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Retreat #1
Dodging Temptation
You can't hide from love...or revenge
Dodge Loving wants revenge...and he's about to get it. On the cusp of closing a multi-billion-dollar luxury resort deal, Dodge can't afford for anything go wrong. But then a fiery redhead shows up, the paparazzi hot on her trail, and throws his world into chaos. He has to get rid of her. Immediately.
Harper Conner just wants to be left alone, but after slapping her cheating senator ex-husband during a televised press conference, she's a hot commodity. The ultra exclusive resort in Wyoming seems like the ideal place to hide-and work-so there's no way she's letting the Type-A jerk who runs the place fire her.
Despite the animosity sparking between them, Dodge and Harper can't keep their hands to themselves. This thing between them can't happen. It won't. But his mother has other ideas...and she's willing to do whatever it takes to make sure Harper and Dodge fall in love.
Dodge Loving wants revenge...and he's about to get it. On the cusp of closing a multi-billion-dollar luxury resort deal, Dodge can't afford for anything go wrong. But then a fiery redhead shows up, the paparazzi hot on her trail, and throws his world into chaos. He has to get rid of her. Immediately.
Harper Conner just wants to be left alone, but after slapping her cheating senator ex-husband during a televised press conference, she's a hot commodity. The ultra exclusive resort in Wyoming seems like the ideal place to hide-and work-so there's no way she's letting the Type-A jerk who runs the place fire her.
Despite the animosity sparking between them, Dodge and Harper can't keep their hands to themselves. This thing between them can't happen. It won't. But his mother has other ideas...and she's willing to do whatever it takes to make sure Harper and Dodge fall in love.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 14, 2015
26 people are currently reading
726 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
September 5, 2015
4.25 stars
Dodge Loving wants revenge on his grandfather after he disowned his daughter (Dodge's mom) for marrying a black man. Dodge is successful and smart but he feels like he needs to prove himself to get even with his grandfather. He's in the middle of working a huge multi-million dollar deal in competition with his grandfather and he can't afford anything putting that deal at risk. Harper is wanted by the paparazzi because 8 months ago, she slapped her Senator husband across the face on television and left him. Everyone wants her story and she just wants peace so she escapes to one of the Loving's family hotels and works for May, Dodge's mom. Dodge wants Harper gone and for her to take the paparazzi with her. May wants Dodge and Harper to wake up and see what a perfect match they are.
I really enjoyed this story. Dodge and Harper have some serious chemistry. It wasn't insta-love but when they spent some time together, there were definitely some sparks. This was also super steamy with some really well written sexy scenes. I loved the connection that developed between these characters and I really enjoyed this book! Can't wait to read more in this series - I think the other Loving brothers are going to have some great stories to tell.
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
Dodge Loving wants revenge on his grandfather after he disowned his daughter (Dodge's mom) for marrying a black man. Dodge is successful and smart but he feels like he needs to prove himself to get even with his grandfather. He's in the middle of working a huge multi-million dollar deal in competition with his grandfather and he can't afford anything putting that deal at risk. Harper is wanted by the paparazzi because 8 months ago, she slapped her Senator husband across the face on television and left him. Everyone wants her story and she just wants peace so she escapes to one of the Loving's family hotels and works for May, Dodge's mom. Dodge wants Harper gone and for her to take the paparazzi with her. May wants Dodge and Harper to wake up and see what a perfect match they are.
I really enjoyed this story. Dodge and Harper have some serious chemistry. It wasn't insta-love but when they spent some time together, there were definitely some sparks. This was also super steamy with some really well written sexy scenes. I loved the connection that developed between these characters and I really enjoyed this book! Can't wait to read more in this series - I think the other Loving brothers are going to have some great stories to tell.
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
November 16, 2015
2 dodge stars
This is another one of those it's probably me and you'll love it book. Too me the potential was amazing but the story took far too long to get going and I think the way it's delivered just isn't cut for this story. I will have to say ice cream was never so hot until I read this book. I need to go to the store and get in bed with my man and some mint chocolate chip ice cream asap!,,
This is another one of those it's probably me and you'll love it book. Too me the potential was amazing but the story took far too long to get going and I think the way it's delivered just isn't cut for this story. I will have to say ice cream was never so hot until I read this book. I need to go to the store and get in bed with my man and some mint chocolate chip ice cream asap!,,
July 2, 2018
Dodge Loving just wants to close the deal that will finally allow him his vengeance against his hateful, racist grandfather; the grandfather who disowned his mother for daring to fall in love with a black man. Dodge has made it his life's blood to take down his grandfather for throwing Dodge's mother out of his life. But, he can't do that if the paparazzi start stalking his luxurious resort that's a hideaway for the rich (and famous). So he needs to fire Harper Conner, stat; the woman who slapped her then cheating senator husband across the face and quickly divorced him. She brings in the dreaded paps now when an aging rockstar is hiding away from the world, and all that will do is make the chances of cutting his desperately needed deal narrow to zero.
Harper is no longer the woman to toe the line or kowtow to what others want for her. So when Dodge comes in and arrogantly tries to fire her, she's having none of it. Thank God only his mother can fire her, not Dodge. Now if the two could just keep their hands off each other as they try to tolerate each other's presence.
Dodge's mom, May, was a hoot. I loved her matchmaking efforts for her eldest son and Harper. Harper and Dodge shared a smokin' hot chemistry, but I have to admit I wanted a tad more relationship development between them before the inevitable grand gesture and short epilogue. Still, I enjoyed seeing them fall in love and am looking forward to Dodge's brothers' stories.
I received an ARC via NetGalley for an honest review.
Harper is no longer the woman to toe the line or kowtow to what others want for her. So when Dodge comes in and arrogantly tries to fire her, she's having none of it. Thank God only his mother can fire her, not Dodge. Now if the two could just keep their hands off each other as they try to tolerate each other's presence.
Dodge's mom, May, was a hoot. I loved her matchmaking efforts for her eldest son and Harper. Harper and Dodge shared a smokin' hot chemistry, but I have to admit I wanted a tad more relationship development between them before the inevitable grand gesture and short epilogue. Still, I enjoyed seeing them fall in love and am looking forward to Dodge's brothers' stories.
I received an ARC via NetGalley for an honest review.
August 18, 2021
4.25 Stars / 3 Steam Fans
I enjoyed the story, but I am sad that the series is incomplete.
Video review available in Week 27: Jul 4 – Jul 10, 2021, full weekly book reviews available on Steph's Romance Book Talk Patreon.
For other bookish content, check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
I enjoyed the story, but I am sad that the series is incomplete.
Video review available in Week 27: Jul 4 – Jul 10, 2021, full weekly book reviews available on Steph's Romance Book Talk Patreon.
For other bookish content, check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
September 19, 2015
3.5 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 14, 2105
You can't hide from love...or revenge.
Dodge Loving wants revenge…and he’s about to get it. On the cusp of closing a multi-billion-dollar luxury resort deal, Dodge can’t afford for anything go wrong. But then a fiery redhead shows up, the paparazzi hot on her trail, and throws his world into chaos. He has to get rid of her. Immediately.
Harper Conner just wants to be left alone, but after slapping her cheating senator ex-husband during a televised press conference, she's a hot commodity. The ultra exclusive resort in Wyoming seems like the ideal place to hide—and work—so there’s no way she’s letting the Type-A jerk who runs the place fire her.
Despite the animosity sparking between them, Dodge and Harper can’t keep their hands to themselves. This thing between them can’t happen. It won’t. But his mother has other ideas…and she’s willing to do whatever it takes to make sure Harper and Dodge fall in love.
•••••••••
REVIEW: 3.5 stars---DODGING TEMPTATION is the first installment in Avery Flynn’s contemporary adult RETREAT romance series focusing on the Loving brothers-Dodge, Stone and Griff Loving, and the family owned Retreat Spa and Resort where A-listers, the famous, and infamous venture for privacy, luxury and freedom. This is eldest brother and resort CEO Dodge Loving, and newly divorced Harper Conner’s storyline.
Told from dual third person perspectives DODGING TEMPTATION follows the building relationship between Harper and Dodge, and Dodge’s plans to sign a deal for The Retreat to go global in the hopes of taking down the man who he believes destroy his mother’s life. What ensues is an acrimonious introduction between our leading couple when Dodge discovers her connections to the man he is hoping to bring down.
Harper Conner’s newly minted status as a young divorcee finds our heroine struggling for a direction in life, and with it comes the tenacity and ball busting attitude when Dodge Loving makes it his mission to remove Harper from The Retreat Spa and Resort. Harper is an employee of his mother, and his mother’s attempts at matchmaking place Harper and Dodge in the direct line of fire. But Dodge wants nothing to do with the ex-wife of a scandalous senator-she brings too much trouble and notoriety to the quiet solitude of The Retreat Spa and Resort. The paparazzi have staked a spot outside The Retreat in the hopes of a getting an exclusive with some of the famous visitors.
The relationship between our couple is fraught with accusations and perceived betrayal. Dodge and Harper believe that each other has an agenda, and with it comes the disheartening realization that everything about their growing connection has been a lie. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the over the top graphic erotic imagery. There is some definite heat in the kitchen, and the library.
The secondary and supporting characters include Dodge’s brothers Stone and Griff, as well as their long suffering mother who has made it her mission to see that each of her sons finds his happily ever after. But it is May Loving’s past relationship with her own family that fuels the animosity and hatred building up in her eldest son. He is a man determined to destroy the past but with it will come hardship and heartbreak. The ultimate in rock star rehab notoriety comes in the form Garth Hampton-a man whose own demons have become fodder for the paparazzi tabloids.
DODGING TEMPTATION is an entertaining and sexy story that tests the waters of racial discrimination in the face of family history and letting go of the past. The premise is evenly paced while the build-up of conflict between Harper and Dodge is a foregone conclusion. The characters are engaging, energetic and oft-times a point of humor especially where it concerns the relationship between Dodge, Stone and Griff-brotherly love is all about the teasing and loving revenge. The conflict resolution is rather abrupt, in my humble opinion, with a look to the future one month later. May Loving is once again on the search for the women to tame her younger sons. Congratulations to Avery Flynn on the release of DODGING TEMPTATION-the first book in her new RETREAT romance series.
Copy supplied by the publisher.
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 14, 2105
You can't hide from love...or revenge.
Dodge Loving wants revenge…and he’s about to get it. On the cusp of closing a multi-billion-dollar luxury resort deal, Dodge can’t afford for anything go wrong. But then a fiery redhead shows up, the paparazzi hot on her trail, and throws his world into chaos. He has to get rid of her. Immediately.
Harper Conner just wants to be left alone, but after slapping her cheating senator ex-husband during a televised press conference, she's a hot commodity. The ultra exclusive resort in Wyoming seems like the ideal place to hide—and work—so there’s no way she’s letting the Type-A jerk who runs the place fire her.
Despite the animosity sparking between them, Dodge and Harper can’t keep their hands to themselves. This thing between them can’t happen. It won’t. But his mother has other ideas…and she’s willing to do whatever it takes to make sure Harper and Dodge fall in love.
•••••••••
REVIEW: 3.5 stars---DODGING TEMPTATION is the first installment in Avery Flynn’s contemporary adult RETREAT romance series focusing on the Loving brothers-Dodge, Stone and Griff Loving, and the family owned Retreat Spa and Resort where A-listers, the famous, and infamous venture for privacy, luxury and freedom. This is eldest brother and resort CEO Dodge Loving, and newly divorced Harper Conner’s storyline.
Told from dual third person perspectives DODGING TEMPTATION follows the building relationship between Harper and Dodge, and Dodge’s plans to sign a deal for The Retreat to go global in the hopes of taking down the man who he believes destroy his mother’s life. What ensues is an acrimonious introduction between our leading couple when Dodge discovers her connections to the man he is hoping to bring down.
Harper Conner’s newly minted status as a young divorcee finds our heroine struggling for a direction in life, and with it comes the tenacity and ball busting attitude when Dodge Loving makes it his mission to remove Harper from The Retreat Spa and Resort. Harper is an employee of his mother, and his mother’s attempts at matchmaking place Harper and Dodge in the direct line of fire. But Dodge wants nothing to do with the ex-wife of a scandalous senator-she brings too much trouble and notoriety to the quiet solitude of The Retreat Spa and Resort. The paparazzi have staked a spot outside The Retreat in the hopes of a getting an exclusive with some of the famous visitors.
The relationship between our couple is fraught with accusations and perceived betrayal. Dodge and Harper believe that each other has an agenda, and with it comes the disheartening realization that everything about their growing connection has been a lie. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the over the top graphic erotic imagery. There is some definite heat in the kitchen, and the library.
The secondary and supporting characters include Dodge’s brothers Stone and Griff, as well as their long suffering mother who has made it her mission to see that each of her sons finds his happily ever after. But it is May Loving’s past relationship with her own family that fuels the animosity and hatred building up in her eldest son. He is a man determined to destroy the past but with it will come hardship and heartbreak. The ultimate in rock star rehab notoriety comes in the form Garth Hampton-a man whose own demons have become fodder for the paparazzi tabloids.
DODGING TEMPTATION is an entertaining and sexy story that tests the waters of racial discrimination in the face of family history and letting go of the past. The premise is evenly paced while the build-up of conflict between Harper and Dodge is a foregone conclusion. The characters are engaging, energetic and oft-times a point of humor especially where it concerns the relationship between Dodge, Stone and Griff-brotherly love is all about the teasing and loving revenge. The conflict resolution is rather abrupt, in my humble opinion, with a look to the future one month later. May Loving is once again on the search for the women to tame her younger sons. Congratulations to Avery Flynn on the release of DODGING TEMPTATION-the first book in her new RETREAT romance series.
Copy supplied by the publisher.
www.thereadingcafe.com
September 14, 2015
Slick's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
I was intrigued by this new series by Avery Flynn as it takes place in Wyoming and centers around a trio of bi-racial brothers and the family's high priced, high luxury spa and retreat simply called The Retreat. This first book Dodging Temptation introduces us to the whole family, we get a good overview of The Retreat and we watch Dodge Loving get his very shapely rear-end handed to him by a woman who is no longer willing to be a pawn in anyone's chess game and is hell bent on living her life on her terms. The sparks fly off of Harper Conners when she encounters Dodge for the first time and not in a good way (okay so partially in a good way) and she is bound and determined to stand her ground and show Mr. Tightpants Type A businessman that no one tells her what to do anymore. A scheming matchmaking mother, two brothers who just love to antagonize, one fiery woman, one stubborn man and a fresh out of rehab rock star with a sensitive side made this a wonderful start to a new series.
I'm not going to lie but Dodge Loving is kind of a jerk and while I understand his drive and ambition I hated that he refused to listen to reason, jumped to conclusions often and often only heard things he wanted to hear instead of what was actually said. On the other hand I saw a man who felt like he needed to right a wrong done to his mother and his family years ago no matter what it cost. I also saw a man who despite all reason fell hard for a woman he was convinced was a corporate spy and one his mother had pretty much hand-picked for him to fall in love with even when he vowed it would never happen.
The world has always seen Harper Conners as the dutiful daughter and perfect political wife until her now ex-husband went against her wishes at a press conference and she presented him with the slap seen round the world. Bound and determined to make it on her own she accepted the only job she'd been offered and when an overbearing man tries to take it away she does what her new self has vowed to do and fights. I loved her spunk, the way she refused to back down and her internal observations about the man who was driving her absolutely crazy in more than one way.
This was a fun, sexy and entertaining story and while I would have liked to have had more time getting to know them and watching them get to know each other (outside of their sexy times), there was no denying the attraction and the way they balanced one another. We got a good look at The Retreat and Dodge's family in this book which makes me excited about what's to come.
Dodging Temptation is a fast paced and sexy story and while it isn't quite as charming as Ms. Flynn's other works it was still very enjoyable.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
I was intrigued by this new series by Avery Flynn as it takes place in Wyoming and centers around a trio of bi-racial brothers and the family's high priced, high luxury spa and retreat simply called The Retreat. This first book Dodging Temptation introduces us to the whole family, we get a good overview of The Retreat and we watch Dodge Loving get his very shapely rear-end handed to him by a woman who is no longer willing to be a pawn in anyone's chess game and is hell bent on living her life on her terms. The sparks fly off of Harper Conners when she encounters Dodge for the first time and not in a good way (okay so partially in a good way) and she is bound and determined to stand her ground and show Mr. Tightpants Type A businessman that no one tells her what to do anymore. A scheming matchmaking mother, two brothers who just love to antagonize, one fiery woman, one stubborn man and a fresh out of rehab rock star with a sensitive side made this a wonderful start to a new series.
I'm not going to lie but Dodge Loving is kind of a jerk and while I understand his drive and ambition I hated that he refused to listen to reason, jumped to conclusions often and often only heard things he wanted to hear instead of what was actually said. On the other hand I saw a man who felt like he needed to right a wrong done to his mother and his family years ago no matter what it cost. I also saw a man who despite all reason fell hard for a woman he was convinced was a corporate spy and one his mother had pretty much hand-picked for him to fall in love with even when he vowed it would never happen.
The world has always seen Harper Conners as the dutiful daughter and perfect political wife until her now ex-husband went against her wishes at a press conference and she presented him with the slap seen round the world. Bound and determined to make it on her own she accepted the only job she'd been offered and when an overbearing man tries to take it away she does what her new self has vowed to do and fights. I loved her spunk, the way she refused to back down and her internal observations about the man who was driving her absolutely crazy in more than one way.
This was a fun, sexy and entertaining story and while I would have liked to have had more time getting to know them and watching them get to know each other (outside of their sexy times), there was no denying the attraction and the way they balanced one another. We got a good look at The Retreat and Dodge's family in this book which makes me excited about what's to come.
Dodging Temptation is a fast paced and sexy story and while it isn't quite as charming as Ms. Flynn's other works it was still very enjoyable.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
September 14, 2015
3.5-4 stars.
Oh, this was a surprise.
To be honest, I wasn’t sure what to expect with this one, and I ended up really enjoying it.
We have Dodge and Harper. Harper needed a place to hide and rest from the scandals of her ex-husband; and also a place to get her life back together. So she was hired by Dodge’s mom to work with some diaries for a couple of weeks. Dodge did NOT like this, lol. I liked Harper a lot, she had spent her entire life being a pawn to other people, so finally she was able to stop and think of what SHE wanted. It’s a scary journey for everyone, but she did great. She even put others first, but because it was her choice not because she had to. It was finally her say.
As for Dodge, man, that guy liked control. Which might be great in the business world, but it’s crap when you deal with human beings. He made a few big mistakes because of this, but he had Harper to hammer some sense into him. ;-)
Together they were great, their personalities complemented each other, but at the same time they were alike in many aspects, which brought some tense moments between the two of them. And some sexy times as well.
I adored Dodge’s mom, she had such great energy and way of thinking. She could’ve been sad or really angry at her father, but she was able to let that go. Great example for her children.
And on that note, the rest of the Loving siblings sound fun. Really continuing to read this series and their adventures.
*Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange of my honest opinion*
Oh, this was a surprise.
To be honest, I wasn’t sure what to expect with this one, and I ended up really enjoying it.
We have Dodge and Harper. Harper needed a place to hide and rest from the scandals of her ex-husband; and also a place to get her life back together. So she was hired by Dodge’s mom to work with some diaries for a couple of weeks. Dodge did NOT like this, lol. I liked Harper a lot, she had spent her entire life being a pawn to other people, so finally she was able to stop and think of what SHE wanted. It’s a scary journey for everyone, but she did great. She even put others first, but because it was her choice not because she had to. It was finally her say.
As for Dodge, man, that guy liked control. Which might be great in the business world, but it’s crap when you deal with human beings. He made a few big mistakes because of this, but he had Harper to hammer some sense into him. ;-)
Together they were great, their personalities complemented each other, but at the same time they were alike in many aspects, which brought some tense moments between the two of them. And some sexy times as well.
I adored Dodge’s mom, she had such great energy and way of thinking. She could’ve been sad or really angry at her father, but she was able to let that go. Great example for her children.
And on that note, the rest of the Loving siblings sound fun. Really continuing to read this series and their adventures.
*Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange of my honest opinion*
August 30, 2015
I loved this one! Dodge and Harper were completely entertaining with off the charts chemistry. Add in a meddling mother and you've got trouble in the making!
Dodge Loving is so close to having the revenge he desperately seeks against his grandfather who wronged his mother years ago. It has been his life's mission to bring him down and he's almost there. The last thing he needs is to have someone high on the paparazzi target list bringing unwanted publicity to his very exclusive and private resort. Getting rid of Harper Connor won't be that easy though since his mother hired her.
Harper isn't looking for any attention. The last thing she wants is for the press to find her after her very public break from her ex. She's finally found a job she loves, and bonus, it's at an exclusive resort in Wyoming. Who would look for her there?? Now if that annoying Dodge Loving would just leave her alone and let her work, everything would be great.
This is a fun read quick read that had me completely entertained. I definitely recommend this one!
Dodge Loving is so close to having the revenge he desperately seeks against his grandfather who wronged his mother years ago. It has been his life's mission to bring him down and he's almost there. The last thing he needs is to have someone high on the paparazzi target list bringing unwanted publicity to his very exclusive and private resort. Getting rid of Harper Connor won't be that easy though since his mother hired her.
Harper isn't looking for any attention. The last thing she wants is for the press to find her after her very public break from her ex. She's finally found a job she loves, and bonus, it's at an exclusive resort in Wyoming. Who would look for her there?? Now if that annoying Dodge Loving would just leave her alone and let her work, everything would be great.
This is a fun read quick read that had me completely entertained. I definitely recommend this one!
September 15, 2015
You really can't go wrong when you pick up a book by Avery Flynn and this book proves that again!
This book is about Dodge Loving and Harper Conner. Dodge is the extremely driven and successful owner of a ranch in Wyoming that caters to celebrities and the upper class. Harper is a political princess whose marriage has ended because her Senator husband cheated on her and she refused to stand by him. Harper accepts a job at the ranch and sparks instantly fly between her and Dodge.
I love that Harper refused to be a doormat for her husband and was able to leave that life behind her. I love strong woman characters and Harper is definitely that!
I love the Lovings! I loved their family dynamic. May Loving is a different sort of woman but you can sense the love for her family. The relationship between Dodge and his brother's Griff and Stone was great too! I can't wait for more from this family! I would definitely recommend this book!
This book is about Dodge Loving and Harper Conner. Dodge is the extremely driven and successful owner of a ranch in Wyoming that caters to celebrities and the upper class. Harper is a political princess whose marriage has ended because her Senator husband cheated on her and she refused to stand by him. Harper accepts a job at the ranch and sparks instantly fly between her and Dodge.
I love that Harper refused to be a doormat for her husband and was able to leave that life behind her. I love strong woman characters and Harper is definitely that!
I love the Lovings! I loved their family dynamic. May Loving is a different sort of woman but you can sense the love for her family. The relationship between Dodge and his brother's Griff and Stone was great too! I can't wait for more from this family! I would definitely recommend this book!
September 3, 2015
Dodge has real bad infatuation with Harper's butt, "his mouth went dry. He didn’t know whether to kiss it, smack it, or dive right in. Instead, he went with squeezing the soft globes as he traced her tattoo with his tongue." I liked this book Dodge and his brothers were a hoot and I can't wait to see what their stories Will be.
August 18, 2018
Sometimes striving for revenge can blinker you to enjoying life’s opportunities. In this contemporary romance, Dodge Loving is determined to thwart his estranged Grandfather’s plans for his hotel chain by making the resort of his own family win a highly prestigious and lucrative deal. However, for that to happen, everything needs to be running smoothly and security is key to maintaining the privacy of the resort’s clients. When he discovers a member of the paparazzi hiding he’s determined to get to the bottom of the problem, even if it means throwing out the young lady employed by his Mum to catalogue her rare cowboy diaries. That young lady is Harper Conner and she’s equally determined not to let the paparazzi know any more about her - she’s spent most of her life in the spotlight, doing what is expected of her by her high powered political family but she’s had enough of that life. Their initial meeting is hotly confrontational but that’s just the prelude to hot encounters of a totally different nature! Can she melt the CEO and show him how to live life to the full or will old habits and pressure prove too much for this couple?
This is another story by this talented author with feisty. provocative main characters, equally stubborn and determined to succeed against the odds. It is a steamy romance with sizzling hot attraction, a exclusive resort under siege from the paparazzi and revenge all playing significant roles in the plot which has elements of both suspense and humour in it, keeping the reader both entertained and enthralled. I enjoyed escaping into this story and have no hesitation in recommending it to anyone looking for a story where suppositions, accusations and feelings of betrayal as well as an ageing rock star all contribute to the developing romance. Seeing that this is the first in a series, published back in 2014, I was quite looking forward to reading about how Dodge’s Mum endeavoured to find love matches for his brothers but I can’t find any sequels - but I’ll keep on looking!
I requested and was given a copy of this book, via NetGalley. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.
This is another story by this talented author with feisty. provocative main characters, equally stubborn and determined to succeed against the odds. It is a steamy romance with sizzling hot attraction, a exclusive resort under siege from the paparazzi and revenge all playing significant roles in the plot which has elements of both suspense and humour in it, keeping the reader both entertained and enthralled. I enjoyed escaping into this story and have no hesitation in recommending it to anyone looking for a story where suppositions, accusations and feelings of betrayal as well as an ageing rock star all contribute to the developing romance. Seeing that this is the first in a series, published back in 2014, I was quite looking forward to reading about how Dodge’s Mum endeavoured to find love matches for his brothers but I can’t find any sequels - but I’ll keep on looking!
I requested and was given a copy of this book, via NetGalley. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.
December 27, 2021
this book was so rushed. dodge and harper seemed to move so quick it took away from the story. at the same time, the inclusion of the siblings in order to set up the series made it even more rushed.
September 16, 2015
In this contemporary romance, first in the new Retreat series, Dodge has met his match in Harper, a woman who has left her ex-husband after a political scandal of his own making that has resulted in her hiding out at Dodge’s luxury resort, cataloguing some historical manuscripts as a side venture to keep her occupied and out of the public eye. Dodge is trying to kill two birds with one stone by inking an ultra important business deal for his resort while sticking it to his estranged grandfather at the same time, his hotel competition for the same deal. The last thing he needs is a ‘celebrity’ drawing paparazzi to his ultra exclusive resort that touts its privacy as the main attraction. Even worse, he finds out Harper actually works for his grandfather’s company. It doesn’t stop his attraction to her though – is a business deal going to get in the way of true love?
I’m a big fan of Avery’s other series, in particular the Killer Style and Sweet Salvation Brewery stories. She’s got the sexual chemistry between her characters down pat and that is definitely the case here, with Dodge and Harper giving off sparks from their first meeting (one engineered in part by Dodge’s mother, who appears as an important secondary character in the story). This leads to several steamy scenes between them. I liked Harper’s character as she’s had to deal with being in the public spotlight and a cheating ex-husband that has led her to realize that she needs to take control of her own life once more. While she is hiding out at the resort, she’s also getting her life back together so that she can focus on what she wants in her future (though she doesn’t count on her attraction to Dodge). Dodge was a bit more of an enigma to me, and his character didn’t appeal to me as much. He’s a pretty stressed out individual, holding a grudge against his grandfather for abandoning his daughter (Dodge’s mother) at an early age, something that has stayed with him and shaped his character. His attraction to Harper is unwanted but inescapable. His mistrust of her and her intentions, and his dislike of the situation she has brought to the resort was sometimes a bit much. I guess I would have liked to see a softening of his attitude towards Harper earlier in the story. I did enjoy his interactions with his 2 brothers, and they added some humor to the story, as did his eccentric mother. Though this isn’t one of my favorites, it’s a solid story with some enjoyable sexy scenes and an eventual happy ending for the couple. 3 stars, and I’m looking forward to seeing more of Dodge’s brothers in the future!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
Note 2: this review appears as a blog post at: http://straightshootinbookreviews.com...
I’m a big fan of Avery’s other series, in particular the Killer Style and Sweet Salvation Brewery stories. She’s got the sexual chemistry between her characters down pat and that is definitely the case here, with Dodge and Harper giving off sparks from their first meeting (one engineered in part by Dodge’s mother, who appears as an important secondary character in the story). This leads to several steamy scenes between them. I liked Harper’s character as she’s had to deal with being in the public spotlight and a cheating ex-husband that has led her to realize that she needs to take control of her own life once more. While she is hiding out at the resort, she’s also getting her life back together so that she can focus on what she wants in her future (though she doesn’t count on her attraction to Dodge). Dodge was a bit more of an enigma to me, and his character didn’t appeal to me as much. He’s a pretty stressed out individual, holding a grudge against his grandfather for abandoning his daughter (Dodge’s mother) at an early age, something that has stayed with him and shaped his character. His attraction to Harper is unwanted but inescapable. His mistrust of her and her intentions, and his dislike of the situation she has brought to the resort was sometimes a bit much. I guess I would have liked to see a softening of his attitude towards Harper earlier in the story. I did enjoy his interactions with his 2 brothers, and they added some humor to the story, as did his eccentric mother. Though this isn’t one of my favorites, it’s a solid story with some enjoyable sexy scenes and an eventual happy ending for the couple. 3 stars, and I’m looking forward to seeing more of Dodge’s brothers in the future!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
Note 2: this review appears as a blog post at: http://straightshootinbookreviews.com...
September 16, 2015
I have a real love affair going on with Entangled Brazen, I have yet to read a poor novel from them. They give me exactly what I want from a romance – characters that are ready for me to get my teeth stuck into and scenario’s that are so far removed from what I have to deal with in my day to day life that I can honestly curl up and escape.
I loved the setting for this story – the exclusive retreat that was all things to all people who didn’t want the world to see what they were up too and that included the sexy as sin owner Dodge Loving.
Dodge comes from mixed parentage but has struggled to come to terms with the fact that his grandfather cast his mother aside when she met and married his father – and all because his skin was a different colour. I know that times have changed but I liked the fact that the book took on the fact that this sort of prejudice was prevalent in the past and it is today’s generations that are still feeling the effects.
Desperately trying to close a deal that will see his steal a prominent client from right under the nose of his grandfather – Dodge has his business blinkers on but his mother – well she has other ideas and a the patter of tine feet are stomping right across her heart – this woman is on the hunt for grandbabies and matching Dodge up is top of her agenda.
Harper is hiding out, although not a resident at eth retreat, she is working for Dodge’s mother- cataloguing her library – now that is the perfect job!
But after a divorce that was played out in the full glare of the media, and a slap to the face of an errant soon to be ex-husband and US senator reverberated throughout the media, she is keen to keep a low profile and to regain some normality.
But when the paparazzi cotton on to the fact that she is at the retreat and the notoriety puts his guarantee of seclusion and privacy in jeopardy he wants nothing more than to have her out the door.
Shame his mother is having nothing of it!
She wants the opposite… for him to open his eyes and see that Harper is the woman that he has needed all along.
The story was and evolution, it was a burbler so to speak, you knew where it was going but it was fun trying to work out how they were going to find some middle ground to build a relationship on.
They had definite chemistry and when they got together the sparks certainly flew but when they got it wrong – it was epic.
I loved the chapter when the penny dropped and Dodge took to the saddle to bring his woman back – swoon much … you betcha!!
I am really looking forward to reading the remaining Loving brothers stories and to see what May has in store for them.
I loved the setting for this story – the exclusive retreat that was all things to all people who didn’t want the world to see what they were up too and that included the sexy as sin owner Dodge Loving.
Dodge comes from mixed parentage but has struggled to come to terms with the fact that his grandfather cast his mother aside when she met and married his father – and all because his skin was a different colour. I know that times have changed but I liked the fact that the book took on the fact that this sort of prejudice was prevalent in the past and it is today’s generations that are still feeling the effects.
Desperately trying to close a deal that will see his steal a prominent client from right under the nose of his grandfather – Dodge has his business blinkers on but his mother – well she has other ideas and a the patter of tine feet are stomping right across her heart – this woman is on the hunt for grandbabies and matching Dodge up is top of her agenda.
Harper is hiding out, although not a resident at eth retreat, she is working for Dodge’s mother- cataloguing her library – now that is the perfect job!
But after a divorce that was played out in the full glare of the media, and a slap to the face of an errant soon to be ex-husband and US senator reverberated throughout the media, she is keen to keep a low profile and to regain some normality.
But when the paparazzi cotton on to the fact that she is at the retreat and the notoriety puts his guarantee of seclusion and privacy in jeopardy he wants nothing more than to have her out the door.
Shame his mother is having nothing of it!
She wants the opposite… for him to open his eyes and see that Harper is the woman that he has needed all along.
The story was and evolution, it was a burbler so to speak, you knew where it was going but it was fun trying to work out how they were going to find some middle ground to build a relationship on.
They had definite chemistry and when they got together the sparks certainly flew but when they got it wrong – it was epic.
I loved the chapter when the penny dropped and Dodge took to the saddle to bring his woman back – swoon much … you betcha!!
I am really looking forward to reading the remaining Loving brothers stories and to see what May has in store for them.
September 14, 2015
When the book begins you feel there is no hope for Dodge. He is caught up in the need to be the best and get revenge on the man who hurt my family. The man who hates me because of my color. He doesn’t see the trees from the forest. Dodge is arrogant, a bit egotistical and a lot business. His family’ s business is in the concept of being a retreat area for the rich and famous to hide. His dad does the ranching with one of his brothers, his mom does the yoga and meditation classes and is a hoot. She was a heiress but gave it all up for Dodge’s dad. She is a wee bit of a hippy and believes that the universe is talking to her. This time it is too help Dodge find the one that he will be for the rest of his life and help her change the path Dodge is going down.
What path is it? to become the man he hates and with his singular focus on revenge and nothing else he is close to being that man. So how is mom going to do this? She hires Harper to check out her rare cowboy diaries.
Harper is now a feisty, stubborn woman who before her ex-husband did the unthinkable was meek and did as everyone wanted. She is hoping that being at the ranch retreat she can get away from the reporters, her family, and find herself.
when Harper and Dodge meet it isn’t a cozy little chat. He goes in with guns barreling trying to get her to do what he wants. She refuses and he doesn’t give up. The attraction between the two is felt from the sparks coming off the page. They truly like each other. Dodge likes her feisty ways and she likes his looks.
Dodge’s brothers crack me up. I can’t wait to see what their mom has in store for them because they get into the let’s get Dodge hitched campaign and egg him about it. this is one sweet close knit family that busts each others chops.
The book is a back and forth between Dodge and Harper as they argue and become closer as well. They begin to open up to each other and start to grow up and grow close. Dodge starts to want to protect her and Harper tries to do the same.
this is a fun feisty book about two very stubborn people, one trying to find out a way to become who they want and the other with a singular focus. They fall in love and it is steamy. But we see that when you have a singular focus sometimes it takes over and makes you something you are trying not to become. You become the embodiment of who you resent. here the love for a woman helps to bring Dodge back and how they came together was just wonderful and sexy at the same time.
What path is it? to become the man he hates and with his singular focus on revenge and nothing else he is close to being that man. So how is mom going to do this? She hires Harper to check out her rare cowboy diaries.
Harper is now a feisty, stubborn woman who before her ex-husband did the unthinkable was meek and did as everyone wanted. She is hoping that being at the ranch retreat she can get away from the reporters, her family, and find herself.
when Harper and Dodge meet it isn’t a cozy little chat. He goes in with guns barreling trying to get her to do what he wants. She refuses and he doesn’t give up. The attraction between the two is felt from the sparks coming off the page. They truly like each other. Dodge likes her feisty ways and she likes his looks.
Dodge’s brothers crack me up. I can’t wait to see what their mom has in store for them because they get into the let’s get Dodge hitched campaign and egg him about it. this is one sweet close knit family that busts each others chops.
The book is a back and forth between Dodge and Harper as they argue and become closer as well. They begin to open up to each other and start to grow up and grow close. Dodge starts to want to protect her and Harper tries to do the same.
this is a fun feisty book about two very stubborn people, one trying to find out a way to become who they want and the other with a singular focus. They fall in love and it is steamy. But we see that when you have a singular focus sometimes it takes over and makes you something you are trying not to become. You become the embodiment of who you resent. here the love for a woman helps to bring Dodge back and how they came together was just wonderful and sexy at the same time.
September 13, 2015
Dodging Temptation offers romance lovers quite the surprise, in more ways than one.
The first and most obvious of which being the decidedly chocolate flavor of oh so delicious leading man, Dodge Loving.
Wait...wait...
Things get even better.
You see, Dodge and his family own a 5-star resort in Wyoming.
That's right!
Right in the middle of cowboy country.
Which makes Dodge....
You guessed it!
A real, live, Afro-American, cowboy CEO!
Well...if that doesn't just put the yee in your haw.
Anyway.
Dodge is a man who will settle for nothing less than the best. That "go for the gold" attitude shines nowhere brighter than in his hands on management of the family business.
Much to the chagrin of his mother however, Dodge's pursuit of "the best at any cost" has left little to no room for love or romance in her son's business driven life.
The reason that we are even daring to delve into the pool of 'mother wishes' is because...
What we have here is as much about Dodge's family as it is about his love life. As such, his mother, in particular, has a habit of popping up in some very surprising places during the course of this read.
And then there was Harper...
Poor Harper, or at least that is what the major part of reader introduction to this victim of bed-hopping scandal, would have one to believe. As things progress within the story however, Harper, as a person, and the effect that she has on Dodge, clearly overshadow her "scandal".
There is a lot of "hot and cold" going on between these two that tends to get on one's last nerve after a while. Not in a bad way, but in a "I really want to see you two together...so why don't you just get over yourselves before I'm eligible for Social Security" fashion.
The only real detraction in the story comes in the form of Dodge's reasoning for his drive to be "the best". His grandfather's refusal to accept the marriage between his father and mother. This a big 'raison d'etre' that needs to be addressed in far more detail than the cursory explanation that readers get here.
All in all, this is a wonderfully done, delightful, escape from the the everyday romance.
The Loving brothers can ride off into the sunset with my heart anytime.
This reviewer is chomping at the bit for more from The Retreat series.
The first and most obvious of which being the decidedly chocolate flavor of oh so delicious leading man, Dodge Loving.
Wait...wait...
Things get even better.
You see, Dodge and his family own a 5-star resort in Wyoming.
That's right!
Right in the middle of cowboy country.
Which makes Dodge....
You guessed it!
A real, live, Afro-American, cowboy CEO!
Well...if that doesn't just put the yee in your haw.
Anyway.
Dodge is a man who will settle for nothing less than the best. That "go for the gold" attitude shines nowhere brighter than in his hands on management of the family business.
Much to the chagrin of his mother however, Dodge's pursuit of "the best at any cost" has left little to no room for love or romance in her son's business driven life.
The reason that we are even daring to delve into the pool of 'mother wishes' is because...
What we have here is as much about Dodge's family as it is about his love life. As such, his mother, in particular, has a habit of popping up in some very surprising places during the course of this read.
And then there was Harper...
Poor Harper, or at least that is what the major part of reader introduction to this victim of bed-hopping scandal, would have one to believe. As things progress within the story however, Harper, as a person, and the effect that she has on Dodge, clearly overshadow her "scandal".
There is a lot of "hot and cold" going on between these two that tends to get on one's last nerve after a while. Not in a bad way, but in a "I really want to see you two together...so why don't you just get over yourselves before I'm eligible for Social Security" fashion.
The only real detraction in the story comes in the form of Dodge's reasoning for his drive to be "the best". His grandfather's refusal to accept the marriage between his father and mother. This a big 'raison d'etre' that needs to be addressed in far more detail than the cursory explanation that readers get here.
All in all, this is a wonderfully done, delightful, escape from the the everyday romance.
The Loving brothers can ride off into the sunset with my heart anytime.
This reviewer is chomping at the bit for more from The Retreat series.
September 14, 2015
Firstly, I have to admit, this isn’t the first book I have read of Avery Flynn. Once again, she has left me with wanting more. I am looking forward hearing more about this family.
Dodging Temptation shows no matter what you think is what you want, fate has other plans. Both lead characters Dodge and Harper are strong willed and the sparks between them are strong even know they fight it over late night ice cream feasts.
When Dodge is out for his morning run (thinking about his multi-billion dollar revenge plan on his grandfather), Dodge stumbles upon a paparazzi on the family’s exclusive getaway, you could say he wasn’t happy. Apart from dealing with the paparazzi, he also has to deal with his mother who is trying to play match maker with Harper.
Harper is looking at this new job opportunity as a new start for her. Having always been in the spotlight (political family) growing up and being deceived by her ex-husband, she wanted to found out who she really is. What she didn’t plan on was the owner of the retreat firing her and being hot.
Dodge and Harper continually come to blows and soon the fire turns into more. Which of course his mother May Loving is very happy about this. As they start to fall for each other, things start to get more complicated. Will the deal go ahead or break them apart, will Doge realize there is more to life then work and revenge and will Harper put herself out again to the possibility of love.
You will find yourself laughing through the book and wonder who will be next. Once I started this book I could not put it down. I hope you will love The Loving Family as much as I do.
I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
Dodging Temptation shows no matter what you think is what you want, fate has other plans. Both lead characters Dodge and Harper are strong willed and the sparks between them are strong even know they fight it over late night ice cream feasts.
When Dodge is out for his morning run (thinking about his multi-billion dollar revenge plan on his grandfather), Dodge stumbles upon a paparazzi on the family’s exclusive getaway, you could say he wasn’t happy. Apart from dealing with the paparazzi, he also has to deal with his mother who is trying to play match maker with Harper.
Harper is looking at this new job opportunity as a new start for her. Having always been in the spotlight (political family) growing up and being deceived by her ex-husband, she wanted to found out who she really is. What she didn’t plan on was the owner of the retreat firing her and being hot.
Dodge and Harper continually come to blows and soon the fire turns into more. Which of course his mother May Loving is very happy about this. As they start to fall for each other, things start to get more complicated. Will the deal go ahead or break them apart, will Doge realize there is more to life then work and revenge and will Harper put herself out again to the possibility of love.
You will find yourself laughing through the book and wonder who will be next. Once I started this book I could not put it down. I hope you will love The Loving Family as much as I do.
I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
October 12, 2018
Dodging Temptation is the first book in the Retreat series. The story follows Dodge who is in charge of the retreat and is set on getting revenge from his grandfather and Harper a woman who is trying to avoid the spotlight after she slapped her cheating husband on live television. In the beginning, there is animosity between the two of them because Dodge thinks that Harper is going to get in his way of closing the deal and tries to get rid of her. Soon, though the attraction becomes stronger and they begin a no strings attached relationship.
What I liked the most with the story was how Dodge was seeing Harper everywhere in the resort even though she wasn't there. That makes the reader realize how much impact she had in his life and how in love with her is. I really liked the ways he was apologizing and that's what made me love Dodge. He brought ice cream to Harper the first time as a way of apologizing. I would have married the man on the spot.
I wish that the rocky start whose name I can't remember will get his happy ending. I liked him after what he did in the end and I wish he can get a good ending for himself. I believe that reading the stories of the two other brothers will be more fun. They were part of most of the scenes I laughed. Dodge is more anal and formal, When the time to write my review came I noticed the guy on the cover and I can say that I was pleasantly surprised when I saw how similar the model is to Dodge. The person who chose the cover did a good job.
What I liked the most with the story was how Dodge was seeing Harper everywhere in the resort even though she wasn't there. That makes the reader realize how much impact she had in his life and how in love with her is. I really liked the ways he was apologizing and that's what made me love Dodge. He brought ice cream to Harper the first time as a way of apologizing. I would have married the man on the spot.
I wish that the rocky start whose name I can't remember will get his happy ending. I liked him after what he did in the end and I wish he can get a good ending for himself. I believe that reading the stories of the two other brothers will be more fun. They were part of most of the scenes I laughed. Dodge is more anal and formal, When the time to write my review came I noticed the guy on the cover and I can say that I was pleasantly surprised when I saw how similar the model is to Dodge. The person who chose the cover did a good job.
September 11, 2015
Harper Connor has come to the Retreat to authenticate May Loving’s priceless collection of original cowboy diaries. She loves the work and needs the money. The fact that the location is about as far out of the limelight as you can get is a definite bonus for a political daughter and wife who’s just gone through an ugly and very public breakup with her cheating politician husband.
Dodge Loving is a man on a mission. He’s spent months trying to negotiate a deal with a leading hotel conglomerate to turn the Retreat into an international chain. In order to do that, he needs to guarantee the privacy of his guests, especially now that he has an aging rock star, fresh out of rehab hiding out at the resort. When he finds out the paparazzi are there looking for a story about Washington royalty Harper Connor, his first thought is to get rid of her before she can do any damage and so in true Donald Trump style, his first words to her are “You’re fired.”
Unfortunately Harper works for his mother and she’s determined to stay to finish the job she started.
Dodging Temptation is a classic tale about that thin line between love and hate, an exploration of the scientific fact that opposites attract. Avery Flynn has penned a thoroughly entertaining story with a complete cast of larger than life characters, witty banter, steamy hot sex and melt your heart romance topped off with a surprise finale that could only happen in Wyoming.
If you like romance stories with strong, alpha males and feisty heroines who don’t take themselves too seriously, you will love Dodging Temptation.
Dodge Loving is a man on a mission. He’s spent months trying to negotiate a deal with a leading hotel conglomerate to turn the Retreat into an international chain. In order to do that, he needs to guarantee the privacy of his guests, especially now that he has an aging rock star, fresh out of rehab hiding out at the resort. When he finds out the paparazzi are there looking for a story about Washington royalty Harper Connor, his first thought is to get rid of her before she can do any damage and so in true Donald Trump style, his first words to her are “You’re fired.”
Unfortunately Harper works for his mother and she’s determined to stay to finish the job she started.
Dodging Temptation is a classic tale about that thin line between love and hate, an exploration of the scientific fact that opposites attract. Avery Flynn has penned a thoroughly entertaining story with a complete cast of larger than life characters, witty banter, steamy hot sex and melt your heart romance topped off with a surprise finale that could only happen in Wyoming.
If you like romance stories with strong, alpha males and feisty heroines who don’t take themselves too seriously, you will love Dodging Temptation.
September 13, 2015
*A gifted copy was provided by the publisher for my honest review*
Dodge Loving wants revenge on his grandfather because of what he did to his mother ( his daughter) – he disowned her just because she married a black man and had a child by him. Dodge is very successful and smart but he doesn’t feel that way when it comes to that old man so he sets out to prove it to him in the middle of a multi-million dollar deal in competition with his grandfather and dare not have anything put this deal at risk.
In the middle of the hotel where the deal is going on, Harper Conner shows up to work for Dodge’s mother . She has left her previous life behind- the one where she slapped her senator ex-husband on live TV and now the paparazzi are after her. Hoping that by working with May, Dodge’s mom, things would be better, she wasn’t prepared for Dodge to have such a dislike for her. Yet there is chemistry between them. YET it wasn’t that immediate connection because Dodge had this need, this burning feeling to get his grandfather right where he wants him and Harper and her problems will prevent that. Harper is wanting to be anonymous and NOT cause trouble…slowly and surely she gets Dodge to see her for who SHE IS, not what her past is but it took time and it almost took her leaving him before they have their HEA. I cant wait for the other Loving brothers to get their books because I can tell they have stories waiting to get out there.
My rating: 4.4 stars ****
Dodge Loving wants revenge on his grandfather because of what he did to his mother ( his daughter) – he disowned her just because she married a black man and had a child by him. Dodge is very successful and smart but he doesn’t feel that way when it comes to that old man so he sets out to prove it to him in the middle of a multi-million dollar deal in competition with his grandfather and dare not have anything put this deal at risk.
In the middle of the hotel where the deal is going on, Harper Conner shows up to work for Dodge’s mother . She has left her previous life behind- the one where she slapped her senator ex-husband on live TV and now the paparazzi are after her. Hoping that by working with May, Dodge’s mom, things would be better, she wasn’t prepared for Dodge to have such a dislike for her. Yet there is chemistry between them. YET it wasn’t that immediate connection because Dodge had this need, this burning feeling to get his grandfather right where he wants him and Harper and her problems will prevent that. Harper is wanting to be anonymous and NOT cause trouble…slowly and surely she gets Dodge to see her for who SHE IS, not what her past is but it took time and it almost took her leaving him before they have their HEA. I cant wait for the other Loving brothers to get their books because I can tell they have stories waiting to get out there.
My rating: 4.4 stars ****
September 21, 2015
**DEBBIE'S 3.5 STAR REVIEW**
The story starts off really well and I was able to connect with all the characters right away. The book flowed beautifully and I loved the relationship and banter between the one main character Dodge, and his two brothers. The chemistry between Harper and Dodge felt real and some parts it was off the charts HOT!!!!
“Is that what that little kiss was about? You thought you’d slip me some tongue and soften me up until I agreed to do something you know damn well I’m not going to do?”
The book did not have any over the top drama but had a nice mix of humor and angst. I loved how Harper did not take any crap from Dodge and put him in his place. The story takes place at a Retreat that Dodge runs. It is a place that was known for protecting the privacy of its ultra-rich guests until Harper starts working there. After being in the spotlight and smacking her no good cheating husband on national TV. She goes there to work after her divorce to escape and try to find herself again. That is when the trouble begins when Harper and Dodge meet. The press wants Harper and Dodge wants her gone.
“Privacy. Luxury. Freedom. That’s what The Retreat promised and what Dodge made sure each guest received.”
The story was cute and I liked the whole cowboy thing. I just felt it fell a little flat in a few spots. Overall, I enjoyed it and would certainly read more from this author.
The story starts off really well and I was able to connect with all the characters right away. The book flowed beautifully and I loved the relationship and banter between the one main character Dodge, and his two brothers. The chemistry between Harper and Dodge felt real and some parts it was off the charts HOT!!!!
“Is that what that little kiss was about? You thought you’d slip me some tongue and soften me up until I agreed to do something you know damn well I’m not going to do?”
The book did not have any over the top drama but had a nice mix of humor and angst. I loved how Harper did not take any crap from Dodge and put him in his place. The story takes place at a Retreat that Dodge runs. It is a place that was known for protecting the privacy of its ultra-rich guests until Harper starts working there. After being in the spotlight and smacking her no good cheating husband on national TV. She goes there to work after her divorce to escape and try to find herself again. That is when the trouble begins when Harper and Dodge meet. The press wants Harper and Dodge wants her gone.
“Privacy. Luxury. Freedom. That’s what The Retreat promised and what Dodge made sure each guest received.”
The story was cute and I liked the whole cowboy thing. I just felt it fell a little flat in a few spots. Overall, I enjoyed it and would certainly read more from this author.
September 14, 2015
Temptation, revenge, stubbornness and amazing chemistry make the sexual tension melt the pages.
The first book of the Retreat Series, Dodging Temptation introduces readers to the Loving family, The Retreat and the man who run it Dodge. A hardworking and sexy man who has a vendetta against a grandfather he's never meet. He thrives at being the best at what does. Dominating and commanding, Dodge doesn't take no for an answer, gets what he wants. Seeing this strong and determined man feathers get ruffled is one fun ride.
Harper Conner is trying to make the life she wants for herself. Growing up and marrying in the political work, Harper has been groomed to be the perfect, quite politician's wife. Someone who she's not. When her ex makes a mess of their life, Harpers had enough. The smart and funny woman finds her new life beginning in the middle of nowhere doing what she loves most. Not wanting any attention, Harper's world get rocked to the core.
Dodge and Harper make each other bat shit crazy. Tempting each other in so many ways. From their back and forth banter, the sexual tension they cause, to the amount of passion they both possess makes them a great couple. There battle getting there is what make Dodging Temptation a great read. Way to heat up the pages Avery Flynn.
Review copy provided by netgalley for an honest review.
The first book of the Retreat Series, Dodging Temptation introduces readers to the Loving family, The Retreat and the man who run it Dodge. A hardworking and sexy man who has a vendetta against a grandfather he's never meet. He thrives at being the best at what does. Dominating and commanding, Dodge doesn't take no for an answer, gets what he wants. Seeing this strong and determined man feathers get ruffled is one fun ride.
Harper Conner is trying to make the life she wants for herself. Growing up and marrying in the political work, Harper has been groomed to be the perfect, quite politician's wife. Someone who she's not. When her ex makes a mess of their life, Harpers had enough. The smart and funny woman finds her new life beginning in the middle of nowhere doing what she loves most. Not wanting any attention, Harper's world get rocked to the core.
Dodge and Harper make each other bat shit crazy. Tempting each other in so many ways. From their back and forth banter, the sexual tension they cause, to the amount of passion they both possess makes them a great couple. There battle getting there is what make Dodging Temptation a great read. Way to heat up the pages Avery Flynn.
Review copy provided by netgalley for an honest review.
September 4, 2015
Cute, but predictable, contemporary romance. I liked Harper and really felt that she had a good story. I wish there was more information given about her back story though. You know she slapped her husband for cheating, but I would have like to know more about her life and how she got to that point. You get some info about her family and how she was raised, but its really no more than a paragraph or 2. I thought the revenge angle was great. Dodge wants revenge and he sees spies everywhere. He doesn't trust anyone and you see how bitter it has made him. The end is a sweet, HEA that was pretty saccharine. I don't necessarily mind that, but it didn't really seem to fit with the characters. Nothing about them had been super sweet. I wish their relationship had been a bit sweeter; it really seemed to be all about sex. They had 1 date; the rest was just sex. So, to have a super sappy ending just felt odd for Dodge and Harper.
Avery Flynn obviously sets this up for more books, each focusing on a different brother (Stone and Griff). Overall, its a pretty good read and its fairly short so you can finish it quickly. I will probably pick up the next books in the series because I am curious to know more about the other brothers.
Avery Flynn obviously sets this up for more books, each focusing on a different brother (Stone and Griff). Overall, its a pretty good read and its fairly short so you can finish it quickly. I will probably pick up the next books in the series because I am curious to know more about the other brothers.
September 16, 2015
Dodge Loving runs an ultra private resort/retreat in the middle of Wyoming. His grandfather runs a hotel that is in dire need of a cash influx. They are competing against each other for a place within the global resort company, The Brasch Group. Nothing will stand in the way of Dodge making sure his grandfather loses EVERYTHING because of the way he disowned Dodge's mother many years ago, when she married a black man. Is his need for revenge making him more like the old man than he wants to admit? Then his mother hires Harper Conner and he can't keep his eyes or hands off her until he finds out she works for his grandfather's company. Is she a corporate spy? Can he trust her?
Dodge is one fine looking cowboy/businessman. I think he gave up too easily on Harper. For as close as they got, I didn't feel the deep feelings from Dodge that he should have had. I felt the fun and sexy rendezvous in the kitchen, in the hall, and in the library, just to name a few, but no truly deep "love" feelings. Still, a very steamy and sexy romance with a fantastic cover!
Received a copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was not compensated for my review.
I was not required to write a positive review.
The opinion expressed is my own.
Dodge is one fine looking cowboy/businessman. I think he gave up too easily on Harper. For as close as they got, I didn't feel the deep feelings from Dodge that he should have had. I felt the fun and sexy rendezvous in the kitchen, in the hall, and in the library, just to name a few, but no truly deep "love" feelings. Still, a very steamy and sexy romance with a fantastic cover!
Received a copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was not compensated for my review.
I was not required to write a positive review.
The opinion expressed is my own.
September 12, 2015
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Dodging Temptation is the first novel in the Retreat series from author Avery Flynn and this series starter is about the eldest Loving son and the head of the Retreat, Dodge, and a former political wife turned book appraiser, Harper Conner. For the head of a company, Dodge's treatment of Harper when they first meet was abhorrent. You can have a Type A personality and still know how to practice tact and diplomacy, especially since he was forever conscious about the Retreat's reputation. There were sparks between Dodge and Harper from the very beginning, and while I do think they were very much attracted to each other, what they had just didn't feel like a love connection to me, though it most probably was headed there. Still, Dodging Temptation was a pretty good read and I'm interested to see what's up next. 3.5 stars. ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Dodging Temptation is the first novel in the Retreat series from author Avery Flynn and this series starter is about the eldest Loving son and the head of the Retreat, Dodge, and a former political wife turned book appraiser, Harper Conner. For the head of a company, Dodge's treatment of Harper when they first meet was abhorrent. You can have a Type A personality and still know how to practice tact and diplomacy, especially since he was forever conscious about the Retreat's reputation. There were sparks between Dodge and Harper from the very beginning, and while I do think they were very much attracted to each other, what they had just didn't feel like a love connection to me, though it most probably was headed there. Still, Dodging Temptation was a pretty good read and I'm interested to see what's up next. 3.5 stars. ♥
September 12, 2015
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I received a copy of this book from Netgalley/Entangled Publishing/Entangled Indulgence for an honest review. "Dodging Temptation" by Avery Flynn is the first book in "The Retreat" series. Harper took a job assignment that sent her to an ultra exclusive resort to help her get away from the her very public divorce. The resort is owned by the Loving family. Dodge Loving runs the resort. Dodge's main focus is the business and getting revenge with his grandfather. He wants Harper to leave due to the press that keeps hanging around the resort to try and get an interview with her. The clientele at the resort are there for the privacy so it can hurt the resort's business with all the press hanging around. I enjoyed watching Dodge and Harper interact and their romance develop. To me I wanted more depth to the story and some of the intimate scenes took away from the romance. The book was an okay read. I will probably read the other books in the series to see what happens to Dodge's brothers. FYI, contains mature content.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley/Entangled Publishing/Entangled Indulgence for an honest review. "Dodging Temptation" by Avery Flynn is the first book in "The Retreat" series. Harper took a job assignment that sent her to an ultra exclusive resort to help her get away from the her very public divorce. The resort is owned by the Loving family. Dodge Loving runs the resort. Dodge's main focus is the business and getting revenge with his grandfather. He wants Harper to leave due to the press that keeps hanging around the resort to try and get an interview with her. The clientele at the resort are there for the privacy so it can hurt the resort's business with all the press hanging around. I enjoyed watching Dodge and Harper interact and their romance develop. To me I wanted more depth to the story and some of the intimate scenes took away from the romance. The book was an okay read. I will probably read the other books in the series to see what happens to Dodge's brothers. FYI, contains mature content.
September 13, 2015
3.5 stars - worth a reader's time
A wounded, beautiful woman working to rebuild her life.
A wealthy business owner more intent on revenge than living life.
Harper and Dodge clash with each other on their very first meeting. Their first interactions run hot and cold before Dodge starts to realize he's been a jerk and apologizes.
From that start of a relationship, Dodging Temptation, is a fun, but predictable story. The sexy times between Harper and Dodge are very hot and he does some very sweet things for her. Due to the length of the book, we don't get to see too many of the relationship details, but from the people around them it seems obvious where the relationship is headed.
There are some unique elements including how Harper handled the conflict when Dodge pulled his big jerk move and how he tried to get her back. The fun times plus excellent writing are what make this worth a reader's time. It also makes me curious about what might be coming for Dodge's brothers. I hope future books are a little longer so we could also stay caught up with Dodge and Harper.
A wounded, beautiful woman working to rebuild her life.
A wealthy business owner more intent on revenge than living life.
Harper and Dodge clash with each other on their very first meeting. Their first interactions run hot and cold before Dodge starts to realize he's been a jerk and apologizes.
From that start of a relationship, Dodging Temptation, is a fun, but predictable story. The sexy times between Harper and Dodge are very hot and he does some very sweet things for her. Due to the length of the book, we don't get to see too many of the relationship details, but from the people around them it seems obvious where the relationship is headed.
There are some unique elements including how Harper handled the conflict when Dodge pulled his big jerk move and how he tried to get her back. The fun times plus excellent writing are what make this worth a reader's time. It also makes me curious about what might be coming for Dodge's brothers. I hope future books are a little longer so we could also stay caught up with Dodge and Harper.
September 14, 2015
3.5 Stars
I so enjoyed Dodge and his need for revenge on the wrong doing his grandfather did to his mother. I do think the advice given to him by his mother and brother was best. Just let it go.
He was playing with fire and the spirit of the universe cast it's spell and he got bit by love when all he wanted to to keep the enemy close. This was a nice romance and funny as well as steamy. I would admit to eating ice cream plenty times while reading.
I so enjoyed Dodge and his need for revenge on the wrong doing his grandfather did to his mother. I do think the advice given to him by his mother and brother was best. Just let it go.
He was playing with fire and the spirit of the universe cast it's spell and he got bit by love when all he wanted to to keep the enemy close. This was a nice romance and funny as well as steamy. I would admit to eating ice cream plenty times while reading.
August 14, 2015
*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Entangled Publishing*
March 7, 2021
Dodging Temptation, a Wyoming-based love story with a former “rich” woman (her background almost reminded me of Lorelei Gilmore), and a business revenge focused retreat owner. (I’m actually a little confused thinking about that now, I thought his father was the owner but somehow Dodge was making a business deal on his own?)
Anyway, Dodges’ grandfather is a racist business man who disowned his daughter May when she fell for Dodges’ father. Dodge is working on a huge business deal to crush the hotel chain his grandfather owns while taking his global.
A scandal *gasp* is vomited all over the news outlets. Harper slapped her ex-husband on television and since she’s from a prim-and-proper upbringing with somewhat rich parents, she’s cutoff. She finally gets the job she’s always wanted of appraising books, but just so happens to work for (you guessed it) Dodges’ grandfather. Dodges’ mother, May, hires Harper and claims the universe is thrusting her son and Harper together. So, May and Dodges’ other brothers start pushing the two together, I guess...
There seems to be a distinct lack of the behind the scenes actions that really make you love a story. The story took a long time to get going, but really kept reiterating how Dodge is trying to make the “big deal” and how Harper is trying to reinvent herself. As much as that is important and I don’t want to lose sight of that part of the plot, which does happen in other books I’ve read, I want some more detail. Supposedly, toward the end we find out that Dodge actually ordered a 6 month supply of mini-tubs of ice cream, and he somehow set up a romantic outing for them but there’s no mention of HOW he did it. He flew them in a helicopter to get to the special spot, are there also roads leading there? Did he fly out earlier in the day with help?
I think this was a good story, but would make a better movie and maybe we would see Dodge making quiet calls to the employees for assistance in setup or him going into the ordering system and adjusting the ice cream order totals.
Overall, I’m giving this story three stars as the plot made sense, the characters were unique, but it could use with more behind the scenes details. Although I’m partial to the small town (like Gilmore girls or something similar) love stories where you feel like you could live there too.
Anyway, Dodges’ grandfather is a racist business man who disowned his daughter May when she fell for Dodges’ father. Dodge is working on a huge business deal to crush the hotel chain his grandfather owns while taking his global.
A scandal *gasp* is vomited all over the news outlets. Harper slapped her ex-husband on television and since she’s from a prim-and-proper upbringing with somewhat rich parents, she’s cutoff. She finally gets the job she’s always wanted of appraising books, but just so happens to work for (you guessed it) Dodges’ grandfather. Dodges’ mother, May, hires Harper and claims the universe is thrusting her son and Harper together. So, May and Dodges’ other brothers start pushing the two together, I guess...
There seems to be a distinct lack of the behind the scenes actions that really make you love a story. The story took a long time to get going, but really kept reiterating how Dodge is trying to make the “big deal” and how Harper is trying to reinvent herself. As much as that is important and I don’t want to lose sight of that part of the plot, which does happen in other books I’ve read, I want some more detail. Supposedly, toward the end we find out that Dodge actually ordered a 6 month supply of mini-tubs of ice cream, and he somehow set up a romantic outing for them but there’s no mention of HOW he did it. He flew them in a helicopter to get to the special spot, are there also roads leading there? Did he fly out earlier in the day with help?
I think this was a good story, but would make a better movie and maybe we would see Dodge making quiet calls to the employees for assistance in setup or him going into the ordering system and adjusting the ice cream order totals.
Overall, I’m giving this story three stars as the plot made sense, the characters were unique, but it could use with more behind the scenes details. Although I’m partial to the small town (like Gilmore girls or something similar) love stories where you feel like you could live there too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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