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Jackson Brothers #2
Sympathy for the Devil
Reckless playboy Caleb Jackson has a taste for the forbidden and more secrets than he should have. Only one woman has ever tamed him – wanton yet innocent Bree Tucker, who bedded him once and never looked back.
Ten years ago, Bree Tucker lied, cheated and checked her self-respect at the door in order to spend just one night in Caleb Jackson’s arms. She’s never forgotten him. She’s never forgiven him either, for keeping their secret and letting her go.
When Bree returns home to Brunswick Bay, passion still burns, and this time Caleb makes his intentions ruthlessly, publicly clear. He wants her. He aims to claim her.
And he doesn't give a damn who gets in his way.
International Bad Boys Series
Book 1: No Rest for the Wicked by Katherine Garbera
Book 2: Never Seduce a Sheikh by Jackie Ashenden
Book 3: Born to be Bad by Carol Marinelli
Book 4: Sympathy for the Devil by Kelly Hunter
Ten years ago, Bree Tucker lied, cheated and checked her self-respect at the door in order to spend just one night in Caleb Jackson’s arms. She’s never forgotten him. She’s never forgiven him either, for keeping their secret and letting her go.
When Bree returns home to Brunswick Bay, passion still burns, and this time Caleb makes his intentions ruthlessly, publicly clear. He wants her. He aims to claim her.
And he doesn't give a damn who gets in his way.
International Bad Boys Series
Book 1: No Rest for the Wicked by Katherine Garbera
Book 2: Never Seduce a Sheikh by Jackie Ashenden
Book 3: Born to be Bad by Carol Marinelli
Book 4: Sympathy for the Devil by Kelly Hunter
148 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2014
378 people are currently reading
421 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Hunter
288 books424 followersAustralian born Kelly Hunter is a three time Romance Writers of America Rita finalist, a USA Today Bestselling author and loves writing to the demands of the short category romance form.
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January 4, 2018All her books have too long separations. 10 years, 7 years, 12 years, etc. Just don't like that trope. Plus no one is ever celibate of course because they are apart so long, and I hate that. I understand that is reality but I want the fantasy. Sorry.
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April 2, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/2/2020)! 🎁
March 31, 2015
I really like Kelly Hunter - she's definitely a reliably good HP writer, and I'd recommend her books to anyone. I don't think I'd recommend they start with this one, though.
The book starts with a prologue set 10 years in the past, when the hero and heroine have an encounter during a party. He's the brother of the guy she's dating, and they have mutual longing. But alas, it can't last, and they part ways immediately after their encounter.
Flash forward 10 years, and the heroine is in town again. But they don't have a happy reunion because angst. Then the hero decides, no - wait a second, I do want to have a reunion, and persuades the heroine to agree, after a little resistance. The next thing you know, it's all HEA.
One of the things I liked about the book, aside from the fact that the main characters are pretty engaging, was that they both have a strong support network. It's always nice when secondary characters are like real people and not cartoon villains. But what didn't work for me, and why I wouldn't recommend it, is that there is no real point at which you see the main characters getting to know each other. There's no development of the relationship outside of sex - not in the 10-years-ago prologue, and not in the present. It was all just too perfunctory.
The book starts with a prologue set 10 years in the past, when the hero and heroine have an encounter during a party. He's the brother of the guy she's dating, and they have mutual longing. But alas, it can't last, and they part ways immediately after their encounter.
Flash forward 10 years, and the heroine is in town again. But they don't have a happy reunion because angst. Then the hero decides, no - wait a second, I do want to have a reunion, and persuades the heroine to agree, after a little resistance. The next thing you know, it's all HEA.
One of the things I liked about the book, aside from the fact that the main characters are pretty engaging, was that they both have a strong support network. It's always nice when secondary characters are like real people and not cartoon villains. But what didn't work for me, and why I wouldn't recommend it, is that there is no real point at which you see the main characters getting to know each other. There's no development of the relationship outside of sex - not in the 10-years-ago prologue, and not in the present. It was all just too perfunctory.
May 11, 2020
This was gorgeous.
Soft and dirty, with believable, satisfying dialogue ← truly, I could read the back and forth between every character in this story without getting bored.
The fact that the MC's relationship started with a mutual betrayal doesn't detract even the tiniest amount from the love they've suppressed for years and are now claiming.
Normally but there are exceptions. Especially when it's something that happened in childhood. You can be expected to not be a shit when you're teenager but you're also young and inexperienced and a bit stupid with hormones; there's more room for forgiveness there than when you're a grown ass adult who should know better.
So, absolutely, there are exceptions.
The Heart of Caleb Jackson is one of those exceptions.
It didn't even phase me. Especially with the relationship between the brothers.
Understated forgiveness plays a significant role in this story and it's refreshing to read.
So often we're beaten over the head with unnecessary drama in order for the MC to finally end up together. Kelly Hunter does the polar opposite of this.
Yes, there's a few bruised ribs, hurt feelings and old insecurities but overall? It's two people who fucked up, but fucked up for a reason, finding their way back to each other and that being it.
No push/pull. No screaming matches. No miscommunications. Just love.
And it's as I said: Gorgeous
This is what I want more of in Romance.
More understanding. More respect. More making my idiot heart go all gloopy from the understated swoons.
I do wish I'd read the first in the series, The Courage of Eli Jackson , before this, however.
It's not necessary, it can totally be read as a standalone, but I think I'd have a better understanding of the dynamic between the Jackson Brothers if I had, and also between Eli (the youngest brother) and Zoey (his wife), who are goddamn adorable.
I guess I'll just have to read the other two stories.
Soft and dirty, with believable, satisfying dialogue ← truly, I could read the back and forth between every character in this story without getting bored.
The fact that the MC's relationship started with a mutual betrayal doesn't detract even the tiniest amount from the love they've suppressed for years and are now claiming.
Normally but there are exceptions. Especially when it's something that happened in childhood. You can be expected to not be a shit when you're teenager but you're also young and inexperienced and a bit stupid with hormones; there's more room for forgiveness there than when you're a grown ass adult who should know better.
So, absolutely, there are exceptions.
The Heart of Caleb Jackson is one of those exceptions.
It didn't even phase me. Especially with the relationship between the brothers.
Understated forgiveness plays a significant role in this story and it's refreshing to read.
So often we're beaten over the head with unnecessary drama in order for the MC to finally end up together. Kelly Hunter does the polar opposite of this.
Yes, there's a few bruised ribs, hurt feelings and old insecurities but overall? It's two people who fucked up, but fucked up for a reason, finding their way back to each other and that being it.
No push/pull. No screaming matches. No miscommunications. Just love.
And it's as I said: Gorgeous
This is what I want more of in Romance.
More understanding. More respect. More making my idiot heart go all gloopy from the understated swoons.
I do wish I'd read the first in the series, The Courage of Eli Jackson , before this, however.
It's not necessary, it can totally be read as a standalone, but I think I'd have a better understanding of the dynamic between the Jackson Brothers if I had, and also between Eli (the youngest brother) and Zoey (his wife), who are goddamn adorable.
I guess I'll just have to read the other two stories.
November 12, 2014
Breanna Tucker, an only child and determined to make something different of her life and her very career oriented parents weren’t exactly pleased at that. At eighteen she knew she had to reach out and grab life though and so with her future as secure as it could be at a school far away she reached out with her love life and her boyfriend’s brother. The problem was she wasn’t sure once was enough but between Dutch courage and leaving it was all she would have.
Caleb Aaron Jackson was loyal to a fault and would always stand beside his two brothers, no matter one. Except that one night, the one night with the woman who meant more than she should have, even when she left. Would one night be enough or would he forever pay for breaking the bond of brotherhood.
Fast forward ten years later Caleb and Breanna meet again in the same small town only this time neither of them are attached. What will happen now? Can they finally admit what happened ten years ago? Or will their past remain between them?
Ms. Hunter gives her readers another does of the Jackson brothers and while this novella can be read as a standalone it is easier to appreciate it when read with the first novella. This is a fast paced story about two people, the hero who believes love can conquer all and the heroine who doesn’t believe she is worthy. It’s a short read but well worth it. Now if we can just manage to find Cutter a HEA.
Caleb Aaron Jackson was loyal to a fault and would always stand beside his two brothers, no matter one. Except that one night, the one night with the woman who meant more than she should have, even when she left. Would one night be enough or would he forever pay for breaking the bond of brotherhood.
Fast forward ten years later Caleb and Breanna meet again in the same small town only this time neither of them are attached. What will happen now? Can they finally admit what happened ten years ago? Or will their past remain between them?
Ms. Hunter gives her readers another does of the Jackson brothers and while this novella can be read as a standalone it is easier to appreciate it when read with the first novella. This is a fast paced story about two people, the hero who believes love can conquer all and the heroine who doesn’t believe she is worthy. It’s a short read but well worth it. Now if we can just manage to find Cutter a HEA.
May 19, 2015
Good flawless writer. I like her writing style very much. It's honest, not pretentious, mature likeable characters, great dialogue. There is nothing I don't like. Will be looking for more books by Kelly Hunter that is for sure.
November 22, 2015
I liked this! And it was free. :)
But really, I liked that it took a relatively angsty premise and diffused it without too much drama. And I liked the individuals together, though surprise wedding, I am really not here for that as a rule.
But really, I liked that it took a relatively angsty premise and diffused it without too much drama. And I liked the individuals together, though surprise wedding, I am really not here for that as a rule.
February 18, 2017
The prologue gets me every time. This book is sexy, but more importantly (to me anyway), is its sensuality. I re-read this a couple times a year.
May 7, 2015
Love Kelly's writing and loved this book! Highly recommended.
February 24, 2022
This was fine, but not anything spectacular. I had a difficult time connecting to either MC. Mostly, I couldn't jive with the heroine.
I'm gonna try to say this without coming off kind judgey, or a bit prudish...but I didn't care for ( nor do I ever engage with...) a heroine who makes a snap decision at the last second and then they adamantly Deny, Deny, Deny that they actually squandered or ruined the chances of what they genuinely wanted.
All the while dating an older Bro, Cutter, Bree actually seems to like/love Caleb.
Basically, the heroine used the Hero for extremely selfish purposes, then bails to not see the aftermath.
I realize she was a teenager... 17-18... choosing to take a risk but she only thought of ME ME ME. Never thought of Cutter, Caleb, and repercussions, like a ripple effect. Even when they came years later upon her return home.
I also get peeved when certain story build-ups are not met, or just fizzle into Not a Big Deal... and it was what literally affecting not just Cutter & Caleb, but even the younger Bro, Eli, who felt a heaviness in keeping this old history a secret.
What was presented as drama-drenched suddenly becomes a nothing-burger... and well, it can sour the intentions of the book. Both Eli and Caleb had this insta-anger level for Bree, seeming to prevent her from being around THEM... and then it evaporated because of the novella length.
Then Cutter's blowout of pummelling Caleb, once he KNEW it was Caleb who was w/Bree...?! Felt unnecessary on every level, especially since he kept saying The Situation did not bother him, but the betrayal (from Caleb) was?
I also just never bought into this horrible Town's idea, and also his own family, that Caleb was a Player... sleeping his way around married women? From minute jump, Caleb felt like he LOVED one woman deeply. And she simply used him, then emotionally traumatized him so SHE could have her sexual fantasy fulfilled. Oh, and her Dream Guy could take her virginity, which is a whole other level of creepy, selfish teenage idiocy.
I'm gonna try to say this without coming off kind judgey, or a bit prudish...but I didn't care for ( nor do I ever engage with...) a heroine who makes a snap decision at the last second and then they adamantly Deny, Deny, Deny that they actually squandered or ruined the chances of what they genuinely wanted.
All the while dating an older Bro, Cutter, Bree actually seems to like/love Caleb.
Basically, the heroine used the Hero for extremely selfish purposes, then bails to not see the aftermath.
I realize she was a teenager... 17-18... choosing to take a risk but she only thought of ME ME ME. Never thought of Cutter, Caleb, and repercussions, like a ripple effect. Even when they came years later upon her return home.
I also get peeved when certain story build-ups are not met, or just fizzle into Not a Big Deal... and it was what literally affecting not just Cutter & Caleb, but even the younger Bro, Eli, who felt a heaviness in keeping this old history a secret.
What was presented as drama-drenched suddenly becomes a nothing-burger... and well, it can sour the intentions of the book. Both Eli and Caleb had this insta-anger level for Bree, seeming to prevent her from being around THEM... and then it evaporated because of the novella length.
Then Cutter's blowout of pummelling Caleb, once he KNEW it was Caleb who was w/Bree...?! Felt unnecessary on every level, especially since he kept saying The Situation did not bother him, but the betrayal (from Caleb) was?
I also just never bought into this horrible Town's idea, and also his own family, that Caleb was a Player... sleeping his way around married women? From minute jump, Caleb felt like he LOVED one woman deeply. And she simply used him, then emotionally traumatized him so SHE could have her sexual fantasy fulfilled. Oh, and her Dream Guy could take her virginity, which is a whole other level of creepy, selfish teenage idiocy.
June 9, 2020
The Heart Of Caleb Jackson is a fantastic contemporary romance by Kelly Hunter. I think this is my first book by Ms. Hunter and what a great surprise. This is a well-written book and the characters are phenomenal. Caleb had a one-night fling with Bree. his older brother's girlfriend. Bree leaves for college the next day and stays gone for ten years...leaving Caleb with his guilt. Now Bree is back. This book is packed with drama, humor and spice. I enjoyed reading The Heart Of Caleb Jackson and look forward to reading more from Kelly Hunter in the future. The Heart Of Caleb Jackson is book 2 of the Jackson Brothers Series and book 4 of the International Bad Boys Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger. It does have a great hook into the next book though.
July 12, 2022
3.5-stars, but I'll bump it to 4. Even though this book is super short, it is surprisingly good. There is a lot packed into it. It begins with a prologue and then jumps to ten years later. There is the potential for a lot of drama and angst, but Hunter manages to keep it low-key while emphasizing the relationship between the Jackson brothers and their unbreakable bond. You may be a bit appalled at what happens during the prologue, but as you read on it becomes understandable. Maybe not condoned, but understandable, especially at age 18. All in all, I enjoyed this. Hunter's writing style is engaging and you can "feel" the chemistry between the characters. If you're looking for something you can be entertained by and read in an afternoon try it out!
May 21, 2020
What I liked best about this novel (which was re-titled The Heart of Caleb Jackson) are the details the author used to make us feel connected to the characters. I loved the way the brothers interacted with each other and also the relationships between Bree and her parents. The small details helped us get to know the characters without having to be told outright what they were like. I would have enjoyed a little more conflict in the novel since the main conflict, Bree and Caleb's concern that Cutter will never forgive them for their betrayal, got resolved pretty easily. Also, I wasn't ready for the ending. I thought it was a bit sudden even though it was a HEA.
March 3, 2021
Four and a half stars
Caleb Jackson and Breanna Tucker share one life changing experience, and then get on with the rest of their lives. Only to realize that they weren’t, that what they truly wanted and needed was something they’d tried to leave behind.
Kelly Hunter’s writing is terrific, and she captures Bree and Caleb’s emotions and longings beautifully. Loved their supportive families and this story is a little gem of a feel-good read.
Caleb Jackson and Breanna Tucker share one life changing experience, and then get on with the rest of their lives. Only to realize that they weren’t, that what they truly wanted and needed was something they’d tried to leave behind.
Kelly Hunter’s writing is terrific, and she captures Bree and Caleb’s emotions and longings beautifully. Loved their supportive families and this story is a little gem of a feel-good read.
April 6, 2020
Lighthearted and a totally enjoyable read
This was such a lovely and easy read. The characters were delightful, the plot simple and straightforward and the relationship between Caleb and his photographer sexy and sweet, and definitely one we want to end in a happy ever after. Humour and warmth win the day.
This was such a lovely and easy read. The characters were delightful, the plot simple and straightforward and the relationship between Caleb and his photographer sexy and sweet, and definitely one we want to end in a happy ever after. Humour and warmth win the day.
April 19, 2020
Fluff n stuff!
Cannot call this a book it is way too short and while there are some beautiful descriptive passages there is no substance. Bree and Caleb are the main characters and it is hard to enjoy a book when you thoroughly dislike the heroine. Her inane whining even to herself got on my nerves. Please read it for yourself you may find what I definitely missed . ⭐️⭐️2 Stars
Cannot call this a book it is way too short and while there are some beautiful descriptive passages there is no substance. Bree and Caleb are the main characters and it is hard to enjoy a book when you thoroughly dislike the heroine. Her inane whining even to herself got on my nerves. Please read it for yourself you may find what I definitely missed . ⭐️⭐️2 Stars
January 18, 2021
Loved it!
This is a really sweet story that almost anyone can identify with. High School crushes, moving away, going home and finding the love of your life. Very romantic read with two special families and then some coming together. Caleb a rough guy with a reputation and an old flame reunite when Bree comes home because her father is sick.
This is a really sweet story that almost anyone can identify with. High School crushes, moving away, going home and finding the love of your life. Very romantic read with two special families and then some coming together. Caleb a rough guy with a reputation and an old flame reunite when Bree comes home because her father is sick.
December 1, 2019
Caleb has loved Bree since forever. Only problem is she was dating his brother. They had one tender moment and then she left town, never to return. Ten years later she's back and both of them still feel the pull. Heartwrenchingly good story about the power of true love.
April 9, 2020
This was a slow one for me. I read the first few pages, and the characters just didn’t grab me. I spent a couple days casually coming back to read a little more. By the end I get like I did like the characters, but unfortunately this wasn’t a page turner for me.
August 22, 2025
good read
Had this on kindle a while and a surprisingly good read. Set in Australia and involves a family of brothers with businesses involving the sea. Liked the story of Caleb and Bree and how uncomplicated things became when addressed correctly. Good read.
Had this on kindle a while and a surprisingly good read. Set in Australia and involves a family of brothers with businesses involving the sea. Liked the story of Caleb and Bree and how uncomplicated things became when addressed correctly. Good read.
October 24, 2017
Likable characters and surprisingly low on angst given the premise. An enjoyable read.
December 31, 2017
Sympathy for the Devil had a dicey prologue for me. I liked the characters, but the interactions between Bree, Caleb, and Cutler had dissonance for me. I did not finish reading the story.
September 15, 2019
Loved reading about Caleb and Bree’s Second Chance.
March 12, 2020
Could not stop reading this delightful tale
April 8, 2020
Past
Well Caleb wanted when they were young. Now that she is back home. He is no longer a teenager. He will no let her go.
Well Caleb wanted when they were young. Now that she is back home. He is no longer a teenager. He will no let her go.
April 8, 2020
Heart of Caleb
I did enjoy reading this book. It was fast and easy reading.
I felt the Jackson brothers had a realistic relationship in the story.
I did enjoy reading this book. It was fast and easy reading.
I felt the Jackson brothers had a realistic relationship in the story.
April 19, 2020
A short and sweet story. A great and quick romance story for an afternoon read 👍🏻👍🏻
May 8, 2020
An easy read with a story line that flows. Light on sex. Minimal foul language. Happily ever after ending and enjoyable characters.
May 14, 2020
Really enjoyed this book.
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December 28, 2020I love anything Kelly Hunter writes and this is no exception.
Read this so fast, wished it was longer.
Love her characterisation.
Read this so fast, wished it was longer.
Love her characterisation.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews