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Kelly Brothers #4
The Heart's Game
Alternate Cover Edition for B00LKSOK2A ASIN
What happens at Comic-Con, stays at Comic-Con…
Robotics engineer Jenny Nguyen has given up on finding Mr. Right. So when her brother and his husband approach her to act as surrogate for their child, she sees it as her only chance to have a child and accepts. One week after she initiates the process, however, she meets a man who gets her heart pumping for all the right reasons and gives into the temptation. When the test turns positive, she’s believes she can’t handle both the pregnancy and dating, but she underestimates how persistent Daniel Kelly can be.
When surgeon and gamer-geek Dan meets a pretty woman dressed as a Sailor Scout at Comic-Con, a roll of his lucky twenty-sided die tells him he should take a gamble on her. One night of passion leaves him longing for more, but Jenny’s refusal to return his calls afterward leaves him wondering if the attraction was one-sided. An accidental discovery of her pregnancy has him convinced the baby is his, and he’ll stop at nothing to win her heart.
Be sure to check out the other books in the series:
The Sweetest Seduction (Book 1 - Adam)
Breakaway Hearts (Book 2 - Ben)
Falling for the Wingman (Book 3 - Caleb)
What happens at Comic-Con, stays at Comic-Con…
Robotics engineer Jenny Nguyen has given up on finding Mr. Right. So when her brother and his husband approach her to act as surrogate for their child, she sees it as her only chance to have a child and accepts. One week after she initiates the process, however, she meets a man who gets her heart pumping for all the right reasons and gives into the temptation. When the test turns positive, she’s believes she can’t handle both the pregnancy and dating, but she underestimates how persistent Daniel Kelly can be.
When surgeon and gamer-geek Dan meets a pretty woman dressed as a Sailor Scout at Comic-Con, a roll of his lucky twenty-sided die tells him he should take a gamble on her. One night of passion leaves him longing for more, but Jenny’s refusal to return his calls afterward leaves him wondering if the attraction was one-sided. An accidental discovery of her pregnancy has him convinced the baby is his, and he’ll stop at nothing to win her heart.
Be sure to check out the other books in the series:
The Sweetest Seduction (Book 1 - Adam)
Breakaway Hearts (Book 2 - Ben)
Falling for the Wingman (Book 3 - Caleb)
153 pages, ebook
First published July 5, 2014
25 people are currently reading
724 people want to read
About the author
Crista McHugh
68 books932 followersCrista McHugh is a NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY BESTSELLING author of fantasy and romance with heroines who are smart, sexy, and anything but ordinary.
She also writes fantasy with less kissing and a lot more action as C. A. McHugh.
She currently lives in the Tesla-filled suburbs of Seattle with her husband and two children, maintaining her alter ego of mild-mannered physician on the weekends.
She also writes fantasy with less kissing and a lot more action as C. A. McHugh.
She currently lives in the Tesla-filled suburbs of Seattle with her husband and two children, maintaining her alter ego of mild-mannered physician on the weekends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
September 12, 2014
3.5 - "It seems we have an alien life form on board." Stars!
The Hearts Game is book four in the Kelly Brothers series, and Crista McHugh has confirmed 100% to me with this book, (which to be quite honest I knew after I finished reading the previous three) that she is an author whose books I will go back to and read again and again.
I have read all 4 books, and fallen in love with this series over the last couple of days, the storylines are well thought out, and develop at a pace that the reader can follow along and get absorbed in. The characters are likeable, relatable and it’s easy to empathise with their trials and tribulations, and the best part for me is this series focuses around a family, so as the books develop so does the Kelly Family’s story as a whole. I loved that we get a few updates about Adam and Lia, Ben and Hailey, and Caleb and Alex through this book as well as the main focus being on Dan and Jenny’s story.
What happens at Comic-Con, stays at Comic-Con…
Well that is what Dan Kelly and Jenny Nguyen initially hoped, and after one hot sexy night together they go their separate ways not expecting to ever see each other again. Unfortunately fate has other plans, both avid gamers they end up pitted against each other in a long drawn out game of Dungeons & Dragons being run by one of their mutual friends.
After getting reacquainted with each other whilst incorporating a life-size replica of the Game of Thrones, Throne. Dan finds out Jenny is pregnant, and although initially shocked warms to the idea and is keen to pursue their relationship in spite of the fact. Jenny is less than forthcoming with the reasons for her pregnancy and Dan as you would expect, gets completely the wrong end of the stick.
This is the first book in the series to make me cry (book 2, came very close though), but it was still worth the painful lump in my throat to read to the end to see if this quirky, geeky couple got their HEA. What with Jenny’s OTT mother and overly traditional Vietnamese Aunt, the Kelly family unit and the progression of the pregnancy, this book plucked at my heartstrings, like a well trained harpist.
I cannot wait for the next book in this series; Ethan’s story - A Seductive Melody is due in September 2014, I am on pins to get my hands on this Kelly brother’s book, I mean who doesn’t love a tortured musician. Crista McHugh has got a fan for life in me for the Kelly Brothers; I am crossing everything that they may consider adopting me into the clan, even if it is just as jaspers dog-walker!
ARC generously supplied by the author, in exchange for the above honest review.
The Hearts Game is book four in the Kelly Brothers series, and Crista McHugh has confirmed 100% to me with this book, (which to be quite honest I knew after I finished reading the previous three) that she is an author whose books I will go back to and read again and again.
I have read all 4 books, and fallen in love with this series over the last couple of days, the storylines are well thought out, and develop at a pace that the reader can follow along and get absorbed in. The characters are likeable, relatable and it’s easy to empathise with their trials and tribulations, and the best part for me is this series focuses around a family, so as the books develop so does the Kelly Family’s story as a whole. I loved that we get a few updates about Adam and Lia, Ben and Hailey, and Caleb and Alex through this book as well as the main focus being on Dan and Jenny’s story.
What happens at Comic-Con, stays at Comic-Con…
Well that is what Dan Kelly and Jenny Nguyen initially hoped, and after one hot sexy night together they go their separate ways not expecting to ever see each other again. Unfortunately fate has other plans, both avid gamers they end up pitted against each other in a long drawn out game of Dungeons & Dragons being run by one of their mutual friends.
After getting reacquainted with each other whilst incorporating a life-size replica of the Game of Thrones, Throne. Dan finds out Jenny is pregnant, and although initially shocked warms to the idea and is keen to pursue their relationship in spite of the fact. Jenny is less than forthcoming with the reasons for her pregnancy and Dan as you would expect, gets completely the wrong end of the stick.
This is the first book in the series to make me cry (book 2, came very close though), but it was still worth the painful lump in my throat to read to the end to see if this quirky, geeky couple got their HEA. What with Jenny’s OTT mother and overly traditional Vietnamese Aunt, the Kelly family unit and the progression of the pregnancy, this book plucked at my heartstrings, like a well trained harpist.
I cannot wait for the next book in this series; Ethan’s story - A Seductive Melody is due in September 2014, I am on pins to get my hands on this Kelly brother’s book, I mean who doesn’t love a tortured musician. Crista McHugh has got a fan for life in me for the Kelly Brothers; I am crossing everything that they may consider adopting me into the clan, even if it is just as jaspers dog-walker!
ARC generously supplied by the author, in exchange for the above honest review.
June 16, 2014
Originally reviewed for Tea and Book.
Another great escape from the fabulous Crista McHugh! In Book Four of her Kelly Brothers Series we meet Dr Dan.. ok that's not his name but he's a Doctor and his name is Dan.. The fourth of the fabulous Kelly Brothers.
Ms McHugh offers us such a treat with her Kelly Brothers. Seven strong men at the top of their fields. Each a strong man who has refused to fall in love. But one by one...
"What happens at Comic-Con, stays at Comic-Con…"
Life can get pretty stressful and it's fun to find ways to escape. In The Heart's Game Daniel Kelly and Jenny Nguyen discover that some adages just aren't all that accurate.
Jenny Nguyen has been raised in a strict Vietnamese household. Expectations are strong but she is an American girl and has dreams of her own. Refusing to be forced into an arranged marriage causes some serious grief. Add to it the fact that she has agreed to be the surrogate for his brother and his husband. Jenny needs some down time and Comic Con seems just the place. One last night of fun before she gives up her uterus for nine months. It should be really simple, a wild night, a one night stand and poof.. back to responsible Jenny.
Dan Kelly has finally found his place. Loving his life in Seattle and enjoying his career he has one little vice, he's a gamer geek. And Comic Con is the place to be. A fun filled one night stand with pretty woman dressed as a Sailor Scout, should be fun. Even his lucky 20 sided die says so. Only the condom broke and when Dan woke and turned to tell his Sailor Scout he discovers she slipped out in the night. Unable to do much about it he returns home. Only to find his Sailor Scout works for his best friend and is part of their weekly gaming group. Dan is smitten and willing to work for more, now if he can just convince Jenny.
Jenny is not ready for a relationship, life is just too complicated right now but her attraction to Dan remains strong. Eventually Dan and Jenny decide on a friends with benefits type of relationship but complications always ensue.
Between Jenny's overbearing mother and even worse aunt. Dan's lack of true trust in person's of the female persuasion and a pregnancy all tossed in, life just keeps getting more and more interesting. Facing reality is tough and both of them have to face first their deepest fears and second reality.. Life is messy and Dan and Jenny have to navigate this together or lose it all.
Another excellent Kelly Story. Can't wait for more!!
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of The Heart's Game, provided by the author for an honest review
Another great escape from the fabulous Crista McHugh! In Book Four of her Kelly Brothers Series we meet Dr Dan.. ok that's not his name but he's a Doctor and his name is Dan.. The fourth of the fabulous Kelly Brothers.
Ms McHugh offers us such a treat with her Kelly Brothers. Seven strong men at the top of their fields. Each a strong man who has refused to fall in love. But one by one...
"What happens at Comic-Con, stays at Comic-Con…"
Life can get pretty stressful and it's fun to find ways to escape. In The Heart's Game Daniel Kelly and Jenny Nguyen discover that some adages just aren't all that accurate.
Jenny Nguyen has been raised in a strict Vietnamese household. Expectations are strong but she is an American girl and has dreams of her own. Refusing to be forced into an arranged marriage causes some serious grief. Add to it the fact that she has agreed to be the surrogate for his brother and his husband. Jenny needs some down time and Comic Con seems just the place. One last night of fun before she gives up her uterus for nine months. It should be really simple, a wild night, a one night stand and poof.. back to responsible Jenny.
Dan Kelly has finally found his place. Loving his life in Seattle and enjoying his career he has one little vice, he's a gamer geek. And Comic Con is the place to be. A fun filled one night stand with pretty woman dressed as a Sailor Scout, should be fun. Even his lucky 20 sided die says so. Only the condom broke and when Dan woke and turned to tell his Sailor Scout he discovers she slipped out in the night. Unable to do much about it he returns home. Only to find his Sailor Scout works for his best friend and is part of their weekly gaming group. Dan is smitten and willing to work for more, now if he can just convince Jenny.
Jenny is not ready for a relationship, life is just too complicated right now but her attraction to Dan remains strong. Eventually Dan and Jenny decide on a friends with benefits type of relationship but complications always ensue.
Between Jenny's overbearing mother and even worse aunt. Dan's lack of true trust in person's of the female persuasion and a pregnancy all tossed in, life just keeps getting more and more interesting. Facing reality is tough and both of them have to face first their deepest fears and second reality.. Life is messy and Dan and Jenny have to navigate this together or lose it all.
Another excellent Kelly Story. Can't wait for more!!
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of The Heart's Game, provided by the author for an honest review
December 30, 2015
pretty much nothing i didn't like about this - uber cute - although the main female is vietnamese and the girl on the cover doesn't look to be...
July 8, 2014
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads in an exchange for an honest review.
-----
Tried to write this review twice, still not sure if I'm happy with it but here it is *waves*
A quick fun read with some cute moments, laughs ,and frustration... A nice choice for a rainy day :).
Jenny and Dan were/are cute together, loved the fact they were both 'geeks' and had good job/heads on their shoulders. The little references they made for Star Trek and the like made me giggle... Bonus points for Comic Con being in there ;-)
It gave me a warm feeling that Jenny was giving her brother and his husband a baby, she has a big heart and is happy she could help them out, even though she is scared to death at first.
Mike and Jason, They were sweet together and my heart went out to them when I saw how excited they were that Jenny was having their child :).
Dan is a smart and sweet guy, with some pain in his past but he still opens up his heart to Jenny, it was sweet watching them fall for each other... How he was determined to win her over by trying friendship first and even after, when he thought the baby was his.
The romance (for me) moved a little fast in some bits and a couple times I found myself at certain parts that they would just talk and not have their libido take over... but I still rooted for them the whole way through. (The sex scenes were written very well, not explicit.. just sensual, if that makes sense, may not be the right word haha).
Only real complaint I have is that Jenny took so long to reveal the surrogacy to Dan, she should have sat him down and explained it to him right away instead of drawing it out. Now I have never been in this situation so maybe I have no right to judge *shrugs* But I was very frustrated during this part of the story...
Miss McHugh knows how to write wonderful characters, I loved the Kelly and Nguyen siblings and parents (Jenny's mother is a bit scary). I can only imagine the headaches the Kelly boys gave their mother ;-).
All in all, would recommend... I had fun reading it :).
-----
Tried to write this review twice, still not sure if I'm happy with it but here it is *waves*
A quick fun read with some cute moments, laughs ,and frustration... A nice choice for a rainy day :).
Jenny and Dan were/are cute together, loved the fact they were both 'geeks' and had good job/heads on their shoulders. The little references they made for Star Trek and the like made me giggle... Bonus points for Comic Con being in there ;-)
It gave me a warm feeling that Jenny was giving her brother and his husband a baby, she has a big heart and is happy she could help them out, even though she is scared to death at first.
Mike and Jason, They were sweet together and my heart went out to them when I saw how excited they were that Jenny was having their child :).
Dan is a smart and sweet guy, with some pain in his past but he still opens up his heart to Jenny, it was sweet watching them fall for each other... How he was determined to win her over by trying friendship first and even after, when he thought the baby was his.
The romance (for me) moved a little fast in some bits and a couple times I found myself at certain parts that they would just talk and not have their libido take over... but I still rooted for them the whole way through. (The sex scenes were written very well, not explicit.. just sensual, if that makes sense, may not be the right word haha).
Only real complaint I have is that Jenny took so long to reveal the surrogacy to Dan, she should have sat him down and explained it to him right away instead of drawing it out. Now I have never been in this situation so maybe I have no right to judge *shrugs* But I was very frustrated during this part of the story...
Miss McHugh knows how to write wonderful characters, I loved the Kelly and Nguyen siblings and parents (Jenny's mother is a bit scary). I can only imagine the headaches the Kelly boys gave their mother ;-).
All in all, would recommend... I had fun reading it :).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2014
I received an ARC for an honest review...no spoilers
With each of the Kelly Brothers I fall more in love with this family and the author. Book 4 did not disappoint. Dan Kelly...oh Dan Kelly. You're just as swoony as your older brothers and your twin.
Jenny Nguyen is another strong female lead, as are the female leads from the 3 previous books.
I look forward to reading books 5,6,&7...now to convince Crista to write faster.
With each of the Kelly Brothers I fall more in love with this family and the author. Book 4 did not disappoint. Dan Kelly...oh Dan Kelly. You're just as swoony as your older brothers and your twin.
Jenny Nguyen is another strong female lead, as are the female leads from the 3 previous books.
I look forward to reading books 5,6,&7...now to convince Crista to write faster.
August 3, 2014
Thanks Netgalley for ARC
the book was funny and good. Ive read it in one sitting it was that interesting. its been a while since Ive read a book in one sitting. It help that it was short and good. Jenny did get me mad kinda at the end but all was good.
the book was funny and good. Ive read it in one sitting it was that interesting. its been a while since Ive read a book in one sitting. It help that it was short and good. Jenny did get me mad kinda at the end but all was good.
March 15, 2016
Another brilliant book in the series. The Kelly brothers get better with each book. Dan and Jenny spent one night together and did not expect to see each other again, however fate had other plans for them...
May 6, 2018
Alguém me para com essa série, ela corre com os finais e os dramas são sempre facilmente superados por todos os personagens. Porém, continuo lendo e não sei porque hahahaha
June 13, 2014
http://morningbooksandcoffee.blogspot...
I received an ARC copy in return for an honest review.
Crista Mchugh can not go wrong with the Kelly Brothers.
Dan's story was one for the books.
4 out of 5 STARS
Dan is a hot sexy nerd with beautiful blue eyes.
I have to say out of the Kelly brothers he is by far the most attractive
I loved the whole nerd thing he had going on. Plus he is a DR. so that seriously made
him a 10 out of 10.
Dan's love story begins when he meets Jenny at Comic-Con
Jenny is a Robotics engineer who currently underwent
Artificial Insemination for her brother Jason and his husband Mike.
She want to experience one last fling before she becomes full blown preggo.
Jen and Dan get it on all hot and steamy and turned turned me on
oh so much.I will have very special dreams about it tonight!
Well Jenny wants it to only be a one time thing Dan wants more.
When a few weeks later he moves to Seattle and attends a game night
at his friend Paul's house he runs into Jenny and there one night stand becomes more. Dan wants more than a booty call and she dosent want him as anything other than a late night phone call for some goody good!
There is just one little itsy bitsy problem she is now officially pregnant with
Jason and Aaron's baby. When Dan accidently finds out that she is pregnant
he thinks its his and man oh man does that complicate things.
Here is where I wanted to bitch slap Jenny because there
is this freakin good man wanting you more than just some cheap two dollar whore and you just cant come out and say I am my brothers surragate but I really like you so can we work it out.UGH I got frustrated there for a bit!
It gets soo good you want to hurry it on up and read like a mad man to
see what the turn out will be.
The ending fits the story well and I was a HAPPY CAMPER!
I received an ARC copy in return for an honest review.
Crista Mchugh can not go wrong with the Kelly Brothers.
Dan's story was one for the books.
4 out of 5 STARS
Dan is a hot sexy nerd with beautiful blue eyes.
I have to say out of the Kelly brothers he is by far the most attractive
I loved the whole nerd thing he had going on. Plus he is a DR. so that seriously made
him a 10 out of 10.
Dan's love story begins when he meets Jenny at Comic-Con
Jenny is a Robotics engineer who currently underwent
Artificial Insemination for her brother Jason and his husband Mike.
She want to experience one last fling before she becomes full blown preggo.
Jen and Dan get it on all hot and steamy and turned turned me on
oh so much.I will have very special dreams about it tonight!
Well Jenny wants it to only be a one time thing Dan wants more.
When a few weeks later he moves to Seattle and attends a game night
at his friend Paul's house he runs into Jenny and there one night stand becomes more. Dan wants more than a booty call and she dosent want him as anything other than a late night phone call for some goody good!
There is just one little itsy bitsy problem she is now officially pregnant with
Jason and Aaron's baby. When Dan accidently finds out that she is pregnant
he thinks its his and man oh man does that complicate things.
Here is where I wanted to bitch slap Jenny because there
is this freakin good man wanting you more than just some cheap two dollar whore and you just cant come out and say I am my brothers surragate but I really like you so can we work it out.UGH I got frustrated there for a bit!
It gets soo good you want to hurry it on up and read like a mad man to
see what the turn out will be.
The ending fits the story well and I was a HAPPY CAMPER!
November 11, 2018
When Jenny agrees to be a surrogate for her brother Jason and his husband Mike, she doesn’t expect to meet the man of her dreams a week later — or that he will coincidentally show up in her life after their one night stand. What happened at Comic Con was supposed to stay at Comic Con, but it looks like fate has other plans. Now carrying her brother’s child, she’s not in a place where a relationship is even feasible, and she knows better than to think any man would want to give it a try in this complicated situation. But Dan isn’t one to back down when he finds the woman he wants — especially when her date of conception seems to coincide with the night they shared.
The Verdict: You know, I haven’t read a plot quite like this before, so it was an intriguing change for me. I loved the geek factor, even if most of their geekery went right over my head, and Jenny’s traditional, crazy family was so much fun. Her mother’s meddling and judgement made for some truly cringe-worthy moments that were both mortifying and hilarious.
Both Jenny and Dan were super-easy to like, and while it was clear they were perfect for each other, the whole surrogacy thing, along with their own families and pasts added a complicated twist. There were, however, a few things that just didn’t make sense to me, though I can’t say they ruined the book. For instance, Dan all but refused to get involved with another gamer chick after the one he fell for years ago cheated on him. While I can understand his having an issue, I’m not sure I understand why being a gamer has anything to do with it. Also, while Jenny’s fear of having to explain her pregnancy to Dan was certainly reasonable, her omission of almost all relevant and redeeming facts seemed odd. I mean, if I had to tell a guy I was seeing that the baby wasn’t his, I’d be pretty quick (and relieved!) to mention that I was surrogate, if for no other reason than to illustrate that I wasn’t a bed-hopper. And I’d definitely mention that to his family when they started jumping to the wrong conclusions. And with as much time as Jenny and Dan were spending together, I would have expected more run-ins with her brother and his husband, meetings that I would expect to at least hint at her pregnancy not being the most typical situation. Like I said, though, these things didn’t ruin the book at all for me; they just sort of made me want to slap Jenny and also feel really, really sorry for poor, confused Dan.
So yeah, there were actions I couldn’t quite wrap my head around, but the plot itself was so different from anything else I’ve read, and the storytelling/writing was the stellar quality I’ve come to expect from Crista McHugh, so I’m not really complaining. I love this series, the way every story is as different as the brothers she writes about, and I continue to find myself so wrapped up in what’s happening that my imagination always puts me in the characters’ shoes — which is probably why I spend so much time analyzing everything the characters do. The chemistry, as always, is brilliant, and somehow McHugh writes the love scenes in a way that sets things on fire without turning into a porntastic play-by-play. I can’t wait to get my hands on the next books and see what fantastic stories she has for the rest of the brothers!
***FicCentral received this book from Tasty Book Tours for free in exchange for an honest review. Even so, we're far too opinionated to let a freebie influence our thoughts or the contents of the reviews we post here.
November 10, 2014
This is the first Kelly Brothers series book that I have read from this author. The Heart’s Game was pretty interesting. I am sure there are books that have the main character be a surrogate but I have not read any like that. So this was new a refreshing for me. I mean can you imagine agreeing to be a surrogate and then finding your freaking perfect match. I mean in every way these characters were made for each other. I wouldn’t even know how to begin to explain this to him especially with the family that Jenny has. If I had the experiences she has telling people I would be reluctant to say something more than she did too. I mean I would have tried more than she did but I can understand her hesitation.
This book was a quick and fun read. The writing flowed really well. The writer was able to really bring you into Jenny’s world. It was actually pretty comical with all of the “geeky” things she brought into the book. Some authors try and write people like this but you can tell they don’t really know anyone like this or they themselves are not like this. They just don’t seem to get it. So we don’t get the full experience. Crista McHugh was able to capture that world. I happen to be somewhat of a geek and my husband is a major one and from my experience writing Jenny as shy and quite until she got into character was pretty accurate. I really appreciated how right she got that world.
The character were written very well too. Every character that you met in the book jump out at you. I could really sympathies with Jenny and when she felt, almost but not quite, used for her uterus. I mean, I have never been through a surrogate or anything like it but the way the author wrote this book you could almost imagine what it would be like. Dan was a very understanding and compassionate person. He was able to get past being lied to and was able to help Jenny through the whole situation. I am not sure how I felt about her brother and his husband. I feel like they stopped looking at Jenny as a person and only looked at her as the body housing their baby. It frustrated me at times. But at times they were perfect. Supporting, caring, and loving, whenever Jenny needed them.
All in all this was a good book. If you like the family style series books this is a good one to read!
July 6, 2014
The Heart’s Game by Crista McHugh is the 4th book in her wonderful Kelly Brothers series. I have really enjoyed this series, and The Heart’s Game continues this with another wonderful story. There are 7 Kelly brothers, and they will all have their story, which can be read as a standalone. Of course, you should start at the first book. Why miss all the fun?
We meet Jenny, our heroine, from the start. She is at a ComicCon convention, and it’s the last night. Jenny wants to do something that is totally not her. She wants to have hot sex with a total stranger, a one night stand, and she heads to the bar in her comic con costume to find the perfect man. Checking out the bar, she sees a group of guys that do not fit what she is looking for, and bumps into someone, who causes her to spill her drink. VIOLA! He is a hunk, and she is already drooling over him.
Dan Kelly is one of the fabulous brothers in this series. He is a doctor, and also is a geek gamer, much like Jenny. Dan finds Jenny, in her costume very hot, and sees how she is looking at him. It doesn’t take too long and the two of them are in bed having sizzling sex. When Dan wakes up, Jenny is leaving to catch plane home. She says “What happens at ComicCon, stays at ComicCon”. She refuses to tell him her real name and leaves.
Jenny is acting as a surrogate for her gay brother and his husband, and finds out she is pregnant. Shortly thereafter, attending her weekly game group, she is shocked to come face to face with Dan, who happens to be her boss’s friend.
What follows is another sweet romance by McHugh, as we watch Dan push for a relationship with Jenny, and she fights it, knowing she is having a baby, and she doesn’t want to become involved. Of course, their chemistry is off the wall, making it hard for them to avoid one another or keep their hands off each other. Along the way, when Dan finds out Jenny is pregnant, he thinks the baby is his. Which causes problems and misunderstandings. But Dan is a great guy and proves it when he finds out the truth. I loved Dan and Jenny together.
This is a fun story, a sweet romance and a great couple. Crista McHugh had given us another wonderful Kelly Brothers book that needs to be added to you to be read list.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
We meet Jenny, our heroine, from the start. She is at a ComicCon convention, and it’s the last night. Jenny wants to do something that is totally not her. She wants to have hot sex with a total stranger, a one night stand, and she heads to the bar in her comic con costume to find the perfect man. Checking out the bar, she sees a group of guys that do not fit what she is looking for, and bumps into someone, who causes her to spill her drink. VIOLA! He is a hunk, and she is already drooling over him.
Dan Kelly is one of the fabulous brothers in this series. He is a doctor, and also is a geek gamer, much like Jenny. Dan finds Jenny, in her costume very hot, and sees how she is looking at him. It doesn’t take too long and the two of them are in bed having sizzling sex. When Dan wakes up, Jenny is leaving to catch plane home. She says “What happens at ComicCon, stays at ComicCon”. She refuses to tell him her real name and leaves.
Jenny is acting as a surrogate for her gay brother and his husband, and finds out she is pregnant. Shortly thereafter, attending her weekly game group, she is shocked to come face to face with Dan, who happens to be her boss’s friend.
What follows is another sweet romance by McHugh, as we watch Dan push for a relationship with Jenny, and she fights it, knowing she is having a baby, and she doesn’t want to become involved. Of course, their chemistry is off the wall, making it hard for them to avoid one another or keep their hands off each other. Along the way, when Dan finds out Jenny is pregnant, he thinks the baby is his. Which causes problems and misunderstandings. But Dan is a great guy and proves it when he finds out the truth. I loved Dan and Jenny together.
This is a fun story, a sweet romance and a great couple. Crista McHugh had given us another wonderful Kelly Brothers book that needs to be added to you to be read list.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
July 3, 2014
As I said in my previous Kelly Brothers review, Crista McHugh is a goddess. Once again, she grabs you from the very beginning and leaves you begging for more. Jenny thinks she has everything figured out, and them BAM!!! Literally! LOL!!! Neither of them know how much their lives are about to change when they collide in a bar and he spills her drink on her. They have a seat at the bar and quickly discover they have a lot in common. I mean, come on………..They are at Comic-Con for cripes sake!! But, once they share a night of passion, and Jenny runs out of the room as soon as she can, Dan Kelly can’t get her out of his mind, and little does he know, Jenny is having the same problem. And, once they run into each other again, totally by chance, Jenny is determined to NOT be affected by him. Problem with that? Dan is just as determined for her to BE affected, because the good Lord knows that he is just as affected now as he was that night. When he finally gets her alone, they both realize the spark is still there, as is their insane attraction to each other. So, why does she keep running? And, just how is Dan going to win her over? Slow and easy………………….. =)
I absolutely loved this installment of The Kelly Brothers. How McHugh keeps doing it, I have no idea, but I’m certainly glad she does. Dan and Jenny are both great characters, and the geek references, and there were plenty, made me laugh out loud. Throw in Jenny’s controlling Vietnamese family, namely her mother who thinks Jenny should have already married, and it’s one thing after another. There are a few misunderstandings with Dan and his family, which leads to a little dissention, but once Dan figures out the truth, his family is there for him in a big way. We get to see some of the other Kellys and find out what’s up with a few of them, which was awesome. I’ll tell you once again, if you’re not reading Crista McHugh, you’re seriously missing out. And, I have a feeling that the next book, Ethan’s book, just may be my fave and all I’ve read is a snippet!! Well done, Crista McHugh, very very well done!!!
Copy of this book was received from the author for an honest review.
I absolutely loved this installment of The Kelly Brothers. How McHugh keeps doing it, I have no idea, but I’m certainly glad she does. Dan and Jenny are both great characters, and the geek references, and there were plenty, made me laugh out loud. Throw in Jenny’s controlling Vietnamese family, namely her mother who thinks Jenny should have already married, and it’s one thing after another. There are a few misunderstandings with Dan and his family, which leads to a little dissention, but once Dan figures out the truth, his family is there for him in a big way. We get to see some of the other Kellys and find out what’s up with a few of them, which was awesome. I’ll tell you once again, if you’re not reading Crista McHugh, you’re seriously missing out. And, I have a feeling that the next book, Ethan’s book, just may be my fave and all I’ve read is a snippet!! Well done, Crista McHugh, very very well done!!!
Copy of this book was received from the author for an honest review.
August 12, 2016
The Heart’s Game, by Crista McHugh, fourth book in the Kelly Brothers series, was sent to me for an honest review. Thank you, Crista, for the gift of allowing me to read and review this awesome story.
I am a fan of this heartwarming series. I have enjoyed each and every novel, but Dan’s and Jenny’s story, The Heart’s Game, is my favorite. I devoured the book in one evening and am sorry that I read it so quickly because now I have to wait for the next brother’s story. The Kelly Brothers series is about a family of seven brothers who are charming, successful in their careers, and ready to find their companions. The female protagonists are strong, intelligent, and appealing. I love how the brothers consult one another in each story. The books can each stand alone, but I suggest you read them all because they are comprised by lovable male and female protagonists and the stories are a breath of fresh air. This enjoyable series includes sweet romance, steam, minimal angst, and leaves the reader smiling.
In the Heart’s Game, Dan, a surgeon, and Jenny, an engineer, both share an interest in gaming. They meet at a gaming convention, and have a pleasurable one-night stand. Dan and Jenny find that it’s a small world when they end up meeting again at a game hosted by Dan’s good friend who also happens to be Jenny’s boss.
There are several reasons I adored The Heart’s Game. 1. The conflict was presented early in the story. Jenny has agreed to be a surrogate so her brother and his husband can become parents. Meanwhile, Dan jumps to the conclusion that he is the father of this baby. 2. An exotic cultural element is part of this story. Jenny is Vietnamese, so we get to glimpse some of the Vietnamese cultural traditions. 3. This story looks at differences in families, the trials and tribulations. All of these elements contributed to an interesting courtship.
All readers of romance will enjoy this poignant and uplifting story that stirred my emotions and touched my heart. Dan and Jenny will forever be etched in my memory.
I am a fan of this heartwarming series. I have enjoyed each and every novel, but Dan’s and Jenny’s story, The Heart’s Game, is my favorite. I devoured the book in one evening and am sorry that I read it so quickly because now I have to wait for the next brother’s story. The Kelly Brothers series is about a family of seven brothers who are charming, successful in their careers, and ready to find their companions. The female protagonists are strong, intelligent, and appealing. I love how the brothers consult one another in each story. The books can each stand alone, but I suggest you read them all because they are comprised by lovable male and female protagonists and the stories are a breath of fresh air. This enjoyable series includes sweet romance, steam, minimal angst, and leaves the reader smiling.
In the Heart’s Game, Dan, a surgeon, and Jenny, an engineer, both share an interest in gaming. They meet at a gaming convention, and have a pleasurable one-night stand. Dan and Jenny find that it’s a small world when they end up meeting again at a game hosted by Dan’s good friend who also happens to be Jenny’s boss.
There are several reasons I adored The Heart’s Game. 1. The conflict was presented early in the story. Jenny has agreed to be a surrogate so her brother and his husband can become parents. Meanwhile, Dan jumps to the conclusion that he is the father of this baby. 2. An exotic cultural element is part of this story. Jenny is Vietnamese, so we get to glimpse some of the Vietnamese cultural traditions. 3. This story looks at differences in families, the trials and tribulations. All of these elements contributed to an interesting courtship.
All readers of romance will enjoy this poignant and uplifting story that stirred my emotions and touched my heart. Dan and Jenny will forever be etched in my memory.
July 16, 2014
Firstly thank you to Crista and Lisa for allowing me to take part in the blog tour for the 4th book in Crista’s Kelly Brothers series. I’ve been fortunate enough to be part of the blog tours for the first three in the series -
The Sweetest Seduction (Kelly Brothers)- Crista McHugh
Breakaway Hearts (Kelly Brothers #2) - Crista McHugh
Falling for the Wingman (Kelly Brothers #3) - Crista McHugh
This instalment is all about engineer and gamer Jenny and Dr Daniel Kelly, the 4th Kelly brother. They meet at Comic-Con and after getting together they decide on keeping what happened was a one-time thing. That is until Dan turns up in Jenny’s life coincidentally proving it’s not such a small world after all!
I was really looking forward to the next book in the series and I can confirm that all of the same things I loved about the first three are in this one too!
The first thing I’ve enjoyed about this series is Crista’s writing. I like how it draws you into the story and makes you feel like you’re hooked on the character’s story. I have enjoyed that each of them have been dual POV and that is the same here. I liked getting to know the story from both narrators Jenny and Dan as I think it allows you to get to know the story from both angles quite well.
The story is quite different to the first three as both Jenny and Dan are gamers and some of that went right over my head because it’s not something that I’m overly interested in so it’s not something I know much about. It didn’t detract from the story though in the slightest as I could still imagine what was going on and the bare bones of the book, Crista’s ability to tell a story, really held it all together.
I’ve loved each of the brothers so far and Dan has the same kind of traits in his personality as his brothers before him, which may be even more emphasised by the touching and emotional story line. He’s compassionate and kind and he is everything that Jenny needs to have in her life.
I’m looking forward to the next in the series already!
The Sweetest Seduction (Kelly Brothers)- Crista McHugh
Breakaway Hearts (Kelly Brothers #2) - Crista McHugh
Falling for the Wingman (Kelly Brothers #3) - Crista McHugh
This instalment is all about engineer and gamer Jenny and Dr Daniel Kelly, the 4th Kelly brother. They meet at Comic-Con and after getting together they decide on keeping what happened was a one-time thing. That is until Dan turns up in Jenny’s life coincidentally proving it’s not such a small world after all!
I was really looking forward to the next book in the series and I can confirm that all of the same things I loved about the first three are in this one too!
The first thing I’ve enjoyed about this series is Crista’s writing. I like how it draws you into the story and makes you feel like you’re hooked on the character’s story. I have enjoyed that each of them have been dual POV and that is the same here. I liked getting to know the story from both narrators Jenny and Dan as I think it allows you to get to know the story from both angles quite well.
The story is quite different to the first three as both Jenny and Dan are gamers and some of that went right over my head because it’s not something that I’m overly interested in so it’s not something I know much about. It didn’t detract from the story though in the slightest as I could still imagine what was going on and the bare bones of the book, Crista’s ability to tell a story, really held it all together.
I’ve loved each of the brothers so far and Dan has the same kind of traits in his personality as his brothers before him, which may be even more emphasised by the touching and emotional story line. He’s compassionate and kind and he is everything that Jenny needs to have in her life.
I’m looking forward to the next in the series already!
July 6, 2014
Whatever happened at Comic-Con sure did not stay at Comic-Con……
The Heart’s Game is book 4 in the Kelly Brothers series by Crista McHugh and I loved it!!!! Crista keeps getting better and better as she progresses through the Kelly Brothers. There was so much depth to her story and her characters are more defined. I love reading books with big families and their many ups and downs, yet they all come together when the need rises.
I totally loved Jenny Nguyen and her spunk. Coming from a typical conservative India family, I can totally relate to Jenny with her family and their reservations, customs and traditions. Families want the best of the western world, yet can’t let go of certain customs and let their children move forward. Despite these boundaries, I am so proud of Jenny when she decides to become a surrogate mother of her brother.
Daniel Kelly is a sweetheart who loves his family including the many celebrities he is related by blood. A well-known surgeon and kind at heart, he loves Jenny to the core and persistently woes her until she breaks down. And his whole family embraces Jenny with unconditional love and support. Dan is one heck of a guy with some much love, kindness and so very gentle with Jenny.
The doctor and the robotics engineer sure create some sizzling chemistry from the moment they meet at Comic-Con. They can’t stay out of each other’s life, even as they try to get past their insecurities, especially with Jenny’s family, and find themselves strong enough to weather the issues they were thrown into. Lot of humorous banter among the family members, support and love from friends and siblings, and throw in the geeky relationship of Dan and Jenny, The Heart’s Game is a winner all the way.
The Kelly Brothers can be read as standalone, but I personally enjoyed them reading in sequence – The Sweetest Seduction, Breakaway Hearts and Falling For The Wingman ( Books 1-3).
http://alimalivzletlivz.wordpress.com
The Heart’s Game is book 4 in the Kelly Brothers series by Crista McHugh and I loved it!!!! Crista keeps getting better and better as she progresses through the Kelly Brothers. There was so much depth to her story and her characters are more defined. I love reading books with big families and their many ups and downs, yet they all come together when the need rises.
I totally loved Jenny Nguyen and her spunk. Coming from a typical conservative India family, I can totally relate to Jenny with her family and their reservations, customs and traditions. Families want the best of the western world, yet can’t let go of certain customs and let their children move forward. Despite these boundaries, I am so proud of Jenny when she decides to become a surrogate mother of her brother.
Daniel Kelly is a sweetheart who loves his family including the many celebrities he is related by blood. A well-known surgeon and kind at heart, he loves Jenny to the core and persistently woes her until she breaks down. And his whole family embraces Jenny with unconditional love and support. Dan is one heck of a guy with some much love, kindness and so very gentle with Jenny.
The doctor and the robotics engineer sure create some sizzling chemistry from the moment they meet at Comic-Con. They can’t stay out of each other’s life, even as they try to get past their insecurities, especially with Jenny’s family, and find themselves strong enough to weather the issues they were thrown into. Lot of humorous banter among the family members, support and love from friends and siblings, and throw in the geeky relationship of Dan and Jenny, The Heart’s Game is a winner all the way.
The Kelly Brothers can be read as standalone, but I personally enjoyed them reading in sequence – The Sweetest Seduction, Breakaway Hearts and Falling For The Wingman ( Books 1-3).
http://alimalivzletlivz.wordpress.com
June 16, 2014
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As the disgruntled ex-girlfriend of two gamer geeks, I don't normally associate gaming with romance. Most of the gamer geeks I knew cared more about their precious Magic cards or World of Warcraft than their significant others. I can't count how many Magic games I've had to sit through waiting for dates to start to start or how many groans I elicited from my exes' friends whenever I would show up during their dueling or whatever it's called.
So when I heard that the hero of the next Kelly Brothers book was a Dungeons and Dragons geek who carried around a die to help him make decisions and that there would be geek pop culture references sprinkled throughout the book, I got a little nervous. Apart from watching The Big Bang Theory, I'm kind of clueless when it comes to that sort of thing.
Anyways, I was pleasantly surprised. First of all, Dan is nothing like my stereotypical view of a gamer geek. Yes, he loves D&D and plays in a group with his friends every week, but it's not his entire life. He's very dedicated to his career as a doctor, is devoted to his family, and is madly in love with Jenny. Jenny's the same way. She's a gamer too, but she cares very deeply about her family and will do anything for them, even her disapproving, but supposedly well-meaning mother.
I was also worried that the gaming aspect would overshadow the romance, but I was also wrong about that. As soon as the book begins, it's made perfectly clear to the reader that it's first and foremost a romance, just like the other books in the series.
Also, the geek references weren't as bad as I thought. There are a few obscure ones, but they don't hinder the plot of the story in a way. (Plus a quick Google search can help you if you get confused)
Perhaps I should rethink my negative stance on geeks just a tad. ;)
As the disgruntled ex-girlfriend of two gamer geeks, I don't normally associate gaming with romance. Most of the gamer geeks I knew cared more about their precious Magic cards or World of Warcraft than their significant others. I can't count how many Magic games I've had to sit through waiting for dates to start to start or how many groans I elicited from my exes' friends whenever I would show up during their dueling or whatever it's called.
So when I heard that the hero of the next Kelly Brothers book was a Dungeons and Dragons geek who carried around a die to help him make decisions and that there would be geek pop culture references sprinkled throughout the book, I got a little nervous. Apart from watching The Big Bang Theory, I'm kind of clueless when it comes to that sort of thing.
Anyways, I was pleasantly surprised. First of all, Dan is nothing like my stereotypical view of a gamer geek. Yes, he loves D&D and plays in a group with his friends every week, but it's not his entire life. He's very dedicated to his career as a doctor, is devoted to his family, and is madly in love with Jenny. Jenny's the same way. She's a gamer too, but she cares very deeply about her family and will do anything for them, even her disapproving, but supposedly well-meaning mother.
I was also worried that the gaming aspect would overshadow the romance, but I was also wrong about that. As soon as the book begins, it's made perfectly clear to the reader that it's first and foremost a romance, just like the other books in the series.
Also, the geek references weren't as bad as I thought. There are a few obscure ones, but they don't hinder the plot of the story in a way. (Plus a quick Google search can help you if you get confused)
Perhaps I should rethink my negative stance on geeks just a tad. ;)
August 26, 2016
Jenny has gave up hoping to find the right man. her life is about to get very busy as she has agreed to help her brother and his husband have a baby.She decides she needs to do something out of her comfort zone and have a one nigt stand at Comic Con. Dan is hot and knows just what to do. She puts him off when e wants to continue their fling and goes home. She gets a positive reading on a pregnancy test and knows she did the right thing ending the fling. Dan and Jenny have a chance meeting again and she finally gives in to his pursuit. She doesn't tell him about being a surrogate and when he finds out he thinks the baby is his. When he finds out the truth it may to much for him to take and both their hearts are on the line.
Jenny has a mother she can never make happy and doesn't want the men her mother picks for her to marry. Even knowing her being pregnant will send her mother into a rage she does it anyway to help her brother and his husband. I liked her as she still tries to respect some of the family traditions but she also shows she is her own person. She is smart, calls herself a nerd and with Dan she has a very sexy side. Dan is a doctor and good at what he does. He comes from a family of people who are close. He really had my heart when he decides he loves Jenny.
This may be a quick read but it is a good one. The plot of this one is great as there is a few misunderstandings that will have you laughing at times at least I did. Jenny's mother is a handful it seems. Jenny is a great person and so is Dan both really care for each other even when they try to make it seem like a fling. In a way I hated to see Jenny give the baby up but at least it will know her as it's aunt. There is plenty of heat in this book as well as some very touching scenes. I love this series and can't wait to read more of it.
Jenny has a mother she can never make happy and doesn't want the men her mother picks for her to marry. Even knowing her being pregnant will send her mother into a rage she does it anyway to help her brother and his husband. I liked her as she still tries to respect some of the family traditions but she also shows she is her own person. She is smart, calls herself a nerd and with Dan she has a very sexy side. Dan is a doctor and good at what he does. He comes from a family of people who are close. He really had my heart when he decides he loves Jenny.
This may be a quick read but it is a good one. The plot of this one is great as there is a few misunderstandings that will have you laughing at times at least I did. Jenny's mother is a handful it seems. Jenny is a great person and so is Dan both really care for each other even when they try to make it seem like a fling. In a way I hated to see Jenny give the baby up but at least it will know her as it's aunt. There is plenty of heat in this book as well as some very touching scenes. I love this series and can't wait to read more of it.
July 11, 2014
This riveting contemporary romance captures the heart and intrigues readers with a unique situation and two geeks find the love of a lifetime. Due to timing, a one night stand at comic con is all Jenny’s prepared for when she finally meets a man that gets her pumping. Things get dicey when she runs into Dan again and he mistakenly thinks that the baby she’s carrying is his.
This steady to fast paced and smooth flowing plot keeps the tension high as the reader follows this couple’s turbulent journey to their HEA. The author brings the story to life with well written scenes and details that capture the imagination and the strong compelling characters are easily related to and draw the reader deeper into the story.
The attraction between Jenny and Dan burns hot from their first meeting and the sex scenes are hot and steamy, but the relationship takes a while to come to fruition because Jenny is determined to keep it a “friends with benefits” relationship. The reader can’t help but get caught in the drama and emotional turmoil that occurs during this courtship and Jenny warms the heart with her generous nature with what she is doing for her brother, and the shy geek may be a genius but she makes a few mistakes with Dan. Be prepared to shed some tears during the reading of this romance, but also for it make the heart feel good at all the family love and loyalty that flows throughout the story.
The author has created a wonderful and modern version of seven brides for seven brothers that warms the heart and has charming and intriguing characters that ensure the reader wants to know about these brothers. I was totally engrossed in the story from the beginning and since I have not read the first three yet I will be taking care of that while I am waiting for next one.
This steady to fast paced and smooth flowing plot keeps the tension high as the reader follows this couple’s turbulent journey to their HEA. The author brings the story to life with well written scenes and details that capture the imagination and the strong compelling characters are easily related to and draw the reader deeper into the story.
The attraction between Jenny and Dan burns hot from their first meeting and the sex scenes are hot and steamy, but the relationship takes a while to come to fruition because Jenny is determined to keep it a “friends with benefits” relationship. The reader can’t help but get caught in the drama and emotional turmoil that occurs during this courtship and Jenny warms the heart with her generous nature with what she is doing for her brother, and the shy geek may be a genius but she makes a few mistakes with Dan. Be prepared to shed some tears during the reading of this romance, but also for it make the heart feel good at all the family love and loyalty that flows throughout the story.
The author has created a wonderful and modern version of seven brides for seven brothers that warms the heart and has charming and intriguing characters that ensure the reader wants to know about these brothers. I was totally engrossed in the story from the beginning and since I have not read the first three yet I will be taking care of that while I am waiting for next one.
June 4, 2014
Best book in the series so far! I loved all the geeky references and the character development and plot of The Heart's Game. Usually I am not the biggest reader of more contemporary fiction, mostly staying in the realm of fantasy and paranormal, with occasional visits to sci-fi. However, if the concept sounds interesting enough, or if the author is someone I've enjoyed in the past, then I am more than willing to pick up something outside of my usual genres. Crista is very talented and I have loved each and every one of the Kelly brothers, as well as the women lucky enough to capture their hearts.
Dan Kelly is the brother featured in this book and he is a hot geeky doctor, who meets Jenny at Comic Con. What should have been just a memorable night of amazing sex becomes so much more when Dan discovers that Jenny is a part of a mutual friend's D&D group. What follows is a riveting and emotional roller coaster as Dan and Jenny try to navigate their respective lives and their growing feelings for each other, all while Jenny is dealing with being a surrogate for her brother and his husband. Several of the brothers make little appearances in this book, which helps to tie everything together and show the advancement of the relationships of the couples we've already grown attached to. And with the way this book ended, I really want more with Dan and Jenny.
This book will be released in July, and I highly recommend that you check out the series. They are technically more novellas than novels, but they are extremely enjoyable and I bet you'll become as addicted as I am. Now I just have to wait until the release for book number 5, which will follow Ethan Kelly. It will be interesting to see what kind of woman grabs his attention. I'm sure it will be another great read.
Dan Kelly is the brother featured in this book and he is a hot geeky doctor, who meets Jenny at Comic Con. What should have been just a memorable night of amazing sex becomes so much more when Dan discovers that Jenny is a part of a mutual friend's D&D group. What follows is a riveting and emotional roller coaster as Dan and Jenny try to navigate their respective lives and their growing feelings for each other, all while Jenny is dealing with being a surrogate for her brother and his husband. Several of the brothers make little appearances in this book, which helps to tie everything together and show the advancement of the relationships of the couples we've already grown attached to. And with the way this book ended, I really want more with Dan and Jenny.
This book will be released in July, and I highly recommend that you check out the series. They are technically more novellas than novels, but they are extremely enjoyable and I bet you'll become as addicted as I am. Now I just have to wait until the release for book number 5, which will follow Ethan Kelly. It will be interesting to see what kind of woman grabs his attention. I'm sure it will be another great read.
June 19, 2014
Yet another Kelly Brother to Meet
This is Dan's story. Dan is a surgeon just out of residency and a self proclaimed nerd. Jenny is a Vietnamese tech genius who also embraces her nerdy self. The two meet at Comic Con in costume and going outside her box, Jenny divulges is a one night stand.
They cross paths again when Dan joins her current gaming group and the two cannot deny their chemistry, and if you didn't already know it McHugh does a great job writing chemistry. Unfortunately, even though the couple seems ideally made for each other the timing is just really off for Jenny.
Despite the circumstances and with a huge misunderstanding the couple moves forward. Jenny did irk me that she didn't divulge the critical piece of information before it could blow up in their faces. But another thing I love about McHugh's writing is that the drama never gets too drawn out.
Like other Kelly Brothers's Books this one ends with a shiny ring and the HEA we love. If you love her other books this one will not disappoint. For me it was probably my least favorite so far only because the gaming stuff and the cultural differences with Jenny's family made it harder for me to relate. Despite this I still found the book to be enjoyable, plus we continue to get glimpses of the other brothers in the story. I cannot wait for the next book!!
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
This is Dan's story. Dan is a surgeon just out of residency and a self proclaimed nerd. Jenny is a Vietnamese tech genius who also embraces her nerdy self. The two meet at Comic Con in costume and going outside her box, Jenny divulges is a one night stand.
They cross paths again when Dan joins her current gaming group and the two cannot deny their chemistry, and if you didn't already know it McHugh does a great job writing chemistry. Unfortunately, even though the couple seems ideally made for each other the timing is just really off for Jenny.
Despite the circumstances and with a huge misunderstanding the couple moves forward. Jenny did irk me that she didn't divulge the critical piece of information before it could blow up in their faces. But another thing I love about McHugh's writing is that the drama never gets too drawn out.
Like other Kelly Brothers's Books this one ends with a shiny ring and the HEA we love. If you love her other books this one will not disappoint. For me it was probably my least favorite so far only because the gaming stuff and the cultural differences with Jenny's family made it harder for me to relate. Despite this I still found the book to be enjoyable, plus we continue to get glimpses of the other brothers in the story. I cannot wait for the next book!!
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
July 18, 2014
I’ll admit it: I totally loved Sailor Moon when I was younger. Loved, loved, loved it! So imagine my shock when I read the beginning of this book and Jenny was dressed as a Sailor Moon character for Comic-Con!
Jenny and Dan are two wonderfully crafted characters who met at the oddest of places. The morning after came too soon, and they went back to their regular lives without so much as a “I’ll call you.”
It was funny when they met again. Jenny pretended they’d never met before, and Dan played along, but only for so long. It was obvious they hadn’t forgotten about each other, obvious the attraction was still there. But Jenny was pregnant with her brother and his husband’s baby, Dan had no idea, and she didn’t know how to tell him. The sex was awesome, but their communication skills were sorely lacking.
It was one thing after another with these two, but there was no denying they were meant to be. After all, how many women would be okay dating a successful doctor who rolled a die to determine his actions? And how many men would date a robotics engineer who dressed up like a comic character? It was cool to read a story that focused on the characters’ extracurricular activities and families instead of their carriers or finances.
A fast-paced read that made me laugh, frown, contemplate the cultural differences Dan and Jenny faced in order to be together, and cheer as the baby finally made its long awaited appearance. I haven’t read the other books in this series, but you can bet I will now!
***Received from Tasty Book Tours for an honest review***
Jenny and Dan are two wonderfully crafted characters who met at the oddest of places. The morning after came too soon, and they went back to their regular lives without so much as a “I’ll call you.”
It was funny when they met again. Jenny pretended they’d never met before, and Dan played along, but only for so long. It was obvious they hadn’t forgotten about each other, obvious the attraction was still there. But Jenny was pregnant with her brother and his husband’s baby, Dan had no idea, and she didn’t know how to tell him. The sex was awesome, but their communication skills were sorely lacking.
It was one thing after another with these two, but there was no denying they were meant to be. After all, how many women would be okay dating a successful doctor who rolled a die to determine his actions? And how many men would date a robotics engineer who dressed up like a comic character? It was cool to read a story that focused on the characters’ extracurricular activities and families instead of their carriers or finances.
A fast-paced read that made me laugh, frown, contemplate the cultural differences Dan and Jenny faced in order to be together, and cheer as the baby finally made its long awaited appearance. I haven’t read the other books in this series, but you can bet I will now!
***Received from Tasty Book Tours for an honest review***
June 6, 2014
What can I say, I am a sucker for these Kelly Brothers. This is a modern version of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and it gets better and better with each brother. We have met Adam, Ben, Caleb and now it is Dan's turn. He is the geeky surgeon and loves Comic-Con. And this year he meets Jenny, she is a geek too. And she is also and engineer, working on robots. Dan thinks a one-night stand will do them both good but when the morning comes, he wants more time with her. Jenny wants to see Dan again but she can't, the timing is all wrong. She has recently accepted being the surrogate mother for her brother Jason and his husband Mike, so they can have what every couple wants, a child. Will Jenny be able to stay away from Dan and keep her secret? What will happen when Dan finds out what her secret is? It is hard not to cheer for these brothers, as each has a successful career and only wants to be loved for who they are and not what they can do for you. Dan and Jenny's story will have you laughing at the geekiness and crying at their pain and heartache. Oh yeah, her mother is another story. So sit back and enjoy. If you haven't read about the other brothers, you should, once you start reading you won't be able to put it down. Adam is in Sweetest Seduction, Ben in Breakaway Hearts, Caleb in Falling for the Wingman and Dan in The Heart's Game. Can't wait for Ethan, Frank and Gideon's stories.
*A copy provided by the author in exchange for my honest review**
*A copy provided by the author in exchange for my honest review**
July 4, 2014
Jenny Nguyen and Dr. Daniel Kelly although they have very common interest they come from two entirely different worlds. Jenny, being 30, Vietnamese, and unmarried was causing her mother great shame. The rest of her family could really give a rip. In fact she and her father were two Science computer geeks so he loves her no matter what. Plus she is doing nicely for herself.
She owns her own home, works in robotics, and enjoys role playing and gaming as characters in the games. As for her brother he is a lawyer, openly guy, and oh by the way she is having a baby for him and his husband. So, all in all it’s not that bad but for her mom it’s awful. To the point of sell her traits as if she is an old maid, that she is well off, and that she is basically a green card for a man from Vietnam. Which all goes south once she spills the beans when she becomes fed up with her mother and aunt pawning her off as if she were a piece of meat. So, she tell them about the baby.
The thing is she meets Dan the day before she finds out she is pregnant and she beds him. Asking that whatever happens at Com Con stays at Com Con. Thinking she’d never see him again but two weeks later it turns out he moves to town and is friends with her best friend at work, who is also the head of the gaming group she is in. See the fireworks between these two. You won’t want to miss it. I give this book 5 stars. Book provided by netgalley.com
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She owns her own home, works in robotics, and enjoys role playing and gaming as characters in the games. As for her brother he is a lawyer, openly guy, and oh by the way she is having a baby for him and his husband. So, all in all it’s not that bad but for her mom it’s awful. To the point of sell her traits as if she is an old maid, that she is well off, and that she is basically a green card for a man from Vietnam. Which all goes south once she spills the beans when she becomes fed up with her mother and aunt pawning her off as if she were a piece of meat. So, she tell them about the baby.
The thing is she meets Dan the day before she finds out she is pregnant and she beds him. Asking that whatever happens at Com Con stays at Com Con. Thinking she’d never see him again but two weeks later it turns out he moves to town and is friends with her best friend at work, who is also the head of the gaming group she is in. See the fireworks between these two. You won’t want to miss it. I give this book 5 stars. Book provided by netgalley.com
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August 1, 2018
If you’re a fan of comic books, anime and Joss Whedon, this is the romance for you. McHugh continues her stellar series with Kelly brother Dan, who turns out to be the nerdy guy whom geek girls dream about. With a modern twist on the surprise pregnancy plot, Dan and Jenny have to survive a comedy of errors that would do Shakespeare proud. New readers can dive right in with their 20-sided die, while series regulars will delight in watching this fourth brother fall in love.
Jenny Nguyen is a robotics engineer, a geek of the first order and a surrogate for her brother and his husband. When she meets Dan Kelly at Comic-Con, she decides it’s her last hurrah before pregnancy overtakes her life, and they have an amazing one-night stand. But when Dan reappears, Jenny has to decide whether what happens at Comic-Con stays at Comic-Con. And Dan isn’t making that decision easy for her.
Reviewed for RT Book Reviews September 2014 issue: http://www.rtbookreviews.com/book-review/hearts-game, where it was a Top Pick and 2014 nominee for Best Indie Press Contemporary Romance.
Jenny Nguyen is a robotics engineer, a geek of the first order and a surrogate for her brother and his husband. When she meets Dan Kelly at Comic-Con, she decides it’s her last hurrah before pregnancy overtakes her life, and they have an amazing one-night stand. But when Dan reappears, Jenny has to decide whether what happens at Comic-Con stays at Comic-Con. And Dan isn’t making that decision easy for her.
Reviewed for RT Book Reviews September 2014 issue: http://www.rtbookreviews.com/book-review/hearts-game, where it was a Top Pick and 2014 nominee for Best Indie Press Contemporary Romance.
August 30, 2016
I was lucky enough to get an ARC of Heart’s game in return for an honest and fair review. I only started reading Crista’s books earlier on this year and fell in love with her books.
Will contain spoilers for those yet to read this book!
Jenny is carrying a baby for her gay brother and his husband, when she meets Dan at Comic Con. They automatically connect and have a wonderful night together, which ends up in their next meeting at a gaming day. Jenny finds out she is carrying her brother’s husbands baby after her one stand night stand which leads to some confusion with Dan as he naturally assumes the baby is his but this story has twists and turns which drew me in. Some scenes with Jenny’s mother are unforgettable but Crista just has a way of making me fall more and more deeply in love with Dan, Jenny and their families. I love the way I felt every emotion as I finished this book. To anyone who wants to fall in love with another book by Crista, I hugely recommend this one. You will not regret it!
Will contain spoilers for those yet to read this book!
Jenny is carrying a baby for her gay brother and his husband, when she meets Dan at Comic Con. They automatically connect and have a wonderful night together, which ends up in their next meeting at a gaming day. Jenny finds out she is carrying her brother’s husbands baby after her one stand night stand which leads to some confusion with Dan as he naturally assumes the baby is his but this story has twists and turns which drew me in. Some scenes with Jenny’s mother are unforgettable but Crista just has a way of making me fall more and more deeply in love with Dan, Jenny and their families. I love the way I felt every emotion as I finished this book. To anyone who wants to fall in love with another book by Crista, I hugely recommend this one. You will not regret it!
June 8, 2014
Was sent this book as a ARC to read and review before it went to print..... Oh boy what a read.
Have read Crista's first books in this series and was really look liking forward to this book. and I was definitely not disappointed.
From their first meeting Dan and Jen set the pages afire. They were so meant to be together but fate was against them, and they had to part after a wonderful night of passion, as Jen was pregnant and carrying a baby for her brother and his husband.
When they meet up again they find nothing about their feelings had changed but the timing was still again against them. When Dan finds out Jen is pregnant he thinks it is his and then the fun begins.
This book shows the wonderful power of a loving family and the problems to be overcome when two strong willed people meet and fall in love.
A great read and now cannot wait for the next book set around a member of the Kelly Family and meet up again with the wonderful family members already met.
Thank you Crista for letting us get to know this lovely family
Have read Crista's first books in this series and was really look liking forward to this book. and I was definitely not disappointed.
From their first meeting Dan and Jen set the pages afire. They were so meant to be together but fate was against them, and they had to part after a wonderful night of passion, as Jen was pregnant and carrying a baby for her brother and his husband.
When they meet up again they find nothing about their feelings had changed but the timing was still again against them. When Dan finds out Jen is pregnant he thinks it is his and then the fun begins.
This book shows the wonderful power of a loving family and the problems to be overcome when two strong willed people meet and fall in love.
A great read and now cannot wait for the next book set around a member of the Kelly Family and meet up again with the wonderful family members already met.
Thank you Crista for letting us get to know this lovely family
July 26, 2016
The Heart's Game is Dan of the Kelly brothers story. While I enjoyed this story, my personal favorite is still Breakaway Hearts. I liked Dan, the doctor in the family and Jenny a self-described Geek but did not identify with either of them as much as I have the other brothers. Their struggles and family issues were realistic and genuine so it was easy to empathize with them.
As I have come to expect from Crista McHugh the story line is tightly woven with the development of the supporting characters as well as the two main ones, Dan and Jenny. I also enjoyed the case of mistaken assumptions; it caused a few out of the ordinary twists in the story.
I think the handicap for me was the gaming part of the story, which is the main way that they kept connecting. I’m not very familiar with the rules of these games, the roles, the connections between roles or even the terminology since I do not know any devoted gamers, so I found some of that part confusing. I think if you are more up to date than I am then you would find all this very interesting.
As I have come to expect from Crista McHugh the story line is tightly woven with the development of the supporting characters as well as the two main ones, Dan and Jenny. I also enjoyed the case of mistaken assumptions; it caused a few out of the ordinary twists in the story.
I think the handicap for me was the gaming part of the story, which is the main way that they kept connecting. I’m not very familiar with the rules of these games, the roles, the connections between roles or even the terminology since I do not know any devoted gamers, so I found some of that part confusing. I think if you are more up to date than I am then you would find all this very interesting.
June 8, 2014
I received an ARC from the author for an honest review.
This was another great book by Christa McHugh!
Jenny and Dan met at ComiCon, where Jenny wanted to get her groove on one last time before speniding 9 months as a surrogate for her brother and his husband. Dan wanted to get to know the sexy woman better, but she left before he could.
They later meet again when Dan gets invited to join the Friday Night Game Group Jenny is already a part of.
I loved how Jenny and Dan met, then went their separate ways and later suddenly crossed paths again.
They reacted well to each other, and their relationship grew in a very natural way.
I really love the entire Kelly Brothers series and love how there are always a couple of appearance of brothers in each book. After reading this book I am very much looking forward to Ethan, the next book, and Gideon and 'Red's' story!
This was another great book by Christa McHugh!
Jenny and Dan met at ComiCon, where Jenny wanted to get her groove on one last time before speniding 9 months as a surrogate for her brother and his husband. Dan wanted to get to know the sexy woman better, but she left before he could.
They later meet again when Dan gets invited to join the Friday Night Game Group Jenny is already a part of.
I loved how Jenny and Dan met, then went their separate ways and later suddenly crossed paths again.
They reacted well to each other, and their relationship grew in a very natural way.
I really love the entire Kelly Brothers series and love how there are always a couple of appearance of brothers in each book. After reading this book I am very much looking forward to Ethan, the next book, and Gideon and 'Red's' story!
July 12, 2016
Crista McHugh has done it again with this next installment of the Kelly brothers saga. This can be read as a stand-alone but to know the faces behind the names it's good to start with the first in this series. Dan Kelly is a doctor in Seattle and a Com-Con fanatic. He meets a seductive Jenny on the last day of this event. He uses his lucky die to see if he should try to stay in touch or let it remain a one-night stand and with a 50/50 roll, he leaves it to fate. A month later they arrive together at a mutual friends house to play their weekend game and they meet again. She tells him she can't be involved and he can't seem to understand why .... she's holding the knowledge that she is pregnant with her brothers baby as their surrogate. I loved how this story built from the ground up and how even through struggles they worked things out together. I have loved every book in this series and can't wait to read about the remaining Kelly boys.
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review by NetGalley.
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review by NetGalley.
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