Fiancée for Hire

Front and Center #2

by Tawna Fenske

A satisfying category romance from Entangled's brand new Lovestruck imprint…

Former Marine MacArthur Patton has made a small fortune on top-secret government contracts and black-ops missions, but his new assignment involves something more dangerous—marriage.

Well, fake marriage anyway.

To keep weapons out of the hands of terrorists, Mac has to secure a fiancée. A sweet, demure, compliant fiancée to serve as his arm candy for a few weeks while he completes the covert arms deal in Mexico. His sister claims to know just the woman, and sends her best friend to play the role.

"Sweet" and "demure" aren't in Kelli Landers's repertoire. A badass veterinarian who neuters big dogs and bigger men on a regular basis, she can't wait to bring Mr. Tall-Dark-and-Detached to his knees. Her longtime crush on the commitment-phobe makes her plan to seduce him even sweeter.

Love wasn't part of the plan, but the deeper Mac and Kelli fall into their ruse, the more danger they attract, until more than just their hearts are on the line…

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Military Fiction, Adult, Humor, Romantic Suspense

225 pages, ebook

First published July 21, 2014

About the author

When Tawna Fenske finished her English lit degree at 22, she celebrated by filling a giant trash bag full of romance novels and dragging it everywhere until she’d read them all. Now she’s a RITA Award finalist, USA Today bestselling author who writes humorous fiction, risqué romance, and heartwarming love stories with a quirky twist. Publishers Weekly has praised Tawna’s offbeat romances with multiple starred reviews and noted, “There’s something wonderfully relaxing about being immersed in a story filled with over-the-top characters in undeniably relatable situations. Heartache and humor go hand in hand.”

Tawna lives in Bend, Oregon, with her husband, step-kids, and a menagerie of ill-behaved pets. She loves hiking, snowshoeing, standup paddleboarding, and inventing excuses to sip wine on her back porch. She can peel a banana with her toes and loses an average of twenty pairs of eyeglasses per year. To find out more about Tawna and her books, visit www.tawnafenske.com.

Reviews

[• Lisa • · Rating 3 out of 5]

THREE LOVE ME STARS.

"He was big and powerful and sexy as hell, and everything she'd fantasized about for years."



This is now my second book by this author and it's fairly obvious that, Tawna Fenske loves to have fun with her story telling and characters. This novel is a fantastic blend of romance, comedy and light suspense. I doubt there will be many readers who won't have a giggle or two throughout this storyline and I can't say I had many complaints about the sexual tension and steamy love scenes either.

Finance for hire wasn't winning any awards for plot originality but what it did provide was a quirky tale of love between a feisty veterinarian and a serious but equally sexy former marine. I've been on the lookout for this story ever since meeting them in book one of this series so I was glad to see that this couple were as entertaining and easy to read about as I had imagined. The sexual tension and comedy value was delivered by the pageful and for such a short book I think the author developed the characters well. There were moments in the book were I was laughing over the antics of the characters and all I can say is that this author has a vivid imagination when she is planning her characters frolics. Overall this was a very likeable story where I fell a little in love with a sassy heroine and a lot in love with a very tempting ex marine. Those in need of a far fetched escape will not be disappointed.

Why not five?
I appreciated that the author was going for a more suspenseful feel with her story telling but some of the drama was far fetched and laughable rather than seriously alarming. Unfortunately it had an eye roll worthy feel to it instead of shocking or thrilling and I felt like there was too many themes squeezed into one short tale as they say 'sometimes less is more'. However I can't deny that I wasn't entertained by this funny, sexy tale of opposites attract and I'll most certainly be on the look out for more from this author.

Final thoughts ...
Tawna Fenske is a love struck author with bags of talent who writes book that I'll always be happy to read. If you want something likeable and easy to read with plenty of saucy, some heartfelt moments, suspense on the light side complete with a happy ending then 'Fiancé for hire' maybe just the book for you. I certainly enjoyed my time reading this short story and I happily got my love struck fix ... Go grab it readers, enjoy. Kisses.



*ARC generously provided by entangled publishing in exchange for an honest review.*

[Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Laugh Out Loud Stars

You'll be well compensated for your time if you're willing to play the fiancee role for a few weeks. You just need to be compliant, soft-spoken, beautiful, sweet, demure, and drama-free."
Kelli raised an eyebrow. "You're aware you just gave a complete list of antonyms for my personality."

If you're looking for a sexy and fun read that will put a smile on your face from page one and have you laughing throughout the entire book, YOU. NEED. TO. READ. THIS.

Ever since I first met Mac and Kelli in Marine for Hire, I have been curious to get my hands on their story. All I knew is I hoped that it would be Kelli that got matched up with Mac because she was the perfectly OPPOSITE everything to Mac's serious personality. I was also a little worried, since Kelli is extremely outspoken and very blunt that she would come across as brash in her own book. It is a very fine line between confident and outspoken and just brash. I shouldn't have been worried in the least. Tawna Fenske not only wrote an awesome heroine, she blew it out of the water for me.

(Considering the whole thing read like the very best romantic comedy, I couldn't get the mental picture of Kate out of my mind as I read this, so that's what you get LOL)
When Mac needs a fiance for a cover for an operation he's currently on, his loving sister is quick to volunteer her best friend. Payback is a bitch, huh Mac? Veterinarian Kelli has had a crush on Mac since she was just little, but she's certainly not looking for a relationship. Her childhood has pretty much guaranteed that. Too bad Mac doesn't even know she exists...yet.

I think Mac is vaguely aware you exists, but only as the pigtailed friend of his baby sister. He kinda hasn't been around much since we were kids.
"Absence makes the crotch grow fonder."

Some hot sex, though? Sign her right up. She has no qualms about seducing Mr. Hottie McFrowny.

I love that Ms. Fenske took a step away from the typical 'hero falls for the younger sibling's best friend' trope. You know the one I'm talking about; the hero pines for the heroine but her being the younger sister's best friend, she's off limits. You definitely won't find that here. Mac doesn't remember Kelli enough from the past to even give it a second thought. And Kelli? Well Kelli makes her intentions for Mac very clear to her best friend.

Will Mac throw in a ride on a white stallion before we trot into the sunset to make beautiful babies and live happily ever after?"
"You're allergic to horses, afraid of babies, and horrified by commitment."
"Will I at least get to bang your brother?"

Oh Kelli, THAT you are certainly NOT. But I love you for it.

Super serious, eyes only for the mission Mac definitely didn't see her coming

How much adoration are we talking about?"
"I beg your pardon?"
"Adoration." Kelli looked up at him and smiled. "Am I looking at you like I appreciate the fact that you pulled my chair out at dinner, or like you pulled my hair while doing me against the wall."

But don't worry, he's very well equipped to handle all that is Kelli.

You'll have to suspend your disbelief with some parts of the suspense and action in the story. I would have loved a little more from that end, but I loved the rest of the book so much that I barely batted an eyelash at it. Plus Tawna managed to throw a twist at the end that I didn't see coming and that made it THAT much better.

Mac and Kelli's budding romance is what truly stole the show for me

I was curious to know exactly what happened to him to make him so focused on protecting everyone around him, and it was truly heartbreaking when it was revealed. I really just couldn't get enough of these two. And when they finally do get together? Whew. Hot hot hot.

So what happens when a woman terrified of abandonment falls for a man that's hell bent on never staying with anyone? Guess you'll have to read to find out. One thing I can promise you is that you're going to love every minute of it ;)

***ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest revew***

For more reviews visit

[*J* Too Many Books Too Little Time · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5--Fake Fiancée--Stars!!

Just an FYI, I didn't read the first book in the series, and I didn't feel like I missed anything by going straight in to this one.

Kelli gets propositioned by her BFF, Sheri, to be her brother Mac's fiancée for hire. He's a fancy shmancy military guy and for his latest operation he needs a fiancée.

"You just need to be compliant, soft-spoken, beautiful, sweet, sure and drama-free."
"You're aware you just gave a complete list of antonyms for my personality."

So Mac and Kelli take off for Mexico for two weeks to pretend to be engaged. And pretty quickly Mac discovers Kelli isn't the sweet girl he thought she was.

“I asked for a Stepford wife and you sent me a goddamn hellcat.”

Kelli's always crushed on Mac but Mac pretty much ignored Kelli....along with every other human being. Mac's rather detached when it comes to personal relationships and emotions.

But a fake engagement means having to fake attraction and intimacty. But let me tell you there was nothing fake about what went on between Mac and Kelli.



But now we have mother's and brother's involved, lines are getting blurry and things are getting hot and heavy. We have two people so against commitment it's not even funny.

"Wasn’t that a recipe for a broken heart? A woman terrified of abandonment falling for a guy hell-bent on never staying with anyone."

What happens when the mission is complete? Do they go their separate ways? Admit how they feel about each other? Give things a shot?

I really loved both Mac and Kelli! Great MCs! I thought the end was a little out there. But overall, another perfect light, sexy, fun read...with a splash of suspense!

[Syndi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am surprise to like this book more than I expected. It is funny, witty and light romance reading. I especially Kellie. Usually it is the hero who is allergic to commitment. But in this book, it is actually the hero and the heroine stay away from commitment. And it is very refreshing. Plus Kellie is quirky, witty and sassy.

Kellie agrees to play fake fiancee to Mac. Mac is undercover bringing down terrorist. There is that insta lust at the beginning of the book. The characters chemistry can be explored more. But the rest of this book, story/ plot, characters banter are very entertaining.

Overall I do enjoy this book very much.

4 stars

[Geri Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 hilarious stars!

Okay. So I had to suspend my disbelief that a woman who is against marriage as Kelli would agree to be a fake fiancee to a bossy former marine Mac. The whole "cover" thing was a little lame but I'm chalking it up to me being nit-picky with details. Plus, the fact she had been crushing on him forever but silly me, I thought that would have sent her running the opposite direction but no.

In spite of that, I really, really enjoyed this book. Full of humor and low on angst. This is the kind of book you would pick up if you just want something fun and light.

Kelli is great! She's funny and competent. Mac is a perfect foil for her. He's bossy, controlling and as afraid of commitment as she is. But as they spend more time together as fake couple, the more they found out how much they have in common. They were hilarious together.

So why not a full four? Again, the details. I thought Mac had to go down South of the border to negotiate an arms deal and Kelli goes with him acting as fiancee. But then as the story moves along, Kelli is back performing surgeries on animals in her clinic like she was back in her home town and Mac...I couldn't figure out where Mac came from. He just appeared. Yes, he's supposed to be the brother of Kelli's best friend but I have no context about where he's based from.

But other than that, this was a pretty solid read. I would have loved more context and believability though. :)

ARC provided by NetGalley.

[Jacob Proffitt · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is second in a series and fingerprints from the first are all over it. I didn't have any trouble even though I haven't read the first, though, so skipping to this one works fine.

While I like the protagonists well enough (both individually and together), both are a huge pile of negative motivation* and that's killing the plot dead all over the place. Worse, though, their motivations are grounded in really stupid backstory events that are belied by practically everything else in the story. Kelli's abandonment issues feel randomly selective given that she has several extremely steady and reliable life-long connections (both in her bff Sheri and Sheri's mother who was a mothering presence since Kelli was five). So going the whole "loving others leads to losing them" is both hollow and idiotic.

Mac's fear of not having control is even worse. It supposedly arises from an event when he was five (I just now realized this fetishization of trauma to five year-olds) where a cousin was harmed and he "failed to stop it". He was five. He is no longer five and should know better. And that's before you get to having a supposed military career that somehow didn't drill his need to be master of everything/everybody out of him at some point. Yeah, the military is about control, but it's also bound to its hierarchy and having someone who can't stand being second-in-command just does not work even a little bit. Also, the bodyguards he arranges for Kelli are strangely incompetent and he's apparently okay with that. Oh, and the US has not and never will have a policy of purchasing illegal weapons on the black market to prevent the bad guys from having them. That's because a) they have at least a rudimentary knowledge of supply and demand and upping the demand is a really bad way to limit supply and b) that'd take a boatload of money that they'd have a really, really hard time explaining to their oversight committees (and/or media watchdogs who would eventually land on that policy like gleeful vultures on a three-week dead carcass).

Anyway, I liked the protagonists when they weren't cluttering up the place with their nonsensical backgrounds. It's too bad so much of the plot was the nonsensical backgrounds...

* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.

[Sam I AMNreader · Rating 2 out of 5]

It only took me until the second book to realize this family is all named after famous generals, brilliant student of military history and strategy that I am*

In my defense, heh, I don't know if Sheri (Sheridan's) maiden name was ever mentioned or used, and I'm not sure when they first called Mac MacArthur, but it really clicked when their mom strolled on the scene and I realized her last name was Patton. --FACEPALM- Then Grant rolled on the scene. So yeah

Does this feel in your face? Because the book is much more in your face. Just FYI.

*Almost nothing is less true than this.

This is a pretty solid review. I'm proud of it.

[Nicola · Rating 5 out of 5]

Those books that make you cry laughing? This is one of them. I laughed my socks off at the exquisite perfect dry humour that Tawna Fenske has injected into Fiancée for Hire. And balance the humour with romance, fun, action, passion, emotion and a couple who have a fabulous chemistry and you get the full package.

MacArthur Patton is a mysterious, shade-wearing, protector of a man. Ex-military, his work is classified, but his latest job requires a wife...which he doesn't have. Enter Kelli Flanders, Veterinarian and his sister's best friend. The younger sister who thinks her overbearing big bro deserves a little payback (read Marine for Hire, the first book in the series to discover why). She knows Kelli has had a crush on Mac for a fair few years and suggests she be the perfect candidate. Mac needs sweet and demure and Kelli is as far removed from that as you could get. He needs keeping on his toes...



I loved them as individuals and together. Kelli is hilarious, she's quick, witty and so matter of fact. With no airs and graces, she calls it as it and was a character after my own heart. Mac is also a witty guy but he's like an M&M; all tough on the outside but underneath is a delicious tasty delight. Their chemistry is realistic, natural and fun, but there are more serious undertones as to why they are the people they are and I whilst laughed heartily at their banter, when the more serious stuff came my heart ached for them. And their intimate moments had me leaping between laughing and fanning myself as both Kelli and Mac are naughty.

Fun, feel-good romance at it finest, Fiancée for Hire was an absolute joy to read. The Lovestruck imprint has wooed me, won me over so far and this is a stellar addition. And with two more Patton siblings (who incidentally are all named after US Generals, the penny finally dropped for me!), I can't wait to see what shenanigans Tawna Fenske creates for them.



Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion

[Janey · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Love spuds stars..

ARC generously provided by entangled publishing in exchange for an honest review..

Having enjoyed Tawna’s writing voice in Marine for Hire, I was excited to dip into this book, the next in the series.

It centred on MacArthur Patton, a former Marine, and brother of Sheridan, who we had met in Marine for Hire. He had played Mr Elusive, Mr Tall, Dark and Completely-Detached-from-Humankind, so the opportunity to lift his sunglasses and peer inside was most welcome. (He may not have smoked, but I love this pic of The Pitt, and he was in front of my eyes whilst I read it 8-))



Kelli Landers had always had a soft spot for Mac the aloof, given her long term friendship with Sheridan. Everyone in the Patton family had noticed her lustful eyes, except Mac. The Veterinarian was a gutsy chic, who contained more spunk than the truckload of balls she had lopped from unknowing canine and feline patients.

Mac was drafted onto a new assignment that required him to be married, and his sister, Sheri, suggested her best friend was the ideal candidate to play the part. But Kelli’s persona was in complete contrast to what Mac had anticipated for this job..

I thoroughly enjoyed this humorous, endearing, steamy read, creating a number of LOL moments for me. It was great to see Mac slowly shirking his seriousness, alongside Kelli and her smart, unique mouth. I ate this story up very quickly, enjoying the more serious and suspenseful elements too. Loved it!

[Lexy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought that this book was good

[Reanell Tisdale · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Sweet & Sassy Stars!

This book is an absolute must read! I laughed so much in this short story! Kelli is an amazing character and it was easy connecting to her. Mac, now he is quite scrumptious! Kelli is a veterinarian who puts her heart and soul into the animals. A childhood filled with disappointment causes her as an adult to shy away from relationships for fear of abandonment. Mac also had something tragic happen as a child and he uses his protectiveness of people he cares about to out weigh forming relationships. So you get 2 peas in a pod.

Sheri(Mac's sister) contacts Kelli and informs her that her brother is in need of a fake fiancé for a mission he is in, and that she would be perfect for the job. Kelli lusted after Mac for years but he never "saw" her, she was just the little sisters friend. But when Kelli finds out where she is required to go it seals the deal for her. She had wanted to start up a clinic for all the over-populated feral cats in that area.

When Mac and Kelli finally meet up after years of not seeing each other, sparks fly. But of course this is just a business deal for both of them. They both fear the unknown with real relationships so this is the best deal for both involved. What happens when both fight the feelings over-taking them? PURE PERFECTION. Seriously, all the banter between these two had me in stitches. Kelli was not one to be pushed. She pushed right back ten-fold! And there are several scenes that are going to stick in my head forever. One being about lizard genitalia.....trust me its hilarious!

The sex in this book is off the charts! The foreplay is also high on the charts. The closet scene....sweet jesus I needed a change of panties with that one.

If your looking for something short, funny, sexy and laugh out loud funny you have found the perfect read.

[Court · Rating 3 out of 5]

Third person, Dual-POV, HAE. Can be read as standalone.

"Maybe between your broken pieces and my broken pieces, we can find a way to fit everything together and make something whole."

I'm such a hoe for military/ex-military heroes.

And Mac was a great one. A little withdrawn, always focusing on the protection of others and the mission at hand, and a commitment-phobe like our heroine, Kelli.

Mac is the brother of Kelli's best friend. Hired by the government for privately contracted jobs, he's used to a life of little to no personal connections. When he's tasked to venture to Mexico to purchase guns from a known gun runner, he realizes that in order to get on the terrorist's good side, he'll have to convince him that he's not interested in his girlfriend. A woman he'd slept with previously. So, he concocts a plan - he tells the man that he's engaged.

Needing to hire a fiancee who's sweet and demure, his sister offers up her best friend (knowing damn well she's none of those things). He's known her since childhood, but never really gave her a real look before.

Kelli, however, has lusted after Mac since forever. The "faking" portion of the deal won't be too hard to maneuver.

Suddenly, they're both in Mexico, up to their knees in fake wedding plans and some unexpected visits from his mother and everything is starting to feel a little too real.

"I hereby solemnly swear I shall not fall in love. Neither rain nor sleet nor snow-"
"Are you making a vow or joining the Postal Service."

It was fun to watch two people so uninterested in forming attachments realize that maybe they were just waiting for each other.

Heat could have been turned up, in my opinion. The humor made up for it, though.

'Til next time cuties ;)

[Anne OK · Rating 4 out of 5]

LMAO! Oh my gosh -- I had the best kind of fun reading this hilariously funny and enticing story. My first book by Tawna Fenske set the bar high and I can't wait to read more. She definitely knows how to write the fun stuff and the sizzle and steam, too!

[Cyndi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute little love story. Mac needs a demure, sweet little fiancee as a cover story. When his sister recommends her best friend he agrees to take a look at her. What he sees is a tiny blond with a quick smile. He barely remembers her as a child dashing about with his baby sister.
What he doesn’t see is that she’s a tough, smart little veterinarian. She’s used to wrestling dobermans so wrestling with the man she’s been crushing on her whole life is a breeze.
They both want it to be temporary. She just wants to finally get him in the sack and he just wants to prevent an arms deal. What they get is what makes this story so adorable.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Warning: do not read this book in public unless you are willing to be subjected to odd looks and stares due to the following, giggles, snorts, guffaws, heated cheeks, feeling flushed, squirming and a smile from ear to ear.

This is what you possibly could be subjected to while reading Tawna Fenske's newest book. I can attest to all of the above and I'm not ashamed to admit it.

Here’s an example “ I may look like a cabbage patch kid doll, but you should know I have a pump-action shot gun, a black belt in karate and a vibrator that doubles as a jackhammer.”

This is the second book in the Front and Centre series and as much as I loved the first book, this may well be my favourite of the two. How could it not be when it’s crammed full of euphemisms for balls. Yes dear reader, you read right and each one will have you giggling like a twelve year old.

If you have read Marine for Hire you will be familiar with Mac and Kelli and if not, get to it quick smart. You must read Sam & Sheri’s book.

I loved Mac. It was so much fun to see him unravel and lose the stick up his butt. He didn’t stand a chance of remaining his old serious self when Kelli stepped into his life. And especially not after a hot encounter in the closet.

Now Kelli is my favourite type of heroine. One not shy about going after what she wants and she wants Mac. Not that I blame her. She’s tough, strong and determined. And she has a naughty side that sets Mac on fire.

The chemistry between Mac and Kelli is super strong and when they give in whew, my kindle started to heat up. Okay I was laughing at the same time and when you read it you will know why. Its gives new meaning to term voyeuristic.

“You seriously must have a G-Spot magnet in that thing”

Throw in an arms deal, a meddling sister/best friend, a surprise visit from Mac’s mother that brought tears to my eyes more than once and for different reasons and a brother who needs to get his own HEA. With all this you get another hit from one of my favourite authors.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review.

[Kelly at · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review will be posted at www.books-n-kisses.com .

NUMBER OF HEARTS: 4 1/2
REVIEW:
Loved, loved, loved this book!! Finally a lead female has my name!!!! Now granted Tawna had to change the y to an i so that no one would suspect she based the character off me. Wait? What? You didn’t? Well dang.
Any ways. Loved Kelli in book one, LOVED her in this book. I mean really how can you not love this girl. She is all sweet, proper and demure. Well that is until she starts talking or taking control of in her element of cutting the nuts of things.
Mac, oh Mac... Loved him in book one too. And just knew that Mac & Kelli’s story would be epicly hot. And Tawna delivered. I so want to give you the dirty deets but you need to pick up a copy of Fiancée for Hire and find out what I am talking about.
If you are looking for a fun quick read you need to pick up this book!!

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley & Entangled Publishing LLC. in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

[Stephanie* · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 SUPER SEXY stars

Kelli & Mac's story. Mac is an undercover military man who is working on catching a certain arms dealer, Zapata. He needs a fake fiancee to take with him to Mexico to help negotiate the deals since his ex, Griselda, is currently married to Zapata, said arms dealer. You still with me here? Okay, so his sister (being the good sister she is) helps him chose a female to become his fake fiancee and she picks one of her best childhood friends Kelli. Kelli has had a crush on her best friends older brother, Mac, since she can remember. And so their story begins.

This one was chuck full of...



Once you think things are going to get all hot and heavy....the heroine has another idea. Teach me your ways, Kelli...



And when we finally get to the sex!



We get to see their relationship progress which is quite entertaining. I seriously LOVED the humor and Kelli was a kick ass heroine. Like I stated before, lots of sexy times in this one. We also get to see some action mixed in which caused me to be at the edge of my seat a few times.

And just when things are starting to look up for Mac & Kelli...

The MC's are betrayed and double crossed by someone involved in the arms deal negotiations.



Someone gets tied up and then shot up.



And that ending....

"Maybe between your broken pieces and my broken pieces, we can find a way to fit everything together and make something whole."



My only complaint....

I wanted to keep reading...this book was way to short and needed to be, like this long.



I REALLY enjoyed the humor in this story and I would like to state that I am never going to look at another lizard/tegu the same EVER again!



I will admit that I even googled pictures...quite interesting, really! Tegu's have hemipenes, so they technically have two penises. Don't believe me, just google the pictures yourself.. I didn't realize that shit could prolapse....YIKES!

This was a fun and quick read, I don't think you'll be disappointed! I laughed out loud and was biting my nails! I look forward to reading more from this author!

HIGH FIVE, TAWNA!

[Kathleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance

Story Rating ~ 4 Stars
Hero Rating ~ 4 Stars
Heroine Rating ~ 5 Stars
Romance Rating ~ 5 Stars
Heat Level ~ 4 Stars
Ending ~ 4 Stars
Overall Rating ~ 4.5 Stars

This was my first read by Tawna Fenske and what a good read it was! Fiancée for Hire had a little bit of everything - all rolled together made this a VERY good read.

The storyline was interesting all the way through, making it hard for me to put this book down. It had some REALLY funny moments throughout making me chuckle many times. Also the heroine, Kelli, is a veterinarian and I could tell that Tawna did extensive research in this area making it all very believable.

My favorite character was Kelli. She was one FANTASTIC heroine. She was smart, sassy, brave and she always had the perfect comeback, making the banter with the hero, Mac, something quite special. She also had an excellent backstory filled with angst, which tugged on my heartstrings.

Mac, the hero, also had a good backstory which explains why he stayed away from any emotional long-term relationships. He was ONE SEXY KICK BUTT HERO, always trying to protect and keep everyone safe.

We get the chance to meet some wonderful secondary characters, too. Grant, Mac’s brother, was DELICIOUS and I’m hoping that Tawna is planning to write his story next. Then there was Mac’s mother; she was a force to be reckoned with and added a lot of humor, which I thoroughly enjoyed.

This book was VERY SENSUAL! Just the sexual teasing these two shared had me all hot and bothered, add in the love/sex scenes and I was ready to COMBUST!

There was also some suspense and action added in. I loved reading this part of the story! It started just when I felt the story needed a bit more interest thrown in. I only wish Tawna had carried the action scene a bit further and letting us experience what went on between Mac and the villain, instead of Mac telling us quickly after all was said and done. This is my only complaint and it’s a very small one.

There was no epilogue in the end but, I have to be honest, this book didn’t really need one. It ended on a very good note with a happy ending and everything tied up wonderfully.

Overall, this was a really fun and steamy read. I highly recommend Fiancée for Hire to any contemporary romance fans. I’m sure you would enjoy it, too.

Special note: This is book 2 in a series but can be easily read as a standalone.

*A copy was provided by the published in exchange for an honest review*

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Slick‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

5 STARS

Review copy provided for an honest review


Gawd, I loved this book three times over and the more I read Tawna Fenske the more I appreciate her writing style and her humor; she is seriously giving Jill Shalvis a run for the money when it comes to making me laugh out loud as I read. I loved watching these two commitment phobic people fall fast and hard for one another as they navigate through the danger of a black-ops mission while pretending to be engaged and planning a wedding. I don’t know who was more surprised the heroine realizing her best friend’s big brother that she’s always lusted after is kind, considerate, and highly protective or the hero realizing his little sister’s best friend is sexy, adventurous, and knows how to use a scalpel well.
MacArthur (Mac) Patton needs a wife and fast…well not a real wife but one for a mission he’s heading up so his sister suggests her friend Kelli Landers. Mac kind of remembers Kelli and since he’s running short on time decides to give it a whirl. Finding out she has the same views on commitment and marriage plus her background check is clear makes her the perfect candidate. Kelli doesn’t have to think too hard on accepting Mac’s “proposal” because she’s lusted after him for years and hopes if nothing else she’ll finally get a chance to get into his pants. He thinks he’s getting sweet and demure but soon finds out he’s getting a smart, sassy, fiery hellcat.
These two were simply perfect for each other; I loved the way they could tease each other into frenzy, the way they could find sexual innuendo in everything, and they way they were able to open up and share things with one another they’d never shared before. I also hurt for them; for the events in their past that have affected them so deeply that they think they don’t want love in their lives. So it was no wonder they both fought what they were feeling and refused to acknowledge it immediately or the fact that Mac proved to be just as stubborn if not more so than his siblings and mother felt he was.
Fiancée for Hire will make your laugh, heat your up, and warm your heart and with each book I read by author Tawna Fenske I’m so glad I took a chance on her because her books make me smile and remind me why I love to read so much.

[LJT · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you like books about fake engagements and the best friend's older brother trope? In Fiancée for Hire by Tawna Fenske, you get them both, along with a little suspense, intrigue, and a hot couple that discovers love in the middle of a battlefield.

Mac Patton is a former marine that has made a small fortune using his military prowess to covertly protect the innocent from terrorist organizations throughout the world. He is good looking, smart, and has witnessed a ton of savagery in his lifetime. Now he needs a sweet and modest bride to ensure the success of his present assignment in Mexico. He asks his sister to help him find a woman that will keep his secrets and serve as his fake fiancee for a few weeks. His sister sends her best friend to help him out.

Veterinarian Kelli Landers has had a crush on Mac since she was a young girl, so being his fiancee for a few weeks is not a hardship. Besides, in her spare time she can neuter the cat population, which just happens to be out of control in the area that she will be portraying the doting bride-to-be. In addition, Kelli wants Mac in her bed, and she has no qualms about using her sexuality to seduce him. She is a far cry from sweet and modest.

Mac and Kelli are great characters. To begin with, Kelli is a strong heroine that can take care of herself. Her surgical skills are second to none and Ms. Fenske does a wonderful job of combining humor and laughter with the task of neutering. Kelli and a scalpel, perfect together. Mac is a slightly dangerous guy that carries the weight of the world on his shoulders. His constant astonishment about Kelli's job and accomplishments is truly palpable.

This is a well written book that keeps you engaged from beginning to end. The story is nicely paced and the characters are well developed and likeable. Although this is book two in Ms. Fenske's Front and Center series, it can be read as a standalone. However, book one, Marine for Hire, is really good, so you may want to check it out.

Complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Sienna Logan (Lost to Books) · Rating 5 out of 5]

More reviews at http://losttobooks.blogspot.co

When I requested both books in this series from NetGalley this was the one that interested me most. I knew they were standalones with a slight link but I wanted to read them in order so I had to wait a little longer to get to this book, which wasn't a bad thing as Marine for Hire was a great read. However, I definitely liked this book more and it didn't disappoint at all--even when I set my expectations so high.

Fiancée for Hire was fun, dangerous, exciting and hot. I loved Kelli's personality and how she was a tease. She was funny but also had a hint of vulnerability about her that helped you connect with her on a personal level. As well as this I loved how she acted around Mac as they rapidly fell for one another while refusing to admit it.

Mac had an air of mystery about him because of his job but it added this dangerous quality to him. You don't find out exactly what he does but it added to the image of strong, alpha male, protector. I liked how he refused to admit his feelings even though they were obvious and the tender moments between the couple were great. If there is one thing I'd say, like in Marine for Hire, I would have liked more detail on the past he felt so guilty about. For me, in both books it wasn't developed enough to feel anything for it and wasn't a constant thread in the book. It was better in this book than the first but I still wanted a bit more to it.

Despite that, the general plot was great. There were tense moments and a few action sections which kept me turning the pages and they also contrasted nicely with the loving ones. The book moved at a fast-pace but there was a lot of depth to it and it was exciting to read.

Overall I loved this book. It was better than the first to me as I adored the characters more and I couldn't put it down. I'll definitely be looking out for more by this author!

[pinK · Rating 5 out of 5]

So by the time I finished the first chapter I came to a fantastic conclusion. The heroine in this book, Kelli Landers? Yes, she is freakin' amazingly awesome. I want to be her friend, she has all the qualities of an amazing person. Kelli is confident - she stands up for herself from a client that was hitting on her shamelessly, even when standing up for herself could cause her to lose a future client. She is funny, seriously? The way she stands up for herself with that client is HILARIOUS. Seriously, get the sample of the book. You'll end up wanting to finish just from this first chapter. Lastly, she's comfortable in her own skin. She's not afraid to talk about sex. At all. In fact, she seems to enjoy it and it comes up a lot in the most hilarious ways.

Now, while reading this there were several occasions where my 4 year old scolded me for being too loud while I laughed. One point in particular is chapter six. While on a dinner date Kelli is assisting her hostess in a veterinarian procedure where she's basically fixing a lizard's penis. I swear, when I read "beef bayonet" I nearly peed my pants laughing. This book is absolutely hilarious. Kelli has a very quick wit that kept my sides hurting in laughter.

Not only is this book hilarious, but it is HOT. Wow! Very high steam factor in this book. The sex scenes in this book put the hilarity to the side and focuses on a hot and heavy time. Very impressive!

This is definitely a great book that can be read as a standalone from the first in the series. I loved this installment so much though, I'll be reading the first one soon!

Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, and I really loved Kelli, "meet?" she raised an eyebrow at him as she tucked her small hand in his and gave a ladylike shake. "We've met at least a hundred times, Mac. You put a band-aid on my knee when I was ten and you were this big, cool high schooler whose kid sister's tripped while chasing boys on the playground." I mean that girl has no filter, "adoration." Kelli looked up at him and smiled. "Am I looking at you like I appreciate the fact that you pulled my chair out at dinner, or like you pulled my hair while doing me against a wall?" I loved her spitfireness, "she sat up then, smiling, and shook her head. "Seriously, Mac - that was effing incredible. Anyone tell you that your aim is impeccable?" He started to respond, but she clamped a hand over his mouth and laughed. "Never mind. Of course they have. YOu seriously must have a G-stop magnet in that thing." There was one scene that I almost died laughing:
"I'm fine," she choked out, squirming under Grant's weight. "Stella?"
"Right here, baby," she called. Kelli spotted her behind a piece of driftwood, a small pistol braced in her manicured fingers.
Grant moved on top of her and she realized he was gripping a pistol of his own. "This wasn't what I had in mind when I suggest an evening shoot," he said.
Kelli coughed and spit a mouthful of sand. "Jesus, is everyone here armed?"
"You're with the Patton family, hon," Stella called. "It's best to assume everyone's armed."
That scene literally made the whole book. I loved Mac and Kelli.

[J Kiwibooknerd · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Courtesy of Entangled Publishing

This is the second book in this wonderful series and to say that I loved it would be the understatement of the century...

This is Mac and Kelli's story whom we met in the first awesome book. Mac needs a fake finance for a few weeks in order to obtain some weapons from a terrorist in Mexico. He works for the government on contract and he needs to get those weapons before they fall into the wrong hands.

Kelli has had a crush on her best friends brother for ever and when the opportunity arises to pretend to be his fiancé for a while, she is more than happy to step up and be his fake fiancé......

The book takes place in Mexico where it is laugh out loud funny from start to end, and you cannot help but fall in love with these 2 whacky characters.

Mac is a alpha male to the core and even though he is fighting demons which have plagued him from long ago, he is a great leading character. Kelli is a wonderful female lead and you cannot help but route for them from start to end...

This is a wonderful read and I highly recommend this series to anyone who wants to enjoy a couple hours with 2 kick ass characters, some witty dialogue and some laugh out loud giggles.

[Irene · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 solid stars

Fiancee for Hire was such a great read, loved it.

Kellie and Mac won my heart, loved them both, and together they made this book fun to read.

Kellie “Maybe between your broken pieces and my broken pieces, we can find a way to fit everything together and make something whole.”

And Mac's reply?...

"That sounds good. Also a little dirty" lol seriously I loved these two together.
They had fantastic chemistry, they made me laugh with their banter and innuendo and oh boy did they make my kindle sizzle ;)

My heart is full of happy feels.

Thank you Tawna Fenske for writing this very entertaining story. The Front and Center series keeps getting better with every book released, can't wait to read more. *crosses finger we get Grant's story next*

Thank you Netgalley and to Entangled Lovestruck for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had a serious problem with this book. It ended! What ever was Tawna Fenske thinking?

Ok, so I totally adored this one. Since I read Marine for Hire, I have been itching to get my hands on this one. And it totally delivered. Who else but Tawna Fenske can have an illicit arms dealer cooing over a tegu and having the hired fiance sew the tegu's privates back together, all over dinner?

I love that with Tawna Fenskie's books, there is always this lovely balance of humor with the super sexy. I loved both Kelly and Mac - and loved the pop ins from Sheri.

The dynamics between Kelly and Mac are great - they are so different, yet so meant for one another. It was great.

Now, I am already counting down for the next Tawna Fenske read as I quite enjoyed this one per usual. She is one of the most talented writers out there who balances humor with the super sexy romanace.

[Kait Nolan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh God, I loved this book, so so much. Kelli is a spitfire and a half and this is so so funny. If I had more than two thumbs, they would all be up. READ IT!

[Kara · Rating 4 out of 5]

review to come

[Jessica Florence · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very cute story. Mac and Kelli were hot!
If you want laughs, fake engagements, hot sex, and lizard penis ;) you will love this book!

[CC · Rating 4 out of 5]

very funny. Action packed. Better than the first in the series. I loved Katie and Mac was a perfect dark, brooding hero. It was a fun read.