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Heart of Fame #2
Muscle for Hire
Aslin Rhodes spent years as an SAS commando and then personal bodyguard. But his new career as a military consultant on a blockbuster film has put him slap bang in the middle of Hollyweird, where an American martial arts expert no taller than his chin promptly puts him on his arse.
Rowan Hemsworth is determined to protect herself and those she loves, especially her little brother as he navigates his newfound fame, but nothing prepared her for the British mountain of muscle who makes her knees go uncharacteristically weak.
When a string of “accidents” convinces Aslin that Rowan—and not her brother—is the target, things get tricky. Stubborn Rowan doesn’t believe she needs his protection, and keeping her close becomes his top priority. And there’s nowhere closer than right in his arms.
Each book in the Heart of Fame series is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order.
Series Order:
Book #1 Love’s Rhythm
Book #2 Muscle for Hire
Book #3 Guarded Desires
Book #4 Steady Beat
Book #5 Lead Me On
Book #6 Blame it on the Bass
Book #7 Getting Played
Book #8 Blackthorne
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 29, 2013
232 people are currently reading
1420 people want to read
About the author
Lexxie Couper
135 books1,141 followersLexxie’s not a deviant. She just has a deviant’s imagination and a desire to entertain readers with her words. Add the two together and you get darkly erotic romances with a twist of horror, sci-fi and the paranormal.
When she’s not submerged in the worlds she creates, Lexxie’s life revolves around her family, a husband who thinks she’s insane, a indoor cat who likes to stalk shadows, two yabbies hell-bent on destroying their tank and her daughters, who both utterly captured her heart and changed her life forever.
Having no idea how old she really is, Lexxie decided to go with 27 and has been that age for quite some time now. It's the best of both worlds - old enough to act mature, young enough to be silly.
And silly she can be. Just ask her husband who frequently has to endure her bursting into song whenever the mood strikes her, feeling him up in public (one of her favorite pastimes), or rolling around in the sand with their dog - a large mutt of dubious origins who causes almost as much havoc around the neighborhood as Lexxie herself. Or squealing her way down the slide at the local park with her daughter!
Lexxie lives by two simple rules - measure your success not by how much money you have, but by how often you laugh, and always try everything at least once. As a consequence, she's laughed her way through many an eyebrow raising adventure.
When she’s not submerged in the worlds she creates, Lexxie’s life revolves around her family, a husband who thinks she’s insane, a indoor cat who likes to stalk shadows, two yabbies hell-bent on destroying their tank and her daughters, who both utterly captured her heart and changed her life forever.
Having no idea how old she really is, Lexxie decided to go with 27 and has been that age for quite some time now. It's the best of both worlds - old enough to act mature, young enough to be silly.
And silly she can be. Just ask her husband who frequently has to endure her bursting into song whenever the mood strikes her, feeling him up in public (one of her favorite pastimes), or rolling around in the sand with their dog - a large mutt of dubious origins who causes almost as much havoc around the neighborhood as Lexxie herself. Or squealing her way down the slide at the local park with her daughter!
Lexxie lives by two simple rules - measure your success not by how much money you have, but by how often you laugh, and always try everything at least once. As a consequence, she's laughed her way through many an eyebrow raising adventure.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
July 20, 2022
I'll admit I'm a big fan of Lexxie Couper. I love her writing style, I love the images her words make in my mind, I love her hunky, sexy, heroes, and I love that she's not afraid to write strong kick ass women. In Muscle for Hire she gives it all to us and in addition we get to hear conversations between Nick Blackthorn (be still my heart) and his bodyguard Aslin Rhodes. Just imagining Nick with his sexy accent talking to Aslin with his sexy accent is enough to put all kinds of kinky thoughts into this gal's head......sorry, back to the review.
Alsin Rhodes is on "loan" to Chris Huntley an up and coming movie star. He's there as a military consultant to the film and to show Chris how to look like he's really fighting in this big budget film. Aslin is feeling a little out of sorts, after years as an SAS commando, he's spent the last almost 16 being a body guard to rock superstar Nick Blackthorn who has pretty much retired and doesn't need him around as much. He soon finds working on a movie set is quite a bit different than working for a rock star. Never does he imagine getting his ass kicked by a woman the first day on the job, but it happens and he's immediately intrigued.
Rowan Hemsworth (Chris' sister) is bound and determined to keep her brother grounded and away from bad influences. After they both witnessed their parent's brutal murder, she decided to never be a victim again. So she's trained with the best and she's a martial arts expert with multiple titles under her belt. She's made caring for Chris her life and pretty much ignored her own until she brings Aslin down and realizes she's affected by him like no other man ever.
Man I love this story! First off Rowan is such a strong and positive female character. I like that she doesn't expect a man to take care of her that she knows she can take care of herself. I truly believe she has Chris' best interests at heart even though he grumbles about them from time to time. It's interesting to watch her reactions to Aslin and how difficult it is for her to admit what she's feeling and what she wants from this man. Aslin....wow...I'm really surprised the guy doesn't have any super powers. I mean that's the effect he has on everyone around him. He just exudes confidence and calmness no matter what the hell is going on around him. Well he did, until Rowan was hurt in an explosion. I think that's when it became really evident that under that tough guy exterior, their lays a man who wants more out of life and he knows who he wants it with.
The sexual chemistry between these two makes me think of hot lava running out of a volcano. I mean, it just doesn't stop. Hot, hot, hot! The scene on the back of his bike, wow! Their other intimate scenes are even better. However, it becomes quite evident early on that this is way more than sex between then. They share a lot fairly easily with each other. When Aslin suspects that the crazy "accidents" happening around them are targeting Rowan and not Chris, he immediately hires a body guard for Chris and starts guarding Rowan all on his own. As you can imagine she has issues with needing someone to help her but let's just say that Aslin has a unique way of convincing her to accept his help.
Once again Lexxie Couper has written an engaging story filled with colorful and entertaining characters, an interesting plot line, witty and intelligent dialog, and enough raw and steamy sex to keep you highly entertained and of course wanting more. I love how Lexxie always manages to intertwine characters from her other books into her current one. It unifies her writing and makes it all that more special to those who have read her before without making someone feel like they must read all her previous works to enjoy this one. I didn't think Lexxie would be able to top Love's Rhythm and Nick Blackthorn and while Nick still edges out Aslin just a smidge, I think this is one of her best solo pieces of work. Well done!!
Alsin Rhodes is on "loan" to Chris Huntley an up and coming movie star. He's there as a military consultant to the film and to show Chris how to look like he's really fighting in this big budget film. Aslin is feeling a little out of sorts, after years as an SAS commando, he's spent the last almost 16 being a body guard to rock superstar Nick Blackthorn who has pretty much retired and doesn't need him around as much. He soon finds working on a movie set is quite a bit different than working for a rock star. Never does he imagine getting his ass kicked by a woman the first day on the job, but it happens and he's immediately intrigued.
Rowan Hemsworth (Chris' sister) is bound and determined to keep her brother grounded and away from bad influences. After they both witnessed their parent's brutal murder, she decided to never be a victim again. So she's trained with the best and she's a martial arts expert with multiple titles under her belt. She's made caring for Chris her life and pretty much ignored her own until she brings Aslin down and realizes she's affected by him like no other man ever.
Man I love this story! First off Rowan is such a strong and positive female character. I like that she doesn't expect a man to take care of her that she knows she can take care of herself. I truly believe she has Chris' best interests at heart even though he grumbles about them from time to time. It's interesting to watch her reactions to Aslin and how difficult it is for her to admit what she's feeling and what she wants from this man. Aslin....wow...I'm really surprised the guy doesn't have any super powers. I mean that's the effect he has on everyone around him. He just exudes confidence and calmness no matter what the hell is going on around him. Well he did, until Rowan was hurt in an explosion. I think that's when it became really evident that under that tough guy exterior, their lays a man who wants more out of life and he knows who he wants it with.
The sexual chemistry between these two makes me think of hot lava running out of a volcano. I mean, it just doesn't stop. Hot, hot, hot! The scene on the back of his bike, wow! Their other intimate scenes are even better. However, it becomes quite evident early on that this is way more than sex between then. They share a lot fairly easily with each other. When Aslin suspects that the crazy "accidents" happening around them are targeting Rowan and not Chris, he immediately hires a body guard for Chris and starts guarding Rowan all on his own. As you can imagine she has issues with needing someone to help her but let's just say that Aslin has a unique way of convincing her to accept his help.
Once again Lexxie Couper has written an engaging story filled with colorful and entertaining characters, an interesting plot line, witty and intelligent dialog, and enough raw and steamy sex to keep you highly entertained and of course wanting more. I love how Lexxie always manages to intertwine characters from her other books into her current one. It unifies her writing and makes it all that more special to those who have read her before without making someone feel like they must read all her previous works to enjoy this one. I didn't think Lexxie would be able to top Love's Rhythm and Nick Blackthorn and while Nick still edges out Aslin just a smidge, I think this is one of her best solo pieces of work. Well done!!
April 17, 2013
Hoo boy...this book
After reading and loving Love's Rhythm, I was so excited to see that Aslin would be getting his own book. I mean a book about a sexy British bodyguard?
Unfortunately, this book just did not deliver. At least not for me.
It started out pretty good. I loved how Aslin and Rowan first meet I thought I'd really enjoy reading about a heroine like Rowan; she is a martial arts expert after all. Ultimately, I found her character to be vulgar and irritating.
I struggled to connect with the story, it felt rushed, considering the entire thing takes place over a few days.
Aslin and Rowan meet and all they can think of is
right...
Then we get a dance of push and pull where Rowan goes from "I want you" to "I don't want you" over and over and over. They almost have sex in an alley, then they almost have sex on a bike...until finally they go at it like monkeys in his trailer.
At that point though...
During Aslin's internal dialogue, he constantly refers to himself as "boyo", which just started grating on me at 60%.
Rowan keeps constantly referring to him as "soldier boy"
I wouldn't call this a romantic suspense novel. I would say that this was an erotic romance with a little suspense thrown in.
I found the relationship that took place between Rowan and Aslin to be rushed and unrealistic. They go from having sex to being in love in a day or 2. That is not something I enjoy reading.
I understood the reasoning behind Rowan's tough-act persona, but I was never able to connect with her character. She came off as a little too vulgar and hard-ass for my taste. Some might enjoy this type of heroine, but that just wasn't me.
At around 30% the whole thing just started dragging, and my interest began to wane and I began to skim pages. By the time it started to pick up a little at 70%, I was already at a point where it was more or less
Don't get me wrong; Lexxie Couper is a fantastic writer. She knows how to write one hell of a sex scene. Many might truly enjoy this book (though I'd recommend reading Love's Rhythm first).
I just didn't enjoy it and this was due to my own personal preferences.
I'll certainly be reading the next book in this series, since it wasn't the writing, but the story itself that didn't work for me.
After reading and loving Love's Rhythm, I was so excited to see that Aslin would be getting his own book. I mean a book about a sexy British bodyguard?
Unfortunately, this book just did not deliver. At least not for me.
It started out pretty good. I loved how Aslin and Rowan first meet I thought I'd really enjoy reading about a heroine like Rowan; she is a martial arts expert after all. Ultimately, I found her character to be vulgar and irritating.
I struggled to connect with the story, it felt rushed, considering the entire thing takes place over a few days.
Aslin and Rowan meet and all they can think of is
right...
Then we get a dance of push and pull where Rowan goes from "I want you" to "I don't want you" over and over and over. They almost have sex in an alley, then they almost have sex on a bike...until finally they go at it like monkeys in his trailer.
At that point though...
During Aslin's internal dialogue, he constantly refers to himself as "boyo", which just started grating on me at 60%.
Rowan keeps constantly referring to him as "soldier boy"
I wouldn't call this a romantic suspense novel. I would say that this was an erotic romance with a little suspense thrown in.
I found the relationship that took place between Rowan and Aslin to be rushed and unrealistic. They go from having sex to being in love in a day or 2. That is not something I enjoy reading.
I understood the reasoning behind Rowan's tough-act persona, but I was never able to connect with her character. She came off as a little too vulgar and hard-ass for my taste. Some might enjoy this type of heroine, but that just wasn't me.
At around 30% the whole thing just started dragging, and my interest began to wane and I began to skim pages. By the time it started to pick up a little at 70%, I was already at a point where it was more or less
Don't get me wrong; Lexxie Couper is a fantastic writer. She knows how to write one hell of a sex scene. Many might truly enjoy this book (though I'd recommend reading Love's Rhythm first).
I just didn't enjoy it and this was due to my own personal preferences.
I'll certainly be reading the next book in this series, since it wasn't the writing, but the story itself that didn't work for me.
January 29, 2013
*SIGH* Aslin... you were EVERYTHING i remembered from Love's Rhythm and SO MUCH MORE!!!! Oh Lordy.... please will you just growl MY WAY...
Suffice to say i LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this book; sweet, sexy and humorous, and did i already say that Aslin was a freakin' WET DREAM???!!! Lexxie you are a GENIUS!!!
Suffice to say i LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this book; sweet, sexy and humorous, and did i already say that Aslin was a freakin' WET DREAM???!!! Lexxie you are a GENIUS!!!
June 2, 2019
This is Aslin and Rowan's story. Aslin we met in book 1(which I hated) as the bodyguard of Rockstar Nick. As Nick is now a retired family man Aslin goes to help out movie star Chris as an action advisor. He's soon put on his ass, literally,by martial arts champion Rowan who is Chris's sister. Sparks fly between them immediately but someone is trying to hurt the stubborn American and Aslin is determined to stop them.
When Rowan was younger her family were victims of a house breaking. Her parents were beaten to death and the thugs attempted to rape her all while her brother looked on. When they were rescued she became determined never to be a victim again. She trained hard and is now a champion martial artist used to looking out for herself her brother. She wants Aislin from their first meeting but she doesn't want to be vulnerable or weak so she does some pushing away until she realizes how much she cares for him.
This one was pretty ok and would've been rated higher for Aislins devotion alone but Rowan in her stubbornness had some TSTL moments that frustrated me. I hate ostrich heroine's, those who bury their head refusing to acknowledge that they may be in danger and that's exactly what Rowan did. She was so stubborn and hardheaded I wanted to smack her. She would've been a really good h without all the dumb choices she made.
I honestly didn't catch on to who the bad guy was until almost the very end which kept me engrossed in the plot. The reasoning was a little unbelievable but all in all this was a lot better than book 1.
2.5* rounded up because from the moment they got together Aslin knew he wouldn't want another woman.#swoon
When Rowan was younger her family were victims of a house breaking. Her parents were beaten to death and the thugs attempted to rape her all while her brother looked on. When they were rescued she became determined never to be a victim again. She trained hard and is now a champion martial artist used to looking out for herself her brother. She wants Aislin from their first meeting but she doesn't want to be vulnerable or weak so she does some pushing away until she realizes how much she cares for him.
This one was pretty ok and would've been rated higher for Aislins devotion alone but Rowan in her stubbornness had some TSTL moments that frustrated me. I hate ostrich heroine's, those who bury their head refusing to acknowledge that they may be in danger and that's exactly what Rowan did. She was so stubborn and hardheaded I wanted to smack her. She would've been a really good h without all the dumb choices she made.
I honestly didn't catch on to who the bad guy was until almost the very end which kept me engrossed in the plot. The reasoning was a little unbelievable but all in all this was a lot better than book 1.
2.5* rounded up because from the moment they got together Aslin knew he wouldn't want another woman.#swoon
February 4, 2013
This is the first book I have read of this author and I note it is linked to a previous book so not sure if my reading out of sequence has impacted on my enjoyment of it.
The story centres on Aslin Rhodes – an ex special forces soldier from the UK who for the last 16 years has been the personal bodyguard in the US for a rock star who has now retired. Hence Aslin finds himself at a moot point in his career when his boss offers his services to an actor out in Australia.
Rowan Hemsworth is the sister of the actor and is a kick ass martial arts specialist. She has always felt protective of her younger sibling ever since they both witnessed their parent’s murder in a burglary gone wrong in their home.
From reading the blurb I thought this book would be right up my street but I found myself struggling with the relationship development. At the start Rowan was against getting involved with Aslin but kept having fantasies about what she would do with him. We also had the same fantasies from Aslin but nothing seemed to be going anywhere until one night he drags her into an alley (yes very classy) which then starts the “ I want you, I don’t want you” dance which I find so annoying. But then whoo hoo they actually get to do the deed in his trailer and then follows with a night of passion in his hotel room. It is in this night that the relationship moves on but did the reader get to see this? NO. A whole chapter could have been written about this. So you can see the frustration of not understanding what happened to change the relationship and what had happened in that hotel room. This left me feeling left out of the loop as though the author was keeping secrets.
Other things annoyed me, especially him talking to himself and calling himself “boyo” – was he Welsh? Not that that would matter anyway it was just repetitive. As for the action going on his zipper – get on with it already man! I also wasn’t hooked on his name but guess that’s just something I could have got over.
I can’t say it wasn’t entertaining it was just OK but the suspense elements were rather predictable. Anyway an OK read for me but I can see other readers have loved this book so it’s just one of those not for me at this time. It wouldn’t put me off reading this author again; in fact I have the book that precedes this one on my kindle. I might enjoy that better due to it being about a rock star and that is my current kink right now in any genre!
The story centres on Aslin Rhodes – an ex special forces soldier from the UK who for the last 16 years has been the personal bodyguard in the US for a rock star who has now retired. Hence Aslin finds himself at a moot point in his career when his boss offers his services to an actor out in Australia.
Rowan Hemsworth is the sister of the actor and is a kick ass martial arts specialist. She has always felt protective of her younger sibling ever since they both witnessed their parent’s murder in a burglary gone wrong in their home.
From reading the blurb I thought this book would be right up my street but I found myself struggling with the relationship development. At the start Rowan was against getting involved with Aslin but kept having fantasies about what she would do with him. We also had the same fantasies from Aslin but nothing seemed to be going anywhere until one night he drags her into an alley (yes very classy) which then starts the “ I want you, I don’t want you” dance which I find so annoying. But then whoo hoo they actually get to do the deed in his trailer and then follows with a night of passion in his hotel room. It is in this night that the relationship moves on but did the reader get to see this? NO. A whole chapter could have been written about this. So you can see the frustration of not understanding what happened to change the relationship and what had happened in that hotel room. This left me feeling left out of the loop as though the author was keeping secrets.
Other things annoyed me, especially him talking to himself and calling himself “boyo” – was he Welsh? Not that that would matter anyway it was just repetitive. As for the action going on his zipper – get on with it already man! I also wasn’t hooked on his name but guess that’s just something I could have got over.
I can’t say it wasn’t entertaining it was just OK but the suspense elements were rather predictable. Anyway an OK read for me but I can see other readers have loved this book so it’s just one of those not for me at this time. It wouldn’t put me off reading this author again; in fact I have the book that precedes this one on my kindle. I might enjoy that better due to it being about a rock star and that is my current kink right now in any genre!
February 5, 2013
Didn't read the 1st bk in this series (Love's Rhythm) but I'm sure I will since there's quite a bit Nick and Aslin mentioned in this bk. Liked Muscle for Hire, steamy hot with a little romantic suspense however there were a couple of WTH/unbelievable moments. One of course was the almost sex on Aslin's Ducati at night in an open hospital parking lot...Hot, YES, but REALLY?!? Another where Rowan has a major concussion and 2 broken ribs checks herself out of the hospital weak and barely able to walk. She then goes back to Aslin's hotel room and wants to jump his bones. Yea, uh huh, right. You ever had a concussion? Broken ribs? Aslin might be damn hot and hunkalicious but there's no way you'd feel like that. LOL! I guess this is why it's called "fiction". At least Aslin tried putting Rowan's well being first and they more or less "worked it out". ;-).
Was it just me or did the name Aslin bring to mind a great big lion with Liam Neesen's voice? :-. Anywho.....other than the couple of uh, uh, no way moments....overall a sexy read.
Was it just me or did the name Aslin bring to mind a great big lion with Liam Neesen's voice? :-. Anywho.....other than the couple of uh, uh, no way moments....overall a sexy read.
Read
January 29, 2013KcLu's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
5 Stars
We first got to meet Aslin Rhodes in Love’s Rhythm as Nick Blackthorne’s bodyguard, and I didn’t think I could love him more than I did Nick. But LAWD!! In my opinion this bodyguard trumps his longtime boss!! His all-around sexiness pulls you in from the beginning and doesn’t let go of you till the end!!
For sixteen years Aslin has been the bodyguard to the world’s biggest rock star, but now that rock star has retired. He didn’t believe Nick when he said the world would lose interest in him after a little while in retirement, but now they have and the biggest treat to Nick isn’t big enough to keep Aslin from getting bored! So Nick loans Aslin to one of America’s big TV stars as he films an action movie in Australia. What is supposed to be an easy assignment knocks Aslin for a loop and literally on his ass when he meets Chris’s big sister.
Rowan Hemsworth has two goals in this life. One to keep her famous brother focused and from becoming another Hollywood statistic, and two to never be a helpless victim again. She proves her strength to Aslin seconds after meeting him, by putting him literally on his ass. But his very being threatens to put her on hers emotionally. A string of accidents on the set threaten to put her not her brother out of the picture for good. Can Aslin keep them both safe, and convince her that she belongs with him and in his heart??
I have to warn you gals that this bodyguard is going to steal a chunk of your heart! You just may end up with a new book boyfriend! If you are a fan of Lexxie’s work like I am, then you know that she doesn’t disappoint in the smoking hot department! Aslin and Rowan set your e-reader on fire! Read this one with a fan peeps!! I hope you enjoy it as much as I have!!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
5 Stars
We first got to meet Aslin Rhodes in Love’s Rhythm as Nick Blackthorne’s bodyguard, and I didn’t think I could love him more than I did Nick. But LAWD!! In my opinion this bodyguard trumps his longtime boss!! His all-around sexiness pulls you in from the beginning and doesn’t let go of you till the end!!
For sixteen years Aslin has been the bodyguard to the world’s biggest rock star, but now that rock star has retired. He didn’t believe Nick when he said the world would lose interest in him after a little while in retirement, but now they have and the biggest treat to Nick isn’t big enough to keep Aslin from getting bored! So Nick loans Aslin to one of America’s big TV stars as he films an action movie in Australia. What is supposed to be an easy assignment knocks Aslin for a loop and literally on his ass when he meets Chris’s big sister.
Rowan Hemsworth has two goals in this life. One to keep her famous brother focused and from becoming another Hollywood statistic, and two to never be a helpless victim again. She proves her strength to Aslin seconds after meeting him, by putting him literally on his ass. But his very being threatens to put her on hers emotionally. A string of accidents on the set threaten to put her not her brother out of the picture for good. Can Aslin keep them both safe, and convince her that she belongs with him and in his heart??
I have to warn you gals that this bodyguard is going to steal a chunk of your heart! You just may end up with a new book boyfriend! If you are a fan of Lexxie’s work like I am, then you know that she doesn’t disappoint in the smoking hot department! Aslin and Rowan set your e-reader on fire! Read this one with a fan peeps!! I hope you enjoy it as much as I have!!
Review copy provided for an honest review.
February 13, 2013
Easily 4 1/2 star read.
Aslin Rhodes, ex-SOS commando and bodyguard to retired rock star Nick Blackthorne, has been loaned out to a movie production as some extra muscle and to consult on the fight scenes in the movie. Now that Nick has retired and is living quietly with his wife Lauren and their son Josh there just really isn't any imminent danger for him to be on the lookout for. Funny that in his first few hours on the job he is knocked on his ass by the star of the film's sister. Rowan Hemsworth is a professional martial artist and the older sister of Chris Huntsley the star of the picture that Aslin is working on. She feels it is her job to keep all the riff raff away from her brother and at first she thinks that includes Aslin.
The sexual chemistry between the two leaps off the page from the moment she takes him down and oh boy was it fun watching these two spar. Pantie melting sex scenes and a mystery, as it slowly appears that someone is actually trying to hurt and maybe even kill Rowan, make for a very exciting read.
I loved the sibling relationship between Rowan and Chris. She is super protective of him since the murder of their parents when the kids were in their teens. Both have different ways of coping with the horrific home invasion when their parents were beaten to death with a baseball bat right before their eyes. Rowan became a championship martial artist so she would never be made to feel weak again and Chris uses humor to hide his pain.
I hope Chris gets his own book and I am interested in Liev Reynolds as well.
Aslin Rhodes, ex-SOS commando and bodyguard to retired rock star Nick Blackthorne, has been loaned out to a movie production as some extra muscle and to consult on the fight scenes in the movie. Now that Nick has retired and is living quietly with his wife Lauren and their son Josh there just really isn't any imminent danger for him to be on the lookout for. Funny that in his first few hours on the job he is knocked on his ass by the star of the film's sister. Rowan Hemsworth is a professional martial artist and the older sister of Chris Huntsley the star of the picture that Aslin is working on. She feels it is her job to keep all the riff raff away from her brother and at first she thinks that includes Aslin.
The sexual chemistry between the two leaps off the page from the moment she takes him down and oh boy was it fun watching these two spar. Pantie melting sex scenes and a mystery, as it slowly appears that someone is actually trying to hurt and maybe even kill Rowan, make for a very exciting read.
I loved the sibling relationship between Rowan and Chris. She is super protective of him since the murder of their parents when the kids were in their teens. Both have different ways of coping with the horrific home invasion when their parents were beaten to death with a baseball bat right before their eyes. Rowan became a championship martial artist so she would never be made to feel weak again and Chris uses humor to hide his pain.
I hope Chris gets his own book and I am interested in Liev Reynolds as well.
September 10, 2016
I'm absolutely loving this series and I was so excited to read Aslin's story after reading Love's Rhythm. Lexxie did a fantastic job by pairing him up with Rowan (who I have to say is such a refreshingly strong female character) and the two of them are just beyond cute together! The dynamics between the two of them really made them such a fantastic couple, and I enjoyed the well written dialog as well as the engaging plot. I was kind of surprised with Aslin being a bodyguard one would expect him to be a total Alpha male, but I loved that he actually enjoyed Rowan being such a strong woman and how he supported her. These two sizzled up the pages and were so much fun to read, so definitely don't miss out on this series guys!
December 27, 2012
Aslin Rhodes has seen, done, and lived it all as an ex-SAS commando and bodyguard to a notorious rock star. Hired for his skills in the military to assist in making a film, Aslin finds himself going head to toe with the most unlikely person he ever met a martrial arts expert who has no problem getting in his face.
Rowan Hemsworth vowed to herself never to be a victim again after witnessing her parents murder and raising her brother, who is now a famous actor. Everything about Aslin makes Rowan prickly, warm, and torn between wanting to jump his bones and keep at a distance. When Rowan finds herself in the center of mishaps on the set, Aslin draws close and becomes too much of a temptation to resist.
Full review on Sensual Reads
http://sensualreads.com/?p=11311
Rowan Hemsworth vowed to herself never to be a victim again after witnessing her parents murder and raising her brother, who is now a famous actor. Everything about Aslin makes Rowan prickly, warm, and torn between wanting to jump his bones and keep at a distance. When Rowan finds herself in the center of mishaps on the set, Aslin draws close and becomes too much of a temptation to resist.
Full review on Sensual Reads
http://sensualreads.com/?p=11311
October 5, 2015
Personal bodyguard Aslin takes on an extra assignment as a favor to his boss, switching the music scene for film. He never expected his new assignment would have a sister ready to knock him on his ass.
Rowan is used to take care of herself, multiple black belts and skin on her nose, but this english hunk of a man is making her ready to lean on someone else.. When accidents start to happen they´ll have to care for each other, and try to solve the puzzle of who´s targeting who.
Action, suspense and smutty fluff in a great combo, and a good narrator as well.
Rowan is used to take care of herself, multiple black belts and skin on her nose, but this english hunk of a man is making her ready to lean on someone else.. When accidents start to happen they´ll have to care for each other, and try to solve the puzzle of who´s targeting who.
Action, suspense and smutty fluff in a great combo, and a good narrator as well.
August 21, 2014
Este fue mi último libro de esta serie aunque creo que me falta uno por leer.. La autora no me convence, haciendo escenas larguísimas de sexo y los problemas siempre se solucionan en un abrir y cerrar de ojos, nunca esclarece como pasan muchas cosas importantes.. Por ejemplo la boda y embarazo de la chava o la profesión de Aslin después del fin de este libro..
March 29, 2014
This was an enjoyable read but not as much as book #1.
I liked Aislin & Rowan (what's with the Rowie thing!!!!!!). They had a nice chemistry together.
I must admit that I was more interested in Rowan's brother, Chris and I can't wait to read his book.
I liked Aislin & Rowan (what's with the Rowie thing!!!!!!). They had a nice chemistry together.
I must admit that I was more interested in Rowan's brother, Chris and I can't wait to read his book.
January 26, 2015
4.25 stars. wow crazy as hell but i loved Aslin's story and that epilogue about made me squeal like a schoolgirl. can't wait for the next story.
September 30, 2019
This hot and sexy series set in Australia is a favorite by Aussie author Lexxie Couper and one that you should most definitely grab.
Egos clash in this 2nd book in the Heart of Fame series by Lexxie Couper. Lexxie does not disappoint when she gives us even more of Nick Blackthorne and his sexy bodyguard Aslin Rhodes. A knee weakening hero with a British accent along with one badass martial arts heroine and there is so much to love about this story.
A former British SAS commando vs an American martial arts expert, will they both win? Aslin's commando consulting gig for American film star Chris Huntley takes a turn when he finds himself guarding his sister. Aslin's introduction to Rowan Hemsworth is butt kicking - literally. Rowan has always taken care of her little brother since their parents deaths so when she is made a target in a game of life and death she makes it clear that she can protect herself. But finding the will to protect her heart from Aslin Rhodes could be her undoing. Rowan’s fierce loyalty and love for her brother keeps her from seeing the danger aimed at her but Aslin wants to remove the blinders she has on when it comes to her and her safety and her soul. It rankles on them both that the immediate and very intense desire they feel towards each other is something neither of them were looking for or want but is also something they cannot ignore. The heat between them rivals the temperatures on the Australian film set when they give in and decide to not fight the attraction. Add in a bit of marsupial humping and this book gives you it all - British accents, hot and steamy sex, laugh out loud banter, kick ass strong characters, and one hunky bodyguard.
Egos clash in this 2nd book in the Heart of Fame series by Lexxie Couper. Lexxie does not disappoint when she gives us even more of Nick Blackthorne and his sexy bodyguard Aslin Rhodes. A knee weakening hero with a British accent along with one badass martial arts heroine and there is so much to love about this story.
A former British SAS commando vs an American martial arts expert, will they both win? Aslin's commando consulting gig for American film star Chris Huntley takes a turn when he finds himself guarding his sister. Aslin's introduction to Rowan Hemsworth is butt kicking - literally. Rowan has always taken care of her little brother since their parents deaths so when she is made a target in a game of life and death she makes it clear that she can protect herself. But finding the will to protect her heart from Aslin Rhodes could be her undoing. Rowan’s fierce loyalty and love for her brother keeps her from seeing the danger aimed at her but Aslin wants to remove the blinders she has on when it comes to her and her safety and her soul. It rankles on them both that the immediate and very intense desire they feel towards each other is something neither of them were looking for or want but is also something they cannot ignore. The heat between them rivals the temperatures on the Australian film set when they give in and decide to not fight the attraction. Add in a bit of marsupial humping and this book gives you it all - British accents, hot and steamy sex, laugh out loud banter, kick ass strong characters, and one hunky bodyguard.
July 14, 2023
Predictable who-done-it
I knew almost from the beginning who was involved in the attempts on their lives. He was set up to look like the one, but he was just a lesser man trying to eliminate the better man from competition, so he might stand a chance at the woman. He never stood a chance. She never even saw him in that way. And, it was her. She wanted to stay in control of his life and be the one he turned to for everything. But she was no good for him. So, the mystery part really was no mystery.
The two main characters had an amazing relationship from the get go. They shot sparks off each other, and you just knew their relationship was forever. But if they weren't arguing, they were having sex. Sorry, but it was overkill. I just don't need that much detail.
I knew almost from the beginning who was involved in the attempts on their lives. He was set up to look like the one, but he was just a lesser man trying to eliminate the better man from competition, so he might stand a chance at the woman. He never stood a chance. She never even saw him in that way. And, it was her. She wanted to stay in control of his life and be the one he turned to for everything. But she was no good for him. So, the mystery part really was no mystery.
The two main characters had an amazing relationship from the get go. They shot sparks off each other, and you just knew their relationship was forever. But if they weren't arguing, they were having sex. Sorry, but it was overkill. I just don't need that much detail.
August 12, 2023
What a fun romp through this particular author’s world! I’d love to read more in the series, when I get through the TBR pile for the year.
The writing was sound, the smut was hot, and the emotional entanglements were well worth reading. No major warnings that wouldn’t be spoilers for the Shamalan-like plot twist; though PTSD is mentioned and sort of dealt with.
Again, I’d read more of this author’s writings with no problem.
The writing was sound, the smut was hot, and the emotional entanglements were well worth reading. No major warnings that wouldn’t be spoilers for the Shamalan-like plot twist; though PTSD is mentioned and sort of dealt with.
Again, I’d read more of this author’s writings with no problem.
August 18, 2023
ASLIN & ROWAN (really didn't like either of their names) THE INSTANT SEXUAL TENSION SEEMED A LITTLE OFF TO ME. MOST OF THEIR THOUGHTS AND ACTIONS LEAD TO HOW MUCH ONE OF THEM WANT TO FUCK THE OTHER. I HEARD SO MANY PULSING & THROBBING, PRESSURE AROUND CHEST, PUNCHED INTO, OVER AND OVER. THEY BOTH CARRY MENTAL SCARS FROM THEIR CHILDHOOD. THIS WAS A FUCKFEST A LITTLE TO HEAVEY HANDED ON THE SEX SCENES. SMH.
March 30, 2019
Sort of a disappointment. I really thought Ailin’s story would be different.
May 30, 2021
This book had an interesting spin with a "who done it" component. I was guessing until the end.
library
July 30, 20210
Want to read
June 3, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBooks today (6/3/2023)! 🎁
September 17, 2023
Love Lexxie Couper's Heart of Fame books. Plan to read them all.
June 26, 2023
Enjoy this book.
Couldn't put it down. Buying all series. Characters had me hooked from first page. Buy this book you want be disappointed.
Couldn't put it down. Buying all series. Characters had me hooked from first page. Buy this book you want be disappointed.
January 27, 2013
Review originally posted at http://fictionvixen.com/review-muscle...
After fifteen years as a bodyguard to a rock star Aslin Rhodes has pretty much seen it all and is happy with his life, but with his boss’s retirement he is suddenly at loose ends. When his boss, Nick, asks him to help out on the set of a movie as a sort of fight scene expert to movie star Chris Huntley, he agrees. But this bodyguard/ex-soldier can’t keep his instincts put away, especially when he spies what he thinks is someone breaking into Chris’s trailer. That someone turns out to be Chris’s sister Rowan Hemsworth, who happens to be a martial arts expert and shows Aslin that she doesn’t take crap from anyone by drop kicking him on his ass. Despite their beginning, Rowan and Aslin share an immediate, intense attraction. They literally can’t keep their hands off each other, and they don’t really try to. The first day they meet they end it up against the wall in a back alley of a bar. Yes, folks, this couple doesn’t seem to mind public sex. In fact this gets them in trouble later on….
Chris and Rowan are extremely dedicated to each other. These siblings endured quite an emotional trauma in their childhood, watching a home invasion turn into the beating deaths of both of their parents. This causes them to react in different ways, Chris is the too fun loving actor and Rowan has become an extreme martial arts expert so that she will never be the victim again. When it seemed that Chris was becoming the clichéd troubled movie star, with too many hangers-on and too much partying, his sister steps in to give him some guidance and help keep him in control of his life. Other than competing in competitions, she’s made her brother the top priority in her life.
This is one of those romantic suspense novels that you as a reader really need to suspend belief to read with enjoyment. There is off the charts, crazy, multiple, multiple orgasm sex (so multiple that at one point I think I snorted while reading), explosions, psycho fans, paparazzi, almost sex on top of a Ducati and instalove. To be honest I dealt pretty well with all the above except the instalove. I mean really, NO ONE falls in love in three days. Not a believable, long-lasting love anyway. Sex and lust yes, love no. The sex scenes were plentiful and smoking hot. Rowan is obviously not afraid to show her sexy side and her British lover isn’t afraid to give her what she needs. Although, I will say, the sex scene on the day Rowan is caught in an explosion and has several cracked ribs might have been unnecessary.
I liked how Rowan dealt with her issues. She hasn’t let life make her a victim, yet she isn’t an over the top, ridiculous heroine. I have problems dealing with tough girl heroines who feel that being a uber bitch makes them more bad ass, Rowan might have talked tough, but she was also pretty likable. She and Aslin seem to be well matched and their chemistry was believable. Once they let each other in they really don’t fight it much, no big misunderstandings, no too stupid to live moments, just lots of attraction, hot sex and falling in love. There is a mystery to be solved, and it played well in this over the top romance. There were so many crazy people I couldn’t guess who the bad guy was.
I enjoyed reading my first Lexxie Couper romance. It turned out to be a fast, sexy read that was a lot of fun. I’m hoping that Chris gets his story next, I would love to meet the woman that makes him fall in love.
Favorite Quote:
His nostrils flared. “One of these days I’m really going to regret being bested by you.”
“You are?”
Aslin shook his head. “No.”
Rowan laughed, and then the sound faded away as Aslin’s hand circled her ankle.
After fifteen years as a bodyguard to a rock star Aslin Rhodes has pretty much seen it all and is happy with his life, but with his boss’s retirement he is suddenly at loose ends. When his boss, Nick, asks him to help out on the set of a movie as a sort of fight scene expert to movie star Chris Huntley, he agrees. But this bodyguard/ex-soldier can’t keep his instincts put away, especially when he spies what he thinks is someone breaking into Chris’s trailer. That someone turns out to be Chris’s sister Rowan Hemsworth, who happens to be a martial arts expert and shows Aslin that she doesn’t take crap from anyone by drop kicking him on his ass. Despite their beginning, Rowan and Aslin share an immediate, intense attraction. They literally can’t keep their hands off each other, and they don’t really try to. The first day they meet they end it up against the wall in a back alley of a bar. Yes, folks, this couple doesn’t seem to mind public sex. In fact this gets them in trouble later on….
Chris and Rowan are extremely dedicated to each other. These siblings endured quite an emotional trauma in their childhood, watching a home invasion turn into the beating deaths of both of their parents. This causes them to react in different ways, Chris is the too fun loving actor and Rowan has become an extreme martial arts expert so that she will never be the victim again. When it seemed that Chris was becoming the clichéd troubled movie star, with too many hangers-on and too much partying, his sister steps in to give him some guidance and help keep him in control of his life. Other than competing in competitions, she’s made her brother the top priority in her life.
This is one of those romantic suspense novels that you as a reader really need to suspend belief to read with enjoyment. There is off the charts, crazy, multiple, multiple orgasm sex (so multiple that at one point I think I snorted while reading), explosions, psycho fans, paparazzi, almost sex on top of a Ducati and instalove. To be honest I dealt pretty well with all the above except the instalove. I mean really, NO ONE falls in love in three days. Not a believable, long-lasting love anyway. Sex and lust yes, love no. The sex scenes were plentiful and smoking hot. Rowan is obviously not afraid to show her sexy side and her British lover isn’t afraid to give her what she needs. Although, I will say, the sex scene on the day Rowan is caught in an explosion and has several cracked ribs might have been unnecessary.
I liked how Rowan dealt with her issues. She hasn’t let life make her a victim, yet she isn’t an over the top, ridiculous heroine. I have problems dealing with tough girl heroines who feel that being a uber bitch makes them more bad ass, Rowan might have talked tough, but she was also pretty likable. She and Aslin seem to be well matched and their chemistry was believable. Once they let each other in they really don’t fight it much, no big misunderstandings, no too stupid to live moments, just lots of attraction, hot sex and falling in love. There is a mystery to be solved, and it played well in this over the top romance. There were so many crazy people I couldn’t guess who the bad guy was.
I enjoyed reading my first Lexxie Couper romance. It turned out to be a fast, sexy read that was a lot of fun. I’m hoping that Chris gets his story next, I would love to meet the woman that makes him fall in love.
Favorite Quote:
His nostrils flared. “One of these days I’m really going to regret being bested by you.”
“You are?”
Aslin shook his head. “No.”
Rowan laughed, and then the sound faded away as Aslin’s hand circled her ankle.
November 21, 2017
(Explícito) Bien. Se me hizo algo precipitada la relación de ellos dos. No me gustó que ella fuera supuestamente tannn desconfiada de él y que cuando las cosas subían de nivel ella fuera toda una experta, osea, de donde vino eso. Muy raro. Pero la trama en la que se basa el misterio está muy bien, ese final no lo veía venir. Si lo recomiendo.
February 25, 2013
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/bo...
What does the bodyguard to one of the most famous rock stars do when that rock star retires to a small town with the love of his life? In Aslin Rhodes’ case, he becomes the military consultant for a big budget action movie. Using his experience to make the film more realistic, he becomes friends with the star, Chris Huntley, and starts to notice that things are happening around him. When the star’s sister, American martial arts expert Rowan Hemsworth, literally knocks Aslin on his behind, he begins to suspect that the ‘accidents’ on set are not actually aimed at Chris, but at Rowan, and he is determined to keep her and her brother safe. Finding a way past Rowan’s considerable defenses and convincing her she is the real target takes all of Aslin’s power of persuasion, and soon, Rowan discovers that there is more to As than meets the eye. Can these two discover who wants Rowan out of the way, and keep brother Chris safe, all while adjusting to the growing attraction blossoming between them? Can this strong and determined man let the woman he wants have the freedom to be what she wants to be, and still bring her to his side?
Muscle for Hire is Lexxie Couper’s latest in her books that revolve around former rock star Nick Blackthorne, first seen in Tropical Sin and followed by Nick’s story in Rhythm of Love. Aslin is Nick’s former bodyguard, and it was just a matter of time before he stepped up and demanded his own story. This story is rich in details, and the characters are well crafted and fully developed. I love this world that Ms. Couper has built, with realism and passion, and just the touch of danger to make things a bit more interesting.
Rowan Hemsworth is a strong and sassy character, talented in her chosen field of martial arts. She doesn’t take nonsense from anyone, and when she believes her brother, the movie star, is in trouble, she is determined to keep him safe. I love Rowan’s loyalty, her determination and her ability to succeed in what is considered a ‘man’s’ sport. I loved it when she literally knocked Aslin on his butt, thinking he was the one endangering Chris. I also loved that she is honest enough to admit when she is wrong, and when Aslin shows her how he feels, she is open and ready to see where it can go.
Aslin Rhodes is strong, steady and used to being in the background. The former SAS commando turned rock star bodyguard has learned to roll with the proverbial punches, and is trying out a new career as military consultant to the movies. I love Aslin, in fact I have waited for his story since I first ‘met’ him as Nick’s bodyguard. He is loyal, dependable and oh so hot. I loved his surprise when Rowan was able to get the drop on him and take him down. He is also smart enough to recognize when he has met his match, and he is determined to make sure nothing happens to her.
Lexxie Couper has written a hot and passionate story, filled with her signature heat, with a thread of danger woven through it. The hidden agenda of the one behind the attempts on Rowan is at once simple, yet convoluted in its scope, and throughout the story, I was kept guessing on who the culprit was up until the last bit. The action is fast paced, the romance is simmering hot, and the sex, when it happens, is off the Richter scale. The happy ever after for Rowan and Aslin is hard won, but it is so worth the trip to get there. This one will warm up the coldest night, and you may need to turn the fan on to keep your cool.
What does the bodyguard to one of the most famous rock stars do when that rock star retires to a small town with the love of his life? In Aslin Rhodes’ case, he becomes the military consultant for a big budget action movie. Using his experience to make the film more realistic, he becomes friends with the star, Chris Huntley, and starts to notice that things are happening around him. When the star’s sister, American martial arts expert Rowan Hemsworth, literally knocks Aslin on his behind, he begins to suspect that the ‘accidents’ on set are not actually aimed at Chris, but at Rowan, and he is determined to keep her and her brother safe. Finding a way past Rowan’s considerable defenses and convincing her she is the real target takes all of Aslin’s power of persuasion, and soon, Rowan discovers that there is more to As than meets the eye. Can these two discover who wants Rowan out of the way, and keep brother Chris safe, all while adjusting to the growing attraction blossoming between them? Can this strong and determined man let the woman he wants have the freedom to be what she wants to be, and still bring her to his side?
Muscle for Hire is Lexxie Couper’s latest in her books that revolve around former rock star Nick Blackthorne, first seen in Tropical Sin and followed by Nick’s story in Rhythm of Love. Aslin is Nick’s former bodyguard, and it was just a matter of time before he stepped up and demanded his own story. This story is rich in details, and the characters are well crafted and fully developed. I love this world that Ms. Couper has built, with realism and passion, and just the touch of danger to make things a bit more interesting.
Rowan Hemsworth is a strong and sassy character, talented in her chosen field of martial arts. She doesn’t take nonsense from anyone, and when she believes her brother, the movie star, is in trouble, she is determined to keep him safe. I love Rowan’s loyalty, her determination and her ability to succeed in what is considered a ‘man’s’ sport. I loved it when she literally knocked Aslin on his butt, thinking he was the one endangering Chris. I also loved that she is honest enough to admit when she is wrong, and when Aslin shows her how he feels, she is open and ready to see where it can go.
Aslin Rhodes is strong, steady and used to being in the background. The former SAS commando turned rock star bodyguard has learned to roll with the proverbial punches, and is trying out a new career as military consultant to the movies. I love Aslin, in fact I have waited for his story since I first ‘met’ him as Nick’s bodyguard. He is loyal, dependable and oh so hot. I loved his surprise when Rowan was able to get the drop on him and take him down. He is also smart enough to recognize when he has met his match, and he is determined to make sure nothing happens to her.
Lexxie Couper has written a hot and passionate story, filled with her signature heat, with a thread of danger woven through it. The hidden agenda of the one behind the attempts on Rowan is at once simple, yet convoluted in its scope, and throughout the story, I was kept guessing on who the culprit was up until the last bit. The action is fast paced, the romance is simmering hot, and the sex, when it happens, is off the Richter scale. The happy ever after for Rowan and Aslin is hard won, but it is so worth the trip to get there. This one will warm up the coldest night, and you may need to turn the fan on to keep your cool.
August 9, 2013
As posted on The Smutty Kitty reviewed by Wicked Whiskers
4 out of 5 Licks
Muscle for Hire by Lexxie Couper was a first for me since I never read anything by her prior to Heart of Fame series. When I read the title it automatically captured my attention but not in the context I was thinking … insert dirty thoughts here … LoL! After further details into this book I discovered it was the second in a series so naturally before I could dive into Muscle for Fire I had to read the first book Love’s Rhythm … sorry I’m kinda neurotic that way. Anywho, I adored Love’s Rhythm and would gladly recommend reading it but as a warning I will tell you in that in my opinion it reminded me a little of Olivia Cunning’s Sinners on Tour. So if you’re a Sinner I think you would definitely enjoy reading Love’s Rhythm.
In Love’s Rhythm we meet the hero of Muscle for Hire. We don’t know much about him other then the fact that he is a former SAS Commander, currently the bodyguard for the infamous singer Nick Blackthorne and hates being called a Pom/Pommie Bastard by the nosy in your face paparazzi.
In Muscle for Hire we discover what is hidden behind the shades of Aslin Rhodes and where his future may fall now that Nick Blackthorne has decided to trade fans for family. At first glance Aslin has a seriously stoic and intimidating demeanor but what everyone doesn’t know is that this mean wall of muscle has a loving heart hidden beneath the guarded exterior that has a taste for a little pain and perhaps a touch of exhibition … back alley against a wall, parking lot on the back of a motorcycle … nothing adds anticipation like the chances of being caught (which is always delicious in my eyes).
Aslin’s unknown future is found on the set of Dead Evil in the surprising and unsuspected pint-size package of … enter the heroine … Rowan Hemsworth. She’s a tough, kick-ass cookie who can roll with the punches but underneath the martial arts and the attitude lurks a vulnerable woman who isn’t sure which path to follow. Naturally I loved her character from the beginning.
Aside from the instant sexual tension between these two characters, this is a romantic suspense book that had me guessing who the villain really was up until the very end which is what I enjoy most from suspense romance. Well that and the smart-mouth banter of awesome one liners that leads to fight for dominant control that has these two bunting heads one moment and lip-locking the next. With equal parts stubbornness and determination Rowan and Aslin make a perfect match for each other. My only concern is that the romance was too instantaneous … 3 days isn’t enough to develop true feelings of love but then again if some was trying to kill me and I had a sexy dominant man wanting to protect and ravage me at the same time I could see myself confusing words of love too.
Final Thought …
I hope Heart of Fame #3 continues on with Chris Huntley (Hemsworth … yeah Thor shout-out!), Rowan’s younger brother so that I will not only get to see Chris struggled his way through love but also get to see glimpse of where life has taken Rowan, Aslin, Nick and Lauren.
4 out of 5 Licks
Muscle for Hire by Lexxie Couper was a first for me since I never read anything by her prior to Heart of Fame series. When I read the title it automatically captured my attention but not in the context I was thinking … insert dirty thoughts here … LoL! After further details into this book I discovered it was the second in a series so naturally before I could dive into Muscle for Fire I had to read the first book Love’s Rhythm … sorry I’m kinda neurotic that way. Anywho, I adored Love’s Rhythm and would gladly recommend reading it but as a warning I will tell you in that in my opinion it reminded me a little of Olivia Cunning’s Sinners on Tour. So if you’re a Sinner I think you would definitely enjoy reading Love’s Rhythm.
In Love’s Rhythm we meet the hero of Muscle for Hire. We don’t know much about him other then the fact that he is a former SAS Commander, currently the bodyguard for the infamous singer Nick Blackthorne and hates being called a Pom/Pommie Bastard by the nosy in your face paparazzi.
In Muscle for Hire we discover what is hidden behind the shades of Aslin Rhodes and where his future may fall now that Nick Blackthorne has decided to trade fans for family. At first glance Aslin has a seriously stoic and intimidating demeanor but what everyone doesn’t know is that this mean wall of muscle has a loving heart hidden beneath the guarded exterior that has a taste for a little pain and perhaps a touch of exhibition … back alley against a wall, parking lot on the back of a motorcycle … nothing adds anticipation like the chances of being caught (which is always delicious in my eyes).
Aslin’s unknown future is found on the set of Dead Evil in the surprising and unsuspected pint-size package of … enter the heroine … Rowan Hemsworth. She’s a tough, kick-ass cookie who can roll with the punches but underneath the martial arts and the attitude lurks a vulnerable woman who isn’t sure which path to follow. Naturally I loved her character from the beginning.
Aside from the instant sexual tension between these two characters, this is a romantic suspense book that had me guessing who the villain really was up until the very end which is what I enjoy most from suspense romance. Well that and the smart-mouth banter of awesome one liners that leads to fight for dominant control that has these two bunting heads one moment and lip-locking the next. With equal parts stubbornness and determination Rowan and Aslin make a perfect match for each other. My only concern is that the romance was too instantaneous … 3 days isn’t enough to develop true feelings of love but then again if some was trying to kill me and I had a sexy dominant man wanting to protect and ravage me at the same time I could see myself confusing words of love too.
Final Thought …
I hope Heart of Fame #3 continues on with Chris Huntley (Hemsworth … yeah Thor shout-out!), Rowan’s younger brother so that I will not only get to see Chris struggled his way through love but also get to see glimpse of where life has taken Rowan, Aslin, Nick and Lauren.
March 2, 2013
Originally reviewed at http://scorchingbookreviews.blogspot....
OK, I’ll admit that whenever Lexxie Couper writes a new book, it goes on the wish list. She writes fabulously smutty books without slacking on the plotlines. This one may be the hottest one yet with the entire thing making me need a cold shower!
Aslin was introduced to us as Nick’s bodyguard in Love’s Rhythm and I’m pretty sure I begged for his book in that review. A hot, ex-military man who happens to be a Brit?? I see James Bond immediately J (Daniel Craig of course). He didn’t disappoint in this one but in his book we get to examine the Alpha edge that makes him a mean and sexy bastard. When he sets his sights on Rowan, he pursues her like a predator when it scents a weakness in his prey. He knows she wants him, exploits the fact and manages to charm his way into her knickers.
Once he is there though, he of course realises that the feelings that she elicits in him are much more than lust. I fricking loved that he was attracted to her strength. It made perfect sense to me that he would like the fact that she could take care of herself; that he could take of her because he wanted to and not because she needed him to. I loved that he never shied away from what she could do and that he understood her well enough never to undermine that strength infront of people that she didn’t know well enough (the hot brother didn’t count!). I. Fricking. Adored. Aslin. Even more than Nick and I NEVER thought that was possible. He was just so ....swoon!
“He shifted beneath her, an inch at a time, determined not to wake her. It took patience, stealth and muscle control, but Aslin didn’t care. He not only didn’t want to wake her, he wanted to be certain he didn’t hurt her.”
Rowen was a typical Lexxie Couper heroine. Strong, independent and fiercely loyal to those she called her own, there was a fragile streak a mile long that she kept very well hidden. She had something that I adore in my heroines; complete sexual inhibition. They skipped up a few bases on the back of a motorcycle, had sex against a door, sex in a bed....... I’m not sure there was anywhere they didn’t! She was completely OK with her lust for him and did everything in her power to make it completely pleasurable for the both of them. I adore all aspects of her character but together they were fricking dynamite.
The suspense plot was very well written. I fell for every red herring that was planted and didn’t figure out the culprit until the end....well played Ms Couper! I loved the side characters that were introduced to us... perhaps the next book may be Levi, the sexy backup bodyguard *bats eyelashes*
If you like your romance with a healthy dollop of heat, this is one to try. With characters that made me smile, sex scenes that made me need an ice bath and a twisty plot that kept me hooked, there is no way that I could ever dream of giving it anything less than a full five stars.
OK, I’ll admit that whenever Lexxie Couper writes a new book, it goes on the wish list. She writes fabulously smutty books without slacking on the plotlines. This one may be the hottest one yet with the entire thing making me need a cold shower!
Aslin was introduced to us as Nick’s bodyguard in Love’s Rhythm and I’m pretty sure I begged for his book in that review. A hot, ex-military man who happens to be a Brit?? I see James Bond immediately J (Daniel Craig of course). He didn’t disappoint in this one but in his book we get to examine the Alpha edge that makes him a mean and sexy bastard. When he sets his sights on Rowan, he pursues her like a predator when it scents a weakness in his prey. He knows she wants him, exploits the fact and manages to charm his way into her knickers.
Once he is there though, he of course realises that the feelings that she elicits in him are much more than lust. I fricking loved that he was attracted to her strength. It made perfect sense to me that he would like the fact that she could take care of herself; that he could take of her because he wanted to and not because she needed him to. I loved that he never shied away from what she could do and that he understood her well enough never to undermine that strength infront of people that she didn’t know well enough (the hot brother didn’t count!). I. Fricking. Adored. Aslin. Even more than Nick and I NEVER thought that was possible. He was just so ....swoon!
“He shifted beneath her, an inch at a time, determined not to wake her. It took patience, stealth and muscle control, but Aslin didn’t care. He not only didn’t want to wake her, he wanted to be certain he didn’t hurt her.”
Rowen was a typical Lexxie Couper heroine. Strong, independent and fiercely loyal to those she called her own, there was a fragile streak a mile long that she kept very well hidden. She had something that I adore in my heroines; complete sexual inhibition. They skipped up a few bases on the back of a motorcycle, had sex against a door, sex in a bed....... I’m not sure there was anywhere they didn’t! She was completely OK with her lust for him and did everything in her power to make it completely pleasurable for the both of them. I adore all aspects of her character but together they were fricking dynamite.
The suspense plot was very well written. I fell for every red herring that was planted and didn’t figure out the culprit until the end....well played Ms Couper! I loved the side characters that were introduced to us... perhaps the next book may be Levi, the sexy backup bodyguard *bats eyelashes*
If you like your romance with a healthy dollop of heat, this is one to try. With characters that made me smile, sex scenes that made me need an ice bath and a twisty plot that kept me hooked, there is no way that I could ever dream of giving it anything less than a full five stars.
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