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Strictly Business #2
Just Say Yes
From the author of The Best Medicine comes the latest Strictly Business novel—and this time, for one woman, finding the ideal man can be a pretty tall order…
Magazine columnist Quinn Sawyer has always attracted sweet, innocent, and safe men. And something tells her it’s because she’s just as harmless. So when she starts craving a guy with an edge, she realizes she may have to get one for herself.
When her boss asks for a unique pitch, Quinn’s quest to live outside her comfort zone prompts her to suggest an idea that will cause her to break her good-girl rules. And who better than Tim Jacobs to help her push her boundaries? For a while now, Quinn’s had a hot crush on the tattooed executive chef with a checkered past. If anybody can bring out her inner rebel, he can.
It’s no surprise that as Tim and Quinn cross each task off the list she’s made for herself, the sparks between them grow more and more intense. Soon there’s no denying the attraction they each feel. But Tim’s troubled past reveals an even tougher edge than Quinn expected—which means for her, falling in love might just be the greatest rebellion of all.
From the Paperback edition.
Magazine columnist Quinn Sawyer has always attracted sweet, innocent, and safe men. And something tells her it’s because she’s just as harmless. So when she starts craving a guy with an edge, she realizes she may have to get one for herself.
When her boss asks for a unique pitch, Quinn’s quest to live outside her comfort zone prompts her to suggest an idea that will cause her to break her good-girl rules. And who better than Tim Jacobs to help her push her boundaries? For a while now, Quinn’s had a hot crush on the tattooed executive chef with a checkered past. If anybody can bring out her inner rebel, he can.
It’s no surprise that as Tim and Quinn cross each task off the list she’s made for herself, the sparks between them grow more and more intense. Soon there’s no denying the attraction they each feel. But Tim’s troubled past reveals an even tougher edge than Quinn expected—which means for her, falling in love might just be the greatest rebellion of all.
From the Paperback edition.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2015
12 people are currently reading
858 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Hayley
36 books1,535 followersElizabeth Hayley is actually “Elizabeth” and “Hayley,” two friends who love reading romance novels to obsessive levels. This mutual love prompted them to put their English degrees to good use by penning their own. They learned a ton about each other through the process, like how they clearly share a brain and have a persistent need to text each other constantly. They live with their husbands and kids in a Philadelphia suburb. Thankfully, their children are still too young to read.
Never Have You Ever (The Love Game 1) is now available! Read the ebook for FREE!
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Never Have You Ever (The Love Game 1) is now available! Read the ebook for FREE!
➤ https://amzn.to/3bedVeH
The One-Night Stand (Standalone) is now available!
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Pieces of Perfect (Love Lessons 1) is now available!
➤ https://amzn.to/2LElKjI
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December 3, 2015
Coffee dates with Just Say Yes
First date: We meet Quinn Sawyer a struggling writer at a women's magazine. She is waiting for her breakthrough article and has been feeling frustrated about her “safe” social life when she pitches “a good girl” trying new things article and lands the top article for the September issue. Tim Jacob hit rock bottom eight years ago but it took being disowned by his parents and almost losing the one person who mattered before he dug himself out. Life is good and he in control but he's lonely. He has always thought Quinn lovely but way out his league. A backyard picnic has him agreeing to help Quinn with her assignment. Let the fun begin and maybe something a little magical.
Second date: Friends to lovers is one of favorite tropes. Hayley created magic giving the reader all the feels. Watching Quinn as she takes chances and laughing because she is still the “good girl” underneath had me grinning. Tim has quite the checkered past and is guarded, but he has this vulnerability and tenderness that curled my toes. Does he have a chip on his shoulder? You had better believe it but this writing duo did a wonderful job of fleshing him out and letting us in. Quinn may be a good girl, a little too controlled, and way to worried about others opinions but we see plenty of growth and I connected easily with her. The romance in Just Say Yes is slow building, lightly heated and swoon-worthy.
Third date: Obstacles!!! Some from others and some self-induced throw a wrench into the romance and had me flipping the pages. Doubt, forgiveness and self-worth were all factors as each went through their own personal growing pains. I love that their healing came from within and was not solely dependent on the other. Quinn was strong and yet fair making her a character I admired. Despite wanting to smack Tim in the back of the head a few times, I mostly just wanted to hug him. I felt all of his emotions and loved how the authors enabled me to connect on so many levels without overdoing the drama.
Copy provided by publisher. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
First date: We meet Quinn Sawyer a struggling writer at a women's magazine. She is waiting for her breakthrough article and has been feeling frustrated about her “safe” social life when she pitches “a good girl” trying new things article and lands the top article for the September issue. Tim Jacob hit rock bottom eight years ago but it took being disowned by his parents and almost losing the one person who mattered before he dug himself out. Life is good and he in control but he's lonely. He has always thought Quinn lovely but way out his league. A backyard picnic has him agreeing to help Quinn with her assignment. Let the fun begin and maybe something a little magical.
Second date: Friends to lovers is one of favorite tropes. Hayley created magic giving the reader all the feels. Watching Quinn as she takes chances and laughing because she is still the “good girl” underneath had me grinning. Tim has quite the checkered past and is guarded, but he has this vulnerability and tenderness that curled my toes. Does he have a chip on his shoulder? You had better believe it but this writing duo did a wonderful job of fleshing him out and letting us in. Quinn may be a good girl, a little too controlled, and way to worried about others opinions but we see plenty of growth and I connected easily with her. The romance in Just Say Yes is slow building, lightly heated and swoon-worthy.
Third date: Obstacles!!! Some from others and some self-induced throw a wrench into the romance and had me flipping the pages. Doubt, forgiveness and self-worth were all factors as each went through their own personal growing pains. I love that their healing came from within and was not solely dependent on the other. Quinn was strong and yet fair making her a character I admired. Despite wanting to smack Tim in the back of the head a few times, I mostly just wanted to hug him. I felt all of his emotions and loved how the authors enabled me to connect on so many levels without overdoing the drama.
Copy provided by publisher. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
December 1, 2015
So, I pretty much loved everything about this book! It was sweet, sassy, sexy, and funny—a perfect combo of feelings throughout the entire story. And the title was impeccable!
“Carpe diem, Quinn. Today is the first day of the rest of your life (is that how that corny saying goes?). Anyway, I decided that we needed to up the stakes for your first foray into Good Girl Gone Bad-dom.”
Quinn is the reliable one, the safe one, the one you can always count on. However, she isn’t adventurous and doesn’t enter into uncomfortable situations. She is the good girl. But she’s tired of that and when she pitches an idea to her editor to write an article about a good girl who turns bad, even by little increments, she must now complete the tasks.
Tim is Scott’s older brother. He has lived a hard life and has been the bad boy for far too long. As Quinn’s friend he decides to help her with her foray into bad girlness, since she can’t do it alone.
What neither of them expected was to fall for the other.
“Mark me, Quinn. I want to wear the proof of what I did to you for days. I want to look at my back and know that I made you come so hard, you had to hold on for dear life.”
Even though he can’t stop his attraction to Quinn, Tim feels unworthy of a girl like her due to his past.
“Yes, you can make me worthy of you.”
I really loved everything about this book! I read it quickly and only put it down when I had to. I really loved watching Tim turn into the man that Quinn knew he was. We got to see Lauren and Scott from The Best Medicine, which I absolutely adored, as well as the rest of the cast from that book. We also met some new secondary characters, and I loved Roger as well as Tim’s friends from the pool hall. I can’t wait for the next story in this series of friends! ~ Tiffany, 5 stars
“Carpe diem, Quinn. Today is the first day of the rest of your life (is that how that corny saying goes?). Anyway, I decided that we needed to up the stakes for your first foray into Good Girl Gone Bad-dom.”
Quinn is the reliable one, the safe one, the one you can always count on. However, she isn’t adventurous and doesn’t enter into uncomfortable situations. She is the good girl. But she’s tired of that and when she pitches an idea to her editor to write an article about a good girl who turns bad, even by little increments, she must now complete the tasks.
Tim is Scott’s older brother. He has lived a hard life and has been the bad boy for far too long. As Quinn’s friend he decides to help her with her foray into bad girlness, since she can’t do it alone.
What neither of them expected was to fall for the other.
“Mark me, Quinn. I want to wear the proof of what I did to you for days. I want to look at my back and know that I made you come so hard, you had to hold on for dear life.”
Even though he can’t stop his attraction to Quinn, Tim feels unworthy of a girl like her due to his past.
“Yes, you can make me worthy of you.”
I really loved everything about this book! I read it quickly and only put it down when I had to. I really loved watching Tim turn into the man that Quinn knew he was. We got to see Lauren and Scott from The Best Medicine, which I absolutely adored, as well as the rest of the cast from that book. We also met some new secondary characters, and I loved Roger as well as Tim’s friends from the pool hall. I can’t wait for the next story in this series of friends! ~ Tiffany, 5 stars
December 1, 2015
Okay, you want to unleash your inner rebel, then we’ll do it.” “We?” ” Oh yeah. There’s no way I’m missing out on this.”
Elizabeth Hayley is a duo done right. Not only is their writing flawless (in no way can I tell when one writer stopped and another started) but they even make me a hater of third person just not care about it. Just Say Yes grabbed my attention from the moment I learned that good girl Quinn has set out to do a list of “bad things” and bad boy (or former bad boy even if he doesn’t acknowledge it) Tim decides to help her. That is a story line just asking for a good does of humor mixed with some great sex and just enough drama. I loved the first standalone in this series and I can honestly say that Just Say Yes is even better.
‘Plain and simple, Quinn was a good person who was attempting to do a few bad things. But Tim had been a bad person for much of his life, and no amount of good deeds would wipe that slate clean.’
Quinn is determined to make it as a writer and if writing an article about her foray into the bad girl lifestyle is how to do it than she is all over it. I LOVED the list and how not only does Time help her but holds her hand and makes each task not only manageable but fun for her. I loved him and only wish he could have loved himself as much. Tim knows he is unworthy of someone sweet and good like Quinn but that has never stopped him from wanting her, only from acting on it. But he convinces himself that he can be her friend and help her and that is all it will be. But when he finds out that Quinn wants him too can he resist his biggest temptation?
‘She made him happy, made him better, made him somebody. But what she didn’t make him was worthy. It wasn’t the first time he’s forced himself to swallow that bitter pill, and it wouldn’t be the last.’
Just Say Yes was contemporary romance done right. I laughed out loud, my heart ached for their struggles but in the end I was left with a smile on my face. If you are looking for an easy read filled with passion and humor this might just be the book for you!
~miranda
Elizabeth Hayley is a duo done right. Not only is their writing flawless (in no way can I tell when one writer stopped and another started) but they even make me a hater of third person just not care about it. Just Say Yes grabbed my attention from the moment I learned that good girl Quinn has set out to do a list of “bad things” and bad boy (or former bad boy even if he doesn’t acknowledge it) Tim decides to help her. That is a story line just asking for a good does of humor mixed with some great sex and just enough drama. I loved the first standalone in this series and I can honestly say that Just Say Yes is even better.
‘Plain and simple, Quinn was a good person who was attempting to do a few bad things. But Tim had been a bad person for much of his life, and no amount of good deeds would wipe that slate clean.’
Quinn is determined to make it as a writer and if writing an article about her foray into the bad girl lifestyle is how to do it than she is all over it. I LOVED the list and how not only does Time help her but holds her hand and makes each task not only manageable but fun for her. I loved him and only wish he could have loved himself as much. Tim knows he is unworthy of someone sweet and good like Quinn but that has never stopped him from wanting her, only from acting on it. But he convinces himself that he can be her friend and help her and that is all it will be. But when he finds out that Quinn wants him too can he resist his biggest temptation?
‘She made him happy, made him better, made him somebody. But what she didn’t make him was worthy. It wasn’t the first time he’s forced himself to swallow that bitter pill, and it wouldn’t be the last.’
Just Say Yes was contemporary romance done right. I laughed out loud, my heart ached for their struggles but in the end I was left with a smile on my face. If you are looking for an easy read filled with passion and humor this might just be the book for you!
~miranda
December 1, 2015
Elizabeth Hayley is hands down one of my favorite writing duos around. Their books are some of my all-time favorites, and I have spent many memorable days between the pages of their phenomenally written books. When I sit down to read a book by them I know I will be getting some exceptional writing, effervescent characters with so much life and distinctive personality to them, and a story that is sure to make me laugh hysterically while also having me feel a lot.
Just Say Yes by Elizabeth Hayley not only gave me everything I’ve come to know and love about Elizabeth Hayley’s writing, it also gave me one helluva story that just gave me every single aspect that makes a book extraordinary. It was fantastically balanced, so well written, and just downright enjoyable to read in every way. Reading this book just adds to my absolute love of this series as a whole, and the fantastic stories that Elizabeth Hayley has given me over the years.
Reading a book by this duo is one memorable experience to say the least. Just Say Yes made me laugh more times than I could even count, it made me smile like crazy, and it certainly made me blush in the most wonderful ways. It also choked me up a few times, and had so many great feelings and emotions weaving their way through the story in such a meaningful way. My heart was fully in it all from the start, and through it all I absolutely loved what Tim and Quinn gave me so authentically in their page turning story.
Ever since I met Tim’s character in The Best Medicine, I wanted his story. There was just something about him that really spoke to me, and it was easy to fall under the charming spell he cast. He’s a bit rough around the edges, and he’s a character that’s not afraid to admit that, but I will tell you that there is so much more to his character than meets the eye. He certainly has a past that he’s not so proud of, but seeing what that man does with his future in this story will have your heart going to him in no time. Tim is easy to love and feel for in this story, and seeing that man try to move on from the binds of his past will have you rooting for him from start to finish. Did I also mention that he’s a tattooed chef that likes to walk around without a shirt on? Because that’s just the icing on top of his fantastic character.
Quinn was definitely a bit more subdued than some of the other female leads that Elizabeth Hayley has written, but she was such a fabulous easy character to love and relate to. That girl is no wilting flower either, she is strong and fierce in her own way and it’s fabulous. She’s a girl searching for what she truly wants, and is looking to step outside of her comfort zone, and with the help of Tim she starts doing just that. I loved Quinn’s character immensely and I found myself personally relating and connecting to her throughout reading. She was so real to me and so easy to love, and I just got everything she was feeling and thinking because I’ve been there too. Feeling that connected to her while reading Just Say Yes made me love her more, and brought the story itself to life in the most magnificent way. You will love her and her lively journey in this book to pieces. Trust me.
Quinn and Tim’s relationship has the best kind of build to it. These two start off as friends, but clearly they both want something more. You feel such a build and connection between them that crackles and fires like fireworks every time those two are together. That build intensifies more and more as the story progress, and gives the best evolution to their relationship and feeling. What starts off as a friendship and a challenge soon turns into so much more that is filled with so many moments that’ll melt your heart, make you blush, and smile and feel like a fool. Elizabeth Hayley develops their relationship in the most phenomenal ways, taking you through every up and down that comes there way, and it is truly nothing short of wonderful to experience.
One of the many premises of this story is throwing that caution to the wind, and giving new things a chance. Whether it be a new life experience or a relationship, Elizabeth Hayley brings the aspect and meaning behind taking chances into this story in such a fantastic and fulfilling way. Seeing both Tim and Quinn think and question what it could be like to take those chances, and then getting to see what happens after puts you in this story so fully and will have you loving every moment you live and take with them. Just Say Yes is full of chances and it honestly doesn’t get much better than that!
Both Tim and Quinn go on a journey in this book, not only in their relationship, but also with themselves. They’re both searching for something within themselves, and trying to figure out what they want, what they deserve, and what they’re willing to fight like crazy for. Elizabeth Hayley takes you on that journey with them both, and you get to be with them both every step of the way as they try and figure out who they are, and who they want to be. I can’t say enough how much that emotionally invests you in these characters and their story. You get to see them be vulnerable, be real, and just be them. Simply put, Quinn and Tim will blow you away with every incredible bit of their journey’s to take those risks and find themselves.
Just Say Yes gives you so many outstanding moments that give you so many different reactions making this book phenomenally well rounded. You get so many hysterical moments that’ll have you laughing out loud and smiling until your cheeks hurt. You’ll also get a lot of moments bursting with the best amount of emotion and feeling that you feel every lick of. There’s also quite a few moments that’ll melt your heart a bit and have you truly feeling what Quinn and Tim do for one another. You get it all in Just Say Yes, and that is just part of what made this book so great to read!
Not to be outdone, the supporting characters that make up the Strictly Business Series are not to be missed. They’re all distinctive and wonderful in their own ways, and they add the glue that helps bring this story together. They add a true sense of family and friendship to every page, and they’ll all give you so much that you will enjoy every moment of. I love them all, and it was so good to spend some more time with them again in this book. Seeing them all here made me love them all more, and I seriously can’t wait for more time with all of them. I need more of them stat, and you will too when you read this book.
Just Say Yes was another book by Elizabeth Hayley that I could not put down. It was enrapturing to say the least, and had me feeling and loving every minute I spent between its outstanding pages. Quinn and Tim’s story is fun, meaningful, full of all the feels, and will give you a truly memorable reading experience that you won’t want to end.
This book highlights the talent of this writing duo, and the vibrant and meaningful stories they so thoughtfully and fantastically craft.
Just Say Yes is a story about taking chances. About looking deep within yourself, discovering what you truly want and desire, and what you’ll do and how much you’ll fight to get that something. It’s a story about throwing that caution to the wind, and seeing the extraordinary places those chances and risks can take you, if you only give them the chance. Tim and Quinn’s story in Just Say Yes allows you to take that journey with them, heart first and feeling it all, and in the end I guarantee you will be beyond satisfied with every outstanding word and feeling you get from them in this book.
So what are you waiting for? Grab Just Say Yes this very instant. And while you’re at it, grab every single other book by Elizabeth Hayley. You won’t regret reading this book, or any of their others for that matter. Read this book, let it wow you, let it make you feel and laugh and smile, and let yourself live and breathe through its brilliant pages.
Take that chance, just say yes, and fall in love with the literal amazingness of this book and Tim and Quinn’s vibrant, captivating, and truly incredible story.
Just Say Yes by Elizabeth Hayley not only gave me everything I’ve come to know and love about Elizabeth Hayley’s writing, it also gave me one helluva story that just gave me every single aspect that makes a book extraordinary. It was fantastically balanced, so well written, and just downright enjoyable to read in every way. Reading this book just adds to my absolute love of this series as a whole, and the fantastic stories that Elizabeth Hayley has given me over the years.
Reading a book by this duo is one memorable experience to say the least. Just Say Yes made me laugh more times than I could even count, it made me smile like crazy, and it certainly made me blush in the most wonderful ways. It also choked me up a few times, and had so many great feelings and emotions weaving their way through the story in such a meaningful way. My heart was fully in it all from the start, and through it all I absolutely loved what Tim and Quinn gave me so authentically in their page turning story.
Ever since I met Tim’s character in The Best Medicine, I wanted his story. There was just something about him that really spoke to me, and it was easy to fall under the charming spell he cast. He’s a bit rough around the edges, and he’s a character that’s not afraid to admit that, but I will tell you that there is so much more to his character than meets the eye. He certainly has a past that he’s not so proud of, but seeing what that man does with his future in this story will have your heart going to him in no time. Tim is easy to love and feel for in this story, and seeing that man try to move on from the binds of his past will have you rooting for him from start to finish. Did I also mention that he’s a tattooed chef that likes to walk around without a shirt on? Because that’s just the icing on top of his fantastic character.
Quinn was definitely a bit more subdued than some of the other female leads that Elizabeth Hayley has written, but she was such a fabulous easy character to love and relate to. That girl is no wilting flower either, she is strong and fierce in her own way and it’s fabulous. She’s a girl searching for what she truly wants, and is looking to step outside of her comfort zone, and with the help of Tim she starts doing just that. I loved Quinn’s character immensely and I found myself personally relating and connecting to her throughout reading. She was so real to me and so easy to love, and I just got everything she was feeling and thinking because I’ve been there too. Feeling that connected to her while reading Just Say Yes made me love her more, and brought the story itself to life in the most magnificent way. You will love her and her lively journey in this book to pieces. Trust me.
Quinn and Tim’s relationship has the best kind of build to it. These two start off as friends, but clearly they both want something more. You feel such a build and connection between them that crackles and fires like fireworks every time those two are together. That build intensifies more and more as the story progress, and gives the best evolution to their relationship and feeling. What starts off as a friendship and a challenge soon turns into so much more that is filled with so many moments that’ll melt your heart, make you blush, and smile and feel like a fool. Elizabeth Hayley develops their relationship in the most phenomenal ways, taking you through every up and down that comes there way, and it is truly nothing short of wonderful to experience.
One of the many premises of this story is throwing that caution to the wind, and giving new things a chance. Whether it be a new life experience or a relationship, Elizabeth Hayley brings the aspect and meaning behind taking chances into this story in such a fantastic and fulfilling way. Seeing both Tim and Quinn think and question what it could be like to take those chances, and then getting to see what happens after puts you in this story so fully and will have you loving every moment you live and take with them. Just Say Yes is full of chances and it honestly doesn’t get much better than that!
Both Tim and Quinn go on a journey in this book, not only in their relationship, but also with themselves. They’re both searching for something within themselves, and trying to figure out what they want, what they deserve, and what they’re willing to fight like crazy for. Elizabeth Hayley takes you on that journey with them both, and you get to be with them both every step of the way as they try and figure out who they are, and who they want to be. I can’t say enough how much that emotionally invests you in these characters and their story. You get to see them be vulnerable, be real, and just be them. Simply put, Quinn and Tim will blow you away with every incredible bit of their journey’s to take those risks and find themselves.
Just Say Yes gives you so many outstanding moments that give you so many different reactions making this book phenomenally well rounded. You get so many hysterical moments that’ll have you laughing out loud and smiling until your cheeks hurt. You’ll also get a lot of moments bursting with the best amount of emotion and feeling that you feel every lick of. There’s also quite a few moments that’ll melt your heart a bit and have you truly feeling what Quinn and Tim do for one another. You get it all in Just Say Yes, and that is just part of what made this book so great to read!
Not to be outdone, the supporting characters that make up the Strictly Business Series are not to be missed. They’re all distinctive and wonderful in their own ways, and they add the glue that helps bring this story together. They add a true sense of family and friendship to every page, and they’ll all give you so much that you will enjoy every moment of. I love them all, and it was so good to spend some more time with them again in this book. Seeing them all here made me love them all more, and I seriously can’t wait for more time with all of them. I need more of them stat, and you will too when you read this book.
Just Say Yes was another book by Elizabeth Hayley that I could not put down. It was enrapturing to say the least, and had me feeling and loving every minute I spent between its outstanding pages. Quinn and Tim’s story is fun, meaningful, full of all the feels, and will give you a truly memorable reading experience that you won’t want to end.
This book highlights the talent of this writing duo, and the vibrant and meaningful stories they so thoughtfully and fantastically craft.
Just Say Yes is a story about taking chances. About looking deep within yourself, discovering what you truly want and desire, and what you’ll do and how much you’ll fight to get that something. It’s a story about throwing that caution to the wind, and seeing the extraordinary places those chances and risks can take you, if you only give them the chance. Tim and Quinn’s story in Just Say Yes allows you to take that journey with them, heart first and feeling it all, and in the end I guarantee you will be beyond satisfied with every outstanding word and feeling you get from them in this book.
So what are you waiting for? Grab Just Say Yes this very instant. And while you’re at it, grab every single other book by Elizabeth Hayley. You won’t regret reading this book, or any of their others for that matter. Read this book, let it wow you, let it make you feel and laugh and smile, and let yourself live and breathe through its brilliant pages.
Take that chance, just say yes, and fall in love with the literal amazingness of this book and Tim and Quinn’s vibrant, captivating, and truly incredible story.
February 3, 2016
http://openbooksociety.com/article/ju...
Just Say Yes
Strictly Business, Book #2
By Elizabeth Hayley
ISBN: 9780451475534
Author’s Website: http://www.authorelizabethhayley.com
Review brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Synopsis:
Magazine columnist Quinn Sawyer has always attracted sweet, innocent, and safe men. And something tells her it’s because she’s just as harmless. So when she starts craving a guy with an edge, she realizes she may have to get one for herself.
When her boss asks for a unique pitch, Quinn’s quest to live outside her comfort zone prompts her to suggest an idea that will cause her to break her good-girl rules. And who better than Tim Jacobs to help her push her boundaries? For a while now, Quinn’s had a hot crush on the tattooed executive chef with a checkered past. If anybody can bring out her inner rebel, he can.
It’s no surprise that with every task the two complete, the sparks between them grow more and more intense. Soon there’s no denying the attraction they each feel. But Tim’s troubled past reveals an even tougher edge than Quinn expected—which means for her, falling in love might just be the greatest rebellion of all.
Review:
I must say that I was enchanted with the story right from the beginning! Just Say Yes is a love story but I found it to be so much more. Just Say Yes is a story about taking chances.
Quinn’s journey begins on a date. As it turns out…a bad date. On paper Jeremy looks great (actually…so have all her recent first dates) but as the date goes on, Quinn finds out that this middle school band director blogs about restaurants as a hobby. I was ready to scream at Quinn ‘Leave…this guy is not the one for you…’. Really who says the following to the waitress when on a date? Doesn’t Jeremy want to put his best foot forward? :
“I’ll take another Hiney when you get a minute.”
I chuckled when the waitress then asked Quinn:
“Anything for you, miss?”
Beginning to rethink her original vow to remain relatively sober, Quinn considered ordering another drink. The only thing as painful as having to experience this disaster was having to remember it. But ultimately she decided against a refill. Because there was one thing worse than remembering this date: agreeing to another one. And she didn’t trust an alcohol-hazed mind to make sure that didn’t happen.
After this disaster of a date, Quinn worries than Jeremy is just one of a string of bad dates (with dorky mama’s boys) and that is there really anyone out there that is right for her? Quinn is in a rut, always the good girl, doing what is expected of her. She needs to get out of that rut!
We get to the crux of the book when at a staff meeting; Quinn speaks up with an idea for an article, which she is later told to run with it:
“A lifestyle column that focuses on doing things that people always wish they’d done but never actually had the guts to do.”…Rita asks”Like what?” Like, uh, like…Asking a stranger on a date, breaking a law…things like that.”
Tim is a friend of Quinn’s and as such has decided upon hearing about her article that he will help her partake in all these rogue activities. Tim is an older man (eight years older) and VERY good looking with a ripped body (according to Quinn). So in the end Quinn agrees to Tim’s help. Throughout the journey, the two slowly become close…until it isn’t slow but HOT. Of all the crazy, outside the box things they do, the hitchhiking scene was one of my favorite. And some of their back and forth banter just cracked me up:
“Just follow my, young grasshopper. I will show you the way.” Time wrapped his arm around her shoulder.
I loved the easy repartee between Tim and Quinn as their relationship evolves:
Quinn states: “See? Romantic.” “I am good, aren’t I?” “At something,” she replied, casting a fleeting glance at the course. “Now, that’s just cruel,” he added as he gave her a quick peck before stepping back.
When dating, one step that is difficult at best is introducing your new guy to your parents. Tim has had a rough life (he is a recovering drug addict) with a checkered past and he feels he is not good enough for Quinn. So needless to say, he goes to dinner at Quinn’s parents’ home with great trepidation. Unfortunately, things go as Tim predicts and following this evening – he pulls away. The angst is great and I could feel the emotional upheaval as Tim breaks up with Quinn. At this point, I just wanted to shake Tim because he was throwing away a great relationship for his insecurities. Quinn is baffled as to why he pulled away, but having gone through all this self-discovery decides that if Time can’t or won’t divulge what the problem is, then she will just have to move on with her life.
The book continually had issues and “real life” problems for Tim, which led me to empathize with him. At times though, I got infuriated with his self-imposed pity party as Tim had managed to stay sober for more than seven years and be a good big brother. Additionally, he was always there for Quinn…so why was he just so doggone hard on himself…he seems pretty terrific to this reader.
I have but one criticism -> at times I found the depth of description of the love scenes a bit much. I personally like a little left to the imagination.
Overall, I found this an engaging and delightfully funny love story. There were, of course, roadblocks and speed bumps on the way to true love…but when isn’t there? The main characters, Quinn and Tim, were well developed with some human frailties. A good second book in this Strictly Business series by Elizabeth Hayley.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Just Say Yes
Strictly Business, Book #2
By Elizabeth Hayley
ISBN: 9780451475534
Author’s Website: http://www.authorelizabethhayley.com
Review brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Synopsis:
Magazine columnist Quinn Sawyer has always attracted sweet, innocent, and safe men. And something tells her it’s because she’s just as harmless. So when she starts craving a guy with an edge, she realizes she may have to get one for herself.
When her boss asks for a unique pitch, Quinn’s quest to live outside her comfort zone prompts her to suggest an idea that will cause her to break her good-girl rules. And who better than Tim Jacobs to help her push her boundaries? For a while now, Quinn’s had a hot crush on the tattooed executive chef with a checkered past. If anybody can bring out her inner rebel, he can.
It’s no surprise that with every task the two complete, the sparks between them grow more and more intense. Soon there’s no denying the attraction they each feel. But Tim’s troubled past reveals an even tougher edge than Quinn expected—which means for her, falling in love might just be the greatest rebellion of all.
Review:
I must say that I was enchanted with the story right from the beginning! Just Say Yes is a love story but I found it to be so much more. Just Say Yes is a story about taking chances.
Quinn’s journey begins on a date. As it turns out…a bad date. On paper Jeremy looks great (actually…so have all her recent first dates) but as the date goes on, Quinn finds out that this middle school band director blogs about restaurants as a hobby. I was ready to scream at Quinn ‘Leave…this guy is not the one for you…’. Really who says the following to the waitress when on a date? Doesn’t Jeremy want to put his best foot forward? :
“I’ll take another Hiney when you get a minute.”
I chuckled when the waitress then asked Quinn:
“Anything for you, miss?”
Beginning to rethink her original vow to remain relatively sober, Quinn considered ordering another drink. The only thing as painful as having to experience this disaster was having to remember it. But ultimately she decided against a refill. Because there was one thing worse than remembering this date: agreeing to another one. And she didn’t trust an alcohol-hazed mind to make sure that didn’t happen.
After this disaster of a date, Quinn worries than Jeremy is just one of a string of bad dates (with dorky mama’s boys) and that is there really anyone out there that is right for her? Quinn is in a rut, always the good girl, doing what is expected of her. She needs to get out of that rut!
We get to the crux of the book when at a staff meeting; Quinn speaks up with an idea for an article, which she is later told to run with it:
“A lifestyle column that focuses on doing things that people always wish they’d done but never actually had the guts to do.”…Rita asks”Like what?” Like, uh, like…Asking a stranger on a date, breaking a law…things like that.”
Tim is a friend of Quinn’s and as such has decided upon hearing about her article that he will help her partake in all these rogue activities. Tim is an older man (eight years older) and VERY good looking with a ripped body (according to Quinn). So in the end Quinn agrees to Tim’s help. Throughout the journey, the two slowly become close…until it isn’t slow but HOT. Of all the crazy, outside the box things they do, the hitchhiking scene was one of my favorite. And some of their back and forth banter just cracked me up:
“Just follow my, young grasshopper. I will show you the way.” Time wrapped his arm around her shoulder.
I loved the easy repartee between Tim and Quinn as their relationship evolves:
Quinn states: “See? Romantic.” “I am good, aren’t I?” “At something,” she replied, casting a fleeting glance at the course. “Now, that’s just cruel,” he added as he gave her a quick peck before stepping back.
When dating, one step that is difficult at best is introducing your new guy to your parents. Tim has had a rough life (he is a recovering drug addict) with a checkered past and he feels he is not good enough for Quinn. So needless to say, he goes to dinner at Quinn’s parents’ home with great trepidation. Unfortunately, things go as Tim predicts and following this evening – he pulls away. The angst is great and I could feel the emotional upheaval as Tim breaks up with Quinn. At this point, I just wanted to shake Tim because he was throwing away a great relationship for his insecurities. Quinn is baffled as to why he pulled away, but having gone through all this self-discovery decides that if Time can’t or won’t divulge what the problem is, then she will just have to move on with her life.
The book continually had issues and “real life” problems for Tim, which led me to empathize with him. At times though, I got infuriated with his self-imposed pity party as Tim had managed to stay sober for more than seven years and be a good big brother. Additionally, he was always there for Quinn…so why was he just so doggone hard on himself…he seems pretty terrific to this reader.
I have but one criticism -> at times I found the depth of description of the love scenes a bit much. I personally like a little left to the imagination.
Overall, I found this an engaging and delightfully funny love story. There were, of course, roadblocks and speed bumps on the way to true love…but when isn’t there? The main characters, Quinn and Tim, were well developed with some human frailties. A good second book in this Strictly Business series by Elizabeth Hayley.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
November 21, 2015
I'll preface this by saying I have not read The Best Medicine, I have purchased it to dive into next, but it didn't decrease my enjoyment of Just Say Yes, I didn't feel confused at any point, or feel like I missed anything, the Strictly Business series is a series of stand alone stories.
Quinn is all set for her date with the seemingly perfect guy, but on closer inspection Quinn struggled to stay present for the few hours she spent in his company, a disastrous date normally wouldn't be enough to make you question every decision you've ever made, but all of sudden Quinn starts to think about her life, how her dating life lacks spark, her job leaves her feeling bereft, she has a habit of playing it safe, and never taking risks, she walks the straight and narrow never veering towards the wild side, when the opportunity presents itself she decides to take the plunge and shake it up a little with the help of her best friend's boyfriend's brother, Tim.
Tim is the epitome of sexy, reformed bad boy, tall, tatted, and toned, Tim has always piqued Quinn's interest but he's never really opened up to her enough to build any real kind of connection. When Quinn decides to tackle a bucket list of sorts, Tim offers to assist her. Tim knows all about risky behaviour, he's lived through more darkness than most of us would ever experience, hitting rock bottom more than once, he's got the battered soul and wounded heart to show for it.
I expected Just Say Yes to be this fun, sexy little romp that would have me swooning, and I did swoon, but more than that I was moved by Tim's journey, I was impressed by Quinn's tenacity, I wanted to know more about Tim's past, I was invested so quickly, so earnestly, that the more I read, the more I felt, the more these characters meant to me. Tim's past had a adverse affect on the way he led his life, the way he believed he deserved to be treated, but more than that, it provided him a special empathy to view those around him, to see their struggles.
"I get that you're hurting. And I'm more than happy to be your punching bag if it helps..."
Everything about Quinn had me rooting for her, her strength in the face of adversity, her spirit when she felt the weight of the world on her shoulders, her ability to stand strong when she wanted to crumble.
"I thought I meant more than that. I didn't think I'd be so easy to walk away from."
Quinn reminded me that living an authentic life isn't just about knowing with certainty who you are, Quinn reminded me that you figure that out as you go, that who you are isn't defined by any one thing, and that most importantly sometimes you need to draw strength from those you love, and sometimes you will be their support, that life isn't black and white, but that it's in the grey area that you find the beauty. I revelled in Just Say Yes, I settled in with Quinn and Tim and just got swept away by every interaction, every soft smile, every secret glance, every touch, I adored these two, and while I'm sad it's over, I'm so grateful for the journey.
Quinn is all set for her date with the seemingly perfect guy, but on closer inspection Quinn struggled to stay present for the few hours she spent in his company, a disastrous date normally wouldn't be enough to make you question every decision you've ever made, but all of sudden Quinn starts to think about her life, how her dating life lacks spark, her job leaves her feeling bereft, she has a habit of playing it safe, and never taking risks, she walks the straight and narrow never veering towards the wild side, when the opportunity presents itself she decides to take the plunge and shake it up a little with the help of her best friend's boyfriend's brother, Tim.
Tim is the epitome of sexy, reformed bad boy, tall, tatted, and toned, Tim has always piqued Quinn's interest but he's never really opened up to her enough to build any real kind of connection. When Quinn decides to tackle a bucket list of sorts, Tim offers to assist her. Tim knows all about risky behaviour, he's lived through more darkness than most of us would ever experience, hitting rock bottom more than once, he's got the battered soul and wounded heart to show for it.
I expected Just Say Yes to be this fun, sexy little romp that would have me swooning, and I did swoon, but more than that I was moved by Tim's journey, I was impressed by Quinn's tenacity, I wanted to know more about Tim's past, I was invested so quickly, so earnestly, that the more I read, the more I felt, the more these characters meant to me. Tim's past had a adverse affect on the way he led his life, the way he believed he deserved to be treated, but more than that, it provided him a special empathy to view those around him, to see their struggles.
"I get that you're hurting. And I'm more than happy to be your punching bag if it helps..."
Everything about Quinn had me rooting for her, her strength in the face of adversity, her spirit when she felt the weight of the world on her shoulders, her ability to stand strong when she wanted to crumble.
"I thought I meant more than that. I didn't think I'd be so easy to walk away from."
Quinn reminded me that living an authentic life isn't just about knowing with certainty who you are, Quinn reminded me that you figure that out as you go, that who you are isn't defined by any one thing, and that most importantly sometimes you need to draw strength from those you love, and sometimes you will be their support, that life isn't black and white, but that it's in the grey area that you find the beauty. I revelled in Just Say Yes, I settled in with Quinn and Tim and just got swept away by every interaction, every soft smile, every secret glance, every touch, I adored these two, and while I'm sad it's over, I'm so grateful for the journey.
November 30, 2015
Just Say Yes by Elizabeth Hayley
Quinn and Tim
YO, ADRIEN, I DID IT!
Ok, so I've read many EH books in my time and this one just didn't do it for me. I liked it, it was funny, it had a good storyline, but I just didn't love it. It has some emotion towards the last 25%, but up until then it just seems to be on an even keel. I'll admit to laughing out loud a few time as I always do with EH books, but I felt it could have had a little more angst earlier on in the story.
Quinn is stuck in a rut. She's always been the "good girl" and she's always played it safe, but when an opportunity arises at work, she simply can't refuse. Writing an article about living outside the box is something she knows nothing about so she enlist the help of her "friend" Tim. She comes up with a list of things she'd otherwise NEVER do and Tim helps her carry those tasks out. I must say that "pose nude" part was freakin' hot and the girl talk between Quinn and her girl posse was hilarious. Follow Quinn on her quest to live outside her comfort zone.
Tim is a recovering drug and alcohol addict. He's been clean for 7 years, works as Executive Chef at a cool new restaurant and going strong. He struggles with wondering if he'll ever be good enough for anything or anyone, but helping Quinn with her list I believe is showing him how worthy he really is. He does tend to be a dick at times, but never fear, Quinn is here and she'll peel away those layer of distrust and self loathing if it's the last thing she does.
The supporting characters were pretty cool. Tim's brother Scott was very supportive and pleasant. Roger Whitaker <-- cracked me up... is that a folk singer from the 70's! Anywho... Roger, Tims' sponsor was one of my faves. He gave it to you straight and was always there when Tim needed him. Now the girl posse...those bitches say what they mean and mean what they say... We all need friends like that in our group.
So, this was not my fave, but it was a pretty good book. The pacing kinda lagged for me a bit till around 75% and then some angsty shit starts to happen. The storyline is good, the dialogue flowed fairly well, and the tension (for me) could have been a little more intense. I still look forward to reading more from this crazy duo... Elizabeth and Hayley!
ARC provide by publisher for an honest review
3.5 Stars
Quinn and Tim
YO, ADRIEN, I DID IT!
Ok, so I've read many EH books in my time and this one just didn't do it for me. I liked it, it was funny, it had a good storyline, but I just didn't love it. It has some emotion towards the last 25%, but up until then it just seems to be on an even keel. I'll admit to laughing out loud a few time as I always do with EH books, but I felt it could have had a little more angst earlier on in the story.
Quinn is stuck in a rut. She's always been the "good girl" and she's always played it safe, but when an opportunity arises at work, she simply can't refuse. Writing an article about living outside the box is something she knows nothing about so she enlist the help of her "friend" Tim. She comes up with a list of things she'd otherwise NEVER do and Tim helps her carry those tasks out. I must say that "pose nude" part was freakin' hot and the girl talk between Quinn and her girl posse was hilarious. Follow Quinn on her quest to live outside her comfort zone.
Tim is a recovering drug and alcohol addict. He's been clean for 7 years, works as Executive Chef at a cool new restaurant and going strong. He struggles with wondering if he'll ever be good enough for anything or anyone, but helping Quinn with her list I believe is showing him how worthy he really is. He does tend to be a dick at times, but never fear, Quinn is here and she'll peel away those layer of distrust and self loathing if it's the last thing she does.
The supporting characters were pretty cool. Tim's brother Scott was very supportive and pleasant. Roger Whitaker <-- cracked me up... is that a folk singer from the 70's! Anywho... Roger, Tims' sponsor was one of my faves. He gave it to you straight and was always there when Tim needed him. Now the girl posse...those bitches say what they mean and mean what they say... We all need friends like that in our group.
So, this was not my fave, but it was a pretty good book. The pacing kinda lagged for me a bit till around 75% and then some angsty shit starts to happen. The storyline is good, the dialogue flowed fairly well, and the tension (for me) could have been a little more intense. I still look forward to reading more from this crazy duo... Elizabeth and Hayley!
ARC provide by publisher for an honest review
3.5 Stars
May 2, 2016
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kimberlyfaye reads
.
I was so excited to discover Elizabeth Hayley earlier this year when I picked up The Best Medicine on a whim. Their writing was refreshing and I absolutely fell head over heels for their characters and engaging story. I couldn't wait to get my hands on the second book in this standalone series and as soon as I started reading I knew I would enjoy it just as much as the first. Just Say Yes was a fun, sweet and super sexy book that I devoured in one sitting. I regret nothing.
Quinn's story was something out of a rom com movie and, since those are one of my biggest guilty pleasures, I was all over this one from the very start. What happens when the "good girl" agrees to write a magazine article about pushing herself to do things outside of her comfort zone AND enlists the help of her "bad boy" friend to help? Pure freaking gold – that's what. I loved Quinn's "bucket list" and it was fun to watch her conquer each of them. There were some light-hearted and funny moments, but there were also quite a few sexy and swoony ones.
Both of these characters were wonderful. I loved watching Quinn embrace life and start living it for herself instead of continuing to do the things her family wanted her to do. It's hard to shake the good girl rep and I loved how Quinn pushed the envelope and ultimately found herself. Tim was super hot and swoony and complicated. (My favorite kind of hero.) Of course, friends first romances are some of my favorites, so it's no wonder I embraced this one the way I did. These characters had tons of chemistry and the sexy times were smokin' hot. There was also a solid dose of feels as these two grew together and I loved every minute of it.
I'm already dying to get my hands on the third book, The Wedding Agreement. I adore Cass and can't wait to see who she's paired with. Is it May yet?
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I was so excited to discover Elizabeth Hayley earlier this year when I picked up The Best Medicine on a whim. Their writing was refreshing and I absolutely fell head over heels for their characters and engaging story. I couldn't wait to get my hands on the second book in this standalone series and as soon as I started reading I knew I would enjoy it just as much as the first. Just Say Yes was a fun, sweet and super sexy book that I devoured in one sitting. I regret nothing.
Quinn's story was something out of a rom com movie and, since those are one of my biggest guilty pleasures, I was all over this one from the very start. What happens when the "good girl" agrees to write a magazine article about pushing herself to do things outside of her comfort zone AND enlists the help of her "bad boy" friend to help? Pure freaking gold – that's what. I loved Quinn's "bucket list" and it was fun to watch her conquer each of them. There were some light-hearted and funny moments, but there were also quite a few sexy and swoony ones.
Both of these characters were wonderful. I loved watching Quinn embrace life and start living it for herself instead of continuing to do the things her family wanted her to do. It's hard to shake the good girl rep and I loved how Quinn pushed the envelope and ultimately found herself. Tim was super hot and swoony and complicated. (My favorite kind of hero.) Of course, friends first romances are some of my favorites, so it's no wonder I embraced this one the way I did. These characters had tons of chemistry and the sexy times were smokin' hot. There was also a solid dose of feels as these two grew together and I loved every minute of it.
I'm already dying to get my hands on the third book, The Wedding Agreement. I adore Cass and can't wait to see who she's paired with. Is it May yet?
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 28, 2015
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Just Say Yes by Elizabeth Hayley
I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
EEP! I was so excited to see that this book was about Sot’s chef brother Tim. I kinda fell in love with the reformed bad by in Scott and Lo’s book so…Yeah I devoured this book.
Tim has mad bad choices in his life. Those choices almost made him lose his brother but did ultimately make his parents cut him out of their lives. He has been clean and on the straight and narrow path for 7 years. He has made his life a better place but he is lonely. He views himself as cleaned up but not clean for any woman to want to build a life with.
Quinn is your “safe friend” . She dates the safe guy who won’t cause her to feel. She just doesn’t feel good in her skin. She gets an assignment at her job and Tim steps in to help her. They both has secretly crushed on the other buuuut haven’t done anything to foster a relationship.
You can see the couple’s friendship grow from just friends to straight up lust to love. They chemistry is light in the beginning but holy crap does it get so thick. When the couple final moves forward, I was so excited. They are just so perfect fit. They both share their secrets and desires. They both share their flaws and insecurities. When Tim is “reminded” he isn’t a good fit for Quinn, he walks away. That destroyed me and Quinn. Tim has some soul searching to do and deal with some hurdles that gets thrown his way before realizing he needs Quinn to help him. Quinn is destroyed and then confused when Tim is back.
I have to say that this couple made my heart beat fast and the chemistry had me fanning myself.
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Just Say Yes by Elizabeth Hayley
I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
EEP! I was so excited to see that this book was about Sot’s chef brother Tim. I kinda fell in love with the reformed bad by in Scott and Lo’s book so…Yeah I devoured this book.
Tim has mad bad choices in his life. Those choices almost made him lose his brother but did ultimately make his parents cut him out of their lives. He has been clean and on the straight and narrow path for 7 years. He has made his life a better place but he is lonely. He views himself as cleaned up but not clean for any woman to want to build a life with.
Quinn is your “safe friend” . She dates the safe guy who won’t cause her to feel. She just doesn’t feel good in her skin. She gets an assignment at her job and Tim steps in to help her. They both has secretly crushed on the other buuuut haven’t done anything to foster a relationship.
You can see the couple’s friendship grow from just friends to straight up lust to love. They chemistry is light in the beginning but holy crap does it get so thick. When the couple final moves forward, I was so excited. They are just so perfect fit. They both share their secrets and desires. They both share their flaws and insecurities. When Tim is “reminded” he isn’t a good fit for Quinn, he walks away. That destroyed me and Quinn. Tim has some soul searching to do and deal with some hurdles that gets thrown his way before realizing he needs Quinn to help him. Quinn is destroyed and then confused when Tim is back.
I have to say that this couple made my heart beat fast and the chemistry had me fanning myself.
October 12, 2015
This is my first book by this author and I enjoyed it. It had some amazing and entertaining characters that helped me turn the pages just to see where this story would take them.
Quinn is tired of playing it safe and wants more adventure in her life. After her boss acts for suggestions about a new article she is ready to leave the old Quinn behind. Her friend Tim offers to help her check off items on her bad girl list but what she doesn't realize is she is about to head on a journey to see who she really is.
Tim has been sober for 8 years and has never been in a relationship but every time he sees Quinn he wishes for more. He offers to help check the items on her list but after each item he wishes he was good enough for her and starts to fall in love.
I loved the characters and how perfectly written they were for each other. They both are opposites but when they are together you can't even see that. I think Quinn was my favorite. She was smart and even though she felt like she was boring it was Tim who showed her that that was the real her to begin with.
Don't get me wrong I did love the sexy tattooed chef. He had this bad boy edge that was wrapped into a really good guy. When he looses his friend and gets the letter boy did I have tears running down my cheeks.
My favorite parts of the book were when they were checking off items on Quinn's list. I loved these two together and couldn't wait to see what the outcome would be.
I would really like to read the first book in this series to see what Tims brother went through to get his HEA.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. I devoured it in 3 hours because it was entertaining and keep me wanting more. I will definitely be reading more of this author and series in the future.
Quinn is tired of playing it safe and wants more adventure in her life. After her boss acts for suggestions about a new article she is ready to leave the old Quinn behind. Her friend Tim offers to help her check off items on her bad girl list but what she doesn't realize is she is about to head on a journey to see who she really is.
Tim has been sober for 8 years and has never been in a relationship but every time he sees Quinn he wishes for more. He offers to help check the items on her list but after each item he wishes he was good enough for her and starts to fall in love.
I loved the characters and how perfectly written they were for each other. They both are opposites but when they are together you can't even see that. I think Quinn was my favorite. She was smart and even though she felt like she was boring it was Tim who showed her that that was the real her to begin with.
Don't get me wrong I did love the sexy tattooed chef. He had this bad boy edge that was wrapped into a really good guy. When he looses his friend and gets the letter boy did I have tears running down my cheeks.
My favorite parts of the book were when they were checking off items on Quinn's list. I loved these two together and couldn't wait to see what the outcome would be.
I would really like to read the first book in this series to see what Tims brother went through to get his HEA.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. I devoured it in 3 hours because it was entertaining and keep me wanting more. I will definitely be reading more of this author and series in the future.
October 1, 2015
It's no secret I love Elizabeth Hayley and their writing. They remind me of Alice Clayton and her Wallbanger series. This book was awesome!
Quinn is a girl who plays by the rules, always walks the line and dates the kind of guy she's supposed to but it never lasts. After one more disastrous date she takes a good look at her world and wonders if maybe she's been playing it safe for too long. Her boss at work is looking for a unique story idea and Quinn decides maybe it's time to step out of her comfort zone. So, she pitches an idea where she makes a list of things she would normally never do and her boss loves it. In order to accomplish this list she will need the help of a bad boy... enter Tim Jacobs.
Tim is a tattooed hottie with a dark past he's worked hard to overcome. He agrees to help Quinn accomplish her tasks and begins to fall for her. But with all the mistakes he's made in life he doesn't feel like he's worthy of her.
During the execution of the list Quinn decides to throw caution to the wind and make her move with Tim. What happens next is a series of hilarious happenings, some steamy moments and two people discovering how great life can be when you choose to let go a little.
Can they make a relationship work? Can Quinn complete her list and find the joy on life she's been searching for? Can Tim get past his own issues to realize the goodness standing right in front of him? You'll have to read to find out! Grab this book as soon as you can and be ready to laugh, cry and fall in love with Tim and Quinn. I did!
Quinn is a girl who plays by the rules, always walks the line and dates the kind of guy she's supposed to but it never lasts. After one more disastrous date she takes a good look at her world and wonders if maybe she's been playing it safe for too long. Her boss at work is looking for a unique story idea and Quinn decides maybe it's time to step out of her comfort zone. So, she pitches an idea where she makes a list of things she would normally never do and her boss loves it. In order to accomplish this list she will need the help of a bad boy... enter Tim Jacobs.
Tim is a tattooed hottie with a dark past he's worked hard to overcome. He agrees to help Quinn accomplish her tasks and begins to fall for her. But with all the mistakes he's made in life he doesn't feel like he's worthy of her.
During the execution of the list Quinn decides to throw caution to the wind and make her move with Tim. What happens next is a series of hilarious happenings, some steamy moments and two people discovering how great life can be when you choose to let go a little.
Can they make a relationship work? Can Quinn complete her list and find the joy on life she's been searching for? Can Tim get past his own issues to realize the goodness standing right in front of him? You'll have to read to find out! Grab this book as soon as you can and be ready to laugh, cry and fall in love with Tim and Quinn. I did!
December 7, 2015
Just Say Yes (Strictly Business #2) by Elizabeth Hayley
Magazine columnist Quinn Sawyer has always attracted sweet, innocent, and safe men. And something tells her it’s because she’s just as harmless. So when she starts craving a guy with an edge, she realizes she may have to get one for herself.
When her boss asks for a unique pitch, Quinn’s quest to live outside her comfort zone prompts her to suggest an idea that will cause her to break her good-girl rules. And who better than Tim Jacobs to help her push her boundaries? For a while now, Quinn’s had a hot crush on the tattooed executive chef with a checkered past. If anybody can bring out her inner rebel, he can.
It’s no surprise that with every task the two complete, the sparks between them grow more and more intense. Soon there’s no denying the attraction they each feel. But Tim’s troubled past reveals an even tougher edge than Quinn expected—which means for her, falling in love might just be the greatest rebellion of all.
My Review:
I really hated rating this book two stars because its worthy of a four star rating but unfortunately the largest half of the books plot focus related to a topic that's very personal to me that wasn't quite handled the way I'd hoped it would be.
My personal feelings aside I thought Just Say Yes was a decent book with good characters and development and is a story worth reading.
My Rating:
2 Stars
Reviewed By: Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews
http://kkmalott.booklikes.com/
Note: I received a print copy in exchange for an honest review from Berkley/NAL/Penguin
Magazine columnist Quinn Sawyer has always attracted sweet, innocent, and safe men. And something tells her it’s because she’s just as harmless. So when she starts craving a guy with an edge, she realizes she may have to get one for herself.
When her boss asks for a unique pitch, Quinn’s quest to live outside her comfort zone prompts her to suggest an idea that will cause her to break her good-girl rules. And who better than Tim Jacobs to help her push her boundaries? For a while now, Quinn’s had a hot crush on the tattooed executive chef with a checkered past. If anybody can bring out her inner rebel, he can.
It’s no surprise that with every task the two complete, the sparks between them grow more and more intense. Soon there’s no denying the attraction they each feel. But Tim’s troubled past reveals an even tougher edge than Quinn expected—which means for her, falling in love might just be the greatest rebellion of all.
My Review:
I really hated rating this book two stars because its worthy of a four star rating but unfortunately the largest half of the books plot focus related to a topic that's very personal to me that wasn't quite handled the way I'd hoped it would be.
My personal feelings aside I thought Just Say Yes was a decent book with good characters and development and is a story worth reading.
My Rating:
2 Stars
Reviewed By: Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews
http://kkmalott.booklikes.com/
Note: I received a print copy in exchange for an honest review from Berkley/NAL/Penguin
October 3, 2015
I absolutely love everything Elizabeth Hayley writes. This book did not disappoint. Quinn is the quintessential good girl who always makes safe picks when it comes to her choices in men but she can't fight the attraction to her best friend's boyfriend's brother, reformed bad boy Tim. Can they turn their friendship into a relationship? Loved this book!
January 8, 2021
Funny and steamy!
Really enjoyed this collaboration!! Quinn’s sense of humor (and her girlfriends) was so relatable and natural. It was refreshing to read inner dialogue that sounded so unfiltered, so genuine. While she was a “good girl”, there was no attempt to make our heroine seem perfect... and obviously, her hero wasn’t either!! Overall just a great, quick romance: everything I was looking for. Totally recommend!
Really enjoyed this collaboration!! Quinn’s sense of humor (and her girlfriends) was so relatable and natural. It was refreshing to read inner dialogue that sounded so unfiltered, so genuine. While she was a “good girl”, there was no attempt to make our heroine seem perfect... and obviously, her hero wasn’t either!! Overall just a great, quick romance: everything I was looking for. Totally recommend!
August 29, 2020
This was a cute story. I loved that Quinn, the safe girl, was living outside of her comfort zone.
I really liked the fact that Tim was a flawed character who accepted his short comings. They were great together with the right amount of chemistry and spunk.
4.5
I really liked the fact that Tim was a flawed character who accepted his short comings. They were great together with the right amount of chemistry and spunk.
4.5
September 10, 2020
This book reminded me of the movie "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days".
I don't know why.
This book had everything I love in a book except the "who done it". It was sassy, sexy and a book I couldn't put down. A definite must read for anyone who wants a HEA.
I don't know why.
This book had everything I love in a book except the "who done it". It was sassy, sexy and a book I couldn't put down. A definite must read for anyone who wants a HEA.
January 23, 2021
Absolutely loved this book and series. They just keep getting better and better. Each one is great on their own but together they are hot and steamy. Can't wait to read Cass and Alex's story. ⭐🔥💜⭐🔥🧡🌟🔥💛🌟🔥💙
September 6, 2022
One of the best books I have read in a very long time. It has a bit of everything, romance, sex, suspense and some very useful and important life lessons. I could not put it down. I would highly recommend reading this book.
January 6, 2018
This was beautiful.
Currently reading
September 20, 2021on page 133
so far so good
so far so good
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December 1, 2015This review was originally posted on Delighted Reader
I almost stopped reading this several times only to find myself falling in love with these two characters. See it is the second novel in the Strictly Business Series and I haven’t read the first one. This caused some slight confusion in the beginning as the characters are friends and established already. Then everything seemed so platonic in the beginning and I was kind of bored. Once I sat down and dug in, I found myself questioning why I would give up.When sweet guys aren’t cutting it, Quinn Sawyer has to find a way to get out of her comfort zone and find some gumption to leap out of her shell to experience life in ways she has never dared to before. Being a journalist, Quinn’s boss asks the team for a innovative story that hasn’t been done. Now Quinn has to break all her rules to experience what a good girl does when she decided to go bad. With a little help from her tattooed friend, she just might break more than a few rules.
Tim Jacobs knows all about being a bad boy. He’s lived the life of drug and alcohol addiction. One accident woke him up and he has been clean and sober for 7 years. In those seven years though, he has still not found enough self esteem to realize he is worth something and loved. Crushing on the innocent Quinn isn’t helping so he decides since he has walked on the wild side, he is going to help Quinn complete her list.
Checking off each item on the list brings them closer as they spend time together. Tim doesn’t think he is good enough, but Quinn sees the good side of him. The love builds slowly from friendship as the two reveal more and more of their personalities and what makes them them.
Tim is also a chef...can’t you imagine all the wonderful food he can make? But he makes the things Quinn likes even the weird stuff. His sweet side wins her heart as he has worked hard to become a man his brother can be proud of, but he hasn’t realized he has achieved.
The story has some very painful parts that had my throat thickening and tears burning my eyes. It is bittersweet and hard at times to continue to read, but you do because that is the respect these characters are due. I loved this story and the stupid things each of them do for love. Each check mark off of Quinn’s list is something a lot of people want to do, break out of their shell. Nothing on the list is too horrible, but you watch these two grow over experiences they share.
Love this book and now I am a fan of the author!
January 4, 2016
I've never considered myself much of a romance novel reader. In my head, they have a tendency to be formulaic, tedious, and unbelievable. Couple meets, falls for each other, sex happens way too fast, someone does something stupid, they hate each other, and by the end all is back to happy sex again. While other members of my family have enjoyed them in the past, I wasn't sold for a while.
Recently however, I got a chance to beta read a romance for a friend of mine--and I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. So when a chance came to beta read JUST SAY YES, I decided to take a jump on it. Bad boys, journalists...this was something I could sink my teeth into.
And was I right.
Quinn Sawyer is a fairly sweet/innocent/naïve magazine journalist who doesn't understand why she always seems to attract the calm, boring guys. Face to face with sexy reformed (depending on who you ask) criminal Tim Jacobs, and she feels just as safe and boring as all the guys she tends to date. So what better way to work her way out of her shell than make a list of rebellions to accomplish, and ask Tim to help her finish the list? Flawless plan. Nothing could possibly go wrong, right?
There's a piece of me that can relate to Quinn: feeling safe and boring, but liking guys a shade on the dangerous side. (Granted, Tim's about as "dangerous" as I'd like my men, but that's aside.) And Tim's backstory is just dark enough and just deep enough to make him a fascinating and well-rounded character. Honestly, this is a perfect balance of character personality, logic for the pace of the action, and humor to make the entire piece cohesive.
I won't lie: there is an element of the romance-novel-formula in this. It is a romance novel, and it follows what you'd expect of one. However there are still a few surprises: moments where I expected one thing and got another, times when what I was sure would happen didn't happen at all, moments of character reveal that knocked me off balance. It didn't drag, it didn't seem repetitive of redundant, everything had a reason and a logic. All winning points for me in a book.
What "bothers" me about romance novels is that more often than not, by the time the book ends, the story for those two characters is finished--and thus I don't get anymore. I'd love to read more about Quinn and Tim, figuring out themselves and their place in the world, maneuvering through their respective baggage, working with each other. They're really fun characters and in a way, I kind of miss them. But that's the sign of a good book, and it's likely better to leave the reader wanting more, than dragging them on and on and making them want to light the second half of the book on fire.
The pair behind this pseudonym know their stuff, and it shows. I'd absolutely pick up another of their books, and I'm looking forward to seeing what else they can cook up.
Rating: ***** (Highest Recommendation)
(honestly, I'd give it a 4.5, but Goodreads etc. doesn't allow for it so...)
Recently however, I got a chance to beta read a romance for a friend of mine--and I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. So when a chance came to beta read JUST SAY YES, I decided to take a jump on it. Bad boys, journalists...this was something I could sink my teeth into.
And was I right.
Quinn Sawyer is a fairly sweet/innocent/naïve magazine journalist who doesn't understand why she always seems to attract the calm, boring guys. Face to face with sexy reformed (depending on who you ask) criminal Tim Jacobs, and she feels just as safe and boring as all the guys she tends to date. So what better way to work her way out of her shell than make a list of rebellions to accomplish, and ask Tim to help her finish the list? Flawless plan. Nothing could possibly go wrong, right?
There's a piece of me that can relate to Quinn: feeling safe and boring, but liking guys a shade on the dangerous side. (Granted, Tim's about as "dangerous" as I'd like my men, but that's aside.) And Tim's backstory is just dark enough and just deep enough to make him a fascinating and well-rounded character. Honestly, this is a perfect balance of character personality, logic for the pace of the action, and humor to make the entire piece cohesive.
I won't lie: there is an element of the romance-novel-formula in this. It is a romance novel, and it follows what you'd expect of one. However there are still a few surprises: moments where I expected one thing and got another, times when what I was sure would happen didn't happen at all, moments of character reveal that knocked me off balance. It didn't drag, it didn't seem repetitive of redundant, everything had a reason and a logic. All winning points for me in a book.
What "bothers" me about romance novels is that more often than not, by the time the book ends, the story for those two characters is finished--and thus I don't get anymore. I'd love to read more about Quinn and Tim, figuring out themselves and their place in the world, maneuvering through their respective baggage, working with each other. They're really fun characters and in a way, I kind of miss them. But that's the sign of a good book, and it's likely better to leave the reader wanting more, than dragging them on and on and making them want to light the second half of the book on fire.
The pair behind this pseudonym know their stuff, and it shows. I'd absolutely pick up another of their books, and I'm looking forward to seeing what else they can cook up.
Rating: ***** (Highest Recommendation)
(honestly, I'd give it a 4.5, but Goodreads etc. doesn't allow for it so...)
November 29, 2015
3.5 stars - My review cross-posted from Wit and Sin: http://witandsin.blogspot.com/2015/11...
The quintessential good girl decides to take a walk on the wild side in Just Say Yes . Author duo Elizabeth Hayley make Quinn’s quest to step outside of her comfort zone a fun one once our intrepid heroine is joined by her sexy, streetwise crush.
I absolutely adored Tim. He’s unusual for a hero in that he’s an addict, one who has been clean seven years. I loved that the authors didn’t simply pay lip service to Tim’s addiction, and they perfectly walked the fine line between giving this part of his character the attention it deserved and not letting it overpower the story. Tim has a big heart, but has been buried under the weight of his past. It was great watching him fully embrace life as he joined Quinn on her adventures and – apart from one painfully overused romance hero moment that seems to have been included for dramatic reasons – I was rooting for Tim the whole way. Because of his past, he doesn’t think he’s good enough for Quinn, but as he helps her complete the tasks she’s set out for herself, he finds he can’t resist her.
Quinn, unfortunately, is where Just Say Yes hit a snag for me. She came off a bit judgmental and too perfect to begin with, and though it rubbed me the wrong way, I was eager to see her grow as a character. Unfortunately, for me Quinn never lost that “too perfect to be real” quality, and though I ended up liking her well enough, I simply couldn’t connect with her. Her journey was fairly by-the-numbers, even with her learning to take risks, and I didn’t find her as interesting as Tim. Still, even with these little niggles, I found Quinn and Tim’s romance to be sweet, sensual, and fun to read about.
Just Say Yes is the second book in Elizabeth Hayley’s Strictly Business series, but as I have not read The Best Medicine I can safely say that Quinn and Tim’s story can be read on its own. Just Say Yes had its ups and downs for me, but overall I found it to be an enjoyable romance that should please contemporary romance fans.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The quintessential good girl decides to take a walk on the wild side in Just Say Yes . Author duo Elizabeth Hayley make Quinn’s quest to step outside of her comfort zone a fun one once our intrepid heroine is joined by her sexy, streetwise crush.
I absolutely adored Tim. He’s unusual for a hero in that he’s an addict, one who has been clean seven years. I loved that the authors didn’t simply pay lip service to Tim’s addiction, and they perfectly walked the fine line between giving this part of his character the attention it deserved and not letting it overpower the story. Tim has a big heart, but has been buried under the weight of his past. It was great watching him fully embrace life as he joined Quinn on her adventures and – apart from one painfully overused romance hero moment that seems to have been included for dramatic reasons – I was rooting for Tim the whole way. Because of his past, he doesn’t think he’s good enough for Quinn, but as he helps her complete the tasks she’s set out for herself, he finds he can’t resist her.
Quinn, unfortunately, is where Just Say Yes hit a snag for me. She came off a bit judgmental and too perfect to begin with, and though it rubbed me the wrong way, I was eager to see her grow as a character. Unfortunately, for me Quinn never lost that “too perfect to be real” quality, and though I ended up liking her well enough, I simply couldn’t connect with her. Her journey was fairly by-the-numbers, even with her learning to take risks, and I didn’t find her as interesting as Tim. Still, even with these little niggles, I found Quinn and Tim’s romance to be sweet, sensual, and fun to read about.
Just Say Yes is the second book in Elizabeth Hayley’s Strictly Business series, but as I have not read The Best Medicine I can safely say that Quinn and Tim’s story can be read on its own. Just Say Yes had its ups and downs for me, but overall I found it to be an enjoyable romance that should please contemporary romance fans.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
December 13, 2015
Reviewed on Behalf of Give Me Books
So I pretty much loved everything about this book! It was sweet, sassy, sexy, and funny – a perfect combo of feelings throughout the entire story. And the title was impeccable!
“Carpe diem, Quinn. Today is the first day of the rest of your life (is that how that corny saying goes?). Anyway, I decided that we needed to up the stakes for your first foray into Good Girl Gone Bad-dom.”
Quinn is the reliablie one, the safe one, the one you can always count on. However, she isn’t adventurous and doesn’t enter into uncomfortable situations. She is the good girl. But she is tired of that and when she pitches an idea to her editor to write an article about a good girl who turns bad, even by little increments, she must now complete the tasks.
Tim is Scott’s older brother. He has lived a hard life and has been the bad boy for far too long. As Quinn’s friend he decides to help her with her foray into bad girlness, since she can’t do it alone.
What neither of them expected was to fall for the other. “Mark me, Quinn. I want to wear the proof of what I did to you for days. I want to look at my back and know that I made you come so hard, you had to hold on for dear life.” Even though he can’t stop his attraction to Quinn, Tim feels unworthy of a girl like her due to his past. “Yes, you can make me worthy of you.”
I really loved everything about this book! I read it quickly and only put it down when I had to. I really loved watching Tim turn into the man that Quinn knew he was. We also got to see Lauren & Scott from The Best Medicine, which I absolutely adored as well as the rest of the cast from that book. We also met some new secondary characters and I loved Roger as well as Tim’s friends from the pool hall. I can’t wait for the next story in this series of friends! (5 stars)
So I pretty much loved everything about this book! It was sweet, sassy, sexy, and funny – a perfect combo of feelings throughout the entire story. And the title was impeccable!
“Carpe diem, Quinn. Today is the first day of the rest of your life (is that how that corny saying goes?). Anyway, I decided that we needed to up the stakes for your first foray into Good Girl Gone Bad-dom.”
Quinn is the reliablie one, the safe one, the one you can always count on. However, she isn’t adventurous and doesn’t enter into uncomfortable situations. She is the good girl. But she is tired of that and when she pitches an idea to her editor to write an article about a good girl who turns bad, even by little increments, she must now complete the tasks.
Tim is Scott’s older brother. He has lived a hard life and has been the bad boy for far too long. As Quinn’s friend he decides to help her with her foray into bad girlness, since she can’t do it alone.
What neither of them expected was to fall for the other. “Mark me, Quinn. I want to wear the proof of what I did to you for days. I want to look at my back and know that I made you come so hard, you had to hold on for dear life.” Even though he can’t stop his attraction to Quinn, Tim feels unworthy of a girl like her due to his past. “Yes, you can make me worthy of you.”
I really loved everything about this book! I read it quickly and only put it down when I had to. I really loved watching Tim turn into the man that Quinn knew he was. We also got to see Lauren & Scott from The Best Medicine, which I absolutely adored as well as the rest of the cast from that book. We also met some new secondary characters and I loved Roger as well as Tim’s friends from the pool hall. I can’t wait for the next story in this series of friends! (5 stars)
December 12, 2015
4.5 Stars
This is book two in the series. While it can be read as a standalone, I think the reader will get more out of it if they read the books in order.
Quinn Sawyer is a good girl. Always polite, has a great relationship with her parents, amazing friends, and is very predictable with her love life. Always going for the same kind of men. She works for a magazine and one day decides to pitch an idea for an article. That article sets into motion a series of events that leads her on the road to self discovery. Quinn is someone I easily liked and loved watching her break out of the mold she'd been living in.
Tim Jacobs, Dr. Scott's brother from book one, has a successful career as an executive chef. He's happy his brother has found his other half and with that has met all of said better half's friends. Quinn stood out to him from the beginning. When she tells him about how everyone thinks she's ordinary and boring, he helps her try some new things. Tim has a dark side, though. He's a recovering addict. Tim was easy for me to fall for. We get to see how he deals with situations, how he still struggles with what he thinks he deserves.
Together the two embark on a journey that leads them to more than fulfilling the obligations for Quinn's article. They both realize there is something between them, but what will it take for them to pursue it? Once together, can she help Tim realize how she and others see him, for the man he really is?
The chemistry and build-up in the story was great. It moved at an even pace, both characters were very likeable. I liked that they both came into themselves as the book went on. It was an enjoyable, light read. I'm looking forward to seeing what's in store for Cass and Alex.
Book received in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha.
This is book two in the series. While it can be read as a standalone, I think the reader will get more out of it if they read the books in order.
Quinn Sawyer is a good girl. Always polite, has a great relationship with her parents, amazing friends, and is very predictable with her love life. Always going for the same kind of men. She works for a magazine and one day decides to pitch an idea for an article. That article sets into motion a series of events that leads her on the road to self discovery. Quinn is someone I easily liked and loved watching her break out of the mold she'd been living in.
Tim Jacobs, Dr. Scott's brother from book one, has a successful career as an executive chef. He's happy his brother has found his other half and with that has met all of said better half's friends. Quinn stood out to him from the beginning. When she tells him about how everyone thinks she's ordinary and boring, he helps her try some new things. Tim has a dark side, though. He's a recovering addict. Tim was easy for me to fall for. We get to see how he deals with situations, how he still struggles with what he thinks he deserves.
Together the two embark on a journey that leads them to more than fulfilling the obligations for Quinn's article. They both realize there is something between them, but what will it take for them to pursue it? Once together, can she help Tim realize how she and others see him, for the man he really is?
The chemistry and build-up in the story was great. It moved at an even pace, both characters were very likeable. I liked that they both came into themselves as the book went on. It was an enjoyable, light read. I'm looking forward to seeing what's in store for Cass and Alex.
Book received in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha.
January 6, 2016
4.5 stars for a beautiful, fulfilling romance between 2 very likable characters that grew on their own and together in an unforgettable story. I read many romances and am thrilled when I find one of this quality.
I could really relate to Quinn being the good girl who wants to take some risks. She was so genuine and able to laugh at herself despite undertaking some stressful situations. Tim, a compelling former addict who had been clean 8 years but still had such a touching vulnerability, was a perfect partner and mentor to Quinn as she walked a bit on the wild side. The two had already been around each other as her friend and his brother starred in book one of this series, and their friendship was given time to deepen before the romance began. This couple just felt so right for each other, both emotionally and physically. I didn't want their journey to end. Every scene had a purpose, and the book flowed nicely.
My main reason for not giving the book 5 stars was how the authors stopped scenes at the end of chapters before they felt finished, leaving me frustrated and wanting more dialogue. These abrupt endings made the book miss several opportunities to add so much more, especially in the first half of the book as the relationship deepened. The scene at the hotel after the hitchhiking lacked details or any description of the next morning. The scene where Quinn and Tim pose as nude art models could have shown so much more heat and developing chemistry, as well as more humor from their mutual embarrassment.
The great plot and these two unique, special characters had the potential to be a truly outstanding book. Still, it was very special and a much better read than most of the current romances out there.
I could really relate to Quinn being the good girl who wants to take some risks. She was so genuine and able to laugh at herself despite undertaking some stressful situations. Tim, a compelling former addict who had been clean 8 years but still had such a touching vulnerability, was a perfect partner and mentor to Quinn as she walked a bit on the wild side. The two had already been around each other as her friend and his brother starred in book one of this series, and their friendship was given time to deepen before the romance began. This couple just felt so right for each other, both emotionally and physically. I didn't want their journey to end. Every scene had a purpose, and the book flowed nicely.
My main reason for not giving the book 5 stars was how the authors stopped scenes at the end of chapters before they felt finished, leaving me frustrated and wanting more dialogue. These abrupt endings made the book miss several opportunities to add so much more, especially in the first half of the book as the relationship deepened. The scene at the hotel after the hitchhiking lacked details or any description of the next morning. The scene where Quinn and Tim pose as nude art models could have shown so much more heat and developing chemistry, as well as more humor from their mutual embarrassment.
The great plot and these two unique, special characters had the potential to be a truly outstanding book. Still, it was very special and a much better read than most of the current romances out there.
August 23, 2016
Full disclosure: I received this novel as a Goodreads First Reads giveaway, but that in no way affects the review.
Good girl, always playing it safe girl, Quinn wants to break out of her boring side and in a moment of frustration pitches an article about just that and she is selected to write it.
Now she is stuck, but reformed bad-boy Tim Jacobs agrees to help her find her inner badass by helping her.
Neither realizes how it will affect the other even though both secretly desire a deeper friendship, a deeper relationship. Yet Tim doesn't feel he is good enough for her, that his previous actions preclude any sort of long-term happiness.
Can Quinn change and complete the tasks she has set for herself even with Tim's encouragement and help? Can Tim ever forgive himself and allow her in? Is love possible for these two?
While this reader thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series ( and received a copy along with this giveaway), this one appealed to me more. Change and redemption, second chances and looking beyond the surface were the reasons that make the book. Just say yes..to reading it.
For those who aren't aware of the practice, the stretching of ear lobes is called 'gauging' (having been informed by my younger son 12 years ago), but the author doesn't label it as such. Was the duo who writes under Elizabeth Hayley unaware of the terminology?
A more extensive review can be found after 8/26/16 on www.pedometergeek.WordPress.com
Good girl, always playing it safe girl, Quinn wants to break out of her boring side and in a moment of frustration pitches an article about just that and she is selected to write it.
Now she is stuck, but reformed bad-boy Tim Jacobs agrees to help her find her inner badass by helping her.
Neither realizes how it will affect the other even though both secretly desire a deeper friendship, a deeper relationship. Yet Tim doesn't feel he is good enough for her, that his previous actions preclude any sort of long-term happiness.
Can Quinn change and complete the tasks she has set for herself even with Tim's encouragement and help? Can Tim ever forgive himself and allow her in? Is love possible for these two?
While this reader thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series ( and received a copy along with this giveaway), this one appealed to me more. Change and redemption, second chances and looking beyond the surface were the reasons that make the book. Just say yes..to reading it.
For those who aren't aware of the practice, the stretching of ear lobes is called 'gauging' (having been informed by my younger son 12 years ago), but the author doesn't label it as such. Was the duo who writes under Elizabeth Hayley unaware of the terminology?
A more extensive review can be found after 8/26/16 on www.pedometergeek.WordPress.com
December 29, 2015
3.5 stars
Just Say Yes, by Elizabeth Hayley, is the second book in the Strictly Business series. Quinn gets assigned the task of writing the article she pitches for her boss at the magazine she works at. It requires her stepping outside her comfort zone and experiencing things she’d normally avoid. Tim, the older brother of her friend Lauren’s boyfriend, volunteers to help her out. I liked Quinn more and more as the story progressed. I liked Tim too, though admittedly I wanted to smack him in the head for all of his self-deprecation. The problem for me is that I didn’t feel much chemistry between them for at least the first half of the book. When they got together, they were cute, but I never got the feeling they were up to the task of fighting for one another. I think the story, which was way too predictable when it began, got stronger as it progressed, and I really liked the way it ended. We got to see some great character growth. I liked that Quinn took time to figure out what she wanted and that she didn’t behave like a doormat. Overall, it was a cute read that ended much more strongly than it began.
Just Say Yes, by Elizabeth Hayley, is the second book in the Strictly Business series. Quinn gets assigned the task of writing the article she pitches for her boss at the magazine she works at. It requires her stepping outside her comfort zone and experiencing things she’d normally avoid. Tim, the older brother of her friend Lauren’s boyfriend, volunteers to help her out. I liked Quinn more and more as the story progressed. I liked Tim too, though admittedly I wanted to smack him in the head for all of his self-deprecation. The problem for me is that I didn’t feel much chemistry between them for at least the first half of the book. When they got together, they were cute, but I never got the feeling they were up to the task of fighting for one another. I think the story, which was way too predictable when it began, got stronger as it progressed, and I really liked the way it ended. We got to see some great character growth. I liked that Quinn took time to figure out what she wanted and that she didn’t behave like a doormat. Overall, it was a cute read that ended much more strongly than it began.
July 18, 2016
Quinn has gone on yet another dud date. The guys that she seems to attract are soft, lack ambition, and typically live with their mother. Quinn is ready for change. So when she accidentally speaks out loud during a staff meeting where she works for a women's magazine, she finds herself stuck with an article about taking risks. Quinn has always admired Tim. He's an executive chef that has a checkered past. He's several years older than Quinn and is the polar opposite when it comes to experience with risk. So Quinn asks him for help. Tim has been in love with Quinn forever. But he knows he's not good enough for Quinn so he's kept quiet. But this article may be just what the two need to get past what they'd done in the past and take a risk on the adventure of love.
This was a quick, fun story. It was your typical, predictable girl and guy secretly love each other, have a conflict, and after some drama end up together. But it was still well written and entertaining. The characters were authentic and the situations realistic. The female protagonist was amusing and relatable. There are a couple of bedroom scenes, for those who want to know about such details. The story ended sweetly. Overall, this was a nice romantic story that I enjoyed reading.
I received this book free of charge from Goodreads in exchange for my honest review.
This was a quick, fun story. It was your typical, predictable girl and guy secretly love each other, have a conflict, and after some drama end up together. But it was still well written and entertaining. The characters were authentic and the situations realistic. The female protagonist was amusing and relatable. There are a couple of bedroom scenes, for those who want to know about such details. The story ended sweetly. Overall, this was a nice romantic story that I enjoyed reading.
I received this book free of charge from Goodreads in exchange for my honest review.
November 21, 2015
Just Say Yes leaves off where the Best Medicine ended…Lauren graduates and that pivotal moment leads us into the story of Quinn Sawyer and Tim Jacobs. Yes, Lauren's best friend and Dr. Scott’s brother. Tim has a dark past which involves addiction. His past helps to shade his present to a point where he doesn’t allow himself to get too close to anyone outside of his circle. Quinn has a life which has been shaped by her parents over protectiveness and their control issues. In Just Say Yes, you will read a story about two adults finding out who they are within, while fighting the urges that two attractive people can tend to feel towards each other. Both Quinn and Tim learn to stand up for themselves and what they want by learning to Just Say Yes.
Elizabeth AND Hayley have done it once again. This book is a book for fighters, those who want to fight for love. Those who want to say yes and those who need to find out who they really are. Quinn and Tim’s story does NOT disappoint and will leave you wanting more from the dynamic duo’s that are Quinn and Tim; and Elizabeth and Hayley.
***NetGalley ARC received in exchange for an honest review.***
Elizabeth AND Hayley have done it once again. This book is a book for fighters, those who want to fight for love. Those who want to say yes and those who need to find out who they really are. Quinn and Tim’s story does NOT disappoint and will leave you wanting more from the dynamic duo’s that are Quinn and Tim; and Elizabeth and Hayley.
***NetGalley ARC received in exchange for an honest review.***
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