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A week at a dilapidated mansion planning the restoration of Victorian era gardens was a prime contract for landscaper Luke Wells. Finding his employer and her irritating, curvy niece already overseeing the packing of moldering antiques and planning some ghost hunting was disconcerting.
The heat of desire, the emergence of a scandalous secret from the past…
Talk about unexpected…
The heat of desire, the emergence of a scandalous secret from the past…
Talk about unexpected…
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2016
15 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
About the author
Angela Verdenius
66 books678 followersI am a mixture of things - full-time worker, cat owner, writer, bookworm, supernatural horror movie buff, mystery series fan, and daydreamer.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
August 20, 2020
this one was kind of slow going. didn't help that it seemed that the h acted pretty childish and sometimes downright nasty with the remarks she made to the H. But almost half-way thru kind of sort of redeemed itself. At least enough for 3 stars.
February 13, 2017
3 stars, guys. I know.
This is the very first time I didn't connect with Angie's characters. I tried soooo hard to love them but, I don't feel it in my tummy. Mikki and Luke's relationship is lukewarm; Luke didn't really hate nor like Mikki (at first), Mikki isn't hostile either toward Luke. So yeah, it's almost like the punchline isn't really punching and that's a bit disappointing.
I liked Luke's character and the fact that he's gentle toward Mikki despite all those *ahem* thing she did to him. I want to meet my own Luke! Not my favorite but I definitely enjoyed reading this book. Look forward to read more! More!!!!
This is the very first time I didn't connect with Angie's characters. I tried soooo hard to love them but, I don't feel it in my tummy. Mikki and Luke's relationship is lukewarm; Luke didn't really hate nor like Mikki (at first), Mikki isn't hostile either toward Luke. So yeah, it's almost like the punchline isn't really punching and that's a bit disappointing.
I liked Luke's character and the fact that he's gentle toward Mikki despite all those *ahem* thing she did to him. I want to meet my own Luke! Not my favorite but I definitely enjoyed reading this book. Look forward to read more! More!!!!
October 5, 2016
It was an OK book for me, I would have liked to see a deeper development in Luke and Mikki's relationship. It was all a bit rushed and things unveiled very fast between them; I guess I needed to see the chemistry reveal itself. Something I've liked about Ms. Verdenius stories is that her characters are Real People, she doesn't write about boombastic people, these are ordinary, flesh and bone persons who could live next door to you, and the H and h know each other, or get to know each naturally, taking their time. That normality doesn't make them be dull but interesting, and us readers are caught up in her web of the very interesting happenings of every day life. I like the way she introduces her characters to later be developed in other books; Aaron is intriguing enough and Blue is left totally in the shadows (on purpose, well done) and hints about his temper for him being a soldier were also welcomed.
I didn't like those mentions of a possible ghost that wasn't mentioned again (following Ms. Verdenius stencil, it would have ended up being a broken pipe, or whatever); if she'd added a bit of real mystery to that, like something supernatural had actually hapened it would have been nice. After all, it was a very old mansion.
Nice book. Waiting for Aaron's now.
I didn't like those mentions of a possible ghost that wasn't mentioned again (following Ms. Verdenius stencil, it would have ended up being a broken pipe, or whatever); if she'd added a bit of real mystery to that, like something supernatural had actually hapened it would have been nice. After all, it was a very old mansion.
Nice book. Waiting for Aaron's now.
February 5, 2017
Luke was a freaking hilarious book to read. The way Luke and Mikki go at each other is hilarious but the passion between them is explosive. I loved reading and I can't wait for Luke's brothers to have their own books.
November 7, 2017
Auto-read author for me. Love her books. Great, realistic characters and great dialogue. Keeper.
February 7, 2017
After reading a bunch of historical romances I felt it was time to turn to something contemporary. As it happens it was Angela Verdenius book.
Before I say anything about the book itself, a little disclaimer: I took a long break from reading any books by Ms Verdenius and there was a reason for that. After more than one of her other books left me disappointed and didn't even hold my attention long enough to actually finish it, I felt it was time to take a break before I completely dislike Ms Verdenius writing style and her stories. What once was a quirky and charming, became a little silly and repetitive. I'm still a fan - what can I say? I have a soft spot for her books - but maybe... not as avid as before.
That being said, I enjoyed this one. It was a fun and enjoyable read. I especially liked the banter between the main couple, but that - witty dialogs and likable characters - was always the best feature in any of Ms Verdenius books. The ever present themes are still there and they aren't as charming as before (I kept thinking why every heroine must be fan of Diet Coke?... do flipping a bird in casual conversation is a thing?... why there are always cats?... and I love cats...), but the raw energy and charisma of the main hero - Luke - and his relationship with Mikki made up for that. Yes, the story is silly at times, but not too silly. There are some scene that me honestly laugh out loud, the physical comedy described was superb.
Surprisingly, what made me most interested (apart from the banter, of course) was the description of the mansion the story took place. It was really well done and engaging, I actually felt like was there. I wonder if Ms Verdenius ever thought of writing a true horror story? Maybe a gothic style?...
But I digress.
I agree with one other reviewer who pointed out the romance between the main couple felt a little bit rushed, but Luke is a charming silver tongued devil so it's not that unbelievable. Though, I would love to read about their domestic live and how exactly he proposed. Moreover, I didn't mind the paranormal aspect of the story, even if it's another one of the "themes" of most of Ms Verdenius books.
It was a fun story and enjoyable read. Most of the author's books are a solid 3 stars for me, and sadly (or not) this one is also.
Before I say anything about the book itself, a little disclaimer: I took a long break from reading any books by Ms Verdenius and there was a reason for that. After more than one of her other books left me disappointed and didn't even hold my attention long enough to actually finish it, I felt it was time to take a break before I completely dislike Ms Verdenius writing style and her stories. What once was a quirky and charming, became a little silly and repetitive. I'm still a fan - what can I say? I have a soft spot for her books - but maybe... not as avid as before.
That being said, I enjoyed this one. It was a fun and enjoyable read. I especially liked the banter between the main couple, but that - witty dialogs and likable characters - was always the best feature in any of Ms Verdenius books. The ever present themes are still there and they aren't as charming as before (I kept thinking why every heroine must be fan of Diet Coke?... do flipping a bird in casual conversation is a thing?... why there are always cats?... and I love cats...), but the raw energy and charisma of the main hero - Luke - and his relationship with Mikki made up for that. Yes, the story is silly at times, but not too silly. There are some scene that me honestly laugh out loud, the physical comedy described was superb.
Surprisingly, what made me most interested (apart from the banter, of course) was the description of the mansion the story took place. It was really well done and engaging, I actually felt like was there. I wonder if Ms Verdenius ever thought of writing a true horror story? Maybe a gothic style?...
But I digress.
I agree with one other reviewer who pointed out the romance between the main couple felt a little bit rushed, but Luke is a charming silver tongued devil so it's not that unbelievable. Though, I would love to read about their domestic live and how exactly he proposed. Moreover, I didn't mind the paranormal aspect of the story, even if it's another one of the "themes" of most of Ms Verdenius books.
It was a fun story and enjoyable read. Most of the author's books are a solid 3 stars for me, and sadly (or not) this one is also.
August 22, 2016
Pure joy, laughter, giggles, scares, and curves - the trademarks of a great Angela Verdenius novel that makes you smile even on the most difficult day.
Luke and Mikki are such a fun duo to be around. The sparring, banter, and repartee is brilliant and so entertaining. They spark, they flicker and flare, and they have no idea of it themselves, others around them are just having a hoot waiting for them to realize, that they are meant for each other, the perfect match made in heaven.
I liked the tidbits of history that was put into the story. The ghost hunting that every now and then comes up in the author's books is always done with humor, glee, and curiosity.
The suspense or danger that suddenly came to the picture was a delightful surprise and the built up on the mystery was rather intense.
I love how often on the books the author writes, even though it is a new series, the people from the previous ones can suddenly visit or have a prominent part in the story. I love the connection, the continuity that it creates.
I am a huge fan of the author and her BBW books. I love that there's well-written romance were big beautiful women find the happily ever after, are admired, cared for, and cherished. These books are something that I return to, have read most of them several times, and always enjoy them immensely. Luke and Mikki are no exception
~ Five Spoons
Luke and Mikki are such a fun duo to be around. The sparring, banter, and repartee is brilliant and so entertaining. They spark, they flicker and flare, and they have no idea of it themselves, others around them are just having a hoot waiting for them to realize, that they are meant for each other, the perfect match made in heaven.
I liked the tidbits of history that was put into the story. The ghost hunting that every now and then comes up in the author's books is always done with humor, glee, and curiosity.
The suspense or danger that suddenly came to the picture was a delightful surprise and the built up on the mystery was rather intense.
I love how often on the books the author writes, even though it is a new series, the people from the previous ones can suddenly visit or have a prominent part in the story. I love the connection, the continuity that it creates.
I am a huge fan of the author and her BBW books. I love that there's well-written romance were big beautiful women find the happily ever after, are admired, cared for, and cherished. These books are something that I return to, have read most of them several times, and always enjoy them immensely. Luke and Mikki are no exception
~ Five Spoons
August 18, 2016
I really love all of Angela's books. I'm a huge fan. I love how she throws paranormal experiences in her books too. This one and her Goodbye Girl, were amazing, but then again, I love Si-Fi. This was a great book and I can't wait for number two. Also, I gotta say the love of cats melts my hearts. Although, I would have loved to find out what happened to the guy that threw the cat out of the car. Glad she was okay. I really can't wait for the next one. I hope it has more si-fi in it!
August 1, 2016
Again a wonderful book from my favorite author. Lots of humour and some suspense. And of course great couple, love them both. Hope we get a next book soon. Yeah, I'm greedy.. Aaron (sigh) and Ryan is interesting too, hope he gets his own book. Would recommend this book everyone who likes very fun dialogue and romance, and sexy scenes.
just spied the author's website and Aaron is next! I'm tickled pink!
just spied the author's website and Aaron is next! I'm tickled pink!
August 14, 2016
Fantastic
I absolutely loved this story. I thought Mikki and Luke would make a great couple when they were introduced in Jason's book. This story was so much better than I had imagined. The sparks between them were intense. Add in the old mansion, ghost hunting and a secret journal and I have to say this is one of the best stories I've read in a while. I am looking forward to reading more by this author.
I absolutely loved this story. I thought Mikki and Luke would make a great couple when they were introduced in Jason's book. This story was so much better than I had imagined. The sparks between them were intense. Add in the old mansion, ghost hunting and a secret journal and I have to say this is one of the best stories I've read in a while. I am looking forward to reading more by this author.
August 9, 2016
Another 5 star book from my favorite author. What a great start to a new series by Angela. Luke & Mikki are a wonderful couple and loved the dialog between them. And the scene when they went into town with Aunt Elspeth driving the car I laughed out loud on that one. Can’t wait for the other books about the other Well’s brothers. Aaron sounds really interesting!
August 7, 2016
Unfortunately this was just an OK book for me. I didn't like the whole ghost stuff. Also the sunglasses were mentioned too much. But more important was the relationship of Luke and Mikki which was not convincing.
August 2, 2016
The Wells Brothers: Luke
Another 5 star outstanding book! Angela's books are romantic, laugh out loud funny and just great reads! Luke and Mikki are a great pair and I loved all their back and forth words with each other.
Another 5 star outstanding book! Angela's books are romantic, laugh out loud funny and just great reads! Luke and Mikki are a great pair and I loved all their back and forth words with each other.
August 8, 2016
Great start to a new series.
Can't wait to read about Aaron and Blue Wells.
And hopefully Ryan (and others) who work at Aaron's security company.
Can't wait to read about Aaron and Blue Wells.
And hopefully Ryan (and others) who work at Aaron's security company.
August 2, 2016
BRILLIANT I don't know how she does
It but Ms Verdenius always provides a great read
It but Ms Verdenius always provides a great read
April 17, 2017
I wanted to love this book as much as i loved almost all of her other books. But unfortunately that didnt happen. Even though i liked the characters, the story seemed very rushed and i couldnt really believe that 2 people can fall so deeply in love in just ...1week.
I am reading Luke right now and THAT one...yes!!
Still, Angela always manages to make me love her characters and yes, love myself too
I am reading Luke right now and THAT one...yes!!
Still, Angela always manages to make me love her characters and yes, love myself too
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews