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Take It Off #9
Taste
One taste is never enough…
Spencer Waller’s main purpose in life is to protect and serve. After spending years in the military, he gets a coveted spot on the Secret Service detail protecting the president. Spence doesn’t have time for women or all the work having a relationship with one requires. But just because he isn’t looking for a lady doesn’t mean he can’t appreciate a beautiful one when he sees her.
And he makes it a point to see one in particular every single day.
Elle Bond has literally chopped and fried her way to the top of the food chain. Earning a coveted position in the White House as the president’s personal chef, she figures her professional life can only get better. Her personal life, on the other hand, could use a little bit of an overhaul, and because of that, she tries to ignore the charm-dripping cookie thief every time he comes into her kitchen. After all, she knows better than anyone that just one taste of something good is never enough.
One night after work, Elle is assaulted, threatened, and given an ultimatum. She can’t go to the police, and she sure as hell can’t do what she was ordered.
But she has to. Or else.
Pale, shaken, and scared to death, Elle confides in Spence, and his protective instincts take over. Together, Elle and Spencer have to uncover a sinister plot and stop it before someone ends up dead.
Spencer Waller’s main purpose in life is to protect and serve. After spending years in the military, he gets a coveted spot on the Secret Service detail protecting the president. Spence doesn’t have time for women or all the work having a relationship with one requires. But just because he isn’t looking for a lady doesn’t mean he can’t appreciate a beautiful one when he sees her.
And he makes it a point to see one in particular every single day.
Elle Bond has literally chopped and fried her way to the top of the food chain. Earning a coveted position in the White House as the president’s personal chef, she figures her professional life can only get better. Her personal life, on the other hand, could use a little bit of an overhaul, and because of that, she tries to ignore the charm-dripping cookie thief every time he comes into her kitchen. After all, she knows better than anyone that just one taste of something good is never enough.
One night after work, Elle is assaulted, threatened, and given an ultimatum. She can’t go to the police, and she sure as hell can’t do what she was ordered.
But she has to. Or else.
Pale, shaken, and scared to death, Elle confides in Spence, and his protective instincts take over. Together, Elle and Spencer have to uncover a sinister plot and stop it before someone ends up dead.
207 pages, Paperback
First published July 25, 2014
111 people are currently reading
1345 people want to read
About the author
Cambria Hebert
99 books5,616 followersCambria Hebert is a bestselling novelist of more than fifty titles. She went to college for a bachelor’s degree, couldn’t pick a major, and ended up with a degree in cosmetology. So rest assured her characters will always have good hair.
Besides writing, Cambria loves a pumpkin spice latte, staying up late, sleeping in, and watching K drama until her eyes won’t stay open. She considers math human torture and has an irrational fear of chickens (yes, chickens). You can often find her running on the treadmill (she’d rather be eating a donut), painting her toenails (because she bites her fingernails), or walking her chihuahuas (the real bosses of the house).
Cambria has written in many genres, including new adult, sports romance, male/male romance, sci-fi, thriller, suspense, contemporary romance, and young adult. Many of her titles have been translated into foreign languages and have been the recipients of multiple awards.
Awards Cambria has received include:
Author of the Year 2016 (UtopiaCon2016)
The Hashtag Series: Best Contemporary Series of 2015 (UtopiaCon 2015)
#Nerd: Best Contemporary Book Cover of 2015 (UtopiaCon 2015)
Romeo from the Hashtag Series: Best Contemporary Lead (UtopiaCon 2015)
#Nerd: Top 50 Summer Reads (Buzzfeed.com 2015)
The Hashtag Series: Best Contemporary Series of 2016 (UtopiaCon 2016)
#NERD Book Trailer: Best Book Trailer of 2016 (UtopiaCon 2016)
#Nerd Book Trailer: Top 50 Most Cinematic Book Trailers of All Time (film-14.com)
#Nerd: Book Most Wanted to be Adapted to Screen: (2018)
Amnesia: Mystery Book of the Year (2018)
Cambria Hebert owns and operates Cambria Hebert Books, LLC.
You can find out more about Cambria and her titles by visiting her website:
http://www.cambriahebert.com
Email: cambriahebert@rocketmail.com
Facebook: http://smarturl.co/CambriaHebertFanpage
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cambriahebert
Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/cambriahebert/p...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cambriahebert
GoodReads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/amazoncambria
Newsletter subscription: http://eepurl.com/bUL5_5
Share Squad sign up: http://bit.ly/sharesquad
Besides writing, Cambria loves a pumpkin spice latte, staying up late, sleeping in, and watching K drama until her eyes won’t stay open. She considers math human torture and has an irrational fear of chickens (yes, chickens). You can often find her running on the treadmill (she’d rather be eating a donut), painting her toenails (because she bites her fingernails), or walking her chihuahuas (the real bosses of the house).
Cambria has written in many genres, including new adult, sports romance, male/male romance, sci-fi, thriller, suspense, contemporary romance, and young adult. Many of her titles have been translated into foreign languages and have been the recipients of multiple awards.
Awards Cambria has received include:
Author of the Year 2016 (UtopiaCon2016)
The Hashtag Series: Best Contemporary Series of 2015 (UtopiaCon 2015)
#Nerd: Best Contemporary Book Cover of 2015 (UtopiaCon 2015)
Romeo from the Hashtag Series: Best Contemporary Lead (UtopiaCon 2015)
#Nerd: Top 50 Summer Reads (Buzzfeed.com 2015)
The Hashtag Series: Best Contemporary Series of 2016 (UtopiaCon 2016)
#NERD Book Trailer: Best Book Trailer of 2016 (UtopiaCon 2016)
#Nerd Book Trailer: Top 50 Most Cinematic Book Trailers of All Time (film-14.com)
#Nerd: Book Most Wanted to be Adapted to Screen: (2018)
Amnesia: Mystery Book of the Year (2018)
Cambria Hebert owns and operates Cambria Hebert Books, LLC.
You can find out more about Cambria and her titles by visiting her website:
http://www.cambriahebert.com
Email: cambriahebert@rocketmail.com
Facebook: http://smarturl.co/CambriaHebertFanpage
Twitter: https://twitter.com/cambriahebert
Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/cambriahebert/p...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cambriahebert
GoodReads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/amazoncambria
Newsletter subscription: http://eepurl.com/bUL5_5
Share Squad sign up: http://bit.ly/sharesquad
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
March 21, 2015
This was an okay NA contemporary romance, but I got bored.
The characters in this were okay, but I didn’t love them. Elle came across as a bit stupid at times as well, what does she think the bad guys want with the president’s personal chef? Her freaking cookie recipe? Of course they want her to poison the president!
The storyline in this was quite similar to the other books in this series; someone trying to harm the girl, and the big man steps in to save the day. Yawn. I got really bored, and I didn’t even enjoy the sex scene.
6 out of 10
The characters in this were okay, but I didn’t love them. Elle came across as a bit stupid at times as well, what does she think the bad guys want with the president’s personal chef? Her freaking cookie recipe? Of course they want her to poison the president!
The storyline in this was quite similar to the other books in this series; someone trying to harm the girl, and the big man steps in to save the day. Yawn. I got really bored, and I didn’t even enjoy the sex scene.
6 out of 10
May 24, 2015
About This Book:
This book is about Elle Bond, a chef who works at the White House, and Spencer Waller, a secret service agent. They've had a flirty relationship for a year since Spencer always comes to her kitchen to steal some of her cookies with his easy charm. One day Elle is assaulted inside her house and told to kill the president or else. Needless to say, she is a little freaked out and comes clean to Spencer what is happening. Spencer then goes into protective mode and promises to keep her safe and eliminate the threat as well.
My Thoughts:
I did not feel the connection between the hero and heroine at all. Their mutual attraction was based solely on looks and I didn't feel anything deeper.
Elle was TSTL. Always running headfirst into danger. Vague examples as to not spoil too much: that hospital scene at the end (how could you be so stupid), going home alone when she has been attacked there multiple times, etc. She was just asking to get killed. I'm pretty sure that if this was a horror film then Elle would be the first chick to die.
The only reason I mustered up the energy to finish the book was because I liked Spencer. He was a stand-up guy that was willing to do anything to protect Elle. I just wish we had gotten more background on him. I feel like I barely know him.
Another thing I liked about this book was that you could truly read it as a stand-alone. There were no past couples making appearances or new couples being set up. It was the story of one couple and I liked that.
This book is about Elle Bond, a chef who works at the White House, and Spencer Waller, a secret service agent. They've had a flirty relationship for a year since Spencer always comes to her kitchen to steal some of her cookies with his easy charm. One day Elle is assaulted inside her house and told to kill the president or else. Needless to say, she is a little freaked out and comes clean to Spencer what is happening. Spencer then goes into protective mode and promises to keep her safe and eliminate the threat as well.
My Thoughts:
I did not feel the connection between the hero and heroine at all. Their mutual attraction was based solely on looks and I didn't feel anything deeper.
Elle was TSTL. Always running headfirst into danger. Vague examples as to not spoil too much: that hospital scene at the end (how could you be so stupid), going home alone when she has been attacked there multiple times, etc. She was just asking to get killed. I'm pretty sure that if this was a horror film then Elle would be the first chick to die.
The only reason I mustered up the energy to finish the book was because I liked Spencer. He was a stand-up guy that was willing to do anything to protect Elle. I just wish we had gotten more background on him. I feel like I barely know him.
Another thing I liked about this book was that you could truly read it as a stand-alone. There were no past couples making appearances or new couples being set up. It was the story of one couple and I liked that.
July 28, 2014
Spencer takes his job to protecting Elle onto so many levels the first being he'd commit murder, "his hand covered mine and wrapped around it, squeezing my fingers. "Thank effing God," he said. "I thought I was going to go to jail for murder." The second being able to see Elle in compromising positions, "now is not the time to try and seduce me, Elle," he deadpanned. "I need to see how badly you're burned." The third getting to help her in those compromising positions:
"Wait 'til you see the inside of my shower," he said, coming up and wrapping his arms around me.
"And what is so special about his shower?" I asked.
"I'm going to be naked in it."
And finally the fourth he wants her with him at all times, "Spencer held up his hand and spoke, his voice hard and cold, leaving no room for argument. "She is a witness in a federal investigation. She's in danger, and I'm pi**ed off. She stays with me." You've got to love a man who has a soft spot for his woman and is a total alpha.
"Wait 'til you see the inside of my shower," he said, coming up and wrapping his arms around me.
"And what is so special about his shower?" I asked.
"I'm going to be naked in it."
And finally the fourth he wants her with him at all times, "Spencer held up his hand and spoke, his voice hard and cold, leaving no room for argument. "She is a witness in a federal investigation. She's in danger, and I'm pi**ed off. She stays with me." You've got to love a man who has a soft spot for his woman and is a total alpha.
March 21, 2015
Elle was an okay character, and I did feel sorry for her because of the situation she was in, but I didn't love her.
Spencer was an okay character too, and I liked him at the end.
I didn't think the storyline in this one was the best, but it was alright.
Spencer was an okay character too, and I liked him at the end.
I didn't think the storyline in this one was the best, but it was alright.
September 4, 2018
Chemistry
The characters had some serious chemistry and I loved them! I liked that the relationship didn't just happen immediately. A little of the story was out there for me which is why I only have it 4 stars.
The characters had some serious chemistry and I loved them! I liked that the relationship didn't just happen immediately. A little of the story was out there for me which is why I only have it 4 stars.
July 28, 2014
The Take It Off series is quickly becoming one of my go to series for well written and highly entertaining erotic suspense stories. Book 9, Taste, focuses on Elle Bond and Spencer Waller. Elle is the personal chef for the President and his family, and Spencer is one of the Secret Service Agents responsible for keeping the President safe. There’s always been a mutual attraction between Elle and Spencer, but due to their time consuming jobs and Elle’s life as a single mother, neither has acted on their feelings, but when Elle’s life and the life of her son, Jack, are threatened, Spencer steps in and vows to protect them with his life. Spencer’s finally ready to act on his feelings for Elle, and while the timing could have been better, he sees it as the perfect opportunity to use his skills as a body guard to make sure that no harm comes to the woman he wants a future with, but as the threats continue, will Spencer be able to ensure that he can remain focused on his duties as an agent without allowing his personal feelings to compromise the situation? Pick up a copy of Taste to see how it all plays out.
One of the main reasons I love Cambria Hebert’s stories is because she creates fantastic main characters. Even though her heroines go through harrowing experiences, they always manage to keep going and stand up for themselves. They are strong women who protect those they love at all costs. This is exactly the type of person Elle is. She will do whatever she needs to, to ensure her son and mother are safe, and everything that she’s overcome to become the personal chef for the President proves how motivated she is to make her own future despite what she’s had to endure to get there. Hebert’s heroes are the quintessential alpha male who dominate in and outside the bedroom. They are fiercely loyal and protect what’s theirs despite the harm that could possible come to them. As a trained protector, Spencer understands how easily events can go from bad to worse, so once he steps in to protect Elle and her family, that’s his sole focus. He may only be a novice at being in a relationship, but Spencer definitely understands how to be loyal and protective to his woman.
Taste is a quick and steamy read that will have readers guessing until the end who’s responsible for the threat against the President. I love the chemistry between Spencer and Elle even when they’re dealing with life or death situations. Elle may be afraid of what will happen to her family, but she allows Spencer to take care of both her body and her mind while the situation plays out, proving how much faith she has in the man who seems to own her heart.
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
One of the main reasons I love Cambria Hebert’s stories is because she creates fantastic main characters. Even though her heroines go through harrowing experiences, they always manage to keep going and stand up for themselves. They are strong women who protect those they love at all costs. This is exactly the type of person Elle is. She will do whatever she needs to, to ensure her son and mother are safe, and everything that she’s overcome to become the personal chef for the President proves how motivated she is to make her own future despite what she’s had to endure to get there. Hebert’s heroes are the quintessential alpha male who dominate in and outside the bedroom. They are fiercely loyal and protect what’s theirs despite the harm that could possible come to them. As a trained protector, Spencer understands how easily events can go from bad to worse, so once he steps in to protect Elle and her family, that’s his sole focus. He may only be a novice at being in a relationship, but Spencer definitely understands how to be loyal and protective to his woman.
Taste is a quick and steamy read that will have readers guessing until the end who’s responsible for the threat against the President. I love the chemistry between Spencer and Elle even when they’re dealing with life or death situations. Elle may be afraid of what will happen to her family, but she allows Spencer to take care of both her body and her mind while the situation plays out, proving how much faith she has in the man who seems to own her heart.
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
August 1, 2014
“I know the look of a wounded bird, you don’t look wounded, darlin’. You look downright beaten.”
Wow! This fast read packed an action packed punch. Taste by Cambria Hebert is 9th book in the take it off series but all of them are standalones. I have been lucky enough to read a couple of Cambria’s books before and have enjoyed them but this is definitely my favorite so far. More than reading a sexy romance I felt like I was watching a movie the whole time and was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next.
“I’m sorry,” he murmured. “For what?” “For taking so long to do something about the way I feel about you.”
Elle is a very accomplished twenty four year old considering she is a single mom of a two year old and a personal chef for the President of the United States. But working in that position also puts her at risk and when men break into her home and threaten not only her life but the life of her two year old son if she doesn’t poison the president she is torn as to what to do. Enter sexy cookie thief and super sexy secret serviceman Spencer, who has been hanging around her kitchen lately more than the job requires. Once she opens up to him about what is going on he makes it his personal duty to keep her safe and punish anyone who hurts her or her son.
“When I am done with you, there won’t be any doubt in your mind.”
I loved sweet, sexy and southern Spencer. He was all kinds of Alpha goodness and really made this story for me. Being former military he has a deep urge to protect those around him and it becomes apparent right away that Elle is who is most interested in protecting. He instills himself in her life and won’t let her push him away. But damn, when she gives in to the strong pull that you can feel from them from the beginning it is HOT! Somehow in this action packed book where something is always going on Cambria found the time to also make it super sexy and still kept it feeling like the story flowed.
“The truth is it didn’t matter what I did here. This place . . . it never felt like home. You feel like home to me.”
Anyone who is a fan of action packed TV shows like Hostages or 24 will love this book. The only real problem I had with it was that I read it home alone at night and I suddenly found myself very worried that strange armed men were hiding in the corners. (paranoid much loll.) Overall, Cambria did a great job of mixing action, drama and romance is this fast and fun novel.
~miranda
Wow! This fast read packed an action packed punch. Taste by Cambria Hebert is 9th book in the take it off series but all of them are standalones. I have been lucky enough to read a couple of Cambria’s books before and have enjoyed them but this is definitely my favorite so far. More than reading a sexy romance I felt like I was watching a movie the whole time and was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next.
“I’m sorry,” he murmured. “For what?” “For taking so long to do something about the way I feel about you.”
Elle is a very accomplished twenty four year old considering she is a single mom of a two year old and a personal chef for the President of the United States. But working in that position also puts her at risk and when men break into her home and threaten not only her life but the life of her two year old son if she doesn’t poison the president she is torn as to what to do. Enter sexy cookie thief and super sexy secret serviceman Spencer, who has been hanging around her kitchen lately more than the job requires. Once she opens up to him about what is going on he makes it his personal duty to keep her safe and punish anyone who hurts her or her son.
“When I am done with you, there won’t be any doubt in your mind.”
I loved sweet, sexy and southern Spencer. He was all kinds of Alpha goodness and really made this story for me. Being former military he has a deep urge to protect those around him and it becomes apparent right away that Elle is who is most interested in protecting. He instills himself in her life and won’t let her push him away. But damn, when she gives in to the strong pull that you can feel from them from the beginning it is HOT! Somehow in this action packed book where something is always going on Cambria found the time to also make it super sexy and still kept it feeling like the story flowed.
“The truth is it didn’t matter what I did here. This place . . . it never felt like home. You feel like home to me.”
Anyone who is a fan of action packed TV shows like Hostages or 24 will love this book. The only real problem I had with it was that I read it home alone at night and I suddenly found myself very worried that strange armed men were hiding in the corners. (paranoid much loll.) Overall, Cambria did a great job of mixing action, drama and romance is this fast and fun novel.
~miranda
July 21, 2014
I just finished Taste and I just loved it. It's quick and sexy and just plain ole delicious!! This is apart of the Take It Off series but could be read as a stand alone. Sometimes past characters appear in the new stories and sometimes not and that's ok. I love them all. This one is about Spencer and Elle. Elle is a personal chef and works at the White House. Spencer is one of the main secret agents that work for the president. They have known each other for while but they haven't really acknowledged anything. One night someone breaks into her house and threatens all that she holds dear unless she poisons the president and kills him. Not knowing what to do but fearing for her and her families life she tells Spencer. He needs to protect her but also protect the president. Will Spencer be able to protect them both? You will have to read and see.
I just love this series and can't even imagine not reading them. Cambria just has a way with her characters to keep them all different. Her storyline is refreshing and just a joy to read. At times you have no idea what might happen and other times it is plan as day but it still always seems to surprise me with what she comes up with. This is not something you want to miss out on.
Spencer of course is a hottie. Sigh. I can just imagine him in his suit looking all buff and always watching and always being prepared for anything. Oh yeah and his accent. I swear I could hear it in my head! Hmm the things I was thinking! Elle is a strong character. She is very sweet and smart and I love how she will do anything to protect her family. If you think about it they are alike because of that, yet still very different. Their chemistry was hot, just scorched the pages. Never a dull moment with them.
Seriously you should get this, if it happens to be the first one you read from her trust me you will go back for more!!!!
Story 5
Sex 5
Overall 5
Reviewed by Beggin (Shay) from Mommys a Book Whore
I just love this series and can't even imagine not reading them. Cambria just has a way with her characters to keep them all different. Her storyline is refreshing and just a joy to read. At times you have no idea what might happen and other times it is plan as day but it still always seems to surprise me with what she comes up with. This is not something you want to miss out on.
Spencer of course is a hottie. Sigh. I can just imagine him in his suit looking all buff and always watching and always being prepared for anything. Oh yeah and his accent. I swear I could hear it in my head! Hmm the things I was thinking! Elle is a strong character. She is very sweet and smart and I love how she will do anything to protect her family. If you think about it they are alike because of that, yet still very different. Their chemistry was hot, just scorched the pages. Never a dull moment with them.
Seriously you should get this, if it happens to be the first one you read from her trust me you will go back for more!!!!
Story 5
Sex 5
Overall 5
Reviewed by Beggin (Shay) from Mommys a Book Whore
July 31, 2014
Cambria Hebert has never written a book that I didn’t quickly become addicted to and Taste is no exception. This is #9 in the Take It Off series which just keeps getting better and better. Elle is a very beautiful young chef at the White House who holds a secret attraction to Spencer, a secret service agent, also working at the White House. Spencer has a not so secret attraction to Elle. This attraction is made apparent after Elle is attacked in her house and the only person that she can turn to is Spencer. I fell hard in love with Spencer at this point. He becomes all alpha and protective over not just Elle but her adorable son Jack also. Spencer is not one to hide his feelings and will go to any lengths for Elle. A constant and present danger brings them even closer as Spencer must fight to protect the woman that he is quickly falling for.
Cambria certainly does know how to write a hero. She always comes up with the perfect blend of charm, intelligence, strength, protectiveness, sexiness, and bad assness to create a character that will steal your heart. Spencer might be my all time favorite Take It Off hero. I adored that he has an epic love of chocolate chip cookies and not just any cookies, no, they must be Elle’s. My heart melted over the relationship between Spencer and Elle’s young son Jack. There was an immediate connection between the two that was absolutely adorable.
Spencer and Elle are both very likable characters and their chemistry is off the charts. I read this book in about two hours without even realizing it. That’s how addictive the writing is. Thanks to Cambria Hebert for writing a series that is fresh, invigorating, fun, interesting, fast paced and sexy.
5 out of 5 stars.
Cambria certainly does know how to write a hero. She always comes up with the perfect blend of charm, intelligence, strength, protectiveness, sexiness, and bad assness to create a character that will steal your heart. Spencer might be my all time favorite Take It Off hero. I adored that he has an epic love of chocolate chip cookies and not just any cookies, no, they must be Elle’s. My heart melted over the relationship between Spencer and Elle’s young son Jack. There was an immediate connection between the two that was absolutely adorable.
Spencer and Elle are both very likable characters and their chemistry is off the charts. I read this book in about two hours without even realizing it. That’s how addictive the writing is. Thanks to Cambria Hebert for writing a series that is fresh, invigorating, fun, interesting, fast paced and sexy.
5 out of 5 stars.
July 31, 2014
Ay. I am having some mad love going on for Cambria Hebert lately. I absolutely loved Tryst.
Elle has been not so nicely asked to do this thing that … is really really horrible. She knows she can’t do it, but what do you do when someone threatens everyone you love? You can’t turn to the normal methods of problem solving in this situation, luckily she has Mr Cookie Monster, Spencer to turn to.
Spencer was the perfect hero to me. I adored him. Strong with a sense of right and wrong, plus a need to protect what he cares about from Elle to the president as a Secret Service Agent. He had the best attitude, I just really connected with that character.
Elle was awesome too. She wasn’t wishy washy in any way, shape, or form, but she did know when she was out of her league and needed help. She was a strong woman, a woman who wanted to protect her family, but also a woman who knew when she needed assistance.
They had so much chemistry, played off each other well, and were just really enjoyable.
This one is going on my perfect romance shelf. It’s another one of those books that takes me back to the feeling I got when I was reading my grandma’s romance books, where I felt all was right with the world when I was engrossed in reading.
I absolutely loved it and cannot wait to get my greedy 1-click finger on more of Cambria’s books.
Thank you so much for my copy of Taste!
Elle has been not so nicely asked to do this thing that … is really really horrible. She knows she can’t do it, but what do you do when someone threatens everyone you love? You can’t turn to the normal methods of problem solving in this situation, luckily she has Mr Cookie Monster, Spencer to turn to.
Spencer was the perfect hero to me. I adored him. Strong with a sense of right and wrong, plus a need to protect what he cares about from Elle to the president as a Secret Service Agent. He had the best attitude, I just really connected with that character.
Elle was awesome too. She wasn’t wishy washy in any way, shape, or form, but she did know when she was out of her league and needed help. She was a strong woman, a woman who wanted to protect her family, but also a woman who knew when she needed assistance.
They had so much chemistry, played off each other well, and were just really enjoyable.
This one is going on my perfect romance shelf. It’s another one of those books that takes me back to the feeling I got when I was reading my grandma’s romance books, where I felt all was right with the world when I was engrossed in reading.
I absolutely loved it and cannot wait to get my greedy 1-click finger on more of Cambria’s books.
Thank you so much for my copy of Taste!
July 28, 2014
Taste is a delectable read that will have you craving more!! This newest addition to the Take It Off Series definitely one of my favorites written so far.
The story is a great romantic suspense that will keep you turning the pages. Taste introduces us to Elle, the personal chef of the President. One night, her house is broken into. She is told that she has to do something or else her life is at stake and she can tell no one. Enter Spencer, White House hottie, who also is a secret service agent. Elle decides to confide in him her secret and the story takes off from there! But can the secret stay safe within the White House walls or will it make Elle be in more danger?
The chemistry between Spencer and Elle is hot! Spencer likes a whole lot more than the cookies Elle bakes. I enjoyed the banter between the characters, the hot moments, and the sweet moments. They definitely are a great book couple and won their way into my heart.
The story was face paced and I could not put it down. I love when a story progresses well and nothing is left out. I would love to see a Taste 2.0 :)
If you are looking for a new book to get lost in, grab some milk and cookies, and start reading Taste today!
The story is a great romantic suspense that will keep you turning the pages. Taste introduces us to Elle, the personal chef of the President. One night, her house is broken into. She is told that she has to do something or else her life is at stake and she can tell no one. Enter Spencer, White House hottie, who also is a secret service agent. Elle decides to confide in him her secret and the story takes off from there! But can the secret stay safe within the White House walls or will it make Elle be in more danger?
The chemistry between Spencer and Elle is hot! Spencer likes a whole lot more than the cookies Elle bakes. I enjoyed the banter between the characters, the hot moments, and the sweet moments. They definitely are a great book couple and won their way into my heart.
The story was face paced and I could not put it down. I love when a story progresses well and nothing is left out. I would love to see a Taste 2.0 :)
If you are looking for a new book to get lost in, grab some milk and cookies, and start reading Taste today!
August 18, 2014
My Sunday read, this was my first from this author and I have to say is why did it take me this long to start this series?! Idk but now I'm going devour this series. I enjoyed the mystery and the twist of this story so much. The alpha and take charge of Spencer.
May 15, 2016
Loved it! Elle has a task to do but it's forced and illegal. Can secret service hunk, Spencer, protect her? Can he keep Elle safe along with her family and career? A fantastic read!
April 12, 2020
Taste was the 9th book in Cambria’s Take It Off Series but the 4th book in the 2nd Box Set. It was again a fast paced, sexy, suspenseful read. To me this one was a little more plausible since they had been flirting for awhile and because of that, I enjoyed it a lot more! (Not that I haven’t enjoyed the rest)
Elle kept moving her way through the culinary world until she landed an amazing job at the White House. But with her prestigious job came more unexpected and dangerous hazards.
Spencer was part of the secret service who had his eye on Elle and enjoyed eating her freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. He wanted more but wasn’t sure how to go about asking until she came to work battered and bruised. He made it his mission to protect her but would they figure out who was behind it all before it was too late?
The action kept me enthralled the entire time and Spencer and Elle were perfection! I loved that he drove a mustang 😜 It was a fantastic read for a rainy day!
Elle kept moving her way through the culinary world until she landed an amazing job at the White House. But with her prestigious job came more unexpected and dangerous hazards.
Spencer was part of the secret service who had his eye on Elle and enjoyed eating her freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. He wanted more but wasn’t sure how to go about asking until she came to work battered and bruised. He made it his mission to protect her but would they figure out who was behind it all before it was too late?
The action kept me enthralled the entire time and Spencer and Elle were perfection! I loved that he drove a mustang 😜 It was a fantastic read for a rainy day!
January 29, 2022
Elle was so frustrating. She was way too insecure and constantly made bad decisions which annoyed me. The constant whining annoyed me too. Spencer was okay but there wasn’t much information about him. I would’ve preferred a dual POV so I didn’t have to read Elle’s thoughts the whole time.
This book follows the running theme of this series, it starts off okay but the plot quickly becomes super unrealistic by adding an excessive amount of dangerous scenes. The danger is resolved but there’s no real fallout/repercussions of the traumatic experiences because the author quickly skips to a rushed epilogue. These books required more depth.
This book follows the running theme of this series, it starts off okay but the plot quickly becomes super unrealistic by adding an excessive amount of dangerous scenes. The danger is resolved but there’s no real fallout/repercussions of the traumatic experiences because the author quickly skips to a rushed epilogue. These books required more depth.
April 20, 2021
Loved it!!
I loved Taste! It was absolutely amazing.
This Secret Service Suspense Story had me absolutely stumped, and that never happens.
Spencer is a hunky secret service agent looking to help the beautiful Elle who works as the first families chef at the White House.
I loved how fast paced this story was, things were constantly happening. There was never a dull moment. It was exciting, it was dangerous, and it was charming. A beautifully written story, definitely five star worthy!
I loved Taste! It was absolutely amazing.
This Secret Service Suspense Story had me absolutely stumped, and that never happens.
Spencer is a hunky secret service agent looking to help the beautiful Elle who works as the first families chef at the White House.
I loved how fast paced this story was, things were constantly happening. There was never a dull moment. It was exciting, it was dangerous, and it was charming. A beautifully written story, definitely five star worthy!
April 13, 2022
Spenser and Elle
This is probably one of the first Cambria Herbert books I’ve read where it’s not insta love. Yes the contents of the book happen pretty fast and even the Love realization happens fast but Spenser and Elle have known each other for a year and we’re friends first as well as flirted for a year. It was refreshing to read something a bit different instead of her normal insta love books. I am also partial to Men who become stepdads as my own husband took my oldest as his own. I did catch at least one typo but it’s well written and a great storyline.
This is probably one of the first Cambria Herbert books I’ve read where it’s not insta love. Yes the contents of the book happen pretty fast and even the Love realization happens fast but Spenser and Elle have known each other for a year and we’re friends first as well as flirted for a year. It was refreshing to read something a bit different instead of her normal insta love books. I am also partial to Men who become stepdads as my own husband took my oldest as his own. I did catch at least one typo but it’s well written and a great storyline.
February 22, 2024
Interesting plot. I am glad that the writer gave Elle some common sense and she was able to ask for help from Spencer. I was able to get past some of the profanity but wished authors didn't feel the need to have such abundance of foul language. "I was really going to have to speak to him about his foul mouth especially if he was going to spend time around Jack" is a quote from Elle about her son's exposure to such language.
I will not put her on my "Never to Read Again Author" YET but will be cautious about her writings in the future.
I will not put her on my "Never to Read Again Author" YET but will be cautious about her writings in the future.
February 21, 2024
Not Engaging-Not for me…
I actually DNF’d at 9%. The mystery/suspense plot had issues from the start-not plausible. The flow was rather choppy and chaotic, as well. I just wasn’t engaged…Maybe someone would have more patience than I did, and find that the story evolves to include a “sit on the edge of your seat” mystery, but there was no initial “hook,” so I gave up. Not for me, but it might work for you.
I actually DNF’d at 9%. The mystery/suspense plot had issues from the start-not plausible. The flow was rather choppy and chaotic, as well. I just wasn’t engaged…Maybe someone would have more patience than I did, and find that the story evolves to include a “sit on the edge of your seat” mystery, but there was no initial “hook,” so I gave up. Not for me, but it might work for you.
February 7, 2024
-suspenseful until the end, never gave a hint on who could have been the person wanting her dead
-this book is apart of a 9??? book series, but each book can be read as a standalone and that is what I decided to do. As of right now I don’t seem myself reading any of the other books in the series.
-quick read
-this book is apart of a 9??? book series, but each book can be read as a standalone and that is what I decided to do. As of right now I don’t seem myself reading any of the other books in the series.
-quick read
March 25, 2024
Cookies, whipped cream and chocolate sauce
I loved this story. The only downside was it was too short. The storyline was good, the characters were all good. The chemistry between Elle and Spencer was perfect. I do love a hot secret service agent. There was violence, drama, suspense and lots of sexy scenes and cookies.
I loved this story. The only downside was it was too short. The storyline was good, the characters were all good. The chemistry between Elle and Spencer was perfect. I do love a hot secret service agent. There was violence, drama, suspense and lots of sexy scenes and cookies.
July 19, 2017
Swooning For Spencer
A yummy Secret Service agent addicted to Elle's cookies. I love Spencer!! Taste was such a good book! Heart pounding addictive (like Spencer's cookies!) I love that I was guessing "who done it" right up till the big reveal. Great book!!
A yummy Secret Service agent addicted to Elle's cookies. I love Spencer!! Taste was such a good book! Heart pounding addictive (like Spencer's cookies!) I love that I was guessing "who done it" right up till the big reveal. Great book!!
July 11, 2019
Excellent
Loved the plot line and romance also getting to know the characters Spence and ell e and don't forget Jack adorable. Funny sexy and romance fighting for justice and afterwards you fall in love with cookies 🍪and of course spence
Loved the plot line and romance also getting to know the characters Spence and ell e and don't forget Jack adorable. Funny sexy and romance fighting for justice and afterwards you fall in love with cookies 🍪and of course spence
March 3, 2024
CW: violence, gun violence
I really enjoyed Spencer and Elle. I liked the way Spencer was so gone for her. The mystery was well done. I had some suspicions about who was behind it all. The clues were well done.
I really enjoyed Spencer and Elle. I liked the way Spencer was so gone for her. The mystery was well done. I had some suspicions about who was behind it all. The clues were well done.
June 7, 2024
5 ⭐️
Oh, I liked this one! I loved Spencer, he was a perfect mix of playful and possessive. And I loved how he instantly hot a connection to Jack. That epilogue was so sweet! I also liked Elle, and how protective she was over Jack. She went through a lot but I think she came out stronger on the other side.
Oh, I liked this one! I loved Spencer, he was a perfect mix of playful and possessive. And I loved how he instantly hot a connection to Jack. That epilogue was so sweet! I also liked Elle, and how protective she was over Jack. She went through a lot but I think she came out stronger on the other side.
July 4, 2017
3.5 Stars
June 5, 2018
I loved the way Spencer loved Elle’s Jack 😍😍
July 17, 2018
Elle, Spencer and Jack
Loved this one it is near my favourite one of this series. Spencer is just such a gentleman when it come to Elle and Jack
Loved this one it is near my favourite one of this series. Spencer is just such a gentleman when it come to Elle and Jack
February 25, 2021
Predictable, yet is sexy, has action and is enjoyable
April 6, 2021
Great story and characters. Lots of suspense and heat between the characters. First I've read of this author, and look forward to more.
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