem, adult film.
3. The hero was an overinflated idiot. He literally started a bar fight because a friend of the heroine came over to check on her because she was glaring at him from something he said. Was the friend being a nosy? Maybe. But this was the heroine’s bar hangout and she said they protect each other like family. Here comes this outsider and he seemed to be upsetting her so it’s understandable the friend would check. Instead of de-escalating the situation, the hero insults the friend and wants to punch him. The thought process through this whole mess from both the hero and the heroine was that he was so manly to do this and show how strong he was. WHAT! If a guy I’m on a date with explodes over someone checking to make sure I’m alright, I’m out of there. I’m not thinking how manly and alpha he is because he “proved” his strength. Maybe if the book hinted at anger issues from a past incident to give depth and a hint of something he could get past but it’s just treated as normal and swoon-worthy.
The continued need for the hero to always prove he was macho and manly, usually through physical means, was a huge turn off. He just constantly sounded like he was bragging instead. Another example of the hero doing this was when he wrestled with a MMA fighter at his gym. Apparently he was so talented and amazing against this guy, the rest of the guys in the gym gave him a standing ovation. A STANDING OVATION. Really? Not even kidding those were the words used. It’s laughable. It’s like one of those stories online that you know are just bragging exaggerations and people fill in the line... “and everyone clapped.” So ridiculous.
4. Serious question... are all of these characters on steroids? Every single character is described as having bulging muscles. The heroine is a bulging muscle Amazon, the hero is a bulging muscle tank, the hero’s brothers, the heroine’s brother, hero’s dad, and on and on. Not to mention they’re described at every opportunity. It was annoying and showed lack of originality in descriptions.
5. Stereotypes everywhere. There were outdated and kind of offensive stereotypes about men and women in the book. I was surprised when I checked and saw it was published in 2014 as it seems like views held in the 50's or something. Things such as women are over emotional and must be on their period when they act out of character, men can’t cry or show emotion, actually using the outdated phrase of “being a Nancy” if the men do show emotion, etc. In fact quite a bit of the language was outdated from what’s used today. It was extremely odd for a contemporary romance.
The overall theme of this book is the author trying too hard to direct how they want the reader to perceive things, such as the bad girl heroine and the macho hero. It was apparent in every aspect of this book and made it stilted and awkward to read. I’d definitely skip.
I was excited about the premise of this book. Female mechanic with an enemies to lovers theme sounded like it would be right up my alley. It quickly became apparent that this wasn’t the book for me. Some thoughts while reading:
1. The heroine was supposed to be this bad girl with tattoos and piercings but it feels forced. She just never gave off this vibe. Every time she tried to be “tough” it made me cringe.
2. The chemistry was nonexistent. There was no tension and no anticipation of these two getting together. I felt their interactions were stilted and awkward. I also felt like the description blatantly misled me in saying these two disliked each other initially because there wasn’t even the “hate” tension. In fact, the roughly two times they interact before they get intimate is them flirting with each other... What??? Where’s the annoyance and the “can’t stand each other” that the description hinted at? I did make it to the first sex scene and even that is disjointed and cheesy. The hero actually has this train of thought... “Nothing so standard as white cotton for his exotic playmate.” Seriously, what? Exotic playmate? It was just weird and seemed like the kind of lines and back and forth found in a cheesy and bad, ahem, adult film.
3. The hero was an overinflated idiot. He literally started a bar fight because a friend of the heroine came over to check on her because she was glaring at him from something he said. Was the friend being a nosy? Maybe. But this was the heroine’s bar hangout and she said they protect each other like family. Here comes this outsider and he seemed to be upsetting her so it’s understandable the friend would check. Instead of de-escalating the situation, the hero insults the friend and wants to punch him. The thought process through this whole mess from both the hero and the heroine was that he was so manly to do this and show how strong he was. WHAT! If a guy I’m on a date with explodes over someone checking to make sure I’m alright, I’m out of there. I’m not thinking how manly and alpha he is because he “proved” his strength. Maybe if the book hinted at anger issues from a past incident to give depth and a hint of something he could get past but it’s just treated as normal and swoon-worthy.
The continued need for the hero to always prove he was macho and manly, usually through physical means, was a huge turn off. He just constantly sounded like he was bragging instead. Another example of the hero doing this was when he wrestled with a MMA fighter at his gym. Apparently he was so talented and amazing against this guy, the rest of the guys in the gym gave him a standing ovation. A STANDING OVATION. Really? Not even kidding those were the words used. It’s laughable. It’s like one of those stories online that you know are just bragging exaggerations and people fill in the line... “and everyone clapped.” So ridiculous.
4. Serious question... are all of these characters on steroids? Every single character is described as having bulging muscles. The heroine is a bulging muscle Amazon, the hero is a bulging muscle tank, the hero’s brothers, the heroine’s brother, hero’s dad, and on and on. Not to mention they’re described at every opportunity. It was annoying and showed lack of originality in descriptions.
5. Stereotypes everywhere. There were outdated and kind of offensive stereotypes about men and women in the book. I was surprised when I checked and saw it was published in 2014 as it seems like views held in the 50's or something. Things such as women are over emotional and must be on their period when they act out of character, men can’t cry or show emotion, actually using the outdated phrase of “being a Nancy” if the men do show emotion, etc. In fact quite a bit of the language was outdated from what’s used today. It was extremely odd for a contemporary romance.
The overall theme of this book is the author trying too hard to direct how they want the reader to perceive things, such as the bad girl heroine and the macho hero. It was apparent in every aspect of this book and made it stilted and awkward to read. I’d definitely skip.
September 16, 2014
What to Do with a Bad Boy is the fourth book in the McCauley Brothers series. You do not have to have read the previous three to understand this book, although the previous characters do play roles in this story. This book focuses on Mike McCauley – widower, dad, and pain in the butt to Delilah Watson – tattooed, crass, mechanic and object of Mike’s totally inappropriate crush.
This book is not for those who love candle lit dinners and sweet romance. Neither of these characters are sweet, with the possible exception of Colin. Everyone in this book swears, drinks, butts into other people’s business, and make messes of each others’ lives. Both Mike and Del have strong family presences (which I enjoyed, as most are as flawed as the hero and heroine) and their relationship exists within that framework instead of in isolation. I thought that was well done by the author. Mike and Del also have LOTS of hot, graphic sex – if you’re not into open door love scenes, this is not the book for you.
I have to say I really enjoyed this story. I love when characters are realistic – flawed, individual, and unique. I also loved that both characters are working-class people with responsibilities and obligations. I hate the billionaire can quit running his empire to romance the lowly secretary type of story. Mike and Del have to work around each other’s work and child rearing schedules. It’s awesome.
There were a couple of things I felt could have done better which is why this book didn’t get five stars. First, I felt that some of the cussing was done for effect (rather than because it was necessary). A fine line to ride, perhaps, but I feel that it was a little more than what one would expect from normal conversation. Second, there were a couple of places where the author got a little too graphic with the volume and location of bodily fluids. For me, it crossed the line from sexy to icky, and I’ve got a very generous line. Finally, I felt a bit as though some parts of the story were rushed/glossed over in order to speed up the book. There were several places where I wanted to know why a character was doing something, or wished for a bit more back story, or wondered how someone felt. It would have been nice to spend a bit more time in the characters’ heads.
If you like steamy, no-frills romances with realistic characters, you can’t go wrong with What to Do with a Bad Boy.
Favorite Quote: “Look, I’m just fine with my appearance. You don’t have to tell me not to worry about Mike. He’ll be d^mn lucky to have me again.”
Grace’s lips flattened.
“But try your best. He’s a stud in bed, by the way. And honey, he ain’t all that nice, so don’t think batting your eyes and whimpering is gonna have him inside you with that monster c*$k any sooner.”
This book is not for those who love candle lit dinners and sweet romance. Neither of these characters are sweet, with the possible exception of Colin. Everyone in this book swears, drinks, butts into other people’s business, and make messes of each others’ lives. Both Mike and Del have strong family presences (which I enjoyed, as most are as flawed as the hero and heroine) and their relationship exists within that framework instead of in isolation. I thought that was well done by the author. Mike and Del also have LOTS of hot, graphic sex – if you’re not into open door love scenes, this is not the book for you.
I have to say I really enjoyed this story. I love when characters are realistic – flawed, individual, and unique. I also loved that both characters are working-class people with responsibilities and obligations. I hate the billionaire can quit running his empire to romance the lowly secretary type of story. Mike and Del have to work around each other’s work and child rearing schedules. It’s awesome.
There were a couple of things I felt could have done better which is why this book didn’t get five stars. First, I felt that some of the cussing was done for effect (rather than because it was necessary). A fine line to ride, perhaps, but I feel that it was a little more than what one would expect from normal conversation. Second, there were a couple of places where the author got a little too graphic with the volume and location of bodily fluids. For me, it crossed the line from sexy to icky, and I’ve got a very generous line. Finally, I felt a bit as though some parts of the story were rushed/glossed over in order to speed up the book. There were several places where I wanted to know why a character was doing something, or wished for a bit more back story, or wondered how someone felt. It would have been nice to spend a bit more time in the characters’ heads.
If you like steamy, no-frills romances with realistic characters, you can’t go wrong with What to Do with a Bad Boy.
Favorite Quote: “Look, I’m just fine with my appearance. You don’t have to tell me not to worry about Mike. He’ll be d^mn lucky to have me again.”
Grace’s lips flattened.
“But try your best. He’s a stud in bed, by the way. And honey, he ain’t all that nice, so don’t think batting your eyes and whimpering is gonna have him inside you with that monster c*$k any sooner.”
November 5, 2014
I am a huge fan of siblings, romance and small-town series and The McCauley Brothers series worked for me on so many levels. What to Do with a Bad Boy the fourth book in this series by Marie Harte was in a word, delicious. Edgy and heartwarming I laughed, melted and cried as we finally got Mike and Delilah’s story.
Besides being a drop dead gorgeous hunk, Mike McCauley is also a wonderful father to his son and looks out for his parents and brothers. Mike has been widowed for six years. His wife died giving birth to Colin. In the last book, he exchanged a heated kiss with tattooed mechanic, Delilah Webster, and the sparks about shorted out my Nook.
Everyone wants to play matchmaker and his mother is the worst offender. They have tried desperately to match Mike with single friends. Mike wants none of it. I could feel his pain and lose throughout the series and loved getting to know him better. Harte does such an excellent job of developing her characters, as she peels back their layers and endears the reader to them.
Delilah is so different from the woman Mike typically dates, and quite different from the rest of the girls but they welcome her into their circle and I cannot blame them. Del is hilarious and genuine. She tells it like it is, and runs the shop like a pro. Despite her hard-ass attitude, beneath it she is soft and all woman.
Marie Harte made me cry like a baby, I kid you not. I was so wrapped up in the characters emotions, particularly Mikes. We get plenty of side stories and get to know Del���s family. Of course, there was wrestling and banter between the brothers. I love all the interaction and side stories for this family. Colin is an absolutely sweetie, and I loved his matchmaking schemes.
The romance while heated moved slowly emotionally making it feel genuine. Harte keeps the angst and drama low, with just enough to have me chasing my HEA. I adore this series. Fans of Belle Andre and Samantha Young will find What to Do With a Bad Boy delightful. Each of the novels in the McCauley Brothers series will work as a standalone, but I recommend taking the full tour.
Copy provided by publisher.This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
Besides being a drop dead gorgeous hunk, Mike McCauley is also a wonderful father to his son and looks out for his parents and brothers. Mike has been widowed for six years. His wife died giving birth to Colin. In the last book, he exchanged a heated kiss with tattooed mechanic, Delilah Webster, and the sparks about shorted out my Nook.
Everyone wants to play matchmaker and his mother is the worst offender. They have tried desperately to match Mike with single friends. Mike wants none of it. I could feel his pain and lose throughout the series and loved getting to know him better. Harte does such an excellent job of developing her characters, as she peels back their layers and endears the reader to them.
Delilah is so different from the woman Mike typically dates, and quite different from the rest of the girls but they welcome her into their circle and I cannot blame them. Del is hilarious and genuine. She tells it like it is, and runs the shop like a pro. Despite her hard-ass attitude, beneath it she is soft and all woman.
Marie Harte made me cry like a baby, I kid you not. I was so wrapped up in the characters emotions, particularly Mikes. We get plenty of side stories and get to know Del���s family. Of course, there was wrestling and banter between the brothers. I love all the interaction and side stories for this family. Colin is an absolutely sweetie, and I loved his matchmaking schemes.
The romance while heated moved slowly emotionally making it feel genuine. Harte keeps the angst and drama low, with just enough to have me chasing my HEA. I adore this series. Fans of Belle Andre and Samantha Young will find What to Do With a Bad Boy delightful. Each of the novels in the McCauley Brothers series will work as a standalone, but I recommend taking the full tour.
Copy provided by publisher.This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
December 13, 2014
Overall rating: 4.5 Sweetness Stars!
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Hea:
My review:
Okay so I love my single parent romances and this was no exception! Even though Brody's book is still my favorite, I did really enjoy this one. I felt like Mike and Del's relationship was quite explosive and fun. Mike has never really worked through the pain of dealing with the loss of his beloved wife, Lea six years ago. I love it how Del was able to help him cope in her own way. I also loved her relationship with Colin. This book was filled with humor but also grief stricken with the topics of love loss.
I ended up really enjoying this series and I'm sad that now I finished all of the books!
I only knocked off 1/2 a star because I felt something Mike did rubbed me wrong.
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Hea:
My review:
Okay so I love my single parent romances and this was no exception! Even though Brody's book is still my favorite, I did really enjoy this one. I felt like Mike and Del's relationship was quite explosive and fun. Mike has never really worked through the pain of dealing with the loss of his beloved wife, Lea six years ago. I love it how Del was able to help him cope in her own way. I also loved her relationship with Colin. This book was filled with humor but also grief stricken with the topics of love loss.
I ended up really enjoying this series and I'm sad that now I finished all of the books!
I only knocked off 1/2 a star because I felt something Mike did rubbed me wrong.
February 5, 2017
I have to say that this is by far my favorite of the four books. Mike has been a widower for six years. Still grieving for his dead wife, he isn't prepared for the feelings that stir up in him when he is around Del.
I loved Mike and Del. Their relationship was explosive, but so much fun to watch. Del is pretty tough on the outside, but inside she is really soft and longing for love. I have been rooting for this couple since Del first showed up earlier in the series. I loved how she was with Colin, Mike's 6YO son. I thought the author did a really good job of making the reader feel Mike's grief and struggle to move past his wife's death. That break down scene really had me choking up and that rarely happens. I loved their HEA in the bar.
One of the things that really made this book was having part of the story told from Colin's point of view. He was really central to the story and having his thoughts just added depth to the relationship between Mike and Del. This book wraps up the quartet nicely. I highly recommend this one as well as the series as a whole.
I loved Mike and Del. Their relationship was explosive, but so much fun to watch. Del is pretty tough on the outside, but inside she is really soft and longing for love. I have been rooting for this couple since Del first showed up earlier in the series. I loved how she was with Colin, Mike's 6YO son. I thought the author did a really good job of making the reader feel Mike's grief and struggle to move past his wife's death. That break down scene really had me choking up and that rarely happens. I loved their HEA in the bar.
One of the things that really made this book was having part of the story told from Colin's point of view. He was really central to the story and having his thoughts just added depth to the relationship between Mike and Del. This book wraps up the quartet nicely. I highly recommend this one as well as the series as a whole.
January 1, 2016
For me, this was, hands down, the best book of the series!! I loved Del and Mike as characters both together and apart. Del didn't let Colin get away with anything, nor did she allow his dad Mike to get away with anything either! I loved watching their love for one another bloom and seeing how Mike handled it considering the loss of his wife in childbirth. Del's family was amazingly funny as well and though this story had it's ups and downs, it did show that these were flawed characters trying to do the best they could. Overall, I would recommend the series, but some were better than others.
September 4, 2018
There isn't a lot to these stories, but I find them very engaging and highly entertaining. Mike and Del were fun characters and it was nice to finally see their story. I could have done without Grace, but I get why she was in the story. I'm sad that the series is over. All the characters were fun and while I didn't always find it believable I still really liked the story.
May 3, 2019
Again, the title doesn’t really make sense to me given the book I read.
But, 4 stars mainly because I really liked Del
But, 4 stars mainly because I really liked Del
November 4, 2014
"It makes you think, you know? Getting that close to the edge. Makes you realize what's important. I think WE'RE important. I love you, Mike." - Delilah Webster
I am never, ever, judging a fictional guy from the way he acts around his brothers. Or, at the very least, I'm not judging Mike McCauley from his quiet and gruff appearance again - we all know it'll wear off in a few days, but let me pretend for a little while, ok?
So, the last of the books for the McCauley brothers was focused on Mike, the widower and father of the most adorable - or, well, cunning - kid in the whole wide world. Colin's dad may seem like the quietest of the brothers, but Delilah Webster, the tattooed, tough mechanic knows better than that. She gets on his nerves as much as he gets on hers. Yet they can't help but also feel attracted to each other. When his mother's meddling finally pushes him over the edge, Mike decides he will finally take Del any way he's been dreaming of since the first time he saw her. Now if only he can do it without getting emotionally attached to the woman that is nothing like his type...
Mike was my favorite of the brothers back when I started this series. I mean, serious, gruff man, strong, fatherly, what was not to like? Even when he was dealing with his feelings for Del - ok, it was more like denial, but anyway - he was like a big, adorable brute. The thing is, I expected more from him in this book...
Now, don't get me wrong, I loved Mike in his story, too, but there were times I just wanted to punch him. It was like he was in a constant state of belief that Del would never be hurt - like her tattoos and piercings and attitude made her less of a woman or something. The good news in all this was, whenever the male in him decided to come out and play - either to possess or to claim - he was pretty convincing - and hot, don't forget the hot part. You just can't take a McCauley and not need an extra pair of sheets, panties, the works...
As for Del... Didn't I tell you I was gonna fall in love with the woman? I'm pretty sure I said that when I first met her. Well, not just love. I don't think the word describes the perfection that was this woman completely. To make myself clear, I kept saying - out loud - that I would be fine marrying her if Mike was so against the notion of even bonding. Seriously, Del is enough to make me think of changing sides. Not because of her appearance and attitude, but because she was so wonderful, and tried her hardest to be strong in order to survive, without looking pretentious and whiny.
I honestly enjoyed this great series to the very end. And I do recall saying that I thought Ms. Harte could be the new IT in the contemporary erotic romance department. Well, having read all of the McCauley books, I'm now 100% certain I was right!
Thank you for the great ride, Marie Harte!
"I won't lie and say I expected this, because I didn't. It's been a long time since I've said this to a special woman. And I didn't think she existed out there for me anymore. But she does. You do. I love you." - Michael McCauley
***I was given an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated in this review is solely mine, and no compensation was given or taken to alter it.***
Read this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
I am never, ever, judging a fictional guy from the way he acts around his brothers. Or, at the very least, I'm not judging Mike McCauley from his quiet and gruff appearance again - we all know it'll wear off in a few days, but let me pretend for a little while, ok?
So, the last of the books for the McCauley brothers was focused on Mike, the widower and father of the most adorable - or, well, cunning - kid in the whole wide world. Colin's dad may seem like the quietest of the brothers, but Delilah Webster, the tattooed, tough mechanic knows better than that. She gets on his nerves as much as he gets on hers. Yet they can't help but also feel attracted to each other. When his mother's meddling finally pushes him over the edge, Mike decides he will finally take Del any way he's been dreaming of since the first time he saw her. Now if only he can do it without getting emotionally attached to the woman that is nothing like his type...
Mike was my favorite of the brothers back when I started this series. I mean, serious, gruff man, strong, fatherly, what was not to like? Even when he was dealing with his feelings for Del - ok, it was more like denial, but anyway - he was like a big, adorable brute. The thing is, I expected more from him in this book...
Now, don't get me wrong, I loved Mike in his story, too, but there were times I just wanted to punch him. It was like he was in a constant state of belief that Del would never be hurt - like her tattoos and piercings and attitude made her less of a woman or something. The good news in all this was, whenever the male in him decided to come out and play - either to possess or to claim - he was pretty convincing - and hot, don't forget the hot part. You just can't take a McCauley and not need an extra pair of sheets, panties, the works...
As for Del... Didn't I tell you I was gonna fall in love with the woman? I'm pretty sure I said that when I first met her. Well, not just love. I don't think the word describes the perfection that was this woman completely. To make myself clear, I kept saying - out loud - that I would be fine marrying her if Mike was so against the notion of even bonding. Seriously, Del is enough to make me think of changing sides. Not because of her appearance and attitude, but because she was so wonderful, and tried her hardest to be strong in order to survive, without looking pretentious and whiny.
I honestly enjoyed this great series to the very end. And I do recall saying that I thought Ms. Harte could be the new IT in the contemporary erotic romance department. Well, having read all of the McCauley books, I'm now 100% certain I was right!
Thank you for the great ride, Marie Harte!
"I won't lie and say I expected this, because I didn't. It's been a long time since I've said this to a special woman. And I didn't think she existed out there for me anymore. But she does. You do. I love you." - Michael McCauley
***I was given an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinion stated in this review is solely mine, and no compensation was given or taken to alter it.***
Read this and other reviews at: http://cupcakesandpopcorn.wordpress.com/
November 4, 2014
Hmm, what to do with a bad boy indeed? Answer, lots. How about what to do to get your own bad boy? Charm his sweet kid so you’re all he talks about? Wear your brow piercing so it glints in every light and turns your bad boy on all the time? Be strong and kickass so your cousin’s favorite romance author makes you her next heroine? Know how to fix cars and swear like a sailor? None of the above. Be yourself. Unless you’re Del, then you can do all of the above and get your own Mike McCauley, aka Papa Bear- that’s me by the way, not the book. He was built like a tank and a good father, and if this was a shifter book he’d be a bear for sure. Don’t ask me where that came from because I have no idea.
I adore this series, so if this was the last book, I’m sad to see it end. But what a way to end it. Of course it was going to be the single dad to be the final one to get on the love boat. And of course it was going to be with someone who’s strong enough to carry him over.
Needless to say I love stories involving kids. Especially if the kid is as sweet and adorably conniving as Colin McCauley. Since I loved all the previous books and their heroes, it was charming to see a little something from every brother in that boy.
Since we know Mike had already loved and lost, and he believed one can only truly love once, he thought he already lost his chance when his wife died. He was a sad man in that regard. And I felt bad for Del because of it. But she was strong enough to worm her way into both Mike and Colin’s hearts. The boy was sure easy, but the man? Not so much. But I liked the way it was written, Del and Mike arguing all the time, then tying their fights to sexual frustration and trying to solve it by getting each other out of their systems, and Del slowly making her way into their lives and tiny family. The emotional was in spades but not much to take away from the romance and Mike and Del’s second chance. There were a few changes in points of view since the story was not just about the two, but a few other people who were affected by Mike’s past loss, namely his adorable son and his meddling mother. They were not overwhelming but a fresh look at things and a way for me to understand where they were coming from concerning their actions. Colin, I could understand so his parts were fun, but Mike’s mother was more informing.
As for Del, I could understand why she was Colin’s favorite person in the world. I liked her strong personality, her quick mind and foul mouth. She had a sense of humor I could appreciate, and she was vulnerable much like the same way Mike was. Deep inside. They fit like puzzle pieces-and I’m not using that term loosely I tell you- from their sexual appetite to their emotional baggage and their craving for a family and home. As someone who overanalyzes things all the time, I could’ve used more insight to Del’s past and Mike’s grief, but I could overlook them for the sake of the reality of the story. I guess sometimes it’s okay to let it go without dwelling on things too much.
Just like the previous ones, I loved this story. McCauleys are a good fun family that I think everyone should get to know sometime. Trust me, you wouldn’t regret laughing out loud at their silliness or even envying their sexy romance. There was a little bit of everything in this series and I’m sure everyone will enjoy it. You can curse your stars that the McCauley gene is made up, but you will enjoy it.
I adore this series, so if this was the last book, I’m sad to see it end. But what a way to end it. Of course it was going to be the single dad to be the final one to get on the love boat. And of course it was going to be with someone who’s strong enough to carry him over.
Needless to say I love stories involving kids. Especially if the kid is as sweet and adorably conniving as Colin McCauley. Since I loved all the previous books and their heroes, it was charming to see a little something from every brother in that boy.
Since we know Mike had already loved and lost, and he believed one can only truly love once, he thought he already lost his chance when his wife died. He was a sad man in that regard. And I felt bad for Del because of it. But she was strong enough to worm her way into both Mike and Colin’s hearts. The boy was sure easy, but the man? Not so much. But I liked the way it was written, Del and Mike arguing all the time, then tying their fights to sexual frustration and trying to solve it by getting each other out of their systems, and Del slowly making her way into their lives and tiny family. The emotional was in spades but not much to take away from the romance and Mike and Del’s second chance. There were a few changes in points of view since the story was not just about the two, but a few other people who were affected by Mike’s past loss, namely his adorable son and his meddling mother. They were not overwhelming but a fresh look at things and a way for me to understand where they were coming from concerning their actions. Colin, I could understand so his parts were fun, but Mike’s mother was more informing.
As for Del, I could understand why she was Colin’s favorite person in the world. I liked her strong personality, her quick mind and foul mouth. She had a sense of humor I could appreciate, and she was vulnerable much like the same way Mike was. Deep inside. They fit like puzzle pieces-and I’m not using that term loosely I tell you- from their sexual appetite to their emotional baggage and their craving for a family and home. As someone who overanalyzes things all the time, I could’ve used more insight to Del’s past and Mike’s grief, but I could overlook them for the sake of the reality of the story. I guess sometimes it’s okay to let it go without dwelling on things too much.
Just like the previous ones, I loved this story. McCauleys are a good fun family that I think everyone should get to know sometime. Trust me, you wouldn’t regret laughing out loud at their silliness or even envying their sexy romance. There was a little bit of everything in this series and I’m sure everyone will enjoy it. You can curse your stars that the McCauley gene is made up, but you will enjoy it.
November 29, 2018
5 star
I was pulled right into this story. Love all the alpha males in the McCauley family. This story will pull you in and make you laugh through the entire story. You will also want to smack Mike a few times…..
If you have not read the below in this series I would advise reading that book first.
The Troublemaker Next Door (The McCauley Brothers, #1)
How to Handle a Heartbreaker (The McCauley Brothers #2)
Ruining Mr. Perfect (The McCauley Brothers, #3)
This is Mike and Del’s story. Delilah is mechanic with tattoos and piercing. Mike is a contractor who is hot and totally alpha. Mike just wants to take care of his son (who is so freaking funny). His son has decided that Del and his dad should be together and will plot with the family to make that happen. The more time Mike spends with Del the more he wants her. But with his past loss will he take a real chance on Del or is it all about the hot and heavy? Will Mike end up just hurting Dee lint he end?
I loved all of the characters in this story. You get updated on the last three books characters. The entire group will have you laughing at their antics and advise on how to go about getting the woman. This story was a great read. I was so glad that Del ended up with Mike as they make a great addition to the series.
I highly recommend this book, this series, and this author.
I was pulled right into this story. Love all the alpha males in the McCauley family. This story will pull you in and make you laugh through the entire story. You will also want to smack Mike a few times…..
If you have not read the below in this series I would advise reading that book first.
The Troublemaker Next Door (The McCauley Brothers, #1)
How to Handle a Heartbreaker (The McCauley Brothers #2)
Ruining Mr. Perfect (The McCauley Brothers, #3)
This is Mike and Del’s story. Delilah is mechanic with tattoos and piercing. Mike is a contractor who is hot and totally alpha. Mike just wants to take care of his son (who is so freaking funny). His son has decided that Del and his dad should be together and will plot with the family to make that happen. The more time Mike spends with Del the more he wants her. But with his past loss will he take a real chance on Del or is it all about the hot and heavy? Will Mike end up just hurting Dee lint he end?
I loved all of the characters in this story. You get updated on the last three books characters. The entire group will have you laughing at their antics and advise on how to go about getting the woman. This story was a great read. I was so glad that Del ended up with Mike as they make a great addition to the series.
I highly recommend this book, this series, and this author.
November 28, 2016
BEST book in the series XD
Since I started this series I just couldn't wait to read this one, I'm into some tough-guy/girl it's really cute when they try to act cool when all they wanna do was to go all lovey dovey XD
- Loved Colin since book one, he was one cute kid, and I liked how he was the biggest fan of the main couple hooking up.
- Loved the family support from both sides, how they ganged up and had communication to hook them up, it was so cute with the operation naming and spying stuff XD
- It made me cry buckets, whenever I tell myself ok this week I'm over crying over a book or some animation (yeah I cry in animation, what can I do Japanese animation are too good and have some intense scenes XD) but here I am crying over Mike, it was a cute heartbreaking scene, him with both dads by his side.
- Through most of the book I kinda gt pissed the mom, how she kept giving Del the cold shoulder and preferring another woman for her boy, I'm just glad she got back her senses at the end of the book
- Loved the last chapter, where the author showed us how each couple are still over the moon with each other, and how some other couples started to develop. it was cute XD I can't help repeating myself cause it's the only word that comes to mind ^^
Overall, *thumbs up*
Since I started this series I just couldn't wait to read this one, I'm into some tough-guy/girl it's really cute when they try to act cool when all they wanna do was to go all lovey dovey XD
- Loved Colin since book one, he was one cute kid, and I liked how he was the biggest fan of the main couple hooking up.
- Loved the family support from both sides, how they ganged up and had communication to hook them up, it was so cute with the operation naming and spying stuff XD
- It made me cry buckets, whenever I tell myself ok this week I'm over crying over a book or some animation (yeah I cry in animation, what can I do Japanese animation are too good and have some intense scenes XD) but here I am crying over Mike, it was a cute heartbreaking scene, him with both dads by his side.
- Through most of the book I kinda gt pissed the mom, how she kept giving Del the cold shoulder and preferring another woman for her boy, I'm just glad she got back her senses at the end of the book
- Loved the last chapter, where the author showed us how each couple are still over the moon with each other, and how some other couples started to develop. it was cute XD I can't help repeating myself cause it's the only word that comes to mind ^^
Overall, *thumbs up*
October 31, 2014
Mike he's a protective dad, "I want to know why my son asked me to pass the effing potatoes last night." He crossed massive arms over his broad chest. "Something her said about bowling with you two nimrods told me you might have something to do with his mouth." Del has a mouth on her and I loved how she wasn't filtered, "you sure? I think Ray might have a few more cows out back. Jesus, you eat a lot." She not only gives negative feedback she knows how to give positive, "you're so hot," she whispered as she angled her head, giving him better access to her throat. "Full of muscle, no give." She raked her short nails over his abs, and he bucked uncontrollably." I mean she gives great compliments she knows how to stroke Mike's ego, "right back at you, Mr. Huge. Damn, Mike. You really have a big d***." Mike he gives unusual compliments, "your cheeks are pink. I just spanked and effed you, and now you're blushing. You are too cute." He laughed when she smacked his chest." I loved this book I only read this one and the first one in the series I'm thinking I need to go back and read the other two.
November 25, 2017
2.5 stars. One of my least favorite tropes - the grieving, I can only love once, widower. If this were an historical romance, he would turn into a a rake and manwhore. In this contemporary, he just became an asshole. Not a big fan of the potty mouthed, pierced and tattooed, mechanic heroine. I never really got a good read on her or her motivations.
November 10, 2014
3.5 Stars
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