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Hollywood Hearts #2
A Reclusive Heart
Tired of being walked all over and ignored, Jamie decided that it was time to make something out of her life. She sold her company, signed a contract and was determined to live it up. Only problem, she was a bit of a recluse, painfully shy, kind of clumsy and didn't know the first thing about living it up. Thankfully she has a very sexy, very determined editor to help her along the way.
She was everything he could ever want, popular and in demand, but unfortunately for him the author that he needed to make a name for himself was also a little recluse who wasn't doing what he needed her to do. In order to get her to do what he wants he decides to help her in her little quest for a life and ends up with more than he bargained for.
She was everything he could ever want, popular and in demand, but unfortunately for him the author that he needed to make a name for himself was also a little recluse who wasn't doing what he needed her to do. In order to get her to do what he wants he decides to help her in her little quest for a life and ends up with more than he bargained for.
Audiobook
First published September 1, 2011
310 people are currently reading
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About the author
R.L. Mathewson
71 books15.5k followersNew York Times Bestselling author, R.L. Mathewson was born in Massachusetts. She’s known for her humor, quick wit and ability to write relatable characters. She currently has several paranormal and contemporary romance series published including the Neighbor from Hell series.
Growing up, R.L. Mathewson was a painfully shy bookworm. After high school she attended college, worked as a bellhop, fast food cook, and a museum worker until she decided to take an EMT course. Working as an EMT helped her get over her shyness as well as left her with some fond memories and some rather disturbing ones that from time to time show up in one of her books.
Today, R.L. Mathewson is the single mother of two children that keep her on her toes. She has a bit of a romance novel addiction as well as a major hot chocolate addiction and on a perfect day, she combines the two.
In 2019/2020, R.L. Mathewson will be publishing Devastated, the first Anger Management novel, Tall, Dark & Furious, the 6th installment to the Pyte/Sentinel series, Irresistible, the long anticipated novel for the Neighbor from Hell Series as well as many more books throughout the year, paranormals, contemporaries, and YAs.
Growing up, R.L. Mathewson was a painfully shy bookworm. After high school she attended college, worked as a bellhop, fast food cook, and a museum worker until she decided to take an EMT course. Working as an EMT helped her get over her shyness as well as left her with some fond memories and some rather disturbing ones that from time to time show up in one of her books.
Today, R.L. Mathewson is the single mother of two children that keep her on her toes. She has a bit of a romance novel addiction as well as a major hot chocolate addiction and on a perfect day, she combines the two.
In 2019/2020, R.L. Mathewson will be publishing Devastated, the first Anger Management novel, Tall, Dark & Furious, the 6th installment to the Pyte/Sentinel series, Irresistible, the long anticipated novel for the Neighbor from Hell Series as well as many more books throughout the year, paranormals, contemporaries, and YAs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 401 reviews
August 5, 2012
I loved this book. After reading A Humble Heart, I couldn’t wait to jump into this one. Nick started off as an overbearing, demanding, intimidating jerk but once he started to fall for Jamie, his temperament improved. He could still be a little overbearing demanding, but he quit being a jerk about it.
I have to admit, I love it when the hero of the book gets jealous that another guy is paying attention to the girl he likes…especially before he realizes he’s interested in her for himself. Nick was that way. He fought really hard to stay away from Jamie while being jealous that she would even think of looking at another man.
Nick made a nice transformation from a complete jerk that was unable to commit, to a guy that wanted nothing more than to commit to the right woman. He had a sad (and heartbreaking) past that instantly made me forgive him for his irritatingly jerky ways. My heart also bled for Jamie. Her family was completely horrible. In the end, they got what they deserved and Nick did what I had wanted to do every time they made an appearance…hit them. Ok, he didn’t hit all of them…just the father, but they all deserved it.
I also loved seeing Edward and Dana again. I love them as a couple and even though it wasn’t their book, it wouldn’t have been the same without seeing at least a hint of them.
I have to say, I love R.L. Mathewson’s books. I have not been disappointed with any of them.
I can’t wait to read more from this series.
Thank you JoJo for suggesting a buddy read for this series. I've really enjoyed it!
I have to admit, I love it when the hero of the book gets jealous that another guy is paying attention to the girl he likes…especially before he realizes he’s interested in her for himself. Nick was that way. He fought really hard to stay away from Jamie while being jealous that she would even think of looking at another man.
Nick made a nice transformation from a complete jerk that was unable to commit, to a guy that wanted nothing more than to commit to the right woman. He had a sad (and heartbreaking) past that instantly made me forgive him for his irritatingly jerky ways. My heart also bled for Jamie. Her family was completely horrible. In the end, they got what they deserved and Nick did what I had wanted to do every time they made an appearance…hit them. Ok, he didn’t hit all of them…just the father, but they all deserved it.
I also loved seeing Edward and Dana again. I love them as a couple and even though it wasn’t their book, it wouldn’t have been the same without seeing at least a hint of them.
I have to say, I love R.L. Mathewson’s books. I have not been disappointed with any of them.
I can’t wait to read more from this series.
Thank you JoJo for suggesting a buddy read for this series. I've really enjoyed it!
August 1, 2017
Jamie can't believe she has gotten the nerve to actually sign with Rerum publishing in two different capacities, one as editor to the clients she already had and the other as the next best selling author. The biggest hurdle for Jamie now is that although she signed, it didn't require her to leave the comfort of her home. A recluse who has always felt inferior in her family, Jamie doesn't even have a close friend to turn to during this new transition of her life.
Enter Nick, Nick playboy and flirt is amused by the baggy closed, bottle glasses, frizzy haired new hire at Rerum. If anything Jamie will be a source of entertainment for him to watch, until he realizes she is the author he wants to take under his wing. A makeover, a tour, and a revealed list of all the things Jamie want to do but has been to afraid to try. Nick's little recluse is full of surprises and the playboy is finding himself completely falling in love with her.
I thought this was adorable. Nick is a bit curt with Jamie in the beginning, but as you get to know him you realize that he is not able to relate to Jamie initially, but as she comes out of her shell a bit they find they have more in common than they think. Can't wait for more in this series.
**Better the second time around.
Enter Nick, Nick playboy and flirt is amused by the baggy closed, bottle glasses, frizzy haired new hire at Rerum. If anything Jamie will be a source of entertainment for him to watch, until he realizes she is the author he wants to take under his wing. A makeover, a tour, and a revealed list of all the things Jamie want to do but has been to afraid to try. Nick's little recluse is full of surprises and the playboy is finding himself completely falling in love with her.
I thought this was adorable. Nick is a bit curt with Jamie in the beginning, but as you get to know him you realize that he is not able to relate to Jamie initially, but as she comes out of her shell a bit they find they have more in common than they think. Can't wait for more in this series.
**Better the second time around.
March 3, 2012
I started this book last night and pretty much HAD to read it straight through! Another FAB book from R.L Mathewson..who I picture wearing some sort of wonder woman outfit holding a chocolate bar in one hand and a chocolate shake in the other (am thinking after reading this one she may just have a wee bit of a sweet tooth LOL) because she just delivers every single time I start one of her books!!
This one is about Nick and Jamie. Nick is the bad boy from "A Humble Heart" and I was so happy to have his story because I've been crushing on him since then, yes he is a womanizing love 'em and leave 'em kind of guy but whatever, he had me hooked!! (oh and you get why he is like this..)!!
Jamie is a very shy, clumsy and frumpy girl (but if you've been knocked down as much as her you can't really blame her). She sells her company and goes to work for the same company as Nick who ends up being her editor. He is a frustrating RUDE boy thinking to use her to further his career and some of the stuff he says in front of her..well he deserves a good bitch slap! But..actually make that a BUT....he totally redeems himself...TOTALLY!!!!
The talented way this story is written makes the characters so REAL that you get completely drawn into the story and you FEEL the emotions. It had everything to make this a really fabulous read (including yummy bits)!!
Oh and let's not forget the humor...Jamie's lists are beyond funny!! The chocolate addiction... yep HILARIOUS!!! I actually cried with laughter through the scene (won't spoil it) where Nick says: "You're willing to whore me out for chocolate?"
This book has yet again proven to me that R.L Mathewson is absolutely one of my favorite authors!!!
This one is about Nick and Jamie. Nick is the bad boy from "A Humble Heart" and I was so happy to have his story because I've been crushing on him since then, yes he is a womanizing love 'em and leave 'em kind of guy but whatever, he had me hooked!! (oh and you get why he is like this..)!!
Jamie is a very shy, clumsy and frumpy girl (but if you've been knocked down as much as her you can't really blame her). She sells her company and goes to work for the same company as Nick who ends up being her editor. He is a frustrating RUDE boy thinking to use her to further his career and some of the stuff he says in front of her..well he deserves a good bitch slap! But..actually make that a BUT....he totally redeems himself...TOTALLY!!!!
The talented way this story is written makes the characters so REAL that you get completely drawn into the story and you FEEL the emotions. It had everything to make this a really fabulous read (including yummy bits)!!
Oh and let's not forget the humor...Jamie's lists are beyond funny!! The chocolate addiction... yep HILARIOUS!!! I actually cried with laughter through the scene (won't spoil it) where Nick says: "You're willing to whore me out for chocolate?"
This book has yet again proven to me that R.L Mathewson is absolutely one of my favorite authors!!!
August 3, 2012
I should stick with the Neighbors from Hell series. This book is a hot mess. The heroine alone makes me go WTF? No one is that naive and simple thinking. Also the heroine writes erotic romance and regardless if she has never had sex, she has never kissed a man, no joke. She knows how to write her love scenes by reading romances. That's her research.
Don't get me started on the the douche of hero who thinks he's god.
Um no. No no no.
I'm going to act like this book doesn't exist.
Don't get me started on the the douche of hero who thinks he's god.
Um no. No no no.
I'm going to act like this book doesn't exist.
April 12, 2012
Phew! I finished! I would say at the 50 - 60% mark this finally got better. Not good but better. I enjoyed it for a bit, but then I didn't really care what happened. The problem was the characters were so darn annoying! I didn't care what happened to them. Nick the H is a bad boy man whore. I get it. Shoving it down my throat every page and having him mentally justify it was just annoying. He's a man-whore. Ok. Big deal. Lots of characters are. But no. He's not just any man-whore. He needs to be the biggest, most disgusting, non-caring man whore around. Well then why try making him a good guy in the end when you've worked so hard to make him a bad boy. How irritating. And Jamie the h is no better. She's shy, awkward and unloved. And then that has to get shoved down my throat. There was almost no room for story what with all the descriptions of all the things wrong with the stupid main characters!
There were a few good pages in an otherwise unenjoyable book. I dont recommend this book or this author.
There were a few good pages in an otherwise unenjoyable book. I dont recommend this book or this author.
December 16, 2013
I just love R.L. Mathewson’s books, they’re guaranteed to make you smile and Reclusive Heart is no exception.
This book reminds me a bit of the Bradfords, with hot, sexy, arrogant, asshole Nick who slowly but surely is convert to a sweet, caring and loveable man, all the while clueless and in denial during this charming story two souls needing the right combination to make their lives complete.
Where other woman had failed, his little recluse had not only succeeded in bringing him to his knees, but once he was down she dropped kicked him in the balls for good measure.
This book reminds me a bit of the Bradfords, with hot, sexy, arrogant, asshole Nick who slowly but surely is convert to a sweet, caring and loveable man, all the while clueless and in denial during this charming story two souls needing the right combination to make their lives complete.
Where other woman had failed, his little recluse had not only succeeded in bringing him to his knees, but once he was down she dropped kicked him in the balls for good measure.
December 30, 2012
And yes, I am so emotionally overwhelmed I just used a Glee and High School Musical gif. I think that about sums up how amazing this book is.
March 5, 2012
Another hilarious book from R.L. I swear can not read these books in front of people because I end up being giddy and giggly, which does not help people thinking you're a nut. I liked this one as much or maybe more than the neighbor from hell series. Maybe because love bad boy/playboy Nick. He's just that good. *sigh* At first I hated him. I mean really hated him because he's such a jerk but he grew throughout the book thank god. AND JAMIE. She's just so darn adorable. Her chocolate addiction and innocent naivety were very enduring although her being a pushover was annoying to me at first. But I got over it.
July 4, 2017
I liked this book so much better than the first book. I liked the ugly-duckling-to-swan theme. But I really thought that Nick was a bit of a jerk for most of the beginning of the book.
March 6, 2022
4 Stars for this call back to R.L Mathewson's early work
To be honest, I'd almost given up on this author. I enjoyed her very early work, especially Playing for Keeps, Sudden Response, and Checkmate, all of which were fun and dripping with the author's pure delight in her characters. It didn't matter that the writing was flawed, and ridiculously under-editted. The books were FUN because you knew the writer had fun writing them. They oozed fun and rom-com craziness. But then, with each new title the fun and craziness became increasingly forced, repetitive, over the top, and the eye-roll factor inevitably set in. Whatever gold had been spun initially was now a desperately dry and dull string of failed attempts.
So I gave up. I ignored each new RL Mathewson title that showed up on my kindle feed until eventually, they stopped popping up altogether.
Until recently. I was searching for the ever elusive male-nerd-makeover trope and it appeared as a recommendation (although it's NOT a male-nerd-makeover story AT ALL!!) The blurb sounded good and I'd been in a massive book slump so I hovered over the 'confirm purchase' button and took the plunge, thinking my slump couldn't get much worse anyway.
I'm so glad I did.
While this became slightly over the top towards the last 15% of the book, I have to say the rest was great fun! It was definitely a call back to Playing for Keeps and a return of the often hilariously immature hero and his slow journey to realisation that he is in fact in love with the woman who annoys him and makes his life difficult (or at least makes it less like a frat party).
Nick is an incredibly cocky book editor, a confident, successful bundle of sexiness in a commitment-phobe package, forced to work alongside Jamie, the ultra-shy, sheltered and skittish plain jane/chocaholic who happens to write books on the side.
At first, they don't get along at all.
But they're forced to work together (of course).
Nick becomes protective as Jamie decides to 'try new things'.
A friendship forms.
And soon trust and connection follows.
Or, as is always the case in RL Mathewson world, a ton of cave-man possessiveness and hot sex follows.
But when they stand to lose everything, our two love birds must decide if love really does conquer all.
Like I said, it all gets more than slightly over-the-top towards the end, with too many unrealistic (and totally unnecessary) developments and revelations, but the first 80% was pure fun with echoes of what RL can do when she's at her best.
I really did enjoy it. The audio version was great. I easily switched between listening and reading quite a bit and interestingly, the narrator's voice didn't overpower the story.
A great read for lovers of shy-girl/ alpha male office romances!
To be honest, I'd almost given up on this author. I enjoyed her very early work, especially Playing for Keeps, Sudden Response, and Checkmate, all of which were fun and dripping with the author's pure delight in her characters. It didn't matter that the writing was flawed, and ridiculously under-editted. The books were FUN because you knew the writer had fun writing them. They oozed fun and rom-com craziness. But then, with each new title the fun and craziness became increasingly forced, repetitive, over the top, and the eye-roll factor inevitably set in. Whatever gold had been spun initially was now a desperately dry and dull string of failed attempts.
So I gave up. I ignored each new RL Mathewson title that showed up on my kindle feed until eventually, they stopped popping up altogether.
Until recently. I was searching for the ever elusive male-nerd-makeover trope and it appeared as a recommendation (although it's NOT a male-nerd-makeover story AT ALL!!) The blurb sounded good and I'd been in a massive book slump so I hovered over the 'confirm purchase' button and took the plunge, thinking my slump couldn't get much worse anyway.
I'm so glad I did.
While this became slightly over the top towards the last 15% of the book, I have to say the rest was great fun! It was definitely a call back to Playing for Keeps and a return of the often hilariously immature hero and his slow journey to realisation that he is in fact in love with the woman who annoys him and makes his life difficult (or at least makes it less like a frat party).
Nick is an incredibly cocky book editor, a confident, successful bundle of sexiness in a commitment-phobe package, forced to work alongside Jamie, the ultra-shy, sheltered and skittish plain jane/chocaholic who happens to write books on the side.
At first, they don't get along at all.
But they're forced to work together (of course).
Nick becomes protective as Jamie decides to 'try new things'.
A friendship forms.
And soon trust and connection follows.
Or, as is always the case in RL Mathewson world, a ton of cave-man possessiveness and hot sex follows.
But when they stand to lose everything, our two love birds must decide if love really does conquer all.
Like I said, it all gets more than slightly over-the-top towards the end, with too many unrealistic (and totally unnecessary) developments and revelations, but the first 80% was pure fun with echoes of what RL can do when she's at her best.
I really did enjoy it. The audio version was great. I easily switched between listening and reading quite a bit and interestingly, the narrator's voice didn't overpower the story.
A great read for lovers of shy-girl/ alpha male office romances!
March 24, 2021
POV-Dual
Narrative: Third person
This is a cute little love story between a shy writer with a low self esteem, Jaime and her editor, Nick.
Jaime is tired of being a pushover and generally boring. She decides to have new adventures but she doesn't have the courage to do so alone. Nick offers his help in exchange for her cooperation for all the book signings and other events.
I didnt like Nick's character at first coz he was, to be nicely put, an ass. And yes thats putting it nicely. He's a jerk to everyone but more so to Jaime. But he has a lot of character development and becomes a likeable character towards the end.
However i really like Jaime and her transformation. The story is really relatable. It has a makeover but its still realistic. Jaime becomes much confident throughout the book but not so quickly and completely that it looks rushed or fake.
The story is actually pretty great with loveable characters. .
Hero- ⭐⭐⭐
Heroine- ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Story- ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall- ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Narrative: Third person
This is a cute little love story between a shy writer with a low self esteem, Jaime and her editor, Nick.
Jaime is tired of being a pushover and generally boring. She decides to have new adventures but she doesn't have the courage to do so alone. Nick offers his help in exchange for her cooperation for all the book signings and other events.
I didnt like Nick's character at first coz he was, to be nicely put, an ass. And yes thats putting it nicely. He's a jerk to everyone but more so to Jaime. But he has a lot of character development and becomes a likeable character towards the end.
However i really like Jaime and her transformation. The story is really relatable. It has a makeover but its still realistic. Jaime becomes much confident throughout the book but not so quickly and completely that it looks rushed or fake.
The story is actually pretty great with loveable characters. .
Hero- ⭐⭐⭐
Heroine- ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Story- ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall- ⭐⭐⭐⭐
June 4, 2012
Enjoyed it!Nick started out as jerk but we get to know his childhood its understandable why he does'nt do relationship.Jamie is a sweet caring shy person but as story progresses even her character develops and we see new Jamie which i liked more then the old shy timid Jamie.There were few funny moments,liked all characters in the book.The only thing disappointing was Jamie's so called family did not get paid for what they did to Jamie.
Overall a good read
Recommend it.
Overall a good read
Recommend it.
June 25, 2012
I have officially fallen in love with this author's writing style. With that being said.... I was blown away by the number of errors in this kindle book written about book publishing editors! I really don't pick out these things normally, but it was kind of a disaster. Again, I love this author, the characters and stories. It was a great read, but a proof reader would have helped!
September 17, 2012
So happy Nick got his own story! He was funny in the first Hollywood Hearts book. This is a great book that shows opposites can attract. I loved Nick and Jamie's chemistry. Good read.
November 24, 2014
Holy Hot Editor Batman! Jeez... I feel like kicking my own ass right now.
See, I have this friend. She is constantly trying to get me to read books that I just don't want to read. "But it's so good" she says. "You'll love it" she says. She happens to love books about musicians / actors / other famous types, but I've just never been interested so I'm always putting her off. Well, she finally won and I gave in. Now I get the pleasure of the "I told you so!" speech. :P
I've read every other book R.L. Mathewson has published except the two Hollywood Hearts novels. I knew they were about famous esq type characters so I've been putting them off for years now. Here's where the 'kicking my own ass' comment comes into play. I just finished A Reclusive Heart, and I freaking loved it! I am so mad at myself for waiting to read it and especially for not reading this series in order! I don't know why I thought I wouldn't love them as I've loved every other book she's written, but that is a mistake that will not happen again, I can assure you!
Jamie is an extremely shy and introverted woman. She didn't have the best home life growing up due to her mother (and I use that term loosely, she was a she bitch from hell) and sister (she bitch from hell part deux) always treating her like the epitome of The Ugly Duckling. To say Jamie had low self esteem would be the understatement of the year. However, she's made a life for herself as an author with a pen name and an online publishing company, even if she rarely leaves her house. She decides that it's time to step out of her comfort zone and begin to live her life, rather than watching it pass her by. So she sells her company and signs with a publishing house where she'll actually have to go in every day.
Nick is an editor at said publishing company and is looking forward to getting the great up and coming author J.L Lewis. With her, he'll be able to make a bigger name for himself. What he doesn't expect, is that the new frumpy editor, Jamie, is one in the same as his coveted author! After he shows what a grade A asshole he is by pretty much tearing Jamie to shreds, he sends her on a quest for a makeover in hopes it'll help her image with her fans. What he didn't expect was this ugly duckling to come out the beautiful swan. And she did.
As the two begin working together, they each see another side to the other and slowly develop a friendship of sorts. Nick coerces Jamie in staying on her book tour by offering to help her with her list of things she's always wanted to try. This leads to more bonding and Nick proving to me he wasn't so bad after all. There were some bumps here and there with Jamie not fully accepting that she was nothing like what her family always led her to think about herself, but she finally comes to terms with their despicable behavior. I loved how Nick warms to her despite his own hellish upbringing and his resolve to never get entangled in a relationship. I love how Nick just flipped! He was a total ass at first but he's GONE for her now! He fell in love with Jamie despite trying his hardest not too. He grew possessive and wanted to protect her. It was hot. And sweet. And Jamie fell for Nick as well, even understanding (in her mind) that he would never want anything long term with her. These were two people who never knew the touch of real love and were unsure and weary of it when they found it in each other. Self doubts can seriously be a bitch. Luckily, they figured it out and were able to reach their hea! :-)
There was the ever present humor that I've come to expect from all R.L. Mathewson books that I love. Lots of sweet and sexy times. A great story with great characters (except the she bitches). There's also a side plot of a stalker that gave us a little intrigue. A little bit of everything that kept me glued to my kindle and not wanting the goodness to end! I am so glad that I finally read this one and I can't wait to read the first in the series, A Humble Heart, so that I can see more from Dana and Edward. (I forgot to mention that they had a few cameos and seem like great characters that I'm sure I'll love in their own book.)
Thanks Lindsay for bullying me into reading this one! ;)
See, I have this friend. She is constantly trying to get me to read books that I just don't want to read. "But it's so good" she says. "You'll love it" she says. She happens to love books about musicians / actors / other famous types, but I've just never been interested so I'm always putting her off. Well, she finally won and I gave in. Now I get the pleasure of the "I told you so!" speech. :P
I've read every other book R.L. Mathewson has published except the two Hollywood Hearts novels. I knew they were about famous esq type characters so I've been putting them off for years now. Here's where the 'kicking my own ass' comment comes into play. I just finished A Reclusive Heart, and I freaking loved it! I am so mad at myself for waiting to read it and especially for not reading this series in order! I don't know why I thought I wouldn't love them as I've loved every other book she's written, but that is a mistake that will not happen again, I can assure you!
Jamie is an extremely shy and introverted woman. She didn't have the best home life growing up due to her mother (and I use that term loosely, she was a she bitch from hell) and sister (she bitch from hell part deux) always treating her like the epitome of The Ugly Duckling. To say Jamie had low self esteem would be the understatement of the year. However, she's made a life for herself as an author with a pen name and an online publishing company, even if she rarely leaves her house. She decides that it's time to step out of her comfort zone and begin to live her life, rather than watching it pass her by. So she sells her company and signs with a publishing house where she'll actually have to go in every day.
Nick is an editor at said publishing company and is looking forward to getting the great up and coming author J.L Lewis. With her, he'll be able to make a bigger name for himself. What he doesn't expect, is that the new frumpy editor, Jamie, is one in the same as his coveted author! After he shows what a grade A asshole he is by pretty much tearing Jamie to shreds, he sends her on a quest for a makeover in hopes it'll help her image with her fans. What he didn't expect was this ugly duckling to come out the beautiful swan. And she did.
As the two begin working together, they each see another side to the other and slowly develop a friendship of sorts. Nick coerces Jamie in staying on her book tour by offering to help her with her list of things she's always wanted to try. This leads to more bonding and Nick proving to me he wasn't so bad after all. There were some bumps here and there with Jamie not fully accepting that she was nothing like what her family always led her to think about herself, but she finally comes to terms with their despicable behavior. I loved how Nick warms to her despite his own hellish upbringing and his resolve to never get entangled in a relationship. I love how Nick just flipped! He was a total ass at first but he's GONE for her now! He fell in love with Jamie despite trying his hardest not too. He grew possessive and wanted to protect her. It was hot. And sweet. And Jamie fell for Nick as well, even understanding (in her mind) that he would never want anything long term with her. These were two people who never knew the touch of real love and were unsure and weary of it when they found it in each other. Self doubts can seriously be a bitch. Luckily, they figured it out and were able to reach their hea! :-)
There was the ever present humor that I've come to expect from all R.L. Mathewson books that I love. Lots of sweet and sexy times. A great story with great characters (except the she bitches). There's also a side plot of a stalker that gave us a little intrigue. A little bit of everything that kept me glued to my kindle and not wanting the goodness to end! I am so glad that I finally read this one and I can't wait to read the first in the series, A Humble Heart, so that I can see more from Dana and Edward. (I forgot to mention that they had a few cameos and seem like great characters that I'm sure I'll love in their own book.)
Thanks Lindsay for bullying me into reading this one! ;)
July 19, 2014
I had liked Nick in A Humble Heart, but fell in love with him in A Reclusive Heart. I had thought things could not get better than Edward, but they did. Nick was just edible. I loved his inner thoughts as he was just so certain he was not having any feelings for Jamie at all. Between his bad-boy going all mushy in love persona and Jamie's hilarious addiction to her junk food it I was laughing throughout this story.
This story takes off with Nick you you meet in A Humble Heart, the big flirt that is the man-whore friend of Dana's. He is getting a shot at a new client that is an up and coming author, but is shocked to find out that the frumpy Jamie is the same JL Lewis that can take his job to the next level. But Jamie has been beat down her whole life and has zero back bone or self-esteem. With Nick's guidance he is certain he can get her out of her shell. When he finds a list of things she wants to experience - he decides it is his way of getting his way. He will help check those items off one by one and she will commit to giving her all with the book engagement. But as she develops a more x-rated list to gain some sexual experience, Nick tries to hold off - knowing he can't give her the type of relationship she needs... But Nick can't help himself, Jamie has worked his way into his closed off heart and through some drama and extended travels on the book tours he may just not be able to resist his feelings for long.
The Hollywood Hearts series falls just short of my love for The Neighbor From Hell Series, but not too far behind. I wished I could get into paranormal type romance to read the Pyte series, but I just am not there yet.... But I just adore Mathewson's stories.
This story takes off with Nick you you meet in A Humble Heart, the big flirt that is the man-whore friend of Dana's. He is getting a shot at a new client that is an up and coming author, but is shocked to find out that the frumpy Jamie is the same JL Lewis that can take his job to the next level. But Jamie has been beat down her whole life and has zero back bone or self-esteem. With Nick's guidance he is certain he can get her out of her shell. When he finds a list of things she wants to experience - he decides it is his way of getting his way. He will help check those items off one by one and she will commit to giving her all with the book engagement. But as she develops a more x-rated list to gain some sexual experience, Nick tries to hold off - knowing he can't give her the type of relationship she needs... But Nick can't help himself, Jamie has worked his way into his closed off heart and through some drama and extended travels on the book tours he may just not be able to resist his feelings for long.
The Hollywood Hearts series falls just short of my love for The Neighbor From Hell Series, but not too far behind. I wished I could get into paranormal type romance to read the Pyte series, but I just am not there yet.... But I just adore Mathewson's stories.
January 13, 2013
Really great story and I loved the characters, also damn funny. My favourite part in This book is When Jaime (heroine) wants to learn about sex so she decides to watch porn on her computer but promptly downloads a virus and has to take her computer to Nick (hero) his responses is fricken priceless!! I nearly peed my pants laughing... My laughing woke up my husband because I couldn't get control of myself!! The good news is that there are many other moments in this book that had me laughing just as hard. This is a well written book which I have come to expect from R.L., everything of hers I've read has been emotionally touching and very funny. Great book ;)
August 20, 2015
I really loved the Neighbor from Hell series but I did not like this book at all. Nick was/is a jerk. With basically no redeeming qualities. I know he tried to be a little better in the second half of the book, but he was still a mega jerk. Jessie is a total push over and she made no sense to me. I did not see any transformation. Most importantly, I felt no chemistry between them. And where was the humor? I loved laughing through the other series. Not much funny about a diabetic in the making...
February 26, 2012
only one word:
NICK!
NICK!
March 2, 2016
My second most fave book from this author it was so cute and sweet!
January 18, 2014
4 stars
This was a very good story. To be honest, in the beginning I had trouble with both main characters... Jamie was so shy and downtrodden that it was ridiculous and Nick was such a major asshole for the first 25% or so of the book and I wasn't sure if I wanted to finish the book (and I've never DNF a book before). Fortunately, I kept reading and Nick gets much better as the book progresses and by the end I really liked him and Jamie gets more of a backbone as well and I found I really liked her too.
Jamie is a very shy and downtrodden woman. She's been put down in preference for her older sister all her life and been made to believe that she is ugly and worthless by her family. She's done well in her business life, having started an online publishing company and making a great success of it, along with becoming a popular author herself. When her life takes a bad turn (thanks for her horrible sister), Jamie decides it's time for a change. She sells her publishing company to a larger publisher and gets a job for that publishing house as an editor/author.
Nick is a Senior editor and out to make a name for himself in the publishing business. He's also a man-whore and has a rule to never sleep with a woman he works with and never sleep with a woman twice. When the story begins, Nick is a conceited prick that doesn't think about how his actions affect others just as long as he can keep any of the backlash from hitting him. Fortunately, Nick does get better as the book progresses, actually getting past his self-centeredness and becoming a decent person.
When the story begins, Nick isn't happy about Jamie's new place on the staff and thinking she'll get in his way, he basically slams her work as an editor and her in general when he doesn't actually know anything about her except the way she looks. When he finds out he's just been slamming the author that he really wanted to work with (due to a pen name he didn't realize who he was talking to) Nick has to backtrack some but still isn't very nice. He bullies her about work and the book tour and Jamie is so shy that she can't really stand up to him very well. Jamie is determined to attempt to live life more and tries to spend some of her free time experiencing life but even when she's supposed to be free, Nick tends to try to force her to do what he wants. When they come to a major point of contention about things, Jamie is almost ready to complain to Nick's boss and have him removed as her editor. Nick freaks out and realizes he has to do something quickly and finds what he needs in the form of a list that Jamie made of things she'd like to do and experience. Nick agreed to help her check items off her list in their free time if she did whatever he orders during their work times. Jamie is desperate enough that she agrees, thinking at least she'll have someone to do things with (since she's so shy she hates going places alone, feeling like she stands out as a freak when she's alone). Her and Nick start checking off items on her list (like motorcycle riding and fun stuff like that) and find that as they spend more time together, they actually are having fun with each other and becoming friends.
Nick and Jamie get closer and I liked how things progressed for them. Nick and Jamie find they have become friends and things proceed slowly as the book tour they're on progresses. They start liking each other but both are convinced that the other isn't interested anyways so they both hold back. Nick also is convinced he can't sleep with Jamie because of his rules (no sleeping with co-workers and no sleeping with the same woman twice), knowing that if he did, he'd just end up hurting Jamie. Jamie starts opening up as she experiences more and more on the trip and finds she wants to experience more, like sex. Jamie is VERY inexperienced and sets out to plan how to have sex. She didn't intend to tell Nick but a small issue with a porn virus on her laptop clues Nick in. Nick isn't about to bed her but offers to help her with some advise. Of course this doesn't last long and eventually things between Nick and Jamie snap and they become physically involved but both think it'll only last until the end of the book tour. Nick tries to convince himself he'll have her out of his system by then and Jamie knows she'll probably have a broken heart when things end but is willing to suffer it to be with Nick for as long as possible. While their relationship is developing they do have a few issues to deal with, like her family being totally horrible excuses for human beings and someone sending her death threats. There ends up being issues that come up and drama that unfolds in the end and Jamie is put in a dangerous situation. Fortunately, Jamie and Nick come out ok in the end and get to start their HEA together.
I found this story to be very enjoyable. I really liked Jamie and Nick and was happy to see them get their HEA. I really wasn't thrilled with this book when I started it but it completely turned around for me and I'm really glad I read it. My main disappointment with the book is just that Jamie's "family" didn't get what they deserved after being so horrible. I've heard there's supposed to be another book released in this series and I plan to read it as well. I'd recommend this book. Thumbs up. :)
* note - I listened to the audio version of this book. The narrator did a very good job. At first she seemed a bit dull in the voice area but as it progressed, the narration seemed to get better. She did very good at using the inflection in her voice to color the words with the correct emotions. Like for instance, Nick called Jamie "the little recluse" in the beginning of the story and the narrator tinges it with an annoyed flavor when Nick thinks it in the beginning. Later as the story progresses, Nick starts calling Jamie "his little recluse" and it's said with much more caring and affection. The way the narration was done worked very well to convey the feelings behind the words and I liked it.
This was a very good story. To be honest, in the beginning I had trouble with both main characters... Jamie was so shy and downtrodden that it was ridiculous and Nick was such a major asshole for the first 25% or so of the book and I wasn't sure if I wanted to finish the book (and I've never DNF a book before). Fortunately, I kept reading and Nick gets much better as the book progresses and by the end I really liked him and Jamie gets more of a backbone as well and I found I really liked her too.
Jamie is a very shy and downtrodden woman. She's been put down in preference for her older sister all her life and been made to believe that she is ugly and worthless by her family. She's done well in her business life, having started an online publishing company and making a great success of it, along with becoming a popular author herself. When her life takes a bad turn (thanks for her horrible sister), Jamie decides it's time for a change. She sells her publishing company to a larger publisher and gets a job for that publishing house as an editor/author.
Nick is a Senior editor and out to make a name for himself in the publishing business. He's also a man-whore and has a rule to never sleep with a woman he works with and never sleep with a woman twice. When the story begins, Nick is a conceited prick that doesn't think about how his actions affect others just as long as he can keep any of the backlash from hitting him. Fortunately, Nick does get better as the book progresses, actually getting past his self-centeredness and becoming a decent person.
When the story begins, Nick isn't happy about Jamie's new place on the staff and thinking she'll get in his way, he basically slams her work as an editor and her in general when he doesn't actually know anything about her except the way she looks. When he finds out he's just been slamming the author that he really wanted to work with (due to a pen name he didn't realize who he was talking to) Nick has to backtrack some but still isn't very nice. He bullies her about work and the book tour and Jamie is so shy that she can't really stand up to him very well. Jamie is determined to attempt to live life more and tries to spend some of her free time experiencing life but even when she's supposed to be free, Nick tends to try to force her to do what he wants. When they come to a major point of contention about things, Jamie is almost ready to complain to Nick's boss and have him removed as her editor. Nick freaks out and realizes he has to do something quickly and finds what he needs in the form of a list that Jamie made of things she'd like to do and experience. Nick agreed to help her check items off her list in their free time if she did whatever he orders during their work times. Jamie is desperate enough that she agrees, thinking at least she'll have someone to do things with (since she's so shy she hates going places alone, feeling like she stands out as a freak when she's alone). Her and Nick start checking off items on her list (like motorcycle riding and fun stuff like that) and find that as they spend more time together, they actually are having fun with each other and becoming friends.
Nick and Jamie get closer and I liked how things progressed for them. Nick and Jamie find they have become friends and things proceed slowly as the book tour they're on progresses. They start liking each other but both are convinced that the other isn't interested anyways so they both hold back. Nick also is convinced he can't sleep with Jamie because of his rules (no sleeping with co-workers and no sleeping with the same woman twice), knowing that if he did, he'd just end up hurting Jamie. Jamie starts opening up as she experiences more and more on the trip and finds she wants to experience more, like sex. Jamie is VERY inexperienced and sets out to plan how to have sex. She didn't intend to tell Nick but a small issue with a porn virus on her laptop clues Nick in. Nick isn't about to bed her but offers to help her with some advise. Of course this doesn't last long and eventually things between Nick and Jamie snap and they become physically involved but both think it'll only last until the end of the book tour. Nick tries to convince himself he'll have her out of his system by then and Jamie knows she'll probably have a broken heart when things end but is willing to suffer it to be with Nick for as long as possible. While their relationship is developing they do have a few issues to deal with, like her family being totally horrible excuses for human beings and someone sending her death threats. There ends up being issues that come up and drama that unfolds in the end and Jamie is put in a dangerous situation. Fortunately, Jamie and Nick come out ok in the end and get to start their HEA together.
I found this story to be very enjoyable. I really liked Jamie and Nick and was happy to see them get their HEA. I really wasn't thrilled with this book when I started it but it completely turned around for me and I'm really glad I read it. My main disappointment with the book is just that Jamie's "family" didn't get what they deserved after being so horrible. I've heard there's supposed to be another book released in this series and I plan to read it as well. I'd recommend this book. Thumbs up. :)
* note - I listened to the audio version of this book. The narrator did a very good job. At first she seemed a bit dull in the voice area but as it progressed, the narration seemed to get better. She did very good at using the inflection in her voice to color the words with the correct emotions. Like for instance, Nick called Jamie "the little recluse" in the beginning of the story and the narrator tinges it with an annoyed flavor when Nick thinks it in the beginning. Later as the story progresses, Nick starts calling Jamie "his little recluse" and it's said with much more caring and affection. The way the narration was done worked very well to convey the feelings behind the words and I liked it.
January 2, 2019
The second book of the Hollywood Hearts series by R.L. Mathewson. Reclusive and awkward Jamie Harris sells her company and then goes to work for Rerum Publishing. She encounters Nick Quinn, who was introduced in the first book, on her first day there. Nick is excited about the new authors the company is now representing. He is especially excited about an up and coming author named J.L. Lewis. He is eager to represent her personally. Imagine his surprise when he finds out who she is and then goes on a book signing tour with her.
This series didn't quite do it for me. It was good but not like her Neighbor from Hell series.
This series didn't quite do it for me. It was good but not like her Neighbor from Hell series.
April 15, 2013
I've read quite a few of R.L. Mathewson's novels at this point. I've read all but one of her Neighbors From Hell series (looks like she has a new one planned, so make that two). I'm finding I really enjoy all of her novels, her humor and the characterizations of her main Hero for each book I've read.
This book isn't related to the Neighbors From Hell series, but does have a prior book, so it is a two part series. I don't believe you need to read the first novel in the series to enjoy this book, though the characters from the previous book are included in A Reclusive Heart.
Nick is reluctantly falling for Jamie and is fighting his attraction, but he's helpless to stop it from happening. So hey, why not conveniently spend time with her by teaching her about the fun things in life. I know why this worked so well for me....
I absolutely LOVED Nick.
The scene after they complete her research by watching the adult movie was such a turn on. I can't say why, since I've seen this used in other novels before, but it worked for me. I've reread just that scene a few times. That part alone urged me to give this book a 5 star rating.
Towards the end, there was some "mystery/thriller" plot line I could've done without. I know that once you've established a pretty concrete relationship between the hero and heroine, you've got to fill the space somehow, but it didn't work for me. Still, that wasn't enough to dampen my appreciation for the first 3/4 of the novel and the developing relationship between Jamie and Nick.
This book isn't related to the Neighbors From Hell series, but does have a prior book, so it is a two part series. I don't believe you need to read the first novel in the series to enjoy this book, though the characters from the previous book are included in A Reclusive Heart.
Nick is reluctantly falling for Jamie and is fighting his attraction, but he's helpless to stop it from happening. So hey, why not conveniently spend time with her by teaching her about the fun things in life. I know why this worked so well for me....
I absolutely LOVED Nick.
The scene after they complete her research by watching the adult movie was such a turn on. I can't say why, since I've seen this used in other novels before, but it worked for me. I've reread just that scene a few times. That part alone urged me to give this book a 5 star rating.
Towards the end, there was some "mystery/thriller" plot line I could've done without. I know that once you've established a pretty concrete relationship between the hero and heroine, you've got to fill the space somehow, but it didn't work for me. Still, that wasn't enough to dampen my appreciation for the first 3/4 of the novel and the developing relationship between Jamie and Nick.
November 17, 2015
5 Awkwardly Shy Stars
Nick never thought he could fall in love. He grew up in a broken home and he knew that he could not love or be in love with anyone but......
Jamie is awkwardly shy when it comes to men and her surroundings. So she decided that she needs a list to do to break out from the old Jamie into the new Jamie and who is there to help her? Yes, Nick.
“You're willing to whore me out for chocolate?" he demanded as he came to his feet and pulled his hand away from hers.
She rolled her eyes as she settled her hands in her lap. "No, I was just kind of hoping that you'd use that pretty smile of yours to get me some sugar."
"Pretty?" he spat out in disgust.
"Well, yeah," she said, shrugging. "You have a very pretty smile."
"Pretty?" he couldn't help repeat in disbelief. His smile wasn't pretty. It was charming and boyish, but pretty? Hell no. By all rights he should have stormed out of the room, but he was still too shaken up to leave her side for more than five minutes at a time so he decided to sit in the chair and settle on glaring at her.”
“She was his heart, his soul and the only woman he would ever love.”
Nick never thought he could fall in love. He grew up in a broken home and he knew that he could not love or be in love with anyone but......
Jamie is awkwardly shy when it comes to men and her surroundings. So she decided that she needs a list to do to break out from the old Jamie into the new Jamie and who is there to help her? Yes, Nick.
“You're willing to whore me out for chocolate?" he demanded as he came to his feet and pulled his hand away from hers.
She rolled her eyes as she settled her hands in her lap. "No, I was just kind of hoping that you'd use that pretty smile of yours to get me some sugar."
"Pretty?" he spat out in disgust.
"Well, yeah," she said, shrugging. "You have a very pretty smile."
"Pretty?" he couldn't help repeat in disbelief. His smile wasn't pretty. It was charming and boyish, but pretty? Hell no. By all rights he should have stormed out of the room, but he was still too shaken up to leave her side for more than five minutes at a time so he decided to sit in the chair and settle on glaring at her.”
“She was his heart, his soul and the only woman he would ever love.”
September 11, 2013
Wow this was a story that I absolutely loved!! We know Nick as a sexy, charmer who never fails with the ladies from Dana and Edward's story. Nick does not do relationships; he's content with his womanizing ways. He makes no excuses for his behavior and that is why you can't help but like him- he lets it be know he is not in it for the long haul it's just sex. Jaime was painfully shy, quite insecure and unsure about everything in her life. She always felt inadequate because her family ignored her and made her feel unworthy. Despite all that, Jaime decided to change her life through her career allowing her more social interaction. Jaime was so selfless and geniune- she just needed positive people around her. I loved the interaction between herself and Nick- you see when Nick started developing feelings for his little recluse. Nick and Jaime were worlds apart and when Jaime took a chance on her career they found true love! This book is great - it has the right mix of humor, sex, love and drama! I highly recommend it!
March 13, 2013
I am absolutely in love with this book! It was amazing and by far the best book I’ve read in a while! Jamie was hysterical (I seriously have a girl crush on Jamie) Ha-ha. She’s definitely the best female character I’ve read about in so long normally I always end up wanting to strangle the female characters at one point during a book, but nope not Jamie. She was comical, shy, naughty, sweet, loving, etc. And her sweet tooth reminded me of Jason from Playing For Keeps (heck maybe that’s why I have a girl crush on her because I loved Jason! LOL!) Nick was also absolutely amazing! He’s smoking hot, never strayed but was worried he would, manage to get his battles under control and then held on to his girl tight. The sex scenes were VERY HOT! This got six stars from me, would have got seven but I’m mad now because it’ll probably be like forever before I can find a book I like as much as this :-(. LOL!
February 14, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. Nick and Jamie were great fun. Jamie was a shy woman that just happened to be a best selling author. Nick was the Editor that was hired to handle her on the promotion tour. The dialog was very good because Nick was a good looking, hot, sexy womanizing man and Jamie was a little bit of an innocent fixer upper.
There were crazy things going on in the background that made for an interesting side story. Several side stories to be honest. There was her family that had been so negligent with her that they were very much to blame for her low self esteem and shyness. The main story was wonderful and the back stories made for extra emotion in the story.
This is my second R.L. Mathewson book and I enjoy her writing very much. I like that she makes the books exciting and funny at the same time. Her characters have very individual personalities. Both books have been great reads.
There were crazy things going on in the background that made for an interesting side story. Several side stories to be honest. There was her family that had been so negligent with her that they were very much to blame for her low self esteem and shyness. The main story was wonderful and the back stories made for extra emotion in the story.
This is my second R.L. Mathewson book and I enjoy her writing very much. I like that she makes the books exciting and funny at the same time. Her characters have very individual personalities. Both books have been great reads.
February 9, 2012
3.75-4 stars
This one took me a while to warm up to. Our hero, Nick, was hard to like at first. He was very bossy, had a two f*** minimum when it came to women (what a pig, right?) and kept openly admitting he was just using Jamie, our heroine. However, he slowly transformed for the better once Jamie started to make her way into his heart. Jamie was too innocent at first. She was very shy, and huge pushover. His little recluse, Nick would call her and it was well deserved. I started to like the book when Jamie started to come out of her shell and sticking up for herself. Oh, When Nick found Jamie's "other" to-do list, along with all the inappropriate pop-ups on her laptop, it was a riot! I still enjoyed this story, but not as much as the Neighbors From Hell series. Still a good read though :)
This one took me a while to warm up to. Our hero, Nick, was hard to like at first. He was very bossy, had a two f*** minimum when it came to women (what a pig, right?) and kept openly admitting he was just using Jamie, our heroine. However, he slowly transformed for the better once Jamie started to make her way into his heart. Jamie was too innocent at first. She was very shy, and huge pushover. His little recluse, Nick would call her and it was well deserved. I started to like the book when Jamie started to come out of her shell and sticking up for herself. Oh, When Nick found Jamie's "other" to-do list, along with all the inappropriate pop-ups on her laptop, it was a riot! I still enjoyed this story, but not as much as the Neighbors From Hell series. Still a good read though :)
November 16, 2012
I absolutely adored this book. Jamie and Nick complimented each other. When I first read about Nick in A Humble Heart, I actually wanted to hear more about him and I was actually happy that he got his own story. Jamie is no doubt a tortured soul, her so-called family had hurt her so much that I actually felt is as well. I wanted to kill them myself too. It was a good thing that she met Nick and introduced her to her mother. She deserved to he happy more than anyone.
No doubt, RL Mathewson is now one of my favorite authors. I hope there would be another book of Hollywood Hearts. I wanna read more about a writer's life. I actually wanted to be a writer and reading books still inspires me more. I make it a habit to read everyday. Thank you Ms. RL for being one of my inspirations.
This is definitely a book to recommend :)
No doubt, RL Mathewson is now one of my favorite authors. I hope there would be another book of Hollywood Hearts. I wanna read more about a writer's life. I actually wanted to be a writer and reading books still inspires me more. I make it a habit to read everyday. Thank you Ms. RL for being one of my inspirations.
This is definitely a book to recommend :)
February 7, 2016
He might come off as a jerk, but he really was a big sweetie pie.
Ok so he was a total jerk to start off with but I knew he would start to act better once he fell for Jamie, and I was right. He was sweet and tender and looked after her and I absolutely loved him!
All he could think of was grabbing his little recluse, hunting down a jar of hot fudge and letting her go to town licking it off his body
This book had a lot of cutesy and awww moments. She was sugar addict which was supposed to be cute but to me it was childish and annoying -very similar to the Bradfords.
Glad I read this though.
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