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A Touch of Temptation
Stanford law graduate Kate Dawson is focused on the future laid out for her—partnership in her family’s law firm and marriage. When she moves to a cabin in the Santa Cruz Mountains to study for the bar exam, crossing paths with her intriguing neighbor leads to a journey of sexual awakening and self-discovery that wasn’t part of the plan.
Landscaper and handsome butch top Chris Brent has a well-deserved reputation as a considerate lover. Avoiding relationships with all their emotional messiness, she indulges in her favorite pastime at sex parties and with casual lovers. She enthusiastically agrees to initiate her cute neighbor to ways of sexual pleasure.
Sex was the deal. Falling in love ruins everything. Or does it?
Landscaper and handsome butch top Chris Brent has a well-deserved reputation as a considerate lover. Avoiding relationships with all their emotional messiness, she indulges in her favorite pastime at sex parties and with casual lovers. She enthusiastically agrees to initiate her cute neighbor to ways of sexual pleasure.
Sex was the deal. Falling in love ruins everything. Or does it?
240 pages, Paperback
First published May 17, 2016
38 people are currently reading
504 people want to read
About the author
Julie Blair
7 books51 followersJulie Blair has always believed that reading fiction is one of life’s great pleasures. From the time she was old enough to hold a book, escaping into worlds where anything is possible and endings are usually happy has been a favorite pastime. Growing up a tomboy before it was fashionable, Julie attached herself to sports, especially softball, which culminated in her pitching in the Women’s College World Series. Finally forced to grow up and get a job, she landed in restaurant management for a decade before entering chiropractic school. She has been a chiropractor for over twenty-five years.
Julie has travelled to Peru to see Machu Picchu and Uganda to see mountain gorillas, but her favorite place is curled up on her couch, reading or writing. A California native, she lives in the quiet of the redwoods in Boulder Creek with her partner, Pamela, and their two Labradors. She enjoys gardening, hiking, red wine, strong coffee, smooth jazz, and warm fall afternoons.
Never Too Late, Julie’s debut romance, won a Golden Crown Literary Society Award for Best Debut Author and Rainbow Award Runner-up in two categories. Her second romance, Making a Comeback, won a Rainbow Award for Best Lesbian Romance, was a Rainbow Award Runner-up for Best Lesbian Book of 2015, and a Lambda Literary Award finalist. She’s hard at work trying to give voices to other characters with stories to tell—their struggles, their triumphs, their love affairs—mostly in self defense, hoping they’ll stop waking her up in the middle of the night with snippets of dialogue or ideas for scenes and settings.
Librarian note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Julie has travelled to Peru to see Machu Picchu and Uganda to see mountain gorillas, but her favorite place is curled up on her couch, reading or writing. A California native, she lives in the quiet of the redwoods in Boulder Creek with her partner, Pamela, and their two Labradors. She enjoys gardening, hiking, red wine, strong coffee, smooth jazz, and warm fall afternoons.
Never Too Late, Julie’s debut romance, won a Golden Crown Literary Society Award for Best Debut Author and Rainbow Award Runner-up in two categories. Her second romance, Making a Comeback, won a Rainbow Award for Best Lesbian Romance, was a Rainbow Award Runner-up for Best Lesbian Book of 2015, and a Lambda Literary Award finalist. She’s hard at work trying to give voices to other characters with stories to tell—their struggles, their triumphs, their love affairs—mostly in self defense, hoping they’ll stop waking her up in the middle of the night with snippets of dialogue or ideas for scenes and settings.
Librarian note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
April 3, 2019
'NetGalley ARC provided by The Publisher in exchange for fair and honest review'
**'Trust your readers.Not everything needs to be explained...There is no such thing as a realistic dialogue..'
Eroticism story!
This was an x-rated story in all form and fashion about each person trying to find both their inner selves & sexual life then going on trying to also believe in themselves another thing was the amusement and the unusual dive of the storyline into BDSM then explaining who is 'top/dom/submissive' relationship in the book which was very intriguing and added an interesting twist to this story and it was nice that the author let readers discover all the information while reading because it was needed towards the delicate balance and for both relationships that are because they were involved in the so much S&M/BDSM. Each character were clearly well define but very different from each other--the author took the time to provide and to also practice safe sex in the storyline which was a big plus-- Their P.O.V. exchanges were flawless at times and the attraction between both leading characters was palpable. Well worth to take the time to give this pornographic & erotic filled book a read. Highly recommended to 18 year old!
**'Trust your readers.Not everything needs to be explained...There is no such thing as a realistic dialogue..'
Eroticism story!
This was an x-rated story in all form and fashion about each person trying to find both their inner selves & sexual life then going on trying to also believe in themselves another thing was the amusement and the unusual dive of the storyline into BDSM then explaining who is 'top/dom/submissive' relationship in the book which was very intriguing and added an interesting twist to this story and it was nice that the author let readers discover all the information while reading because it was needed towards the delicate balance and for both relationships that are because they were involved in the so much S&M/BDSM. Each character were clearly well define but very different from each other--the author took the time to provide and to also practice safe sex in the storyline which was a big plus-- Their P.O.V. exchanges were flawless at times and the attraction between both leading characters was palpable. Well worth to take the time to give this pornographic & erotic filled book a read. Highly recommended to 18 year old!
July 17, 2016
This is my third book by Julie Blair, and she is definitely growing as an author and storyteller. A Touch of Temptation is a very enjoyable read with two well-defined and likable main characters, and a nice bunch of supporting and minor characters of all kinds. On my Goodreads shelves I am collecting all kinds of stuff/tags to better remember each book I have read, and among other things there is a shelf for superb grandmothers, and Kate’s gran Katherine is truly memorable.
There are lots of interesting and well-explained facts about sex and how to make sex a whole lot more interesting. Everyone can learn something from this book. ;) All that is perfectly incorporated into the story with enough, but not too much, nicely done erotic scenes.
I was surprised how much I liked this book given that erotic romances are not exactly high on my romance scale. I would recommend A Touch of Temptation to anyone who enjoys steamy erotic romances but with a sweet love story and a meaningful plot.
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
There are lots of interesting and well-explained facts about sex and how to make sex a whole lot more interesting. Everyone can learn something from this book. ;) All that is perfectly incorporated into the story with enough, but not too much, nicely done erotic scenes.
I was surprised how much I liked this book given that erotic romances are not exactly high on my romance scale. I would recommend A Touch of Temptation to anyone who enjoys steamy erotic romances but with a sweet love story and a meaningful plot.
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
May 15, 2016
“You have to know what she wants before she does.”
Kate Dawson wakes up sick on the morning she is supposed to write her exams for bar admission. She is expected to take over her father’s law firm, marry the appropriate well connected man and carry on the legacy and reputation of the Dawson family. Following a lengthy illness Kate retreats to her grandmother’s cabin in the mountains to once again study for the bar exams. After meeting her handsome next door neighbour Chris Brent, she discovers that her education has been sorely lacking in key areas of her life.
Chris has no interest in a relationship. She has watched her friends fall in love and be crushed by women they thought would make life partners. She enjoys pleasing women and fulfills her sexual needs as a top at sex parties held at her friend Georgia’s home. When Kate moves in to the cabin next to her she is captivated by this innocent, beautiful woman. They share a love of classic movies and begin a friendship which develops into exploration and sexual awakening for Kate. Can Chris keep her usual detached interest in sex for pleasure only or will Kate draw her into a relationship she does not want or need?
A Touch of Temptation is one steamy read. There is light BDSM handled tastefully and enough erotica to keep you squirming in your seat while you read. I am not a huge fan of erotica but Julie Blair is an author I have come to enjoy so choosing this novel to read was a given. She did not disappoint.
The reader does have to get past initial heavy handed character portrayals and the Shakespeare phrase “ the lady doth protest too much, methinks” kept running through my brain as Kate mentions how sex with Todd is painful and she never orgasms while Chris ruminates over sex for pleasure only with no attachments. Understanding where these characters stand gives way to a winning story of sexual exploration with Kate being a rapt student and Chris a gentle and wonderful teacher.
Great characters both good and evil and a few twists I didn’t see coming made for an excellent read. I had to keep reminding myself that Kate is only twenty-four so the constant and annoying interference by her society mother is understandable. The strength of the story comes from well portrayed secondary characters that challenge and complement our two leading ladies along with solid descriptive writing. This is a love story wrapped in the guise of erotica. Both Chris and Kate are on a path of discovery. I enjoyed watching them discover their inner butch and femme sides. I also enjoyed watching both women grow as their relationship developed.
ARC received with thanks from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley
Kate Dawson wakes up sick on the morning she is supposed to write her exams for bar admission. She is expected to take over her father’s law firm, marry the appropriate well connected man and carry on the legacy and reputation of the Dawson family. Following a lengthy illness Kate retreats to her grandmother’s cabin in the mountains to once again study for the bar exams. After meeting her handsome next door neighbour Chris Brent, she discovers that her education has been sorely lacking in key areas of her life.
Chris has no interest in a relationship. She has watched her friends fall in love and be crushed by women they thought would make life partners. She enjoys pleasing women and fulfills her sexual needs as a top at sex parties held at her friend Georgia’s home. When Kate moves in to the cabin next to her she is captivated by this innocent, beautiful woman. They share a love of classic movies and begin a friendship which develops into exploration and sexual awakening for Kate. Can Chris keep her usual detached interest in sex for pleasure only or will Kate draw her into a relationship she does not want or need?
A Touch of Temptation is one steamy read. There is light BDSM handled tastefully and enough erotica to keep you squirming in your seat while you read. I am not a huge fan of erotica but Julie Blair is an author I have come to enjoy so choosing this novel to read was a given. She did not disappoint.
The reader does have to get past initial heavy handed character portrayals and the Shakespeare phrase “ the lady doth protest too much, methinks” kept running through my brain as Kate mentions how sex with Todd is painful and she never orgasms while Chris ruminates over sex for pleasure only with no attachments. Understanding where these characters stand gives way to a winning story of sexual exploration with Kate being a rapt student and Chris a gentle and wonderful teacher.
Great characters both good and evil and a few twists I didn’t see coming made for an excellent read. I had to keep reminding myself that Kate is only twenty-four so the constant and annoying interference by her society mother is understandable. The strength of the story comes from well portrayed secondary characters that challenge and complement our two leading ladies along with solid descriptive writing. This is a love story wrapped in the guise of erotica. Both Chris and Kate are on a path of discovery. I enjoyed watching them discover their inner butch and femme sides. I also enjoyed watching both women grow as their relationship developed.
ARC received with thanks from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley
May 8, 2016
Loved this one. There wasn't necessarily anything surprising with the whole butch/femme toaster oven scenario, but I loved how it handled the whole idea of learning how to have sex. It's one of the few lesbian romances I've seen that handles that realistically and highly responsibly. Safer sex ftw!
Full review here: http://www.thelesbianreview.com/touch...
Full review here: http://www.thelesbianreview.com/touch...
May 23, 2016
A real treat!
Two women living in two totally opposite worlds. Chris doesn't do girlfriends, no commitments for her. She only wants the fun part. Could she break her own rules and fall in love? Kate lives her life as others expect from her. A life without complications. But from out of the blue or maybe as a result of her illness, Kate has doubts about everything. Her gran, a very wise, supportive and lovely woman, wants Kate to stay at her cabin for recovery, to become stronger and to find out what SHE wants. One experience after another threaten to change everyting. It was something Kate never thought she would have. It was all so new to her and it doesn't fit well with her lifestyle. I loved the lessons from Georgia. It's so well written and it makes my cheeks burn red. I was just 30% into the book and I had to stop myself from skipping pages. I badly wanted to know where the two of them were heading to. This book was utterly sexy and the romance doesn't get much better than this story. It has me hooked immediately from page one. You will be treated to some seriously steamy scenes. You'll have to read it for yourself and believe me, it's well worth the effort.
Two women living in two totally opposite worlds. Chris doesn't do girlfriends, no commitments for her. She only wants the fun part. Could she break her own rules and fall in love? Kate lives her life as others expect from her. A life without complications. But from out of the blue or maybe as a result of her illness, Kate has doubts about everything. Her gran, a very wise, supportive and lovely woman, wants Kate to stay at her cabin for recovery, to become stronger and to find out what SHE wants. One experience after another threaten to change everyting. It was something Kate never thought she would have. It was all so new to her and it doesn't fit well with her lifestyle. I loved the lessons from Georgia. It's so well written and it makes my cheeks burn red. I was just 30% into the book and I had to stop myself from skipping pages. I badly wanted to know where the two of them were heading to. This book was utterly sexy and the romance doesn't get much better than this story. It has me hooked immediately from page one. You will be treated to some seriously steamy scenes. You'll have to read it for yourself and believe me, it's well worth the effort.
January 23, 2025
I realize that the romance genre is a type of fantasy. Like unicorns. But, still…. Chris and Kate are such exaggerated stereotypes, they are more like comic-book characters than human beings.
Especially Chris. A butch top, she’s the most handsome and sexually talented and thoughtful and wondrous stud on earth; women are literally driving for hours just to get a kiss.
Chris's introductory scene was so over the top that I almost stopped reading. Keep in mind, now, that in addition to being the baddest stud in Northern California, Chris is also a successful businesswoman who owns her own landscaping company. In this scene, she is meeting her neighbor Kate for the first time. Kate is being extremely bitchy and rude to her. Yet despite that, based solely on Kate's beauty, “Chris’s body responded the way it automatically did in such situations. She leaned in for a kiss, barely stopping herself as reality reasserted herself.”
Say, what?! You’re a butch lesbian who leans over and kisses every good-looking straight woman stranger that you meet? How come you're not in jail?!
Kate is almost equally stereotyped as Chris’s femme opposite: She is sheltered and innocent, she adores the color pink, and Chris nicknames her “Princess.”
Also, the cover. Ugh.
But I have to say, once I got over those humps and read it as a wild fantasy, I enjoyed the book quite a lot. It’s more sex than romance – it could even be read as a sex tutorial – but it’s fun and endearing. It’s well written and plotted, and it’s distinct enough from Julie Blair's next novel, Making a Comeback, that it demonstrates the author has versatility.
Especially Chris. A butch top, she’s the most handsome and sexually talented and thoughtful and wondrous stud on earth; women are literally driving for hours just to get a kiss.
Chris's introductory scene was so over the top that I almost stopped reading. Keep in mind, now, that in addition to being the baddest stud in Northern California, Chris is also a successful businesswoman who owns her own landscaping company. In this scene, she is meeting her neighbor Kate for the first time. Kate is being extremely bitchy and rude to her. Yet despite that, based solely on Kate's beauty, “Chris’s body responded the way it automatically did in such situations. She leaned in for a kiss, barely stopping herself as reality reasserted herself.”
Say, what?! You’re a butch lesbian who leans over and kisses every good-looking straight woman stranger that you meet? How come you're not in jail?!
Kate is almost equally stereotyped as Chris’s femme opposite: She is sheltered and innocent, she adores the color pink, and Chris nicknames her “Princess.”
Also, the cover. Ugh.
But I have to say, once I got over those humps and read it as a wild fantasy, I enjoyed the book quite a lot. It’s more sex than romance – it could even be read as a sex tutorial – but it’s fun and endearing. It’s well written and plotted, and it’s distinct enough from Julie Blair's next novel, Making a Comeback, that it demonstrates the author has versatility.
April 17, 2017
Detailed score: 3.75
This was one intense read and won't be for everybody.
It has lots of sex but no smut. We are aware of the thought/feel process behind every action, if if that action is to go to a sex party & engage w multiple partners.
In terms of deciding if it's for you:
- lots of butch / femme and top/ bottom dynamics talk. Some will probably feel it was a bit too 'label-y'
- some light bdsm stuff & one character has (consensual) sex w lots of partners. No infidelity.
- supporting characters are a bit one note: either there to encourage our leads or keep them apart. Little grey in between.
- it is a romance when all is said and done. If you like out and out erotica, this may not be for you
Overall, I really enjoyed reading a different (and very pwoar filled) take on the traditional 'leads overcoming barriers to love to be together' tale.
This was one intense read and won't be for everybody.
It has lots of sex but no smut. We are aware of the thought/feel process behind every action, if if that action is to go to a sex party & engage w multiple partners.
In terms of deciding if it's for you:
- lots of butch / femme and top/ bottom dynamics talk. Some will probably feel it was a bit too 'label-y'
- some light bdsm stuff & one character has (consensual) sex w lots of partners. No infidelity.
- supporting characters are a bit one note: either there to encourage our leads or keep them apart. Little grey in between.
- it is a romance when all is said and done. If you like out and out erotica, this may not be for you
Overall, I really enjoyed reading a different (and very pwoar filled) take on the traditional 'leads overcoming barriers to love to be together' tale.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2016
I originally read this novel earlier in the year and decided it was due for a reread and I for second time I wasn’t disappointed. This was the first novel that I read by Julie Blair and I really enjoyed it. It was written well and even though at some points I felt it dragged a bit I still enjoyed the story and the characters left me intrigued enough to keep turning the page. The characters were strong with solid personalities that help me to engage more in the story.
Kate knows the road she’s on is the right one for her and her family but after she has a health scare her priorities shift. When she moves to her Grandmothers Cabin for some rest, she meets Chris, whom she never expected to be attracted to. By changing the course of her future by testing the ground of the attraction will everything she has always strived be lost? When Chris first see’s Kate she is instantly attracted to her but number one Kate is straight and two Chris doesn’t do relationships but she can’t seem to stop thinking about the girl next door.
This was the first book I read with BDSM and because of this I have been drawn into another genre of Lesbian Romance and erotic novels since. It opened my eyes to other sides of sex and eroticism without being to hardcore. The way Chris eases Kate on her journey to sex and BDSM I felt like I was part of the journey and I learned a lot about the topic through Julie Blair’s explanation.
This will definitely not be the last book I read by Julie Blair. 4 Stars.
Check out my Blog Reviews on: https://lesreveur.com/2016/12/21/a-to...
Kate knows the road she’s on is the right one for her and her family but after she has a health scare her priorities shift. When she moves to her Grandmothers Cabin for some rest, she meets Chris, whom she never expected to be attracted to. By changing the course of her future by testing the ground of the attraction will everything she has always strived be lost? When Chris first see’s Kate she is instantly attracted to her but number one Kate is straight and two Chris doesn’t do relationships but she can’t seem to stop thinking about the girl next door.
This was the first book I read with BDSM and because of this I have been drawn into another genre of Lesbian Romance and erotic novels since. It opened my eyes to other sides of sex and eroticism without being to hardcore. The way Chris eases Kate on her journey to sex and BDSM I felt like I was part of the journey and I learned a lot about the topic through Julie Blair’s explanation.
This will definitely not be the last book I read by Julie Blair. 4 Stars.
Check out my Blog Reviews on: https://lesreveur.com/2016/12/21/a-to...
February 28, 2020
Read for the book before but not in my list! Weird, but loved it - bit too much sex but, hey, whose counting! Totally brought into the characters.
May 19, 2022
Julie Blair's books are set in or near my current hometown. Their authentic sense of place is truly enjoyable, as well as the heartfelt stories themselves. <3
February 12, 2018
I liked it, sure, but (and this might be weird coming from me) but there was an awful lot of sex in this novel. Sure, Kate has a sexual awakening after she learns how to have an orgasm (with Chris) and feels like a kid on Christmas morning but jeez…. at some point it felt repetitive and I got an urge to skim through it. I didn’t though. What I did speedread was the angst after the 80% mark because I was not feeling gregarious at that point.
Kate’s mom and her best friend Nic are the manipulative bitches in this story and her grandma is just awesome. The sex talk was weird. As soon as the blood left their brains and rushed south they had these weird staccato sentences. It threw me a bit. I know that the Sapphic sex education Kate receives at the hands of Chris is... well… educational, but it killed the romance part for me a bit. Or maybe it’s that I’m just not so into the whole handsome butch who’s packing going after the pink princess scenario. But hey, the writer isn’t doing a bad job (I see plenty of 4 and 5 star reviews) so if this speaks to you I think you should give it a go.
m/f, (a few times, she has a longtime boyfriend after all) f/f explicit
Themes: princess pink vs. 501 wearing butch, I think the author has stock at Levi’s because it’s mentioned a lot, there was a lot of sex but not necessarily the kind that floats my boat, nice little plot twist with Nic, I didn’t see that coming.
3.2 stars
Kate’s mom and her best friend Nic are the manipulative bitches in this story and her grandma is just awesome. The sex talk was weird. As soon as the blood left their brains and rushed south they had these weird staccato sentences. It threw me a bit. I know that the Sapphic sex education Kate receives at the hands of Chris is... well… educational, but it killed the romance part for me a bit. Or maybe it’s that I’m just not so into the whole handsome butch who’s packing going after the pink princess scenario. But hey, the writer isn’t doing a bad job (I see plenty of 4 and 5 star reviews) so if this speaks to you I think you should give it a go.
m/f, (a few times, she has a longtime boyfriend after all) f/f explicit
Themes: princess pink vs. 501 wearing butch, I think the author has stock at Levi’s because it’s mentioned a lot, there was a lot of sex but not necessarily the kind that floats my boat, nice little plot twist with Nic, I didn’t see that coming.
3.2 stars
May 13, 2016
Received from NetGalley for my honest review.
This is a case of where I wish I could rate different parts of the story. When Kate and Chris were friends and exploring I enjoyed the story. Almost everything else about it, I hated.
I HATED HATED HATED Kate's mother and friend Nic. They ruined the story for me. Could have been a 3-4 story book without the two of them. They were both bitches and Kate was awful to let others rule her life so long. I understand it, I did the same thing and my birthmonster has nothing on Kate's mother but I still don't like to read it because it's shitty and it sucks and I really don't want my books to imitate my life.
Another thing that annoyed me was the damn "501s" OMFG. Chris scolded Kate for calling them "jeans" and they were mentioned as "501s" the whole fucking book. It was mentioned 19 freakin' times. Did Levi (or whoever does those jeans) pay the author? In a 200 page book (just over) it was a bit much at every 10% of the book.
The sex/romance was forced a lot of the time. I want to give props when she did FINALLY explain safe words, but still, it just wasn't to my liking. It was like she only researched BDSM enough to know some basics and tried to build on it. It didn't work. While not the most awful thing I've read BDSM wise, definitely not a good portrayal either.
I didn't like Kate, Chris was ok. Georgia and Katherine were the only likable characters in the book. Not enjoyable. 1.5 stars
This is a case of where I wish I could rate different parts of the story. When Kate and Chris were friends and exploring I enjoyed the story. Almost everything else about it, I hated.
I HATED HATED HATED Kate's mother and friend Nic. They ruined the story for me. Could have been a 3-4 story book without the two of them. They were both bitches and Kate was awful to let others rule her life so long. I understand it, I did the same thing and my birthmonster has nothing on Kate's mother but I still don't like to read it because it's shitty and it sucks and I really don't want my books to imitate my life.
Another thing that annoyed me was the damn "501s" OMFG. Chris scolded Kate for calling them "jeans" and they were mentioned as "501s" the whole fucking book. It was mentioned 19 freakin' times. Did Levi (or whoever does those jeans) pay the author? In a 200 page book (just over) it was a bit much at every 10% of the book.
The sex/romance was forced a lot of the time. I want to give props when she did FINALLY explain safe words, but still, it just wasn't to my liking. It was like she only researched BDSM enough to know some basics and tried to build on it. It didn't work. While not the most awful thing I've read BDSM wise, definitely not a good portrayal either.
I didn't like Kate, Chris was ok. Georgia and Katherine were the only likable characters in the book. Not enjoyable. 1.5 stars
February 9, 2017
Well that was hot!
This was my first book by Julie Blair and what a read it was. 25 year old law student Kate crashes her car on her way to take her bar exam. Her grandmother suggests that she take some time to recuperate by spending some time in her cabin. There she meets Chris, her neighbor for the next 2 months.
I loved the chemistry between Chris and Kate. I really liked Kate's story line and her discovery that not only was she not in love with her boyfriend but she was falling for Chris. Her rediscovery of her sexuality and introduction into light BDSM made for quite a few sizzling sex scenes.
All in all I liked this book and the author's writing style and look forward to starting Never Too Late
This was my first book by Julie Blair and what a read it was. 25 year old law student Kate crashes her car on her way to take her bar exam. Her grandmother suggests that she take some time to recuperate by spending some time in her cabin. There she meets Chris, her neighbor for the next 2 months.
I loved the chemistry between Chris and Kate. I really liked Kate's story line and her discovery that not only was she not in love with her boyfriend but she was falling for Chris. Her rediscovery of her sexuality and introduction into light BDSM made for quite a few sizzling sex scenes.
All in all I liked this book and the author's writing style and look forward to starting Never Too Late
March 2, 2017
I liked it but...
I enjoyed this book but I something felt missing to me overall. The two main characters were great. Naive Late and Sexual experienced Chris made a great couple I felt and their chemistry was good. Nic, Kate's BFF, storyline felt unfinished and not really explored even though it did have some driving force in the book (maybe we get her story next). I really liked Georgia and Katherine and how perfect Todd ended up being.
I think what was missing was the "outside of the bubble" influence or lack there of. Don't get me wrong there was that but it was very, very toned down almost like a thought but not really put into action.
Overall I really did like this book and look forward to feeding more from Julie Blair in the future.
I enjoyed this book but I something felt missing to me overall. The two main characters were great. Naive Late and Sexual experienced Chris made a great couple I felt and their chemistry was good. Nic, Kate's BFF, storyline felt unfinished and not really explored even though it did have some driving force in the book (maybe we get her story next). I really liked Georgia and Katherine and how perfect Todd ended up being.
I think what was missing was the "outside of the bubble" influence or lack there of. Don't get me wrong there was that but it was very, very toned down almost like a thought but not really put into action.
Overall I really did like this book and look forward to feeding more from Julie Blair in the future.
February 16, 2019
Was a quick read, hot and sexy. All the characters were well developed. Loved the grandmother.
June 13, 2016
4.5 stars
I received a copy of this book from Inked Rainbow Reads in return for an honest review.
This was a really nice story. Kate has her life planned out, not ever really realizing that the plans aren't actually her own. Everything is going according to her mother's plans, and she goes along with things because that's how she's been trained to think. Until a life-threatening illness forces her out of her planned life. To get herself back on track, she takes her grandmother's advice to recuperate and study at her Gran's cabin outside the city. While there, she meets Chris, a butch landscaper who knows who she is and what she wants. She doesn't want a messy relationship, so she focuses on casual sex with many different partners. This way feelings aren't involved. The two strike up an unexpected friendship based on small home improvement projects and a love of old movies. Kate decides to enlist this Lesbian Casanova to help her explore and learn about her own sexuality. In the ensuing 'lessons', both women find that emotions aren't easy to keep from having. Now they have to fight for their relationship because Kate comes from money, and affluence, and this is not acceptable in her social circles. When Kate's mother learns of their relationship, things come to a screeching halt, and it looks like it might be over. Kate has to find the courage to stand against the pressure of the 'perfect' life, and Chris has to accept that she's worthy of someone she thinks is out of her league. I love the story line, and like that Blair has included some exploration of BDSM and power dynamics, but accurately explaining how it works and how to make it safe without too much fuss. I really enjoyed the book.
I received a copy of this book from Inked Rainbow Reads in return for an honest review.
This was a really nice story. Kate has her life planned out, not ever really realizing that the plans aren't actually her own. Everything is going according to her mother's plans, and she goes along with things because that's how she's been trained to think. Until a life-threatening illness forces her out of her planned life. To get herself back on track, she takes her grandmother's advice to recuperate and study at her Gran's cabin outside the city. While there, she meets Chris, a butch landscaper who knows who she is and what she wants. She doesn't want a messy relationship, so she focuses on casual sex with many different partners. This way feelings aren't involved. The two strike up an unexpected friendship based on small home improvement projects and a love of old movies. Kate decides to enlist this Lesbian Casanova to help her explore and learn about her own sexuality. In the ensuing 'lessons', both women find that emotions aren't easy to keep from having. Now they have to fight for their relationship because Kate comes from money, and affluence, and this is not acceptable in her social circles. When Kate's mother learns of their relationship, things come to a screeching halt, and it looks like it might be over. Kate has to find the courage to stand against the pressure of the 'perfect' life, and Chris has to accept that she's worthy of someone she thinks is out of her league. I love the story line, and like that Blair has included some exploration of BDSM and power dynamics, but accurately explaining how it works and how to make it safe without too much fuss. I really enjoyed the book.
May 24, 2019
I rated 4 starts, but for me it is a 3 star. Let me explain below.
I started this book because I was in the mood for a little steam. I was rewarded. Period.
It was a good read and I can recommend it for everybody who likes some light bdsm play with a little flirtation to what it also can be. But bdsm isn’t for all of us and this books shows that in a good and down to earth way when Kate discovers the world off bdsm and her place in it.
This book is about Kate, law graduate, who’s engaged but not really into it. Off course she meets a handsome butch (Chris). Kate is a hopeless romantic, so is Chris, butt the latter does not believe in love and relationships. They’re drawn to one other and those moments of meeting are cute, beautiful and steamy. In that order at first.
I could not relate to Kate and her troubles. Although I have a good job, a certain social circle and enough money on my bank account, I just can’t handle snobbish people. And I really don’t (want to) understand how somebody could let her life being dictated by fears off what a certain partner would do to your career, social and family life. It just works on my allergies.
But in the real world, it does happen. And my irritation towards Kate is proof of good writing and character building.
My 4 star review is a reflection the quality off the book. When I take in account my irritation towards one of the mc’s it would have only been a 3 star review, but that would not be fair towards the author.
Last note, I loved the granny in this book. She reminded me of my granny who was always open minded and loving. Gladly in most lesfic granny’s rule!
I started this book because I was in the mood for a little steam. I was rewarded. Period.
It was a good read and I can recommend it for everybody who likes some light bdsm play with a little flirtation to what it also can be. But bdsm isn’t for all of us and this books shows that in a good and down to earth way when Kate discovers the world off bdsm and her place in it.
This book is about Kate, law graduate, who’s engaged but not really into it. Off course she meets a handsome butch (Chris). Kate is a hopeless romantic, so is Chris, butt the latter does not believe in love and relationships. They’re drawn to one other and those moments of meeting are cute, beautiful and steamy. In that order at first.
I could not relate to Kate and her troubles. Although I have a good job, a certain social circle and enough money on my bank account, I just can’t handle snobbish people. And I really don’t (want to) understand how somebody could let her life being dictated by fears off what a certain partner would do to your career, social and family life. It just works on my allergies.
But in the real world, it does happen. And my irritation towards Kate is proof of good writing and character building.
My 4 star review is a reflection the quality off the book. When I take in account my irritation towards one of the mc’s it would have only been a 3 star review, but that would not be fair towards the author.
Last note, I loved the granny in this book. She reminded me of my granny who was always open minded and loving. Gladly in most lesfic granny’s rule!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2017
An honest review thanks to NetGalley. This was a good read; I loved seeing Kate find herself and fall in love with Chris. The whole situation with Nic rubbed me the wrong way and kept me from really loving what I was reading. This was a great read with a lot of chemistry between the characters if you are looking for a simple lesbian romance book, then this is for you.
May 2, 2016
WoW what a ride, I think I even learn something new :) Kate and Chris hot and steamy.
Given book by NetGalley for a honest review
Given book by NetGalley for a honest review
February 15, 2020
This story was about more than just all of the sexual encounters.There is a journey in this book for everyone. Chris and Kate each had a journey to take. Lucky for Kate that her grandmother saw what she needed. There’s a lot of family drama and dynamics. Believe in the old romance movies. I loved this audiobook. I know people didn’t like the narration of this book but you can get past it. You just have to get into the rhythm of it.
September 8, 2018
3.5 stars. This was a sweet and satisfying butch/femme romance with lots of heat! Not at all as BDSM-y as I had been led to believe by some other reviews, but still a good, sexy story. Kate's sexual awakening at the hands of Chris, her attractive butch neighbor, is fun to read!
October 28, 2017
It was okay. I feel like it would have been better if it was just straight up erotica with no semi-developed romance plot and side characters, or just as a more plotted-out romance. It was a little bit of both, and wasn't quite there. The sex scenes were fine, but the romance was cheesy, and the pacing was uneven. Meh.
December 2, 2023
"A Touch of Temptation" by Julie Blair is a captivating romance novel that skillfully weaves passion and intrigue into a compelling narrative. Blair's masterful storytelling draws readers into the lives of the protagonists, creating a world where emotions run high and love is tested.
The characters are richly developed, each with their own vulnerabilities and strengths, making them relatable and endearing. The chemistry between the main characters sizzles on the pages, creating a palpable tension that keeps readers eagerly turning each page.
Blair's writing is both evocative and engaging, painting vivid scenes that transport readers to the heart of the story. The pacing is well-crafted, keeping the narrative flowing seamlessly and building suspense in all the right places.
What sets "A Touch of Temptation" apart is Blair's ability to blend romance with a touch of mystery, adding layers to the plot and keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The novel is a delightful escape, offering a perfect balance of passion and plot twists.
In summary, Julie Blair's "A Touch of Temptation" is a must-read for romance enthusiasts who crave a story that not only ignites the heart but also keeps the mind intrigued. Blair's talent shines through, making this novel a delightful and satisfying literary experience.
The characters are richly developed, each with their own vulnerabilities and strengths, making them relatable and endearing. The chemistry between the main characters sizzles on the pages, creating a palpable tension that keeps readers eagerly turning each page.
Blair's writing is both evocative and engaging, painting vivid scenes that transport readers to the heart of the story. The pacing is well-crafted, keeping the narrative flowing seamlessly and building suspense in all the right places.
What sets "A Touch of Temptation" apart is Blair's ability to blend romance with a touch of mystery, adding layers to the plot and keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The novel is a delightful escape, offering a perfect balance of passion and plot twists.
In summary, Julie Blair's "A Touch of Temptation" is a must-read for romance enthusiasts who crave a story that not only ignites the heart but also keeps the mind intrigued. Blair's talent shines through, making this novel a delightful and satisfying literary experience.
July 15, 2024
AAAAA This book has got me screaming, kicking my feet and all smiley and giggling all at the same time. This book is literally perfect. The build up and resolution was carefully written that didn’t leave any plot holes or any distasteful feelings. This was easily probably the spiciest book I’ve read this year. I adored the chemistry between Chris and Kate from when they were just friends to the trial and errors of accepting their relationship. Kate’s grandmother was another favorite; she’s literally the perfect wingwoman. This was such a great book with great spice and chemistry but I am interesting storyline.
Unrelated but wtf happened to the author? 😭😭 There hasn’t been any news I found of her since 2017. Most of her socials and websites have disappeared off the face of the internet l.
Unrelated but wtf happened to the author? 😭😭 There hasn’t been any news I found of her since 2017. Most of her socials and websites have disappeared off the face of the internet l.
February 27, 2023
Best romance I’ve read this year
This contemporary opposites-attract romance is the best romance I’ve read this year. It has all my catnip with an almost-engagement, an interfering grandmother, and the modern day equivalent of a class difference, as well as some fabulous steamy sex.
Kate’s self-discovery and sexual awakening happen with the support of her almost-fiance, under the guidance of a neighbor at the remote cabin she’s using to study for the bar exam.
The learning is not one-sided however, as her neighbor has had lots of Os (unlike Kate) but never wanted love or relationships.
This is one of the best written books I’ve read in a while with what I consider a universally appealing story, and well worth a read by anyone who likes contemporary romance.
This contemporary opposites-attract romance is the best romance I’ve read this year. It has all my catnip with an almost-engagement, an interfering grandmother, and the modern day equivalent of a class difference, as well as some fabulous steamy sex.
Kate’s self-discovery and sexual awakening happen with the support of her almost-fiance, under the guidance of a neighbor at the remote cabin she’s using to study for the bar exam.
The learning is not one-sided however, as her neighbor has had lots of Os (unlike Kate) but never wanted love or relationships.
This is one of the best written books I’ve read in a while with what I consider a universally appealing story, and well worth a read by anyone who likes contemporary romance.
December 29, 2019
Although this is my least favourite of Julie Blair's three published books so far this is only because her other two are so ridiculously good.
This is a well written book with polar opposite main characters, with uptight, rich girl law graduate Kate, her future seemingly mapped out for her, going 'off road', following a serious illness. She goes to her grandmother's holiday cabin to recuperate and meets butch, androdgynous Chris who is kind, caring, and totally at ease with who she is.
At the heart of the story is Kate's sexual awakening, but alongside this Chris is growing and changing too. A really enjoyable read.
This is a well written book with polar opposite main characters, with uptight, rich girl law graduate Kate, her future seemingly mapped out for her, going 'off road', following a serious illness. She goes to her grandmother's holiday cabin to recuperate and meets butch, androdgynous Chris who is kind, caring, and totally at ease with who she is.
At the heart of the story is Kate's sexual awakening, but alongside this Chris is growing and changing too. A really enjoyable read.
March 4, 2022
I listened to the sample, I thought Heather Miles' intonation would no continue for the whole book but it did. it sounded like Ron burgundy reading a new teleprompter with no regard for what it says. there was this weird cadence that made it difficult to understand who was talking or what was going on. the smut was decently written but the narration yanked me out of the immersion. I don't like writing negative reviews but this book took me twice as long to listen to because of the awkward narration.
June 5, 2025
I’m actually going to give it a 4.5. This was a beautiful lesbian erotica with beautiful fluff that at some point I just wanted to see Kate and Chris build this beautiful connection together originally as friends and grow into more. I was surprised Kate was able to have her mother and Nic in her life even though I think neither of them deserve to be in Kate’s life anymore. Especially since Cecilia calls Chris by her full name Christine when her name is Chris in the epilogue but I digress.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2023
I DNFed around 56%. It was a lot of tell and very little show. The dialogue was confusing to read and unnatural. I don’t know real life people who talk like that. The sex scenes were a huge bore. There’s the world of difference between describing sex acts and writing erotica, this book did the former.
March 18, 2020
Cliche, but fun! Lots of fun with discussing sexualities and exploration. Love the intergenerational B-story. Plenty of chemistry and sizzle between the two leads.
Downgraded because of the cliches with the mom. Just didn't work for me.
Downgraded because of the cliches with the mom. Just didn't work for me.
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