Guilty Pleasures

Bad Boys of Boulder #1

by Deborah Fletcher Mello

Former NBA star Alexander Barrett has slam dunked his career into second gear with the grand opening of his hot new gym in Boulder, Colorado. But his excitement is tempered when his estranged twin brother, MMA title holder Zachary "The Hammer" Barrett returns home from Thailand. Alex has never forgiven Zach for marrying his college sweetheart. And while they're now divorced, his bitterness lingers.

Zach hoped to re-connect with his brother, but when his personal assistant and trainer, Sarai Montri, arrives, their rivalry is soon reignited. Highly educated, not to mention gorgeous, the former Miss Thailand captivates Alex for the first time since his heartbreak. But Sarai's devotion to Zach only stirs up the past. Will the brothers' competitive natures tear them apart once more--with Sarai caught in the middle? …

"Mello dishes up rich emotions, memorable characters, and family intrigue." -- Publishers Weekly on Craving Temptation, Starred Review

"An author who consistently delivers a strong story, complex characters and scorching love scenes." -- RT Book Reviews

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Sports

320 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published March 29, 2016

About the author

For Deborah Fletcher Mello, writing is as necessary as breathing and she firmly believes that if she could not write she would cease to exist. Her first novel, TAKE ME TO HEART, earned her a 2004 Romance Slam Jam nomination for Best New Author. In 2005 she received Book of the Year and Favorite Heroine nominations for her novel THE RIGHT SIDE OF LOVE. In 2008, Deborah won the Romantic Times Reviewers Choice award for Best Series Romance for her ninth novel, TAME A WILD STALLION.

A true renaissance woman, Deborah's many career paths have included working as a retail buyer and size model for a national women's clothing chain, a finance manager for a well-known beverage organization, a sales manager for an infamous candy company, a telecommunications administrator and corporate trainer for a hotel-owning company, an art gallery director for a world-renowned artist, and an administrative consultant for multiple organizations throughout the United States. Deborah is also a licensed real estate broker and general building contractor.

Born and raised in Connecticut, Deborah maintains base camp in North Carolina but considers home to be wherever the moment moves her.

Reviews

[Byron Washington · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice love story that is an easy read, with minimal angst. It may have been a little long, considering the plot, but that didn't spoil the tale like this issue does at times.

Buy it, read it and enjoy.👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥👍🏾🔥

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rosalie's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

4.5 stars

This book about a set of twin brothers takes sibling rivalry to the nth. Zachary Barrett has gone after every female that Alexander Barrett has liked, had as a girlfriend, or been in love with since high school. But the final straw was in college, when Zachary stole the girl who Alex thought could be “the one”. Not only does she leave Alex, but in a matter of a couple weeks, the two are married, further driving the wedge in between the twins.

The book opens up with Alex opening his own state of the art professional gym. Attracting all types of well-known personalities to the gym from the opening, the Kardashians and Lebron James to name a few, the one well known athlete Alex doesn’t want showing up is his brother: heavyweight champion, “The Hammer” Zachary. And when none other than Zachary shows, sparks fly between the brothers. Not only does he show up, but it is found he brought Sarai Montri, former Miss Thailand that now works for Alexander and one of the first women to have caught his eye in years. And the two are “friends” but living together. The twists keep happening with this one!

This read so many real life aspects that made the reader feel that we were living the scenarios that were playing out in front of our eyes. Brothers fighting over the past, fighting over a girl, and love won and lost, this book has it all. Through the ups and downs, I loved reading how the dynamical roller coaster that was the Barrett twins played out. The first in this series,and I am anxiously awaiting more!

Review copy provided for an honest review.

[Reshemah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guilty Pleasures is the first book in the Bad Boys of Boulder. In this book we meet former NBA star, Alexander Barrett. Alex is estranged from his twin brother, Zachary "The Hammer" Barrett, a MMA fighter. In the mist of opening his hot new gym, his twin brother returns. A woman came in between them before and after meeting his twins assistant and trainer, Sarai Montri, perhaps a woman will become a problem for them again.

I absolutely loved this book. Deborah Fletcher Mello takes us into Thailand and all their customs. Mrs. Mello has a way of making you feel like you are there in Thailand with her exceptional descriptions. I can't wait to read Zachary's story.

[Edwina Putney · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book in the Bad Boys of Boulder series deals with Alexander Barrett, former NBA star who, on opening day of his full service health and fitness center in Boulder, Colorado, encounters not only a beautiful new employee, Dr. Sarai Montri from Thailand, who takes his breath away, but he also comes face-to-face with his estranged twin, Zachary, a world champion MMA fighter who returns to Colorado from Thailand with Sarai to try and heal the rift with his brother and also convince him to be his trainer for an upcoming match. Romance tore the two apart and now that Alexander has finally yielded once again to love, his twin's friendship with Sarai could either help or hinder their tenuous hold on reconciliation.

Author Deborah Mello provides an enjoyable read that not only deals with estrangement and forgiveness, but also the problems that are inherent in interracial romances, as we learn about Zachary's marriage to Alexander's college sweetheart, and the close friendship between Zachary and Sarai that puts her in the middle of the renewed relationship between the brothers. Can Sarai be the balm to heal the estrangement between twins, just as she provides the healing to their aching muscles?

I enjoyed the insights into Thailand's culture and its impact on the present and future relationship between Alexander and Sarai. The trip to Thailand for Zach's championship match is filled with vivid descriptions of not only the scenery, but also insight into Thai society and cultural norms that confuse and frustrate Alexander's attempts to convince Sarai's father to give them permission to marry.

This was a wonderful start to the series and I can't wait to continue with the sequel, Perfect Pleasures

[Michelle Padilla · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this book through Goodreads Giveaways. I enjoyed it fro beginning to end. Twin brothers Zachary and Alexander have both been professional athletes. Both own gyms. But both have shared the same woman. This woman put a rift between them both and years a part have made them grow further a part. Can one woman bring the brothers back together or will she be another problem between them? Can Alexander find love with this new woman or is she just another problem?

[KAREN MCCRAW · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unbreakable bond

Even though Alex and Zachary's relationship had been torn apart it was not destroyed. Suirai was actually good for both of them because she made them see love conquers all.

[Penelope Peters]

Unrated bc I didn't finish. The story is well written, but there was no chemistry between the two love interests. I also didn't find Serai believable - a college educated Miss Universe finalist who has NEVER HEARD OF PIZZA? Nope.

[Mary Calton Gerard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable

First time reading this author. The book was pleasantly amusing and informative. Multiracial and multicultural themed but the reconnection of brothers and long ago tales from years past.

[MomRocks! · Rating 3 out of 5]

3-

[Robin Lowman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love does not discriminate.

A great read for all romance readers, love the mix of cultures., sibling rivalry add just another additive to the book. Great author.

[Authoress Nikqua · Rating 5 out of 5]

So amazing!
I enjoyed reading this book! I loved Sarai & Alex story! It was definitely love at first sight!!! I can’t wait to read Zachary’ story!!

[Inderpreet Uppal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Guilty Pleasures is an inter-cultural love story between Alex and Sarai. He is from the US and she is from Thailand. There is an instant attraction between the two but when Alex finds out that, she is his brother’s friend he wants nothing to do with Sarai. The brothers have an ex-wife/ ex-girlfriend in common.


The book opens with the meeting of the two brothers Zachary and Alexander, who happen to be twins with many disagreements, old hurts between them. The book is a sweet, hot romance that highlights that true love can make all differences work for them.


The cultural change both Sarai and Alex face are quite testing yet they hold on since they believed in their love. Initially, I thought this would be another competitive story between brothers but Deborah took this book to another level. The camaraderie between the brothers and love of family makes this a fresh read. I am eager to read Zachary’s story now that I have had a glimpse of his hot skills ;)

The book is a fast-paced read and with lots of page-turners. I recommend it since it is a different read with new places and people to meet. The families of both Alex and Sarai added to the story of the book, making it more than just a love story. It is a culture mix and how deep down for all us family matters most.


Deborah writes with passion and I could read the book her in-depth research about the customs and traditions. It reminded me of the Indian marriage where everyone is involved and families and cousins add up to a few hundred people!


Love, doubts, challenges, sports, MMA and a trip to the picturesque Thailand made it an interesting romantic book to read.

[Say What Book Club · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gorgeous, blue-eyed, dark chocolate skinned, star athlete Alexander has made monumental strides in his profession. After deciding that it was time to take his expertise to a different arena, he opened a state-of-the-art fitness facility, drawing the attention of media, locals, and professional athletes from all over. It’s a dream come true. All is well until he meets the newest team member on staff, Dr. Sarai Montrie, the tiny, breathtaking heartthrob who has come to him from Thailand. This wouldn’t be a problem if she weren’t best friends with his twin brother, who he’s been estranged from for years.

Zachary has lived a life of torment since betraying his closest friend and confidante years before. While at the time, he didn’t consider how his actions might affect the bond he’d always seen as unbreakable, once the deed was done, nothing he tried ever seemed to make those wrongs of yesteryear right. Faced with the biggest challenge of his highly successful career, Zachary knows the only person who can help him gain his title is his elusive brother, Alexander. Taking a huge chance that Alexander won’t be as welcoming and forgiving as he hopes, Zachary travels back from Thailand to crash his brother’s grand opening, hoping the presence of an audience will bypass an ugly altercation.

Sarai Montrie is a lady who has dreamed herself into a better life. After a negative turn of events almost bankrupted her family and landed her in dire circumstances, Zachary was just the person her family needed to save them from utter destruction. She was unknown to the twins until their separate meetings, but she’d grown up aware of them her entire life. Once she meets Alexander, it’s as if her life has come full circle as she stares the man of her dreams in the face. But will the turmoil between the brothers cause a rift in her individual relationships with them?

This is my first read by Deborah Fletcher Mello. While I typically am not fond of interracial romance, the sweetness of this story and feistiness of Dr. Montrie captured me right away and pulled me in. I love how Mello tastefully address stereotypes in this novel, by making Dr. Montrie an outspoken, yet sweet, woman who knew her business and loved her man. The addition of the Thai culture interspersed throughout the book was very welcomed. Although I thought the story moved rather quickly between Alexander and Sarai, the chemistry between them was undeniable. This lightweight romance is sure to warm the hearts of readers. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars
____
Reviewed by Tumika Patrice Cain

[Tumika Patrice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gorgeous, blue-eyed, dark chocolate skinned, star athlete Alexander has made monumental strides in his profession. After deciding that it was time to take his expertise to a different arena, he opened a state-of-the-art fitness facility, drawing the attention of media, locals, and professional athletes from all over. It’s a dream come true. All is well until he meets the newest team member on staff, Dr. Sarai Montrie, the tiny, breathtaking heartthrob who has come to him from Thailand. This wouldn’t be a problem if she weren’t best friends with his twin brother, who he’s been estranged from for years.

Zachary has lived a life of torment since betraying his closest friend and confidante years before. While at the time, he didn’t consider how his actions might affect the bond he’d always seen as unbreakable, once the deed was done, nothing he tried ever seemed to make those wrongs of yesteryear right. Faced with the biggest challenge of his highly successful career, Zachary knows the only person who can help him gain his title is his elusive brother, Alexander. Taking a huge chance that Alexander won’t be as welcoming and forgiving as he hopes, Zachary travels back from Thailand to crash his brother’s grand opening, hoping the presence of an audience will bypass an ugly altercation.

Sarai Montrie is a lady who has dreamed herself into a better life. After a negative turn of events almost bankrupted her family and landed her in dire circumstances, Zachary was just the person her family needed to save them from utter destruction. She was unknown to the twins until their separate meetings, but she’d grown up aware of them her entire life. Once she meets Alexander, it’s as if her life has come full circle as she stares the man of her dreams in the face. But will the turmoil between the brothers cause a rift in her individual relationships with them?

This is my first read by Deborah Fletcher Mello. While I typically am not fond of interracial romance, the sweetness of this story and feistiness of Dr. Montrie captured me right away and pulled me in. I love how Mello tastefully address stereotypes in this novel, by making Dr. Montrie an outspoken, yet sweet, woman who knew her business and loved her man. The addition of the Thai culture interspersed throughout the book was very welcomed. Although I thought the story moved rather quickly between Alexander and Sarai, the chemistry between them was undeniable. This lightweight romance is sure to warm the hearts of readers. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
4 stars

[Kay Edmondson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guilty Pleasures is from the Bad Boys of Boulder Series. It can be read as a standalone novel, but it is So Good that you're find yourself wanting to read the whole series. The interaction between the Barrett family is so realistic. I felt as if I was actually there.
From the beginning to the end I found myself routing for Alexander one minute and the next minute wanting to knock him beside the head as he struggled to forgive his twin.
The chemistry between Alexander and Sarai is Hot and the bond of friendship between Zachary and Sarai is just as strong.
The author draws you in the story as she allows the readers to explore the Tai culture and customs as we travel with the Barrett family to Thailand. I am hooked on the sexy Barrett brothers and is so looking forward to reading Zachary’s story.

[Ida Lawrence · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am reviewing ths book for NetGalley and i am giving my honest review of this book.

This is the first book in the Bad Boys of Boulder Series. This Is Alex and Sarai story. Sarai Montri had come to Alex gym to be a sport therapist on staff. But Alex has soon found out that she had other connection to him first one is his twin brother Zack and the secret that is father is keeping from him and his twin brother for years. Zack come back to make up with his twin brother and set record straight with him on had happen a long time ago. Also he had wanted his twin to train him for a match that was coming up. Thing between Sarai and Alex had heated up and they had fallen in love. In the end family secrets and come out and things for Sarai and Alex was good after that. Can’t wait for the next installment of the series to come out to see who catch Alex brother Zack Heart

[Martha Ruff · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of my favorite Deborah Fletcher Mello books

[Shone · Rating 5 out of 5]

As we journey in this story from Boulder, Colorado to Thailand we are reading a story of love, trust, family culture, and forgiveness. Twins Alexander "A" and Zachary "Hammer" Barrett have been torn apart by an evil force. As they each embark on advancing their careers to another level, they realize what has them failing and feeling at a loss is that twin bond. It was a pleasure to visit Thailand learning about the differences in the way they deal with an issue compared to the way we do in the United States. Loved the characters and the secondary characters who were always on point. The "Bad Boys of Boulder are a set of twins you want to meet. Looking forward to the next book in the series

[Kiera · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading Guilty Pleasure written by Author Deborah Fletcher-Mello. I started reading books by her years ago, and as of yet, I have not been disappointed. Her books make you feel as if you are there with the characters, and in Guilty Pleasures, I felt as if I were in Thailand (one of my places on my bucket list). It was refreshing, the characters are well thought out, and it’s so descriptive, in my head, I felt as if I were on vacation. The story is easy to follow, and I rather liked the shyness (blushing) of the characters. It took me back to the first time I fell in love. I would definitely recommend the book to anyone who likes sweet, (not sugary) romance and love. I think it’d definitely make a great beach read. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Barrett brothers are hot! Zachary is a MMA title holder and Alexander is a former NBA star, they both own gyms. They have been estranged for years, now it's time to reconnect.
When Alexander opens his gym, he meets Sarai (a former Miss Thailand), who has been hired as an instructor at his gym. What Alexander doesn't know is that she is a friend and assistant to his brother. Sparks fly between Sarai and Alex which leads to some friction between the brothers.
As the story develops, secrets are revealed, passion is ignited and relationships are rekindled . I loved the characters s d the story development, can't wait for Zachary's story. Kudos to you Deborah Fletcher Mello.

[P Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this book from net gallery for an honest review.

I enjoyed this book, Alex and Zachary are twin brothers but fall out due to Zachary marrying Alex's college sweetheart. After 6 years of separation both brothers come face to face: one seeking forgiveness whilst the other is fuelled by anger. When Alex spots Sarai, an Asian beauty, everything changes: she bridges the gap between the brothers. This book goes further into Thai culture and their rituals which is interesting and informative. I enjvoyed this book and would definitely recommend it.

[Laverne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding read filled with characters that are complex and challenged with the decisions they have to make. In Zachery's mind he lost the love of his life to his brother, so when Sarai came into his life the heart knew what it wanted and Zachery couldn't allow his heart to entertain the thought of potential pain again, so he tried to shut it down.

Fletcher-Mello has threaded a remarkable love story filled with tough decisions and heart wrenching issues which keeps the reader guessing what is next, what will he or she do.

[Felicia Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love . Family . These Brother's learned that you have to work it though and bring that family bond back and dont let no one break it again. I love the bond the brother's rebuilt . Thailand sounds beautiful . The way to court a female is special and a challenge but the results is wonderful in joyful. I really enjoyed this book . Deborah Fletcher Mello have showed me their is still true love and people are willing to go the full thousand of miles for it . If you love Romance as much i do get this book it will give you life .

[Ang · Rating 4 out of 5]

Initially I felt the story was a little slow. But as I progressed with reading it the pace picked up. I really liked the relationship between Alexander and Sarai. I enjoyed reading about their journey. I'd recommend this book. It's a nice start to a new series. I look forward to reading Zachary's story.

[Natacha Lalande · Rating 2 out of 5]

I won this book on Goodreads Giveaways. I was hoping to like it, I won it 2 years ago, attempted to read it but i kept losing interest. Last month i decided to pick up the book and finish it, which i did today June 8th 2018. Not impressed or wowed at all by the book. This isn't a book i would suggest. It nor written by a beginner, i just don't like it, sorry.

[ShayBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guilty Pleasures is about a set of successful twins that let a women come between their brotherly bond, now one brother really needs the other so he must do what it is needed to rectify their bond. This was a good book and I look forward to reading the next one.

[Jennifer Schultheis · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars! Review at http://wp.me/p2F7IH-cqL

[Debra Outlaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enlightened

Power of twins......"you can't touch this." Truly the best one in the book. I also glad Zachary is getting his own book. I loved The name Sarai.

[Atinuke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting read.

[Kathy]

Didn't really like the narrator. Or maybe it was the narrator and the story. Either way I didn't make it far before deleting.