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The Oil Barons #3
The Closer We Get
Erin Winters has struggled ever since the accident that took her husband’s life and left her young son seriously injured. Desperate to get her son the surgery he needs, she agrees to become a surrogate mother. But when the wife dies unexpectedly, Erin is suddenly faced with the demands of the grieving husband and carrying a child she has come to think of as her own.
Blake Tanner had it all—marriage to a woman he adored, a successful career as a lawyer, and a child on the way. Now, tormented by his loss and overwhelmed by the prospect of single fatherhood, Blake comes up with a solution that might be his final undoing.
In the hopes that he can give his child the life he deserves, he asks Erin and her son to live with him. In exchange, he will provide them both with all the advantages a wealthy Texan has to offer. It’s a simple financial arrangement that makes perfect sense to Blake, until the grief that marks his days is slowly replaced by the glimmer of hope, and desire, the beautiful woman stirs in him.
As Erin and Blake surrender to the powerful sensual force that neither can ignore, the two must help each other overcome their anguish and dare to build a new life, and love, together.
This is a fully revised edition of a book previously published as Heaven Above and Another Love.
About the Author:
Ann Jacobs is the author of more than one hundred romance novels, novellas, and short stories, including the Oil Barons series, the d’Argent Honor Vampire series, and the Gridiron Lovers series, among others. She lives in Tampa with her own personal hero, her youngest son, a sometimes neglected orchid collection, and four very spoiled and much-loved cats. She loves hearing from readers and tries to meet as many fans as possible at one or more conferences each year. You can read more about Ann at annjacobs.net.
Blake Tanner had it all—marriage to a woman he adored, a successful career as a lawyer, and a child on the way. Now, tormented by his loss and overwhelmed by the prospect of single fatherhood, Blake comes up with a solution that might be his final undoing.
In the hopes that he can give his child the life he deserves, he asks Erin and her son to live with him. In exchange, he will provide them both with all the advantages a wealthy Texan has to offer. It’s a simple financial arrangement that makes perfect sense to Blake, until the grief that marks his days is slowly replaced by the glimmer of hope, and desire, the beautiful woman stirs in him.
As Erin and Blake surrender to the powerful sensual force that neither can ignore, the two must help each other overcome their anguish and dare to build a new life, and love, together.
This is a fully revised edition of a book previously published as Heaven Above and Another Love.
About the Author:
Ann Jacobs is the author of more than one hundred romance novels, novellas, and short stories, including the Oil Barons series, the d’Argent Honor Vampire series, and the Gridiron Lovers series, among others. She lives in Tampa with her own personal hero, her youngest son, a sometimes neglected orchid collection, and four very spoiled and much-loved cats. She loves hearing from readers and tries to meet as many fans as possible at one or more conferences each year. You can read more about Ann at annjacobs.net.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1996
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251 people want to read
About the author
Ann Jacobs
164 books160 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
First published in 1996, Jacobs has sold close to fifty books and novellas. SANDSTORMS was a 2007 nominee for the prestigious ROMANTIC TIMES Reviewers' Choice award for best erotic romance. Her books have earned awards including the Passionate Plume (best novella, 2006, second place contemporary, 2008), the Desert Rose (best hot and spicy romance, 2004) and More Than Magic (best erotic romance, 2004). She has been a double finalist in separate categories of the EPPIES and From the Heart RWA Chapter’s contest. Three of her books have been translated and sold in several European countries.
A CPA and former hospital financial manager, Jacobs now writes full-time, with the help of Mr. Blue, the family cat who sometimes likes to perch on the back of her desk chair and lend his sage advice. He sometimes even contributes a few random letters when he decides he wants to try out the keyboard. (Most of the time Blue just curls up, hides his eyes with his paws...and sleeps!)
First published in 1996, Jacobs has sold close to fifty books and novellas. SANDSTORMS was a 2007 nominee for the prestigious ROMANTIC TIMES Reviewers' Choice award for best erotic romance. Her books have earned awards including the Passionate Plume (best novella, 2006, second place contemporary, 2008), the Desert Rose (best hot and spicy romance, 2004) and More Than Magic (best erotic romance, 2004). She has been a double finalist in separate categories of the EPPIES and From the Heart RWA Chapter’s contest. Three of her books have been translated and sold in several European countries.
A CPA and former hospital financial manager, Jacobs now writes full-time, with the help of Mr. Blue, the family cat who sometimes likes to perch on the back of her desk chair and lend his sage advice. He sometimes even contributes a few random letters when he decides he wants to try out the keyboard. (Most of the time Blue just curls up, hides his eyes with his paws...and sleeps!)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
February 21, 2017
3.75 sensual love stars
Erin has been living a life of struggle ever since her husband died leaving their son injured and in need of medical procedures that she can't afford on her own. Desperation leads her to be the surrogate mother to Glenna and Blake Turner, and while she knows she can't keep the baby that she's raised in her, she knows that Glenna and Blake would provide a life that every child deserves... that is until Glenna suddenly passes.
Blake indulged his late wife with her request to have a child with a surrogate. He would give her anything she asked for to make her happy, but now that she is gone, the unborn child is nothing but a painful reminder of his love for her. After meeting the woman who is now the only mother his child will ever know, he knows there is only one solution, man up and be the best father he can be, to his child and Erin's.
An arrangement that benefits all, there should be no problem or worry. That is until the heart and guilt bleed into their lives.
The Closer We Get takes us full circle, from the despair of death, to the joys of birth, and the power of love. This was a book that pulled at my heart strings, with so much against them there is nothing else to feel but hope. This was a lesson that there are so many different kinds of love, and none is greater than the other, just the feeling itself is a gift. So when guilt rides Blake to his breaking point, you felt sorrow for them both. Timmy was the breath of fresh air they needed, a reminder of just how precious every day is and how resilient children are when they are loved completely. This was a sensual read full of heart and love, one that I enjoyed. An enjoyable read that will bring both joy and tears to your day, recommended for my friends that love, love.
Copy kindly provided by Beyond the Page Publishing, via NetGalley, for an honest review.
***Quotes above are taken from the version of the book I received and may differ from published edition.
***Reviewed on Feb. 20, 2017***
Erin has been living a life of struggle ever since her husband died leaving their son injured and in need of medical procedures that she can't afford on her own. Desperation leads her to be the surrogate mother to Glenna and Blake Turner, and while she knows she can't keep the baby that she's raised in her, she knows that Glenna and Blake would provide a life that every child deserves... that is until Glenna suddenly passes.
Blake indulged his late wife with her request to have a child with a surrogate. He would give her anything she asked for to make her happy, but now that she is gone, the unborn child is nothing but a painful reminder of his love for her. After meeting the woman who is now the only mother his child will ever know, he knows there is only one solution, man up and be the best father he can be, to his child and Erin's.
“But little one, could we really make a happy home for you when all we have to hold it all together is you?”
An arrangement that benefits all, there should be no problem or worry. That is until the heart and guilt bleed into their lives.
The Closer We Get takes us full circle, from the despair of death, to the joys of birth, and the power of love. This was a book that pulled at my heart strings, with so much against them there is nothing else to feel but hope. This was a lesson that there are so many different kinds of love, and none is greater than the other, just the feeling itself is a gift. So when guilt rides Blake to his breaking point, you felt sorrow for them both. Timmy was the breath of fresh air they needed, a reminder of just how precious every day is and how resilient children are when they are loved completely. This was a sensual read full of heart and love, one that I enjoyed. An enjoyable read that will bring both joy and tears to your day, recommended for my friends that love, love.
Copy kindly provided by Beyond the Page Publishing, via NetGalley, for an honest review.
***Quotes above are taken from the version of the book I received and may differ from published edition.
***Reviewed on Feb. 20, 2017***
February 16, 2017
This was a nice and easy read with interesting characters and a pretty decent storyline. Although it is not the most original it is a quick and easy read.
The main characters in this book are Blake and Erin, an unlikely couple who started out in a pretty wierd way. Blake and his wife want a baby but she is unable so they look to Erin to be their surrogate, but when Blake dies neither him nore Erin wants to get rid of the baby. So somehow the two end up together, Erin is glad for the support as her young son is unwell and she is struggling to pay the hospital debts.
There are some secondary characters but I think they will get books of their own in this series.
The storyline is easy to read but not particularly original; this is a book that doesn't require too much thought and is easy to read. The pacing is pretty good leaving it pretty late for the two characters to get together.
4 stars a decent read
The main characters in this book are Blake and Erin, an unlikely couple who started out in a pretty wierd way. Blake and his wife want a baby but she is unable so they look to Erin to be their surrogate, but when Blake dies neither him nore Erin wants to get rid of the baby. So somehow the two end up together, Erin is glad for the support as her young son is unwell and she is struggling to pay the hospital debts.
There are some secondary characters but I think they will get books of their own in this series.
The storyline is easy to read but not particularly original; this is a book that doesn't require too much thought and is easy to read. The pacing is pretty good leaving it pretty late for the two characters to get together.
4 stars a decent read
December 18, 2020
Wow. I can’t believe I’ve had this book on my Kindle for so long. The copy I read “Another Love” has been re-released under the title “The Closer We Get” in the Oil Barons series, and I don’t know if any edits have been made. So my review is for the older edition.
After the loss of her husband, Erin Winters lives her life taking care of her injured son, Timmy, and she’s in desperate need of money to provide for Timmy’s surgeries and physical therapy, not to mention everyday bills. When she agrees to be a surrogate mother for the Tanners, a wealthy couple who cannot have children, in exchange for fifty thousand dollars, she thinks her money problems will finally be over, at least for a while, even though it devastates her knowing she’ll have to give up her newborn baby. Then Glenna Tanner dies in a horrific shooting and her heartbroken husband, Blake, doesn’t want anything to do with the baby.
With his beloved wife dead, Blake falls into a deep depression, but he feels responsible for Erin and the baby she’s carrying, especially since she won’t have an abortion. He brings Erin and her son into his home, determined to give the unborn baby a two-parent family. Though he quickly falls head over heels for Timmy, he keeps a respectful distance from Erin and proposes a marriage of convenience. After all, Blake needs a mother for his child, and Erin needs Blake’s money for Timmy’s ongoing therapy. Though Blake and Erin become friends, his grief over his wife is a constant barrier for them. Neither of them expects their friendship to bloom into heart stopping love.
This story is probably one of the most heartfelt tearjerkers I’ve read in a long time. Be sure to have your tissues handy! Erin and Blake have lived through horrible tragedies and loss. They’re both strong, courageous people doing what they must in order to survive. Blake is so desperately in love with Glenna. The reader can feel his pain, grief, and guilt, especially as his sexual needs and unwanted feelings for Erin bring him and Erin closer together. Blake is a such a great father figure to the brave little Timmy, and it’s no wonder Erin quickly fell in love with him, even though she doubted Blake would ever love her in return.
I think my favorite character is Glenna. She comes back as a ghost to help Blake and Erin find happiness together.
There’s a side plot to the story that I equally enjoyed. Blake’s friend Greg, and Erin’s sister Sandy, are engaged and in love, but they have their own problems to work out, namely Greg’s bratty teen daughter. So, basically, there are two love stories to focus on.
Anyway, I absolutely loved this book, and I definitely recommend it.
5 Stars
After the loss of her husband, Erin Winters lives her life taking care of her injured son, Timmy, and she’s in desperate need of money to provide for Timmy’s surgeries and physical therapy, not to mention everyday bills. When she agrees to be a surrogate mother for the Tanners, a wealthy couple who cannot have children, in exchange for fifty thousand dollars, she thinks her money problems will finally be over, at least for a while, even though it devastates her knowing she’ll have to give up her newborn baby. Then Glenna Tanner dies in a horrific shooting and her heartbroken husband, Blake, doesn’t want anything to do with the baby.
With his beloved wife dead, Blake falls into a deep depression, but he feels responsible for Erin and the baby she’s carrying, especially since she won’t have an abortion. He brings Erin and her son into his home, determined to give the unborn baby a two-parent family. Though he quickly falls head over heels for Timmy, he keeps a respectful distance from Erin and proposes a marriage of convenience. After all, Blake needs a mother for his child, and Erin needs Blake’s money for Timmy’s ongoing therapy. Though Blake and Erin become friends, his grief over his wife is a constant barrier for them. Neither of them expects their friendship to bloom into heart stopping love.
This story is probably one of the most heartfelt tearjerkers I’ve read in a long time. Be sure to have your tissues handy! Erin and Blake have lived through horrible tragedies and loss. They’re both strong, courageous people doing what they must in order to survive. Blake is so desperately in love with Glenna. The reader can feel his pain, grief, and guilt, especially as his sexual needs and unwanted feelings for Erin bring him and Erin closer together. Blake is a such a great father figure to the brave little Timmy, and it’s no wonder Erin quickly fell in love with him, even though she doubted Blake would ever love her in return.
I think my favorite character is Glenna. She comes back as a ghost to help Blake and Erin find happiness together.
There’s a side plot to the story that I equally enjoyed. Blake’s friend Greg, and Erin’s sister Sandy, are engaged and in love, but they have their own problems to work out, namely Greg’s bratty teen daughter. So, basically, there are two love stories to focus on.
Anyway, I absolutely loved this book, and I definitely recommend it.
5 Stars
April 14, 2015
The Closer We Get
This story was gifted to me in exchange for an honest review by Net Galley.
Get out the box of Kleenex, this one is going to tug at your heart strings.
Erin Winters once had it all a handsome husband and a beautiful little boy. Then tragedy struck in the form of a car accident. The husband was killed and the little boy severely injured. Three years later he is still in a wheelchair awaiting an expensive surgery when an offer comes through for the chance to be a surrogate mother. This will solve some of her money concerns and hopefully make Timmy's life a little easier.
Blake and Glenna are the parents-to-be on this expectant baby. Glenna is over the moon excited. Blake doesn't understand the need for surrogacy, he would have been happy with just Glenna or adopting. Then tragedy strikes this couple and Glenna is the victim of violence and her life is also cut short.
Blake is devastated, he does not know how to go on without his wife, and then there is the baby. What should he do? When he finally meets Erin and Timothy, when he sees how poorly they are living, with every penny going towards Timmy's care, he realizes there is only one answer. He moves them in with him and decides that the adults should band together to raise these two children- they should get married, in name only of course as he believes he will never be able to love again.
It was a bit sappy the way that Blake totally took over with Timmy. But I love sappy. Blake and Erin were a little bit slower coming around to one another. They were a little bit more cautious towards the other and Blake's heart has been locked away, never to come out again. Erin has a lot on her mind too with worrying about Timmie, dealing with the pregnancy and moving into a new house. Now Erin soon realizes that her new husband is both a sweet man and very attractive but Blake is still deeply mourning his deceased wife.
Will the love of Erin, Timmie and the new baby be enough to bring Blake out of his depression? Or is this bound to be a strictly business arrangement forever? Read this story to find out these answers. I really enjoyed every page and would rate it a 5/5.
April 5, 2010
Erin is a young widower that has a young son to take care of and lots of medical bills to pay for since her husband died. Her son was severely injured in that accident and has had to endure many surgeries. She had an opportunity to earn a large chunk of money by being a surrogate for a wealthy couple. 5 months in to her pregnancy the wife was tragically killed. It left the grieving husband with the difficult decision of figuring out what to do with the baby that was expected soon. He couldn't see through his bitterness and grief but after meeting Erin he knew he had to step in and help her and also give her a good place to live so she would keep herself healthy for his child. They end up getting married out of convenience because they both believed being there for the children would be best. This is their journey and their love story.
It is a long road to finding love again but these two beat the odds and end up fighting through much pain and grief to find a 2nd chance at life. Through this whole story always lurking was the ghost of Blake's dead wife. She kept an eye on things and advised Erin on a regular basis. It added much emotion as well as some comical moments as well. Erin was strong but feminine and soft too. She had so much love to give and was a wonderful match for Blake. Blake was stubborn and unintentionally gruff in all his grief, but he was the ultimate step-in father for Timmy and adored his new child with Erin. Little by little his heart opened up and healed. He was very romantic and very sensual. This was incredibly emotional but I'm so glad I read it. Extremely sexy and romantic.....and a tear-jerker!!! Be prepared. Don't miss it.
It is a long road to finding love again but these two beat the odds and end up fighting through much pain and grief to find a 2nd chance at life. Through this whole story always lurking was the ghost of Blake's dead wife. She kept an eye on things and advised Erin on a regular basis. It added much emotion as well as some comical moments as well. Erin was strong but feminine and soft too. She had so much love to give and was a wonderful match for Blake. Blake was stubborn and unintentionally gruff in all his grief, but he was the ultimate step-in father for Timmy and adored his new child with Erin. Little by little his heart opened up and healed. He was very romantic and very sensual. This was incredibly emotional but I'm so glad I read it. Extremely sexy and romantic.....and a tear-jerker!!! Be prepared. Don't miss it.
August 25, 2021
The closer I got to the crux of the story, the more it kindled my interest. Ann Jacobs writes some really nice stories and her Oil Barons Series is pretty charming.
Second in the series, “The Closer We Get” brings single mom Erin Winters up, close and personal with Blake Tanner. Losing her husband in a car accident and trying to get the necessary treatment for her wheel-chaired toddles, leaves Erin with becoming a surrogate mother to pay for the impending surgery. But circumstances throw things into a roller coaster ride of uncertainties and fears as she ends up in a marriage to the sperm donor.
Rich and affluent attorney Blake Tanner loses his wife to a stray bullet bringing him face to face with Erin Winters carrying his child. Despite his initial resistance and reservations, Blake ends up with Erin under his roof and in the safety of his arms. As he gets closer to mother and son, sparks ignite to lust. As he gets to know Erin on a daily basis, lust turns into desire and love.
Ann Jacobs weaves a pretty interesting story around Blake and Erin. As much as I liked Blake and Erin and their chemistry, I did feel that the process of forgiveness, guilt and feelings needed a more intense delivery. Weaving in Erin’s sister’s and Blake’s friend’s story into the main storyline was pretty good as a supporting cast.
“The Closer We Get” is set at a little bit of a slow pace, but definitely charming enough to finish in one sitting.
Received an ARC from Beyond The Page Publishing from NetGalley for an honest review.
Second in the series, “The Closer We Get” brings single mom Erin Winters up, close and personal with Blake Tanner. Losing her husband in a car accident and trying to get the necessary treatment for her wheel-chaired toddles, leaves Erin with becoming a surrogate mother to pay for the impending surgery. But circumstances throw things into a roller coaster ride of uncertainties and fears as she ends up in a marriage to the sperm donor.
Rich and affluent attorney Blake Tanner loses his wife to a stray bullet bringing him face to face with Erin Winters carrying his child. Despite his initial resistance and reservations, Blake ends up with Erin under his roof and in the safety of his arms. As he gets closer to mother and son, sparks ignite to lust. As he gets to know Erin on a daily basis, lust turns into desire and love.
Ann Jacobs weaves a pretty interesting story around Blake and Erin. As much as I liked Blake and Erin and their chemistry, I did feel that the process of forgiveness, guilt and feelings needed a more intense delivery. Weaving in Erin’s sister’s and Blake’s friend’s story into the main storyline was pretty good as a supporting cast.
“The Closer We Get” is set at a little bit of a slow pace, but definitely charming enough to finish in one sitting.
Received an ARC from Beyond The Page Publishing from NetGalley for an honest review.
December 26, 2010
Not sure why I decided to read this. The publication date says 2003 but there is a dated quality to this story and a harlequin romanciness that threw me. The plot is harlequinny but the sex scenes are all hot erotica; it just didn't blend for me. What is with the jumper outfits? Adults still wear those? in public? But I digress. I guess I had the same problem with this story I have with many of this kind. I like heroines with more independence and gumption and Erin is definitely not one of those. I also dislike a common theme in these tales in which wealthy men rescue some poor helpless woman and spend oodles of money on them. This is emphasized in stories of this kind so much that I'm beginning to think it's a considered romantic and that just doesn't reflect well on a modern woman to me nor do I find it romantic. It just strikes me as being purchased rather than well taken care of.
I appreciated the subtelty with which Glenna's ghost was handled much of the time but it also just pointed out that she wasn't really all that necessary a character. In fact her pushing Erin towards Blake just undermined any sense that Erin was capable of independent thought or decision making. As a character she's completely reactive. I didn't appreciate any of the characters which made it impossible to appreciate the erotic scenes which effectively diminished my appreciation of the whole tale.
I appreciated the subtelty with which Glenna's ghost was handled much of the time but it also just pointed out that she wasn't really all that necessary a character. In fact her pushing Erin towards Blake just undermined any sense that Erin was capable of independent thought or decision making. As a character she's completely reactive. I didn't appreciate any of the characters which made it impossible to appreciate the erotic scenes which effectively diminished my appreciation of the whole tale.
December 13, 2015
Oh my yes indeed I liked this one much better in this series. I like stories you can stick your teeth into with this one able to give that. Erin has alot on her plate all to take care of her son who is her life. For his sake she agrees to be a surrogate mother but life has different designs in that outcome. When the wife of the couple is killed things start to go fast forward for a minute with Blake making a request that will open the door for the both of them to collide on a path that takes them on a journey together. At first you think oh what a jerk he is but even though he is grieving you still think it. It will also be a misleading aspect of his character that this author will then proceed to show just how one man whom thinks he can never feel love or life again will be singing a different tune thanks to the one thing he did not want. Now Erin when she agrees I wanted to shout seriously you are going to do it to the decision she is faced then realize this author knows how to rope you in. Erin also has a sister that is very much in her life whom happens to be going out with Blake's friend. You will be stepping into their growing relationship at various points with this author tying them all together. You will see how love can do alot of things even break down walls of stubbornness of men, bringing new life and love to relationships. I stayed with this one until the last page having now a different viewpoint of Blake and Erin plus adoring their 2 young uns.
June 15, 2015
This was really a good story, but just a bit too perfect. That sounds odd, but once you read it you may know what I mean. Erin is a widow with a 7 year old who needs surgery in order to walk again after the accident that also killed her husband. This sets up the perfect plot device for her to offer to become a surrogate mother. We need to ignore the fact that a woman with a child who has needs like this would easily qualify for state assistance and have the health care covered. The father of the baby she is carrying doesn't want the baby after his wife is killed. But once he meets her, her perfectly sweet and brave son, and sees her situation, he decides she needs someone to care for her and maybe he will keep the baby after all, because this was such a perfect meeting. And he cares for her perfectly and falls perfectly in love with her, after a perfect amount of angst.
This sounds maybe a little pithy, but the book truly was good. You will probably stop reading every so often and say to yourself, "oh come on," but then you'll get right back into the story.
The best, most real part of the story is the grieving that he does. I'm glad Jacobs resisted cutting that short.
This sounds maybe a little pithy, but the book truly was good. You will probably stop reading every so often and say to yourself, "oh come on," but then you'll get right back into the story.
The best, most real part of the story is the grieving that he does. I'm glad Jacobs resisted cutting that short.
December 31, 2015
First reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
This was a very interesting story. You have the basics from the synopsis. The developing affection between Blake, Timmy and Erin is heartwarming to watch. Even though Blake will hold on to his love and memories of Glenna for the majority of the novel, it is obvious that he is slowly coming to love his new family. When his child is born, Blake is totally captivated by his newborn son.
It is not an easy journey for Erin and Blake. They will encounter challenges along the way, but eventually Blake sees what is right in front of him. A second chance at love and life.
This not a light, fluffy story. The emotions are deep, the situations realistic and the ending makes perfect sense. Overall, a very good read.
I’d recommend this one for anyone who likes their stories a bit deeper, the characters a little more complicated and an ending that fits perfectly.
*I received an e-ARC of The Closer We Get from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange
for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
This was a very interesting story. You have the basics from the synopsis. The developing affection between Blake, Timmy and Erin is heartwarming to watch. Even though Blake will hold on to his love and memories of Glenna for the majority of the novel, it is obvious that he is slowly coming to love his new family. When his child is born, Blake is totally captivated by his newborn son.
It is not an easy journey for Erin and Blake. They will encounter challenges along the way, but eventually Blake sees what is right in front of him. A second chance at love and life.
This not a light, fluffy story. The emotions are deep, the situations realistic and the ending makes perfect sense. Overall, a very good read.
I’d recommend this one for anyone who likes their stories a bit deeper, the characters a little more complicated and an ending that fits perfectly.
*I received an e-ARC of The Closer We Get from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange
for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
October 21, 2015
First, I would like to thank Ann Jacobs for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.
Ann Jacobs the Closer We Get had a little bit of everything to capture my attention and then some. Surrogate trying to raise money for her sons surgery, the loss of the birth mother, a hunk of the birth father wanting to be a part of the baby’s life, the amazing little boy-Timmy-who will touch your heart, a wedding, a birth, etc. There is something for everyone in this book. Needless to say I loved this book and would totally read another book by her.
My heart went out to Blake who had just lost his wife Glenda. Plus, he and his late wife were going to have a baby via surrogate through Erin. Now with Glenda gone he didn’t know what he was going to do. Erin was a part of this to raise the money to pay for her son’s surgery. The idea Blake came up with was a genius idea that benefited them all. In my eyes he is a total stand up guy for everything he had done for those two.
I loved watching the bond between Timmy and Blake grow as time went on. He is such a sweet and special little kid. He is blessed to have Blake as a role model in his life.
Ann Jacobs the Closer We Get had a little bit of everything to capture my attention and then some. Surrogate trying to raise money for her sons surgery, the loss of the birth mother, a hunk of the birth father wanting to be a part of the baby’s life, the amazing little boy-Timmy-who will touch your heart, a wedding, a birth, etc. There is something for everyone in this book. Needless to say I loved this book and would totally read another book by her.
My heart went out to Blake who had just lost his wife Glenda. Plus, he and his late wife were going to have a baby via surrogate through Erin. Now with Glenda gone he didn’t know what he was going to do. Erin was a part of this to raise the money to pay for her son’s surgery. The idea Blake came up with was a genius idea that benefited them all. In my eyes he is a total stand up guy for everything he had done for those two.
I loved watching the bond between Timmy and Blake grow as time went on. He is such a sweet and special little kid. He is blessed to have Blake as a role model in his life.
April 10, 2015
Blake I liked that he cared for Timmy right off the bat, "he’d barely managed to restrain himself from ordering Michelle to cease her torture and soothe Timmy’s pain with a deep heat massage, or ultrasound, or maybe a healing soak in the Jacuzzi." He's willing to make sure his girl is comfortable even if that means getting naked, "would it help if I took off my shirt?” Blake set the blue-bound papers on the bed and attacked the second button of his pale yellow dress shirt." He's always searching for his woman's approval, "horny. Very, very horny. Do you like what you see?” The second sock finally came off, and Blake threw it in the corner before dragging Erin down onto the bed and covering her body with his own. “I asked you, honey, if you approve?" I liked this book at times I wondered why Erin stayed with Blake because it seemed like he commenter his head out of his a**, but thankfully he did.
April 16, 2015
After reading the short prequel novella I was pleased to see that we actually get a story this time. Plenty of character building, emotion, and a great story line. A couple things still bothered me, Erin seemed like a pushover letting Blake dictate her life. Yes, he is rescuing her and Timmy when she needs help the most but she just rolled over and let him run her life. Blake was a tough nut to crack, very rough around the edges. As close as he is with Greg I would have thought the two would have discussed his deceased wife and allowed him to grieve. The side story with Sandy and Greg was okay, a little too much some times. Greg's daughter is named Shana, also the name of the female character in the first story. I couldn't believe an author would use the same name for two different people in the same series, but finally in the last chapter the answer arrives. My copy was given through Netgalley for my honest review.
April 11, 2015
I'm going to be honest I liked the story, I liked the blurb, I liked the writing, and the characters were good. What I did not like was the multiple stories going on. This book from what I got reading the Blurb was about Blake and Erin. The side story where we went and had Sandy and Greg's POV i could have done without. Make them two stories. I wanted to give this four or five stars but to me their sides weren't needed. Or hello give them their own book and have it happening the same time as Blake and Erin.
I just didn't need them and felt it took away from the two actual main characters. Now Timmy and Jamie were awesome. I loved Timmy, but my own son is special needs so I felt like I connected more. I understood both Blake and Erin's side and wished they communicated a little more. All in all it was a good book and I'll recommend this to my family and friends.
I just didn't need them and felt it took away from the two actual main characters. Now Timmy and Jamie were awesome. I loved Timmy, but my own son is special needs so I felt like I connected more. I understood both Blake and Erin's side and wished they communicated a little more. All in all it was a good book and I'll recommend this to my family and friends.
October 22, 2015
The Closer We Get (The Oil Barons #2) by Ann Jacobs
Reviewed by (Isha Coleman) for Candid Book Reviews
When I hear the name Ann Jacobs I picture stories that are steamy and will singe your clothes off. In my eyes The Closer We Get just would not have been a true Ann Jacobs book without sex appeal. What I did not expect is a story that consists of the lengths a mother will go to in order to take care of her son. She will risk her heart, body and give her very soul to help her sick child. Along the way she learns a lesson about the power of love, the ability to trust and discovers that her self-sacrificing spirit may not only heal her son but lead her to her very own happily every after. Not the typical Ann Jacobs story but just as rewarding. Received a copy of The Closer We Get in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by (Isha Coleman) for Candid Book Reviews
When I hear the name Ann Jacobs I picture stories that are steamy and will singe your clothes off. In my eyes The Closer We Get just would not have been a true Ann Jacobs book without sex appeal. What I did not expect is a story that consists of the lengths a mother will go to in order to take care of her son. She will risk her heart, body and give her very soul to help her sick child. Along the way she learns a lesson about the power of love, the ability to trust and discovers that her self-sacrificing spirit may not only heal her son but lead her to her very own happily every after. Not the typical Ann Jacobs story but just as rewarding. Received a copy of The Closer We Get in exchange for an honest review.
March 1, 2013
This book is very different to the other's. With Glenna being a troublesome ghost and Blake struggling to recover from the lost of his wife, then having a baby on the way by a surrogate who he's never met. This book has more then one story. Theirs the main which is Blake n Erin then Blake's best friend Glen who falls for Erin sister Sandy. Then through the book u realise the brake up in jakes story when his ex wife tell him horrible things she done and asking for a divorce. I do think this story should be before jakes, just would have made more sense and given u background info about jake before starting his story. I do think Blake to have professed his love at the end better but really liked the book and great HEA.
June 27, 2015
I was given a copy of The Closer We Get from NetGalley for an honest review so here is the review.
To me this book was glorified porn with a story thrown in so it can be called a romance book. It tells the storyline f two couples and the pretty much get it on like rabbits in every way imaginable. After reading the first book in series I should have known better but I was glutton for punishment. I actually think I would have liked the story if there was not so much sex thrown in. I am not against sex in books but sometimes for me a really good plot gets lost in raunchy sex. I personally like books with less in that department. It is a personal preference.
I am giving this book three out of five star.
To me this book was glorified porn with a story thrown in so it can be called a romance book. It tells the storyline f two couples and the pretty much get it on like rabbits in every way imaginable. After reading the first book in series I should have known better but I was glutton for punishment. I actually think I would have liked the story if there was not so much sex thrown in. I am not against sex in books but sometimes for me a really good plot gets lost in raunchy sex. I personally like books with less in that department. It is a personal preference.
I am giving this book three out of five star.
December 8, 2015
Received the book for an honest review. Great contemporary romance that keeps you believing in romance and love. After a car accident that killed her husband and seriously injured her son, Erin Winters becomes a surrogate mother in order to pay for her son's costly operations. Months before the baby is due, the wife dies suddenly. Now Erin has to deal with the unborn child and the father who no longer wants it. Blake Tanner grieves his wife's death and is indecisive as to what to do about the child she desperately wanted. When Blake meets the woman who agreed to have his child for money, he realizes that not everything is as it seems. Blake offers Erin a solution that would benefit them both. The story has sorrow, grief, hope, romance and love.
May 26, 2020
this is the second book in the series and a much longer read to the first one at about 280 pages. this book will defiantly pull at your heart strings as the story is very soppy. this is a fantastically wrote book. all the characters are well written with lots of feelings and emotions to them. this is a very touching story line which contains all the important factors to make this a good worthwhile read, love, lust and loss. I suggest getting the tissues ready because you will definitely need them. I cant wait to read more from this author in the future
highly recommended
https://www.obsessedbookreviews.com/
highly recommended
https://www.obsessedbookreviews.com/
April 20, 2015
The second story of The Oil Barons series was definitely for more involved than book one, with a strong foundation and wonderful characters.
Emotionally charged, tragic and heartbreaking are just a few ways to describe this gripping story of new beginnings and a past that won't be forgotten.
For a man who believes that he will never love again and a woman determined to provide for her family the only way she can.
There were tears to be shed during the reading of this book, both happy and sad, but what captivated me most was the genuine perfection of this woman and her selflessness and passion.
I’m now looking forward to book three.
Emotionally charged, tragic and heartbreaking are just a few ways to describe this gripping story of new beginnings and a past that won't be forgotten.
For a man who believes that he will never love again and a woman determined to provide for her family the only way she can.
There were tears to be shed during the reading of this book, both happy and sad, but what captivated me most was the genuine perfection of this woman and her selflessness and passion.
I’m now looking forward to book three.
October 26, 2015
This was the second story in the Oil Baron Series. Damn you Ann Jacobs (in a good way) you made me cry.
I liked this story the more I got into it, I even found myself speed reading the sex scenes as I needed to know what happened next in the story line.
This tale had plenty of character building and a great emotional story line, though I could have done without the secondary characters getting in my way.
This story will pull at your heart strings, especially if you are a mother. I loved watching the characters grow and bonds develop. I look forward to the next book in this series.
I received this book for an honest review.
I liked this story the more I got into it, I even found myself speed reading the sex scenes as I needed to know what happened next in the story line.
This tale had plenty of character building and a great emotional story line, though I could have done without the secondary characters getting in my way.
This story will pull at your heart strings, especially if you are a mother. I loved watching the characters grow and bonds develop. I look forward to the next book in this series.
I received this book for an honest review.
July 28, 2012
Have you ever read a book that you think, this strange (weird) You know what is going to happen at end, but still cant put it down?? Well this is how this got me!
Weird sex scenes (think was the wording rather than the weirdness lol) Ghostly figures, and two storylines running parellel to each other.
One couples story felt rushed, the other slow
But I still couldnt put book down lol
Not one i would read again.. but at same time it was okay
Weird sex scenes (think was the wording rather than the weirdness lol) Ghostly figures, and two storylines running parellel to each other.
One couples story felt rushed, the other slow
But I still couldnt put book down lol
Not one i would read again.. but at same time it was okay
September 5, 2015
Copy received courtesy of Netgalley
This was an ok read to me. the pace was steady and their were some moments of anxiety but nothing too stressful. The characters were ok. I thought Erin could have been a little stronger in character. Blake's character garnered more sympathy because of the tragedy of his wife. But I thought he moved too fast with the marriage. The side story with the sister and best friend was ok. It added a little more to the story.
This was an ok read to me. the pace was steady and their were some moments of anxiety but nothing too stressful. The characters were ok. I thought Erin could have been a little stronger in character. Blake's character garnered more sympathy because of the tragedy of his wife. But I thought he moved too fast with the marriage. The side story with the sister and best friend was ok. It added a little more to the story.
November 24, 2015
I received this book for an honest review from the author. This is such a heartwarming story. Blake and Erin marry for convenience both widowed and unsure. Erin has Timmy to worry about and his many surgeries. Blake instantly loves Timmy and wants to do nothing more than protect him. He swears he can never love Erin as he has given his all to his deceased wife. Following the tough journey of Blake and Erin has brought tears to my eyes and love in my heart. Thank you for this wonderful series.
April 26, 2015
I received a copy of this book for an honest review. The actual story of the book was really good. You can have intimate scenes that flow with the story but to me several of them took away from the story. It felt like some of the sex scenes were just thrown in. This could have been a great book.
July 14, 2015
I decided to read this updated version of Another Love, which is one
of my favourite love stories written by Ann. This has been brought
up to date, and Blake's dead wife's ghost has disappeared.
I still loved Erin and Blake's journey to a happy family life, and their
love for each other. I still will have this on my reread shelf.
of my favourite love stories written by Ann. This has been brought
up to date, and Blake's dead wife's ghost has disappeared.
I still loved Erin and Blake's journey to a happy family life, and their
love for each other. I still will have this on my reread shelf.
December 26, 2015
I got this in exchange for an honest review, this was such a sweet book to read it had such romance and love, Erin and Blake are wonderful characters to read and get to know about their grief was like no other and each had to deal with it on their own and the story gets hotter by each chapter the end was great and hope to read more from the author Ann is great
February 9, 2010
The only reason I did not give this book five stars is because I think the author overused the tearjerker element. This one could be a keeper for the right reader, I read it twice in two years and got something new from it each time.
August 25, 2012
Very romantic and scorching hot love scences ,the charcters were such you couldn't hepl rooting for them ,you even loved the gost of his first wife nudging them along,zihave read many of Miss Jacobs works and have always been pleased
April 16, 2015
This book was a great book. It had a bit of everything in it.. Love, hardship, and tragegdy. It was well written and I had to keep reading to find out what happened in the story. If you are wanting a book to read this one will do very nicely.
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