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Naughty or Nice #2
Ask Me Nicely
A sexy category romance from Entangled's Brazen imprint...
She craves what only he can give her. But he's not giving in without a fight...
Veterinarian Sal Kennedy's lost her mojo and is desperate to get it back. In fact, as the anniversary of the tragedy that destroyed her life looms large, she'll do anything to erase the painful memories, including overdoing the tequila and making a pass at the most annoyingly inappropriate man on the planet. Fellow veterinarian Doyle Jackson is her flatmate and her employee and therefore strictly off-limits.
Unfortunately, Doyle knows how to bring the goods and make her mojo sit up and beg.
Doyle is only too happy to oblige Sal in her hour of need, but then she demands more, and she's perfectly happy playing dirty to get it. He wants more, too—more than just sex, that is, and it's something Sal's not willing to give. But Doyle is in this for the long haul now, and he's prepared to fight even dirtier to get what he wants. Even if that means they both keep losing all their clothes in the process
She craves what only he can give her. But he's not giving in without a fight...
Veterinarian Sal Kennedy's lost her mojo and is desperate to get it back. In fact, as the anniversary of the tragedy that destroyed her life looms large, she'll do anything to erase the painful memories, including overdoing the tequila and making a pass at the most annoyingly inappropriate man on the planet. Fellow veterinarian Doyle Jackson is her flatmate and her employee and therefore strictly off-limits.
Unfortunately, Doyle knows how to bring the goods and make her mojo sit up and beg.
Doyle is only too happy to oblige Sal in her hour of need, but then she demands more, and she's perfectly happy playing dirty to get it. He wants more, too—more than just sex, that is, and it's something Sal's not willing to give. But Doyle is in this for the long haul now, and he's prepared to fight even dirtier to get what he wants. Even if that means they both keep losing all their clothes in the process
263 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 28, 2015
About the author
Amy Andrews
436 books1,446 followersAmy is an award-winning, USA Today best-selling Aussie author who has written eighty-five contemporary romances in both the traditional and digital markets.
Her books bring all the feels from sass, quirk and laughter to emotional grit and panty-melting heat.
She loves good books and great booze although she'll take mediocre booze if there's nothing else. For many, many years she was a registered nurse which means she knows things. Anatomical things. And she’s not afraid to use them!
She recently took a sea change and lives by the ocean with her husband of 33 years.
Sign up for Amy's newsletter here - http://www.amyandrews.com.au/newslett...
Follow Amy -
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmyAndrewsAu...
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Her books bring all the feels from sass, quirk and laughter to emotional grit and panty-melting heat.
She loves good books and great booze although she'll take mediocre booze if there's nothing else. For many, many years she was a registered nurse which means she knows things. Anatomical things. And she’s not afraid to use them!
She recently took a sea change and lives by the ocean with her husband of 33 years.
Sign up for Amy's newsletter here - http://www.amyandrews.com.au/newslett...
Follow Amy -
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmyAndrewsAu...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amyandrewsb...
BookBub - https://www.bookbub.com/profile/amy-a...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
July 15, 2015
2.75 Stars
As much as I loved No More Mr. Nice Guy, I was really looking forward to Mack's sister and Josie's best friend getting her own book. She was such a fun and sassy secondary character in their book that she just HAD to be even better in her own one, right? Sadly that wasn't the case here
I am all for a heroine that owns her sexuality and makes no bones about it. Unfortunately there is that very delicate line between owning it and being brash, and for me, Sal kind of crossed that line. She was just too much in her own book. Clearly she's hiding a deep rooted issue that causes her to be as detached as she is with men now.
I think because the reader wasn't privy to what her issues are until the last 15% of the book it made it really difficult to connect to Sal. I spent most of the book frustrated with her constant back and forth with Doyle. Especially since Doyle was such a nice guy and extremely tolerant and understanding of Sal's behavior.
While Sal has no problem sleeping around, Doyle doesn't want to be just another one-night stand. Living with Sal, he's come to know her routine and he's not enabling it. Of course he wants to have sex with her, but he just wants one thing first; a date.
Sal is having none of it. With over five years of using no strings sex as her form of therapy, she's not looking to get tied down. But ever since the sexy vet moved into her apartment, he's also seemed to have stolen her orgasms. Easy fix to that, right? Just have HIM give them to her. If only he didn't want that damn date...
While I get that the author wanted to leave the reason for Sal's detachment for the big reveal towards the end, unfortunately it had a backfiring effect for me. This could have been a great emotional and sexy read, and it turned into an exercise in frustration. I never connected and Sal, and Doyle, no matter how sexy he was, just kind of fizzled out in the background of all her "issues". I'm still a fan of this author and look forward to her next installment of this series. Sadly this book just didn't quite do it for me.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
Either kill each other or just get naked and do the wild thing already. You’re scaring the animals."
As much as I loved No More Mr. Nice Guy, I was really looking forward to Mack's sister and Josie's best friend getting her own book. She was such a fun and sassy secondary character in their book that she just HAD to be even better in her own one, right? Sadly that wasn't the case here
I am all for a heroine that owns her sexuality and makes no bones about it. Unfortunately there is that very delicate line between owning it and being brash, and for me, Sal kind of crossed that line. She was just too much in her own book. Clearly she's hiding a deep rooted issue that causes her to be as detached as she is with men now.
I think because the reader wasn't privy to what her issues are until the last 15% of the book it made it really difficult to connect to Sal. I spent most of the book frustrated with her constant back and forth with Doyle. Especially since Doyle was such a nice guy and extremely tolerant and understanding of Sal's behavior.
While Sal has no problem sleeping around, Doyle doesn't want to be just another one-night stand. Living with Sal, he's come to know her routine and he's not enabling it. Of course he wants to have sex with her, but he just wants one thing first; a date.
Sal is having none of it. With over five years of using no strings sex as her form of therapy, she's not looking to get tied down. But ever since the sexy vet moved into her apartment, he's also seemed to have stolen her orgasms. Easy fix to that, right? Just have HIM give them to her. If only he didn't want that damn date...
"Ah...you want to try that again? NICELY?"
Sal almost chocked. "I beg your pardon?"
"Ask me nicely."
"You want me to ask you nicely?"
"Sure. A guy likes to feel like he's being romanced."
While I get that the author wanted to leave the reason for Sal's detachment for the big reveal towards the end, unfortunately it had a backfiring effect for me. This could have been a great emotional and sexy read, and it turned into an exercise in frustration. I never connected and Sal, and Doyle, no matter how sexy he was, just kind of fizzled out in the background of all her "issues". I'm still a fan of this author and look forward to her next installment of this series. Sadly this book just didn't quite do it for me.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
For more reviews visit
February 23, 2015
2.5 - "I'm battered and bruised and I'm tougher, but I'm still here." Stars.
I am a huge fan of Amy Andrews, I loved the first book she released through the Brazen imprint No More Mr. Nice Guy and the synopsis for Ask Me Nicely offered up everything I am looking for in my next romantic read, so I happily turned the Kindle on and dived right in.
”All good things come to those that wait.”
Sally Kennedy featured a little in No More Mr. Nice Guy in that she was Mack’s sister and Josie’s best friend. You were given a little insight into her life, the fact she had suffered a great loss previously. With that in mind I was expecting a sexy, yet emotional read, of a ballsy woman looking to move on from her past, but still very much dealing with the grief associated with it.
”Either kill each other or just get naked and do the wild thing already. You’re scaring the animals.”
The main issue I have with the book is the fact that the loss and grief you are expecting to go through with Sal, is pretty much overlooked until the last 15-20% off the story. I liked Doyle, he offered a little light relief but he was pretty much a secondary character to Sal’s sexual appetite, and the fun and games that ensued because of it.
”You stole my orgasms.”
I can wholly get onboard with a self-assured, confident woman enjoying uncomplicated, commitment-free sex, but it was essentially being used as an emotional crutch and as a way to block out the issues that Sal didn’t want to face up to. If there had been more emphasis put on the emotional aspects of why she was behaving like she was it would have had a massive impact on my enjoyment of this couples story, the titillation, sexy-times and innuendo between them was really well written, but it was left sorely lacking due to no real emotional back-up until the last stages of the book.
Amy Andrews has a great writing style; the story and its direction unfortunately just didn’t work for me on this occasion.
ARC generously provided via Entangled, in exchange for the above honest review.
I am a huge fan of Amy Andrews, I loved the first book she released through the Brazen imprint No More Mr. Nice Guy and the synopsis for Ask Me Nicely offered up everything I am looking for in my next romantic read, so I happily turned the Kindle on and dived right in.
”All good things come to those that wait.”
Sally Kennedy featured a little in No More Mr. Nice Guy in that she was Mack’s sister and Josie’s best friend. You were given a little insight into her life, the fact she had suffered a great loss previously. With that in mind I was expecting a sexy, yet emotional read, of a ballsy woman looking to move on from her past, but still very much dealing with the grief associated with it.
”Either kill each other or just get naked and do the wild thing already. You’re scaring the animals.”
The main issue I have with the book is the fact that the loss and grief you are expecting to go through with Sal, is pretty much overlooked until the last 15-20% off the story. I liked Doyle, he offered a little light relief but he was pretty much a secondary character to Sal’s sexual appetite, and the fun and games that ensued because of it.
”You stole my orgasms.”
I can wholly get onboard with a self-assured, confident woman enjoying uncomplicated, commitment-free sex, but it was essentially being used as an emotional crutch and as a way to block out the issues that Sal didn’t want to face up to. If there had been more emphasis put on the emotional aspects of why she was behaving like she was it would have had a massive impact on my enjoyment of this couples story, the titillation, sexy-times and innuendo between them was really well written, but it was left sorely lacking due to no real emotional back-up until the last stages of the book.
Amy Andrews has a great writing style; the story and its direction unfortunately just didn’t work for me on this occasion.
ARC generously provided via Entangled, in exchange for the above honest review.
February 22, 2015
I loved the first book in this series and was so pleased when I found out Amy Andrews was writing Sal's story. The spark she brought between Mack and Josie in No More Mr. Nice Guy was amongst the Brazen imprints finest. Unfortunately, the spark between Sal and Doyle was underwhelming.
With her brother Mack and best friend Josie all loved up in London, Sal has hired Doyle Jackson to cover for him at her Veterinary practice. She may have declared a no sleeping with the staff policy, but her tequila induced self has other ideas and Doyle is only too happy to keep the boss happy.
“I have needs. And you have magic fingers.”
Sal was a great secondary character in NMMNG and brought some of the humorous moments. But this wasn't the case in Ask Me Nicely. Granted, she has a painful past and that plays a huge part as to why she is the way she is - strong, stubborn yet vulnerable, but it didn't play a huge part to the story which surprised me and was somewhat lost amongst the prolonged sexual teasing and game of cat and mouse between her and Doyle. Don't get me wrong, Doyle was lovely in that cheeky, confident and slightly cocky way and I have a soft spot for Aussie men, and whilst there were some nice moments between him and Sal, on the whole there was simply too much build up with a lack of depth, to the point where I found myself bored.
Amy Andrews does know how to create likeable characters, but on this occasion I needed more from this couple sooner. The last 20% of the book was more of what I was hoping for earlier on and yes, there was some emotion, but unfortunately this time it was a case of too little, too late. 2.5 stars.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
With her brother Mack and best friend Josie all loved up in London, Sal has hired Doyle Jackson to cover for him at her Veterinary practice. She may have declared a no sleeping with the staff policy, but her tequila induced self has other ideas and Doyle is only too happy to keep the boss happy.
“I have needs. And you have magic fingers.”
Sal was a great secondary character in NMMNG and brought some of the humorous moments. But this wasn't the case in Ask Me Nicely. Granted, she has a painful past and that plays a huge part as to why she is the way she is - strong, stubborn yet vulnerable, but it didn't play a huge part to the story which surprised me and was somewhat lost amongst the prolonged sexual teasing and game of cat and mouse between her and Doyle. Don't get me wrong, Doyle was lovely in that cheeky, confident and slightly cocky way and I have a soft spot for Aussie men, and whilst there were some nice moments between him and Sal, on the whole there was simply too much build up with a lack of depth, to the point where I found myself bored.
Amy Andrews does know how to create likeable characters, but on this occasion I needed more from this couple sooner. The last 20% of the book was more of what I was hoping for earlier on and yes, there was some emotion, but unfortunately this time it was a case of too little, too late. 2.5 stars.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
March 23, 2015
ARC provided by publishers in exchange of honest review
I enjoyed reading Ask Me Nicely but didn't loved it as much as I anticipated it would be. I was so look forwarding to reading Sal's book after reading No More Mr. Nice Guy but I couldn't connect with Sal. Yes, Sal's past is heartbreaking but the way she kept pushing Doyle away was getting on my nerves since Doyle was an absolute sweetheart. He was sexy, kind, nurturing and your nice guy hero. Doyle was very tolerant and understanding in keeping up with Sal's indecisiveness. I just wished the author delve deeper in Sally's issues so readers could emotionally connect with her and not just tolerate her personality. Overall, Amy Andrews doesn't fail in delivering a sexy and steamy book but I just wished I could have connected to the heroine in order for me to really love the book.
I enjoyed reading Ask Me Nicely but didn't loved it as much as I anticipated it would be. I was so look forwarding to reading Sal's book after reading No More Mr. Nice Guy but I couldn't connect with Sal. Yes, Sal's past is heartbreaking but the way she kept pushing Doyle away was getting on my nerves since Doyle was an absolute sweetheart. He was sexy, kind, nurturing and your nice guy hero. Doyle was very tolerant and understanding in keeping up with Sal's indecisiveness. I just wished the author delve deeper in Sally's issues so readers could emotionally connect with her and not just tolerate her personality. Overall, Amy Andrews doesn't fail in delivering a sexy and steamy book but I just wished I could have connected to the heroine in order for me to really love the book.
March 5, 2015
*Complimentary copy received from publisher via Netgalley*
2.5 ★
I’m not quite sure how I feel about this…
Let me just put it out there that seeing this is an Entangled Brazen, you’ll get the heat, for sure!
As for the rest, please just take this for what it is, personal take…
Despite Sal’s history, she didn’t quite win me over. She’s a well-formed character yet I forgot sometimes why I should care for her. I wasn’t annoyed with her, but I found her a little too hard around the edges, so she just came off grating at certain points.
Doyle was a definite highlight for me. I thought he was quite delightful. There is an ease to him that I like. I get his thought process, and I certainly can’t complain about his hotness! C’mon, for starter, he’s a vet so he’s good with animals, hello! I also love how he handled Sal. And how he saw Sal definitely helped soften her up in my head.
And for me, that last part how Sal moved their relationship forward helped in taking away some of her hard edges. So in the end, this ended up being in the middle road for me. This is a first Amy Andrews read for me, and as it stands, there may or may not be any more. Not quite sure yet…
2.5 ★
I’m not quite sure how I feel about this…
Let me just put it out there that seeing this is an Entangled Brazen, you’ll get the heat, for sure!
As for the rest, please just take this for what it is, personal take…
Despite Sal’s history, she didn’t quite win me over. She’s a well-formed character yet I forgot sometimes why I should care for her. I wasn’t annoyed with her, but I found her a little too hard around the edges, so she just came off grating at certain points.
Doyle was a definite highlight for me. I thought he was quite delightful. There is an ease to him that I like. I get his thought process, and I certainly can’t complain about his hotness! C’mon, for starter, he’s a vet so he’s good with animals, hello! I also love how he handled Sal. And how he saw Sal definitely helped soften her up in my head.
And for me, that last part how Sal moved their relationship forward helped in taking away some of her hard edges. So in the end, this ended up being in the middle road for me. This is a first Amy Andrews read for me, and as it stands, there may or may not be any more. Not quite sure yet…
November 17, 2016
Sal. Oh Sal. How I love Sal. She's hilarious for one thing; she's also smart, sharp and she doesn't pull her punches; something Doyle is man enough to love about her. They meet under hilarious but believable circumstances (it's a roommate to lovers situation) and their chemistry and banter is top shelf all the way through. I enjoyed seeing modern love and Australian culture explored within this blisteringly sexy romance.
March 5, 2015
Review originally posted on: Mischievous Reads
*ARC courtesy of Entangled Publishing in exchange for honest review
3.5 Stars
Been waiting for Sal's story, glad she finally had her own.
With Sally having been introduced in the first book as the sassy, no shit taker veterinarian sister, I've already enjoyed her character then, thus I assumed I was going to enjoy her character more. I was right. She was fiestier, sassier and took no more shit from anyone.
With Josie and Mack (The characters from the first book, No More Mr. Nice Guy, which I would definitely say was a smoking hot book) now living their couple life in London, Sally is left behind to man the veterinary clinic, along with a couple of employees, and the new temp vet, Doyle Jackson, who also turns out to be a total hottie with a magnificent set of muscles and washboard abs, and is currently lodging in Sal's apartment as part of his employee contract.
What I didn't expect when reading about Sal was her depressing past, which had led to her current broken self, and I also didn't expect her main reason for wanting to have sex with Doyle to be quite shallow -- not being able to reach an orgasm with her dates, but was successful with Doyle with a little humping action during her drunken state. But Doyle knows there's more to Sal than just her wanton self, and he wants more of her. However, Sal doesn't want more than being friends with benefits.
No matter how I enjoyed Sal's sassiness and her wanton self, she came off as quite annoying for constantly pushing Doyle away due to her indenial towards their attraction for each other, although that was only at the beginning because when she finally saw the light, I gradually felt ease. But the character I enjoyed more was Doyle. He was the perfect hero; handsome, sexy, smart and loves animals. Who doesn't want a guy like that? Sign me up for a Doyle Jackson!
And let me not get started with all the sexy scenes going on with this book because every turn of a page is absolutely explosive and definitely one of the hottest Brazens I've ever read. Amy Andrews has caught my attention with the steamy sex in the first book, No More Mr. Nice Guy, but this book is definitely chart topping hot!
I'm hoping to read more of Amy Andrews -- Gemma's book, perhaps, as she is one of my favorite side characters in this book -- and looking forward to another sexy novel by her.
If you're a Brazen addict, you definitely shouldn't miss out on this one, because this is jaw dropping hot with the right amount of romantic drama.
*ARC courtesy of Entangled Publishing in exchange for honest review
3.5 Stars
Been waiting for Sal's story, glad she finally had her own.
With Sally having been introduced in the first book as the sassy, no shit taker veterinarian sister, I've already enjoyed her character then, thus I assumed I was going to enjoy her character more. I was right. She was fiestier, sassier and took no more shit from anyone.
With Josie and Mack (The characters from the first book, No More Mr. Nice Guy, which I would definitely say was a smoking hot book) now living their couple life in London, Sally is left behind to man the veterinary clinic, along with a couple of employees, and the new temp vet, Doyle Jackson, who also turns out to be a total hottie with a magnificent set of muscles and washboard abs, and is currently lodging in Sal's apartment as part of his employee contract.
What I didn't expect when reading about Sal was her depressing past, which had led to her current broken self, and I also didn't expect her main reason for wanting to have sex with Doyle to be quite shallow -- not being able to reach an orgasm with her dates, but was successful with Doyle with a little humping action during her drunken state. But Doyle knows there's more to Sal than just her wanton self, and he wants more of her. However, Sal doesn't want more than being friends with benefits.
No matter how I enjoyed Sal's sassiness and her wanton self, she came off as quite annoying for constantly pushing Doyle away due to her indenial towards their attraction for each other, although that was only at the beginning because when she finally saw the light, I gradually felt ease. But the character I enjoyed more was Doyle. He was the perfect hero; handsome, sexy, smart and loves animals. Who doesn't want a guy like that? Sign me up for a Doyle Jackson!
And let me not get started with all the sexy scenes going on with this book because every turn of a page is absolutely explosive and definitely one of the hottest Brazens I've ever read. Amy Andrews has caught my attention with the steamy sex in the first book, No More Mr. Nice Guy, but this book is definitely chart topping hot!
I'm hoping to read more of Amy Andrews -- Gemma's book, perhaps, as she is one of my favorite side characters in this book -- and looking forward to another sexy novel by her.
If you're a Brazen addict, you definitely shouldn't miss out on this one, because this is jaw dropping hot with the right amount of romantic drama.
March 3, 2015
Reviewed by Kim
for Read Your Writes Book Reviews
Is it possible to have more than one soulmate in a lifetime? If your soulmate died are you destined to be alone forever? Does your moving on and being happy in every way possible mean that you're disloyal to them? For Sal Kennedy, these are all questions she’s had to face. Sally “Sal” Kennedy captured readers interest in her brother Mack and best friend Josie’s story, No More Mr. Nice Guy. Sal is a twenty-six-year-old veterinarian living and working in Brisbane. After surviving a horrible tragedy, Sal is a party girl, who uses men and sex to escape her nightmares. She likes to pretend that she is happy and is a functioning member of the living world. But this isn’t true.
Doyle Jackson is a twenty-eight-year-old freelance veterinarian. He’s working with Sal at Kennedy Family Veterinary Practice while Sal’s brother Mack is out of the country. Not only is Doyle working with Sal, he’s living with her as well. But Sal has made it perfectly clear time and time again that there will never be anything between them. Unfortunately or maybe fortunately for Sal, Jose Cuervo has other plans. Since Doyle has started living with Sal, things for her in the bedroom department just haven’t been the same. With some liquid courage, she attempts to get Doyle out of her system. Sal just isn’t prepared for Doyle to be different from other men and not bow down to her will. Doyle wants more from Sal than just being a small distraction. He wants a true chance and plans on making Sal step out of her comfort zone to get it.
“You have no idea how dirty I can play” He laughed. “Bring. It. On.”
A Brazen book should have me running to the shower to cool off. Not, grabbing a tissue because I’m crying. Well, this story actually did both. I will never look at fairy floss the same again, thank you Doyle.
Ask Me Nicely is simply a wow read and brings two wonderful characters together. Sal is broken but Doyle manages to see who she really is and not just the person she wants the world to see. He fights for himself and for them as a couple. He forces Sal to realize that anything is possible if you just ask nicely.
“Ask me nicely.” Sal almost choked. “You want me to ask you nicely?” “Sure. A guy likes to feel like he’s being romanced.”
If you’re looking for a book with real everyday characters who can bring heat, passion, and emotions, this is definitely a book to read.
**Received a copy from the Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest unbiased review.**
for Read Your Writes Book Reviews
Is it possible to have more than one soulmate in a lifetime? If your soulmate died are you destined to be alone forever? Does your moving on and being happy in every way possible mean that you're disloyal to them? For Sal Kennedy, these are all questions she’s had to face. Sally “Sal” Kennedy captured readers interest in her brother Mack and best friend Josie’s story, No More Mr. Nice Guy. Sal is a twenty-six-year-old veterinarian living and working in Brisbane. After surviving a horrible tragedy, Sal is a party girl, who uses men and sex to escape her nightmares. She likes to pretend that she is happy and is a functioning member of the living world. But this isn’t true.
Doyle Jackson is a twenty-eight-year-old freelance veterinarian. He’s working with Sal at Kennedy Family Veterinary Practice while Sal’s brother Mack is out of the country. Not only is Doyle working with Sal, he’s living with her as well. But Sal has made it perfectly clear time and time again that there will never be anything between them. Unfortunately or maybe fortunately for Sal, Jose Cuervo has other plans. Since Doyle has started living with Sal, things for her in the bedroom department just haven’t been the same. With some liquid courage, she attempts to get Doyle out of her system. Sal just isn’t prepared for Doyle to be different from other men and not bow down to her will. Doyle wants more from Sal than just being a small distraction. He wants a true chance and plans on making Sal step out of her comfort zone to get it.
“You have no idea how dirty I can play” He laughed. “Bring. It. On.”
A Brazen book should have me running to the shower to cool off. Not, grabbing a tissue because I’m crying. Well, this story actually did both. I will never look at fairy floss the same again, thank you Doyle.
Ask Me Nicely is simply a wow read and brings two wonderful characters together. Sal is broken but Doyle manages to see who she really is and not just the person she wants the world to see. He fights for himself and for them as a couple. He forces Sal to realize that anything is possible if you just ask nicely.
“Ask me nicely.” Sal almost choked. “You want me to ask you nicely?” “Sure. A guy likes to feel like he’s being romanced.”
If you’re looking for a book with real everyday characters who can bring heat, passion, and emotions, this is definitely a book to read.
**Received a copy from the Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest unbiased review.**
March 6, 2015
****An Advance Reader's Copy of Ask Me Nicely by Amy Andrews was generously provided to me via the publisher in exchange for honest review.
I loved it!
Surprisingly this book is better than I expected it. At first, the story went kind of dragging to me, but slowly, bam! I'm in love.
Doyle's smitten with his boss, Sal. He's been watching her quietly, and to make it even worse, he also live under the same roof. But Sal refuse to "screw the crew", until one night. One night that changes everything. Sal's bothered by Doyle's existence around her, and by bothered it means horny. But she has this secret that she don't want to share, especially with Doyle. But what will happen when Doyle starts getting under her skin and she loves it?
I really adore Doyle. Plus, even after everything, he still "easily" go to Sal with no grudge, just deep affection. That's what I love about him, he's straightforward and sincere. And about Sal, I really get why she did what she did. She's scarred, inside and out. But I'm proud when she finally lets Doyle in.
This book is not the first Amy Andrews books I read and certainly not the last. Even though I don't give it 5 stars, but I'm up for "encouragement". LOL! Definitely going to read more!! :)
I loved it!
Surprisingly this book is better than I expected it. At first, the story went kind of dragging to me, but slowly, bam! I'm in love.
Doyle's smitten with his boss, Sal. He's been watching her quietly, and to make it even worse, he also live under the same roof. But Sal refuse to "screw the crew", until one night. One night that changes everything. Sal's bothered by Doyle's existence around her, and by bothered it means horny. But she has this secret that she don't want to share, especially with Doyle. But what will happen when Doyle starts getting under her skin and she loves it?
I really adore Doyle. Plus, even after everything, he still "easily" go to Sal with no grudge, just deep affection. That's what I love about him, he's straightforward and sincere. And about Sal, I really get why she did what she did. She's scarred, inside and out. But I'm proud when she finally lets Doyle in.
This book is not the first Amy Andrews books I read and certainly not the last. Even though I don't give it 5 stars, but I'm up for "encouragement". LOL! Definitely going to read more!! :)
April 13, 2015
I really should have paid more attention to this book before I picked it up.
I wanted some fluff between books and normally that's exactly what these entangled books do. Just a quick story to change the pace of the books I have been reading.
However that wasn't exactly what I got with this one. I didn't realise we already had met the mc in her brothers book and I especially didn't know that her story was so heartbreaking I would have been happier not knowing the more intimate details.
But then I guess that's entirely on me. And I cant say I didn't like the book or the characters cause I did and it did break up the pace like I wanted it just wasn't the light and fluffy I was hoping for.
That said there were a lot of hot steamy scenes that made me wish the mc wasn't the only one not wearing anything under her skirt. So over all it was a good read just not what I was chasing when I picked it up.
I wanted some fluff between books and normally that's exactly what these entangled books do. Just a quick story to change the pace of the books I have been reading.
However that wasn't exactly what I got with this one. I didn't realise we already had met the mc in her brothers book and I especially didn't know that her story was so heartbreaking I would have been happier not knowing the more intimate details.
But then I guess that's entirely on me. And I cant say I didn't like the book or the characters cause I did and it did break up the pace like I wanted it just wasn't the light and fluffy I was hoping for.
That said there were a lot of hot steamy scenes that made me wish the mc wasn't the only one not wearing anything under her skirt. So over all it was a good read just not what I was chasing when I picked it up.
January 19, 2016
Originally posted on my blog: Tangled Up In Books
I received a copy of this book, from the publisher, in exchange for an honest review. In no way did this sway either my review or my rating!
This book has done such a number on my heart and soul. Both in very, very good ways and in ways that made my heart just ache. Have you ever finished a book and felt like you were wrapped up in this emotional bubble of happiness and bliss. You don't want anyone to talk to you, let alone touch you because you're afraid if anything like that were to penetrate these emotions and this feeling that the bubble would surely burst and you'd lose that bliss? That's kind of the state I'm in right now. I just want to go sit somewhere quiet, where nothing can touch me and just be.
I had already put in the request for Ask Me Nicely before I even read the blurb. Being written by Amy Andrews it was basically a no brainer. After talking to her briefly about it on Twitter I was over the moon to find out this was going to be Sal Kennedy's book. The first book I ever read by her was No More Mr. Nice Guy, which is all about Sal's older brother Mack. There was this broken and tragic beauty about Sal's character that had me desperately wanting to know more about her. Through her and not just second hand knowledge from her brother and best friend. The thing is I never really thought it would happen because like I said her story, her past, is beyond tragic and she was so much of a mess that I had to wonder if it could be possible to bring Sal to a point where she's not just existing but is actually happy and thriving? I wanted to see it more than anything, but how could it even begin to happen? Well, obviously, you'd need a pretty incredible guy to take on Sal's darkness for a start.
Enter Doyle Jackson...
The guy who takes on Sal and her baggage couldn't be just anyone. He had to be someone stubborn and willing to put up a fight. A guy who wouldn't start to have feelings and then freak out and put on the breaks or run. Someone willing to go the distance. Doyle was all of those things. Whenever Sal attempted to push him away, he'd dig in deeper. He never pushed her to open up on the deep personal stuff, he allowed it to come about in it's own time. He's good with kids and animals alike. I mean everything about this guy caused my ovaries to explode! Oh, yes. I have it bad.
And speaking of explosions...gah! The level of tension that built up between Sal and Doyle was absolutely insane! That's the thing I love the most about Amy Andrew's books though. She has this gift with building up all this steamy, heated sexual tension and a lot of the time it's in this flirtatious banter filled way. I don't know whether to laugh or go take a cold shower. I felt like Ask Me Nicely took that to a whole new level. I won't say much, but I will say this though, thanks to this book I will never, ever look at fairy floss (cotton candy) the same way again. I'm not sure I'll even be able to look at it without getting a hot flash...or five. And it's one of my absolute most favorite treats! *Fans self*
This book had everything you could possibly want in a really good romance. Lively characters, lots of humor, a darker, tragic side that puts your emotions through the wringer and this all consuming intensity and sexual chemistry that will leave you needing more. I read a lot of Brazen books, I mean a lot ...but both Ask Me Nicely and No More Mr. Nice Guy have been, to me, by far the best this line of books has had to offer that I've read so far. No exaggerations! Amy Andrews did what I feared would be impossible, gave Sal Kennedy the story and happily ever after she deserves and I couldn't find a single complaint to give you about it except maybe...it's over?
Geez! Could I have been more of a fangirl in this review? Sigh...
Thank you Entangled Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book!!
I received a copy of this book, from the publisher, in exchange for an honest review. In no way did this sway either my review or my rating!
This book has done such a number on my heart and soul. Both in very, very good ways and in ways that made my heart just ache. Have you ever finished a book and felt like you were wrapped up in this emotional bubble of happiness and bliss. You don't want anyone to talk to you, let alone touch you because you're afraid if anything like that were to penetrate these emotions and this feeling that the bubble would surely burst and you'd lose that bliss? That's kind of the state I'm in right now. I just want to go sit somewhere quiet, where nothing can touch me and just be.
I had already put in the request for Ask Me Nicely before I even read the blurb. Being written by Amy Andrews it was basically a no brainer. After talking to her briefly about it on Twitter I was over the moon to find out this was going to be Sal Kennedy's book. The first book I ever read by her was No More Mr. Nice Guy, which is all about Sal's older brother Mack. There was this broken and tragic beauty about Sal's character that had me desperately wanting to know more about her. Through her and not just second hand knowledge from her brother and best friend. The thing is I never really thought it would happen because like I said her story, her past, is beyond tragic and she was so much of a mess that I had to wonder if it could be possible to bring Sal to a point where she's not just existing but is actually happy and thriving? I wanted to see it more than anything, but how could it even begin to happen? Well, obviously, you'd need a pretty incredible guy to take on Sal's darkness for a start.
Enter Doyle Jackson...
The guy who takes on Sal and her baggage couldn't be just anyone. He had to be someone stubborn and willing to put up a fight. A guy who wouldn't start to have feelings and then freak out and put on the breaks or run. Someone willing to go the distance. Doyle was all of those things. Whenever Sal attempted to push him away, he'd dig in deeper. He never pushed her to open up on the deep personal stuff, he allowed it to come about in it's own time. He's good with kids and animals alike. I mean everything about this guy caused my ovaries to explode! Oh, yes. I have it bad.
And speaking of explosions...gah! The level of tension that built up between Sal and Doyle was absolutely insane! That's the thing I love the most about Amy Andrew's books though. She has this gift with building up all this steamy, heated sexual tension and a lot of the time it's in this flirtatious banter filled way. I don't know whether to laugh or go take a cold shower. I felt like Ask Me Nicely took that to a whole new level. I won't say much, but I will say this though, thanks to this book I will never, ever look at fairy floss (cotton candy) the same way again. I'm not sure I'll even be able to look at it without getting a hot flash...or five. And it's one of my absolute most favorite treats! *Fans self*
This book had everything you could possibly want in a really good romance. Lively characters, lots of humor, a darker, tragic side that puts your emotions through the wringer and this all consuming intensity and sexual chemistry that will leave you needing more. I read a lot of Brazen books, I mean a lot ...but both Ask Me Nicely and No More Mr. Nice Guy have been, to me, by far the best this line of books has had to offer that I've read so far. No exaggerations! Amy Andrews did what I feared would be impossible, gave Sal Kennedy the story and happily ever after she deserves and I couldn't find a single complaint to give you about it except maybe...it's over?
Geez! Could I have been more of a fangirl in this review? Sigh...
Thank you Entangled Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book!!
March 1, 2015
I admit to being one of the readers who begged for Sally's book after reading No more Mr Nice Guy and with an opening sentence like this “Sally Kennedy needed more tequila. And an orgasm. Not necessarily in that order, of course.” I knew I was going to be hooked and I was.
This book had lots of laugh out moments, hot sexy times and packs quite an emotional punch too. But that said, the author totally does Sally justice.
For Sal, who has lived through a horrific loss and has come out the other side a changed woman, and having a revolving door of one might stands suit her just fine. That is till Doyle, her employee and flat mate move in.
Mmmm Doyle. Vet, kitty whisperer, temporary and totally hot for his boss. But since she has made it clear she doesn’t “do the crew” she’s off limits. Or so he thought…..
After an incident in the kitchen between Sal and Doyle with his magic fingers crosses the line that Sal has erected things go from platonic to sizzle.
“Wear something sexy,” he threw over his shoulder. Sal glared at his back. If she wasn’t so damn horny she’d wear a sack and a chastity belt just to piss him off.
When after weeks of prolonged foreplay that line gets obliterated, can either of them go back to the way things used to be before hearts are broken or can Sal find a way to make her past, present and future blend to allow her to find happiness again with Doyle, the only man to make her happy in a long time?
This was a fun, flirty, sexy and at times emotional read. And after one scene in particular your will never look at fairy floss aka cotton candy the same way again or without fanning yourself.
Thank you Amy Andrews for one, giving Sal a story and two for giving her Doyle. There could be no better match for her. I’m so happy to see Sal get her HEA.
This book was supplied by the publisher for an honest review.
This book had lots of laugh out moments, hot sexy times and packs quite an emotional punch too. But that said, the author totally does Sally justice.
For Sal, who has lived through a horrific loss and has come out the other side a changed woman, and having a revolving door of one might stands suit her just fine. That is till Doyle, her employee and flat mate move in.
Mmmm Doyle. Vet, kitty whisperer, temporary and totally hot for his boss. But since she has made it clear she doesn’t “do the crew” she’s off limits. Or so he thought…..
After an incident in the kitchen between Sal and Doyle with his magic fingers crosses the line that Sal has erected things go from platonic to sizzle.
“Wear something sexy,” he threw over his shoulder. Sal glared at his back. If she wasn’t so damn horny she’d wear a sack and a chastity belt just to piss him off.
When after weeks of prolonged foreplay that line gets obliterated, can either of them go back to the way things used to be before hearts are broken or can Sal find a way to make her past, present and future blend to allow her to find happiness again with Doyle, the only man to make her happy in a long time?
This was a fun, flirty, sexy and at times emotional read. And after one scene in particular your will never look at fairy floss aka cotton candy the same way again or without fanning yourself.
Thank you Amy Andrews for one, giving Sal a story and two for giving her Doyle. There could be no better match for her. I’m so happy to see Sal get her HEA.
This book was supplied by the publisher for an honest review.
March 3, 2015
ARC kindly received from Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review
2.75 Do me now, Doyle stars..
Sal Kennedy is keeping the family Vets practice running whilst her brother, Mack, and BF, Josie, are away in London. We were entertained with their story in No More Mr Nice Guy, and now we have the younger sister's turn.
Sal is sad, having experienced a life changing event, which she deals with by being an organised, forthright lady, even in the bedroom. Choosing one night stands, allows her to distance herself and therefore avoid readdressing the emotions of her past.
But Sal is finding it increasingly difficult to ignore the looming presence of Doyle Jackson, the temporary vet taken on to cover for Mack. Not only is he there in the workplace, but he is also living in the apartment above the practice, alongside Sal, which is severely testing her resolve.
Burying her guilt, or drowning it one night, she ignores her usual mantra “don’t screw with the crew” and makes a beeline for the obliging Doyle.
But Doyle doesn’t just want one night, and finds himself yearning for more, whilst trying to avoid the inevitable tumbling into bed these two have a habit of doing.
I really enjoyed Mack and Josie’s story, and was excited to get stuck into this. However, the insatiable appetite of the usually stroppy Sal, played the primary role. I also felt the humour ever present in the former story, was not as evident in this one. The sadder tone of the plot created a more sombre story towards the end, but I just felt it lacked the same energy, the same pull for me.
As a consequence, I lacked a connection with Sal, finding her a tad annoying. But I did like Doyle and his irrefutable, charming ability with animals, children and old ladies!
2.75 Do me now, Doyle stars..
Sal Kennedy is keeping the family Vets practice running whilst her brother, Mack, and BF, Josie, are away in London. We were entertained with their story in No More Mr Nice Guy, and now we have the younger sister's turn.
Sal is sad, having experienced a life changing event, which she deals with by being an organised, forthright lady, even in the bedroom. Choosing one night stands, allows her to distance herself and therefore avoid readdressing the emotions of her past.
But Sal is finding it increasingly difficult to ignore the looming presence of Doyle Jackson, the temporary vet taken on to cover for Mack. Not only is he there in the workplace, but he is also living in the apartment above the practice, alongside Sal, which is severely testing her resolve.
Burying her guilt, or drowning it one night, she ignores her usual mantra “don’t screw with the crew” and makes a beeline for the obliging Doyle.
But Doyle doesn’t just want one night, and finds himself yearning for more, whilst trying to avoid the inevitable tumbling into bed these two have a habit of doing.
I really enjoyed Mack and Josie’s story, and was excited to get stuck into this. However, the insatiable appetite of the usually stroppy Sal, played the primary role. I also felt the humour ever present in the former story, was not as evident in this one. The sadder tone of the plot created a more sombre story towards the end, but I just felt it lacked the same energy, the same pull for me.
As a consequence, I lacked a connection with Sal, finding her a tad annoying. But I did like Doyle and his irrefutable, charming ability with animals, children and old ladies!
August 9, 2015
WARNING: You will never look at Candy Floss / Fairy Floss / Cotton Candy(*) the same way again.
(* delete as appropriate)
ARC received from: Netgalley
Rating: 5*
Cover: Yay
Trope: Sexy times galore between two hot vets
Chemistry: Off the charts Scorchio
POV: 3rd Person
One-Sentence Summary: Sal, wounded veterinarian with a tragic past, has lost her mojo and ends up drunkenly hitting on her flatmate and fellow vet Doyle. Sexy times ensue.
Review: It's been awhile since I've read a book so completely hot and sizzling with UST from start to finish! I mean right from the opening scene the sparks between Doyle and Sal had me fanning myself.
And Doyle .... a sexy hot guy who loves animals and won't give up on a stubborn, scarred girl? What more could you want in a hero? If I send you a Self Addressed Envelope, do you think someone could send me one?!
I loved the whole book from start to finish so it would be too hard to choose a favourite scene but in terms of a memorable scene? I think the candy/fairy floss wins hands down!
PS. This book gives a whole new meaning to Def Leppard's 'Pour Some Sugar On Me' .... ;)
Full review with pictures @ Love's A State Of Mind
March 7, 2015
Thoughts:
First line of the book: "Sally Kennedy needed more tequila. And an orgasm. Not necessarily in that order of course." COME ON! From that line alone I was ready to read more!!
This story made me laugh out loud and cry and cheer. We met Sal when her big brother/vet partner and her BFF were finding their way to love in the 5 star read No More Mr Nice Guy. We were not told a lot about her back story but it was hinted that it was traumatic and whatever it was had kept Sal from loving again.
There are so many things I loved about this story one of the main things being that the author, Amy Andrews, didn't make us wait until the end of the book to find out the trauma that was torturing Sally. As a reader we found out relatively early in the story so we knew why her heart was so closed off from Doyle.
Sally Kennedy doesn't want to date or be woo'd and chased and made to feel that her worth is more than just a good time... she wants the physical and that's it. Doyle was relentless in his pursuit of her! And for a short time I wondered if he was going to get through to her... but there is a line in Chapter 16 that was so gut clenching and truly spoke to me - made me cry and hold my breath and... oh man! I want to share the line but it will give too much away! Read this book I think you will love it as much as I did!
Grade A
Review by: Jeananna
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
First line of the book: "Sally Kennedy needed more tequila. And an orgasm. Not necessarily in that order of course." COME ON! From that line alone I was ready to read more!!
This story made me laugh out loud and cry and cheer. We met Sal when her big brother/vet partner and her BFF were finding their way to love in the 5 star read No More Mr Nice Guy. We were not told a lot about her back story but it was hinted that it was traumatic and whatever it was had kept Sal from loving again.
There are so many things I loved about this story one of the main things being that the author, Amy Andrews, didn't make us wait until the end of the book to find out the trauma that was torturing Sally. As a reader we found out relatively early in the story so we knew why her heart was so closed off from Doyle.
Sally Kennedy doesn't want to date or be woo'd and chased and made to feel that her worth is more than just a good time... she wants the physical and that's it. Doyle was relentless in his pursuit of her! And for a short time I wondered if he was going to get through to her... but there is a line in Chapter 16 that was so gut clenching and truly spoke to me - made me cry and hold my breath and... oh man! I want to share the line but it will give too much away! Read this book I think you will love it as much as I did!
Grade A
Review by: Jeananna
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
March 3, 2015
Doing things the easy way has never been a hallmark of veterinarian Sally Kennedy's existence.
So when the opportunity to open her battered and bruised heart presents itself in the form of one very hunky Doyle Jackson, a fellow vet working in her practice, and her flatmate. Miss Kennedy finds that she must fight harder than ever to keep a tight leash on more than just her furry patients.
Amy Andrews pulls out all the rom/com stops in this laugh-out-loud situational comedy with a heartrendingly dramatic twist.
The interactions between Doyle and Sally as they go through their days are priceless.
They are a couple that readers want to fight for.
As much as Sally tries to fight her attraction to Doyle, the giving in is soooooo good!
Doyle is truly the perfect romantic hero in this read. That...and he makes holding a kitten seem pornographic. It is truly refreshing to see a man hold out for a date, and have a real need to get to know his lady before taking her to bed.
Sally's back story provides readers with a dramatic emotional touchstone that works to explain Sally's reluctance and give Doyle the much needed 'dragon' that every white knight needs.
This is an excellent read, that can easily be finished in one sitting.
And...
The steamy scene with the bar stools in the kitchen, gives a whole new meaning to "communal cooking".
So when the opportunity to open her battered and bruised heart presents itself in the form of one very hunky Doyle Jackson, a fellow vet working in her practice, and her flatmate. Miss Kennedy finds that she must fight harder than ever to keep a tight leash on more than just her furry patients.
Amy Andrews pulls out all the rom/com stops in this laugh-out-loud situational comedy with a heartrendingly dramatic twist.
The interactions between Doyle and Sally as they go through their days are priceless.
They are a couple that readers want to fight for.
As much as Sally tries to fight her attraction to Doyle, the giving in is soooooo good!
Doyle is truly the perfect romantic hero in this read. That...and he makes holding a kitten seem pornographic. It is truly refreshing to see a man hold out for a date, and have a real need to get to know his lady before taking her to bed.
Sally's back story provides readers with a dramatic emotional touchstone that works to explain Sally's reluctance and give Doyle the much needed 'dragon' that every white knight needs.
This is an excellent read, that can easily be finished in one sitting.
And...
The steamy scene with the bar stools in the kitchen, gives a whole new meaning to "communal cooking".
February 15, 2015
I'm sleep-deprived, but I have to tell you all now just how much love I have for this book. So much love, and when I am running on more than fumes, I will write a proper review. However, trust me when I say that if you are looking forward to Sal's story as much as I was, you will not be disappointed!!! Well played, AA - first it's Milo, now it's fairy floss ;)
February 19, 2017
More of a contemporary romance
I really liked this novel. I thought it was supposed the be erotica, but it was more like a contemporary with some detailed sex scenes. I liked how Doyle was so patient with Sal. I think this is my first time reading this author. I enjoyed it and will be reading more.
I really liked this novel. I thought it was supposed the be erotica, but it was more like a contemporary with some detailed sex scenes. I liked how Doyle was so patient with Sal. I think this is my first time reading this author. I enjoyed it and will be reading more.
April 14, 2015
I really loved this book I was dying to read Sal's book after reading No more Mr nice guy and I was not disappointed. I was so glad she got her second chance at love after her loss and Doyle was just the perfect man.
May 31, 2018
Love it!!!
Been laughing hysterically while reading thing. So much wit, humor, romance and tear jerking moments. Love it so much,want to read it again! Two thumbs up to you Amy!
Been laughing hysterically while reading thing. So much wit, humor, romance and tear jerking moments. Love it so much,want to read it again! Two thumbs up to you Amy!
April 16, 2017
Another lovely romance novel from Amy Andrews, this time it is the woman - Sal - (who we met in the previous book) who has trouble committing to men and entering in a relationship. She avoids intimacy at all costs due to a past trauma. In comes Doyle, the veterinary who is filling in for her brother (whose story is in the previous book). He wants a date, she wants unattached sex.
Heartbreaking at times but also a lot of fun.
Heartbreaking at times but also a lot of fun.
March 2, 2015
I read
No More Mr. Nice Guy
last fall and really enjoyed both it and Sal's character, I didn't remember the info we'd been given in it about Sal's background before I picked this one up. It was pretty much a case of Another Amy Andrews Brazen book with the veterinarians? Yes, please! Gimme! ;)
It works fine as a standalone. You absolutely don't need to have read book one to appreciate it, and though Sal's brother Mack and best friend Josie come up in conversation, there's only a single, very short but important phone conversation with Mack toward the end that (fortunately!) helps Sal get her butt in gear.
It can be hard to write a character dealing with grief in a convincing way, and even harder to manage to get them through their grief without resulting to easy gimmicks (my least favorite--getting over a dead significant other because the truth about them is discovered at long last--ugh), but Ms. Andrews does an excellent job here. At the beginning of the novel, Josie is mentally--and medicinally, with the help of tequila--bracing herself for the anniversary of her loss. She hasn't allowed herself to get close to anyone in almost six years, not in the way she used to, and has used sex as a coping mechanism and sleep aid, avoiding real relationships at all costs.
Though the temporary vet who's taken her brother's place is tempting...but absolutely off-limits. He wants a date (the horror!) and to get to know her (the nerve!) and refuses to be nothing more than a physical release. Darn that Doyle. The battle of wills the two resort to was so much fun to read--especially and the clothes became skimpier and then came off entirely as the two retreated to their shared apartment each night, each trying to tempt the other into seeing things their way.
Wowza.
Oh, and I will never be able to look at cotton candy, AKA fairy floss, the same way again. Not that that's a problem, exactly. ;)
Sal's kept her emotions shut up for almost six years, and it isn't until the last part of the book that they really make themselves known. Though I enjoyed the rest of the story, Ms. Andrews really pulled out all the stops for one heck of an ending.
Big, burly guys holding kittens, training puppies, (ahem)eating fairy floss...really, it's all too much. Give me more, please! ;)
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A-
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest opinion.
It works fine as a standalone. You absolutely don't need to have read book one to appreciate it, and though Sal's brother Mack and best friend Josie come up in conversation, there's only a single, very short but important phone conversation with Mack toward the end that (fortunately!) helps Sal get her butt in gear.
It can be hard to write a character dealing with grief in a convincing way, and even harder to manage to get them through their grief without resulting to easy gimmicks (my least favorite--getting over a dead significant other because the truth about them is discovered at long last--ugh), but Ms. Andrews does an excellent job here. At the beginning of the novel, Josie is mentally--and medicinally, with the help of tequila--bracing herself for the anniversary of her loss. She hasn't allowed herself to get close to anyone in almost six years, not in the way she used to, and has used sex as a coping mechanism and sleep aid, avoiding real relationships at all costs.
Though the temporary vet who's taken her brother's place is tempting...but absolutely off-limits. He wants a date (the horror!) and to get to know her (the nerve!) and refuses to be nothing more than a physical release. Darn that Doyle. The battle of wills the two resort to was so much fun to read--especially and the clothes became skimpier and then came off entirely as the two retreated to their shared apartment each night, each trying to tempt the other into seeing things their way.
Wowza.
Oh, and I will never be able to look at cotton candy, AKA fairy floss, the same way again. Not that that's a problem, exactly. ;)
Sal's kept her emotions shut up for almost six years, and it isn't until the last part of the book that they really make themselves known. Though I enjoyed the rest of the story, Ms. Andrews really pulled out all the stops for one heck of an ending.
Big, burly guys holding kittens, training puppies, (ahem)eating fairy floss...really, it's all too much. Give me more, please! ;)
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A-
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest opinion.
March 4, 2015
Messed up Woman and Sweetheart Guy
"There was something very broken about Sal Kennedy."
THE STORY: Sally Kennedy is a veterinarian who has a series of men that she has sex with only once and then discards. She is living the only way she knows after a horrific accident where she lost everything. Her current roommate, Doyle Jackson, is a temporary employee in her office. The two have a platonic relationship, but the sparks between the two have been evident from the beginning. One drunken night for Sal changes their relationship as Doyle is determined to win Sal's affection and make her see him not as an employee or platonic roommate and not as a one night sex buddy, but as someone to have a relationship with.
OPINION: I loved this book because of Doyle. Sal is really messed up but Doyle is willing to wait for her to recognize that there can be something between them. Once Sal gives him an opening, Doyle is willing to be patient and show Sal that he is interested in the person that she hides behind her shields. He is incredibly masculine and demands that Sal see him as a strong man and not someone that she can manipulate in order to hide her true self.
I liked how the two have a non-traditional dating relationship that Sal resists even as Doyle finds ways to breach her defenses. I didn't have any expectations of this book as I read it on the recommendation of someone else, and I really liked the slow building relationship between Sal and Doyle even as they had very hot sexual encounters. It felt real and painful and ultimately made me smile.
WORTH MENTIONING: This book is about grief. Sal's version of grief is dark and self-destructive but allows her to get out of bed in the morning when she might otherwise not.
FINAL DECISION: I really liked this book because of Doyle. He is a wonderful guy who is sweet and understanding and willing to stand by Sal even as she is defensive and broken. He made this book.
CONNECTED BOOKS: This book is connected to NO MORE MR. NICE GUY but can be read as a standalone. I haven't read the first book and missed nothing.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
"There was something very broken about Sal Kennedy."
THE STORY: Sally Kennedy is a veterinarian who has a series of men that she has sex with only once and then discards. She is living the only way she knows after a horrific accident where she lost everything. Her current roommate, Doyle Jackson, is a temporary employee in her office. The two have a platonic relationship, but the sparks between the two have been evident from the beginning. One drunken night for Sal changes their relationship as Doyle is determined to win Sal's affection and make her see him not as an employee or platonic roommate and not as a one night sex buddy, but as someone to have a relationship with.
OPINION: I loved this book because of Doyle. Sal is really messed up but Doyle is willing to wait for her to recognize that there can be something between them. Once Sal gives him an opening, Doyle is willing to be patient and show Sal that he is interested in the person that she hides behind her shields. He is incredibly masculine and demands that Sal see him as a strong man and not someone that she can manipulate in order to hide her true self.
I liked how the two have a non-traditional dating relationship that Sal resists even as Doyle finds ways to breach her defenses. I didn't have any expectations of this book as I read it on the recommendation of someone else, and I really liked the slow building relationship between Sal and Doyle even as they had very hot sexual encounters. It felt real and painful and ultimately made me smile.
WORTH MENTIONING: This book is about grief. Sal's version of grief is dark and self-destructive but allows her to get out of bed in the morning when she might otherwise not.
FINAL DECISION: I really liked this book because of Doyle. He is a wonderful guy who is sweet and understanding and willing to stand by Sal even as she is defensive and broken. He made this book.
CONNECTED BOOKS: This book is connected to NO MORE MR. NICE GUY but can be read as a standalone. I haven't read the first book and missed nothing.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
March 9, 2015
Sal and Doyle were perfect counterpoints. Sal was emotionally damaged while Doyle personified stability. Normally, I prefer books where both characters go through major changes in the storyline, but I think that in this case it was for the best that Doyle was as perfect as a guy could get. He was patient, understanding, thoughtful ... and more than most women's hearts could handle when he cuddled a kitten. The major transformation in this book belonged to Sal and she needed someone constant like Doyle to hold on to.
Sal was tragically damaged but she desperately tried to hide it. Six years ago, Sal was living the dream and, in one moment, it was all taken away. In the following months, she could barely get out of bed. Now, she was fully-functioning, but by no means whole. Some people cry and lean on friends and family, others turn turn to less healthy ways to deal with pain. Sal turned to sex for validation.
Sal tried for months to ignore Doyle, the hot guy that she hired to be a temporary veterinarian in her vet clinic and who also lived across the hall from her. But after a moment of weakness, he wasn't going to let her ignore him any more.
And Doyle was relentless in trying to get Sal to ... go on a date with him. He used all of the tools at his disposal to get Sal to admit that she wanted more than she was allowing herself to have in her life. He wanted her to see that life was more than a revolving door of anonymous or first-name-only hook-ups. He was aggressively sexual in one moment, flirtatiously teasing the next, and then back again. The physical chemistry between Doyle and Sal was like a pot of water on a slow simmer and then brought up to a rolling boil, which resulted in a very satisfying read.
This was a great story of how grief can take over a person's whole life without anyone really knowing, and how that grief can be healed with the love of the right person. Highly recommended.
Reviewer's Note: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All errors are my own. This review is excerpted from my book blog.
Sal was tragically damaged but she desperately tried to hide it. Six years ago, Sal was living the dream and, in one moment, it was all taken away. In the following months, she could barely get out of bed. Now, she was fully-functioning, but by no means whole. Some people cry and lean on friends and family, others turn turn to less healthy ways to deal with pain. Sal turned to sex for validation.
Sal tried for months to ignore Doyle, the hot guy that she hired to be a temporary veterinarian in her vet clinic and who also lived across the hall from her. But after a moment of weakness, he wasn't going to let her ignore him any more.
And Doyle was relentless in trying to get Sal to ... go on a date with him. He used all of the tools at his disposal to get Sal to admit that she wanted more than she was allowing herself to have in her life. He wanted her to see that life was more than a revolving door of anonymous or first-name-only hook-ups. He was aggressively sexual in one moment, flirtatiously teasing the next, and then back again. The physical chemistry between Doyle and Sal was like a pot of water on a slow simmer and then brought up to a rolling boil, which resulted in a very satisfying read.
This was a great story of how grief can take over a person's whole life without anyone really knowing, and how that grief can be healed with the love of the right person. Highly recommended.
Reviewer's Note: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All errors are my own. This review is excerpted from my book blog.
March 29, 2015
"She got to him. He couldn't walk away from her."
Sal (Sally) Kennedy has lost her mojo...how can I not want to read this book with a description that starts like that?! Finished the book in a night and start to finish I was either laughing or sighing or teary eyed. Absolutely adored every second and it's one of those books that you can easily reread just so you can experience it all over again. Sweet and funny, great writing and great characters. Loved the fact that in this case, the female is the serial dater who's trying to seduce the male. Finally!!! So many books with the same premise of the guy seducing the girl that this was refreshing.
Sal is in a serious funk as of late but mixing a couple shots of tequila into the mix is probably not the best idea that she ever had. Added to the fact that her very sexy roommate/employee who just looks even more tempting after a few. One blurry eyed night and everything changes. Doyle has just the thing to revive her mojo but if she wants more, it's going to come at a cost. He wants a date. All she wants is sex.
"So let me get this straight. You want to go on a date with me but you don't want to sleep with me?"
"Give the woman a cigar."
What's a woman to do when she wants more? Up the stakes and see who breaks first. When the clothes start to fall off and the temptation gets too hot, will these two get together or will Sal push Doyle away from her? Because it isn't just that Sal wants sex. She wants to forget her pain but when Doyle begins to see this, he's willing to do whatever it takes to make her see maybe he can be the one to help her, not just physically but emotionally.
"There'd been something so desperate, so...aching and broken about her last night, it had called to every one of his masculine instincts."
Can I also say, I will never think of fairy floss/cotton candy in the same way again? The author has a hell of an imagination that I feel like I should run to find a couple dozen bags...possibly more. This book is a must have and I can not wait to see what else Amy Andrews has in store.
Sal (Sally) Kennedy has lost her mojo...how can I not want to read this book with a description that starts like that?! Finished the book in a night and start to finish I was either laughing or sighing or teary eyed. Absolutely adored every second and it's one of those books that you can easily reread just so you can experience it all over again. Sweet and funny, great writing and great characters. Loved the fact that in this case, the female is the serial dater who's trying to seduce the male. Finally!!! So many books with the same premise of the guy seducing the girl that this was refreshing.
Sal is in a serious funk as of late but mixing a couple shots of tequila into the mix is probably not the best idea that she ever had. Added to the fact that her very sexy roommate/employee who just looks even more tempting after a few. One blurry eyed night and everything changes. Doyle has just the thing to revive her mojo but if she wants more, it's going to come at a cost. He wants a date. All she wants is sex.
"So let me get this straight. You want to go on a date with me but you don't want to sleep with me?"
"Give the woman a cigar."
What's a woman to do when she wants more? Up the stakes and see who breaks first. When the clothes start to fall off and the temptation gets too hot, will these two get together or will Sal push Doyle away from her? Because it isn't just that Sal wants sex. She wants to forget her pain but when Doyle begins to see this, he's willing to do whatever it takes to make her see maybe he can be the one to help her, not just physically but emotionally.
"There'd been something so desperate, so...aching and broken about her last night, it had called to every one of his masculine instincts."
Can I also say, I will never think of fairy floss/cotton candy in the same way again? The author has a hell of an imagination that I feel like I should run to find a couple dozen bags...possibly more. This book is a must have and I can not wait to see what else Amy Andrews has in store.
April 13, 2015
anyone who knows me or has read any of my reviews knows that I am a sucker for a good series!! and Amy Andrews delivers on this read!! I loved Sal and Doyle!!
Full review to come on The Book Reading Gals and it will then be posted here!!
3/3/15
First line of the book: "Sally Kennedy needed more tequila. And an orgasm. Not necessarily in that order of course." COME ON! From that line alone I was ready to read more!!
This story made me laugh out loud and cry and cheer. We met Sal when her big brother/vet partner and her BFF were finding their way to love in the 5 star read No More Mr Nice Guy. We were not told a lot about her back story but it was hinted that it was traumatic and whatever it was had kept Sal from loving again.
There are so many things I loved about this story one of the main things being that the author, Amy Andrews, didn't make us wait until the end of the book to find out the trauma that was torturing Sally. As a reader we found out relatively early in the story so we knew why her heart was so closed off from Doyle.
Sally Kennedy doesn't want to date or be woo'd and chased and made to feel that her worth is more than just a good time... she wants the physical and that's it. Doyle was relentless in his pursuit of her! And for a short time I wondered if he was going to get through to her... but there is a line in Chapter 16 that was so gut clenching and truly spoke to me - made me cry and hold my breath and... oh man! I want to share the line but it will give too much away! Read this book I think you will love it as much as I did!
Full review to come on The Book Reading Gals and it will then be posted here!!
3/3/15
First line of the book: "Sally Kennedy needed more tequila. And an orgasm. Not necessarily in that order of course." COME ON! From that line alone I was ready to read more!!
This story made me laugh out loud and cry and cheer. We met Sal when her big brother/vet partner and her BFF were finding their way to love in the 5 star read No More Mr Nice Guy. We were not told a lot about her back story but it was hinted that it was traumatic and whatever it was had kept Sal from loving again.
There are so many things I loved about this story one of the main things being that the author, Amy Andrews, didn't make us wait until the end of the book to find out the trauma that was torturing Sally. As a reader we found out relatively early in the story so we knew why her heart was so closed off from Doyle.
Sally Kennedy doesn't want to date or be woo'd and chased and made to feel that her worth is more than just a good time... she wants the physical and that's it. Doyle was relentless in his pursuit of her! And for a short time I wondered if he was going to get through to her... but there is a line in Chapter 16 that was so gut clenching and truly spoke to me - made me cry and hold my breath and... oh man! I want to share the line but it will give too much away! Read this book I think you will love it as much as I did!
February 24, 2015
Another great hot romance from Amy Andrews. This one involves two veterinarians working together and sharing the same apartment but fighting their mutual attraction. She is Sally Kennedy, one of the owners of the practice, his boss and someone with a tragic past that she’s desperate to forget. She’ll do anything to try to get a good night’s sleep without the usual nightmares and he’s used to her bringing one night stands for brief, never-to-be-repeated, interludes in the bedroom across the hall from his. He is Doyle Jackson, her employee so strictly off limits until she overdoes drinking tequila and forgets her self imposed rules. Life can never be the same again for either of them though she’s wanting a sexual partner, no strings and no relationship but he wants more - a lot more, starting with a date.
Sally is a complex character and, whilst I don’t recommend her techniques for coping with her memories and nightmares, it is written so well that you can easily sympathise and empathise with her. Doyle is a brilliant, determined, strong romantic hero, determined to discover Sally’s past, not to be just someone to scratch an itch and so considerate and supportive!
The story contains lots of sexually explicit interactions but this doesn’t stop it having a great storyline exploring coping with grief, surviving tragic events and finding love again. The events at the school are just heart breaking at times!
Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for letting me read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sally is a complex character and, whilst I don’t recommend her techniques for coping with her memories and nightmares, it is written so well that you can easily sympathise and empathise with her. Doyle is a brilliant, determined, strong romantic hero, determined to discover Sally’s past, not to be just someone to scratch an itch and so considerate and supportive!
The story contains lots of sexually explicit interactions but this doesn’t stop it having a great storyline exploring coping with grief, surviving tragic events and finding love again. The events at the school are just heart breaking at times!
Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for letting me read this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2016
This sexy romance is the story of Sal and Doyle. Sal runs a veterinary clinic and her assistant Doyle is strictly off limits - even if he does happen to be temporarily sharing the same apartment with her. But one night, and a bit too much tequila has Sal seeing Doyle in a whole new light, one she's afraid to admit that she likes quite a bit. She's experienced losing loved ones before - will she let Doyle show her the path to healing and a better and brighter future?
I really enjoyed this story! I haven't read the first of the series, but this one was just fine as a standalone. Sal comes across as a friendly and bright woman who has a shield carefully in place to avoid romantic entanglements. Sex - no problem, just don't ask for a date. Doyle is equally engaging as a fun loving, handsome and charismatic man who sees that Sal is hiding her true self behind a meaningless string of men who give her temporary pleasure but no real satisfaction. I liked how Doyle was willing to be patient and understanding with Sal, not knowing her past but realizing that she's suffered some hurt in her life that has made her withdraw from having a real relationship. They share a potent sexual attraction that leads to several steamy scenes. The story moved at a swift pace and I found it an entertaining and fun read as Sal finally opens her heart up to the possiblity of love again with Doyle. 4 stars!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
I really enjoyed this story! I haven't read the first of the series, but this one was just fine as a standalone. Sal comes across as a friendly and bright woman who has a shield carefully in place to avoid romantic entanglements. Sex - no problem, just don't ask for a date. Doyle is equally engaging as a fun loving, handsome and charismatic man who sees that Sal is hiding her true self behind a meaningless string of men who give her temporary pleasure but no real satisfaction. I liked how Doyle was willing to be patient and understanding with Sal, not knowing her past but realizing that she's suffered some hurt in her life that has made her withdraw from having a real relationship. They share a potent sexual attraction that leads to several steamy scenes. The story moved at a swift pace and I found it an entertaining and fun read as Sal finally opens her heart up to the possiblity of love again with Doyle. 4 stars!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
March 3, 2015
In Ask Me Nicely we pick up with Sally Kennedy, Mack's sister and Josie's BFF, is left to continue on the family veterinary clinic. Without Mack being around, she is left to hire another veterinarian temporarily to replace him. We met Sal superficially in No More Mr. Nice Guy, so we know that she had survived loosing her husband and child, thus throwing her into superficial, one night only types of relationships. Since she had the extra room she also offered a room while the temporary Dr. Doyle Jackson is working for her. Upon arrival Sal makes it quite clear that there will be no funny business. After a few months of living with each other and unsatisfying relations for Sal, she is reticent of their attraction, but after one uninhibited night rethinks her reluctance. Doyle finds Sally quite the enigma and has no idea as to what holds her back from forming a connection with him. When the two finally connect, well lets just say it rocks Sally and slowly crumbles her massive walls.
I thoroughly enjoyed this second book for this series. Doyle wrapped right around my heart and I felt for him and his need to firmly connect with Sally. Sally's tragic story brought me to tears when we finally get the entire details. A definite 4-4.5 star read for me!
*ARC generously provided by Entangled Brazen Publishing in exchange for an honest review*
I thoroughly enjoyed this second book for this series. Doyle wrapped right around my heart and I felt for him and his need to firmly connect with Sally. Sally's tragic story brought me to tears when we finally get the entire details. A definite 4-4.5 star read for me!
*ARC generously provided by Entangled Brazen Publishing in exchange for an honest review*
February 23, 2015
Sal is a vet that has lost a lot in life but most recently after a bottle of tequila she thinks her hunky flatmate Doyle might be the one to help her get a certain part back. Making a pass at him seems like such a good idea. Of course it was the tequila's idea. And when he takes care of her but turns her down when it comes to more, she is a little more than annoyed. But Doyle has a plan in mind. He wants something a little more permanent than a one night stand. This begins the battle to see who has a stronger will, and the actions the two of them take to break down the other will leave you chuckling.
Doyle has managed to get through to Sal the way no one has been able to since her late husband. Yep you find out a lot about Sal's past and why she is so afraid to let anyone close.
Doyle slowly chips away at her until she tells him everything. But she still manages to mess things up between the two of them. It takes some looking at herself honestly before Sal realizes that she needs to have Doyle in her life. And she is determined enough to get him.
This book was had so many funny parts, serious parts and sexy parts that there is something for everyone.
I was given a copy of this book in exchaange for an honest review.
Doyle has managed to get through to Sal the way no one has been able to since her late husband. Yep you find out a lot about Sal's past and why she is so afraid to let anyone close.
Doyle slowly chips away at her until she tells him everything. But she still manages to mess things up between the two of them. It takes some looking at herself honestly before Sal realizes that she needs to have Doyle in her life. And she is determined enough to get him.
This book was had so many funny parts, serious parts and sexy parts that there is something for everyone.
I was given a copy of this book in exchaange for an honest review.
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