Ryann McKennan never imagined herself divorced and broke at thirty... Tired of struggling to make ends meet each month, she considers moving back to California to live with her mother. That was until her best friend convinces her to come work at The Cave, the hottest strip club in all of Las Vegas. Ryann knows that she was chancing the ruin of her teaching career if she were to get caught. The plan was to work at The Cave for the summer to make some extra cash...so falling for a guy, let alone two, was never in the cards.
Nathan Sims, a professional poker player and a regular at The Cave, has always had a taste for strip clubs, but he swore off strippers after his ex-girlfriend burned him.
But from the first moment he laid eyes on the never seen before blonde beauty, he was instantly infatuated. Who was she? Why did she always look different? Who was she hiding from? The more Nathan tries to find out who Ryann is, the more she tries to hide.
Both scared as hell to let their guards down, they dance silently toward one another, but both afraid to fall. Could this be their summer of Reckless Abandon?
I am an obsessive romance reader turned writer. An amazing group of indie writers have inspired and encouraged me to pursue this crazy dream and now I can’t imagine stopping. Born and raised, I have always lived in Southern California. I am happily married, with two small fur babies. I love my job as a teacher and wouldn’t want to do anything else. Except maybe be a full time writer. Between reading, writing, and teaching, I have little free time. But in those rare moments I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, binge watching reality television and baking.
Reviewed on behalf of 2 Girls Who Love Books Blog. Reckless Abandon is Teri Kay’s debut novel and the first in The Cave Series. It is a standalone with no cliff hanger although you may be enticed to continue the series once you have finished. I totally enjoyed this “2nd chance at love” story. She has done an awesome job painting the picture of the relationship between Ryann and Nathan. Both characters are embarking on their 2nd time around and have been through rough relationships in the past that broke their hearts and although they are skeptical, finding each other and learning to trust in love again is what they both want and turns out to be a hard fought battle for both of them. These struggles and inner battles are what draws us to the characters and pulls us in craving for them to give in to their temptation and mutual attraction.
Right from the beginning, I found the heroine Ryann easy to like and wanted only the best for her. She has been dealt a shitty hand by her Ex, Lucas, over a medical issue she had no control over. From the beginning, I could tell I didn’t have much use for Lucas and didn’t much care if he fell off the face of the earth. Ryann is faced with some hard choices when it comes to survival and she gets judged pretty hard for them. People can be so judgemental when they don’t have to live life in your shoes.
The hero Nathan wasn’t totally likable for me from the beginning but there was a mystery about him that held my attention. He definitely had a hot and cold attitude that I couldn’t quite figure out, but I had faith that there was a reason and he would learn to overcome his hang-ups if he just gave Ryann and chance. He seemed to believe in some double-standards which turned me off of him but he eventually wins me over.
Reckless Abandon was written in dual POV. I normally like this perspective as I really like getting inside the heads of the alpha men, learning what they are really thinking. It wasn’t difficult to know which POV you were in as the author was good to indicate their name at the beginning of each chapter. I did find it difficult to follow where in the story we were sometimes because sometimes she took us back to the same scene but in the 2nd person’s POV and sometimes we just moved forward in the story in the 2nd person’s story. This did not distract me away from the story but it was one thing that I found could have flowed better had the author set it up at the beginning of the chapter.
The story may have triggers for some as there are some scenes set in a strip club. The description of the women dancing and the ultimate effect they have on the men that are watching, could cause you some extra excitement or distaste for others. There are also some indications and discussions of cheating partners and other sexual situations that may make some people uncomfortable but I would really assume that if you’ve read the blurb and chosen to read this book, then those situations are not going to turn you away.
This book is earning 4 stars from me for a couple of reasons. The first is that she kept my interest from the very first page. Even when life took me away from reading or sleep was calling my name, I was always planning when I could pick it up again. The characters were believable and interesting. It provided just enough of an escape for me to believe these people could be the couple next door but still had that air of excitement from 2 lifestyles I will never get to be a part of.
Although I enjoyed this couple immensely, and they had both went through some terrible situations in their lives, this book did not break me. I had a genuine hope for their relationship to survive, despite the things they did to tear it apart. I did not shed a tear throughout their anguish, but I did get frustrated and somewhat angry at times. Tears and angst earn 5 stars from me but Reckless Abandon is a solid 4. I hope you give this new author a try and show her some love through a review.
The author has thrown in a Prologue at the end of the book. I was totally blown away by the Prologue and can’t wait to read the storyline of Jeremy and Rose in The Cave Series. I hope it is book 2. It seems it will focus on a very touchy and taboo subject that is not exactly mainstream thinking but will make for an amazing read. It was totally hot, intriguing and probably a secret fantasy for many people out there. I look forward to Teri’s words again.
This is the first book in the Cave Series and a debut novel from Teri, and you'd never know that this was her first publication.
Ryann is a new divorcee, struggling to keep her head above water financially. She may live in Sin City, but has always been more of an angel despite her environment. Trying to get over her failed marriage, and her feelings of inadequacy due to some sad circumstances, her bestie since forever Rose, suggests she has a "summer to remember" by dancing at the same club she bar-tends at. It will help her earn some quick cash, and keep her in Vegas where she belongs.
Nathan is the exact opposite type of guy Ryann goes for; although his ink is enough to send her hormones into overdrive. A club regular, he has had his fair share of women, and hurt to know better than to get involved with a dancer. But there's something about a new one that draws him in.
I loved these two characters! Ryann is the sweet, uncertain, girl-next-door type, who you just want to see good things happen for. With the things she's been through, it's no wonder she's gun-shy when Nathan shows an interest in her. To see her transformation in this book made me smile.
Nathan is smoking hot. He's confident and self assured, but not too cocky. He's filthy rich but doesn't flaunt his wealth. He's great at his job, and loyal to his friends.
The chemistry between the two is fantastic. I love the banter back and forth, and the sexual tension is a great build up. The story line was smooth and in my opinion, utterly original. I've not read anything quite like it, and that made it all the more enjoyable.
I'm looking very forward to seeing future stories from Teri. I do believe she will be around for a long time.
This is a good story and I read it fairly quickly. I did find myself having to re read certain bits as I thought it didn't flow as well as it could have when the chapter and pov changed. It's not detrimental to the actual story, just the flow of my reading. I didn't get many feels with this book but it is definitely worth a read, I did enjoy it. The characters are great, well all accept Lucas, Ryann's ex husband. He is a complete idiot, I would say worse but I can't say the words I'd like to call him! I loved Ryann and my heart ached for her the way Lucas treated her. It all changes and heats up for Ryann when she decides to be reckless and takes on a job at strip club, so she can afford to stay where she is instead of having to go live with her mother. I cant really say too much more without telling the story but it's a story you definitely have to read for yourself. I will be reading the next book as I'm very keen to find out more about the other characters.
Ryann's life isn't what she expected it to be at 30. She's divorced, childless and close to homeless. Desperate times call for desperate measures and Ryann is feeling very desperate. Living paycheck to paycheck with absolutely nothing left to live on Ryann, a kindergarten teacher, takes a summer "job". Little does she know how much her life is going to change this summer. I loved the characters in this story. Nathan is my kind of alpha - love those possessive types! Ryann has a great group of friends and is learning to stand on her own What made me happy is there is no questions left in this story which sometimes happens when a book is part of a series. We even get answers for why things changed so suddenly for Ryann. After the little teaser at the end, I can't wait for the next book in the series.
I loved every page of this story...I couldn't stop once I started!!!
Ryann and Nathan take us on a wild ride of lust, desire, suspense and thrills. With every turn of the page I was brought into the characters lives.
Ry has a past, troubles she'd rather move on from. Turning to the last possible option, she does something she never thought she would.
Nathan is one hell of a hottie. He has his life planned out according the cards he was dealt, yet something is missing.
Will this dynamic duo find exactly what they are looking for...what they need? Or will the drama and angst that come at them leave them running in opposite directions?
Wowza what a book! I can honestly say that I have not read a book like this one. Teri Kay is hands down my favorite debut author of the year!
This book does not scream new author. Ms. Kay's writing is that of a seasoned author. Her plot is one that I can honestly say that I have not read before. It was a breath of fresh air reading this book. I found her characters to be well developed and completely believable.
If you like reading debut books, give Teri Kay a shot. You will not be disappointed.
I really enjoyed reading Teri Kay's debut novel, Reckless Abandon. I love a good second chance at love novel and Ms. Kay has delivered a pleasant and unique story. It was a quick read that I was able to finish in one lazy afternoon.
I loved getting to know Ryann and Nathan, and I was glad that these characters were given their much needed HEA. Although I wanted him nowhere near Ryann, I quite liked the character G and would love it if he were to get his own story!
I look forward to reading what comes next in The Cave Series and whatever else Ms. Kay has to offer.
Holy Hell, this is one exceptional hot story. I loved the justice that Lucas received, it could not have happened to a better asshole. I loved reading Rose and Nathan's story. After all the heartache the two had been through finding one another was a perfect HEA ending. Teri Kay is a remarkably gifted writer.
Reckless Abandon is Teri Kay’s debut novel and the first in The Cave Series. It is a standalone with no cliff hanger although you may be enticed to continue the series once you have finished. I totally enjoyed this “2nd chance at love” story. She has done an awesome job painting the picture of the relationship between Ryann and Nathan. Both characters are embarking on their 2nd time around and have been through rough relationships in the past that broke their hearts and although they are skeptical, finding each other and learning to trust in love again is what they both want and turns out to be a hard fought battle for both of them. These struggles and inner battles are what draws us to the characters and pulls us in craving for them to give in to their temptation and mutual attraction.
Right from the beginning, I found the heroine Ryann easy to like and wanted only the best for her. She has been dealt a shitty hand by her Ex, Lucas, over a medical issue she had no control over. From the beginning, I could tell I didn’t have much use for Lucas and didn’t much care if he fell off the face of the earth. Ryann is faced with some hard choices when it comes to survival and she gets judged pretty hard for them. People can be so judgemental when they don’t have to live life in your shoes.
The hero Nathan wasn’t totally likable for me from the beginning but there was a mystery about him that held my attention. He definitely had a hot and cold attitude that I couldn’t quite figure out, but I had faith that there was a reason and he would learn to overcome his hang-ups if he just gave Ryann and chance. He seemed to believe in some double-standards which turned me off of him but he eventually wins me over.
Reckless Abandon was written in dual POV. I normally like this perspective as I really like getting inside the heads of the alpha men, learning what they are really thinking. It wasn’t difficult to know which POV you were in as the author was good to indicate their name at the beginning of each chapter. I did find it difficult to follow where in the story we were sometimes because sometimes she took us back to the same scene but in the 2nd person’s POV and sometimes we just moved forward in the story in the 2nd person’s story. This did not distract me away from the story but it was one thing that I found could have flowed better had the author set it up at the beginning of the chapter.
The story may have triggers for some as there are some scenes set in a strip club. The description of the women dancing and the ultimate effect they have on the men that are watching, could cause you some extra excitement or distaste for others. There are also some indications and discussions of cheating partners and other sexual situations that may make some people uncomfortable but I would really assume that if you’ve read the blurb and chosen to read this book, then those situations are not going to turn you away.
This book is earning 4 stars from me for a couple of reasons. The first is that she kept my interest from the very first page. Even when life took me away from reading or sleep was calling my name, I was always planning when I could pick it up again. The characters were believable and interesting. It provided just enough of an escape for me to believe these people could be the couple next door but still had that air of excitement from 2 lifestyles I will never get to be a part of.
Although I enjoyed this couple immensely, and they had both went through some terrible situations in their lives, this book did not break me. I had a genuine hope for their relationship to survive, despite the things they did to tear it apart. I did not shed a tear throughout their anguish, but I did get frustrated and somewhat angry at times. Tears and angst earn 5 stars from me but Reckless Abandon is a solid 4. I hope you give this new author a try and show her some love through a review.
The author has thrown in a Prologue at the end of the book. I was totally blown away by the Prologue and can’t wait to read the storyline of Jeremy and Rose in The Cave Series. I hope it is book 2. It seems it will focus on a very touchy and taboo subject that is not exactly mainstream thinking but will make for an amazing read. It was totally hot, intriguing and probably a secret fantasy for many people out there. I look forward to Teri’s words again.
This is romance that also explores the trust of a partner to build a healthy, happy relationship.
Ryann is beautiful and strong willed. She knows she needs to do something huge to keep the life she has built for herself. I found Ryann relatable and endearing. I was cheering for her from start to finish.
Nathan was brilliantly explored as a character. He's my ideal man, even when he's being a dick. He was alpha, yet was not struggling to show his emotions, most of the time.
I loved this story, it was enjoyable and well explored. It didn't feel rushed or unbelievable and it was a story a log of people can relate to, maybe not the jobs, but you get my meaning. I cannot wait to see where the series goes in the next book.
4.5 swoon worthy stars! I loved this story and the characters. It's a very sweet and sexy love story. Definitely worth the read. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
I picked this book because it is Infertility Awareness Week! Like this author pointed out 1 out of 8 women suffer from infertility issues and I am one of them. I know it's a hard issue to discuss but I wish she would delved a little more into what Ryann could of been feeling. I mean I know each woman might take it differently, feel differently, and even deal with it differently. I know myself have dealt with it badly....You feel less then, you can't go to baby showers, it's hard to feel excited for others because jealousy, envy and heartache kicks in with each announcement. You always wonder in the back of your mind what would mine look like, would I of been a good mommy?? Just so many things and possibilities. Ok I digress this isn't about me and my feelings is it!! Ryann loved her character and her strength!! It takes a lot to go on after blow after blow life has dealt her. Loved the support she got from her friends. And a woman just trying to pick up the pieces and make it on her own. Nathan was a great sexy tattooed hottie poker player. He noticed Ryann right away ...Can you say lust at first sight?? Doesn't know who she is but he's going to find out. Next time he sees her though she's working in his own strip club he co-owns. The only thing is he's kind of sworn off strippers he still feels the burn from the last one. Lots of misunderstanding, half truths and avoidance does not make for good relationships. Jealousy doesn't either. Come read this enjoyable read and find out what happens. Well worth it!! Thanks Jamie Nibarger Ellis
"When you think about a butterfly, it's constantly changing. Every time you see it. Not one time less beautiful than before, just always different. Each time I see you, you seem to be a different person. So, you are my butterfly."
I love Nuts!! No not that kind of nuts, the Nathan Sims kind! I really enjoyed this story. Two damaged hearts finding and rescuing each other. There was heartbreak, courage, failures, victories, and swoon-worthy moments.
Ryann is a mess. Newly divorced, broke, and on the verge of having to move back in with her mom and her wierd boyfriend. That is until her BFF suggests something she never thought she would do. What if someone recognizes her? Could her career be jeapordized?
Nathan's been burned before by women in this profession. He's sworn never to date a stripper again. Until Vaughn. He can't stay away from her. Once he gets to know her as Ryann, he's done for. But when it all comes crashing down, will their love be strong enough to make it through? Will trust be broken or can forgiveness prevail?
This was my first read of Teri Kay, but it won't be the last! I can't wait to read the next book in the series, Reckless Behavior!
Teri Kay’s debut novel. This book I finished in a day! I couldn’t put it down and I was smiling the whole time I was reading it. Ryann has some bad luck but with some convincing, her financial difficulties can be solved by a strip club in Las Vegas. I loved the characters and the story. It’s sad, frustrating, happy, makes you anxious and leaves you breathless. Great world building! Nathan and Ryann are so much fun to read about, I absolutely loved this story and their journey. There is conflict and resolutions. It’s relatable and realistic. This story will leave you wanting your own Nathan. Also, you will want yourself to be put into Ryann’s place as well. It’s a definite page turner with some surprises along the way. You will not be disappointed with the ending. I absolutely loved it.
Ryann is in a bad spot, she is divorced and broke and her only chance is going home to her Mom or the strip club, The Cave. And she must hide it because during the day she is a teacher. Problem is that she is trying to hide while this is interesting others who try to find out who she really is. Nathan wants to know who she is and why she hides. I liked Nathan most as a character because he seemed more developed. This was a good book.
This was a good story. I liked it a lot. Had romance and some sexy scenes. Loved all the characters the author Teri did an a,axing job writing all the emotions and characteristics of each character.
The story had me hooked from the beginning, there were times I would get frustrated with some of characters or with certain things they would say but over all I liked it and it was great.
I liked this book very much. I wouldn't mind continuing the series. Lucas was hot! The sexy scenes were hot!. The only thing that bugged me was when the story would turn the the other characters POV it would go over the same thing we just read in the previous chapter. I think we could have changed POVs during the same day and it would have been better. Over all the plot was good. Lots of twists and turns you didn't see coming. Great book!
this was a awesome book you wrote! i love your books. its about a woman who just got a divorice. she needs money bad because her job doesnt pay much . she gets a job at a club dancing. she meets a hot guy and things heat up. will she give her heart to him and will he give her his trust? read to find out what happens. thanks for giving me a chance to read this book!
To start off, I hate romance novels. I despise sex in my books. I read this because the author is my friend and I wanted to support her in this endeavor. That being said, I enjoyed the story so much more then I thought I would. The characters were brought to life and I even teared up a little when the struggles started to come between the couple. I even bought the next book.
Dang this one emotionally wrecks you. I couldn't put this one down! Everything was well written and I genuinely enjoyed every minute of it. From the hot, steamy moments, to the sweet and heart melting scenes, Teri Kay did an overall fantastic job spinning a realistic and emotional tale. 5 stars across the board from me!
A great story about going out of your comfort zone because sometimes you can find love and loyalty in the places you least expect. The chemistry between Ryann and Nathan is beautiful...and scorching. Kudos to Teri Kay! I can't wait to start book 2!
This book was a bit slow for me, and maybe it was because real life kept getting in the way, but I found it easy enough to put down, but pick back up again. What happens when life throws you a curve ball? You learn to swing and throw caution to the wind.
A new author to me and I'm sucked in. I can't wait to read more. The HEA was unexpected but I was so happy for it. The hotness level is off the charts and Ryann owns it.
4.5 Fabulous Stars! Ryann's husband decides to leave her after she has two miscarriages and she is trying to start over. Now Ryann is having difficulties making ends meet on a teacher's salary. She finds out about a job but it is in the "Cave" which is the popular strip club. Nathan is a professional poker player and basically has given up on strippers after his last girlfriend. That is until he sees Ryann and he can't get her out of his mind. Can Ryann have happiness again and will she risk her teaching job in the process? I thoroughly enjoyed this story and found it to be well written. The author writes a story about a second chance at love after being heartbroken. I was engaged from the first chapter and read it in one evening. I loved the characters and felt they had fabulous chemistry. Highly recommend it!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.
I really enjoyed this book. I love the story of a down on her luck teacher becomes stripper- meets the man of her dreams. I am always a sucker for happily ever after. Teri Kay did an incredible job and I look forward the the next book in the series.
This is Teri Kay's debut novel and it was a great story. But, there's one thing that annoys me when I'm reading a book and this one had it. Every chapter bounced between the 2 POV's which I love. What I don't like when I'm reading a book is at the beginning of every chapter I'm rereading everything that happened in the previous chapter. And, it drove me insane!
Ryann McKennan hasn't had it easy. Her and her husband Lucas tried so hard to start a family. After two miscarriages Lucas had decided he'd had enough and filed for divorce. Ryann works as a teacher and doesn't make much money. When she's about to go completely broke she decided to move in with her mom and her mom's nudist boyfriend. Her best friend Rose talks her into working with her at The Cave for the summer and save the money. Even though she's worried about her teaching job, the girls help talk her into doing it.
With the help of wigs, colored contact lenses and the name Vaughnn you don't recognize her. With the help of Vanessa she's getting the hand of stripping. But, she was unprepared for the men that would come into her life. ESP Nathan. Even though she's using this as her reckless abandon summer and enjoying herself. Ryann hasn't told Nathan everything and really wants too.
Nathan Sims has been burned by an ex-girlfriend, who worked as a stripper. The only good thing she did for him was give him his daughter. He's vowed to never date another stripper again. Nathan is a professional poker player and makes millions doing what he loves. Nathan is also a silent partner to The Cave. Nathan enjoyed his life. Then, walked in Vaughnn and totally rocked him inside out. He can't stop thinking about her. The more time they spend together the more he's falling for her. Nathan has never felt this way about a woman before. Except whatever it is thats going on btwn them isn't as easy as he'd hoped. There is a bunch of things in their way.
This was a good story. But, for me it wasn't as fast paced as I'd hoped. I absolutely loved Nathan. His jealousy got to me. But, just a little. Ryann, she got to me. My heart hurt for the loss of her unborn children. There was a few things she did that pissed me off BC if she loved Nathan like she said she did. I felt she wouldn't of been doing what she was. If she'd said she liked the attention or never used the love word, it wouldn't of bothered me.
For this to be Teri's debut book is was a great start to what I'm positive will be a nice long career. She set up a bunch of characters whose stories I want to know. I'm looking forward to Rose next and really want Vanessa and a bunch others.
Frickin Amazing!!! Ryann had it all, and then she didn't. Life throws you curves, but how many can one person take before they break? Well Nathan might just be the one more she needs. Fantastic story, super sexy LOVED IT!!!! I received this book from the author in a cover share post on facebook. Picked it up and next thing you know I'm crawling into bed at 4:45am with a huge smile on my face wondering when the next book in this series comes out. Thanks for the book hangover Teri. Now hurry up terry I want more of The Cave!