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Off Base
New York Times bestselling authors Tessa Bailey and Sophie Jordan team up for a collaboration featuring two sexy contemporary romance novellas.
OFF BASE: Kenna and Beck
By Tessa Bailey
A welcome home he never expected...and will never forget...
When Kenna Sutton is tasked with driving home newly returned Beck “True Blue” Collier, she expects the strategic Army mastermind to be a pasty number cruncher. Never at a loss for words, Kenna is nonetheless rendered speechless by the gorgeous, inexperienced and tightly-wound Army major that lands in her passenger seat. Outraged by Beck’s lack of a welcome home after seven long years overseas, Kenna takes matters into her own hands, giving Beck something he’s only ever fantasized about in his bunk.
Beck has never shied away from a test of will and Kenna gives new meaning to the word challenge. One problem? Kenna’s father is the lieutenant general presenting Beck with the Silver Star and Beck is determined to treat Kenna with the respect she deserves, even if her eyes beg Beck to act out his most secret desires with her. Desires he's always been told were the work of the devil. But how long can one lonely, starving man hope to resist the woman he craves?
OFF BASE: Huntley and Cullen
By Sophie Jordan
Being a good girl has its drawbacks...
Huntley Collier, an emergency room nurse and all-around do-gooder, is tired of living in the friend zone. Cullen Brooks was given the job of babysitting Huntley when her brother – his best friend – deployed. But their friendly coffeehouse hangouts and TV marathons leave her wanting more. When one crazy night leads to too many drinks and an explosion of long-denied lust, Huntley's dreams become a reality. And reality is one hot, wild place she never wants to leave.
But only a good girl can bring down a bad boy...
Known as Sullen Cullen around Black Rock, Cullen Brooks doesn’t have many friends, but Huntley is one of them … and despite his decidedly unfriendly fantasies of the curvy blonde, she is far too sweet for his darker tastes. Keeping his hands off is easier said than done, however, when demure, little Huntley responds to his touch like the wildcat he never expected...and can't stop pursuing, despite his better judgment. But when Cullen suddenly faces losing her, will this bad boy risk it all to keep his good girl?
OFF BASE: Kenna and Beck
By Tessa Bailey
A welcome home he never expected...and will never forget...
When Kenna Sutton is tasked with driving home newly returned Beck “True Blue” Collier, she expects the strategic Army mastermind to be a pasty number cruncher. Never at a loss for words, Kenna is nonetheless rendered speechless by the gorgeous, inexperienced and tightly-wound Army major that lands in her passenger seat. Outraged by Beck’s lack of a welcome home after seven long years overseas, Kenna takes matters into her own hands, giving Beck something he’s only ever fantasized about in his bunk.
Beck has never shied away from a test of will and Kenna gives new meaning to the word challenge. One problem? Kenna’s father is the lieutenant general presenting Beck with the Silver Star and Beck is determined to treat Kenna with the respect she deserves, even if her eyes beg Beck to act out his most secret desires with her. Desires he's always been told were the work of the devil. But how long can one lonely, starving man hope to resist the woman he craves?
OFF BASE: Huntley and Cullen
By Sophie Jordan
Being a good girl has its drawbacks...
Huntley Collier, an emergency room nurse and all-around do-gooder, is tired of living in the friend zone. Cullen Brooks was given the job of babysitting Huntley when her brother – his best friend – deployed. But their friendly coffeehouse hangouts and TV marathons leave her wanting more. When one crazy night leads to too many drinks and an explosion of long-denied lust, Huntley's dreams become a reality. And reality is one hot, wild place she never wants to leave.
But only a good girl can bring down a bad boy...
Known as Sullen Cullen around Black Rock, Cullen Brooks doesn’t have many friends, but Huntley is one of them … and despite his decidedly unfriendly fantasies of the curvy blonde, she is far too sweet for his darker tastes. Keeping his hands off is easier said than done, however, when demure, little Huntley responds to his touch like the wildcat he never expected...and can't stop pursuing, despite his better judgment. But when Cullen suddenly faces losing her, will this bad boy risk it all to keep his good girl?
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 22, 2015
57 people are currently reading
2760 people want to read
About the author
Tessa Bailey
110 books67.1k followersNew York Times Bestselling author Tessa Bailey can solve all problems except for her own, so she focuses those efforts on stubborn, fictional blue collar men and loyal, lovable heroines. She lives on Long Island avoiding the sun and social interactions, then wonders why no one has called. Dubbed the “Michelangelo of dirty talk,” by Entertainment Weekly, Tessa writes with spice, spirit, swoon and a guaranteed happily ever after. Catch her on TikTok at @authortessabailey or check out tessabailey.com for a complete list of books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 276 reviews
May 23, 2015
The rating is only for OFF BASE: Kenna and Beck By Tessa Bailey .. Sigh .. Can I have my own Beck? He was the perfect mixture of sweetness and total alpha!!! He was adorable<3
September 22, 2015
Holy crap...the hotness of Tessa Bailey's Beck is indescribable. I've never been one for the virginal hero thing, but Beck is not at all what I expected. He's inexperienced but not at all afraid to go out and get what he wants. Dirty talking, lip smacking deeeeeeelicious!!!! Rough, fast, HARD.
This was my first Sophie Jordan read but not my last! I thought she was historical romance only, but she proved me wrong. Her hero/heroine couple have been friends for years and have always been comfortable with one another. Until one day, the spark ignites and all they can think about is humping each other till they can't walk any more.
One of the better collaborations I've read. These two wrote well together. Their characters came from two minds but the same base, and I'm hoping there's a repeat. Verra nice!!!
This was my first Sophie Jordan read but not my last! I thought she was historical romance only, but she proved me wrong. Her hero/heroine couple have been friends for years and have always been comfortable with one another. Until one day, the spark ignites and all they can think about is humping each other till they can't walk any more.
One of the better collaborations I've read. These two wrote well together. Their characters came from two minds but the same base, and I'm hoping there's a repeat. Verra nice!!!
December 22, 2019
Safety Info: This is a safe book with no cheating. They were only with each other throughout the entire book and there were no other women or other men in the book except a brief appearance by Beck's ex girlfriend who took up less than a single page.
In this military instalove story we have Beck, a 26 year-old gorgeous hero...wait for it...who is a virgin. What a nice turn of events. On top of that he is a deeply caring young man who suffers from the devastation of the death of his good buddy that he feels very guilty for even though no one was at fault during the last mission. He's also dealing with his own injury he received during the bomb explosion that killed his friend. At the age of 26 he is already a Major in the army but he is leaving the military to help run the family peach orchard.
Our beautiful heroine, Kenna, is 22 years of age and hiding behind a tough exterior (her mask if you will) has had a rough life growing up. She's been treated very badly by her parents and step parents. She rebelled as a teen and her father, being a Lieutenant General, expected nothing less than perfection in everything she did just as he expected from his soldiers. All she wanted was for her parents to accept and love her but it was pretty obvious they did not and probably never would. When she went to visit her father, his second wife offered drinks to everyone at the dinner party except for Kenna who she purposely skipped over and left out all evening. I don't understand why they invited her. She brought her father a gift and he refused to accept it. Yeah...real sweethearts! Way to treat your guests...and even worse if one of those guests is your own daughter. I'm not sure why she went but she always did whatever her father wanted in hopes of gaining his/their approval.
Beck was only going to be at the base for a short time before he left to go back home and he knew from the day he met Kenna she was it for him. Kenna, on the other hand, was terrified of a relationship with anyone after being rejected by her family throughout her life, but someone like Beck who was so nice and sweet scared her to death. Her own parents and step-parents didn't even like her (she was practically forced to leave home very young because her dad and his new wife wanted alone time together, so they pushed her away. If her own parents despise her why would someone who wasn't family choose to care about her?
The book was hot and I certainly felt for Kenna and all the pain and rejection she had suffered through. But, what a super match these two made. Loved them and highly recommend this book!
In this military instalove story we have Beck, a 26 year-old gorgeous hero...wait for it...who is a virgin. What a nice turn of events. On top of that he is a deeply caring young man who suffers from the devastation of the death of his good buddy that he feels very guilty for even though no one was at fault during the last mission. He's also dealing with his own injury he received during the bomb explosion that killed his friend. At the age of 26 he is already a Major in the army but he is leaving the military to help run the family peach orchard.
Our beautiful heroine, Kenna, is 22 years of age and hiding behind a tough exterior (her mask if you will) has had a rough life growing up. She's been treated very badly by her parents and step parents. She rebelled as a teen and her father, being a Lieutenant General, expected nothing less than perfection in everything she did just as he expected from his soldiers. All she wanted was for her parents to accept and love her but it was pretty obvious they did not and probably never would. When she went to visit her father, his second wife offered drinks to everyone at the dinner party except for Kenna who she purposely skipped over and left out all evening. I don't understand why they invited her. She brought her father a gift and he refused to accept it. Yeah...real sweethearts! Way to treat your guests...and even worse if one of those guests is your own daughter. I'm not sure why she went but she always did whatever her father wanted in hopes of gaining his/their approval.
Beck was only going to be at the base for a short time before he left to go back home and he knew from the day he met Kenna she was it for him. Kenna, on the other hand, was terrified of a relationship with anyone after being rejected by her family throughout her life, but someone like Beck who was so nice and sweet scared her to death. Her own parents and step-parents didn't even like her (she was practically forced to leave home very young because her dad and his new wife wanted alone time together, so they pushed her away. If her own parents despise her why would someone who wasn't family choose to care about her?
The book was hot and I certainly felt for Kenna and all the pain and rejection she had suffered through. But, what a super match these two made. Loved them and highly recommend this book!
big-ol-nope-from-bonnie
May 23, 2015Beck & Kenna by Tessa Bailey - 1/5 Stars
I really, really HATED this one.
I think I'm going to just pass on this author in the future. Her books just do not work for me lately.
Huntley & Cullen by Sophie Jordan - N/A
I'm gonna pass on this one. Doesn't sound like my cuppa, and I don't care enough about the characters.
I really, really HATED this one.
I think I'm going to just pass on this author in the future. Her books just do not work for me lately.
Huntley & Cullen by Sophie Jordan - N/A
I'm gonna pass on this one. Doesn't sound like my cuppa, and I don't care enough about the characters.
nope-not-celibate-aftr-seeing-h
August 13, 2024Note for me:
First one - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Second one - H slept around while being friends with heroine.
First one - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Second one - H slept around while being friends with heroine.
May 25, 2015
4 Stars for Kenna and Beck's story. 3 stars for Huntley and Cullen's.
June 5, 2015
Quick review:
Cover: Nice
Rating: NC-17
Steaminess: Super Hot
Thumbs Up: 4.5
Overall: I liked it
Characters: Well Written
Plot: Sometimes you just have to take a chance in love
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend:
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
Leave it to me not to read the blurb. I had no idea it was two stories until I got to the end of one. It worked out fine. I just didn’t know. And now you do. I enjoyed both stories, but read the full post for more.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://www.mybookboyfriend.net/2015/0...
Cover: Nice
Rating: NC-17
Steaminess: Super Hot
Thumbs Up: 4.5
Overall: I liked it
Characters: Well Written
Plot: Sometimes you just have to take a chance in love
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend:
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
Leave it to me not to read the blurb. I had no idea it was two stories until I got to the end of one. It worked out fine. I just didn’t know. And now you do. I enjoyed both stories, but read the full post for more.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://www.mybookboyfriend.net/2015/0...
June 4, 2015
So everything about this book was calling my name… I couldn’t even wait until I got back from BEA to start it. I downloaded it while sitting in a restaurant in New Jersey and read it all in the next 24 hours.
Off Base is written by Tessa Bailey and Sophie Jordan… two authors who I’ve enjoyed previous stories from, so I knew I had to give this one a try.
I found myself loving every single thing about Beck and I even really liked Kenna. And together they were just explosive. Picture this…. A marine… a Southern boy… and a virgin. Good lord the boy’s eagerness had me dying!
“I already know you’re going to be the best of my life, Kenna. How do I make sure I’m the best of yours? Tell me.”
I’m just going to be straight here. This was a 5 star read up until a certain point of Tessa Bailey’s story. I’m not going to give anything away, but if you read it, and you know me, you’ll absolutely know when this took a weird turn for me. Let’s just say, it wasn’t necessary and really killed the mood.
The two stories are tied together in that Huntley in Sophie Jordan’s story is actually Beck’s sister. She’s pined for the moody and sullen Cullen for what seems like ever, and the death that Beck shares in the first installment has a huge impact on Cullen and actually brings these two together.
I struggled a bit with the back and forth between these two, but Jordan totally can keep up with Bailey in the sexy stuff.
Overall, this was a really amazing read. (I’m just going to pretend that one thing didn’t happen) Fans of military romance absolutely need to pick this one up, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Off Base is written by Tessa Bailey and Sophie Jordan… two authors who I’ve enjoyed previous stories from, so I knew I had to give this one a try.
I found myself loving every single thing about Beck and I even really liked Kenna. And together they were just explosive. Picture this…. A marine… a Southern boy… and a virgin. Good lord the boy’s eagerness had me dying!
“I already know you’re going to be the best of my life, Kenna. How do I make sure I’m the best of yours? Tell me.”
I’m just going to be straight here. This was a 5 star read up until a certain point of Tessa Bailey’s story. I’m not going to give anything away, but if you read it, and you know me, you’ll absolutely know when this took a weird turn for me. Let’s just say, it wasn’t necessary and really killed the mood.
The two stories are tied together in that Huntley in Sophie Jordan’s story is actually Beck’s sister. She’s pined for the moody and sullen Cullen for what seems like ever, and the death that Beck shares in the first installment has a huge impact on Cullen and actually brings these two together.
I struggled a bit with the back and forth between these two, but Jordan totally can keep up with Bailey in the sexy stuff.
Overall, this was a really amazing read. (I’m just going to pretend that one thing didn’t happen) Fans of military romance absolutely need to pick this one up, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
May 23, 2015
Tessa Bailey's book was going really well for me until the following quotes happened.
Yeah no, that was a total mood killer. I also think the story was way too short for me to be convinced of the emotional relationship.
Sophie Jordan's book was slightly better for me, but yet again, it was too short and there really was no time to delve into the emotional complexities of the characters.
Overall, I'm a little disappointed because I was under the impression that this would be co-authored by the two authors, but it wasn't. It would have made for a better book if it had been in my opinion.
Yeah no, that was a total mood killer. I also think the story was way too short for me to be convinced of the emotional relationship.
Sophie Jordan's book was slightly better for me, but yet again, it was too short and there really was no time to delve into the emotional complexities of the characters.
Overall, I'm a little disappointed because I was under the impression that this would be co-authored by the two authors, but it wasn't. It would have made for a better book if it had been in my opinion.
May 31, 2015
Jeezy Creezy Tessa Bailey can write some smokin hot stories! Whew I seriously need a cold drink of Beck Collier! ;) Damn. Just.... Damn.
Tessa Bailey is one of my all time favorite authors and she never fails to deliver an amazing read. Great story line, seriously hot intimate scenes, and characters you just want to read about. Another hit from her!
(I haven't read the second story in this duo yet but when I do I'll review that one as well)
Tessa Bailey is one of my all time favorite authors and she never fails to deliver an amazing read. Great story line, seriously hot intimate scenes, and characters you just want to read about. Another hit from her!
(I haven't read the second story in this duo yet but when I do I'll review that one as well)
May 27, 2015
4.5 stars for book 1, 3 for book 2.
March 10, 2020
I just read this as The Major's Welcome Home and freaking loved it HARD
But I can't figure out how to get my grabby hands on the second story :(
But I can't figure out how to get my grabby hands on the second story :(
June 28, 2015
3.25 stars. Not my favorite Tessa Bailey story. I liked Beck and Kenna. I just didn't get the good chemistry feel that I usually do from TB. I heard about a ow. I kept waiting for it. There was a photo in Beck's wallet. He left it there when he deployed. He came back home, met Kenna, then NO OTHER for Beck after that. In fact, there wasn't anyone else-well brief appearances of supporting characters. It was a nice change for the h to be the sexually experienced one. Beck was an all around great guy. Too bad there wasn't more detail in their relationship. Their wasn't an epilogue. I admit that I skimmed the 2nd part with Huntley & Cullen. I rarely do that.
*edited to put 3.25 stars, since I really liked Beck. I liked Kenna, but her original aloofness and resolution wasn't given much time.
*edited to put 3.25 stars, since I really liked Beck. I liked Kenna, but her original aloofness and resolution wasn't given much time.
November 26, 2015
Duas histórias em uma!
A primeira, do Beck e Kenna, Beck voltou da guerra e só quer ir para casa, e cuidar da sua propriedade e plantação de pêssego.
Quando Kenna chega para buscá-lo, todo o auto-controle que tinha vai para o espaço!
Quente!!!
A segunda história é do Cullen e Huntley, Ele é melhor amigo do Beck, e Huntley sua irmã gêmea, eles se conhecem há anos, mas a atração entre eles não dá mais para esconder!!!
Livro hot, sem muito conteúdo! :P
A primeira, do Beck e Kenna, Beck voltou da guerra e só quer ir para casa, e cuidar da sua propriedade e plantação de pêssego.
Quando Kenna chega para buscá-lo, todo o auto-controle que tinha vai para o espaço!
Quente!!!
A segunda história é do Cullen e Huntley, Ele é melhor amigo do Beck, e Huntley sua irmã gêmea, eles se conhecem há anos, mas a atração entre eles não dá mais para esconder!!!
Livro hot, sem muito conteúdo! :P
December 18, 2015
My love for Tessa bailey continues to grow.
Her writing is solid. Very few errors in grammar, only a couple of typos. You know how that gets me hot and bothered.
This is a short erotic story and I absolutely loved it from start to finish. And virgin hero! Yassss. I will continue to read Ms. Bailey because she never fails to give me a story worth reading.
Her writing is solid. Very few errors in grammar, only a couple of typos. You know how that gets me hot and bothered.
This is a short erotic story and I absolutely loved it from start to finish. And virgin hero! Yassss. I will continue to read Ms. Bailey because she never fails to give me a story worth reading.
June 16, 2015
Rating only the TB story
July 16, 2018
Reread 7/16/18
Both of these short stories were super hot and super fun to read.
Both of these short stories were super hot and super fun to read.
August 10, 2018
"Off Base" is an anthology with two books; Beck & Kenna/ Huntley & Cullen
In "Beck and Kenna" we had Tessa Bailey delivering her magical smut with a hero returning from army who turns out to be a virgin, a military "brat" who recieves him, and a chemistry so hot that there is literal dick bouncing.
Though virgin heroes are one of my biggest pet peeves, and add that to a semi-promiscuous/experienced heroine is a combo I would normally never touch- this was a TB so ofc I wasnt going to skip it- and Im glad that I did because
-Beck was yummy, alpha and so adorbs
-Kenna was the pursuer at first, pursued at the end and a hidden hurt, softie inside
-The sex scenes were bomb
-The random daddy reference was hot
-HEA showed trust
I enjoyed this!
Safe
4/5
---------
In "Huntley & Cullen" Sophie Jordan tells the tale of two best friends who have been attracted to one another forever, finally take things to the next level.
We have a scarred hero, a lovestruck heroine, some dirty sex and a HEA.
TBH I didnt get the point of both of them being with and dating other people if the attraction/incognito love was so strong- and the hero's sudden realization of his feelings seemed a tad bit unbelievable. That being said, if you like the FWB plot- this is for you.
Unsafe
3/5
-----------
Overall- 3.5/5
In "Beck and Kenna" we had Tessa Bailey delivering her magical smut with a hero returning from army who turns out to be a virgin, a military "brat" who recieves him, and a chemistry so hot that there is literal dick bouncing.
Though virgin heroes are one of my biggest pet peeves, and add that to a semi-promiscuous/experienced heroine is a combo I would normally never touch- this was a TB so ofc I wasnt going to skip it- and Im glad that I did because
-Beck was yummy, alpha and so adorbs
-Kenna was the pursuer at first, pursued at the end and a hidden hurt, softie inside
-The sex scenes were bomb
-The random daddy reference was hot
-HEA showed trust
I enjoyed this!
Safe
4/5
---------
In "Huntley & Cullen" Sophie Jordan tells the tale of two best friends who have been attracted to one another forever, finally take things to the next level.
We have a scarred hero, a lovestruck heroine, some dirty sex and a HEA.
TBH I didnt get the point of both of them being with and dating other people if the attraction/incognito love was so strong- and the hero's sudden realization of his feelings seemed a tad bit unbelievable. That being said, if you like the FWB plot- this is for you.
Unsafe
3/5
-----------
Overall- 3.5/5
May 22, 2015
BECK AND KENNA 3,5 stars
HUNTLEY AND CULLEN 4,5 stars
Review coming soon!
HUNTLEY AND CULLEN 4,5 stars
Review coming soon!
June 12, 2015
LOVE these authors!! 5 stars as usual.
December 24, 2021
LOVED THIS NOVELLA! in this book, there are two stories. one written by queen tessa bailey and the other by sophie jordan. can you guess which one i read? yep, tessa bailey gave me a spicy, sweet, and dirty novella that made my heart *and other places* warm 😉. her book follows Beck and Kenna as Beck is a hot, big, dirty solider who is a virgin! swoon, times a million. he was absolutely phenomenal. Beck was so patient with Kenna, and wholeheartedly was devoted to her from the first second he laid his eyes on her. i loved him because he showed his vulnerability so many times. he wanted Kenna and had that inexperienced charm to him that quickly led him to be a completely scorching hot sex god. the spice in tessa bailey’s books? phenomenal and this book did not disappoint. i loved this so much and want tessa to release more books please 🤲
*the other book in this set was written by sophie jordan which i did not read. i read the spoilers and in sophie’s book, they main characters are in love but the H is constantly sleeping w other woman even when he claims to be in love w the h 👎. no thanks. will not be reading :)
*the other book in this set was written by sophie jordan which i did not read. i read the spoilers and in sophie’s book, they main characters are in love but the H is constantly sleeping w other woman even when he claims to be in love w the h 👎. no thanks. will not be reading :)
January 26, 2016
Hot, that's the word I would use to describe this. I mean, if I'm sitting back fanning myself as I read, or if I have to put the book down for a moment to catch my breath than that says something, no?
I have never read anything by Tessa Bailey. And I love Sophie Jordan. So I figured I would give this one a shot. And I can say I'm truly glad I did.
Tessa delivers a sexy, hot, emotional story of a soldier who has pretty much dedicated his life to being just that and the girl who wins his heart. I love the chemistry between Kenna and Beck. Tessa doesn't waste any time revealing their attraction, or getting down to them being with each other. Of course, as with all contemporary reads, there is a bit of drama. A bit of "Does he want me?" and "Does she care about me?" But in the end we are graced with these two realizing they are more than meant for each other.
You rarely read something where the male is less experienced than the female, but this novella goes there. And, even though Beck is the less experienced, he doesn't hold back with what he wants. While he questions at times if what he says or does goes too far for Kenna, he still takes that chance. And Kenna, who is the daughter of the biggest military man on base, doesn't waste time accepting him and making it perfectly clear there is nothing he could do wrong.
And then there is Jordan's story of Cullen and Huntley. GAH! I loved this story so much. Cullen and Huntley, best friends for so long, yet both wanting more, and too scared to admit it. Until they have that one night where things change and neither is sure enough to know if it will go any further. I loved how strong they both were, but how their hearts gave them both pause. Cullen because he thinks there is no way he can let himself love Huntley and not hurt her, and Hunt because they have always been friends and she doesn't want that to be ruined. Both struggle so much with this and, honestly, I wanted to shake them and say DUH! what is wrong with you two, can't you see it?
Cullen struggles with demons. The demons of his father and how he always told him he would amount to nothing. And the struggle of his having trained Xander, a good friend who ended up being killed while on deployment. Cullen, so strong and yet affected by so much. I will say I would have loved a bit more back story about his father, but it didn't change my love of the story. And Hunt is so independent, loving what she does for a living but feeling empty because she hasn't found that one person to fill the void in her heart. All along it's been Cullen, but she didn't think she could allow herself to even think it might happen.
Both Jordan and Bailey provide stories that show the emotional journeys the characters take to come to terms with the love in their hearts. The writing is clear and flows easily. And the sexy factor is through the roof. I will say I did much squirming, in a good way, while reading these novellas. I'm so glad I jumped in with both feet. I hope these two team up again to give us more sexy, emotional reads!
I have never read anything by Tessa Bailey. And I love Sophie Jordan. So I figured I would give this one a shot. And I can say I'm truly glad I did.
Tessa delivers a sexy, hot, emotional story of a soldier who has pretty much dedicated his life to being just that and the girl who wins his heart. I love the chemistry between Kenna and Beck. Tessa doesn't waste any time revealing their attraction, or getting down to them being with each other. Of course, as with all contemporary reads, there is a bit of drama. A bit of "Does he want me?" and "Does she care about me?" But in the end we are graced with these two realizing they are more than meant for each other.
You rarely read something where the male is less experienced than the female, but this novella goes there. And, even though Beck is the less experienced, he doesn't hold back with what he wants. While he questions at times if what he says or does goes too far for Kenna, he still takes that chance. And Kenna, who is the daughter of the biggest military man on base, doesn't waste time accepting him and making it perfectly clear there is nothing he could do wrong.
And then there is Jordan's story of Cullen and Huntley. GAH! I loved this story so much. Cullen and Huntley, best friends for so long, yet both wanting more, and too scared to admit it. Until they have that one night where things change and neither is sure enough to know if it will go any further. I loved how strong they both were, but how their hearts gave them both pause. Cullen because he thinks there is no way he can let himself love Huntley and not hurt her, and Hunt because they have always been friends and she doesn't want that to be ruined. Both struggle so much with this and, honestly, I wanted to shake them and say DUH! what is wrong with you two, can't you see it?
Cullen struggles with demons. The demons of his father and how he always told him he would amount to nothing. And the struggle of his having trained Xander, a good friend who ended up being killed while on deployment. Cullen, so strong and yet affected by so much. I will say I would have loved a bit more back story about his father, but it didn't change my love of the story. And Hunt is so independent, loving what she does for a living but feeling empty because she hasn't found that one person to fill the void in her heart. All along it's been Cullen, but she didn't think she could allow herself to even think it might happen.
Both Jordan and Bailey provide stories that show the emotional journeys the characters take to come to terms with the love in their hearts. The writing is clear and flows easily. And the sexy factor is through the roof. I will say I did much squirming, in a good way, while reading these novellas. I'm so glad I jumped in with both feet. I hope these two team up again to give us more sexy, emotional reads!
February 19, 2025
4.5 stars
Warning: Make sure you have a glass of cold water close by when you start reading this anthology. Make that ten glasses of cold water.
These two novellas take place in the same setting and the protagonists are related to each other. They are best read in order.
Beck & Kenna (The Major's Welcome Home) by Tessa Bailey
4 stars
Super sexy and kinky novella between a feisty welder heroine and a major who returns home. Beck is a sexy Southern gentleman who is also a...virgin. A sexy virgin hero who also happens to be shy in the most adorable fashion. Beck is a whole lot of sexy and kinky, with a dash of adorable. Kenna is the Lieutenant General's daughter and she's lived on base since she was born. This was a steamy insta-love and even though I'm not the biggest fan of insta-love, it worked out really well here because the hero and heroine were perfect for each other. I especially love Beck and how he is the one who makes the first move towards starting a relationship with Kenna. The power play between the two is really well written and fits them perfectly as a couple.
The only thing really missing here is Kenna's father's reaction to these two as a couple. I thought it should have been an important inclusion since Kenna's trust issues stem from her relationship with her father. But the romance was A+ and that's what counts the most!
Cullen & Huntley by Sophie Jordan
5 stars
OMG. I LOVED this one!! It features two of the best tropes ever: brother's friend and best friends to lovers. When Beck left for his assignment, he told his friend, Cullen, to look after his sister, Huntley. After spending so much time together, Cullen and Huntley became best friends...but their friendship, as well as Cullen's friendship with Huntley's brother, prevented them from ever crossing the line.
But things start heating up when that line is eventually crossed. A lot of pent up sexual tension is released (understatement of the year); the transition from best friends to lovers is done exceptionally well. The relationship development was realistic and so damn sexy! It's like Sophie Jordan reached into my mind to find out what my ideal friends-to-lovers romance looks like and wrote the story just for me. I don't know how Sophie Jordan does it, but she has a knack for writing the hottest sexual tension, expertly cranking up the heat, and building the anticipation at the perfect pace. This is the perfect friends to lovers romance for me. It ticked off all the right boxes and I absolutely love it!
P.S: I almost took off .5 star because there is a touch of the "other women" narrative here, which makes me a bit uncomfortable. But it's not problematic in this context and it's definitely understandable because Huntley is Cullen's best friend. As such, this didn't lessen my enjoyment of the story.
Warning: Make sure you have a glass of cold water close by when you start reading this anthology. Make that ten glasses of cold water.
These two novellas take place in the same setting and the protagonists are related to each other. They are best read in order.
Beck & Kenna (The Major's Welcome Home) by Tessa Bailey
4 stars
Super sexy and kinky novella between a feisty welder heroine and a major who returns home. Beck is a sexy Southern gentleman who is also a...virgin. A sexy virgin hero who also happens to be shy in the most adorable fashion. Beck is a whole lot of sexy and kinky, with a dash of adorable. Kenna is the Lieutenant General's daughter and she's lived on base since she was born. This was a steamy insta-love and even though I'm not the biggest fan of insta-love, it worked out really well here because the hero and heroine were perfect for each other. I especially love Beck and how he is the one who makes the first move towards starting a relationship with Kenna. The power play between the two is really well written and fits them perfectly as a couple.
The only thing really missing here is Kenna's father's reaction to these two as a couple. I thought it should have been an important inclusion since Kenna's trust issues stem from her relationship with her father. But the romance was A+ and that's what counts the most!
Cullen & Huntley by Sophie Jordan
5 stars
OMG. I LOVED this one!! It features two of the best tropes ever: brother's friend and best friends to lovers. When Beck left for his assignment, he told his friend, Cullen, to look after his sister, Huntley. After spending so much time together, Cullen and Huntley became best friends...but their friendship, as well as Cullen's friendship with Huntley's brother, prevented them from ever crossing the line.
But things start heating up when that line is eventually crossed. A lot of pent up sexual tension is released (understatement of the year); the transition from best friends to lovers is done exceptionally well. The relationship development was realistic and so damn sexy! It's like Sophie Jordan reached into my mind to find out what my ideal friends-to-lovers romance looks like and wrote the story just for me. I don't know how Sophie Jordan does it, but she has a knack for writing the hottest sexual tension, expertly cranking up the heat, and building the anticipation at the perfect pace. This is the perfect friends to lovers romance for me. It ticked off all the right boxes and I absolutely love it!
P.S: I almost took off .5 star because there is a touch of the "other women" narrative here, which makes me a bit uncomfortable. But it's not problematic in this context and it's definitely understandable because Huntley is Cullen's best friend. As such, this didn't lessen my enjoyment of the story.
June 27, 2015
Beck & Kenna (Tessa Baily)
**** 4 stars
I loved it so much... I wish there was more to it... :( This could make such a beautiful novel and such an awesome series!!!
on to Huntley & Cullen (Sophie Jordan)
**** 3.5 stars
Really enjoyed this one, but not as much as the 1st one. The sex was scorching hot but the rest of the story was a bit less intense..
Really would have loved this as a full series!!!!
**** 4 stars
I loved it so much... I wish there was more to it... :( This could make such a beautiful novel and such an awesome series!!!
on to Huntley & Cullen (Sophie Jordan)
**** 3.5 stars
Really enjoyed this one, but not as much as the 1st one. The sex was scorching hot but the rest of the story was a bit less intense..
Really would have loved this as a full series!!!!
October 6, 2015
Super freaking hot. I liked Tessa Bailey's book more and loved the twist on the typical female virgin, male playboy dichotomy. A sign of the times? Either way, loved it
January 4, 2017
Rating: 3.5/5
Review to come!
Review to come!
September 12, 2016
Originally posted at Booklovers For Life
I’ve been SO excited for this release ever since I heard about it!! I’m such a HUGE fan of Tessa Bailey’s and I’ll read anything and everything she writes, so of course I had to get my hands on this one! I’d never read a book by Sophie Jordan before, but I was looking forward to read her story in Off Base as well. This new collab release features two novellas from both authors about two hot, sexy military men and the awesome women they fall for and love. And what makes this even better is that a) Tessa Bailey writes about a virgin. hero. and b) Sophie Jordan writes about the older brother’s best friend trope (one of my favorites)!
So that whole virgin hero thing? I’m still fanning myself after reading Tessa’s novella hours ago. Hot damn, can this woman write a virgin hero! I need her to write more virgin heroes! ESPECIALLY ones like Beck, who says things like this…
“I already know you’re going to be the best of my life, Kenna. How do I make sure I’m the best of yours? Tell me.”
Arriving back six years after he was deployed, Major Beck Collier never expected to have a gorgeous woman as Kenna Sutton driving him home. And while Kenna was expecting to be driving some awkward, geeky nerd, she’s utterly shocked that Beck is a sexy, delicious hunk of a man. The two are incredibly attracted to each other from the start – I freaking loved the chemistry between Kenna and Beck! Tessa Bailey writes chemistry between her characters so well that it’s nearly palpable. Kenna learns that Beck is a virgin, one thing leads to another, and this virgin hero is utterly deflowered. And it. is. HOT!!!!! Seriously, get your fans ready, because Beck will knock your socks (and panties) off!
“If I didn’t know any better, I’d think you’d done this before. A lot.”
“Nah, darlin’. Just you.” He took the single key she offered, turning it in the lock. “You make everything I do feel right. That has nothing to do with experience.”
I adored Beck and Kenna’s story. Kenna was a little frustrating, as she’s very anti-relationship, but I loved the way Beck fought for her and for them. The two of them share a spark they’ve never felt with another, and it was so much fun reading about Beck making Kenna see that the two of them were meant to be together.
Sophie Jordan’s heroine is Huntley Collier, Beck’s little sister. Beck’s best friend Cullen has been looking out for her ever since Beck was deployed, but the time together in Black Rock has made them close friends. What they hide from each other is how desperately they want each other… but when they give in to desire one night, have they wrecked their friendship forever?
Cullen is not a relationship kind of guy, but Huntley is different. She’s one of his closest friends and he knows he doesn’t deserve her, but he can’t stop wanting or needing her. Cullen goes back and forth between taking Huntley and pushing her away, which may have annoyed me more if there wasn’t some hot, dirty sexytimes to make up for it. The older brother’s best friend/best friend’s younger sister is one of my favorite tropes, and Sophie Jordan did a great job in finding the right balance between angst and romance for Cullen and Huntley’s story.
“I love you. I always have. I just didn’t know. You’re in my blood, Huntley. If you go, I’m lost.”
Off Base is one sexy, dirty read that fans of military romances don’t want to miss! Be aware that both these are novellas and not full-length novels. Though I totally wouldn’t say no to more about these characters! I had such a fun (HOT) time reading Off Base. If you like your alpha heroes with a little side of dirty, this is for you!
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July 16, 2015
Why I read it: I saw some buzz about this one on Twitter, including that the hero of the Tessa Bailey book was a virgin, so I pre-ordered it.
What it’s about: (from Goodreads) OFF BASE: Kenna and Beck By Tessa Bailey
A welcome home he never expected…and will never forget…
When Kenna Sutton is tasked with driving home newly returned Beck “True Blue” Collier, she expects the strategic Army mastermind to be a pasty number cruncher. Never at a loss for words, Kenna is nonetheless rendered speechless by the gorgeous, inexperienced and tightly-wound Army major that lands in her passenger seat. Outraged by Beck’s lack of a welcome home after seven long years overseas, Kenna takes matters into her own hands, giving Beck something he’s only ever fantasized about in his bunk.
Beck has never shied away from a test of will and Kenna gives new meaning to the word challenge. One problem? Kenna’s father is the lieutenant general presenting Beck with the Silver Star and Beck is determined to treat Kenna with the respect she deserves, even if her eyes beg Beck to act out his most secret desires with her. Desires he’s always been told were the work of the devil. But how long can one lonely, starving man hope to resist the woman he craves?
What worked for me (and what didn’t): While Beck is a virgin, he’s not shy and he’s not reticent. (In my opinion, this is the best kind of virgin hero!) He had been dating a girl from his hometown who was a pastor’s daughter and they’d decided to “wait”. When she broke up with him while he was deployed, he didn’t have the inclination to change his status and so he ended up a 26 year old virgin.
Kenna’s mother had a reputation on base as a “loose woman” and it amuses Kenna to dress in short skirts and tight tops but never, ever, put out on base. Her dad is Lieutenant General Sutton and no soldier has been prepared to try his luck with the beautiful daughter of the commanding officer – although they like very much to look. Kenna gets her itch scratched off base when the need arises. She has a complicated relationship with her (now divorced) parents. She has never measured up to their expectations, although she has mostly moved beyond acting out for attention. When she picks Beck up per her father’s request, she is struck by how strongly she feels about the fact that there are no family or friends welcoming him home. It doesn’t hurt that he’s built and gorgeous but I think what strikes her the most is Beck’s almost completely successful efforts to look her in the eyes and not look her over. In fact, she makes her best efforts to try and draw his eyes to her chest and behind so he can be neatly categorised as “just like all the other guys”. It so happens she gives him a special “welcome home”, but the emotional connection between them scares her and she rabbits.
Read the rest: http://www.kaetrinsmusings.com/2015/0...
What it’s about: (from Goodreads) OFF BASE: Kenna and Beck By Tessa Bailey
A welcome home he never expected…and will never forget…
When Kenna Sutton is tasked with driving home newly returned Beck “True Blue” Collier, she expects the strategic Army mastermind to be a pasty number cruncher. Never at a loss for words, Kenna is nonetheless rendered speechless by the gorgeous, inexperienced and tightly-wound Army major that lands in her passenger seat. Outraged by Beck’s lack of a welcome home after seven long years overseas, Kenna takes matters into her own hands, giving Beck something he’s only ever fantasized about in his bunk.
Beck has never shied away from a test of will and Kenna gives new meaning to the word challenge. One problem? Kenna’s father is the lieutenant general presenting Beck with the Silver Star and Beck is determined to treat Kenna with the respect she deserves, even if her eyes beg Beck to act out his most secret desires with her. Desires he’s always been told were the work of the devil. But how long can one lonely, starving man hope to resist the woman he craves?
What worked for me (and what didn’t): While Beck is a virgin, he’s not shy and he’s not reticent. (In my opinion, this is the best kind of virgin hero!) He had been dating a girl from his hometown who was a pastor’s daughter and they’d decided to “wait”. When she broke up with him while he was deployed, he didn’t have the inclination to change his status and so he ended up a 26 year old virgin.
Kenna’s mother had a reputation on base as a “loose woman” and it amuses Kenna to dress in short skirts and tight tops but never, ever, put out on base. Her dad is Lieutenant General Sutton and no soldier has been prepared to try his luck with the beautiful daughter of the commanding officer – although they like very much to look. Kenna gets her itch scratched off base when the need arises. She has a complicated relationship with her (now divorced) parents. She has never measured up to their expectations, although she has mostly moved beyond acting out for attention. When she picks Beck up per her father’s request, she is struck by how strongly she feels about the fact that there are no family or friends welcoming him home. It doesn’t hurt that he’s built and gorgeous but I think what strikes her the most is Beck’s almost completely successful efforts to look her in the eyes and not look her over. In fact, she makes her best efforts to try and draw his eyes to her chest and behind so he can be neatly categorised as “just like all the other guys”. It so happens she gives him a special “welcome home”, but the emotional connection between them scares her and she rabbits.
Read the rest: http://www.kaetrinsmusings.com/2015/0...
February 15, 2016
Army Alpha Virgin Hero? I was afraid the excitement was larger than reality... but com'on... this is Tessa Bailey we're talking about! ha! She totally pulled all the stops out with Beck and nailed every one! I have way too many bits and pieces highlighted -- he was the perfect balance of alpha male hear-me-roar and teach me what works. Beck and Kenna were an awesome treat to discover! Loved their story -- short, and while I would have loved more (and more and more), it definitely worked for me!
Off to read Huntley and Cullen's part by Sophie Jordan....
June 1 Update
I had the chance to read Sophie Jordan's story about Huntley and Cullen. I loved how Tessa and her tied the stories in together. I enjoyed watching Huntley and Cullen's relationship grow from being friends to more, to knowing and accepting that more is ok. Definitely a hot and sweet story!
Off to read Huntley and Cullen's part by Sophie Jordan....
June 1 Update
I had the chance to read Sophie Jordan's story about Huntley and Cullen. I loved how Tessa and her tied the stories in together. I enjoyed watching Huntley and Cullen's relationship grow from being friends to more, to knowing and accepting that more is ok. Definitely a hot and sweet story!
November 26, 2016
Two awesome short stories about two best friends who also happen to be sexy, alpha soldiers and the strong, sassy women that bring them to their knees. Two different love stories and two different authors but both full of love, hot sex and humour all wrapped up in one book...I just loved this book ...
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