What do you think?
Rate this book
No Weddings #1
No Weddings
Award-winning author Kat Bastion teams with her husband, Stone Bastion, in this first book in the No Weddings Series about Cade Michaelson, a successful man with his sights set on a new venture in business, and Hannah Martin, the woman who makes it personal.
I think I have my act together as a successful bar owner, my master’s degree within reach, and a list of no-strings-attached women warming my bed. Turns out, I don’t.
Hannah believes she has safeguarded her wounded heart by shunning men and focusing on her new baking business. The thing is, she hasn’t.
When my three sisters and I start a new event-planning business with Hannah as our baker, I have no idea how my life is about to change. As Hannah and I work closely together, the attraction between us becomes irresistible. And complicated. I’ve promised my sisters I wouldn’t mix business with pleasure. But I’ve never been one to follow the rules.
*** The No Weddings Series Release Dates ***
No Weddings ~ Sep 8th
One Funeral ~ Sep 29th
Two Bar Mitzvahs ~ Oct 20th
Three Christmases ~ Nov 17th
I think I have my act together as a successful bar owner, my master’s degree within reach, and a list of no-strings-attached women warming my bed. Turns out, I don’t.
Hannah believes she has safeguarded her wounded heart by shunning men and focusing on her new baking business. The thing is, she hasn’t.
When my three sisters and I start a new event-planning business with Hannah as our baker, I have no idea how my life is about to change. As Hannah and I work closely together, the attraction between us becomes irresistible. And complicated. I’ve promised my sisters I wouldn’t mix business with pleasure. But I’ve never been one to follow the rules.
*** The No Weddings Series Release Dates ***
No Weddings ~ Sep 8th
One Funeral ~ Sep 29th
Two Bar Mitzvahs ~ Oct 20th
Three Christmases ~ Nov 17th
220 pages, ebook
First published September 8, 2014
751 people are currently reading
2047 people want to read
About the author
Kat Bastion
44 books437 followersJoin our Bastion Family Adventurers!
Be in the know with preorder alerts, exclusive bonus gifts, and occasional free stories by signing up here: http://www.katbastion.com/email-subsc...
LATEST PROJECTS:
Nestle down for a joyride of unparalleled mistletoe mischief as multiple award-winning author Kat Bastion unveils five brand-new multicultural romantic comedies in… Half-baked Holidays.
AND
The final two novels in The Unbreakable Series, Icebreaker and Ball Breaker are both coming soon!
Be in the know with preorder alerts, exclusive bonus gifts, and occasional free stories by signing up here: http://www.katbastion.com/email-subsc...
LATEST PROJECTS:
Nestle down for a joyride of unparalleled mistletoe mischief as multiple award-winning author Kat Bastion unveils five brand-new multicultural romantic comedies in… Half-baked Holidays.
AND
The final two novels in The Unbreakable Series, Icebreaker and Ball Breaker are both coming soon!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
September 12, 2014
Adorable and unexpected...
There was NO SEX in this book.
This is still a 4+ Star read with fabulous romance, witty dialogue, a fun cast of characters... And most importantly, it made me want to read the rest of the series.
I honestly cannot remember the last time I read a book that didn't have some sex in it. I'm a Professional Reader of Erotica. I don't usually receive a copy of a book unless someone's rod-A winds up in someone else's slot-B.
However, I was pleasantly surprised by this book and all it had to offer.
Kincade Michaelson
Cade starts off as your classic man-whore character. Scarred by a past relationship, he shuns emotional commitment in favor of regular sexual encounters with a list of women. Literally. He keeps a list.
He is a brilliant businessman who already has a few successful ventures, even though he is still studying for his MBA. The newest project: Staring an Event Planning company with his sisters called Invitation Only. There are two important rules in this new company - they don't do weddings, and Cade has to keep it in his pants. Now they just need to find the perfect baker...
Enter Hanna, who is an amazingly talented artist. She's exactly the kind of baker needed to compliment their trendy new company. Unfortunately, the "No Weddings" rule might be a deal breaker for a woman who makes beautiful cakes for a living. She's playing hardball, and Cade suddenly becomes responsible for getting her to sign on the dotted line...
Hannah Martin
Enter Cade, who is offering her an exclusive contract with Invitation Only, and lessons in marketing for her growing business. Their strategy sessions lead to a warm friendship, and a hard-to-ignore sexual attraction.
I really felt the love growing between these two...
There's something to be said for a romance where the main characters believably fall in love before falling into bed... I know that's probably some sort of sacrilege, and I love book sex as much as the next chick... But seriously.
Sex will always be more vibrant when honest emotion is involved.
All too often characters will have a wild sexy night and the rest of the book winds up being about the guy proving that he's not a player anymore... you can practically hear the thought process: "Hey, this is a really awesome vagina, I think I'll stay here"
That's not what I found in the pages of this book. The friendship and sexual chemistry led to some serious UST, but it also made me believe that these two are perfect for each other.
Lust,
flirting,
laughter,
dirty talk,
friendship,
confessions,
& respect...
Respect but not worship - There is a difference. Cade respects Hannah as a friend and business partner; he doesn't place her on a pedestal of perfection. Both characters are human: flawed and broken, but not irreparably so. Neither believes that they are unworthy or incapable of love or anything ridiculous like that. They just need to take the time to find the path together...
I can't wait to continue the series and see how these crazy kids balance their blossoming romance as well as their growing business!
Check out my other reviews in the No Weddings Series:
1 - No Weddings - You're Reading it!
2 - One Funeral - My Review
3 - Two Bar Mitzvahs - My Review
4 - Three Christmases - My Review
4.5 - For Valentine's - My Review
***I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review***
"...Real love is messy. It's fights, but more about the making up. It's pulling apart to find our own paths, but running together and holding on tight, refusing to let go. Love is the calm in the middle of the storm."Don't freak out over what I'm about to tell you...
There was NO SEX in this book.
This is still a 4+ Star read with fabulous romance, witty dialogue, a fun cast of characters... And most importantly, it made me want to read the rest of the series.
I honestly cannot remember the last time I read a book that didn't have some sex in it. I'm a Professional Reader of Erotica. I don't usually receive a copy of a book unless someone's rod-A winds up in someone else's slot-B.
However, I was pleasantly surprised by this book and all it had to offer.
Kincade Michaelson
Superficial pleasure helped burry the pain. Had the rules of the game changed? Maybe. Perhaps enough time had passed for me to reassess what the fuck I'd been doing with my life.The entire book is told from Cade's POV. He is the youngest of five children, and the only boy. His relationship with his older sisters was a joy to watch - their lovable banter and antics were a fabulous addition to this story.
Cade starts off as your classic man-whore character. Scarred by a past relationship, he shuns emotional commitment in favor of regular sexual encounters with a list of women. Literally. He keeps a list.
He is a brilliant businessman who already has a few successful ventures, even though he is still studying for his MBA. The newest project: Staring an Event Planning company with his sisters called Invitation Only. There are two important rules in this new company - they don't do weddings, and Cade has to keep it in his pants. Now they just need to find the perfect baker...
Enter Hanna, who is an amazingly talented artist. She's exactly the kind of baker needed to compliment their trendy new company. Unfortunately, the "No Weddings" rule might be a deal breaker for a woman who makes beautiful cakes for a living. She's playing hardball, and Cade suddenly becomes responsible for getting her to sign on the dotted line...
Hannah Martin
...a girl I'd never seen coming, one I'd never thought existed behind her ice-queen mask, had breached my outer defenses. Unaware if the danger, I'd let someone unexpected into my heart. And it scared the fuck out of me to lose the ground we gained, but the temptation of an even greater possibility kept gnawing at me.Hannah is also guarding her heart, a devastating betrayal left her hiding behind emotional walls and a frosty demeanor. She's been focused on opening her bakery (called Sweet Dreams) where she creates artistic confections with ease, but could really use some help on the business end of things...
Enter Cade, who is offering her an exclusive contract with Invitation Only, and lessons in marketing for her growing business. Their strategy sessions lead to a warm friendship, and a hard-to-ignore sexual attraction.
I really felt the love growing between these two...
There's something to be said for a romance where the main characters believably fall in love before falling into bed... I know that's probably some sort of sacrilege, and I love book sex as much as the next chick... But seriously.
Sex will always be more vibrant when honest emotion is involved.
All too often characters will have a wild sexy night and the rest of the book winds up being about the guy proving that he's not a player anymore... you can practically hear the thought process: "Hey, this is a really awesome vagina, I think I'll stay here"
That's not what I found in the pages of this book. The friendship and sexual chemistry led to some serious UST, but it also made me believe that these two are perfect for each other.
Lust,
flirting,
laughter,
dirty talk,
friendship,
confessions,
& respect...
Respect but not worship - There is a difference. Cade respects Hannah as a friend and business partner; he doesn't place her on a pedestal of perfection. Both characters are human: flawed and broken, but not irreparably so. Neither believes that they are unworthy or incapable of love or anything ridiculous like that. They just need to take the time to find the path together...
I can't wait to continue the series and see how these crazy kids balance their blossoming romance as well as their growing business!
Check out my other reviews in the No Weddings Series:
1 - No Weddings - You're Reading it!
2 - One Funeral - My Review
3 - Two Bar Mitzvahs - My Review
4 - Three Christmases - My Review
4.5 - For Valentine's - My Review
***I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review***
Want to read
January 23, 2015
FREE on Amazon US today (1/22/2015)
BLURB:
I think I have my act together as a successful bar owner, my master’s degree within reach, and a list of no-strings-attached women warming my bed. Turns out, I don’t.
Hannah believes she has safeguarded her wounded heart by shunning men and focusing on her new baking business. The thing is, she hasn’t.
When my three sisters and I form an event-planning business with Hannah as our baker, I have no idea how my life is about to change. As Hannah and I work closely together, the attraction between us becomes irresistible. And complicated. I’ve promised my sisters I wouldn’t mix business with pleasure. But I’ve never been one to follow the rules.
Award-winning author Kat Bastion teams with her husband, Stone Bastion, in this first book in the No Weddings Series about Cade Michaelson, a successful man with his sights set on a new venture in business, and Hannah Martin, the woman who makes it personal.
http://www.amazon.com/No-Weddings-Kat...
February 8, 2015
DNF @ 22%
Cade is a disgusting douchebag. That's about all I can say of the 22% I read.
Cade is a disgusting douchebag. That's about all I can say of the 22% I read.
January 1, 2015
4.5 star rating...
This had warm, sass and from a male point of view that actually rang true... Wonderful. It felt like a real family bond between the brother and his sisters. You wanted all of them to just be happy and live their lives because they seemed like good people over all... not perfect but people you would want to know.
The love story was very special due to the way it was handled. Both parties had been severely hurt... their ability to trust others as well as themselves ripped out. So what do two people like that do when they feel the pull to each other... This is their story.
Perfect set up for the series and Bravo to the writers. A real winner in my book and I will be telling my friends to give it a try.
A gifted copy was provided by publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
This had warm, sass and from a male point of view that actually rang true... Wonderful. It felt like a real family bond between the brother and his sisters. You wanted all of them to just be happy and live their lives because they seemed like good people over all... not perfect but people you would want to know.
The love story was very special due to the way it was handled. Both parties had been severely hurt... their ability to trust others as well as themselves ripped out. So what do two people like that do when they feel the pull to each other... This is their story.
Perfect set up for the series and Bravo to the writers. A real winner in my book and I will be telling my friends to give it a try.
A gifted copy was provided by publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
June 22, 2019
4.5 stars
From frenemies to so much more than friends this flawlessly written story is a fresh delight, feeling like an old school romance set in modern times.
I say old school because there’s no rushed affair or race to get between the sheets even though the electrically charged atmosphere around Cade and Hannah alone could light up a small town. No, the Ice Queen and swaggering player take their time peeling away their armor and breaking through the façades built to protect their hearts.
Cade and Hannah are great characters. Each with their unique personalities that are impossible not to love, and there’s so much more to them beneath the surface. Hannah is cunning and witty but very feminine with a certain vulnerability. She’s a great match for the overconfident man.
Cade’s sharp intellect is hypnotic and his close bond with this sisters is endearing. I enjoyed reading the transformation of the cocky philanderer. Slowly shedding his shields, facing his past and turning into a fiercely sweet, sexy and caring caveman.
I loved their frenemy banter. Their negotiations on just about everything were smart, sexy and funny and their chemistry is palpable.
“Ever ridden on a bike? Live a little, Hannah. Slide something wide between your legs and hold on tight to me. You might like it… It vibrates…”
I enjoyed that everything from their friendship to their attraction grew slowly but surely.
“For two people who’d been blindsided by love so horrifically, damaged almost beyond repair, the wait was necessary. The slow dance of ours had become much-needed therapy.”
There were so many other aspects I liked about their story. Like the fact that there was no angst or excessive drama; the way Cade included her with his friends.
“She’d become one of us with her raunchy banter and fearlessness. She was ours.”
This book is told from Cade’s POV. It was very entertaining to be in his manly man’s head. But sometimes his inner thoughts were too lengthy and felt a bit scripted which I found difficult to believe. It’s the only reason I didn’t give this book the full 5 stars.
I so excited that there is more to come. And the next part will be told from Hannah’s perspective. I can hardly wait to see what Kat & Stone Bastion have in store.
* I was given an ARC of this book for an honest review by NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1BncVOj
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/no-we...
Kobo: http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/no-wed...
For more of my reviews and those of my best book buds, and updates
Visit our blog
Stalk us on FaceBook
As well as Twitter
September 8, 2014
3.5 tension filled Stars
Finally a romance exclusively from a male perspective and ohhh the sexual tension is so thick you can cut it with a knife. If you are looking for a story with a great build up then look no farther it is here.
Cade and Hannah have both been through a traumatic event and since then have guarded their hearts. Cade has chosen to not form any emotional bonds but that doesn’t mean he should give up physical ones. His coping mechanism is sex with no strings.
Hannah had defined me as a player. A more accurate definition would be a man who’d been fractured—and was attempting to cope.
Hannah on the other hand has shied away from any sort of relationship with anyone. She has chosen an icy front that tells everyone to keep out. But when Hannah is baking, it all falls away and Cade thinks that maybe there is something more that might be worth a little time and effort.
Cade has contracted Hannah’s new bakery to supply the event company he is running with his sisters. They work together so she is off limits to Cade which only makes her that much more tempting. The more time they spend together teasing and getting to know one another the more Cade thinks there are just some rules that are meant to be broken.
The great thing about this story is that it isn’t an instant love match. There is chemistry between the two characters and a building relationship that takes time when both people have been broken by their pasts. I enjoyed all the flirting and sexual innuendo between the two as they grow in their comfort with one another. And that ending…or beginning as the case may be *sigh*.
This isn’t the end of Cade and Hannah’s story it is actually just the beginning as this series of books coming out in quick succession that will chronicle their story through various aspects of their courtship and relationship. I dived into One Funeral right after finishing this.
There are a few other things that I liked about the story. Cade has a fun relationship with all his sisters and I liked the actual sibling dynamic that was created here. The way they tease one another and get together to play games and talk business seemed like a very normal close family structure. I also enjoyed the relationship that Cade shared with his two best friends. It was what kept Cade a likable character even when his actions with his list of friends with benefits made him less likely a hero in his own story.
Currently this is $0.99 on Amazon. If you are looking for a slower building romance that has a lot of banter and sexual tension look no farther, this book is for you.
Thank you to Kat Bastion and Stone Bastion for the ARC through Netgalley
Finally a romance exclusively from a male perspective and ohhh the sexual tension is so thick you can cut it with a knife. If you are looking for a story with a great build up then look no farther it is here.
Cade and Hannah have both been through a traumatic event and since then have guarded their hearts. Cade has chosen to not form any emotional bonds but that doesn’t mean he should give up physical ones. His coping mechanism is sex with no strings.
Hannah had defined me as a player. A more accurate definition would be a man who’d been fractured—and was attempting to cope.
Hannah on the other hand has shied away from any sort of relationship with anyone. She has chosen an icy front that tells everyone to keep out. But when Hannah is baking, it all falls away and Cade thinks that maybe there is something more that might be worth a little time and effort.
Cade has contracted Hannah’s new bakery to supply the event company he is running with his sisters. They work together so she is off limits to Cade which only makes her that much more tempting. The more time they spend together teasing and getting to know one another the more Cade thinks there are just some rules that are meant to be broken.
The great thing about this story is that it isn’t an instant love match. There is chemistry between the two characters and a building relationship that takes time when both people have been broken by their pasts. I enjoyed all the flirting and sexual innuendo between the two as they grow in their comfort with one another. And that ending…or beginning as the case may be *sigh*.
This isn’t the end of Cade and Hannah’s story it is actually just the beginning as this series of books coming out in quick succession that will chronicle their story through various aspects of their courtship and relationship. I dived into One Funeral right after finishing this.
There are a few other things that I liked about the story. Cade has a fun relationship with all his sisters and I liked the actual sibling dynamic that was created here. The way they tease one another and get together to play games and talk business seemed like a very normal close family structure. I also enjoyed the relationship that Cade shared with his two best friends. It was what kept Cade a likable character even when his actions with his list of friends with benefits made him less likely a hero in his own story.
Currently this is $0.99 on Amazon. If you are looking for a slower building romance that has a lot of banter and sexual tension look no farther, this book is for you.
Thank you to Kat Bastion and Stone Bastion for the ARC through Netgalley
October 4, 2015
3.75 stars.. A very cute, in-between grenes kind of read :)
December 3, 2014
The author just gifted me this book!!!! AND we are friends on GR.. Can today get any better!!!
5 naughty three dots Stars
No weddings.. totally not the book I thought I was getting and just wow. Clearly most people that read my reviews know I like a little sexy time in my reading time. But there is ZERO, ZILCH,NADA, NIEN Sex. AND I LOVED IT!!!!!
*Sigh* --Ladies Meet Kincaid
This is Cade (Kincaid) ‘s book. The book calls him Cade( but damnit Im loving the Name Kincaid )decides with his three sisters they will create an exclusive party business. His even is called Invitation Only which was created the night of the success of Loading Zone which is the bar they all created and own. His sisters decide their party business needs to have an exclusive baker of exclusive intricate cakes and the only girl they want is Hannah Martin or as Cade discovered the Ice Queen because she did not fall for his charm and manslut behavior.
Cade practically helped the Ice Queen revamp her first cake business and with the deal of 3 dinners you cook for me I will offer 6 hours of business savvy tips. As the dinners grew, their relationship with eachother and themselves grew. Cade came out of his sticky note sex list and Hannah learned how to be in the sun again.
Both of these characters have been hurt immensely. Both of these characters are witty, charming, funny, and developed. The interactions between them are amazing, between Cade’s friends= amazing and between his sisters. Hannah she belongs in his life and with him. And the sexual tension hurts!
The entire book ends with two kisses. That’s it.. 2. And the moments where they defined their compatibility and friendship make my heart hurt because its perfect.
Cade proposed to a girl who laughed in his face
Hannah agreed to marry her ex who never showed at the alter.
What happens when I do because I don’t… can they get over No Weddings?
I cant wait to find out..
January 19, 2015
ARC provided through NetGalley for an honest review.
3.5 Invitation Only Stars
Kincade "Cade" Michaelson is the youngest and only son in four siblings, including older sisters Kristen, Katherine "Kiki" and s Kendall. Starting his own business (a new bar) and going into business (exclusive catering) with his older sisters while in Grad School, Cade meets Hannah Martin, cake and cupcake maker and artist.
Cade and Hannah don't hit it off right away, but six months later, when "Invitation Only" is forming, Cade must convince Hannah to come on board exclusively as their official cake maker. What starts out as mild flirting with a side of business advice, turns into a real friendship between these two. Something they are willing to explore further, even if cade promised his sisters, there would be no "doing the help." Cade doesn't see Hannah as the help. His roommate and best friend, Mase and Ben love her and start to see her as one of the boys. The Michaelson sisters all start to view Hannah as the fourth sister. When things start to get a little suspicious between Cade and Hannah, none of them seem to mind.
All is well until the past walks into their lives, throwing a wrench into how well things have been progressing between Cade and Hannah. So they decide to take things slowly. But truthfully, how long will these two be ably to stay away from each other long enough to heal and figure out that when one door closes, no matter how painful, another will open?
Sometimes you just need a nice sweet story and this was definitely that. I like the banter and sexual innuendo that happens between the two of these characters. They are both hurting from their pasts, but sometimes you just have to go for it. This book felt like a slow tease to the explosive coming together in later books. We will see and I definitely will read.
3.5 Invitation Only Stars
Kincade "Cade" Michaelson is the youngest and only son in four siblings, including older sisters Kristen, Katherine "Kiki" and s Kendall. Starting his own business (a new bar) and going into business (exclusive catering) with his older sisters while in Grad School, Cade meets Hannah Martin, cake and cupcake maker and artist.
Cade and Hannah don't hit it off right away, but six months later, when "Invitation Only" is forming, Cade must convince Hannah to come on board exclusively as their official cake maker. What starts out as mild flirting with a side of business advice, turns into a real friendship between these two. Something they are willing to explore further, even if cade promised his sisters, there would be no "doing the help." Cade doesn't see Hannah as the help. His roommate and best friend, Mase and Ben love her and start to see her as one of the boys. The Michaelson sisters all start to view Hannah as the fourth sister. When things start to get a little suspicious between Cade and Hannah, none of them seem to mind.
All is well until the past walks into their lives, throwing a wrench into how well things have been progressing between Cade and Hannah. So they decide to take things slowly. But truthfully, how long will these two be ably to stay away from each other long enough to heal and figure out that when one door closes, no matter how painful, another will open?
Sometimes you just need a nice sweet story and this was definitely that. I like the banter and sexual innuendo that happens between the two of these characters. They are both hurting from their pasts, but sometimes you just have to go for it. This book felt like a slow tease to the explosive coming together in later books. We will see and I definitely will read.
October 3, 2014
2.5 Stars
This is fun and sexy:
This is just annoying:
Warning: this book is a complete teaser. I'll be honest with you, I love the idea of taking your time, building the romance, specially in NA where things get hot pretty fast, but Hannah and Cade took it to another level. I was intrigued by this book, a male POV in NA was something I had to read yet.
Cade started like an arrogant player, a womanizer. After a few chapters there was some depth quality in him I couldn't wait to discover, the story behind his pain, the betrayal. He seemed caring and thoughtful towards Hannah but at times he went all possessive dealing with anger issues and jealously. It was a little over the top, honestly.
I'm sure this book could have finished sooner. The first half was funny, hot and promising. The relationship between Cade/sisters and Cade/friends was very sweet and honest, I liked the idea of Cade offering Hannah a family, I LOVED the cake ideas but even then I found myself a little bored with all the business talk.
And the teasing? past the point of being ridiculous. At first it was exciting but you tease if you're going somewhere, right? and you don't ask permission to tease, because it misses the whole point of teasing. You tease because you want to give hell to him but obviously you are up to something.
GOOD GOD WOMAN.
The ending was open and ready for you to dive in book #2. Even if it was okay, I should have been prepared for that. I almost throw the kindle out of the window. In the end, it was all a bout sexual tension and nothing more. Maybe book #2 gets better.
Ebook received through Netgalley
This is fun and sexy:
This is just annoying:
Warning: this book is a complete teaser. I'll be honest with you, I love the idea of taking your time, building the romance, specially in NA where things get hot pretty fast, but Hannah and Cade took it to another level. I was intrigued by this book, a male POV in NA was something I had to read yet.
Cade started like an arrogant player, a womanizer. After a few chapters there was some depth quality in him I couldn't wait to discover, the story behind his pain, the betrayal. He seemed caring and thoughtful towards Hannah but at times he went all possessive dealing with anger issues and jealously. It was a little over the top, honestly.
"What happened to your rule about no fraternizing in business?"Dude, you need to chill.
I pinched my eyes shut and took a deep breath, calming my reaction.
"I tightened my hand on her shoulder, and she instinctively leaned closer as we walked. Her natural calm to my possessiveness chilled me a fraction.Well, being calm in front of someone's possessiveness is not always a good thing, thats all I'm saying.
Glaring at the nonexistent space between Mase and Hannah on the couch, I weighed out how much I needed to be near her tonight with how much shit they’d give me if I shoved him out of the way. Not giving a rat’s ass what the guys thought, I moved toward them.WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT? You've spent hours with her alone in your bedroom and now you're being self-conscious?
I'm sure this book could have finished sooner. The first half was funny, hot and promising. The relationship between Cade/sisters and Cade/friends was very sweet and honest, I liked the idea of Cade offering Hannah a family, I LOVED the cake ideas but even then I found myself a little bored with all the business talk.
And the teasing? past the point of being ridiculous. At first it was exciting but you tease if you're going somewhere, right? and you don't ask permission to tease, because it misses the whole point of teasing. You tease because you want to give hell to him but obviously you are up to something.
“Would it be okay if we still…teased each other, though? You know, go back to the flirting and fun with no pressure about how fast it has to go. Just take things as they come?”Well, Hannah tease and nothing more. She bits her lip, she slips her tongue between her lips, she wears super hot dresses, she makes riding a bike with him almost illegal but every time he wanted to kiss her, she wasn't ready.
GOOD GOD WOMAN.
The ending was open and ready for you to dive in book #2. Even if it was okay, I should have been prepared for that. I almost throw the kindle out of the window. In the end, it was all a bout sexual tension and nothing more. Maybe book #2 gets better.
Ebook received through Netgalley
February 3, 2015
Overall rating: 4 "Ice Queen" Stars!!!
My good friend, Dali, has been recommending this series to me for awhile now! I just got 4 out of the 5 books in the mail last week from a signed book giveaway, so I figured, what is a better time to start like the present?!?! :D
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
HEA:
My review:
Cade is a man whore. He wasn't born this way, but getting your heart shattered to pieces, will do that to you sometimes. He is currently in college studying business and bartends most nights at a bar, Loading Zone, that he co-owns with a close friend. After his three sisters create an awesome party one night, they all decide to team up to start a new business venture called "Invitation Only." It will be a party planning company that provides everything you need for a fantastic party, including a custom made cake - if only that Ice Queen he met 6 months ago would agree to join their team. His only stipulation for joining up with his sisters? No weddings!
This was a very cute friends to lovers story with NO steam whatsoever but plenty of funny banter and sexual frustration! This story continues on into the next installment.
Why not 5 stars? I really enjoyed this book, but I felt like
My good friend, Dali, has been recommending this series to me for awhile now! I just got 4 out of the 5 books in the mail last week from a signed book giveaway, so I figured, what is a better time to start like the present?!?! :D
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
HEA:
My review:
Cade is a man whore. He wasn't born this way, but getting your heart shattered to pieces, will do that to you sometimes. He is currently in college studying business and bartends most nights at a bar, Loading Zone, that he co-owns with a close friend. After his three sisters create an awesome party one night, they all decide to team up to start a new business venture called "Invitation Only." It will be a party planning company that provides everything you need for a fantastic party, including a custom made cake - if only that Ice Queen he met 6 months ago would agree to join their team. His only stipulation for joining up with his sisters? No weddings!
This was a very cute friends to lovers story with NO steam whatsoever but plenty of funny banter and sexual frustration! This story continues on into the next installment.
Why not 5 stars? I really enjoyed this book, but I felt like
September 10, 2014
I just finished this fantastic book.
Wow! Kat and Stone, Congrats on a brilliantly written story.
I am so excited to share this review with all of you. No Weddings is my favorite Summer read!
No Weddings is a cleverly written story told in the male point of view. I am a huge fan of male POV. I love getting into the mind of the male protagonist. Kat and Stone, your male POV was simply perfect!
So how can I best explain how I feel about this book? Here goes…
The perfect recipe is made up of fresh ingredients, creativity, attention to details and passion (the love of the craft) which stirs the emotions, the taste buds, and allows you to enjoy the dish. Your story, No Weddings is just like that perfect recipe. No Weddings has all of the right ingredients, well written characters, a touching and entertaining story line, passion (which most definitely stirred my emotions) and the right attention to detail (through the delicious male point of view) which allowed me to enjoy this story so much.
Your cast of characters were all cleverly written. Cade and Hannah, I totally love them. Hannah is a beautiful baker, need I say more? Cade, he is the delicious business savy male lead. Cade’s three sisters and his roommates/friends each bring something different into the book. They are like the little dash of this or that added to a recipe to make it taste better. All together, these characters complete this fine book.
On a personal level, I connected with this story because I can relate with so many things. Catering, party planning and baking are all part of my life. I do however wish I had my own Cade giving me business advice.
This entertaining story will leave you feeling hopeful. I don’t want to give too much away in this review. You need to read this gem for yourself. Trust me, you will love this book. I am looking forward to the next book in this series. And as for Cade, he has officially been added to my list of book boyfriends.
No Weddings is filled with humor, family, heartbreak, cupcakes, cakes, charity, romance and hope. All of these topics combined made this a fantastic read that I highly recommend.
Congrats to Kat and Stone on a fantastic collaborative debut!
I gave this book 5 delicious stars!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Wow! Kat and Stone, Congrats on a brilliantly written story.
I am so excited to share this review with all of you. No Weddings is my favorite Summer read!
No Weddings is a cleverly written story told in the male point of view. I am a huge fan of male POV. I love getting into the mind of the male protagonist. Kat and Stone, your male POV was simply perfect!
So how can I best explain how I feel about this book? Here goes…
The perfect recipe is made up of fresh ingredients, creativity, attention to details and passion (the love of the craft) which stirs the emotions, the taste buds, and allows you to enjoy the dish. Your story, No Weddings is just like that perfect recipe. No Weddings has all of the right ingredients, well written characters, a touching and entertaining story line, passion (which most definitely stirred my emotions) and the right attention to detail (through the delicious male point of view) which allowed me to enjoy this story so much.
Your cast of characters were all cleverly written. Cade and Hannah, I totally love them. Hannah is a beautiful baker, need I say more? Cade, he is the delicious business savy male lead. Cade’s three sisters and his roommates/friends each bring something different into the book. They are like the little dash of this or that added to a recipe to make it taste better. All together, these characters complete this fine book.
On a personal level, I connected with this story because I can relate with so many things. Catering, party planning and baking are all part of my life. I do however wish I had my own Cade giving me business advice.
This entertaining story will leave you feeling hopeful. I don’t want to give too much away in this review. You need to read this gem for yourself. Trust me, you will love this book. I am looking forward to the next book in this series. And as for Cade, he has officially been added to my list of book boyfriends.
No Weddings is filled with humor, family, heartbreak, cupcakes, cakes, charity, romance and hope. All of these topics combined made this a fantastic read that I highly recommend.
Congrats to Kat and Stone on a fantastic collaborative debut!
I gave this book 5 delicious stars!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 22, 2014
2.5 stars
If I'd have known this one was of those books, I never would have read it. I'm well aware of the kind of thing that turns me off and a book series that stretches one relationship out into four or five books is exactly the kind of thing that puts my Kindle in mortal danger of being thrown across a room.
I'd thought this series would be about Cade and his sisters, as in each sibling gets a book. The novelty of a husband and wife writing team was also too intriguing to ignore. But the closer and closer I got to the end, the more suspicious I became. At 97% after a lifetime's worth of sexual tension, Cade and Hannah kiss for the first time. A few pages later it ends. I was both relieved that it was finally over and solid in the knowledge that I didn't care for one more book about this couple, much less four.
On their own merits Cade and Hannah's story, such as it is, wasn't bad. It's uniquely told entirely from the male perspective, which was refreshing. There was plenty of great tension between these two characters, and Cade as a narrator was remarkably self aware.
There were plenty of times, however, where the sheer amount of information we get was simply distracting. We're treated to a lengthy discussion of how security in Cade's bar functioned and how well-trained the bouncers were. Um, okay. Perhaps this becomes relavent later in the series, but the moments where Cade schools us on one thing or another are really just diversions so you don't realize nothing is really happening in this book.
Now, I love stories that take the time to show you two people falling in love. But I almost DNF'd this at around 40% because it was so slow. Part of me appreciated seeing the details of their attraction grow and develop, but that's really all this book was. Now that I know it's only a small fraction of the ultimate story, it makes sense, but seriously, I want my HEA. Like now! This was just barely a HFN and for all the sexual longing and tension built up here, it was kind of a cruel let down to end things the way they did.
No cliffhanger here, just a period at the end of a sentence that is probably designed to leave you wanting more. Unfortunately, it left me wanting a story that moved faster and gave me what I'm looking for in a romance - some actual romance.
If I'd have known this one was of those books, I never would have read it. I'm well aware of the kind of thing that turns me off and a book series that stretches one relationship out into four or five books is exactly the kind of thing that puts my Kindle in mortal danger of being thrown across a room.
I'd thought this series would be about Cade and his sisters, as in each sibling gets a book. The novelty of a husband and wife writing team was also too intriguing to ignore. But the closer and closer I got to the end, the more suspicious I became. At 97% after a lifetime's worth of sexual tension, Cade and Hannah kiss for the first time. A few pages later it ends. I was both relieved that it was finally over and solid in the knowledge that I didn't care for one more book about this couple, much less four.
On their own merits Cade and Hannah's story, such as it is, wasn't bad. It's uniquely told entirely from the male perspective, which was refreshing. There was plenty of great tension between these two characters, and Cade as a narrator was remarkably self aware.
There were plenty of times, however, where the sheer amount of information we get was simply distracting. We're treated to a lengthy discussion of how security in Cade's bar functioned and how well-trained the bouncers were. Um, okay. Perhaps this becomes relavent later in the series, but the moments where Cade schools us on one thing or another are really just diversions so you don't realize nothing is really happening in this book.
Now, I love stories that take the time to show you two people falling in love. But I almost DNF'd this at around 40% because it was so slow. Part of me appreciated seeing the details of their attraction grow and develop, but that's really all this book was. Now that I know it's only a small fraction of the ultimate story, it makes sense, but seriously, I want my HEA. Like now! This was just barely a HFN and for all the sexual longing and tension built up here, it was kind of a cruel let down to end things the way they did.
No cliffhanger here, just a period at the end of a sentence that is probably designed to leave you wanting more. Unfortunately, it left me wanting a story that moved faster and gave me what I'm looking for in a romance - some actual romance.
August 20, 2014
I really enjoyed this first book in a new series, No Weddings tells the story of Cade who along with his three sisters start a party planning business. They agree on a few rules some of which are no childrens parties and no weddings. The sisters also stipulate that Cade must not party with the hired help! They all agree that Hannah who the sisters know should be taken on as she's a fabulous baker. Cade had previously met the beautiful Hannah and been given the cold shoulder by her. She has no interest in men, having been hurt before. Cade loves women, a lot. In fact he loves a lot of them, but he's got a short attention span where women are concerned, he doesn't do long term. But there's something about Hannah that gets under his skin.
This is a very good read that is well written by a husband and wife team, and told from the hero's POV. I liked the characters they were all well developed. I enjoyed Cade's relationship with his sisters, that felt very realistic. His relationship with Hannah gradually develops as the story unfolds. Their story continues in the next book.
ARC courtesy of the authors via NetGalley
This is a very good read that is well written by a husband and wife team, and told from the hero's POV. I liked the characters they were all well developed. I enjoyed Cade's relationship with his sisters, that felt very realistic. His relationship with Hannah gradually develops as the story unfolds. Their story continues in the next book.
ARC courtesy of the authors via NetGalley
January 23, 2015
DNF at 43%
I tried...I really tried but this book did nothing for me. I couldn't relate to the characters and the story line did not hook me...
So I gave up...but...
I tried...I really tried but this book did nothing for me. I couldn't relate to the characters and the story line did not hook me...
So I gave up...but...
September 9, 2014
So many good things, but a few things I didn't like as well
So how to rate this? hmm...
3,5Stars
not sure if I am round up or down...
What I do know: I WANT the next instalment!
review to follow closer to release date...
just one thing three little dots have a very different meaning to me after this.*smirks*
REVIEW:
When I first saw that Kat Bastion is releasing a new series and having a book tour, all I could think was, that I wanted in. I hadn't even read the blurb nor had I any clue what it was about. But I have read Kat's previous book, and though it had a love triangle - and let's be honest I totally loath those- I really loved it. Not only that, I adore her prose. Again, as you know, I am a sucker for good prose. Hence my reaction- simply was don't care about anything, I want in. Then I noticed the cover... and I admit it, again... the cover slut in me was full of glee. Writing this... obviously I am one of the lucky devils, who got to take part in the tour. *smirks gleefully*
Now, I should mention, I did read the blurb before requesting the book. Cause, well, experience taught me that much, and frankly even my inner cover slut and the love great prose would make me read a book without reading the blurb. I found out it's a contemporary romance co-authored by Kat's husband Stone.
Now, I know you are thinking, why the hell is she babbling on about this? I promise there is a point to this. Here it goes. I expected great prose, obviously. Well, go on: check my rating.. As you see I wasn't disappointed. I also for some reason expected two POV. But that isn't what I got. This is all written from Cade's POV. Cade's rather typical male but very witty view of life made me grin a hell of a lot. The banter between Cade and Hannah is definitely the best part of the book. Their chemistry tangible. And while there was kinda insta-lust- well actually I guess it was more insta-attraction- their relationship evolved slowly, a friendship blossomed and trust was built in excruciating snail pace.
Which makes this a rather unique contemporary romance. No insta-love in sight. AT ALL. *sighs happily* Which makes this an awesome story line.
But sadly my biggest issue with the book was also the plot. It was really slow. Some of the scenes way to elaborate. The pace stifled by that. As example there is a function and Cade's mother gives a speech.. the entire speech was printed. All I thought was, yeah yeah very moving and all, but I don't care about that. I wanna read about Cade and Hannah... There were several more instances like that one. Thought the above mentioned probably the most extreme.
Then again. This is a character driven novel. And the character building has been done meticulously. Really, superb in fact. I really loved Cade's relationship with his sister and friends. I gotta care about Hannah. Well, literally every side character in this series. But at times I felt it was a bit too well constructed. I know that sounds weird, but at times it felt like this was too well planed. I know it's an odd way to put it, but maybe it was a tad to cliche? I am not sure, cause I can't actually point out what it was, but some scenes just felt constructed and obvious. Not really bad don't misunderstand me. It's minor, just at times. At other times, it felt so real so heartfelt so unique, maybe that's why the times it didn't stuck out.
The prose. It is beautiful. Just as expected. It is subtle, straight to the point and heartfelt. My favorite bits were scenes of Hannah in the bakery, Cade on his bike... just so.. I dunno... touching? Well, for a lack of words- since we all know I ain't no writter- touching it is. But I mean by that that I struck something in me, touched my heart kinda thing. And here I shall stop, cause we all know I am a heartless ... you know.
I was left with loads of questions, no not that many about the book. It ends on a high point. And open ending, not really a cliffy. Naturally I wanna know what will happen next. But those are not the questions that are circling in my head. NO. I wanna know more about Kat and Stone. How their collaborations worked. Where do their ideas come from. Does it have any thing in common with their real life.... in short I wanna pick their brains!
Cause not only did I enjoy this novel and am definitely gonna read the rest of the series. No I am intrigued and fascinated by the fact that this is a result of a collaboration of two married people.
A wee side note (and warning):Though there is lots of chemistry, lots of lusting and plenty of heat- there are only TWO kisses. So virtually no smut. I am saying this, for my smut-loving reading buddies. So you were warned.
Frankly while there was plenty of drama and plenty of me wanting the hit them both over their heads, I also could relate to their commitment issues. And the kisses were so rewarding so I was more than happy with this. Except than the book ended and all I could think of was when the feck will I get the next one?!
WELL the good news, this one is out for anyone to read. AND lucky me is reading One funeral - the sequel of No Weddings- as we speak.
So how to rate this? hmm...
3,5Stars
not sure if I am round up or down...
What I do know: I WANT the next instalment!
review to follow closer to release date...
just one thing three little dots have a very different meaning to me after this.*smirks*
REVIEW:
When I first saw that Kat Bastion is releasing a new series and having a book tour, all I could think was, that I wanted in. I hadn't even read the blurb nor had I any clue what it was about. But I have read Kat's previous book, and though it had a love triangle - and let's be honest I totally loath those- I really loved it. Not only that, I adore her prose. Again, as you know, I am a sucker for good prose. Hence my reaction- simply was don't care about anything, I want in. Then I noticed the cover... and I admit it, again... the cover slut in me was full of glee. Writing this... obviously I am one of the lucky devils, who got to take part in the tour. *smirks gleefully*
Now, I should mention, I did read the blurb before requesting the book. Cause, well, experience taught me that much, and frankly even my inner cover slut and the love great prose would make me read a book without reading the blurb. I found out it's a contemporary romance co-authored by Kat's husband Stone.
Now, I know you are thinking, why the hell is she babbling on about this? I promise there is a point to this. Here it goes. I expected great prose, obviously. Well, go on: check my rating.. As you see I wasn't disappointed. I also for some reason expected two POV. But that isn't what I got. This is all written from Cade's POV. Cade's rather typical male but very witty view of life made me grin a hell of a lot. The banter between Cade and Hannah is definitely the best part of the book. Their chemistry tangible. And while there was kinda insta-lust- well actually I guess it was more insta-attraction- their relationship evolved slowly, a friendship blossomed and trust was built in excruciating snail pace.
Which makes this a rather unique contemporary romance. No insta-love in sight. AT ALL. *sighs happily* Which makes this an awesome story line.
But sadly my biggest issue with the book was also the plot. It was really slow. Some of the scenes way to elaborate. The pace stifled by that. As example there is a function and Cade's mother gives a speech.. the entire speech was printed. All I thought was, yeah yeah very moving and all, but I don't care about that. I wanna read about Cade and Hannah... There were several more instances like that one. Thought the above mentioned probably the most extreme.
Then again. This is a character driven novel. And the character building has been done meticulously. Really, superb in fact. I really loved Cade's relationship with his sister and friends. I gotta care about Hannah. Well, literally every side character in this series. But at times I felt it was a bit too well constructed. I know that sounds weird, but at times it felt like this was too well planed. I know it's an odd way to put it, but maybe it was a tad to cliche? I am not sure, cause I can't actually point out what it was, but some scenes just felt constructed and obvious. Not really bad don't misunderstand me. It's minor, just at times. At other times, it felt so real so heartfelt so unique, maybe that's why the times it didn't stuck out.
The prose. It is beautiful. Just as expected. It is subtle, straight to the point and heartfelt. My favorite bits were scenes of Hannah in the bakery, Cade on his bike... just so.. I dunno... touching? Well, for a lack of words- since we all know I ain't no writter- touching it is. But I mean by that that I struck something in me, touched my heart kinda thing. And here I shall stop, cause we all know I am a heartless ... you know.
I was left with loads of questions, no not that many about the book. It ends on a high point. And open ending, not really a cliffy. Naturally I wanna know what will happen next. But those are not the questions that are circling in my head. NO. I wanna know more about Kat and Stone. How their collaborations worked. Where do their ideas come from. Does it have any thing in common with their real life.... in short I wanna pick their brains!
Cause not only did I enjoy this novel and am definitely gonna read the rest of the series. No I am intrigued and fascinated by the fact that this is a result of a collaboration of two married people.
A wee side note (and warning):Though there is lots of chemistry, lots of lusting and plenty of heat- there are only TWO kisses. So virtually no smut. I am saying this, for my smut-loving reading buddies. So you were warned.
Frankly while there was plenty of drama and plenty of me wanting the hit them both over their heads, I also could relate to their commitment issues. And the kisses were so rewarding so I was more than happy with this. Except than the book ended and all I could think of was when the feck will I get the next one?!
WELL the good news, this one is out for anyone to read. AND lucky me is reading One funeral - the sequel of No Weddings- as we speak.
October 26, 2014
3.0-3.5 ★
Talk about warm and fuzzy feeling! This book feels like a cashmere blanket by a cozy fireplace on a nippy fall evening...
Other than it being romance, I really didn't know what to expect seeing that this is a first Bastion read for me. And was that good? I say yes. If you look at my book list, I tend to favor a good amt of raciness in my romance read, but I can appreciate any kind of romance, really. If you strip away the smexy times and excessive angst, this is what you get. A nice story of how the relationship built b/w the H&h, seeing them lay down a solid foundation while they're both recovering from past relationships... Like I said earlier, the warm and fuzzy feels... No alpha-dominating H or meek inane h; they could be anyone you know, really, a sibling, friend, cousin... The male POV was decent...
It wasn't until I started reading this that I realize that the H&h's story continues. I think if I don't get a chance to read further along the series, I'm happy with the ending it leaves me with, that of a happy promise. But of course, given the chance, I probably would want to see where the authors will take the MCs.
*ARC received via Netgalley
Talk about warm and fuzzy feeling! This book feels like a cashmere blanket by a cozy fireplace on a nippy fall evening...
Other than it being romance, I really didn't know what to expect seeing that this is a first Bastion read for me. And was that good? I say yes. If you look at my book list, I tend to favor a good amt of raciness in my romance read, but I can appreciate any kind of romance, really. If you strip away the smexy times and excessive angst, this is what you get. A nice story of how the relationship built b/w the H&h, seeing them lay down a solid foundation while they're both recovering from past relationships... Like I said earlier, the warm and fuzzy feels... No alpha-dominating H or meek inane h; they could be anyone you know, really, a sibling, friend, cousin... The male POV was decent...
It wasn't until I started reading this that I realize that the H&h's story continues. I think if I don't get a chance to read further along the series, I'm happy with the ending it leaves me with, that of a happy promise. But of course, given the chance, I probably would want to see where the authors will take the MCs.
*ARC received via Netgalley
July 19, 2015
so when i quit on page 12 i had to wonder how a woman wrote this book. Because the hero is an ass that is utterly unappealing to women. Perhaps it was because I'd just finished watching an episode of How I Met Your Mother but the way he talks, innuendos underlying everything, reminds me of Barney. He's a manwhore who has zero respect for women, apparently even his sisters. I had a nasty sneer on my face the whole time but I was trying until i hit the whole "they act like they're PMSing all the time" thing. Hey maybe they're just pissed off because you're an asshole ever think of that?! I guess the author's husband co-wrote this and it shows...because this is just not something I as a female would want to read. DNF
August 26, 2014
A copy was provided by Netgalley for an honest review.
No Weddings is one of those feel good romantic comedies that you pull out when you need a perk-me-upper. It was fun, sweet and full of cupcakes, great friends and amazing family told from the POV of Cade. The party planning family, the Michaelsons, are the family dreams are made of. They bicker, have fun and love each other unconditionally. Cade and Hannah develop the kind of friendship I have only ever dreamed of. The kind of friendship that can only improve by giving into the sexual temptation they fight.
I can’t wait to read more fun from Kat Bastion and Stone Bastion.
No Weddings is one of those feel good romantic comedies that you pull out when you need a perk-me-upper. It was fun, sweet and full of cupcakes, great friends and amazing family told from the POV of Cade. The party planning family, the Michaelsons, are the family dreams are made of. They bicker, have fun and love each other unconditionally. Cade and Hannah develop the kind of friendship I have only ever dreamed of. The kind of friendship that can only improve by giving into the sexual temptation they fight.
I can’t wait to read more fun from Kat Bastion and Stone Bastion.
Read
August 2, 2014Rating and review will come closer to publication, but I must say that this is one to put on your TBR list if it isn't already!!! :)
August 16, 2014
NOOOOOOOOO! why did you end?!
November 10, 2014
My reviews can be found here...
“It’s pulling apart to find our own paths, but running together and holding on tight, refusing to let go. Love is the calm in the middle of the storm.”
Cade and Hannah have both been destroyed by past relationships. Now each of them are coping in their own ways until they meet. Then coping turning into a team affair because they are the only other people that know how each other have felt. This book was truly the beginning of a relationship that was meant to be fought for.
This is my first read by this author and I am happy that I read this one. You don’t see many books that are written in the male’s complete POV. Cade dominated this story. I really enjoyed it. Not many people can pull it off but I think these two authors did an amazing job.
“Now, we’ve become two different people who’d cast off their armor, baring themselves. And no matter what else Hannah or I wanted from each other, in the midst of it all, we’d become friends.”
Cade and Hannah’s relationship is one that started out as business frenemies. Hannah was trying to stop any and all potential suitors but Cade managed to slip under her Ice Queen armor. If you are looking for instant gratification and an HEA be warned it is not located in this book. Cade and Hannah are taking everything really slow. With that being said the book is full of sexual tension that you can feel coming off the page. The book is full of heartache, healing, and learning to move on even if it’s scary. Cade and Hannah learn to use where they hope that their relationship will go as a light at the end of the tunnel.
“Out of all the women out there in the world, you’re the only one I’ve wanted to burn the list for. You’re the first person to make me feel alive again. You make me brave.”
This series seems to be one that we are going to be with Hannah and Cade through their entire relationship. We got the see the beginning. After many attempts and setbacks they might finally get that first date. I wish that we had gotten to see a little more in this book. I guess I wasn’t ready for the book to end where it did.
This book is full of great character and great relationships. Between siblings, couple, and friends. It was a tension filled read that I would recommend to anyone!
“You are my pathetic wreck. And I’m yours. Fractured and flawed, beautiful and kind, you are mine, Hannah. I’m laying claim now. I don’t care how long it takes us to get there. This is our journey, and we make it together.”
“It’s pulling apart to find our own paths, but running together and holding on tight, refusing to let go. Love is the calm in the middle of the storm.”
Cade and Hannah have both been destroyed by past relationships. Now each of them are coping in their own ways until they meet. Then coping turning into a team affair because they are the only other people that know how each other have felt. This book was truly the beginning of a relationship that was meant to be fought for.
This is my first read by this author and I am happy that I read this one. You don’t see many books that are written in the male’s complete POV. Cade dominated this story. I really enjoyed it. Not many people can pull it off but I think these two authors did an amazing job.
“Now, we’ve become two different people who’d cast off their armor, baring themselves. And no matter what else Hannah or I wanted from each other, in the midst of it all, we’d become friends.”
Cade and Hannah’s relationship is one that started out as business frenemies. Hannah was trying to stop any and all potential suitors but Cade managed to slip under her Ice Queen armor. If you are looking for instant gratification and an HEA be warned it is not located in this book. Cade and Hannah are taking everything really slow. With that being said the book is full of sexual tension that you can feel coming off the page. The book is full of heartache, healing, and learning to move on even if it’s scary. Cade and Hannah learn to use where they hope that their relationship will go as a light at the end of the tunnel.
“Out of all the women out there in the world, you’re the only one I’ve wanted to burn the list for. You’re the first person to make me feel alive again. You make me brave.”
This series seems to be one that we are going to be with Hannah and Cade through their entire relationship. We got the see the beginning. After many attempts and setbacks they might finally get that first date. I wish that we had gotten to see a little more in this book. I guess I wasn’t ready for the book to end where it did.
This book is full of great character and great relationships. Between siblings, couple, and friends. It was a tension filled read that I would recommend to anyone!
“You are my pathetic wreck. And I’m yours. Fractured and flawed, beautiful and kind, you are mine, Hannah. I’m laying claim now. I don’t care how long it takes us to get there. This is our journey, and we make it together.”
August 27, 2014
ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Actual rating 3.5 stars.
In this story our protagonist is a 24-year-old Cade who has three older sisters. The Foursome, as they refer to themselves, decide to make money in party planning so they'll be starting their very own company.
In this party planning business, they also need someone to provide them with cakes. That's where our leading lady Hannah comes in. She's a maestro when it comes to cakes, cupcakes, you name it. After all, she has graduated from a culinary school.
At first Cade promises his sisters that he and Hannah will NOT be having any intimate relations. Evertyhing that they'll ever be discussing will be business-related. But as in every story, the two have some pull towards each other and it simply cannot be helped that the two will be falling in love with each other.
Luckily, Cade can keep it in his pants and he won't be breaking any promises to his sisters (in this book). And luckily for me as well, since I'm not a fan of insta-love. I rather like the stories where I can understand where the feelings come from. Or rather, why they fall in love in the first place.
Despite the tensions between the two, they are becoming friends. Good friends.
Actual rating 3.5 stars.
In this story our protagonist is a 24-year-old Cade who has three older sisters. The Foursome, as they refer to themselves, decide to make money in party planning so they'll be starting their very own company.
In this party planning business, they also need someone to provide them with cakes. That's where our leading lady Hannah comes in. She's a maestro when it comes to cakes, cupcakes, you name it. After all, she has graduated from a culinary school.
At first Cade promises his sisters that he and Hannah will NOT be having any intimate relations. Evertyhing that they'll ever be discussing will be business-related. But as in every story, the two have some pull towards each other and it simply cannot be helped that the two will be falling in love with each other.
Luckily, Cade can keep it in his pants and he won't be breaking any promises to his sisters (in this book). And luckily for me as well, since I'm not a fan of insta-love. I rather like the stories where I can understand where the feelings come from. Or rather, why they fall in love in the first place.
Despite the tensions between the two, they are becoming friends. Good friends.
"Over the last couple of months, we'd become great friends, but we'd also become so much more."
Their feelings are given a chance to blossom on their own. To grow. And as a reader, I became invested in the story.
As in every story, Cade and Hannah have some baggage. At first I couldn't really understand that Cade too, had some baggage from the past, but somewhere in the middle, my questions regarding the matter were answered."Love is a complete and utter disaster. But even with all the heartache, we have to believe there is joy. I need to believe there is one person somewhere out there, meant for us, who will bring us some kind of happiness."
I was glad that Cade and Hannah didn't rush with things, but on the other hand..."There was no protocol for how to handle a woman walking a tightrope between what she wanted and needed, and what she thought she was capable of handling. Nor was there any instruction manual on how a damaged man should proceed in courting her when her fears were his own, his grip on them only slightly tighter than hers."
... I'm sad and even a bit frustrated that I couldn't get the ending I wished for. Now I'm forced to wait for the next book if I want to find out what happens to Cade and Hannah.
October 9, 2014
I first saw this book as a giveaway on Goodreads and entered to win it. Unfortunately I wasn’t a lucky winner and after re-reading the synopsis I decided I wanted to read it anyway, which isn’t always the case with the books I enter to win on Goodreads. So off I went to Amazon to search it out and I was surprised by the price (77p) so I pre-ordered it and two days later it was delivered.
Let me say this now; I'm not a big contemporary romance reader any more. I tend to stick to paranormal/urban fantasy/suspense books with romance in them for an added element.
But I have to say that I really liked this!
It was told from Cade's POV, a proper ladies man, who sets up a party planning company with his three older sisters and decides they won't do any weddings as Cade seems to always end up sleeping with a guest (or two). But then he meets Hannah, an amazing baker/cook who they want to hire to make the cakes for whatever events they're organizing for, and as he gets to know her he begins to really like her.
Let me tell you this book is full of sexual tension; they flirt, they touch...it was really kinda cute watching how he softened and changed.
Another thing I liked was the banter between almost everyone. The siblings reminded me a bit of me and my brother; Cade and Hannah; Cade and his room mates.
Let me say that there is no sex in this book—plenty of romance!—and their relationship is going to continue into the next one, One Funeral, which I believe is going to be from Hannah's POV. And let me tell you I will most definitely be continuing this series.
Let me say this now; I'm not a big contemporary romance reader any more. I tend to stick to paranormal/urban fantasy/suspense books with romance in them for an added element.
But I have to say that I really liked this!
It was told from Cade's POV, a proper ladies man, who sets up a party planning company with his three older sisters and decides they won't do any weddings as Cade seems to always end up sleeping with a guest (or two). But then he meets Hannah, an amazing baker/cook who they want to hire to make the cakes for whatever events they're organizing for, and as he gets to know her he begins to really like her.
Let me tell you this book is full of sexual tension; they flirt, they touch...it was really kinda cute watching how he softened and changed.
Another thing I liked was the banter between almost everyone. The siblings reminded me a bit of me and my brother; Cade and Hannah; Cade and his room mates.
Let me say that there is no sex in this book—plenty of romance!—and their relationship is going to continue into the next one, One Funeral, which I believe is going to be from Hannah's POV. And let me tell you I will most definitely be continuing this series.
August 18, 2014
No Weddings was an unexpected treat! I haven't read a romance novel that focused solely on the male's point of view in a very long time and No Weddings reminded me why I love them!
Cade and Hannah are both amazing characters. They each have so many different layers that are slowly revealed as their story grows with each page.
Both Cade and Hannah have been burned in the past and have dealt with it in not so healthy ways. Watching as they struggled to accept the friendship that the other offered was heart-wrenching and heart warming. It was amazing to see them both grow into the person that they could be.
The chemistry and sexual tension is insane and watching as Cade and Hannah try to deal with it is absolutely priceless and hilarious! Trust me...you won't want to miss out on this story!
No Weddings was fun to read and kept me wanting more throughout the entire book! The writing was witty, deep and fun. The characters were deep and well developed and easy to fall in love with. Overall I have to say that I am impressed with these two authors and cannot wait to get my hands on the rest of the books...who knows maybe if we beg enough we could even get some books featuring the Michaelson sisters and even a little more Ben and Mase!!
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
FOR MORE REVIEWS VISIT
Cade and Hannah are both amazing characters. They each have so many different layers that are slowly revealed as their story grows with each page.
Both Cade and Hannah have been burned in the past and have dealt with it in not so healthy ways. Watching as they struggled to accept the friendship that the other offered was heart-wrenching and heart warming. It was amazing to see them both grow into the person that they could be.
The chemistry and sexual tension is insane and watching as Cade and Hannah try to deal with it is absolutely priceless and hilarious! Trust me...you won't want to miss out on this story!
No Weddings was fun to read and kept me wanting more throughout the entire book! The writing was witty, deep and fun. The characters were deep and well developed and easy to fall in love with. Overall I have to say that I am impressed with these two authors and cannot wait to get my hands on the rest of the books...who knows maybe if we beg enough we could even get some books featuring the Michaelson sisters and even a little more Ben and Mase!!
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
FOR MORE REVIEWS VISIT
December 22, 2014
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review
4 male POV teasing stars.
First, I have to say the advertising team had done an incredible job. Focusing about the team (the authors, married couple), the story, the exceptional male's POV. I began reading it and discovering it because the blurb didn't really explained that story, just a male and a girl, business and attraction.
So with the story, there was something strange, some mysteries to be unfold because who was Cade, why, how come... all that were unfolded slowly but quickly because I couldn't believe how fast time past. from 0% to 20% than 45%, 60 % to the end.
It wasn't all about Cade but also Hannah. Both of them were so intriguing. And when the mysteries about the Ice queen or the manwhore unfolded, all seemed to be understandable.
All the get around, teasing were so normal because both of them lost themselves.
What felt different from other book, the male's POV? Not really, I have read several of them. But this one was like quite normal human being, funny yes but not aiming for laughing from a to z, the male was quite a genius but not totally genius, handsome and all god. He was good but he was also in a team, he studied and tried, teamed, got experiences. So the character felt like a normal guy, not bazillionaire, self absorbed. He was normal with vulnerabilities. So it was cool. What was cooler? Was how both of the character felt the attraction and tried to past the hurt and the history. How they support each other, I have to give it to Cade, he maned up. Took the opportunity.
4 male POV teasing stars.
First, I have to say the advertising team had done an incredible job. Focusing about the team (the authors, married couple), the story, the exceptional male's POV. I began reading it and discovering it because the blurb didn't really explained that story, just a male and a girl, business and attraction.
So with the story, there was something strange, some mysteries to be unfold because who was Cade, why, how come... all that were unfolded slowly but quickly because I couldn't believe how fast time past. from 0% to 20% than 45%, 60 % to the end.
It wasn't all about Cade but also Hannah. Both of them were so intriguing. And when the mysteries about the Ice queen or the manwhore unfolded, all seemed to be understandable.
All the get around, teasing were so normal because both of them lost themselves.
What felt different from other book, the male's POV? Not really, I have read several of them. But this one was like quite normal human being, funny yes but not aiming for laughing from a to z, the male was quite a genius but not totally genius, handsome and all god. He was good but he was also in a team, he studied and tried, teamed, got experiences. So the character felt like a normal guy, not bazillionaire, self absorbed. He was normal with vulnerabilities. So it was cool. What was cooler? Was how both of the character felt the attraction and tried to past the hurt and the history. How they support each other, I have to give it to Cade, he maned up. Took the opportunity.
September 13, 2014
Fun & flirty!
In "No Weddings" you get a wonderful casts of characters from the main H/h of Hannah and Cade, to Cade's feisty sisters, Mace the roommate and Ben the business partner/friend. Absolutely loved the sisters and the chemistry Cade has with them!
Basically we get a story of two people that have each experienced devastating heartbreak from previous relationships that has left them both very untrusting and unwilling to put themselves out there again. The same two people who are in business together and who are without a doubt attracted to one another!
Over time they become more than just business partners and friends but are not exactly a couple either. Together Hannah and Cade begin to face their pasts so they can move forward as a possible couple.
Lots of tease time here, just take the plunge already! Nope not happening in "No Weddings".....maybe in "One Funeral"? I hope so, the sexual tension is off the charts between these two!
Recommended to all Rom-Com fans!
***Copy provided by author/publisher via NetGalley for an honest review***
In "No Weddings" you get a wonderful casts of characters from the main H/h of Hannah and Cade, to Cade's feisty sisters, Mace the roommate and Ben the business partner/friend. Absolutely loved the sisters and the chemistry Cade has with them!
Basically we get a story of two people that have each experienced devastating heartbreak from previous relationships that has left them both very untrusting and unwilling to put themselves out there again. The same two people who are in business together and who are without a doubt attracted to one another!
Over time they become more than just business partners and friends but are not exactly a couple either. Together Hannah and Cade begin to face their pasts so they can move forward as a possible couple.
Lots of tease time here, just take the plunge already! Nope not happening in "No Weddings".....maybe in "One Funeral"? I hope so, the sexual tension is off the charts between these two!
Recommended to all Rom-Com fans!
***Copy provided by author/publisher via NetGalley for an honest review***
September 22, 2014
No Weddings was pure enjoyment! I loved the two main characters, Cade, and Hannah. It was so much fun to read about their developing friendship. There was wonderful chemistry between the two, and I am looking forward to seeing where that will go next. Cade's sisters and friends made great secondary characters.
Cade Michaelson and his three older sisters decide to start an event planning company. Hannah is suggested by one of the sisters as the one they need to provide all of the cakes. As Cade and Hannah begin to get to know one another, the sparks fly as they start a friendship. They have both been burned badly before and carry tons of baggage. Even so, they both know there is something more between them than friendship. Both of them have to decide if they are willing to take a risk again.
I thought this book was sweet and touching, and it was fun to read. I really enjoyed the descriptions of Hannah's cakes and cupcakes. I could picture them and almost taste them. The banter between Hannah and Cade was cute, and I can't wait to read more!
Cade Michaelson and his three older sisters decide to start an event planning company. Hannah is suggested by one of the sisters as the one they need to provide all of the cakes. As Cade and Hannah begin to get to know one another, the sparks fly as they start a friendship. They have both been burned badly before and carry tons of baggage. Even so, they both know there is something more between them than friendship. Both of them have to decide if they are willing to take a risk again.
I thought this book was sweet and touching, and it was fun to read. I really enjoyed the descriptions of Hannah's cakes and cupcakes. I could picture them and almost taste them. The banter between Hannah and Cade was cute, and I can't wait to read more!
August 4, 2014
I LOVED this story! I am a little sad because I just assumed the next books would be about the Michaelson Sisters, not more on Cade and Hannah. I was hoping for a HEA and closure in this story but honestly, while I am bummed I loved every second of it. Cade and Hannah are so amazing together and they both have damage and I really enjoyed having Cade’s POV the entirety of the story, something refreshing about his male thoughts and actions. I am going to be patiently, ok let’s face it impatiently waiting for the rest of this duo’s hot story. I adored the secondary characters, the Sisters 3 were so fun and spunky and Ben and Mase were funny and I enjoyed their interactions with Cade and Hannah. I cannot wait for September… (Yes … ;))
This was a complimentary e-copy via the authors/publisher via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
This was a complimentary e-copy via the authors/publisher via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
August 28, 2014
"I received this ARC through Netgalley in place of an honest review"
Hannah and Cade what a pair! They have a lot in common. Both have broken, damage hearts and an interest in a new an upcoming business venture.
The problem is can they mend what's be broke and find love within each other? This book reminded me of a book I absolutely love where it addresses the courting of love and letting it blossom into something more then a shag in between the sheets. It's giving love a chance again and being patient as the outcome is more rewarding.
Grant you I felt the book was very descriptive an dragged out a little, but once I got to the middle it was full steam ahead. The banter, family, friends and oh the innuendos between Hannah and Cade are brilliant. I found this book to be very enjoyable and a relaxing read.
Thank you Kat & Stone for letting me read one of your books!
Hannah and Cade what a pair! They have a lot in common. Both have broken, damage hearts and an interest in a new an upcoming business venture.
The problem is can they mend what's be broke and find love within each other? This book reminded me of a book I absolutely love where it addresses the courting of love and letting it blossom into something more then a shag in between the sheets. It's giving love a chance again and being patient as the outcome is more rewarding.
Grant you I felt the book was very descriptive an dragged out a little, but once I got to the middle it was full steam ahead. The banter, family, friends and oh the innuendos between Hannah and Cade are brilliant. I found this book to be very enjoyable and a relaxing read.
Thank you Kat & Stone for letting me read one of your books!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews