What do you think?
Rate this book
In Mistletoe
At twenty-five, Grace Evans is steadily picking up the pieces of everyone else’s life. So, when her younger sister decides to turn into a runaway bride just four weeks before the wedding, Grace, drops everything to chase after her and bring her back home. Only, when the trail leads to Mistletoe, Washington, she finds herself at the mercy of the town’s most handsome and emotionally unavailable bachelor.
Ex-Army officer, Ayden McCabe, has three creeds in life: never make the first move, never fall in love, and never take anyone to Mistletoe’s Christmas Dance. Wanting nothing more than to keep his matchmaking sister from meddling in his personal life, he agrees to help Grace if she agrees to play his girlfriend. Too brunette and meek for his taste, Ayden believes Grace can’t tempt him enough to break any of his creeds. He could not be more wrong.
Ex-Army officer, Ayden McCabe, has three creeds in life: never make the first move, never fall in love, and never take anyone to Mistletoe’s Christmas Dance. Wanting nothing more than to keep his matchmaking sister from meddling in his personal life, he agrees to help Grace if she agrees to play his girlfriend. Too brunette and meek for his taste, Ayden believes Grace can’t tempt him enough to break any of his creeds. He could not be more wrong.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 2, 2016
About the author
Tammy L. Bailey
7 books468 followersTammy L. Bailey writes both historical and contemporary fiction with clever, romantic, and unexpected escapes combining delicious tension and laugh out loud humor.
Before she began writing romance, Tammy served in both the active Army and the Air National Guard. She was once asked if she wanted to become a navigator on a C-130. However, after getting lost to the recruiter's office, she was persuaded to choose another job.
Today, she lives with her husband and two sons where she balances her time between family, hockey, her full-time job as a nursing secretary, and being a writer. Whether it's historical or contemporary romance, for her, there must always be a happy ending.
If you want to connect with Tammy or want to know when she'll be releasing her next book, please visit her website at https://www.tammylbailey.com and sign up for her newsletter. She can't wait to hear from you.
Follow me at BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/tammy...
Visit me at: http://www.tammylbailey.com
Twitter: @tammylbailey
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tammylbailey...
Before she began writing romance, Tammy served in both the active Army and the Air National Guard. She was once asked if she wanted to become a navigator on a C-130. However, after getting lost to the recruiter's office, she was persuaded to choose another job.
Today, she lives with her husband and two sons where she balances her time between family, hockey, her full-time job as a nursing secretary, and being a writer. Whether it's historical or contemporary romance, for her, there must always be a happy ending.
If you want to connect with Tammy or want to know when she'll be releasing her next book, please visit her website at https://www.tammylbailey.com and sign up for her newsletter. She can't wait to hear from you.
Follow me at BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/tammy...
Visit me at: http://www.tammylbailey.com
Twitter: @tammylbailey
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tammylbailey...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
November 15, 2016
Pack your bags, bring your heaviest socks, Tammy L. Bailey is taking us to Mistletoe, Washington where this small town brings Christmas to life with their quaint traditions, sweet superstitions and warmth of a community filled with love. Okay, maybe one man in town isn’t filled with romantic love, but he sure doesn’t have a shortage of leggy blondes who will stop at nothing for a night in his bed. Ayden is ex-military, a confirmed bachelor with a “Leave ‘em Smiling” attitude. The big question is “WHY?”
Grace is the go-to-girl, the family fixer, the one who wishes the best for everyone but forgets herself. When her soon-to-be-married sister becomes the runaway bride, the only hint to her sister’s location is a postcard from Mistletoe. To say her entrance into this winter town is less than spectacular would be an understatement.
Two people, two agendas and one handshake bring Grace and Ayden into a partnership where each should benefit. What they hadn’t planned on was their hot and cold relationship that was more confusing and probably more painful than trying to count a swarm of bees on the attack. Will Ayden’s fear of true intimacy keep him pushing Grace away emotionally, or will he find that this sweet and damaged soul makes his heart come to life, a thought that terrifies him to his core.
Meanwhile, Grace wears her heart on her sleeve as Ayden continues to send her mixed signals on his intent. Just when he does the kindest and most caring things, he sends a volley of barbed words to totally deflate her heart. Even their kisses under the proverbial mistletoe sends them each mixed messages. When all is said and done and they have each fulfilled their part of the bargain, will they ever be the same?
Tammy L. Bailey’s IN MISTLETOE brings the holidays to life in each scene around town as the spirit of the season bubbles over under a blanket of snow. The only two NOT fully into the spirit of things were Ayden and Grace and that, my friends was painful to watch as two people clearly meant for each other are thwarted by the Grinch that stole romance. False cues, unspoken words and bad experiences haunt the possibilities for these two. Will they finally lay their cards on the table or will they part, a little sadder, a little more damaged than before?
Ms. Bailey has proven that once again, she knows how to write by bringing her readers close to tears of anger and frustration as we root for the woman who needs to get a spine and the man who needs to open his eyes. Beautiful scenes and humorous moments will give us hope that IN MISTLETOE miracles can occur, but will they? More meat than some Holiday Romance reads, with tension running hot throughout! This one will take a piece of your heart!
I received an ARC edition from Tammy L. Bailey in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press, Inc (December 2, 2016)
Publication Date: December 2, 2016
Genre: Holiday Romance
Print Length: 226 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Grace is the go-to-girl, the family fixer, the one who wishes the best for everyone but forgets herself. When her soon-to-be-married sister becomes the runaway bride, the only hint to her sister’s location is a postcard from Mistletoe. To say her entrance into this winter town is less than spectacular would be an understatement.
Two people, two agendas and one handshake bring Grace and Ayden into a partnership where each should benefit. What they hadn’t planned on was their hot and cold relationship that was more confusing and probably more painful than trying to count a swarm of bees on the attack. Will Ayden’s fear of true intimacy keep him pushing Grace away emotionally, or will he find that this sweet and damaged soul makes his heart come to life, a thought that terrifies him to his core.
Meanwhile, Grace wears her heart on her sleeve as Ayden continues to send her mixed signals on his intent. Just when he does the kindest and most caring things, he sends a volley of barbed words to totally deflate her heart. Even their kisses under the proverbial mistletoe sends them each mixed messages. When all is said and done and they have each fulfilled their part of the bargain, will they ever be the same?
Tammy L. Bailey’s IN MISTLETOE brings the holidays to life in each scene around town as the spirit of the season bubbles over under a blanket of snow. The only two NOT fully into the spirit of things were Ayden and Grace and that, my friends was painful to watch as two people clearly meant for each other are thwarted by the Grinch that stole romance. False cues, unspoken words and bad experiences haunt the possibilities for these two. Will they finally lay their cards on the table or will they part, a little sadder, a little more damaged than before?
Ms. Bailey has proven that once again, she knows how to write by bringing her readers close to tears of anger and frustration as we root for the woman who needs to get a spine and the man who needs to open his eyes. Beautiful scenes and humorous moments will give us hope that IN MISTLETOE miracles can occur, but will they? More meat than some Holiday Romance reads, with tension running hot throughout! This one will take a piece of your heart!
I received an ARC edition from Tammy L. Bailey in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press, Inc (December 2, 2016)
Publication Date: December 2, 2016
Genre: Holiday Romance
Print Length: 226 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
November 12, 2016
When I started reading this book I was hoping to find inside “In Mistletoe” a relaxing and drama-free romantic story set during Christmas, perfect to put me in the mood for the coming holidays.
I did get some of the Christmas vibe from the secondary characters as I saw them preparing for Christmas by baking and decorating, organizing dinners for the whole family to gather under the Christmas tree and mostly preparing for Mistletoe’s Christmas Dance. Sadly, I couldn’t really focus in the celebrations that were happening in this book because my attention was constantly drawn to the unnecessary drama between the main characters.
The heroine seemed to me very weak, she always took back her on and off again boyfriend in the past even though he would end up dumping her again for another woman. We might find Grace in the beginning of the book single because Rick is yet again with another woman but that doesn’t stop our heroine from thinking about him and planning to take him back as soon as he gets tired of the other woman and calls her. Even after Grace meets Ayden and feels attracted to him she still rushes to pick up the phone when Rick calls.
Ayden wasn’t a very likeable hero either, his excuse for being afraid of commitment wasn’t really believable to me, he was always surrounded with over the top other women drama as his exes would show up and kiss him and seduce him with him trying but not really trying to stop them and that is something I do not enjoy reading in romances.
I also didn’t like the way he kept emotionally pushing away Grace but at the same time he still pursued sex with her even though he was aware that she had feeling for him. After all that pushing away I expected him to finally chase after the heroine but unfortunately Grace did all the chasing from the beginning to the end.
There is of course something i have to give credit for to Grace and that is her class when dealing with Ayden’s exes despite him wanting her jealousy to boost his ego. In most romances with other women drama the heroine always ends up slut-shaming all the other women who were trying to “steal” the blameless hero so it was really refreshing to see Grace telling one of Ayden’s exes that she was beautiful, that a lot of guys would love to date her and that she was worth more than waiting Ayden to give her a chance. I only wish Grace had followed her own advice.
I voluntarily reviewed the free copy that I received via Reading Alley
I did get some of the Christmas vibe from the secondary characters as I saw them preparing for Christmas by baking and decorating, organizing dinners for the whole family to gather under the Christmas tree and mostly preparing for Mistletoe’s Christmas Dance. Sadly, I couldn’t really focus in the celebrations that were happening in this book because my attention was constantly drawn to the unnecessary drama between the main characters.
The heroine seemed to me very weak, she always took back her on and off again boyfriend in the past even though he would end up dumping her again for another woman. We might find Grace in the beginning of the book single because Rick is yet again with another woman but that doesn’t stop our heroine from thinking about him and planning to take him back as soon as he gets tired of the other woman and calls her. Even after Grace meets Ayden and feels attracted to him she still rushes to pick up the phone when Rick calls.
Ayden wasn’t a very likeable hero either, his excuse for being afraid of commitment wasn’t really believable to me, he was always surrounded with over the top other women drama as his exes would show up and kiss him and seduce him with him trying but not really trying to stop them and that is something I do not enjoy reading in romances.
I also didn’t like the way he kept emotionally pushing away Grace but at the same time he still pursued sex with her even though he was aware that she had feeling for him. After all that pushing away I expected him to finally chase after the heroine but unfortunately Grace did all the chasing from the beginning to the end.
There is of course something i have to give credit for to Grace and that is her class when dealing with Ayden’s exes despite him wanting her jealousy to boost his ego. In most romances with other women drama the heroine always ends up slut-shaming all the other women who were trying to “steal” the blameless hero so it was really refreshing to see Grace telling one of Ayden’s exes that she was beautiful, that a lot of guys would love to date her and that she was worth more than waiting Ayden to give her a chance. I only wish Grace had followed her own advice.
I voluntarily reviewed the free copy that I received via Reading Alley
July 27, 2019
I read this a month ago. Skimmed a fair bit in the middle.
I guess I just wasn't a big fan of either MC. I thought they were both rather shallow people.
Grace goes to the town of Mistletoe ostensibly to find her sister who has done a walk-about just before her nuptials.
She ends up staying with Ayden who needs a fake girlfriend to keep the matchmakers at bay. He's prefers his life foot loose and fancy free. So he can keep bringing home tall blond bimbos. Not fall in love with petite brunettes named Grace. We get to meet a couple of the blond bimbos who don't seem particularly put off by the fact that he has a girlfriend. And he isn't trying particularly hard to sell the fact that he has a girlfriend...
Meanwhile Grace isn't too crazy about falling for Ayden either as she has a scumbag fair-weather boyfriend who is currently shacking up with someone else. So I guess technically they aren't together but she wishes they were because she is just that pathetic...
It's a small town and everybody knows everybody else's business.
The ending was cute and romantic but because of the rest of the book I wasn't totally sold and it felt more like an HFN.
safety is OK
I guess I just wasn't a big fan of either MC. I thought they were both rather shallow people.
Grace goes to the town of Mistletoe ostensibly to find her sister who has done a walk-about just before her nuptials.
She ends up staying with Ayden who needs a fake girlfriend to keep the matchmakers at bay. He's prefers his life foot loose and fancy free. So he can keep bringing home tall blond bimbos. Not fall in love with petite brunettes named Grace. We get to meet a couple of the blond bimbos who don't seem particularly put off by the fact that he has a girlfriend. And he isn't trying particularly hard to sell the fact that he has a girlfriend...
Meanwhile Grace isn't too crazy about falling for Ayden either as she has a scumbag fair-weather boyfriend who is currently shacking up with someone else. So I guess technically they aren't together but she wishes they were because she is just that pathetic...
It's a small town and everybody knows everybody else's business.
The ending was cute and romantic but because of the rest of the book I wasn't totally sold and it felt more like an HFN.
safety is OK
December 20, 2016
Grace's family is everything to her. Ever since her father left them Grace has been taking care of her mother and younger sister Danielle. When Danielle disappears shortly before her wedding Grace wants to bring her back. Her sister's happiness is important to her and Grace doesn't hesitate, she spends her savings on the trip and takes time off work. She immediately travels to Mistletoe, which is the place her sister is supposed to be. Grace needs to find somewhere to stay and therefore she's being introduced to Ayden. He has a big house and he has the space to put her up, but in exchange he wants something from Grace that might cost her a lot more than she initially bargained for.
Ayden doesn't mind sharing his home with the very pretty Grace. Her arrival is actually quite convenient. His sister wants him to go to the annual Mistletoe Christmas Dance and has advertised this all over town. Ayden is popular and a lot of women have offered themselves already. To get his sister off his back Ayden asks Grace to pretend to be his girlfriend. In exchange he will help her with her mission to find her sister. It seems like the perfect bargain, but their deal might bring complications. Will they both get what they want in the end?
In Mistletoe is a heartwarming winter story. I immediately loved Grace, she's as sweet as the pastries she bakes. She's kind and caring and she kept surprising me with her actions. Ayden has built a solid wall around his heart. He's honest about his intentions, but because he's a nice guy women tend to forget he isn't available for more than just a casual fling, so he's broken a lot of hearts already. He's chivalrous and charming and he's also really endearing, which is a dangerous combination. I couldn't wait to find out if those walls could be broken down. Ayden deserves more than just hookups, even though he thinks they are exactly what he needs, and Grace shouldn't settle for a guy who keeps dropping her for other women. Grace and Ayden are perfect for each other. There's a connection on many different levels and that made this story both fascinating and incredibly romantic.
Tammy L. Bailey has chosen a wonderful setting for her book. Mistletoe is a cute village with lovely inhabitants. The snow and Christmas cheer are making the story dreamy and festive. Together they're providing the ideal situation for a beautiful blossoming relationship. I loved the vibrant descriptions of both the town and the characters. There are many fun details and quirks, which constantly made me smile, while there's a good emotional basis as well. In Mistletoe is a fantastic warm and friendly story.
Ayden doesn't mind sharing his home with the very pretty Grace. Her arrival is actually quite convenient. His sister wants him to go to the annual Mistletoe Christmas Dance and has advertised this all over town. Ayden is popular and a lot of women have offered themselves already. To get his sister off his back Ayden asks Grace to pretend to be his girlfriend. In exchange he will help her with her mission to find her sister. It seems like the perfect bargain, but their deal might bring complications. Will they both get what they want in the end?
In Mistletoe is a heartwarming winter story. I immediately loved Grace, she's as sweet as the pastries she bakes. She's kind and caring and she kept surprising me with her actions. Ayden has built a solid wall around his heart. He's honest about his intentions, but because he's a nice guy women tend to forget he isn't available for more than just a casual fling, so he's broken a lot of hearts already. He's chivalrous and charming and he's also really endearing, which is a dangerous combination. I couldn't wait to find out if those walls could be broken down. Ayden deserves more than just hookups, even though he thinks they are exactly what he needs, and Grace shouldn't settle for a guy who keeps dropping her for other women. Grace and Ayden are perfect for each other. There's a connection on many different levels and that made this story both fascinating and incredibly romantic.
Tammy L. Bailey has chosen a wonderful setting for her book. Mistletoe is a cute village with lovely inhabitants. The snow and Christmas cheer are making the story dreamy and festive. Together they're providing the ideal situation for a beautiful blossoming relationship. I loved the vibrant descriptions of both the town and the characters. There are many fun details and quirks, which constantly made me smile, while there's a good emotional basis as well. In Mistletoe is a fantastic warm and friendly story.
November 11, 2016
This is a very sweet romance story about a girl who fixes the lives of everyone but herself. She's very set in her ways, so you can tell she's been doing this for a while. She's so caught up in everyone else's lives that she can't focus on her own!! Sadly, I have been there so I know what that's like. It made it very easy to relate to her character and kept me invested in the outcome.
Ayden, the man Grace meets when trying to find her sister, took me a little longer to warm up to. He's got his guard up and seems more than a little stubborn. He does NOT want to fall in love, and he makes it very clear. But with his own family pusher, he thinks he may have found just the right person to bring him back into the clear. Yes, a plot is afoot, for he wants to use Grace as a fake girlfriend in exchange for helping her with her own sister issues.
This book has a steady build as far as romance goes, I liked that. Eventually, you warm up to all of the characters and feel your heart swoon the further and further the relationship develops. All in all I absolutely loved this book. It is a perfect holiday romance for the season and I recommend it to all readers of the romance genre!
Book Club/Book Review Blog: http://www.goodbookswithtea.blogspot.com
Ayden, the man Grace meets when trying to find her sister, took me a little longer to warm up to. He's got his guard up and seems more than a little stubborn. He does NOT want to fall in love, and he makes it very clear. But with his own family pusher, he thinks he may have found just the right person to bring him back into the clear. Yes, a plot is afoot, for he wants to use Grace as a fake girlfriend in exchange for helping her with her own sister issues.
This book has a steady build as far as romance goes, I liked that. Eventually, you warm up to all of the characters and feel your heart swoon the further and further the relationship develops. All in all I absolutely loved this book. It is a perfect holiday romance for the season and I recommend it to all readers of the romance genre!
Book Club/Book Review Blog: http://www.goodbookswithtea.blogspot.com
November 2, 2016
My first read from this author and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this one.
Tammy Bailey has a real talent for painting a picture with her words, I could easily see Mistletoe and its inhabitants in my mind. The storyline is low drama with just enough to keep you turning the pages. I kept telling myself I'd just read a few chapters until I found I was at the end of the book within a few hours. By the end I was hoping for just a few more pages, I didn't want to say goodbye to these people.
A great read from an author I will definitely be looking out for in the future.
*ARC provided for honest review*
Tammy Bailey has a real talent for painting a picture with her words, I could easily see Mistletoe and its inhabitants in my mind. The storyline is low drama with just enough to keep you turning the pages. I kept telling myself I'd just read a few chapters until I found I was at the end of the book within a few hours. By the end I was hoping for just a few more pages, I didn't want to say goodbye to these people.
A great read from an author I will definitely be looking out for in the future.
*ARC provided for honest review*
October 15, 2016
In Mistletoe is a fabulous romance read!
Beautiful storytelling- great characterization, amazing narrative, gorgeous snowy settings.
Tammy L Bailey is a superb writer with a unique voice, reigning champion of the romance genre.
Unrivaled master in the art of capturing readers full attention and keeping them immersed in her writing.
Dialogue that gets right to the heart of who the characters really are and shows how they think, without just telling the obvious.
The characters of Ayden McCabe and Grace Evans are so vividly portrayed they actually comes alive from the pages.
Beautiful storytelling- great characterization, amazing narrative, gorgeous snowy settings.
Tammy L Bailey is a superb writer with a unique voice, reigning champion of the romance genre.
Unrivaled master in the art of capturing readers full attention and keeping them immersed in her writing.
Dialogue that gets right to the heart of who the characters really are and shows how they think, without just telling the obvious.
The characters of Ayden McCabe and Grace Evans are so vividly portrayed they actually comes alive from the pages.
November 13, 2016
I received an advanced copy for an honest review. 4.5 stars.
I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Both characters had flaws & issues they had to work through. I loved how both Grace & Ayden talked to one another...their conversations were heartfelt and, at times, entertaining. I won't give too much away, but the letter Ayden wrote to Grace made me cry. I really do look forward to reading more from this author.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves reading, or even, watching holiday romances.
I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Both characters had flaws & issues they had to work through. I loved how both Grace & Ayden talked to one another...their conversations were heartfelt and, at times, entertaining. I won't give too much away, but the letter Ayden wrote to Grace made me cry. I really do look forward to reading more from this author.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves reading, or even, watching holiday romances.
June 18, 2017
My Rating – 4.5
A swoon worthy read set in the Christmas season in the backdrop of a lovely cottage named Hearth’s Gate… what more could I ask for.
It’s a good girl – bad boy story! (I know it’s cliche but trust me the plot’s a lot different then your normal cliches).
P.S It is not a book with lot’s of Christmas vibes and most part of the plot happens before Christmas though there’s some preparation for Christmas in the back – drop.
Grace Evans your typical good girl who puts her family’s needs before her own! So when her to – be bride sister turns into a runaway bride and the only hint is a backdrop of a town on the postcard sent by her sister she packs her bags and sets off for that town.
With not even enough warm clothes she enters completely unprepared in the gorgeous wintery town of Mistletoe.
Ayden McCabe the town’s heartthrob is a playboy. One who doesn’t believe in commitment due to a certain reason in his past.
When Ayden and Grace accidentally meet the connection is instant. Both of them have an agenda and so they strike a deal. A deal where Grace has to play the fake girlfriend while Ayden helps in finding her sister.
So would they be able to go on their own ways after the deal ends? Or would they end up falling in love with each other ? Or was their accidental meet not so accidental ? Will Grace find her sister ? Will Ayden be able to get in terms with his past ? Is the plot as simple as it looks ? Lot’s of questions and just one story to read for the answers!
My first read by this author and I was surprised at how well she created the town and the characters. It was like a movie playing in front of me so lucidly written.
And then the plot so smoothly woven and so nicely written! The twists they shocked me.. the emotions they definitely moved me!
I’m definitely reading another book by this author!
A swoon worthy read set in the Christmas season in the backdrop of a lovely cottage named Hearth’s Gate… what more could I ask for.
It’s a good girl – bad boy story! (I know it’s cliche but trust me the plot’s a lot different then your normal cliches).
P.S It is not a book with lot’s of Christmas vibes and most part of the plot happens before Christmas though there’s some preparation for Christmas in the back – drop.
Grace Evans your typical good girl who puts her family’s needs before her own! So when her to – be bride sister turns into a runaway bride and the only hint is a backdrop of a town on the postcard sent by her sister she packs her bags and sets off for that town.
With not even enough warm clothes she enters completely unprepared in the gorgeous wintery town of Mistletoe.
Ayden McCabe the town’s heartthrob is a playboy. One who doesn’t believe in commitment due to a certain reason in his past.
When Ayden and Grace accidentally meet the connection is instant. Both of them have an agenda and so they strike a deal. A deal where Grace has to play the fake girlfriend while Ayden helps in finding her sister.
So would they be able to go on their own ways after the deal ends? Or would they end up falling in love with each other ? Or was their accidental meet not so accidental ? Will Grace find her sister ? Will Ayden be able to get in terms with his past ? Is the plot as simple as it looks ? Lot’s of questions and just one story to read for the answers!
My first read by this author and I was surprised at how well she created the town and the characters. It was like a movie playing in front of me so lucidly written.
And then the plot so smoothly woven and so nicely written! The twists they shocked me.. the emotions they definitely moved me!
I’m definitely reading another book by this author!
December 2, 2016
4 1/2 stars
Always the one to take care of her mother and sister, Danielle, Grace goes to Mistletoe, Washington to find Danielle, who has run away just weeks before her wedding. There she requests the help of Ayden, a former Army officer and ladies man. In exchange for helping Grace to find Danielle, he asks that Grace pretend to be his girlfriend so that his matchmaking sister, Maggie, who has plastered flyers all over town trying to set him up for the Christmas Eve Eve dance, will stop nagging him.
I had a hard time getting into In Mistletoe. Initially I found the character of Grace to be a doormouse, which seemed to contradict the fact that she took care of her mother and sister. In some of the first scenes she also came across as a bit of a ditz. However, the more I read, the more I liked.
read more: https://saschadarlington.me/2016/12/0...
Always the one to take care of her mother and sister, Danielle, Grace goes to Mistletoe, Washington to find Danielle, who has run away just weeks before her wedding. There she requests the help of Ayden, a former Army officer and ladies man. In exchange for helping Grace to find Danielle, he asks that Grace pretend to be his girlfriend so that his matchmaking sister, Maggie, who has plastered flyers all over town trying to set him up for the Christmas Eve Eve dance, will stop nagging him.
I had a hard time getting into In Mistletoe. Initially I found the character of Grace to be a doormouse, which seemed to contradict the fact that she took care of her mother and sister. In some of the first scenes she also came across as a bit of a ditz. However, the more I read, the more I liked.
read more: https://saschadarlington.me/2016/12/0...
December 2, 2016
Grace Evans has been everyone's port in the storm since she was a girl, so at twenty five, she has no life of her own. Her mother and younger sister have depended on her to take care of them, and the useless man in her life only uses her for the same reason. So when her sister decides to become a runaway bride four weeks before the wedding, Grace's mother gets her to search and bring her back. Grace takes time off of work, and finds herself in Mistletoe, Washington, at the mercy of the town's playboy. She needs a place to stay, and help with finding her sister, while he needs someone to pose as his girlfriend that won't fall in love with him. Ex-Army officer, Ayden McCabe believes that love only hurts people, and refuses to let himself fall in love, so he's quite the man about town. When his sister decides to post an ad in order to find him a date to the Christmas Dance, he decides to offer Grace a deal. What he didn't count on was the strong connection he would feel with her, and the more time they spend together, the more he can't stay away, even though he swears she's not his type. So will Ayden be able to open his heart to Grace, or will she go home when she finds her sister?
What a sweet and emotional story! The character development is great, with a hilarious cast of secondaries. However, both Grace, and Ayden were very frustrating each in their own ways. Ayden, when he would continue to push her away with talking too much, and Grace, who took a while to stand up to him. Now, I'm not saying that it was bad, just saying that they were characters with realistic issues, so I felt closer to them. Anyway, I digress, Tammy L. Bailey's talented and easy writing style hooked me at the beginning, while holding me until the very end, so I devoured this story in one sitting. This story wasn't suspense, and yet, her twists made for great OMG moments that ended with dropping the f-bomb loudly when all is revealed. I really enjoyed this story a ton, so I'm very excited to read more by this author! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
What a sweet and emotional story! The character development is great, with a hilarious cast of secondaries. However, both Grace, and Ayden were very frustrating each in their own ways. Ayden, when he would continue to push her away with talking too much, and Grace, who took a while to stand up to him. Now, I'm not saying that it was bad, just saying that they were characters with realistic issues, so I felt closer to them. Anyway, I digress, Tammy L. Bailey's talented and easy writing style hooked me at the beginning, while holding me until the very end, so I devoured this story in one sitting. This story wasn't suspense, and yet, her twists made for great OMG moments that ended with dropping the f-bomb loudly when all is revealed. I really enjoyed this story a ton, so I'm very excited to read more by this author! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
December 3, 2016
I love books that surround the winter holidays (especially Christmas), and this sweet romance was a great way to start off my winter reading!
I usually don’t read through reviews until after I read the book because no two people are going to exactly feel the same about a book, and I have to say that I don’t agree that Grace was too weak; she may be meek, but that girl has had to take care of herself, her mother, and her sister since she was a wee little girl. She is stronger than she lets on, even if she is rather ignorant (and admittedly so) for taking Rick back time and time again.
Point blank, though she wants change, she is too heavily stuck in one place, afraid to move on to something new.
Ayden, however, has no problem with moving on to greener pastures. I have mixed feelings about him though. He can be a class A jackass, but he also is quick to take care of Grace and instinctively knows when to call her on her BS and when to toe the line.
Ms. Bailey doesn’t heavily rely on a thesaurus to show off her vocabulary; instead she carefully describes feelings, weather, people, etc. as if weaving on a loom. This book flows perfectly and it wasn’t hard to decide to curl up on the couch with my kindle, my sleeping kitten, and a blanket while blocking out the rest of world so that I could figuratively freeze my bum off in Mistletoe, Washington with Grace.
ANGIE’S RATING: **** (rounded up from 3.5)
DISCLAIMER: I requested a review copy to participate in the blog tour. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
PLEASE NOTE: Some language, sexual tension. Suitable for readers over 18. (I wouldn’t categorize it as erotica, but it’s also not a clean read.)
I usually don’t read through reviews until after I read the book because no two people are going to exactly feel the same about a book, and I have to say that I don’t agree that Grace was too weak; she may be meek, but that girl has had to take care of herself, her mother, and her sister since she was a wee little girl. She is stronger than she lets on, even if she is rather ignorant (and admittedly so) for taking Rick back time and time again.
Point blank, though she wants change, she is too heavily stuck in one place, afraid to move on to something new.
Ayden, however, has no problem with moving on to greener pastures. I have mixed feelings about him though. He can be a class A jackass, but he also is quick to take care of Grace and instinctively knows when to call her on her BS and when to toe the line.
Ms. Bailey doesn’t heavily rely on a thesaurus to show off her vocabulary; instead she carefully describes feelings, weather, people, etc. as if weaving on a loom. This book flows perfectly and it wasn’t hard to decide to curl up on the couch with my kindle, my sleeping kitten, and a blanket while blocking out the rest of world so that I could figuratively freeze my bum off in Mistletoe, Washington with Grace.
ANGIE’S RATING: **** (rounded up from 3.5)
DISCLAIMER: I requested a review copy to participate in the blog tour. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
PLEASE NOTE: Some language, sexual tension. Suitable for readers over 18. (I wouldn’t categorize it as erotica, but it’s also not a clean read.)
December 7, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed In Mistletoe, for two main reasons: the characters were lovable, and the story was sweet. Now that's established, let me explain further...
Grace & Ayden are real people, with real issues, and causes for those issues. There's nothing I hate more in a story than not knowing why a particular character is acting in a certain why - or when the reason makes no sense. To that extent, the author delivered a full background, and it gave the characters a more realistic vibe, not to mention made them more relatable.
This helped me get over the fact I was not a fan of Grace to begin with - I don't like doormat heroines with ex boyfriends that do whatever they want. However, once I got to know Grace better, she grew on me. She especially amazed me when dealing with Ayden's exes. Ayden, on the other hand, grasped my interest from the beginning and held it! I was never able to quite guess how he'd react to a given situation, and this made the story surprisingly more enjoyable!
The author evidently gave it a good edit, as the story flowed smoothly, the dialogue was engaging, the descriptions were accurate... It definitely pulls you into the holiday mood! And at the end, the happy ending sealed the deal!
Would definitely recommend this for anyone into some good old holiday romance :)
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
Grace & Ayden are real people, with real issues, and causes for those issues. There's nothing I hate more in a story than not knowing why a particular character is acting in a certain why - or when the reason makes no sense. To that extent, the author delivered a full background, and it gave the characters a more realistic vibe, not to mention made them more relatable.
This helped me get over the fact I was not a fan of Grace to begin with - I don't like doormat heroines with ex boyfriends that do whatever they want. However, once I got to know Grace better, she grew on me. She especially amazed me when dealing with Ayden's exes. Ayden, on the other hand, grasped my interest from the beginning and held it! I was never able to quite guess how he'd react to a given situation, and this made the story surprisingly more enjoyable!
The author evidently gave it a good edit, as the story flowed smoothly, the dialogue was engaging, the descriptions were accurate... It definitely pulls you into the holiday mood! And at the end, the happy ending sealed the deal!
Would definitely recommend this for anyone into some good old holiday romance :)
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
November 19, 2016
Ali
Rating: 5.0
In Mistletoe is a comedic holiday romance full of light deceit and suspense. The main characters are polar opposites when it comes to what/who takes precedence in their lives.
Grace worries about anyone and everyone but herself (namely her engaged sister) while Ayden refuses to let anyone else into his life. It's a ying/yang relationship that catches both off guard when they realize that despite their differences, they're perfect for one another. In a way, they complete each other.
As far as the actual story goes...
Grace's sister skips town just before her wedding. Since she's vicariously living through her sister's life, Grace doesn't hesitate to play hero in running after her. Where her search leads her? The town of Mistletoe!
Thinking he can help in her search, Grace agrees to deceive Ayden's sister into believing they're in a relationship. I always find these silly little situations hilarious, so I thought that was a warm and welcome development to this story and an appropriate compromise given the characters.
Alright, so no spoilers.
But if you're looking for a warm and cozy holiday romance to kick off this winter season, you can't go wrong with "In Mistletoe".
I received a free pre-release copy of this novel from the author.
Rating: 5.0
In Mistletoe is a comedic holiday romance full of light deceit and suspense. The main characters are polar opposites when it comes to what/who takes precedence in their lives.
Grace worries about anyone and everyone but herself (namely her engaged sister) while Ayden refuses to let anyone else into his life. It's a ying/yang relationship that catches both off guard when they realize that despite their differences, they're perfect for one another. In a way, they complete each other.
As far as the actual story goes...
Grace's sister skips town just before her wedding. Since she's vicariously living through her sister's life, Grace doesn't hesitate to play hero in running after her. Where her search leads her? The town of Mistletoe!
Thinking he can help in her search, Grace agrees to deceive Ayden's sister into believing they're in a relationship. I always find these silly little situations hilarious, so I thought that was a warm and welcome development to this story and an appropriate compromise given the characters.
Alright, so no spoilers.
But if you're looking for a warm and cozy holiday romance to kick off this winter season, you can't go wrong with "In Mistletoe".
I received a free pre-release copy of this novel from the author.
December 13, 2016
Grace Evans is trying to track down a run away bride, her sister. Grace's life has not been her own for a very long time. Both her mother and sister have counted on her to take care of them.
She also has a scum of the earth boyfriend. That is only her boyfriend when it's convenient for him.
I think she's been taken advantage of and needs to tell all these people to grow up. For example, she's using her own money to track her sister down. She ends up in Mistletoe, Washington.
It doesn't take long for the townspeople to get involved. She meets up with the towns famous bachelor, Ayden McCabe. He is very honest with every woman he meets that he will not fall in love with them. Grace and Ayden strike up a bargain. She gets a place to stay and he'll help find her sister. Ayden gets a pretend girlfriend to get his well-meaning sister off his back.
As this book goes along these two open up more and more to each other. Through Ayden Grace becomes a stronger person.
There are some funny moments, especially with the other townspeople involved.
I like Grace's character. She is so giving to everyone.
Ayden doesn't realize how much Grace means to him until she leaves.
This is a very heartwarming story that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.
She also has a scum of the earth boyfriend. That is only her boyfriend when it's convenient for him.
I think she's been taken advantage of and needs to tell all these people to grow up. For example, she's using her own money to track her sister down. She ends up in Mistletoe, Washington.
It doesn't take long for the townspeople to get involved. She meets up with the towns famous bachelor, Ayden McCabe. He is very honest with every woman he meets that he will not fall in love with them. Grace and Ayden strike up a bargain. She gets a place to stay and he'll help find her sister. Ayden gets a pretend girlfriend to get his well-meaning sister off his back.
As this book goes along these two open up more and more to each other. Through Ayden Grace becomes a stronger person.
There are some funny moments, especially with the other townspeople involved.
I like Grace's character. She is so giving to everyone.
Ayden doesn't realize how much Grace means to him until she leaves.
This is a very heartwarming story that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.
November 19, 2016
This was such a fast read! You pick it up and Bam! Before you know it you've read the whole thing!! From the get go you're caught by the writing style and introduction to these relatable, almost over the top characters. It draws you in with drama, suspense, and intrigue. I could see some of these events playing out in like a TV drama. The bride goes missing, the sister makes it her mission to drag her back for the perfect wedding, the stubborn help who turns out to be some hunky arm candy! Really, the whole thing would make a fascinating movie as far as romantic holiday drama goes. (A guilty pleasure movie I would definitely go see)
The reading flows easy. This isn't one of those novels where the writer tries to trip you up by showing off their ridiculous vocabulary. This author instead focuses on the story and character developments, which I personally prefer. In Mistletoe is a fun, thought out romance that is perfect for reading beside a fireplace with a cup of cocoa in hand!
Book review blog: http://www.goodbookswithtea.blogspot.com
The reading flows easy. This isn't one of those novels where the writer tries to trip you up by showing off their ridiculous vocabulary. This author instead focuses on the story and character developments, which I personally prefer. In Mistletoe is a fun, thought out romance that is perfect for reading beside a fireplace with a cup of cocoa in hand!
Book review blog: http://www.goodbookswithtea.blogspot.com
November 19, 2016
Rating: 4.5
Ayden, what a SASS hat! OMG he is seriously such a misunderstood tool at first! Not going to lie, tho, I did grow to love that clown. His story is brave and admirable, even if it's not talked about quite as much as Grace's since the story focuses mainly in the fact that she's trying to find a runaway bride. (Her sister- I don't think that counts as a spoiler cuz it's really early in the story!!)
Still, his character is certainly described in the most perfect f*ckin way ever just to make you fall in love with that tool. He's a sexy soldier with a heart long since locked away, but the holiday fairies aren't having any of that bull. As date would have it, Grace is about to barreling into his life and right through that steel cage around his cold and dreary heart!
Not gonna lie, I found myself fangirling over this pair on more that one occasion.
Steady/kind of faster paced story so long as it's your kind of genre. Recommended for romance and holiday fiction fans.
Ayden, what a SASS hat! OMG he is seriously such a misunderstood tool at first! Not going to lie, tho, I did grow to love that clown. His story is brave and admirable, even if it's not talked about quite as much as Grace's since the story focuses mainly in the fact that she's trying to find a runaway bride. (Her sister- I don't think that counts as a spoiler cuz it's really early in the story!!)
Still, his character is certainly described in the most perfect f*ckin way ever just to make you fall in love with that tool. He's a sexy soldier with a heart long since locked away, but the holiday fairies aren't having any of that bull. As date would have it, Grace is about to barreling into his life and right through that steel cage around his cold and dreary heart!
Not gonna lie, I found myself fangirling over this pair on more that one occasion.
Steady/kind of faster paced story so long as it's your kind of genre. Recommended for romance and holiday fiction fans.
November 22, 2016
This is a new author for me. I wasn't sure what to expect but liked the blurb so decided it was worth a try. Grace is used to being the person who solves her sister and her moms's problems, to being in charge. When her soon to be married sister disappears she heads to the last place they think she was to find her and bring her back. Ayden is one of those guys who is not looking for a forever girl. His sister is determined to find him a wife. When he strikes a deal with Grace to pretend they are together to get his sister off his back and help find her Grace's sister things get a little murky. Loved Ayden and Grace although Ayden took a long time getting over himself. The secondary characters move the story along and add some fun to the mix. Overall a good quick read. The people of the town of Mistletoe make the story come alive.The wrap up at the end with the special Christmas Eve dance was sweet.
November 24, 2016
The book begins with Grace arriving in Mistletoe in search of her sister. Two weeks before her sister Danielle's wedding, the bride has vanished. The only clue to her location is a postcard sent from Mistletoe, WA. Grace is the "fixer" in her family, so it is only natural that she is the one to go after her. She rushes there so quickly, though, that she doesn't even think of where she is going to stay.
When Grace cannot find a place to stay, a new friend points her towards Ayden. Ayden owns a construction company in town, but lives in his late parents' former B & B. They end up helping each other out: she gets a place to stay, and he gets a pretend girlfriend to deter his sister Maggie from setting him up with a date for the Christmas Eve (Eve) dance.
I would give this book 3.5 stars. It was sweet and a quick read. A great holiday romance! I was given this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
When Grace cannot find a place to stay, a new friend points her towards Ayden. Ayden owns a construction company in town, but lives in his late parents' former B & B. They end up helping each other out: she gets a place to stay, and he gets a pretend girlfriend to deter his sister Maggie from setting him up with a date for the Christmas Eve (Eve) dance.
I would give this book 3.5 stars. It was sweet and a quick read. A great holiday romance! I was given this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2017
Such a romantic, sexy, and heart warming story. I loved the way that Grace and Ayden came together, working together and not realizing what would happen to them; changing both their lives. The sweet romance made me believe that everything happens for a reason, there is such a thing as fate. I loved the chemistry between Grace and Ayden, it makes the reader cheer and hope they realize destiny. Thank you Reading Alley and Tammy L. Bailey for allowing me to read this book and write a honest review.
August 3, 2017
This is the first book I read by this author , and am glad I got a chance to do so.
Yes, it’s a romance but it’s also a story about family, about people that have flaws just like us, and how a bargain can turn around to be the best deal that was ever made.
The town of Mistletoe is one I hope will be revisited in future books.
I was gifted this copy. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Yes, it’s a romance but it’s also a story about family, about people that have flaws just like us, and how a bargain can turn around to be the best deal that was ever made.
The town of Mistletoe is one I hope will be revisited in future books.
I was gifted this copy. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
June 24, 2017
This was a fun, easy, romantic book to read! I really enjoyed the characters in the story & couldn't wait to finish the book to see how it ended. This is the first book I have read by this author & I look forward to reading more of her books!
October 15, 2017
Grace and Ayden make the cutest couple in this seasonal romance. Grace needs help looking for her flighty little sister. Ayden needs a fake girlfriend to get his sister to stop harassing him. The end result is a sweet and steamy romance, sure to keep you warm on the coldest of nights.
October 16, 2017
Grace is looking for her sister, who is getting married in 4 weeks and has run away to think in Mistletoe, Wa. Grace's gets a ride to Mistletoe from Jolene, who just so happened to be at the airport when she landed. Jolene went to ask if their were any vacancies, while Grace looked around the pub Jolene said they have no vacancy. So Jolene told Grace about Hearths Gate bed and breakfast. Grace is worried because it might cost too much but she doesn't have much choice,..so they contact Ayden and he comes to the pub and he tells Grace no he's not renting out a room., she argues with Ayden and he asks her to sit down at a table and they talk, he offers Grace help in finding her sister if she will help him make his sister think they are in love. So Grace moves in with Ayden, Ayden is never going to get married and he told Grace not to fall in Love with him. Grace told Ayden she had a boyfriend sort of. This is really a great story, the chemistry between these two, is electrical
It sizzles and pops. This is a book you cannot put down. I, for one am not telling you anything else.
You won't regret reading this story....it's great!!!
It sizzles and pops. This is a book you cannot put down. I, for one am not telling you anything else.
You won't regret reading this story....it's great!!!
December 29, 2019
I am so happy to have read this book during Christmas! The small-town life, the secondary characters and the plot gave me the festive vibe and the warmth typical for this type of romance.
Grace comes to Mistletoe looking for her sister who apparently decided to take some time away and think, with little time before her wedding. The only accommodation available is with the most sought-after bachelor in town: Ayden McCabe. He promises to help find her sister if she agrees on being his pretend girlfriend for a few days. All goes well, until a mistletoe branch ruins their plans.
There are many things I liked and some I did not agree with. On the plus side, I did enjoy the small-town vibe we get from all the secondary characters. They were the ones creating the atmosphere around Ayden and Grace. I liked Ayden – his attention to Grace’s needs, his dedication to his family make him a great guy. He surrounds himself with women that can be quickly disposed, without forming any emotional attachments, yet when he meets Grace, a woman not interested in his charms and with a look of pure innocence, he feels the need to protect.
On the negative, there are some background stories that are not very well developed. Though I know they are not the front and center, I did wish to understand more about Ayden and Grace’s fears. We see just a little bit of both, just not enough to justify the fears they have or the weaknesses they possess. In my opinion, Grace’s past is not enough to justify why she puts up with her boyfriend (or ex-boyfriend)’s crises. The guy is portrayed as a real piece of … something bad and yet she still cannot find the strength to say it to his face. The last 50 pages are kind of a rush, with all things forming a conclusion and characters opening their eyes. It’s good, but I wanted more.
So while I did enjoy the story very very much and I do consider it a great read for the Christmas season, I would have wanted more swoon, a deeper background story for the characters. 4 stars on my end, just because I am picky.
Grace comes to Mistletoe looking for her sister who apparently decided to take some time away and think, with little time before her wedding. The only accommodation available is with the most sought-after bachelor in town: Ayden McCabe. He promises to help find her sister if she agrees on being his pretend girlfriend for a few days. All goes well, until a mistletoe branch ruins their plans.
There are many things I liked and some I did not agree with. On the plus side, I did enjoy the small-town vibe we get from all the secondary characters. They were the ones creating the atmosphere around Ayden and Grace. I liked Ayden – his attention to Grace’s needs, his dedication to his family make him a great guy. He surrounds himself with women that can be quickly disposed, without forming any emotional attachments, yet when he meets Grace, a woman not interested in his charms and with a look of pure innocence, he feels the need to protect.
On the negative, there are some background stories that are not very well developed. Though I know they are not the front and center, I did wish to understand more about Ayden and Grace’s fears. We see just a little bit of both, just not enough to justify the fears they have or the weaknesses they possess. In my opinion, Grace’s past is not enough to justify why she puts up with her boyfriend (or ex-boyfriend)’s crises. The guy is portrayed as a real piece of … something bad and yet she still cannot find the strength to say it to his face. The last 50 pages are kind of a rush, with all things forming a conclusion and characters opening their eyes. It’s good, but I wanted more.
So while I did enjoy the story very very much and I do consider it a great read for the Christmas season, I would have wanted more swoon, a deeper background story for the characters. 4 stars on my end, just because I am picky.
June 11, 2017
It's the first book I've read from Tammy L. Bailey and I can't wait to read more of her work. I really enjoyed reading In Mistletoe, it was filled with romance, funny moments, a fake relationship and falling in love. Ayden and Grace might have started off pretending to be boyfriend and girlfriend but as they get to know each other they can't help but fall in love. Ayden might not have been looking for love but when he meets Grace all his thoughts about staying single fly out the window. It was fun to read how Ayden tried so hard to resist Grace and her charm but in the end love trumps all. A must read!
I was given this ARC by NetGalley as an exchange for an honest review.
I was given this ARC by NetGalley as an exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2017
This is my first book by Tammy L. Bailey.
What I liked:
The writing style
The characters
Standalone
HEA
I look forward to reading more from this author.
I voluntarily received an ARC from NetGalley.
What I liked:
The writing style
The characters
Standalone
HEA
I look forward to reading more from this author.
I voluntarily received an ARC from NetGalley.
December 15, 2017
This book has humor, plot twists, & adventure. It reminds you to live life & live your own life! Highly recommended!
December 1, 2016
Copy receive from author for an honest review
This is my second Tammy L Bailey read and it is one I really enjoyed.
Right from the start, Grace and Ayden's story gripped me and had me hoping, no needing them to have a HEA.
Ayden was a bit of a d!ck to begin with really, but oh did I adore him as much for it and I wanted to slap him for it.
Their story wasn't really what I was expecting - not a bad thing at all though. I was expecting a sugary sweet Christmas story full of jingle bells and ho ho hos. But In Mistletoe was so much more. The characters delved deeper than just a holiday romance.
I am still unsure about how I feel about what some characters did in this story. I can understand the why of what they did, but the execution... hmm, the jury is still out on that one! I can't decide if I love them for what they did or if I am still holding on to a bit of anger!
Thanks for that Ms Bailey! I can't wait to see what you bring us next
![[image error]](https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8-Y6fS6mG-w/WD9uKJlaWTI/AAAAAAAAX94/RIojO1TzzeUy-oNSEyZZTT0R64UPjsIWACLcB/s1600/xmas%2Blights%2Bgif.gif){kind=link}
February 6, 2017
He Ain't No Mr Darcy
Jane Austen comes up a few times in this book, with one character comparing Ayden, the male protagonist, to “like three Jane Austen characters all at once.”
I'm sure that the author probably intended us to picture him as a combination of maybe Mr Darcy, Mr Knightley and Colonel Brandon… but I was rather more brought to mind of Mr Wickham and Mr Willoughby.
In short, Ayden thinks he's hot shit, and everyone around him reinforces this impression by telling him how wonderful he is. Women throw themselves at him - repeatedly, even after being dumped - and despite his assertion that his ‘type' is self-reliant women. Apparently he is a terrible judge of character because all his exes are portrayed as needy and desperate. Ayden has, it seems, been blessed with a Magical Wang which makes all women who are blessed with a sample desperate for more.
Enter Grace, in search of her runaway bride of a sister. Who, it turns out, isn't actually a runaway at all but has conspired with the rest of Grace’s family and friends and half of Ayden’s in order to send her sister on a panicked wild goose-chase, to set her up with a complete stranger known to treat his girlfriends like shit.
I could say a lot more. I could talk about how Ayden is such an asshat he literally thinks about how much he enjoys taking advantage of Grace having to spend time alone with him. Or about how he deliberately tries to sabotage her relationship with her boyfriend (Yes, she has a boyfriend!) just because he can. Or the time he tries to get her drunk assuming they will end up in bed together because that is what always happens when he gets women drunk. (That is called date rape and it is Not Romantic).
But frankly, by the end of this book I'd had quite enough of Ayden and his delusions of irresistibility.
This might have made an intriguing plot for a Regency where women were used to being shuffled around by well-meaning relatives and married off to complete strangers.
As a modern-day romance, I'm afraid I found it horrifying.
I debated over how many stars to award this book and in the end I’ve gone with two. Because no matter how misogynistic and awful I personally found Ayden, I cannot find fault with the author’s quality of writing; her spelling, language, grammar and punctuation are first class.
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC of this book for review through ReadingAlley.
Jane Austen comes up a few times in this book, with one character comparing Ayden, the male protagonist, to “like three Jane Austen characters all at once.”
I'm sure that the author probably intended us to picture him as a combination of maybe Mr Darcy, Mr Knightley and Colonel Brandon… but I was rather more brought to mind of Mr Wickham and Mr Willoughby.
In short, Ayden thinks he's hot shit, and everyone around him reinforces this impression by telling him how wonderful he is. Women throw themselves at him - repeatedly, even after being dumped - and despite his assertion that his ‘type' is self-reliant women. Apparently he is a terrible judge of character because all his exes are portrayed as needy and desperate. Ayden has, it seems, been blessed with a Magical Wang which makes all women who are blessed with a sample desperate for more.
Enter Grace, in search of her runaway bride of a sister. Who, it turns out, isn't actually a runaway at all but has conspired with the rest of Grace’s family and friends and half of Ayden’s in order to send her sister on a panicked wild goose-chase, to set her up with a complete stranger known to treat his girlfriends like shit.
I could say a lot more. I could talk about how Ayden is such an asshat he literally thinks about how much he enjoys taking advantage of Grace having to spend time alone with him. Or about how he deliberately tries to sabotage her relationship with her boyfriend (Yes, she has a boyfriend!) just because he can. Or the time he tries to get her drunk assuming they will end up in bed together because that is what always happens when he gets women drunk. (That is called date rape and it is Not Romantic).
But frankly, by the end of this book I'd had quite enough of Ayden and his delusions of irresistibility.
This might have made an intriguing plot for a Regency where women were used to being shuffled around by well-meaning relatives and married off to complete strangers.
As a modern-day romance, I'm afraid I found it horrifying.
I debated over how many stars to award this book and in the end I’ve gone with two. Because no matter how misogynistic and awful I personally found Ayden, I cannot find fault with the author’s quality of writing; her spelling, language, grammar and punctuation are first class.
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC of this book for review through ReadingAlley.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews