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The Grays of Los Angeles #1
Tender Kisses
What he'll do for love
Siobhan Gray has had it with men who view her as a stepping stone to a career with her family's successful home-safety company. Even when a sexy stranger sweeps her onto the dance floor at a gala awards event, the twice-burned PR director vows not to let down her guard. Siobhan doesn't count on Justin Cartwright's persistence as he dissolves her doubts and slowly wins her trust with a passion that tempts her to believe in love again.
Justin is a man with a plan: partner with Gray Home Safety to deliver his new cutting-edge product to the market. But the tall, sensual beauty is derailing all his best intentions. Then he discovers who she really is. Now he stands to lose everything…unless he can convince Siobhan that nothing matters more than their blossoming relationship—and the future they can build together.
- GenresRomance
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2016
41 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
About the author
Sheryl Lister
73 books281 followersSheryl Lister has enjoyed reading and writing for as long as she can remember. She writes contemporary and inspirational romance and romantic suspense. She been nominated for an Emma Award and RT Reviewer’s Choice Award and named BRAB’s 2015 Best New Author. When she’s not reading, writing or playing chauffeur, Sheryl can be found on a date with her husband or in the kitchen creating appetizers and bite-sized desserts.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
July 27, 2020
In my continuing quest to read more category romance in 2018, I picked up Tender Kisses by Sheryl Lister (kind of at random) from my library. This is a sweet romance between two hard-working professionals, and I really loved it...until I didn't.
What I loved about this book right away was how mature and breezy the characters were with their interactions. It was obvious from their first conversation that Justin and Siobhan were highly compatible and had a very easy chemistry between them. I also really liked that this is a romance where the characters go on dates like "normal" people? That doesn't happen enough. Justin and Siobhan go out for coffee, for dinner, and on a weekend trip to Vegas. All very normal, couply-things to do.
The tension in the relationship comes from the fact that Siobhan initially lied to Justin about her name—she used her mother's maiden name due to the sheer volume of men flirting with her in order to make business connections with her family. So, while on the one hand she's completely sure that Justin loves her for herself, she also has to tell him that she lied to him, and she's unsure of how he'll take it. (Spoiler: he takes it very calmly, like an adult, and acknowledges she had valid reasons to do what she did.) Except then, Lister kind of went of the deep-end, because Siobhan finds out that Justin did want to pitch a product-idea to her dad the whole time, and she freaks out. Even though Justin literally made a huge point of becoming a business success on his own steam.
The problem with any romance, of course, is what the Dark Moment is and how the characters resolve it. In Tender Kisses, I felt the misunderstandings were excessive—both in number and in scope. The couple's inevitable breakup over those misunderstandings was just...a little too melodramatic. Especially because as soon as the heroine, Siobhan, cools down from her temper, she realizes she assumed a bunch of things and freaked out with very little evidence. Which is fine! People do that all the time. It just wasn't necessarily in keeping with her character as a cool, level-headed PR executive in a large company.
It's one thing to have an established "impulsive" character fly off the handle and break up with their love interest, only to realize the next day that it was all a mistake. It was another to have the wonderful, mature Siobhan Gray do it.
So, that was a bummer.
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What I loved about this book right away was how mature and breezy the characters were with their interactions. It was obvious from their first conversation that Justin and Siobhan were highly compatible and had a very easy chemistry between them. I also really liked that this is a romance where the characters go on dates like "normal" people? That doesn't happen enough. Justin and Siobhan go out for coffee, for dinner, and on a weekend trip to Vegas. All very normal, couply-things to do.
The tension in the relationship comes from the fact that Siobhan initially lied to Justin about her name—she used her mother's maiden name due to the sheer volume of men flirting with her in order to make business connections with her family. So, while on the one hand she's completely sure that Justin loves her for herself, she also has to tell him that she lied to him, and she's unsure of how he'll take it. (Spoiler: he takes it very calmly, like an adult, and acknowledges she had valid reasons to do what she did.) Except then, Lister kind of went of the deep-end, because Siobhan finds out that Justin did want to pitch a product-idea to her dad the whole time, and she freaks out. Even though Justin literally made a huge point of becoming a business success on his own steam.
The problem with any romance, of course, is what the Dark Moment is and how the characters resolve it. In Tender Kisses, I felt the misunderstandings were excessive—both in number and in scope. The couple's inevitable breakup over those misunderstandings was just...a little too melodramatic. Especially because as soon as the heroine, Siobhan, cools down from her temper, she realizes she assumed a bunch of things and freaked out with very little evidence. Which is fine! People do that all the time. It just wasn't necessarily in keeping with her character as a cool, level-headed PR executive in a large company.
It's one thing to have an established "impulsive" character fly off the handle and break up with their love interest, only to realize the next day that it was all a mistake. It was another to have the wonderful, mature Siobhan Gray do it.
So, that was a bummer.
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February 26, 2018
Two independent and professional people meet, share a dance and a tender kiss. And that's how it all starts, even though they both have their secrets and their walls, her more than him though. But those tender kisses and his sexy gentleman ways begin to tear down her walls, piece by little piece.
I enjoyed this book. It was romantic, fun, sexy, and a great representation of what families should be like. I wouldn't mind having a bunch of big brothers like this girl ;) Family, love, and fun, that's all that matters at the end of the day.
I enjoyed this book. It was romantic, fun, sexy, and a great representation of what families should be like. I wouldn't mind having a bunch of big brothers like this girl ;) Family, love, and fun, that's all that matters at the end of the day.
February 25, 2017
Loved it! Every book that I read by Sheryl Lister makes my heart smile. What really stands out in this one is the love, respect and genuine concern that each member of the Gray Family demonstrates for one another. If a sleazy ex-boyfriend upsets Morgan or Siobhan, one by one their three brothers call or stop by to make sure they are OK. I love that! To protect her heart and her family's wealth, Siobhan hides her true identity because she thinks Justin is deceitful like her lying, cheating ex. So not fair. When Justin discovers Siobhan's secret, will he forgive her or simply walk away?
August 14, 2016
Tender Kisses is the story of two people that work way too much until they cross each other's path. Like a lot of that have been hurt in the past, Justin and Shoibhan throw themselves into "distractions" so they won't have to deal with their issues. This aspect of the book makes it realistic, relatable, and that's what drew me in.
This was my first time reading a book by Sheryl Lister and it definitely won't be my last. She does an excellent job at not over romanticizing things because the conflict and internal struggles are something we have all experienced to so,e degree. You have a new fan in me, BRAVO!!!
This was my first time reading a book by Sheryl Lister and it definitely won't be my last. She does an excellent job at not over romanticizing things because the conflict and internal struggles are something we have all experienced to so,e degree. You have a new fan in me, BRAVO!!!
November 20, 2016
This book's story line was okay. I liked Justin's character. I liked Justin's nice gentlemen ways but I feel Justin tried to hard to get Siobhan to be his woman. I didn't like Siobhan's character. I understand what she went through, but I didn't like her attitude towards Justin. I love Ms. Lister's books but this one was for me.
April 4, 2016
Justin and Siobhan WOW. I loved how these two worked up to loving and trusting each other. I WILL NEVER LOOK AT HONEY THE SAME EVER AGAIN!!! A great story Sheryl Lister. Job Well Done!
March 31, 2018
What he'll do for love… Siobhan (pronounced Sha-von) Gray has had it with men who view her as a stepping stone to a career with her family's successful home-safety company. After 6 pitches so far, when a sexy stranger sweeps her onto the dance floor at a gala awards event, the twice-burned (PR director for Gray Home Safety) vows not to let down her guard. Siobhan doesn't count on Justin Cartwright's persistence as he dissolves her doubts and slowly wins her trust with a passion that tempts her to believe in love again. Justin is a man with a plan: partner with Gray Home Safety to deliver his new cutting-edge product to the market. But the tall, sensual beauty is derailing all his best intentions. Then he discovers who she really is. Now he’s willing to lose everything…unless he can convince Siobhan that nothing matters more than their blossoming relationship—and the future they can build together.
May 28, 2017
I'm not surprised that Tender Kisses exceeded my expectations. Siobhan reminds me of how we when hurt to the core can mess things up by not letting go. Justin is my man. He saw what he wanted and went for it, falling in love in the process. I loved how this story was told effortlessly and smooth. I'm a fan of Sheryl Lister for more than her writing style. She brings you to the edge gently then pushes you. lol. Love it.
June 6, 2017
I loved this story just for the simple fact that Justin Cartwright was the perfect man to win over Siobhan "Hunter" Gray who possessed a rough, direct, and tough exterior due to relationship issues and trying to prove herself worthy and dependable to her parents. Not only was Justin smooth, he was also very thoughtful, sincere, patient, and persistent in going after the woman who caught and kept his attention at first sight! Awesome love story and read!
April 17, 2018
I think I inhaled this book! Could I have a Justin-- please! Once again Ms. Lister made her words come to life as she weaved a web of great story telling, not only of Justin's deep need to perfect his creation, but also of Siobhan's fear of letting her family down...again. Together, they maneuvered past hurts and their present feelings they were trying to hide but I felt the chemistry flying off the pages. What a great read. Kudos Sheryl Lister you've done it again!
November 12, 2018
What a great story!
I have read other Sheryl Lister books and enjoyed them and this one was no different. I love the unique storyline with a different business take than has usually been done. Siobhan and Justin were amazing human beings and deserved the happiness they found in each other.
I have read other Sheryl Lister books and enjoyed them and this one was no different. I love the unique storyline with a different business take than has usually been done. Siobhan and Justin were amazing human beings and deserved the happiness they found in each other.
August 6, 2017
Justin
I read this series out of order. Morgan's story was my favorite. I can't wait to read Malcolm and Khalil's story. Siobhan's story was cute. I love the Gray family. Thanks for making my day.
I read this series out of order. Morgan's story was my favorite. I can't wait to read Malcolm and Khalil's story. Siobhan's story was cute. I love the Gray family. Thanks for making my day.
May 22, 2018
Tender Kisses by Sheryl Lister was my first experience in reading her books and it won’t be my last! I enjoyed the chemistry and storyline between Siobhan and Justin. I loved how the whole romance and story played out. Definitely recommend reading this book.
October 17, 2018
Tender Kisses. Great Love.
Tender Kisses was a fantastic love story between Justin Cartwright and Siobhan Gray. I can't wait to start reading the next book in the series. I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves romance novels. Great read.
Tender Kisses was a fantastic love story between Justin Cartwright and Siobhan Gray. I can't wait to start reading the next book in the series. I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves romance novels. Great read.
February 24, 2022
First and last dance
I enjoyed Justin and Siobhan with their attraction evolving into love. They both waded in mistrust and overcame and defeated this emotion by support. They learned to work at their issues and relationship as they did with their professions.
I enjoyed Justin and Siobhan with their attraction evolving into love. They both waded in mistrust and overcame and defeated this emotion by support. They learned to work at their issues and relationship as they did with their professions.
October 1, 2018
Let Go And Love
I related a lot to this story of a woman living from her past experiences and relationship. Siobhan and Justin are an inspiration.
I related a lot to this story of a woman living from her past experiences and relationship. Siobhan and Justin are an inspiration.
May 31, 2017
Passionate
This book was filled with passion, love and tenderness. A story of trust and honesty between one another is essential to every relationship. Great book!
This book was filled with passion, love and tenderness. A story of trust and honesty between one another is essential to every relationship. Great book!
April 4, 2018
A beautiful read.
August 20, 2018
This was ok, being that it was the first book of hers that I've read. It had a lot of receptive scenes that became boring. Hopefully the flow of the book will improve with the next one in line.
November 22, 2018
1/2 stars
October 29, 2019
Chanting More, Nore
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and read the other to the series already and want more concerning The Grays/Cartwrights characters!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and read the other to the series already and want more concerning The Grays/Cartwrights characters!
February 9, 2017
Great start to this series. Justin and Siobhan, such a sweet love story. Great job Sheryl!
April 5, 2017
Tender Kisses by Sheryl Lister is an interestingly engaging tale that captivates the reader and keeps us wanting to know what is next. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading more from Ms. Lister.
This is the story of Siobhan Gray and Justin Cartwright. Siobhan is fed up with being seen as the avenue to the inside of Gray Home Safety, which is her family's successful home-safety company. She met Justin at an industry's gathering and considered him just as the others before him....but no, he claimed to just want a "dance".
Justin's goal is to partner with Gray Home Safety and introduce the world to unique and needed home safety products. To this end, he attends an industry's gathering at which he is totally captivated by this woman and sets his sights for getting her on the dance floor. He does and realize he wants more time with her.
They see each other casually and with much reluctance from her, then things change. Prior experience lead to each keeping things from the other and when the truths are unveiled, the question becomes....can "they" survive their spuriousness.
I give the novel 5 stars
Reviewed for Building Relationships Around Books (BRAB)
This is the story of Siobhan Gray and Justin Cartwright. Siobhan is fed up with being seen as the avenue to the inside of Gray Home Safety, which is her family's successful home-safety company. She met Justin at an industry's gathering and considered him just as the others before him....but no, he claimed to just want a "dance".
Justin's goal is to partner with Gray Home Safety and introduce the world to unique and needed home safety products. To this end, he attends an industry's gathering at which he is totally captivated by this woman and sets his sights for getting her on the dance floor. He does and realize he wants more time with her.
They see each other casually and with much reluctance from her, then things change. Prior experience lead to each keeping things from the other and when the truths are unveiled, the question becomes....can "they" survive their spuriousness.
I give the novel 5 stars
Reviewed for Building Relationships Around Books (BRAB)
Read
May 7, 2016Siobhan Gray, in Sheryl Lister’s Tender Kisses, has spent the last three years proving to her father that she is the best PR Director her family's home security company has ever had. Working long hours has become her middle name. Besides, it has taken her that much time to get over the fiasco of a relationship. But her life began to turn upside down when she met Justin Cartwright. He was easy to talk to, considerate, a total gentlemen, and handsome. But Siobhan held back on a very important piece of information about herself and Justin was not forthcoming with a major part of his plan to win a contract. With secrets looming overhead, one had to wonder where their relationship end up.
Lister delivers to her readers a story that was entertaining and romantic. In Justin, Lister created a hero that was sensitive, caring and willing to leave everything to show his love. As I read this story, I thought I was not going to like Siobhan; but as the story progressed, I began to understand the reasons why she closed her heart.
Fans of The Grays of Los Angeles will savory this story as much as the others in the series.
By Cilla, the BookManiac
Lister delivers to her readers a story that was entertaining and romantic. In Justin, Lister created a hero that was sensitive, caring and willing to leave everything to show his love. As I read this story, I thought I was not going to like Siobhan; but as the story progressed, I began to understand the reasons why she closed her heart.
Fans of The Grays of Los Angeles will savory this story as much as the others in the series.
By Cilla, the BookManiac
March 31, 2016
Siobhan has had her fair share of heartache over the years. Justin is looking to partner with Gray Home Safety when he sees Siobhan. Siobhan and Justin are immediately attracted to one another but Siobhan doesn't want to get involved with anyone and wants to concentrate solely on her job. Even though Siobhan is putting up a wall Justin is very determined to break those walls down.
I loved this first book in these series. I was immediately drawn in and was rooting for Justin. There were obstacles that they had to overcome. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
I loved this first book in these series. I was immediately drawn in and was rooting for Justin. There were obstacles that they had to overcome. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
April 2, 2016
Justin and Siobhan dynamite
It's always good when you pre order and the story doesn't disappoint. Justin and Siobhan had a romance that was like any other. Siobhan having to allow herself to love again. Having to get over past hurts and disappointment. Justin being a man of principle having to accept the courses of life and go beyond the surface. As we watch the couples love blossom one is thankful for encouraging loving family and friends. Good job on the couple recognizing that they had a love worth fighting for.
It's always good when you pre order and the story doesn't disappoint. Justin and Siobhan had a romance that was like any other. Siobhan having to allow herself to love again. Having to get over past hurts and disappointment. Justin being a man of principle having to accept the courses of life and go beyond the surface. As we watch the couples love blossom one is thankful for encouraging loving family and friends. Good job on the couple recognizing that they had a love worth fighting for.
April 14, 2016
One Down, Three To Go!
A great story about workaholics who find time for love. Justin Cartwright and Siobhan Gray have become two if my favorite Contemporary Romance couple. The chemistry between them is off the chain. As with most couples, they each had to deal with their personal issues that kept them holding on to the past. I liked the way everything was resolved. I like that Gray family! Who's next of the three handsome Gray brothers? Could it be Brandon, Khalil or Malcolm? Thank you Sheryl Lister for a great read.
A great story about workaholics who find time for love. Justin Cartwright and Siobhan Gray have become two if my favorite Contemporary Romance couple. The chemistry between them is off the chain. As with most couples, they each had to deal with their personal issues that kept them holding on to the past. I liked the way everything was resolved. I like that Gray family! Who's next of the three handsome Gray brothers? Could it be Brandon, Khalil or Malcolm? Thank you Sheryl Lister for a great read.
March 30, 2016
First of the Grays of Los Angeles. The eldest Siobhan Gray hides and disguises who she is to a potential suitor because she is tired of the tired pitches to get into her family and her families riches. Justin Cartwright started out looking for friends and Siobhan is unlike any woman he has met.
I could not put this book down. Riveting, sensual, funny and entertaining. Everyone needs a fat-bellied, greasy contender in our lives to keep us on our toes. Great read.
I could not put this book down. Riveting, sensual, funny and entertaining. Everyone needs a fat-bellied, greasy contender in our lives to keep us on our toes. Great read.
April 11, 2016
I always enjoy series that are set around family. Siobhan is the eldest of the Gray children and works in her family business. That has been a blessing and a curse. She is often sought out by men as a way to get to her father and this has left her jaded. Enter Justin, who does want to meet her father, but doesn't actually know who she is. This is the backdrop for an excellent story. I can't wait to see which sibling is the focus of the next installment.
April 5, 2016
Siobhan Gray has had bad experiences with men. She has let it over shadow having a relationship with any man. Justin has a plan and wants to partner with Gray Home Safety, because he wants the best.
Despite Siobhan misgiving a relationship does develop and Justin is out to convince her that they can have a future together.
Despite Siobhan misgiving a relationship does develop and Justin is out to convince her that they can have a future together.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews