What do you think?
Rate this book
Naked Men #4
Trying It All
Order. Attention to detail. Never leaving anything to chance. These are the qualities that make Riley Ness such a terrific federal agent . . . and a pain in the ass to everyone else. The only time Riley lets loose is when he’s hanging out with his closest pals. So when he’s thrown together with gorgeous, flighty Summer Sheridan, Riley’s brain tells him she’s a ticking time bomb—but his body doesn’t want to play by the rules.
Riley has to be the most irritating man Summer has ever met. The brooding hunk thinks he needs to teach her a few lessons about real life, while she’d rather show him how to enjoy it. But her BFF’s all but engaged to Riley’s best friend, and besides, their intense physical chemistry is all too real. Summer just needs Riley to try to meet her halfway and take a chance with the one thing that matters: his heart
Riley has to be the most irritating man Summer has ever met. The brooding hunk thinks he needs to teach her a few lessons about real life, while she’d rather show him how to enjoy it. But her BFF’s all but engaged to Riley’s best friend, and besides, their intense physical chemistry is all too real. Summer just needs Riley to try to meet her halfway and take a chance with the one thing that matters: his heart
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 16, 2017
27 people are currently reading
273 people want to read
About the author
Christi Barth
60 books779 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Christi Barth earned a Masters degree in vocal performance and embarked upon a career on the stage. A love of romance then drew her to wedding planning. Ultimately she succumbed to her lifelong love of books and now writes award-winning contemporary romance, including the Naked Men and Aisle Bound series.
Christi can always be found either whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.
Christi can always be found either whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
March 30, 2018
Review available at Under the Pages.
May 16, 2017
Happy Book Birthday!
A delightful story and a fabulous add to Barth’s romantic series.
For the past decade Riley Ness has been trying and succeeding in keeping his demons at bay by following the Boy Scout motto “always prepared” for all possibilities, paying attention to every detail, leaving nothing to chance. Those are a lot of absolutes to define one person, they’re great qualities to have in his line of work, not so great for the people that are close to him. Except this blood brothers. The other four men who were there in the horrific accident that solidified their brotherhood all those years ago. So when one of his friends. So when one of his friends’ girlfriend starts bringing her wild and carefree BFF around, Riley’s life turns inside out. Because while his brain is screaming “Danger, run away!” his body is telling him the opposite.
For a woman who lives by the seat of her pants like Summer, someone who frowns upon little things such as jaywalking is way too uptight to even be around, much less interact with. Too bad all those boring suits hide a ridiculously attractive man. This juxtaposition is probably the reason for her knee jerk reaction to mock him at every turn, why they’re at it like cats and dogs and why, for the sake of their best friend’s they’ve reached a cease fire, which started when Riley kissed her to shut her up. Can they find a way to meet each other in the middle so they can not only explore their obvious attraction but perhaps more?
I have thoroughly enjoyed Christi Barth’s Naked Men series so far but I think this one is my favorite yet. Perhaps it was the tortured hero and heroine combination, both having lived through traumatic experiences but coping in diametrical ways. Perhaps this being the fourth book, I just feel like one of the gang or maybe it’s the deliciously hot chemistry between Riley and Summer. It could very well be the combination of all of the above. The point is, I definitely took pleasure in reading this story.
I’m going to go back a bit and comment on the reason why I was attracted to this series in the first place because it’s very original and I feel it got a bit lost in this one. Naked Men is a blog turned into a highly successful podcast. It was originally created by the five friends, also known as the American Soccer Survivors. Growing up and going their separate lives, the blog was created for them to keep in touch and to share with the world their thoughts on anything and everything. Can you imagine what guys like to talk about?
That’s the bare bones behind the Naked Men and in this book Riley wants to take them further by creating a foundation that would get seatbelts put in buses, something that would have mitigated their injuries when their bus slid down a cliff. Riley is a great hero. He’s selfless and wants to make a difference, is always trying to help others, but his life is ruled by fear even though he doesn’t see it that way and it’s easy to dismiss because his meticulous actions make for sweet and swoon worthy moments.
Even though I wanted to shake some sense into Summer almost at the end, I loved and even envied her cheerful and relaxed approach to life. Which on paper was completely wrong for Riley but her happy-go-lucky attitude combined with her strength and understanding makes her perfect for Riley.
I enjoyed Summer and Riley’s push and pull enemies to lovers relationship. They both had big issues to overcome but with the right partner and a little help from their friends, who by the way I loved catching up with, almost anything is possible. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series, but I’m also dreading it because it’ll probably be the end of an awesome series.
Trying It All is book #4 in the Naked Men series by Christi Barth. It is a standalone contemporary romance. Told from both points of view and has a happy ending.
Author's pinterest board -> https://es.pinterest.com/christibarth...
Pre-Order -> http://amzn.to/2pWRWCG
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
Read
February 16, 2017This fourth of the Naked Men series takes a while to get going, I think partly because it is fourth in a series that has its formula fairly well set by now.
We begin with a flashback to when the "Naked Men" (their name comes from honesty in their group blog) were rich high school students in Italy, whooping it up after a soccer game, when their bus went off the road. The resulting trauma of that crash and three days in the wilderness bonded the five men together.
This time it's buttoned-down Riley Ness's turn to find love. He is obsessed with control, making sure he has contingency plans for every moment, every possibility. He's been sniping drive-by sarcasm with Summer, Chloe's BFF with whom she survived a campus shooting, who lives in the moment and refuses to think about the future. Why bother, when it's so easy for it to be taken away?
The first half is smooth with nice moments, evoking Washington DC, but it begins to feel a bit predictable as it faithfully follows the formula. The second half picks up the pacing as the couple dig down into their traumas, triggered by events. The resolution felt a bit quick, but overall it was an enjoyable read, and of course fans will like seeing the other couples again.
Copy provided by NetGalley
We begin with a flashback to when the "Naked Men" (their name comes from honesty in their group blog) were rich high school students in Italy, whooping it up after a soccer game, when their bus went off the road. The resulting trauma of that crash and three days in the wilderness bonded the five men together.
This time it's buttoned-down Riley Ness's turn to find love. He is obsessed with control, making sure he has contingency plans for every moment, every possibility. He's been sniping drive-by sarcasm with Summer, Chloe's BFF with whom she survived a campus shooting, who lives in the moment and refuses to think about the future. Why bother, when it's so easy for it to be taken away?
The first half is smooth with nice moments, evoking Washington DC, but it begins to feel a bit predictable as it faithfully follows the formula. The second half picks up the pacing as the couple dig down into their traumas, triggered by events. The resolution felt a bit quick, but overall it was an enjoyable read, and of course fans will like seeing the other couples again.
Copy provided by NetGalley
April 8, 2017
Sighworthy! Barth delivers rich, distinctive characters, and a story that grips your heart.
March 14, 2017
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
3.5
A group of men bonded after a disaster they all survived together. This was a great read from the male POV. It was a nice contemporary romance.
3.5
A group of men bonded after a disaster they all survived together. This was a great read from the male POV. It was a nice contemporary romance.
June 3, 2017
ARC REVIEW
Trying It All is book 4 in Christi Barth's Naked Men series. While the series for me has been hit or miss I definitely liked this one. I could see Riley and Summer coming from a mile away with their disdain for each other, it was a great hate to love relationship. Where they were just supposed to sleep with each other to get it out of their system but they kept on doing it and before they knew it it was love. Riley has been ever since the accident that made him and his friends famous the worst case scenario boy scout. Summer has been ever since almost dying in a campus shooting a fly by the seat of her pants why put it off tomorrow if you can do it today and live life to the fullest. They are opposites who have more in common then one may think. Their personal tragedies may have set them in opposites directions but they understand each other better than anyone else.
Riley dedicated his life to make sure everyone is safe from preventable accidents as a employee of the National Transportation Safety Board he is doing what he set out to do. Riley initially thought Summer was flaky and her spontaneous ways just immature, and then he kissed her and everything changed. Riley found out that Summer is so much more than she lets on. Summer has no problems making plans for other people or for her business but never for herself personally. Summer first thought Riley's excessive planning was annoying but after getting to know him and finding the reason for it she finds it cute, but will her impetuous nature cause more problems between them than they can handle?
Overall, the story is an emotional journey for both Riley and Summer they both have to face things they thought they had figured out but falling in love with each other made them view things differently. I may not have liked Griffin in his own story but he has become the voice of reason and one of the most sensible characters in the series and OMG Chloe best part of the book. The story in general was a good read I liked both characters and the whole conflict at the end was heartbreaking it had me in tears and the sex was deliciously naughty and so hot.
Trying It All is book 4 in Christi Barth's Naked Men series. While the series for me has been hit or miss I definitely liked this one. I could see Riley and Summer coming from a mile away with their disdain for each other, it was a great hate to love relationship. Where they were just supposed to sleep with each other to get it out of their system but they kept on doing it and before they knew it it was love. Riley has been ever since the accident that made him and his friends famous the worst case scenario boy scout. Summer has been ever since almost dying in a campus shooting a fly by the seat of her pants why put it off tomorrow if you can do it today and live life to the fullest. They are opposites who have more in common then one may think. Their personal tragedies may have set them in opposites directions but they understand each other better than anyone else.
Riley dedicated his life to make sure everyone is safe from preventable accidents as a employee of the National Transportation Safety Board he is doing what he set out to do. Riley initially thought Summer was flaky and her spontaneous ways just immature, and then he kissed her and everything changed. Riley found out that Summer is so much more than she lets on. Summer has no problems making plans for other people or for her business but never for herself personally. Summer first thought Riley's excessive planning was annoying but after getting to know him and finding the reason for it she finds it cute, but will her impetuous nature cause more problems between them than they can handle?
Overall, the story is an emotional journey for both Riley and Summer they both have to face things they thought they had figured out but falling in love with each other made them view things differently. I may not have liked Griffin in his own story but he has become the voice of reason and one of the most sensible characters in the series and OMG Chloe best part of the book. The story in general was a good read I liked both characters and the whole conflict at the end was heartbreaking it had me in tears and the sex was deliciously naughty and so hot.
May 29, 2017
I love this series.
Naked Men is such a great series. I had never read anything by Christi Barth until reading the first book in this series, Risking It All. After reading that I knew that I had to read the remaining books as they came out. Trying It All is the fourth book in the series and it centers around Riley and Summer. Each book in the series can be read as a standalone and Ms. Barth does a great job of giving you all of the information you need so that you don't feel lost if you haven't read the other books. I love reading series in order, though, so I'm really glad that I started at the beginning.
Riley and Summer have both suffered severe, life changing, trauma and, naturally, this has affected how they each approach life. Riley became determined to be prepared for any possible bad situation while Summer decided to live life one day at a time and not plan for anything too far in the future. She is a free spirit and he is a bit of a stick-in-the-mud.
Riley and Summer are frenemies – they have to tolerate each other because Summer is the BFF of one of the Naked Men and it's impossible for Riley to totally avoid her, but they don't like each other much. They love to pick at each other and hurl thinly veiled insults. One day Summer goes a bit too far by saying Riley doesn't have the balls to do anything risky. Next thing she knows he grabs her face and kisses her. They are both stunned by how the kiss affects them. Thus begins the transition of their relationship.
This book has everything I want in a great story. There's plenty of humor, some sexy time, and enough emotion to bring me to tears more than once (both happy and sad). When the expected conflict comes, it was not what I expected at all. Ms. Barth did a great job of putting her characters through the wringer and then straightening everything out again.
I wish I had been able to sit down and read this straight through because I didn't want to put it down. Unfortunately, I had to stop to get some sleep. I'm really looking forward to reading the next book which I hope will be about Josh, the last Naked Man standing.
A review copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley but this did not influence my opinion or rating of the book.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions***
This review will be posted to Xtreme-Delusions dot com on May 17, 2017.
Naked Men is such a great series. I had never read anything by Christi Barth until reading the first book in this series, Risking It All. After reading that I knew that I had to read the remaining books as they came out. Trying It All is the fourth book in the series and it centers around Riley and Summer. Each book in the series can be read as a standalone and Ms. Barth does a great job of giving you all of the information you need so that you don't feel lost if you haven't read the other books. I love reading series in order, though, so I'm really glad that I started at the beginning.
Riley and Summer have both suffered severe, life changing, trauma and, naturally, this has affected how they each approach life. Riley became determined to be prepared for any possible bad situation while Summer decided to live life one day at a time and not plan for anything too far in the future. She is a free spirit and he is a bit of a stick-in-the-mud.
Riley and Summer are frenemies – they have to tolerate each other because Summer is the BFF of one of the Naked Men and it's impossible for Riley to totally avoid her, but they don't like each other much. They love to pick at each other and hurl thinly veiled insults. One day Summer goes a bit too far by saying Riley doesn't have the balls to do anything risky. Next thing she knows he grabs her face and kisses her. They are both stunned by how the kiss affects them. Thus begins the transition of their relationship.
This book has everything I want in a great story. There's plenty of humor, some sexy time, and enough emotion to bring me to tears more than once (both happy and sad). When the expected conflict comes, it was not what I expected at all. Ms. Barth did a great job of putting her characters through the wringer and then straightening everything out again.
I wish I had been able to sit down and read this straight through because I didn't want to put it down. Unfortunately, I had to stop to get some sleep. I'm really looking forward to reading the next book which I hope will be about Josh, the last Naked Man standing.
A review copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley but this did not influence my opinion or rating of the book.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions***
This review will be posted to Xtreme-Delusions dot com on May 17, 2017.
July 5, 2017
I love Christi Barth because she's so sharp and funny. Great sass, wit, chemistry, and sexy times. I can't keep up with her because she's so prolific, but I try! Highly recommend! Read it. Review it. xo
May 16, 2017
Book Review
Title: Trying it All
Series: The Naked Men #4
Author: Christi Barth
Genre: Contemporary Romance/Enemies to Lovers
Publication Date: May 16, 2017
Cliff Hanger: No
4 Stars
*This story is for mature audiences only. Contains explicit scenes and language intended for adults 18+
Synopsis:
Order. Attention to detail. Never leaving anything to chance. These are the qualities that make Riley Ness such a terrific federal agent . . . and a pain in the ass to everyone else. The only time Riley lets loose is when he’s hanging out with his closest pals. So when he’s thrown together with gorgeous, flighty Summer Sheridan, Riley’s brain tells him she’s a ticking time bomb—but his body doesn’t want to play by the rules.
Riley has to be the most irritating man Summer has ever met. The brooding hunk thinks he needs to teach her a few lessons about real life, while she’d rather show him how to enjoy it. But her BFF’s all but engaged to Riley’s best friend, and besides, their intense physical chemistry is all too real. Summer just needs Riley to try to meet her halfway and take a chance with the one thing that matters: his heart
My Thoughts:
This is the first time I have read anything by this author and it won’t be my last. This book can be read as a standalone. I haven’t read the other books in this series and I didn’t feel like I was missing any information as the author does a good job of filling in gaps without boring you with too much detail.
Summer and Riley couldn’t be more different. Riley is all about planning down to the finest detail, where Summer is a fly by the seat of your pants and live in the moment kind of girl. They both have their reasons for their compulsion.
Riley was in a terrible bus accident when he was in high school. He and three of his teammates were severely injured and stranded for three days on a desolate mountain road until they were rescued. Their bond is still strong to this day. While waiting to be rescued Riley vowed he would never be in this type of situation again. He would plan for every scenario possible. He is an engineer and even made his career about preventing and working traffic accidents for the NTSB.
Summer was also involved in her own life changing trauma. She was the victim of a college campus shooter and actually died for over a minute until the medical team revived her. She vowed to live life to the fullest and to not have lasting relationships. She doesn’t plan too far in future because she feels that the future can be gone in an instant. She is a successful business woman with her boutique and she is gorgeous! Summer is best friends with Chloe, who is serious about one of the blood brothers, Griffin. So needless to say, Summer spends a lot of time with the group. She can’t help but push Riley’s buttons. He is so easy to rile with his uptight ways.
During one of the many banter matches, Riley gets so frustrated that he kisses Summer to shut her up. What they both didn’t expect was that it was a great kiss. They both realize that nothing can come of this because they are like oil and water, but the sizzle from that kiss remains. They can’t be in the same room without making snarky comments, until the gang was heading to the beach house for the weekend and Riley asks Summer for a truce to help keep the anxiety down among the group. Or so he says, it’s really because he might want to kiss her again and see where it leads. I am going to leave it right there. You need to read this to find out what happens with Riley and Summer.
This is a true enemy to lovers, opposites attack, have to get along for the sake of the friends type of novel. The banter is great and the chemistry is hot between these two. The friendships between the blood brothers is amazing. They are truly brothers to the core. Summer and her best friend Chloe have a great bond as well. The story is well written and I was drawn into the characters.
If you love an enemy to lovers’ romance, then this is the book for you.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Title: Trying it All
Series: The Naked Men #4
Author: Christi Barth
Genre: Contemporary Romance/Enemies to Lovers
Publication Date: May 16, 2017
Cliff Hanger: No
4 Stars
*This story is for mature audiences only. Contains explicit scenes and language intended for adults 18+
Synopsis:
Order. Attention to detail. Never leaving anything to chance. These are the qualities that make Riley Ness such a terrific federal agent . . . and a pain in the ass to everyone else. The only time Riley lets loose is when he’s hanging out with his closest pals. So when he’s thrown together with gorgeous, flighty Summer Sheridan, Riley’s brain tells him she’s a ticking time bomb—but his body doesn’t want to play by the rules.
Riley has to be the most irritating man Summer has ever met. The brooding hunk thinks he needs to teach her a few lessons about real life, while she’d rather show him how to enjoy it. But her BFF’s all but engaged to Riley’s best friend, and besides, their intense physical chemistry is all too real. Summer just needs Riley to try to meet her halfway and take a chance with the one thing that matters: his heart
My Thoughts:
This is the first time I have read anything by this author and it won’t be my last. This book can be read as a standalone. I haven’t read the other books in this series and I didn’t feel like I was missing any information as the author does a good job of filling in gaps without boring you with too much detail.
Summer and Riley couldn’t be more different. Riley is all about planning down to the finest detail, where Summer is a fly by the seat of your pants and live in the moment kind of girl. They both have their reasons for their compulsion.
Riley was in a terrible bus accident when he was in high school. He and three of his teammates were severely injured and stranded for three days on a desolate mountain road until they were rescued. Their bond is still strong to this day. While waiting to be rescued Riley vowed he would never be in this type of situation again. He would plan for every scenario possible. He is an engineer and even made his career about preventing and working traffic accidents for the NTSB.
Summer was also involved in her own life changing trauma. She was the victim of a college campus shooter and actually died for over a minute until the medical team revived her. She vowed to live life to the fullest and to not have lasting relationships. She doesn’t plan too far in future because she feels that the future can be gone in an instant. She is a successful business woman with her boutique and she is gorgeous! Summer is best friends with Chloe, who is serious about one of the blood brothers, Griffin. So needless to say, Summer spends a lot of time with the group. She can’t help but push Riley’s buttons. He is so easy to rile with his uptight ways.
During one of the many banter matches, Riley gets so frustrated that he kisses Summer to shut her up. What they both didn’t expect was that it was a great kiss. They both realize that nothing can come of this because they are like oil and water, but the sizzle from that kiss remains. They can’t be in the same room without making snarky comments, until the gang was heading to the beach house for the weekend and Riley asks Summer for a truce to help keep the anxiety down among the group. Or so he says, it’s really because he might want to kiss her again and see where it leads. I am going to leave it right there. You need to read this to find out what happens with Riley and Summer.
This is a true enemy to lovers, opposites attack, have to get along for the sake of the friends type of novel. The banter is great and the chemistry is hot between these two. The friendships between the blood brothers is amazing. They are truly brothers to the core. Summer and her best friend Chloe have a great bond as well. The story is well written and I was drawn into the characters.
If you love an enemy to lovers’ romance, then this is the book for you.
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
May 21, 2017
The Naked Men are back in Riley's book. When Riley met Summer the buttoned up man with plans and alternative plans, met the girl who lives for today and spontaneity, they didn't like each other and could flay one another with just words. The problem is that their friends are going to be getting married so they have to find common ground. Easier said than done.
When Summer and Riley meet, every time is like a verbal sparing match. That is until Riley picks her up to save her from getting hit by a cyclist and kisses her. Now, things are confusing.
The guys and girls are taking a trip and Riley goes to Summer's to try and call a truce even if for only the weekend, so they don't make the others uncomfortable. But what happens when he gets there is not what he planned on happening.
The trip goes really well and Summer starts to see Riley in a new light but that may not be enough.
Riley is happy with how the trip went but when the guys start teasing him he starts to push them away from that topic. No way could he and Summer be together, she is too reckless. Except maybe not. She did get him out of his comfort zone.
As the book goes along we find out more about Riley and Summer and the reason they are the way they are. That they have feelings for one another. But will it be enough to change for each other or are they clinging to their fears to strongly to let go?
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When Summer and Riley meet, every time is like a verbal sparing match. That is until Riley picks her up to save her from getting hit by a cyclist and kisses her. Now, things are confusing.
The guys and girls are taking a trip and Riley goes to Summer's to try and call a truce even if for only the weekend, so they don't make the others uncomfortable. But what happens when he gets there is not what he planned on happening.
The trip goes really well and Summer starts to see Riley in a new light but that may not be enough.
Riley is happy with how the trip went but when the guys start teasing him he starts to push them away from that topic. No way could he and Summer be together, she is too reckless. Except maybe not. She did get him out of his comfort zone.
As the book goes along we find out more about Riley and Summer and the reason they are the way they are. That they have feelings for one another. But will it be enough to change for each other or are they clinging to their fears to strongly to let go?
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 7, 2017
I received an ARC courtesy of the publisher via Net Galley.
I enjoyed Riley and Summer's romance. The conflict was believable given both their pasts. I wish certain scenes were played out and not ended too soon. For example, they are about to do an important podcast, but then the reader does not get a scene of the podcast.
I enjoyed Riley and Summer's romance. The conflict was believable given both their pasts. I wish certain scenes were played out and not ended too soon. For example, they are about to do an important podcast, but then the reader does not get a scene of the podcast.
April 12, 2017
I have loved every book in this series so far. This one might be my favorite. I loved the chemistry between Riley and Summer, during both their squabbles and their falling for each other times. Their dynamic was spicy and hilarious. They both had their own devastating life threatening occurrences and came out the other side. And both lived their lives in reaction to that happening. I liked Summer more in this book after getting to know her more. Riley was just a fine fine man with overprotective and over preparedness skills. And together they really complimented one another. I could not put their story down and read in every little bit of free time I could find. Now I have to wait for Josh's story.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher through Netgalley.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher through Netgalley.
March 19, 2017
NetGalley provided a copy of the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Trying It All by Christi Barth is the fourth instalment in the Naked Men series. It can be read as a standalone but the series is truly entertaining. Riley Ness and his life-long friends are forever connected as they survived a horrific accident as young men. He is controlled and cautious. Summer Sheridan also survived a terrible ordeal but somehow has managed to live life in a meaningful way.
Riley’s work as a federal agent consumes his life. He has not made room for meaningful female relationships. This contemporary romance connects Riley and Summer. Their chemistry is undeniable. Barth once again writes a fast-paced page turner that does not disappoint. The primary and secondary characters are developed with strong personalities. Will Riley let go of his fears and enjoy a happily ever after? Looking forward to the next instalment in this series.
Trying It All by Christi Barth is the fourth instalment in the Naked Men series. It can be read as a standalone but the series is truly entertaining. Riley Ness and his life-long friends are forever connected as they survived a horrific accident as young men. He is controlled and cautious. Summer Sheridan also survived a terrible ordeal but somehow has managed to live life in a meaningful way.
Riley’s work as a federal agent consumes his life. He has not made room for meaningful female relationships. This contemporary romance connects Riley and Summer. Their chemistry is undeniable. Barth once again writes a fast-paced page turner that does not disappoint. The primary and secondary characters are developed with strong personalities. Will Riley let go of his fears and enjoy a happily ever after? Looking forward to the next instalment in this series.
March 2, 2017
*5 Stars*
ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
I love the Naked Men. Barth has done such a good job with this series. Even though each book we re-hash a bit of what we already know from their history, but we still always get a new perspective because its a different guy in each book.
I loved how Summer and Riley were always getting under each others skin, but it still somehow worked. I also loved how still get all the usual banter and love from the other guys and now girls in their little group.
I always really enjoy reading this series, and I have a feeling I know who will the female counterpart in Josh's book. Cannot wait.
Well done Christi Barth, as always. Love this series!
ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
I love the Naked Men. Barth has done such a good job with this series. Even though each book we re-hash a bit of what we already know from their history, but we still always get a new perspective because its a different guy in each book.
I loved how Summer and Riley were always getting under each others skin, but it still somehow worked. I also loved how still get all the usual banter and love from the other guys and now girls in their little group.
I always really enjoy reading this series, and I have a feeling I know who will the female counterpart in Josh's book. Cannot wait.
Well done Christi Barth, as always. Love this series!
August 25, 2017
The culmination of the Naked Men series was an emotional roller coaster ride for me. I enjoyed the first three books telling Griffin, Knox, and Logan's stories...Riley's story was especially touching in that his need for complete control over all aspects of his life, stemming from the accident the four were involved in during high school, is missing out in so much of life because of his overly cautious nature. Summer was his direct opposite in that following her own tragedy, is living life to its fullest, flying by the seat of her pants...which drives Riley crazy...they spend more time bickering than not.
The opposites attract aspect of the story between Riley and Summer causes a large amount of frustration for him and is very palpable. I especially enjoy the continued camaraderie amongst the four friends that is the forefront to their continued successes in their life podcasts, but the drive Riley has launched to focus on greater safety measures in buses adds to his complexity and shows how the accident is still such a driving force in his life.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
The opposites attract aspect of the story between Riley and Summer causes a large amount of frustration for him and is very palpable. I especially enjoy the continued camaraderie amongst the four friends that is the forefront to their continued successes in their life podcasts, but the drive Riley has launched to focus on greater safety measures in buses adds to his complexity and shows how the accident is still such a driving force in his life.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
May 16, 2017
If you’re not reading The Naked Men series by Christi Barth you are missing out on an amazing group of friends and their friendship that was solidified by a lifechanging accident they were involved in when they were teenagers. Each of the friends recovery and life choices have been affected by the accident—and now we get to learn more about Riley Ness . . .
Riley is all about control. Everything planned down to the last detail. All contingencies contemplated and accounted for. This is how Riley gets through his day. He plans. He’s more ready than the readiest Boy Scout. What’s he’s not ready for is one Summer Sheridan.
Summer has spent the last eight years doing what she wants, how she wants, when she wants. Life is too short and uncertain to live any other way, because all she wants to do is live life to the fullest. Now if she could just get Riley to pull the stick out of his ass and live a little along with her. Not that she cares or anything . . . no, she’s not attracted to him at all. There’s that fine line between love and hate . . .
Until a kiss. A kiss that knocks both Riley and Summer on their asses. Rocking the foundation of their beliefs and actions. Is the attraction and chemistry enough to move this kiss into relationship?
Swoon. I loved Riley and his alpha controlling tendencies. He’s prepared for anything except for his feelings for Summer. And Summer, I just adored too—wanted to wrap her AND Riley into a big hug and tell them both things would all work out with a bit of communication and compromise. Gah, both have managed to deal with a significant tragic event and made it through . . . but Riley is a control freak and Summer is a total free spirit. But whoa do opposites attract and smolder in between the sheets. *fans self*
I loved catching up with the rest of The Naked Men too—Logan, Griff, Knox, and Josh. Loved seeing how they’re all doing in their relationships—well, except Josh. I am so hoping that this series is NOT ending . . . this was alluded to in the acknowledgements. NO Christi—JOSH needs a book! ~ Missy, 5 stars
Riley is all about control. Everything planned down to the last detail. All contingencies contemplated and accounted for. This is how Riley gets through his day. He plans. He’s more ready than the readiest Boy Scout. What’s he’s not ready for is one Summer Sheridan.
Summer has spent the last eight years doing what she wants, how she wants, when she wants. Life is too short and uncertain to live any other way, because all she wants to do is live life to the fullest. Now if she could just get Riley to pull the stick out of his ass and live a little along with her. Not that she cares or anything . . . no, she’s not attracted to him at all. There’s that fine line between love and hate . . .
Until a kiss. A kiss that knocks both Riley and Summer on their asses. Rocking the foundation of their beliefs and actions. Is the attraction and chemistry enough to move this kiss into relationship?
Swoon. I loved Riley and his alpha controlling tendencies. He’s prepared for anything except for his feelings for Summer. And Summer, I just adored too—wanted to wrap her AND Riley into a big hug and tell them both things would all work out with a bit of communication and compromise. Gah, both have managed to deal with a significant tragic event and made it through . . . but Riley is a control freak and Summer is a total free spirit. But whoa do opposites attract and smolder in between the sheets. *fans self*
I loved catching up with the rest of The Naked Men too—Logan, Griff, Knox, and Josh. Loved seeing how they’re all doing in their relationships—well, except Josh. I am so hoping that this series is NOT ending . . . this was alluded to in the acknowledgements. NO Christi—JOSH needs a book! ~ Missy, 5 stars
February 12, 2017
Still a great premise for the series. Overall not my favorite of the set. Nice to see all the rest of the gang but I wasn't as invested in this couple. Great writing but the story was somewhat predictable and the characters did not endear me to their love.
*Complimentary copy provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
*Complimentary copy provided via Netgalley for an honest review.
May 17, 2017
Trying It All what can I say another great book from naked man. I so did not see this coming Riley and Summer together. The both have their own issues which in the end separate them. Riley was for me a surprise as a character because from previous books I didn’t see him as he was. I was positive surprised. And the same goes for Summer. I loved that the group of naked men is still together although they are no longer single. And the way they support each other and call on their bullsh… priceless. Another unique story in the series that I enjoyed reading.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for Netgelly
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for Netgelly
February 10, 2017
Riley is a very cautious man, but that doesn't stop some of the things he accidently blurts out, “just because we kissed, that doesn’t grant me special access. I can’t take things for granted. I can’t assume I can talk about your underwear, for God’s sake, let alone hope to see it.” Riley will try new things and be adventurous with his woman, but the man has his limits, “no. ***l to the no. Sex in a car was one thing. Sex in an official branch of the Smithsonian with children running around and the even slight possibility that a wild animal might decide to use us for a snack is a hard limit.” I really enjoyed this book, I loved Riley.
April 14, 2017
Trying It All by Christie Barth
Book #4: Naked Men Series
Source: Netgalley and Purchase
My Rating: 4/5 stars
My Review:
**Spoilerish for previous books in the series**
Riley Ness is the planner among the Naked Men. He is the organizer, the cautious one, the check-the-supplies-multiple-times guy. In short, Riley never allows himself or the other ACSs to go or do anything without considering and assessing every possible danger. Nothing escapes Riley’s critical eye! What do you expect from a guy who was lost in the Alps as a teenager?
As an adult, Riley has taken his threat assessment skills to a whole new level. Though his parents had aspirations of Riley holding a prominent position in some lofty organization, Riley has chosen instead to work in the traffic division of the NTSB. Along with his team, Riley assesses wrecks and collisions from every angle to determine what caused the accident and if there are any measures that can be taken to prevent similar situations in the future. Riley is all about safety and he will do whatever it takes to ensure no one else suffers the way he and the other Naked Men did when they were kids. Riley’s attitude and exactitude haven’t ever caused him problems where the ladies are concerned until he meets Summer Sheridan.
Summer is everything that triggers Riley’s anxiety. She is reckless, spontaneous, adventurous, and doesn’t give a damn about planning for the future. Summer’s presence in Riley’s life isn’t going to end anytime soon since the best-friend of Griffin’s girlfriend. The only thing Riley can do to prevent her from causing a dreaded anxiety attack is to avoid her at all costs. Trouble is, she smokin’ hot and likes to push his buttons at every available opportunity. Riley doesn’t just sit there and take it which means he is constantly interacting with Summer and they’re constantly pissing each other off. Sounds like just the right recipe for some angry/awesome sex, right?
Angry sex is all it should have ever been between Riley and Summer, but as they begin to open up to one another, they find true friendship and the basis of a real relationship. Both are oxen-level stubborn which means changing even a little or compromising is going to be difficult. Riley wants Summer to be more careful and Summer wants Riley to be more adventurous. What ensues are moments of hilarity, sweetness, naughtiness, and pure terror. Both are stretched way beyond their comfort zone before all is said and done and both are certain that if they aren’t careful, they’re going to lose the best thing that has ever come into their respective lives.
The Bottom Line: The Naked Men series slows down a bit for me with this fourth installment. I am still loving the actual Naked Men so much, but Summer is a bit hard to take. Summer tends to be very aggressive in her attitude and behavior which makes her somewhat off-putting. With that being said, I ended up liking Summer once all the madness played out and she Riley got to the HEA. As with each of the reads, the story of the Naked Men as a group has evolved as more women come into their lives. I like to see this playing out as the romance in each book plays out. There is evolution among the individuals and the group as a whole which keeps the series both consistent and fresh.
Book #4: Naked Men Series
Source: Netgalley and Purchase
My Rating: 4/5 stars
My Review:
**Spoilerish for previous books in the series**
Riley Ness is the planner among the Naked Men. He is the organizer, the cautious one, the check-the-supplies-multiple-times guy. In short, Riley never allows himself or the other ACSs to go or do anything without considering and assessing every possible danger. Nothing escapes Riley’s critical eye! What do you expect from a guy who was lost in the Alps as a teenager?
As an adult, Riley has taken his threat assessment skills to a whole new level. Though his parents had aspirations of Riley holding a prominent position in some lofty organization, Riley has chosen instead to work in the traffic division of the NTSB. Along with his team, Riley assesses wrecks and collisions from every angle to determine what caused the accident and if there are any measures that can be taken to prevent similar situations in the future. Riley is all about safety and he will do whatever it takes to ensure no one else suffers the way he and the other Naked Men did when they were kids. Riley’s attitude and exactitude haven’t ever caused him problems where the ladies are concerned until he meets Summer Sheridan.
Summer is everything that triggers Riley’s anxiety. She is reckless, spontaneous, adventurous, and doesn’t give a damn about planning for the future. Summer’s presence in Riley’s life isn’t going to end anytime soon since the best-friend of Griffin’s girlfriend. The only thing Riley can do to prevent her from causing a dreaded anxiety attack is to avoid her at all costs. Trouble is, she smokin’ hot and likes to push his buttons at every available opportunity. Riley doesn’t just sit there and take it which means he is constantly interacting with Summer and they’re constantly pissing each other off. Sounds like just the right recipe for some angry/awesome sex, right?
Angry sex is all it should have ever been between Riley and Summer, but as they begin to open up to one another, they find true friendship and the basis of a real relationship. Both are oxen-level stubborn which means changing even a little or compromising is going to be difficult. Riley wants Summer to be more careful and Summer wants Riley to be more adventurous. What ensues are moments of hilarity, sweetness, naughtiness, and pure terror. Both are stretched way beyond their comfort zone before all is said and done and both are certain that if they aren’t careful, they’re going to lose the best thing that has ever come into their respective lives.
The Bottom Line: The Naked Men series slows down a bit for me with this fourth installment. I am still loving the actual Naked Men so much, but Summer is a bit hard to take. Summer tends to be very aggressive in her attitude and behavior which makes her somewhat off-putting. With that being said, I ended up liking Summer once all the madness played out and she Riley got to the HEA. As with each of the reads, the story of the Naked Men as a group has evolved as more women come into their lives. I like to see this playing out as the romance in each book plays out. There is evolution among the individuals and the group as a whole which keeps the series both consistent and fresh.
May 16, 2017
Summer Sheridan is a woman that lives her life like every day is her last, which isn't surprising after what happened to her in college. She's everything Riley Ness isn't, and yet, he can't seem to resist her, especially when she's pushing him out of her comfort zone. But when they find themselves in a frightening situation that could make or break their relationship, because of Summer too busy living in the moment and Riley being unprepared for what happens, will Riley be able to continue to handle her recklessness or will he walk away from the woman he's coming to love?
Although I haven't read the other books of this series, this story can easily be read as a stand-alone, and it's a story I really enjoyed from the prologue. The way this story starts introduced me to the hero and what he went through years ago that's made him the man he is now. The sort of man desperate to plan for any contingency and can hopefully control a situation if the unexpected occurs. Will he make Summer realize that being prepared is a good thing? Will Summer realize that the way she lives her life is a tad selfish, because there's more people to think about than just herself? However, it was from the moment Riley and Summer came face-to-face for the first time in this story that made it very interesting, as their relationship is a mix between like and dislike. Since it seems they can get along for a few moments at a time without being at odds with each other.
Both the main characters had me completely hooked due to their back stories, as they've been through so much with having both survived a tragic situation that's made them take different courses of action in their lives. Summer is all about living each day as it comes and is up for trying anything, where as Riley is the complete opposite. He's cautious about any situation that might be dangerous, which is understandable, as he believes he could have prevented what happened to him and the friends in the past. Has he come to realize that there was nothing he could have done? Moreover, I liked how fearless the heroine was and that she managed to get Riley to let down his guard and see that being spontaneous isn't always a bad thing. However, I could understand why the hero was determined to play it safe. If his planning ahead could prevent a tragedy or help him save a life than everything he has sacrificed or done in his life is worth it.
Overall, Ms. Barth has penned a really good read in this book where the secondary characters entertained me just as much as the main ones did, because they have such a tight bond after what Riley and his friends survived; and where the romance was hot and illustrates how right these two are for each other, if they can overcome the obstacles they face on their journey to happy ever after. The way this story ended had me smiling, because both believed that they were in the wrong when it came to the moment when they went their separate ways. Yet, I loved how things worked out between Riley and Summer and the words they say to each other, as both realize that stepping out of their comfort zone can be good. I would recommend Trying it All by Christi Barth, if you enjoy the opposites attract trope or books by authors Audra North, Katee Robert or Avery Flynn.
August 30, 2017
I've been enjoying the Naked Men series, and this fourth title in the series was every bit as enjoyable as the others I've read, and it also gets a 4-star rating.
This title centers around Riley and Summer, both of whom we've met in the previous novels in the series, and while this book can be read as a standalone, I'd recommend starting at the beginning of the series with Risking it All, as it will give you a greater understanding of why the Naked Men are the way they are, and how they got that way.
At its heart, Trying It All is an opposites attract story. Both Riley and Summer appear to be as opposite as a man and a woman can be. Both characters' personalities were molded by traumatic events in their pasts. If you've been been following the series you already know that the Naked Men were involved in a horrific bus accident in the Swiss Alps years ago, were injured when their soccer team's tour bus crashed over the side of a cliff--an accident that killed their driver, and that they were without proper clothing or a way to call for help for 3 long days and nights. Already friends and team-mates, that experience turned these friends into brothers, a bond that has been unbreakable since then.
Riley blamed himself for distracting the bus driver and the driver's death, although his friends chalk it up to fate. But while hoping to be rescued, Riley felt out of control, and it changed him into a man who wants to control each and every facet of his and everyone else's existence. He now works at the National Transportation and Safety Board, and his obsession with always preparing for every possibility and imagining every way any situation can go wrong makes him difficult to live with, but his friends know and accept that this is the result of the PTSD they all suffered on that fateful day..
Summer is also a survivor of severe trauma. When she was in college, there was a nightmarish mass shooting at her college and she was shot three times, even dying on the operating table before they got her heart started again. That event changed her into someone who realizes that you can't plan ahead for the future because the future can't be guaranteed. She doesn't do relationships at all, preferring to jump from man to man with no emotional involvement. She wants to experience everything while she can and she'll try anything, any sport, any challenge, from jaywalking without looking both ways to parasailing, to anything that will keep her in the present. She runs her own chic fashion business, and needless to say, when her best friend, Chloe, finds the man of her dreams among the Naked Men, she and Riley are like oil and water and can't stand being around one another, and they've been that way for the past two years--constantly bickering.
Unfortunately or fortunately, Riley and Summer are constantly thrown together as there's a wedding in the group of friends, and familiarity doesn't always breed contempt, sometimes, especially in this series, it breeds a lot of steamy sex, some outrageously funny conversations (you're going to love the one about whether scallops blink), a group of characters I've come to truly appreciate, and an altogether charming and entertaining read. If you're not already reading this series, I suggest you start now. Personally, I'm looking forward to Naked Men, #5.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book. The opinions expressed are my own.
This title centers around Riley and Summer, both of whom we've met in the previous novels in the series, and while this book can be read as a standalone, I'd recommend starting at the beginning of the series with Risking it All, as it will give you a greater understanding of why the Naked Men are the way they are, and how they got that way.
At its heart, Trying It All is an opposites attract story. Both Riley and Summer appear to be as opposite as a man and a woman can be. Both characters' personalities were molded by traumatic events in their pasts. If you've been been following the series you already know that the Naked Men were involved in a horrific bus accident in the Swiss Alps years ago, were injured when their soccer team's tour bus crashed over the side of a cliff--an accident that killed their driver, and that they were without proper clothing or a way to call for help for 3 long days and nights. Already friends and team-mates, that experience turned these friends into brothers, a bond that has been unbreakable since then.
Riley blamed himself for distracting the bus driver and the driver's death, although his friends chalk it up to fate. But while hoping to be rescued, Riley felt out of control, and it changed him into a man who wants to control each and every facet of his and everyone else's existence. He now works at the National Transportation and Safety Board, and his obsession with always preparing for every possibility and imagining every way any situation can go wrong makes him difficult to live with, but his friends know and accept that this is the result of the PTSD they all suffered on that fateful day..
Summer is also a survivor of severe trauma. When she was in college, there was a nightmarish mass shooting at her college and she was shot three times, even dying on the operating table before they got her heart started again. That event changed her into someone who realizes that you can't plan ahead for the future because the future can't be guaranteed. She doesn't do relationships at all, preferring to jump from man to man with no emotional involvement. She wants to experience everything while she can and she'll try anything, any sport, any challenge, from jaywalking without looking both ways to parasailing, to anything that will keep her in the present. She runs her own chic fashion business, and needless to say, when her best friend, Chloe, finds the man of her dreams among the Naked Men, she and Riley are like oil and water and can't stand being around one another, and they've been that way for the past two years--constantly bickering.
Unfortunately or fortunately, Riley and Summer are constantly thrown together as there's a wedding in the group of friends, and familiarity doesn't always breed contempt, sometimes, especially in this series, it breeds a lot of steamy sex, some outrageously funny conversations (you're going to love the one about whether scallops blink), a group of characters I've come to truly appreciate, and an altogether charming and entertaining read. If you're not already reading this series, I suggest you start now. Personally, I'm looking forward to Naked Men, #5.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book. The opinions expressed are my own.
May 14, 2017
Christi Barth's "Trying It All" is the fourth book in her Naked Men series and, for me, it is the best, thus far. Riley Ness is the quintessential "boy scout" - he is always prepared for anything! He even chose preparedness is his work as a federal agent in the investigative accident division, much to his wealthy parents chagrin and work, along with his Naked Men responsibilities, consumes his life. Summer Sheridan is Chloe's best friend and has met all the "Naked Men" and has been welcomed into the group by them all, except Riley. While Riley is all about being prepared to face any possible disaster or minor hiccup, Summer is all about spontaneity and lives her life in the "now"!
Opposites much? Summer is a successful business woman, street smart and savvy with quick wit, even bitingly funny. To her, Riley is plain boring - attractive to look at, but dull, otherwise. But with Griffin and Chloe's wedding on the horizon, Riley decides that he and Summer need to call a truce. They kiss and there are sparks; neither of them can believe it. How can they be attracted to each other when they can't stand each other? Can barely be in the same room to gether without verbal sparring! Like Riley and his friends, Summer has also suffered a life altering event - she was shot three times during a campus shooting; thanks to Chloe, she was dragged out of the shooter's sight before more damage was done. Summer died on the operating table but was revived and made a full recovery - almost. She refuses to plan anything which is anathema to Riley, who just can't move without fully investigating where he is going and covering off all contingencies before the event. Riley makes some adjustments for Summer but when they do something spontaneous, there are problems and Riley wonders if he can live with the risks that Summer blithely ignores.
I have enjoyed all of this series to date - with only one character being beyond irritating - and Riley and Summer are the best couple so far. They have all the foibles of real people - Christi Barth has the ability to put common activities under a microscope and create a winning novel. She has become a favourite author very quickly and I can't wait for the next book about Josh, the only single Naked Man left.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed for Once Upon an Alpha.
Opposites much? Summer is a successful business woman, street smart and savvy with quick wit, even bitingly funny. To her, Riley is plain boring - attractive to look at, but dull, otherwise. But with Griffin and Chloe's wedding on the horizon, Riley decides that he and Summer need to call a truce. They kiss and there are sparks; neither of them can believe it. How can they be attracted to each other when they can't stand each other? Can barely be in the same room to gether without verbal sparring! Like Riley and his friends, Summer has also suffered a life altering event - she was shot three times during a campus shooting; thanks to Chloe, she was dragged out of the shooter's sight before more damage was done. Summer died on the operating table but was revived and made a full recovery - almost. She refuses to plan anything which is anathema to Riley, who just can't move without fully investigating where he is going and covering off all contingencies before the event. Riley makes some adjustments for Summer but when they do something spontaneous, there are problems and Riley wonders if he can live with the risks that Summer blithely ignores.
I have enjoyed all of this series to date - with only one character being beyond irritating - and Riley and Summer are the best couple so far. They have all the foibles of real people - Christi Barth has the ability to put common activities under a microscope and create a winning novel. She has become a favourite author very quickly and I can't wait for the next book about Josh, the only single Naked Man left.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed for Once Upon an Alpha.
May 4, 2017
I have received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This is the fourth book in the Naked Men series. The series is about a group of teenagers that bonded through a tragedy and their lives about 10 years later. They are "brothers", although not by blood.
They now live together in a huge house and lead successful lives.
This is Riley's story. Riley is definitely compulsive. Everything has to be "in order" for him, every possibly action has to be worked out. He always has to have a plan in place.
Summer is the best friend of one of his fellow Naked Mens' fiancé. She and Riley never get along as she is the total opposite of him. She never plans anything, she just flies by the seat of her pants. She does run a fairly successful boutique though.
As the wedding of their friends comes closer, Riley decides that he and Summer need to "have a truce", for their friends sake as they will be spending more time together. He goes to her and she agrees with him.
This is when the changes begin....
Can they keep the truce going? Will they drive each other and all their friends crazy with their extreme ways?
As extreme as both of these characters are, they are very likeable. They are hard working and are true to the people that are important to them. Summer has also had tragedy in her life also but neither is aware of the real stories.
As they spend more time together the attraction grows.. and then a few kisses...I had to laugh because they were basically both telling themselves " I don't even like him/her, why am I attracted to him/her".
What really made this book for me was when they both started to open up about the tragedy in their lives and why it made them the way they were, how that loss of freedom affected their life. It was very intense and wonderfully written! Them opening up to one another was only the beginning, now they need to learn how to work on their excessive-ness in personalities, Riley needing to have order and a plan for everything and Summer never planning.
A challenge is always easier when someone you love is at your side to support you...Riley and Summer have really just started their lives.
Great story!
This is the fourth book in the Naked Men series. The series is about a group of teenagers that bonded through a tragedy and their lives about 10 years later. They are "brothers", although not by blood.
They now live together in a huge house and lead successful lives.
This is Riley's story. Riley is definitely compulsive. Everything has to be "in order" for him, every possibly action has to be worked out. He always has to have a plan in place.
Summer is the best friend of one of his fellow Naked Mens' fiancé. She and Riley never get along as she is the total opposite of him. She never plans anything, she just flies by the seat of her pants. She does run a fairly successful boutique though.
As the wedding of their friends comes closer, Riley decides that he and Summer need to "have a truce", for their friends sake as they will be spending more time together. He goes to her and she agrees with him.
This is when the changes begin....
Can they keep the truce going? Will they drive each other and all their friends crazy with their extreme ways?
As extreme as both of these characters are, they are very likeable. They are hard working and are true to the people that are important to them. Summer has also had tragedy in her life also but neither is aware of the real stories.
As they spend more time together the attraction grows.. and then a few kisses...I had to laugh because they were basically both telling themselves " I don't even like him/her, why am I attracted to him/her".
What really made this book for me was when they both started to open up about the tragedy in their lives and why it made them the way they were, how that loss of freedom affected their life. It was very intense and wonderfully written! Them opening up to one another was only the beginning, now they need to learn how to work on their excessive-ness in personalities, Riley needing to have order and a plan for everything and Summer never planning.
A challenge is always easier when someone you love is at your side to support you...Riley and Summer have really just started their lives.
Great story!
April 17, 2017
I LOVED this book. The only thing that annoyed me was the way Riley kept going back and forth about his feelings for Summer.
Riley Ness and his 4 best friends were in a life threatening accident when they were only 15 years old. The moment that they were saved, Riley changed the way he lived his life completely; he became a control freak. Never planning on being unprepared for ANY situation ever again, he ALWAYS carries his homemade survival kit, a pocket knife, and raincoat. His world is orderly and safe. He does have fun, he just researches everything first and makes sure that all the equipment is safe to use.
Summer Sheridan was involved in a mass shooting at her university. While hiding in a classroom, the shooter shot her twice before she passed out. After dying on the operating table for 1 min 13 seconds, she decided to forget about rules and to live life to its fullest.
Riley clashes with Summer, every time they try to have a conversation because they end up snapping at each other. As a result, he thinks she's an idiot, but he's also extremely attracted to her, and doesn't want to be.
Summer owns a high end boutique in Georgetown, has a steady stream of business and she knows her stuff. He just formed an opinion by her blonde hair and her hot body. Talking about judging someone by their appearance.
Summer thinks Riley needs to relax, she's NEVER met someone so uptight. He's hot as well and would probably be cool if he could chill out a bit. When they both agree to a truce and stop the fighting for the sake of their friends for the weekend, amazing things come as a result. White hot attraction leads to hot passion and some crazy sex.
When Summer realizes that she is falling in love with him, she starts to freak out because she doesn't commit. Riley doesn't know how to handle her in his life, she's too much chaos. When she's really not. What will happen to these two opposites?
Must read!!
**Was given an ARC by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
Riley Ness and his 4 best friends were in a life threatening accident when they were only 15 years old. The moment that they were saved, Riley changed the way he lived his life completely; he became a control freak. Never planning on being unprepared for ANY situation ever again, he ALWAYS carries his homemade survival kit, a pocket knife, and raincoat. His world is orderly and safe. He does have fun, he just researches everything first and makes sure that all the equipment is safe to use.
Summer Sheridan was involved in a mass shooting at her university. While hiding in a classroom, the shooter shot her twice before she passed out. After dying on the operating table for 1 min 13 seconds, she decided to forget about rules and to live life to its fullest.
Riley clashes with Summer, every time they try to have a conversation because they end up snapping at each other. As a result, he thinks she's an idiot, but he's also extremely attracted to her, and doesn't want to be.
Summer owns a high end boutique in Georgetown, has a steady stream of business and she knows her stuff. He just formed an opinion by her blonde hair and her hot body. Talking about judging someone by their appearance.
Summer thinks Riley needs to relax, she's NEVER met someone so uptight. He's hot as well and would probably be cool if he could chill out a bit. When they both agree to a truce and stop the fighting for the sake of their friends for the weekend, amazing things come as a result. White hot attraction leads to hot passion and some crazy sex.
When Summer realizes that she is falling in love with him, she starts to freak out because she doesn't commit. Riley doesn't know how to handle her in his life, she's too much chaos. When she's really not. What will happen to these two opposites?
Must read!!
**Was given an ARC by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
May 16, 2017
If you haven’t been reading Christi Barth’s Naked Men series, you’ve been missing out. All of the books are fun and sexy and the fourth installment—Trying It All—is no exception. They’re stand-alones, so do not worry about jumping in at any point.
Riley and Summer are complete opposites. He’s an extreme planner and control freak who always plays it safe - really, really safe. She’s a free spirit who doesn’t believe in planning and wants to live life loudly and embraces risks. They annoy each other to no end when they see each other, which is often because their best friends are in a serious relationship together.
Summer pushes Riley’s buttons every chance she gets until he snaps and kisses her. Turns out their annoyance and ribbing were manifestations of sizzling sexual tension that built to a fever pitch. The kiss knocks bother of their socks off, and there is no going back to frenemies for these two. They never see each other quite the same again and can no longer deny the intense chemistry between, even if they can't understand how they could want someone who is so different from them.
The banter between Summer and Riley is top notch, and they’re playful enemies-to-lovers vibe is thoroughly enjoyable. Both are endearing characters, and the reader will love going on their journey with them. There’s a sweet side to Trying It All as we uncover why both Summer an Riley live life the way they do and how fear plays a big role when making their choices. There’s lots of guest appearances by characters from the other Naked Men books making this a truly entertaining read, and I can’t wait for the next story.
ARC provided, but this review was voluntarily and honestly written.
Riley and Summer are complete opposites. He’s an extreme planner and control freak who always plays it safe - really, really safe. She’s a free spirit who doesn’t believe in planning and wants to live life loudly and embraces risks. They annoy each other to no end when they see each other, which is often because their best friends are in a serious relationship together.
Summer pushes Riley’s buttons every chance she gets until he snaps and kisses her. Turns out their annoyance and ribbing were manifestations of sizzling sexual tension that built to a fever pitch. The kiss knocks bother of their socks off, and there is no going back to frenemies for these two. They never see each other quite the same again and can no longer deny the intense chemistry between, even if they can't understand how they could want someone who is so different from them.
The banter between Summer and Riley is top notch, and they’re playful enemies-to-lovers vibe is thoroughly enjoyable. Both are endearing characters, and the reader will love going on their journey with them. There’s a sweet side to Trying It All as we uncover why both Summer an Riley live life the way they do and how fear plays a big role when making their choices. There’s lots of guest appearances by characters from the other Naked Men books making this a truly entertaining read, and I can’t wait for the next story.
ARC provided, but this review was voluntarily and honestly written.
May 18, 2017
On the surface, this looks like an opposites attract story but as Riley and Summer get to know each, and we get to know them, it is revealed that they are more alike than either of them realize.
Riley is one of the ACSs, a group of men who survived a near fatal accident in the mountains of Italy ten years ago. Each one of the men in this group was impacted in a different way. Riley learned that he always needs to be prepared and thinks of all of the possible outcomes of every situation that he may be in. He's a super uptight Type A and tries to control everything around him. Summer survived a mass shooting on her college campus and, after nearly losing her life, has lived as if today may be the last day she has so she must live life to the fullest. Whenever Riley and Summer are together, they do nothing but fight and snipe at each other but there's a thin line between love and hate so once they cross the line, their chemistry is explosive. The differences between them seem to fade away the more they learn about each but, as with any person who has experienced the type of traumas they have, the baggage can get in the way.
I loved Summer and Riley. They're both hilarious and care more about the people around them than anything else in the world. Even though they seemed like opposites in the beginning, I loved learning all of the ways they are similar and perfect for each other. This is only the second of this series that I have read so I *need* to go back and read the first two. I love so much about this group and I can't wait to see where the series goes next.
*This is my voluntary review of an advanced reader copy*
Riley is one of the ACSs, a group of men who survived a near fatal accident in the mountains of Italy ten years ago. Each one of the men in this group was impacted in a different way. Riley learned that he always needs to be prepared and thinks of all of the possible outcomes of every situation that he may be in. He's a super uptight Type A and tries to control everything around him. Summer survived a mass shooting on her college campus and, after nearly losing her life, has lived as if today may be the last day she has so she must live life to the fullest. Whenever Riley and Summer are together, they do nothing but fight and snipe at each other but there's a thin line between love and hate so once they cross the line, their chemistry is explosive. The differences between them seem to fade away the more they learn about each but, as with any person who has experienced the type of traumas they have, the baggage can get in the way.
I loved Summer and Riley. They're both hilarious and care more about the people around them than anything else in the world. Even though they seemed like opposites in the beginning, I loved learning all of the ways they are similar and perfect for each other. This is only the second of this series that I have read so I *need* to go back and read the first two. I love so much about this group and I can't wait to see where the series goes next.
*This is my voluntary review of an advanced reader copy*
May 18, 2017
I love Christi Barth's series Naked Men & Riley's book is a great addition to the series. This emotion packed book was wonderfully written to take us on a ride that breaks our hearts with their emotional baggage & makes us laugh as they push each other's buttons(mostly on purpose) & makes us cry when they give up on what they both want....each other. They re like night & day, oil & water they shouldn't mix but when they try they make great music together. Both characters are strong but weak & damaged in a way, Riley having survived the fatal bus crash & 3 nights in a cave in the Alps during a high school soccer trip, is always prepared for everything, even having contingency plans as well. He planned his life around the trauma of the accident, even going as far as working for the NTSB. Summer surviving 3 gun shot wounds & dying during surgery after being shot 3xs on her college campus during a school shooting, has also changed her outlook on life. She no longer plans ahead, she does what she wants when she wants, she's not going to have regrets about not trying something. She also doesn't stick around to give anyone a chance to get close except her BFF Chloe because she never knew when they'd be taken away from her. The fact that these 2 grated on each other's nerves in the beginning only to find out they were really both interesting & likeable people was a wonderful concept for this book. Going from snarling & sniping to laughing & making out was wonderfully done. Christi Barth leaves you with a really great feeling when reading her stories & this book was no different. Definitely recommend.
April 17, 2017
I would like to thank Netgalley and Loveswept for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Another great Naked Men book by Christi Barth!
This series is probably one of my all time favorites and I love how the guys interact with each other. You can tell how close they are with each other and how they are not afraid to be real with each other. I think that is one of my favorite things about this series is just about how open the guys are with each other and the dialog between them.
Amazing chemistry between Summer and Riley!! They say opposites attract and in this case that is a true statement. Riley wants to plan everything out and then have 3 different back up plans just in case and Summer is pretty much fly by the seat of your pants kind of girl and likes to live in the moment. A combination like this both irritates and draws them together. The banter between the two is fun to experience.
I loved the development of the two characters and how we were able to see why they were the way they were. They both have tragedy affect them and changed their outlook on the future. Where Riley doesn’t ever want to feel unprepared again, Summer wants to live life to the fullest and enjoy just being alive.
Loved it!! I can’t wait to see how Josh’s story unfolds!
Another great Naked Men book by Christi Barth!
This series is probably one of my all time favorites and I love how the guys interact with each other. You can tell how close they are with each other and how they are not afraid to be real with each other. I think that is one of my favorite things about this series is just about how open the guys are with each other and the dialog between them.
Amazing chemistry between Summer and Riley!! They say opposites attract and in this case that is a true statement. Riley wants to plan everything out and then have 3 different back up plans just in case and Summer is pretty much fly by the seat of your pants kind of girl and likes to live in the moment. A combination like this both irritates and draws them together. The banter between the two is fun to experience.
I loved the development of the two characters and how we were able to see why they were the way they were. They both have tragedy affect them and changed their outlook on the future. Where Riley doesn’t ever want to feel unprepared again, Summer wants to live life to the fullest and enjoy just being alive.
Loved it!! I can’t wait to see how Josh’s story unfolds!
May 21, 2017
Christi Barth and her Naked Man Series are some of the best written and most captivating and unforgettable books that I've read. I have loved everything about this series from the interesting, in depth, complicated, characters and their interactions, their amazing strong connection and their real life issues that they deal with together. Each of these books can be read as a stand alone romance, but reading them as a series adds so much more to the reading experience. They become a fantastic masterpiece, as you feel like they are part of your world.
I couldn't wait to read Riley and Summers story, and I was not disappointed. Every single second of this story was just so incredibly entertaining, as well as captivating and I had so much fun reading it. I was smiling and laughing and loved getting to know more about Riley and seeing Summer pull him so far out of his comfort zone. Their chemistry sizzled. I loved their playfulness and that building heat between them. As well as the zest for life and joy that Summer brings to Rileys world and watching them work through their issues. These two opposites rock each other's world. This was Fantastic! Loved it! Highly Recommended!
"Living forever is only fun if you truly live".
I received an ARC through NetGalley and voluntarily wrote an honest review.
I couldn't wait to read Riley and Summers story, and I was not disappointed. Every single second of this story was just so incredibly entertaining, as well as captivating and I had so much fun reading it. I was smiling and laughing and loved getting to know more about Riley and seeing Summer pull him so far out of his comfort zone. Their chemistry sizzled. I loved their playfulness and that building heat between them. As well as the zest for life and joy that Summer brings to Rileys world and watching them work through their issues. These two opposites rock each other's world. This was Fantastic! Loved it! Highly Recommended!
"Living forever is only fun if you truly live".
I received an ARC through NetGalley and voluntarily wrote an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews