What do you think?
Rate this book
Broke and Beautiful #2
Need Me
When Honey Perribow traded in her cowboy boots for stilettos and left her small Kentucky town to attend Columbia University, she never expected to find a dirt-cheap apartment or two new best friends. No stranger to hard work, Honey is completely focused on her medical degree … until she sees newly minted professor Ben Dawson, and her concentration is hijacked. Honey is fascinated by her gorgeous young English professor and vows to find a crack in his tweed-wearing, glasses-clad exterior.At an off-campus party, an accident lands Ben in a dark, locked closet with a sexy-sounding Southern belle … and their chemistry is explosive. But when he discovers that the girl in his arms is the same beautiful student he can't stop thinking about, he is stunned. Student-teacher relationships are strictly forbidden … yet no matter how hard he tries, Ben can't stay away from Honey.And when his attempt to fight their attraction nearly ruins the best thing that ever happened to him, Ben will do anything to prove how much he needs her.
288 pages, Unknown Binding
First published April 21, 2015
821 people are currently reading
19064 people want to read
About the author
Tessa Bailey
109 books67k followersNew York Times Bestselling author Tessa Bailey can solve all problems except for her own, so she focuses those efforts on stubborn, fictional blue collar men and loyal, lovable heroines. She lives on Long Island avoiding the sun and social interactions, then wonders why no one has called. Dubbed the “Michelangelo of dirty talk,” by Entertainment Weekly, Tessa writes with spice, spirit, swoon and a guaranteed happily ever after. Catch her on TikTok at @authortessabailey or check out tessabailey.com for a complete list of books.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,807 reviews
April 27, 2015
2 Stars!
We met both main characters in the previous book in the series - Honey is Roxy’s friend and roommate and Ben is one of Louis’s friends.
Honey is from a small town of Kentucky. She always wanted to escape, she always wanted more and to experience life, so now she’s a medical student at Columbia University. She’s very smitten with hew new English professor, Prof. Dawson. Ben Dawson is a young 25 years old professor who really loves his job. He knows being a professor at the age of 25 could make him accessible to his students, but all he wants is to teach and to keep his social life and his professional life completely separate. He doesn’t date young college girls, preferring to date older women who are ‘safe’. And all that because he has some issues with his past. He is a great teacher, but he doesn’t know the names of his students. He doesn’t know which one of his students is Honey Perribow, but he knows she’s a brilliant student and that he’s fascinated with her writing.
Roxy and Louis decide to throw a party for their friends to meet each other. Long story short, Honey and Ben end up locked in a closet together. While Ben doesn’t recognize Honey’s voice, Honey knows immediately who the stranger is and she’s more than ready to seduce the handsome English teacher.
I really wanted to like this one, but unfortunately I couldn’t. I have read my fair share of books with this premise – teacher-student romance and I have to say “Need me” was one of the worst. The premise was so poorly done here...gahh. In my opinion this book is too light and sexy for this premise. I also think the story is too short and rushed for a teacher-student premise. The plot was predictable and even convenient at times. Needless to say it didn’t grip my attention.
The fact that Honey and Ben end up locked in a closet together and they feel a powerful connection for each other...in the dark...just made me roll my eyes. Really? I, for one, I didn’t feel any connection between them. Zero chemistry. It goes without saying their relationship’s development is almost inexistent. They meet, they don’t spend much time together, they just only fu*k, their interactions are just meh and after a week they feel they are soulmates. Yeah, right!*insert eyeroll*(Again!)
And let’s not forget the fact Honey doesn’t give a damn Ben is her teacher or she could ruin his career. As much as I like a heroine who goes after what she wants Honey irritate me like hell with her childish behavior and with her decisions. She is sweet and hardworking and blah, blah, but to me she was a weak heroine. She forgives Ben numerous times almost immediately. He tells her he wants to fu*k her and she forgets that he’s a douche. And he really is..a douche. First because he wrote ‘that’ letter. He was such a hypocrite. Than because he shows up at the bar with another woman trying to let down Honey easy. Come again? The fact that he was a little possessive and jealous didn’t impressed me at all. He is sweet and a little caring, but he didn’t wow me at all.
The sex scenes were just meh and rushed and unfortunately they didn’t do anything for me. The side characters are great and I liked the main characters’ relationship with their friends. I also liked the writing which was pretty engaging.
Overall, just an ok read for me!
We met both main characters in the previous book in the series - Honey is Roxy’s friend and roommate and Ben is one of Louis’s friends.
Honey is from a small town of Kentucky. She always wanted to escape, she always wanted more and to experience life, so now she’s a medical student at Columbia University. She’s very smitten with hew new English professor, Prof. Dawson. Ben Dawson is a young 25 years old professor who really loves his job. He knows being a professor at the age of 25 could make him accessible to his students, but all he wants is to teach and to keep his social life and his professional life completely separate. He doesn’t date young college girls, preferring to date older women who are ‘safe’. And all that because he has some issues with his past. He is a great teacher, but he doesn’t know the names of his students. He doesn’t know which one of his students is Honey Perribow, but he knows she’s a brilliant student and that he’s fascinated with her writing.
Roxy and Louis decide to throw a party for their friends to meet each other. Long story short, Honey and Ben end up locked in a closet together. While Ben doesn’t recognize Honey’s voice, Honey knows immediately who the stranger is and she’s more than ready to seduce the handsome English teacher.
I really wanted to like this one, but unfortunately I couldn’t. I have read my fair share of books with this premise – teacher-student romance and I have to say “Need me” was one of the worst. The premise was so poorly done here...gahh. In my opinion this book is too light and sexy for this premise. I also think the story is too short and rushed for a teacher-student premise. The plot was predictable and even convenient at times. Needless to say it didn’t grip my attention.
The fact that Honey and Ben end up locked in a closet together and they feel a powerful connection for each other...in the dark...just made me roll my eyes. Really? I, for one, I didn’t feel any connection between them. Zero chemistry. It goes without saying their relationship’s development is almost inexistent. They meet, they don’t spend much time together, they just only fu*k, their interactions are just meh and after a week they feel they are soulmates. Yeah, right!*insert eyeroll*(Again!)
And let’s not forget the fact Honey doesn’t give a damn Ben is her teacher or she could ruin his career. As much as I like a heroine who goes after what she wants Honey irritate me like hell with her childish behavior and with her decisions. She is sweet and hardworking and blah, blah, but to me she was a weak heroine. She forgives Ben numerous times almost immediately. He tells her he wants to fu*k her and she forgets that he’s a douche. And he really is..a douche. First because he wrote ‘that’ letter. He was such a hypocrite. Than because he shows up at the bar with another woman trying to let down Honey easy. Come again? The fact that he was a little possessive and jealous didn’t impressed me at all. He is sweet and a little caring, but he didn’t wow me at all.
The sex scenes were just meh and rushed and unfortunately they didn’t do anything for me. The side characters are great and I liked the main characters’ relationship with their friends. I also liked the writing which was pretty engaging.
Overall, just an ok read for me!
March 27, 2025
1☆ DNF 32% How to Douchecanoe 101
I just think it's so hot when a man:
1. Blames his student for his attraction to her mind and body
2. Refers to her as "Lolita" (Ms. Bailey did you read Lolita? Because your h is a 20 y.o. college student and her professor is 25...though he's acting 12)
3. Projects his shit parents onto her, insults her repeatedly, and acts like an insecure, rigid, fearful little asshole
4. Never apologizes, while retaining power over her academic career
WINNER WINNER CHICKEN DINNER
I just think it's so hot when a man:
1. Blames his student for his attraction to her mind and body
2. Refers to her as "Lolita" (Ms. Bailey did you read Lolita? Because your h is a 20 y.o. college student and her professor is 25...though he's acting 12)
3. Projects his shit parents onto her, insults her repeatedly, and acts like an insecure, rigid, fearful little asshole
4. Never apologizes, while retaining power over her academic career
WINNER WINNER CHICKEN DINNER
April 24, 2015
4 Forbidden Stars.
Honey fell in love with her English teacher. What she didn’t expect was for him to be the best friend of her roommate’s boyfriend.
Ben feels immediately attracted to Honey, what he also didn’t expect is that she was his student, the same whose papers he can’t stop reading.
They know they shouldn’t. They know it’s against all the rules. But neither of them can’t resist.
After all, isn’t the forbidden fruit the most desirable one?
I’m seriously loving this new series by Tessa Bailey.
These books are light, romantic, freaking hilarious and absolutely steamy. Not to mention the hero was a dirty talker, and if you don’t know Tessa’s dirty talkers by now, I strongly advise you to get acquainted with them.
This book, besides all I’ve already said, it had some really heartwarming moments and some heartbreaking ones that made me fall even more for the story. For you, that love forbidden love books, this is a must read. You won’t die from the angst, nor It will make you throw your kindle through the window, but has enough drama to keep you on your toes and to make you feel every page. Get on it, people!
Rating: 4 Stars.
Characters Development: I loved Honey!! She was fierce, and sassy and wasn’t afraid of what she wanted. Ben pissed me off in a couple of moments, so I had to remind myself that he was the one in the position of power, so it was easy to forgive him. He was really sweet and a great counterpart for Honey. I liked to see more of Roxy and Louis and after this book, I can’t wait for Abby’s story!
Steam: Hot.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
Honey fell in love with her English teacher. What she didn’t expect was for him to be the best friend of her roommate’s boyfriend.
Ben feels immediately attracted to Honey, what he also didn’t expect is that she was his student, the same whose papers he can’t stop reading.
They know they shouldn’t. They know it’s against all the rules. But neither of them can’t resist.
After all, isn’t the forbidden fruit the most desirable one?
I’m seriously loving this new series by Tessa Bailey.
These books are light, romantic, freaking hilarious and absolutely steamy. Not to mention the hero was a dirty talker, and if you don’t know Tessa’s dirty talkers by now, I strongly advise you to get acquainted with them.
This book, besides all I’ve already said, it had some really heartwarming moments and some heartbreaking ones that made me fall even more for the story. For you, that love forbidden love books, this is a must read. You won’t die from the angst, nor It will make you throw your kindle through the window, but has enough drama to keep you on your toes and to make you feel every page. Get on it, people!
Rating: 4 Stars.
Characters Development: I loved Honey!! She was fierce, and sassy and wasn’t afraid of what she wanted. Ben pissed me off in a couple of moments, so I had to remind myself that he was the one in the position of power, so it was easy to forgive him. He was really sweet and a great counterpart for Honey. I liked to see more of Roxy and Louis and after this book, I can’t wait for Abby’s story!
Steam: Hot.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
September 21, 2020
4/5 stars.
January 3, 2024
Genuinely criminal. You mean to tell me this man is an English professor. He has a master's degree in English literature and language ... and chooses to call his student/girlfriend/friend-with-benefits Lolita as a term of endearment. No
May 25, 2015
Damn if Tessa Bailey doesn't write the best dirty talking men ever! Ben's an English professor who pulled the douchebag card over and over and he still managed to be hot as hell. Well done, Ms. Bailey. Well done.
August 22, 2023
What the fuck.
I loved both main characters. How often does that happen? Never...
I loved Ben's grand gesture and I loved that he fucking! understood! what he was apologizing for— he understood the essence of the problem vs just apologizing because 'your girl is mad at you and that's inconvenient because you want her'. Professor Ben Dawson passed the husband test.
Honey is my favorite kind of heroine. (Yes, her name is Honey— Miss Honey Perribow— But it's in a charming Southern way, not a stupid way.) She had that classic feminine charm about her... think young Dolly Parton on a talk show in the 70s. She was so sweet and friendly, but could also be fiery and headstrong if need be. I loved how she stood up for herself and took accountability for her actions. To me, this the most authentic personification of A Strong Heroine. I hate when a book claims to feature a "strong heroine" and then she's just a condescending bitch who's cold to everyone. That doesn't read as strength or confidence to me.
For a book that was published in 2015, this surprisingly didn't have that slightly outdated tone that all books have once you're like 5+ years removed from the current cultural/social environment. You know what I mean? It's subtle, but small things will just read as dated or reminiscent of trends that are no longer popular. This didn't have that problem at all, and I actually went into the book anticipating it. My only complaint is that I wanted a fucking epilogue, Tessa!!!!!!! The book ends right at the grand gesture (a scene that I loved), but I needed my epilogue aka post-sex cigarette to come down from my emotional high.
I loved both main characters. How often does that happen? Never...
I loved Ben's grand gesture and I loved that he fucking! understood! what he was apologizing for— he understood the essence of the problem vs just apologizing because 'your girl is mad at you and that's inconvenient because you want her'. Professor Ben Dawson passed the husband test.
Honey is my favorite kind of heroine. (Yes, her name is Honey— Miss Honey Perribow— But it's in a charming Southern way, not a stupid way.) She had that classic feminine charm about her... think young Dolly Parton on a talk show in the 70s. She was so sweet and friendly, but could also be fiery and headstrong if need be. I loved how she stood up for herself and took accountability for her actions. To me, this the most authentic personification of A Strong Heroine. I hate when a book claims to feature a "strong heroine" and then she's just a condescending bitch who's cold to everyone. That doesn't read as strength or confidence to me.
For a book that was published in 2015, this surprisingly didn't have that slightly outdated tone that all books have once you're like 5+ years removed from the current cultural/social environment. You know what I mean? It's subtle, but small things will just read as dated or reminiscent of trends that are no longer popular. This didn't have that problem at all, and I actually went into the book anticipating it. My only complaint is that I wanted a fucking epilogue, Tessa!!!!!!! The book ends right at the grand gesture (a scene that I loved), but I needed my epilogue aka post-sex cigarette to come down from my emotional high.
January 23, 2022
** VERY SPOILER-Y REVIEW **
As of this moment, mine is the first negative review for this book in Goodreads. But I'm just not sold on the idea of Ben and Honey. It failed in so many level to entertain me -- unlike the first book, which charmed me. Plus I have A LOT of issues ...
This review is mainly going to be my opinion on A LOT of stuffs, it will be rambling, so sorry about that. As it is a SPOILER-Y REVIEW, everything will be put under spoiler tag. You've been warned.
As of this moment, mine is the first negative review for this book in Goodreads. But I'm just not sold on the idea of Ben and Honey. It failed in so many level to entertain me -- unlike the first book, which charmed me. Plus I have A LOT of issues ...
This review is mainly going to be my opinion on A LOT of stuffs, it will be rambling, so sorry about that. As it is a SPOILER-Y REVIEW, everything will be put under spoiler tag. You've been warned.
November 12, 2024
The MMC made me want to rip my hair out 😌 That’s the whole review
June 21, 2019
So, I am obviously enjoying Tessa Bailey's writing, but she has gotten better since this series. Ben is pretty awful and Honey (what's up with this name?) is way too good for him. I also found it hilarious how Honey is apparently this genius level writer of English essays but what we see of her writing is distinctly unimpressive; although not as unimpressive as Ben's writing who's supposed to be an English professor.
February 17, 2017
***3.5***
Hace 3 días yo no tenía idea de lo bien que escribía esta autora. En la entrega pasada me ENAMORÉ del protagonista pero no tanto de su historia.
En este libro sucedió al revés.
La historia fue muy bien llevada y bonita. Pero no logré enamorarme del protagonista. Aunque si soy sincera, esa carta del final fue LA CARTA. Y decir que he leído muchas grandiosas es poco.
Pero soy débil cuando este tipo de protagonistas se arrastran un poquito para recuperar a la prota jaja.
El punto aquí, era que el ni siquiera lo hizo para recuperarla. El lo hizo porque era lo correcto. ¡Ya había perdido todas las esperanzas de volver a estar juntos!
Es por eso que es más bonito y significativo el regalo que le hizo. Y es que fue EL REGALO.En serio... si a mí me dan una cosa así de significativa con una carta como esa, bueno... no soy tan fácil pero de que lo perdonaba lo perdonaba jajja.
El supergrupo vuelve a ser una parte grandiosa de la novela. Las charlas entre cada grupo de amigos fueron hilarantes algunas veces y me gustó conocer un poco más de cada uno de ellos.
Lo único que no me ha gustado en este y el libro anterior es todo eso de la "dirty talk" porque ni siquiera hubo tanto sexo como en el libro anterior!!! El problema es que la forma de hablar de los protagonistas en esos momentos precisamente, se me hace totalmente fuera de lugar. O sea, cuando están en la cama son unos y cuando no... ¿súper correctos? Pffff.
Igual es una historia que disfrute mucho! A pesar del tema profesor-alumna que trata.
Es genial para pasar el rato. Sin tanto drama de por medio y con escenas divertidas.
Por supuesto que ya me voy a leer el tercer libro.
El FRIENZONEADO Russell ❤ ya me tiene medio conquistada hahhaha Pobre Abby... lo que le espera.
PD: Ya saben que amo esas historias jijiji, a ver que tal está!
Hace 3 días yo no tenía idea de lo bien que escribía esta autora. En la entrega pasada me ENAMORÉ del protagonista pero no tanto de su historia.
En este libro sucedió al revés.
La historia fue muy bien llevada y bonita. Pero no logré enamorarme del protagonista. Aunque si soy sincera, esa carta del final fue LA CARTA. Y decir que he leído muchas grandiosas es poco.
Pero soy débil cuando este tipo de protagonistas se arrastran un poquito para recuperar a la prota jaja.
There is this girl in my class. This brave, intelligent, golden-eyed girl who glows so brightly that once I saw her, I never had a chance.
El punto aquí, era que el ni siquiera lo hizo para recuperarla. El lo hizo porque era lo correcto. ¡Ya había perdido todas las esperanzas de volver a estar juntos!
Es por eso que es más bonito y significativo el regalo que le hizo. Y es que fue EL REGALO.
El supergrupo vuelve a ser una parte grandiosa de la novela. Las charlas entre cada grupo de amigos fueron hilarantes algunas veces y me gustó conocer un poco más de cada uno de ellos.
Lo único que no me ha gustado en este y el libro anterior es todo eso de la "dirty talk" porque ni siquiera hubo tanto sexo como en el libro anterior!!! El problema es que la forma de hablar de los protagonistas en esos momentos precisamente, se me hace totalmente fuera de lugar. O sea, cuando están en la cama son unos y cuando no... ¿súper correctos? Pffff.
I fell in love with this girl in my class. I could have met her anywhere and I would have loved her.
Igual es una historia que disfrute mucho! A pesar del tema profesor-alumna que trata.
Es genial para pasar el rato. Sin tanto drama de por medio y con escenas divertidas.
Por supuesto que ya me voy a leer el tercer libro.
El FRIENZONEADO Russell ❤ ya me tiene medio conquistada hahhaha Pobre Abby... lo que le espera.
PD: Ya saben que amo esas historias jijiji, a ver que tal está!
April 24, 2015
This book made me want to throw my kindle against the wall!
The hero kept calling the heroine Lolita. Sometimes he even said it as though it was sexy. LOLITA IS NOT SEXY. Also it's completely dumb considering the heroine was a freaking ADULT. The hero was only five years older than her. WHY DID HE KEEP CALLING HER LOLITA?! So stupid.
Also his dirty talk was just awful. He asked her if she wanted him to "finger bang" her. Is he twelve? At one point during sex he started talking about her ex boyfriend during sex. Oh I bet he never did this, or gave you an orgasm like this. How is that sexy or necessary. It didn't help that her ex boyfriend was a total sweetheart that didn't deserve to be talked about like that.
They both did stupid things, but I really couldn't get over what happened in the beginning.
I think my overall problem was that I just didn't see what the big deal was with their age and his job. They were both adults. There was only five years between them. Plus he was her college teacher, that just doesn't seem taboo to me. I think it's more just where I stay that gives me a different attitude towards those things.
The hero kept calling the heroine Lolita. Sometimes he even said it as though it was sexy. LOLITA IS NOT SEXY. Also it's completely dumb considering the heroine was a freaking ADULT. The hero was only five years older than her. WHY DID HE KEEP CALLING HER LOLITA?! So stupid.
Also his dirty talk was just awful. He asked her if she wanted him to "finger bang" her. Is he twelve? At one point during sex he started talking about her ex boyfriend during sex. Oh I bet he never did this, or gave you an orgasm like this. How is that sexy or necessary. It didn't help that her ex boyfriend was a total sweetheart that didn't deserve to be talked about like that.
They both did stupid things, but I really couldn't get over what happened in the beginning.
I think my overall problem was that I just didn't see what the big deal was with their age and his job. They were both adults. There was only five years between them. Plus he was her college teacher, that just doesn't seem taboo to me. I think it's more just where I stay that gives me a different attitude towards those things.
November 19, 2024
I’ve come to the conclusion that Tessa Bailey’s books are a big no for me.
December 2, 2022
Two morons risk their career and expensive education by being horndogs.
May 12, 2015
Oh my gosh my heart is overwhelmed with pure romantic bliss.
Sizzling Pages Romance Reviews
Nichole's Sizzling Reviews
Sizzling Pages @ Facebook
Sizling Pages on TSU
Twitter:@Sizzlingpages
Email: sizzlingpages@gmail.com
Click HERE for my review.
April 22, 2015
2.5 stars
Oh man, I'm so conflicted. I wanted to like this one so much considering I put all the other books I was reading aside just to read this first. I was so excited and damn you high expectations for letting me down once again.
I liked Honey. I really did. What I don't like is how Ben messed with her three times and with each of those times, she forgave him so easily just because they couldn't keep it in their pants. All they ever think about was sex, sex and sex! They haven't even known each other for a long time yet when Honey was faced with a family problem and had to go back home to Kentucky, Ben flew all the way because apparently, he couldn't live without her. It was too soon. Their relationship was way too fast and too soon for me that when I got to that part, instead of rooting for them I just waited for Ben to screw up again and have Honey not be dictated by her vagina so for once, she would not forgive Ben so easily. Alas, all my dreams were crushed when said thing didn't happen.
Oh man, I'm so conflicted. I wanted to like this one so much considering I put all the other books I was reading aside just to read this first. I was so excited and damn you high expectations for letting me down once again.
I liked Honey. I really did. What I don't like is how Ben messed with her three times and with each of those times, she forgave him so easily just because they couldn't keep it in their pants. All they ever think about was sex, sex and sex! They haven't even known each other for a long time yet when Honey was faced with a family problem and had to go back home to Kentucky, Ben flew all the way because apparently, he couldn't live without her. It was too soon. Their relationship was way too fast and too soon for me that when I got to that part, instead of rooting for them I just waited for Ben to screw up again and have Honey not be dictated by her vagina so for once, she would not forgive Ben so easily. Alas, all my dreams were crushed when said thing didn't happen.
July 12, 2015
4.5 rounding up
I absolutely loooooved Chase Me, book 1 in this companion series by Tessa Bailey, and I grabbed this one as soon as I could because I was excited to see what came next!
We briefly met Honey Perribow in Chase Me… she’s Roxy’s Southern roommate, and I didn’t realize then, just how much I was going to like her! Honey is from a small Kentucky town where you graduate from high school and start settling in to a certain kind of life… one she didn’t want. So she high-tailed it to New York to attend Columbia, leaving behind her family and her boyfriend to get a degree in medicine. She never expected to be side-tracked by a tweed-wearing, professor.
Ben Dawson watched his father’s dalliances ruin their family, and he vowed that it would never happen to him… no matter how much this student named Honey Perribow might intrigue him with her writing and her insight. Besides, he’s always been attracted to older women who aren’t looking for anything serious and that’s all he needs in his life right now.
When Roxy and Louis decide it’s time for their “supergroups” to mesh, a party seems like the logical place for them to bond… only Ben and Honey unknowingly end up locked in a closet together. All Ben knows is that there is a sexy Southern belle that he can’t seem to resist… but when the lights come on and Ben realizes just who Honey is, he’s determined to resist the chemistry between them… at any cost.
So among the reasons that you should read this… because there are many, but the best one in my opinion is that Tessa Bailey writes amazing chemistry. From the very beginning I was drawn to Honey & Ben… I mean who hasn’t had that forbidden teacher fantasy… (only me? Okay… LOL) What I loved about Ben here was that before he even knew who Honey was, and what she looked like, he was falling for her words. Her writing is what caught his attention and pulled him in… her stories are what intrigued him the most, and it totally drew me in.
Obviously there is the forbidden relationship here. Ben is her teacher and she is a bit younger than him so it’s something that might not work for some people, but seriously, Ben puts up the good fight… sure he pulls some dick moves along the way, and let me just say that kudos go to Honey for not putting up with his shit for long. I have to share one part because it totally made me laugh.
Honey held the screen door open with one hand. “Well, now, Mama. This is Ben. He’s …” She stood up straighter. And proceeded to talk in what sounded like a new undiscovered language. “The thing is, he’s kind of my boyfriend and we’re having a fight right now but he stuck his butt on a plane to come down and see me anyway. It was foolish and impulsive but here he is and I suspect he’s probably hungry so can you make him a sandwich? Not one of your good ones, because like I said, we’re fighting. But we can���t just let him starve is all.”
Southern hospitality I love. Like I said, I really loved Honey. I loved that she was smart and determined and she wasn’t ready to settle for a life that could have been predictable. Instead she set out into a city where she knew no one and had little support and was making her way. Which brings me to her relationship with her mom. I loved it… and her love and support and the things she wanted for Honey were just lovely.
So… If you haven’t started this series, I highly recommend it. I am completely in love with these and I am super excited to see what Bailey does with Make Me, Book 3 featuring Abby & Russell. Definitely a must read if you’re looking for something light on the drama, heavy on the sexy and fun.
Thank you to AVON books for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
I absolutely loooooved Chase Me, book 1 in this companion series by Tessa Bailey, and I grabbed this one as soon as I could because I was excited to see what came next!
We briefly met Honey Perribow in Chase Me… she’s Roxy’s Southern roommate, and I didn’t realize then, just how much I was going to like her! Honey is from a small Kentucky town where you graduate from high school and start settling in to a certain kind of life… one she didn’t want. So she high-tailed it to New York to attend Columbia, leaving behind her family and her boyfriend to get a degree in medicine. She never expected to be side-tracked by a tweed-wearing, professor.
Ben Dawson watched his father’s dalliances ruin their family, and he vowed that it would never happen to him… no matter how much this student named Honey Perribow might intrigue him with her writing and her insight. Besides, he’s always been attracted to older women who aren’t looking for anything serious and that’s all he needs in his life right now.
When Roxy and Louis decide it’s time for their “supergroups” to mesh, a party seems like the logical place for them to bond… only Ben and Honey unknowingly end up locked in a closet together. All Ben knows is that there is a sexy Southern belle that he can’t seem to resist… but when the lights come on and Ben realizes just who Honey is, he’s determined to resist the chemistry between them… at any cost.
So among the reasons that you should read this… because there are many, but the best one in my opinion is that Tessa Bailey writes amazing chemistry. From the very beginning I was drawn to Honey & Ben… I mean who hasn’t had that forbidden teacher fantasy… (only me? Okay… LOL) What I loved about Ben here was that before he even knew who Honey was, and what she looked like, he was falling for her words. Her writing is what caught his attention and pulled him in… her stories are what intrigued him the most, and it totally drew me in.
Obviously there is the forbidden relationship here. Ben is her teacher and she is a bit younger than him so it’s something that might not work for some people, but seriously, Ben puts up the good fight… sure he pulls some dick moves along the way, and let me just say that kudos go to Honey for not putting up with his shit for long. I have to share one part because it totally made me laugh.
Honey held the screen door open with one hand. “Well, now, Mama. This is Ben. He’s …” She stood up straighter. And proceeded to talk in what sounded like a new undiscovered language. “The thing is, he’s kind of my boyfriend and we’re having a fight right now but he stuck his butt on a plane to come down and see me anyway. It was foolish and impulsive but here he is and I suspect he’s probably hungry so can you make him a sandwich? Not one of your good ones, because like I said, we’re fighting. But we can���t just let him starve is all.”
Southern hospitality I love. Like I said, I really loved Honey. I loved that she was smart and determined and she wasn’t ready to settle for a life that could have been predictable. Instead she set out into a city where she knew no one and had little support and was making her way. Which brings me to her relationship with her mom. I loved it… and her love and support and the things she wanted for Honey were just lovely.
So… If you haven’t started this series, I highly recommend it. I am completely in love with these and I am super excited to see what Bailey does with Make Me, Book 3 featuring Abby & Russell. Definitely a must read if you’re looking for something light on the drama, heavy on the sexy and fun.
Thank you to AVON books for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
October 4, 2019
Spoilers ahead,3.5*
This book was good;intense,sexy and well written but parts of it left a bad taste in my mouth.
Honey has the hots for her English professor and sets out to seduce him. The attraction is there but not much happens. She goes home to her roommates planning a party and ends up locked in a storage closet, when Been enters to help her she realizes that her sexy teacher is also her roommate's boyfriend's friend Ben. Honey doesn't let on that she's actually his teacher and the two have a hot and heavy make out session in the dark. When the room is opened however Been is angry to see that the sexy woman he almost had sex with is his student.
Ben has issues from his father's actions in his childhood. His dad cheated on his wife with Ben's mom,then !arrird her and cheated on her repeatedly until he slept with someone underage. His dad's entire career was ruined but years later it came out that the girl lied about her age. With his memories of that time Ben is wary of lying women especially in Honey's case as her lies could make him lose everything.
***********
Ok so initially I didn't blame Been for being pissed, Honey made a decision to seduce him without thinking of the consequences to Ben if they got caught BUT their next intimate time was on Ben too! He couldn't resist her and honestly didn't try all that hard.
When his mom showed up Ben's past reared it's ugly head throwing in his face all he stood to lose. He wrote a letter to the dean saying Honey was interested in him and was pursuing him untequitedly which at that point as a lie. From the moment the letter surfaced I knew it would cause conflict with the couple and it eventually did even if Been wasn't the one to submit it
Honey pursued Been, even when he messed up by assuming wrong things about her, then showing up with another woman to push her away she took him back pretty easily. When the letter caused a fallout I'd when she resisted him but after a cute letter and a baseball field she was once again running to him
Ben was sexy , bossy Alpha hero as I like em but he was also a coward. It's very clear how much he wanted the h but he let his past cause him to make some dickhead moves as he tried to keep his job. I felt like if he wanted her enough he would've accepted the job offer to another school and left so they could be together instead of waiting until things came to a head before he accepted the job
All in all I enjoyed this one but the actions of the mcs lowered my rating.
OW drama- the h used OW twice to push the h away. He didn't kiss or touch her in any way
OM drama- from the H's ex who wanted her back. This was just a barely there blip as the guy wasn't a threat in any way
Condoms used
h had one boyfriend previously, no details really on the H but he didn't seem to be a manwhore
This book was good;intense,sexy and well written but parts of it left a bad taste in my mouth.
Honey has the hots for her English professor and sets out to seduce him. The attraction is there but not much happens. She goes home to her roommates planning a party and ends up locked in a storage closet, when Been enters to help her she realizes that her sexy teacher is also her roommate's boyfriend's friend Ben. Honey doesn't let on that she's actually his teacher and the two have a hot and heavy make out session in the dark. When the room is opened however Been is angry to see that the sexy woman he almost had sex with is his student.
Ben has issues from his father's actions in his childhood. His dad cheated on his wife with Ben's mom,then !arrird her and cheated on her repeatedly until he slept with someone underage. His dad's entire career was ruined but years later it came out that the girl lied about her age. With his memories of that time Ben is wary of lying women especially in Honey's case as her lies could make him lose everything.
***********
Ok so initially I didn't blame Been for being pissed, Honey made a decision to seduce him without thinking of the consequences to Ben if they got caught BUT their next intimate time was on Ben too! He couldn't resist her and honestly didn't try all that hard.
When his mom showed up Ben's past reared it's ugly head throwing in his face all he stood to lose. He wrote a letter to the dean saying Honey was interested in him and was pursuing him untequitedly which at that point as a lie. From the moment the letter surfaced I knew it would cause conflict with the couple and it eventually did even if Been wasn't the one to submit it
Honey pursued Been, even when he messed up by assuming wrong things about her, then showing up with another woman to push her away she took him back pretty easily. When the letter caused a fallout I'd when she resisted him but after a cute letter and a baseball field she was once again running to him
Ben was sexy , bossy Alpha hero as I like em but he was also a coward. It's very clear how much he wanted the h but he let his past cause him to make some dickhead moves as he tried to keep his job. I felt like if he wanted her enough he would've accepted the job offer to another school and left so they could be together instead of waiting until things came to a head before he accepted the job
All in all I enjoyed this one but the actions of the mcs lowered my rating.
OW drama- the h used OW twice to push the h away. He didn't kiss or touch her in any way
OM drama- from the H's ex who wanted her back. This was just a barely there blip as the guy wasn't a threat in any way
Condoms used
h had one boyfriend previously, no details really on the H but he didn't seem to be a manwhore
August 22, 2023
“LOLITA” IS NOT A SEXY TERM OF ENDEARMENT. She was not some hot 19 year old temptress. Dolores was a CHILD who was RAPED by a pedophile who nicknamed her “Lolita” as he groomed and molested her for years.
Please, for the love of all that is holy, pretend you’ve read at least the Cliffnotes before you spend the entire book having your MMC call his younger love interest “Lolita” for fuck’s sake.
Also “culling” is not the same as “cultivating” or whatever fucking word the author was reaching for with this absolutely insane sentence—
“He had all of her in his arms now, surrounding his body, and the possessive instinct she’d been culling inside him went off like a cannon shot.”
Oh and then the MMC’s father apparently was the “victim” of a vicious girl who showed him a fake ID and then cried statutory rape. So thanks for contributing to rape culture with that ridiculous plot point.
This might just be the worst book I’ve ever read. Ugh.
Please, for the love of all that is holy, pretend you’ve read at least the Cliffnotes before you spend the entire book having your MMC call his younger love interest “Lolita” for fuck’s sake.
Also “culling” is not the same as “cultivating” or whatever fucking word the author was reaching for with this absolutely insane sentence—
“He had all of her in his arms now, surrounding his body, and the possessive instinct she’d been culling inside him went off like a cannon shot.”
Oh and then the MMC’s father apparently was the “victim” of a vicious girl who showed him a fake ID and then cried statutory rape. So thanks for contributing to rape culture with that ridiculous plot point.
This might just be the worst book I’ve ever read. Ugh.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2023
4/5 🌟
2/5 🌶️
BOOK BLURB:
When Honey Perribow traded in her cowboy boots for stilettos and left her small Kentucky town to attend Columbia University, she never expected to find a dirt-cheap apartment or two new best friends. No stranger to hard work, Honey’s sole focus is a medical degree... until she sees newly-minted Professor, Ben Dawson, and her concentration is hijacked. Honey is fascinated by her gorgeous, young English professor and vows to find a crack his tweed-wearing, glasses-clad exterior.
While at an off campus party, an accident lands Ben in a dark, locked closet with a sexy-sounding southern belle...and their chemistry is explosive. But when he discovers that the girl in his arms is the same beautiful college student he can’t stop thinking about, he is stunned. Yet no matter how hard he tries, Ben can’t stay away from Honey.
And when his attempts to fight their attraction nearly ruin the best thing that ever happened to him, Ben will do anything to prove how much he needs her.
MY THOUGHTS:
I’ve noticed with some of Bailey’s earlier works that the spice is toned down compared to her newer works. For me, I’m fine either way but prefer the spicier. Also, this book had less comedic dialogue and inner thoughts as her newer books and a more serious tone. I prefer the funnier, definitely. Yes, it was still a great book, I just needed more laughs. Shout out to Honey, our MFC, she’s a Kentucky girl like me!! Represent 😂! Anyway, for the reasons I just named, this is a solid 4 from me.
2/5 🌶️
BOOK BLURB:
When Honey Perribow traded in her cowboy boots for stilettos and left her small Kentucky town to attend Columbia University, she never expected to find a dirt-cheap apartment or two new best friends. No stranger to hard work, Honey’s sole focus is a medical degree... until she sees newly-minted Professor, Ben Dawson, and her concentration is hijacked. Honey is fascinated by her gorgeous, young English professor and vows to find a crack his tweed-wearing, glasses-clad exterior.
While at an off campus party, an accident lands Ben in a dark, locked closet with a sexy-sounding southern belle...and their chemistry is explosive. But when he discovers that the girl in his arms is the same beautiful college student he can’t stop thinking about, he is stunned. Yet no matter how hard he tries, Ben can’t stay away from Honey.
And when his attempts to fight their attraction nearly ruin the best thing that ever happened to him, Ben will do anything to prove how much he needs her.
MY THOUGHTS:
I’ve noticed with some of Bailey’s earlier works that the spice is toned down compared to her newer works. For me, I’m fine either way but prefer the spicier. Also, this book had less comedic dialogue and inner thoughts as her newer books and a more serious tone. I prefer the funnier, definitely. Yes, it was still a great book, I just needed more laughs. Shout out to Honey, our MFC, she’s a Kentucky girl like me!! Represent 😂! Anyway, for the reasons I just named, this is a solid 4 from me.
August 16, 2023
enough with the lolita references
July 6, 2025
I did enjoy but the MMC ugh, villain even though yes I get it but truly no! But awesome book, loved mentions of the south and loved the spice!
October 26, 2022
2.5 stars. Not terrible overall, but definitely has problematic elements. This isn’t one of Tessa Bailey’s best series…
The whole student & professor thing can be a hot fantasy - but the way that it’s done here is somewhat disturbing. The heroine, knowing that there are rules against student and teacher relationships, still pursues the hero. She first attempts to come on to him in his class, where it’s observed by another professor. She then ends up locked in a dark closet with him and continues her seduction without him knowing who he’s with. She had no regard for his job, or his feelings. She found out that he was friends with her roommate’s boyfriend, so she could have easily played the long game and waited until she was no longer in his class. Instead, she jeopardized his career and her own education by pursing him relentlessly.
The hero is written like the biggest idiot ever who can’t control the urges of his dick. If ever there was a perfect example of a man thinking with his downstairs brain - this is it. I couldn’t believe how pathetic his resistance was, how childishly this grown man acted. This is definitely a case of the man having betraying body syndrome. A somewhat welcome change away from the heroine, but still irritating.
There’s a cringe sex scene where the hero talks about how much better he is than the heroine’s ex boyfriend. I don’t need that mid-sex, no thanks! Also, the heroine’s ex is a sweetheart and didn’t deserve to be insulted in any way. It was doubly disappointing. The spicy parts of this book also didn’t measure up to some of TB’s other books.
Finally, the whole ending drama was just SO STUPID. I couldn’t stop rolling my eyes at the ridiculousness of the situation. COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY just expelling a student because of a letter that wasn’t even signed or discussed with the professor, and no discussion with the student either? LOL. Somehow, I find this unbelievable in the extreme.
Anyways, I think I’m done with this series. I somehow doubt that book 3 is much better than the first two.
Safe; no virgins, hero not a manwhore, heroine’s ex boyfriend causes some OM drama, plus some OM drama from a guy who asks her out on a date and makes the hero jealous. OW drama because hero tries to push the heroine away by allowing another professor to act like she’s with him, he has no interest in her though and nothing happens with her. No scenes with OM/OW, no cheating.
The whole student & professor thing can be a hot fantasy - but the way that it’s done here is somewhat disturbing. The heroine, knowing that there are rules against student and teacher relationships, still pursues the hero. She first attempts to come on to him in his class, where it’s observed by another professor. She then ends up locked in a dark closet with him and continues her seduction without him knowing who he’s with. She had no regard for his job, or his feelings. She found out that he was friends with her roommate’s boyfriend, so she could have easily played the long game and waited until she was no longer in his class. Instead, she jeopardized his career and her own education by pursing him relentlessly.
The hero is written like the biggest idiot ever who can’t control the urges of his dick. If ever there was a perfect example of a man thinking with his downstairs brain - this is it. I couldn’t believe how pathetic his resistance was, how childishly this grown man acted. This is definitely a case of the man having betraying body syndrome. A somewhat welcome change away from the heroine, but still irritating.
There’s a cringe sex scene where the hero talks about how much better he is than the heroine’s ex boyfriend. I don’t need that mid-sex, no thanks! Also, the heroine’s ex is a sweetheart and didn’t deserve to be insulted in any way. It was doubly disappointing. The spicy parts of this book also didn’t measure up to some of TB’s other books.
Finally, the whole ending drama was just SO STUPID. I couldn’t stop rolling my eyes at the ridiculousness of the situation. COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY just expelling a student because of a letter that wasn’t even signed or discussed with the professor, and no discussion with the student either? LOL. Somehow, I find this unbelievable in the extreme.
Anyways, I think I’m done with this series. I somehow doubt that book 3 is much better than the first two.
Safe; no virgins, hero not a manwhore, heroine’s ex boyfriend causes some OM drama, plus some OM drama from a guy who asks her out on a date and makes the hero jealous. OW drama because hero tries to push the heroine away by allowing another professor to act like she’s with him, he has no interest in her though and nothing happens with her. No scenes with OM/OW, no cheating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2023
2.5 ⭐️
At the 50% mark i said Ben was a dumb idiot boy. HOW DID IT GET WORSE. This is why we don’t let 25 year olds be professors at COLUMBIA 😭 LMAO BENJAMIN i’m gonna get you a therapist babygurl
Honey deserves the world, and also a new name.
At the 50% mark i said Ben was a dumb idiot boy. HOW DID IT GET WORSE. This is why we don’t let 25 year olds be professors at COLUMBIA 😭 LMAO BENJAMIN i’m gonna get you a therapist babygurl
Honey deserves the world, and also a new name.
September 9, 2023
My mom always said if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all
August 8, 2025
I didn't quite understood the plot here, it says she's studying to be a doctor and yet there's no mention of her pursuing doctor degree or even getting into a medical college, instead the FMC pursuing english literature.
what this book has to offer ?
- English professor x student
- she fell first and he fell harder
- supportive parents & friends
the story started off nicely the connection between an English professor and his student, a connection which is against the university rules and still they can't keep their hands off eachother.
but after certain events the story didn't live upto my expectations or precisely the story didn't deliver what it was made for.
all I read is sexual tension between two MC's and now any emotions. both are just attracted towards eachother.
all the crazy shit, like going back to her hometown to get her back, buying her a baseball field so she can have another reason to stay in newyork, planning this surprise for her with the help of her & his friends. everything gives the happy ending vibes.
yet the story was written in a very fast paced, with lot of here and there unusual linking.
the past trauma of MMC wasn't that much strong to hold the grounds atleast not according to me.
and as the story was written in third person perspective which made it a little boring to read after a while I just read it to finish the story.
so in my opinion I'm not very satisfied with the story and how it was delivered.
it was like the author trying to turn it into a hallmark movie minus the Christmas part but not all stories can be memorable and this one was just not for me.
still it had one or two good moments but beyond it nothing. I don't see any spark between the characters what I see is lust.
I was more happy to read the first book in this series and let's just hope the final book in the series might turn my pov on this particular series.
what this book has to offer ?
- English professor x student
- she fell first and he fell harder
- supportive parents & friends
the story started off nicely the connection between an English professor and his student, a connection which is against the university rules and still they can't keep their hands off eachother.
but after certain events the story didn't live upto my expectations or precisely the story didn't deliver what it was made for.
all I read is sexual tension between two MC's and now any emotions. both are just attracted towards eachother.
all the crazy shit, like going back to her hometown to get her back, buying her a baseball field so she can have another reason to stay in newyork, planning this surprise for her with the help of her & his friends. everything gives the happy ending vibes.
yet the story was written in a very fast paced, with lot of here and there unusual linking.
the past trauma of MMC wasn't that much strong to hold the grounds atleast not according to me.
and as the story was written in third person perspective which made it a little boring to read after a while I just read it to finish the story.
so in my opinion I'm not very satisfied with the story and how it was delivered.
it was like the author trying to turn it into a hallmark movie minus the Christmas part but not all stories can be memorable and this one was just not for me.
still it had one or two good moments but beyond it nothing. I don't see any spark between the characters what I see is lust.
I was more happy to read the first book in this series and let's just hope the final book in the series might turn my pov on this particular series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2019
This novel was talked about on an excellent podcast I listen to called Smart Podcast Trashy Books, and when they mentioned a "professor/college student" pairing, you know I snapped it up as quickly as I read Buffy/Giles fanfiction! (After Buffy turns 18 in Season 3 of course.)
Well, you don't get too far into this book before you discover that the college student is 20 years old and the brainiac professor is a whopping 25 years old. WOW, WHAT A HUGE AGE DIFFERENCE, THIS ROMANCE IS SO TABOO.
Plus, he kept calling her "Lolita" which is...not sexy.
Well, you don't get too far into this book before you discover that the college student is 20 years old and the brainiac professor is a whopping 25 years old. WOW, WHAT A HUGE AGE DIFFERENCE, THIS ROMANCE IS SO TABOO.
Plus, he kept calling her "Lolita" which is...not sexy.
August 28, 2022
Whew! This one was a scorcher! Very great read and loved the theme. It is the professor/student trope. It wasn't even the forbidden theme that had this book setting my tablet on fire. Tessa Bailey can just write some hot scenes. The scene in the closet was fire and well then the scene in the classroom was tops.
Ben does screw up, big time and I really felt Honey's pain. I didn't know how he was going to make it up to her. However, what he did was so sweet and made me melt.
Highly recommend. If you want more details, check out Melody's review. https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Probably won't read the first one. I think I started it at one time but couldn't get into it but definitely intrigued about Russell and Abby!
Ben does screw up, big time and I really felt Honey's pain. I didn't know how he was going to make it up to her. However, what he did was so sweet and made me melt.
Highly recommend. If you want more details, check out Melody's review. https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Probably won't read the first one. I think I started it at one time but couldn't get into it but definitely intrigued about Russell and Abby!
November 2, 2023
EWWWW OH MY FUCKING GOD TESSA BAILEY WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU
this is the most disgusting book i’ve ever read and i didn’t even make it up to 20%. i wanted to do a good word for how this shitty cover thankfully is being replaced by a cute one, but PLEASE don’t let the new cover fool you, because unless it comes with major changes in the book you shouldn’t read this.
this just has the most misogynistic male character ever and i can’t fathom that a woman would write a character like this as the love interest.
this is the most disgusting book i’ve ever read and i didn’t even make it up to 20%. i wanted to do a good word for how this shitty cover thankfully is being replaced by a cute one, but PLEASE don’t let the new cover fool you, because unless it comes with major changes in the book you shouldn’t read this.
this just has the most misogynistic male character ever and i can’t fathom that a woman would write a character like this as the love interest.
April 2, 2025
2nd Tessa Bailey I've read. Student/prof, age gap. Slow burn, but good plot & characters back and forth throughout book, unlike some where MFC and MMC have hot spice-and everything too resolved overnight.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,807 reviews