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The Temptation Saga #7
Tantalizing Maria (7)
Maria Gomez married her lover’s brother to give the baby she carried the name and future she deserved. Now she is widowed, and her oldest child’s father—the only man she ever loved—has returned.
In prison for a crime he didn’t commit, Jefferson Bay never forgot the beautiful woman who betrayed him with his own brother. When DNA evidence proved Jeff’s innocence years later and he was released, he vowed to find Maria and seek his revenge.
The passion between the two has never died, but can they learn to trust each other again?
In prison for a crime he didn’t commit, Jefferson Bay never forgot the beautiful woman who betrayed him with his own brother. When DNA evidence proved Jeff’s innocence years later and he was released, he vowed to find Maria and seek his revenge.
The passion between the two has never died, but can they learn to trust each other again?
200 pages, Paperback
Published October 25, 2016
378 people are currently reading
1578 people want to read
About the author
Helen Hardt
202 books8,333 followers#1 New York Times, #1 USA Today, and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author Helen Hardt's passion for the written word began with the books her mother read to her at bedtime. She wrote her first story at age six and hasn’t stopped since. In addition to being an award winning author of contemporary and historical romance and erotica, she’s a mother, an attorney, a black belt in Taekwondo, a grammar geek, an appreciator of fine red wine, and a lover of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. She writes from her home in Colorado, where she lives with her family.
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Unchained (Blood Bond Saga: One) is FREE!! Get it here:
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Nook: http://bit.ly/2u5tFOc
iBooks: https://apple.co/2KZpwSi
Google Play: http://bit.ly/2N0srL2
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2u7bHe0
Breathless (Steel Brothers Saga Book 10) is AVAILABLE! Get it here👇
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2NV9oa5
Nook: http://bit.ly/2zEclDb
iBooks: https://apple.co/2xWg393
Google Play: http://bit.ly/2xYJ70H
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2xKZGwJ
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/GR_Breathless
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
October 25, 2016
4.5 Stars
Tantalizing Maria is the seventh and final (for now?) book in Helen Hardt's Temptation Saga. While it can easily be read as a standalone, I recommend seeking out the previous books so that you can fully appreciate all of the characters.
Maria and Jefferson found each other and fell in love while they were young. Jeff was the bad boy you should probably stay away from, but couldn't help yourself falling for. When he ends up in prison for a crime he did not commit, Mia finds herself pregnant and alone. Left with few options and none of them desirable, she ends up with his brother so her unborn child can have the name and life she deserves. Jeff is extremely hurt by her betrayal, but he never stops loving her. When he is released from prison they are reunited and the chemistry is still there. Can these two overcome all of the baggage and hurt they are left with to find the true love that has always been there?
This is a second chance love story that features older characters (a very nice change from the age group usually represented in most stories these days) who need to overcome much adversity and angst to find their happy ending. Each chapter alternates between the past and the present letting their love story and the hard choices and betrayals felt by each unfold. I was instantly invested in their story and despite the things going against them I was rooting hard for them to reunite. It becomes quickly early on both Jeff and Mia are meant to be together and how strong their love is. This is definitely the type of story that will have you alternating between smiling and crying. My heart broke at certain points. Hardt has a unique writing style that I have enjoyed across this series, a series I'm sad to see end.
Tantalizing Maria is the seventh and final (for now?) book in Helen Hardt's Temptation Saga. While it can easily be read as a standalone, I recommend seeking out the previous books so that you can fully appreciate all of the characters.
Maria and Jefferson found each other and fell in love while they were young. Jeff was the bad boy you should probably stay away from, but couldn't help yourself falling for. When he ends up in prison for a crime he did not commit, Mia finds herself pregnant and alone. Left with few options and none of them desirable, she ends up with his brother so her unborn child can have the name and life she deserves. Jeff is extremely hurt by her betrayal, but he never stops loving her. When he is released from prison they are reunited and the chemistry is still there. Can these two overcome all of the baggage and hurt they are left with to find the true love that has always been there?
This is a second chance love story that features older characters (a very nice change from the age group usually represented in most stories these days) who need to overcome much adversity and angst to find their happy ending. Each chapter alternates between the past and the present letting their love story and the hard choices and betrayals felt by each unfold. I was instantly invested in their story and despite the things going against them I was rooting hard for them to reunite. It becomes quickly early on both Jeff and Mia are meant to be together and how strong their love is. This is definitely the type of story that will have you alternating between smiling and crying. My heart broke at certain points. Hardt has a unique writing style that I have enjoyed across this series, a series I'm sad to see end.
December 14, 2018
Read this review and more on my blog.The Book Return Blog
Maria married her lover's brother after her lover is sent away to prison. Years later Maria's husband has died and her lover, Jefferson Bay, is released from prison after he is found innocent.
Maria married her lover's brother after her lover is sent away to prison. Years later Maria's husband has died and her lover, Jefferson Bay, is released from prison after he is found innocent.
'Tantalizing Maria' is #7 in the 'Temptation Saga'. The series is based around different members of an extended family. I have not read any of the other books in the series but this novel can be read as a stand alone. I had never heard of this series (romance isn't really my thing) but I received this book in a subscription box and it had good ratings so I thought I would give it a shot.
Honestly, I don't really have a lot to say about this book, so I'm going to make this a mini review. The POV alternates between Maria and Jefferson's past relationship and present day. The characters are ok, nothing exciting. The romance is moderately steamy. The story is pretty good but very predictable.
This type of story is not really my thing. However, I would recommend this for those that are really into romance series, especially if you enjoy series where each book is a different POV of a reoccurring character.This review was originally posted on The Book return...
November 8, 2018
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
Basic modern romance novel. When the bad brother is framed and sent to prison, Maria marries the good brother, so the bad brother's child will have a name.
DNA evidence gets the bad brother out, and now the two have to re-establish their relationship.
Not bad, if you like this sort of thing.
Basic modern romance novel. When the bad brother is framed and sent to prison, Maria marries the good brother, so the bad brother's child will have a name.
DNA evidence gets the bad brother out, and now the two have to re-establish their relationship.
Not bad, if you like this sort of thing.
May 1, 2021
True Rating: 3.5 stars
A nice way to round out the series.
A nice way to round out the series.
October 15, 2016
Tantalizing Maria is the last book in the Temptation Saga. You do not have to read the entire series to understand the story. However, I did enjoy reading all of the books from the beginning so I had background knowledge of the characters involved.
Helen does a great job of carrying the story from past to present, which is completely relevant to capture the story of Maria and Jeff. They had a strong love for one another when they were both very young, but Jeff's pride gets in the way and he finds himself in a difficult situation with his family. Decisions he makes as a young man will shape him in ways he never imagined. Because of this, Maria has to make some difficult choices of her own.
One thing that does not change is their love for one another. After some time, they both have to decide if putting their past behind them is worth fighting for one another. It's a beautiful, emotional story of lost love and never giving up!
Helen does a great job of carrying the story from past to present, which is completely relevant to capture the story of Maria and Jeff. They had a strong love for one another when they were both very young, but Jeff's pride gets in the way and he finds himself in a difficult situation with his family. Decisions he makes as a young man will shape him in ways he never imagined. Because of this, Maria has to make some difficult choices of her own.
One thing that does not change is their love for one another. After some time, they both have to decide if putting their past behind them is worth fighting for one another. It's a beautiful, emotional story of lost love and never giving up!
October 12, 2016
Great read!!
I hadn't read the others in the series, and there was no issue following this one!
Watching Jeff and Mia try to find what they once had is endearing.
Dealing with the past and current from chapter to chapter is perfect! You see where they were and what brought them to today.
Great, and cannot wait to see more from Helen!
I hadn't read the others in the series, and there was no issue following this one!
Watching Jeff and Mia try to find what they once had is endearing.
Dealing with the past and current from chapter to chapter is perfect! You see where they were and what brought them to today.
Great, and cannot wait to see more from Helen!
April 13, 2021
A awesome ending to this great Temptation Saga. Thanks to Helen Hardt for this wonderful books.
November 15, 2018
series, 7 books? wow, i am reading the last 1st? I gotta check but I am almost sure this is my 1st book in this series to read??! I know Helen's writing ... read several of her books. great romances. I won this read through a giveaway ... such a great read. love her style. ( ;
October 17, 2016
Maria Gomez was looking for much more than her casual boyfriend in high school. After all, she is now 18. She would soon be going off to college - so why was she attracted to the "so-called Bad Boy" on the motor cycle in front of the school??? Furthermore why was the "Bad Boy," Jeff Bay, interested in this young high school girl, three years his junior?? Was it love at first sight or just lust?? Maria from the wrong side of the tracks and disinherited Jeff both bring all sorts of baggage to the relationship. Yet both worlds collide into a spiraling life of never ending battles brought on by the decisions both chose to make. Jeff ends up in prison, because his friends left him to take the fall, and Maria has to make a choice that breaks her heart. This books follows both families through 30 years of both past and current history. Romantic and life altering chances and choices for both Maria and Jeff were made. The characters were very believable. The reader could feel the emotions of all the characters in the book, and it did portray what Life can truly be about, with choices that are made. What life lessons were learned? What will the future hold for both of them and their families as well?? Find out by seeing for yourself. Reviewed by Hot Box Reviews on FB.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
October 25, 2016
4.5 Tantalizingly Emotional Stars!
This is the last book of this series, and it's the only one I have read and I had no problem reading it as a standalone.
Jefferson Bay is home from prison, he served over 30 years for a crime he did not commit. He is determined to claim the inheritance he was denied, but a long held secret from the only woman he has ever loved turns his world upside down. Maria has always loved Jeff Bay, but her secret just might destroy any chance they have to rekindle the love so cruelly taken away 32 years before.
This is a deeply emotional story of love, betrayal, heartache, redemption, and second chances. I teared up more than once while reading this story. I hated what Jeff had to endure and the deep betrayal that he suffered through. To be honest, I wasn't real thrilled with Maria for part of the book, her betrayal was borderline unforgivable to me. But, through flash backs to the past throughout this story I was able to see Maria's side of the story better and understand why she chose to do what she did. Jeff and Maria's story seamlessly flows through the past and the present to give a full, well written, and cohesive story.
I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a beautiful second chance romance!
***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review***
This is the last book of this series, and it's the only one I have read and I had no problem reading it as a standalone.
Jefferson Bay is home from prison, he served over 30 years for a crime he did not commit. He is determined to claim the inheritance he was denied, but a long held secret from the only woman he has ever loved turns his world upside down. Maria has always loved Jeff Bay, but her secret just might destroy any chance they have to rekindle the love so cruelly taken away 32 years before.
This is a deeply emotional story of love, betrayal, heartache, redemption, and second chances. I teared up more than once while reading this story. I hated what Jeff had to endure and the deep betrayal that he suffered through. To be honest, I wasn't real thrilled with Maria for part of the book, her betrayal was borderline unforgivable to me. But, through flash backs to the past throughout this story I was able to see Maria's side of the story better and understand why she chose to do what she did. Jeff and Maria's story seamlessly flows through the past and the present to give a full, well written, and cohesive story.
I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a beautiful second chance romance!
***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review***
October 25, 2016
What a book. I sadly am just reading this series and started with the last book in the series. I am so glad I have 6 more books to go back and read now that I finished. Helen masterfully tackled another story with heartbreaking consequences but a happy ending after all was said and done.
Maria and Jeff had a whirlwind romance and fell in love almost instantly. When Jeff stupidly particapted in something that caused him to be locked up and Maria turned up pregnant, she did the only thing a poor girl from the other side of the tracks could do. She seduced his brother and made everyone believe she was pregnant with his child.
Now over 30 years later, Jeff has been released and Maria is left trying to convince him that they belong together. Only Jeff is scarred from a life behind bars. One click to see how their story unfolds all these years later. It was another incredible story from Helen Hardy.
Maria and Jeff had a whirlwind romance and fell in love almost instantly. When Jeff stupidly particapted in something that caused him to be locked up and Maria turned up pregnant, she did the only thing a poor girl from the other side of the tracks could do. She seduced his brother and made everyone believe she was pregnant with his child.
Now over 30 years later, Jeff has been released and Maria is left trying to convince him that they belong together. Only Jeff is scarred from a life behind bars. One click to see how their story unfolds all these years later. It was another incredible story from Helen Hardy.
October 15, 2016
This is book seven in Helen Hardt's Temptation series. While some have only read this book, I have read all seven, and I was glad to be able to revisit some of the previous characters. You don't have to have read the previous books, however it does make it better. Jeff and Mia have a second chance at love after their first love came to an abrupt ugly end. I love the way the chapters alternate from the past to the present. I appreciated a love story with people who are my age, and they still can be hot and passionate!!! I love the way Helen writes and this story really spoke to me. I am happy that Jeff and Mia could reunite and get past their past and go forward towards a lovely future, with all their families!
October 23, 2016
Jeff has loved Maria since they day he saw her 32 years ago but he's finally home after being in prison for 30 years of a crime he didn't commit. Maria has loved Jeff the whole time too but she didn't know what to do being pregnant and him in prison so she lied and Maria said his brother was the father. What happens when all the lies come out? Will Jeff be able to forgive Maria and give her another chance? Will Maria be able to help Jeff with all his darkness from prison? Loved this book very good romance read! 5/5 stars ****Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Read provided for a voluntarily Advanced Reader Copy of this book ****
November 1, 2016
Helen Hardt once again delivers us a book that is full of so many emotions it makes you want to read the book in one setting. This book brought tears to my eyes several times.
The betrayal and pain that both Jeff and Maria had to suffer through is beyond what most of us ever encounter, yet the writing made it so believable.. Without sharing spoilers, this story is so well written that you feel like you can become a part of the story.
If you are looking for a story with love, heartache, betrayal, forgiveness and second chances then this is one for you. Helen Hardt is one of my favorite writes. This series is one you don't want to miss.
The betrayal and pain that both Jeff and Maria had to suffer through is beyond what most of us ever encounter, yet the writing made it so believable.. Without sharing spoilers, this story is so well written that you feel like you can become a part of the story.
If you are looking for a story with love, heartache, betrayal, forgiveness and second chances then this is one for you. Helen Hardt is one of my favorite writes. This series is one you don't want to miss.
October 7, 2016
I have absolutely loved this entire series. Helen does an amazing job with keeping the characters from the other books in this series throughout them all. This story is amazing. The deep love that Jeff and Maria share is beautiful. They are able to overcome Jeff's troubling past as well as Maria's deceitful past. This is a story of an everlasting love between these two people and in the end find themselves where there are supposed to be. Absolute must read!!
October 29, 2016
This review of Tantalizing Maria by Helen Hardy is for The Sweet Spot Sisterhood Blog. This is the 7th book in the Temptation Saga. It is an interconnected standalone, so no need to read the others in the series to understand what is going on. I hadn't read any of the other either. It is a run of the mill will they won't they second chance at love. I give it 3 Stars.
July 17, 2017
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Tantalizing Maria was a great 5 star read.
We finally get the history on Maria and Jeff. After 30 years Jeff is out of prison after being found innocent of murder. He wants what is rightfully his, that is until he finds out a huge secret that Maria has kept from him
Maria only did what she felt she had to, since Jeff was going to prison. Now 30 years later will she be able to convince him to forgive her and let her in again?
No more resentment, but he wasn’t a whole man. He feared he would never be. And he wasn’t ready to give himself to anyone, not even his Mia.
We jump back and forth between past and present and see how they fell so hard for each other in the beginning. He was her first for a lot of things, there was something about Jeff that pulled her right in.
The past comes back to haunt Jeff, can he keep his family safe?
I really enjoyed reading their story. The secondary characters were great to see, I knew them from the previous books in the series. Tantalizing Maria can be read as a stand alone but I suggest you read the full series to get the whole story of this family/friends group. Helen Hardt does a great job of pulling you right in and you won’t stop until your done.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by MAustin from Alpha Book Club
Tantalizing Maria was a great 5 star read.
We finally get the history on Maria and Jeff. After 30 years Jeff is out of prison after being found innocent of murder. He wants what is rightfully his, that is until he finds out a huge secret that Maria has kept from him
Maria only did what she felt she had to, since Jeff was going to prison. Now 30 years later will she be able to convince him to forgive her and let her in again?
No more resentment, but he wasn’t a whole man. He feared he would never be. And he wasn’t ready to give himself to anyone, not even his Mia.
We jump back and forth between past and present and see how they fell so hard for each other in the beginning. He was her first for a lot of things, there was something about Jeff that pulled her right in.
The past comes back to haunt Jeff, can he keep his family safe?
I really enjoyed reading their story. The secondary characters were great to see, I knew them from the previous books in the series. Tantalizing Maria can be read as a stand alone but I suggest you read the full series to get the whole story of this family/friends group. Helen Hardt does a great job of pulling you right in and you won’t stop until your done.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by MAustin from Alpha Book Club
October 25, 2016
Maria Gomez has always been in love with Jefferson Bay. But when he went to prison for a crime he didn't commit, she married his brother to give his baby a future. After she was widowed, the love of her life returned, and he's very bitter. Jefferson never forgot the woman that he loved, but he also couldn't get over that she betrayed him with his brother. After DNA evidence proved that he was innocent, he was coming back for revenge. When she reveals that her oldest child is actually his, it doesn't calm the anger down, in fact, it just adds to it. Will he ever be able to forgive her for the choices she made?!
Tantalizing Maria is a fast read that packs a punch. The character development is good, with a cast of colorful secondaries. I did find it harder to imprint with Maria, and Jeff, simply because between the flashbacks, and them in present, I got a bit confused at times with the speed. Their chemistry was flammable, which finally exploded into HOT sexy scene goodness that was awesome. Helen Hardt has a talented and easy writing style that kept me interested, and not able to put the story down until the end. Her twists made for some intense OMG moments that had me yelling out loud, and the emotions jumped out of my kindle so I could physically feel them. The ending was a bit rushed, but that doesn't change the fact that I will keep reading this author in the future. So I HIGHLY recommend this compelling read of second chances at any age!
Tantalizing Maria is a fast read that packs a punch. The character development is good, with a cast of colorful secondaries. I did find it harder to imprint with Maria, and Jeff, simply because between the flashbacks, and them in present, I got a bit confused at times with the speed. Their chemistry was flammable, which finally exploded into HOT sexy scene goodness that was awesome. Helen Hardt has a talented and easy writing style that kept me interested, and not able to put the story down until the end. Her twists made for some intense OMG moments that had me yelling out loud, and the emotions jumped out of my kindle so I could physically feel them. The ending was a bit rushed, but that doesn't change the fact that I will keep reading this author in the future. So I HIGHLY recommend this compelling read of second chances at any age!
July 3, 2017
A Good Read!
I liked reading Tantalizing Maria(Temptation Saga Book 7), all about Maria Gomez Bay a mother in her sixties & Jefferson Bay a cowboy in his sixties and the brother to her dead husband and the father to her daughter Angelina Blackhawk. When Maria was a senior in high school two weeks shy of graduating she met Jefferson Bay the twenty-one year old bad boy! He rode a motorcycle and ran with a bad crowd, but he excited Maria something fierce, and she became pregnant. Jeff had already been to prison, and again committed a terrible crime and would be put behind bars for thirty-three years! It was at this time that Maria decided not to tell Jeff about the Baby, but suddenly became interested in his respectable older brother Jack. In the end she married Jack and when she had Angelina who came a month early nobody suspected it wasn't his child. The author wrote a book about an older woman and her secrets. That she is now telling because the love of her life Jeff has now resurfaced and is trying to claim the beloved Bay Ranch that belongs to Catie & Angelinia! Read this story and see how Maria & Jeff try and reconcile their love and respect for one another after thirty-three years! I loved reading the entire seven book Saga all about the McCrays & the Bay's and all their spouses and off-spring! It is definitely a book saga you don't want to miss!!
I liked reading Tantalizing Maria(Temptation Saga Book 7), all about Maria Gomez Bay a mother in her sixties & Jefferson Bay a cowboy in his sixties and the brother to her dead husband and the father to her daughter Angelina Blackhawk. When Maria was a senior in high school two weeks shy of graduating she met Jefferson Bay the twenty-one year old bad boy! He rode a motorcycle and ran with a bad crowd, but he excited Maria something fierce, and she became pregnant. Jeff had already been to prison, and again committed a terrible crime and would be put behind bars for thirty-three years! It was at this time that Maria decided not to tell Jeff about the Baby, but suddenly became interested in his respectable older brother Jack. In the end she married Jack and when she had Angelina who came a month early nobody suspected it wasn't his child. The author wrote a book about an older woman and her secrets. That she is now telling because the love of her life Jeff has now resurfaced and is trying to claim the beloved Bay Ranch that belongs to Catie & Angelinia! Read this story and see how Maria & Jeff try and reconcile their love and respect for one another after thirty-three years! I loved reading the entire seven book Saga all about the McCrays & the Bay's and all their spouses and off-spring! It is definitely a book saga you don't want to miss!!
March 24, 2018
Tantalizing Maria.
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2018...
This was actually a good book, I enjoyed it I liked how the author wrote how both Maria and Jeff ended up together. To where and how he ended up in jail. But also, his own brother said he didn't even know his own brother though he robbed him. But when Maria only told him, she slept with his brother, and gotten pregnant like wow, girl? Really. She wasn't there for him nor did she loved him. She could've told him the truth behind what she did. The only reason why he pleaded guilty to those crimes was that he knew he had nothing back home to. So she (Maria) ruin that by telling him lies. I couldn't blame him for what did after hearing what heard from Maria. Though she probably did fool around with his brother. Also, in the end, I like how he finally forgave himself, Maria, his and brother. Once that happens Max, still was trying to ruin Jeff, life. Like Jeff wasn't even thinking about that man, he only was concern about his family, and learning to forgive himself, etc. But finally both Gay (Chuck), who still didn't consider himself (bi or gay) or that he liked men over women more end up in jail along with Max.
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2018...
This was actually a good book, I enjoyed it I liked how the author wrote how both Maria and Jeff ended up together. To where and how he ended up in jail. But also, his own brother said he didn't even know his own brother though he robbed him. But when Maria only told him, she slept with his brother, and gotten pregnant like wow, girl? Really. She wasn't there for him nor did she loved him. She could've told him the truth behind what she did. The only reason why he pleaded guilty to those crimes was that he knew he had nothing back home to. So she (Maria) ruin that by telling him lies. I couldn't blame him for what did after hearing what heard from Maria. Though she probably did fool around with his brother. Also, in the end, I like how he finally forgave himself, Maria, his and brother. Once that happens Max, still was trying to ruin Jeff, life. Like Jeff wasn't even thinking about that man, he only was concern about his family, and learning to forgive himself, etc. But finally both Gay (Chuck), who still didn't consider himself (bi or gay) or that he liked men over women more end up in jail along with Max.
March 15, 2019
This is the final instalment to the Temptation Saga.
This particular book follows the story of Maria and Jeff.
Flicking between their life now, and when they first met over thirty years previously - we learn about the secrets they both kept and reasons behind what appears to be life changing decisions.
When this couple first met as youngsters, they fell madly in love with each other. After a brief time together though, Jeff was sent to prison for a horrendous crime he insists he didn’t commit. Yet he carries guilt like an anvil on his shoulders. This book allows us to hear the truth about what Jeff did and didn’t really do in relation to that crime and the reasons for his guilty conscience.
As for Maria, we find out why she lied about the paternity of her eldest child. We learn of the circumstances that drove her betrayal to fall into the arms of Jeff’s brother, Wayne.
With both characters having told their stories this saga is neatly rounded up and complete.
Helen knows how to add drama and conviction to a story. The characters are (as always) very believable. The depth to the stories make them feel real to the reader which absorbs you into this fictional world as though you really know these people!
Another fantastic series that I can’t recommend enough!
This particular book follows the story of Maria and Jeff.
Flicking between their life now, and when they first met over thirty years previously - we learn about the secrets they both kept and reasons behind what appears to be life changing decisions.
When this couple first met as youngsters, they fell madly in love with each other. After a brief time together though, Jeff was sent to prison for a horrendous crime he insists he didn’t commit. Yet he carries guilt like an anvil on his shoulders. This book allows us to hear the truth about what Jeff did and didn’t really do in relation to that crime and the reasons for his guilty conscience.
As for Maria, we find out why she lied about the paternity of her eldest child. We learn of the circumstances that drove her betrayal to fall into the arms of Jeff’s brother, Wayne.
With both characters having told their stories this saga is neatly rounded up and complete.
Helen knows how to add drama and conviction to a story. The characters are (as always) very believable. The depth to the stories make them feel real to the reader which absorbs you into this fictional world as though you really know these people!
Another fantastic series that I can’t recommend enough!
November 2, 2016
This is book seven in Helen Hardt's Temptation series. I read the 1st 3 but haven't had the pleasure of reading the others in the series yet. There was no issue however following this one! These books all provide back stories and character development so even though they can all be stand alone it does help to read them if you like back stories, which I do =)
I loved this story, it tells of the troubles that happen when 2 people who love each other find out years later that things were not as they seemed back then. It is a second chance romance where Jeff and Maria are separated by the choices they made in the heat of the moment. Jeff has recently been released from prison after serving over 30 years for a murder he did not commit. 33 years later when Maria and Jeff finally see each other again the fire is still there between the two. The story did bounce back and forth between past and present and at times it was hard to remember in "present " day Jeff and Maria would be in their 50's. It seemed like a young love again the way they acted. I would definitely suggest this book =)
I loved this story, it tells of the troubles that happen when 2 people who love each other find out years later that things were not as they seemed back then. It is a second chance romance where Jeff and Maria are separated by the choices they made in the heat of the moment. Jeff has recently been released from prison after serving over 30 years for a murder he did not commit. 33 years later when Maria and Jeff finally see each other again the fire is still there between the two. The story did bounce back and forth between past and present and at times it was hard to remember in "present " day Jeff and Maria would be in their 50's. It seemed like a young love again the way they acted. I would definitely suggest this book =)
July 21, 2017
Second chance love at its best
TANTALIZING MARIA is the seventh and final story in the TEMPTATION SAGA. Although all of the books can be read as stand alones, the books are all inter-connecting.
This story is different from all of the others in the series, as it centres around two older characters, Maria and Jeff. They have a love that has spanned 30+ years. Due to some bad decision making on Jeff's behalf, the couple were separated when they were younger. Maria, marrying Jeff's brother, our of need and not desire, never forgot her one true love. Now many years later, they find themselves reunited. Decisions on both sides must be made, but one thing is blatantly obvious, the chemistry and love that they once shared, definitely remains.
This story will most assuredly put your emotions to the test, you won't know whether to laugh or cry. It was quite simply a beautiful story to finish this series with. Second chance love is definitely worth fighting for, as Jeff and Maria have shown.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
FIVE STARS
TANTALIZING MARIA is the seventh and final story in the TEMPTATION SAGA. Although all of the books can be read as stand alones, the books are all inter-connecting.
This story is different from all of the others in the series, as it centres around two older characters, Maria and Jeff. They have a love that has spanned 30+ years. Due to some bad decision making on Jeff's behalf, the couple were separated when they were younger. Maria, marrying Jeff's brother, our of need and not desire, never forgot her one true love. Now many years later, they find themselves reunited. Decisions on both sides must be made, but one thing is blatantly obvious, the chemistry and love that they once shared, definitely remains.
This story will most assuredly put your emotions to the test, you won't know whether to laugh or cry. It was quite simply a beautiful story to finish this series with. Second chance love is definitely worth fighting for, as Jeff and Maria have shown.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
FIVE STARS
March 12, 2018
Unfortunately this wasn’t the outcome I expected. My rating for final instalment is 3.5 stars.
My first opinion in the opening of the storyline, the title of the book should have been called Jeff’s Saga. The whole series though, all titles were female related and so the theme continues.
The first few chapters appears to have been reflected through Jeff’s eyes and so did the rest of the story. It was more his story as opposed to Maria’s. There was also a lot of past/present content in this book. We needed to know what happened to understand why decisions were made.
Personally for me, Tantalising Maria though it explained some missing questions in the series was a filler in. It answered questions left in the air between Jeff, Maria and Wayne. Unfortunately, this was a slight let down for me to a good series. Loose ends were summed up but could also have been done through Angelina’s story.
For you, you may differ on your opinion on Tantalising Maria and I would like to know your opinion when completed.
Enjoy a good series by Helen Hardt.
My first opinion in the opening of the storyline, the title of the book should have been called Jeff’s Saga. The whole series though, all titles were female related and so the theme continues.
The first few chapters appears to have been reflected through Jeff’s eyes and so did the rest of the story. It was more his story as opposed to Maria’s. There was also a lot of past/present content in this book. We needed to know what happened to understand why decisions were made.
Personally for me, Tantalising Maria though it explained some missing questions in the series was a filler in. It answered questions left in the air between Jeff, Maria and Wayne. Unfortunately, this was a slight let down for me to a good series. Loose ends were summed up but could also have been done through Angelina’s story.
For you, you may differ on your opinion on Tantalising Maria and I would like to know your opinion when completed.
Enjoy a good series by Helen Hardt.
March 25, 2018
+++ Spoliers>>>>>++++
This was actually a good book, I enjoyed it I liked how the author wrote how both Maria and Jeff ended up together.
His own brother said he didn't even know his own brother though he robbed him.
When Maria only told him, she slept with his brother, and gotten pregnant like wow, girl? Really.
Though she probably did fool around with his brother.
In the end, I like how he finally forgave himself, Maria, his and brother.
Once that happens Max, still was trying to ruin Jeff, life.
Finally, both Max, and Chuck was out of his life, and it's weird how Chuck mentions Jeff would make him go back to begin into men, but I said why? doesn't he claim himself as bisexual or gay? I said the way he wanted "tight ***" as he mentioned in the book, you could tell he liked men more than women. I was glad when Maria diddy pop him when he was trying to get Jeff to suck him off. I said these two men still trying to ruin this man for no reason.
November 1, 2017
I am such a true fan of Helen Hardt<3 and this was such an awesome series. Start with book 1 Tempting Dusty and work your way to this one, you will not regret it. She has such a creative style of writing that manages to bring characters to life and you just fall in love with each one, and when you think you can't possibly like another character equally, think again... The best part is they are all either related, connected, and/or intertwined in some way so when one book finishes, you still get a glimpse of them in another or the next. This is why it's better to read them in order, they will make more sense this way. I used to not be a big fan of book series because I needed a beginning and an end, however, due to her beautiful imagination, you just can't get enough. Love, Love, Love them!
March 13, 2019
THANK YOU HELEN HARDT FOR ANOTHER AMAZING BOOK!!
Tantalizing Maria is book #7 in the Tempation Saga.
This book has to be one of my favorites in this series. It is written a lot different that books 1-6. This book stood out from all the rest.
Helen Hardt is the queen of split stories! I loved that this book went way back into Jeff and Maria's love story. The present and back story was written so well and flowed so easily. I loved that this story had real life problems like being tortured with your past and not being able to move forward. I loved that Maria was so motherly and concerned for Jeff's mental state. I just LOVED everything about this book.
On another note, I am so heartbroken that the series has ended. :( I'd love to see more in the series in the future.
Tantalizing Maria is book #7 in the Tempation Saga.
This book has to be one of my favorites in this series. It is written a lot different that books 1-6. This book stood out from all the rest.
Helen Hardt is the queen of split stories! I loved that this book went way back into Jeff and Maria's love story. The present and back story was written so well and flowed so easily. I loved that this story had real life problems like being tortured with your past and not being able to move forward. I loved that Maria was so motherly and concerned for Jeff's mental state. I just LOVED everything about this book.
On another note, I am so heartbroken that the series has ended. :( I'd love to see more in the series in the future.
May 30, 2019
Not surprising I wasn't over the hills in love with this installment. This review will be a spoiler just incase you haven't read it yet. Maria decides to give it up and happens to get pregnant. So what does she do but trick the guys brother into marrying her and pretends it's his baby, since he is "stable". Then she is sooo upset 33 years later when real baby daddy is pissed at her and struggled to forgive her, she just can't figure out why he's not so quick to forgive. Hmmmm hard to understand. Of course this story jumps back and forth from current day to 33 years ago. Constantly. You finally get into the grove of modern day and bam your shoved back in time. Not a fan of the jump around style. Can't stand Maria. Of course it's all rainbows and sunshine and fairy tale endings. I have no intentions of following this series any further.
November 4, 2016
I've never read any of the previous books but I really don't think you need to do so before you read it.
This is a second chance love story and from the start I knew I wasn't going to like Maria. In out first meeting with her she comes across as cold, callous and self absorbed.
We see Jeff and Maria in love then boom we jump 32 years to a meeting between them that is full of bitterness and hatred because she married his brother. The story follows them as they try to navigate their new life but will it be together.
It's a 3 star for me as the premise of the story just didn't work for me and as I previously stated I didn't like Maria one of the main characters.
***Reviewed For Sweet Spot Sisterhood Blog***
This is a second chance love story and from the start I knew I wasn't going to like Maria. In out first meeting with her she comes across as cold, callous and self absorbed.
We see Jeff and Maria in love then boom we jump 32 years to a meeting between them that is full of bitterness and hatred because she married his brother. The story follows them as they try to navigate their new life but will it be together.
It's a 3 star for me as the premise of the story just didn't work for me and as I previously stated I didn't like Maria one of the main characters.
***Reviewed For Sweet Spot Sisterhood Blog***
November 11, 2019
I received this book as a bonus in a goodreads.com giveaway and I have to admit, after reading the cover, I was a little leery about reading this book. It is the seventh book in a series and I prefer to have all of the books in a series before I begin to read it. But who can resist a free book and I am so glad I read it!!
This is the story of a young man and woman who fell in love and were torn apart by horrible circumstances. After 33 years, they find their way back to one another and have to deal with everything that happened in those 33 years apart. The book jumps back and forth between present day and 33 years ago, giving you both past and present stories.
This book does work as a stand alone, but of course I have to try to find the other six now!!
This is the story of a young man and woman who fell in love and were torn apart by horrible circumstances. After 33 years, they find their way back to one another and have to deal with everything that happened in those 33 years apart. The book jumps back and forth between present day and 33 years ago, giving you both past and present stories.
This book does work as a stand alone, but of course I have to try to find the other six now!!
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