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The Works #1
Bodywork
First time’s the burn He ran into her and her coffee and raced off with a burn and a snarl. Second time’s a hitch Being sexually attracted to Mr. Tall, Dark, and Rude hadn’t been on her agenda.She just wants him out of her massage clinic before he recognizes her or she jumps that sexy body. Not professional. Not at all. Third time’s the charm When Shelby Vanzant and Shane Collins meet again, the sparks fly. Shane has found his match in a sexy, intelligent woman he can’t stop thinking about. Shelby is scared, because she might grow to like this guy. The last guy she liked dumped her for someone hotter. She’s willing to take a chance–if her flamboyant mother, Shane’s macho best friend, and his Casanova of a younger brother don’t screw things up. With fate on their side, they might have a shot at a love they’d stopped looking for.
336 pages, Paperback
First published November 30, 2011
124 people are currently reading
1377 people want to read
About the author
Marie Harte
199 books2,405 followersImportant:: Marie Harte is NOT active on GoodReads, so to contact her, please use her website at marieharte.com.
Caffeine addict, boy referee, and romance aficionado, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Marie Harte has over 100 books published with more constantly on the way. She’s a confessed bibliophile and devotee of action movies. Whether hiking in Central Oregon, biking around town, or hanging at the local tea shop, she’s constantly plotting to give everyone a happily ever after. Visit http://marieharte.com and fall in love.
Caffeine addict, boy referee, and romance aficionado, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Marie Harte has over 100 books published with more constantly on the way. She’s a confessed bibliophile and devotee of action movies. Whether hiking in Central Oregon, biking around town, or hanging at the local tea shop, she’s constantly plotting to give everyone a happily ever after. Visit http://marieharte.com and fall in love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
December 23, 2011
Pretty hot romance between an "average looking" 27-year-old brunette massage therapist (Shelby) and 31-year-old green-eyed architect and former Marine (Shane). Both have recently been dumped (cheated on) by their significant others and have had complaints about being too "vanilla". Shelby and Shane try to change things up (forgetting about having a 'relationship', let's just have some secret, down-and-dirty, no-strings attached, non-vanilla sex) and do the opposite of what hasn't worked for them. But will that be enough? Can serial dater Shane and looking for the white picket fence Shelby suppress the feelings they obviously have for each other and keep it just about the sex, and not about a relationship?
Shane with his dark hair and moss green eyes...
Marie Harte does a pretty good job with this one, fleshing out the very likable main characters, providing quirky supporting characters (Shelby's "New Age-ish" mom and gay business partner; Shane's teenage lothario brother; Shelby's curvy blonde bombshell artist BF and Shane's muscular Marine/gym owner BF) who like to butt into the H/h's love life, and providing plenty of scorch the sheets sexual encounters (oh wow, the first time in his office) and exciting sexual role playing they indulge in made this one hot read. I enjoyed seeing these characters come out of their sexual shell (so to speak), and my oh my, doesn't Shane have quite the talent for 'talking dirty'!
Shane has a lean, muscular runner's body...
If you like something light, erotic, and with touches of humor, Bodywork should work for you. It worked enough for me that I want to see if Marie Harte wrote a story about Maggie and Mac (Shane and Shelby's best friends) 4 solid stars.
Shane with his dark hair and moss green eyes...
Marie Harte does a pretty good job with this one, fleshing out the very likable main characters, providing quirky supporting characters (Shelby's "New Age-ish" mom and gay business partner; Shane's teenage lothario brother; Shelby's curvy blonde bombshell artist BF and Shane's muscular Marine/gym owner BF) who like to butt into the H/h's love life, and providing plenty of scorch the sheets sexual encounters (oh wow, the first time in his office) and exciting sexual role playing they indulge in made this one hot read. I enjoyed seeing these characters come out of their sexual shell (so to speak), and my oh my, doesn't Shane have quite the talent for 'talking dirty'!
Shane has a lean, muscular runner's body...
If you like something light, erotic, and with touches of humor, Bodywork should work for you. It worked enough for me that I want to see if Marie Harte wrote a story about Maggie and Mac (Shane and Shelby's best friends) 4 solid stars.
July 16, 2014
I've read a few Marie Harte offerings and this one was well done but fairly par for the course. Did I enjoy it? You bet! That's why it's getting 4 stars even though there's nothing unique to recommend it. It's still an entertaining read and there's every possibility I'll do a reread. I guess that's enough for me this lazy Monday.
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July 7, 2019
Bodywork was the first book in the Works series by Marie Harte. It was my first book by the author.
Shane and Shelby were destined. They kept running into each other, literally, and creating all types of emotions, positive and negative, until they finally explored the chemistry and tempted fate. Harte utilized her humorous secondary characters for even additional depth and fun.
All in all, Bodywork was a cute, lighthearted and sexy read. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the characters. It was well written and fun. And Maggie, Shelby’s BFF, was awesome as well. I can’t wait to read Maggie’s story next in Working Out.
Shane and Shelby were destined. They kept running into each other, literally, and creating all types of emotions, positive and negative, until they finally explored the chemistry and tempted fate. Harte utilized her humorous secondary characters for even additional depth and fun.
All in all, Bodywork was a cute, lighthearted and sexy read. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the characters. It was well written and fun. And Maggie, Shelby’s BFF, was awesome as well. I can’t wait to read Maggie’s story next in Working Out.
June 19, 2015
I absolutely enjoyed this book! I didn't expect to in fact.
After disastrous relationships, Shane and Shelby are swearing off relationships and they decided they are better of with no strings attached sex--with each other. But they are old fashioned people, domesticated too! During and in between sex, they find themselves wanting to get to know each other more.
Loved loved loved it. The characters are a bit quirky and their banters had me giggling and smiling like a loon! I also adored the main characters' meddling friends and family!
Looking forward to reading Mac and Maggie's story next!
After disastrous relationships, Shane and Shelby are swearing off relationships and they decided they are better of with no strings attached sex--with each other. But they are old fashioned people, domesticated too! During and in between sex, they find themselves wanting to get to know each other more.
Loved loved loved it. The characters are a bit quirky and their banters had me giggling and smiling like a loon! I also adored the main characters' meddling friends and family!
Looking forward to reading Mac and Maggie's story next!
July 26, 2016
I got this free at All Romance EBooks, as part of their Twelve Days of Christmas promotion.
This was a delightful story. If you like a cute romantic tale about two people burned by past lovers, scarred and afraid to try again, but willing to engage in a no-strings attached relationship only to find that things have a strange way of working out, lots of sexy times and toe-curling dirty talk, then this is for you.
Shelby Vanzant is a massage therapist and recovering from a broken
Shane Collins is a former Marine turned architect. He's successful, loyal, good-looking and burned by an ex lover. He hasn't been with a woman in eight months, ever since his cheating ex-girlfriend ran off with her fling. Her words about him being too vanilla and boring still ring in his ears. Then he has a run-in with a sexy Amazon. He may not be interested in women at the moment, but he can't help but notice her "assets" or that she's cute when she's angry. As a means to relieve some stress, he schedules an appointment for a massage. Besides feeling incredibly relaxed, he finds himself painfully aroused. He thinks it must be the hands of his masseuse, Denise, and he decides to ask her out on a date and see where things lead. His plans are momentarily halted when he comes face-to-face with the sexy Amazon and owner of the massage parlor and later finds out that it was her hands he had responded to so painfully. An accidental run-in, a kiss, and a meddling younger brother bring her to his office. No longer able to deny the sizzling attraction between them, they share a toe-curling tryst in his office that establishes the nature of their future encounters. Good thing the heart rarely listens to the head, but can they overcome the hurt from the past to see the potential of their future?
I loved these two characters. Despite the cliched plot of friends with benefits, it was fun to see their carefully crafted plans unravel with each steamy encounter. I found Shelby to be more stubborn and distrustful than necessary, but then again, this isn't my story. I can't believe I'm saying this, but I liked Shane's dirty talk more than the sex scenes. Don't get me wrong, he was beyond delicious, but that man had a mouth on him ... whew!
The supporting cast of characters provided the comedic relief. They were loving and had meddlesome but good intentions of helping those two stubborn mules get together. Mac and Maddie (the H/H's best friends) had some chemistry going on of their own. It'd be fun to see them get their own story.
What I really appreciated about this story was the culmination of all the kept secrets and misunderstandings. The hero didn't end up being the one needing a slap up the back of his head, but the heroine! I'm so used to seeing the male being the thick-headed, non-committal jerk that it was surprising to see the heroine in that position. Just because I'm a woman doesn't mean I'll take the heroine's side. I was happy with the ending, and it ended in a way that suited them well. It came full circle.
I'll definitely read more from this author.
November 27, 2014
Bodywork by Marie Harte
I’m stuck between 2 and 3 stars on this book but settled on a 3 in the end.
Full length novel – plus
19 Chapters
Cost – plus
For the length of the book it was great.
Steamy sex – plus
Half way through the story is when it started to get steamy and hot. Some interesting massages.
Interesting story – plus
A chance meeting connects Shane and Shelby again and again or is it fate working its magic between two people who are meant to be together.
Characters back story – plus
Lot’s of details about Shane and Shelby and their past and that made them the kind of people they are today. Lot’s of details about their circle of friends and family too.
Humor – plus
The characters had a couple of lines that I chuckled at.
Writing style – plus
Smooth writing, it moved from one scene to the next easily.
-----
Repetitiveness - negative
Their past relationships and the details of the breakups were often repeated.
Slow beginning – negative
About 100 pages were dedicated to the back story and the often repeated breakups.
Too much family involvement – negative
I didn’t mind a bit on both sides getting involved but they took it to another level.
Too much friends involvement – negative
Best Friends get involved but this was a bit much.
Too much angst – negative
With all the talk of honesty in Shane’s and Shelby’s relationship there was quite a bit of dishonesty by way of withholding when their feelings changed.
Writing style – negative
Mostly because of the repetitiveness of the past breakups.
Favorite Line:
"She barely avoided a pair of sweaty men running by like their hair was on fire. Joggers. Ech. Who the hell ran without a reason?”
I’m stuck between 2 and 3 stars on this book but settled on a 3 in the end.
Full length novel – plus
19 Chapters
Cost – plus
For the length of the book it was great.
Steamy sex – plus
Half way through the story is when it started to get steamy and hot. Some interesting massages.
Interesting story – plus
A chance meeting connects Shane and Shelby again and again or is it fate working its magic between two people who are meant to be together.
Characters back story – plus
Lot’s of details about Shane and Shelby and their past and that made them the kind of people they are today. Lot’s of details about their circle of friends and family too.
Humor – plus
The characters had a couple of lines that I chuckled at.
Writing style – plus
Smooth writing, it moved from one scene to the next easily.
-----
Repetitiveness - negative
Their past relationships and the details of the breakups were often repeated.
Slow beginning – negative
About 100 pages were dedicated to the back story and the often repeated breakups.
Too much family involvement – negative
I didn’t mind a bit on both sides getting involved but they took it to another level.
Too much friends involvement – negative
Best Friends get involved but this was a bit much.
Too much angst – negative
With all the talk of honesty in Shane’s and Shelby’s relationship there was quite a bit of dishonesty by way of withholding when their feelings changed.
Writing style – negative
Mostly because of the repetitiveness of the past breakups.
Favorite Line:
"She barely avoided a pair of sweaty men running by like their hair was on fire. Joggers. Ech. Who the hell ran without a reason?”
September 26, 2014
To tell you the truth, this book was really well written... You look at it and think; interesting story, hot cover - I wanna read that!
And well, I dunno about you guys, but for me the story fell kinda short for me.
Sure the sex was BEYOND hot and diverse - no other word for it; but it felt like there was something missing - a little bit of spice that would make me fall in love with the characters (Maggie and Mac - the supporting characters; were actually more interesting).
Even the plot, which at first seemed intriguing ended up being kind of boring. The story was basically about a sex crazed couple with huge communication problems and lots of people interferring in their lives. They both wanted the same thing, both were too scared to admit it and all those around them thought they knew best when it came to the couple's love life.
To be fair though, the book was very well written and well paced. The sex scenes were STEAMY and the dialogues had me cracking up - at times.
Not a favourite book of mine, never mind a read again but nonetheless a nice - there's that word again as Shane would say - read.
And well, I dunno about you guys, but for me the story fell kinda short for me.
Sure the sex was BEYOND hot and diverse - no other word for it; but it felt like there was something missing - a little bit of spice that would make me fall in love with the characters (Maggie and Mac - the supporting characters; were actually more interesting).
Even the plot, which at first seemed intriguing ended up being kind of boring. The story was basically about a sex crazed couple with huge communication problems and lots of people interferring in their lives. They both wanted the same thing, both were too scared to admit it and all those around them thought they knew best when it came to the couple's love life.
To be fair though, the book was very well written and well paced. The sex scenes were STEAMY and the dialogues had me cracking up - at times.
Not a favourite book of mine, never mind a read again but nonetheless a nice - there's that word again as Shane would say - read.
September 10, 2012
READ IT PEOPLE :D
God, Could this book get any hotter?
My head was so singing It's getting hot in here, so take of all your clothes during the naughty talks and sexy scenes ;) hahaha
No idea what Shelby's mother Mimi and Ron are on, But I so want some of it.. Hahahah.. they are fucking crazy minksss!!
George, Love the boy!! :D crazy ass fella and such a play boy :D
I reallllllly liked Shelby & Shane's character and their story! A lot :D
Maggie and Mac bickering and plotting are amazing, I'm waiting to read their book :D Both seem like such loyal and loving friends!!
I LOVE how everyone of them are playing cupid for Shane and Shelby, when they are already bringing it on, all hot and dirty!! But too many cooks spoil the pot :P
He washed her mouth and throat with plenty of happy little guys wishing for nothing more than a shot at her hot pussy again.
“one smart-mouthed blonde who looks like God’s personal hooker in pink aerobic tights.”
This book had humor, sizzle.. very hot sizzle, was cute and romantic and I LOVED IT <3
God, Could this book get any hotter?
My head was so singing It's getting hot in here, so take of all your clothes during the naughty talks and sexy scenes ;) hahaha
No idea what Shelby's mother Mimi and Ron are on, But I so want some of it.. Hahahah.. they are fucking crazy minksss!!
George, Love the boy!! :D crazy ass fella and such a play boy :D
I reallllllly liked Shelby & Shane's character and their story! A lot :D
Maggie and Mac bickering and plotting are amazing, I'm waiting to read their book :D Both seem like such loyal and loving friends!!
I LOVE how everyone of them are playing cupid for Shane and Shelby, when they are already bringing it on, all hot and dirty!! But too many cooks spoil the pot :P
He washed her mouth and throat with plenty of happy little guys wishing for nothing more than a shot at her hot pussy again.
“one smart-mouthed blonde who looks like God’s personal hooker in pink aerobic tights.”
This book had humor, sizzle.. very hot sizzle, was cute and romantic and I LOVED IT <3
March 22, 2014
This book was just awful movie garbage. I just could not finish it.
Here's a few reasons;
1. Nicknaming people by what they do.
"Mr.Rude", "The watch watcher", "Wonder Woman", "Miss Annoyed", etc...
(I bet there's more I just didn't continue reading to find out)
2. The Best friends nonsense.
As soon as the main characters have a particular interest in each other everyone's talking about it. Her friends AND his friends. Then there is some kind ultimate scheme to get them together. (Typical romance movie nonsense)
3. They.are.not.normal
Less than 3 encounters, with little to no talking to each other I might add, the first half of the book was about them thinking about each other. I can understand if you have a fantasy or two but really? (don't quote me on this I had to skip some pages because it was starting to annoy me)
4. I didn't know a persons eyes were so damn important in a non-paranormal romance novel because I keep seeing it pass the first couple encounters...
5. "I might as well apologize again... for doing what I've been thinking about since you first touched me" (kiss) <-- that was from the guy (ew....ew this line)
This upsets me. That line is from the third time they met and the only time they had a longer conversation. Do you do this to strangers? I hope not! I could understand if some hot tension was passing through them in previous encounters but NONE of that ever happened.
5. Their world revolves around coffee
I KNOW its fiction but if I, the reader, can't relate or if it doesn't make sense in logical way it is not worth my time.
Here's a few reasons;
1. Nicknaming people by what they do.
"Mr.Rude", "The watch watcher", "Wonder Woman", "Miss Annoyed", etc...
(I bet there's more I just didn't continue reading to find out)
2. The Best friends nonsense.
As soon as the main characters have a particular interest in each other everyone's talking about it. Her friends AND his friends. Then there is some kind ultimate scheme to get them together. (Typical romance movie nonsense)
3. They.are.not.normal
Less than 3 encounters, with little to no talking to each other I might add, the first half of the book was about them thinking about each other. I can understand if you have a fantasy or two but really? (don't quote me on this I had to skip some pages because it was starting to annoy me)
4. I didn't know a persons eyes were so damn important in a non-paranormal romance novel because I keep seeing it pass the first couple encounters...
5. "I might as well apologize again... for doing what I've been thinking about since you first touched me" (kiss) <-- that was from the guy (ew....ew this line)
This upsets me. That line is from the third time they met and the only time they had a longer conversation. Do you do this to strangers? I hope not! I could understand if some hot tension was passing through them in previous encounters but NONE of that ever happened.
5. Their world revolves around coffee
I KNOW its fiction but if I, the reader, can't relate or if it doesn't make sense in logical way it is not worth my time.
February 8, 2017
Quite honestly having read all 3 books in this series this is the only one I'd personally recommend. Shane and Shelby were highly likable as were Shelby's crazy family. Just a nice romantic romp. My problem with the other two books in the series is just my personal lack of enthusiasm for the whole BDSM Dom/Submissive scene with nipple clips and butt plugs. Don't know why a woman (or a man for that matter) would get turned on by having pain inflicted upon them or being verbally demeaned or degraded during sex? But that's just me. You might enjoy the next two?
September 13, 2012
A fun, spicy, little read. For what it was, it was fairly good. A short, contemporary romance with quite a bit of spice. Shane and Shelby's first meeting wasn't very promising but, later, they can't get enough of each other.
April 21, 2013
I found this pretty boring. It was well written, more than the usual suspects (of characters), it was even an interesting idea, however it bored me. I found it so dull that when I'd have a snack break, I'd almost forget what I was in the middle of reading!
February 9, 2012
Wildfire Xmas Freebie...3.5 stars
Lots o'naughty sex in this one. There happen to be a story in there too. I will be looking for more by this author.
Lots o'naughty sex in this one. There happen to be a story in there too. I will be looking for more by this author.
February 10, 2013
A bit puerile. It seemed a bit like high school romance meets sex. So i have to say i wasnt really convinced. But in the month of romance, it ticked the box. Yay
November 23, 2020
The meet cute of Bodyworks is just that: cute. Our hero, Shane Collins, bumps into our heroine Shelby Vanzant outside a busy coffeeshop. As a result, she spills her coffee down the front of his business shirt. Annoyed and already late for work, he rushes off, spouting off a jerky comment despite a momentary connection where attraction ignites.
Later, Shane sees an ad for Shelby’s massage therapy clinic and books an appointment, although he doesn’t know it’s Shelby’s clinic. Plus, he scheduled an appointment with Shelby’s colleague, Denise. But a family emergency calls Denise away mid-appointment and Shelby must step in and take over for Deinse. Shelby is unnerved by the level of attraction sparking over Shane, which is troubling. If she were to allow it to get out of hand, she could lose her massage therapy license. Plus, he was a jerk wasn’t he?
All the while, Shane doesn’t realize that Denise had to leave and when Shelby steps in to complete the massage, suddenly his body responds with attraction. He’s a little embarrassed and figures he just needs to take the advice of his best buddy, Mac, and have a temporary fling. Only, he believes it’s Denise to whom he is attracted, not Shelby.
He and Shelby bump into each other—literally—again while excersing at a local lake where sparks fly. This time, however, Shane has figured out that Shelby covered for Denise during the second half of his massage, and she was the one who made his body light up like a firecracker.
After a hot encounter, Shane and Shelby agree to a no strings attached, no emotional entanglements hook-up. Especially since both of them had recently emerged from long term relationships where their significant others cheated on them. Neither one of them feel ready to trust again. Besides, they don’t want their friends and family to find out about their “relationship” because they know their friends and family will meddle.
What ensues is a lighthearted comedy of meddling by friends and family, trying to propel Shane and Shelby together. Only the jokes on them because Shane and Shelby are already together. Things backfire, though, when Shane’s younger brother, George, goes too far with his meddlesome ways.
Shane and Shelby’s sexy times are hot. The misunderstanding is quickly resolved and Shane & Shelby get their happily ever after. Plus, Harte sets up Shelby’s best friend Maggie for the next book in the series. All and all, Bodywork is a fun read.
Later, Shane sees an ad for Shelby’s massage therapy clinic and books an appointment, although he doesn’t know it’s Shelby’s clinic. Plus, he scheduled an appointment with Shelby’s colleague, Denise. But a family emergency calls Denise away mid-appointment and Shelby must step in and take over for Deinse. Shelby is unnerved by the level of attraction sparking over Shane, which is troubling. If she were to allow it to get out of hand, she could lose her massage therapy license. Plus, he was a jerk wasn’t he?
All the while, Shane doesn’t realize that Denise had to leave and when Shelby steps in to complete the massage, suddenly his body responds with attraction. He’s a little embarrassed and figures he just needs to take the advice of his best buddy, Mac, and have a temporary fling. Only, he believes it’s Denise to whom he is attracted, not Shelby.
He and Shelby bump into each other—literally—again while excersing at a local lake where sparks fly. This time, however, Shane has figured out that Shelby covered for Denise during the second half of his massage, and she was the one who made his body light up like a firecracker.
After a hot encounter, Shane and Shelby agree to a no strings attached, no emotional entanglements hook-up. Especially since both of them had recently emerged from long term relationships where their significant others cheated on them. Neither one of them feel ready to trust again. Besides, they don’t want their friends and family to find out about their “relationship” because they know their friends and family will meddle.
What ensues is a lighthearted comedy of meddling by friends and family, trying to propel Shane and Shelby together. Only the jokes on them because Shane and Shelby are already together. Things backfire, though, when Shane’s younger brother, George, goes too far with his meddlesome ways.
Shane and Shelby’s sexy times are hot. The misunderstanding is quickly resolved and Shane & Shelby get their happily ever after. Plus, Harte sets up Shelby’s best friend Maggie for the next book in the series. All and all, Bodywork is a fun read.
December 1, 2020
Marie Harte is re-releasing this series now that she has the rights back and I was privileged to be able to review it and give my honest opinions on the story. Wow what an awesome and hot book of two people who have been hurt in past relationships finding love and trust when they didn't expect it!
This story has a lot of sex in it! I warn you it's really hot and a little kinky. Shane Collins is a good guy. He's a former SEAL, a successful architect and his best friend Mac Jameson runs his uncle's gym. He can't have a relationship with a woman without falling in love with her. His last girlfriend cheated on him and to add insult to injury tried to steal from him when she moved out of his house. He's really gunshy and askes advice from his best friend who is the king of love them and leave them.
Shelby Vanzant owns a successful therapeutic massage studio in Seattle. She's trying to date again but can't seem to find a guy that meets her standards after her ex, a successful doctor cheated on her with his secretary. Coming out of her favorite coffee house with her morning joe a brick wall runs into her and he blames her for the coffee mess on his white button down under his suit. Shane was late to a business meeting and Mac was picking him up in front of the coffee house down the street from his home. Opps, not a good impression. Next time they meet, kind of is on the massage table when she takes over his appointment when his scheduled masseuse has an emergency. Both feel the sparks but he doesn't know it's her, she does and still thinks of him as Tall, Dark and Mr. Rude! When they meet again the sparks are still there and both are intrigued. The dance between them begins.
I loved watching these two think they can have intimate times without their hearts getting involved. Yeah right with these two. Then their families and best friends get involved and things go sideways. Fun times! Shane's 17 year old brother George, aka Geo - like Leo as he insists being called, thinks he's so smart. He stole my heart. I can't wait to read Mac and Maggie's story!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This story has a lot of sex in it! I warn you it's really hot and a little kinky. Shane Collins is a good guy. He's a former SEAL, a successful architect and his best friend Mac Jameson runs his uncle's gym. He can't have a relationship with a woman without falling in love with her. His last girlfriend cheated on him and to add insult to injury tried to steal from him when she moved out of his house. He's really gunshy and askes advice from his best friend who is the king of love them and leave them.
Shelby Vanzant owns a successful therapeutic massage studio in Seattle. She's trying to date again but can't seem to find a guy that meets her standards after her ex, a successful doctor cheated on her with his secretary. Coming out of her favorite coffee house with her morning joe a brick wall runs into her and he blames her for the coffee mess on his white button down under his suit. Shane was late to a business meeting and Mac was picking him up in front of the coffee house down the street from his home. Opps, not a good impression. Next time they meet, kind of is on the massage table when she takes over his appointment when his scheduled masseuse has an emergency. Both feel the sparks but he doesn't know it's her, she does and still thinks of him as Tall, Dark and Mr. Rude! When they meet again the sparks are still there and both are intrigued. The dance between them begins.
I loved watching these two think they can have intimate times without their hearts getting involved. Yeah right with these two. Then their families and best friends get involved and things go sideways. Fun times! Shane's 17 year old brother George, aka Geo - like Leo as he insists being called, thinks he's so smart. He stole my heart. I can't wait to read Mac and Maggie's story!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 6, 2020
Shane Collins is always late. One particular morning he's particularly late getting to work in order to meet a client. Calling on his best friend Mac, Shane finds himself in front of a coffee shop. In his haste, he runs into a woman, spilling her coffee all down the front of him. Blaming her, he grumbles off as his makes his way to Mac. Later the same day, the same rude man who spilled her coffee is lying face down on a table in her massage clinic. Shelby Vanzant can't believe her poor luck. Hopefully when the massage is over, he won't recognize her. That, of course, in not the case.
Sparks fly between Shelby and Shane but they've both been burned by past relationships. Shelby and Shane are still nursing broken hearts from each person's previous relationship and, despite the wishes of their family and friends, want to remain single - until they meet each other. They decide to try a friends-with-benefits arrangement in secrecy. What begins as no-strings attached quickly morphs into anything but.
Bodywork is a steamy enemies-to-lovers romance with wonderful main characters and quirky side characters whose meddling may just mess up everything between Shelby and Shane. The book is a cute and fun read. The story and characters kept me engaged. The book contains role-playing along with steamy and vanilla sex. The author excelled in the character development of Shelby and Shane, also providing the set up for the next book.
I was provided a copy of this book to read.
Sparks fly between Shelby and Shane but they've both been burned by past relationships. Shelby and Shane are still nursing broken hearts from each person's previous relationship and, despite the wishes of their family and friends, want to remain single - until they meet each other. They decide to try a friends-with-benefits arrangement in secrecy. What begins as no-strings attached quickly morphs into anything but.
Bodywork is a steamy enemies-to-lovers romance with wonderful main characters and quirky side characters whose meddling may just mess up everything between Shelby and Shane. The book is a cute and fun read. The story and characters kept me engaged. The book contains role-playing along with steamy and vanilla sex. The author excelled in the character development of Shelby and Shane, also providing the set up for the next book.
I was provided a copy of this book to read.
September 3, 2020
Overall enjoyable read with likeable characters, interfering family and lots of sex.
I will say I got a bit bored with the sex scenes, there is only so many times I can read about how much he loved her tits.
A bit high schoolish at the beginning with the nicknames for others.
Shelby and Shane are a couple who have both been cheated on by their previous partners. Both are shy in trust.
Though they start out as a sex only relationship, feelings obviously start happening.
My biggest gripe with these two was they had a huge communication problem and way too many people interferring in their lives.
They both wanted an honest commitment from the other but also kept their relationship secret, even from their own best friends. Hence the interference as everyone thought they were well suited and kept trying to get them together.
I disliked the silly blow up at the end, though I agreed more with Shane than Shelby being in the right.
And I was annoyed and confused about Ron.
I thought he was Mimi’s partner but he ends up with another man, (same sex pc is taken care off). Is Ron bi-sexual or was this a twist by the author?
I will say I got a bit bored with the sex scenes, there is only so many times I can read about how much he loved her tits.
A bit high schoolish at the beginning with the nicknames for others.
Shelby and Shane are a couple who have both been cheated on by their previous partners. Both are shy in trust.
Though they start out as a sex only relationship, feelings obviously start happening.
My biggest gripe with these two was they had a huge communication problem and way too many people interferring in their lives.
They both wanted an honest commitment from the other but also kept their relationship secret, even from their own best friends. Hence the interference as everyone thought they were well suited and kept trying to get them together.
I disliked the silly blow up at the end, though I agreed more with Shane than Shelby being in the right.
And I was annoyed and confused about Ron.
I thought he was Mimi’s partner but he ends up with another man, (same sex pc is taken care off). Is Ron bi-sexual or was this a twist by the author?
November 21, 2020
Bodywork by Marie Harte is the first in her The Works series, and is about Shelby Vanzant and Shane Collins. They pretty much start off with the opposite of a meet-cute. A meet-uncute? They literally collide and rush off frustrated and hurt. And their second in-person doesn't improve anything significantly. That said, they really do share some chemistry and Ms Harte gives them the space to grow that.
Plus their family and friends can see the spark of something and are solidly determined to fan that into flames. So prepare yourself for meddling. If interfering friends and parents and siblings are not your thing, you should likely set this aside. But Marie Harte writes this extremely well, and it is lovely to see Shelby and Shane work to find balance between their loving community and their desire for and right to personal privacy.
Bodywork is an entertaining, sweet, and hot read that definitely had me laughing aloud at points. I enjoyed seeing Shane and Shelby find their way, and look forward to more in The Works series!
Plus their family and friends can see the spark of something and are solidly determined to fan that into flames. So prepare yourself for meddling. If interfering friends and parents and siblings are not your thing, you should likely set this aside. But Marie Harte writes this extremely well, and it is lovely to see Shelby and Shane work to find balance between their loving community and their desire for and right to personal privacy.
Bodywork is an entertaining, sweet, and hot read that definitely had me laughing aloud at points. I enjoyed seeing Shane and Shelby find their way, and look forward to more in The Works series!
November 28, 2020
Fun group of characters ➕ 💦steamy romance💕
4-4.5🌟 stars
Good plot, heated romance and a great ensemble of characters made this an enjoyable read.
I liked the heat massage therapist/Bodyworks owner Shelby and architect Shane generate in this story of two people burned in past relationships and leery of diving in anew. The steamy scenes are varied, not vanilla but definitely not too out there, and the story offers a touch of humor as well.
So many well-meaning friends and family raring to get in on the act of bringing these two together. Shelby's diminutive gal pal Maggie is great; Shane's buddy Mac is unfiltered and, frankly, the freewheeling bachelor that makes Shane look that much better to a woman looking for more than just an incredible roll in the hay😉. And Shane's teenage brother George: what a mix of precocious worldiness and trouble making, no matter how unintentional the problems he causes.
I read a complimentary copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
4-4.5🌟 stars
Good plot, heated romance and a great ensemble of characters made this an enjoyable read.
I liked the heat massage therapist/Bodyworks owner Shelby and architect Shane generate in this story of two people burned in past relationships and leery of diving in anew. The steamy scenes are varied, not vanilla but definitely not too out there, and the story offers a touch of humor as well.
So many well-meaning friends and family raring to get in on the act of bringing these two together. Shelby's diminutive gal pal Maggie is great; Shane's buddy Mac is unfiltered and, frankly, the freewheeling bachelor that makes Shane look that much better to a woman looking for more than just an incredible roll in the hay😉. And Shane's teenage brother George: what a mix of precocious worldiness and trouble making, no matter how unintentional the problems he causes.
I read a complimentary copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
November 21, 2020
Trust issues and interfering friends and family. Some characters we saw for a split second but left us smiling like The Colonel, Mimi and Ron. They’re there for a split second but leave a lasting impression. Voodoo and raincoats are imprinted on my brain.
Both Shelby and Shane have some trust issues. Past relationships left some major scars that aren’t easily over come. Both think they’re going into this with wide open but neither of them are wired to have a one night stand. These two give new meaning to ‘vanilla’. More like they added sprinkles and hot fudge and gummy bears to their vanilla. The sexy times were hot and the storyline was awesome. I just wish it was a little longer. I can’t wait to read book two in the series.
Both Shelby and Shane have some trust issues. Past relationships left some major scars that aren’t easily over come. Both think they’re going into this with wide open but neither of them are wired to have a one night stand. These two give new meaning to ‘vanilla’. More like they added sprinkles and hot fudge and gummy bears to their vanilla. The sexy times were hot and the storyline was awesome. I just wish it was a little longer. I can’t wait to read book two in the series.
December 20, 2025
DNF 34%
My God -
Shelby‘s best friend, Shelby’s mother and her mother’s boyfriend are the most intrusive, invasive, nosy, annoying side characters! And what’s with them each getting their own chapters???
Then there’s Shane’s little brother and Shane’s best friend, also totally involving themselves in his life-
I’ve never seen friends and family members so unbelievably nosy - Shelby begged her best friend not to tell her mother about Shane. She made her promise and the best friend ran right over to Shelby‘s mother‘s and told her everything so they can help get them together-
Like everybody mind your fucking business !
I hate these side characters so much that I don’t care about Shelby and Shane anymore -
My God -
Shelby‘s best friend, Shelby’s mother and her mother’s boyfriend are the most intrusive, invasive, nosy, annoying side characters! And what’s with them each getting their own chapters???
Then there’s Shane’s little brother and Shane’s best friend, also totally involving themselves in his life-
I’ve never seen friends and family members so unbelievably nosy - Shelby begged her best friend not to tell her mother about Shane. She made her promise and the best friend ran right over to Shelby‘s mother‘s and told her everything so they can help get them together-
Like everybody mind your fucking business !
I hate these side characters so much that I don’t care about Shelby and Shane anymore -
November 17, 2020
When it seems the world has it in for you... hot coffee smashed all over a white dress shirt, hotter buns of steel laying face up on your massage table, and a bff who can't stop talking about the lack of you romantic life. Shelby's view of Shane is not a positive one. But when fate keeps planting him in her view, will she give in and allow a "strictly friends with benefits" relationship a chance? Quirky side characters, steamy sexiness in many places and an irritating, but lovable, 17 year old playboy who thinks he knows the way to getting the outcome desired.
October 4, 2025
All his lusting after Miss Annoyed all weekend had been justified. ... He frowned. She’d acted like she hadn’t known who he was. She’d run her hot little hands over his body, gave him the hard-on from hell, and pretended not to know him?
After a disastrous meet cute and being burned by cheating exes, Shelby and Shane agree to stick to great chemistry rather than a relationship. Marie Harte consistently writes low angst, spicy stories with funny side characters and a satisfying HEA, and Bodywork is no different.
After a disastrous meet cute and being burned by cheating exes, Shelby and Shane agree to stick to great chemistry rather than a relationship. Marie Harte consistently writes low angst, spicy stories with funny side characters and a satisfying HEA, and Bodywork is no different.
November 18, 2020
These two were just fated for each other...
This story of two broken hearts coming together has so much going for it. The meet cute is grin worthy. Their friends with kinky benefits left me as hot and bothered as them. Their past experiences with love keep them from going all in, waiting for the connection to snap, will it. Oh, the sexual tension. The supporting cast adds angst and witty banter plus sets us up for the next book in this heart warming series. Great read.
This story of two broken hearts coming together has so much going for it. The meet cute is grin worthy. Their friends with kinky benefits left me as hot and bothered as them. Their past experiences with love keep them from going all in, waiting for the connection to snap, will it. Oh, the sexual tension. The supporting cast adds angst and witty banter plus sets us up for the next book in this heart warming series. Great read.
November 25, 2020
I liked the main characters, Shelby and Shane. They were very relatable. Both of them had been hurt in their last relationships and were a little gun shy about getting involved again.
Mac, Shane's best friend, is a little cliche, the love 'em and leave 'em type but still likable. It was fun to see the interactions with him and Maggie, Shelby's BFF. I look forward to reading his and Maggie's book next.
Mac, Shane's best friend, is a little cliche, the love 'em and leave 'em type but still likable. It was fun to see the interactions with him and Maggie, Shelby's BFF. I look forward to reading his and Maggie's book next.
November 16, 2020
Funny enemies to friends with benefits has all of the feels you expect in a RomCom...anger, doubts, sadness, chemistry and love before they know it...can they pull their heads out of the sand before they both lose what they've always been looking for. Loved it❤❤❤❤ I volunteered an honest opinion for this book.
November 28, 2020
What happens when everyone is secretly trying to get you to a happily every after? Typically I skip any story that "crosses professional boundaries" but I loved how well planned the story was to address that minor aspect. But all the plotting to help the main characters and how the heroine tries to fight her initial aversion, I truly enjoyed this and know I'll be reading it again
November 30, 2020
What a fun, steamy read!! From the very beginning I was in love with Shelby and Shane but definitely not dismissing Shelby’s meddling BFF, Maggie. The chemistry between Shelby and Shane is intoxicating and I couldn’t put the book down as they worked through their stumbling points. Now I can’t wait to read Maggie’s story.
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