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It Takes Two #1
Baby Maker
Stella Donovan’s biological clock is a ticking time bomb.
The successful financial manager has spent her adult life building a career and neglecting her personal life. Problem is, she doesn’t believe in marriage. Not after watching her mother be treated like garbage by her father. Nope, marriage is not for her. All she wants is a baby. All she needs is a man to agree to her terms.
Dane Wylder, recently retired NFL tight end and future Hall of Famer, wants a baby.
Naturally, marriage is off the table. He’s not the marrying type. Women are great––as long as they’re trying to get into his bed and not his heart. But after years of living only for himself, he’s ready to be a father.
Sparks fly when a successful financial manager and a legendary football player enter into a legal agreement to have a kid together. They planned on everything––they just didn’t plan on each other.
The successful financial manager has spent her adult life building a career and neglecting her personal life. Problem is, she doesn’t believe in marriage. Not after watching her mother be treated like garbage by her father. Nope, marriage is not for her. All she wants is a baby. All she needs is a man to agree to her terms.
Dane Wylder, recently retired NFL tight end and future Hall of Famer, wants a baby.
Naturally, marriage is off the table. He’s not the marrying type. Women are great––as long as they’re trying to get into his bed and not his heart. But after years of living only for himself, he’s ready to be a father.
Sparks fly when a successful financial manager and a legendary football player enter into a legal agreement to have a kid together. They planned on everything––they just didn’t plan on each other.
308 pages, ebook
First published February 17, 2018
311 people are currently reading
3098 people want to read
About the author
P. Dangelico
24 books3,624 followers"If it sounds like writing, I rewrite it.” ― Elmore Leonard
Visit my website:
http://www.pdangelico.com
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USA Today Bestselling author P. Dangelico loves romance in all forms, furry creatures, the NY Jets (although she’s reconsidering after this season), and to while away the day at the barn (apparently she does her best thinking shoveling horse poop). What she’s not enamored with is referring to herself in the third person and social media. Although she was born in Milan Italy, she’s been Jersey Strong since she turned six.
Visit my website:
http://www.pdangelico.com
Get to know me at my Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/p.dangelico/
Join my Facebook reading Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/PDang...
Visit my Instagram account:
https://www.instagram.com/pdangelicoa...
Get free goodies and sale alerts by joining my Mailing List: https://www.pdangelico.com/contact
Or find me on Goodreads.
USA Today Bestselling author P. Dangelico loves romance in all forms, furry creatures, the NY Jets (although she’s reconsidering after this season), and to while away the day at the barn (apparently she does her best thinking shoveling horse poop). What she’s not enamored with is referring to herself in the third person and social media. Although she was born in Milan Italy, she’s been Jersey Strong since she turned six.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 558 reviews
February 10, 2019
3.75 Stars
This was super fun. I like this author’s style. Her characters are always likable and relatable.
It would be even better without the clichés and repetitions. I don’t need to be reminded repeatedly about the hero’s beauty, the size of his hands, his ever-present bulge or his brother's beauty and talent.
I'd expected it to be a slow burn romance but it didn't feel like slow burn. The hero fell too quickly for my taste. He just didn't realize he'd fallen in love. I like it more when the characters hate each other or are indifferent to each other and falling in love happens slowly and gradually.
Overall, a very fun book to pass time with.
QUICK REVIEW:
Enjoyment: 3.75/5
Writing style: 4/5
Storyline: 3/5
Hero: 4/5
Heroine: 4/5
Secondary characters: 4/5
Hotness/steam: 3/5
Romance: 4/5
Angst: 2.5/5
Darkness level: 1/5
Humor: 4/5
Depth of the book: 3.5/5
POV: dual, 1st person
Triggers:
This was super fun. I like this author’s style. Her characters are always likable and relatable.
It would be even better without the clichés and repetitions. I don’t need to be reminded repeatedly about the hero’s beauty, the size of his hands, his ever-present bulge or his brother's beauty and talent.
I'd expected it to be a slow burn romance but it didn't feel like slow burn. The hero fell too quickly for my taste. He just didn't realize he'd fallen in love. I like it more when the characters hate each other or are indifferent to each other and falling in love happens slowly and gradually.
Overall, a very fun book to pass time with.
QUICK REVIEW:
Enjoyment: 3.75/5
Writing style: 4/5
Storyline: 3/5
Hero: 4/5
Heroine: 4/5
Secondary characters: 4/5
Hotness/steam: 3/5
Romance: 4/5
Angst: 2.5/5
Darkness level: 1/5
Humor: 4/5
Depth of the book: 3.5/5
POV: dual, 1st person
Triggers:
February 17, 2018
4 Baby Making Stars
I’m not a lucky girl. I’m not the heroine in any epic romance novel. I’m the practical one–– the one that knows Jane Austen died a spinster and clings to that reality as the reason not to believe in romance.
Stella Donovan has always known she wanted to be a mother. A wife? Not so much. After watching her own mother spend years waiting for her husband to man up and take responsibility for his family, Stella has worked hard to make sure she never needs a man for anything again, other than the occasional mutually gratifying naked time. Still, her future baby’s life would certainly be better with a caring father in the picture. What’s a self-sufficient woman to do when all she really wants is a sperm donor who actually wants to be a father? Turns out there’s an app for that.
You want loyalty? Get a dog. You want to be robbed of your money and your masculinity? Get married.
Ex-NFL hottie and future hall of famer Dane Wylder decided from an early age that relationships weren’t his thing and women weren’t to be trusted. Who needs a woman who’s only after his money? Still, he’s always seen himself as a father and can’t imagine going through life and never having a child. When a mutual friend steps in and sets up a lunch date between the wannabe parents, Dane knows immediately he wants Stella to be his babymama.
Stella? That'd be a big fat HELL NO!
First things first, I loved these two together. On paper they’re polar opposites. The Financial Manager who plans her life down to the minute and a seemingly carefree joker accustomed to getting what he wants, when he wants it should have nothing in common. Not gonna lie here, at first things were a little awkward between the two, but as a reader it was so much fun. It appeared Dane Wylder had never heard the word “no” before, so listening to it come out of the mouth of the little spitfire (there’s a word I never thought I’d use in real life) he wants to knock up was all kinds of awesome.
I’m not always a fan of slow burn romances but P. Dangelico manages to do it right. This is a couple that needed to take their time before sex entered the equation and luckily it was book time well spent. Both Stella and Dane had big ol’ walls built around their hearts that weren’t going to magically disappear overnight. There were a few times I wanted to smack them both and force them to talk, but it was all worth it when they finally came together.
P. Dangelico has become a go to author for me when I need a good story with depth and a healthy dose of the feels. Baby Maker brought all of that to the table, plus a decent amount of levity as a bonus. After finishing this, there are MANY characters I’d like to see get their own story so maybe, just maybe, this isn’t the last we’ll see from this couple.
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
.
I’m not a lucky girl. I’m not the heroine in any epic romance novel. I’m the practical one–– the one that knows Jane Austen died a spinster and clings to that reality as the reason not to believe in romance.
Stella Donovan has always known she wanted to be a mother. A wife? Not so much. After watching her own mother spend years waiting for her husband to man up and take responsibility for his family, Stella has worked hard to make sure she never needs a man for anything again, other than the occasional mutually gratifying naked time. Still, her future baby’s life would certainly be better with a caring father in the picture. What’s a self-sufficient woman to do when all she really wants is a sperm donor who actually wants to be a father? Turns out there’s an app for that.
You want loyalty? Get a dog. You want to be robbed of your money and your masculinity? Get married.
Ex-NFL hottie and future hall of famer Dane Wylder decided from an early age that relationships weren’t his thing and women weren’t to be trusted. Who needs a woman who’s only after his money? Still, he’s always seen himself as a father and can’t imagine going through life and never having a child. When a mutual friend steps in and sets up a lunch date between the wannabe parents, Dane knows immediately he wants Stella to be his babymama.
Stella? That'd be a big fat HELL NO!
First things first, I loved these two together. On paper they’re polar opposites. The Financial Manager who plans her life down to the minute and a seemingly carefree joker accustomed to getting what he wants, when he wants it should have nothing in common. Not gonna lie here, at first things were a little awkward between the two, but as a reader it was so much fun. It appeared Dane Wylder had never heard the word “no” before, so listening to it come out of the mouth of the little spitfire (there’s a word I never thought I’d use in real life) he wants to knock up was all kinds of awesome.
I’m not always a fan of slow burn romances but P. Dangelico manages to do it right. This is a couple that needed to take their time before sex entered the equation and luckily it was book time well spent. Both Stella and Dane had big ol’ walls built around their hearts that weren’t going to magically disappear overnight. There were a few times I wanted to smack them both and force them to talk, but it was all worth it when they finally came together.
P. Dangelico has become a go to author for me when I need a good story with depth and a healthy dose of the feels. Baby Maker brought all of that to the table, plus a decent amount of levity as a bonus. After finishing this, there are MANY characters I’d like to see get their own story so maybe, just maybe, this isn’t the last we’ll see from this couple.
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
.
August 8, 2018
Sorry, it REALLY didn’t work for me.
I ABSOLUTELY cannot see why the heroine would ever want to co-parent with this POS manchild.
He’s like your weird slutty cousin that you’re still fond of but keep your girlfriends away from and never let them hold your kids unsupervised.
Heroine was WAY mature to be convinced by his BS SPECIALLY when she didn’t really feel anything for him at all.
Also, the guy was DENSE. D.E.N.S.E. They kept on saying he has high IQ but I didn’t see it.
He was downright insulting to heroine at their first visit before he realised it was her. Making it clear unless you’re a leggy blond with stunning face he doesn’t even give them the courtesy of a nod or autograph.
He didn’t think she’d take offence in it and he never apologised.
He sabotaged his chance as a candidate and then he was surprised, shocked and get this, angry at her for not taking him seriously? And he was mad because she judged him based on his behaviour and thought he was jerk? Well, what do you expect? You are acting like a jerk, trying your best to make her think you’re a jerk and it’s her fault you’re a jerk?
The double standards are also epic! He gets mad at her being with OM. He basically gotten into a fight with Stella’s ex and this was while he was telling whoever would listen that she’s not his type. Yet he thinks it’s acceptable behaviour for him to climb OW in front of heroine JUST after he offered the heroine sex? Screams sincerity from a thousand mile away! That part was actually more sickening than his “threesome twister” shit!
Also, where he pretty much screams she’s not her type in front of family and friends? Stella should have let Delia take care of him!
Also there was a HUGE, H-U-G-E number of OW involved in a story that’s supposed to warm us up to the “reformed manwhore” hero. Heroine’s one pathetic encounter with OM vs FOUR OW?
Yeah. Nah.
And I’m going to borrow someone else’s POV here.
I get it. Dane is a celebrity, hot shot, earned his right to be a manwhore before he meets Stella. Very realistic.
Then why don’t you give me a woman who’s also realistic? Who if not had as many sexual partner as the whore, I mean hero, at least had a decent sex life and had orgasms? Who knows that if she didn’t get it, it’s the partner’s fault. She should’ve known what it’s like and asked what she likes in bed with AT LEAST ONE man apart from hero. A woman who wouldn’t apologise to hero for the lack of her ability to orgasm?
Why can’t we get a REAL, fleshed out woman?
P.s. as for the side characters, I have a feeling Noah cheated on his girlfriend. I won’t be reading his book if there’s ever one.
I would like to read about Delia, IF the author keeps her strong.
I ABSOLUTELY cannot see why the heroine would ever want to co-parent with this POS manchild.
He’s like your weird slutty cousin that you’re still fond of but keep your girlfriends away from and never let them hold your kids unsupervised.
Heroine was WAY mature to be convinced by his BS SPECIALLY when she didn’t really feel anything for him at all.
Also, the guy was DENSE. D.E.N.S.E. They kept on saying he has high IQ but I didn’t see it.
He was downright insulting to heroine at their first visit before he realised it was her. Making it clear unless you’re a leggy blond with stunning face he doesn’t even give them the courtesy of a nod or autograph.
He didn’t think she’d take offence in it and he never apologised.
He sabotaged his chance as a candidate and then he was surprised, shocked and get this, angry at her for not taking him seriously? And he was mad because she judged him based on his behaviour and thought he was jerk? Well, what do you expect? You are acting like a jerk, trying your best to make her think you’re a jerk and it’s her fault you’re a jerk?
The double standards are also epic! He gets mad at her being with OM. He basically gotten into a fight with Stella’s ex and this was while he was telling whoever would listen that she’s not his type. Yet he thinks it’s acceptable behaviour for him to climb OW in front of heroine JUST after he offered the heroine sex? Screams sincerity from a thousand mile away! That part was actually more sickening than his “threesome twister” shit!
Also, where he pretty much screams she’s not her type in front of family and friends? Stella should have let Delia take care of him!
Also there was a HUGE, H-U-G-E number of OW involved in a story that’s supposed to warm us up to the “reformed manwhore” hero. Heroine’s one pathetic encounter with OM vs FOUR OW?
Yeah. Nah.
And I’m going to borrow someone else’s POV here.
I get it. Dane is a celebrity, hot shot, earned his right to be a manwhore before he meets Stella. Very realistic.
Then why don’t you give me a woman who’s also realistic? Who if not had as many sexual partner as the whore, I mean hero, at least had a decent sex life and had orgasms? Who knows that if she didn’t get it, it’s the partner’s fault. She should’ve known what it’s like and asked what she likes in bed with AT LEAST ONE man apart from hero. A woman who wouldn’t apologise to hero for the lack of her ability to orgasm?
Why can’t we get a REAL, fleshed out woman?
P.s. as for the side characters, I have a feeling Noah cheated on his girlfriend. I won’t be reading his book if there’s ever one.
I would like to read about Delia, IF the author keeps her strong.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2018
This was my first read from P. Dangelico and it was a winner. While I’ve enjoyed this trope before, I haven’t come across a character quite like Dane Wylder. I couldn’t get enough of him. As a retired NFL tight end, he debunked a lot of stereotypes I’ve held regarding ‘jocks’. He was funny… no, hilarious… and he absolutely made this story. I wasn’t the biggest fan of Stella. She drove me up the wall with her attitude and behavior, however, she grew on me. By the time I got to the end, I was swooning all over the place. That ending MADE the book. It was super cute and gave a sweet happy ending to this inevitable couple!
Release: Feb. 20, 2018 | Genre: Contemporary Romance | POV: Dual - 1st person | Heat: 3 out of 5 | Standalone - It Takes Two #1
Check out the Blog Tour! http://bit.ly/2CFX82K
Release: Feb. 20, 2018 | Genre: Contemporary Romance | POV: Dual - 1st person | Heat: 3 out of 5 | Standalone - It Takes Two #1
Check out the Blog Tour! http://bit.ly/2CFX82K
February 19, 2018
This is utterly a wonderful romance!! ❤️❤️❤️
Move over Ms. Zapata, I found my new favorite author of slow burn romance 😊
Ms. Dangelico might be write a slow burn romance, but I can feel the romance early on and I don’t need to wait until the last chapter to see them become a wonderful couple!
Totally loves this one, there were humours in it but those plenty lol moments didn’t overwhelm the seriousness of the story. I always wanted a heroine like Stella in my romance book, intelligent, strong, loyal, perhaps little bit stubborn in dealing with her life planning but she always ready to bend when its necessary. I loved the previous Ms. Dangelico’s heroines, but Stella? She is my fav:)
And Dane? He is so much more underneath those cocky attitude and he brought the loveliness of Stella to the surface, sweet! Just sweet!:)
I hope you already read the blurb, because I won’t write here again.
This is not a cheesy or shallow storyline romance, where the baby making is simply an excuse to write a smut. Please get this, their baby conceived by IVF. Because that was the plan before they started to know more about each other and slowly falling in love, 😍😍
Oh, the epilogue? It was perfect! 😘
Oh, there were few other characters which I will love to get to know more and I looked at Ms. Dangelico’s website, yep! They are there:))), * I’m looking at you Noah and Levi! 😘*
* my big thank you for the author for this arc version:)*
Move over Ms. Zapata, I found my new favorite author of slow burn romance 😊
Ms. Dangelico might be write a slow burn romance, but I can feel the romance early on and I don’t need to wait until the last chapter to see them become a wonderful couple!
Totally loves this one, there were humours in it but those plenty lol moments didn’t overwhelm the seriousness of the story. I always wanted a heroine like Stella in my romance book, intelligent, strong, loyal, perhaps little bit stubborn in dealing with her life planning but she always ready to bend when its necessary. I loved the previous Ms. Dangelico’s heroines, but Stella? She is my fav:)
And Dane? He is so much more underneath those cocky attitude and he brought the loveliness of Stella to the surface, sweet! Just sweet!:)
I hope you already read the blurb, because I won’t write here again.
This is not a cheesy or shallow storyline romance, where the baby making is simply an excuse to write a smut. Please get this, their baby conceived by IVF. Because that was the plan before they started to know more about each other and slowly falling in love, 😍😍
Oh, the epilogue? It was perfect! 😘
Oh, there were few other characters which I will love to get to know more and I looked at Ms. Dangelico’s website, yep! They are there:))), * I’m looking at you Noah and Levi! 😘*
* my big thank you for the author for this arc version:)*
February 25, 2018
4.5 Men Want Them Too Stars
* * * *1/2 Spoiler Free- It's Live!!!
It is a common thread... and realistic one of Women's Biological Clock ticking Away. Women have all the working parts but unfortunately... if we wait too long... we may not be able to bear a child. Now men don't have that physical problem...at least it doesn't seem as limiting... those little sperm are able to make things happen...as long as they are able to get next to their target.
But Men's desire to have children of their own hasn't been put on the forefront when these types of discussions take place. It is usually the woman who will go to any length to become a mom. In P. Dangelico's Baby Maker, we are introduced to two people who have the burning need to be bio parents. Each wants it just as much as the other... and the best...
Neither want to be married and traditional. The woman has been soured on marriage by seeing what it did to her mom. The guy was burned first by his mom and how she treated his wonderful dad and then by an ex. Yet both want to parent... and not singularly... as joint parents with equal time and responsibilities to the child... just not the chains of a spouse.
Stella Donovan was raised with a mother's love but in poverty. Her mother worked multiple jobs and did what ever she could to keep her kids feed and safe. The father was someone who would disappear on the road and then just finally did not come home. Stella's mother was a straight talker and when Stella asked her why they didn't have a house like the people on TV... she told Stella they were educated people and if she wanted a home like that... she needed to be educated too.
Stella heard her... and decided then and there she was going to become educated and to become a person who would be able to have whatever she wanted. Stella worked hard in school, college and when graduated, Goldman Sachs snapped her up. She was a hard worker, showed all who were watching how she was able to "keep up" with the big boys and her career was launched as a hedge fund manager. This was her means to the end she wanted. She was talented and was the best at her job.... and it paid the big bucks.
At 34 she was on track to have it all. But then something happen which caused her to re-evaluate. Time was fleeting and her clock was set off and ticking louder every day.
Dane Wylder is a man who had it all and now on the brink of figuring out what is next. He is a future Hall of Famer... as one of the best Tight Ends in the NFL. He has the looks, moves and more charm then should be legal. His Rep is that he has been with way too many women...and he hasn't stopped anyone from thinking that. He has No Desire for the women who see him as a marriage target.
What he has had a desire for though, is a child.
Someone to have the same type of experiences he had with his dad... They have a ranch and while as a kid, his father would take him around and talk with him. Those memories to this day bring Dane warm feelings every time. He wants to be able to do all of that with a son or daughter of his own.... He just does not want to deal with a marriage to a woman who will leave him like his dad.
These two end up crossing paths through a shared dear friend. Both of them shared with this friend how they wanted children, parenting but no marriage. A meeting is arranged and what a meeting they have...
Stella is button-downed and serious; she has had to be in the financial world she lives in...As she waits for Dane who is late, by the way...she sees a commotion of women, moving toward a man coming towards the location. There is almost a frenzy happening with women and then men wanting to touch and talk with this guy. He is laughing and chatting and not looking like he has any place to be...
Well, Stella starts to get her things from the table to leave as she is not playing ... she was here for something real and this guy doesn't seem to understand this. Dane looks her way and comes and sits down. Right away he smiles his perfect smile and does his southern charm thing to smooth things over... and Stella wasn't having it. If fact, it is turning her off to Dane, which normally doesn't happen.
After a legitimate time, Stella gets up and says thank you but no thank you. Dane is not having it. He is not getting why she would turn him down. He has great genes... has his own money and is a great guy... what's not to like.
Well, fine...he will just have to show her he is the perfect candidate and when Dane decides to put his mind to something... he got it done.
This tale had it all. These two were the perfect push/pull together. What I LOVED was how all of it came about, the process and how these two had to listen and work through all of the barriers they had. When they were finally in the right place to be together... wow weeeeeeeee
Dane, you were the man... and Stella ... I am so happy you figured it all out. This Baby Maker was just the best and I want more stories from P. Dangelico...because she knows how to take an idea and make it sing.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * *1/2 Spoiler Free- It's Live!!!
It is a common thread... and realistic one of Women's Biological Clock ticking Away. Women have all the working parts but unfortunately... if we wait too long... we may not be able to bear a child. Now men don't have that physical problem...at least it doesn't seem as limiting... those little sperm are able to make things happen...as long as they are able to get next to their target.
But Men's desire to have children of their own hasn't been put on the forefront when these types of discussions take place. It is usually the woman who will go to any length to become a mom. In P. Dangelico's Baby Maker, we are introduced to two people who have the burning need to be bio parents. Each wants it just as much as the other... and the best...
Neither want to be married and traditional. The woman has been soured on marriage by seeing what it did to her mom. The guy was burned first by his mom and how she treated his wonderful dad and then by an ex. Yet both want to parent... and not singularly... as joint parents with equal time and responsibilities to the child... just not the chains of a spouse.
Stella Donovan was raised with a mother's love but in poverty. Her mother worked multiple jobs and did what ever she could to keep her kids feed and safe. The father was someone who would disappear on the road and then just finally did not come home. Stella's mother was a straight talker and when Stella asked her why they didn't have a house like the people on TV... she told Stella they were educated people and if she wanted a home like that... she needed to be educated too.
Stella heard her... and decided then and there she was going to become educated and to become a person who would be able to have whatever she wanted. Stella worked hard in school, college and when graduated, Goldman Sachs snapped her up. She was a hard worker, showed all who were watching how she was able to "keep up" with the big boys and her career was launched as a hedge fund manager. This was her means to the end she wanted. She was talented and was the best at her job.... and it paid the big bucks.
At 34 she was on track to have it all. But then something happen which caused her to re-evaluate. Time was fleeting and her clock was set off and ticking louder every day.
Dane Wylder is a man who had it all and now on the brink of figuring out what is next. He is a future Hall of Famer... as one of the best Tight Ends in the NFL. He has the looks, moves and more charm then should be legal. His Rep is that he has been with way too many women...and he hasn't stopped anyone from thinking that. He has No Desire for the women who see him as a marriage target.
What he has had a desire for though, is a child.
Someone to have the same type of experiences he had with his dad... They have a ranch and while as a kid, his father would take him around and talk with him. Those memories to this day bring Dane warm feelings every time. He wants to be able to do all of that with a son or daughter of his own.... He just does not want to deal with a marriage to a woman who will leave him like his dad.
These two end up crossing paths through a shared dear friend. Both of them shared with this friend how they wanted children, parenting but no marriage. A meeting is arranged and what a meeting they have...
Stella is button-downed and serious; she has had to be in the financial world she lives in...As she waits for Dane who is late, by the way...she sees a commotion of women, moving toward a man coming towards the location. There is almost a frenzy happening with women and then men wanting to touch and talk with this guy. He is laughing and chatting and not looking like he has any place to be...
Well, Stella starts to get her things from the table to leave as she is not playing ... she was here for something real and this guy doesn't seem to understand this. Dane looks her way and comes and sits down. Right away he smiles his perfect smile and does his southern charm thing to smooth things over... and Stella wasn't having it. If fact, it is turning her off to Dane, which normally doesn't happen.
After a legitimate time, Stella gets up and says thank you but no thank you. Dane is not having it. He is not getting why she would turn him down. He has great genes... has his own money and is a great guy... what's not to like.
Well, fine...he will just have to show her he is the perfect candidate and when Dane decides to put his mind to something... he got it done.
This tale had it all. These two were the perfect push/pull together. What I LOVED was how all of it came about, the process and how these two had to listen and work through all of the barriers they had. When they were finally in the right place to be together... wow weeeeeeeee
Dane, you were the man... and Stella ... I am so happy you figured it all out. This Baby Maker was just the best and I want more stories from P. Dangelico...because she knows how to take an idea and make it sing.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
February 13, 2018
4.5 stars.
Sweet and funny slow-burn romance. 3rd book that I have read I by this author and I LOVED it.
Looking at this title and book cover you might expect a silly, slightly superficial or possibly smutty read but this is really not the case here.
Stella Donovan is a successful financial manager who loathes the idea of marriage but doesn't want to wait any longer to have a baby. Even though she doesn't want a husband she still wants her child to have a father present in their life.
When she discovers there is an option of co-parenting, she immediately begins a search for the perfect candidate. This turns out to be much harder than Stella thought but she isn't a quitter.
Enter Dane Wylder, recently retired NFL tight end and future Hall of Famer, with similar aspirations as Stella, he wants a child but no wife.
This book was so charming and though Stella and Dane end up conceiving a child together via IVF after resolving their initial differences, it is the slow burning romance simmering between them that makes this book so magical.
Sweet and funny slow-burn romance. 3rd book that I have read I by this author and I LOVED it.
Looking at this title and book cover you might expect a silly, slightly superficial or possibly smutty read but this is really not the case here.
Stella Donovan is a successful financial manager who loathes the idea of marriage but doesn't want to wait any longer to have a baby. Even though she doesn't want a husband she still wants her child to have a father present in their life.
When she discovers there is an option of co-parenting, she immediately begins a search for the perfect candidate. This turns out to be much harder than Stella thought but she isn't a quitter.
Enter Dane Wylder, recently retired NFL tight end and future Hall of Famer, with similar aspirations as Stella, he wants a child but no wife.
This book was so charming and though Stella and Dane end up conceiving a child together via IVF after resolving their initial differences, it is the slow burning romance simmering between them that makes this book so magical.
April 22, 2018
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Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Stella): 33yrs old
Hero (Dane): 34yrs old
Plot: 5/5
Grovel: good
Cheating: none
HEA: yes with babies
Triggers: none
Average score: 5/5
Best Line: so many to choose from…
“Needless to say, there are only a handful of things I despise more than people interrupting me while I’m reading.”
Worst Line (but still funny): this literally made me do a face palm…
“Hell no. I like seasonin’ on my white meat.”
Personal Review:
A great slow burn romance between a stubborn and feisty heroine and a wise-cracking with a heart-of-gold hero.
Random Ramblings:
•So excited to get started with this!
•My heart goes out to Tina
•Her mum sounds like my mum!
•Ok we have established that he is a manwhore
•Ethaaaaaan!!
•Spreadsheets ARE awesome
•Oh my god, their first meeting…
•Yes! You go girl
•Glad to see Cal is his usual perfectly broody self
•Delia cracks me up
•I love her work ethic and I completely agree with her view on money
•I couldn’t take my eyes away from that car-crash of a scene – I kept urging him to stop talking!! But my god was it funny!
Overall Feeling:
Beware of Spoilers!
Star Ratings:
Heroine (Stella): 33yrs old
Hero (Dane): 34yrs old
Plot: 5/5
Grovel: good
Cheating: none
HEA: yes with babies
Triggers: none
Average score: 5/5
Best Line: so many to choose from…
“Needless to say, there are only a handful of things I despise more than people interrupting me while I’m reading.”
Worst Line (but still funny): this literally made me do a face palm…
“Hell no. I like seasonin’ on my white meat.”
Personal Review:
A great slow burn romance between a stubborn and feisty heroine and a wise-cracking with a heart-of-gold hero.
Random Ramblings:
•So excited to get started with this!
•My heart goes out to Tina
•Her mum sounds like my mum!
•Ok we have established that he is a manwhore
•Ethaaaaaan!!
•Spreadsheets ARE awesome
•Oh my god, their first meeting…
•Yes! You go girl
•Glad to see Cal is his usual perfectly broody self
•Delia cracks me up
•I love her work ethic and I completely agree with her view on money
•I couldn’t take my eyes away from that car-crash of a scene – I kept urging him to stop talking!! But my god was it funny!
Overall Feeling:
April 30, 2018
Can I just say, I LOVE THIS AUTHOR!
One of my new favourites <3
Slow burn romance, characters with depth, humour, banter & sexy times. Highly recommend :)
One of my new favourites <3
Slow burn romance, characters with depth, humour, banter & sexy times. Highly recommend :)
February 22, 2018
3,5 -4 STARS
This is my first book from this author and for sure not the last!I have already bought some of her books to try and see how it goes!The title was one of the main reasons I wanted to read this book!Baby Maker was a fun,sweet and sexy read!
It has a great premise and I like the relationship between Stella and Dane!I love the romance it was slow burn and sweet with a lot of tension between them!Dane is sexy,sweet and funny!He has a great humour and I like the dialogues between him and Stella!
I enjoyed more the first book than the last half and this is the main reason why this wasn't a 5 stars read!Overall it was a fun read!I'm excited to read more books from P. Dangelico!
This is my first book from this author and for sure not the last!I have already bought some of her books to try and see how it goes!The title was one of the main reasons I wanted to read this book!Baby Maker was a fun,sweet and sexy read!
It has a great premise and I like the relationship between Stella and Dane!I love the romance it was slow burn and sweet with a lot of tension between them!Dane is sexy,sweet and funny!He has a great humour and I like the dialogues between him and Stella!
I enjoyed more the first book than the last half and this is the main reason why this wasn't a 5 stars read!Overall it was a fun read!I'm excited to read more books from P. Dangelico!
February 6, 2018
4 Baby Making Stars
This is my first P. Dangelico book and it won’t be the last! If you are looking for a sugary sweet slightly angsty read then Baby Maker is for you.
The title explains it all and this is totally my jam.
It’s 2018 and who says you need to get marry to have a baby? Why not co-parent with a stranger? A stranger that wants what you want …. A baby.
I really like the premise of the book and it was fun reading Stella and Dane’s dynamics. Stella is a strong and independent woman. She doesn’t want a husband, but she wants a baby before it’s too late and I liked that she was in her mid thirties and she is successful. At times Stella could be frustrating because she can be really set in her ways but it keeps the book interesting and little angsty.
Dane is a retired famous football player. He doesn’t know what he wants to do in life, but he wants a baby. I will admit I didn’t like Dane at first, I found him really immature and well, really immature. BUT he slowly grew on me and I liked seeing him change throughout the book.
There’s a lot of tension between Stella and Dane. Stella and Dane might be attracted to each other, but they don’t want a relationship. I like it when the main characters don’t get together right away, but I do wish the tension had some steam with it! I was a little disappointed with that, but the overall storyline was cute.
I enjoyed Baby Maker, I found it charming, sweet and an easy read. If you want something fun and slightly angsty then this is for you.
An ARC was provided
This is my first P. Dangelico book and it won’t be the last! If you are looking for a sugary sweet slightly angsty read then Baby Maker is for you.
The title explains it all and this is totally my jam.
It’s 2018 and who says you need to get marry to have a baby? Why not co-parent with a stranger? A stranger that wants what you want …. A baby.
I really like the premise of the book and it was fun reading Stella and Dane’s dynamics. Stella is a strong and independent woman. She doesn’t want a husband, but she wants a baby before it’s too late and I liked that she was in her mid thirties and she is successful. At times Stella could be frustrating because she can be really set in her ways but it keeps the book interesting and little angsty.
Dane is a retired famous football player. He doesn’t know what he wants to do in life, but he wants a baby. I will admit I didn’t like Dane at first, I found him really immature and well, really immature. BUT he slowly grew on me and I liked seeing him change throughout the book.
There’s a lot of tension between Stella and Dane. Stella and Dane might be attracted to each other, but they don’t want a relationship. I like it when the main characters don’t get together right away, but I do wish the tension had some steam with it! I was a little disappointed with that, but the overall storyline was cute.
I enjoyed Baby Maker, I found it charming, sweet and an easy read. If you want something fun and slightly angsty then this is for you.
An ARC was provided
February 16, 2018
4.5 Stars!
This was a sexy, funny, feel good romance and so much fun to read!
Stella and Dane for their own different reasons want to have a baby. The problem is that neither of them believe in marriage and don't want the hassle of being in a romantic relationship. So they enter into a contract to have a child through IVF and agree to raise the child together through a legal agreement.
As these two get to know each other the sparks start to fly! I loved that this was not an insta-love. Their relationship took time to build and the chemistry was insane. I loved this couple and I loved their banter. So entertaining!
I loved Dane! He was a built, sexy ex-NFL player. What I loved about him most though was his humor. He gave me so many LOL moments.
He comes off as a cocky guy who is all about fun but then we get to see that he is so much more. He had such a big heart. Seriously swoonworthy!
I loved that we got glimpses of Cal and Ethan from the Hard To Love series. It was fun to see what they were up to. If you love sweet romances filled with humor and sexual chemistry then this book is for you.
4.5 Stars
Contemporary Romance
Heat Level: Moderate
POV: Dual
HEA
COME FIND ME!
This was a sexy, funny, feel good romance and so much fun to read!
Stella and Dane for their own different reasons want to have a baby. The problem is that neither of them believe in marriage and don't want the hassle of being in a romantic relationship. So they enter into a contract to have a child through IVF and agree to raise the child together through a legal agreement.
As these two get to know each other the sparks start to fly! I loved that this was not an insta-love. Their relationship took time to build and the chemistry was insane. I loved this couple and I loved their banter. So entertaining!
I loved Dane! He was a built, sexy ex-NFL player. What I loved about him most though was his humor. He gave me so many LOL moments.
"You're Puerto Rican."
"American- I was born here. Half Cuban, if that's what you're asking..."
"Right," he said, like it's the same thing.
"Is that a problem?"
His face lit up with another sly grin. "Hell no. I like seasonin' on my white meat."
He comes off as a cocky guy who is all about fun but then we get to see that he is so much more. He had such a big heart. Seriously swoonworthy!
I loved that we got glimpses of Cal and Ethan from the Hard To Love series. It was fun to see what they were up to. If you love sweet romances filled with humor and sexual chemistry then this book is for you.
4.5 Stars
Contemporary Romance
Heat Level: Moderate
POV: Dual
HEA
COME FIND ME!
February 10, 2018
Despite having Dangelico's WRECKING BALL on my kindle (shame shame..) this is actually my first read by the author. I was already excited to read her from the recommendations of trusted buddies and though this wasn't a total winner for me, my excitement for her Hard to Love series has not diminished.
"How are you having a baby with no husband?"
"It's 2018. I need sperm, not a husband."
BABY MAKER is a story about two marriage-averse individuals, on total opposite ends of the personality spectrum, who through a mutual friend end up writing up a baby-making-contract that will allow them to have the child they both want without any of the pesky love, marriage, or feelings mixed in to muck it all up.
Stella Donovan is a thirty-three year old financial analyst who has only one goal : to make money. And, well, now a baby. She came from a poor household and has ensured, through hard work and determination, that she will never be in the same financial straits her mother was in after her father, faithless and flighty, left them. And then there's Dane Wylder. A recently retired football player who has a three-month date-'em-then-leave-'em rule as a result of years of watching his mother string his father along. He has no faith in women in any longterm sense and yet longs for a son, or child, of his own to have the same bond and relationship as he has with his own father.
This woman is exactly the kind I need to mother my child. There isn't a single chance she'll devlop any feelings for me. Except irritation, that is.
The first few meetings between Stella and Dane do not go well. And that's putting it mildly. But Dane's persistence, and the glimpse he ends up showing Stella about the man behind the ego and the country aw-shucks charm, proves he's more than he seems on the outside.
"Nice place."
"Thanks."
"Aside from the fact that this is very obviously where fun comes to die."
I really enjoyed the first half of BABY MAKER. The reluctant friendship, the back and forth teasing and joking that Dane would unleash on Stella, only for her to ice him out and be completely unmoved, though occasionally secretly amused, was hilarious to watch. There was little to no actual unrequited lust or attraction between them and it really was all about meshing their contradictory personalities in various situations as they took this journey together. But it was that same time spent together that turned the tides. They begin to warm to each other, to like each other, and attraction followed. Even as both knew the agreement between them didn't call for feelings.
The last thing I need is for her to get upset at me because I get hard for her. We're having a baby together. My dick needs to stay outta this.
But at the same time, it's when Dane is struggling to keep himself from giving away those same feelings, particularly his lust, and then shortly after as he comes to terms with the fact that, hey, all his friends are right and he is in love with her.. well. Dane turns into kind of a dumbass douchecanoe. I really didn't like his behaviour, I didn't like the things he would say, and while Stella doesn't put up with it, and even not-so-fondly recalls one of the worst things he says with a 'why the hell do I even like this guy' eyeroll, I was really disappointed. Because overall Dane was the total opposite of a douchecanoe. He was fond of cracking jokes and being lighthearted but he was a honestly sweet, caring, giving, person, and I didn't like the random moments where he just lost it and became someone else.
These two were great together when they finally got there, and were hilarious in the lead up at the beginning, but the middle was a struggle for me.
"I'd remember him if I slept with him. You know I keep track of that stuff on my phone. I would've rated and shelved him and look -- see, it's in alphabetical order. He's not there."
"Thank God for your organizational skills."
BABY MAKER might not have been a great overall read for this reviewer but I did have fun. I'm also so totally enamoured by both of the main characters' besties, Delia who had some of the best lines in the book, and Noah.. who I so hope gets his own book. I'll admit that there are a lot of background characters floating around with vague backstory explanations to the point that I had to wonder if they have their own standalone books floating around in Dangelico's backlist (and lo and behold they do.. the very books I've been procrastinating on, lolllllz forever!) but nonetheless there are enough details to flesh out their stories and how they fit in with Dane and Stella and I didn't feel the lack from not having yet read them.
I'm not saying it's perfect, or that it's always gonna be this easy. It can inflict some serious damage, no doubt about it. Love is a beautiful double edged blade. It can ruin, wreck and destroy as easily as it can save you.
Ultimately, if you're looking for an entertaining slow-burn romance and enjoy watching two people fall in love despite their best efforts, and all the sorta-angsty emotional gymnastics that happen along the way, I think you'll enjoy this book.
3.5 "maybe I am in love. I've always had a bad opinion of it so it makes sense that it should feel this godawful" stars
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
"How are you having a baby with no husband?"
"It's 2018. I need sperm, not a husband."
BABY MAKER is a story about two marriage-averse individuals, on total opposite ends of the personality spectrum, who through a mutual friend end up writing up a baby-making-contract that will allow them to have the child they both want without any of the pesky love, marriage, or feelings mixed in to muck it all up.
Stella Donovan is a thirty-three year old financial analyst who has only one goal : to make money. And, well, now a baby. She came from a poor household and has ensured, through hard work and determination, that she will never be in the same financial straits her mother was in after her father, faithless and flighty, left them. And then there's Dane Wylder. A recently retired football player who has a three-month date-'em-then-leave-'em rule as a result of years of watching his mother string his father along. He has no faith in women in any longterm sense and yet longs for a son, or child, of his own to have the same bond and relationship as he has with his own father.
This woman is exactly the kind I need to mother my child. There isn't a single chance she'll devlop any feelings for me. Except irritation, that is.
The first few meetings between Stella and Dane do not go well. And that's putting it mildly. But Dane's persistence, and the glimpse he ends up showing Stella about the man behind the ego and the country aw-shucks charm, proves he's more than he seems on the outside.
"Nice place."
"Thanks."
"Aside from the fact that this is very obviously where fun comes to die."
I really enjoyed the first half of BABY MAKER. The reluctant friendship, the back and forth teasing and joking that Dane would unleash on Stella, only for her to ice him out and be completely unmoved, though occasionally secretly amused, was hilarious to watch. There was little to no actual unrequited lust or attraction between them and it really was all about meshing their contradictory personalities in various situations as they took this journey together. But it was that same time spent together that turned the tides. They begin to warm to each other, to like each other, and attraction followed. Even as both knew the agreement between them didn't call for feelings.
The last thing I need is for her to get upset at me because I get hard for her. We're having a baby together. My dick needs to stay outta this.
But at the same time, it's when Dane is struggling to keep himself from giving away those same feelings, particularly his lust, and then shortly after as he comes to terms with the fact that, hey, all his friends are right and he is in love with her.. well. Dane turns into kind of a dumbass douchecanoe. I really didn't like his behaviour, I didn't like the things he would say, and while Stella doesn't put up with it, and even not-so-fondly recalls one of the worst things he says with a 'why the hell do I even like this guy' eyeroll, I was really disappointed. Because overall Dane was the total opposite of a douchecanoe. He was fond of cracking jokes and being lighthearted but he was a honestly sweet, caring, giving, person, and I didn't like the random moments where he just lost it and became someone else.
These two were great together when they finally got there, and were hilarious in the lead up at the beginning, but the middle was a struggle for me.
"I'd remember him if I slept with him. You know I keep track of that stuff on my phone. I would've rated and shelved him and look -- see, it's in alphabetical order. He's not there."
"Thank God for your organizational skills."
BABY MAKER might not have been a great overall read for this reviewer but I did have fun. I'm also so totally enamoured by both of the main characters' besties, Delia who had some of the best lines in the book, and Noah.. who I so hope gets his own book. I'll admit that there are a lot of background characters floating around with vague backstory explanations to the point that I had to wonder if they have their own standalone books floating around in Dangelico's backlist (and lo and behold they do.. the very books I've been procrastinating on, lolllllz forever!) but nonetheless there are enough details to flesh out their stories and how they fit in with Dane and Stella and I didn't feel the lack from not having yet read them.
I'm not saying it's perfect, or that it's always gonna be this easy. It can inflict some serious damage, no doubt about it. Love is a beautiful double edged blade. It can ruin, wreck and destroy as easily as it can save you.
Ultimately, if you're looking for an entertaining slow-burn romance and enjoy watching two people fall in love despite their best efforts, and all the sorta-angsty emotional gymnastics that happen along the way, I think you'll enjoy this book.
3.5 "maybe I am in love. I've always had a bad opinion of it so it makes sense that it should feel this godawful" stars
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
March 18, 2018
Check out this and my other reviews at My Blog, Facebook, Google+, Twitter and Pinterest
Copy received via netgalley in exchange for an honest review
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont. Romance
Series : - 1st in this series but it does have crossover characters from the Hard to Love series
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? -Yes
Rating - 4 stars
★Review★
I have enjoyed everything I have read by this author so far.
She does a good slow burn romance with likeable characters that you root for.
And I do love it when the hero and heroine are complete polar opposites but oh so perfect for each other.
While there is chemistry between them I love how they build up the relationship.
It is a lovely story story, that has its funny moments, but offers more depth that you would expect.
At the end of the day it was a book that just made me happy once I had finished.
Copy received via netgalley in exchange for an honest review
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont. Romance
Series : - 1st in this series but it does have crossover characters from the Hard to Love series
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? -Yes
Rating - 4 stars
★Review★
I have enjoyed everything I have read by this author so far.
She does a good slow burn romance with likeable characters that you root for.
And I do love it when the hero and heroine are complete polar opposites but oh so perfect for each other.
While there is chemistry between them I love how they build up the relationship.
It is a lovely story story, that has its funny moments, but offers more depth that you would expect.
At the end of the day it was a book that just made me happy once I had finished.
February 24, 2018
ARC received for review
Loved it. Great chemistry, but it was a slow burn. There was no insta-anything, except maybe insta-dislike. The secondary characters were just as great. Beautiful epilogue that was my favorite kind.
Loved it. Great chemistry, but it was a slow burn. There was no insta-anything, except maybe insta-dislike. The secondary characters were just as great. Beautiful epilogue that was my favorite kind.
February 8, 2018
4 “Have a baby with me” Stars
ARC via NetGalley
Thank you!!!
After reading three books by P. Dangelico, I can absolutely say I'm a fan and I need more.
Baby Maker brings the same SLOOOOW burn, awesome main characters and sizzling chemistry that made me fall in love with her other books, so it's no surprise I read this in one day and loved it.
One thing I can always count on when it comes to P. Dangelico's romances are strong female characters. All her MC's are independent women who face their problems head on and make the men know they're the bosses.
In this case, the boss is Stella Donovan, a successful financial manager who despises the idea of marriage, but is more than ready to have a baby. She doesn't want a husband, but she wants her kids to have a present father, so she's looking into the idea of co-parenting (a concept I wasn't familiar with) and looking for the perfect candidate. Easier said than done, but Stella isn't willing to give up.
Enter retired NFL player, Dane Wylder, a man who wants the same thing as Stella: a child, but no wife. They seem perfect for each other. Except Stella pretty much hates his guts--and it's all his fault. But just like Stella, Dane isn't willing to give up on his mission to prove that he's the perfect candidate to make a baby with her.
If you're familiar with this author's work, you know what follows: despise turns into companionship that turns into friendship that turns into mutual attraction that turns into flames that finally turns into romance. Slow, slow and slow, and exactly how I like it. And when it happens.... You guys!!! The begging got me like nothing else did.
"Kiss me back...please kiss me back".
I also have to give extra points for all the scenes with characters from her previous books. I love Ethan Freaking Vaughn, so I'm always happy to see my baby. Cam and Calvin also made an appearance, since Stella's mom is Calvin's trusted housekeeper.
So, what I'm saying is: Go read this book. Go read Baby Maker, Wrecking Ball and Sledgehammer. Go read whatever P. Dangelico wrote before those books, and keep an eye on what she'll write next. You can thank me later.
March 24, 2018
Baby Maker is a sweet slow burn romance about Stella and Dane who strikes up an unconventional deal to have a baby. They have one thing in common. No marriage. Apart from that they’re very good at bantering especially Stella who’s not impressed with Dane. He comes off as a pompous jerk and her as closed off. They do eventually start to have feelings for one another but the road towards it was long. I struggled a bit with both Stella and Dane since their chemistry was lacking and I didn’t find them interesting. It’s when they do admit their feelings that I was starting to enjoy the story so I had to endure for a while. Overall a great story.
3 BadAssDirtyShortyStars
ARC was generously provided by the Publisher through Netgalley
3 BadAssDirtyShortyStars
ARC was generously provided by the Publisher through Netgalley
February 15, 2018
First person, Dual-POV, HAE. Standalone
Release date: Feb 20, 2018
If anything else is a testament to how much I enjoyed reading this, the proof is in the hour. It's after 2 am, and I couldn't give less of a shit. Red-eyed and delirious, I'm still so pleased with this. I liked this start to finish. Endearing characters, love against the odds, mutual respect and a butt-ton of angst (just how I like it).
After reading Wrecking Ball and Sledgehammer, P. Dangelico has quickly become an author I look out for. If you haven't read those yet, I implore you to do so. Ethan from Sledgehammer is my #1 bae.
Baby Maker is about Stella and Dane, both with the desire to have a child, minus the relationship that typically accompanies something like that. Meeting through mutual friends, Dane is confident in their pairing, Stella not so much. It's an uphill battle for both of them; him trying to crest the wall she's built around herself, and her trying her hardest to allow herself to trust him.
Dane was my favorite part of this story - all Southern accent, smiles and good-natured humor, but still with a fierce need to protect those closest to him. And once Stella agrees to their arrangement, that includes her, too.
It took me a bit to like Stella, I won't lie. Maybe because I'm almost the complete opposite of her. She's serious, withdrawn and a workaholic. But, in that respect, it did make me admire her loyalty to those who earn her trust. And after some persistence, Dane earns it as well.
This is a slow-burn romance, full of angst and longing looks. Both characters taking a while to understand the magnitude of their situation, to realize they found the love they didn't know they were looking for.
As the title entails, this is a story about baby-making, though a little unusual at first. There's also self-discovery, heated encounters on the plains of Oklahoma, and realizing that sometimes your opposite can be your perfect match.
'Til next time cuties ;)
July 27, 2018
Dane Wylder and Stella Donovan , couldn't be more different in personality and posture and yet, they have the same background in emotional hurt., they felt it from the early age and growing up knowing those scars leaves them incomplete on some level. They both experienced one parent leaving thus making them now, reluctant to love or marry BUT what they both want is a baby
For Stella, it's simply time, she doesn't need a husband to have a child, but the sperm donor still feels to clinical and cold. She wants her child to know its father.
For Dane, he wants a kid, to re-feel the connection he had with his dad, and he knows he'll be good at it, but he doesn't want to marry for the sake of it.
The co-parenting contract. Everything is negotiated. They both participate in raising a child. They both love and dedicate themselves for its benefit.
It's perfect UNTIL the very component they fear slowly enters into the mix...
what they don't encounter for is the inevitable closeness and inescapable feelings....for each other....but first they need to conquer the fears and insecurities of their past and upbringing.
cause, love doesn't ask...
and heart wants what heart wants...
and fears aside, when all things and risks considered, it hurts pretty damn good, but the prospects of loving someone and being loved in return, transcends any heartbreak...
Broken heart is nothing compared to the loss of him. That loss is one I may never recover from.
Growing in love with Dane Wylder is the single most important thing I've done in my life.
I didn't really know what to expect after reading the blurb. I wondered the path this book would take me on, i lingered somewhere around the romantic comedy area BUT since I didn't truly connect with the main male character from the start until he grew on me after tossing aside his mask and he showed more of the real persona he is, other than the pomped up ex-celebrity football player and a player, which was a russ altogether, until the clutches of love got to him *wink* and then, this story actually turned out to be a warm heart-felt romantic drama with a hint of a comedy ...and it worked just perfectly.
March 12, 2018
This was a fun, cute and sweet read. Ms. Dangelico is rapidly growing on me.
February 11, 2018
What a damn good romance this was! So sweet. So sexy. So entertaining. I don’t remember taking my eyes off of the pages even for a second. BABY MAKER will charm the pants off of every romance reader that comes in contact! I guarantee it!
“Marry me?”
“No.”
“Glad we got that out of the way. Hand me the remote.”
P. Dangelico is a brand-spankin’ new-to-me author and I couldn’t have been more pleased with the introduction into her world! Stella and Dane’s slow-burn romance brought so much laughter and smiles into my soul. It was EXACTLY what I needed at that time! I’m grateful for all of the smiles and laughter it brought along the way. These characters were just an absolutely JOY to get to know. Their chemistry was instant for me. Their banter was hilarious and just FUN! The storyline is not unique, but no less intriguing. The author definitely made it her own and I loved being along for the ride!
“I will always keep you safe. Even on the days you hate me and wish you never met me…I’ll be here.”
I adored both characters but I enjoyed Dane’s growth throughout the process. He went from world class douchebag to swoon-worthy, romantic, and dependable hero in no time and I keep smiling just thinking about how many times I wanted to smack that guy in the back of the head for some of the things that came out of his mouth! I look back on it and even though I’ve never read this author before, I knew that she wouldn’t steer me wrong. So…if you’re looking for an entertaining, comical, and sexy slow-burn romance with a couple of amazing characters, look no further! I think you guys are going to absolutely ADORE this book!
“Marry me?”
“No.”
“Glad we got that out of the way. Hand me the remote.”
P. Dangelico is a brand-spankin’ new-to-me author and I couldn’t have been more pleased with the introduction into her world! Stella and Dane’s slow-burn romance brought so much laughter and smiles into my soul. It was EXACTLY what I needed at that time! I’m grateful for all of the smiles and laughter it brought along the way. These characters were just an absolutely JOY to get to know. Their chemistry was instant for me. Their banter was hilarious and just FUN! The storyline is not unique, but no less intriguing. The author definitely made it her own and I loved being along for the ride!
“I will always keep you safe. Even on the days you hate me and wish you never met me…I’ll be here.”
I adored both characters but I enjoyed Dane’s growth throughout the process. He went from world class douchebag to swoon-worthy, romantic, and dependable hero in no time and I keep smiling just thinking about how many times I wanted to smack that guy in the back of the head for some of the things that came out of his mouth! I look back on it and even though I’ve never read this author before, I knew that she wouldn’t steer me wrong. So…if you’re looking for an entertaining, comical, and sexy slow-burn romance with a couple of amazing characters, look no further! I think you guys are going to absolutely ADORE this book!
February 20, 2018
I always have a great time reading Paola Dangelico. I find her combination of flawless writing, subtle humor, endearing characters and sexy chemistry absolutely irresistible.
She gives us Stella, a tough as nails business woman, feisty and stubborn. I loved her heart, strength and persistence, she is a brilliant financial geek, badass in her own way. She has built a successful career, but her biological clock is ticking increasingly loudly. She decides to have a baby as soon as she finds a suitable candidate to be her baby’s father. Stella is not a dreamer, she is very practical. She needs a dependable father for her child, who will share custody and parental responsibility with her. Their co-parenting would merely be a business arrangement between two reliable adults.
Dane Wylder is a retired pro football player. He isn’t sure what life has in store for him next, he is feeling down and aimless despite his celebrity and his dedication to charity work. He wants a son, but the last thing he wants is a wife. Stella’s business arrangement is exactly what he needs.
I did think that Dane was a bit of a douchebag in the beginning, he is seemingly cocky and prejudiced against women. His past made me understand him better though, he has a lot of issues stemming from childhood loss.
I really enjoyed Stella and Dane’s combustible chemistry that was evident right from their first meeting. Despite their differences, they worked well together. It’s obvious from the moment that they meet that there is something between them. I loved seeing these characters grow and become partners. Dane manages to surprise Stella, he is supportive, makes her feel safe and that is exactly what she needs. He isn’t perfect of course, but he has a big heart.
I had a big smile on my face the entire time while reading this book. It is a fun romance, with top- notch dialogue and vibrant characters. Their chemistry practically leaps off the pages, their banter is delightfully witty and hilarious. I loved every minute of this fun and entertaining romance and definitely recommend it.
She gives us Stella, a tough as nails business woman, feisty and stubborn. I loved her heart, strength and persistence, she is a brilliant financial geek, badass in her own way. She has built a successful career, but her biological clock is ticking increasingly loudly. She decides to have a baby as soon as she finds a suitable candidate to be her baby’s father. Stella is not a dreamer, she is very practical. She needs a dependable father for her child, who will share custody and parental responsibility with her. Their co-parenting would merely be a business arrangement between two reliable adults.
Dane Wylder is a retired pro football player. He isn’t sure what life has in store for him next, he is feeling down and aimless despite his celebrity and his dedication to charity work. He wants a son, but the last thing he wants is a wife. Stella’s business arrangement is exactly what he needs.
I did think that Dane was a bit of a douchebag in the beginning, he is seemingly cocky and prejudiced against women. His past made me understand him better though, he has a lot of issues stemming from childhood loss.
I really enjoyed Stella and Dane’s combustible chemistry that was evident right from their first meeting. Despite their differences, they worked well together. It’s obvious from the moment that they meet that there is something between them. I loved seeing these characters grow and become partners. Dane manages to surprise Stella, he is supportive, makes her feel safe and that is exactly what she needs. He isn’t perfect of course, but he has a big heart.
I had a big smile on my face the entire time while reading this book. It is a fun romance, with top- notch dialogue and vibrant characters. Their chemistry practically leaps off the pages, their banter is delightfully witty and hilarious. I loved every minute of this fun and entertaining romance and definitely recommend it.
February 16, 2018
3.5 stars
I’m a huge fan of some of P Dangelico’s previous books, namely Wrecking Ball and so any book by her piques my interest. I’ve always liked convenience relationships that evolve into more, so as the title suggests, there’s a baby to be made.
“You realise we have an appointment with the doctor, right?
“Yes, ma’am. We’re making baby soup today.”
The heroine, Stella is on a mission. Finding the baby daddy is hard work. Dane the chosen one, is not hard to look at, however.
“There’s so much razzle dazzle there to take in, my mind locks onto one area. His abdominal muscles.”
Dane was incorrigible in a totally endearing way. He was frank, in a two big feet first kind of way that was hilarious and cringey. Dane and Stella couldn’t be more different but there was definitely chemistry there and over time, Dane really won me over with his heart.
BABY MAKER has so much in the way of excellent dialogue and funny lines that I highlighted a lot, so why isn’t my rating higher? Well, it took me at least till 25% to really get into the story and I had difficulty liking the heroine. I found her somewhat severe and so rigid that she was prickly to get to know and this was in contrast to the completed openness of Dane. I didn’t ever quite get swept away by the book as a whole but the writing was so good. Although I’m not sure this is pitched as a rom-com, to me, it was all that and will appeal to fans of this sub-genre.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.
I’m a huge fan of some of P Dangelico’s previous books, namely Wrecking Ball and so any book by her piques my interest. I’ve always liked convenience relationships that evolve into more, so as the title suggests, there’s a baby to be made.
“You realise we have an appointment with the doctor, right?
“Yes, ma’am. We’re making baby soup today.”
The heroine, Stella is on a mission. Finding the baby daddy is hard work. Dane the chosen one, is not hard to look at, however.
“There’s so much razzle dazzle there to take in, my mind locks onto one area. His abdominal muscles.”
Dane was incorrigible in a totally endearing way. He was frank, in a two big feet first kind of way that was hilarious and cringey. Dane and Stella couldn’t be more different but there was definitely chemistry there and over time, Dane really won me over with his heart.
BABY MAKER has so much in the way of excellent dialogue and funny lines that I highlighted a lot, so why isn’t my rating higher? Well, it took me at least till 25% to really get into the story and I had difficulty liking the heroine. I found her somewhat severe and so rigid that she was prickly to get to know and this was in contrast to the completed openness of Dane. I didn’t ever quite get swept away by the book as a whole but the writing was so good. Although I’m not sure this is pitched as a rom-com, to me, it was all that and will appeal to fans of this sub-genre.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.
September 16, 2018
I'd have Dane's baby !!!
I really enjoyed this book. It that first time I 've read anything from this author and it won't be the last. The story was great I luvd Stella and Dane. They are both totally different character but they make the perfect baby makers. Stella is a great character really like her. Where Stella was a lil prim and proper Dane was more fun loving and was easy goin. There relationship wasn't easy but they wanted the same thing and that was to have a baby. It was great to see them wear each other down. They were so against having an relationship but Stella couldn't help falling for the sexy retired football and Dane couldn't help falling for Stella's strong stubborn butt. The sexual chemistry was so strong thought this book and once they both got there head sorted they were so hot together.
I would recommend this book I like the story and the characters were really good. I did find the story a bit predictable in parts but overall I enjoyed. Once I started it I couldn't put it down. The story was sexy funny and sweet. I did thing that Dane was the best character he was so funny in parts and so sexy and he did helped Stella to let loose and stop being so up tight. At the end they made a great couple.
I really enjoyed this book. It that first time I 've read anything from this author and it won't be the last. The story was great I luvd Stella and Dane. They are both totally different character but they make the perfect baby makers. Stella is a great character really like her. Where Stella was a lil prim and proper Dane was more fun loving and was easy goin. There relationship wasn't easy but they wanted the same thing and that was to have a baby. It was great to see them wear each other down. They were so against having an relationship but Stella couldn't help falling for the sexy retired football and Dane couldn't help falling for Stella's strong stubborn butt. The sexual chemistry was so strong thought this book and once they both got there head sorted they were so hot together.
I would recommend this book I like the story and the characters were really good. I did find the story a bit predictable in parts but overall I enjoyed. Once I started it I couldn't put it down. The story was sexy funny and sweet. I did thing that Dane was the best character he was so funny in parts and so sexy and he did helped Stella to let loose and stop being so up tight. At the end they made a great couple.
February 22, 2018
It all started with a babymaking contract between two people 100% committed to staying single. Stella and Dane, as different as night and day and sharing one crucial opinion. They don’t believe in marriage but do want a child. When a mutual friend introduces them, Stella and Dane don’t exactly hit it off. Being complete opposites at first worked against them. Stella was too uptight and structured and Dane was too loud and spur of the moment.
But that’s actually want seals the deal for them. There is no way Stella could possibly develop messy and complicated feelings for Dane and vise versa. It was strictly (babymaking) business between these two… right?
I absolutely fell in love with Stella and Dane. I loved their honesty, their communication and their friendship. This is not a book of insta-love and although there is an instant and oh so yummy attraction between them right from the start, this isn’t insta-lust either. Which is why I think I had such an awesome time reading their love story.
This had humor and emotion that kept me engaged and revealed layers for both Stella and Dane that made me love them all the more. The side characters only enhanced their chemistry and built on their strong foundation. I think the part I enjoyed the most was that their journey from (unconventional) business partners to friends to lovers to family was real and there was no drama for the sake of drama. I loved the plot, I loved the slow build romance and when things get hot, it’s combustible!
What I loved about it:
The fact that these two don’t immediately jump into bed together. They get to know each other and develop honesty, respect and friendship between them. I mean they stick to IVF to make their baby and I loved how happy/excited they were about the whole process! There is no hanky panky to muddy the waters and I found that refreshing. They both fought their physcial cravings and valued their friendship and their child enough to tread with ultimate caution when it came to their attraction.
You don’t see that very much (if at all) in romance and it fit both Dane and Stella’s characters to a tee. They were both people that had lived through rough situations in their childhood that formed them in similar ways. It was that emotional backdrop that made them a perfect fit for each other.
Things aren’t smooth sailing by any means for them. It does take a bit of work on both sides for Stella and Dane to let their guard down and for that epic friendship/love to grow but even their knee jerk reactions and fears flesh them out and emphasizes their emotional growth throughout their story.
Favorite Line:
This is flirty Dane at his best :)
Memorable Moments:
I loved Dane’s reason for wanting a son of his own.
When Stella gets thanked for being so cool.
Would I recommend? I loved it so yes, I would highly recommend. I’m biased because I loved everything about this story. The characters aren’t perfect but I finished it with a big smile on my face and all those happy feels a good romance inspires. I don’t give out five stars easily but Stella and Dane totally earned it :)
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
But that’s actually want seals the deal for them. There is no way Stella could possibly develop messy and complicated feelings for Dane and vise versa. It was strictly (babymaking) business between these two… right?
I absolutely fell in love with Stella and Dane. I loved their honesty, their communication and their friendship. This is not a book of insta-love and although there is an instant and oh so yummy attraction between them right from the start, this isn’t insta-lust either. Which is why I think I had such an awesome time reading their love story.
This had humor and emotion that kept me engaged and revealed layers for both Stella and Dane that made me love them all the more. The side characters only enhanced their chemistry and built on their strong foundation. I think the part I enjoyed the most was that their journey from (unconventional) business partners to friends to lovers to family was real and there was no drama for the sake of drama. I loved the plot, I loved the slow build romance and when things get hot, it’s combustible!
What I loved about it:
The fact that these two don’t immediately jump into bed together. They get to know each other and develop honesty, respect and friendship between them. I mean they stick to IVF to make their baby and I loved how happy/excited they were about the whole process! There is no hanky panky to muddy the waters and I found that refreshing. They both fought their physcial cravings and valued their friendship and their child enough to tread with ultimate caution when it came to their attraction.
You don’t see that very much (if at all) in romance and it fit both Dane and Stella’s characters to a tee. They were both people that had lived through rough situations in their childhood that formed them in similar ways. It was that emotional backdrop that made them a perfect fit for each other.
Things aren’t smooth sailing by any means for them. It does take a bit of work on both sides for Stella and Dane to let their guard down and for that epic friendship/love to grow but even their knee jerk reactions and fears flesh them out and emphasizes their emotional growth throughout their story.
Favorite Line:
“No ink, huh?” I casually ask.
“Nope.” He leans a muscular arm against the doorframe.
If that’s not an invitation for me to role my eyes, I don’t know what is. “I thought all you guys had some these days.”
“First off, darlin’, you don’t desecrate a work of art with graffiti …”
This is flirty Dane at his best :)
Memorable Moments:
I loved Dane’s reason for wanting a son of his own.
“But I want a kid … a son, hopefully, to share with him what I have with my dad.”~ Dane
When Stella gets thanked for being so cool.
“Thank you.”~Stella
“For what?”
He exhaled deeply. “For being so cool.”
For being so cool? What does that even mean? What the hell does that mean? And why do I feel it in my chest?
Would I recommend? I loved it so yes, I would highly recommend. I’m biased because I loved everything about this story. The characters aren’t perfect but I finished it with a big smile on my face and all those happy feels a good romance inspires. I don’t give out five stars easily but Stella and Dane totally earned it :)
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
February 21, 2018
Oh man, I really didn't want to like this book but I just couldn't help myself. I read the entire thing in one night.
Was it my favorite by this author? Absolutely not. That still goes to Wrecking Ball with Cam and Cal.
The only thing holding me back from giving this 5 stars is the manwhore hero and the other women drama. WHY P. DANGELICO WHY?!?! I don't understand the need to write men like this. I hated Dane's guts for the first 30%, but I guess its a true testament to this authors writing ability that made me like him by the end. It makes me sick to my stomach when the H thinks to himself how many women he's had in the past. Did I really need to read him talk about his naked Twister threesomes in college? Fuck no.
I get it. He's a famous star athlete and of course he's going to have OW flocking to him. I guess its realistic that he would be a manwhore. But why why why why give the heroine a pathetic amount of sexual experience?!?!? It drives me absolutely insane!! I'm not asking for much!! If the hero is going to be portrayed as real as possible than I demand the heroine be too! And guess what?? Women date and have sex with men! Geez.
But I digress....
Other than that, I really did enjoy reading this despite my mostly negative review. Some things just really grind my gears. This author has no problem writing developed characters with scorching chemistry and I can't wait to read more from her.
Was it my favorite by this author? Absolutely not. That still goes to Wrecking Ball with Cam and Cal.
The only thing holding me back from giving this 5 stars is the manwhore hero and the other women drama. WHY P. DANGELICO WHY?!?! I don't understand the need to write men like this. I hated Dane's guts for the first 30%, but I guess its a true testament to this authors writing ability that made me like him by the end. It makes me sick to my stomach when the H thinks to himself how many women he's had in the past. Did I really need to read him talk about his naked Twister threesomes in college? Fuck no.
I get it. He's a famous star athlete and of course he's going to have OW flocking to him. I guess its realistic that he would be a manwhore. But why why why why give the heroine a pathetic amount of sexual experience?!?!? It drives me absolutely insane!! I'm not asking for much!! If the hero is going to be portrayed as real as possible than I demand the heroine be too! And guess what?? Women date and have sex with men! Geez.
But I digress....
Other than that, I really did enjoy reading this despite my mostly negative review. Some things just really grind my gears. This author has no problem writing developed characters with scorching chemistry and I can't wait to read more from her.
February 13, 2018
Oh, no! A P. Dangelico book I didn't love? What's wrong with me?
Good news: I didn't dislike it either.
While overall, I did enjoy this story and it definitely had its swoonworthy moments, I had a hard time connecting with the characters, Stella in particular, and feeling the connection between them.
Still, this was a sweet and entertaining slow-burn, full of love and your typical Dangelico banter between the protagonists.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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March 9, 20182 stars
Sorry, but it how I felt :-(((
I couldn't stand this male protagonist. Ugh! I disliked him till the very end.
The heroine was cool till she wasn't, some things just didn't sit well with me.
My forever favorite by this author -> Wrecking Ball!!!
Love this one!!!
Sorry, but it how I felt :-(((
I couldn't stand this male protagonist. Ugh! I disliked him till the very end.
The heroine was cool till she wasn't, some things just didn't sit well with me.
My forever favorite by this author -> Wrecking Ball!!!
Love this one!!!
February 27, 2018
Here's my review:
This is my 3rd book by Ms Dangelico.
I really enjoyed Wrecking Ball & Sledgehammer and was so excited to get this one.
Some of the characters from those 2 books are in this book- small amount of time but very important roles.
Ethan from Sledgehammer introduces Stella and Dane. They are both single, in their 30s and do NOT want to get married. They each had decided to have a child. They are both looking for a no attachment Baby Mama/Baby Daddy.
Yeah, right.
This could have been really cheesy/corny- but it wasn't. I loved the set up- which was very quick.
I noticed that Dane made his choice rather quickly, but Stella was still deciding. She held all the cards. She would be the one pregnant, the one giving birth. So... yeah all the cards.
I guess that made it more natural. Are men and women ever on the same page? Not in this case.
Dane is football star. He's just retired and about to move onto his next career. He's been popular with the ladies, but no one really impressed him enough to make a commitment.
Stella is vivacious but extremely rigid. She's organized, sees things in black and white.
Dane and Stella have instant attraction, but they have a long way to go before they see beyond a means to an end: A child (their own child).
This is 1st person POV alternating Stella/Dane.
Dane is rather laid back and playful. He's from Oklahoma. Stella can't tell his country boy persona is an act or the real thing.
I love it when authors spend a lot of time on the relationship The ups and downs. The simmering, sizzling. The back and forth.
Dane's mom left his dad (Bill) when Dane was a young kid.
Stella's dad left her mom (Mercedes) when she was young.
So... they each had their issues. Trust. The lack of. Stella read/heard about Dane's exploits with the ladies in the recent past. Dane is very attractive- a big broad shouldered, good looking man (The cover photo does fit our hero).
Stella isn't who Dane is usually attracted too. She's very intelligent but not the statuesque super model that he's dated .
Their banter is cute:
I point my chopsticks at him and give him my best Mercedes Donovan death glare. "And don't call me babe." "Okay Shorty." (in Chapter 13)
This was a fun read, Dane puts his foot in his mouth a few times. Stella doesn't let him get away with it!
Stella has some off moments too.
I think that this could be a standalone, but I liked the very brief appearances of previous books' characters. I hope there are more spin-offs to come.
I loved the ending. Damn, so sweet. Great epilogue.
Thanks to the author for the ARC.
This is my 3rd book by Ms Dangelico.
I really enjoyed Wrecking Ball & Sledgehammer and was so excited to get this one.
Some of the characters from those 2 books are in this book- small amount of time but very important roles.
Ethan from Sledgehammer introduces Stella and Dane. They are both single, in their 30s and do NOT want to get married. They each had decided to have a child. They are both looking for a no attachment Baby Mama/Baby Daddy.
Yeah, right.
This could have been really cheesy/corny- but it wasn't. I loved the set up- which was very quick.
I noticed that Dane made his choice rather quickly, but Stella was still deciding. She held all the cards. She would be the one pregnant, the one giving birth. So... yeah all the cards.
I guess that made it more natural. Are men and women ever on the same page? Not in this case.
Dane is football star. He's just retired and about to move onto his next career. He's been popular with the ladies, but no one really impressed him enough to make a commitment.
Stella is vivacious but extremely rigid. She's organized, sees things in black and white.
Dane and Stella have instant attraction, but they have a long way to go before they see beyond a means to an end: A child (their own child).
This is 1st person POV alternating Stella/Dane.
Dane is rather laid back and playful. He's from Oklahoma. Stella can't tell his country boy persona is an act or the real thing.
I love it when authors spend a lot of time on the relationship The ups and downs. The simmering, sizzling. The back and forth.
Dane's mom left his dad (Bill) when Dane was a young kid.
Stella's dad left her mom (Mercedes) when she was young.
So... they each had their issues. Trust. The lack of. Stella read/heard about Dane's exploits with the ladies in the recent past. Dane is very attractive- a big broad shouldered, good looking man (The cover photo does fit our hero).
Stella isn't who Dane is usually attracted too. She's very intelligent but not the statuesque super model that he's dated .
Their banter is cute:
I point my chopsticks at him and give him my best Mercedes Donovan death glare. "And don't call me babe." "Okay Shorty." (in Chapter 13)
This was a fun read, Dane puts his foot in his mouth a few times. Stella doesn't let him get away with it!
Stella has some off moments too.
I think that this could be a standalone, but I liked the very brief appearances of previous books' characters. I hope there are more spin-offs to come.
I loved the ending. Damn, so sweet. Great epilogue.
Thanks to the author for the ARC.
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