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Montana Born Bachelor Auction #1
Bound to the Bachelor
Your date with Marietta local Beau Bennett includes a day on the slopes at Big Sky Resort, complete with a sumptuous meal in the Resort’s fanciest fine dining restaurant and door-to-door transport. Dig deep to secure the attentions of one of Montana’s most eligible – and elusive – bachelors.
Lily Taylor knows Beau Bennett dislikes her, but that won’t stop her from asking him to volunteer for the Bachelor Auction she’s organized to help her friend Molly provide for her tragically injured son, Josh. If Beau’s gorgeous face, piercing blue eyes and chiseled body inspires the women of Marietta to dig into their pockets for a good cause, then Lily will do whatever it takes to secure his participation.
Beau Bennett isn’t sure how he wound up on the auction block being eyed up by hundreds of eager women, but he knows who to blame for it – Lily Taylor, the sexy, distracting, off-limits best friend of his kid sister. As far as he’s concerned, the sooner this nightmare is over, the better.
The last thing either of them expects is for Lily to wind up bidding on – and winning – Beau, or that their date will lead to Beau stepping in to save Lily when her past comes back to haunt her. As Beau does his best to keep Lily safe, they discover that maybe they don’t dislike each other quite as much as they thought.
In fact, maybe it’s just the opposite…
Lily Taylor knows Beau Bennett dislikes her, but that won’t stop her from asking him to volunteer for the Bachelor Auction she’s organized to help her friend Molly provide for her tragically injured son, Josh. If Beau’s gorgeous face, piercing blue eyes and chiseled body inspires the women of Marietta to dig into their pockets for a good cause, then Lily will do whatever it takes to secure his participation.
Beau Bennett isn’t sure how he wound up on the auction block being eyed up by hundreds of eager women, but he knows who to blame for it – Lily Taylor, the sexy, distracting, off-limits best friend of his kid sister. As far as he’s concerned, the sooner this nightmare is over, the better.
The last thing either of them expects is for Lily to wind up bidding on – and winning – Beau, or that their date will lead to Beau stepping in to save Lily when her past comes back to haunt her. As Beau does his best to keep Lily safe, they discover that maybe they don’t dislike each other quite as much as they thought.
In fact, maybe it’s just the opposite…
148 pages, ebook
First published February 20, 2015
253 people are currently reading
2034 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Mayberry
159 books1,150 followersSarah Mayberry was born in Melbourne, Australia, and is the middle of three children. From the time that she first “stole” paper from kindergarten and stapled it together to make “books,” Sarah has always wanted to be a writer. In line with this ambition, on graduation from high school she completed a bachelor of arts degree majoring in professional writing, then sat down to write a book. When inspiration didn’t strike, she began to wonder if, perhaps, she needed to live some life first before writing about it.
This still left the burning question of how to pay the rent. She found her way into trade journalism, working off the principle that it was better to write anything for a living than nothing at all. Her time there lead to the opportunity to launch a new decorator magazine for one of Australia’s major retailers, an invaluable and grueling experience that she found very rewarding.
But the opportunity to write fiction for a living soon lured Sarah away. She took up a post as storyliner on Australia’s longest running soap, Neighbours. Over two years she helped plot more than 240 hours of television, as well as writing freelance scripts. She remembers her time with the show very fondly — especially the dirty jokes and laughter around the story table — and still writes scripts on a freelance basis.
In 2003 she relocated to New Zealand for her partner’s work. There Sarah served as storyliner and story editor on the country’s top-rating drama, Shortland Street, before quitting to pursue writing full time.
Sarah picked up a love of romance novels from both her grandmothers, and has submitted manuscripts to Harlequin many times over the years. She credits the invaluable story structuring experience she learned on Neighbours as the key to her eventual success — along with the patience of her fantastic editor, Wanda.
Sarah is revoltingly happy with her partner of twelve years, Chris, who is a talented scriptwriter. Not only does he offer fantastic advice and solutions to writing problems, but he’s also handsome, funny and sexy. When she’s not gushing over him, she loves to read romance and fantasy novels, go to the movies, sew and cook for her friends. She has also become a recent convert to Pilates, which she knows she should do more often.
This still left the burning question of how to pay the rent. She found her way into trade journalism, working off the principle that it was better to write anything for a living than nothing at all. Her time there lead to the opportunity to launch a new decorator magazine for one of Australia’s major retailers, an invaluable and grueling experience that she found very rewarding.
But the opportunity to write fiction for a living soon lured Sarah away. She took up a post as storyliner on Australia’s longest running soap, Neighbours. Over two years she helped plot more than 240 hours of television, as well as writing freelance scripts. She remembers her time with the show very fondly — especially the dirty jokes and laughter around the story table — and still writes scripts on a freelance basis.
In 2003 she relocated to New Zealand for her partner’s work. There Sarah served as storyliner and story editor on the country’s top-rating drama, Shortland Street, before quitting to pursue writing full time.
Sarah picked up a love of romance novels from both her grandmothers, and has submitted manuscripts to Harlequin many times over the years. She credits the invaluable story structuring experience she learned on Neighbours as the key to her eventual success — along with the patience of her fantastic editor, Wanda.
Sarah is revoltingly happy with her partner of twelve years, Chris, who is a talented scriptwriter. Not only does he offer fantastic advice and solutions to writing problems, but he’s also handsome, funny and sexy. When she’s not gushing over him, she loves to read romance and fantasy novels, go to the movies, sew and cook for her friends. She has also become a recent convert to Pilates, which she knows she should do more often.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 276 reviews
March 28, 2016
She's an ex-stripper with a heart of gold.
He's her best friend's brother who is a protector.
She needs protection.
He needs to sleep with an ex-stripper.
This was a cute, short romance with some funny moments and a good main character. It's perfect for when you finish a rough book that puts you in book-hangover mode and you need something light.
I can't talk anymore about it because I just got an emergency notice that the new big blue alien-smut book has been released. This is crucial news and I must go and handle this situation immediately because priorities.
He's her best friend's brother who is a protector.
She needs protection.
He needs to sleep with an ex-stripper.
This was a cute, short romance with some funny moments and a good main character. It's perfect for when you finish a rough book that puts you in book-hangover mode and you need something light.
I can't talk anymore about it because I just got an emergency notice that the new big blue alien-smut book has been released. This is crucial news and I must go and handle this situation immediately because priorities.
July 14, 2015
3.5 STARS
A sweet, hot, short and light romance. The back story was interesting enough to add to the overall plot. Best friend's brother/sister is up there for me with friends to lovers. I think I just love the angst of wanting someone you think you can't have, the turmoil associated with putting on a brave face.
I loved how Lily mistook Beau's distance for disapproval rather than his true reason: he wanted her but felt it wouldn't work. There was a cute epilogue at the end but I would have preferred one maybe more into the future. Still, I enjoyed this little romance.
A sweet, hot, short and light romance. The back story was interesting enough to add to the overall plot. Best friend's brother/sister is up there for me with friends to lovers. I think I just love the angst of wanting someone you think you can't have, the turmoil associated with putting on a brave face.
I loved how Lily mistook Beau's distance for disapproval rather than his true reason: he wanted her but felt it wouldn't work. There was a cute epilogue at the end but I would have preferred one maybe more into the future. Still, I enjoyed this little romance.
February 12, 2015
4 - "You make those noises in yoga class?" Stars!
Bound to the Bachelor offers and exemplary start in the new Tule Publishing Montana Born Bachelor Auction Series. Sarah Mayberry has done the one thing that takes a novella from good to great for me, and that is write a story that whilst reading doesn't actually feel like it is a novella. The story-line, the characters and the overall development were so well done that you just get lost in reading it.
"The man-whore and the nun."
Lily and Beau's adventure together offered so many facets that I fell in love with them and the town of Marietta, Montana completely. I was laughing at points, the sex is hot and plentiful and the story offers more thrills and spills than you would initially expect.
"Spooning. It always leads to forking."
The auction has taken place, and now five more Bachelors have got dates to organise, and stories to be told, with the women who bought them for Charity, can't wait. Onto book two for me!
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
Bound to the Bachelor offers and exemplary start in the new Tule Publishing Montana Born Bachelor Auction Series. Sarah Mayberry has done the one thing that takes a novella from good to great for me, and that is write a story that whilst reading doesn't actually feel like it is a novella. The story-line, the characters and the overall development were so well done that you just get lost in reading it.
"The man-whore and the nun."
Lily and Beau's adventure together offered so many facets that I fell in love with them and the town of Marietta, Montana completely. I was laughing at points, the sex is hot and plentiful and the story offers more thrills and spills than you would initially expect.
"Spooning. It always leads to forking."
The auction has taken place, and now five more Bachelors have got dates to organise, and stories to be told, with the women who bought them for Charity, can't wait. Onto book two for me!
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
March 8, 2015
I was ready to give this book 3 stars. It was nothing to write home about but it was ok, not badly written and a good quick read on a rainy day.
But then the author had to go and ruin it all in the last chapter of the book with the insta love and soul mate crap after only a week of "relationship" (if you could call it that). Really?
Well...what's more there to say? You win some, you lose some...and in this case all I lost was my time (thankfully not much because it was a short story)
*ARC generously provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
But then the author had to go and ruin it all in the last chapter of the book with the insta love and soul mate crap after only a week of "relationship" (if you could call it that). Really?
Well...what's more there to say? You win some, you lose some...and in this case all I lost was my time (thankfully not much because it was a short story)
*ARC generously provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
March 24, 2016
This was mediocre. Predictable and clichéd, there were several points were I skimmed. Didn't really feel their connection.
March 12, 2015
Copy received in exchange for an honest review
1 -
2-
3 -
4 -
5 -
6 -
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont Romance
Series : - 1st in the series
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 4 stars
★Review★
I really enjoyed this.
It was a short read, but I really really liked both main characters.
There was something very real and honest about them as characters, people you could imagine actually living somewhere in the world.
Beau was a little bit grumpy, but I loved him. And Lily was a great character.
I really enjoyed there story and could easily have read a full length novel about them. The "I Love You" at the end - maybe it did feel a little "soon" since the book take place over a couple of weeks, but they had a years long history so it did not feel to unreal. Just maybe a little bit more page time about their long denied attraction might have helped make it feel a touch more real.
All in a great 4 stars and I will be checking out more by this author.
1 -
2-
3 -
4 -
5 -
6 -
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont Romance
Series : - 1st in the series
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 4 stars
★Review★
I really enjoyed this.
It was a short read, but I really really liked both main characters.
There was something very real and honest about them as characters, people you could imagine actually living somewhere in the world.
Beau was a little bit grumpy, but I loved him. And Lily was a great character.
I really enjoyed there story and could easily have read a full length novel about them. The "I Love You" at the end - maybe it did feel a little "soon" since the book take place over a couple of weeks, but they had a years long history so it did not feel to unreal. Just maybe a little bit more page time about their long denied attraction might have helped make it feel a touch more real.
All in a great 4 stars and I will be checking out more by this author.
February 22, 2015
Bound to the Bachelor is the first in a six part novella series from Tule Publishing Montana Born Bachelor Auction.
This is Lily Tyler and Beau Bennett's story.
After the charity auction Lily and Beau who have disliked each other for five years go on the date Lily paid for, something happens after the date and Beau come's to Lily's rescue.
There are plenty of laughs, hot sex and suspense as their relationship progresses and some great characters in this story.
Looking forward to reading the rest of the Montana Born Bachelor Auction series.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
This is Lily Tyler and Beau Bennett's story.
After the charity auction Lily and Beau who have disliked each other for five years go on the date Lily paid for, something happens after the date and Beau come's to Lily's rescue.
There are plenty of laughs, hot sex and suspense as their relationship progresses and some great characters in this story.
Looking forward to reading the rest of the Montana Born Bachelor Auction series.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
November 6, 2016
“I don’t want to kill your vision of yourself as a lady killer, but you give good snuggle,” she said.
“You should see my spooning technique.”
“Are we talking inside spoon or outside spoon?”
“Outside spoon. Inside spoon is for girls.”
Funny short. Knight in shining armor, tough girl who's had a hard life. He sort of rescues her and teaches her to throw a mean punch - so that she can kick arse and rescue herself from bad guys. Kind of drrrty for my tastes, but very witty and entertaining.
“You should see my spooning technique.”
“Are we talking inside spoon or outside spoon?”
“Outside spoon. Inside spoon is for girls.”
Funny short. Knight in shining armor, tough girl who's had a hard life. He sort of rescues her and teaches her to throw a mean punch - so that she can kick arse and rescue herself from bad guys. Kind of drrrty for my tastes, but very witty and entertaining.
life-is-too-short
July 29, 2020This feels like a bit of a chore...And really, the 3 min sex did me in. (5 days for a novella??)
September 15, 2015
Bound to the Bachelor by Sarah Mayberry is a novel that somehow, for one reason or the other, I missed out on when it first came out. It is for that reason mostly, just in case I miss out on a novel by one of my favorite authors, I have this habit of going through their book list up on Goodreads or Amazon every now and then. Thank goodness for that habit because I found this little gem, tucked into a corner, a moment that I must say, made my whole week! When it is an author like Sarah Mayberry, I never even hesitate before pressing the purchase button. And there I was, savoring every feeling that coursed through me while I immersed myself in the wondrous story that Bound to the Bachelor turned out to be.
Lily Taylor and Beau Bennett have always seemed to rub each other the wrong way. Lily had always received the impression that Beau didn’t like her overly much and would actually prefer it if he didn’t have to cross paths with her – at all. But then Lily has to seek him out for a fund raising event for her godson Josh, and nothing, not even Beau’s less than enthusiastic response when it comes to her is going to deter her.
The thought of parading himself for a bunch women who would bid for a date with him is an idea that holds little appeal to Beau. But then Lily is a hard woman to say no to and before he knows it, Beau says yes and ends up with a date with no other than Lily herself, a surprising turn of events if ever there was one. Even though Beau might want to go out of his way to avoid Lily, not because she repels him, but just the opposite; the very idea that Lily thinks it okay not to go on the date that he promised when he took part in the auction is one that doesn’t settle with him. So off on the date they go, neither expecting it to turn out to be a day they both equally enjoy, a date during which both of them face head on the reason why they go to such great lengths to avoid each other.
When a part of Lily’s past comes calling, and not a good one at that, it is Beau that steps up, that helps her in ways that she wouldn’t have had the heart to ask from anyone. And through it all, with the delicious tension that sizzles along your nerve endings, Sarah Mayberry delivers the kind of passion that stirs you inside and out, and gives you a read that strikes something different within you with each page you turn.
Sarah Mayberry is an author who always manages to create a backstory with pertinent and at times difficult issues, issues that are hard to read about, yet they educate you in the ways that actually matter. At the heart of Bound to the Bachelor lies the abuse that Lily had managed to escape from at the tender age of sixteen & what she’d done to survive & how that had shaped her life & her outlook on it. Feeling sympathy for the “villain” is something that happens rarely but under the circumstances I think it’s more than fair to say that there was no way I could’ve finished the book without feeling a dose of just that. And that right there is why authors like Sarah Mayberry tops the list, always.
I dearly loved both Lily and Beau. Though I wanted a lengthier novel that would have spent more time on both Beau and Lily, for my own selfish reasons of course, this little number worked well too. Sarah still managed to give readers a well rounded tale of the opposites attract with a healthy dose of explosive tension & the tender side of love, all in one. Beau was just delicious, in more ways than one. And the seduction scene where Lily dances for Beau – hot damn!
The high readable factor of Sarah Mayberry novels is why I love her as an author. So much heart and emotion packed into her books, that remaining aloof and distant from what goes on is an impossibility. Mustering enough enthusiasm about novels these days gets to be challenging at times, especially with the wide range of releases across the sub-genres of romance. But Sarah Mayberry is one of the authors that I can always count on to deliver, and that she does.
Much recommended for fans who love the heartwarming variety of beautiful contemporary romances.
Rating = 4/5
For more reviews & quotes, please visit, www.maldivianbookreviewer.com
Lily Taylor and Beau Bennett have always seemed to rub each other the wrong way. Lily had always received the impression that Beau didn’t like her overly much and would actually prefer it if he didn’t have to cross paths with her – at all. But then Lily has to seek him out for a fund raising event for her godson Josh, and nothing, not even Beau’s less than enthusiastic response when it comes to her is going to deter her.
The thought of parading himself for a bunch women who would bid for a date with him is an idea that holds little appeal to Beau. But then Lily is a hard woman to say no to and before he knows it, Beau says yes and ends up with a date with no other than Lily herself, a surprising turn of events if ever there was one. Even though Beau might want to go out of his way to avoid Lily, not because she repels him, but just the opposite; the very idea that Lily thinks it okay not to go on the date that he promised when he took part in the auction is one that doesn’t settle with him. So off on the date they go, neither expecting it to turn out to be a day they both equally enjoy, a date during which both of them face head on the reason why they go to such great lengths to avoid each other.
When a part of Lily’s past comes calling, and not a good one at that, it is Beau that steps up, that helps her in ways that she wouldn’t have had the heart to ask from anyone. And through it all, with the delicious tension that sizzles along your nerve endings, Sarah Mayberry delivers the kind of passion that stirs you inside and out, and gives you a read that strikes something different within you with each page you turn.
Sarah Mayberry is an author who always manages to create a backstory with pertinent and at times difficult issues, issues that are hard to read about, yet they educate you in the ways that actually matter. At the heart of Bound to the Bachelor lies the abuse that Lily had managed to escape from at the tender age of sixteen & what she’d done to survive & how that had shaped her life & her outlook on it. Feeling sympathy for the “villain” is something that happens rarely but under the circumstances I think it’s more than fair to say that there was no way I could’ve finished the book without feeling a dose of just that. And that right there is why authors like Sarah Mayberry tops the list, always.
I dearly loved both Lily and Beau. Though I wanted a lengthier novel that would have spent more time on both Beau and Lily, for my own selfish reasons of course, this little number worked well too. Sarah still managed to give readers a well rounded tale of the opposites attract with a healthy dose of explosive tension & the tender side of love, all in one. Beau was just delicious, in more ways than one. And the seduction scene where Lily dances for Beau – hot damn!
The high readable factor of Sarah Mayberry novels is why I love her as an author. So much heart and emotion packed into her books, that remaining aloof and distant from what goes on is an impossibility. Mustering enough enthusiasm about novels these days gets to be challenging at times, especially with the wide range of releases across the sub-genres of romance. But Sarah Mayberry is one of the authors that I can always count on to deliver, and that she does.
Much recommended for fans who love the heartwarming variety of beautiful contemporary romances.
Rating = 4/5
For more reviews & quotes, please visit, www.maldivianbookreviewer.com
March 27, 2015
Bound to the Bachelor was a great read. Sarah Mayberry is a new author to me and this novella held everything I love to find in a full length read. With wonderful characters and a well-paced captivating storyline, I haven’t been left with the feeling of needing any more.
‘The man-whore and the nun.’
I went about this series back to front; whilst this is the first book in the Montana Born Bachelor Auction series, I read the last book first and before this. But this just reinforced the fact that the series can be read in any order or as standalone reads; I’m actually glad I did it this way because Lily had left me intrigued. Funny, stubborn and independent, she is exactly the type of heroine I love and her journey with Beau held humour, tenderness, banter and lots of sexy-time.
‘Why don’t you like me?’
‘I don’t dislike you’.
With moments that made me laugh quite loudly and more action than I was expecting, I lost myself for a couple of hours. Lily and Beau were fabulous together, I adored them and Sarah Mayberry has brought her reader a great addition to the series.
Copy received courtesy of Tule Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
‘The man-whore and the nun.’
I went about this series back to front; whilst this is the first book in the Montana Born Bachelor Auction series, I read the last book first and before this. But this just reinforced the fact that the series can be read in any order or as standalone reads; I’m actually glad I did it this way because Lily had left me intrigued. Funny, stubborn and independent, she is exactly the type of heroine I love and her journey with Beau held humour, tenderness, banter and lots of sexy-time.
‘Why don’t you like me?’
‘I don’t dislike you’.
With moments that made me laugh quite loudly and more action than I was expecting, I lost myself for a couple of hours. Lily and Beau were fabulous together, I adored them and Sarah Mayberry has brought her reader a great addition to the series.
Copy received courtesy of Tule Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
dnf
November 20, 2023eh, the "just eat junk food so you are fat" right away in the beginning turned me off, along with the nephew who is now in a wheelchair being "inspiration"
next.
next.
February 15, 2015
Review Originally posted on Bookish Wanderlove
**I received an advanced copy via NetGalley from Tule Publishing in exchange for an honest review.**
Opening Lines
Or so she thought! Now THIS was an enjoyable read!
This was my first time reading anything published by Tule, and I will definitely be adding them to my list of favourite publishers on NetGalley. This was a quick read (only 184 pages) that left me wanting more! I found Bound to the Bachelor to be such a refreshing read. It was realistic, cute, funny, and had elements that I just didn't see coming! There were so many moments that had me smiling and giggling. And the attraction between Lily Taylor and Beau Bennett...WOWZERS!!
Lily and Beau were quite the pair! Beau is just hot. Poor guy has been walking a thin line trying to keep Lily at a distance, and it ain't easy fighting that kind of attraction! I loved Beau from beginning to end, there wasn't a moment that I found him to be that "annoying hero" type. He's just PERFECT. Now Lily just thinks Beau hates her and that's why he keeps his distance, boy oh boy was she ever wrong! I automatically loved Lily, she's the kind of girl I want as my best friend! My heart broke when we learn about her past and the horrible things she's had to endure, but she doesn't let it ruin her! She's a strong character that has a lot of sassy :).
While there wasn't anything I necessarily hated about Bound to the Bachelor there was only one thing that I wasn’t too impressed with. I felt like Lily and Beau's relationship quickly turned into insta-love. There has always been a intense attraction between Lily and Beau but I felt like the last chapter/ending wasn’t well developed in terms of their relationship.
One bachelor down, 5 more to go!!
**I received an advanced copy via NetGalley from Tule Publishing in exchange for an honest review.**
Opening Lines
Go in there, ask the question, deal with his answer. Easy peasy.
Or so she thought! Now THIS was an enjoyable read!
This was my first time reading anything published by Tule, and I will definitely be adding them to my list of favourite publishers on NetGalley. This was a quick read (only 184 pages) that left me wanting more! I found Bound to the Bachelor to be such a refreshing read. It was realistic, cute, funny, and had elements that I just didn't see coming! There were so many moments that had me smiling and giggling. And the attraction between Lily Taylor and Beau Bennett...WOWZERS!!
His hand lay palm up on the table between them, waiting for hers. Feeling ridiculously nervous, she reached out and set her hand in his. His gaze pinned to her face, he turned her hand over, his thumb sliding sensually across her palm. A jolt of electric awareness raced up her arm and through her body, setting off fireworks in places that hadn’t seen a man in more than a year.
“That’s why I keep my distance,” he said, his voice very deep.
Lily and Beau were quite the pair! Beau is just hot. Poor guy has been walking a thin line trying to keep Lily at a distance, and it ain't easy fighting that kind of attraction! I loved Beau from beginning to end, there wasn't a moment that I found him to be that "annoying hero" type. He's just PERFECT. Now Lily just thinks Beau hates her and that's why he keeps his distance, boy oh boy was she ever wrong! I automatically loved Lily, she's the kind of girl I want as my best friend! My heart broke when we learn about her past and the horrible things she's had to endure, but she doesn't let it ruin her! She's a strong character that has a lot of sassy :).
While there wasn't anything I necessarily hated about Bound to the Bachelor there was only one thing that I wasn’t too impressed with. I felt like Lily and Beau's relationship quickly turned into insta-love. There has always been a intense attraction between Lily and Beau but I felt like the last chapter/ending wasn’t well developed in terms of their relationship.
One bachelor down, 5 more to go!!
April 4, 2016
This sexy story, part of the new Bachelor Auction series from Tule publishing with several different authors starts us off with the story of Lily, the organizer of a charity bachelor auction and Beau, her best friend's brother. Beau and Lily take pains to avoid each other, with Lily under the assumption that Beau just doesn't like her based on their limited encounters. But when Lily bids on him at the auction for personal reasons, he's determined to give her her money's worth. The only problem? Once they spend some time alone together the reasons for their continued animosity fall away and the sexual chemistry they've both tried to bury comes to the surface. But while one date won't keep them together, Lily's past comes back with a vengeance and Beau finds himself ready and willing to defend the woman who has haunted his dreams, if she'll give him the chance.
I really enjoyed this story! Sarah Mayberry writes interesting and engaging characters and she's done it in spades here, with feisty Lily holding her own in a small town that she's fought hard to accept her despite her past. But while Lily on the surface is strong and determined, she's also sweet and caring and willing to put herself on the line for others, including bidding on her nemesis. Beau is a handsome, strong, and all around nice-guy - except with Lily. When they finally come together alone as equals , the sexual attraction between them is strong and the ensuing love scenes between them are hot and emotional. Beau's protective side is in full force when Lily is threatened by her past and she is strong enough to admit that she needs help, and even more so, that she wants it from him. I loved how their romance developed, the passion between them and the happy ending that results. 5 stars for an entertaining and fun read. I'm looking forward to reading more in this series!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
I really enjoyed this story! Sarah Mayberry writes interesting and engaging characters and she's done it in spades here, with feisty Lily holding her own in a small town that she's fought hard to accept her despite her past. But while Lily on the surface is strong and determined, she's also sweet and caring and willing to put herself on the line for others, including bidding on her nemesis. Beau is a handsome, strong, and all around nice-guy - except with Lily. When they finally come together alone as equals , the sexual attraction between them is strong and the ensuing love scenes between them are hot and emotional. Beau's protective side is in full force when Lily is threatened by her past and she is strong enough to admit that she needs help, and even more so, that she wants it from him. I loved how their romance developed, the passion between them and the happy ending that results. 5 stars for an entertaining and fun read. I'm looking forward to reading more in this series!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
January 8, 2024
תמיד כיף לחזור ולקרוא ספר שמתרחש בעיירה מריאטה. הספר הזה הוא ראשון מתוך סדרה של ספרים שסובבים סביב "מכירה פומבית של רווקים"
שמתקיימת כדי לגייס כספים לטובת ג'וש, ילד שנפגע קשה בתאונה (Bachelor Auction). קראתי בעבר ספר אחר בסדרה הזו ("Must Love Babies").
לילי טיילור היא חברתה של מולי, האימא היחידנית של ג'וש. ללילי יש עבר בעייתי - בגיל 16 ברחה מהבית בגלל שאביה החורג ניסה לתקוף אותה מינית. היא עבדה כחשפנית ולאחר שחסכה כסף, הגיעה למריאטה והיא עובדת באדמיניסטרציה של בית דפוס קטן. בגלל עברה כחשפנית, חלק מהעיירה מסתכלת עליה בעין עקומה. ללילי יש חברה טובה בשם אנדי, ולאנדי יש אח גדול בשם בו בנט, שהוא הבעלים של חברת אבטחה. לילי בטוחה שבו לא סובל אותה ולא מרוצה מהקשר שלה עם אנדי, כי הוא תמיד מתייחס אליה בקרירות ושומר ממנה מרחק. לילי מארגנת את המכירה הפומבית כדי לגייס כסף לטובת מולי וג'וש, וצריכה לגייס רווקים שיציעו דייט איתם במסגרת המכירה. היא פונה לבו ומצליחה לגייס אותו לטובת העניין.
לפני המכירה לילי מגלה שאביה החורג נפטר והוריש לה סכום כסף. היא לא מעוניינת בכסף לעצמה, ובמקום זה מחליטה לתרום אותו למולי, ומשתמשת בו במכירה הפומבית ו"קונה" את הדייט עם בו. למעשה, בו דווקא מחבב את לילי ונמשך אליה מזמן, ושומר ממנה מרחק כדי לנסות לנטרל את הרגשות האלו. כאשר מגיע לעיירה אחיה החורג של לילי (הבן של אביה החורג), תוקף אותה ודורש ממנה את הכסף שירשה, בו, כמומחה באבטחה, מנסה לעזור ללילי להגן על עצמה. המשיכה בין השניים ניצתת בעוז אבל לא ברור אם יש לקשר עתיד, כי שניהם עד כה חשבו שאינם מעוניינים בקשר קבוע. במקביל אחיה החורג של לילי לא מוכן לוותר על הכסף, וקיים חשש שיתקוף אותה שוב.
ספר סקסי, עם עלילה מותחת. הדמויות הראשיות טובות. היה מוצלח בעיניי.
שמתקיימת כדי לגייס כספים לטובת ג'וש, ילד שנפגע קשה בתאונה (Bachelor Auction). קראתי בעבר ספר אחר בסדרה הזו ("Must Love Babies").
לילי טיילור היא חברתה של מולי, האימא היחידנית של ג'וש. ללילי יש עבר בעייתי - בגיל 16 ברחה מהבית בגלל שאביה החורג ניסה לתקוף אותה מינית. היא עבדה כחשפנית ולאחר שחסכה כסף, הגיעה למריאטה והיא עובדת באדמיניסטרציה של בית דפוס קטן. בגלל עברה כחשפנית, חלק מהעיירה מסתכלת עליה בעין עקומה. ללילי יש חברה טובה בשם אנדי, ולאנדי יש אח גדול בשם בו בנט, שהוא הבעלים של חברת אבטחה. לילי בטוחה שבו לא סובל אותה ולא מרוצה מהקשר שלה עם אנדי, כי הוא תמיד מתייחס אליה בקרירות ושומר ממנה מרחק. לילי מארגנת את המכירה הפומבית כדי לגייס כסף לטובת מולי וג'וש, וצריכה לגייס רווקים שיציעו דייט איתם במסגרת המכירה. היא פונה לבו ומצליחה לגייס אותו לטובת העניין.
לפני המכירה לילי מגלה שאביה החורג נפטר והוריש לה סכום כסף. היא לא מעוניינת בכסף לעצמה, ובמקום זה מחליטה לתרום אותו למולי, ומשתמשת בו במכירה הפומבית ו"קונה" את הדייט עם בו. למעשה, בו דווקא מחבב את לילי ונמשך אליה מזמן, ושומר ממנה מרחק כדי לנסות לנטרל את הרגשות האלו. כאשר מגיע לעיירה אחיה החורג של לילי (הבן של אביה החורג), תוקף אותה ודורש ממנה את הכסף שירשה, בו, כמומחה באבטחה, מנסה לעזור ללילי להגן על עצמה. המשיכה בין השניים ניצתת בעוז אבל לא ברור אם יש לקשר עתיד, כי שניהם עד כה חשבו שאינם מעוניינים בקשר קבוע. במקביל אחיה החורג של לילי לא מוכן לוותר על הכסף, וקיים חשש שיתקוף אותה שוב.
ספר סקסי, עם עלילה מותחת. הדמויות הראשיות טובות. היה מוצלח בעיניי.
February 23, 2015
So I'm all for the idea that bickering means attraction and I like the concept that they avoided each other because they didn't want to give into the attraction, but . . . the decision to go for it after all happened way too quickly and the transition from that to true love was too fast to be at all believable.
I really wish this had been a full length novel because I think that would've been AWESOME. But it was just too much for one little novella.
Overall, I thought the suspense aspect was okay, but
I really wish this had been a full length novel because I think that would've been AWESOME. But it was just too much for one little novella.
Overall, I thought the suspense aspect was okay, but
February 20, 2015
Quick, easy read. I'm a big fan of Sarah Mayberry's books. She writes easy to relate characters. They are flawed and they don't always make the right decision but I always ALWAYS end up rooting for them.
For such a short book, the character development and the build-up between Lily and Beau is stellar. A testament to Mayberry's skill as a writer and story-teller.
For such a short book, the character development and the build-up between Lily and Beau is stellar. A testament to Mayberry's skill as a writer and story-teller.
July 18, 2015
This was a good short free read.I'm interested enough to read more in series. It's a safe read as long as your ok with the h having been a stripper in her past for a short time.
March 29, 2016
A good book, not too long.
Has a plot that keeps you bound to the story and not too much of speculation by the protagonist.
They feel a certain way, they accept and move on.
crisp and fresh
Has a plot that keeps you bound to the story and not too much of speculation by the protagonist.
They feel a certain way, they accept and move on.
crisp and fresh
July 20, 2015
I liked this! Nothing more, nothing less.
April 22, 2017
You’re in an auction, and you have ten grand somewhere in your pocket, would you bid for the most beautiful girl that you see?
Bound to the Bachelor is the first book in the Montana Born Bachelor Auction series. Lily Taylor asked Beau Bennett, as well as other hot bachelors of Marietta, to participate in a Bachelor Auction, to raise funds for their friend, Molly & son Josh who was recently involved in a tragic accident. Long before this auction bid took place, Lily & Beau had tried really hard to get away from each other. I basically didn’t really know what made Beau dislike Lily so much; is it just because she’s got the notorious reputation of being a stripper/exotic lap dancer once? I say, he was quite judgmental if that was his reason for avoiding her. But as the story progressed, we learned the real reason why Beau couldn’t trust his heart to be near her.
On the other hand, Lily’s past was catching up on her, haunting and taunting her, ultimately putting her life in danger. An inheritance of some sort, amounting to ten thousand dollars, shook up Lily’s nerves, and brought about the memories of her past. To get away from it all, she decided to use the money to bid on Beau Bennett. And their lives took a spin from thereon.
Loved this book by Sarah Mayberry. The author knew how to make readers swoon for the guy and cry with the girl. This book melts my heart, Lily & Beau have the perfect chemistry. Although their instant love connection and profession of love at the end of the book was too soon, I still liked that “having butterflies in my stomach” feeling after reading their book.
Bound to the Bachelor is the first book in the Montana Born Bachelor Auction series. Lily Taylor asked Beau Bennett, as well as other hot bachelors of Marietta, to participate in a Bachelor Auction, to raise funds for their friend, Molly & son Josh who was recently involved in a tragic accident. Long before this auction bid took place, Lily & Beau had tried really hard to get away from each other. I basically didn’t really know what made Beau dislike Lily so much; is it just because she’s got the notorious reputation of being a stripper/exotic lap dancer once? I say, he was quite judgmental if that was his reason for avoiding her. But as the story progressed, we learned the real reason why Beau couldn’t trust his heart to be near her.
On the other hand, Lily’s past was catching up on her, haunting and taunting her, ultimately putting her life in danger. An inheritance of some sort, amounting to ten thousand dollars, shook up Lily’s nerves, and brought about the memories of her past. To get away from it all, she decided to use the money to bid on Beau Bennett. And their lives took a spin from thereon.
Loved this book by Sarah Mayberry. The author knew how to make readers swoon for the guy and cry with the girl. This book melts my heart, Lily & Beau have the perfect chemistry. Although their instant love connection and profession of love at the end of the book was too soon, I still liked that “having butterflies in my stomach” feeling after reading their book.
May 6, 2019
Found this on my Kindle as an ARC that I hadn't read....so I decided to read it now, even though it has been published.
August 7, 2021
It's been awhile since I've read anything by Mayberry and I think that needs to change. I liked this a lot, but I think it needed to be a bit longer so that the relationship development wasn't quite so fast.
April 4, 2023
It's a short book. I love that she's the one who initiated the relationship. I liked both characters. I wish it was longer though
March 12, 2015
Judging with the way this started in a very similar way to What a Bachelor Needs (and I read that first) i thought I am not going to like it. And what happened is that I love it.
We have the typical commitment-phobic Beau Bennett who is so wrapped up in his own business world to care for relationship. But his sister dragged him into this bachelor auction for a good cause and he begrudgingly accepted. On the night of the auction he meets Lily Taylor, who is drawn to for an unfathomable reason himself. Totally typical male character.
N the other hand there's Lily who ran from her home when he stepdad tried to force himself on her and no one believed her (abuse seemed to be what I am reading about this month). She lives on her own for so long and managed to settle in and make friends who support her and know about her past. Until fourteen years later, she gets ten thousand dollars as part of Luther, her stepdad, inheritance to her. And on the night of the auction she finds a good use for it.
It was all a typical romance but what worked was the chemistry between the two main characters. I knew they were perfect for each other and despite what happened to Lily before, she manages to be a strong and amazing character with a sense of humor even though on the inside she's vulnerable and wants someone to care for her. When Beau does this for her I knew I sealed the deal on these two to be the perfect couple and perfect relationship. They manage to be on equal grounds or Lily would get the higher ground occasionally but it was all exciting.
I loved the part where Beau said to her "you like to beat me to the punch!" whenever he felt something deep stirring in his heart (get your minds out the gutter *ahem*) but she quickly replies in a way that is similar to what his old self would done except that he hates it now..
Overall, I LOOOOOOVE THIS BOOK.. so good!
We have the typical commitment-phobic Beau Bennett who is so wrapped up in his own business world to care for relationship. But his sister dragged him into this bachelor auction for a good cause and he begrudgingly accepted. On the night of the auction he meets Lily Taylor, who is drawn to for an unfathomable reason himself. Totally typical male character.
N the other hand there's Lily who ran from her home when he stepdad tried to force himself on her and no one believed her (abuse seemed to be what I am reading about this month). She lives on her own for so long and managed to settle in and make friends who support her and know about her past. Until fourteen years later, she gets ten thousand dollars as part of Luther, her stepdad, inheritance to her. And on the night of the auction she finds a good use for it.
It was all a typical romance but what worked was the chemistry between the two main characters. I knew they were perfect for each other and despite what happened to Lily before, she manages to be a strong and amazing character with a sense of humor even though on the inside she's vulnerable and wants someone to care for her. When Beau does this for her I knew I sealed the deal on these two to be the perfect couple and perfect relationship. They manage to be on equal grounds or Lily would get the higher ground occasionally but it was all exciting.
I loved the part where Beau said to her "you like to beat me to the punch!" whenever he felt something deep stirring in his heart (get your minds out the gutter *ahem*) but she quickly replies in a way that is similar to what his old self would done except that he hates it now..
Overall, I LOOOOOOVE THIS BOOK.. so good!
April 13, 2017
Review written: April 2015
Star Rating: ★★½☆☆
Heat Rating: ☀☀☼☼☼
An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review.
I'm a long-time reader of the Montana Born books. Many are closer to women's fiction than romance so I never know going in what a book will really be like.
Bound to the Bachelor was a pleasant surprise in that it is a romance, with actual sexy times. Lily and Beau are clearly characters that are not new but somehow I missed them previously so I know I missed some of the backstory for them. Despite that, I enjoyed their story.
This is Lily's story more that Beau's and her traumatic childhood has certainly led to difficulties later in life - like a lack of trust. But it has also made her eager to help others. So, when her godson needs financial help, she goes all out to make it happen, and creates the Bachelor Auction. With a bequest from her past, she also "buys" Beau for a date.
It isn't until her past and her present collide violently; however, that she allows Beau into her life in any meaningful way. Once that happens, the story takes on a whole new dimension.
Beau's own past is brought up, but it feels tacked on, a sort of "Beau is hurting too" addition because we can't have only Lily with a difficult past.
I like Sarah Mayberry, but this is not her best work. I struggled to care about either Lily or Beau even while knowing that I *should*. While the sexy times were nice, I also struggled to feel the chemistry between them. Maybe it felt too fast (though it shouldn't have) or maybe there was too much tell and not enough show. Whatever it was, it left me mostly cold. The epilogue helped but it couldn't erase the earlier lack of emotional bite.
This review is ©April 2015 by Monique N. and has been posted to Netgalley.
Star Rating: ★★½☆☆
Heat Rating: ☀☀☼☼☼
An Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was received free via Netgalley for an honest review.
I'm a long-time reader of the Montana Born books. Many are closer to women's fiction than romance so I never know going in what a book will really be like.
Bound to the Bachelor was a pleasant surprise in that it is a romance, with actual sexy times. Lily and Beau are clearly characters that are not new but somehow I missed them previously so I know I missed some of the backstory for them. Despite that, I enjoyed their story.
This is Lily's story more that Beau's and her traumatic childhood has certainly led to difficulties later in life - like a lack of trust. But it has also made her eager to help others. So, when her godson needs financial help, she goes all out to make it happen, and creates the Bachelor Auction. With a bequest from her past, she also "buys" Beau for a date.
It isn't until her past and her present collide violently; however, that she allows Beau into her life in any meaningful way. Once that happens, the story takes on a whole new dimension.
Beau's own past is brought up, but it feels tacked on, a sort of "Beau is hurting too" addition because we can't have only Lily with a difficult past.
I like Sarah Mayberry, but this is not her best work. I struggled to care about either Lily or Beau even while knowing that I *should*. While the sexy times were nice, I also struggled to feel the chemistry between them. Maybe it felt too fast (though it shouldn't have) or maybe there was too much tell and not enough show. Whatever it was, it left me mostly cold. The epilogue helped but it couldn't erase the earlier lack of emotional bite.
This review is ©April 2015 by Monique N. and has been posted to Netgalley.
June 26, 2016
I loved everything about Bound to the Bachelor by Sarah Mayberry. The well-developed characters, the intense plot and the lustful, yet loving sex scenes, were all balanced wonderfully to create this fast-paced read. The story was so enthralling, I could not put it down. Ms. Mayberry and Tule Publishing have another winner!
Lily Taylor had no choice but to leave her home when she was only sixteen. Her stepfather was sexually harassing her and it was only a matter of time before he overpowered her and took what he wanted. Lily ended up settling in the small town of Marietta, after saving all the money she earned as a stripper. Lily is now an administrative assistant, with a heart of gold and a passion to help others. She has a few really good friends and will do anything for them, which includes organizing a charitable bachelor auction and bidding her entire unwanted inheritance on Beau Bennett, a good-looking security expert and her best friend's brother. Lily and Beau's relationship has always been prickly, due to the fact that they both harbor feelings for one another.
Ms. Mayberry packs a lot of excitement into this love story and I really liked the way she evolved Lily and Beau's relationship. Their forced date turned into something much greater than either of them could have ever imagined. Overall, this is a hot, slightly suspenseful read that twists and turns in all the right places.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
Lily Taylor had no choice but to leave her home when she was only sixteen. Her stepfather was sexually harassing her and it was only a matter of time before he overpowered her and took what he wanted. Lily ended up settling in the small town of Marietta, after saving all the money she earned as a stripper. Lily is now an administrative assistant, with a heart of gold and a passion to help others. She has a few really good friends and will do anything for them, which includes organizing a charitable bachelor auction and bidding her entire unwanted inheritance on Beau Bennett, a good-looking security expert and her best friend's brother. Lily and Beau's relationship has always been prickly, due to the fact that they both harbor feelings for one another.
Ms. Mayberry packs a lot of excitement into this love story and I really liked the way she evolved Lily and Beau's relationship. Their forced date turned into something much greater than either of them could have ever imagined. Overall, this is a hot, slightly suspenseful read that twists and turns in all the right places.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
March 24, 2015
I received this book as an ARC for my honest review from Net Galley.
Somehow I stumbled upon this excellent series about a bunch of sexy Bachelors that are being auctioned off for a great cause. I love the idea of the series although it is about the same town and the same auction the books are written by different Authors. With it being written this way you are getting a fresh look from different points of view but all with the same beautiful result. Great idea, Great series!
This is the first book I have read by Susan Mayberry and I loved it. Lily thinks she has left her past far behind her but gets a rude awakening when a check comes in the mail that is burning a whole in her pocket. Knowing that her best friend needs the money Lily uses it to buy the hot and sexy Beau.
Beau knows he is in trouble when Lily shows up asking for favors. Next thing he knows he's up on an auction block and Lily is his highest bidder! Although he tries to deny the attraction between them he cant walk away when he sees that Lily needs help.
This book is funny, sexy and dark but wonderful all at the same time. My heart broke for Lily and her family but thank goodness she had a sexy man by her side to not just protect her but show her what it means to be able to protect yourself.
February 17, 2015
Yowza!
I don't know how Sarah Mayberry can manage to write such wonderful characters in such a short number of pages. This was a short, sweet, and very steamy read - that I very much enjoyed.
There was, perhaps, a bit less character development than I might have wanted, but our hero and heroine have known each other for 5 years already by the time we start reading - so the lack of development makes sense in that context.
Lily is a great character - strong, capable, independent, but still able to take help when necessary. Beau is a classic alpha-male character, but one with a very sweet and gentle side. Honestly, this book was fantastic. Both Beau and Lily have scars from their past, but it doesn't stop them, and it doesn't slow down the book - it was just a part of them, and not a major component of the story development between the two of them.
And did I mention this was steamy? Their chemistry was off the hook! *fans self*
With thanks to the publisher for an advance reading copy.
I don't know how Sarah Mayberry can manage to write such wonderful characters in such a short number of pages. This was a short, sweet, and very steamy read - that I very much enjoyed.
There was, perhaps, a bit less character development than I might have wanted, but our hero and heroine have known each other for 5 years already by the time we start reading - so the lack of development makes sense in that context.
Lily is a great character - strong, capable, independent, but still able to take help when necessary. Beau is a classic alpha-male character, but one with a very sweet and gentle side. Honestly, this book was fantastic. Both Beau and Lily have scars from their past, but it doesn't stop them, and it doesn't slow down the book - it was just a part of them, and not a major component of the story development between the two of them.
And did I mention this was steamy? Their chemistry was off the hook! *fans self*
With thanks to the publisher for an advance reading copy.
March 13, 2015
I honestly think this was my first Sarah Mayberry book. I know I have some on my TBR because I have heard wonderful things about her writing, but I don't think I've ever gotten to them. Well, guess what? I'll be digging them out of the list and getting to them sooner, because her writing lived up to the hype :)
This was a great fluffy read. Yes there was some drama and tension between Lily and , but the majority of the book was Lily and Beau realizing that they didn't have to fight their attraction to each other. Beau was such a good guy. I'd like to find one like him for myself ;)
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
This was a great fluffy read. Yes there was some drama and tension between Lily and , but the majority of the book was Lily and Beau realizing that they didn't have to fight their attraction to each other. Beau was such a good guy. I'd like to find one like him for myself ;)
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
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