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Uniformly Hot SEALs #6
Christmas with a SEAL
Subject: Navy SEAL Lieutenant Phillip Banks
Mission: Resist one saucy redhead's attempts to de-Scrooge him…and seduce him!
Silversmith Frankie Silvera has lost her creative mojo. And she knows how to get it back—by getting her sexy on with a certain hot sailor. Just the thought of Phillip's hard, Navy-trained body against her, and everything goes molten. He's the "inspiration" Frankie needs for the holidays!
Navy SEAL Phillip Banks is the prince of protocol. But after his last mission went horribly off-course, all of that control has dissipated. Now he's at the mercy of one very determined female who is pulling out all the stops on Operation Christmas—including red-hot lingerie and the promise of oh-so-wicked delights… But does giving in mean giving up everything he's worked for?
Mission: Resist one saucy redhead's attempts to de-Scrooge him…and seduce him!
Silversmith Frankie Silvera has lost her creative mojo. And she knows how to get it back—by getting her sexy on with a certain hot sailor. Just the thought of Phillip's hard, Navy-trained body against her, and everything goes molten. He's the "inspiration" Frankie needs for the holidays!
Navy SEAL Phillip Banks is the prince of protocol. But after his last mission went horribly off-course, all of that control has dissipated. Now he's at the mercy of one very determined female who is pulling out all the stops on Operation Christmas—including red-hot lingerie and the promise of oh-so-wicked delights… But does giving in mean giving up everything he's worked for?
219 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 21, 2014
16 people are currently reading
929 people want to read
About the author
Tawny Weber
206 books1,365 followersNew York Times and USA TODAY Bestselling author of more than forty books, Tawny Weber loves writing about sexy heroes, most notably her popular Navy SEALs series. Her sassy, emotional romances are filled with men dedicated to being the best—and women determined to have the best. Tawny credits her ex-military alpha husband for inspiration in her writing, and in her life. The recipient of numerous writing accolades, including Romantic Times Reviewers Choice and in addition to the NY Times and USA Today bestseller lists, Tawny has also hit the number one spot on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
A homeschooling mom, Tawny enjoys scrapbooking, gardening and spending time with her family and dogs in her Northern California home.
You can find Tawny on Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest.
Website: http://tawnyweber.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TawnyWeber.Ro...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TawnyWeber
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/tawnyweber/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
A homeschooling mom, Tawny enjoys scrapbooking, gardening and spending time with her family and dogs in her Northern California home.
You can find Tawny on Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest.
Website: http://tawnyweber.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TawnyWeber.Ro...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TawnyWeber
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/tawnyweber/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
November 8, 2015
ANNOYING AND HEARTLESS
I was conflicted on how to rate this. For most of the book, I really didn't like Frankie, the heroine. She is a redheaded silver jewelry designer and her personality and motivations I found grating.
She goes to her friend Lara Banks's wedding in order to seduce Lara's brother, Phillip.
Why?
Well, she's known this man from childhood and has always had a crush on him. She's always used him as fodder for her sexual fantasies. Already I am a bit creeped out. But that is not her reason for trying to get him into bed. No, her reason is that she is creatively blocked and has been unable to create new jewelry for the last nine months. So she is using his body to "unlock" her creative juices. I find this very distasteful. For the first two-thirds of the book she is pretty much using him as a sexual object. It's disturbing. I know people say, "Oh, men don't care if women just use them for sex! They'd love that, hur hur hur." Um, actually, no. I have seen more than my share of male hearts broken when they finally realize that yes, she was serious when she said she wanted sex and nothing else. This myth that males have no feelings or emotions is ridiculous, and I don't know why it still persists. So I think what Frankie is doing is very wrong.
A hot, exciting man who, she was sure, in just one night would set her inspiration free. If Frankie could seduce a man as controlled as Phillip Banks, she knew she could seduce her own creative muse out of the cave it had been hiding in.
Or
She shivered, her body getting tingles as she wondered how many positions they could try on how many surfaces in that length of time.
And, in between, how much jewelry she could make.
She feels no remorse for this and I hated how she was blatantly using him. She doesn't even tell him who she is when they meet and sleep together for the first time!!! So dishonest. He doesn't recognize her from when they are children, and she never even tries to enlighten him about who he's taking to bed. This is very wrong and deceitful. Also, after that "one-night-stand" they meet again. Still, she doesn't tell him who she is. And she never, ever would have except for the fact that her grandmother shows up and the mystery is blown. What a creep!!!
She does other stuff that makes me rage, such as leaving him alone in bed and sneaking out after a night of sex. I HATE WHEN PEOPLE DO THIS. Either say goodbye and leave BEFORE you fall asleep cuddled up together, or have the decency to stay until the person wakes up and say goodbye. Just because it's a one-night-stand doesn't mean you have to be a complete thoughtless jerk. This is so rude. I don't care whether a man or a woman is doing it, it's flippin' inconsiderate. She also, much later, That also really grated my cheese.
Especially since he's such a sweetheart. He is an uptight, controlled, disciplined military man who came from a super-strict family and has a real problem acknowledging emotions and letting himself go. It's doubly cruel for her to use a man like this, who is obviously not the kind of man who enjoys one-night-stands or no-strings-attached sex. He's so serious, earnest, and shut-off from life that having Frankie break into his world is like finally seeing sunshine and colors after living in darkness.
The only thing that saved this book was that everything jells and becomes sweet and caring. But I was rolling my eyes and cursing Frankie out for a good portion of the book.
Not to mention, her personality is just... annoying.
Sometimes she just says stuff that makes no sense:
Granted, she wasn't three anymore, but she still had dimples on her butt. That had to be worth something.
What? What the heck are you talking about? Cellulite dimples? Dimples of Venus? And what does that have to do with anything!??!?!
At the same time, she gave him her sultriest look - practiced for hours in the bedroom mirror - and made a show of nibbling on her bottom lip.
Really? She practices looking sultry in the mirror for hours?!!?! o.O
...
SEX
How's the sex, Carmen?
Well, the sex is great. As long as I can tune out Frankie's constant fantasizing about how this is going to "unleash her creative powers." Oh, and her annoying and lame attempts at dirty talk.
"You do make me feel good, Phillip. So good. The way you touch me, it's getting me excited. Thinking about what's coming next, it's making me so hot."
You sound like a robot! Jeez. Please stop talking. Ugh.
"You want me," she told him, sliding one hand lower to cup the hard length of him pressing against her thigh. "You can have me. All you have to do is let go. Quit worrying. Quit thinking. Just feel."
I'm rolling my eyes so hard they're practically falling out of my head at this point. LAME.
Phillip has his own quirks, like the fact that he gets very turned-on by the thought of Frankie throwing plates and breaking dishes. Seriously. He gets a raging hard-on every time she clears the table, hoping against hope that she's going to chuck something at the wall. I have no idea why. Because he's so uptight and it's exciting to think of her being so passionate? I don't know. But it's a really unique kink. I've certainly never heard of this before. I guess it's harmless, but it was very strange.
...
CHRISTMAS SUBPLOT
Then there's this whole subplot where Phillip is a crankypants who doesn't like celebrating Christmas and Frankie makes it her personal mission to get him into the Christmas spirit. While a little irritating, I didn't mind this so much. For one thing, I love grumpy Scrooge-like men - I think they're adorable, especially when being forced to enjoy Christmas. :) LOL For another thing, if I was reading this around Christmas it would seem cute and help me get into the spirit of things, so...
This made me laugh:
He didn't think she'd have looked more horrified if he'd told her he was planning a covert mission to take down Santa, blow up the North Pole and sell the elves to cannibals as delicacies.
...
SEALS
I want to take a moment here to point out that "Navy SEALS" is about as big of a subset in romantic fiction as "Texas cowboy" or "bachelor millionaire." I'm not into fetishizing a group of people, so this whole "He's a SEAL!" thing really goes over my head. And they always have PTSD. Always. It's sexy to heal their trauma, or something. Whatever - not my thing.
...
Tl;dr - This book starts out with an annoying and selfish heroine, but it ends up in the right place. I was really surprised Weber was able to turn it around for me and have me rooting for the couple, but credit where credit is due. Great sex. Christmasy storyline.
3 REAL STARS, 3 ROMANCE STARS
Harlequin Blaze November 2014
I was conflicted on how to rate this. For most of the book, I really didn't like Frankie, the heroine. She is a redheaded silver jewelry designer and her personality and motivations I found grating.
She goes to her friend Lara Banks's wedding in order to seduce Lara's brother, Phillip.
Why?
Well, she's known this man from childhood and has always had a crush on him. She's always used him as fodder for her sexual fantasies. Already I am a bit creeped out. But that is not her reason for trying to get him into bed. No, her reason is that she is creatively blocked and has been unable to create new jewelry for the last nine months. So she is using his body to "unlock" her creative juices. I find this very distasteful. For the first two-thirds of the book she is pretty much using him as a sexual object. It's disturbing. I know people say, "Oh, men don't care if women just use them for sex! They'd love that, hur hur hur." Um, actually, no. I have seen more than my share of male hearts broken when they finally realize that yes, she was serious when she said she wanted sex and nothing else. This myth that males have no feelings or emotions is ridiculous, and I don't know why it still persists. So I think what Frankie is doing is very wrong.
A hot, exciting man who, she was sure, in just one night would set her inspiration free. If Frankie could seduce a man as controlled as Phillip Banks, she knew she could seduce her own creative muse out of the cave it had been hiding in.
Or
She shivered, her body getting tingles as she wondered how many positions they could try on how many surfaces in that length of time.
And, in between, how much jewelry she could make.
She feels no remorse for this and I hated how she was blatantly using him. She doesn't even tell him who she is when they meet and sleep together for the first time!!! So dishonest. He doesn't recognize her from when they are children, and she never even tries to enlighten him about who he's taking to bed. This is very wrong and deceitful. Also, after that "one-night-stand" they meet again. Still, she doesn't tell him who she is. And she never, ever would have except for the fact that her grandmother shows up and the mystery is blown. What a creep!!!
She does other stuff that makes me rage, such as leaving him alone in bed and sneaking out after a night of sex. I HATE WHEN PEOPLE DO THIS. Either say goodbye and leave BEFORE you fall asleep cuddled up together, or have the decency to stay until the person wakes up and say goodbye. Just because it's a one-night-stand doesn't mean you have to be a complete thoughtless jerk. This is so rude. I don't care whether a man or a woman is doing it, it's flippin' inconsiderate. She also, much later, That also really grated my cheese.
Especially since he's such a sweetheart. He is an uptight, controlled, disciplined military man who came from a super-strict family and has a real problem acknowledging emotions and letting himself go. It's doubly cruel for her to use a man like this, who is obviously not the kind of man who enjoys one-night-stands or no-strings-attached sex. He's so serious, earnest, and shut-off from life that having Frankie break into his world is like finally seeing sunshine and colors after living in darkness.
The only thing that saved this book was that everything jells and becomes sweet and caring. But I was rolling my eyes and cursing Frankie out for a good portion of the book.
Not to mention, her personality is just... annoying.
Sometimes she just says stuff that makes no sense:
Granted, she wasn't three anymore, but she still had dimples on her butt. That had to be worth something.
What? What the heck are you talking about? Cellulite dimples? Dimples of Venus? And what does that have to do with anything!??!?!
At the same time, she gave him her sultriest look - practiced for hours in the bedroom mirror - and made a show of nibbling on her bottom lip.
Really? She practices looking sultry in the mirror for hours?!!?! o.O
...
SEX
How's the sex, Carmen?
Well, the sex is great. As long as I can tune out Frankie's constant fantasizing about how this is going to "unleash her creative powers." Oh, and her annoying and lame attempts at dirty talk.
"You do make me feel good, Phillip. So good. The way you touch me, it's getting me excited. Thinking about what's coming next, it's making me so hot."
You sound like a robot! Jeez. Please stop talking. Ugh.
"You want me," she told him, sliding one hand lower to cup the hard length of him pressing against her thigh. "You can have me. All you have to do is let go. Quit worrying. Quit thinking. Just feel."
I'm rolling my eyes so hard they're practically falling out of my head at this point. LAME.
Phillip has his own quirks, like the fact that he gets very turned-on by the thought of Frankie throwing plates and breaking dishes. Seriously. He gets a raging hard-on every time she clears the table, hoping against hope that she's going to chuck something at the wall. I have no idea why. Because he's so uptight and it's exciting to think of her being so passionate? I don't know. But it's a really unique kink. I've certainly never heard of this before. I guess it's harmless, but it was very strange.
...
CHRISTMAS SUBPLOT
Then there's this whole subplot where Phillip is a crankypants who doesn't like celebrating Christmas and Frankie makes it her personal mission to get him into the Christmas spirit. While a little irritating, I didn't mind this so much. For one thing, I love grumpy Scrooge-like men - I think they're adorable, especially when being forced to enjoy Christmas. :) LOL For another thing, if I was reading this around Christmas it would seem cute and help me get into the spirit of things, so...
This made me laugh:
He didn't think she'd have looked more horrified if he'd told her he was planning a covert mission to take down Santa, blow up the North Pole and sell the elves to cannibals as delicacies.
...
SEALS
I want to take a moment here to point out that "Navy SEALS" is about as big of a subset in romantic fiction as "Texas cowboy" or "bachelor millionaire." I'm not into fetishizing a group of people, so this whole "He's a SEAL!" thing really goes over my head. And they always have PTSD. Always. It's sexy to heal their trauma, or something. Whatever - not my thing.
...
Tl;dr - This book starts out with an annoying and selfish heroine, but it ends up in the right place. I was really surprised Weber was able to turn it around for me and have me rooting for the couple, but credit where credit is due. Great sex. Christmasy storyline.
3 REAL STARS, 3 ROMANCE STARS
Harlequin Blaze November 2014
November 9, 2014
A fun and sexy read, this book combines a young girls crush from growing up with some need for personal healing for both characters. Sexy SEAL Phillip Banks comes from money but he's all military. But when a mission goes wrong, he doubts himself and is chased by some nightmares. Frankie has had a crush on Phillip since she was young but he doesn't recognize her at his sisters wedding. The sparks that fly between them are healing to both of them for different reasons but it's just a one night stand. Yeah, right.
I really enjoyed this one. I like military men. I like girls acting on crushes from their youth. I like quirky female leads that bring out the strength in those broken military guys. I like books that read fast and I only look up when I'm done. Add in some Christmas spirit and some sexy times and it all combines to be a great read.
If you enjoy the extra sexy side of harlequin and a great Christmas story, then you'll enjoy this one.
I really enjoyed this one. I like military men. I like girls acting on crushes from their youth. I like quirky female leads that bring out the strength in those broken military guys. I like books that read fast and I only look up when I'm done. Add in some Christmas spirit and some sexy times and it all combines to be a great read.
If you enjoy the extra sexy side of harlequin and a great Christmas story, then you'll enjoy this one.
October 26, 2014
A sexy tale that will lift your spirits! Taken from my review at RomanceJunkies.com:
Navy SEAL Lieutenant Phillip Banks is so by-the-book that the other SEALs have nicknamed him Sir. Having grown up with wealthy but strict parents, Christmas was just a chance to showcase their home and has never really been a joyous occasion. He and his sister have recently reconciled after an eight-year estrangement. When his sister marries another SEAL member in Las Vegas, Phillip walks her down the aisle. But, still dealing with the torture he endured while on his latest mission, which had gone awry, Phillip is not in a talking mood, so he sits off to himself. He longs to be part of the upcoming mission that will gain him revenge against his captor, but something has changed in him since his capture and it hasn’t gone unnoticed. Instead of being part of the longed for mission, he is being assigned to teach a class on his experiences, an assignment he deplores. As he sits alone at the reception, a captivating sprite engages him in conversation and before he knows it, he is feeling things he hasn’t felt in a long time.
Silversmith Frankie Silvera has lost her muse. Her once-booming business is now history. She needs inspiration and believes she knows just where to find it. Frankie is now good friends with Phillip’s sister, Lara, and she has had a crush on Phillip since they were children. But Phillip comes from an influential family while Frankie is the granddaughter of the Banks’ housekeeper. Still, she is pleasantly surprised that he doesn’t recognize this grown up version of her. As Lara’s friend, Frankie is invited to the Las Vegas wedding and she is determined that the night will end with her in Phillip’s bed. Certain that living out her fantasies will stir up her creative juices; Frankie approaches Phillip to put her plan into action. Seeing this vulnerable, hurting side of Phillip only draws Frankie to him more.
After a red hot passionate night together, Frankie slips out without leaving him her name or phone number. Phillip cannot get her off his mind, but hasn’t given up on finding her…until he returns home and encounters his housekeeper’s granddaughter…the same woman who has been starring in his recent dreams. Will the fact that she is related to his housekeeper end any chance at a relationship for them, or is this the beginning of a future together? Will Frankie’s creative juices begin to flow again after their intimate encounter?
A sizzling hot read, CHRISTMAS WITH A SEAL, the sixth book in New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Tawny Weber’s SEXY SEALS series, is a fun, sensual contemporary romance that will quickly sweep you up into the story. Phillip and Frankie could not be more different. Phillip is a straitlaced, by-the-book SEAL, while Frankie is the creative, more fun loving type. Whereas Phillip grew up with wealth, Frankie lives with her grandmother who is Phillip’s housekeeper. However, as the two spend time together and Frankie introduces him to what Christmas should be, the love between them leaps off the page.
Ms. Weber’s books never disappoint and this one is no exception. Although this story contains many heated moments, there is more to it. The characters are beautifully developed, enabling readers to empathize with them and their situations. It is heartwarming to watch this relationship come together in the midst of the holidays.
For a sexy, sassy read that is sure to lift your spirits and put you in the holiday mood, pick up a copy of CHRISTMAS WITH A SEAL. The humor, sizzling sensuality, Christmas magic, hunky Navy SEALs, quirky heroine, witty dialogue, romance and forever love combine to give readers a story they won’t want to miss. Although this story can be read as a standalone, I am sure that once you read it you will seek out the rest of the series, including A SEAL’S SEDUCTION, A SEAL’S SURRENDER, A SEAL’S SALVATION, A SEAL’S KISS and A SEAL’S FANTASY. I have enjoyed the entire series and definitely recommend them!
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
Navy SEAL Lieutenant Phillip Banks is so by-the-book that the other SEALs have nicknamed him Sir. Having grown up with wealthy but strict parents, Christmas was just a chance to showcase their home and has never really been a joyous occasion. He and his sister have recently reconciled after an eight-year estrangement. When his sister marries another SEAL member in Las Vegas, Phillip walks her down the aisle. But, still dealing with the torture he endured while on his latest mission, which had gone awry, Phillip is not in a talking mood, so he sits off to himself. He longs to be part of the upcoming mission that will gain him revenge against his captor, but something has changed in him since his capture and it hasn’t gone unnoticed. Instead of being part of the longed for mission, he is being assigned to teach a class on his experiences, an assignment he deplores. As he sits alone at the reception, a captivating sprite engages him in conversation and before he knows it, he is feeling things he hasn’t felt in a long time.
Silversmith Frankie Silvera has lost her muse. Her once-booming business is now history. She needs inspiration and believes she knows just where to find it. Frankie is now good friends with Phillip’s sister, Lara, and she has had a crush on Phillip since they were children. But Phillip comes from an influential family while Frankie is the granddaughter of the Banks’ housekeeper. Still, she is pleasantly surprised that he doesn’t recognize this grown up version of her. As Lara’s friend, Frankie is invited to the Las Vegas wedding and she is determined that the night will end with her in Phillip’s bed. Certain that living out her fantasies will stir up her creative juices; Frankie approaches Phillip to put her plan into action. Seeing this vulnerable, hurting side of Phillip only draws Frankie to him more.
After a red hot passionate night together, Frankie slips out without leaving him her name or phone number. Phillip cannot get her off his mind, but hasn’t given up on finding her…until he returns home and encounters his housekeeper’s granddaughter…the same woman who has been starring in his recent dreams. Will the fact that she is related to his housekeeper end any chance at a relationship for them, or is this the beginning of a future together? Will Frankie’s creative juices begin to flow again after their intimate encounter?
A sizzling hot read, CHRISTMAS WITH A SEAL, the sixth book in New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Tawny Weber’s SEXY SEALS series, is a fun, sensual contemporary romance that will quickly sweep you up into the story. Phillip and Frankie could not be more different. Phillip is a straitlaced, by-the-book SEAL, while Frankie is the creative, more fun loving type. Whereas Phillip grew up with wealth, Frankie lives with her grandmother who is Phillip’s housekeeper. However, as the two spend time together and Frankie introduces him to what Christmas should be, the love between them leaps off the page.
Ms. Weber’s books never disappoint and this one is no exception. Although this story contains many heated moments, there is more to it. The characters are beautifully developed, enabling readers to empathize with them and their situations. It is heartwarming to watch this relationship come together in the midst of the holidays.
For a sexy, sassy read that is sure to lift your spirits and put you in the holiday mood, pick up a copy of CHRISTMAS WITH A SEAL. The humor, sizzling sensuality, Christmas magic, hunky Navy SEALs, quirky heroine, witty dialogue, romance and forever love combine to give readers a story they won’t want to miss. Although this story can be read as a standalone, I am sure that once you read it you will seek out the rest of the series, including A SEAL’S SEDUCTION, A SEAL’S SURRENDER, A SEAL’S SALVATION, A SEAL’S KISS and A SEAL’S FANTASY. I have enjoyed the entire series and definitely recommend them!
Dottie, RomanceJunkies.com
October 6, 2014
When an ever-so-proper, wealthy, by-the-books SEAL is removed as leader of his group after a mission gone bad, he is forced to come home on leave. The cold, yet beautiful home has never held any warm memories for him, especially around the holidays. Frankie grew up around this mansion, her grandmother being the cook, but she only watched Phillip from afar, star-eyed and crushing on him.
When fate gives her a chance to connect with the hot SEAL, she decides to pull out all of the stops to make her Christmas the best ever by snagging some quality alone time with Phillip, hoping to take some of the starch out of his shorts. Can one quirky woman who has been down on her luck get her best gift ever in the arms of her dream SEAL, or will their different standings in life preclude any chance of love?
Phillip has only his SEAL career and things are changing, making this Holiday Season another reason to hate them. Frankie has made him her Christmas project, determined to have him singing both Christmas Carols and declaring his love for her. Has she taken on more than she can handle? Will she end up with a broken heart? Is she depending too much on the magic of Christmas to make her dreams come true?
I received an ARC edition from Harlequin Blaze in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: November 1, 2014
Publisher: Harlequin Blaze
ISBN: 9780373798230
Genre: Holiday Romance
Print Length: 224 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
When fate gives her a chance to connect with the hot SEAL, she decides to pull out all of the stops to make her Christmas the best ever by snagging some quality alone time with Phillip, hoping to take some of the starch out of his shorts. Can one quirky woman who has been down on her luck get her best gift ever in the arms of her dream SEAL, or will their different standings in life preclude any chance of love?
Phillip has only his SEAL career and things are changing, making this Holiday Season another reason to hate them. Frankie has made him her Christmas project, determined to have him singing both Christmas Carols and declaring his love for her. Has she taken on more than she can handle? Will she end up with a broken heart? Is she depending too much on the magic of Christmas to make her dreams come true?
I received an ARC edition from Harlequin Blaze in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: November 1, 2014
Publisher: Harlequin Blaze
ISBN: 9780373798230
Genre: Holiday Romance
Print Length: 224 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
June 13, 2015
What a fantastically festive and romantically infused story. Weber steps quietly to the background in this one and allows her story to take readers for a ride. I appreciate the way that her writing style shifts minutely depending on which character she is talking about at the time. You can really feel their personalities. At the same time, her intricate and playful descriptions bring the entire story to life in a very vivid manner.
I loved that this novel was about so much more than simply romance at Christmas. The complex characters that Weber has created have a great deal of personal (and professional) issues that they have to work through before they can fully come together. Getting to know them as individuals while they get to know one another, and discover parts of themselves that they didn’t know existed, definitely put a smile on my face.
As a whole, this was a unique & quick read that left a smile on my face. Weber had me wanting to grab a glass of eggnog, and that special someone to go trim the tree. It also had me wanting to go wander around my neighbourhood to look at Christmas lights.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
I loved that this novel was about so much more than simply romance at Christmas. The complex characters that Weber has created have a great deal of personal (and professional) issues that they have to work through before they can fully come together. Getting to know them as individuals while they get to know one another, and discover parts of themselves that they didn’t know existed, definitely put a smile on my face.
As a whole, this was a unique & quick read that left a smile on my face. Weber had me wanting to grab a glass of eggnog, and that special someone to go trim the tree. It also had me wanting to go wander around my neighbourhood to look at Christmas lights.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
December 30, 2014
#HoHoHoRaT
I have several of Weber's SEAL books on my Kindle that I haven't read yet but when I saw this for review, especially the cover (drool) I thought "Why not?" Eh, turns out I should have asked "Why?" I really didn't like the heroine and the writing was adequate, nothing wonderful.
Frankie's grandmother is the housekeeper for the wealthy Banks family. Frankie had free run of the house growing up and has had a crush on the son, Phillip, for years. Recently she's become friendly with his sister Lara and she attends Lara's wedding. The groom is another SEAL, so Phillip is there as brother to the bride and teammate of the groom. Phillip and Lara aren't close, they've had little contact with each other as adults and partying isn't his idea of a good time. He's hating every minute of the reception, counting down the seconds until he can leave.
Frankie, whom he doesn't recognize, approaches hm at the party but pretends to be a stranger, and they hook up. Here's where I really started to have trouble with the story. First, the whole false pretenses thing. On the one hand, Frankie's nervous about having her dream come true and scared that if he knows who she is, he'll walk away. She worries that he will be a snob and not want to have sex with the housekeeper's granddaughter. She hardly knows him so I can sort of buy into it. But even later when they meet again she's embarrassed to admit who she is. Second, despite having a mega-crush on him for years, she knows nothing about him (as evidenced by my first objection) and all she cares about is how handsome he is. That's it. That's as far as her crush goes. Which is sort of normal for a teenager though even as a teen I tried to learn all I could about my crushes. One was not only cute but cool (in my teen opinion) and played drums in a band. Whereas Frankie, now an adult, doesn't even seem to know that much about Phillip. And then, for reasons that Weber never says, she doesn't show us or tell us, we're just supposed to accept it, Frankie has the delusion that having sex with Phillip will break the creative block she's been suffering from for several months. This delusion continues almost until the end of the book. I kept waiting for some glimpse into why Frankie believed this, how did he turn into her fantasized savior? Nada, nothing, not a clue. When one night of mind-blowing sex doesn't cure her block, she decides that they need to do it again. The delusion lives on. Eventually she starts to see Phillip as a human being and begins to understand him but she can't stop obsessing over her belief that sex with him will somehow break her creative streak. He'll be her inspiration though he never was before.
I really wanted to reach through my Kindle screen and strangle her. Late, way late, in the book a friend of Frankie's loses her temper and reads Frankie the riot act about her creative block (though not about the delusion) and I wanted to stand up and cheer. I could have kissed Shayla. She was also far more interesting than Frankie was.
Now Phillip. He took some warming up but whereas I loathed Frankie, I did end up liking Phillip. He's flawed too but far more believably and he grows during the story. He deserves a hell of a lot better than Frankie but, oh well.
Phillip is a career Navy man, and someone usually in tight control of his emotions. Usually. But recently, a mission went wrong and now his life is changing. He was tortured on that mission and while he's physically recovered, he's finding that emotionally, he's a mess. He gets bouts of anger that he has to learn how to manage. Additionally, his career as a SEAL has taken a hit and it's going in a direction that he doesn't want. Much of his growth has to do with making peace with this new career path and opening up emotionally. His parents, now dead, were cold and closed off. To be accepted by them he followed that path but he's starting to realize that's no way to live. Also, he's not a snob, despite Frankie's fears and he was much too quick to forgive her. In my not so humble opinion.
Maybe I've been spoiled by reading Jessica Scott, who writes contemporary military romances and is herself in the military, but Weber was too vague for my liking on the details of SEAL life and why Phillip's career went south. The whole military aspect felt unreal and unbelievable; it was window dressing, nothing more.
Oh, and Christmas? Irrelevant to the story. This could have been set at any time during the year.
So, we have an obnoxious, whiny, immature, shallow heroine; a kind, admirable, loyal hero; and a story that's meh. I won't be in a rush to read the other titles by Weber that I own. They're now at the bottom of the TBR pile.
I have several of Weber's SEAL books on my Kindle that I haven't read yet but when I saw this for review, especially the cover (drool) I thought "Why not?" Eh, turns out I should have asked "Why?" I really didn't like the heroine and the writing was adequate, nothing wonderful.
Frankie's grandmother is the housekeeper for the wealthy Banks family. Frankie had free run of the house growing up and has had a crush on the son, Phillip, for years. Recently she's become friendly with his sister Lara and she attends Lara's wedding. The groom is another SEAL, so Phillip is there as brother to the bride and teammate of the groom. Phillip and Lara aren't close, they've had little contact with each other as adults and partying isn't his idea of a good time. He's hating every minute of the reception, counting down the seconds until he can leave.
Frankie, whom he doesn't recognize, approaches hm at the party but pretends to be a stranger, and they hook up. Here's where I really started to have trouble with the story. First, the whole false pretenses thing. On the one hand, Frankie's nervous about having her dream come true and scared that if he knows who she is, he'll walk away. She worries that he will be a snob and not want to have sex with the housekeeper's granddaughter. She hardly knows him so I can sort of buy into it. But even later when they meet again she's embarrassed to admit who she is. Second, despite having a mega-crush on him for years, she knows nothing about him (as evidenced by my first objection) and all she cares about is how handsome he is. That's it. That's as far as her crush goes. Which is sort of normal for a teenager though even as a teen I tried to learn all I could about my crushes. One was not only cute but cool (in my teen opinion) and played drums in a band. Whereas Frankie, now an adult, doesn't even seem to know that much about Phillip. And then, for reasons that Weber never says, she doesn't show us or tell us, we're just supposed to accept it, Frankie has the delusion that having sex with Phillip will break the creative block she's been suffering from for several months. This delusion continues almost until the end of the book. I kept waiting for some glimpse into why Frankie believed this, how did he turn into her fantasized savior? Nada, nothing, not a clue. When one night of mind-blowing sex doesn't cure her block, she decides that they need to do it again. The delusion lives on. Eventually she starts to see Phillip as a human being and begins to understand him but she can't stop obsessing over her belief that sex with him will somehow break her creative streak. He'll be her inspiration though he never was before.
I really wanted to reach through my Kindle screen and strangle her. Late, way late, in the book a friend of Frankie's loses her temper and reads Frankie the riot act about her creative block (though not about the delusion) and I wanted to stand up and cheer. I could have kissed Shayla. She was also far more interesting than Frankie was.
Now Phillip. He took some warming up but whereas I loathed Frankie, I did end up liking Phillip. He's flawed too but far more believably and he grows during the story. He deserves a hell of a lot better than Frankie but, oh well.
Phillip is a career Navy man, and someone usually in tight control of his emotions. Usually. But recently, a mission went wrong and now his life is changing. He was tortured on that mission and while he's physically recovered, he's finding that emotionally, he's a mess. He gets bouts of anger that he has to learn how to manage. Additionally, his career as a SEAL has taken a hit and it's going in a direction that he doesn't want. Much of his growth has to do with making peace with this new career path and opening up emotionally. His parents, now dead, were cold and closed off. To be accepted by them he followed that path but he's starting to realize that's no way to live. Also, he's not a snob, despite Frankie's fears and he was much too quick to forgive her. In my not so humble opinion.
Maybe I've been spoiled by reading Jessica Scott, who writes contemporary military romances and is herself in the military, but Weber was too vague for my liking on the details of SEAL life and why Phillip's career went south. The whole military aspect felt unreal and unbelievable; it was window dressing, nothing more.
Oh, and Christmas? Irrelevant to the story. This could have been set at any time during the year.
So, we have an obnoxious, whiny, immature, shallow heroine; a kind, admirable, loyal hero; and a story that's meh. I won't be in a rush to read the other titles by Weber that I own. They're now at the bottom of the TBR pile.
November 27, 2015
Sixth in the Uniformly Hot SEALs romance series and revolving around the men of a Navy SEALs team. The couple focus is on Frankie Silvera and Lieutenant Phillip Banks and set in Maryland.
My Take
I love it! Frankie has been in lust with Phillip for the past ten years but with whom she hasn't exchanged more than ten words.
I love how Weber slides background information in; she's an excellent example for authors on how to avoid the dreaded info dump. From slipping in last names to family history to ??? I also love Frankie taking her heart in hand and pursuing Phillip. The flirting prelude was lovely.
It only goes to show that dysfunction crosses all social levels from the lowest to the highest, for Phillip and Lara's extremely wealthy parents did not ensure idyllic childhoods for their children, preferring duty and abstention while Frankie, the granddaughter of the Bankses' housekeeper, had a great childhood full of warmth and loving.
There's also the setting, and I like how Weber refers to it: fantasy Phillip where anything is possible and real-life Phillip who was in total control and didn't understand Frankie. That I'm-not-good-enough trope…the first part had just enough of a twist to give it interest, but then she descends into the straightforward variety. Oh, it does make me cry, and Frankie is declining with total love in her heart, but it was too expected.
Shayla has some excellent advice for Frankie regarding that hot leather dress, and it's interesting how she ties its choice into Frankie's loss of mojo. Definitely something to think about in our own lives, see how we apply the same pattern to everything we do.
It's a sweet, fun story using the Christmas holidays to bring two people back to life. Yes, it has its tropes — including the ending, but we (and they) deserve it.
The Story
All those smokin' hot bods at this wild wedding, and there was only one Frankie wanted. She knew she wasn't in the same class, but all she wanted was one hot night.
A hot night she thought had refueled her creativity.
The Characters
Francesca "Frankie" Silvera was a celebrated silversmith. Nana, Josephine O'Brian, is her grandmother, the Banks' housekeeper. Aunt Isabelle. Shayla is a colorful friend of Frankie's.
Lieutenant Phillip Banks, a Navy SEAL whose call sign is "Sir", is Lara's estranged brother and the object of Frankie's lust and fantasies.
Lara Banks, the daughter of high-society snobs, is a friend of Frankie's and has been gone for the past eight years, dancing. Their mother, Ellen, was fancy.
Dominic Castillo, part of Phillip's SEAL team, is Lara's new husband. Lieutenant Commander Blake Landon is their CO. Alexia is Blake's wife. Petty Officer Lane. Lieutenant Commander Mitch Donovan is a legend and the admiral's grandson; he'll take the mission Banks so desperately wants. Evan Exner, a friend of Phillip's, has joined his father-in-law's real estate firm. Commander Roberts is another CO.
Valdero, code name "Candy Man", is a drug kingpin.
Millicent, Olivia, and Deirdre are some of Josephine's friends at the seniors' center. Margie is a friend of Shayla's in retail.
The Cover and Title
The cover is definitely a big girl's Christmas present with a bare chested hunk crouched under a Christmas tree and wearing a Santa hat. The publisher is promoted in a blaze of red and black ribbon across the top while the author's name is white and large just below the center and the book title is in a smaller font below.
The title is a sharing by Frankie with Phillip, celebrating Christmas with a SEAL who's never truly experienced the holiday as it should be.
My Take
I love it! Frankie has been in lust with Phillip for the past ten years but with whom she hasn't exchanged more than ten words.
I love how Weber slides background information in; she's an excellent example for authors on how to avoid the dreaded info dump. From slipping in last names to family history to ??? I also love Frankie taking her heart in hand and pursuing Phillip. The flirting prelude was lovely.
It only goes to show that dysfunction crosses all social levels from the lowest to the highest, for Phillip and Lara's extremely wealthy parents did not ensure idyllic childhoods for their children, preferring duty and abstention while Frankie, the granddaughter of the Bankses' housekeeper, had a great childhood full of warmth and loving.
There's also the setting, and I like how Weber refers to it: fantasy Phillip where anything is possible and real-life Phillip who was in total control and didn't understand Frankie. That I'm-not-good-enough trope…the first part had just enough of a twist to give it interest, but then she descends into the straightforward variety. Oh, it does make me cry, and Frankie is declining with total love in her heart, but it was too expected.
Shayla has some excellent advice for Frankie regarding that hot leather dress, and it's interesting how she ties its choice into Frankie's loss of mojo. Definitely something to think about in our own lives, see how we apply the same pattern to everything we do.
It's a sweet, fun story using the Christmas holidays to bring two people back to life. Yes, it has its tropes — including the ending, but we (and they) deserve it.
The Story
All those smokin' hot bods at this wild wedding, and there was only one Frankie wanted. She knew she wasn't in the same class, but all she wanted was one hot night.
A hot night she thought had refueled her creativity.
The Characters
Francesca "Frankie" Silvera was a celebrated silversmith. Nana, Josephine O'Brian, is her grandmother, the Banks' housekeeper. Aunt Isabelle. Shayla is a colorful friend of Frankie's.
Lieutenant Phillip Banks, a Navy SEAL whose call sign is "Sir", is Lara's estranged brother and the object of Frankie's lust and fantasies.
Lara Banks, the daughter of high-society snobs, is a friend of Frankie's and has been gone for the past eight years, dancing. Their mother, Ellen, was fancy.
Dominic Castillo, part of Phillip's SEAL team, is Lara's new husband. Lieutenant Commander Blake Landon is their CO. Alexia is Blake's wife. Petty Officer Lane. Lieutenant Commander Mitch Donovan is a legend and the admiral's grandson; he'll take the mission Banks so desperately wants. Evan Exner, a friend of Phillip's, has joined his father-in-law's real estate firm. Commander Roberts is another CO.
Valdero, code name "Candy Man", is a drug kingpin.
Millicent, Olivia, and Deirdre are some of Josephine's friends at the seniors' center. Margie is a friend of Shayla's in retail.
The Cover and Title
The cover is definitely a big girl's Christmas present with a bare chested hunk crouched under a Christmas tree and wearing a Santa hat. The publisher is promoted in a blaze of red and black ribbon across the top while the author's name is white and large just below the center and the book title is in a smaller font below.
The title is a sharing by Frankie with Phillip, celebrating Christmas with a SEAL who's never truly experienced the holiday as it should be.
October 28, 2014
I have to say this book is one of my favorites of Tawny's SEALs books. The magic of the holiday is in the air in this one when it's desperately needed for Phillip and Frankie is just the one to show him. I loved the characters in this one. Frankie is so relatable because I have the same fears as her so I could feel what she was. Phillip, the poor guy you can't read this one without wanting to comfort him, but Frankie does the job perfectly. I highly recommend this one for the holiday season!
November 3, 2014
This was a very hot and steamy holiday read. I really enjoyed it. Silversmith Frankie Silvera had been raised by her grandmother, who was a housekeeper/cook for the rich Banks family. She has had a crush on Phillip for as far back as she can remember, but he and his sister, Lara, barely knew she existed because of their parents machinations. Frankie became friends with Phillip's sister after they had grown up and was invited to Lara's and Dominick Castillo's wedding. Phillip is a hot shot Navy SEAL leader whose recent mission was compromised, and he was captured and tortured by a drug cartel leader. Frankie sees the brooding Phillip at the wedding and approaches him and entices him to have a one night stand with her; not telling him that her grandmother has worked for his family for many years and they knew each other as children. She thinks that by having a one night stand with him that her creative juices for making jewelry will improve since she has been in a slump for almost a year. Phillip has a new mission all planned out to catch and eradicate the kingpin of the drug cartel that tortured him for 3 days. Shortly after he returns to his base in California, he is told that the mission leader will be someone else and that he is being transferred to Annapolis, Maryland to train cadets. He is very angry at being denied his mission, but goes back home to his dead parents house in Maryland to live while he is training cadets. Once home, he sees Frankie as she is coming in to serve him, thinking that it is Lara that has come home. He is a very tortured man and because of his upbringing, he hates the idea of anything to do with Christmas. Frankie loves Christmas, and sets out on a mission of her own: Operation Christmas for Phillip. Please read this story about two tortured people who find themselves in each other. You won't ne sorry. I was given an ARC by the author, but the opinions I have are my own and don't have anything to do with the ARC
November 5, 2014
To Sir with Love
Yes I know that was a title of another book somewhere else but I have been waiting for Phillip’s book for a while, in particular since Tawny’s last book. Phillip “Sir” Banks is an upstanding, straight-laced, stick up his ass kind of officer, the kind his fellow Seals aren’t too sure about. After a mission goes bad and he’s captured and tortured, all he can think about is revenge. Until he meets Frankie.
Frankie Silvera has had a crush on Phillip since her days as his housekeeper’s granddaughter. When she attends his sister, Lara’s, wedding, she has the perfect chance to act on that desire. On a deeper level, her jewelry design business is floundering and she needs inspiration and fast. Who better than a lifelong crush?
They spend an explosive night together and Vegas, both intended to let it stay there. Until he is taken off a mission and sent across the country back home to teach at the academy while his team goes after his vengeance. They say you can’t go home again and Phillips really doesn’t want to. Even though his parents are dead, the home holds no good memories for him. Until he finds Frankie staying there with her grandmother.
Can they find a way past their own issues to have a happily ever after? As with all of Tawny Weber’s book, the book has angst, great characters and smoking hot sexual tension. I loved Phillip in her last book (even though he only made a cameo) and wondered how she would bend him a little and she did not disappoint!! Loved this book!!!
Yes I know that was a title of another book somewhere else but I have been waiting for Phillip’s book for a while, in particular since Tawny’s last book. Phillip “Sir” Banks is an upstanding, straight-laced, stick up his ass kind of officer, the kind his fellow Seals aren’t too sure about. After a mission goes bad and he’s captured and tortured, all he can think about is revenge. Until he meets Frankie.
Frankie Silvera has had a crush on Phillip since her days as his housekeeper’s granddaughter. When she attends his sister, Lara’s, wedding, she has the perfect chance to act on that desire. On a deeper level, her jewelry design business is floundering and she needs inspiration and fast. Who better than a lifelong crush?
They spend an explosive night together and Vegas, both intended to let it stay there. Until he is taken off a mission and sent across the country back home to teach at the academy while his team goes after his vengeance. They say you can’t go home again and Phillips really doesn’t want to. Even though his parents are dead, the home holds no good memories for him. Until he finds Frankie staying there with her grandmother.
Can they find a way past their own issues to have a happily ever after? As with all of Tawny Weber’s book, the book has angst, great characters and smoking hot sexual tension. I loved Phillip in her last book (even though he only made a cameo) and wondered how she would bend him a little and she did not disappoint!! Loved this book!!!
December 18, 2014
Let me just preface this with a .... I don't normally read smut disclaimer. I won this through Good Reads giveaways and I thought, "Why not? Let's see what all the hype is about!" If you're the kind of person that likes blushing while reading, little to no plot, ridiculous dialogue, and disgustingly beautiful people. Then this is the book for you, or rather, the genre for you.
Twenty pages is there is already a sex scene. For you smut aficionados, this book was pretty vanilla, no whips, chains, or handcuffs for this smoking hot Navy SEAL. Frankie is going through a creative block, her silver business is ruined and she is stuck living with her grandmother. She decides that in order to get her creative juices flowing again (see what I did there), she has to "get her sexy on" with her friends older brother. After a totally hot night of, you guessed it, lots of sex, Frankie's one night stand turns into something a little more serious. She never thought that she would see him again but fate has intervened and they are both going to make the most of it (by having lots of sex). Predictably they both start falling for each other. It's kinda Christmasy in that Frankie is trying to convince Phillip that the holidays are special. But other than that it's just a backdrop to their lovemaking.... Interesting read.
Twenty pages is there is already a sex scene. For you smut aficionados, this book was pretty vanilla, no whips, chains, or handcuffs for this smoking hot Navy SEAL. Frankie is going through a creative block, her silver business is ruined and she is stuck living with her grandmother. She decides that in order to get her creative juices flowing again (see what I did there), she has to "get her sexy on" with her friends older brother. After a totally hot night of, you guessed it, lots of sex, Frankie's one night stand turns into something a little more serious. She never thought that she would see him again but fate has intervened and they are both going to make the most of it (by having lots of sex). Predictably they both start falling for each other. It's kinda Christmasy in that Frankie is trying to convince Phillip that the holidays are special. But other than that it's just a backdrop to their lovemaking.... Interesting read.
November 2, 2014
4.7 Star Review - Christmas With A Seal
The chemistry between these two is smokin HOT!! Frankie has had a crush on Phillip for years. She has never acted on those feeling but she needs to now in order to get her creative mojo back. She figures if she has him on time he will fix her creative block and she will be able to create beautiful art again.
Phillip has had a bad few months. Can he really afford to mess around with a woman he does not know? What happens when he thinks his career is going one way and it is side tracked and he is pushed in a different area? When he is assigned close to his childhood home and runs back into Frankie he wonders if he is to broken for her.....
What happens when one night does not fix her issue? Can she afford to try and have more nights? Can she ever keep a man like Phillip interested in her? Or is she seeing her self up for more heartbreak?
Love Tawny's stories she combines laughs, steamy love, and suspense all into one sexy package.
Once again a freaking great story!! You just have to love a SEAL!!!
The chemistry between these two is smokin HOT!! Frankie has had a crush on Phillip for years. She has never acted on those feeling but she needs to now in order to get her creative mojo back. She figures if she has him on time he will fix her creative block and she will be able to create beautiful art again.
Phillip has had a bad few months. Can he really afford to mess around with a woman he does not know? What happens when he thinks his career is going one way and it is side tracked and he is pushed in a different area? When he is assigned close to his childhood home and runs back into Frankie he wonders if he is to broken for her.....
What happens when one night does not fix her issue? Can she afford to try and have more nights? Can she ever keep a man like Phillip interested in her? Or is she seeing her self up for more heartbreak?
Love Tawny's stories she combines laughs, steamy love, and suspense all into one sexy package.
Once again a freaking great story!! You just have to love a SEAL!!!
November 23, 2014
A sweet, sexy read.
I read this one in one day, had life not interrupted I'd never have put it down before finishing it.
Frankie's life is a bit of a mess so when the chance to hook up with her childhood crush comes along at his sisters wedding in Vegas and she's all for it.
Phillip doesn't remember Frankie, she was younger and his focus was always on his future and doing what was expected of a Banks.
Phillip is reassigned until the first of the year and returns home.
Upon arriving home Phillip finds out exactly who Frankie is and they pick back up where they left off in Vegas.
Frankie is his polar opposite but you know what they say about opposites, and these two certainly do attract!!
Frankie is trying to help Phillip loosen up and enjoy life, not be so uptight like he was brought up, and it's working until she utters three little words.
Phillip has no idea how to react and now must reassess his feelings and his future.
This is a sweet story with some serious steam!!
I read this one in one day, had life not interrupted I'd never have put it down before finishing it.
Frankie's life is a bit of a mess so when the chance to hook up with her childhood crush comes along at his sisters wedding in Vegas and she's all for it.
Phillip doesn't remember Frankie, she was younger and his focus was always on his future and doing what was expected of a Banks.
Phillip is reassigned until the first of the year and returns home.
Upon arriving home Phillip finds out exactly who Frankie is and they pick back up where they left off in Vegas.
Frankie is his polar opposite but you know what they say about opposites, and these two certainly do attract!!
Frankie is trying to help Phillip loosen up and enjoy life, not be so uptight like he was brought up, and it's working until she utters three little words.
Phillip has no idea how to react and now must reassess his feelings and his future.
This is a sweet story with some serious steam!!
October 19, 2014
I loved this story it is one you will pick up and not want to put down Phillip Banks "Sir" is his call sign with The Seals is strong and very straight forward that is until he meets Frankie she turns him upside down and brings emotions out that Philip never knew he had. After Phillip is captured and tortured and then saved by his team he is at his sister's wedding when Frankie sets her eyes on the one person that she has had a crush on since her teanage years Frankie is the grandaughter of the Bank's housekeeper but he has no idea who she is Frankie is an artist who creates jewellery but she has lost her muse and she is sure Phillip can help her get it back but what for Frankie should have been a one night stand and something that Phillip never does turns into a sensual passionate journey to a wonderful HEA where both Frankie and Phillip learn so much about themselves and each other. I highly recommend this one and by the way keep a fan handy while reading awesome story :)
March 23, 2021
Christmas with a SEAL
4 Stars
Recovering in the aftermath of his abduction and torture at the hands of a notorious drug lord, the usually staid and stoic Lieutenant Philip Banks is forced to confront his darker emotions. The only reprieve comes in the form of Frankie Silvera, the granddaughter of his family's housekeeper, who is suddenly all grown up and ready to play.
Proud and tortured heroes are like catnip for me and Philip is no exception. Add in a one-night stand with a woman fulfilling her teenage fantasy and you have a recipe for success.
Frankie and Philip have incredible chemistry and their romance is sweet with little to no angst. The only minor issue is Frankie's ridiculous behavior toward the end, but that is also dealt with smoothly and alls well that ends well.
4 Stars
Recovering in the aftermath of his abduction and torture at the hands of a notorious drug lord, the usually staid and stoic Lieutenant Philip Banks is forced to confront his darker emotions. The only reprieve comes in the form of Frankie Silvera, the granddaughter of his family's housekeeper, who is suddenly all grown up and ready to play.
Proud and tortured heroes are like catnip for me and Philip is no exception. Add in a one-night stand with a woman fulfilling her teenage fantasy and you have a recipe for success.
Frankie and Philip have incredible chemistry and their romance is sweet with little to no angst. The only minor issue is Frankie's ridiculous behavior toward the end, but that is also dealt with smoothly and alls well that ends well.
October 21, 2014
A hot SEAL and Christmas, what's not to like? This book was great. The story was fun and sexy. It was very entertaining to see the very stoic and proper Phillip, or Sir as his teammates called, come undone. He struggles trying to deal with the fun loving, creative Frankie but I think she is just what he needs. This is a good one, you want it on the TBR list. I recommend it.
September 23, 2014
Received an ARC for review
I was expecting so much more from Phillip aka Sir after what he went through. And Frankie was a little disappointing too. And then it just ended, but I needed more. Yeah there were I love you's said, but then end.
I was expecting so much more from Phillip aka Sir after what he went through. And Frankie was a little disappointing too. And then it just ended, but I needed more. Yeah there were I love you's said, but then end.
December 23, 2014
Frankie is a formerly successful silversmith who has been in an artistic rut for a while. She's down on her luck and has moved back in with her grandmother to ease the financial burden brought on by her artist's block. Frankie's grandmother is a housekeeper for the upstanding Banks family, of which Phillip is a member.
Phillip is a Navy SEAL and was recently involved in a mission that went very badly. Now, he's bent on seeking revenge against the terrorist who captured and tortured him. Shut off emotionally from the world, he's having trouble finding joy in life right now, even at his sister's wedding in Vegas, which is where he meets Frankie.
Unbeknownst to Phillip, he has actually met Frankie before since she's the granddaughter of his family's housekeeper. But at the wedding, he doesn't recognize or remember her. Frankie is on a mission of her own: to have a one night stand with Phillip, who she's had a lifelong crush on, thinking this will bring back her artistic ability. Even though said one night stand is amazing, it doesn't serve its intended purpose: she's still blocked creatively and rather than loving Phillip and leaving him, she finds that she can't stop thinking about him.
Meanwhile, Phillip's vendetta is shut down when he finds out that he's being transferred temporarily, thereby being removed from the mission involving the terrorist who captured him. Angry and bitter, he's even more of a tortured soul than before. He reflects on his dysfunctional upbringing and feels lost.
When Phillip returns to his family home, he's filled with memories of his parents, who were unemotional and cold. Even though they have both passed away, he still finds it difficult to return to the family estate because there's no warmth or happy memories there.
When Frankie and Phillip run into each other on the estate, Frankie's cover is blown. She is revealed to Phillip as the housekeeper's granddaughter. But rather than treating Frankie as second class, Phillip's lingering feelings since their night together flare even brighter. There's a scene right after Phillip learns Frankie's true identity that's almost as steamy as their night together, in my opinion. I think it's the open knowledge of who he is combined with who she is and how none of those details matter.
Frankie's friend, Shayla, is a breath of fresh air. She tells it like it is to Frankie but without being obnoxious about it.
The Christmassy part of the story doesn't come into play until past the halfway mark, after Frankie and Phillip have spent a little more time together. Turns out that Phillip hates the holidays since his family never truly celebrated them. So, Frankie makes it her mission to show Phillip what Christmas really means. During this time, her artistic inspiration returns and she's able to create pieces again.
As Frankie and Phillip spend more time together preparing for the holidays, Frankie is witness to Phillip's nightmares--a remnant from the time he was held captive. Initially, he avoids the issue repeatedly, but eventually, he opens up to Frankie and shares his feelings with her. This is a turning point in their relationship since he's not the most forthcoming guy. It's also the moment when Phillip realizes he wants something long term with Frankie--something she has been feeling for a while.
The time they've spent together, combined with the Christmas spirit, brings them closer together. There's something about Frankie that helps heal what's broken in Phillip. But everything comes to a head when Phillip decides to propose, Frankie freaks out, and turns him down. A couple of heart to heart talks with Lara, Phillip's sister, and Shayla, Frankie's friend, help them to sort through their respective feelings.
The book ends on a very sweet note. Their plans for the future are a compromise and I appreciated that neither of them has to give up their plans or dreams entirely. The future is a mesh of what they both want and that makes it a hopeful future indeed.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my review.
Phillip is a Navy SEAL and was recently involved in a mission that went very badly. Now, he's bent on seeking revenge against the terrorist who captured and tortured him. Shut off emotionally from the world, he's having trouble finding joy in life right now, even at his sister's wedding in Vegas, which is where he meets Frankie.
Unbeknownst to Phillip, he has actually met Frankie before since she's the granddaughter of his family's housekeeper. But at the wedding, he doesn't recognize or remember her. Frankie is on a mission of her own: to have a one night stand with Phillip, who she's had a lifelong crush on, thinking this will bring back her artistic ability. Even though said one night stand is amazing, it doesn't serve its intended purpose: she's still blocked creatively and rather than loving Phillip and leaving him, she finds that she can't stop thinking about him.
Meanwhile, Phillip's vendetta is shut down when he finds out that he's being transferred temporarily, thereby being removed from the mission involving the terrorist who captured him. Angry and bitter, he's even more of a tortured soul than before. He reflects on his dysfunctional upbringing and feels lost.
When Phillip returns to his family home, he's filled with memories of his parents, who were unemotional and cold. Even though they have both passed away, he still finds it difficult to return to the family estate because there's no warmth or happy memories there.
When Frankie and Phillip run into each other on the estate, Frankie's cover is blown. She is revealed to Phillip as the housekeeper's granddaughter. But rather than treating Frankie as second class, Phillip's lingering feelings since their night together flare even brighter. There's a scene right after Phillip learns Frankie's true identity that's almost as steamy as their night together, in my opinion. I think it's the open knowledge of who he is combined with who she is and how none of those details matter.
Frankie's friend, Shayla, is a breath of fresh air. She tells it like it is to Frankie but without being obnoxious about it.
The Christmassy part of the story doesn't come into play until past the halfway mark, after Frankie and Phillip have spent a little more time together. Turns out that Phillip hates the holidays since his family never truly celebrated them. So, Frankie makes it her mission to show Phillip what Christmas really means. During this time, her artistic inspiration returns and she's able to create pieces again.
As Frankie and Phillip spend more time together preparing for the holidays, Frankie is witness to Phillip's nightmares--a remnant from the time he was held captive. Initially, he avoids the issue repeatedly, but eventually, he opens up to Frankie and shares his feelings with her. This is a turning point in their relationship since he's not the most forthcoming guy. It's also the moment when Phillip realizes he wants something long term with Frankie--something she has been feeling for a while.
The time they've spent together, combined with the Christmas spirit, brings them closer together. There's something about Frankie that helps heal what's broken in Phillip. But everything comes to a head when Phillip decides to propose, Frankie freaks out, and turns him down. A couple of heart to heart talks with Lara, Phillip's sister, and Shayla, Frankie's friend, help them to sort through their respective feelings.
The book ends on a very sweet note. Their plans for the future are a compromise and I appreciated that neither of them has to give up their plans or dreams entirely. The future is a mesh of what they both want and that makes it a hopeful future indeed.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2016
Fun book. It starts out with Lara and Dominic's wedding (A SEAL's Fantasy). Lara is Phillip's sister, so he is there at the wedding, even though he really doesn't want to be. They weren't close growing up and have only recently reconnected. Also at the wedding is Frankie, one of Lara's friends. Frankie is the granddaughter of the Banks' family housekeeper and had a crush on Phillip while growing up. She is a jewelry maker who is currently going through a creative dry spell, and thinks that some hot sex with her girlhood crush will loosen things up. He doesn't recognize her and she doesn't tell him who she is, and disappears the next morning before he wakes up.
Phillip's reputation in the SEAL team is that of always being in control, focused on the rules and the right way to do something. But his latest mission had something go terribly wrong and he is having a hard time dealing with it. He's recovered physically, but his emotions are all over the place. Plus his career has hit a bump and he's sent on temporary duty to teach at the Naval Academy while the other members of his team go after the people who captured him. He's stunned to find his one night stand (who he hasn't been able to forget) at his parents' home. He knows he should keep his distance, but the attraction is just as hot now as it was then.
Frankie hadn't expected to see Phillip again, especially so soon. It was definitely a shock for both of them. Though she'd had high hopes for the return of her creativity, it hadn't happened. Now that he's there, she's hoping that some more exposure will do the trick.
It was interesting to see these two very different people fall for each other. Phillip is controlled, rule-following, and focused. Frankie is creative, very emotional, and fun-loving. She is also pretty sensitive, and it doesn't take long for her to realize that he has something big eating at him. She also discovers pretty quickly that he doesn't talk about emotions. I ached for him at times because being back in his childhood home didn't bring back any happy memories for him - just the opposite. I enjoyed seeing Frankie drag him kicking and screaming into the holidays. And Phillip discovered that just being around Frankie helped ease his feelings of being out of control. Both of them do their best to avoid admitting that there is more between them than just sex. Frankie has herself convinced that there is no way that she is good enough for him. Phillip thinks he's too broken, plus marriage has never been in his career plan. I loved seeing his inner shock when he realizes that he's done something he never thought possible - fall in love. I wanted to shake Frankie when she allowed her own fears and insecurities keep her from accepting what he was offering. I grinned when Phillip got an unexpected pep talk from his sister, and I cheered when Frankie's friend Shayla read her the riot act for falling into the same trap she always does when things start to go well. The ending was really sweet, with Phillip really shining in the way that he understands Frankie and Frankie making sure that he knows that she loves him for himself and doesn't expect him to give up who he is for her.
There were several really emotional parts, but my favorite was when Castillo was filling him in on the results of the mission that Phillip wasn't allowed to participate in. Phillip was really blown away by what he learned.
I also loved the part with the leather dress. It was really fun to see Shayla try to show Frankie how she always sabotages herself. It was great to see how right she was about Phillip's reaction to the dress.
Phillip's reputation in the SEAL team is that of always being in control, focused on the rules and the right way to do something. But his latest mission had something go terribly wrong and he is having a hard time dealing with it. He's recovered physically, but his emotions are all over the place. Plus his career has hit a bump and he's sent on temporary duty to teach at the Naval Academy while the other members of his team go after the people who captured him. He's stunned to find his one night stand (who he hasn't been able to forget) at his parents' home. He knows he should keep his distance, but the attraction is just as hot now as it was then.
Frankie hadn't expected to see Phillip again, especially so soon. It was definitely a shock for both of them. Though she'd had high hopes for the return of her creativity, it hadn't happened. Now that he's there, she's hoping that some more exposure will do the trick.
It was interesting to see these two very different people fall for each other. Phillip is controlled, rule-following, and focused. Frankie is creative, very emotional, and fun-loving. She is also pretty sensitive, and it doesn't take long for her to realize that he has something big eating at him. She also discovers pretty quickly that he doesn't talk about emotions. I ached for him at times because being back in his childhood home didn't bring back any happy memories for him - just the opposite. I enjoyed seeing Frankie drag him kicking and screaming into the holidays. And Phillip discovered that just being around Frankie helped ease his feelings of being out of control. Both of them do their best to avoid admitting that there is more between them than just sex. Frankie has herself convinced that there is no way that she is good enough for him. Phillip thinks he's too broken, plus marriage has never been in his career plan. I loved seeing his inner shock when he realizes that he's done something he never thought possible - fall in love. I wanted to shake Frankie when she allowed her own fears and insecurities keep her from accepting what he was offering. I grinned when Phillip got an unexpected pep talk from his sister, and I cheered when Frankie's friend Shayla read her the riot act for falling into the same trap she always does when things start to go well. The ending was really sweet, with Phillip really shining in the way that he understands Frankie and Frankie making sure that he knows that she loves him for himself and doesn't expect him to give up who he is for her.
There were several really emotional parts, but my favorite was when Castillo was filling him in on the results of the mission that Phillip wasn't allowed to participate in. Phillip was really blown away by what he learned.
I also loved the part with the leather dress. It was really fun to see Shayla try to show Frankie how she always sabotages herself. It was great to see how right she was about Phillip's reaction to the dress.
October 17, 2014
Originally Reviewed for Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy.
Ready for another installment of Tawny Weber's Red Hot Seals? These men of her Uniformly Hot Series are written to steam and steam they do! This is the Third Book for me of this decadently delightful series but it's Book Five in the Series. A luscious, sweltering series..
Christmas with a SEAL tells the story of Philip Banks... you remember him from A SEAL's Fantasy? Lara's rather uptight brother?? It's time he has met his match and it's NOT some blueblood debutante!! Nope nothing so tame for Lt. Banks.
Silversmith Frankie Silva has a gift. She creates delicate and gorgeous jewelry as well as a few other unique silver creations. But it seems fame has gotten to her and she is blocked. Totally and completely blocked. Forced to make Christmas ornaments blocked.. So what's a girl do when her mojo's gone? Run home to mama. Only Mama is the housekeeper for the empty Banks estate. And Frankie has had a crush on Philip Banks since before time (or so it seems). Since Frankie is the creative sort she discovers a creative way to end her creative block AND solve that pesky question, what's Philip like in bed?? Yep she decides that good old fashioned sex will do the trick. Now she just has to get Philip on board.
Navy Seal Philip Banks is the Prince of Protocol (stole that one from the book blurb) his entire life has been based on what he should be doing. When he joined the Navy, then the Seals, he escaped just a bit. But even as a Seal he knew, everything needed order. Only when he was captured and tortured things sort of turned on it's side. Just a bit. Now he wants to return to the battlefield and take down those who tortured him. Only the brass has other plans. He has to turn over his plans and head to Annapolis, where he will be teaching, that's right teaching, a special course for just a bit. You know just until this mission is over. Angry and feeling just a little off balance, Philip figures it's time to decide what to do with the family estate. Yeah, when you are depressed and feeling like your life is free falling, that's the time to deal with these things.. *grins*. Heading home reminds him of nothing pleasant and he is so not looking forward to it. That is until he discovers Frankie.. Now there's a Christmas treat if ever there was one.
Fun, Fun, Fun!! Watching Philip unwind and Frankie unwrap.. Another hit with Ms. Weber's SEALS.. This book entertains!! It doesn't make you think, doesn't make you obsess over character bloodlines and plot twists. It doesn't make you cringe or keep you on the edge of your seat. It just entertains! And honestly, sometimes that's the greatest compliment that can be given.
Tawny Weber is an author worth reading..
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Christmas With A SEAL, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on October 21, 2014
Ready for another installment of Tawny Weber's Red Hot Seals? These men of her Uniformly Hot Series are written to steam and steam they do! This is the Third Book for me of this decadently delightful series but it's Book Five in the Series. A luscious, sweltering series..
Christmas with a SEAL tells the story of Philip Banks... you remember him from A SEAL's Fantasy? Lara's rather uptight brother?? It's time he has met his match and it's NOT some blueblood debutante!! Nope nothing so tame for Lt. Banks.
Silversmith Frankie Silva has a gift. She creates delicate and gorgeous jewelry as well as a few other unique silver creations. But it seems fame has gotten to her and she is blocked. Totally and completely blocked. Forced to make Christmas ornaments blocked.. So what's a girl do when her mojo's gone? Run home to mama. Only Mama is the housekeeper for the empty Banks estate. And Frankie has had a crush on Philip Banks since before time (or so it seems). Since Frankie is the creative sort she discovers a creative way to end her creative block AND solve that pesky question, what's Philip like in bed?? Yep she decides that good old fashioned sex will do the trick. Now she just has to get Philip on board.
Navy Seal Philip Banks is the Prince of Protocol (stole that one from the book blurb) his entire life has been based on what he should be doing. When he joined the Navy, then the Seals, he escaped just a bit. But even as a Seal he knew, everything needed order. Only when he was captured and tortured things sort of turned on it's side. Just a bit. Now he wants to return to the battlefield and take down those who tortured him. Only the brass has other plans. He has to turn over his plans and head to Annapolis, where he will be teaching, that's right teaching, a special course for just a bit. You know just until this mission is over. Angry and feeling just a little off balance, Philip figures it's time to decide what to do with the family estate. Yeah, when you are depressed and feeling like your life is free falling, that's the time to deal with these things.. *grins*. Heading home reminds him of nothing pleasant and he is so not looking forward to it. That is until he discovers Frankie.. Now there's a Christmas treat if ever there was one.
Fun, Fun, Fun!! Watching Philip unwind and Frankie unwrap.. Another hit with Ms. Weber's SEALS.. This book entertains!! It doesn't make you think, doesn't make you obsess over character bloodlines and plot twists. It doesn't make you cringe or keep you on the edge of your seat. It just entertains! And honestly, sometimes that's the greatest compliment that can be given.
Tawny Weber is an author worth reading..
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Christmas With A SEAL, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on October 21, 2014
October 29, 2014
Hello Readers!
I absolutely loved this book! Ms. Weber is one of my favorite authors because her characters come alive for me and her novels are fast paced so you won't be able to put the books down once you start reading them.
In this novel,we begin with Lt. Phillip Banks attending sister's Wedding & reception in a snazzy Penthouse in Las Vegas, but wondering how much longer he has to stay because this is definitely not his kind of scene - "Strippers, body shots, flashing lights and wild dancing. Otherwise known as one of Lieutenant Phillip Banks’s many versions of hell" In fact, Phillip is so not into any kind of scenes that his fellow SEALS dubbed him with the call sign of "Sir". To his fellow SEALS, Lt. Banks is an uptight, by-the-book kind of guy that doesn't even know how to lose control. Or so they think...but all it takes is the entrance of one daring lady by the name of Frankie Silvera.
Frankie Silvera is the granddaughter of the Banks Family's housekeeper, and a friend of Phillip's sister Lara. Frankie spent a lot of time with her grandmother when she was growing up, and had a huge crush on Phillip. Unfortunately for her, Phillip never even knew Frankie existed. As the years passed, the crush turned into fantasies and a burning desire to love Phillip - even if it's only for one night. So, what better time to put her fantasies into action than at his sister's wedding? After all, weddings are known as a great place to hook-up.
This book is about more than living out your hottest fantasies. It's about learning the true meaning of Christmas and being part of a family. Phillip and his sister Lara grew up in a very rigid and structured household where hugs were a foreign concept, and Heaven forbid anyone actually spoke nicely to each other. To their parents, Phillip and Lara were just tools to show off the family wealth, and if they didn't tow the line, they would be disinherited. Phillip grew up following the rules and never questioning the path his father planned for him. So Frankie's way of doing things is a complete shock to Phillip, but it turns out that Frankie is the best thing that ever happened to Phillip. Not only did she show him what unconditional love felt like, she helped him discover his Christmas spirit and heal the breach between himself and his sister. She also showed him that there are other things in life besides being a Navy SEAL.
I absolutely loved this book! Ms. Weber is one of my favorite authors because her characters come alive for me and her novels are fast paced so you won't be able to put the books down once you start reading them.
In this novel,we begin with Lt. Phillip Banks attending sister's Wedding & reception in a snazzy Penthouse in Las Vegas, but wondering how much longer he has to stay because this is definitely not his kind of scene - "Strippers, body shots, flashing lights and wild dancing. Otherwise known as one of Lieutenant Phillip Banks’s many versions of hell" In fact, Phillip is so not into any kind of scenes that his fellow SEALS dubbed him with the call sign of "Sir". To his fellow SEALS, Lt. Banks is an uptight, by-the-book kind of guy that doesn't even know how to lose control. Or so they think...but all it takes is the entrance of one daring lady by the name of Frankie Silvera.
Frankie Silvera is the granddaughter of the Banks Family's housekeeper, and a friend of Phillip's sister Lara. Frankie spent a lot of time with her grandmother when she was growing up, and had a huge crush on Phillip. Unfortunately for her, Phillip never even knew Frankie existed. As the years passed, the crush turned into fantasies and a burning desire to love Phillip - even if it's only for one night. So, what better time to put her fantasies into action than at his sister's wedding? After all, weddings are known as a great place to hook-up.
This book is about more than living out your hottest fantasies. It's about learning the true meaning of Christmas and being part of a family. Phillip and his sister Lara grew up in a very rigid and structured household where hugs were a foreign concept, and Heaven forbid anyone actually spoke nicely to each other. To their parents, Phillip and Lara were just tools to show off the family wealth, and if they didn't tow the line, they would be disinherited. Phillip grew up following the rules and never questioning the path his father planned for him. So Frankie's way of doing things is a complete shock to Phillip, but it turns out that Frankie is the best thing that ever happened to Phillip. Not only did she show him what unconditional love felt like, she helped him discover his Christmas spirit and heal the breach between himself and his sister. She also showed him that there are other things in life besides being a Navy SEAL.
October 25, 2014
I have a confession to make. I'm not much of a holiday person. Yes, I know. Horrible person that I am, I dislike the crap that comes with the holidays, not the actual holidays themselves. I'm a rabid romance reader and yet I don't like holiday romances usually, either. It's probably because most of the ones I find tend to be kind of hokey. Although since this is my first holiday season as a book blogger, I felt I was kind of obligated to give a few of them a try. I also figured – being a part of Tawny Weber's Street Team – that a good bet for a good holiday romance would be one by her. I was completely right.
As always, this entry into Weber's SEAL series was in no way lacking because of the addition of the holidays in its title or as a main feature in the story itself. In fact, it wasn't an exactly theme at the start, even. A nice sexy SEAL home for his sister's wedding where he meets the housekeepers daughter and practically drools on her shoes, despite having a very rigid call sign in the unit. Very nice.
I did find Frankie's thought processes on her supposed way of dealing with the art block she had going on a bit out there, but heck, it wasn't that unreasonable. Some women – myself included sometimes – can be a bit out there in our thought processes. Of course, I'd probably only use sex to unblock writer's block on romances and erotica stories, rather than actual jewelry, but who am I to know? I'm not very artsy-craftsy that way.
I did adore Phillip, though. Even his name screamed that he came from money. And his rigidity except with regard to Frankie was simply drool-worthy. To see him lose his control over just the one girl and her situation... Who wouldn't die for that opportunity?
The story itself wasn't complicated either, a simple and sweet love story novel that is a bit on the short side (if you normally read 300-400 page novels), but as always, Tawny did some amazing characterization and just enough buildup to the actual conclusion of the story to keep us reading without anything feeling forced or rushed or even dragged out. It was well done!
As always, I would read anything written by Tawny Weber. 4.5 Stars!
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review – an also very nicely signed book that goes on my shelf!
As always, this entry into Weber's SEAL series was in no way lacking because of the addition of the holidays in its title or as a main feature in the story itself. In fact, it wasn't an exactly theme at the start, even. A nice sexy SEAL home for his sister's wedding where he meets the housekeepers daughter and practically drools on her shoes, despite having a very rigid call sign in the unit. Very nice.
I did find Frankie's thought processes on her supposed way of dealing with the art block she had going on a bit out there, but heck, it wasn't that unreasonable. Some women – myself included sometimes – can be a bit out there in our thought processes. Of course, I'd probably only use sex to unblock writer's block on romances and erotica stories, rather than actual jewelry, but who am I to know? I'm not very artsy-craftsy that way.
I did adore Phillip, though. Even his name screamed that he came from money. And his rigidity except with regard to Frankie was simply drool-worthy. To see him lose his control over just the one girl and her situation... Who wouldn't die for that opportunity?
The story itself wasn't complicated either, a simple and sweet love story novel that is a bit on the short side (if you normally read 300-400 page novels), but as always, Tawny did some amazing characterization and just enough buildup to the actual conclusion of the story to keep us reading without anything feeling forced or rushed or even dragged out. It was well done!
As always, I would read anything written by Tawny Weber. 4.5 Stars!
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review – an also very nicely signed book that goes on my shelf!
November 1, 2014
Every time I pick up one of her novels I think it can not be any better than the last one. Having met the character Phillip in a previous book I knew there had to be more than meets the eye on this guy. When I seen this one centered on him was so curious on seeing more of him and his character revealed. Having been through quite the ordeal he come home (one inherited) and holidays also are not his thing. Frankie has come to live with her grandmother to get back on track. She also happens to be friends with Phillip's sister so she was around them both as they were growing up. At Lara's wedding their paths will cross, their night will sizzle both will walk away not able to forget the other. When he sees her again at the family home wow surprise surprise the sizzle just might have time to cook alittle more. This author then takes you along with these two as they explore each other while Frankie also gets him to participate in a way never before in holiday stuff down before the big day. Her grandmother no longer has to fuss around either by herself. Frankie also finds she is once again able to create but Phillip must be the key to that. I found that I quite liked Phillip regardless that he hides behind a different exterior then most see. In this novel you also see a guy who can and does learn to love the way a woman needs and wants. Put the special magic of the holidays in this and this is one fast growing relationship that explodes. So when I said I did not think it could get better than before this author sure did that and more. Both of these characters are so full of life that going along with them would make any Christmas sweet or any day for that matter. Received a copy for a honest review.
November 6, 2014
There was a lot to like in this book. I especially enjoyed the up close and personal with Phillip Banks, who came across so stiff and proper in the prior book in the series with his long-lost/run-away sister.
Phillip - Always upright and proper, always doing what's expected of him. He really needed Frankie to help him loosen up and learn how to enjoy things, including the holiday, since that was largely taken away from him because of his overly proper and society-focused mother.
Frankie - Enjoyed the silversmith profession and how she was so dragged down by her current lack of creativity. Being in the midst of a slump with my own creativity, I get that she was trying to break out of the slump.
These two were perfect for each other and of course we got to see the prior couple get married AND do their part to bring these two together. I think one of the most enjoyable moments for me was when Phillip had to go tree hunting with Frankie and ran into a commander who forced him to uproot his intended plans. I just loved him slumping around in the woods. For a SEAL, it was amusing he was so cranky about it.
Loved loved LOVED Frankie's grandmother.
On the whole, the book was great. Check it out.
Book provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Review originally posted to Tory Michaels' Time Out.
Phillip - Always upright and proper, always doing what's expected of him. He really needed Frankie to help him loosen up and learn how to enjoy things, including the holiday, since that was largely taken away from him because of his overly proper and society-focused mother.
Frankie - Enjoyed the silversmith profession and how she was so dragged down by her current lack of creativity. Being in the midst of a slump with my own creativity, I get that she was trying to break out of the slump.
These two were perfect for each other and of course we got to see the prior couple get married AND do their part to bring these two together. I think one of the most enjoyable moments for me was when Phillip had to go tree hunting with Frankie and ran into a commander who forced him to uproot his intended plans. I just loved him slumping around in the woods. For a SEAL, it was amusing he was so cranky about it.
Loved loved LOVED Frankie's grandmother.
On the whole, the book was great. Check it out.
Book provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Review originally posted to Tory Michaels' Time Out.
October 14, 2014
I was given an ARC of this book by Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. This was a sweet enjoyable love story. Frankie has lost her business after losing her creative gift. She is determined to get it back and her solution, seduce one hot Navy Seal who has been the center of her fantasy her whole life. Phillip is currently sidelined after a mission gone bad, one that left him captive to torture for three days. He wants revenge, he wants answers. Frustrated he turns to one saucy red head for a night of pleasure. How was he to know that the woman who gave him the most mind blowing night of sex was the grand daughter of his parents house keeper. Frankie returns home, only to find one night was not enough. When Phillip returns to his home, currently assigned to teach a group of cadets, she seizes upon the opportunity of a lifetime. Phillip finds resistance in no longer in his vocabulary. However, as the two draw closer, they also expose the raw pain both have buried deep within their soles. Can love heal? Will Christmas have enough magic to allow these two a chance for true love?
This story is nicely written, great character development, hot sex and delivers the happily ever after.
This story is nicely written, great character development, hot sex and delivers the happily ever after.
October 21, 2014
See more of my reviews on my blog Thoughts At One In The Morning.
My Thoughts:
Tawny Weber's Uniformly Hot SEALs series has been a very enjoyable bunch of books. I've only read two so far, but even one was enough to hook me into wanting to read the rest of them. This is the second one I've read, and let me tell ya--totally awesome, romantic, sweet, and pulling me in even more!
Frankie and Phillip are perfectly and imperfectly matched. They have solid chemistry in the romance department, but when it comes to the holidays, not so much. It's not his thing, but it is hers. Phillip's reluctance becomes Frankie's determination to turn him around. One thing they both have in common is that they don't want to fall in too deep with each other. There's no forever in the stars for them... or is there?
Christmas with a SEAL is a steamy cup of hot chocolate on a cold day. Frankie is an absolute doll, and Phillip is super sexy. I could snuggle under a blanket and read this one again... along with all the rest of the SEALs novels from Tawny Weber, because they are that good.
My Rating: Very Good
My Thoughts:
Tawny Weber's Uniformly Hot SEALs series has been a very enjoyable bunch of books. I've only read two so far, but even one was enough to hook me into wanting to read the rest of them. This is the second one I've read, and let me tell ya--totally awesome, romantic, sweet, and pulling me in even more!
Frankie and Phillip are perfectly and imperfectly matched. They have solid chemistry in the romance department, but when it comes to the holidays, not so much. It's not his thing, but it is hers. Phillip's reluctance becomes Frankie's determination to turn him around. One thing they both have in common is that they don't want to fall in too deep with each other. There's no forever in the stars for them... or is there?
Christmas with a SEAL is a steamy cup of hot chocolate on a cold day. Frankie is an absolute doll, and Phillip is super sexy. I could snuggle under a blanket and read this one again... along with all the rest of the SEALs novels from Tawny Weber, because they are that good.
My Rating: Very Good
September 29, 2014
I have been waiting impatiently for Lt. Phil Banks' book and I was NOT disappointed.
This book is about SEAL Phil Banks, the "stick up his butt," " strictly by the book" CO of the SEAL group that we have been reading about this year. He was captured during the last campaign and tortured for 3 days before his company could get to him and, now that he's back home and healed, he's way past ready to return to take down the mole who caused all of this. When he is sent across the country to Annapolis, his home, and given an assignment as a teacher, he is devastated and furious. He doesn't realize that the one night stand that he had the night of his sister's wedding actually is the granddaughter of his parent's housekeeper and lives on the estate.
I loved the relationship between Phil and Frankie because it becomes fairly obvious early on that they're falling in love with each other. However, they each have some serious baggage that they both, of course, try to deal with themselves. That's what makes this book such a great read because we can all see ourselves in these character's reactions to good and bad.
It's a great book!
This book is about SEAL Phil Banks, the "stick up his butt," " strictly by the book" CO of the SEAL group that we have been reading about this year. He was captured during the last campaign and tortured for 3 days before his company could get to him and, now that he's back home and healed, he's way past ready to return to take down the mole who caused all of this. When he is sent across the country to Annapolis, his home, and given an assignment as a teacher, he is devastated and furious. He doesn't realize that the one night stand that he had the night of his sister's wedding actually is the granddaughter of his parent's housekeeper and lives on the estate.
I loved the relationship between Phil and Frankie because it becomes fairly obvious early on that they're falling in love with each other. However, they each have some serious baggage that they both, of course, try to deal with themselves. That's what makes this book such a great read because we can all see ourselves in these character's reactions to good and bad.
It's a great book!
October 25, 2014
Paige‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
3.75 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
I liked the story between Frankie and Phillip. I was drawn into their world immediately. I loved that they both went after what they wanted, each other.
Both Phillip and Frankie are having a bit difficulty with their careers. Instead of fighting on the front lines, Phillip has been sidelined. He has to work behind the scenes training and teaching the SEAL team. Something he isn’t keen on doing.
Frankie hit a roadblock in creativity and inspiration. She is unable to continue her work and is forced back home, trying to gain her footing.
To distract them from their careers, they lose themselves in each other. They are able to find solace for a while but both are having a tough time truly trusting each other.
I think the author did a good job portraying the internal struggles of the characters. How letting go, for just a short time can change your heart and mind. I did get a bit tired of the back and forth relationship. Wish they found love sooner.
3.75 STARS
Review copy provided for an honest review
I liked the story between Frankie and Phillip. I was drawn into their world immediately. I loved that they both went after what they wanted, each other.
Both Phillip and Frankie are having a bit difficulty with their careers. Instead of fighting on the front lines, Phillip has been sidelined. He has to work behind the scenes training and teaching the SEAL team. Something he isn’t keen on doing.
Frankie hit a roadblock in creativity and inspiration. She is unable to continue her work and is forced back home, trying to gain her footing.
To distract them from their careers, they lose themselves in each other. They are able to find solace for a while but both are having a tough time truly trusting each other.
I think the author did a good job portraying the internal struggles of the characters. How letting go, for just a short time can change your heart and mind. I did get a bit tired of the back and forth relationship. Wish they found love sooner.
October 5, 2014
Frankie has secretly loved Phillip Banks for years. Being the housekeepers granddaughter, she has been around him for years. When she sees him again at his sister's wedding, she decides to make her fantasy a reality and seduce him. Thinking she will never see him again she sets out on her mission.
Phillip has some back from a failed mission and his capture a broken man. On the surface he is always in control, but inside he is ful of rage at the betrayal that led to his capture. When a beautiful woman approaches him, he sees her as an escape.
When Phillip arrives home, he is surprised to see Frankie until he realizes who she is. Going against what his mind is telling him he pursues a relationship with her. But Frankie thinks there is no way for them to be together forever. He is rich and she is the housekeepers granddaughter. With Christmas approaching though, she can give him the gift of happiness and a touch of Christmas magic. Can she look beyond her feelings and give him what he needs? Can Phillip make her see that this Christmas with a Seal will be the first on many?
Phillip has some back from a failed mission and his capture a broken man. On the surface he is always in control, but inside he is ful of rage at the betrayal that led to his capture. When a beautiful woman approaches him, he sees her as an escape.
When Phillip arrives home, he is surprised to see Frankie until he realizes who she is. Going against what his mind is telling him he pursues a relationship with her. But Frankie thinks there is no way for them to be together forever. He is rich and she is the housekeepers granddaughter. With Christmas approaching though, she can give him the gift of happiness and a touch of Christmas magic. Can she look beyond her feelings and give him what he needs? Can Phillip make her see that this Christmas with a Seal will be the first on many?
November 2, 2014
LOVED IT!!
I have to say that I LOVE all of Tawny Weber’s Seal books, and this one was just as good if not better than the other ones. Frankie is a silversmith who has lost her mojo, she believes that if she sleeps with Phillip Banks then that will give her the mojo back. She has been in love with Phillip since she was a teenager. Phillip is still trying to overcome his nightmares from his capture and being tortured. The only thing Phillip wants is revenge that is until he sees Frankie. I love all the characters in this book and love the attraction between Frankie and Phillip. This book has romance and humor and it kept me reading all night until I finished the book. So when you read it make sure that you have plenty of time to read the whole book because you won’t want to put it down. I can’t wait to read the next Seal book!
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
I have to say that I LOVE all of Tawny Weber’s Seal books, and this one was just as good if not better than the other ones. Frankie is a silversmith who has lost her mojo, she believes that if she sleeps with Phillip Banks then that will give her the mojo back. She has been in love with Phillip since she was a teenager. Phillip is still trying to overcome his nightmares from his capture and being tortured. The only thing Phillip wants is revenge that is until he sees Frankie. I love all the characters in this book and love the attraction between Frankie and Phillip. This book has romance and humor and it kept me reading all night until I finished the book. So when you read it make sure that you have plenty of time to read the whole book because you won’t want to put it down. I can’t wait to read the next Seal book!
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
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