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Animal Attraction #1
Dear Jane
Jane Dixon is a dating disaster. Flammable tablecloths and broken arms are just a typical evening for her unlucky companions. No wonder Jane never gets past a first date. But luckily her co-worker and new bff says he’s got loads of friends who’d date her more than once. If only she could stop thinking about how much fun he was to hang out with. And she’d never dropped a bucket of ice on his junk. Win.
All attorney Eric Blackwell has to do to make junior partner is not screw anything up for six weeks, which seems like a slam dunk until he finds himself matchmaker to the office “One Date Wonder” aka the boss’s daughter. It’s hard to stay focused when setting up the hottest girl he’s ever met with everyone but himself. Maybe he could just set her up with all the wrong men, and keep his hands off his new friend…
Yeah. His promotion is toast.
All attorney Eric Blackwell has to do to make junior partner is not screw anything up for six weeks, which seems like a slam dunk until he finds himself matchmaker to the office “One Date Wonder” aka the boss’s daughter. It’s hard to stay focused when setting up the hottest girl he’s ever met with everyone but himself. Maybe he could just set her up with all the wrong men, and keep his hands off his new friend…
Yeah. His promotion is toast.
135 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 9, 2017
472 people are currently reading
620 people want to read
About the author
Marissa Clarke
14 books683 followersMarissa Clarke is a multi-award-winning, RITA nominated author of romance for adults and teens. She lives on the Texas Gulf Coast with her ever-patient husband, two cantankerous Cairn Terriers, and an abundance of bossy chickens.
Marissa also writes YA for Entangled Teen and Penguin/Random House as Mary Lindsey
Marissa also writes YA for Entangled Teen and Penguin/Random House as Mary Lindsey
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
February 5, 2017
3.5 - "Lawyers Suck." Stars!
Book one in Marissa Clarke’s new Animal Attraction series, was a quick and really enjoyable read. I really liked Eric and Jane’s story, and you get the added bonus of a little Anderson brother’s interaction as well.
No lawyers. I will never date one. Ever. I’d rather stay single the rest of my life…
Jane Dixon doesn’t have much luck with men in fact, she never seems to get past the first date with any of them. Colleague and secret-crush Eric Blackwell one day makes the mistake of telling her he has dozens of friends he can set her up with, whilst privately wanting her for himself. Problem is, she’s sworn off Lawyers (of which he is one) and they work at the same firm, with an ironclad non-fraternization policy.
It had grown from a schoolgirl crush to heavy-duty full-grown-woman crush with all the requisite heated body parts and inappropriate thoughts…
Marissa has an easy writing style, and her characters are likeable as well. Nothing massively new or different with the tropes used in Dear Jane but it kept me entertained for a couple of hours, and also set up the rest of the Animal Attraction series beautifully.
"If it can be screwed up, I’ll screw it."
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
Book one in Marissa Clarke’s new Animal Attraction series, was a quick and really enjoyable read. I really liked Eric and Jane’s story, and you get the added bonus of a little Anderson brother’s interaction as well.
No lawyers. I will never date one. Ever. I’d rather stay single the rest of my life…
Jane Dixon doesn’t have much luck with men in fact, she never seems to get past the first date with any of them. Colleague and secret-crush Eric Blackwell one day makes the mistake of telling her he has dozens of friends he can set her up with, whilst privately wanting her for himself. Problem is, she’s sworn off Lawyers (of which he is one) and they work at the same firm, with an ironclad non-fraternization policy.
It had grown from a schoolgirl crush to heavy-duty full-grown-woman crush with all the requisite heated body parts and inappropriate thoughts…
Marissa has an easy writing style, and her characters are likeable as well. Nothing massively new or different with the tropes used in Dear Jane but it kept me entertained for a couple of hours, and also set up the rest of the Animal Attraction series beautifully.
"If it can be screwed up, I’ll screw it."
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
January 6, 2017
A spin-off from Marissa Clarke's Anderson Brothers series, Dear Jane offers a promising start to the Animal Attraction series.
"No lawyers. I will never date one. Ever. I’d rather stay single the rest of my life."
Slightly clumsy characters are always a favourite, partly as I feel a bond with them due to the fact that over the past couple of years I've had an iron drop on my head, have tobogganed down the stairs on my arse leaving my knee on the 11th step and forgotten to remove my hand before slamming a drawer shut. So a heroine who tries to set her date on fire?
But dates on fire aren't the only things that sizzle here because the chemistry between lawyer, Jane Dixon and Eric Blackwell, also lawyer, is equally sizzling. This story may be short but it's a well tied-up little package with endearing characters who bring a hefty dose of humour, sweetness and heat.
If light and fun is what you're after, this is definitely worth checking out and I'm very much looking forward to reading more in the series.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
"No lawyers. I will never date one. Ever. I’d rather stay single the rest of my life."
Slightly clumsy characters are always a favourite, partly as I feel a bond with them due to the fact that over the past couple of years I've had an iron drop on my head, have tobogganed down the stairs on my arse leaving my knee on the 11th step and forgotten to remove my hand before slamming a drawer shut. So a heroine who tries to set her date on fire?
But dates on fire aren't the only things that sizzle here because the chemistry between lawyer, Jane Dixon and Eric Blackwell, also lawyer, is equally sizzling. This story may be short but it's a well tied-up little package with endearing characters who bring a hefty dose of humour, sweetness and heat.
If light and fun is what you're after, this is definitely worth checking out and I'm very much looking forward to reading more in the series.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
May 7, 2018
This was an office romance between co-workers who because of a no-fraternization rule, have been stuck in the friend zone even though both are really attracted to each other. When constant contact and close interaction leads to crossing that self imposed line, things get emotionally complicated for these two career orientated people.
I love me a klutzy h - they usually provide me that humor and lightheartedness that I enjoy in my romance but Jane didn't quiet fit the bill. We get a few stories of her first date disasters but her character as a high caliber lawyer from a long line of lawyers didn't really mesh. I don't see how she was so confident and capable in one area of her life but then so inept at another.
Then there was Eric. Too passive aggressive IMO, I wanted him to be more dominant in his pursuit of Jane. They both came across as non-descriptive and sort of bland. I will say I absolutely loved Gandalf, the h's cat (with a name like that it was pretty hard for the LOTR fan in me to dislike). Overall it was a sweet story about two people who finally learn to live and chase dreams and also to love with their whole hearts.
A cute story with a HEA, no cheating, no OM/OW drama No Epilogue.
* * * ARC provided in exchange for an honest review * * *
I love me a klutzy h - they usually provide me that humor and lightheartedness that I enjoy in my romance but Jane didn't quiet fit the bill. We get a few stories of her first date disasters but her character as a high caliber lawyer from a long line of lawyers didn't really mesh. I don't see how she was so confident and capable in one area of her life but then so inept at another.
Then there was Eric. Too passive aggressive IMO, I wanted him to be more dominant in his pursuit of Jane. They both came across as non-descriptive and sort of bland. I will say I absolutely loved Gandalf, the h's cat (with a name like that it was pretty hard for the LOTR fan in me to dislike). Overall it was a sweet story about two people who finally learn to live and chase dreams and also to love with their whole hearts.
A cute story with a HEA, no cheating, no OM/OW drama No Epilogue.
* * * ARC provided in exchange for an honest review * * *
January 3, 2017
This story fell a little short for me. It's well written and I love a good romantic comedy but all the good parts that would have made this story were glossed over. I think I would have enjoyed it more if we actually got to read about all the disastrous dates as they were happening instead of when Jane was telling Eric about them. Once Jane got past her diasterous dates and started looking at a Eric, I enjoyed the story more. This was a short, low angst read. ARC provided by NetGalley.
January 9, 2017
Slick's review:
There is something I love about Marissa Clarke’s books and it’s taken me awhile to put my finger on it, but with Dear Jane I finally figured it out. I love that her characters don’t take themselves too seriously, that they can laugh at themselves, that they take time out to enjoy life, and that they aren’t afraid to make changes to do so. Dear Jane was simply fabulous; two attorneys working at the same firm, one hoping to get promoted to junior partner and keep climbing the success ladder he’s always had his eye on, the other the daughter of one of the partners who really doesn’t love being an attorney and more that than really just wants to find a guy to have a second date with. This book was funny, it was a bit crazy, it was sexy and it simply stole my heart.
Ever since he was a small boy all Eric Blackwell wanted was to be successful enough to make sure he and his Mom were financially secure and he hasn’t minded the hard work to get there and he’s 6 weeks away from what he hope will be a junior partnership. He is focused, he is quite sure he’s going to make it until he helps out the receptionist and delivers “Dear Jane” flowers to his boss’s daughter Jane Dixon and his life is forever changed.
Jane Dixon has been working for her father’s firm since she got out of law school and while she is good at what she does, she really doesn’t enjoy her work. She dreams of more in her life including a good relationship, but Jane can’t seem to get past the first date. Every first date she goes on she blows it with her clumsiness or her nervousness and getting flowers delivered by fellow attorney Eric and having him see her distress is the icing on the cake until he agrees to help her find someone perfect.
I really loved the way these two went from colleagues who barely spoke (even though Eric had a huge crush on Jane), to friends, and then to more throughout this book. Eric being there for Jane to debrief after her horrendous first dates sets the tone for this book as does his crazy rivalry with her cat.
Dear Jane was flat out fun, a bit crazy, but most of all a sweet love story with one heck of a grand gesture at the end.
Review copy provided with no expectations.
There is something I love about Marissa Clarke’s books and it’s taken me awhile to put my finger on it, but with Dear Jane I finally figured it out. I love that her characters don’t take themselves too seriously, that they can laugh at themselves, that they take time out to enjoy life, and that they aren’t afraid to make changes to do so. Dear Jane was simply fabulous; two attorneys working at the same firm, one hoping to get promoted to junior partner and keep climbing the success ladder he’s always had his eye on, the other the daughter of one of the partners who really doesn’t love being an attorney and more that than really just wants to find a guy to have a second date with. This book was funny, it was a bit crazy, it was sexy and it simply stole my heart.
Ever since he was a small boy all Eric Blackwell wanted was to be successful enough to make sure he and his Mom were financially secure and he hasn’t minded the hard work to get there and he’s 6 weeks away from what he hope will be a junior partnership. He is focused, he is quite sure he’s going to make it until he helps out the receptionist and delivers “Dear Jane” flowers to his boss’s daughter Jane Dixon and his life is forever changed.
Jane Dixon has been working for her father’s firm since she got out of law school and while she is good at what she does, she really doesn’t enjoy her work. She dreams of more in her life including a good relationship, but Jane can’t seem to get past the first date. Every first date she goes on she blows it with her clumsiness or her nervousness and getting flowers delivered by fellow attorney Eric and having him see her distress is the icing on the cake until he agrees to help her find someone perfect.
I really loved the way these two went from colleagues who barely spoke (even though Eric had a huge crush on Jane), to friends, and then to more throughout this book. Eric being there for Jane to debrief after her horrendous first dates sets the tone for this book as does his crazy rivalry with her cat.
Dear Jane was flat out fun, a bit crazy, but most of all a sweet love story with one heck of a grand gesture at the end.
Review copy provided with no expectations.
February 2, 2017
4 stars
Dear Jane was a quick, sweet, and entertaining read, I really enjoyed it.
The characters were fun and I found myself connecting with them both.
I enjoyed watching Eric and Jane come together, they made me smile, they made me swoon and they had great chemistry.
Overall, a lovely afternoon's read and I highly recommend it.
*Thank you to the publisher for the advance copy.*
Dear Jane was a quick, sweet, and entertaining read, I really enjoyed it.
The characters were fun and I found myself connecting with them both.
I enjoyed watching Eric and Jane come together, they made me smile, they made me swoon and they had great chemistry.
Overall, a lovely afternoon's read and I highly recommend it.
*Thank you to the publisher for the advance copy.*
February 24, 2019
Rating: 3.25/5
Review to come!
Review to come!
December 23, 2016
3.5 stars
I really enjoyed the Anderson brothers series, so I was pretty excited to see a new series from Marissa.
I really liked Jane and Eric. They're both genuinely nice people and it was easy to root for them to work out right from the beginning. Not to mention, their chemistry was fantastic.
I was surprised by a few things and the ending was adorable. My main complaint is that I wanted more. Overall this was a sweet and quick read with a couple of delightful cameos. I can't wait to see if there will be more.
**Huge thanks to Entangled Lovestruck and NetGalley for providing the arc free of charge**
I really enjoyed the Anderson brothers series, so I was pretty excited to see a new series from Marissa.
I really liked Jane and Eric. They're both genuinely nice people and it was easy to root for them to work out right from the beginning. Not to mention, their chemistry was fantastic.
I was surprised by a few things and the ending was adorable. My main complaint is that I wanted more. Overall this was a sweet and quick read with a couple of delightful cameos. I can't wait to see if there will be more.
**Huge thanks to Entangled Lovestruck and NetGalley for providing the arc free of charge**
May 6, 2018
Eric Blackwell is an attorney who's got a crush on his boss's daughter. Even if he had the confidence to ask Jane Dixon on a date, there's a strict non-fraternization policy at the office and she have only one rule : no lawyer. But when he catch her having an emotional turmoil about her inability to get a second date and after trying to comfort her, and him not being the cocky and confident guy, he end up, without knowing how, having to find her dates with other men. But it's not too long before Jane begin to notice him and realize she's more interested in him than the dates he find her.
It's my first time reading this author and you can be sure it won't be the last. She made a very strong first impression. In fact, this novella is the funniest story I read this year so far ! I didn't expect that. It felt like a romantic comedy but without the over the top they too often put in it. There's so many things I could list to tell you why this book was amazing and funny, but I don't want to spoil the fun for you ;p So I'll just say it's full of witty humor and banters. It was refreshing to have a hero who was nor alpha, nor broody, nor cocky. Just a little clueless in a cute way but still attuned to the heroine and sexy in bed :p
For a short story the romance was remarkably well done; not rushed and believable. You know what's great too ? It's free on Amazon. And I only have to wait one week before book 2 is released ! :)
It's my first time reading this author and you can be sure it won't be the last. She made a very strong first impression. In fact, this novella is the funniest story I read this year so far ! I didn't expect that. It felt like a romantic comedy but without the over the top they too often put in it. There's so many things I could list to tell you why this book was amazing and funny, but I don't want to spoil the fun for you ;p So I'll just say it's full of witty humor and banters. It was refreshing to have a hero who was nor alpha, nor broody, nor cocky. Just a little clueless in a cute way but still attuned to the heroine and sexy in bed :p
For a short story the romance was remarkably well done; not rushed and believable. You know what's great too ? It's free on Amazon. And I only have to wait one week before book 2 is released ! :)
February 9, 2017
I’m always in the mood for a good romantic comedy, and in the past, Marissa Clarke has entertained me greatly with her Anderson Brothers series. It’s what put her on my favorite new to me authors list in 2015 and got the third entry in that series, Chance of a Lifetime, a 2016 RITA award nomination. Dear Jane is the first entry in a new spin-off series to the Anderson Brothers called Animal Attraction and is a fun and lighthearted romance with plenty of laughs.
Jane Dixon is a lawyer working for her dad’s firm in the Family Law department. The relationships she sees on a daily basis are for the most part a disaster, just like her dating life. A confirmed klutz, Jane never fails to end her dates on a sour note and despairs of ever having a real relationship. Eric Blackwell has had his eye on Jane for a while, but she’s the boss’s daughter and he is looking for a promotion so she’s definitely off limits. When he inadvertently becomes a flower delivery service for the brush off from her most recent date, Jane confides in Eric her dating frustrations and Eric blurts out that he knows lots of guys who’d like to date a woman like her. Suddenly, he finds himself in the position of date procurer instead of owning up to the fact that he’d like to ask her out himself. But Jane refuses to date another lawyer, and they work together in the same firm, so he’d be off limits regardless. Secure in their new friendship, things are going along swimmingly – except that Eric hopes that the dates he’s setting up for Jane will be dismal failures and Jane finds herself looking forward to the post-date conversations and texts with Eric more than the dates themselves. Will they admit that their true interest is in each other before it’s too late?
Lots of laugh out loud moments in this one! Poor Jane has so much bad luck with each of her dates, both the ones before Eric tries to give her a hand and the ones he sets her up with that it’s easy to see why she’s discouraged. Eric’s got good intentions in setting her up with his friends, though each time she’s out with one of them (eventually he does get to take her out himself!) he’s left sitting at home doing crossword puzzles that seem to be prophetically describing his life.
Gradually, their friendship leads to them acknowledging their attraction to each other, and they share some sexy scenes. Though Jane does seem to attract mishaps, unlike her other dates Eric is able to laugh them off and reassure her that they aren’t a deal breaker. But while they are able to keep their growing relationship on the down low for a little while, they are both up for partnership and if they want to date out in the open, one of them is going to have to leave the firm. The conflict heats up in the second half and leads to some surprising results and an eventual happy ending for Eric and Jane. There are some cameo appearances from the Anderson brothers (yay!) and Jane’s cat Gandalf plays a prominent role in the story as well. All in all, it’s a very enjoyable romance and I look forward to reading more in the series!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
This review appears as a blog post at Straight Shootin' Book Reviews: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
Jane Dixon is a lawyer working for her dad’s firm in the Family Law department. The relationships she sees on a daily basis are for the most part a disaster, just like her dating life. A confirmed klutz, Jane never fails to end her dates on a sour note and despairs of ever having a real relationship. Eric Blackwell has had his eye on Jane for a while, but she’s the boss’s daughter and he is looking for a promotion so she’s definitely off limits. When he inadvertently becomes a flower delivery service for the brush off from her most recent date, Jane confides in Eric her dating frustrations and Eric blurts out that he knows lots of guys who’d like to date a woman like her. Suddenly, he finds himself in the position of date procurer instead of owning up to the fact that he’d like to ask her out himself. But Jane refuses to date another lawyer, and they work together in the same firm, so he’d be off limits regardless. Secure in their new friendship, things are going along swimmingly – except that Eric hopes that the dates he’s setting up for Jane will be dismal failures and Jane finds herself looking forward to the post-date conversations and texts with Eric more than the dates themselves. Will they admit that their true interest is in each other before it’s too late?
Lots of laugh out loud moments in this one! Poor Jane has so much bad luck with each of her dates, both the ones before Eric tries to give her a hand and the ones he sets her up with that it’s easy to see why she’s discouraged. Eric’s got good intentions in setting her up with his friends, though each time she’s out with one of them (eventually he does get to take her out himself!) he’s left sitting at home doing crossword puzzles that seem to be prophetically describing his life.
Number three across: “One who weeps, in a saying.” He traced his fingers over the five empty spaces. “Finder Keepers, Losers Weepers,” he chanted in a taunting, playground voice. With a sigh, he filled in the blanks. L-O-S-E-R.
While he was home, living like an old man at thirty years old, Alistair was out wining, dining and romancing Jane on Eric’s dime.
Number twelve down: “Live a dull life.” Second letter of eight was a T and a fourth a G. No doubt about the answer to this one. He was an expert on dull.S-T-A-G-N-A-T-E, he wrote in blanks.
Gradually, their friendship leads to them acknowledging their attraction to each other, and they share some sexy scenes. Though Jane does seem to attract mishaps, unlike her other dates Eric is able to laugh them off and reassure her that they aren’t a deal breaker. But while they are able to keep their growing relationship on the down low for a little while, they are both up for partnership and if they want to date out in the open, one of them is going to have to leave the firm. The conflict heats up in the second half and leads to some surprising results and an eventual happy ending for Eric and Jane. There are some cameo appearances from the Anderson brothers (yay!) and Jane’s cat Gandalf plays a prominent role in the story as well. All in all, it’s a very enjoyable romance and I look forward to reading more in the series!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
This review appears as a blog post at Straight Shootin' Book Reviews: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
January 9, 2017
This book is so huggable! I wish I would have read the print copy! I would seriously hug this book. Dear Jane is fluffy and so cute.
We meet Jane, whom we also instantly feel bad for her. She is super clumsy, and never gets second dates. Ever. Something bad always happens on the dates. She kind of reminds me of Laney Boggs from She's All That (the 1999 movie). Except they're both is super attractive! Anyway, I instantly fall into Jane's quirks and start roRate 4oting for her.
She gets set up into date after date, all failing miserably. I wanted to wedge myself in between her and Gandalf and eat the popcorn too! But Eric. Oh, swoon!!!
I was captivated by how well the sparks flew between them. While this has the famous trope, friends to lovers, that did not slow the story down. It held its own, and flew high!
I will definitely be reading more by Marissa Clarke! I need more cuteness!
We meet Jane, whom we also instantly feel bad for her. She is super clumsy, and never gets second dates. Ever. Something bad always happens on the dates. She kind of reminds me of Laney Boggs from She's All That (the 1999 movie). Except they're both is super attractive! Anyway, I instantly fall into Jane's quirks and start roRate 4oting for her.
She gets set up into date after date, all failing miserably. I wanted to wedge myself in between her and Gandalf and eat the popcorn too! But Eric. Oh, swoon!!!
I was captivated by how well the sparks flew between them. While this has the famous trope, friends to lovers, that did not slow the story down. It held its own, and flew high!
I will definitely be reading more by Marissa Clarke! I need more cuteness!
August 21, 2018
Light and short romance. The character with the most nuances was Gandalf the cat.
But hey at least it was FREE for Kindle: https://amzn.to/2rzWbWT
But hey at least it was FREE for Kindle: https://amzn.to/2rzWbWT
December 19, 2016
Short, cute and sweet story of two lawyers who find that they are missing something in their lives. There's hardly any angst in there, except for some misunderstanding forming the bulk of the conflict/climax that seems to be part of the formula for romances.
I found myself liking Eric Blackwell a lot, especially with his supposed flaw of wanting to always be responsible and taking care of others at the expense of himself, while staying besotted the woman working a few doors down. It was cute seeing Jane Dixon (whose clumsy side does make her more endearing to readers) slowly reciprocating his feelings, even if there seemed to be a rather irrational moment on her part towards the end where I thought a lot more had to be done on her part given her impulsive outburst that Eric didn't deserve at all.
Overall, it's a cute holiday read that's worth a couple of hours.
*ARC by netgalley
(always grateful, mind)
I found myself liking Eric Blackwell a lot, especially with his supposed flaw of wanting to always be responsible and taking care of others at the expense of himself, while staying besotted the woman working a few doors down. It was cute seeing Jane Dixon (whose clumsy side does make her more endearing to readers) slowly reciprocating his feelings, even if there seemed to be a rather irrational moment on her part towards the end where I thought a lot more had to be done on her part given her impulsive outburst that Eric didn't deserve at all.
Overall, it's a cute holiday read that's worth a couple of hours.
*ARC by netgalley
(always grateful, mind)
January 6, 2017
4.5 Dear Jane Stars
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
A friends to lovers Story!
Eric Blackwell is on his way to becoming a junior partner and knows exactly what to do to get this promotion and he wont let anything stand in his way.
Jane Dixon just cant seem to get to Date Number 2 with any of the guys she's gone on a date with. She is a total disaster when it comes to going on dates. So when Eric Blackwell her colleague agrees to set her up with some of his friends she thought this was her chance. But one rule only, No Lawyers!
Which is a bit of a pickle for Eric as he has been attracted to Jane (who is also the boss's daughter) since he started working at the firm and he is a Lawyer.
But as the two spends more and more time together Jane and Eric starts to fall in love. But what are they going to do about the No Fraternization rule at work and also about Jane's No Lawyer Rule
I enjoyed this book, it was sweet and funny and so cute.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
A friends to lovers Story!
Eric Blackwell is on his way to becoming a junior partner and knows exactly what to do to get this promotion and he wont let anything stand in his way.
Jane Dixon just cant seem to get to Date Number 2 with any of the guys she's gone on a date with. She is a total disaster when it comes to going on dates. So when Eric Blackwell her colleague agrees to set her up with some of his friends she thought this was her chance. But one rule only, No Lawyers!
Which is a bit of a pickle for Eric as he has been attracted to Jane (who is also the boss's daughter) since he started working at the firm and he is a Lawyer.
But as the two spends more and more time together Jane and Eric starts to fall in love. But what are they going to do about the No Fraternization rule at work and also about Jane's No Lawyer Rule
I enjoyed this book, it was sweet and funny and so cute.
December 19, 2016
What a spectacular start in a new series from author Marissa Clarke. This first instalment in the spin-off from the Anderson Brothers Series from the author, was full of hilarity, scorchingly blissful moments and a few surprises throughout the read, that all made for some captivating, comical reading. Eric and Jane were perfectly portrayed in a story that this reader could not put down. Looking forward to more books in the Animal Attraction series from author Marissa Clarke.
Review copy received from Entangled Publishing via Netgalley
Review copy received from Entangled Publishing via Netgalley
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February 10, 2017This novella was a blast to write. The Animal Attraction Series is a spinoff of the Anderson Brothers Series, and all of the books stand alone. Huge hugs to the folks who have made it possible for me to do what I love the most--especially my readers. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
May 9, 2018
Funny and entertaining, with endearing and really enjoyable characters.
February 5, 2017
Cute little romance
Dear Jane (Animal Attraction #1) - Marissa Clarke
(It was more like *3.75 STARS* but I rounded up to 4.)
DEAR JANE is a fun romantic comedy about two people who can't seem to get out of their own way enough to be happy but I enjoyed every minute of it.
Jane Dixon hasn't been on a second date in two years. She feels that she's doomed to be alone but when her work colleague drops of flowers from yet another guy who doesn't want to see her again, she think things may just be looking up.
Eric Blackwell has been planning for this moment for years. He's just six weeks away from being promoted to Junior Partner at the prestigious law firm he work for, and he just needs everything to fly under the radar until then. So why is he offering to help get a date for Jane Dixon, the woman he's had a crush for the last two years and the daughter of his boss?
Well, maybe he can get her set up with one of his friends and then he can stop thinking about her or wanting to be with her. He knows that impossible because not only does the law firm have a strict non-fraternization policy, but Jane doesn't date lawyers. Of course, fate has other plans.
How cute was this? Jane and Eric were utterly adorable. They were both awkward and perfect for each other. The banter between them was fantastic and really just made the story fly by.
What I wasn't expecting was Eric undressed, so to speak. When he and Jane gave into their attraction to each other, he turned into this whole other man. Very hot, very determined and very skilled in bed. YUM!
My only complaint about DEAR JANE was that it was too short. It's the first book in the Animal Attraction series and I don't think that the book set up the rest of the series enough. We didn't get to meet the other women that the subsequent stories will be centered around and only heard about them in a passing way. I would have liked more there.
But, other than that. I felt like DEAR JANE was a hit. A fun contemporary romance that was easy and enjoyable to read. This is my first time reading something by Marissa Clarke and definitely won't be my last. I found out in the acknowledgments that DEAR JANE and the Animal Attraction series is a spin-off of another series, and I think I will check that out as well.
*Advanced Reader's Copy provided by NetGalley and Publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Dear Jane (Animal Attraction #1) - Marissa Clarke
(It was more like *3.75 STARS* but I rounded up to 4.)
DEAR JANE is a fun romantic comedy about two people who can't seem to get out of their own way enough to be happy but I enjoyed every minute of it.
Jane Dixon hasn't been on a second date in two years. She feels that she's doomed to be alone but when her work colleague drops of flowers from yet another guy who doesn't want to see her again, she think things may just be looking up.
Eric Blackwell has been planning for this moment for years. He's just six weeks away from being promoted to Junior Partner at the prestigious law firm he work for, and he just needs everything to fly under the radar until then. So why is he offering to help get a date for Jane Dixon, the woman he's had a crush for the last two years and the daughter of his boss?
Well, maybe he can get her set up with one of his friends and then he can stop thinking about her or wanting to be with her. He knows that impossible because not only does the law firm have a strict non-fraternization policy, but Jane doesn't date lawyers. Of course, fate has other plans.
How cute was this? Jane and Eric were utterly adorable. They were both awkward and perfect for each other. The banter between them was fantastic and really just made the story fly by.
What I wasn't expecting was Eric undressed, so to speak. When he and Jane gave into their attraction to each other, he turned into this whole other man. Very hot, very determined and very skilled in bed. YUM!
My only complaint about DEAR JANE was that it was too short. It's the first book in the Animal Attraction series and I don't think that the book set up the rest of the series enough. We didn't get to meet the other women that the subsequent stories will be centered around and only heard about them in a passing way. I would have liked more there.
But, other than that. I felt like DEAR JANE was a hit. A fun contemporary romance that was easy and enjoyable to read. This is my first time reading something by Marissa Clarke and definitely won't be my last. I found out in the acknowledgments that DEAR JANE and the Animal Attraction series is a spin-off of another series, and I think I will check that out as well.
*Advanced Reader's Copy provided by NetGalley and Publisher in exchange for an honest review*
January 9, 2017
This book was just perfect!At 110 pages it isn't too long and it didn't feel short like other novellas do!I loved how the author brought in a cast of adorable characters and made me fall in love with them!This is my first book of Marissa Clarke's and I have fallen in love with her writing.The next thing I'm going to do after typing up this review is- read her Anderson Brothers series.
Eric and Jane- the main characters were so cute and perfect for each other!Eric works as a lawyer and is on his way to being promoted to partner.All he has to do is keep up with his work and stay in the good books of George Dixon-his boss and Jane's father.Jane works at the same firm and has worked hard to earn her position.But as much as she is a success in the professional department, she is a disaster on the dating front.She never seems to be able to get past the first date due to one or the other disaster.
After a series of events,Eric unwittingly ends up agreeing to set up Jane on dates with his friends.Poor guy!He has to set up the gorgeous girl he has had his eye on for two years(and who hasn't noticed him till now) with his friends!LOL!
As Jane and Eric start spending more time together, the attraction between them heats up.But what abouut the office's non-fraternization policy?And what happens when Jane begins to question the decisions she has made in her life?
I absolutely loved the relationship between Jane and Eric!The slow progress from friends to more was so good!Their hilarious banter and Eric's staring matches with Gandalf left me with a silly smile on my face!Their characters were also well done with added development.They weren't perfect nor were they too damaged like in other romance novels.Just normal human beings who fit together perfectly!The ending had me swooning and I love this couple!Can't wait to meet Jane's friends and see how Animal Attraction takes off! ;)
Eric and Jane- the main characters were so cute and perfect for each other!Eric works as a lawyer and is on his way to being promoted to partner.All he has to do is keep up with his work and stay in the good books of George Dixon-his boss and Jane's father.Jane works at the same firm and has worked hard to earn her position.But as much as she is a success in the professional department, she is a disaster on the dating front.She never seems to be able to get past the first date due to one or the other disaster.
After a series of events,Eric unwittingly ends up agreeing to set up Jane on dates with his friends.Poor guy!He has to set up the gorgeous girl he has had his eye on for two years(and who hasn't noticed him till now) with his friends!LOL!
As Jane and Eric start spending more time together, the attraction between them heats up.But what abouut the office's non-fraternization policy?And what happens when Jane begins to question the decisions she has made in her life?
I absolutely loved the relationship between Jane and Eric!The slow progress from friends to more was so good!Their hilarious banter and Eric's staring matches with Gandalf left me with a silly smile on my face!Their characters were also well done with added development.They weren't perfect nor were they too damaged like in other romance novels.Just normal human beings who fit together perfectly!The ending had me swooning and I love this couple!Can't wait to meet Jane's friends and see how Animal Attraction takes off! ;)
February 6, 2017
Dear Jane, the first book in Marissa Clarke’s Animal Attraction series provides to be laugh out loud funny, and heart touching all at the same time.
Jane Dixon is a date disaster magnet. She hasn't had a second date in two years. Honestly, she barely makes it through first dates. But she keeps trying. She’s driven by the Dixon name and the expectations put upon her by her family.
Eric Blackwell is living his dream. He has the job he’s always wanted, he’s able to take care of his mother, and he has money in his bank account. He’s six weeks away from making junior partner at Dixon, Rosenbaum & Schoot, the prestigious law firm he works for. His life is sweet. All that’s missing is a social life.
In all the time Eric has worked for the law firm, he’s had a slight crush on Jane. But the company prohibits fraternization amongst its attorneys. When Eric unknowingly delivers a breakup bouquet to Jane, the two strike up a friendship, with her convincing him to help her find dates. Of course, these two end up striking up more than a friendship along the way.
Marissa has this incredible ability to write characters who are so easy to fall in love with and make you want to get to know. Jane and Eric are funny together. Eric is extremely sweet. Their budding attraction is charming and romantic. I can’t wait to see what else she has in store for this series.
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed the book. Also personally purchased.**
Rating: 4.5
Jane Dixon is a date disaster magnet. She hasn't had a second date in two years. Honestly, she barely makes it through first dates. But she keeps trying. She’s driven by the Dixon name and the expectations put upon her by her family.
Eric Blackwell is living his dream. He has the job he’s always wanted, he’s able to take care of his mother, and he has money in his bank account. He’s six weeks away from making junior partner at Dixon, Rosenbaum & Schoot, the prestigious law firm he works for. His life is sweet. All that’s missing is a social life.
In all the time Eric has worked for the law firm, he’s had a slight crush on Jane. But the company prohibits fraternization amongst its attorneys. When Eric unknowingly delivers a breakup bouquet to Jane, the two strike up a friendship, with her convincing him to help her find dates. Of course, these two end up striking up more than a friendship along the way.
Marissa has this incredible ability to write characters who are so easy to fall in love with and make you want to get to know. Jane and Eric are funny together. Eric is extremely sweet. Their budding attraction is charming and romantic. I can’t wait to see what else she has in store for this series.
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed the book. Also personally purchased.**
Rating: 4.5
December 22, 2016
Jane Dixon became a lawyer because that’s what Dixons did. She found herself working 80+ hour weeks, disheartened and very unhappy. She has had bad luck dating since college graduation, never getting past the first date. Her date mishaps are laugh out loud funny.
Eric Blackwell has wanted to be a lawyer since high school. He has secretly been watching Jane for 2 years. He works the same crazy hours. Fraternizing among co-workers is not allowed.
When Eric takes a floral delivery to her office, he finally gets to talk to her. Somehow, he finds himself setting her up on dates. When the first date goes bad, she calls him over to discuss the fall out. This becomes a weekly thing, as well as daily lunches spent together.
I really enjoyed how this story unfolded. While it is predictable, there is humor, romance and minimal angst. Looking forward to the next book in the series. I hope to see more of these two.
I was given an ARC by Netgalley and voluntarily gave an honest review.
Eric Blackwell has wanted to be a lawyer since high school. He has secretly been watching Jane for 2 years. He works the same crazy hours. Fraternizing among co-workers is not allowed.
When Eric takes a floral delivery to her office, he finally gets to talk to her. Somehow, he finds himself setting her up on dates. When the first date goes bad, she calls him over to discuss the fall out. This becomes a weekly thing, as well as daily lunches spent together.
I really enjoyed how this story unfolded. While it is predictable, there is humor, romance and minimal angst. Looking forward to the next book in the series. I hope to see more of these two.
I was given an ARC by Netgalley and voluntarily gave an honest review.
November 28, 2018
ARC from NetGalley
Dear Jane is a short story about a woman who is living a life she hates, and she can only manage to get one date with a guy. She's having a horrible time with it, but she doesn't know what to do. Until she ends up asking her nice sexy co-worker to date one of his friends. The dates don't go well, but she ends up getting closer to Eric.
This book was okay. I didn't like it as much as previous books from this author, but it was still pretty interesting.
It was also very fast paced and an easy read, but it wasn't something you really get invested in. I liked the plot line, and the characters overall. Even though I thought Jane made a lot of mistakes, I still enjoyed her character for the most part.
And I do look forward to reading more in this series.
Dear Jane is a short story about a woman who is living a life she hates, and she can only manage to get one date with a guy. She's having a horrible time with it, but she doesn't know what to do. Until she ends up asking her nice sexy co-worker to date one of his friends. The dates don't go well, but she ends up getting closer to Eric.
This book was okay. I didn't like it as much as previous books from this author, but it was still pretty interesting.
It was also very fast paced and an easy read, but it wasn't something you really get invested in. I liked the plot line, and the characters overall. Even though I thought Jane made a lot of mistakes, I still enjoyed her character for the most part.
And I do look forward to reading more in this series.
January 9, 2017
4 1/2 stars
Some novels you pick up and they grab you immediately and you don’t put them down until you’ve finished reading them. Dear Jane is just such a novel.
It opens from the point-of-view of Eric, a hard-working attorney, who has been infatuated with Jane Dixon for the two years he has worked at the law firm. He has kept his door open so that he could watch her walk by. I immediately liked Eric. He seemed like a nice, humble guy, which is odd for a lawyer (ha). He also had Jane’s interests at heart since he was willing to matchmake even though he wanted to be the one she dated.
read more: https://saschadarlington.me/2017/01/0...
Some novels you pick up and they grab you immediately and you don’t put them down until you’ve finished reading them. Dear Jane is just such a novel.
It opens from the point-of-view of Eric, a hard-working attorney, who has been infatuated with Jane Dixon for the two years he has worked at the law firm. He has kept his door open so that he could watch her walk by. I immediately liked Eric. He seemed like a nice, humble guy, which is odd for a lawyer (ha). He also had Jane’s interests at heart since he was willing to matchmake even though he wanted to be the one she dated.
read more: https://saschadarlington.me/2017/01/0...
May 7, 2018
3.5 stars
This was a cute romance.
I think that pretty much sums it up...
It is a shorter book, so it is nice to read to take the time or for a palate cleanser.
I liked the characters and how neither one had more power in the relationship-- they always thought of the other person and tried to do right by them.
Jane's quirk of being a clumsy wreck when she is nervous, put a smile on my face.
I liked it and would recommend it to romance readers looking for something short and sweet to read.
This was a cute romance.
I think that pretty much sums it up...
It is a shorter book, so it is nice to read to take the time or for a palate cleanser.
I liked the characters and how neither one had more power in the relationship-- they always thought of the other person and tried to do right by them.
Jane's quirk of being a clumsy wreck when she is nervous, put a smile on my face.
I liked it and would recommend it to romance readers looking for something short and sweet to read.
Want to read
May 8, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (5/8/2018)!💝
Blurb:
Jane Dixon is a dating disaster. Flammable tablecloths and broken arms are just a typical evening for her unlucky companions. No wonder Jane never gets past a first date. But luckily her co-worker and new bff says he’s got loads of friends who’d date her more than once. If only she could stop thinking about how much fun he was to hang out with. And she’d never dropped a bucket of ice on his junk. Win.
All attorney Eric Blackwell has to do to make junior partner is not screw anything up for six weeks, which seems like a slam dunk until he finds himself matchmaker to the office “One Date Wonder” aka the boss’s daughter. It’s hard to stay focused when setting up the hottest girl he’s ever met with everyone but himself. Maybe he could just set her up with all the wrong men, and keep his hands off his new friend…
Yeah. His promotion is toast.
Blurb:
Jane Dixon is a dating disaster. Flammable tablecloths and broken arms are just a typical evening for her unlucky companions. No wonder Jane never gets past a first date. But luckily her co-worker and new bff says he’s got loads of friends who’d date her more than once. If only she could stop thinking about how much fun he was to hang out with. And she’d never dropped a bucket of ice on his junk. Win.
All attorney Eric Blackwell has to do to make junior partner is not screw anything up for six weeks, which seems like a slam dunk until he finds himself matchmaker to the office “One Date Wonder” aka the boss’s daughter. It’s hard to stay focused when setting up the hottest girl he’s ever met with everyone but himself. Maybe he could just set her up with all the wrong men, and keep his hands off his new friend…
Yeah. His promotion is toast.
July 17, 2018
Reading this out of order is actually really fun- it was great to see how Animal Attraction came to be.
Not to mention Eric was so sweet and swoon-worthy 😍
Reading about the development of his relationship with Jane was just addicting.
I guess now I really have to continue with my backwards reading streak and find out how all this started by reading the Anderson Brothers series 😁
Not to mention Eric was so sweet and swoon-worthy 😍
Reading about the development of his relationship with Jane was just addicting.
I guess now I really have to continue with my backwards reading streak and find out how all this started by reading the Anderson Brothers series 😁
July 12, 2018
quick read
This was a quick romance with a happily ever after. Cue the adorable kittens and puppies. Has a lot of sexual encounters but all in all just a feel good book.
This was a quick romance with a happily ever after. Cue the adorable kittens and puppies. Has a lot of sexual encounters but all in all just a feel good book.
dnf
April 6, 2024dnf @ 7% - the writing is very cliche
January 9, 2017
Dear Jane was a sweet yet sexy romantic comedy…just what I needed! I loved Jane from the very start. She’s smart, sweet yet a disastrous first date. In fact, she never makes it to the second date. It might have something to do with spilling ice water in their laps or possibly almost catching a date on fire after knocking a votive over onto a flammable tablecloth. She’s sure she’ll never find Mr. Right and will be stuck with her loyal cat, Gandalf, forever. One day her co-worker, Eric, delivers flowers to her office. It’s a Dear Jane flower delivery…again she’s getting dumped after a first date. Eric has always had feelings for her, but she is the boss’s daughter, there is a strict rule about co-workers dating, and Jane NEVER dates lawyers even though she is one. Instead, Eric offers to be a matchmaker, finding her the perfect guy for her despite his feelings for her. After her first date with one of Eric’s friends, she asks Eric to come over after the horrible date to give him the details. One Friday night turns into more with a friendship developing between them with a massive undercurrent of attraction simmering underneath the surface. Will they give into their feelings and give love a shot?
It’s been a while since I’ve read a romantic comedy, and Marissa Clarke reminded me why I love them so much! Despite Jane’s horrible luck dating, she still finds the humor in it, especially when she’s with Eric. I loved the storyline as well as the characters. As I wrote earlier, Jane is easy to fall for. Eric has only seen her beauty, but he falls even more for her because of her humor and clumsiness! I liked that Eric was not only sexy and gorgeous, but he was a good guy. I love my bad boys, but I also like the good ones too, and Eric is a good one! Even Gandalf, who can be wicked and unsociable to Jane’s visitors, eventually falls for Eric too! They brought out the best in one another, and through their friendship and relationship realize what their dreams truly are. I enjoyed the banter between them, and I loved that they really enjoyed each other’s company even though they were secretly lusting for one another. The chemistry between the two was intense!
Dear Jane was one of those books that gives readers the perfect balance of sexy and sweet. The storyline was great, and it’s a pretty fast read! It leaves you with a warm feeling in your heart and a big smile on your face when you finish the last page.
***Read and Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
***Copy provided by Net Galley in exchange for an honest review***
It’s been a while since I’ve read a romantic comedy, and Marissa Clarke reminded me why I love them so much! Despite Jane’s horrible luck dating, she still finds the humor in it, especially when she’s with Eric. I loved the storyline as well as the characters. As I wrote earlier, Jane is easy to fall for. Eric has only seen her beauty, but he falls even more for her because of her humor and clumsiness! I liked that Eric was not only sexy and gorgeous, but he was a good guy. I love my bad boys, but I also like the good ones too, and Eric is a good one! Even Gandalf, who can be wicked and unsociable to Jane’s visitors, eventually falls for Eric too! They brought out the best in one another, and through their friendship and relationship realize what their dreams truly are. I enjoyed the banter between them, and I loved that they really enjoyed each other’s company even though they were secretly lusting for one another. The chemistry between the two was intense!
Dear Jane was one of those books that gives readers the perfect balance of sexy and sweet. The storyline was great, and it’s a pretty fast read! It leaves you with a warm feeling in your heart and a big smile on your face when you finish the last page.
***Read and Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
***Copy provided by Net Galley in exchange for an honest review***
April 30, 2021
***Spoilers throughout this review ***
Dear Jane is seriously fun, quick read. As a big fan of the Anderson Brothers series, I was thrilled to find that Marissa Clarke was releasing another contemporary book. Although this one is shorter than her previous contemporary works, it was just as fun to read and incredibly sweet – the perfect way to spend a rainy, dreary day.
Jane was a fabulous main female character. I loved that she wasn't a perfectly polished romance novel heroine, but instead she was a hot mess who said and did the wrong thing constantly, even when she was comfortable with a guy. Her awkwardness and bad luck should have been ridiculous, but instead they were ridiculously adorable and something I very much related to.
Eric. Happy sigh. Marissa Clarke has a way with male characters who are strong men but not jerks (well...except for Michael, but it was endearing on him...mostly), and Eric is a great example of that. Eric is a seriously nice guy who does his best to take care of everyone around him, even his long standing work-crush who wants him to help her find a boyfriend. There was never a moment that I didn't wish that he and Jane would get together. *spoilers* I loved the way that he bonded with Gandalf, the way that even when Jane hurt him, he still went out of his way to save his furry little buddy. In this day of obnoxious, swaggering “alphas” who act like bullies but are called Heroes dominating romance novels (and women), it was fabulous to read about an actual GOOD guy who didn't need to prove anything by being a jerk.
I loved the way that their friendship progressed, and the way that their relationship progressed. The grand gesture was beautiful. I kind of expected part of it, but the Mia-touch was a perfect addition. I hadn't heard anything about this novella before reading it so the cameos from two of three of the Andersons was a surprise to me and so, so perfect. I also love that Sachi and Clancy made an appearance. I've missed the Anderson brothers so much that even their brief cameos made me happy.
If you like fun, silly, well-written romance novels with two incredibly likable characters and a lot of laughs, you should definitely give this one a read – you won't be sorry!
Dear Jane is seriously fun, quick read. As a big fan of the Anderson Brothers series, I was thrilled to find that Marissa Clarke was releasing another contemporary book. Although this one is shorter than her previous contemporary works, it was just as fun to read and incredibly sweet – the perfect way to spend a rainy, dreary day.
Jane was a fabulous main female character. I loved that she wasn't a perfectly polished romance novel heroine, but instead she was a hot mess who said and did the wrong thing constantly, even when she was comfortable with a guy. Her awkwardness and bad luck should have been ridiculous, but instead they were ridiculously adorable and something I very much related to.
Eric. Happy sigh. Marissa Clarke has a way with male characters who are strong men but not jerks (well...except for Michael, but it was endearing on him...mostly), and Eric is a great example of that. Eric is a seriously nice guy who does his best to take care of everyone around him, even his long standing work-crush who wants him to help her find a boyfriend. There was never a moment that I didn't wish that he and Jane would get together. *spoilers* I loved the way that he bonded with Gandalf, the way that even when Jane hurt him, he still went out of his way to save his furry little buddy. In this day of obnoxious, swaggering “alphas” who act like bullies but are called Heroes dominating romance novels (and women), it was fabulous to read about an actual GOOD guy who didn't need to prove anything by being a jerk.
I loved the way that their friendship progressed, and the way that their relationship progressed. The grand gesture was beautiful. I kind of expected part of it, but the Mia-touch was a perfect addition. I hadn't heard anything about this novella before reading it so the cameos from two of three of the Andersons was a surprise to me and so, so perfect. I also love that Sachi and Clancy made an appearance. I've missed the Anderson brothers so much that even their brief cameos made me happy.
If you like fun, silly, well-written romance novels with two incredibly likable characters and a lot of laughs, you should definitely give this one a read – you won't be sorry!
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