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Heron's Landing #2
Tempt Me Tenderly
The most tantalizing of temptations…
Growing up in the small Missouri town of Heron’s Landing, Grace Danvers has loved Jaime Martínez from afar for five long years. A young artist and painter, Grace feels adrift, but one thing is constant: her love for Jaime. To her, he is everything: handsome, talented, and completely out of her league. But when she and Jaime kiss under the stars one fateful evening, suddenly her crush on him transforms into something more—something neither of them can deny.
Can bloom into the most tender of loves
Jaime came to Heron’s Landing to work as the executive chef at the local vineyard River’s Bend. It has always been a pit stop in his mind—until Grace entered the picture. Now, he can’t stop thinking about his boss’s younger sister, or how she felt pressed up against him as they kissed that night. He knows he should leave her alone: she’s younger than him and innocent. But when Jaime comes under suspicion of stealing from the vineyard, he must choose between what he thought he wanted, and what has become a love he never expected to find.
Growing up in the small Missouri town of Heron’s Landing, Grace Danvers has loved Jaime Martínez from afar for five long years. A young artist and painter, Grace feels adrift, but one thing is constant: her love for Jaime. To her, he is everything: handsome, talented, and completely out of her league. But when she and Jaime kiss under the stars one fateful evening, suddenly her crush on him transforms into something more—something neither of them can deny.
Can bloom into the most tender of loves
Jaime came to Heron’s Landing to work as the executive chef at the local vineyard River’s Bend. It has always been a pit stop in his mind—until Grace entered the picture. Now, he can’t stop thinking about his boss’s younger sister, or how she felt pressed up against him as they kissed that night. He knows he should leave her alone: she’s younger than him and innocent. But when Jaime comes under suspicion of stealing from the vineyard, he must choose between what he thought he wanted, and what has become a love he never expected to find.
206 pages, Paperback
First published September 28, 2016
308 people are currently reading
447 people want to read
About the author
Iris Morland
38 books1,090 followersA coffee addict and cat lover, USA Today bestselling author Iris Morland writes sparkling, swoon-worthy romances, including the Flower Shop Sisters and the Love Everlasting series.
If she's not reading or writing, she enjoys binging on Netflix shows and cooking something delicious.
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If she's not reading or writing, she enjoys binging on Netflix shows and cooking something delicious.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
April 28, 2018
Grace has crushed on her older brother’s friend for what seems like forever. Now that she’s older her infatuation has grown to full blown unrequited love for the guy who still goes out of his way to avoid her. Until one day, Jaime lets his guard down and Grace gets a glimpse of the real man behind her fantasy.
For years, Jaime has worked his butt off to be the best that he can be and his reputation as a chef has grown steadily along side the success of his friend's family restaurant business. When money goes missing and someone plants a paper trail straight back to Jaime, the feelings of betrayal and the bitter humiliation he experiences at the hands of his so-called friends, almost crush him. Having his integrity and character questioned by everyone is bad enough but now he finds himself undeniably drawn to his friend/boss' younger sister and finding it harder and harder to keep her at arms length.
The romance between Grace and Jaime was really sweet. It was a slow burn – they share a history but they don't really know each other on a deeper level and they have to build up to it. I think I loved them together so much because both MCs were just so mature about it all. There was a minor hiccup when they come out to her brother but it wasn’t OTT. It wasn’t melodramatic or drawn
out and even with the slight push and pull between them, you could feel how much Jaime and Grace cared for each other. It wasn't one sided, Grace and Jaime together were 100% devoted to each other, it was the crappy situation they were embroiled in that made their romance so rocky. Grace and Jaime explored their attraction at their own pace, they talked about their dreams and aspirations in life and it proved how perfect these two are together. Their smexy times were hawt too but I liked the tenderness between them the best.
Grace was a great MC, she was tender hearted but that was what made her so likable. She's the type of heroine you can't help but root for. I loved that she came into her own and finally was able to stand up for herself and start pursuing her own dream. Loved that she was such a strong supporter of Jaime too. She was optimistic and kind and when things were looking pretty bleak, she was the ray of light Jaime needed to keep going.
I definitely felt for Jaime and his situation was the angstiest bit of the story. I don't know if I would be as forgiving as he was after what he went through. Seeing the swift change in the way people treated him was rough and tbh pissed me the hell off! That actually is my only complaint about this read. I wish Jaime would have taken the job offer in New York and taken Grace out of Heron's Landing where they could start over away from this cruddy place and even cruddier people. Heron's Landing stopped being a "charming" little town when people were so quick to turn their backs on someone on heresay. Not to mention the turd nugget that was the sheriff, no thank you! Jaime deserved better.
The title to this was perfect for this couple. It was a sweet romance about two people from
different walks of life that become each other’s rock and supported each other through thick and thin. Both MCs complimented each other and made it easy to become invested in their HEA.
Would I recommend?
Yes, it was a sweet and tender love story with just the right amount of heat and angst to keep me glued to the pages.
SAFETY INFO:
For years, Jaime has worked his butt off to be the best that he can be and his reputation as a chef has grown steadily along side the success of his friend's family restaurant business. When money goes missing and someone plants a paper trail straight back to Jaime, the feelings of betrayal and the bitter humiliation he experiences at the hands of his so-called friends, almost crush him. Having his integrity and character questioned by everyone is bad enough but now he finds himself undeniably drawn to his friend/boss' younger sister and finding it harder and harder to keep her at arms length.
The romance between Grace and Jaime was really sweet. It was a slow burn – they share a history but they don't really know each other on a deeper level and they have to build up to it. I think I loved them together so much because both MCs were just so mature about it all. There was a minor hiccup when they come out to her brother but it wasn’t OTT. It wasn’t melodramatic or drawn
out and even with the slight push and pull between them, you could feel how much Jaime and Grace cared for each other. It wasn't one sided, Grace and Jaime together were 100% devoted to each other, it was the crappy situation they were embroiled in that made their romance so rocky. Grace and Jaime explored their attraction at their own pace, they talked about their dreams and aspirations in life and it proved how perfect these two are together. Their smexy times were hawt too but I liked the tenderness between them the best.
Grace was a great MC, she was tender hearted but that was what made her so likable. She's the type of heroine you can't help but root for. I loved that she came into her own and finally was able to stand up for herself and start pursuing her own dream. Loved that she was such a strong supporter of Jaime too. She was optimistic and kind and when things were looking pretty bleak, she was the ray of light Jaime needed to keep going.
I definitely felt for Jaime and his situation was the angstiest bit of the story. I don't know if I would be as forgiving as he was after what he went through. Seeing the swift change in the way people treated him was rough and tbh pissed me the hell off! That actually is my only complaint about this read. I wish Jaime would have taken the job offer in New York and taken Grace out of Heron's Landing where they could start over away from this cruddy place and even cruddier people. Heron's Landing stopped being a "charming" little town when people were so quick to turn their backs on someone on heresay. Not to mention the turd nugget that was the sheriff, no thank you! Jaime deserved better.
The title to this was perfect for this couple. It was a sweet romance about two people from
different walks of life that become each other’s rock and supported each other through thick and thin. Both MCs complimented each other and made it easy to become invested in their HEA.
Would I recommend?
Yes, it was a sweet and tender love story with just the right amount of heat and angst to keep me glued to the pages.
SAFETY INFO:
September 29, 2017
I read an ARC copy.
This was another good read in this series. We started right where the first one ended. Jamie face some prejudice in this book. Which sucked. Thankfully he had Grace by him the whole time even though he tried to fight it. I'm just glad that in the end everything worked out.
This was another good read in this series. We started right where the first one ended. Jamie face some prejudice in this book. Which sucked. Thankfully he had Grace by him the whole time even though he tried to fight it. I'm just glad that in the end everything worked out.
June 9, 2020
Jaime Martinez was best friends with Adam Danvers and worked as Adam's Executive Chef at the Vineyard River Bend. Jaime's parents came to the U.S. From El Salvador when the country was having a civil war. Grace Danvers met Jaime five years ago and had a crush on him. River Bend had started offering weddings. At one wedding, Grace asked Jamie to kiss her and what a kiss it was! He told her it was a mistake and it couldn't happen again. Jaime knew that he couldn't be with his boss and best friend's sister even though he was attracted to her. You need to read the book to see what happens.
There is also some prejudice against Jaimie going on in the story. There is embezzlement going on with someone framing Jaime. Jamie was a good guy and hard worker. He wouldn't do anything illegal, especially to his friend. Grace was floundering with what she wanted to do with her life. This causes friction with her father. Big brother Adam tries to run her life some too. There is a lot going on that keeps the story exciting. It was a good book. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
There is also some prejudice against Jaimie going on in the story. There is embezzlement going on with someone framing Jaime. Jamie was a good guy and hard worker. He wouldn't do anything illegal, especially to his friend. Grace was floundering with what she wanted to do with her life. This causes friction with her father. Big brother Adam tries to run her life some too. There is a lot going on that keeps the story exciting. It was a good book. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
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October 4, 2017
I like series where it's the same people but a different focus every book and this is that series. Just like the first book I think some of the filler could have been taken out but it was still very good. More interesting from the first book just because the problem started right away. Again, the last 25% sucks you in and you have no place to go
April 7, 2019
Really 2.5 Stars. Pacing wasn't the best. The middle of the book was exceedingly boring, but the ending is pretty alright.
June 8, 2020
Despite being an artist in the preparation of food, Jaime Martinez does not rely solely on his ability but puts his heart and soul into his work, Thus, when his boss and good friend lets him know that there is irregular activity taking place at Heron's Landing and that the evidence is pointing to him, Jaime is devastated. Adam's little sister has had a crush on him for years but as the problems at work escalate, so too does the interaction between him and Grace become more relevant and people are starting to notice. Grace is having a hard time finding her place in her world. As much as she wants to wield an artist's brush, pressure from her father makes it difficult for her to experience a free flow of inspiration. The one constant in her life is Jaime and her attraction for him. The plot is fairly suspenseful as the crime is investigated with all the hallmarks of racial discrimination, but as Jaime and Grace get closer to the truth, the danger facing them increases too. I felt the emotional turmoil experienced by the characters as they faced the difficulties set before them, as well as a certain amount of anger at the unfairness of the situations they faced. However, the book is a standalone and does come to a happy conclusion. I received a copy of this novel as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
June 9, 2020
I had been itching to read Grace and Jamie’s story after finishing the first book. While the books are standalone, I highly recommend reading them in order to get the most out of the books.
Grace is embarrassed after confessing her feelings to Jamie and tries to avoid him. But Heron’s Landing is a very small town. On top of that, her father is constantly making her feel like a failure for having graduated with a degree in art rather than something practical and the fact that she works at the diner. My heart broke for Grace a couple of times when her dad did this, but Thanksgiving was probably the worst.
Jamie always seems to be the one to console Grace. He’s always know she’s had a crush on him, but she’s his boss/best friend’s little sister. He couldn’t go there, no matter how much he might want to. He’s got more pressing issues, someone is trying to frame him of embezzling from Rivers End.
I really enjoyed this book. It was suspenseful, had plenty of angst, and the chemistry was fantastic! But...we never find out why Jamie was framed. Was is racial bias? Was it over Grace? It’s never confirmed, which drove me a bit nuts.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Grace is embarrassed after confessing her feelings to Jamie and tries to avoid him. But Heron’s Landing is a very small town. On top of that, her father is constantly making her feel like a failure for having graduated with a degree in art rather than something practical and the fact that she works at the diner. My heart broke for Grace a couple of times when her dad did this, but Thanksgiving was probably the worst.
Jamie always seems to be the one to console Grace. He’s always know she’s had a crush on him, but she’s his boss/best friend’s little sister. He couldn’t go there, no matter how much he might want to. He’s got more pressing issues, someone is trying to frame him of embezzling from Rivers End.
I really enjoyed this book. It was suspenseful, had plenty of angst, and the chemistry was fantastic! But...we never find out why Jamie was framed. Was is racial bias? Was it over Grace? It’s never confirmed, which drove me a bit nuts.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
June 12, 2020
This is book two in the Heron Landing series. This is Jaimie and Grace's story. Jaimie is in Heron Landing as an executive chef at his best friend's vineyard, Rivers End. He is eager and ready to get his name established in the culinary world, finding love is not on his radar. Grace is Jaimie's bosses little sister. She may be this sweet and innocent woman but she is determined to find love and believes that Jaimie is her other half. However, Fate is determined to bring these two together but friends, family and the law are determined to keep them apart. This is a great story with a number of twists and turns that make for a very interesting read to keep you flipping through those amazing pages. Enjoy!
I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2020
I really liked this book, but wish it would have had a few more chapters to really discuss their relationship. It seemed to me that once they got over the big hurdle of thier relationship, it was over. I would have liked a few chapters to see them together with their families involved. Grace really stood by Jaime, even when no one else would. Even though I figured out, pretty early on, who was behind the theft, it didn't deter me from enjoying the book.
The chemistry between Jaime and Grace was off the charts. Her brother irritated me, becasue he was supposed to be Jaime's best friend, yet he didn't want him to be with Grace and he didn't act as if he believed Jaime was innocent. There were some bumps in the road, mainly Jaime himself, but the relationships were realistic. I can't wait to read more of this sereis. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest,voluntary review.
The chemistry between Jaime and Grace was off the charts. Her brother irritated me, becasue he was supposed to be Jaime's best friend, yet he didn't want him to be with Grace and he didn't act as if he believed Jaime was innocent. There were some bumps in the road, mainly Jaime himself, but the relationships were realistic. I can't wait to read more of this sereis. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest,voluntary review.
June 8, 2020
I enjoyed this book, but there was just something that didn’t suck me in in quite the same way as the first one did. Grace is sweet. Maybe she comes across as being a little too sweet? She may have been the one pursuing the relationship, but I got the feeling that she mostly let life happen to her rather than actively steering her own course. Grace’s father’s treatment of her made me want to scream. And I’m not sure who I wanted to yell at more. The prejudice and bigotry Jaime’s faced with broke my heart. He’s fought long and hard to build his reputation, yet when the chips are down, all that hard work counts for nothing. I loved the way Grace stands beside him and believes so wholeheartedly in his innocence. It was one of the things that made me really believe in what was developing between them. In the end, the story entertained me and kept me invested in seeing this pair get the best until they finally did.
June 9, 2020
I was really looking forward to this story, but I felt a bit … let down. The accusations against Jaime, his reasons for being reluctant/unwilling to be involved with Grace in the first place, and Adam’s volte-face – none of these seemed plausible, and that detracted from my enjoyment. Jaime himself was frequently irritating, rather than appealing, and the sheriff’s behavior (and Grace’s father’s behavior) apparently going unpunished really grated on me. So why the four stars? Well, the characters are really well written (I couldn’t have been as annoyed if they weren’t), and the sync with Adam and Joy’s story (and the cheeky reference to a story) really pulled me back into Heron’s Landing – and I love being there.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 9, 2020
Unrequited love, unfailing faith
All I Ask of You (Heron’s Landing Book 2) by Iris Morland is a very well written book and all about love, faith and trust. I absolutely adore Grace and Jaime, just fell in love with this couple! It was easy to see how Grace fell for Jaime all those years ago and as these two get to know one another, it’s clear her heart was right all along.
The plot of this book is intriguing and interesting from the beginning and definitely inspires some feelings! Injustice for Jaime, frustration on Grace’s behalf and triumph when all is said and done.
Overall, a very well written romance that’s full of heart and plenty of heat as the love grows and the connection deepens leading to the HEA every reader will be rooting for.
I read an ARC of this book from Hidden Gems and voluntarily share my review.
All I Ask of You (Heron’s Landing Book 2) by Iris Morland is a very well written book and all about love, faith and trust. I absolutely adore Grace and Jaime, just fell in love with this couple! It was easy to see how Grace fell for Jaime all those years ago and as these two get to know one another, it’s clear her heart was right all along.
The plot of this book is intriguing and interesting from the beginning and definitely inspires some feelings! Injustice for Jaime, frustration on Grace’s behalf and triumph when all is said and done.
Overall, a very well written romance that’s full of heart and plenty of heat as the love grows and the connection deepens leading to the HEA every reader will be rooting for.
I read an ARC of this book from Hidden Gems and voluntarily share my review.
June 7, 2020
4.5 stars.
This is book 2 in the series and is about Grace and Jamie, it take places after the events in book 1.
I found myself losing all track of time reading this story and forgot about the house work I needed to do as I wanted to finish this story in one sitting. I found myself getting very annoyed that Jamie was being treated so badly and that Grace was being treated like a child. I wanted to step into my Kindle and tell them what I thought, especially her father and brother, ooh and that Sheriff!
Grace and Jamie were lovely together and I really liked how they were a friend to each other when needed, even though they wanted to be so much more. I believed in their connection and chemistry and my heart broke for them at times and I marvelled at their inner strength and bravery throughout the book.
The set up for the next book in the series is done well and I am very interested in reading it, I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an ARC.
This is book 2 in the series and is about Grace and Jamie, it take places after the events in book 1.
I found myself losing all track of time reading this story and forgot about the house work I needed to do as I wanted to finish this story in one sitting. I found myself getting very annoyed that Jamie was being treated so badly and that Grace was being treated like a child. I wanted to step into my Kindle and tell them what I thought, especially her father and brother, ooh and that Sheriff!
Grace and Jamie were lovely together and I really liked how they were a friend to each other when needed, even though they wanted to be so much more. I believed in their connection and chemistry and my heart broke for them at times and I marvelled at their inner strength and bravery throughout the book.
The set up for the next book in the series is done well and I am very interested in reading it, I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an ARC.
June 9, 2020
This is such a good book!
It's a heartfelt, intriguing & very moving romance. The story will pull in from the first word to the last.
Grace, has been in love with Jaime.
He is the executive chef, at her family's
vineyard. But at every turn he rejects
her. As Grace's heart breaks, she knows
nothing will ever change.
Jaime & Grace, along with the other wonderful characters in it, & the small town charm make it the perfect read.
I loved everything about it!!
It's a heartfelt, intriguing & very moving romance. The story will pull in from the first word to the last.
Grace, has been in love with Jaime.
He is the executive chef, at her family's
vineyard. But at every turn he rejects
her. As Grace's heart breaks, she knows
nothing will ever change.
Jaime & Grace, along with the other wonderful characters in it, & the small town charm make it the perfect read.
I loved everything about it!!
October 12, 2016
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
I was curious from Seduce me Sweetly to see if Jaime & Grace would get their HEA, and I was beyond happy when they did!!
This book had loads of romance, intrigue and conflict to keep you entertained and reading on. I found myself angry on behalf of Jaime, at how easily everyone turned against him. I admired Grace's unwavering faith in him, to the end.
I loved every bit of this story, and looking forward to Gavin & Kat's!
I was curious from Seduce me Sweetly to see if Jaime & Grace would get their HEA, and I was beyond happy when they did!!
This book had loads of romance, intrigue and conflict to keep you entertained and reading on. I found myself angry on behalf of Jaime, at how easily everyone turned against him. I admired Grace's unwavering faith in him, to the end.
I loved every bit of this story, and looking forward to Gavin & Kat's!
October 23, 2017
Grace Danvers and Jaime Martínez have known each other for five years and have avoided facing growing feelings between them for many reasons, but do all those reasons really matter in the long run? I found the detail in their story very interesting and entertaining. The action and adventure they embark on is exciting and well written. Overall a very engaging read and I look forward to more Heron's Landing.
October 3, 2016
Received a copy for a honest review.
3.5 stars
I did enjoy the story and liked Grace and Jamie together. But was sad the way it played out. Of course the non white guy was framed from the poor little rich boy. had it figured out before I even read it....but continued on to to see how the relationship between Grace and Jamie played out!!
3.5 stars
I did enjoy the story and liked Grace and Jamie together. But was sad the way it played out. Of course the non white guy was framed from the poor little rich boy. had it figured out before I even read it....but continued on to to see how the relationship between Grace and Jamie played out!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2017
This book was okay. It was interesting to read an interracial romance that was not black and white, but Hispanic and white. The story moved along well with some hiccups, for me, along the way. Jaime is the executive chef at his best friend’s vineyard restaurant. With his hard work, he has successfully expanded the restaurant to five dining experience. With the restaurant finally doing well, Jaime is okay with his life. The only problem is that he is attracted to his friend’s sister Grace.
Grace has had a crush on Jaime since she met him five years before. As a young painter and artist, Grace is not sure what she wants to do with her life. She is living with her parents and working at a local establishment. With no particular direction for her life, she is struggling to paint and figure out the next steps in her life. The only constant for her is her attraction and love for Jaime Martinez. At an event at the vineyard Grace courageously asks Jaime to kiss her. To her surprise and delight he did. Right after the kiss he tells her it was a mistake and leaves. When Jaime is suspected of stealing money from the vineyard, Grace is determined that no matter how indecisive he is to being with her, she will do all she could to prove that he is innocent.
The problems I had while reading the book was Grace’s lack of spine and her crying all over the place. She takes a lot of criticism from her father (at one point I thought she was adopted, because her father came of as such a tyrannical and abusive person) and brother without fighting back. I get the concept of not knowing what direction to take with your life, but it seems that she didn’t try hard at anything to move her life forward. She tried to paint, it didn’t’ come out well, she is crying and sobbing, her father yells at her, she goes to her room and cries herself sick. The only time she stood up for herself was with Jaime, but other times she was willing go along with the flow and cry. Also, when the question of missing money came up, it didn’t’ take long for Jaime to be the prime suspect. I mean, this was the man who made the vineyard’s restaurant a success. Why would he be stealing from the vineyard, because he’s Hispanic? Even his boss, who is supposedly his best friend, was quick to turn against Jaime and question his integrity and their friendship. I understand what the writer was trying to say but it just seems that a tiny bit of circumstantial evidence was enough to suspect Jaime and get him arrested. Then it took Grace, the person who everyone thinks is weak and a loser to dig out the discrepancies in the evidence collected. Even when she confronted her brother, Jaime’s friend, he was still not willing to look further into what she found. The book ended with a HEA for Jaime and Grace, but it left me with a few unanswered questions. Like…. what will Grace do for work or career? Can Jaime fully forgive his friend for turning on him so quickly and with so little evidence? Even though he came through for him later, it seems a little too late. All in all, it was a decent read. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Grace has had a crush on Jaime since she met him five years before. As a young painter and artist, Grace is not sure what she wants to do with her life. She is living with her parents and working at a local establishment. With no particular direction for her life, she is struggling to paint and figure out the next steps in her life. The only constant for her is her attraction and love for Jaime Martinez. At an event at the vineyard Grace courageously asks Jaime to kiss her. To her surprise and delight he did. Right after the kiss he tells her it was a mistake and leaves. When Jaime is suspected of stealing money from the vineyard, Grace is determined that no matter how indecisive he is to being with her, she will do all she could to prove that he is innocent.
The problems I had while reading the book was Grace’s lack of spine and her crying all over the place. She takes a lot of criticism from her father (at one point I thought she was adopted, because her father came of as such a tyrannical and abusive person) and brother without fighting back. I get the concept of not knowing what direction to take with your life, but it seems that she didn’t try hard at anything to move her life forward. She tried to paint, it didn’t’ come out well, she is crying and sobbing, her father yells at her, she goes to her room and cries herself sick. The only time she stood up for herself was with Jaime, but other times she was willing go along with the flow and cry. Also, when the question of missing money came up, it didn’t’ take long for Jaime to be the prime suspect. I mean, this was the man who made the vineyard’s restaurant a success. Why would he be stealing from the vineyard, because he’s Hispanic? Even his boss, who is supposedly his best friend, was quick to turn against Jaime and question his integrity and their friendship. I understand what the writer was trying to say but it just seems that a tiny bit of circumstantial evidence was enough to suspect Jaime and get him arrested. Then it took Grace, the person who everyone thinks is weak and a loser to dig out the discrepancies in the evidence collected. Even when she confronted her brother, Jaime’s friend, he was still not willing to look further into what she found. The book ended with a HEA for Jaime and Grace, but it left me with a few unanswered questions. Like…. what will Grace do for work or career? Can Jaime fully forgive his friend for turning on him so quickly and with so little evidence? Even though he came through for him later, it seems a little too late. All in all, it was a decent read. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
October 5, 2017
This was actually the perfect title for this story. With someone as shy and sweet as Grace tempting someone as troubled as Jaime it's apt because she truly does tempt hi with tenderness. She has much more than a sweet countenance, she's got fire inside of her too. Grace is also underappreciated by her father and to a small extent, her older brother Adam as well. Her heart is confused about what to do with her life but the one thing she's sure about is that the person that belongs in it is Jaime. With one moment under an umbrella she's sure he's worth knowing. With one kiss she's determined that he be hers. Jaime has, unfortunately, put up seemingly insurmountable walls to keep them apart. Absolutely sure that he doesn't deserve her he does his absolute best over and over and over to push her away. I didn't like the last time he did it though. But he did need the distance to realize that what he had was what he truly needed. The villain was pretty predictable but the resources used to discover and condemn them were a great way to introduce supporting characters that will later have their own story. It also showed just how much support is available if Jaime would just learn to accept that he's worthy of it. Overall it was a sweet story with some pretty predictable relationship roadblocks that were overcome with hindsight revelations and heartfelt confessions.
Read and willingly reviewed this ARC from Hidden Gems.
Read and willingly reviewed this ARC from Hidden Gems.
June 8, 2021
I didn't like Grace's father any better in this book than I did in the first one. I didn't like the sheriff. I felt like there was some racial profiling going on with him. I really disliked the way Grace's father treated her. I hated the humiliation Jaime had to suffer through.
I was surprised Adam didn't fight harder for his "friend", especially considering it was obvious who the culprit was. I was surprised no one other than Grace considered anyone else.
I think I am a little tired of books where one party doesn't feel like they are good enough for the other, or one person is so awesome the other person thinks how could they possibly want me.
I can also understand Adam's frustration with Jaime changing sous chef's. But, one-couldn't Jaime have detailed Eric's exact behave that SAS so unacceptable, and two - aren't you supposed to trust your head chef (and supposed best friend) to make the best decision for your restaurant and his kitchen?
I listened to the audiobook and thought the narration was good. The story had me wanting to pull out my hair with all of the back and forth. I didn't get and sense of overwhelming chemistry between Jaime and Grace, but I'm glad the got their HEA.
I was surprised Adam didn't fight harder for his "friend", especially considering it was obvious who the culprit was. I was surprised no one other than Grace considered anyone else.
I think I am a little tired of books where one party doesn't feel like they are good enough for the other, or one person is so awesome the other person thinks how could they possibly want me.
I can also understand Adam's frustration with Jaime changing sous chef's. But, one-couldn't Jaime have detailed Eric's exact behave that SAS so unacceptable, and two - aren't you supposed to trust your head chef (and supposed best friend) to make the best decision for your restaurant and his kitchen?
I listened to the audiobook and thought the narration was good. The story had me wanting to pull out my hair with all of the back and forth. I didn't get and sense of overwhelming chemistry between Jaime and Grace, but I'm glad the got their HEA.
September 23, 2017
I review a lot of romance novels of varying types, and generally know that the "second chance" or "hometown" novels are usually too mild for my personal taste. I had somewhat higher hopes for this book, "Tempt Me Tenderly"; it had potential in many ways, but unfortunately for me, it missed the mark on most of them. The predictability of the plot and flow throughout the book felt stunted at many places along the journey, and while I liked the relationship that developed between Jaimie and Grace, it did feel very contrived. I liked the series concept as well.
I don't leave synopsis of the story as the author does a much better job in their blurb, nor do I leave spoilers, as the next reader following me might feel totally different and I would not like to spoil the process for them. I do give author's that I review a second chance (or even third chance many times) since this might just be a book that didn't appeal to some part of me, so yes, I would read this author again.
I received an advanced reader copy(ARC) of this book and voluntarily left posted review.
I don't leave synopsis of the story as the author does a much better job in their blurb, nor do I leave spoilers, as the next reader following me might feel totally different and I would not like to spoil the process for them. I do give author's that I review a second chance (or even third chance many times) since this might just be a book that didn't appeal to some part of me, so yes, I would read this author again.
I received an advanced reader copy(ARC) of this book and voluntarily left posted review.
September 25, 2017
Great romance touching on how we as a society treat people differently due to their nationality, disabilities, and skin color. Jamie was born in the US but his parents are from El Salvador. He is the head chef at River’s Bend and a friend to the owner. Grace is the sister to the owner and is struggling to find what to do with her life. Grace has loved Jamie for years. She ask him to kiss her at a wedding one night and the story begins here. The story has drama, intrigue, love, heartbreak, and bigotry. Will Jamie be able to court Grace? Will Grace be able to figure out what her goal in life is? Will they get their happy ever after? Grab a copy of this book and begin reading. It grabs you from the first.
Iris has taken her characters and built them till they are two dimensional. Her plot keeps the pace of the story moving at a fast pace as she brings in how people few others that are different than themselves. I received an ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
Iris has taken her characters and built them till they are two dimensional. Her plot keeps the pace of the story moving at a fast pace as she brings in how people few others that are different than themselves. I received an ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
June 7, 2020
I enjoyed this book, but there was just something that didn’t suck me in in quite the same way as the first one did. Grace is sweet. Maybe she comes across as being a little too sweet? She may have been the one pursuing the relationship, but I got the feeling that she mostly let life happen to her rather than actively steering her own course. Grace’s father’s treatment of her made me want to scream. And I’m not sure who I wanted to yell at more. The prejudice and bigotry Jaime’s faced with broke my heart. He’s fought long and hard to build his reputation, yet when the chips are down, all that hard work counts for nothing. I loved the way Grace stands beside him and believes so wholeheartedly in his innocence. It was one of the things that made me really believe in what was developing between them. In the end, the story entertained me and kept me invested in seeing this pair get the best until they finally did.
February 23, 2019
Have to admit I dnf because it was that insipid. The heroine was extremely juvenile and I couldn’t get past the her view of being in love. A direct quote “She may be in love with him, but she didn’t really know him.”
Excerpt From
Tempt Me Tenderly
That’s not love. That is infatuation.
The hero grated on my nerves. His vocabulary was a bit crude, but the thing I disliked most was his reverse racism. “Relaxing was for white people” a quote from the book. His view of life was that white people have things easy and Hispanics have to work harder! I grew up 12 miles from the border and I-can tell you that white and Hispanic people have to work hard to get ahead. Granted there is still some prejudice in this country but not all whites are lazy and entitled and not all Hispanics are discriminated against. Quit bellyaching and just get on with life!
Excerpt From
Tempt Me Tenderly
That’s not love. That is infatuation.
The hero grated on my nerves. His vocabulary was a bit crude, but the thing I disliked most was his reverse racism. “Relaxing was for white people” a quote from the book. His view of life was that white people have things easy and Hispanics have to work harder! I grew up 12 miles from the border and I-can tell you that white and Hispanic people have to work hard to get ahead. Granted there is still some prejudice in this country but not all whites are lazy and entitled and not all Hispanics are discriminated against. Quit bellyaching and just get on with life!
September 30, 2017
A well written story about Jamie and Grace. It is written in dual POV, which I like very much because it gives the reader more of the story. The reader gets both sides of the story - thoughts and feelings from both main characters. This is the second book in this series. I starts of where the first ended but you can read it as a standalone. I would though recommend reading the previous first.
I has a nice story line and plot but it was very predictable. The characters have a lot to struggle with and they fight their way through them. A story that has prejudice, romance, passion and twists in it. Recommendable.
I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily wrote a review.
I has a nice story line and plot but it was very predictable. The characters have a lot to struggle with and they fight their way through them. A story that has prejudice, romance, passion and twists in it. Recommendable.
I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily wrote a review.
September 27, 2017
This is the third book in this series that I’ve read and I think it’s the best of those. Good writing and a storyline with a bit of intrigue. Grace seemed too delicate and compliant in the beginning but she nicely grew a backbone by the end and was a strong woman which thankfully seems to be the case for all the heroines in this series. I liked how dedicated she was to Jaime and how she believed in him unconditionally. Loved the romance between these two, it was sweet yet steamy.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2017
I voluntarily review an Advanced Reader Copy of this book
This is a sweet story between Grace and Jamie. Grace have been in love with Jamie and Jamie have like Grace for awhile. But Jamie have others things going on with his life, now he being accuse of steal from gis work of place. Grace doesn't know what to do with her life and her father is reminding her consisting.
I felt these 2 characters have been missing some kind of spark, that i havent felt. But at least they got an second chance with eachother.
This is a sweet story between Grace and Jamie. Grace have been in love with Jamie and Jamie have like Grace for awhile. But Jamie have others things going on with his life, now he being accuse of steal from gis work of place. Grace doesn't know what to do with her life and her father is reminding her consisting.
I felt these 2 characters have been missing some kind of spark, that i havent felt. But at least they got an second chance with eachother.
February 7, 2018
While reading I had this thought of, oh great it's going to be a typical I like my best friend's sister but can't have her type book. It actually ended up not being that bad.
Some drama occurred, which made things more appealing lol.
There was the typical family members that didn't approve of the relationship.
Best friend who was all for it and wanted to help in any way she could.
The suspicious brother
I'm honestly not sure what else to say. I don't want to give anything away :)
3.5 stars from me.
It's a quick paced read. Can be done in one sitting.
Some drama occurred, which made things more appealing lol.
There was the typical family members that didn't approve of the relationship.
Best friend who was all for it and wanted to help in any way she could.
The suspicious brother
I'm honestly not sure what else to say. I don't want to give anything away :)
3.5 stars from me.
It's a quick paced read. Can be done in one sitting.
November 18, 2017
Just a crush
Sometimes when a family knows you have a crush on someone, it could really mess things up for you. I enjoyed reading about virginal Grace and her major crush on Jamie, the hot brown cook. But what happens when the town seems to look at you as a criminal and you are trying to figure out your feelings at the same time. Great story. Can't wait to read more of this series.
Sometimes when a family knows you have a crush on someone, it could really mess things up for you. I enjoyed reading about virginal Grace and her major crush on Jamie, the hot brown cook. But what happens when the town seems to look at you as a criminal and you are trying to figure out your feelings at the same time. Great story. Can't wait to read more of this series.
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