Hornet's Nest

Love Bug #3

by Jaycee Ford

Katherine Klein has been warned: Stay far away from Lance Walton. After one night in the country, the quintessential city girl has the unwanted attention of the infamous country boy. For months, she’s been dodging his advances, but a moment of weakness changes everything.

Lance Walton felt immediately drawn to Katherine from the moment she knocked on his best friend’s door Christmas morning. Winning over this city girl is a mountain of a task for any country boy, but Lance is up to the challenge. He never expected the morning he left her naked at The Inn would be the last time he would see her.

In the aftermath of her bad decisions, Katherine returns to the city. Haunted by what they shared and all she lost, she vows to never return to the country. But the country finds her unexpectedly when Lance shows up in the most unlikely place. But does he have the country boy charm to break through the walls of her heart and outshine the big city competition?

Genres: Romance, Westerns, Contemporary

237 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 3, 2015

About the author

International Bestselling author Jaycee Ford grew up chasing street cars around the city of New Orleans. After doing a four year stint at Louisiana State University, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and fled for the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. New Orleans beckoned her home again where she put her love of the foothills into a series of romance novels. In between writing, she’s found behind her desk at a top rated law firm … or still chasing street cars.

Reviews

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

FIVE 'SHE MAKES ME WEAK' STARS!

I have been a fan of Jaycee Ford's since I picked up her debut novel, Watching Fireflies. I've been consistently impressed and entertained with the quality of her writing. Her stories are full of that sweetnees, that rush of new love, that excitement when you meet that special someone. She's such a descriptive author, I felt everything along each of these couples' journies. Her books are always a pleasure to read, and I've enjoyed every single one so far. Really though, what's not to love about some sexy, romantic country boy cowboys?

Hornet's Nest is the third book in the Love Bug series. This book features notorious womanizer, Lance Walton, and quintessential city girl, Katherine Klein. Their attraction was immediate, although Katherine tried to fight it hard. They watched their four best friends pair off and find their happily ever afters, and they were left on the sidelines, both wanting what the other two couples had and hoping to find it in each other.

"Oh God, I'm going to fall so hard."

Lance did a lot of growing up in this book. It was necessary for him to feel worthy of Katherine. I think just how much he grew up surprised her, in a good way, but she had a hard time trusting it. Through a series of misunderstandings and miscommunications, these two part and do not have any contact for nearly a year. Lance took this time to focus his life and lay the groundwork of his future so that he could go after his girl. And go after her he did.

"All I have ever wanted was you."

Their story wasn't all smooth sailing. There were bumps. There were bruises. There was manipulation and interference. But Lance and Katherine never lost sight of the fact that each truly wanted the other. They held on to that and they persevered.

"How the hell was I going to do this? Cowboy up."

I truly enjoyed Lance & Katherine's story; I've enjoyed the entire series so far. This book, this series is a definite recommend, and Jaycee Ford is an auto-buy author for me. It has been a pleasure watching Jaycee's talent grow and flourish throughout this series, and I'm excited to see it continue.

* ARC generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.

[Lynn Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book in the Love Bug series and my personal favourite. We follow Lance, Olde Town's biggest player cowboy and Katherine, Jordan's best friend from Charlotte. Can they find happiness together like their best friends?

Both protagonists know all about one another before they set eyes on each other, so Katherine is determined not to fall for this cowboy's known charm. However with a lop-sided grin and green eyes it is going to be difficult to resist such a gorgeous man. Lance has always had an eye for a pretty girl, and he's gotten to know most of them in his town since messing up his relationship with the only woman he's ever loved. Is he going to follow his friends and find the perfect woman for a happy ever after?

The pair finally meet in person under unforeseen circumstances, with Katherine trying to not fall for Lance's country boy charm. Besides, she's a city girl living and working in Charlotte! She has a sassy mouth and is an equal match to anything Lance says. He knows that they appear opposites, but so are his parents, so he feels confident that he can find happiness with this auburn haired accountant. Nothing is clear cut and lines of communication cease, lead to confusion. Luckily, stars begin to align when Lance begins an accounting job, unbeknown to him that it is the same company Katherine works for. Will Katherine resist Lance's cowboy charm once more?

In the previous books in the series, Lance is portrayed as a Jack-the-lad guy, but just below the surface we glimpse a man who has loved and lost before – he has a big heart and knows that his past behaviour and reputation could ruin his chances with Katherine. I love his determination in his attempt to win Katherine over, even when she delivers devastating information which rocks him to the core. Somehow, three words let him know what he missed and what he wants in the future. But underneath all the bravado is just a guy trying to protect, charm and win his girl's heart.

What I singularly love most about the three books in The Love Bug Series is how each time-line is close together, giving the readers the opportunity to see some scenes from more than one point of view. It adds greater depth and understanding to pivotal plot-lines which makes this a truly 5 star series.

***arc received courtesy of the author in exchange for an honest review***

[Kimberley · Rating 5 out of 5]

OH MY GOSH WHERE DO I BEGIN?

I was first introduced to Lance in book one of this series (Watching Fireflies) and I’ll be honest in saying that he was not my favourite cowboy. I then met him again in Dragonfly Awakening and seeing how he had hurt the female lead really added to my dislike of him BUT our dear Lance changed. Dare I say he won me over? He certainly did! Seriously!!

Again, the author amazed me with her words and had me falling in love with this handsome cowboy. Each page held my attention and pulled me in, never letting me go. There was no doubt that I could read this book in one day and it’s all because it’s something I COULD NOT put down. The characters were relatable and their pain, their joy and their love could be felt on each page.

The beautiful, passionate, pillar of strength that is Katherine Klein has been through a lot over the past year and she handled it the best way she knew how, yes there were those days where it took its toll but she did well, she handled it like anyone of us would.

People have always said that love makes you do crazy things. In this case love made Lance a better, more focused/determined person. A year ago Katherine walked out of his life and he knew exactly what he had to do. It’s like his eyes had been opened to see what he’s been missing and what he could have. He knew a change was necessary and boy did he work to win her heart and gain her trust.

“I made it my personal mission to win her over and show her that I wasn’t a stupid farm-loving country boy”

I truly enjoyed the journey of Lance and Katherine and if you haven’t read the other books in the Love Bug series you are missing out on soooo much. Jaycee, keep up the hard work hon. It’s been a pleasure being on this journey with you. I look forward to more wonderful stories.

Keep em coming!!

ARC generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.

[Caroline Zammit-Balghy · Rating 5 out of 5]

First there was Tom & Jordan, than Paul & Ellie came along and now we have Lance and Katherine. All six of them became best of the best. Jaycee, this Love Bug series is a beautiful roller coaster ride full of intrigues, misunderstandings, laughter and tears.

I got to know Jaycee through Wattpad and from the very first line of reading Watching Fireflies (her first Love Bug novel) I fell in love with her stories. They are all so well written with each and every book leaves you longing for the next one.

Hornet’s Nest, the third novel in this series is a sweet love story between Lance and Katherine. Lance a country boy that loves having women by his side, or should I say in his bed, whilst Katherine, a city girl that simply loves her life.

Lance got to know Katherine through Jordan and from there their story starts to build up. Lance wants Katherine, but she will do her very best to keep her heart away from Lance, as she always believed if she gives her heart to him he will badly crash it down for her.

Lance wanted desperately to be part of her life. Will he change for her and prove how wrong she has been towards him? Who knows? What will happen when he finds out the secret she kept from him? Will it be too painful for him to handle and run away or will he move closer towards her than ever before? Will Lance come to her rescue when she really needs it or will someone else take his place?

They watched their friends tying the knot and now they wonder IF the day will come for them as well and settle down. Will they find their happy ending together and tie the knot once and for all?

I strongly believe that one has to read the first and second Love Bug novels to truly appreciate the third one. They definitely complement each other. I totally recommend not just this novel but all of the Love Bug series. I can assure you that you won’t be let down.

An Arc was supplied to me by the author for an honest review.

[Zoe Sands · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arc copy received in exchange for an honest review.

Hornets Nest is book 3 of the wonderful Love Bug series and as such it needs to be read as part of the series to achieve full benefits & understanding.

Ford starts the book cleverly interweaving this novel with her previous books in the series. At the point where Jordan (MC from book 1) has been kidnapped & Katherine arrives at the Blue Ridge Mountains to help with the search party. This is where the perpetual 'player' Lance first lays his eyes on Katherine & looses his heart forever.

Unfortunately for Lance his reputation proceeds him; but makes trying to win Katherine around a welcomed challenge, one he's not used to.

Lance who is known as the gorgeous green eyed player, becomes tamed by the auburn haired beauty that is Katherine. After a boozy night celebrating at their best friends wedding, Katherine can no longer resist her attraction to Lance & happily spends a hot night with her favourite cowboy.

One night, that's all it takes to change the course of their lives forever.

Lance is determined to show her he's a changed man and sets out an action plan to prove himself to her. A year on from their passionate night & Lance moves to the big city after he's re-trained as an accountant.

This is really where their true journey begins. Fate, insecurities, missed opportunities, office politics & misunderstandings all play a part in their journey of self discovery, with a few shocks thrown in for good measure.

It's another well written, heart warming tale of true love winning & overcoming adversity. It's definitely going to be another BIG hit for Jaycee Ford. These gorgeous cowboy's & Ford can do no wrong. :-)

[DJ Sakata · Rating 5 out of 5]

Favorite Quotes:

“I was obsessed. Lance Walton was obsessed with a woman. Hell had frozen over.”

“I pulled out of the kiss and stared at him. For the first time in my life, I felt complete. I was in love with this man.”

“I wanted to always remember this moment because I was petrified this would be our last.”


My Review:

I adore Jaycee Ford. I nominate her to be exalted as a Writing Goddess and suggest her computer be converted into an altar. At this altar, I vow to leave her offerings of Victoria’s Secret gift cards, chocolates, and beer - in hopes she would then write non-stop. I have followed her work from the beginning with Watching Fireflies, and was instantly a smitten kitten. Her characters are clever, funny, knowable, and likable. Her writing is entertaining, addicting, easy to follow, deliciously sensual, and memorable. I don’t follow many series as I tend to forget or confuse the details in the time span between volumes, but I don’t find that to be a problem with Ms. Ford’s work. Lance and Katherine’s relationship story zigged and zagged more than her first two books, giving me a bit of cardio workout. I had faith in a HEA result, but she certainly didn’t make it easy for them. I am already eager to see whose story is up next.

[Anima · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series! The book cover is gorgeous, so original and follows the story. The passionate men and strong women make this series electrifying and unstoppable. All the books are happening simultaneously, sort of. The couples connect during book one, Jordan and Tom's love story. Book two is the reunion story of high school friends Paul and Ellie, with an overlapping storyline with book one. This is the third one as womanizer Lance falls head over heels for Katherine, they met in book one. We witness the heartache they feel and the proud moments when they connect. Truly a moving book I could not put down unless forced by mom duties. I was thrilled to get an advanced copy for an honest review.

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I read Jaycee Ford’s exceptional Dragonfly Awakening, I was immediately addicted this series. I was excited for Lance’s book, given the role he played in Ellie and Paul’s, and while it wasn’t quite the story I expected, it was still a damn fine one.

Ladies man, Lance Walton was knocked on his a-- when he met Katherine Klein the first time. Here was a beautiful, captivating girl….that wasn’t interested?

Katherine tried to keep her distance from the charming cowboy, knowing his playboy reputation, but all it took was one night for her to succumb to his wiles.

Frustrated by her weakness, Katherine fled back to the big city and tried to put her magic night with Lance behind her. But the past has a way of catching up with you, and when her cowboy turns up in the last place she expected to see him, she’s left wondering if there’s still a chance for them, while Lance is left wondering if a country boy will ever be enough for a city girl.

This was a really good story. Really good. I went in expecting the cowboy to be a cowboy, but he surprised both Katherine and me when he hit the big city. That made for some fun interactions, as he learned to be away from the country town he grew up in, but took none of the charm from this sweet series.

Katherine was a strong character, and while I’ll readily admit to wanting to talk some sense in to her on occasion, I was pleased that Ms. Ford didn’t make her a silly, damsel-in-distress, or so obtuse as to not quickly realize that things aren’t always what they seem. She really was the perfect match for Lance, whose good ole boy charm was evident, and I was rooting for the HEA before I even opened the book.

While I found the conflict a touch predictable – it was easy enough to see where it was headed – it was all the parts around it that made Hornet’s Nest a great way to spend a few hours. Lance’s attempt to be “worthy” of Katherine. The secret she kept and his reaction to it. The playful moments between the transplanted cowboy and his smart city girl. The most rewarding parts of this story, however, were the scenes that integrated the characters from the previous two books. It’s always fun to see your favorites pop up and, in this case, the interaction between the main characters and their friends made them feel all the more real and likeable.

I am excited for more from Ms. Ford and these Carolina cowboys. My addiction needs to be fed, and I am hoping it will be…and soon.

Hornet’s Nest is the third book in the Love Bug series. It’s best to read the first two books first, to get a sense of the characters and because there is a timeline overlap. No cliffhanger. ~ Beth, 4 stars

[Kimothy · Rating 5 out of 5]

his book should in my opinion be read after reading the first two books to get the full benefit of Lance and Katherine. However, you could read it on its own but you will not feel as passionately for the characters. How far would you go to show someone you have changed, let me tell you Lance will go the distance to prove he has changed for Katherine. This is the sort of man i love to read about those that will know no boundaries to their pursuit of the woman who has got under their skin. Katherine is a character i love, she loves her life her friends and has feelings for a man who she knows will be hot stuff. I like the fact that she lets go for one night with him even though she knows what he is like.Got to say Lance is my fave cowboy from this series i feel. 5 star for this final book in the series.

[Laura Lianee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very touching story, worth reading. Suitable for those who loves romance..

[Alex Rosa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a huge fan of the Love Bug series by Jaycee Ford, and any time a new book in this series is released, I get giddy about which cowboy I’m going to get to fall in love with this time. Lance was one I had been introduced to early on in the series, and I kinda have a thing for the bad-boys, so he had already caught my attention then. Now, to get him in hand, with this new “I want to be the good guy for her” I was all ears … err, I mean eyes. I devoured this book, and fell for these characters, hard.

Hornet’s Nest swiftly intertwines the previous novels, carrying over after the previous storyline, which makes me feel immersed in their world, and with all these friendships and relationships, it’s almost like I’m one of them as I read and watch it unfold. I’m the one rooting for these characters. I want them to make it, especially in matters of the heart.

Lance and Katherine have a magnetic connection from the start (him getting a job at her firm, by complete accident, even if he had her on his mind since their tryst a long time before), and I couldn’t get enough. The sizzle and the spark had me desperately wanting them to stop being so back and forth and just communicate. But it made sense why. I also just wanted Katherine to give in to Lance, who’s green eyes and sure words had me swooning. haha. But it doesn’t matter, Lance, (oh my, Lance <3) wasn’t going to give up so easily, thank goodness. When the boy wants something, steam is surely to ensue.

This book was angsty, playful, and sexy … not to mention some heart-thumping tension that involves blackmail and manipulation. But don’t worry, love always triumphs … and plus, Lance is just, ya know, super smart and sexy, even if Katherine has a hard time getting over the country boy in the big city *melts*.

I loved the twist and turns the book took me on. Most of which, I didn’t necessarily expect, which was a nice surprise. This was a heart-warming read, while still having me fanning myself and anxious to see them succeed. If you like cowboys, reformed bad-boys in the name of love, and solid writing. Give this a read.

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

In this third volume of the Love Bug series, we meet up with Katherine. Working as an accountant for a law office in Charlotte, her life seems to be on the right track until her best friend Jordan, whom we met in the first book, is kidnapped by her ex. Upon her arrival in Olde Town where she’ll be joining in the search party, she makes the acquaintance of Lance, a friend of Jordan’s boyfriend Tom.

Lance is known as the town manwhore, it would be hard to find a woman he hadn’t slept with. Katherine had been warned of his status, but is drawn to him anyway. A quick hookup during her visit leads to some consequences that will change her life and how much trust she is willing to give to men in the future. When Lance fails to contact her for well over a year, could it be a simple communication or just more proof that Lance is only interested in one thing?

When Lance shows up as the new hire at the practice Katherine works at, their relationship takes a surprising turn, especially when she is pursued by the star attorney at the firm. How will Lance react to the secrets Katherine has been keeping from him? How will Katherine react to not only having Lance working so closely with her, but also trying to meddle in her personal life?

Hornet’s Nest was another great addition to the Love Bug series however it is not without its problems. My biggest issue with the book is the amount of sex. There is a lot. Like, a LOT. It honestly got to the point where I was skimming because I found myself bored; I really would have preferred that there had been more substance to the relationships between the characters rather than the sex. I’m all for sex, don’t get me wrong, but when it becomes gratuitous without advancing the storyline, it can become tedious. Like the other books, I liked that the characters from previous books also featured in this one. It only helps to provide a complete picture of the lives and the small town that has become the center of the story. I am definitely looking forward to the next book, Mosquito Chase and the surprises it holds! Three and a half stars.

[Carra · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off, while this could be read on its own, I’d really recommend reading Watching Fireflies and Dragonfly Awakening first-trust me, it will greatly enhance your enjoyment of the story.

First off-I LOVED Lance. He really is sincere when it comes to Katherine, you can see he is truly bitten by the “love bug” (yeah, I know…pun is definitely intended), and he’ll do whatever it takes to have Katherine as his. Katherine on the other hand is very quick to jump to conclusions and likes the bottle just a bit too much for my taste. Lance is so willing to do anything to show her he’s not the playboy he used to be before he met her, and the way Katherine would keep treating him…well, let’s just say I thought he deserved more from her. Thankfully she eventually wised up ;-)

The author’s writing continues to evolve in this third book of the series, and I found it easy to read since it really moved along well. The storyline was very good, although the big conflict brought around by Josh felt a little bit contrived to me. Once we move past it though, everything falls into place nicely.

While Lance was a true hound dog through the first two books, it was wonderful to see him grow and change here in his story, and Hornet’s Nest made me appreciate his character a whole lot more. A good, solid addition to the Love Bug series, I give Hornet’s Nest 4 stars!

[Noelle Beltz · Rating 5 out of 5]

***WILL CONTAIN SOME SPOILERS***
***DISCLAIMER - AN ADVANCED READER'S COPY WAS EXCHANGED FOR THIS REVIEW***


When I picked up the third novel of Jaycee’s series, I was excited! I knew she was an amazing and talented author, and I couldn’t wait for more of her beautiful works! I started reading and I was instantly lost in the world of Katherine and Lance. I couldn’t get enough, and I definitely couldn’t stop reading! As I got to know Katherine and Lance’s past, I knew that Jaycee would somehow find a way to get them back together, and she did in the most unexpected way! I was shocked at her approach, but it was well welcomed and intensified the plot and the character’s emotions more.

You could never guess what would happen after the turn of each page, Jaycee did a brilliant job of keeping me curious of the past relationship of Katherine and Lance.

I can’t wait for the fourth book of the series! I would recommend this book to anyone (after reading the first two installments of the series) because it portrays true heartbreak, human emotion, betrayal, and much more that everyone finds themselves experiencing at least once in their life.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW this Love Bug series just gets better and better.

Lance is a country cowboy, a womanzer who drinks his nights away and hops from one bed to another that is until he meets Katherine.
Katherine is a city girl whos has been warned of Lance's ways. She does her best to steer clear pf him.

When Katherine returns to the country to attend Tom and Jordan's wedding things happen. Katherine is filled with regret and flees back to the city vowing not to return.
Lance decides to forge forward and heads to the city.
This is where their relationship is tried and tested.

The author talently weaves the the different books together in such a way that there is no lapse in time yet the each book tells its own story.

Intriguing, sweet story.
Great series, looking forward to book 4 and more from this author!

[Tina Brimlow · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say about Jaycee Ford? What can I say about Hornet's Nest? Well first thing I will say is, you need to purchase this book today. Jaycee Ford has moved up into my top ten authors. I mean damn with all three of her books I can not figure out who I love the most. I do hope this is not it for this series. Jaycee I swear there better be more or I will have to grab a box of tissues and crawl into bed and cry. I need more hot cowboys.

Now for a serious review. I love the story line for Lance and Katherine. From the first word to the final Jaycee has you captivated with these two. I seriously recommend you check out Jaycee Ford's work today.

[Claudia Burgoa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hornet's Nest follows the love story of Katherine and Lance.

Though the book can be read as a stand alone, I would recommend you read the first two books of the series where we learn about Lance and Katherine. Though, you wouldn't be lost if you hadn't, it's best to have the bacground to enjoy Hornet's Nest.

Ms. Ford delivered a fast paced, light romance that keeps you turning page after page from Chapter One until the end.
If you like a sweet, intense romance with a country boy, this is the kind of book you have to read.

[Alison Davies · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lance stood in a room full of his friends, waiting to hear word that his best friends girl had escaped with her life at the hands of a psycho... When her best friend Katherine turns up in a state, to see if she can help find her.... he moment Lance's eyes find hers, he knows she's "The one".... But Katherine knows about his player reputation and fights her attraction to him, only the stronger she fights, the more they want each other... Their chemistry is powerful and Lance will not give up....

[Book Club Gone Wrong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I start! I just love Author Jaycee Fords Love Bug series. Everyone of her Cowboys steals my heart and I want all the girls to be my best friend.

This story is absolutely amazing. It gets your heart and soul. You feel pain for the love birds Lance and Katherine as they face multiple issues along the way.

Are they strong enough to work it out? Or will this just be to much for the womanizer Lance. Go one click today and find out!!!

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book I liked the characters, the plot was interesting. I'm giving it four stars because I didn't like how fast their relationship moved. This is purely a personal preference and in no way is a reflection of the writing. I cried twice so the writing was great. I love that the characters swore even in their heads because I drop the F-bomb frequently lol I like all the supporting characters such as Katherine's parents.

[Mish · Rating 4 out of 5]

I fell in love with Lance he came a long way from the first book but he made me swoon.And Katherine was a city girl look for love they found her self a hot country boy that was a player with a heart of gold . Then in the end winning the game of love. This was a sweet , sexy , romantic story. I hoping Paul brother Celeb is next in this great romantic series

[Ivana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally Lance!! Super sweet story.

[SheLove2Read]

DNF at 35%. I'm just not able to enjoy a new adult story no matter how good the author may be. The writing was fine, the genre just isn't for me.

[Karen Hrdlicka · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think Katherine and Lance's story is my favorite of the Love Bug series. The obstacles thrown at the couple would tear apart any couple, especially given Lance's reputation. I love a good reformed playboy story and Ms. Ford's twists with Lance and Katherine is a great read. One night together after Jordan's wedding isn't enough for Lance, yet Katherine feels it was more than she could deal with. Thrown together in the city, their chemistry is undeniable but obstacles are everywhere. A pushy city lawyer and miscommunications add to the couples woes. I love getting a glimpse at the previous couples in the series and how their friendship plays into the current story. Lance goes from playboy to a smitten swoon worthy hero, always fun to read. I can't wait to read more of the series

[Tina J · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐ ⭐ Provided by Author in Exchange for an Honest Review ⭐ ⭐

Judging a Book by it's Cover:
Skies look turbulent, but the rays of hope are still shining through for the out-of-place cowboy. Synopsis sounds a little more interesting that the last one and bringing back a bit of suspense will be good.
Looking Deeper:
First person POV, alternating perspectives clearly defined.
Hornet's Nest begins by briefly recapping Lance and Katherine's first time meeting over Jordan's kidnapping (book 1), then highlights a scene from their POV from Jordan and Tom's wedding (books 1 and 2). I'm a little torn on these characters. Lance has proven himself totally redeemable and kind-hearted. I think he's my favorite of the three best male friends. Katherine, on the other hand, I was really on the fence about. Anyone who drinks to a hangover point on a regular basis (work night's included) and can polish of a bottle of wine without even a slight buzz raises some serious red flags with me. Showing up hungover and the boss joking about it? Not professional. Secondary characters are comprised of a larger variety in this book, taking you out of the country and into Charlotte. We are reacquainted with Tom, Jordan, Paul, and Ellie along with a few locals and we meet new characters: co-workers, parents, godchildren and others. I seriously hated Josh and wished an anesthesia-free castration on him. Overall cast interaction was believable. Chemistry between our main characters felt natural, realistic. There were several times where lack of or mis- communications were at play, but again, Katherine rubbed me the wrong way with how she handled a lot of it. Lance really should have been sainted by the end to put up with it and still WANT a forever with her! The story flowed well and was each to read and follow. The plot was more dynamic than the second book, but not as exciting as book one. This one, however, DID draw me in emotionally more than the other two. Lance drew me in. He made me smile, he made me tear up. He made me be angry on his behalf ... he made me feel. Well done, Ms. Ford. Predictability was relatively low, although there were a few rather foreseeable things that were inevitable. The conclusion is solid enough although I would have loved to have seen if Teague gained an ally.
In all, this book **CAN** stand alone, BUT I'd highly recommend you read WATCHING FIREFLIES, then DRAGONFLY AWAKENING before this one to gain a richer, fuller, and more rewarding story experience. This trilogy plays out like a surround sound IMAX story. It's unique in that way, but it's not overly done where any part feels redundant.
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Rating: 4 [R] ~ Score: 4.1 ~ Stars: 4
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[Natasha Rowlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in Jaycee Ford's Love Bug series, and in similar form to the previous books, it was a pleasure to read.
I received a free ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

First of all - although it is possible to read this book as a standalone, I would highly recommend reading Watching Fireflies and Dragonfly Awakening before diving into Hornet's Nest. There are a few snippets of background story here and there during Hornet's Nest (particularly at the beginning) which are not given thorough explanation as they perhaps do not deal fully with Lance and Katherine's story. Although you will understand what is going on, it will make a lot more sense having the background of the earlier books there. You'll also get to know more about the characters who we meet briefly here - Tom, Jordan, Paul and Ellie.
Another reason why I would highly recommend reading the other Love Bugs first is (apart from their being great reads) it will give a lot more insight into Lance Walton, the kind of man he used to be and where he now stands.

We did get to know Lance in considerable detail in Watching Fireflies (#1) and Dragonfly Awakening (#2) and knew him to be a charming womaniser with a heart of gold, but this is a different Lance. He has changed from the somewhat entitled, self-indulgent cowboy to a man who has realised that it was time to grow up and make a change. He has left behind his beloved life to make something different of himself, and all because of an encounter with one woman.
Katherine is a down to earth female lead who is not afraid to admit when her heart is broken. When she's vulnerable she does not simply hide, but allows herself to feel her pain and when we are often encouraged nowadays to 'suck it up' that is actually quite beautiful to see her do that. The connection between the two is lovely, their chemistry is strong and honestly you can't help but root for the couple to work through their budding and somewhat fragile relationship despite obstacles from the outside world, and indeed their own personalities and insecurities.

I like the fact that each of the stories thus far paints differing journeys to romance and obstacles faced. Hornet's Nest generally has a bit of a different feel to Watching Fireflies, perhaps due to the change in setting as well as a change in pace. All readers will have their preferred style and story in the series. That's the great thing about a series like this.
I highly recommend this read for anyone who loves a warming love story between two very human, very relatable people. Another great read from Jaycee! Look forward to the next in the series.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book in Jaycee Ford's Love Bug Series, and my very first book by this author. Although I didn't read the first two books in the series, Watching Fireflies and Dragonfly Awakening, I would highly recommend reading them before embarking on Hornet's Nest. It makes understanding and following the supporting characters much easier. Having said that, I thoroughly enjoyed Lance and Katherine's story immensely. Her descriptions made me feel as if I was standing close by watching this book unfold chapter by chapter.

Hornet's Nest follows the story of the womanizing country boy Lance Walton and the city girl accountant Kathleen Klein.

From the beginning Kathleen has been warned to stay away from Lance, yet Lance is drawn to Kathleen from their very first meeting.

Kathleen had thought she's succeeded in dodging Lance's every advance until a moment of weakness at her best friends wedding changes the course of her life, and unbeknownst to her Lance's as well.

Fate brings them together a year later, in the unlikeliest of places. From that moment on, its literally game on for both of them.
Can Kathleen keep Lance at a distance? Can Lance convenience Kathleen to give him a second change and prove to her that he's not the same guy he was a year ago? Can they finally get their happily ever after?
Be prepared for a roller coaster ride of emotions - laughter, tears, anger and a whole lot of steamy bedroom scenes, with a few "I so wish I could kick his butt moments".

From what I've gathered Lance has grown up quite a bit in this book. He's changed from this womanizing playboy who would bed a different woman with no remorse, to wanting that someone special to share his life with. Basically what his best friends have. The one night he spent with Kathleen changed him. Throughout that year apart the womanizing stopped and the only woman he wanted was Kathleen.

Kathleen is a complex person. She's beautiful and smart. Compassionate and funny. Yet she builds walls around herself, closing herself off from everyone - pretending everything is fine and dandy when in actual fact she's hurting inside and relying on Jim and Jack to help her forget her pain. Yet somehow she knows that Lance is the key to helping her heal.

Its a beautifully written story and I'm looking forward to reading the first two books in this series the first chance I get as well as future books from Jaycee Ford.

**** heartfelt stars

[Athena Freya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hornet’s nest is such a refreshing story!!

It’s always the girl who changes her ways to fit the guy in some way. Here, the man -and oh my, what a man- grows and acts in order to win and keep the girl forever.

I loved how relaxed I felt while reading it!
No major drama! Great Sexy scenes! Funny dialogues! Karma in its greatest!

It was a truly refreshing and light novel that I enjoyed!

However, it also felt like something was missing. It was good from the beginning to the end, but it didn’t have that highlight that makes your heart stop beating.

Plus, I didn’t quite grasp how Lance reacted to some situations. I was like ‘That’s it?’. I felt like his actions were rushed so that we don’t get to dwell on those situations and keep the story going. The thing is that I did want and need to dwell a little bit.

I liked the characters very much!! Katherine was a good example of a modern woman, with her strong and weak moments. I found her very real and I loved that! Lance was so misunderstood it was almost laughable, if Katherine weren’t so hurt.

It was a different story, with great characters and nice writing!

What I loved the most was their bond. No matter what Lance had or had not done, their bond couldn’t break. It was like karma and fate were fighting each other. I didn’t understand it at first, but I got it later.

If two people really love each other, nothing can get between them.

That’s what this book is all about. Love conquers all………….

So, Hornet’s Nest receives 4 Gorgeous Stars!!

[Danielle Melo · Rating 5 out of 5]

And then there was book number three. Hornets Nest.

Jaycee Ford, is beyond brilliant with her Love bug series and everything she writes.

Jaycee is wrangling in her readers with amazing plot, story lines and twists. She does no wrong when it comes to these cowboys.

Lance Walton was an honest to God player in Watching Fireflies and Dragonfly Awakening. In my opinion he was a no good rootin’ tootin’ cowboy looking for too much of a good time. BUT that all changes when he meets Katherine Klein.

Lance and Katherine have a steamy night of romance, but unfortunately is short lived when Katherine goes back to the city after their friends wedding.

A year later, fate is nice enough to thrust them back in each others life. But will it be too late for Lance and Katherine?

I give 5 out of 5 stars for this steamy romance, I read it originally on wattpad, and was lucky enough to get an ARC version. I couldn’t put it down, I read it in less than a day. And I can’t wait to read it again. Well done Jaycee and congratulations on publishing your third book!

[Renee Entress · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 star

The story has laughs, pain, grief, betrayal, blackmail, and heartbreak. I was pulled right into this story.

If you have not read the below I recommend reading those first:
Watching Fireflies (Love Bug, #1)
Dragonfly Awakening (Love Bug, #2)

This is Lance and Katherine’s story. Lance and Katherine had one night then no word from each other. Now months later there are hurt feelings. Lance went to school and wanted to prove himself. He got a job and finds out on the first day he will be working with Katherine. Katherine is trying to move on since Lance. She starts dating another guy but does not feel for him what she feels for Lance. When she gets blackmailed will she be able to stick to the rules? Or will she end up breaking the rules and hurting Lance in the process? Can she be with Lance like she wants or is she about to lose him for good?

I highly recommend this story and this series.