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Bad Boys Gone Good #1
Bad for Her
USA Today bestselling author Christi Barth launches a sexy new series about three bad-boy brothers in Witness Protection who are about to learn that going good is harder than they thought...
Doctor Mollie Vickers loves the tight-knit community of her tiny Oregon town. But she’s not a fan of the limited dating options. Sleep with a guy who tried to copy off her in junior high? Pass. Mollie’s sex life is flatlining… until a deliciously handsome man she’s never seen before stops to help her fix a flat tire.
As an ex-mobster, Rafe Maguire’s no saint. But he’s trying to turn over a new leaf. Although he probably shouldn’t kiss the hot doctor on the side of the highway. Or suggest a no-strings fling with a woman he has no business pursuing. Rafe’s life is too complicated for love—his new WITSEC-provided identity doesn’t fit him at all and there’s a U.S. Marshal watching his every move. He can’t tell Mollie the truth… but their chemistry is scorching and being good doesn’t mean he can’t be a little bad.
Mollie can’t resist the guy who looks rough, talks tough, and is loyal to the bone. But it’s obvious Rafe is keeping secrets. When the truth comes out, Mollie must decide if she could ever love an ex-mobster… or if this bad boy has truly gone good.
Doctor Mollie Vickers loves the tight-knit community of her tiny Oregon town. But she’s not a fan of the limited dating options. Sleep with a guy who tried to copy off her in junior high? Pass. Mollie’s sex life is flatlining… until a deliciously handsome man she’s never seen before stops to help her fix a flat tire.
As an ex-mobster, Rafe Maguire’s no saint. But he’s trying to turn over a new leaf. Although he probably shouldn’t kiss the hot doctor on the side of the highway. Or suggest a no-strings fling with a woman he has no business pursuing. Rafe’s life is too complicated for love—his new WITSEC-provided identity doesn’t fit him at all and there’s a U.S. Marshal watching his every move. He can’t tell Mollie the truth… but their chemistry is scorching and being good doesn’t mean he can’t be a little bad.
Mollie can’t resist the guy who looks rough, talks tough, and is loyal to the bone. But it’s obvious Rafe is keeping secrets. When the truth comes out, Mollie must decide if she could ever love an ex-mobster… or if this bad boy has truly gone good.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 3, 2017
56 people are currently reading
722 people want to read
About the author
Christi Barth
59 books776 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Christi Barth earned a Masters degree in vocal performance and embarked upon a career on the stage. A love of romance then drew her to wedding planning. Ultimately she succumbed to her lifelong love of books and now writes award-winning contemporary romance, including the Naked Men and Aisle Bound series.
Christi can always be found either whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.
Christi can always be found either whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
October 3, 2017
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Amazon US * Amazon UK
I was so excited to start this book because I love discovering new authors and also because this blurb sounded amazing. I wasn't wrong about it, I loved this story. Rafe Maguire is on the run from his past with the Mob when he meets Mollie Vickers, a small town Doctor that he thinks is too pure for him. But that doesn't keep him away from the alluring Doctor.
I'm actually mad at myself for not reading anything from Christi Barth before this. This book was very well written and had that small-town charm mixed with some intrigue. The overall feel of the book was like a sweet contemporary yet I loved those darker parts that Rafe's character added. He had a complexity about him with his inner struggle of trying to be good yet feeling like he wasn't worth anything good in life because of his past. It really drew me to his character and I loved getting to see how that struggle played out when he was around Mollie.
I can already tell this is going to be an amazing series and can't wait to get more of these brothers. Definitely a recommended read from me.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
I was so excited to start this book because I love discovering new authors and also because this blurb sounded amazing. I wasn't wrong about it, I loved this story. Rafe Maguire is on the run from his past with the Mob when he meets Mollie Vickers, a small town Doctor that he thinks is too pure for him. But that doesn't keep him away from the alluring Doctor.
I'm actually mad at myself for not reading anything from Christi Barth before this. This book was very well written and had that small-town charm mixed with some intrigue. The overall feel of the book was like a sweet contemporary yet I loved those darker parts that Rafe's character added. He had a complexity about him with his inner struggle of trying to be good yet feeling like he wasn't worth anything good in life because of his past. It really drew me to his character and I loved getting to see how that struggle played out when he was around Mollie.
I can already tell this is going to be an amazing series and can't wait to get more of these brothers. Definitely a recommended read from me.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
October 2, 2017
Christi Barth’s standalone series kickoff, Bad for Her, about three brothers who go into hiding in the WITSEC program brings a bit a suspense and a lot of sexiness between a doctor who won’t date from her small town’s smaller dating pool and the sexy newcomer who helps her out on the side of the road.
Doctor Mollie Vickers left a promising medical career in Chicago to go back to her little town because it’s her home. The only downside is that her love life there is none existent until Rafe Maguire not only fixes her flat but also her dating problem promising no strings attached fun.
This is the last opportunity the U.S. government is giving Rafe and his brothers, fit it or get thrown out of the program. Having loved the big city life, it’s hard for him and his brothers to adjust to tiny town life, but when Rafe meets Mollie, he’s beginning to see the silver lining in his predicament. The only problem is that he’s falling in love with the good doctor and he can’t tell her about his ex-mobster identity. Will their fledgling relationship survive the truth?
Barth’s writing pulls you into no just Rafe and Mollie’s, but also Rafe’s situation with his brothers, particularly because his youngest brother hadn’t been aware of their mobster ties and had been abruptly pulled his very normal life and into hiding. He had a lot of unanswered questions, some of which he didn’t even want to voice afraid that the answer might permanently tarnish his view of his older siblings.
Rafe is an interesting and complex characters. He’s a loyal man, a devoted brother who had felt the only way to provide for his brothers was to continue in the path his father had laid out for him in organized crime. I felt their distress but was glad they could find a way out. I can’t wait for all their stories!
As for Mollie, she’s strong and independent and together with Rafe they heated up the pages with fun and sexy banter.
Bad for Her is book #1 in the A Bad Boys Gone Good series by Christi Barth. It is a full length contemporary romance. Told in third person from both points of view with a happy ending.
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2fNsbRC
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via InkSlinger. The excerpts taken are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
Doctor Mollie Vickers left a promising medical career in Chicago to go back to her little town because it’s her home. The only downside is that her love life there is none existent until Rafe Maguire not only fixes her flat but also her dating problem promising no strings attached fun.
This is the last opportunity the U.S. government is giving Rafe and his brothers, fit it or get thrown out of the program. Having loved the big city life, it’s hard for him and his brothers to adjust to tiny town life, but when Rafe meets Mollie, he’s beginning to see the silver lining in his predicament. The only problem is that he’s falling in love with the good doctor and he can’t tell her about his ex-mobster identity. Will their fledgling relationship survive the truth?
Barth’s writing pulls you into no just Rafe and Mollie’s, but also Rafe’s situation with his brothers, particularly because his youngest brother hadn’t been aware of their mobster ties and had been abruptly pulled his very normal life and into hiding. He had a lot of unanswered questions, some of which he didn’t even want to voice afraid that the answer might permanently tarnish his view of his older siblings.
Rafe is an interesting and complex characters. He’s a loyal man, a devoted brother who had felt the only way to provide for his brothers was to continue in the path his father had laid out for him in organized crime. I felt their distress but was glad they could find a way out. I can’t wait for all their stories!
As for Mollie, she’s strong and independent and together with Rafe they heated up the pages with fun and sexy banter.
Bad for Her is book #1 in the A Bad Boys Gone Good series by Christi Barth. It is a full length contemporary romance. Told in third person from both points of view with a happy ending.
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2fNsbRC
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via InkSlinger. The excerpts taken are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
October 7, 2017
Three bothers in witness protection, facing nothing but uncertainty after being uprooted from the life they know, finding their own HEA a book at a time? ‘Bad For Her’'s novel premise intrigued me from the start. The originality of the blurb reeled me in immediately and Christi Barth’s marvellous storytelling took it the rest of the way.
Admittedly, I strangely found myself more interested in the brothers’ interaction with each other than I was in the romance this time around—which almost felt like an afterthought. It’s strange not to be swept up in the romance though; Mollie Vickers wasn’t a protagonist interesting enough for me to buy into the pairing, especially when she paled in contrast to the larger-than-life Rafe Maguire. Embodying the best definition of 'bad boy' I've read about in recent memory, Rafe’s loyalty to his brothers, the sacrifices he made for them and the all-round good guy that he strove to be somehow carved out a sharper silhouette of him than Mollie—and after a while, it was pretty much because of him and his brothers that I read on.
That, and the surprising, consistent thread of snide humour that ran throughout this book, courtesy of Rafe and his brothers who should have found side-jobs at comedy gigs.
In fact, the laughs kept me going and the sarcastic commentary from the characters that was either accidental or deliberate went a long way in keeping this an upbeat journey of three men stumbling around and finding their own way to survive in a whole new world so far from their comfort zone. In ‘Bad For her’, I lived through Kellan, Flynn and Rafe’s shenanigans in a town so far from the city slickers that they were, laughed at their antics, felt their paranoia and sympathised with Rafe’s efforts to keep them safe. Bottom-line is, there’s so much I love about these guys and having each of them anchor the next few books is bound to be an entertaining ride. Here’s crossing my fingers.
Admittedly, I strangely found myself more interested in the brothers’ interaction with each other than I was in the romance this time around—which almost felt like an afterthought. It’s strange not to be swept up in the romance though; Mollie Vickers wasn’t a protagonist interesting enough for me to buy into the pairing, especially when she paled in contrast to the larger-than-life Rafe Maguire. Embodying the best definition of 'bad boy' I've read about in recent memory, Rafe’s loyalty to his brothers, the sacrifices he made for them and the all-round good guy that he strove to be somehow carved out a sharper silhouette of him than Mollie—and after a while, it was pretty much because of him and his brothers that I read on.
That, and the surprising, consistent thread of snide humour that ran throughout this book, courtesy of Rafe and his brothers who should have found side-jobs at comedy gigs.
In fact, the laughs kept me going and the sarcastic commentary from the characters that was either accidental or deliberate went a long way in keeping this an upbeat journey of three men stumbling around and finding their own way to survive in a whole new world so far from their comfort zone. In ‘Bad For her’, I lived through Kellan, Flynn and Rafe’s shenanigans in a town so far from the city slickers that they were, laughed at their antics, felt their paranoia and sympathised with Rafe’s efforts to keep them safe. Bottom-line is, there’s so much I love about these guys and having each of them anchor the next few books is bound to be an entertaining ride. Here’s crossing my fingers.
October 8, 2018
3.5 Liked it!
First time reading this author and I must admit, she's pretty good! I liked the plot and I really enjoyed the characters, they're definitely something else.
I dunno if I buy the whole idea of , but it was still fun and enjoyable.
Worth reading, even if you only do it to discover a new author.
First time reading this author and I must admit, she's pretty good! I liked the plot and I really enjoyed the characters, they're definitely something else.
I dunno if I buy the whole idea of , but it was still fun and enjoyable.
Worth reading, even if you only do it to discover a new author.
October 10, 2017
Full review can be found HERE --> https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.* ~Sonal
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.* ~Sonal
March 31, 2018
The first story in Christi Barth’s Bad Guys Gone Good series sets the stage for a set of romances about three brothers who, through a set of unconventional circumstances, find themselves in small town USA, specifically Bandon, Oregon. While the hero seems more of a bad guy in name only, Bad For Her is a fun, sexy and engaging romance.
Dr. Molly Vickers, an accomplished doctor, was abandoned by her mother and left to grandmother’s care at a young age. Although she left town to pursue her medical career, she loves being back home in her community. When a flat tire strands her outside of town, it’s the new mechanic, Rafe Maguire, who comes to her rescue. He, along with his two brothers Flynn and Kellan, might be the only people in town who don’t know about her past (yet). When attraction zings between them and Rafe makes it clear he’s on board for a friends with benefits relationship if she’s willing, Molly is quite happy to go along with it so long as they keep it a secret.
Rafe has good reason to be wary of getting in too deep with the sexy, spirited Dr. Molly. He and his brothers are on the run from the mob in Chicago and are living under the witness protection program WITSEC. Their location has already been compromised a few times, and this is their last placement – if they can’t keep themselves off the mob’s radar, they’ll be on their own. Coming from a big city, they’ve had trouble adjusting to the small towns they’ve ended up in, and it hasn’t helped that they have to stay on the move. Rafe can’t afford to get involved in a real relationship if he’ll have to up sticks again; nor does he want to bring trouble to the people he’s come to know and like. Will his past be a barrier to a new and brighter future with Molly?
In an interesting move, the author starts the book’s prologue with the end of the brothers’ last placement location, including their names in that place which are not the names used in the body of the story. In fact, it’s not really clear what their real names are, the point being that their old lives are meant to be left in the past. I haven’t seen this done before so kudos to the author for introducing her characters in a unique way.
One often sees this kind of plot play out in a romantic suspense novel, but this is decidedly more of a contemporary romantic comedy, and Ms. Barth manages this in several ways. Firstly, there’s an eclectic cast of characters. Molly is a sweet, friendly woman, who gives everyone the benefit of the doubt. This is noticeable in her interactions with her troubled teenaged nephew Jesse, who has come to live with her and her marijuana growing (all legal) ex-gunnery sergeant grandmother, Norah. Then there’s Colonel Mick O’Keefe, a retired military man who keeps his eye on the town and any newcomers. He recognizes that the appearance, out of the blue, of Rafe and his brothers is suspicious and takes it upon himself to let them know he’s aware of their presence. He’s the crusty old codger of the story, and he and Rafe become good friends. The author’s way of introducing each chapter is quite fun, with a location, time, and how Rafe is feeling at that particular moment. It gives a bit of insight into his character, but also makes for a good laugh.
Lying at the heart of the story is Rafe and his bad boy image. Because of the nature of the story, he can’t be too bad or he wouldn’t be hero material; so even though he was a mob enforcer in his past life, he’s probably the kind of guy you’d want to collect your blackmail money because he never killed anyone. He came into the life as a courier as a young boy because his dad was involved with the mafia boss McGinty, so it was something about which he never had a choice. When his father died, Rafe took on the responsibility for his two brothers. He’s a protective guy who would do anything for them, including making the decision to disrupt McGinty’s organization in order to get them out from under his thumb. In Bandon, he manages to rescue Molly with her flat tire, catch some thieves breaking into Norah’s shop, take Molly’s nephew on as an apprentice at the garage, volunteer his brothers to help out at the local cranberry festival, and any number of other ‘good guy’ deeds. He’s a bit too good to be a real bad boy.
Besides the other attributes that make Rafe quite likable, he’s a generous and talented lover, so it’s no surprise that Molly enjoys spending time with him. The sex scenes are steamy and well written and when Rafe isn’t seducing Molly out of her clothes he’s busy showing her his true character. With the romance firmly established, the rest of the story deals with Rafe and his brothers learning to fit in to their new roles, while also dealing with the ever present threat of their past. The suspense is minimal, and while there is a happy ending for Rafe and Molly, the overall story arc is not complete. There is destined to be more fallout and consequences for Rafe’s actions in getting himself and his brothers into the WITSEC program, and it’s sure to continue in the next story. Bad for Her is a solid start to this engaging contemporary romance series.
This review also appears at All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss for review.
Dr. Molly Vickers, an accomplished doctor, was abandoned by her mother and left to grandmother’s care at a young age. Although she left town to pursue her medical career, she loves being back home in her community. When a flat tire strands her outside of town, it’s the new mechanic, Rafe Maguire, who comes to her rescue. He, along with his two brothers Flynn and Kellan, might be the only people in town who don’t know about her past (yet). When attraction zings between them and Rafe makes it clear he’s on board for a friends with benefits relationship if she’s willing, Molly is quite happy to go along with it so long as they keep it a secret.
Rafe has good reason to be wary of getting in too deep with the sexy, spirited Dr. Molly. He and his brothers are on the run from the mob in Chicago and are living under the witness protection program WITSEC. Their location has already been compromised a few times, and this is their last placement – if they can’t keep themselves off the mob’s radar, they’ll be on their own. Coming from a big city, they’ve had trouble adjusting to the small towns they’ve ended up in, and it hasn’t helped that they have to stay on the move. Rafe can’t afford to get involved in a real relationship if he’ll have to up sticks again; nor does he want to bring trouble to the people he’s come to know and like. Will his past be a barrier to a new and brighter future with Molly?
In an interesting move, the author starts the book’s prologue with the end of the brothers’ last placement location, including their names in that place which are not the names used in the body of the story. In fact, it’s not really clear what their real names are, the point being that their old lives are meant to be left in the past. I haven’t seen this done before so kudos to the author for introducing her characters in a unique way.
One often sees this kind of plot play out in a romantic suspense novel, but this is decidedly more of a contemporary romantic comedy, and Ms. Barth manages this in several ways. Firstly, there’s an eclectic cast of characters. Molly is a sweet, friendly woman, who gives everyone the benefit of the doubt. This is noticeable in her interactions with her troubled teenaged nephew Jesse, who has come to live with her and her marijuana growing (all legal) ex-gunnery sergeant grandmother, Norah. Then there’s Colonel Mick O’Keefe, a retired military man who keeps his eye on the town and any newcomers. He recognizes that the appearance, out of the blue, of Rafe and his brothers is suspicious and takes it upon himself to let them know he’s aware of their presence. He’s the crusty old codger of the story, and he and Rafe become good friends. The author’s way of introducing each chapter is quite fun, with a location, time, and how Rafe is feeling at that particular moment. It gives a bit of insight into his character, but also makes for a good laugh.
Lying at the heart of the story is Rafe and his bad boy image. Because of the nature of the story, he can’t be too bad or he wouldn’t be hero material; so even though he was a mob enforcer in his past life, he’s probably the kind of guy you’d want to collect your blackmail money because he never killed anyone. He came into the life as a courier as a young boy because his dad was involved with the mafia boss McGinty, so it was something about which he never had a choice. When his father died, Rafe took on the responsibility for his two brothers. He’s a protective guy who would do anything for them, including making the decision to disrupt McGinty’s organization in order to get them out from under his thumb. In Bandon, he manages to rescue Molly with her flat tire, catch some thieves breaking into Norah’s shop, take Molly’s nephew on as an apprentice at the garage, volunteer his brothers to help out at the local cranberry festival, and any number of other ‘good guy’ deeds. He’s a bit too good to be a real bad boy.
Besides the other attributes that make Rafe quite likable, he’s a generous and talented lover, so it’s no surprise that Molly enjoys spending time with him. The sex scenes are steamy and well written and when Rafe isn’t seducing Molly out of her clothes he’s busy showing her his true character. With the romance firmly established, the rest of the story deals with Rafe and his brothers learning to fit in to their new roles, while also dealing with the ever present threat of their past. The suspense is minimal, and while there is a happy ending for Rafe and Molly, the overall story arc is not complete. There is destined to be more fallout and consequences for Rafe’s actions in getting himself and his brothers into the WITSEC program, and it’s sure to continue in the next story. Bad for Her is a solid start to this engaging contemporary romance series.
This review also appears at All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss for review.
October 15, 2017
I really, really likes this! It was just angsty enough, yet Rafe was playful with Mollie and that kind of counter balanced it. I really like Kellan and can't wait for his story 😊
October 3, 2017
Originally posted on NallaReads
Hello, I'll be a new fan of Christi Barth after I'm done picking my jaw up from the floor. Say hello to "Rafe" a bad boy now under WITSEC protection alongside his two brothers. It's their last chance as a family to stay safe under their new monikers and Rafe is struggling to find a reason to make it stick. That is until he meets Mollie on the side of the road with a flat tire...and he's drawn to her in a way he never thought possible.
Rafe is downright sexy as he tries to win over Mollie on becoming friends with benefits as neither of them are currently on the market for anything more. But Mollie can't control her own heart and when she discovers that Rafe is keeping a huge secret from her she knows that she has to make a decision. Take Rafe as he is or win his trust to tell her the truth?
This isn't your typical romance is there is a bit of action with the brothers trying to stay safe from the mob in Chicago. But the true "what-if" exists between Mollie and Rafe (and a little bit of Kellan, their baby brother, and Delaney, their protection officer). I love the premise of bad boys gone good but they've all still got their naughty side. I can't wait to find out more about these brothers and just where their new leaf might land them!
Hello, I'll be a new fan of Christi Barth after I'm done picking my jaw up from the floor. Say hello to "Rafe" a bad boy now under WITSEC protection alongside his two brothers. It's their last chance as a family to stay safe under their new monikers and Rafe is struggling to find a reason to make it stick. That is until he meets Mollie on the side of the road with a flat tire...and he's drawn to her in a way he never thought possible.
Rafe is downright sexy as he tries to win over Mollie on becoming friends with benefits as neither of them are currently on the market for anything more. But Mollie can't control her own heart and when she discovers that Rafe is keeping a huge secret from her she knows that she has to make a decision. Take Rafe as he is or win his trust to tell her the truth?
This isn't your typical romance is there is a bit of action with the brothers trying to stay safe from the mob in Chicago. But the true "what-if" exists between Mollie and Rafe (and a little bit of Kellan, their baby brother, and Delaney, their protection officer). I love the premise of bad boys gone good but they've all still got their naughty side. I can't wait to find out more about these brothers and just where their new leaf might land them!
October 3, 2017
This was so fun and flirty! It was such a sweet romance and so incredibly entertaining. I enjoyed it all.
Rafe and Mollie were wonderful. I loved their first meeting, they had some great flirting happening and instant chemistry. Lust at first site! I loved that they embraced the flirty, it was just outright fun. They're in an interesting situation because of Rafe history so it made them getting to know one another interesting. I loved really getting to see who Rafe was as a man and who he was becoming. Mollie was so sweet and caring. She accepted unconditionally and was so positive. I loved them getting to know one another and watching their heat build as the flirting turns to more. I really liked Rafe's fight to keep his secret and be himself in the midst of opening up to Mollie. It was such a unique and fresh twist in getting to know someone.
I loved the storyline and Rafe’s battle to be the man he truly was meant to be in spite of his past. We get enough details about his past life to get a feel of who he was and what he's done but it's really about who he is now and the type of man he can become. The writing was really good, it was laid out well, I liked the development and there was a good pace. Nice details and descriptions though I found certain facts to be very repetitive. I loved that the story was told from dual POVs as well.
There was a great cast of secondary characters and I thought they really helped to enhance the story. Rafe’s brothers were awesome and I loved their bonding and ribbing with one another. I loved Mick, he was a great addition and Mollie's grandmother was a blast.
The story is pretty light for the most part but there's a bit of conflict and drama that kept things exciting. Honestly it was just entertaining and sweet with a nice amount of flirty and sexy mixed in. I thought it was a great introduction to a new series and I'm definitely looking forward to more. All in all though, the story was awesome, the characters were likable, it was super entertaining to read and I enjoyed it all.
Complimentary copy received for honest review.
Rafe and Mollie were wonderful. I loved their first meeting, they had some great flirting happening and instant chemistry. Lust at first site! I loved that they embraced the flirty, it was just outright fun. They're in an interesting situation because of Rafe history so it made them getting to know one another interesting. I loved really getting to see who Rafe was as a man and who he was becoming. Mollie was so sweet and caring. She accepted unconditionally and was so positive. I loved them getting to know one another and watching their heat build as the flirting turns to more. I really liked Rafe's fight to keep his secret and be himself in the midst of opening up to Mollie. It was such a unique and fresh twist in getting to know someone.
I loved the storyline and Rafe’s battle to be the man he truly was meant to be in spite of his past. We get enough details about his past life to get a feel of who he was and what he's done but it's really about who he is now and the type of man he can become. The writing was really good, it was laid out well, I liked the development and there was a good pace. Nice details and descriptions though I found certain facts to be very repetitive. I loved that the story was told from dual POVs as well.
There was a great cast of secondary characters and I thought they really helped to enhance the story. Rafe’s brothers were awesome and I loved their bonding and ribbing with one another. I loved Mick, he was a great addition and Mollie's grandmother was a blast.
The story is pretty light for the most part but there's a bit of conflict and drama that kept things exciting. Honestly it was just entertaining and sweet with a nice amount of flirty and sexy mixed in. I thought it was a great introduction to a new series and I'm definitely looking forward to more. All in all though, the story was awesome, the characters were likable, it was super entertaining to read and I enjoyed it all.
Complimentary copy received for honest review.
October 6, 2017
I won this book through a Goodreads Giveaway and I am so glad I did!
I'd never heard of this author before this book and while it sounded good, I was nervous to buy it as money is hard right now and what if I didn't it? When I saw there was a giveaway, I was all over it. I was excited to win this and dived right in. It's so good! I loved that it actually had a plot, and wasn't just a romance novel. It's so much more.
This novel follows Rafe and Mollie in duel POVs. Rafe and his brothers are in WITSEC. Why? Oh they were in the Irish mob and turned against it after the things he found out. So now they are being sent to a small town and try to blend in. They hate it, they want to go home to their big city but something or rather someone, starts to take Rafe's attention, Mollie. The town's Dr. She's smart, sweet, and she is his equal in every way. They slowly fall for each other but what about Rafe's past? Will it come back to bite him in the ass and tear him and Mollie apart?
So this was fast moving, sweet, funny, and sexy. It really had everything one could want but vampires... hey, what can I say? I'm a paranormal girl and that's what I usually lean towards. But don't even think about holding the lack of vampires against this book as it's wonderful. I hardly EVER rate a book five stars because while I enjoy books, I can usually find something that just keeps it from a 5 star rating. Not this one. Five wonderfully sexy stars.
Grab this book and you will not regret it! I can't wait to get my hands on the next in this standalone series. I know I will love it just as much as this one.
I'd never heard of this author before this book and while it sounded good, I was nervous to buy it as money is hard right now and what if I didn't it? When I saw there was a giveaway, I was all over it. I was excited to win this and dived right in. It's so good! I loved that it actually had a plot, and wasn't just a romance novel. It's so much more.
This novel follows Rafe and Mollie in duel POVs. Rafe and his brothers are in WITSEC. Why? Oh they were in the Irish mob and turned against it after the things he found out. So now they are being sent to a small town and try to blend in. They hate it, they want to go home to their big city but something or rather someone, starts to take Rafe's attention, Mollie. The town's Dr. She's smart, sweet, and she is his equal in every way. They slowly fall for each other but what about Rafe's past? Will it come back to bite him in the ass and tear him and Mollie apart?
So this was fast moving, sweet, funny, and sexy. It really had everything one could want but vampires... hey, what can I say? I'm a paranormal girl and that's what I usually lean towards. But don't even think about holding the lack of vampires against this book as it's wonderful. I hardly EVER rate a book five stars because while I enjoy books, I can usually find something that just keeps it from a 5 star rating. Not this one. Five wonderfully sexy stars.
Grab this book and you will not regret it! I can't wait to get my hands on the next in this standalone series. I know I will love it just as much as this one.
October 17, 2017
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
I know that this must have happened to you all at one time or another but for most of September and about a week in October I haven't been able to pick up a book and read. I was so grateful that I was as caught up as I was otherwise I would have been in big trouble. I only read one book in that whole time and it was because I had no choice.
I have to tell you at first I figured I just needed a break after how many books I read all summer, but when we started going into October I started to panic. I soon had books backing up. I started Bad For Her to be honest, because I had no other choice I was closing in on my review date.
I started it not sure that I'd be able to finish it with what was going on and I have to tell you I was stunned and happy that I got into the story right away. The funny part is that I'm not even a big fan of the idea of a criminal going good as the hero but it worked for me.
I LOVED Bad For Her. Right away you get into Rafe's life and realize that there is more to him then you first thought. His relationship with his brothers might be strained, but you could still tell how much he really care about them. He put everything on the line for them.
You will also love Mollie and her family. Like Rafe and his brothers, Mollie and her family have their issues. This is a story of family issues and trust. What a great mix. As a whole you'll really like all the characters in this town and want to know more about them. I will tell you that I was a little shocked on how fast Rafe and Mollie got into messing around. Maybe it's my age showing.
One big plus is how Mollie and Rafe handled the secret of Rafe's life. I really could have been blown out of proportion.
If you're looking for a good story of getting a second chance in life, this is perfect. If you're like me you will be wanting Flynn's story right way.
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ARC received for a honest review
I know that this must have happened to you all at one time or another but for most of September and about a week in October I haven't been able to pick up a book and read. I was so grateful that I was as caught up as I was otherwise I would have been in big trouble. I only read one book in that whole time and it was because I had no choice.
I have to tell you at first I figured I just needed a break after how many books I read all summer, but when we started going into October I started to panic. I soon had books backing up. I started Bad For Her to be honest, because I had no other choice I was closing in on my review date.
I started it not sure that I'd be able to finish it with what was going on and I have to tell you I was stunned and happy that I got into the story right away. The funny part is that I'm not even a big fan of the idea of a criminal going good as the hero but it worked for me.
I LOVED Bad For Her. Right away you get into Rafe's life and realize that there is more to him then you first thought. His relationship with his brothers might be strained, but you could still tell how much he really care about them. He put everything on the line for them.
You will also love Mollie and her family. Like Rafe and his brothers, Mollie and her family have their issues. This is a story of family issues and trust. What a great mix. As a whole you'll really like all the characters in this town and want to know more about them. I will tell you that I was a little shocked on how fast Rafe and Mollie got into messing around. Maybe it's my age showing.
One big plus is how Mollie and Rafe handled the secret of Rafe's life. I really could have been blown out of proportion.
If you're looking for a good story of getting a second chance in life, this is perfect. If you're like me you will be wanting Flynn's story right way.
Follow me on:
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https://twitter.com/Romancingreader
ARC received for a honest review
September 28, 2017
Bad for Her is essentially a romance about second chances. Dr. Mollie Vickers has returned to her hometown of Bandon, Oregon after going to medical school She loves her tiny town and the people in it who raised her along with her marijuana selling grandmother (it’s all legal ;). Mollie has a second chance to show the town what she’s made of, years older and wiser than when she left. Rafe Maguire is new to town, after being placed there, along with his brothers, as a part of witness protection. The Maguire boys are on their last chance; this placement has to work or they will be kicked out of WITSEC. Rafe is a guy with a seriously deep, dark past but when he meets Mollie he knows if he was going to go good for anyone else, Mollie would be that person. She and the small town of Bandon give him the second chance he’s been looking for.
If I have one complaint about this book it would be that is was too short! Mollie and Rafe had a lot of baggage to wade through in Bad for Her. Although we saw a lot of their in-person interactions in this book, I would have loved to see each and every text they sent back and forth and experience every moment of them together. Sure, the book would have been 1,000 pages long, but I would have adored every word, every letter. I loved Rafe and Mollie that much. Seriously, I’d read about Rafe and Mollie all.day.long.
“If there’s a problem, Doc, you can tell me. And I promise you I’ll handle it.”
“What kind of problem?”
“Anything. Anything that you don’t like. I can make it right.”
After a heavy silence, Mollie laughed. Laughed and laughed like he’d just told her the joke about the three-legged gigolo, the virgin, and the horse. She laughed so hard that she leaned her whole body into him. As though she’d fall over from the sheer force of whatever the hell had a grip on her funny bone.
Not only did I adore the funny and everyday moments between Rafe and Mollie, they were HOT together. I’m pretty sure my cheeks were aflame while reading about their first sexy time on a hospital bed (lots of positions and the possibility of being caught). Seriously sexy stuff.
“So pale.” His breath feathered over his skin, lips a scant hair from actually touching her.
Crap. No seductive clothing and no sexy tan lines. Clearly she should’ve started prepping for this fling with the same intensity that she’d studied for the medical boards. And long before she’d even met Rafe. “It’s only May eleventh. We don’t break out bikinis in Oregon until July.”
“Not a complaint. You’re so pale and soft, it’s like licking my way across milk.” Rafe lifted his hand and threw her a wicked grin. “I fucking love milk.”
Christi Barth’s writing truly shined in this book. Her writing in Bad for Her contained a whole lot of things that I liked, but nothing more than the short little descriptions of Rafe’s mood and location at the beginning of the chapters in his POV, e.g. “Coquille Point, 11:45 p.m. Mood on the beach – still horny as hell.” The short details were funny and just so…Rafe. I applaud Barth for doing something so small and something that really made Rafe’s personality apparent.
Barth also made an interesting writing decision about an epilogue, or rather, a lack of one. At the time I read Bad for Her I was a bit disappointed that there was no epilogue wrapping things up. Readers aren’t left hanging or anything, and there is an HEA, but the ending seemed a bit abrupt. Epilogues seem like the norm in contemporary romance lately, but I must admit the lack of a final wrap-up has me on edge for the next installment of the series. April 2018 is so so so far. I guess Barth did her job in grabbing me hook, line, and sinker. 😉
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This review was originally published at Straight Shootin' Book Reviews.
If I have one complaint about this book it would be that is was too short! Mollie and Rafe had a lot of baggage to wade through in Bad for Her. Although we saw a lot of their in-person interactions in this book, I would have loved to see each and every text they sent back and forth and experience every moment of them together. Sure, the book would have been 1,000 pages long, but I would have adored every word, every letter. I loved Rafe and Mollie that much. Seriously, I’d read about Rafe and Mollie all.day.long.
“If there’s a problem, Doc, you can tell me. And I promise you I’ll handle it.”
“What kind of problem?”
“Anything. Anything that you don’t like. I can make it right.”
After a heavy silence, Mollie laughed. Laughed and laughed like he’d just told her the joke about the three-legged gigolo, the virgin, and the horse. She laughed so hard that she leaned her whole body into him. As though she’d fall over from the sheer force of whatever the hell had a grip on her funny bone.
Not only did I adore the funny and everyday moments between Rafe and Mollie, they were HOT together. I’m pretty sure my cheeks were aflame while reading about their first sexy time on a hospital bed (lots of positions and the possibility of being caught). Seriously sexy stuff.
“So pale.” His breath feathered over his skin, lips a scant hair from actually touching her.
Crap. No seductive clothing and no sexy tan lines. Clearly she should’ve started prepping for this fling with the same intensity that she’d studied for the medical boards. And long before she’d even met Rafe. “It’s only May eleventh. We don’t break out bikinis in Oregon until July.”
“Not a complaint. You’re so pale and soft, it’s like licking my way across milk.” Rafe lifted his hand and threw her a wicked grin. “I fucking love milk.”
Christi Barth’s writing truly shined in this book. Her writing in Bad for Her contained a whole lot of things that I liked, but nothing more than the short little descriptions of Rafe’s mood and location at the beginning of the chapters in his POV, e.g. “Coquille Point, 11:45 p.m. Mood on the beach – still horny as hell.” The short details were funny and just so…Rafe. I applaud Barth for doing something so small and something that really made Rafe’s personality apparent.
Barth also made an interesting writing decision about an epilogue, or rather, a lack of one. At the time I read Bad for Her I was a bit disappointed that there was no epilogue wrapping things up. Readers aren’t left hanging or anything, and there is an HEA, but the ending seemed a bit abrupt. Epilogues seem like the norm in contemporary romance lately, but I must admit the lack of a final wrap-up has me on edge for the next installment of the series. April 2018 is so so so far. I guess Barth did her job in grabbing me hook, line, and sinker. 😉
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This review was originally published at Straight Shootin' Book Reviews.
October 4, 2017
Prepare yourselves - you are going to meet an extraordinary ex-mobster the likes of which you couldn't even imagine.
Rafe, although it's not the name he was born with, is loyal to the core. Entering the witness protection programme in order to save his younger brothers. Although with 5 different names changes and locations, WITSEC hasn't exactly gone smoothly so far. Leaving behind all the things he thought contributed to his identity has been stripped away from him. While it is a fresh start, it is also a total immersion lesson in self-awareness. I'm not going to lie, I absolutely love Rafe, love, love, love. It is obvious the mobster lifestyle isn't something that Rafe would have entered into if it weren't for his family already deeply tied to it. Rafe's innate goodness shines through the narrative from the beginning, his protective nature will melt your heart.
Mollie is a hometown sweetheart, she has returned to her roots after training as a doctor to give back to the town that raised her. A flat tire leads Mollie to Rafe and a soul-searing kiss during that initial meeting!!! There is no denying the serious chemistry between Mollie and Rafe, however, Mollie has issues of her own stemming from her mother leaving her when she was a mere toddler, leading to a fear of relationships.
Desperate to explore the sizzle between them, Mollie and Rafe agree to a friends-with-benefits situation in order to avoid the issues that hang between them. Although the more time they spend getting to know each other only serves to deepen the connection between them. Mollie and Rafe discover new things about themselves alongside gaining support they didn't know they needed.
Unfortunately, Rafe's former life and Mollie's relationship issues hang between them. Can their connection overcome the barriers that have been placed in their way?? #TeamRafe
The peripheral characters are adorably quirky adding humour to the narrative. Rafe's younger brothers, Kellan and Flynn are introduced during Bad for Her, but only the bare bones of their identities are given, aiding curiosity in discovering all there is to know about each of them. Next in the spotlight is bartender Flynn in Never Been Good!!!!!
Rafe, although it's not the name he was born with, is loyal to the core. Entering the witness protection programme in order to save his younger brothers. Although with 5 different names changes and locations, WITSEC hasn't exactly gone smoothly so far. Leaving behind all the things he thought contributed to his identity has been stripped away from him. While it is a fresh start, it is also a total immersion lesson in self-awareness. I'm not going to lie, I absolutely love Rafe, love, love, love. It is obvious the mobster lifestyle isn't something that Rafe would have entered into if it weren't for his family already deeply tied to it. Rafe's innate goodness shines through the narrative from the beginning, his protective nature will melt your heart.
Mollie is a hometown sweetheart, she has returned to her roots after training as a doctor to give back to the town that raised her. A flat tire leads Mollie to Rafe and a soul-searing kiss during that initial meeting!!! There is no denying the serious chemistry between Mollie and Rafe, however, Mollie has issues of her own stemming from her mother leaving her when she was a mere toddler, leading to a fear of relationships.
Desperate to explore the sizzle between them, Mollie and Rafe agree to a friends-with-benefits situation in order to avoid the issues that hang between them. Although the more time they spend getting to know each other only serves to deepen the connection between them. Mollie and Rafe discover new things about themselves alongside gaining support they didn't know they needed.
Unfortunately, Rafe's former life and Mollie's relationship issues hang between them. Can their connection overcome the barriers that have been placed in their way?? #TeamRafe
The peripheral characters are adorably quirky adding humour to the narrative. Rafe's younger brothers, Kellan and Flynn are introduced during Bad for Her, but only the bare bones of their identities are given, aiding curiosity in discovering all there is to know about each of them. Next in the spotlight is bartender Flynn in Never Been Good!!!!!
October 17, 2017
THE STORY:
Ex-mob guy on the run with his brothers shares a hot, sexy kiss with a woman he shouldn’t even be talking to. Both are overdue for some hot, steamy sex and agree to a friends-with-benefits, non-relationship.
WHAT’S REALLY GOING TO HAPPEN:
Never believe a character that says I’m not interested in a relationship after sharing an off-the-charts kiss. Or after spending the evening laughing and connecting with said kisser, because everyone knows you fall in love when it’s least convenient.
WHAT’S GREAT ABOUT BAD FOR HER:
Mollie and Rafe do have amazing chemistry, both in and out of the bedroom (or hospital room in this case). Their back and forth banter made me laugh. I really liked Mollie. I loved that she could choose to work anywhere in the world and chose to return home to Bandon, to serve the people who helped raise her. Speaking of Bandon, the people of this town are so much fun! There’s Mick, the elderly Marine Colonel who befriends Rafe. He’s a bit crotchety, but has everyone’s best interests at heart. And, who doesn’t love a 70-year old grandmother with only one hand that sells pot? Mollie’s grandmother had me laughing out loud when she wasn’t wowing me with her words of wisdom. Even Mollie’s cousin Jessie tugged at my heartstrings. And, have you seen the cover? Swoon.
WHAT WASN’T SO HOT:
I feel bad, but I found that I really didn’t care what happened to the Maguire brothers as they hid from the mob. While I loved Mollie’s story, Rafe’s didn’t resonate with me at all. It could be because he’s supposed to be bad, but really he’s just a mafia guy with a heart of gold. I just didn’t connect with his “I was a lifelong criminal but worked for Habitat for Humanity on the weekends” persona. I prefer a character that’s working towards a true redemption story and Rafe really wasn’t.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
This was an okay read with some fun characters and electric sex scenes. The town of Bandon felt like a fun place to be and I connected with the people there enough that I’d be interested in reading book 2 of this series.
3 stars for Bad for Her. Heat level: 3.5
I received a copy of this book from InkSlingerPR in exchange for honest feedback.
Ex-mob guy on the run with his brothers shares a hot, sexy kiss with a woman he shouldn’t even be talking to. Both are overdue for some hot, steamy sex and agree to a friends-with-benefits, non-relationship.
WHAT’S REALLY GOING TO HAPPEN:
Never believe a character that says I’m not interested in a relationship after sharing an off-the-charts kiss. Or after spending the evening laughing and connecting with said kisser, because everyone knows you fall in love when it’s least convenient.
WHAT’S GREAT ABOUT BAD FOR HER:
Mollie and Rafe do have amazing chemistry, both in and out of the bedroom (or hospital room in this case). Their back and forth banter made me laugh. I really liked Mollie. I loved that she could choose to work anywhere in the world and chose to return home to Bandon, to serve the people who helped raise her. Speaking of Bandon, the people of this town are so much fun! There’s Mick, the elderly Marine Colonel who befriends Rafe. He’s a bit crotchety, but has everyone’s best interests at heart. And, who doesn’t love a 70-year old grandmother with only one hand that sells pot? Mollie’s grandmother had me laughing out loud when she wasn’t wowing me with her words of wisdom. Even Mollie’s cousin Jessie tugged at my heartstrings. And, have you seen the cover? Swoon.
WHAT WASN’T SO HOT:
I feel bad, but I found that I really didn’t care what happened to the Maguire brothers as they hid from the mob. While I loved Mollie’s story, Rafe’s didn’t resonate with me at all. It could be because he’s supposed to be bad, but really he’s just a mafia guy with a heart of gold. I just didn’t connect with his “I was a lifelong criminal but worked for Habitat for Humanity on the weekends” persona. I prefer a character that’s working towards a true redemption story and Rafe really wasn’t.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
This was an okay read with some fun characters and electric sex scenes. The town of Bandon felt like a fun place to be and I connected with the people there enough that I’d be interested in reading book 2 of this series.
3 stars for Bad for Her. Heat level: 3.5
I received a copy of this book from InkSlingerPR in exchange for honest feedback.
October 4, 2017
*4 Stars*
ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
I've read the Naked Men series by Christi Barth so I knew that I would really enjoy this series as well. I wasn't wrong. This new series is going to prove to be a whole lot of fun.
The whole WITSEC thing provides a whole 'nother layer to the Maguire boys and particularly Rafe, being that this is his book. I think he was a really cool character and he has a tonne of heart. He may be an ex mobster, but when you get to know his story, you realise thats not really who he is.
Mollie was a cool character as well. I think she and Rafe work well together. She pulls out the good in him that he seemed to doubt that he had, deep down. Rafe working with Jesse and the way he was with Mick was really heartwarming.
His brothers are cool cats too, I think their books will be very interesting, particularly Kellans. There's a lot more to learn about the Maguire brothers I definitely look forward to it.
Barth writes novels that are heartwarming, sexy, funny and just all round great to read.
Would recommend.
Review also on my blog - Bad for Her - Christi Barth
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ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
I've read the Naked Men series by Christi Barth so I knew that I would really enjoy this series as well. I wasn't wrong. This new series is going to prove to be a whole lot of fun.
The whole WITSEC thing provides a whole 'nother layer to the Maguire boys and particularly Rafe, being that this is his book. I think he was a really cool character and he has a tonne of heart. He may be an ex mobster, but when you get to know his story, you realise thats not really who he is.
Mollie was a cool character as well. I think she and Rafe work well together. She pulls out the good in him that he seemed to doubt that he had, deep down. Rafe working with Jesse and the way he was with Mick was really heartwarming.
His brothers are cool cats too, I think their books will be very interesting, particularly Kellans. There's a lot more to learn about the Maguire brothers I definitely look forward to it.
Barth writes novels that are heartwarming, sexy, funny and just all round great to read.
Would recommend.
Review also on my blog - Bad for Her - Christi Barth
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October 3, 2017
What’s better than a recovered bad boy? How about a Bad Boy Gone Good? Oh, but don’t worry there’s still plenty of that bad boy shimmering under the surface! Especially under the surface of Rafe Maguire…
Witness Protection is a pain in the butt. Especially when you’re a bad boy who’s used to being in charge of everything and not used to having a nosey US Marshall looking over your shoulder watching every move you and your brothers make. Just ask Rafe. He’s feeling the walls closing in on him in the small town he’s hiding in…until he happens across a damsel in distress. One Mollie Vickers. But man, he could be really Bad for Her.
Mollie’s returned to her hometown after medical school. She loves the small town and their close-knit community of everyone knowing everyone else and all their business. Well, most of the time. Except Mollie didn’t quite realize how much this would affect her dating options. So the hot guy who helped her on the side of the road. The hot guy she’s never seen before—the hot guy who doesn’t know her and her history either—is a prime candidate for some no strings sex, right? What could go wrong?
Um, everything. Especially once hearts and the L word are involved. But both Rafe and Mollie are hiding things. Rafe especially. But as their relationship progresses, will they both finally have the faith and trust in each other to open up? Especially when there’s much more than just their hearts on the line.
A terrific start to the series. Bad for Her has set up the three Maguire brothers perfectly. I loved Rafe and his protectiveness toward his brothers. How he’s not letting anything or anyone split them apart. And I love how that protectiveness transferred right over to Mollie too. And I loved Mollie and Rafe together—they brought out the best in each other. Loved how Mollie was no pushover either—she stood up for herself, her wants, her needs, her desires. Oh and her desires certainly matched Rafe’s. *fans self* I am eager to read more in Never Been Good to see what happens with Flynn and Sierra! ~ Missy, 4 stars
Witness Protection is a pain in the butt. Especially when you’re a bad boy who’s used to being in charge of everything and not used to having a nosey US Marshall looking over your shoulder watching every move you and your brothers make. Just ask Rafe. He’s feeling the walls closing in on him in the small town he’s hiding in…until he happens across a damsel in distress. One Mollie Vickers. But man, he could be really Bad for Her.
Mollie’s returned to her hometown after medical school. She loves the small town and their close-knit community of everyone knowing everyone else and all their business. Well, most of the time. Except Mollie didn’t quite realize how much this would affect her dating options. So the hot guy who helped her on the side of the road. The hot guy she’s never seen before—the hot guy who doesn’t know her and her history either—is a prime candidate for some no strings sex, right? What could go wrong?
Um, everything. Especially once hearts and the L word are involved. But both Rafe and Mollie are hiding things. Rafe especially. But as their relationship progresses, will they both finally have the faith and trust in each other to open up? Especially when there’s much more than just their hearts on the line.
A terrific start to the series. Bad for Her has set up the three Maguire brothers perfectly. I loved Rafe and his protectiveness toward his brothers. How he’s not letting anything or anyone split them apart. And I love how that protectiveness transferred right over to Mollie too. And I loved Mollie and Rafe together—they brought out the best in each other. Loved how Mollie was no pushover either—she stood up for herself, her wants, her needs, her desires. Oh and her desires certainly matched Rafe’s. *fans self* I am eager to read more in Never Been Good to see what happens with Flynn and Sierra! ~ Missy, 4 stars
March 28, 2018
This isn't your typical romance is there is a bit of action with the brothers trying to stay safe from the mob in Chicago. But the true "what-if" exists between Mollie and Rafe (and a little bit of Kellan, their baby brother, and Delaney, their protection officer). I love the premise of bad boys gone good but they've all still got their naughty side. I can't wait to find out more about these brothers and just where their new leaf might land them!
September 16, 2017
Full review soon!
October 19, 2017
**3.5 stars**
Lately I've read a lot of contemporary romance novels but Bad for Her is unique when compared to the books I've read that fit into this genre. Rafe Maguire is an ex-mobster and has entered into witness protection in order to keep his family safe. After some trail and error the brothers end up in a small town in Oregon. This is where Rafe meets Mollie Vickers, a doctor that live in Bandon, and there's an instant attraction between the two.
Characters usually have a big impact on my enjoyment while reading a story All the characters that had somewhat prominent roles were so well thought out. While reading I felt like I knew each of them and could point them out a street. It might sound weird to say but they breathed life into this story.
As much as I enjoyed the overall story, I was a bit disappointed with the ending. There was too much that I felt was left open ended. Since there are going to be more books in the series I'm guessing things concerning why the brothers were in witness protection in the first place will carry on to the next book(s). However, I wish there was some sense of resolution for that part of the story even it it was only a temporary one. I look forward to seeing what's next for the Maguire brothers.
My Blog: Brandi Janee’s Bookshelf
Lately I've read a lot of contemporary romance novels but Bad for Her is unique when compared to the books I've read that fit into this genre. Rafe Maguire is an ex-mobster and has entered into witness protection in order to keep his family safe. After some trail and error the brothers end up in a small town in Oregon. This is where Rafe meets Mollie Vickers, a doctor that live in Bandon, and there's an instant attraction between the two.
Characters usually have a big impact on my enjoyment while reading a story All the characters that had somewhat prominent roles were so well thought out. While reading I felt like I knew each of them and could point them out a street. It might sound weird to say but they breathed life into this story.
As much as I enjoyed the overall story, I was a bit disappointed with the ending. There was too much that I felt was left open ended. Since there are going to be more books in the series I'm guessing things concerning why the brothers were in witness protection in the first place will carry on to the next book(s). However, I wish there was some sense of resolution for that part of the story even it it was only a temporary one. I look forward to seeing what's next for the Maguire brothers.
My Blog: Brandi Janee’s Bookshelf
October 3, 2017
Great romance with a bit of suspense thrown in. Rafe is by no means a saint. He has seen the worst of the worst of humanity being an ex-mobster. But, he left that life to save his and his brothers’ lives. Now, they are in witness protection, this may be their last chance at any kind of life staying together. He knows he has to play the part of his new identity, and he has to make sure his brothers do the same. There is no other alternative. So, there is no time for a romance, but he considers changing that when he comes to the aid of a beautiful woman, Mollie, on the side of the road in his new town in Oregon. From the beginning, the chemistry between these two is scorching. What starts out as a sort of “friends/dating with benefits,” becomes something more. But, can Rafe trust Mollie with is true identity without putting her life in jeopardy? How will she react when she finds out the truth?
I always like to touch on characters in my reviews because for me, they are what really drive a story. And, I loved both Rafe and Mollie. Mollie is not only beautiful but smart. She is a doctor, much different from the women Rafe dated in his old life. Some of the women in Chicago liked what he did. Mollie doesn’t know that side of him. She challenges him, and the banter between the two was sexy, sweet, and at times, hilarious.
It’s a romance yet it’s a story about a man becoming the man he was meant to be. He isn’t the mobster who he thought he was, not who the others in the mob organization thought he was, and not the made- up man who is in hiding. He finds himself through Mollie, “a little bit bad, but trying hard as hell to be good” for her! She allows him to be who he should be. Loved it!
I hadn’t read anything by Christi Barth, but I’m so glad I have now. She has a way of pulling you into the story with her characters, and even her secondary ones. I loved that this is a series about brothers. Throughout the book, the sense of family and bond between these men is unbreakable despite their circumstances. I cannot wait to get to know the other two in upcoming books!
***Read and Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
I always like to touch on characters in my reviews because for me, they are what really drive a story. And, I loved both Rafe and Mollie. Mollie is not only beautiful but smart. She is a doctor, much different from the women Rafe dated in his old life. Some of the women in Chicago liked what he did. Mollie doesn’t know that side of him. She challenges him, and the banter between the two was sexy, sweet, and at times, hilarious.
It’s a romance yet it’s a story about a man becoming the man he was meant to be. He isn’t the mobster who he thought he was, not who the others in the mob organization thought he was, and not the made- up man who is in hiding. He finds himself through Mollie, “a little bit bad, but trying hard as hell to be good” for her! She allows him to be who he should be. Loved it!
I hadn’t read anything by Christi Barth, but I’m so glad I have now. She has a way of pulling you into the story with her characters, and even her secondary ones. I loved that this is a series about brothers. Throughout the book, the sense of family and bond between these men is unbreakable despite their circumstances. I cannot wait to get to know the other two in upcoming books!
***Read and Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
October 9, 2017
Rafe Maguire's entire life revolves around running. He and his brothers are under a Witness Protection Program that helps them keep safe from The Irish Mob, the mob that Rafe was once an active member of. Now they are to settle in a tiny Oregon town be inconspicuous while mingling with the locals. Totally doable. Until Rafe meets Mollie.
Mollie Vickers left her high end job to be close to the town she dearly loves. Sure there might not be many dating options but everyone here takes care of each other. Then comes in Rafe with his sizzling looks and devilish smile.
Where Mollie is not interested in getting close to anyone who might potentially break her heart, Rafe can't even think of a relationship with his and his brothers' dire situation. But sparks fly and they can't seem to resist each other, Hell they don't even want to.
Rafe can't get too comfortable of too consumed with Mollie. He knows that, he repeats that to himself everyday, But his heart has only want. Can he find a way out?
I really really loved this story. It was so unique, so fresh and so so hot. OMG THE HOTNESS!!! Rafe is the ultimate reformed bad boy but still will make you weak in the knees kinda man and I am in LOVE. His love for his brothers, the way he was with Jesse and his chemistry with Mollie made me swoon so hard.
I am super excited for the upcoming book in this series. Those Maguire brothers need their happy endings STAT. LOVED THIS BOOK!!!
Mollie Vickers left her high end job to be close to the town she dearly loves. Sure there might not be many dating options but everyone here takes care of each other. Then comes in Rafe with his sizzling looks and devilish smile.
Where Mollie is not interested in getting close to anyone who might potentially break her heart, Rafe can't even think of a relationship with his and his brothers' dire situation. But sparks fly and they can't seem to resist each other, Hell they don't even want to.
Rafe can't get too comfortable of too consumed with Mollie. He knows that, he repeats that to himself everyday, But his heart has only want. Can he find a way out?
I really really loved this story. It was so unique, so fresh and so so hot. OMG THE HOTNESS!!! Rafe is the ultimate reformed bad boy but still will make you weak in the knees kinda man and I am in LOVE. His love for his brothers, the way he was with Jesse and his chemistry with Mollie made me swoon so hard.
I am super excited for the upcoming book in this series. Those Maguire brothers need their happy endings STAT. LOVED THIS BOOK!!!
September 20, 2017
Rafe Maguire is an ex-mobster who with his brother's are protected in a WITSEC program and after being moved around from place to place because of their bad decisions and life style their handler finally places them in a small, quite town where they can keep out of trouble. A huge difference from Chicago, the city they left behind.
Doctor Mollie Vickers loved her little town and all it's people, but the nightlife is a little flat and dates are practically nonexistent. Mollie is stunned when a handsome stranger offers her help when she has a flat, and the gossip mongers have something to talk about when 3 handsome guys arrive in all to shake their small town up.
I loved this book. The characters were terrific, Rafe was a very reliable guy, he felt very responsible for his younger brothers. He was an alpha male, arrogant but also very respectful with Mollie, I liked him a lot. Mollie was a firecracker, and very independent, she and Rafe made a great couple. His brothers had a lot in common with Rafe but were both still equally different in their own way, I look forward to their stories. A great read, I highly recommend it!
Doctor Mollie Vickers loved her little town and all it's people, but the nightlife is a little flat and dates are practically nonexistent. Mollie is stunned when a handsome stranger offers her help when she has a flat, and the gossip mongers have something to talk about when 3 handsome guys arrive in all to shake their small town up.
I loved this book. The characters were terrific, Rafe was a very reliable guy, he felt very responsible for his younger brothers. He was an alpha male, arrogant but also very respectful with Mollie, I liked him a lot. Mollie was a firecracker, and very independent, she and Rafe made a great couple. His brothers had a lot in common with Rafe but were both still equally different in their own way, I look forward to their stories. A great read, I highly recommend it!
October 8, 2017
A bad boy trying to be better and a good girl running away from love, this book way absolutely wonderful.
I loved how well Molly saw Rafe. He was a new man in a new situation but she saw a good man right from the start. She saw things in him that maybe he hadn’t had a chance to see yet and I loved it!
Rafe was strong and determined and I loved him. The way he let this crazy town and Molly into his heart. He came in determined to give it a chance and he really made himself a home in a place where he originally couldn’t imagine staying.
I loved Rafe and Molly together. They have this chemistry right away but neither wants a relationship. While they go into this thinking it’s going to be a purely physical connection, they end up forging an emotional connection before they ever get to the physical. I love how the feelings kinda sneak up on both of them but they’re so open and truthful with each other about what they’re feeling. And the heat is serious between these two!! They have such an connection that heat sparks as soon as they’re in the same room together.
I also really loved Mick and Molly’s grandma. They were amazing support for Rafe and Molly when either needed a shoulder or someone to bounce ideas of off. I can’t wait for Flynn’s Book!!!!!!
I loved how well Molly saw Rafe. He was a new man in a new situation but she saw a good man right from the start. She saw things in him that maybe he hadn’t had a chance to see yet and I loved it!
Rafe was strong and determined and I loved him. The way he let this crazy town and Molly into his heart. He came in determined to give it a chance and he really made himself a home in a place where he originally couldn’t imagine staying.
I loved Rafe and Molly together. They have this chemistry right away but neither wants a relationship. While they go into this thinking it’s going to be a purely physical connection, they end up forging an emotional connection before they ever get to the physical. I love how the feelings kinda sneak up on both of them but they’re so open and truthful with each other about what they’re feeling. And the heat is serious between these two!! They have such an connection that heat sparks as soon as they’re in the same room together.
I also really loved Mick and Molly’s grandma. They were amazing support for Rafe and Molly when either needed a shoulder or someone to bounce ideas of off. I can’t wait for Flynn’s Book!!!!!!
October 8, 2017
3.5 stars
Bad for her is the first book in a new series by Christi Barth. It lacks the drama I was expecting it to have which made my reading experience way better. You have a biker who is lying to everyone but his brothers (even though is not his choice) trying to fit in a new small city and a doctor who has a cousin to take care of and a granda who sells pot. That's all you need to know in this book. The cousin's behavior was creeping me out because he wasn't saying stuff to Mollie that weren't appropriate. I liked Rafe and Mollie. I didn't love them, but they were good characters. I would have liked to see more of the tiny Oregon town the story is set in. To be honest, I don't feel like I know this town a lot or Rafe's brothers. Kellen and Flynn seemed like very good guys and I am sure that I will enjoy their books, but this is a 432-page book and I don't feel like I know anyone except Mollie and Rafe. That's the reason I am giving it 3.5 stars instead of 4.
Bad for her is the first book in a new series by Christi Barth. It lacks the drama I was expecting it to have which made my reading experience way better. You have a biker who is lying to everyone but his brothers (even though is not his choice) trying to fit in a new small city and a doctor who has a cousin to take care of and a granda who sells pot. That's all you need to know in this book. The cousin's behavior was creeping me out because he wasn't saying stuff to Mollie that weren't appropriate. I liked Rafe and Mollie. I didn't love them, but they were good characters. I would have liked to see more of the tiny Oregon town the story is set in. To be honest, I don't feel like I know this town a lot or Rafe's brothers. Kellen and Flynn seemed like very good guys and I am sure that I will enjoy their books, but this is a 432-page book and I don't feel like I know anyone except Mollie and Rafe. That's the reason I am giving it 3.5 stars instead of 4.
October 6, 2017
Bad for Her is the start of a new series. We meet Rafe and Mollie, who instantly have chemistry. Rafe and his brothers are new to town. The relationship between the brothers was so much fun. They argued, but how much they cared for each other was evident.
Mollie is back in the small, off the beaten path of town that she grew up in. When she meets the handsome stranger, she doesn't expect to find out he's someone she'll be facing often. Neither one of them are looking for a relationship, but they do know when they have found something special.
Overall, Bad for Her was decent read. It was paced well, although the mystery aspect of the story was a bit underwhelming. The characters were relatable, and the book had moments where I was chuckling out loud.
*Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReds*
Mollie is back in the small, off the beaten path of town that she grew up in. When she meets the handsome stranger, she doesn't expect to find out he's someone she'll be facing often. Neither one of them are looking for a relationship, but they do know when they have found something special.
Overall, Bad for Her was decent read. It was paced well, although the mystery aspect of the story was a bit underwhelming. The characters were relatable, and the book had moments where I was chuckling out loud.
*Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReds*
October 25, 2017
I'm ready for the next one in this series!
September 18, 2017
Rafe is not one to beat around the bush, “I like the way you move against me. I’ll like it even more when we’re naked.” Seriously the man does not sugar coat things, "Rafe peered through the clear plastic. Then his mouth dropped open. “You baked me *** cookies?” Mollie is another one who doesn't hold her thoughts back, “fair warning. We’re about to put this hospital bed to good use. If you don’t want to watch, you’ve got about thirty seconds to get out. I need to show this man just how good I can be for him.” I liked this book, I fell in love with Rafe.
December 21, 2017
LOVED it! The start of a great new series! I can't wait for the other two brothers to have their books, although Rafe is definitely going to be a hard act to follow! Sexy, romantic, and just so good!
November 8, 2017
Rafe Maguire is not a man who blends into a small town on a good day no matter how hard he tries, and his two younger brothers are not much better. Their former life in Chicago must be buried deep in their memories, but it is hard to disguise a life of hard lessons learned and dished out. Rafe is not a typical mobster type though. He certainly has the loyalty aspect down to his core, but his blood brothers come before everything else. Now they must find a way to adapt to this new life if they want to stay alive.
Mollie Vickers was supposed to be a beautiful and fun distraction that unexpectedly evolves into much more, and Rafe doesn’t know what to do with that. He can’t very well explain his past to her without putting himself and his brothers at risk, and if they don’t toe the line the US Marshals service is threatening to boot them from the WITSEC program- starting with Kellan, his youngest brother and the only one without mob ties.
Rafe was not what I expected, but that is not a bad thing. As he slowly adapts to life in Bandon and gets closer to Mollie, he shows that he is not only driven and lethal but he is also intelligent with good business sense and a good heart. But the secrets he keeps and the threat of his past coming back to haunt him are a constant concern. Add in that his brothers are making him crazy and the Marshals are keeping close tabs on everything they do and say, and Rafe is about to crawl out of his own skin. Only Mollie seems to soothe him and if he can’t tell her why, they just may be doomed…
Bad for Her is a great start to a new series! Rafe and Mollie were a lot of fun and they definitely had some great chemistry. The secondary characters were great support, especially Mollie’s cousin Jessie and old colonel Mick, so the story kept me flipping the pages until I finished 75% of it in one sitting. I am definitely looking forward to finding out more about Rafe’s brothers in upcoming books, but in the meantime grab yourself a copy of Bad for Her and enjoy getting to know the Maguires!
Mollie Vickers was supposed to be a beautiful and fun distraction that unexpectedly evolves into much more, and Rafe doesn’t know what to do with that. He can’t very well explain his past to her without putting himself and his brothers at risk, and if they don’t toe the line the US Marshals service is threatening to boot them from the WITSEC program- starting with Kellan, his youngest brother and the only one without mob ties.
Rafe was not what I expected, but that is not a bad thing. As he slowly adapts to life in Bandon and gets closer to Mollie, he shows that he is not only driven and lethal but he is also intelligent with good business sense and a good heart. But the secrets he keeps and the threat of his past coming back to haunt him are a constant concern. Add in that his brothers are making him crazy and the Marshals are keeping close tabs on everything they do and say, and Rafe is about to crawl out of his own skin. Only Mollie seems to soothe him and if he can’t tell her why, they just may be doomed…
Bad for Her is a great start to a new series! Rafe and Mollie were a lot of fun and they definitely had some great chemistry. The secondary characters were great support, especially Mollie’s cousin Jessie and old colonel Mick, so the story kept me flipping the pages until I finished 75% of it in one sitting. I am definitely looking forward to finding out more about Rafe’s brothers in upcoming books, but in the meantime grab yourself a copy of Bad for Her and enjoy getting to know the Maguires!
November 6, 2017
Thank you
I appreciate the giveaway on Goodreads. I hate to dis a book that someone put there heart into but this was not for me. Grammar is not my forte but even I noticed errors.
Characters were semi developed. Story line not creative at all. Some of the conversations were hard to follow also. I wasn't sure if the characters were trying to be funny, mean or just stupid. It way eye rolling for me at times. I found myself skimming often.
Maybe a younger girl would like the lack of depth, silly romance/drama but I didn't care for it and will not read more of the series.
I appreciate the giveaway on Goodreads. I hate to dis a book that someone put there heart into but this was not for me. Grammar is not my forte but even I noticed errors.
Characters were semi developed. Story line not creative at all. Some of the conversations were hard to follow also. I wasn't sure if the characters were trying to be funny, mean or just stupid. It way eye rolling for me at times. I found myself skimming often.
Maybe a younger girl would like the lack of depth, silly romance/drama but I didn't care for it and will not read more of the series.
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