Hooker

L.A. Liaisons #2

by Brooke Blaine

Whoever said singles were missing out by not finding true love and getting married before the age of thirty had never experienced the sheer pleasure of nightly romantic comedy viewings in their underwear while eating one of Licked’s famous Crazy Cat Lady sundaes. Because life just doesn’t get better than that.

At least, it doesn’t for Shayne Callahan. It didn’t take more than a handful of broken hearts after college to solidify that she was better at pairing up those around her than herself. As a matchmaker at the elite HLS—Hook, Line, & Sinker Matchmaking Company—in the City of Angels, she has a knack for finding the other halves of even the most eccentric clients:

Sugar daddy with a foot fetish? Gross, but no problem.A severe case of nudophobia? Match made before lunch.

But even the most happily independent of women can find their best-laid plans screeching to a halt when they meet that guy. For Shayne, that guy comes in the form of boyishly handsome, suspender-lovin’, dimple-poppin’ Nate Ryan on a pantsless (we’ll get to that later) Metro ride.

Of course, relationships can never be easy. Before the destined lovers can ride off into the sunset, they must overcome a power-hungry and sexual-punning boss, a celebrity scandal and cover-up, and let’s not forget Shayne’s dreadful foot-in-mouth disease—with which there can never be a happily ever after.

Will fate throw Shayne a freakin’ bone? Or will she be destined to live out her life as sexy(ish), single(ish), and L.A.’s finest Hooker (upper)?

Hooker is Book Two in the L.A. Liaisons series, but each book can be read as a standalone novel.

Genres: Romance, Humor, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, M F Romance, Chick Lit, Audiobook

320 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 8, 2016

About the author

Brooke Blaine is a USA Today Bestselling Author best known for writing romantic comedy and M/M romance. Her novels lead with humor and heart, but Brooke never shies away from throwing in something extra naughty that will scandalize her conservative Southern family for life (bless their hearts).

She’s a choc-o-holic, lives for eighties bands (which means she thinks guyliner is totally underrated), believes it’s always wine o’clock, and lives with the coolest cat on the planet—her Ragdoll/Maine Coon mix, Jackson Agador Spartacus.

Reviews

[Patty ~ Wrapped Up In Reading Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

*****FOUR STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}






This is the second book in the LA Liaisons series, and it can be read as a standalone. I thought it was a very light & sexy read. I was in need of a good RomCom after having gone through an emotional roller coaster from my last read and this story was just what the doctor ordered!



Shayne Callahan is a professional matchmaker working at Hook, Line, and Sinker. She is terrific at matching people up with their true soul mates but has had terrible luck with romance in her own life. But Shayne doesn’t let this get her down. She is really quite happy with her single life and dining off of her “meals for one” a la Lean Cuisine. Totally my kind of gal!! Until one day during a bar crawl with her best girls, sans pants, she runs into a seriously HOT guy who seems to be salivating at the sight of her as well. Apparently there is a night in Los Angeles where people get to walk around town in their panties and boxers. Um, I am originally from L.A. and don’t recall this ritual but then again I haven’t lived on the west coast in many years. But I digress.



Nate Ryan is seriously swoony with his cute dimples and charming & sweet personality. Oh, and he definitely rocks the suspenders!! This guy had my full attention from the moment he walks into this story. Shayne plays hard to get at first when she finds out that Nate is about to finish grad school. Thinking that he is far too young for her, she attempts to push him away, but fate keeps pushing these two together and Shayne isn’t strong enough to resist Nate.



As the two start to spend more time together, their feelings for each other intensify, but a potential scandal for one of Shayne’s biggest clients could also end up jeopardizing their budding relationship.



There were several laugh out loud moments and some pretty schmexy situations. I would definitely recommend this when you’re in the mood for something low on angst with a good dose of humor and steam.

[Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

There was only one thought on my mind as I watched him walk to his car and drive away. I was in trouble. Big, dirty, delicious trouble.

#HappyFeels

Brooke's L.A. Liaisons series is my happy place. The books are guaranteed to put a smile on my face and make me feel like I'm frolicking through a field of rainbows and kittens. Too much? My point is, they're the perfect feel good romances. They're steamy, funny, fantastically developed and fabulously written. I'm hooked and I never want it to end!

I highly recommend reading this series in order since you really get a better feel for the girls' friendship and get to know the characters before their books and it just heightens the enjoyment that much more. We met matchmaker extraordinaire, Shayne, in the previous book. Shane is the Aussie import of the group that works for a successful matchmaking company but unfortunately has a real c u next Tuesday for a boss. I was eager to get my hands on her story because 1. I love matchmaking plots and 2. I was hoping Shane would grow a spine and give as good as she gets when it comes to Val.

I can tell you I was beyond satisfied on both those ends.

I love how each book begins with a certain state of undress with the characters, and we get a bit of pantless action here since Shayne first lays her eyes on hottie, Nate, at a Pantless Metro Ride. A sexy man wearing suspenders and dimples would have caught my attention, too. I loved the added element of Nate being younger and yet he's not your typical hero that you'd read. This is not a manwhore or a serial dater; this is a man that knows what he wants and isn't afraid to go after and show his sensitive side.

Oh, Dimples, who would've thought that such a sentimental sap was underneath those sexy suspenders? Should I start taking you to chick flicks and forcing you to read love stories?"
"Hey, there's nothing wrong with a good love story."

I simply adored Nate and the way he pursued Shayne, even while Shayne was doing her utmost best to resist him.

While the romance was fabulous, what I've come to love the most about this series is the friendship that the girls have. It's like this perfect rom-com where you have genuine friendships. There's no backstabbing or cattiness, I can't praise it enough for that. I love the friendship that they have and their banter. It reminds me of movies like The Sweetest Thing, which is still my go-to when I need a pick-me-up.

Brooke Blaine certainly knows how to give good romance and she delivers it flawlessly. She also sets up quite a story for Paige and Richard aka "Dick". I for one can't wait for Pita and Dick.

If you're looking for a light romance to put a smile on your face and a chest full of swoons, you need to be adding this one to your TBR like yesterday!

ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review

Find me on:

[Eliza · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: Hooker
Series: L.A. Liaisons, #2
Author: Brooke Blaine
Release Date: 9th March, 2016





Brooke Blaine’s Hooker is the second book in the laugh-a-minute, L.A. Liaison series. It’s the turn of Rayleigh’s best friend & premier matchmaker Shayne to receive Brooke’s rom-com treatment.

If you’ve read Licked, you’ll remember her boss is the absolutely nutty but hilariously-inappropriate, Val. As an employee (and skivvy) of Hook, Line & Sinker it’s Shayne’s job to find a match for L.A.’s elite looking for love.

Shayne is an adorable character to read. She’s clumsy, suffers from a severe case of foot in mouth disease and is feisty enough to make her fellow redheads proud. Her work life hook up rates boast success but her personal life is a different matter. That is until patient but persistent Nate makes a memorable appearance. What ensues is a foul mouthed, quirky, sweet, upbeat romance that I couldn’t get enough of.

Brooke has an incredibly enjoyable and unique voice when it comes to rom-com. I defy you not to enjoy Hooker. It may only be the second offering but the L.A. Liaisons series is a firm favourite of mine.

*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review for Relentless Romance*

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lock up the Hooker.

***4.5 Stars***

I didn’t like Hooker. I know the four and a half stars may make you think otherwise, but I spent more than half the book asking myself –

Am I missing something here?

Is this chick really this silly?

Why…why…why is she doing this? NO job is worth that much sacrifice.

Why does Nate keep going back for more?

I gritted my teeth, mumbled a few expletives and carried on, hoping and praying I’d GET IT soon.

Brooke Blaine has just convinced me that she is a master in her trade. I nearly wrote this book off and called it a day a few times, but I’m so glad I stuck with it. By the end it all made sense. The struggles Shayne lived through needed to be witnessed by us to see her epiphany, awakening…Aha, moment. While we may not agree with her sacrifices and decisions, we come to realise that she honestly thought she was doing the right thing. I went from lacking a connection and disliking Shayne to realising that we’re all a little like her at some times in our lives. A lack of confidence, hesitation and reluctance to take risks and not seeing the beauty in ourselves are all things we suffer once or twice. Was I frustrated with her (and myself) for not having more confidence? BLOODY HELL…YES!! Did I want her (me) to start hearing what her friends kept repeating over and over and over again? Yep!! Did I want her to put love ahead of everything? I’m a romance reader, so, of course, the answer is YESSSSSS!!!

Hooker led me on a path of discovery. It made me look at myself and assess how much could change in my life? Am I not taking opportunities because of the risks involved? Will love get put on a back burner because I think something else is more important? Should I start listening to the compliments I receive instead of thinking they’re feeling sorry for me? Hooker was a great example of the happiness that can be achieved when you take a bit of a risk, listen to people you trust and put your loved ones before careers.

I'm absolutely addicted to this series and I LOVE these women and the men that come into their lives. I cannot wait for P.I.T.A.

To buy Hooker from Amazon - http://amzn.to/1U5S923

I’m an Aussie chick who loves to read and review romance, drink coffee, be a Style Setter and stalk David Gandy. To see more of my reviews, fashion, food and pervathons -

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading Licked and wanting to kick myself for waiting so long to start this series there was no way in hell Hooker was going to sit on my Kindle any longer. This was yet another hilarious, out there, book by Brook Blain and I'm really glad I discovered the wonderful world she created with these characters.



You should remember the Hooker from down under from Licked, and if you don't you should definitely at least remember her highly inappropriate and hoe-bag boss. Shayne, the matchmaker (aka the Hooker) of the group, is also the klutz and the one that seems to be having a run of bad luck. Which is the only explanation for why she meets a gorgeous guy on a train...in her Star Wars underwear. The meeting gets even worse when he actually seems interested, and then she learns he's only 24 - too young for her.

Nate Ryan know's what he wants, and it comes in the form of the klutzy red head who can't seem to stay on her feel longer than a few minutes. So he's a few years younger than her - no problem to him. Now he just has to get her to see that he's worth taking a chance on, and since he seems to be running into her everywhere he goes, it must be fate.



I loved these characters, especially Nate, and it was great getting to know so much about them. I really liked how stubborn Nate was and wouldn't give up on making Shayne see that she was perfect for him. Oh and his suspenders were actually kind of hot!

Shayne was hilarious and some of the things she got herself involved in made me laugh out like a crazy person. There were a few things that I didn't understand about her but by the end of the book I could understand what she was going through and why she had to do what she did. Her and Nate were a perfect couple, and really hot also.



Bottom line, this was another amazing book by this author and I hope everyone who like a light, romantic comedy will give it a try. I already can't wait to get my hands on P.I.T.A's book!

[* Meli Mel * · Rating 4 out of 5]

♥ ♥ ♥ 4.25 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥

●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●

"Do you know what I love more than anything?"
"Stalking potential dates in the grocery aisle?"
"Gorgeous women who pretend they're not interested."
I rolled my eyes and pushed off the wall. "I'm not pretend--"
"You like the challenge," he said stepping in front of me, his eyes flicking to my mouth. "And believe me, so do I."

●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●

I read Licked, the first book of the series, and just loved it. I bust my gut laughing out loud at all the crazy antics of these four best friends and I was very happy to see that it continued in this book. Brooke Blaine definitely knows how to write a great romantic comedy.

Shayne, the redhead Aussie of the group, is definitely no hooker, at least not the kind I know you're thinking of. She works at Hook, Line & Sinker as a professional matchmaker that helps couples hook up in order to form a long serious relationship--no wham bam, thank you ma'am allowed. Shayne absolutely loves what she does, but unfortunately her place of work isn't that great. That is all thanks to her obnoxiously loud and tacky boss, Val. She also doesn't make very much money, but Shayne is grateful for what she does have and doesn't dwell too much on what she doesn't. At least that is what she's convinced of herself of.

I really liked Shayne. She was a bit of a klutz, she had the occasional bouts of verbal diarrhea, and was also quite sassy which I loved. So far she has done really great in her professional life but not so much in her personal life. That all changes when her friends forcibly get her to join them on the 'Pantsless Metro Ride' day. She is very self conscience of her body and doesn't think she is that great even though she is very beautiful. But what is even more embarrassing to her is her star wars underwear. The last thing on her mind is men, but then she connects eyes with Nate and the attraction is immediate. He is tall, cute, and has a charming smile with dimples, Shayne just couldn't resist that or his suspenders. And just her luck, he likes Star Wars too as his "Wanna See My Lightsaber?" underwear suggests.

●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●

'Ryleigh had my pants. Which meant I'd been making googly eyes at Mr. Gorgeous without them, which also meant I'd have to exit the train with my underwear on full display.
Oh my God. Oh my God.'

●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●

Shayne is great at matching other people together, but when it comes to herself she just sucks. She isn't really interested in getting involved with anyone, however, Nate is not taking no for an answer. Shayne pushes him away because of many reasons, one being he is a young college guy, and she is older than him. Nate loves a challenge and definitely works hard to get Shayne. I was a goner when it came to Nate. He was so sweet, romantic, and so damn sexy. He seriously made me swoon. Not gonna lie, I absolutely loved the chase portion of the book as much as Shayne did. Nate was a different male lead but in a good way because I loved him. He was perfect for Shayne and they were just so adorable together. I just loved their flirtatious banter.

It was really great having the rest of the gang still be present in this book. I loved how supportive and crude these girls were, they were a hilarious bunch that makes you want to be their friend.

●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●

'And then he kissed me, and it was butterflies, and fireworks and explosions, but most of all, it was the assurance that he knew who he was kissing, really knew, and wanted to anyway.'

●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●

This book was very heartwarming and full of laughs. I really enjoyed the story line, it was very well written. The ending left me with a big smile on my face and may have swooned quite a bit. Brooke Blaine did it again with this second installment. I cannot wait to see what book three, P.I.T.A. has in store.

[Sophie's Reading Corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 STARS



Shayne is working in a matchmaking company under her bitchy boss, Val. One night she meets Nate, a younger guy than her, but they seem to have a love-hate relationship, since for some reason he makes her feisty everytime they chat.

At the same time, a famous actor comes at her company and reveals something to her. When things go wrong, she decides to back up for him and things become more complicated. But what happens when at the same time she gets closer to Nate and she can't reveal the actor's secret or their agreement?

Can't a guy give a compliment?
I'd prefer the orgasm.
Singular?
Plural. Multiples.

A really fun, refreshing read with many sexy and funny moments. Brooke Blaine has given us, once again, really enjoyable characters, storylines as well as dialogues. I had such a fun while reading this rom/com! :)

What I liked about this one, was that I could relate with the heroine. She's a tall clutz that can't walk on heels! That screams Sophie, you guys! :P Also, it's been a common case in my life where I should speak and instead I stay silent. Where I try to fix a mess and make a bigger one instead, just because I wanted to help. Where I put up with bitches instead of slapping them. So there were moments where I fell frustrated, but I could also understand, because I've been there.

I also fell in love with Nate. Like seriously, the guy was book boyfriend material and this has happened to me before on Licked. Brooke has the talent to provide you with males that you will swoon over and females that you want to high five and shake booties with. That scene at the office... Just hot damn!! And then when the suspenders were handsy.. *whistles*



I can't wait to read P.I.T.A and on that note I have to say that pita in greek means pie. Just a trivial just in case :P Also, so much mystery around Quinn's job!! I'm sure in the end it will be something that none of us expects, but I'm super intrigued.

Last but not least, can I pray and hope for an m/m book?? There's someone single in this book ready to mingle and I fully support a book that will be saying his story! ;)

[Jayme · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Oh fuck shit ass and hole."

Looove it! I love everything, each scene with Shayne and Nate together. Their story was sensational, incredible chemistry and I only regret that it was not just about them. Because their scenes I could read endlessly.



About the plot: Shayne Callahan is a matchmaker at the elite HLS with boss form hell, but she has talent in matching people and finding them soulmates. A little worse it goes with it for her. She is not too confident, but in the company of her best friends is able to go beyond her comfort zone. It is they who draw her to Pantless Metro Ride, and that is where she notices very handsome guy, with whom catches the eye contact.

Nate Ryan make his move and try to hit on Shayne. Not the best result I must admit, but fortunately, he gets a second chance in Vegas, which is not intend to waste. This road is not easy, because Shayne has her doubts, but so, so exciting. He's not going to give up and is very convincing. The challenge, however, does not end even when it becomes official.

Final thoughts: Terrific start. I was caught at the very beginning. Day without pants? Hilarious! The eyes connection in the metro? OMG! And who would have thought that the younger man than a woman can excite me like that? Nate was so charming, I love his determination and persuasion, with what exactly he won her. I love each of their shared scene. My favorite is probably the club in Vegas. It was so hot and steaming beyond the limits! Although the development with movie star was interesting and adds more action, it really was not needed. For me would be enough with more scenes with Shayne and Nate. Absolutely love them, and I'd like more, and more, and more.

“Don’t freak out, but I’m gonna kiss you now.”
“That’s not a good idea.”
“Then stop me.”

I think that the whole story was very refreshing and funny, but it could also shake up. Something that with this series is amazing and very exciting. We got here a little more scenes with girls that was a great move. Their friendship is the most powerful advantage of every story. We know more about what happens with Ryleigh and Hunter, we have more scenes that announcing the story of Paige. I already can not wait for the next books in the series because they promise to be just as good and maybe better. No pressure, at all!

***Quick Review:***

Series: The second in the L.A. Liaisons series. Each can be read as a stand alone.
Grade: Contemporary Romance. Chick Lit.
Book Tag Tabs: Romantic Comedy.
Release Date: March 9th, 2016.
Main characters: Shayne Callahan, twenty-eight, matchmaker at the elite HLS—Hook, Line, & Sinker Matchmaking Company. Nate Ryan, twenty-four, graduate student in film school.
Secondary characters: The three best girlfriends ever: Ryleigh, Paige and Quinn continue their adventure. We have a few scenes with them, also developing some things from the previous part. Several other complex characters.
Location: Los Angeles, California.
Steamy: Yes. Steaming and chemistry between the characters is off the charts.
Sensitive topic: No. Only some angsty.
Love triangle: Not exactly.
Cheating: No.
Cliffhanger: No.
HEA: Yes.
Next in the series? Yes. It will be probably love/hate story about Paige and Richard. Don't know yet.
If I'd recommend? Yes. Especially if you like funny and emotional romantic comedies stories.

***
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.

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[✰ Bianca ✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

We already met Aussie Shayne in Ryleigh's story Licked - she's working for this bitch of a boss lady at HLS - Hook-Line & Sinker - the Matchmaking Company.
But her own love life is not really anything to write home about.
She spends her nights home alone with meals for one.
But on one pants-less subway ride she meets, and falls instantly in lust/love, with Nate Ryan.
Who she later meets again at a bar and again in a supermarket (in the meals for one aisle!) and again in Vegas.
And on all those occasions, while he is amazingly sexy and dimply and adorable and hot and nice - she's just horrible. Her foot-to-mouth disease is out in full swing when she's faced with him!!!
Also, he's FOUR YEARS YOUNGER THAN HER 28 YEARS!!!

Then there's her job and her stupid boss who dangles a promotion in front of her, if she only goes out with this guy and that guy - all famous actors of course....But that's easier said than done...lots of complications for her not-yet-relationship with Nat....

WHAT WiLL HAPPEN WiTH SHAYNE & NATE???
WiLL THERE BE A HAPPY EVER AFTER???
WiLL THERE BE A CLiFFHANGER??? ☺ ☺ ☺



NOPE..... I'm not telling you ☺



═════════════════════════════════





I REALLY LOVED THE BOOK!

Such a quirkily funny and refreshing romance.
Shayne is so cute - so adorably klutzy and with her diarrhea of the mouth. Too funny.
And poor Nate - he's sooo interested in this gorgeous redhead, but she constantly tries to scare him away. But he's not one to scare easily!

I just loved their foreplay-fights ....
This would make such an amazing RomCom movie!!!!

#HOOKER is such a cute and amazingly funny Los Angeles Romance.
With so many laugh-out-loud moments.
Sexy moments - flirty moments - adorable moments!
You just can't help loving Shayne and the girls and Nate of course!
Can't forget the best part...NATE - the mega hot suspender-wearing, future Hollywood superstar producer/director. Ugh! I want!

SHAYNE & NATE:
FUNNY, KLUTZY, SEXY & ADORABLE...
HURRY TO AN AMAZON NEAR YOU TO GET #HOOKED!

I can't wait to read the next book!!!! It will be about Paige! Or PITA as her future husband, errrr her arch enemy calls her!☺☺☺


♡ ♡
♡ ♡

[Ⓐlleskelle - That ranting lady ッ · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5 STARS⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️


With only two books, Brooke Blaine became my Contemporary Drug of choice when I’m in the mood for Rom Com !
I discovered her with “Licked” book 1 of the LA Liaisons series , and I fell under the charm of her sassy heroines, strong willed alphas and all around craziness. And she definitely won me over with “Hooker” !

★If you need a book that’ll lift you up : Brooke Blaine
★If you need a good laugh : Brooke Blaine
★If you need romance : Brooke Blaine
★If you need an empowered, funny, sexy heroine : Brooke Blaine.
★The perfect mix of sweet, caring, dirty sexy hero? Brooke Blaine got you covered.
★If you need anticipation : Freaking Brooke Blaine again
★… Sexual tension : Yep, you got it, Brooke Hooker Blaine
★Smoking Hot sex scenes? Don’t make me tell you… YES. Brooke mother effin’ Blaine!
★In a mood for ludicrous shenanigans : Brooke Blaine.
★In a mood for crazy women’s gang…

Here’s what I loved the most about Hooker, but you’ll find the same general recipe to “Licked” as well.



Hooker is about Shayne Callahan, Aussie transplant part of the crazy girls gang we’ve met previously in Licked. Her job at the most craziest matchmaking company, for an even craziest boss, is to find the perfect half for eccentrics clients… But let’s just call her a Hooker. Capital H, please.

Shayne is an heroine I’m daring you not to fall in love with. She’s hilarious, feisty, has ladyballs of steel but has a soft side when it comes to affirm herself in her line of work. She’s also the opposite to what you would expect a professional matchmaker to be regarding the dating game! She doesn’t have any. Game, that is. Which give us the opportunity to witness awkward and embarrassing moments!



Being caught up in her girlfriends into yet another “brilliant” and crazy idea, it’s with complete unwillingness that she finds herself pant-less on a frosty sunday afternoon. Riding the subway. In front of the most gorgeous guy ever… L.A. No Pants Day meet cute, who’s in?

The hero, all dimples and charm, Nate Ryan, is just to swoon for. Cute, charming, dirty sexy nerd… Can I entice a few of you and say his suspenders are not just for show?



He’s definitely crushing hard on that tall redhead riding the LA metro pant-less and will relentlessly try to get a taste… and more.

-"Let me guess. Girly drinks are your favorite too?"
-"I just wanted to get a taste of what's going on into that delicious mouth of yours"

Hooker was full on anticipation, hilarious come-backs and banter sessions, sexy come-ons delivered by a too good for his own good hero. Add to this one of the best women friendship and support system I’ve read in romance!

I loved every minute of my time with these crazy ladies, and I’ll be back for more for Paige’ story!

Personal message for the author : Could we pretty please get Ace’ story?

(Arc offered in exchange for an honest review)
More reviews and book talk at :

You can find me here too ☞

[Allison ❤️Will Never Conquer Her TBR❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hooker is the second installment in the LA Liasons series. Each book focusing on a different character- a group of tight-knit friends, and has a very Sex in the City feel to it. This is a perfect lighthearted feel-good read. I do warn you not to read this in a public setting as I received quite a few...ahem...looks while laughing out loud while reading this at the gym. I won't mention almost falling off my stepper on a "He likes hot dogs over tuna" comment...

In Hooker we get the love story between a cynical-about-love Aussie Shayne Callahan and a "younger" graduate student Nate Ryan.. Shayne is the master at hooking people up- making that perfect love connection. In fact, it's her career as a match-maker, however, she's yet to meet her own perfect match. Maybe it just isn't in the cards for her... until she meets Nate in all his "Wanna see my lightsaber" underwear. Does LA seriously have Pantsless Metro Ride day on the Red Line? That can be good...and bad.



Boy, Shayne makes this guy work for it. Holy smokes! Let me count the ways- he's too young, just a college kid, out for a one-nighter, you name it and she pushed him away. As much as she lusted him, she was one giant push-back!




But in all that push-back, it just fueled Nate's desire even more. Consider her a challenge of sorts. I do commend his tenacity!

Shayne- tall, redhead, and constantly trips over her own two feet. She's runway model gorgeous yet fails to see it. She tries her best to push away Nate with all kinds of "young college boy" comments but he's seriously all man...



Brooke Blaine has constructed a community of characters within this series and we've grown to know each of them in all their quirks and career aspirations. Though each book can be read as a standalone, I liked being able to have the background of all the characters after having read Licked, the first book in the series. One thing is a constant here- these four girls have a bond of friendship that cannot be broken. When someone is in need, they all come to rally in support. They're comical as well as loyal.

Can I just say Shayne's boss is a grade-A beech! Holy smokes, I grit my teeth everytime that woman opened her mouth. She was mean, crass, sleezy, and just a virtual train wreck of epic proportions. She deserved everything bad that comes to her.




But I digress.

Another successful installment of the LA Liasons series. I look forward to the next book P.I.T.A which promises to be my favorite trope- that love/hate tug of war.



Advanced copy received by author in exchange for my honest review.

[Lyndy Ann ♫ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5***

After reading and loving Licked I jumped straight into Hooker. I wanted to know more about the backstory of Shayne and Ace how they met and what happened as I have read the PresLocke series earlier this year as I did not know about this before hand.

As with Licked Shayne Callahan speaks to me the reader. I liked her a lot she is one of the best matchmakers in LA she is funny, hard working and a clutz but I don't understand why she lets her boss Val treat her like she does and when she FINALLY stands up for herself I was cheering.

Nate Ryan is a bit of a mystery really as we do not find out much about him we know he is in college studying what we don't know, we know he always looks good in his suits and suspenders. He is four years younger than Shayne and he has dimples.

There is instant chemistry between them they can't stop eye f*cking each other but every time they meet Shayne ends up with foot in mouth disease that has Nate walking away.

I enjoyed getting to know Ace BD (before Dylan) and finding out what happened with Shayne and how he came out to the press BLESS HIM.

The epilogue was wonderful and told from Nate's POV.

I enjoyed Hooker but not as much as Licked I feel that the relationship between Shayne and Nate was rushed and skimmed over this was more about Shayne and her life than them as a couple, this took away the romance in the story for me this is why I have taken 1* away example we had a Valentine's night were Shayne is working Nate arrives there and next page we are in March (no hot V night action) I can only remember two all the way sex scene.

Loved all the girl time these ladies are hilarious and I am looking forward to the next book as I love a good frienemies story.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review



First, Brooke Blaine had us salivating for chock-full of scrumptious nuts with a side scoop of screaming orgasms. Yup, we got LICKED as we were served with multiple scoops of humor, sass, friendship, and of course throw in the fact that Brooke Blaine never forgets to treats her readers to an extra sprinkles of nuts. So after taking a lick of her first romantic comedy, I was hooked!!!! And of course in true Brooke Blaine fashion, she once again had reeled me in her newest installment to the L.A. Liaison Series. You can definitely say she got me. Hooked, Line, & Sinker.

“Now, I’m a career matchmaker, so I don’t preach the whole love at first sight, “you just know from the moment you lay eyes on someone”spiel that others do. I’ve always said it takes more than a look to know if you’re compatible with someone, but at this moment I’d take back all my words, stuff them into an old suitcase, and toss them out on the side of the PCH. Because that guy…”



So how did this Hooker get me hooked? The answer to that is simple. She is Brooke Blaine of course, author extraordinaire and also throw in the fact that she captured my attention when she introduced us to Nate Ryan. Ladies, who wouldn’t love a handsome dimpled-face cutie, who wears suspenders and loves Star Wars. And as added bonus knows how to use his lightsaber.



In Licked, we were introduced to Ryleigh Phillips and her amazing girlfriends. Well, now that Ryleigh is all licked up by her boyfriend, Hunter, it is time for her friend, Shayne Callahan to find her perfect match so she can be licked also. Shouldn’t be that hard since Shayne is a matchmaker. Right? Well as it turn out Shayne is an amazing matchmaker but when it comes to her love life, this lady ain’t getting licked. The only thing she is licking is the rim of her margarita glass.

But as it turns out, Shayne didn’t have to wait long till Mr. Right to come along. All she had to do was take off her pants. Literally. Pantless and in her Star War undies, she meets also another gentleman who is also pantless and is also wearing Star War undies too. Can you say a perfect match? As it turns, Nate Ryan was not only adorably handsome, smart, witty, and fun but he also made Shayne’s ladybits wet. So as you can imagine, he hooked her and all he has to do is reel her in. Well as much as Shayne tried to put up the fight, she was no match for the younger Nate as he reeled her in. But what happens when Shayne’s job puts her in an awkward position of being a beard for a popular celebrity? Will this hooker be able to juggle all the balls? Or will she discover that there is only one set of balls that she wants to hook onto?

“As he kissed his way up my body, I lost myself in his touch, his caress, both gentle and strong, and in the dirty sweet nothings he whispered as he filled me so entirely that I couldn’t imagine ever feeling complete without him.”



Hooker was an absolute laugh out loud entertaining read!! It truly was a riot of fun as we were doused with all the craziness Shayne and her foot in the mouth disease caused. The writing and story line were wickedly smart, fresh, modern, and witty. This book definitely had that Brooke Blaine signature of sass, modern romance, and naughtiness. So if you are looking for a romantic comedy done right, then I would highly recommend you to read this book. All I can say is Brooke, hurry up with the next installment.



Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Brooke Blaine

[MELISSA *Mel Reader* · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars
(ARC provided by author)



Shayne Callahan is a gorgeous, single, independent Australian woman living in Los Angeles. She works as a matchmaker for Hook, Line, & Sinker Matchmaking Company. She is notorious in LA as the "go to" woman to find your other half. She has a gift when it comes to pairing up others, but wonders if she herself is destined to be single?



Shayne's three best friends want her to loosen up & live a little, so they talk her into doing this years Annual Pantsless Metro Ride. While on the subway ride Shayne locks eyes with the most beautiful man. He's absolutely stunning. Between the dimples & the sexy grin, she can't take her eyes off of him. She later meets her mystery man, & finds out his name is Nate Ryan. He's a 24 year old guy who is in college studying film. She decides even though he is absolutely delicious, he's too young for her.



-I'll be damned. Hot train guy was all about...me.



They keep running into one another & Nate is persistent. He really wants a chance with Shayne & goes after her hard. They have some obstacles thrown in their way, but both develop strong feelings for each other & wants to be together. This was a fun, flirty, sexy read. I really enjoyed it & can't wait for Paige's book next! :D



-My Nate. The most amazing human on the planet.

[J. Kahele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick note: I saw this on my Goodreads friend Patty's profile, she seems to have all the interesting titles lately and I couldn't resist!

I absolutely loved Shayne Callahan, she was witty, smart and funny.

Shayne lives in LA and she works for a matchmaking company. When she is hired to protect a big secret from coming out for a client and signs a NDA, to be his girlfriend, she never imagined she would meet the man of her dreams, Nate.

She keeps her arrangement from Nate a secret, but when her and her fake boyfriend show up together at an event for Nate, her life blows up in her face. Will she reveal the truth to Nate, to save their relationship?

[Sybil aka Lala · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recipe for World Peace:

What you’ll need:

1 Brooke Blaine

1 Ridiculous Plot


Ingredients:

1 Part Sassy Red-headed Heroine

1 Part Suspender-Wearing, Sexy Hero With A Dirty Mouth

3 Parts Quirky Friends

1 Part Crazy Ass Boss Lady

1 Part Movie Star With A Big Secret


Garnish:

Super-Hot Sexy Times




Method:

Combine Sassy Red-Headed Heroine and Suspender-Wearing, Sexy Hero With A Dirty Mouth together in a subway car while wearing no pants. Add in Quirky Friends, Crazy Ass Boss Lady and Movie Star With A Big Secret. Mix everything together inside a Ridiculous Plot using Brooke Blaine. Garnish with a dash of Super-Hot Sexy Times. Sit back, and Imagine!



This is only my second book by Brooke Blaine but I am already kicking myself for not finding her sooner. If you’re looking for nothing but a good time with all the hilarity, romance and sizzle of a Hollywood Rom-Com Blockbuster then you’ll have to go very far to find something better than her L.A. Liason’s series. Hooker was no different. From it’s punny title to the slap-stick plot, impossibly romantic moments and pantie-melting sexy times this book knocked it out of the goddamned park!



Shayne is an Australian expat living in L.A. She works as a matchmaker to the rich and famous. She loves her job, if only her boss wasn’t a raging lunatic with a penchant for popping pills and setting Shayne up on disastrous dates. When her friends drag her into a pantsless Metro Ride (don’t ask) she spots Nate from across a crowded subway car. He’s the dimpled, suspender wearing, dirty talking boy of her dreams but he is also four years younger so she’ll be having none of that thank you very much. Except Mr Suspendered Sex On A Stick wants her, and he doesn’t like being told no.



Look, I’m not saying you need to read this book and if you’re not into laughing your ass off at the hilarious banter and interactions between four awesome best friends or having your ovaries quiver over a sexy as sin guy or clutching at your pearls because the sexy times are just so damn hot or swooning over a delicious feel-good romance then that’s up to you. I’m just saying that the key to world peace is more people feeling good. I’m pretty sure John Lennon wrote a song about it. So do it for the rest of us. Do it for world peace. Imagine.



(ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review)

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

*** FIVE THOUSAND MILLION STARS ***

HOOKER!!

Omg this book, this story, this writing! I can't rave about this book enough! I knew Brooke Blaine was a talented writer, but she has surpassed even what I KNEW she was capable of. Her writing draws you in and holds you in that place that you need to be in when you're deep in reading bliss. This book is PERFECT ROMCOM. PERFECT! When I think about some of my favorite romcom movies, for example: How to lose a guy in ten days, Bridget Jones, My best friend’s wedding. THESE are movies! MOVIES. And this is a BOOK! A BOOK! Which in my opinion needs to be a movie dammit! I wish I knew some movie producers, because if I did, damn I'd be a rich contributor. Btw, is dacking a real thing?? (Read the book)

The girls are BACK!! Shayne, Ryleigh, Paige and the ever elusive, Quinn. This group of women makes me happy and proud to be a woman! The support they have for each other is not only endearing, but super empowering! And no, do not think this is a male sludge-fest book because it is most definitely NOT. Quite the opposite actually. They just support one another in every aspect in life, whether it is job related, family related, and the most coveted of them all, LOVE. These women are a huge part of this series, and you will be so happy to learn about each of them.

Shayne is one of my favorite chicks ever! She's Australian and quirky and adorably clumsy. She rambles when she's nervous and she sticks her foot in her mouth more times than she does food. She's also extremely strong and sweet and surprisingly shy. I love her so much! And she's also a professional matchmaker with a super inappropriate boss/bitch combo that would make anyone hurl.

Then we have Nate. Ohhhhh Nate. Ohhhhhhh Nate. I could just hum-drum about this guy all day long. He's perfect. I mean, really he's just everything. He's a Jordan almond, he's a cashew when you're trying to diet, and he’s buttered popcorn in a movie theater. He's a stick of butter on ANYTHING. And he wants our tall clumsy Aussie sooooo badly. Sooooooo badly. Come on Shayne! Let the butter in!!

This book has everything you want! Not only is it hilariously funny. I mean, here are a few funny things to wet your curiosity:

•Star Wars references
•French guy accents
•dacking (wtf?)
•sugar free gummy bears
•golden pussy
•suspenders
•gift baskets
•post its
AND SO MUCH MORE!!
I feel like an infomercial at this point, but yeah! Buy it!

Brooke has a way of writing this great dry-wit and then magically turning it into comedic satire. THIS is an amazing feat in itself. Normally someone just writes funny, or witty, or dry-witty. But the difference that Brooke Blaine brings is everything! She combo-funnied this up! And that’s not even a thing, but she did it! She's a little word wizard I tell you!! If you want a book that will crack you up, warm your heart, and sex you up, all at the same time, Hooker is that book! There are some scenes in this book that had me saying OMG ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!! And those moments were because I was in complete awe from what I was reading in terms of classic romcom greatness! I can’t emphasize this enough. READ THIS BOOK.

[Angela (Reading Frenzy Book Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brooke Blaine’s L.A. Liaison series is quickly becoming one of my favorites. I didn’t love this book quite as much as I enjoyed Licked, but it’s still a huge win. In Hooker, Ryleigh, Shayne, Quinn, and Paige are back and sassier than ever! This time around, it’s Shayne’s turn to find love.

Shayne is perhaps the most restrained girl in the group with a slight inferiority complex. She’s a professional matchmaker, and she’s great at her job. Ironically, she doesn’t have much success with her own love life if her weekly trips to Target’s Meals for One aisle are any indication. She’s barely making ends meet, she lives with two air-headed roommates, and she’s at her bitchy, insane boss’s beck and call. However, there’s hope. If Shayne can find a match for Hollywood’s biggest action star, she’ll get the big promotion she’s been waiting for. Things are looking up in her dating life as well.

Nate is a dimpled, suspender-loving grad student who meets Shayne in a very unconventional way. Despite her attraction, she’s reluctant to get involved, but Nate is determined to wear down Shayne’s defenses. Just as the matchmaker seems to find her match, her work life interferes in a huge way.

I adored the first third and the last third of the book. It’s sweet and absolutely hilarious. It’s the middle section that I had issues with. Shayne’s involvement in the scandal cover-up reflects her kind heart. However, it had me shaking my head because she’s a smart lady who should have been able to manage the crisis without putting her relationship at risk. Every couple needs a conflict to make the story more interesting. I just wish this one hadn’t felt so forced.

Brooke Blaine’s storytelling is addictive and unquestionably amusing. The group of friends and their boozing, schmoozing, and plotting will make you wish they were your friends in real life. This funny and charming book is a great addition to an entertaining series. Paige’s story is up next so let the anxious waiting for P.I.T.A. to begin.

Recommended for fans of:
Romantic Comedy
Selfless heroines
Star Wars
Target

**ARC received in exchange for an honest review.**

[Bex | TotallyBex.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

★★ 4.5 stars! ★★

The fabulous foursome from Licked are back for the second book of the L.A. Liaisons series. Hooker follows Shayne and her quest for love in Los Angeles. She’s a professional matchmaker, so it is truly ironic that she can’t seem to find the right guy–until she meets Nate, that is.

Shayne is quirky, adorably clumsy, and babbles nonsense when she is nervous. She is also strong, independent, and a bit on the nerdy side. Nate is a grad student and a few years younger than Shayne. They make a great couple, and I loved their witty and sarcastic banter. Nate is so sweet and totally swoony.

Of course, the relationship isn’t all smooth sailing. Shayne gets herself into a conundrum with work, and Nate, unfortunately, gets caught in the middle. This made me feel a little emotional in parts, but the ending totally made up for it and left me with a smile on my face.

I love everything about this series. The characters, the writing, and the stories all come together and make a perfect romantic comedy. I liked Ryleigh’s story in Licked a little bit more than Shayne’s story, but I still enjoyed Hooker immensely. Paige’s story is up next, and I can’t wait to see what kind of hijinks that will bring!


▸ ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.

▸ Order: Kindle | Paperback

▸ For more reviews, visit

[Meags · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 Stars

I learned a few things about myself during my time with this book.

Firstly, I don't like story arcs that revolve around secrecy, regardless of the good intentions of the secret keeping characters. It turns out that this kind of plot device is not my thing at all and does indeed drive me batty.

Secondly, I'm killing it as an Aussie because, much like Shayne, I can say Wollongong five times fast with total ease.

Lastly - but most importantly - I have a deep attraction to guys who wear suspenders. Who knew!?



Well, when I look at it like that then I guess it's the obvious reaction for anything that has functioning eyes. Although, I can honestly say I've never given suspenders a second thought until Nate kept rockin' the look in this book, but I can promise you it will be something I'll be thinking about long and hard (hehe) in the future.

But I digress...

This story starts out really strong, with Shayne and Nate locking eyes across a crowded train carriage, while both are pantsless - there is a good (funny as heck) story here, I promise. Those initial moments of recognition and attraction were deliciously appealing and I thought I was in for one hell of a romantic ride. Unfortunately, not soon after, Shayne and Nate's first actual conversation ends with Shayne disregarding Nate completely because he is 4 years her junior, and suddenly I lost a bit of interest in Shayne as a rational female lead. Because, 4 years? Really?! That seems to be a non-issue for me and I famously don't like age differences in my books - so if I don't see the problem here, why does Shayne? Particularly considering the fact that she's already established that this guy is sweet and kind and intelligent, not to mention he's wildly attractive and a fellow geek like Shayne. It just felt like a completely ridiculous issue to use in the story to stretch the plot out for a little longer.

Regardless, I put this qualm aside because, much like with the first story, I was loving the writing style, the brand of humour present and the characters (minus Shayne).

The rest of the story had its ups and downs for me. I liked all the interactions between this group of friends; these women are each other's most honest and loyal supporters, telling it to each other straight while being there for one another unconditionally. I simply loved their camaraderie. I also adored Nate as a male lead. He was unrelenting in his pursuit of the often combative Shayne; I like a guy who knows what he wants and goes after it. Sadly, I just never warmed back up to Shayne after those initial scenes. In fact, as the story progressed, I found more and more to not like about her. This was just my personal reaction and unfortunately it stopped me from enjoying this story to the same degree I enjoyed its predecessor.

As I mentioned above, my disinterest in the plot mainly revolved around Shayne having to keep secrets from Nate and her friends for the majority of the story. And although these secrets exist while Shayne is doing something good and unselfish for someone else, the fact that she had to keep these secrets to begin with, and then refused to share them with her loved ones later on, drove me bonkers. To be fair, there was a non-disclosure agreement involved which served as the reason Shayne didn't ("couldn't") divulge the truth earlier, but I felt like this was a weak reason for her to allow her life to get so messed up in the process. Honesty is the best policy, people... but I guess had we had honesty here, there would have been no story.

So, okay, not as enjoyable for me as Licked, but I'm completely invested in these characters and can't wait to see what's in store for these women next. I'm especially keen to find out more about the mysterious Quinn and her unidentifiable job.

[1-Click Addict Support Group · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I weren't a fully grown adult, with two feet firmly planted on the ground, I think I'd just float away right now. Because I've just finished reading Hooker by Brooke Blaine, and I feel super happy and as light as a feather. Or helium balloon. Whatever. Something that floats... Oooooh, A BUBBLE!

Anywho...

I'm smiling big.
I'm doing a weird kind of wiggly dance.
I'm peppy and a little turned on...
I just feel GOOD, you know?

And it's 'cause of this book. This book that made me laugh out loud, multiple times. No lie, I'd be chugging along, enjoy Ms. Blaine's personable and playful writing style, then bust out a laugh that shook the whole car (I was in the school pick-up line—I don't just randomly read in my car...usually). Or, I'd be quietly reading and worrying, then I’d *snicker* or *snort*, and inhale my tea in a distinctly unladylike fashion.

Sigh. Classy, I am not. Though, this book is. Well, as classy as a book with the word 'thundercunt' can be.

But I digress.

Hooker has so, so much going for it, not the least of which is Nate. Sexy, dimpled, suspender-wearing Nate, who stole my heart and verily melted my knickers right off. *Sigh* I love him. I love him HARD. FOR SO MANY REASONS. (I’d tell you, but I don’t want to share him. Find out for yourselves *sticks tongue out*).

I love Shayne, too, BTW. Not just because she's an awesome Aussie (like me!) but because she was a rambling hot mess (also like me), a bit of a pushover (yeah, me again), and the owner of a really big heart (heh, no comment). I related to her, a lot. Maybe too much, but I DGAF. She was ace.

And oh, speaking of Ace... The secondary characters in the book? BRILL. All of them (like say…a certain action star who needs a book, Brooke. NEEDS A BOOK). Shayne's fucking awesome best friends are, well, FUCKING AWESOME; they're the kind of friends you call 'hooker' and 'whore' with a boatload of affection, and the kind of women I'd happily call friend IRL.

All in all, if my Shayne-esque rambling/fangirling wasn't enough of a giveaway, I'd say this book is already of my 2016 favorites, and the perfect follow up to one of my 2015 faves, Licked. I might have looked at it a couple of times with a 'can my heart handle what’s coming' frown, but that's just another reason to love it. The feels, people. They’re all there, especially at the end... Check 'em out!

Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go finish my weird, wiggly dance and float away. At least until P. I. T. A. comes out. ~ Beth, 5 stars

~~~

Dear Brooke Blaine: You had me at Star Wars underwear. Love Forever, Shelly.

Gads! I'm trying to focus through all the butterflies shimmying around in my tummy right now. I haven't been this crazy about a Ryan boy since Jake Ryan (16 Candles, anyone? No? Okay, on to the review...)

Shayne Callahan has made matchmaking her life's work. She's got a wall full of success stories, and yet her own heart lays unclaimed. She's smart and feisty and that unclaimed heart of hers is freaking enormous—she's just never found anyone brave enough to take it on.

Enter Nate Ryan. Nate matches Shayne blow for metaphorical blow. He can keep up with her sharp wit, her prickly denials, and—most importantly—the size of his heart matches perfectly to the size of her heart. They're perfect together.

Only, things are never quite as simple as they seem, right? The two are adorable together, but are they strong enough to endure the (sometimes outrageous) curveballs life throws at them?

This story is so fun! The magic of Licked is here, with the addition of celebrity sex scandals and nefarious bosses and all the crazy antics surrounding those things. It's a fun, engaging story—low on angst and heavy on humor and swoon. Basically, it's the perfect RomCom—with secondary characters that stole my heart and are demanding to be written. DEMANDING. Because if you've read it, you already know we need an Ace book.

The fact that I loved Ace almost as much as I loved Nate and Shayne should tell you something about how lovely the layers of this book are, and how captured my heart was by everything in it. The magic of this book isn't only in the romance, it's in the friendships—it's in the character arcs, and the wonderful conflict resolution. It all works and it leaves you feeling...good. Happy. Like you just gave your heart a little vacation.

If you're looking for something lighthearted, something that's going to tug your lips into a smile, occasionally a giggle, and leave you with a shitton of butterflies in your stomach, this is the book for you. It's adorable. Sweet. Funny. I loved everything—the pop culture references, the banter, the sparky sexual chemistry, and, my God, the ending that made me clutch my heart and gasp out loud, all because Nate Ryan knocks romantic gestures out of the park and my heart is lost to him forever.

Loved. L-O-V-E-D. And now impatiently toe-tapping for more... ~ Shelly, 5 Boba Fett-ish stars

[Duchess Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fun, sexy contemporary romantic comedy by Brooke Blaine! Just the opening scene was great. The meet-cute...swoon! The slight age difference...unique, and I love that it wasn't a main focus of the story. The heroine has a lot of character growth, the sex is smoking hot. Great read! Just what I was looking for. I plan on autobuying this author from here on out.

[Donna ~ The Romance Cover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hooker (LA Liaisons #2) by Brooke Blaine
4.5 stars!!

“Cute, nerdy and a klutz. An intriguing combination.”

This book was just what I needed and provided many a laugh out loud moment. This series is all about fun and romance, exactly what you need in a romantic comedy and Brooke Blaine delivered this in spades with Hooker.

Hooker is probably not what you are expecting from the title and our girl is certainly not a Hooker of the night time variety but our Shayne is a professional Hooker Upper, she is the crème de la crème of professional match makers and she takes pride in her work and has a wall full of success stories. When it comes to her own personal life though Shayne has had no success and now approaching her thirties she feels as if the dating life is passing her by, but sometimes love finds you when you least expect it.

These girls are hilarious together and Shayne being the more reserved of them just gets dragged along for shits and giggles and is often pushed way out of her comfort zone. Shayne is a klutz, she is fairly shy for someone in her field who you would think would be full of confidence and she is a rambler when nervous. It is these ramblings and this klutziness though that made her totally adorable. She has high morals and a huge heart and it is these qualities that will firmly place her into your heart as you read Hooker.

“And then you showed up and said something about my pants making you hungry, and honestly, I was just glad I was wearing fucking pants, even though I’d forgotten to throw on a bra that day. Not that you knew that, because I was holding onto those pizzas like a life raft, but yeah. Tit bit nippily that night, but don’t worry.”

Nate was our Star Wars pants wearing, suspender wearing, dimpled, sexy dude that keeps crossing paths with our Shayne. He is a few years younger but has a heart as huge as Shayne’s and is very enamoured with her. Shayne has her reservations, age being the biggest but our Nate is nothing but stubborn and doesn’t give up. He was persistent and he needed to be with a woman that had her insecurities but at the end of the day just wanted to love and be loved.

The dating game of A-Listers is nothing but interesting and behind the scenes is a real eye opener. With an alcoholic boss that has no scruples and would throw anyone under a bus for a few bucks Shayne soon finds herself questioning everything she had believed in with her “perfect” job. Taking her clients hearts tenderly into her own hands is a job that Shayne treasures and when one of her clients is thrown into the media spot light Shayne does everything she can to mitigate the damage, even if it means sacrificing her own happiness.

“Just something pure and untainted. Strong.”

This was such a fun read and even though the course of true love does not run smooth I found myself smiling, laughing and snorting so many times. This group of people are hilarious to read about and their friendships are the forever kind. They all have each other’s backs and would do anything for the other and not only is this enviable but so commendable too. Brooke Blaine whisks you away in this celebrity edition of LA Liaisons where back stabbing is rife, your friends are crazy, running around the trains in your underwear is completely normal, everything is solved with alcohol and alcohol laced ice-cream, where friendships are king and love is in the air.

Thoroughly entertaining, laugh out loud funny, but most of all, totally endearing. Ace needs his own book desperately!! I need more Ace!!!!

www.theromancecover.com

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

Slick's review:

I very much enjoyed the second book in Brooke Blaine’s L.A. Liaison’s series, Hooker, but it has a bit more angst than the first book, however it was still as crazy, fun, and sexy as I’ve come to expect from this author.

As one of L.A.’s best matchmakers Shayne Callahan doesn’t think love and marriage is in the works for her, she firmly believes in both and has a reputation for paring her clients perfectly with their love match. So when she sees HIM across a crowded Metro ride on Pantless day and his smile makes her insides go completely haywire she knows she is in trouble and trouble has an interesting way of finding her.

First off I loved the connection between Shayne and Nate. From the moment they see one another to their chance meetings and their semi disastrous first date, it is evident there is something special between them. I loved that Nate refused to let Shayne push him away or let him being younger by a few years be an issue. Shayne was a bit of a tough nut to crack, but Nate just kept up the charming pressure until she couldn’t resist and his collection of suspenders helped too. Yes, Nate is a suspender wearing guy who doesn’t hesitate to let his dimples and boyish smile help him get his way.

While Shayne loves what she does for a living her boss and her office are what you might call hostile and when she is put in charge of a high profile client, A-lister film star Ace Locke she gets way more involved than she ever planned adding more stress to her life and threatening her developing relationship with Nate.

Shayne’s friends are always there to back her up, offer support, ice cream, wine and a shoulder to cry on but she also finds a good friend and confidant in Ace who helps her way more than she could ever imagine.

While this book was a bit angsty for me and I didn’t quite connect with the characters as well as the first book, it was still a very enjoyable and satisfying romance. I can’t wait to see what Ms. Blaine has in store for P.I.T.A!!

[Alexis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hooker is the second book in the LA Liaisons series. It’s just as cute, funny, and swoony as Licked.

Shayne is the super clumsy Aussie who works as a matchmaker extraordinaire. Of course she is permanently single even though she has matched more than one hundred and fifty couples. She stumbles upon Nate while doing something so out of her comfort zone that their meet-cute literally will leave you with a big grin.

Nate is a film student who has a penchant for wearing suspenders it seems (and yes, Shayne totally has a thing for guys wearing suspenders). He is also this great male hero who won’t take no for an answer and definitely knows how to pull out all the stops to make you fall in love with him.

Together, Shayne and Nate have great chemistry. They both are a bit quirky and fit together perfectly as well as match spar for spar.

As this is the second book in the series, you do get a lot of interaction from everyone we met in Licked. You will also remember Val, Shayne’s crazy boss who makes The Devil Wears Prada look like a cakewalk.

Brooke’s series is just so much fun. The writing is great, they are hysterical, AND the stories are just super sweet. So if you are looking for a story to lose yourself in, definitely check out this one. I seriously read this one in just a few short hours. This book can definitely be read as a standalone too…trust me.

I for one cannot wait for the next book in the series, P.I.T.A. I will be stalking Brooke’s page for an ETA.

[Rin W. Vitale · Rating 3 out of 5]

I Liked It!!

Lesson learned: Better tell the truth from the start or it will screw you up in the end. Right, Shayne?

Side Note: Nate is SILF! aka Stud I'd Like to F***.

LOL I just made that up. Really though, the man knows his way in the bedroom....



Fun and steamy read. Overall I enjoyed reading this one.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I'm so addicted to this series! Hooker is a fun loving story with a great mix of humor, tension, friendship, and heart. I've never swooned so much over a sexy man in suspenders in my life. Meow! Loved this book hard!

[AJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 sexy, romantic and hilariously inappropriate stars

This is such a fun read! Sexy, flirty and romantic with wildly inappropriate banter, I was hooked from that first pantsless train ride right through to the beautifully swoony ending. I loved it!

Shayne is one of four friends who are featured in this series. She is the quieter of the bunch, an Australian living in Los Angeles, she is a matchmaker at a well-renowned matchmaking agency, and is content to find love for her clients without the hassle of having to worry about it for herself. But all it takes is one glance at a gorgeous man across a train carriage for everything to change.

My heart seemed to be expanding in my chest at a rapid rate, all the blood in my body rushing to accommodate the growth, leaving me lightheaded and tightening my grip on the bar so I wouldn’t fall over. A hint of a grin lifted the corner of his mouth, and as I stood there blinking, it slowly grew until a blinding, brilliant smile lit up the car. It seems to scream several things to me all at once.
Hello.
You’re beautiful
And I feel that too.

Shayne and Nate may meet in bizarre circumstances – the panstless train ride, and wearing matching Star Wars undies no less – but their chemistry is undeniable from that first moment. Nate is charming, sweet, funny, a little bit nerdy and sexy as all hell, and he makes it very clear that he’s interested. But Shayne is wary of the younger man pursuing her so relentlessly. And so begins an epic battle which is hot, hilarious, banter-filled and simmering with sexual tension.

“I think you like me looking at you.”
I mimicked his pose as I leaned against the wall. “Well, I can’t stop you.”
“No, you can’t. He cocked his head to the side. “Do you know what I love more than anything?”
“Stalking potential dates in the grocery aisle?”
“Gorgeous women who pretend they’re not interested.”
I rolled my eyes and pushed off the wall. “I’m not pretend--”
“You like the challenge,” he said, stepping in front of me, his eyes flicking to my mouth. “And believe me, so do I.”
“Wrong.”
“Stubborn and in denial. I can work with that.” He took the glass from my hand and tipped the liquid into his mouth.
“Let me guess. Girly drinks are your favourite too.”
“Nah, just wanted to get a taste of what’s going into that delicious mouth of yours.”
“Jesus.” I shook my head. “You don’t stop, do you?”
His dimple deepened. “You like that too.”

Shayne is a wonderfully endearing heroine. She’s a bit awkward – both physically and verbally – but she’s still confident, she’s stubborn and determined, and she’s got a huge heart, and I loved her! Her back-and-forth with Nate is highly entertaining and not overdone, and it doesn’t take her too long to give in, and they are perfect together – and so, so hot!

But Shayne’s life is full of turmoil – her boss is a foul-mouthed drunken lush who uses and abuses her, she lives in a run-down apartment with reality show addicted bronzed twins as roommates, and she has been unexpectedly caught up in a celebrity scandal which complicates everything in her life. Luckily, she has her three best girls (all completely without filter) on hand to help her navigate the ups and downs of it all, and it’s a hilarious and highly entertaining ride.

This is a short and really enjoyable read. It’s light and laugh-out-loud funny, but has a nice amount of emotion to get you really invested, and the romance is fantastic! I enjoyed every moment of it, and can’t wait for more.

Loved it – 4 stars.

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Bianca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Romantic comedies. Some authors do them well. And they tend to miss a mark for me But Brooke Blaine? She easily blows everyone else out of the water. Hooker is fun, witty, sexy. And I could not get enough!

Shayne Callahan is a matchmaker at an elite matchmaking company. For someone who has insane talent for putting people together, she seriously lacks in that department. With a trail of unsuccessful relationships, Shayne knows she is better at finding “the one” for others rather than herself. Until one day she’s caught with her pants down (you’ll see!) and runs into the adorable, suspender wearing, dimple faced, Nate Ryan. He is the complete opposite of what she ever expected to fall for. But everything she needs.

SO much happens in Hooker, that I refuse to spoil for the reader. From drama with Shayne’s insane boss, to a crazy client request (scandal!), and let’s not forget Shayne’s love life (or lack there of)! Well until Nate. Nate Ryan. Where have you been all my life? The moment we read (meet!) him you are drawn to him and understand Shayne’s hesitance to be attracted to someone like him. Through their banter, he is persistent and she cannot get him out of her head. These two have amazing chemistry.

Can we talk about how well written Hooker is?! If you’ve read the first book in the series, Licked, you know that the author has a serious knack for romantic comedies. But Hooker? she has certainly stepped it up several notches and this book without a doubt it one of my top romantic comedy reads. The writing is seamless. This is not a book you will find easy to put down. The author is a master in her character development in that you find yourself wanting to be friends with these people. Or at least find friends as cool as them.

Hooker is seriously one of my favorite reads this year. I laughed out loud (hysterically at some points!). Several times. I smiled, I giggled. I simply lived while reading this book! The author did a great job at balancing the romance and the comedy as some books seem to give more of one over the other. Hooker is an engaging, unputdownable story with an addictive plot line that I never wanted to end. A definite must read. So excited for what’s to come for the rest of this series.

[Elle G. Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Published: 2016

:: 4 Pretty Little Stars ::

This is the second book in the romantic comedy series L.A. Liaisons series BUT can be read as a standalone as each book features a different BFF/Romance. Once again, Brooke Blaine has me laughing my butt off. I love romantic comedies, and this one hit the nail on the head. It’s funny, has a great set of characters that will keep you entertained, and includes some very well written romance. I also want to add that each chapter title is downright hilarious! Fans of romantic comedies will definitely want to check out this series… its seriously good….

In this installment, we get to know Hooker a little better (aka Shayne). Hooker is a professional matchmaker but doesn’t have any romance in her own life. That is, until she meets her match in Nate. Nate is a good guy, albeit a bit younger than Shane. This tiny age gap lead to a lot of humor in terms of their banter and if Hooker is to be honest with herself, adds a bit of worry. Guys who are younger than women are typically a bit more immature. In the beginning when we meet Nate, I feel like readers will have this exact same feeling. For me, I wasn’t as fond of him when I first met him but his character did indeed grow on me, and of course on our heroine. But life and lies will get in the way. So, will Hooker ever get her HEA?

Once again, this is an awesome series and definitely a “go to” for me when it comes to my favorite genre; Romantic Comedies. Next up is Pitas story and I honestly can’t wait. I hope it comes out soon! So, if you’re looking for a fun and somewhat heartwarming story that will make you laugh and swoon than I recommend picking up this book!

BOOK INFO

Hooker by Brooke Blaine
L.A. Liaisons Series #2
Romantic Comedy. Standalone.
Release Date: March 9, 2016
Overall Rating: 4 Stars