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Real Love #2
Arm Candy
Last call! At the end of the night, a clean-cut hunk and a rebellious bartender act on their unlikely chemistry in this frisky standalone novel from the author of Eye Candy.
I've had my eye on Grace Buchanan for a while now. Unlike the bubbly blondes I usually date, the feisty, flame-haired bartender both intrigues and bewilders me. Something about Grace—the tattoos? the nose ring?—makes every part of me sit up and beg. There's only one She hates me. Trading insults and one-liners has become our M.O. But when Grace bets me that I can't get a date with a non-blonde if my life depends on it, I'm determined to prove her wrong by landing the ultimate her.
I'm used to regulars hitting on me, and I've turned them all down, except for Davis Price. I like giving him a hard time, and he's kind of cute in his suit and tie—if you're into that...
I've had my eye on Grace Buchanan for a while now. Unlike the bubbly blondes I usually date, the feisty, flame-haired bartender both intrigues and bewilders me. Something about Grace—the tattoos? the nose ring?—makes every part of me sit up and beg. There's only one She hates me. Trading insults and one-liners has become our M.O. But when Grace bets me that I can't get a date with a non-blonde if my life depends on it, I'm determined to prove her wrong by landing the ultimate her.
I'm used to regulars hitting on me, and I've turned them all down, except for Davis Price. I like giving him a hard time, and he's kind of cute in his suit and tie—if you're into that...
217 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2017
117 people are currently reading
1027 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Lemmon
200 books1,914 followersJessica Lemmon is a former job-hopper who resides in Ohio with her husband and rescue dogs. She holds a degree in graphic design currently gathering dust in an impressive frame. When she’s not writing emotionally-charged stories, she spends her time drawing, drinking coffee, and laughing with friends. Her motto is Read for fun, and she believes we should all do more of what makes us happy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 298 reviews
February 14, 2018
Review available at: Under the Pages
July 31, 2021
"Her eyes sparkle. I see my future reflected in them."
Jessica Lemmon is one of my favorites. I loved the first book in this series, but this one? I fell in love with both characters, and I was able to relate to them in different ways, which only made the experience more enjoyable. Also, it's written in first POV – what's not to love?
"You’re different, Gracie. I didn’t want to be attracted to you. The moment I laid eyes on you, I couldn’t tear them away from you."
Grace. Gracie. She's awesome. Coming from a broken family as well, because my parents got divorced too, I understood Grace. She had no role models for a happy relationship, and all her life she's been told love isn't worth it, and that it all ends anyway, so she wants to save herself the trouble (BTW, parents, please don't tell your children that!). I love that she's a bartender, that she has tattoos and piercings and that she doesn't have a model-like body. She feels... normal, you know? Whatever 'normal' means, anyway.
"Can I confess something? Whenever he adds that “-ie” to my name, I melt. It’s the way he says it. Like I’m his and his alone."
I have quite a few quotes about Davis, but this one stood out for me. Because, from the start, he's into Grace. The fact that he calls her Gracie when no one else does kind of made him even sweeter for me. Davis is an overachiever. He's a finance analyst with a very organized life, who works from home and still puts on a suit every day. He has no room in his life for a relationship. Also, he's been burned before – and I mean burned big time.
"I took your rejection like a man. I stood firm while you peppered me with buckshot. While you delivered a waking nightmare at my feet. I loved you, but you didn’t love me back.” (...) “I don’t want you to fade. I never want to forget the exact way you look when you say my name.”
Grace watches him as he charms the ladies at the bar, and sometimes takes them home with him. Women who are so very different from her. Davis watches the redhead bartender and feels the pull, but he wants to avoid that, and to avoid her. The banter between them is feisty and fun. The chemistry between them even before they give in to each other is electrifying.
"“I can be demanding, Davis. I’m not sure you could handle me.” I shut my mouth so hard my teeth clack.
Then, through the tension humming around us, reply with, “Say the word and you’ll find out.”
It was hilarious that Davis has "packages" he offers women, sort of like an escort, just for you to have an idea of how detached he is (or wants to seem). And when they dare each other to go on a date you just know how this is gonna play out.
The thing is... they're both bent. Life, and people in their lives, bent them. They just need to realize they're not broken.
"Here, in my bed, in my kitchen—in my life, is…Well. She makes everything full instead of empty."
Despite having been chewed up and spit out, it's Davis who gives in first. I don't think he means to, but Grace really is something else. I think it's refreshing that they didn't let things fester and that they actually talked about things. And even though Davis' story is definitely grimmer, it's actually Grace who can't believe what they have, and breaks it off, which was kind of refreshing as well. Yep, it's usually the guy who backs off when things get serious.
"She smiles and I smile, and when neither of us looks away for a very long time, I know we’re going to be okay."
It was beautiful to see them opening up to each other, bit by bit, big steps and smaller steps. Slowly, but surely. Until things that seemed like a big deal really weren't a big deal after all when compared to the two of them, together.
I really need to get the following books in this series.
Jessica Lemmon is one of my favorites. I loved the first book in this series, but this one? I fell in love with both characters, and I was able to relate to them in different ways, which only made the experience more enjoyable. Also, it's written in first POV – what's not to love?
"You’re different, Gracie. I didn’t want to be attracted to you. The moment I laid eyes on you, I couldn’t tear them away from you."
Grace. Gracie. She's awesome. Coming from a broken family as well, because my parents got divorced too, I understood Grace. She had no role models for a happy relationship, and all her life she's been told love isn't worth it, and that it all ends anyway, so she wants to save herself the trouble (BTW, parents, please don't tell your children that!). I love that she's a bartender, that she has tattoos and piercings and that she doesn't have a model-like body. She feels... normal, you know? Whatever 'normal' means, anyway.
"Can I confess something? Whenever he adds that “-ie” to my name, I melt. It’s the way he says it. Like I’m his and his alone."
I have quite a few quotes about Davis, but this one stood out for me. Because, from the start, he's into Grace. The fact that he calls her Gracie when no one else does kind of made him even sweeter for me. Davis is an overachiever. He's a finance analyst with a very organized life, who works from home and still puts on a suit every day. He has no room in his life for a relationship. Also, he's been burned before – and I mean burned big time.
"I took your rejection like a man. I stood firm while you peppered me with buckshot. While you delivered a waking nightmare at my feet. I loved you, but you didn’t love me back.” (...) “I don’t want you to fade. I never want to forget the exact way you look when you say my name.”
Grace watches him as he charms the ladies at the bar, and sometimes takes them home with him. Women who are so very different from her. Davis watches the redhead bartender and feels the pull, but he wants to avoid that, and to avoid her. The banter between them is feisty and fun. The chemistry between them even before they give in to each other is electrifying.
"“I can be demanding, Davis. I’m not sure you could handle me.” I shut my mouth so hard my teeth clack.
Then, through the tension humming around us, reply with, “Say the word and you’ll find out.”
It was hilarious that Davis has "packages" he offers women, sort of like an escort, just for you to have an idea of how detached he is (or wants to seem). And when they dare each other to go on a date you just know how this is gonna play out.
The thing is... they're both bent. Life, and people in their lives, bent them. They just need to realize they're not broken.
"Here, in my bed, in my kitchen—in my life, is…Well. She makes everything full instead of empty."
Despite having been chewed up and spit out, it's Davis who gives in first. I don't think he means to, but Grace really is something else. I think it's refreshing that they didn't let things fester and that they actually talked about things. And even though Davis' story is definitely grimmer, it's actually Grace who can't believe what they have, and breaks it off, which was kind of refreshing as well. Yep, it's usually the guy who backs off when things get serious.
"She smiles and I smile, and when neither of us looks away for a very long time, I know we’re going to be okay."
It was beautiful to see them opening up to each other, bit by bit, big steps and smaller steps. Slowly, but surely. Until things that seemed like a big deal really weren't a big deal after all when compared to the two of them, together.
I really need to get the following books in this series.
September 17, 2018
4 Getting Clear of the Damage Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free
Jessica Lemmon is one smart cookie. She has come up with a fun, sexy, caring series. Using the phrases we all know of, like Eye Candy and now Arm Candy... she has set up her premises perfectly. She takes people who have past relationship issues and then matches them with the one who is capable to lead the both of them out of the darkness and into relationship light.
With this entry, we already have meet the major players. If you read the first book, than you will be very curious from what you saw...If you haven't read the first book, you are perfectly fine... and there watching all of this unfold... with a smile on your face.
Grace Buchanan is fantastic...Yup she really is. She one of the bartenders at a neighborhood happening place. She is comfortable in her own skin and getting there wasn't easy. She is a product of two divorce attorneys who stayed together until she turned 18 "Because of Her".
Note to the world... Do not "stay together for the sake of the kids" if the parents are going to yell, argue, never show up to the kid's important events. Because you are not doing anyone any favors. All you will do is cause a mother to serve her daughter repeatedly a cocktail of Marriage and Love is a Lie with a chaser of Bitterness.
See how I did that....
Anyway, this woman is cool; she has beautiful red hair and the freckles to prove it is real. She fills out her tshirts and jeans perfectly. Her eyes will sparkle if a comment or joke hits her right and she has built in radar which zeroes in on all the idiots that try to pick her up.
Grace is not looking for love; she barely believes in it. Her best friend seems to be in the throws of it... but that is not a natural occurrence. She doesn't mind looking at a fine specimen... she just has made it a practice to not be interested after the occasional gaze.
Grace is having an issue, though... it seems Davis Price has not only caught her eye... they have developed this type of dance...a type of banter. She is sarcastic and close to cutting... he has nicknamed her Gracie Lou... Who does that...and why does her heart do a little flip when he does.
Davis Price enjoys the banter he has with Grace. He won't admit it anyone, but bantering with her is one of the highlights of his very organized life. Davis is a powerhouse when it comes to finance. He works from his home office but you would never know it. He dresses as if he was going to an office on Wall Street. Yes, the impeccable suit, imported fine leather shoes, perfectly pressed oxford shirt is the uniform he wears everyday in his home office.
He clocks in from early AM to 5PM and is on his stool in front of Grace most nights. Now Davis has made it a practice of doing Blond Hook ups... which have no meaning. He is charming, good-looking so there is no effort on his part... he just has to choose... and it is always the same... A Barbie Clone.
He does this for a reason... He had a very distressing experience with a redhead... and swore to stay away...So his interest in Grace can go nowhere... But Damn if there isn't a sexual itch that needs scratching...
Both of them decided to scratch and it is only the question of what level of intensity...
I certainly enjoyed this book. I liked the dynamics of it all... the conflicts and backstories of both characters. Both had their reasons for being the way they were...skittish... And both were really good for each other.
There is another entry coming and I will be right there for it when it arrives. Naturally it is called Man Candy!
Eye Candy (Real Love, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Arm Candy (Real Love, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Man Candy (Real Love, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Rumor Has It (Real Love, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
America's Sweetheart (Real Love, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
These Two Should Be Good...
They Made The First Book Interesting...
Very Interesting....
●•●•●•●•●•●•●•
He puts on a Charming Front...
Dating every Blonde in sight...
Or should we say, Doing Every Blonde who offers...
But now there is Someone on his Radar...
She doesn't fit the Mold...
She is Red Haired, Feisty and Takes No Crap...
The two of them bicker and throw out insults...
You would think they would never get along...
Until they "GET ALONG" all too well...
Arm Candy (Real Love, #2)- September 2017
A gifted copy was provided by LoveSwept via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * Spoiler Free
Jessica Lemmon is one smart cookie. She has come up with a fun, sexy, caring series. Using the phrases we all know of, like Eye Candy and now Arm Candy... she has set up her premises perfectly. She takes people who have past relationship issues and then matches them with the one who is capable to lead the both of them out of the darkness and into relationship light.
With this entry, we already have meet the major players. If you read the first book, than you will be very curious from what you saw...If you haven't read the first book, you are perfectly fine... and there watching all of this unfold... with a smile on your face.
Grace Buchanan is fantastic...Yup she really is. She one of the bartenders at a neighborhood happening place. She is comfortable in her own skin and getting there wasn't easy. She is a product of two divorce attorneys who stayed together until she turned 18 "Because of Her".
Note to the world... Do not "stay together for the sake of the kids" if the parents are going to yell, argue, never show up to the kid's important events. Because you are not doing anyone any favors. All you will do is cause a mother to serve her daughter repeatedly a cocktail of Marriage and Love is a Lie with a chaser of Bitterness.
See how I did that....
Anyway, this woman is cool; she has beautiful red hair and the freckles to prove it is real. She fills out her tshirts and jeans perfectly. Her eyes will sparkle if a comment or joke hits her right and she has built in radar which zeroes in on all the idiots that try to pick her up.
Grace is not looking for love; she barely believes in it. Her best friend seems to be in the throws of it... but that is not a natural occurrence. She doesn't mind looking at a fine specimen... she just has made it a practice to not be interested after the occasional gaze.
Grace is having an issue, though... it seems Davis Price has not only caught her eye... they have developed this type of dance...a type of banter. She is sarcastic and close to cutting... he has nicknamed her Gracie Lou... Who does that...and why does her heart do a little flip when he does.
Davis Price enjoys the banter he has with Grace. He won't admit it anyone, but bantering with her is one of the highlights of his very organized life. Davis is a powerhouse when it comes to finance. He works from his home office but you would never know it. He dresses as if he was going to an office on Wall Street. Yes, the impeccable suit, imported fine leather shoes, perfectly pressed oxford shirt is the uniform he wears everyday in his home office.
He clocks in from early AM to 5PM and is on his stool in front of Grace most nights. Now Davis has made it a practice of doing Blond Hook ups... which have no meaning. He is charming, good-looking so there is no effort on his part... he just has to choose... and it is always the same... A Barbie Clone.
He does this for a reason... He had a very distressing experience with a redhead... and swore to stay away...So his interest in Grace can go nowhere... But Damn if there isn't a sexual itch that needs scratching...
Both of them decided to scratch and it is only the question of what level of intensity...
I certainly enjoyed this book. I liked the dynamics of it all... the conflicts and backstories of both characters. Both had their reasons for being the way they were...skittish... And both were really good for each other.
There is another entry coming and I will be right there for it when it arrives. Naturally it is called Man Candy!
Eye Candy (Real Love, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Arm Candy (Real Love, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Man Candy (Real Love, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Rumor Has It (Real Love, #4)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
America's Sweetheart (Real Love, #5)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
These Two Should Be Good...
They Made The First Book Interesting...
Very Interesting....
●•●•●•●•●•●•●•
He puts on a Charming Front...
Dating every Blonde in sight...
Or should we say, Doing Every Blonde who offers...
But now there is Someone on his Radar...
She doesn't fit the Mold...
She is Red Haired, Feisty and Takes No Crap...
The two of them bicker and throw out insults...
You would think they would never get along...
Until they "GET ALONG" all too well...
Arm Candy (Real Love, #2)- September 2017
A gifted copy was provided by LoveSwept via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
October 4, 2017
Get it here;
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Davis and Grace had an electrifying chemistry and I loved that they fought it for so long. Even when they were together neither of them wanted to admit that it was more than a fling. It had me captivated and just waiting to see that moment that both of these characters gave in to what they truly wanted. I loved the reading experience and I can't wait for more from this series.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Davis and Grace had an electrifying chemistry and I loved that they fought it for so long. Even when they were together neither of them wanted to admit that it was more than a fling. It had me captivated and just waiting to see that moment that both of these characters gave in to what they truly wanted. I loved the reading experience and I can't wait for more from this series.
September 10, 2017
Delightfully fun, smexy and appealing. With a title and cover like that you can expect to have delicious fun and Jessica Lemmon delivers. Between the tension and banter, and smiling and fanning myself, I couldn’t stop flipping pages.
Having met Davis and Grace in the previous book and seen the attraction between these two very opposite characters, I thought I knew how their story would go. I was pleasantly surprised when the story’s direction took me on a journey I wasn’t expecting.
After being subjected to heartbreak and humiliation, Davis Price has been protecting his heart and keeping loneliness at bay by casually dating blondes who are the complete opposite of the fiery, sassy, redhead bartender with tattoos, a nose ring and an attitude fascinates him. Which is why after trading barbs nonstop, Grace catches him off guard betting him to date a non-blonde. Rising to the challenge Davis asks Grace to go out with him. Feeling confident that she can keep things casual with the man in the suit she accepts. Can they keep it that way?
Arm Candy is deliciously entertaining and a very quick read. Fun, sexy and romantic. I look forward to seeing more from Jessica Lemmon and this series, who is quickly becoming a go-to author for feel-good reading.
Despite their outward appearances being so different, I really enjoyed how Davis and Grace’s relationship was developed. They were comfortable with each other which allowed them to spend a good part of the book getting to know one another and figure out how to deal with the issues that held them back and made them believe that all relationships are doomed to end. Oh, and did I mention they had a lot of hot, sexy times too?
Arm Candy is book #2 in the Real Love series by Jessica Lemmon. It is a full length standalone romantic comedy. It’s fun, smexy with likeable characters. Told from both points of view with a happy ending.
4.5 stars
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2viP6Om
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts taken are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
Having met Davis and Grace in the previous book and seen the attraction between these two very opposite characters, I thought I knew how their story would go. I was pleasantly surprised when the story’s direction took me on a journey I wasn’t expecting.
After being subjected to heartbreak and humiliation, Davis Price has been protecting his heart and keeping loneliness at bay by casually dating blondes who are the complete opposite of the fiery, sassy, redhead bartender with tattoos, a nose ring and an attitude fascinates him. Which is why after trading barbs nonstop, Grace catches him off guard betting him to date a non-blonde. Rising to the challenge Davis asks Grace to go out with him. Feeling confident that she can keep things casual with the man in the suit she accepts. Can they keep it that way?
Arm Candy is deliciously entertaining and a very quick read. Fun, sexy and romantic. I look forward to seeing more from Jessica Lemmon and this series, who is quickly becoming a go-to author for feel-good reading.
Despite their outward appearances being so different, I really enjoyed how Davis and Grace’s relationship was developed. They were comfortable with each other which allowed them to spend a good part of the book getting to know one another and figure out how to deal with the issues that held them back and made them believe that all relationships are doomed to end. Oh, and did I mention they had a lot of hot, sexy times too?
“Everything she does reminds me of having sex with her. Grace doesn’t taste like cotton candy. More like sin and spice.”
Arm Candy is book #2 in the Real Love series by Jessica Lemmon. It is a full length standalone romantic comedy. It’s fun, smexy with likeable characters. Told from both points of view with a happy ending.
4.5 stars
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2viP6Om
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts taken are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
August 27, 2017
3 stars
**Possible Spoilers!!!**
We meet both Grace and Davis in the first book. I was intrigued by both and really liked Grace's sassy attitude. It followed into this book.
Grace is known for not getting past date 3 and is usually the one who ends the relationship. She was brought up by parents who stayed married because they had her. But even though they stayed together for their child they had no problems airing out their problems with shouting matches in front of her. Then when she was of age they separated and divorced. But the damage of how Grace saw relationships was already done. But what really nailed in her trust and commitment issues was her father completely doing a 180 in his appearance, job, and behavior and him leaving her behind. He pops up randomly and leaves her expensive gifts on her doorstep, but never in person. She hasn't had any contact with him in 8 yrs.
Davis has been in a rut since he was left at the alter by his runaway bride. Since then he falls into every blonde he meets. He doesn't offer them a relationship or does he date them. No. What he offers them is what he calls the 'Davis Packages'. He has 3 and they differ from each other on what is expected so he can stay in control of the outcome. He has commitment and abandonment issues. His father passed when he was young and his mother being flighty and unable to handle anything stressful ends up leaving him in his comatose fathers hospital room and never returns. This left him being raised by his fathers mother.
So obviously both characters have a lot of issues. They started out hot and heavy then let each other go for a minute. But soon they were back in each others beds. The relationship developed nicely and their issues weren't really a problem. Until they were. I was really surprised it was the female in this scenario who jumped first and ended it. Usually it's the men.
It was an OK read for me as was the first book. I liked both characters well enough, but the story has just been told many times and the author really didn't bring anything new to this trope of being scared of commitment.
***ARC kindly provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review***
**Possible Spoilers!!!**
We meet both Grace and Davis in the first book. I was intrigued by both and really liked Grace's sassy attitude. It followed into this book.
Grace is known for not getting past date 3 and is usually the one who ends the relationship. She was brought up by parents who stayed married because they had her. But even though they stayed together for their child they had no problems airing out their problems with shouting matches in front of her. Then when she was of age they separated and divorced. But the damage of how Grace saw relationships was already done. But what really nailed in her trust and commitment issues was her father completely doing a 180 in his appearance, job, and behavior and him leaving her behind. He pops up randomly and leaves her expensive gifts on her doorstep, but never in person. She hasn't had any contact with him in 8 yrs.
Davis has been in a rut since he was left at the alter by his runaway bride. Since then he falls into every blonde he meets. He doesn't offer them a relationship or does he date them. No. What he offers them is what he calls the 'Davis Packages'. He has 3 and they differ from each other on what is expected so he can stay in control of the outcome. He has commitment and abandonment issues. His father passed when he was young and his mother being flighty and unable to handle anything stressful ends up leaving him in his comatose fathers hospital room and never returns. This left him being raised by his fathers mother.
So obviously both characters have a lot of issues. They started out hot and heavy then let each other go for a minute. But soon they were back in each others beds. The relationship developed nicely and their issues weren't really a problem. Until they were. I was really surprised it was the female in this scenario who jumped first and ended it. Usually it's the men.
It was an OK read for me as was the first book. I liked both characters well enough, but the story has just been told many times and the author really didn't bring anything new to this trope of being scared of commitment.
***ARC kindly provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review***
September 4, 2017
Charming, romantic and witty!
Arm Candy is a classic, opposites attract rom-com between the quirky, impeccably dressed Davis who has sworn off redheads and relationships, and the spunky, fiery Grace who has made turning down men a challenge and an art form in a tale about learning to trust, support, and commit.
The writing is fluid and crisp. The characters, including all the supporting characters, are engaging, lovable, and fun. And the plot is a wonderful combination of light drama, sexy innuendoes, smoking chemistry, and delicious heat.
Arm Candy is the second novel in the "Real Love" series, and it was everything I was hoping for and more. In a time when contemporary romance novels seem weighed down with angst, it was exceptionally nice to read something lighter with snappy dialogue, lots of laughs, and genuine characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House - Loveswept for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at http://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
Arm Candy is a classic, opposites attract rom-com between the quirky, impeccably dressed Davis who has sworn off redheads and relationships, and the spunky, fiery Grace who has made turning down men a challenge and an art form in a tale about learning to trust, support, and commit.
The writing is fluid and crisp. The characters, including all the supporting characters, are engaging, lovable, and fun. And the plot is a wonderful combination of light drama, sexy innuendoes, smoking chemistry, and delicious heat.
Arm Candy is the second novel in the "Real Love" series, and it was everything I was hoping for and more. In a time when contemporary romance novels seem weighed down with angst, it was exceptionally nice to read something lighter with snappy dialogue, lots of laughs, and genuine characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House - Loveswept for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at http://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
my-books
February 14, 2023Dear Reader,
What happens with a suited, regimented, dirty-talking hero breaks his one big rule to date a redhead? What happens when a tattooed, pierced, feisty bartender heroine steps way out of her comfort zone to explore a *gulp* relationship? Sparks fly in Arm Candy, and quite frankly, the hotter it got, the less inclined I was to turn on the firehose! Davis and Grace (Gracie Lou, as he teasingly calls her) took quite the journey on their way to Happily Ever After, but I enjoyed the ride. I hope you do, too.
Also in this book:
*Meet Dax! The hero in Man Candy: A Real Love Novel
*Sexting isn't going to cut it for Davis-he has something else in mind...
*Catch up with Jackie and Davis from book 1, Eye Candy
xoxo,
Jessica
What happens with a suited, regimented, dirty-talking hero breaks his one big rule to date a redhead? What happens when a tattooed, pierced, feisty bartender heroine steps way out of her comfort zone to explore a *gulp* relationship? Sparks fly in Arm Candy, and quite frankly, the hotter it got, the less inclined I was to turn on the firehose! Davis and Grace (Gracie Lou, as he teasingly calls her) took quite the journey on their way to Happily Ever After, but I enjoyed the ride. I hope you do, too.
Also in this book:
*Meet Dax! The hero in Man Candy: A Real Love Novel
*Sexting isn't going to cut it for Davis-he has something else in mind...
*Catch up with Jackie and Davis from book 1, Eye Candy
xoxo,
Jessica
September 3, 2017
Thank you Loveswept for providing an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Arm Candy is a delightful treat of sweet romance. We find Vince Carson's buddy Davis Price and the redhead sassy bartender at McGreevy's Grace Lou Buchanan. The connection between them was spot on and their personalities blend together so well. They also have a lot of similarities, one particularly when it comes to relationships. I'm amused whenever they throw banters at each other. It's hilarious and sweet. Davis was a great guy. A successful stock analyst whose heart got broken. He's scared to fall in love again but when he found Grace, it's a huge step up for him to take a chance. When he loves someone, he gives it all.
What I like the most was Grace. She's a cool and tough chick. She was once vulnerable but I like she worked on her self-doubt. Thanks to Davis for assuring that he's the only woman for him. Though the story is cliché, the ending was great. No unnecessary drama and all.
Arm Candy is a delightful treat of sweet romance. We find Vince Carson's buddy Davis Price and the redhead sassy bartender at McGreevy's Grace Lou Buchanan. The connection between them was spot on and their personalities blend together so well. They also have a lot of similarities, one particularly when it comes to relationships. I'm amused whenever they throw banters at each other. It's hilarious and sweet. Davis was a great guy. A successful stock analyst whose heart got broken. He's scared to fall in love again but when he found Grace, it's a huge step up for him to take a chance. When he loves someone, he gives it all.
What I like the most was Grace. She's a cool and tough chick. She was once vulnerable but I like she worked on her self-doubt. Thanks to Davis for assuring that he's the only woman for him. Though the story is cliché, the ending was great. No unnecessary drama and all.
May 6, 2018
Sometimes reading M/F romance is like being hit in the head repeatedly with a stick labeled "rape culture."
- Male MC goes with a woman to a bar.
- Woman gets so drunk she can't remember her own address (no mention of where her ID was, which presumably would have this info) so male MC takes her to his place and puts her to sleep on his couch. So far so good, I guess?
- She wakes up, gets in his bed, and tries to go down on him - this only stops because she falls asleep / passes out, not because he stops it.
- Male MC takes the couch instead.
The next morning, he thinks "She's a little bit of a thing. Blond, so well within my shagging rights, but I didn't shag her. Not only because she was drunk, because, come on, we've all had that sort of a hookup, but because she didn't appeal to me."
The hell? You let her have oral sex with you even though she was so drunk she couldn't remember where she lived, and the only reason you didn't do more was because she wasn't cute enough?
I was *really* enjoying this book until this point, but wow, why would I want this guy to have an HEA? I kind of want him to go to jail, if this is regular practice?
- Male MC goes with a woman to a bar.
- Woman gets so drunk she can't remember her own address (no mention of where her ID was, which presumably would have this info) so male MC takes her to his place and puts her to sleep on his couch. So far so good, I guess?
- She wakes up, gets in his bed, and tries to go down on him - this only stops because she falls asleep / passes out, not because he stops it.
- Male MC takes the couch instead.
The next morning, he thinks "She's a little bit of a thing. Blond, so well within my shagging rights, but I didn't shag her. Not only because she was drunk, because, come on, we've all had that sort of a hookup, but because she didn't appeal to me."
The hell? You let her have oral sex with you even though she was so drunk she couldn't remember where she lived, and the only reason you didn't do more was because she wasn't cute enough?
I was *really* enjoying this book until this point, but wow, why would I want this guy to have an HEA? I kind of want him to go to jail, if this is regular practice?
August 7, 2017
I really like when a book surprises me. We learned about Grace and Davis in book 1, Eye Candy. Out of the two couples from both books, my expectation was that I would have liked the other couple more. That wasn't really the case. I do like the couple from book 1, but they were the ones with the push/pull relationship. It's what I would have expected with this couple and I was pleased to see the author switch it up.
Davis is a player. He goes from blonde to blonde and nothing serious. Grace is a sassy redheaded bartender that likes to remind Davis he isn't God's gift to women. I really expected these two to fight to the very end based off their personalities. I love that I was wrong. Is it instant love? No. They don't commit right off and they are both cautious but they behaved more like a couple than they would admit. That caution does come into play but it wasn't the whole book, which I greatly appreciated.
I had fun with this couple and their story. It's a lower angst read with no abuse. I look forward to book 3. ARC provided by NetGalley.
Davis is a player. He goes from blonde to blonde and nothing serious. Grace is a sassy redheaded bartender that likes to remind Davis he isn't God's gift to women. I really expected these two to fight to the very end based off their personalities. I love that I was wrong. Is it instant love? No. They don't commit right off and they are both cautious but they behaved more like a couple than they would admit. That caution does come into play but it wasn't the whole book, which I greatly appreciated.
I had fun with this couple and their story. It's a lower angst read with no abuse. I look forward to book 3. ARC provided by NetGalley.
November 26, 2017
Arm Candy by Jessica Lemmon is just the kind of romance you’ll want to pick up if you’re looking for something lighthearted, sexy, and relatively low on angst. I’ve read a few of the author’s books in other series and enjoyed them, so with the cover and synopsis snagging my attention, and knowing she writes standalones in series well, I started in on book two of the Real Love series with high hopes. I am very happy with the result.
Grace Buchanan is a bartender at McGreevy’s pub. She’s well suited to the job, and truth be told isn’t looking for any other kind of career. She loves chatting with the regulars, is good at fending off over-amorous suitors and is happy with her single life. Her divorced parents (both, coincidentally divorce lawyers themselves) have soured her on the idea of happy ever afters so she’s definitely not looking for a relationship – even if one of her patrons keeps catching her eye.
Davis Price is the kind of guy who likes to follow a schedule. He works from home as a stock analyst and even there he sticks to regular hours, wearing his suit and tie and clocking out at 5pm, most often to head to McGreevy’s. He won’t admit that he’s lonely, but he needs some company after spending those working hours all alone. He’s always well dressed, makes Grace turn the TV above the bar to CNN (she usually does it when she sees him anyway), and verbal sparring with the fiery redhead (who changes shades on a surprisingly frequent basis) is undeniably one of the highlights of his day. He can make millions in a few hours (and often does) but the friendly down home atmosphere of the pub is more to his liking than a snobby restaurant. Just like his work schedule, his dating life is organized, too – blondes only, few repeats. Predictability never breeds excitement. Grace, on the other hand, is never predictable.
A discussion between Grace and Davis on the latter’s penchant for petite blondes leads to a discussion about his ‘type’ and then a bet and next thing you know, Grace is reluctantly agreeing to a date with hiim. Like all other things in his life, even his dating life has rules; he offers three packages to a potential partner: The Davis, the Davis Deluxe, and The Platinum Davis. Each has specific options. Sexting for example is only allowed as part of the deluxe package. When Gracie decides she wants the Platinum, Davis is delighted and proceeds to show her the best dating time of her life. Content at the start with a temporary arrangement, what will happen when one of them decides they want more?
Everyone deserves a date with a man like Davis, at least once in their life! He’s almost too good to be true, a gentleman in every sense of the word. He’s got manners, he’s got charm, he’s caring and protective, he’s a generous lover – really, he’s the full package. It’s no wonder that the blondes he meets and treats so well are always after a repeat, a fact that Grace had often noticed at the pub with a twinge of jealousy even before she and Davis made their bet. Now she knows why, and it’s a good thing this agreement with Davis has an end date because it would be really easy to fall for a guy like him, a fact that causes Grace some anxiety when she and Davis start to go beyond the bounds of their initial agreement. The sexual chemistry between them leads to some steamy scenes and the realization for both of them that it’s not going to be so easy to turn that off and go back to just being friends.
The story is told in first person from both points of view. Though I’m more used to that in new adult novels, it really works well here, giving insight into both of their characters. There is a good balance of humorous introspection and banter between Grace and Davis, and as a result, plenty of laugh-out-loud moments for the reader. They are both really likable, which makes their relationship quite fun to watch as it unfolds. Davis and Grace have both been hurt before in their personal lives and have some baggage to contend with that affects how they view this relationship and the choices they make.
Davis’s best friend Vince cautions him against moving too fast and these conversations between the guys are equally delightful as they have that ‘bro-mance’ quality where they can tease each other, and still give serious advice. Family plays an important role too, and we get some scenes with Davis’s grandmother who raised him (she’s a hoot!), and Grace���s estranged father (who has cancer) also makes an appearance. Here the story veers into more emotional territory, and the surprising strength of Davis and Grace’s feelings towards each other in a short time also makes for some teary-eyed moments. Even with these scenes however, the overall tone of the story is light and leans towards the romantic comedy end of the spectrum.
Grace and Davis have ample reasons not to trust that what they are experiencing is the real deal. They have to work through some of their issues – separately and together – in order to get their happy ever after, but it comes with the knowledge that what they’ve found is worth the risks. Arm Candy is a sexy romance that is going on my re-read shelf, with a sigh of envy for Grace having found a partner like Davis.
This review appears at All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
Grace Buchanan is a bartender at McGreevy’s pub. She’s well suited to the job, and truth be told isn’t looking for any other kind of career. She loves chatting with the regulars, is good at fending off over-amorous suitors and is happy with her single life. Her divorced parents (both, coincidentally divorce lawyers themselves) have soured her on the idea of happy ever afters so she’s definitely not looking for a relationship – even if one of her patrons keeps catching her eye.
Davis Price is the kind of guy who likes to follow a schedule. He works from home as a stock analyst and even there he sticks to regular hours, wearing his suit and tie and clocking out at 5pm, most often to head to McGreevy’s. He won’t admit that he’s lonely, but he needs some company after spending those working hours all alone. He’s always well dressed, makes Grace turn the TV above the bar to CNN (she usually does it when she sees him anyway), and verbal sparring with the fiery redhead (who changes shades on a surprisingly frequent basis) is undeniably one of the highlights of his day. He can make millions in a few hours (and often does) but the friendly down home atmosphere of the pub is more to his liking than a snobby restaurant. Just like his work schedule, his dating life is organized, too – blondes only, few repeats. Predictability never breeds excitement. Grace, on the other hand, is never predictable.
A discussion between Grace and Davis on the latter’s penchant for petite blondes leads to a discussion about his ‘type’ and then a bet and next thing you know, Grace is reluctantly agreeing to a date with hiim. Like all other things in his life, even his dating life has rules; he offers three packages to a potential partner: The Davis, the Davis Deluxe, and The Platinum Davis. Each has specific options. Sexting for example is only allowed as part of the deluxe package. When Gracie decides she wants the Platinum, Davis is delighted and proceeds to show her the best dating time of her life. Content at the start with a temporary arrangement, what will happen when one of them decides they want more?
Everyone deserves a date with a man like Davis, at least once in their life! He’s almost too good to be true, a gentleman in every sense of the word. He’s got manners, he’s got charm, he’s caring and protective, he’s a generous lover – really, he’s the full package. It’s no wonder that the blondes he meets and treats so well are always after a repeat, a fact that Grace had often noticed at the pub with a twinge of jealousy even before she and Davis made their bet. Now she knows why, and it’s a good thing this agreement with Davis has an end date because it would be really easy to fall for a guy like him, a fact that causes Grace some anxiety when she and Davis start to go beyond the bounds of their initial agreement. The sexual chemistry between them leads to some steamy scenes and the realization for both of them that it’s not going to be so easy to turn that off and go back to just being friends.
The story is told in first person from both points of view. Though I’m more used to that in new adult novels, it really works well here, giving insight into both of their characters. There is a good balance of humorous introspection and banter between Grace and Davis, and as a result, plenty of laugh-out-loud moments for the reader. They are both really likable, which makes their relationship quite fun to watch as it unfolds. Davis and Grace have both been hurt before in their personal lives and have some baggage to contend with that affects how they view this relationship and the choices they make.
Davis’s best friend Vince cautions him against moving too fast and these conversations between the guys are equally delightful as they have that ‘bro-mance’ quality where they can tease each other, and still give serious advice. Family plays an important role too, and we get some scenes with Davis’s grandmother who raised him (she’s a hoot!), and Grace���s estranged father (who has cancer) also makes an appearance. Here the story veers into more emotional territory, and the surprising strength of Davis and Grace’s feelings towards each other in a short time also makes for some teary-eyed moments. Even with these scenes however, the overall tone of the story is light and leans towards the romantic comedy end of the spectrum.
Grace and Davis have ample reasons not to trust that what they are experiencing is the real deal. They have to work through some of their issues – separately and together – in order to get their happy ever after, but it comes with the knowledge that what they’ve found is worth the risks. Arm Candy is a sexy romance that is going on my re-read shelf, with a sigh of envy for Grace having found a partner like Davis.
This review appears at All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
May 30, 2017
Jessica Lemmon’s sassy, confident writing is what had me requesting this ARC, though this turned out to be yet another chick-lit book that disappointed me with its predictability from start to finish, with main characters that are dime a dozen in the romance genre. 2 non-committal people make the (rather cynical) sex-only agreement, then find out they could be more thereafter, though it was an uphill climb to believe that genuine trust, respect and love could blossom out of chemistry in the bedroom and months of foreplay, as it always is when sex is done and out of the way so very early on in the story.
Admittedly though, the rating reflects a case of my liking a main character and intensely disliking the other—rather than the quality and style of Lemmon’s writing itself. Davis has had his heartbroken a few years ago and the default mode (as with most male protagonists in the romance genre, being cowardly and gun-shy after that) he goes back to after that wedding incident is being a manwhore about his dates and being unapologetic about deliberately living in an environment where he and the rest of the women can walk away after sex before anything can begin. It’s his way of ‘killing time’ supposedly, but no matter how Davis tries to rationalise it to convince himself that Grace is worth it, I couldn’t quite buy the fact that he wanted it all simply after a bet that Grace has impulsively taken up.
My own personal biases against such players do prevent me from liking protagonists like Davis, whose shallowness I couldn't get over—the offering of the ‘Davis’ package then flaunting his hookups just to get Grace to take up a bet was quite the last straw which I found more sleazy than charming. It was in short, difficult to think of Davis as something other than a huge cliché whose background and personal history dictate his behaviour with women and his escort-like packages and frankly, it was more of a turn-off than anything else. Grace on the other hand, is as jaded as Davis and yet there seemed to be more nuances to her character, although her own fear of commitment—for different reasons other than Davis’s ones—certainly isn’t hampered by her falling prey to Davis’s charm.
In short, without a grounding belief that Davis and Grace could work together, the rest of the story was hard to follow through when I stayed sceptical of them throughout when both characters seemed at various points in time, to have a foot out the door because fear, as always, took control up until the very end. ‘Arm Candy’ was unfortunately, a story that left me frustrated and less than enthused, because it simply felt like another variation of 2 people getting invested in each other after getting the best-of-their-lives-smexy times.
*ARC by netgalley
(grateful still, as always)
Admittedly though, the rating reflects a case of my liking a main character and intensely disliking the other—rather than the quality and style of Lemmon’s writing itself. Davis has had his heartbroken a few years ago and the default mode (as with most male protagonists in the romance genre, being cowardly and gun-shy after that) he goes back to after that wedding incident is being a manwhore about his dates and being unapologetic about deliberately living in an environment where he and the rest of the women can walk away after sex before anything can begin. It’s his way of ‘killing time’ supposedly, but no matter how Davis tries to rationalise it to convince himself that Grace is worth it, I couldn’t quite buy the fact that he wanted it all simply after a bet that Grace has impulsively taken up.
My own personal biases against such players do prevent me from liking protagonists like Davis, whose shallowness I couldn't get over—the offering of the ‘Davis’ package then flaunting his hookups just to get Grace to take up a bet was quite the last straw which I found more sleazy than charming. It was in short, difficult to think of Davis as something other than a huge cliché whose background and personal history dictate his behaviour with women and his escort-like packages and frankly, it was more of a turn-off than anything else. Grace on the other hand, is as jaded as Davis and yet there seemed to be more nuances to her character, although her own fear of commitment—for different reasons other than Davis’s ones—certainly isn’t hampered by her falling prey to Davis’s charm.
In short, without a grounding belief that Davis and Grace could work together, the rest of the story was hard to follow through when I stayed sceptical of them throughout when both characters seemed at various points in time, to have a foot out the door because fear, as always, took control up until the very end. ‘Arm Candy’ was unfortunately, a story that left me frustrated and less than enthused, because it simply felt like another variation of 2 people getting invested in each other after getting the best-of-their-lives-smexy times.
*ARC by netgalley
(grateful still, as always)
September 12, 2017
Book kindly provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
5 Gracie Lou stars!
I was so happy to read Davis's story and so lucky that it was before it's released (Thank you Loveswept).
I met Davis in Eye Candy and from the first moment, I knew that his story would be interesting but frankly it was unexpectedly and gorgeously heart melting.
“I want you, Gracie,” he breathes.
“You can have me, Davis,”
I loved the banter between Davis and Grace and the I-hate-you to I-love-you thing was so beautifully and heartbrakingly good that I felt like I was in the middle of the story.
“I don’t want you to fade. I never want to forget the exact way you look when you say my name.” Her expression softens. “I don’t want any part of you to blur in my memory— not your beautiful face or when you wear your hair curly. I never want to forget what you feel like against me when we dance.” I swallow around a thick lump of anxiety and add, “I never want to forget the way it felt when you told me you loved me.”
So yeah! If you love your men handsome, cocky and sure of themselves, and if you like your women sassy, confident and gorgeous then this is definitely your book.
5 Gracie Lou stars!
I was so happy to read Davis's story and so lucky that it was before it's released (Thank you Loveswept).
I met Davis in Eye Candy and from the first moment, I knew that his story would be interesting but frankly it was unexpectedly and gorgeously heart melting.
“I want you, Gracie,” he breathes.
“You can have me, Davis,”
I loved the banter between Davis and Grace and the I-hate-you to I-love-you thing was so beautifully and heartbrakingly good that I felt like I was in the middle of the story.
“I don’t want you to fade. I never want to forget the exact way you look when you say my name.” Her expression softens. “I don’t want any part of you to blur in my memory— not your beautiful face or when you wear your hair curly. I never want to forget what you feel like against me when we dance.” I swallow around a thick lump of anxiety and add, “I never want to forget the way it felt when you told me you loved me.”
So yeah! If you love your men handsome, cocky and sure of themselves, and if you like your women sassy, confident and gorgeous then this is definitely your book.
August 30, 2017
Arm Candy
Real Love #2
Jessica Lemmon
I so love this series. This author makes all of her stories so realistic and has a great writing style. Once you start reading you just fall in love with her characters.
I have really enjoyed both the books in this series and can't wait for book 3 to come out.
Thanks NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
Real Love #2
Jessica Lemmon
I so love this series. This author makes all of her stories so realistic and has a great writing style. Once you start reading you just fall in love with her characters.
I have really enjoyed both the books in this series and can't wait for book 3 to come out.
Thanks NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
August 22, 2017
***ARC Provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley***
Dear Jessica Lemmon,
How, HOW do you keep writing the best possible book boyfriends? How am I supposed to pick one? Well, I refuse to pick and I am just going to keep reading your books, because each is better than the last (seriously, HOW do you keep doing this???)
Arm Candy was absolutely not what I thought it was going to be...and at the same time, it was.
Ms. Lemmon has a style of writing that makes you laugh while you are crying and vice versa. I think, at least for me, this is the appeal. At first glance, her books are a light read...but then you start them, and you are crying, your heart is breaking, and you are laughing...wondering where that light read went...until it appears again, and there is a phrase that just makes you laugh.
Davis is so perfect. I loved all of his little quirks and contradictions, the way he dresses for work in his home office is so telling about who he is on the outside, the inside, and the importance he places on appearances, about looking a certain way, and about being a certain way.
Until he meets Grace and she is none of those things. She isn't what he thinks he wants, she doesn't fit the mold. More importantly, she doesn't fit with what he thinks he should want, so he fights the attraction...her hair is the wrong color, she has the wrong job...he fights it.
And, then he takes a bet. Not because he can't back down, but because it is an excuse. Davis can let himself want Grace, because the date wasn't his idea...it was a bet. It's his cover, his rationale, and the way he talks himself into it being ok to be with her. I loved how incredibly relate-able this is...I think we all have something that we would do, in a heartbeat, if we could place the blame (or at least the catalyst) for doing it on someone else. Davis is no fool and he jumps at the chance.
The rest of the book is them working it out, learning about themselves while figuring out the other person and learning how to make things work and the value of putting in the effort when you find that one person who just gets you. There are some dips, and some things that happen that are very real life, but I loved how each event worked to further the story and to let you get to know Davis and Grace just a little more with each event.
Remember how I said she didn't fit the mold for Davis? No problem, she breaks it apart until there's nothing left but dust. And, it's quite a ride. I recommend this title.
Dear Jessica Lemmon,
How, HOW do you keep writing the best possible book boyfriends? How am I supposed to pick one? Well, I refuse to pick and I am just going to keep reading your books, because each is better than the last (seriously, HOW do you keep doing this???)
Arm Candy was absolutely not what I thought it was going to be...and at the same time, it was.
Ms. Lemmon has a style of writing that makes you laugh while you are crying and vice versa. I think, at least for me, this is the appeal. At first glance, her books are a light read...but then you start them, and you are crying, your heart is breaking, and you are laughing...wondering where that light read went...until it appears again, and there is a phrase that just makes you laugh.
Davis is so perfect. I loved all of his little quirks and contradictions, the way he dresses for work in his home office is so telling about who he is on the outside, the inside, and the importance he places on appearances, about looking a certain way, and about being a certain way.
Until he meets Grace and she is none of those things. She isn't what he thinks he wants, she doesn't fit the mold. More importantly, she doesn't fit with what he thinks he should want, so he fights the attraction...her hair is the wrong color, she has the wrong job...he fights it.
And, then he takes a bet. Not because he can't back down, but because it is an excuse. Davis can let himself want Grace, because the date wasn't his idea...it was a bet. It's his cover, his rationale, and the way he talks himself into it being ok to be with her. I loved how incredibly relate-able this is...I think we all have something that we would do, in a heartbeat, if we could place the blame (or at least the catalyst) for doing it on someone else. Davis is no fool and he jumps at the chance.
The rest of the book is them working it out, learning about themselves while figuring out the other person and learning how to make things work and the value of putting in the effort when you find that one person who just gets you. There are some dips, and some things that happen that are very real life, but I loved how each event worked to further the story and to let you get to know Davis and Grace just a little more with each event.
Remember how I said she didn't fit the mold for Davis? No problem, she breaks it apart until there's nothing left but dust. And, it's quite a ride. I recommend this title.
September 13, 2017
4 Stars
Arm Candy by Jessica Lemmon is a very enjoyable read.
I found the storyline entertaining, the writing is well done and the characters were relatable, likable and had amazing chemistry.
I really enjoyed watching Davis and Grace's relationship unfold. They entertained me with their banter and touched me with their love. These two were perfect for each other and totally deserved their happily ever after.
Arm Candy is a fun, sweet and heartwarming read and I highly recommend it.
The Real Love series keeps getting better with each release and I'm looking forward to Man Candy which comes out Jan 9th, 2018.
*Arm Candy ~ Buy links*
Amazon - http://amzn.to/2kmTenO
Barnes and Noble - https://tinyurl.com/ycuy5o5z
iBooks - https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/arm-...…
Kobo - https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/arm-...
*Thank you to the publisher via Netgalley for the advance copy.*
Arm Candy by Jessica Lemmon is a very enjoyable read.
I found the storyline entertaining, the writing is well done and the characters were relatable, likable and had amazing chemistry.
I really enjoyed watching Davis and Grace's relationship unfold. They entertained me with their banter and touched me with their love. These two were perfect for each other and totally deserved their happily ever after.
Arm Candy is a fun, sweet and heartwarming read and I highly recommend it.
The Real Love series keeps getting better with each release and I'm looking forward to Man Candy which comes out Jan 9th, 2018.
*Arm Candy ~ Buy links*
Amazon - http://amzn.to/2kmTenO
Barnes and Noble - https://tinyurl.com/ycuy5o5z
iBooks - https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/arm-...…
Kobo - https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/arm-...
*Thank you to the publisher via Netgalley for the advance copy.*
August 14, 2019
Honestly, this was boring.
Sorry... not sorry.
I could not bring myself to care about either MC.
I didn't understand or even remotely feel their love connection at all.
The story was slow and underwhelming.
Sorry... not sorry.
I could not bring myself to care about either MC.
I didn't understand or even remotely feel their love connection at all.
The story was slow and underwhelming.
August 24, 2017
Another winner from Jessica in the Real Love series. I loved this story. Davis and Grace. Or Gracie Lou as he calls her.
Grace is a manager/bartender at McGreeveys Pub, with Dax the owner awol since summer began everyone has pitched in and worked. Davis comes in every night after work, parks his butt in his seat, which he says is his, dressed in his suit and tie and most nights leaves with some twig like blonde he picks up and never sees again. Until the night Grace catches his eye, for reasons you have to read. Grace is a red head. Any color red works for Grace. Davis has his own TV at the pub which is always tuned to CNN and he watches the stock feed. He may have one or two Sam's and that's it.
It's funny watching these two waltz around each other and you learn a lot about Grace's past and Davis's as well. This progresses to serious when he takes her to meet his much loved Grandma. She's a pisser and I loved her. She raised him. It's obvious he adores her. He tends her every need and he's done extremely well for himself and has more money than he knows what to do with. He and Grace actually go on dates. Grace works long hours, odd schedules and is often tired. Davis treats her to things that break the monotony of daily life. I loved that. He's not pretentious at all. He remembers where he came from.
When Grace's father reappears after a lifetime of absence, things take an unforeseen twist. Brings a little challenge for Grace and we meet her mother. (Bah!!) No matter what Davis backs her up with things that are happening. It's a real treat to watch these two open to each other and not to mention the chemistry and steam between the two. Yes indeed!!
As things go Grace hits the panic button and the crap hits the fan. Leaving the two most miserable people on earth. Glad they aren't my friends because they both would have gotten their butts kicked.
Jessica did such an amazing job telling this story and developing these two. I loved the way Davis changed. How much he affected Grace and how very different they were. Pretty sure this is my favorite out of the two. But Dax is up next so who knows what wicked tale that would bring. Jessica always writes a phenomenal story and she's hit this one out of the park.
This story begged to be told as much as it begs to be read! Read it!! Great story J!!!
**arc from NetGalley and Loveswept in exchange for a fair review**
Grace is a manager/bartender at McGreeveys Pub, with Dax the owner awol since summer began everyone has pitched in and worked. Davis comes in every night after work, parks his butt in his seat, which he says is his, dressed in his suit and tie and most nights leaves with some twig like blonde he picks up and never sees again. Until the night Grace catches his eye, for reasons you have to read. Grace is a red head. Any color red works for Grace. Davis has his own TV at the pub which is always tuned to CNN and he watches the stock feed. He may have one or two Sam's and that's it.
It's funny watching these two waltz around each other and you learn a lot about Grace's past and Davis's as well. This progresses to serious when he takes her to meet his much loved Grandma. She's a pisser and I loved her. She raised him. It's obvious he adores her. He tends her every need and he's done extremely well for himself and has more money than he knows what to do with. He and Grace actually go on dates. Grace works long hours, odd schedules and is often tired. Davis treats her to things that break the monotony of daily life. I loved that. He's not pretentious at all. He remembers where he came from.
When Grace's father reappears after a lifetime of absence, things take an unforeseen twist. Brings a little challenge for Grace and we meet her mother. (Bah!!) No matter what Davis backs her up with things that are happening. It's a real treat to watch these two open to each other and not to mention the chemistry and steam between the two. Yes indeed!!
As things go Grace hits the panic button and the crap hits the fan. Leaving the two most miserable people on earth. Glad they aren't my friends because they both would have gotten their butts kicked.
Jessica did such an amazing job telling this story and developing these two. I loved the way Davis changed. How much he affected Grace and how very different they were. Pretty sure this is my favorite out of the two. But Dax is up next so who knows what wicked tale that would bring. Jessica always writes a phenomenal story and she's hit this one out of the park.
This story begged to be told as much as it begs to be read! Read it!! Great story J!!!
**arc from NetGalley and Loveswept in exchange for a fair review**
August 2, 2017
I've read quite a few books by Jessica Lemmon and one thing I know that I can always count on with one of her books is that it will keep me entertained and I'll enjoy my reading experience. Once again, Lemmon delivered. Not that I expected her not to, but it's always a pleasant surprise when a book is awesome.
I liked Arm Candy. Was it my favorite book by Lemmon? No. But it also wasn't the worst book I've ever read. I think that my only issue with it was how slow it was. There's nothing wrong with a book that is at a slower pace ... it's just not something I had experienced with this author before, so I was a little taken aback. Now all of that being said, I think that the pace really matched up with the characters - especially Davis. Our leading man, Davis, is some sort of day trader or stock something-or-other. He goes to the bar that Grace works out to decompress a little bit. I think that the pace of the book was really just the pace of Davis as he sits on that bar stool a few times a week. I liked Davis ... he wasn't one of those characters that made me fan myself, but I liked him.
Now Grace ... this chick is awesome. I really liked her character and just the way that she presented herself. She's sassy and doesn't really care what you think about it. I think we could all use a little inner Grace sometimes. And Grace and Davis together ... he changed a little bit when the sparks started flying between them. I enjoyed the little transformation that he went through.
The story itself was great. I liked the direction that the book went in and I really have no complaints about it. Everything was stellar, even if the pace was a little slow for my liking - it seemed perfect for the characters though and that's really what counts. It seems that it doesn't matter what Lemmon writes, I'll be picking it up. Guaranteed good time with her stuff.
* I received this novel in exchange for an honest review *
Check out more of my reviews at Little Miss Bookmark!
January 24, 2019
Audible version. Great narrator.
Shortly into this story I decided Davis was my new type. Now that I’ve finished I’m certain he’s amazing & am half in love with him. 😍 Grace & Davis was a good match. The story was lol funny & incredibly sweet. A fun romcom that I recommend to anyone in the mood for a light & minimal drama storyline. 5 stars
Shortly into this story I decided Davis was my new type. Now that I’ve finished I’m certain he’s amazing & am half in love with him. 😍 Grace & Davis was a good match. The story was lol funny & incredibly sweet. A fun romcom that I recommend to anyone in the mood for a light & minimal drama storyline. 5 stars
July 12, 2017
*5 You've got yourself a bet Stars*
ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
Hot damn! I loved this book! I was keen to read it after the first book and then when I found out this one was Davis, oh boy I was excited.
I love Davis so much! I had a bit of a perception of what he would be like and I was totally wrong. I loved him from the start and I loved Gracie as well. In the first book in the series I loved the little snippets we got of their banter, but when you get a whole book about them, oh boy oh boy oh boy.
Lemmon writes these in such a way that the story flows nicely with lots of fun and happy bits, info about the characters pasts and very little angst. I love that the angst isn't dragged out. I don't mind when it is, but in these books it works so well the way that is, which is not dragged out.
The ending of the book was perfect as well, I really loved it.
Bring on book 3!
ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
Hot damn! I loved this book! I was keen to read it after the first book and then when I found out this one was Davis, oh boy I was excited.
I love Davis so much! I had a bit of a perception of what he would be like and I was totally wrong. I loved him from the start and I loved Gracie as well. In the first book in the series I loved the little snippets we got of their banter, but when you get a whole book about them, oh boy oh boy oh boy.
Lemmon writes these in such a way that the story flows nicely with lots of fun and happy bits, info about the characters pasts and very little angst. I love that the angst isn't dragged out. I don't mind when it is, but in these books it works so well the way that is, which is not dragged out.
The ending of the book was perfect as well, I really loved it.
Bring on book 3!
September 22, 2017
3.5 stars.
This is the second book in Jessica Lemmon's "Real Love" series and since I had already read the first book I had an idea what to expect from Grace and Davis in this one.
Grace is a wonderfully sassy and fiery redhead with a dismal dating history, she rarely makes it past date number three.
Davis on the other hand is a confident, somewhat cocky stock analyst, he is always immaculately dressed in a suit even though he works from home.
McGreevy's Bar where Grace is the bartender is Davis's evening hangout. It is where he comes to relax and hook up with a long string of blondes.
In truth Davis hasn't properly dated another woman since his fiancée Hanna (a redhead) deserted him on his wedding day several years ago and so when Grace questions him about "Why the long line of pastel-wearing, petite blondes?" He offers a wager and she counters with " I'll bet you one hundred dollars you won't ask out the next non blonde who approaches you". When he rolls his eyes in response to suggest that is way to easy, Grace replies "two hundred if she's a redhead". His cocky smile fades at that, but then Davis grabs Grace's wrist and says "I win".
Grace is alarmed but accepts the challenge and then is informed that Davis has 3 packages that he offers his dates: The Davis, The Davis Deluxe and the Platinum Davis (this part was just way too amusing).
I really did like the way the author handled this story and her characters have a lot of complexity. This has been an entertaining series so far and YES you can sign me up for book three "Man Candy".
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in Jessica Lemmon's "Real Love" series and since I had already read the first book I had an idea what to expect from Grace and Davis in this one.
Grace is a wonderfully sassy and fiery redhead with a dismal dating history, she rarely makes it past date number three.
Davis on the other hand is a confident, somewhat cocky stock analyst, he is always immaculately dressed in a suit even though he works from home.
McGreevy's Bar where Grace is the bartender is Davis's evening hangout. It is where he comes to relax and hook up with a long string of blondes.
In truth Davis hasn't properly dated another woman since his fiancée Hanna (a redhead) deserted him on his wedding day several years ago and so when Grace questions him about "Why the long line of pastel-wearing, petite blondes?" He offers a wager and she counters with " I'll bet you one hundred dollars you won't ask out the next non blonde who approaches you". When he rolls his eyes in response to suggest that is way to easy, Grace replies "two hundred if she's a redhead". His cocky smile fades at that, but then Davis grabs Grace's wrist and says "I win".
Grace is alarmed but accepts the challenge and then is informed that Davis has 3 packages that he offers his dates: The Davis, The Davis Deluxe and the Platinum Davis (this part was just way too amusing).
I really did like the way the author handled this story and her characters have a lot of complexity. This has been an entertaining series so far and YES you can sign me up for book three "Man Candy".
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2018
Damn it! Damn it! Damn it! It was so good, and then she came and ruined it!!! Not even two of my favorite narrators could save it. Actually, the three stars are mostly for them, they did a great job, as usual. The rest? Well the story was sooooo sweet and sexy, until it wasnt. Doesnt matter that it has its HEA, the way the climax developed ruined it for me. I hate heroines that start powerful and confident and end up being whiny idiots.
September 3, 2017
Bartender Grace Buchanan's personality is as brash as her red hair and tattoos. Not many can fluster or hold their own against her until she comes across Davis Price a devastatingly handsome Stock Analyst and bar regular with a wicked wit and bucket loads of self confidence. Grace interacts with Davis as if he is the last man on earth she would take seriously, forget about going on a date with, and Davis' penchant for enthusiastic blondes would seemingly put her out of the running with him. But when the the barely suppressed sexual tension between the two comes to a head one night and results in Grace challenging Davis to date a non-blonde things get complicated when the non-blonde he pursues is Grace.
Looks can be deceiving and Grace and Davis were a perfect example of this as their outer appearances and habits labeled them as a rebel and a corporate playboy. While Grace was edgy in appearance and shunned a nine to five lifestyle, Davis dressed in suits, despite working from home, and rigidly stuck to his schedule. But digging a little deeper and as the story expanded it became obvious that Davis was the more flexible and open minded one of this couple, in fact he was the real communicator of the two. When this dynamic came into play is when this work really took off. While this pairing showed all the signs of potentially being a perfect match their unresolved imperfect pasts was a huge stumbling point for them. Grace's growing up in a home where her parents dysfunctional relationship colored all of hers and Davis' being left at the altar by his ex-fiance represented serious impediments to these two finding and more importantly keeping love. Grace's tough exterior hid her insecurities while Davis had a quiet strength that his wisecracking banter veiled. In the end it was the exposure of these traits that spurred their complex feelings and opened up a world of possibilities.
Jessica Lemmon shows in book two of her Real Love series, Arm Candy, that she not only knows her characters but her audience! This author uses humor liberally in her work but that by no means lessens the serious feelings that are explored in her writing. There is nothing typical about Ms. Lemmon's portrayals even as she breaks them down to their most rudimental going to a place that her audience can emotionally find in common with her cast. The inclusion of seemingly innocent moments such as holding hands and cuddling while binging on Netflix made Grace and Davis you or I or any other couple in their familiarity. Her stories are personal and she speaks the universal language of love fluently leaving readers crying on one page and laughing on the next because real love survives the good, bad and everything in between in life. Don't expect fairy tales from Jessica Lemmon,even better she offers wonderful lemmon tales going to places we can all wrap our heads and hearts around. Arm Candy will make you feel like a reader in a bookstore, you don't want to miss out on this one!
*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
*While part of a series this work can be read as a stand alone.*
Looks can be deceiving and Grace and Davis were a perfect example of this as their outer appearances and habits labeled them as a rebel and a corporate playboy. While Grace was edgy in appearance and shunned a nine to five lifestyle, Davis dressed in suits, despite working from home, and rigidly stuck to his schedule. But digging a little deeper and as the story expanded it became obvious that Davis was the more flexible and open minded one of this couple, in fact he was the real communicator of the two. When this dynamic came into play is when this work really took off. While this pairing showed all the signs of potentially being a perfect match their unresolved imperfect pasts was a huge stumbling point for them. Grace's growing up in a home where her parents dysfunctional relationship colored all of hers and Davis' being left at the altar by his ex-fiance represented serious impediments to these two finding and more importantly keeping love. Grace's tough exterior hid her insecurities while Davis had a quiet strength that his wisecracking banter veiled. In the end it was the exposure of these traits that spurred their complex feelings and opened up a world of possibilities.
Jessica Lemmon shows in book two of her Real Love series, Arm Candy, that she not only knows her characters but her audience! This author uses humor liberally in her work but that by no means lessens the serious feelings that are explored in her writing. There is nothing typical about Ms. Lemmon's portrayals even as she breaks them down to their most rudimental going to a place that her audience can emotionally find in common with her cast. The inclusion of seemingly innocent moments such as holding hands and cuddling while binging on Netflix made Grace and Davis you or I or any other couple in their familiarity. Her stories are personal and she speaks the universal language of love fluently leaving readers crying on one page and laughing on the next because real love survives the good, bad and everything in between in life. Don't expect fairy tales from Jessica Lemmon,even better she offers wonderful lemmon tales going to places we can all wrap our heads and hearts around. Arm Candy will make you feel like a reader in a bookstore, you don't want to miss out on this one!
*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
*While part of a series this work can be read as a stand alone.*
September 5, 2017
Coffee Dates with Arm Candy
First Date: On our first date we get to know the players. Grace is a fiery red-head with brains whose law degree sits in the back of her closet because bartending is what makes her happy. She doesn't believe in happily ever after and has never had a serious relationship. The suit at the bar aka, "Davis" is a regular and the chemistry between them zings, but neither has made a move. She sees him as a player, and he never dates red-heads. While I am unsure of Davis and think our girl Grace has issues Lemmon has me hooked.
Second Date: Oh yeah, this is going to be fun. Davis is smooth, and a bet made with a snarky jest soon has them negotiating a relationship with an end date. The chemistry was off the charts, and the heat level had me fanning myself. Hot, romantic dates, firsts, and steamy shower sex soon lead to Netflix binging. I enjoyed page time with these characters. Secondary characters added to the tale and enabled insight into Davis and Grace.
Third Date: Can these two overcome their fears? The dual perspective allows readers to connect and understand the characters making the dates delightful. The drama was kept to a minimum and allowed for character growth. Grace struggled, and Lemmon did a great job of validating her fears with a tight backstory and a demanding mother. Davis's grandma was adorable. I hope I am that sassy at her age! Swoons, tears and tender moments await you on this third date. I read ARM CANDY in a single evening and closed the book with a smile.
Copy provided by the publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
First Date: On our first date we get to know the players. Grace is a fiery red-head with brains whose law degree sits in the back of her closet because bartending is what makes her happy. She doesn't believe in happily ever after and has never had a serious relationship. The suit at the bar aka, "Davis" is a regular and the chemistry between them zings, but neither has made a move. She sees him as a player, and he never dates red-heads. While I am unsure of Davis and think our girl Grace has issues Lemmon has me hooked.
Second Date: Oh yeah, this is going to be fun. Davis is smooth, and a bet made with a snarky jest soon has them negotiating a relationship with an end date. The chemistry was off the charts, and the heat level had me fanning myself. Hot, romantic dates, firsts, and steamy shower sex soon lead to Netflix binging. I enjoyed page time with these characters. Secondary characters added to the tale and enabled insight into Davis and Grace.
Third Date: Can these two overcome their fears? The dual perspective allows readers to connect and understand the characters making the dates delightful. The drama was kept to a minimum and allowed for character growth. Grace struggled, and Lemmon did a great job of validating her fears with a tight backstory and a demanding mother. Davis's grandma was adorable. I hope I am that sassy at her age! Swoons, tears and tender moments await you on this third date. I read ARM CANDY in a single evening and closed the book with a smile.
Copy provided by the publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
September 5, 2017
Love the cover!
I really enjoyed this but I think if you haven't read the first book you would miss a lot of the sexual tension that grows between Davis and Grace. I've noticed this with a few series where the seeds of a romance are planted in the previous book, if you are not careful the actual novel feels as though it is missing something; in this case the banter between Davis and Grace.
Davis is a stock analyst, even though he works at home he still wears a suit and tie EVERY day. Each night he comes to McGreevy's Pub for a Sam Adams, more often that not he leaves with a petite blonde on his arm, but rarely the same one. Grace is the red-haired bartender at McGreevy's, she and Davis trade insults nightly, until she bets him $100 that he won't go out with the next non-blonde that approaches him, $200 if it's a redhead. Challenge accepted, but Davis chooses Grace.
Davis really is the perfect date, thoughtful, attentive, caring, handsome and educated. Six years ago he was left at the altar by his redheaded fiancé and that has left some scars, and an aversion to redheads. But he finds Grace intriguing. Grace is the daughter of two divorce lawyers who stayed together for her sake, something she wishes they hadn't done. Since then, she has not seen her father which has also left a mark on her.
Can an uptight suit and a fiery bartender make a go of it? Hell yes!
I think I liked this even more than the first one. Can't wait to see who the third one is about. Is it the mysterious Dax or maybe Davis' colleagues Simpson and Charmaine?
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
I really enjoyed this but I think if you haven't read the first book you would miss a lot of the sexual tension that grows between Davis and Grace. I've noticed this with a few series where the seeds of a romance are planted in the previous book, if you are not careful the actual novel feels as though it is missing something; in this case the banter between Davis and Grace.
Davis is a stock analyst, even though he works at home he still wears a suit and tie EVERY day. Each night he comes to McGreevy's Pub for a Sam Adams, more often that not he leaves with a petite blonde on his arm, but rarely the same one. Grace is the red-haired bartender at McGreevy's, she and Davis trade insults nightly, until she bets him $100 that he won't go out with the next non-blonde that approaches him, $200 if it's a redhead. Challenge accepted, but Davis chooses Grace.
Davis really is the perfect date, thoughtful, attentive, caring, handsome and educated. Six years ago he was left at the altar by his redheaded fiancé and that has left some scars, and an aversion to redheads. But he finds Grace intriguing. Grace is the daughter of two divorce lawyers who stayed together for her sake, something she wishes they hadn't done. Since then, she has not seen her father which has also left a mark on her.
Can an uptight suit and a fiery bartender make a go of it? Hell yes!
I think I liked this even more than the first one. Can't wait to see who the third one is about. Is it the mysterious Dax or maybe Davis' colleagues Simpson and Charmaine?
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
June 22, 2017
** ARC provided by Loveswept via NetGalley for an honest review**
Jessica Lemmon has a great writing style where the characters feel like real people. There are scenes of just banter that feel incredibly organic. It’s a real talent to be able to write a scene of just average everyday dialogue and have it feel compelling. It also helps endear me to the characters and really care about their fate. For me, I will put up with a whole lot of bad plot if I genuinely like the characters. Luckily, in the case of Arm Candy I didn’t have to. I loved both the characters and the plot immensely. I’ll be honest, Arm Candy is pure book candy. It was delightful and sweet but doesn’t have a lot of substance. WHICH IS EXACTLY WHAT I LOVED ABOUT IT! It was light and ever so funny with well-rounded characters. I would read a phone book if those components were all present!
Our romantic leads are Davis and Grace who we were introduced to in the previous book Eye Candy. I’ve got to say… I loved Davis and Grace even more than I loved Vince and Jackie. They had a wonderful chemistry between them and I really enjoyed the moments where they were just “being” with each other watching zombie shows or eating potato chips. It was so sweet to see their friendship growing alongside their romance. Also, Davis is just plain wonderful and I have nothing but hearts and rainbows in my soul for him! He’s totally my new book boyfriend. Sorry Grace!
So, according to Grace she “has some issues.” The whole problem with their relationship was the idea of self-sabotage. You know the adage of “if you don’t get attached then you can’t get hurt.” The problem with that thinking is what do you do when you do get attached? Self-sabotage is a hard cycle to break and I was glad it wasn’t the main focus of the story. Yes, it was always there as a niggling little thought in the background but for the most part they were able to move past it. When the inevitable breakup came, it felt rushed but thankfully it was easily resolved. I actually liked that it wasn’t drawn out over several chapters of the main couple being miserable. It was only about one real chapter of misery and then by the end of it everything was great again! Thank you Jessica Lemmon for not dwelling on the misery! In the time she didn’t dwell on misery, she infused the story with so much humor that I was literally laughing out loud.
As for the smut… wow! The steam factor here is off the charts! (Slight spoiler ahead) Davis does this kind of sex hypnosis thing that so hot. He basically tells Grace he’s going to count down from 5 and when he gets to 1 she’s supposed come. AND IT WORKS! Davis is some kind of sexual wizard! While the smut was (obviously) fantastic and incredibly hot, it also had an air of believability. Yes, Davis and Grace are having mind blowing sex but there isn’t any cliché “romancey” talk about how it’s the hardest they’ve ever come or something. The excellent smut speaks for itself and doesn’t have to rely on hyperbole to sell it. So maybe this comes down to the whole rule of “show me, don’t tell me”? …I mean that in the least pornographic way. I swear!
So like I said, Arm Candy is book candy but in its best form. It’s short, sweet, to the point, and filled with smutty delights! I’m so glad I found this series! I can’t wait to get my hands of the next book Man Candy but it looks like I will have to wait until next year! I WANT IT NOW! P.S. GRANDMA ROSE IS A GANGSTA!
Jessica Lemmon has a great writing style where the characters feel like real people. There are scenes of just banter that feel incredibly organic. It’s a real talent to be able to write a scene of just average everyday dialogue and have it feel compelling. It also helps endear me to the characters and really care about their fate. For me, I will put up with a whole lot of bad plot if I genuinely like the characters. Luckily, in the case of Arm Candy I didn’t have to. I loved both the characters and the plot immensely. I’ll be honest, Arm Candy is pure book candy. It was delightful and sweet but doesn’t have a lot of substance. WHICH IS EXACTLY WHAT I LOVED ABOUT IT! It was light and ever so funny with well-rounded characters. I would read a phone book if those components were all present!
Our romantic leads are Davis and Grace who we were introduced to in the previous book Eye Candy. I’ve got to say… I loved Davis and Grace even more than I loved Vince and Jackie. They had a wonderful chemistry between them and I really enjoyed the moments where they were just “being” with each other watching zombie shows or eating potato chips. It was so sweet to see their friendship growing alongside their romance. Also, Davis is just plain wonderful and I have nothing but hearts and rainbows in my soul for him! He’s totally my new book boyfriend. Sorry Grace!
“I’m like a piñata, but filled with terror instead of candy.”
So, according to Grace she “has some issues.” The whole problem with their relationship was the idea of self-sabotage. You know the adage of “if you don’t get attached then you can’t get hurt.” The problem with that thinking is what do you do when you do get attached? Self-sabotage is a hard cycle to break and I was glad it wasn’t the main focus of the story. Yes, it was always there as a niggling little thought in the background but for the most part they were able to move past it. When the inevitable breakup came, it felt rushed but thankfully it was easily resolved. I actually liked that it wasn’t drawn out over several chapters of the main couple being miserable. It was only about one real chapter of misery and then by the end of it everything was great again! Thank you Jessica Lemmon for not dwelling on the misery! In the time she didn’t dwell on misery, she infused the story with so much humor that I was literally laughing out loud.
As for the smut… wow! The steam factor here is off the charts! (Slight spoiler ahead) Davis does this kind of sex hypnosis thing that so hot. He basically tells Grace he’s going to count down from 5 and when he gets to 1 she’s supposed come. AND IT WORKS! Davis is some kind of sexual wizard! While the smut was (obviously) fantastic and incredibly hot, it also had an air of believability. Yes, Davis and Grace are having mind blowing sex but there isn’t any cliché “romancey” talk about how it’s the hardest they’ve ever come or something. The excellent smut speaks for itself and doesn’t have to rely on hyperbole to sell it. So maybe this comes down to the whole rule of “show me, don’t tell me”? …I mean that in the least pornographic way. I swear!
So like I said, Arm Candy is book candy but in its best form. It’s short, sweet, to the point, and filled with smutty delights! I’m so glad I found this series! I can’t wait to get my hands of the next book Man Candy but it looks like I will have to wait until next year! I WANT IT NOW! P.S. GRANDMA ROSE IS A GANGSTA!
March 16, 2021
"Arm Candy" is the second book in the Real Love series.
I really liked the premise with the female bartender and her regular guest but I have to say that I am not completely happy with the story.
I think the setting has lots of potential and I was looking foward to some great romance but the characters remain a bit shallow unfortunately. I was missing some sparks and fire between them especially because Grace is a very extrovert character who is always saying what she is thinking.
The story was still kind of entertaining although the romance felt very rushed and I didn't fully connect with the characters.
The writing style was ok but sometimes I was stumbling over the words.
I really liked the premise with the female bartender and her regular guest but I have to say that I am not completely happy with the story.
I think the setting has lots of potential and I was looking foward to some great romance but the characters remain a bit shallow unfortunately. I was missing some sparks and fire between them especially because Grace is a very extrovert character who is always saying what she is thinking.
The story was still kind of entertaining although the romance felt very rushed and I didn't fully connect with the characters.
The writing style was ok but sometimes I was stumbling over the words.
August 31, 2017
Arm Candy takes a less conventional but realistic route on the road to romance. Lust + Laughter = Love. Temptation is the draw, but laughter sweetens the pot and I'm a sucker for an awesome love match. Ms. Lemmon left her mark with Grace and Davis' tango into love. She knows his type. He wants her heart. This time around, it's the bad girl that holds all the cards and Mr. Straight Laced, may have just met his match. Jessica Lemmon knows how to create a tasty, tempting treat. Arm Candy is a beautiful surprise.
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