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Tavonesi #8
A Very Daring Christmas
When Cameron Kelly agreed to leverage her status as a Hollywood A-list movie star to help children in Dominia, nothing prepared her for the unthinkable poverty in the remote villages. Nor did she expect to run into a major league baseball star who shocks loose her pent-up desires. The next man she lets anywhere close to her heart will be a normal guy, not a celebrity, and certainly not a cocky All-Star. Yet when she sees the sexy athlete coaching the local kids in a makeshift sandlot, her heart and her body stop listening to her head.
Flying high after winning the World Series, Jake Ryder is in the Caribbean to rehab his season-sore body and coach village children who are crazy about baseball. Running into Cameron, though, may send him packing. The heat sparking between the two of them has him rethinking his Three-Date Rule, something he swore he'd never do. And when she tries to manipulate him into a publicity stunt to fund her UNICAN project, he decides it’s game over. He's been used too many times and won't be used again.
A surprise invitation to Trovare Castle throws them together once more. A mysterious prince and a fatherless boy complicate their already tense reunion, but they soon discover that the greatest dare is the one that leads to true love.
Flying high after winning the World Series, Jake Ryder is in the Caribbean to rehab his season-sore body and coach village children who are crazy about baseball. Running into Cameron, though, may send him packing. The heat sparking between the two of them has him rethinking his Three-Date Rule, something he swore he'd never do. And when she tries to manipulate him into a publicity stunt to fund her UNICAN project, he decides it’s game over. He's been used too many times and won't be used again.
A surprise invitation to Trovare Castle throws them together once more. A mysterious prince and a fatherless boy complicate their already tense reunion, but they soon discover that the greatest dare is the one that leads to true love.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2015
131 people are currently reading
407 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Aares
18 books301 followersPamela Aares is a USA Today Bestselling, award-winning author of contemporary and historical romance novels. Her contemporary series, The Tavonesi Series, explores the lives, loves, friendships and sizzling romances of the Tavonesi family.
Her popularity as a romance writer continues to grow with each new book release, so much so, that the Bay area author has drawn comparisons by reviewers to Nora Roberts and Barbara Freethy. You can stay in touch with Pamela by signing up for her New Release Newsletter: http://www.pamelaaares.com/newsletter...
Pamela writes romance books that she loves reading, particularly those that entertain, transport and inspire dreams while captivating and tugging at the heart. She takes her readers on a journey with complex characters in both contemporary and historical settings who are thrown in situations that tempt love, adventure and self-discovery.
Before becoming a romance author, Pamela wrote and produced award-winning films including Your Water, Your Life, featuring actress Susan Sarandon and NPR series New Voices, The Powers of the Universe and The Earth’s Imagination.
She holds a Master’s degree from Harvard and currently resides in the wine country of Northern California with her husband, a former MLB All-Star and two curious cats.
If not behind her computer, you can probably find her reading a romance novel, hiking the beach or savoring life with friends. You can visit Pamela on the web at http://www.PamelaAares.com.
You can stay in touch with Pamela by signing up for her New Release neslwtter: http://www.pamelaaares.com/newsletter...
Her popularity as a romance writer continues to grow with each new book release, so much so, that the Bay area author has drawn comparisons by reviewers to Nora Roberts and Barbara Freethy. You can stay in touch with Pamela by signing up for her New Release Newsletter: http://www.pamelaaares.com/newsletter...
Pamela writes romance books that she loves reading, particularly those that entertain, transport and inspire dreams while captivating and tugging at the heart. She takes her readers on a journey with complex characters in both contemporary and historical settings who are thrown in situations that tempt love, adventure and self-discovery.
Before becoming a romance author, Pamela wrote and produced award-winning films including Your Water, Your Life, featuring actress Susan Sarandon and NPR series New Voices, The Powers of the Universe and The Earth’s Imagination.
She holds a Master’s degree from Harvard and currently resides in the wine country of Northern California with her husband, a former MLB All-Star and two curious cats.
If not behind her computer, you can probably find her reading a romance novel, hiking the beach or savoring life with friends. You can visit Pamela on the web at http://www.PamelaAares.com.
You can stay in touch with Pamela by signing up for her New Release neslwtter: http://www.pamelaaares.com/newsletter...
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
December 30, 2017
Exciting
I'm not usually a fan of contemporary romance stories, so I've been putting off reading this book for quite a while. Now I'm sure I need to read the whole series! Wonderful family group of stories, each stand alone, yet connected through the characters. Very good reading!
I'm not usually a fan of contemporary romance stories, so I've been putting off reading this book for quite a while. Now I'm sure I need to read the whole series! Wonderful family group of stories, each stand alone, yet connected through the characters. Very good reading!
November 25, 2018
Great read
I really enjoyed Jake & Cameron’s story. Lots of baseball, of course, and constant adventures with the Tavonesi family. Read alone story with lots of connections the the other books in the series.
I really enjoyed Jake & Cameron’s story. Lots of baseball, of course, and constant adventures with the Tavonesi family. Read alone story with lots of connections the the other books in the series.
June 2, 2021
Three dates and you're out.
A sensuous and entertaining story that takes you on an adventure into the lives of some very wealthy but loving people. This series is very intriguing.
This review was posted by
Virginia Jones
A sensuous and entertaining story that takes you on an adventure into the lives of some very wealthy but loving people. This series is very intriguing.
This review was posted by
Virginia Jones
December 13, 2017
Beautiful
A wonderful story of love, heart ache, new friendships and a new beginning for a couple and a young boy who has now lost booth parents, but found an uncle.
A wonderful story of love, heart ache, new friendships and a new beginning for a couple and a young boy who has now lost booth parents, but found an uncle.
August 11, 2018
Dylan was extremely annoying.
October 27, 2018
Good Story
Loved the characters and the storyline. I read book one of this series as well and liked it. I got this book by promotion free.
Loved the characters and the storyline. I read book one of this series as well and liked it. I got this book by promotion free.
March 16, 2019
Different
They are so different and yet they find they have a connection. Their path to true happiness will have many bumps in the long road
They are so different and yet they find they have a connection. Their path to true happiness will have many bumps in the long road
April 12, 2019
Very enjoyable
I was intrigued from the beginning. The book has good character and story building with interesting family dynamics. It is an enjoyable read.
I was intrigued from the beginning. The book has good character and story building with interesting family dynamics. It is an enjoyable read.
March 24, 2018
It is a great book to read
November 19, 2015
Cameron Kelly vowed to never fall into a relationship with anyone in the public eye again. She wanted simple. She wanted normal. Well, as normal as her own movie star status would allow.
She wanted to concentrate on using her current status to help those less fortunate.
Taking a trip to Dominia, a place where poverty is prevalent, and lack of clean water is causing unnecessary sickness, she vows to raise as much awareness and funds possible to help.
Jake Ryder, superstar baseball player has his own way of helping children who are in a much less fortunate position than he. Without the need for publicity, without the need to draw attention to himself, he wants a quiet private life, away from the spotlight and a chance to coach children who are crazy about the game he loves.
When Jake and Cameron run into each other sparks fly, they know there is an instant connection between them. But, after swearing never to get into a high profile relationship, they try to ignore the chemistry between them. But, sometimes the thing you try to ignore is the one thing you should be taking a chance on.
When Cameron tries to manipulate him into unwanted attention and a publicity stunt for her clean water campaign, Jake decides that he was right about attention seeking movie stars all along and walks away.
Christmastime at Trovare throws the pair together again, and maybe, with the help of a young man named Dylan and an irresistible dare, a Christmas love story might just begin.
Pamela never ceases to amaze me with each book.
I was completely honoured and proud to have been asked to review this book before even editing had begun, and so very excited to enjoy a new Christmas romance.
After reviewing Pamela’s last book, which was much harder hitting than her previous releases I was expecting something a little lighter. And while on most counts it delivered there was still the surprising elements which make you hold your breath and think Wow!
As with all of Pamela’s books, I finish with a willingness to learn about something new, there is always a heartfelt and worthy cause as the backdrop to a beautiful romance, and also a question about how I would react to a certain situation.
With this particular book it wasn’t necessarily the romantic elements that drew me in, but the sheer determination from both characters to remain committed to their own personal goals and being so steadfast in their willingness to help those less fortunate that brought this story to life.
That is something I believe to be essential, especially around this time of year.
And yet, there was no lack in heart warming moments. Once again those moments focus around family, and the need to have those that love you offering support and sometimes a nudge in the right direction when it comes to seeing things clearly.
Christmas time is family time and what better way to have that reinforced than by reading Pamela’s beautiful Christmas romance and share her focus that has and always will be about the importance of family.
I have loved the style of writing, the moments that made me catch my breath, the family ties, the hard realisms of lives we’re not aware of and the romantic elements that bring this story to the wonderful pleasure it was to read. And it works because in the end, the final goal, the final element to every book has been to always follow your heart.
Have a wonderful Christmas.
ARC Supplied For Review.
She wanted to concentrate on using her current status to help those less fortunate.
Taking a trip to Dominia, a place where poverty is prevalent, and lack of clean water is causing unnecessary sickness, she vows to raise as much awareness and funds possible to help.
Jake Ryder, superstar baseball player has his own way of helping children who are in a much less fortunate position than he. Without the need for publicity, without the need to draw attention to himself, he wants a quiet private life, away from the spotlight and a chance to coach children who are crazy about the game he loves.
When Jake and Cameron run into each other sparks fly, they know there is an instant connection between them. But, after swearing never to get into a high profile relationship, they try to ignore the chemistry between them. But, sometimes the thing you try to ignore is the one thing you should be taking a chance on.
When Cameron tries to manipulate him into unwanted attention and a publicity stunt for her clean water campaign, Jake decides that he was right about attention seeking movie stars all along and walks away.
Christmastime at Trovare throws the pair together again, and maybe, with the help of a young man named Dylan and an irresistible dare, a Christmas love story might just begin.
Pamela never ceases to amaze me with each book.
I was completely honoured and proud to have been asked to review this book before even editing had begun, and so very excited to enjoy a new Christmas romance.
After reviewing Pamela’s last book, which was much harder hitting than her previous releases I was expecting something a little lighter. And while on most counts it delivered there was still the surprising elements which make you hold your breath and think Wow!
As with all of Pamela’s books, I finish with a willingness to learn about something new, there is always a heartfelt and worthy cause as the backdrop to a beautiful romance, and also a question about how I would react to a certain situation.
With this particular book it wasn’t necessarily the romantic elements that drew me in, but the sheer determination from both characters to remain committed to their own personal goals and being so steadfast in their willingness to help those less fortunate that brought this story to life.
That is something I believe to be essential, especially around this time of year.
And yet, there was no lack in heart warming moments. Once again those moments focus around family, and the need to have those that love you offering support and sometimes a nudge in the right direction when it comes to seeing things clearly.
Christmas time is family time and what better way to have that reinforced than by reading Pamela’s beautiful Christmas romance and share her focus that has and always will be about the importance of family.
I have loved the style of writing, the moments that made me catch my breath, the family ties, the hard realisms of lives we’re not aware of and the romantic elements that bring this story to the wonderful pleasure it was to read. And it works because in the end, the final goal, the final element to every book has been to always follow your heart.
Have a wonderful Christmas.
ARC Supplied For Review.
December 7, 2016
This was a little different from my usual read. Everyone is famous and living glamorous lives which is a typical romance novel trope, but in this story we get to see an actress who wants to use her fame to do good. That was super different for me. Though I am not a fan of the 'I want to help the less fortunate of other countries' trope, I did enjoy the way that this aspect of the plot helped both characters grow into better people. But isn't that the point of that trope? The Eat, Pray, Love effect. I know lots of people love Eat Pray Love, I just think that we have to challenge the idea of personal growth and spiritual enlightenment happening as a result of experiencing/interacting with those with less privilege. It makes the story about us and our privilege instead of the lives of the people we meet. End of rant.
I was sympathetic to both Cameron and Jake. They were two very different characters limited by life experiences that bias them towards each other. Usually I like one character more than the other but Cameron and Jake had the right amount of faults and good qualities that it balanced. At no point did I want to stop reading this book. As a matter of fact I am super sleep deprived because I stayed up all night reading until I couldn't keep my eyes open. It was a good, fast and entertaining read. I am so glad that I got this in my Everafter romance novel subscription box.
I was sympathetic to both Cameron and Jake. They were two very different characters limited by life experiences that bias them towards each other. Usually I like one character more than the other but Cameron and Jake had the right amount of faults and good qualities that it balanced. At no point did I want to stop reading this book. As a matter of fact I am super sleep deprived because I stayed up all night reading until I couldn't keep my eyes open. It was a good, fast and entertaining read. I am so glad that I got this in my Everafter romance novel subscription box.
December 5, 2015
This story brings all our favorite characters together for a Christmas celebration and in the middle of it all we have another hot romance. Cameron is a movie star and good friends with Sabrina. She's been invited to Trovare castle to join in the family Christmas traditions. It's just what Cameron needs. First, she is taking a quick trip to Dominia to hopefully get help with her clean water project. She meets San Francisco Giant baseball star Jake Ryder and they have an instant attraction. Both bring plenty of baggage and lots of distrust from previous bad relationships. When they find themselves both at the Trovare castle for Christmas they have to see if they can overcome the obstacles in their way. The characters in this series are wonderful and you can add Jake and Cameron to the list now and Dylan too. I highly recommend you bundle up with some hot cocoa and A Very Daring Christmas and enjoy a Tavonesi holiday.
November 30, 2016
This is the 8th book in the Tavonesi series that I have read and reviewed. I don't know what more I can say about the series or the author. I LOVE THESE BOOKS AND THE AUTHOR HAS BECOME ONE OF MY FAVORITES.
Pamela Aares has great character development and the stories just keep moving and although the series is built around the Tavonesi family here in the United States, there are relatives in other parts of the world. Each book is about a member of the family and how the people relate and develop in their own special way. I never want these books to end and when they do I am searching impatiently for the next one.
The books do not have to be read in order. Each is its own separate story. I prefer to read them in order as it helps in understanding the references to other members of the family.
I highly recommend this author and her books to everyone, especially if you like reading Nora Roberts, Fern Michaels, or Catherine Anderson.
Pamela Aares has great character development and the stories just keep moving and although the series is built around the Tavonesi family here in the United States, there are relatives in other parts of the world. Each book is about a member of the family and how the people relate and develop in their own special way. I never want these books to end and when they do I am searching impatiently for the next one.
The books do not have to be read in order. Each is its own separate story. I prefer to read them in order as it helps in understanding the references to other members of the family.
I highly recommend this author and her books to everyone, especially if you like reading Nora Roberts, Fern Michaels, or Catherine Anderson.
January 3, 2016
Absolutely wonderful
Oh if you have not read any books in this series you need to start NOW!! This was a sweet Christmas romance set in wine country.this is Cameron and Jakes story.Cameron is an actress and Jake Baseball player,they both meet when they go to a foreign country her for clean water and Jake to help his friend with a baseball camp for young boys.Both do not trust us as they spend time with each other they know there are feelings there,add to this Christmas at the Tavonesi Castle and you have a sweet romance love all the secondary characters these are must read books you will love them
Oh if you have not read any books in this series you need to start NOW!! This was a sweet Christmas romance set in wine country.this is Cameron and Jakes story.Cameron is an actress and Jake Baseball player,they both meet when they go to a foreign country her for clean water and Jake to help his friend with a baseball camp for young boys.Both do not trust us as they spend time with each other they know there are feelings there,add to this Christmas at the Tavonesi Castle and you have a sweet romance love all the secondary characters these are must read books you will love them
December 18, 2020
When you are relationship shy, it can take a lot to break down walls resurrected to safeguard your emotions. It takes someone awesome to be able to break through those walls, and gain your trust to allow them into your life.
This is a story about a man who had such walls erected, and a very interesting encounter with someone who had the knack of making him lower his defenses.
I found, as I have the other books in this set, interesting in background story, as well as, hot in the relationship department.
This is a story about a man who had such walls erected, and a very interesting encounter with someone who had the knack of making him lower his defenses.
I found, as I have the other books in this set, interesting in background story, as well as, hot in the relationship department.
December 15, 2016
2.5. I just never cared about the main characters. And after the prologue I expected an earlier arrival of Dylan. When he did appear, he was unbelievably well adjusted, which was good, given how careless the H/h were in their handling of him. The book wasn't awful, but it just didn't work for me.
February 14, 2016
3.5/5.0
This novel is beautifully written and sweeps the reader up into the story.
Read full review in the 2016 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
This novel is beautifully written and sweeps the reader up into the story.
Read full review in the 2016 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews