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The Story Sisters #2
The Director and Don Juan
The Director and Don Juan is the second of four books about the Philadelphia-based Story sisters who are all on the look-out for love.
Heiress Alice Story left her father's company three years ago in a blaze of glory, inviting all of his employees to jump ship and join her, but only one accepted her mail room clerk, Carlos Vega.
While Alice spent the next three years getting her own company off the ground, Carlos became her indispensable right-hand man -- executive assistant and office manager, loyal counsel and trusted co-worker.
And all the while, they were quietly falling in love with each other.
When Alice is offered a lucrative business deal in Puerto Rico, island-born Carlos is the perfect person to accompany her on her trip as translator, but as they travel together from Philadelphia to Santo Domingo to Ponce, two unlikely co-workers will discover that during their three years working together, their feelings for each other have grown far deeper than they ever could have guessed.
And though business-minded, proper Alice will try her very best to ignore the longings of her heart, scorching hot, insanely sexy Boricua, Carlos, has no intention of letting her go.
Heiress Alice Story left her father's company three years ago in a blaze of glory, inviting all of his employees to jump ship and join her, but only one accepted her mail room clerk, Carlos Vega.
While Alice spent the next three years getting her own company off the ground, Carlos became her indispensable right-hand man -- executive assistant and office manager, loyal counsel and trusted co-worker.
And all the while, they were quietly falling in love with each other.
When Alice is offered a lucrative business deal in Puerto Rico, island-born Carlos is the perfect person to accompany her on her trip as translator, but as they travel together from Philadelphia to Santo Domingo to Ponce, two unlikely co-workers will discover that during their three years working together, their feelings for each other have grown far deeper than they ever could have guessed.
And though business-minded, proper Alice will try her very best to ignore the longings of her heart, scorching hot, insanely sexy Boricua, Carlos, has no intention of letting her go.
173 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2017
79 people are currently reading
408 people want to read
About the author
Katy Regnery
116 books4,277 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Katy Regnery has a heart for smart romance featuring strong women and decent men. Almost exclusively self-published, Katy claims authorship of over 60 titles, including three RITA® finalists. Translated into French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, and Turkish, Katy has sold over 1.8 million books worldwide.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
June 17, 2017
*5 Huge Swoony Latin Hero Stars *
I’m absolutely in love with this book. This was not only a super-fast read for me, it’s also swoony, hot, sweet, funny and full of feels! I can’t even with how much I loved it. Katy Regnery already has one of my favorite books of the year with Don’t Speak and The Director and Don Juan is definitely joining the favorites list for 2017.
I mean, who can resist a mega hot, mega swoony Puertorican hero, right? Well, I have to say that when it comes to books about Hispanic heroes or heroines, I often hesitate. I’m extremely picky with Hispanic themed books written by non-Hispanic authors. It sounds horrible, I know, but when you venture into writing about a topic or in this case a culture that is not yours, you might not always get it right. And just like I would pick apart a book about lawyers, or government because of my work line, a book about Hispanics that doesn’t get it right is a total turn off for me. It’s not unheard of though, my fellow bloggers will tell you that they tend to stay away from books about topics they know and understand because they fear about the author not getting it right.
So, on the interest of full disclosure, I did some cultural beta work on this one. I’ve never worked with her before but I love her books, so when Katy asked, I had to jump in. And let me tell you something, Katy just nails it! Not only did she had the right approach and idea from the get go, she truly listened to the feedback and incorporated it like a boss, which elevated this book to the next level! I’m so proud of Katy, and of this book. And you know me, honest is my middle name. Carlos is just a perfect, authentic, macho Boricua! And since I have my own wonderful, awesome, beautiful puertorrican man at home, I’m a self-proclaimed expert on this topic, lol.
“That is one hundred percent a fact, mami.”
“Mami?”
“It’s slang. Like, sarcastic, truth-slang.”
“So you’re not really calling me mommy.”
“Alice, when I call you “baby” later, it won’t have nothin’ to do with seein’ you as a child either.”
“Are you going to call me baby?” she asked.
He nodded. “Hell, yes.”
“When would that be?”
“When you’re lyin’ beneath me…baby.”
Her neck jerked and she faced him with wide eyes. “Whoa. You just went there.”
“I been there, mami. Just waitin’ for you to come join me.”
“Damn,” she breathed, speeding up, pulling away from him.
Nope. Not happening. He dug deep and gained on her.
“Stop runnin’ away from me.”
See? Nailed it!
I know, I’m all over the place with this review. Tends to happen a lot when I really love a book. So, let’s talk about the book. The Director and Don Juan is book 2 in the Story Sisters series. The story centers around Alice Story, who left her father’s company to start her own company from the bottom up. When she left her dad’s company, she invited all of his employees to go with her (kinda Jerry Maguire-ish) and Carlos, who worked in the mailroom, is the only one that joined her. Now 3 years later, her company is flourishing and Carlos has become an irreplaceable presence in her work life...and maybe so much more. When they find each other alone away in a business trip to the Caribbean it might be time to explore those feelings that have been growing between them for years!
I loved everything about this book. The writing, the pacing, the story. Loved both characters, especially Carlos. He was so beautiful and caring, and also hott!!! And Alice was strong willed, feisty and smart. As the story progresses and Alice and Carlos find each other more and more attracted to each other, they have to navigate through their differences to figure out if they can make it work. Not only is Carlos younger than Alice, but they also come from different worlds.
“I’m from Puerto Rico. I don’t have an MBA. I’m less successful than you. Hell, I’m your assistant.”
There’s a little back and forth between them because of their differences and some super awesome angsty moments. However, their problems are truly realistic, not over the top, and there’s no stupid or unnecessary drama. There’s also tons of feels along the way.
“Really, mi amor,” he said, still cradling her cheek in his hand as a rain cloud covered the sun. “I walked away from your father’s company because I believed in you. I didn’t care about anything—or anyone—else, and so far, that choice was the best decision I ever made. In my whole life.”
“I love you, he thought. I love you, you driven, smart, beautiful, sexy woman. I love you like crazy. I have for the longest time.”
And the sexy times, OMG, scorching hott!!!!
“You’re the boss at the office, Allee. But, here?” He stood up, then reached for her hips, turning her so that they traded places and the backs of her knees touched the bed. “I’m in charge.”
“Take me to bed, Carlos.”
“Are you sure, Allee? Once we cross that line, I’m not stepping back. You’ll be mine, mi amor. And once you belong to me, I don’t intend to walk away. Ever.”
“Te amo. Te quiero. Quiero hacerte el amor.””
See? Fantastic! I don’t want to say anymore cause I don’t want to spoil anything else, but I promise you will love this one. Katy is so talented and her books are the perfect combination of sweet and hot. Can’t wait for the next book in this series. I absolutely recommend!!!!
“Where do we go from here?” she finally asked.
“Mi amor, as long as we’re together, we go wherever we want.”
The Director and Don Juan releases June 30th. Pre-Order here
JOIN THE SISTERHOOD! FIND US ON: FACEBOOK / INSTAGRAM / TWITTER / BLOG
I’m absolutely in love with this book. This was not only a super-fast read for me, it’s also swoony, hot, sweet, funny and full of feels! I can’t even with how much I loved it. Katy Regnery already has one of my favorite books of the year with Don’t Speak and The Director and Don Juan is definitely joining the favorites list for 2017.
I mean, who can resist a mega hot, mega swoony Puertorican hero, right? Well, I have to say that when it comes to books about Hispanic heroes or heroines, I often hesitate. I’m extremely picky with Hispanic themed books written by non-Hispanic authors. It sounds horrible, I know, but when you venture into writing about a topic or in this case a culture that is not yours, you might not always get it right. And just like I would pick apart a book about lawyers, or government because of my work line, a book about Hispanics that doesn’t get it right is a total turn off for me. It’s not unheard of though, my fellow bloggers will tell you that they tend to stay away from books about topics they know and understand because they fear about the author not getting it right.
So, on the interest of full disclosure, I did some cultural beta work on this one. I’ve never worked with her before but I love her books, so when Katy asked, I had to jump in. And let me tell you something, Katy just nails it! Not only did she had the right approach and idea from the get go, she truly listened to the feedback and incorporated it like a boss, which elevated this book to the next level! I’m so proud of Katy, and of this book. And you know me, honest is my middle name. Carlos is just a perfect, authentic, macho Boricua! And since I have my own wonderful, awesome, beautiful puertorrican man at home, I’m a self-proclaimed expert on this topic, lol.
“That is one hundred percent a fact, mami.”
“Mami?”
“It’s slang. Like, sarcastic, truth-slang.”
“So you’re not really calling me mommy.”
“Alice, when I call you “baby” later, it won’t have nothin’ to do with seein’ you as a child either.”
“Are you going to call me baby?” she asked.
He nodded. “Hell, yes.”
“When would that be?”
“When you’re lyin’ beneath me…baby.”
Her neck jerked and she faced him with wide eyes. “Whoa. You just went there.”
“I been there, mami. Just waitin’ for you to come join me.”
“Damn,” she breathed, speeding up, pulling away from him.
Nope. Not happening. He dug deep and gained on her.
“Stop runnin’ away from me.”
See? Nailed it!
I know, I’m all over the place with this review. Tends to happen a lot when I really love a book. So, let’s talk about the book. The Director and Don Juan is book 2 in the Story Sisters series. The story centers around Alice Story, who left her father’s company to start her own company from the bottom up. When she left her dad’s company, she invited all of his employees to go with her (kinda Jerry Maguire-ish) and Carlos, who worked in the mailroom, is the only one that joined her. Now 3 years later, her company is flourishing and Carlos has become an irreplaceable presence in her work life...and maybe so much more. When they find each other alone away in a business trip to the Caribbean it might be time to explore those feelings that have been growing between them for years!
I loved everything about this book. The writing, the pacing, the story. Loved both characters, especially Carlos. He was so beautiful and caring, and also hott!!! And Alice was strong willed, feisty and smart. As the story progresses and Alice and Carlos find each other more and more attracted to each other, they have to navigate through their differences to figure out if they can make it work. Not only is Carlos younger than Alice, but they also come from different worlds.
“I’m from Puerto Rico. I don’t have an MBA. I’m less successful than you. Hell, I’m your assistant.”
There’s a little back and forth between them because of their differences and some super awesome angsty moments. However, their problems are truly realistic, not over the top, and there’s no stupid or unnecessary drama. There’s also tons of feels along the way.
“Really, mi amor,” he said, still cradling her cheek in his hand as a rain cloud covered the sun. “I walked away from your father’s company because I believed in you. I didn’t care about anything—or anyone—else, and so far, that choice was the best decision I ever made. In my whole life.”
“I love you, he thought. I love you, you driven, smart, beautiful, sexy woman. I love you like crazy. I have for the longest time.”
And the sexy times, OMG, scorching hott!!!!
“You’re the boss at the office, Allee. But, here?” He stood up, then reached for her hips, turning her so that they traded places and the backs of her knees touched the bed. “I’m in charge.”
“Take me to bed, Carlos.”
“Are you sure, Allee? Once we cross that line, I’m not stepping back. You’ll be mine, mi amor. And once you belong to me, I don’t intend to walk away. Ever.”
“Te amo. Te quiero. Quiero hacerte el amor.””
See? Fantastic! I don’t want to say anymore cause I don’t want to spoil anything else, but I promise you will love this one. Katy is so talented and her books are the perfect combination of sweet and hot. Can’t wait for the next book in this series. I absolutely recommend!!!!
“Where do we go from here?” she finally asked.
“Mi amor, as long as we’re together, we go wherever we want.”
The Director and Don Juan releases June 30th. Pre-Order here
JOIN THE SISTERHOOD! FIND US ON: FACEBOOK / INSTAGRAM / TWITTER / BLOG
July 3, 2017
Sooooo..... I gues I'm the only one who has a problem with the hero calling the woman he slept with, a whore? Well I got news for you buddy, it takes one to know one...
And btw Don Juan in Spanish means a player, a ladies man.... Just saying..
That's all I'm saying about this book...
And btw Don Juan in Spanish means a player, a ladies man.... Just saying..
That's all I'm saying about this book...
July 16, 2017
“I’d follow you to the ends of the earth, mi amor.”
Holy hot tamale! THE DIRECTOR AND DON JUAN was on fire!!! This high octane Story Sister tale was BLAZING HOT. BREATHLESSLY ROMANTIC. Rife with ROBUST SPANISH FLAVOR. And, of course, chock full of Katy Regnery's TRADEMARK SWOONY CHARM that loyal fans have come to adore from this beloved, long running Blueberry Lane series.
I have a weakness for tall, dark, Latin lovers and ¡Dios mío! Carlos Vega is one deliciously sexy Puerto Rican hunka burning love! With his jet black locks, smoky gray eyes and big, gloriously muscled physique, was it any wonder a bevy of beauties flocked to this former manwhore's side? He sure made MY heart beat faster! Only one woman "seemed" immune to his potent animal magnetism---his type-A, no-nonsense boss, Alice Story!
Carlos was the only employee who'd followed the cool blonde heiress out the door of Story Imports after Alice deflected from her fathers company when it became painfully clear that, despite her years of hard work and sacrifice, Doug was never going to give her the promotion she richly deserved. And in the ensuing years, "Ah-leese" and Carlos shared a special connection...finished each other's sentences, worked seamlessly together, and "enjoyed a shorthand with one another that had been born of necessity and nurtured daily, however inadvertently, over three tumultuous years of building a business together." The former mailroom boy turned office manager had believed in Alice when no one else in the world was willing to give her a chance and now Alice trusts her fiercely loyal assistant implicitly with everything...except her barricaded heart.
She did not want the messiness of romantic entanglements but that did not stop the dashing Don Juan from starring in her FORBIDDEN BEDROOM FANTASIES! Then the lines between fantasy and reality becomes blurred when Carlos accompanies Alice to the tropical Bahía de Plata in the Dominican Republic for a week-long business trip, and their strictly boss/employee working relationship morphes into a red hot love affair!
But Carlos is her coworker and subordinate, seven years her junior and they come from vastly different cultural backgrounds Can their passionate attraction defy the odds and blossom into the love of a lifetime??
Gah...can you say SWOON???? The Director and Don Juan was a pure joy to read and man oh man did I need a fan to ward off the flames! The volcanic chemistry between Carlos and Alice was so combustible I felt the burn down to my core!!
I relish how Ms. Regnery boldly takes risks with her romances. I enjoy having my boundaries stretched and she breaks the mold masterfully with this May/December, traditional "gender role reversal" premise. I have learned to "never says never" with this author because even when I think a particular storyline might not be my cuppa tea, she inevitably always manages to change my mind, causing me to reassess what I THOUGHT defines a spellbinding romance!!
I truly savored the evolution of this unique, slow-burning love story...there was tantalizing sexual tension and fiery sparks throughout! The pull between this duo was incredibly palpable but getting his mi amour Alice, a tighty wound control freak, to loosen her inhibitions, take a chance on him and let Carlos take care of her in every conceivable way was a mighty big challenge. Yet despite the age difference and unique power dynamics between ladyboss Alice and her love-smitten, eager to please employee, never once did I feel that he was emasculated. On the contrary, Carlos is ALL swaggeringly sexy MACHO MAN!!!
I loved seeing Carlos bring out the softer side to the woman of his dreams. And even though Alice was his boss in the boardroom all bets were off in the bedroom! With one scalding look, he strips her defenses, invades her dreams and had her ACHING TO SUBMIT!!!
"She was no longer a business owner with the weight of the world on her shoulders; she was a woman. Hot blooded and aching. Just a woman who was desperately in love with a man who made her feel hot and needy, safe and desired, protected and wanted."
My lips are sealed about how the romantic drama plays out but you can count on an ending that will leave you rapturous!
Bottom Line: I fell hopelessly in love with with this lushly romantic, boundary-busting, culturally-rich novel, and once again we have another rousing winner by the majestically talented Ms. Regnery!
Holy hot tamale! THE DIRECTOR AND DON JUAN was on fire!!! This high octane Story Sister tale was BLAZING HOT. BREATHLESSLY ROMANTIC. Rife with ROBUST SPANISH FLAVOR. And, of course, chock full of Katy Regnery's TRADEMARK SWOONY CHARM that loyal fans have come to adore from this beloved, long running Blueberry Lane series.
I have a weakness for tall, dark, Latin lovers and ¡Dios mío! Carlos Vega is one deliciously sexy Puerto Rican hunka burning love! With his jet black locks, smoky gray eyes and big, gloriously muscled physique, was it any wonder a bevy of beauties flocked to this former manwhore's side? He sure made MY heart beat faster! Only one woman "seemed" immune to his potent animal magnetism---his type-A, no-nonsense boss, Alice Story!
Carlos was the only employee who'd followed the cool blonde heiress out the door of Story Imports after Alice deflected from her fathers company when it became painfully clear that, despite her years of hard work and sacrifice, Doug was never going to give her the promotion she richly deserved. And in the ensuing years, "Ah-leese" and Carlos shared a special connection...finished each other's sentences, worked seamlessly together, and "enjoyed a shorthand with one another that had been born of necessity and nurtured daily, however inadvertently, over three tumultuous years of building a business together." The former mailroom boy turned office manager had believed in Alice when no one else in the world was willing to give her a chance and now Alice trusts her fiercely loyal assistant implicitly with everything...except her barricaded heart.
She did not want the messiness of romantic entanglements but that did not stop the dashing Don Juan from starring in her FORBIDDEN BEDROOM FANTASIES! Then the lines between fantasy and reality becomes blurred when Carlos accompanies Alice to the tropical Bahía de Plata in the Dominican Republic for a week-long business trip, and their strictly boss/employee working relationship morphes into a red hot love affair!
But Carlos is her coworker and subordinate, seven years her junior and they come from vastly different cultural backgrounds Can their passionate attraction defy the odds and blossom into the love of a lifetime??
Gah...can you say SWOON???? The Director and Don Juan was a pure joy to read and man oh man did I need a fan to ward off the flames! The volcanic chemistry between Carlos and Alice was so combustible I felt the burn down to my core!!
I relish how Ms. Regnery boldly takes risks with her romances. I enjoy having my boundaries stretched and she breaks the mold masterfully with this May/December, traditional "gender role reversal" premise. I have learned to "never says never" with this author because even when I think a particular storyline might not be my cuppa tea, she inevitably always manages to change my mind, causing me to reassess what I THOUGHT defines a spellbinding romance!!
I truly savored the evolution of this unique, slow-burning love story...there was tantalizing sexual tension and fiery sparks throughout! The pull between this duo was incredibly palpable but getting his mi amour Alice, a tighty wound control freak, to loosen her inhibitions, take a chance on him and let Carlos take care of her in every conceivable way was a mighty big challenge. Yet despite the age difference and unique power dynamics between ladyboss Alice and her love-smitten, eager to please employee, never once did I feel that he was emasculated. On the contrary, Carlos is ALL swaggeringly sexy MACHO MAN!!!
I loved seeing Carlos bring out the softer side to the woman of his dreams. And even though Alice was his boss in the boardroom all bets were off in the bedroom! With one scalding look, he strips her defenses, invades her dreams and had her ACHING TO SUBMIT!!!
"She was no longer a business owner with the weight of the world on her shoulders; she was a woman. Hot blooded and aching. Just a woman who was desperately in love with a man who made her feel hot and needy, safe and desired, protected and wanted."
My lips are sealed about how the romantic drama plays out but you can count on an ending that will leave you rapturous!
Bottom Line: I fell hopelessly in love with with this lushly romantic, boundary-busting, culturally-rich novel, and once again we have another rousing winner by the majestically talented Ms. Regnery!
June 19, 2017
Alice Story rebelled against her father and quit his company after years of doing everything that was expected of her in her personal and professional life. He always made her feel not good enough. Now three years later she owns her own successful business, but she has no real love or social life.
The only man she truly trusts is the only employee of her father's that took a chance and went with her. Carlos Vega is a younger, Puerto Rican man who has been her faithful right hand man. He thrives on taking care of her and her business, although he does have his own dreams. He's been a player, but is ready to settle down. But his boss is the only woman that he really wants and he thinks he does not have a chance of catching her eye.
A business trip near his family home in Puerto Rico allows her to see a different side of him. He is flirty, more confident, assertive, and able to really assist with business aspects. Certain things happen that flip the switch for Alice making her realize that not only is Carlos the only man she trusts, but he is also the one she is attracted to. All of a sudden things are getting more flirtatious and the sexual tension is heating up. Their love story evolves very quickly during their trip, but in reality it has been three years in the making. Competition, jealousy, fear, and challenging each other ramps up feelings and passion that have been lying under the surface and just not acted upon.
There are quite a few challenges to overcome, especially from Alice's point of view. She is his boss, seven years older, and they are not in the same social or financial circles. She never backs down from a fight, but her feelings for him scare her. But Carlos does not have strong reservations. His confidence and maturity keep him grounded. Can they figure out how to manage their working relationship, and find a way to make a hot fling last forever?
Carlos was a fun hero. He was mature for his age and so thoughtful, caring, and protective of Alice. But he was charming, funny, and sexy too. His accent and Spanish just added to his appeal. Even though Alice was professional and controlled, she had a big heart and was passionate. She just needed to feel safe in order to let go of control. And she had never really experienced what true love felt like. I enjoyed their power exchanges and how they could balance each other out. Of course there are some issues and challenges to face, but overall this was a fast-paced, low angst, sweet, sexy, and swoony story with likable characters. We get a bit more with her sisters in this one. I am looking forward to more in this series.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim | Facebook | Twitter
The only man she truly trusts is the only employee of her father's that took a chance and went with her. Carlos Vega is a younger, Puerto Rican man who has been her faithful right hand man. He thrives on taking care of her and her business, although he does have his own dreams. He's been a player, but is ready to settle down. But his boss is the only woman that he really wants and he thinks he does not have a chance of catching her eye.
A business trip near his family home in Puerto Rico allows her to see a different side of him. He is flirty, more confident, assertive, and able to really assist with business aspects. Certain things happen that flip the switch for Alice making her realize that not only is Carlos the only man she trusts, but he is also the one she is attracted to. All of a sudden things are getting more flirtatious and the sexual tension is heating up. Their love story evolves very quickly during their trip, but in reality it has been three years in the making. Competition, jealousy, fear, and challenging each other ramps up feelings and passion that have been lying under the surface and just not acted upon.
There are quite a few challenges to overcome, especially from Alice's point of view. She is his boss, seven years older, and they are not in the same social or financial circles. She never backs down from a fight, but her feelings for him scare her. But Carlos does not have strong reservations. His confidence and maturity keep him grounded. Can they figure out how to manage their working relationship, and find a way to make a hot fling last forever?
Carlos was a fun hero. He was mature for his age and so thoughtful, caring, and protective of Alice. But he was charming, funny, and sexy too. His accent and Spanish just added to his appeal. Even though Alice was professional and controlled, she had a big heart and was passionate. She just needed to feel safe in order to let go of control. And she had never really experienced what true love felt like. I enjoyed their power exchanges and how they could balance each other out. Of course there are some issues and challenges to face, but overall this was a fast-paced, low angst, sweet, sexy, and swoony story with likable characters. We get a bit more with her sisters in this one. I am looking forward to more in this series.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim | Facebook | Twitter
June 26, 2017
Three years ago, Alice Story walked out of her father’s company and founded her own. It has been a success with the help of one grey eyed Puerto Rican. She gives a very Jerry Maguire speech. But it has come to a point in her life at the age of 33 years old that she wants to settle down and have a family but she is missing that special someone. Or is she?
Carlos Vega, young, hot and virile Puerto Rican took a chance with Alice Story and it paid off. The job promotion led him to his own flat of freedom and an endless string of women. We see him wake up next to someone and he can’t remember if it is Alicia-Felicia ended up being a Leticia. It’s time to wake up and find his forever, he can clearly see it being Alice.
He realises that his chance with Alice is either now or never. Cleans up his act and goes for the challenge that is Alice Story. Now I don’t mind older woman/younger man romance as long as it is done well. But we are talking about Katy Regnery and it worked.
There was some fuss about the age but it wasn’t over the top. What bothered me more was her head constantly overruling her heart. Always follow your heart. But Carlos be still my beating heart he is an awesome Hero and he set Alice straight on all her issues. There is also a slight role reversal which was also done very well by the author.
The chemistry between the two was good, strong and believable. The banter they also had going once they crossed that line. Ah made me sigh every time.
“Are you going to call me baby?” she asked. He nodded. “Hell yes.”” “When would that be?” “When you’re lying beneath me…baby.” Her neck jerked, and she faced him with wide eyes. “Whoa. You just went there.” “I been there, mami. Just waitin’ for you to come join me.”
I wasn’t particularly a fan of the Rousseaus’s but what I can clearly see if Ms. Regnery got down and dirty with the Puerto Ricans in Philly. It would be fab. The use mami & papi. Loved it.
The future isn’t something perfect. The future isn’t something predictable. The best thing you can do is find a partner who loves you and tackle it together.
June 17, 2017
Through the creative eyes of one woman, readers have had their hearts broken, souls healed and let their imaginations run wild. Katy Regnery has the distinction of being a one click author and a one day read whenever I get my hands on her new releases. The Director and Don Juan is no exception to that rule. Having mastered the art of painting a picture with her descriptive words and emotional tales, Ms. Regnery now tackles subjects like sexism and racism as she choreographs a sensual meeting of souls in the complicated dance of love. Carlos and Alice may come from different backgrounds, but they share a fierce will and deep bond to succeed. He pushed her to take risks and she gave him a chance to prove his worth. They needed each other. With beautiful locations, sexy dialogue and magnetic lead characters, it's no wonder why readers are drawn to this author.
June 30, 2017
The Director and Don Juan by Katy Regnery was a such cute, sweet and sexy love story. An easy fun read. It was a nice break from overly dramatic books that I usually read. I've read Katy's fairytale series and this one is much different. Lighter. A great read for the beach!
Carlos & Alice were wonderful well developed characters. They made my heart smile :)
Alice Story did every thing in her life with precise perfection just to make her father proud. She worked twice as hard in his company, Story Imports. Waiting year after year to be promoted. After years of being looked over and disappointed, she had it. You see her father ran his business like a "boys club." Leaving Alice stagnant in her position. One day she finally exploded and quit. Before leaving her father's office, she asked her fellow employees if anyone wanted to join her. She decided she was going to open her own company. Only one person was on board, Carlos from the mail room. Carlos was from Puerto Rico and earned all his business degrees there. He had come to America for a better life. Being an immigrant, he was also stuck in his position at Story imports. With nothing to lose he teamed up with Alice. Together they made Alice Story Imports a success. They remained extremely close for years, as her company grew.... During this time, Carlos was always a player. Love em' and leave em' type, because there was only one woman for him and she seemed unattainable. Some where along the line, our sexy Latino fell for his boss. This is where the frustration and fun begins...
Carlos Vega is muy calibrate!!! I loved when he spoke Spanish. *fans face* Beside his hotness, he is devoted, caring and extremely protective over Alice. Always putting her first. Alice is fiercely independent and a complete workaholic. She is all work and no play. Her main focused was always to prove herself and build her company. Leaving no time for men or love. Hmmmm, that is until she starts looking at Carlos differently... His tan skin, his bulging biceps, his beautiful face. What's a girl to do? Carlos & Alice are perfect for each other, but convincing straight laced Alice is going to be a challenge. Dating an employee is a big no-no. Alice frustrated me to death, but in a good way. She kept me turning the pages, begging for her to give in. While sexy, Carlos gave me chills and kept me smiling. I love how Carlos made Alice lose her rigid control and restraint. While she made him feel like her equal in every way and totally brought out all his machismo. Watching them fumble around and try to figure out their relationship was a joy. This Boss/employee romance made me happy.
Carlos & Alice were wonderful well developed characters. They made my heart smile :)
Alice Story did every thing in her life with precise perfection just to make her father proud. She worked twice as hard in his company, Story Imports. Waiting year after year to be promoted. After years of being looked over and disappointed, she had it. You see her father ran his business like a "boys club." Leaving Alice stagnant in her position. One day she finally exploded and quit. Before leaving her father's office, she asked her fellow employees if anyone wanted to join her. She decided she was going to open her own company. Only one person was on board, Carlos from the mail room. Carlos was from Puerto Rico and earned all his business degrees there. He had come to America for a better life. Being an immigrant, he was also stuck in his position at Story imports. With nothing to lose he teamed up with Alice. Together they made Alice Story Imports a success. They remained extremely close for years, as her company grew.... During this time, Carlos was always a player. Love em' and leave em' type, because there was only one woman for him and she seemed unattainable. Some where along the line, our sexy Latino fell for his boss. This is where the frustration and fun begins...
Carlos Vega is muy calibrate!!! I loved when he spoke Spanish. *fans face* Beside his hotness, he is devoted, caring and extremely protective over Alice. Always putting her first. Alice is fiercely independent and a complete workaholic. She is all work and no play. Her main focused was always to prove herself and build her company. Leaving no time for men or love. Hmmmm, that is until she starts looking at Carlos differently... His tan skin, his bulging biceps, his beautiful face. What's a girl to do? Carlos & Alice are perfect for each other, but convincing straight laced Alice is going to be a challenge. Dating an employee is a big no-no. Alice frustrated me to death, but in a good way. She kept me turning the pages, begging for her to give in. While sexy, Carlos gave me chills and kept me smiling. I love how Carlos made Alice lose her rigid control and restraint. While she made him feel like her equal in every way and totally brought out all his machismo. Watching them fumble around and try to figure out their relationship was a joy. This Boss/employee romance made me happy.
June 18, 2017
This book was one of my absolute favorites in the series. Funny enough with each book I read I feel the same - they are just getting BETTER AND BETTER. I loved the whole idea behind this one, the "reversed roles" and the way it wasn't in all aspects. I loved the fact they are different and yet they fit perfectly together. They are both gorgeous, and I don't just mean physically - they are these two amazing people, each in her/his own right and they deserved to get the best HEA possible.
This book was quite short but because Carlos and Alice have been working VERY closely for the past few years, the pace seems just right. Carlos was more in-tuned with himself, realizing that he craves his boss, even if she would never look his way. They live in worlds apart not to mention Alice is too strict to allow an "office romance". Alice knows that Carlos is the only man she ever trusted, she more than just enjoys his company and help around the office, he is invaluable to her. She NEEDS him and even though she knows he should have been promoted she is struggling with herself to let him go. But she won't allow herself to admit she wants more and she sees more in him than she even saw in anyone before.
Alice Story is in the best place she could wish for, opening her own import/export beverages company after leaving her father's company wasn't easy, but with Carlos Vega by her side (the only employee of her father's who came to work with her) and a little help from her sister and her husband two years ago, she has a profiting company. It's time to think about finding a man. She isn't thrilled about it.. Finding someone she could trust, or won't be interested in her for the wrong reasons or expect her to change and be less of a career woman is going to be hard.. But she needs to make it a priority if she wants kids.. and she does.. sooner rather than later. She is already in her 30s, it's time.
Carlos Vega, coming from a puerto rican background also wants something different than he has, all those one-night-stands are starting to get old, and yet, how can he look for someone special when his heart is already taken by his beautiful, successful, good hearted boss - Alice. He has been there for her from the start, he trusted her and this change turned out to be the best he made in his life. Yet what he truly wants he can't have.. or can he?
A business opportunity in Carlos' home ground brings a chance for them to spend a whole week together, this is the time for Carlos to make him move. But he needs to be more than just "persuasive" because though Alice wants him, she has a long list of misgivings about them being together. But Carlos now knows that she wants him too and he is willing to fight for what he wants.
There's more to the story, with a handsome millionaire who has a very interesting offer to Alice, both personally and financially but I'll leave you to find all about it yourselves. I enjoyed the way things played and also how Alice and Carlos dealt with the whole ordeal, by themselves and together.
What I loved most about this book was the special interaction between Alice and Carlos. They come from a very different background, they have similar yet so very different motivation in life and business, yet they want the same things in the end. While Alice was extremely careeristic, Carlos mostly got to where he wants and he doesn't need to rush to capture unseen goals. He loves what he does, he enjoys taking care of Alice (and the company), he wants to build a family, and he is willing to spare the time for all of that. Alice is VERY work oriented yet even she realizes things needs to change even a little so she could build the family she wants. Yet she won't give up her passions and position she worked hard to achieve. I really respected her for that. But I REALLY respected Carlos for throwing away so many traditional roles he grew up on to be on Alice's side. To be her second in a way. Yet it wasn't Alice leading the way in the romantic department, that was ALL Carlos. She wanted him, she craved him, and yet he was the one who made them work, he was the more dominant in this aspect which balanced them out beautifully. Also I loved that both were very gentle in their "leadership". Alice is a strict boss but a very fair one, who sees everyone around her and though Carlos "pushed" Alice a little to make her see they are right together, he was, too, very sweet and endearing even while bossing her around :) In so many books these days this book would have turned into a BDSM novel and I'm SO HAPPY this book isn't that AT ALL. Carlos and Alice KNOW what they want, they have parts in their lives they are the natural leaders but there is much more to them than just that.
I HIGHLY recommend this one, it was simply a JOY to read. It's a part of a series, yes, a very long one but it can totally read as a stand alone. I think it's best to read "The Bohemian and the Businessman" to understand the family interaction better, but I'm mostly saying that because I LOVED that book as well :)
I kindly received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
More Reviews HERE
This book was quite short but because Carlos and Alice have been working VERY closely for the past few years, the pace seems just right. Carlos was more in-tuned with himself, realizing that he craves his boss, even if she would never look his way. They live in worlds apart not to mention Alice is too strict to allow an "office romance". Alice knows that Carlos is the only man she ever trusted, she more than just enjoys his company and help around the office, he is invaluable to her. She NEEDS him and even though she knows he should have been promoted she is struggling with herself to let him go. But she won't allow herself to admit she wants more and she sees more in him than she even saw in anyone before.
Alice Story is in the best place she could wish for, opening her own import/export beverages company after leaving her father's company wasn't easy, but with Carlos Vega by her side (the only employee of her father's who came to work with her) and a little help from her sister and her husband two years ago, she has a profiting company. It's time to think about finding a man. She isn't thrilled about it.. Finding someone she could trust, or won't be interested in her for the wrong reasons or expect her to change and be less of a career woman is going to be hard.. But she needs to make it a priority if she wants kids.. and she does.. sooner rather than later. She is already in her 30s, it's time.
Carlos Vega, coming from a puerto rican background also wants something different than he has, all those one-night-stands are starting to get old, and yet, how can he look for someone special when his heart is already taken by his beautiful, successful, good hearted boss - Alice. He has been there for her from the start, he trusted her and this change turned out to be the best he made in his life. Yet what he truly wants he can't have.. or can he?
A business opportunity in Carlos' home ground brings a chance for them to spend a whole week together, this is the time for Carlos to make him move. But he needs to be more than just "persuasive" because though Alice wants him, she has a long list of misgivings about them being together. But Carlos now knows that she wants him too and he is willing to fight for what he wants.
There's more to the story, with a handsome millionaire who has a very interesting offer to Alice, both personally and financially but I'll leave you to find all about it yourselves. I enjoyed the way things played and also how Alice and Carlos dealt with the whole ordeal, by themselves and together.
What I loved most about this book was the special interaction between Alice and Carlos. They come from a very different background, they have similar yet so very different motivation in life and business, yet they want the same things in the end. While Alice was extremely careeristic, Carlos mostly got to where he wants and he doesn't need to rush to capture unseen goals. He loves what he does, he enjoys taking care of Alice (and the company), he wants to build a family, and he is willing to spare the time for all of that. Alice is VERY work oriented yet even she realizes things needs to change even a little so she could build the family she wants. Yet she won't give up her passions and position she worked hard to achieve. I really respected her for that. But I REALLY respected Carlos for throwing away so many traditional roles he grew up on to be on Alice's side. To be her second in a way. Yet it wasn't Alice leading the way in the romantic department, that was ALL Carlos. She wanted him, she craved him, and yet he was the one who made them work, he was the more dominant in this aspect which balanced them out beautifully. Also I loved that both were very gentle in their "leadership". Alice is a strict boss but a very fair one, who sees everyone around her and though Carlos "pushed" Alice a little to make her see they are right together, he was, too, very sweet and endearing even while bossing her around :) In so many books these days this book would have turned into a BDSM novel and I'm SO HAPPY this book isn't that AT ALL. Carlos and Alice KNOW what they want, they have parts in their lives they are the natural leaders but there is much more to them than just that.
I HIGHLY recommend this one, it was simply a JOY to read. It's a part of a series, yes, a very long one but it can totally read as a stand alone. I think it's best to read "The Bohemian and the Businessman" to understand the family interaction better, but I'm mostly saying that because I LOVED that book as well :)
I kindly received this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
More Reviews HERE
June 29, 2017
The Director and Don Juan (The Story Sisters # 2)
So easy ... 5 STARS!!! *****
Holy Latino hotness! Every time I read a new book of Katy Regnery I say it is my new favorite and this book is no different. I am so marveled by this author’s ability to come up with such heartfelt and romantic love stories time and time again. All I know is that I wait patiently for her books and read everything she puts out.
The Director and Don Juan is about second Story sisters Alice. She is a successful business woman starting a company on her own after she left her father’s company. Carlos was a mail room clerk working at Alice’s fathers company. When Alice left, she asked if anyone would follow her to start fresh – Carlos was the only one who volunteered. So, for the last 3 years Carlos worked alongside his boss. Carlos and Alice always have had a certain attraction and adoration towards each other but they both know it is a very bad idea to fraternize at work. When Alice gets a business deal in Puerto Rico (Carlos’s hometown) it is natural that Carlos would accompany Alice on the trip. That’s when all hell breaks loose and the romance begins …
I absolutely love love love Alice and Carlos’s story. Alice is seven years older than Carlos. She is also his boss and she hasn’t been in love so it is hard for Alice to let her guard down. Carlos is so freaking swoony and dreamy. Carlos has been in love with his boss for a long while but he respects her enough to wait until Alice is ready. Alice wants a partner - someone she loves and loves her back. She just has been looking at all the wrong places because the man who loves and adores her has been right by her side for years. Oh man! I have to say Katy writes some freaking hot scenes – it was unbelievably panty dropping sexy and erotic (in particular the teeth part) Holy Sh*t!!! That’s was intense. I like how the relationship developed - Alice and Carlos have known their feelings for each other for a while so even though it seems their relationship starts fast it is actually overdue. I like the strong, smart, driven female character and equally determined hero. I like how the story addresses cultural differences and certain taboos with an older woman/younger man – all is very classy, sweet and with humor.
The Director and Don Juan was such fun sexy read. Beautiful and romantic love story. Great dialogues. Gorgeous writing as always. This story makes me smile and swoon, and believe in soulmates regardless of all the differences separating them. True love conquers all.
So easy ... 5 STARS!!! *****
Holy Latino hotness! Every time I read a new book of Katy Regnery I say it is my new favorite and this book is no different. I am so marveled by this author’s ability to come up with such heartfelt and romantic love stories time and time again. All I know is that I wait patiently for her books and read everything she puts out.
The Director and Don Juan is about second Story sisters Alice. She is a successful business woman starting a company on her own after she left her father’s company. Carlos was a mail room clerk working at Alice’s fathers company. When Alice left, she asked if anyone would follow her to start fresh – Carlos was the only one who volunteered. So, for the last 3 years Carlos worked alongside his boss. Carlos and Alice always have had a certain attraction and adoration towards each other but they both know it is a very bad idea to fraternize at work. When Alice gets a business deal in Puerto Rico (Carlos’s hometown) it is natural that Carlos would accompany Alice on the trip. That’s when all hell breaks loose and the romance begins …
I absolutely love love love Alice and Carlos’s story. Alice is seven years older than Carlos. She is also his boss and she hasn’t been in love so it is hard for Alice to let her guard down. Carlos is so freaking swoony and dreamy. Carlos has been in love with his boss for a long while but he respects her enough to wait until Alice is ready. Alice wants a partner - someone she loves and loves her back. She just has been looking at all the wrong places because the man who loves and adores her has been right by her side for years. Oh man! I have to say Katy writes some freaking hot scenes – it was unbelievably panty dropping sexy and erotic (in particular the teeth part) Holy Sh*t!!! That’s was intense. I like how the relationship developed - Alice and Carlos have known their feelings for each other for a while so even though it seems their relationship starts fast it is actually overdue. I like the strong, smart, driven female character and equally determined hero. I like how the story addresses cultural differences and certain taboos with an older woman/younger man – all is very classy, sweet and with humor.
The Director and Don Juan was such fun sexy read. Beautiful and romantic love story. Great dialogues. Gorgeous writing as always. This story makes me smile and swoon, and believe in soulmates regardless of all the differences separating them. True love conquers all.
June 29, 2017
Favorite Quotes:
Alice and her goddamned shoulds and shouldn’ts. Man, but he was getting sick of them.
It’s decided. We race. And if I win, you kiss me. And if you win, you kiss me. Deal?
It’ll just be a truth. Something that belongs to you like your business or your sisters. Me. I’ll belong to you.
She’s up my father’s ass like a colon polyp.
My Review:
Alice had a dramatic Jerry Maguire-type moment in her odious father’s office and while standing on her desk she announced to the office staff her intentions to leave as well as her offer to take them along to form a new company. And much like the movie, only one chose to follow. I adored Carlos – of course, who wouldn’t? Carlos was smart, sexy, patient, thoughtful, and the perfect book boyfriend. I had considerably more difficulty in appreciating Alice, as she was driven, uptight, full of rules, and, well, rather tedious. But, having read Katy Regnery before - I trusted her to get me to that well deserved and highly desired HEA and with a bonus of some steamy love scenes and amusing observations.
Alice and her goddamned shoulds and shouldn’ts. Man, but he was getting sick of them.
It’s decided. We race. And if I win, you kiss me. And if you win, you kiss me. Deal?
It’ll just be a truth. Something that belongs to you like your business or your sisters. Me. I’ll belong to you.
She’s up my father’s ass like a colon polyp.
My Review:
Alice had a dramatic Jerry Maguire-type moment in her odious father’s office and while standing on her desk she announced to the office staff her intentions to leave as well as her offer to take them along to form a new company. And much like the movie, only one chose to follow. I adored Carlos – of course, who wouldn’t? Carlos was smart, sexy, patient, thoughtful, and the perfect book boyfriend. I had considerably more difficulty in appreciating Alice, as she was driven, uptight, full of rules, and, well, rather tedious. But, having read Katy Regnery before - I trusted her to get me to that well deserved and highly desired HEA and with a bonus of some steamy love scenes and amusing observations.
June 18, 2017
You know I love Katy's storytelling. I mean #certifiedfangirl. Katy just gives me what I want in romance after a long day of real life for entertainment and escapism. So, besides everything she gives me that I crave in a story, this story delivers extraordinary imagination that had me devouring the pages.
I've been lamenting in social media about what has been missing from offerings in romance today. Katy Regnery's novel checked off these boxes:
★ Older woman/younger man
★ Driven characters but not cutthroat
★ No big drama scene for drama's sake
★ Culturally respective
★ I think I'm going to start running again
I want to delve into two points to persuade you to add to your TBR. First up, "Driven not Cutthroat". It seems of late all the office romance stories involve some level of competition. Not here. As a reader, you clearly understand they respect each other and their talents they bring to the workplace. So much so that each one wants to make it work - without big drama about it. Second is the "Culturally respective". Now, in private, I make fun of my own cultural base. But sometimes in stories that difference between the hero/heroine's known sphere of influence is used for comedic relief. Now, am I saying this is wrong? No, not that at all. But Ms Regnery envelopes Carlos' upbringing and brings those differences in the forefront as something to be embraced.
Okay I said two, but really seeing the smart, driven woman get the hot younger man? GO TEAM GRACEFULLY AGING WOMEN!
Now, if you've never read Katy or any of the Blueberry Lane series, this would be an excellent place to start. (I know gasp - I'm strongly anti series jumping). There are a few characters in previous books but nothing to make you feel you are missing. Solidly could be standalone. If you are familiar with her books, this story offers solidly realistic characters, *fans self* moments, a super swoony hero, and as always a HEA. 5 out of 5 stars.
PS: I'm letting social media know >> Carlos belongs to Hannah. *gracefully steps away*
I've been lamenting in social media about what has been missing from offerings in romance today. Katy Regnery's novel checked off these boxes:
★ Older woman/younger man
★ Driven characters but not cutthroat
★ No big drama scene for drama's sake
★ Culturally respective
★ I think I'm going to start running again
I want to delve into two points to persuade you to add to your TBR. First up, "Driven not Cutthroat". It seems of late all the office romance stories involve some level of competition. Not here. As a reader, you clearly understand they respect each other and their talents they bring to the workplace. So much so that each one wants to make it work - without big drama about it. Second is the "Culturally respective". Now, in private, I make fun of my own cultural base. But sometimes in stories that difference between the hero/heroine's known sphere of influence is used for comedic relief. Now, am I saying this is wrong? No, not that at all. But Ms Regnery envelopes Carlos' upbringing and brings those differences in the forefront as something to be embraced.
Okay I said two, but really seeing the smart, driven woman get the hot younger man? GO TEAM GRACEFULLY AGING WOMEN!
Now, if you've never read Katy or any of the Blueberry Lane series, this would be an excellent place to start. (I know gasp - I'm strongly anti series jumping). There are a few characters in previous books but nothing to make you feel you are missing. Solidly could be standalone. If you are familiar with her books, this story offers solidly realistic characters, *fans self* moments, a super swoony hero, and as always a HEA. 5 out of 5 stars.
PS: I'm letting social media know >> Carlos belongs to Hannah. *gracefully steps away*
November 29, 2019
Lovely book. I love age gap younger man stories.
June 24, 2017
https://celebrityreaders.wordpress.co...
4 stars -- I received a free copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review/opinion.
I love it when you dive into a favourite author's new book and she reminds you that YES you do love reading, and YES that last book just wasn't right for you! Because I can wholeheartedly say that I was sucked into Alice and Carlos's story from the first page. It's funny how it's hard to articulate what style of writing you love, but you just know it when you do...and Ms. Regnery's writing is always just smooth like butter, I can just consume it and devour it and I'm captivated instantly.
One of the things she does so well is chemistry between characters. And Alice and Carlos definitely had that going for them in spades. It's funny, b/c this one is a bit more of a slow burn romance, we don't get to the steam until like 70% I believe. But all that anticipation is pretty delicious in itself, and then once the romance delivers, it's beautiful and tummy tingling! I loved the way the romance between Alice and Carlos developed, from a deep abiding trust and respect, with a side of friendship, to acknowledging that more had developed, sometimes without them knowing. And then just facing that moment where you couldn't ignore it any longer, and it was time to go for what you wanted. While there was a bit of angst and drama, it wasn't drawn out for the sake of being drawn out, and it resolved as I would expect it would in real life.
I LOVED Carlos's patience with Alice. I loved that he knew not to push it too fast, but that he wouldn't give up. I loved his optimism in the face of potential obstacles. I loved how clearly he cared about Alice and was thoughtful over her needs. I loved that he was charming as can be, but not too much of a dog (though perhaps I would have liked a better resolution with Leticia and Lena). I loved that he had a multi-faceted personality -- alpha when he needed to be, but happily beta in other aspects of his life. And I really felt like that juxtaposition was well placed, b/c Ms. Regnery was not afraid to address the gender roles and pressures that men face as well (and in this case, particularly in the latin community). As a romance reader, we often see the struggles that women face in their professional lives (and I love that), but how often do we see a man deal with criticism for somewhat less ambition, or being happy serving a strong woman. I don't know if I'm making sense, but I just really loved that.
And on the other side of the coin, I loved Alice's ambition, and her unwavering desire for both a career and a family. She was such a strong heroine, and someone to be admired. But I also loved that she needed someone like Carlos to take the reins in their intimate settings, so she could just feel and experience. They were such a great match. I kind of appreciated that she was a bit awkward socially, b/c she had spent so much time trying to live up to her father's impossible expectations, and focused on her professional pursuits, that she had let some of her personal relationships slide (like with her sister's).
And that is the crux of why I love Ms. Regnery's Blueberry Lane series. EVERY SINGLE ONE has a completely different set of characters. We get to see and fall in love with all types of people, and we get to learn of each of their struggles. From the shy to the bold, from the family oriented to the career oriented.
Honestly my only problem with this novel is that it *felt* short. I don't know why. Maybe it was because I was interrupted in the middle of my reading, and couldn't get back to it for a whole day, and so I fell out of the pacing? Or maybe b/c I wanted to see more at the end after they were together. I LOVED the epilogue we got, but a part of me was curious to read the scenes with her sisters when she told them about her new relationship, or at the office once they were back, or again, what happened with Lena (is their relationship strained now?). It just ended with me wanting a tiny bit more. Hence my 4 stars instead of more.
So yeah. It's so nice to read a book and get what you've been missing. It feeds my reading soul or something. Can't wait to see what happens with Elizabeth and Jane.
4 stars -- I received a free copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review/opinion.
I love it when you dive into a favourite author's new book and she reminds you that YES you do love reading, and YES that last book just wasn't right for you! Because I can wholeheartedly say that I was sucked into Alice and Carlos's story from the first page. It's funny how it's hard to articulate what style of writing you love, but you just know it when you do...and Ms. Regnery's writing is always just smooth like butter, I can just consume it and devour it and I'm captivated instantly.
One of the things she does so well is chemistry between characters. And Alice and Carlos definitely had that going for them in spades. It's funny, b/c this one is a bit more of a slow burn romance, we don't get to the steam until like 70% I believe. But all that anticipation is pretty delicious in itself, and then once the romance delivers, it's beautiful and tummy tingling! I loved the way the romance between Alice and Carlos developed, from a deep abiding trust and respect, with a side of friendship, to acknowledging that more had developed, sometimes without them knowing. And then just facing that moment where you couldn't ignore it any longer, and it was time to go for what you wanted. While there was a bit of angst and drama, it wasn't drawn out for the sake of being drawn out, and it resolved as I would expect it would in real life.
I LOVED Carlos's patience with Alice. I loved that he knew not to push it too fast, but that he wouldn't give up. I loved his optimism in the face of potential obstacles. I loved how clearly he cared about Alice and was thoughtful over her needs. I loved that he was charming as can be, but not too much of a dog (though perhaps I would have liked a better resolution with Leticia and Lena). I loved that he had a multi-faceted personality -- alpha when he needed to be, but happily beta in other aspects of his life. And I really felt like that juxtaposition was well placed, b/c Ms. Regnery was not afraid to address the gender roles and pressures that men face as well (and in this case, particularly in the latin community). As a romance reader, we often see the struggles that women face in their professional lives (and I love that), but how often do we see a man deal with criticism for somewhat less ambition, or being happy serving a strong woman. I don't know if I'm making sense, but I just really loved that.
And on the other side of the coin, I loved Alice's ambition, and her unwavering desire for both a career and a family. She was such a strong heroine, and someone to be admired. But I also loved that she needed someone like Carlos to take the reins in their intimate settings, so she could just feel and experience. They were such a great match. I kind of appreciated that she was a bit awkward socially, b/c she had spent so much time trying to live up to her father's impossible expectations, and focused on her professional pursuits, that she had let some of her personal relationships slide (like with her sister's).
And that is the crux of why I love Ms. Regnery's Blueberry Lane series. EVERY SINGLE ONE has a completely different set of characters. We get to see and fall in love with all types of people, and we get to learn of each of their struggles. From the shy to the bold, from the family oriented to the career oriented.
Honestly my only problem with this novel is that it *felt* short. I don't know why. Maybe it was because I was interrupted in the middle of my reading, and couldn't get back to it for a whole day, and so I fell out of the pacing? Or maybe b/c I wanted to see more at the end after they were together. I LOVED the epilogue we got, but a part of me was curious to read the scenes with her sisters when she told them about her new relationship, or at the office once they were back, or again, what happened with Lena (is their relationship strained now?). It just ended with me wanting a tiny bit more. Hence my 4 stars instead of more.
So yeah. It's so nice to read a book and get what you've been missing. It feeds my reading soul or something. Can't wait to see what happens with Elizabeth and Jane.
June 21, 2017
Every once in a while I stumble upon a long running series – you know the type, they sprawl out, book after book after book – and I wonder how a series can stay fresh and interesting over the course of so many books? And then I take a look at my own TBR and realize that The Director and Don Juan is the sixteenth book in the Blueberry Lane series and I realize that it obviously can stay fresh and interesting. More than that even – it can be exciting and exhilarating – and even after sixteen books, my heart will wrap itself around the story just as willingly as it did the first book.
That is to say, if you – any of you – were worried that the Blueberry Lane series was losing steam? I’d like to present Carlos Vega for your consideration. An irresistible and slightly addictive blend of dominating alpha male, passionate romantic, and respectful feminist (I know – you’re intrigued, right?) – Carlos is a perfect hero. No, seriously. It was impossible not to fall for his honest, easygoing nature. And when he got his flirt on? Hot. Damn. He’s fiery and fierce without ever overpowering or making the lovely Alice Story somehow “less than.”
See? Perfect.
As for Alice? It was so much fun watching her blossom under Carlos’s affection. She was strong and kind (in the way I’ve come to expect from Ms. Regnery’s heroines) but a bit broken in a way I wasn’t quite expecting. She had some demons to overcome and there was some satisfaction in watching her rise above them and welcome Carlos into her heart.
This was a quick, effortless read (I devoured it in less than a day), but it’s packed full of the sweet, satisfying emotion that I’ve loved so much throughout this series, and spiked throughout with delicious, sensual, slightly forbidden, steam. There were a couple times where I expected the characters to zig, and then they zagged in a way that kept my attention held rapt, my eyebrows raised in happy surprise, while my heart just fell deeper and deeper in love with these two beautiful characters.
So, can a long-running series remain fresh and interesting over the course of so many (say…sixteen?) books?
Yes. It undoubtedly can. And so, whether this is your first foray into this wonderful little world Ms. Regnery has built for us – or you’ve been along since the beginning – don’t pass this one by! ~ Shelly, 5 Stars
That is to say, if you – any of you – were worried that the Blueberry Lane series was losing steam? I’d like to present Carlos Vega for your consideration. An irresistible and slightly addictive blend of dominating alpha male, passionate romantic, and respectful feminist (I know – you’re intrigued, right?) – Carlos is a perfect hero. No, seriously. It was impossible not to fall for his honest, easygoing nature. And when he got his flirt on? Hot. Damn. He’s fiery and fierce without ever overpowering or making the lovely Alice Story somehow “less than.”
See? Perfect.
As for Alice? It was so much fun watching her blossom under Carlos’s affection. She was strong and kind (in the way I’ve come to expect from Ms. Regnery’s heroines) but a bit broken in a way I wasn’t quite expecting. She had some demons to overcome and there was some satisfaction in watching her rise above them and welcome Carlos into her heart.
This was a quick, effortless read (I devoured it in less than a day), but it’s packed full of the sweet, satisfying emotion that I’ve loved so much throughout this series, and spiked throughout with delicious, sensual, slightly forbidden, steam. There were a couple times where I expected the characters to zig, and then they zagged in a way that kept my attention held rapt, my eyebrows raised in happy surprise, while my heart just fell deeper and deeper in love with these two beautiful characters.
So, can a long-running series remain fresh and interesting over the course of so many (say…sixteen?) books?
Yes. It undoubtedly can. And so, whether this is your first foray into this wonderful little world Ms. Regnery has built for us – or you’ve been along since the beginning – don’t pass this one by! ~ Shelly, 5 Stars
June 28, 2017
I loved reading The Director and Don Juan. It was a perfect easy to jump into story whether you've read any other books by this author or not. No forced angst or drama, with a bit of forbidden (boss-employee, slightly older woman) and enough emotion and interesting storyline to keep me turning pages to see what happens next.
Alice Story has been running her own import/export company with the support of her loyal employee, Carlos Vega. Carlos has an uphill battle ahead of him if he wants Alice to see him as more than just her workplace indispensable right hand man.
“Thank you.”
“For what?”
“For showing me how to do this.”
“This?”
“Love someone. Be loved. Let it happen.”
I really enjoy Katy Regnery's storytelling. She knows how to make sure I'm immersed into a story and stay invested from start to finish!
Alice Story has been running her own import/export company with the support of her loyal employee, Carlos Vega. Carlos has an uphill battle ahead of him if he wants Alice to see him as more than just her workplace indispensable right hand man.
“Thank you.”
“For what?”
“For showing me how to do this.”
“This?”
“Love someone. Be loved. Let it happen.”
I really enjoy Katy Regnery's storytelling. She knows how to make sure I'm immersed into a story and stay invested from start to finish!
June 30, 2017
The Director and Don Juan is the second book in Katy Regnery's The Story Sisters series. Each book is a standalone and while each book can be read alone, I think they are just a little bit better with each other.
I always appreciate a Hispanic hero and Carlos was definitely swoon-worthy. He was confident enough to be the assistant to a powerful woman at work, but he also knew how to take control of their relationship outside the office. I loved when he decided he was going to pursue her and he didn't let her objections get in the way of what they both wanted.
I received an advance review copy of this book that I have chosen to review.
I always appreciate a Hispanic hero and Carlos was definitely swoon-worthy. He was confident enough to be the assistant to a powerful woman at work, but he also knew how to take control of their relationship outside the office. I loved when he decided he was going to pursue her and he didn't let her objections get in the way of what they both wanted.
I received an advance review copy of this book that I have chosen to review.
June 17, 2017
There are some writers you just can't put down, and Katy Regnery is one of those writers! I don't understand how she does it but each book she writes is better than the one before it! The Director and the Don Juan is the story of Alice Story and Carlos Vega, and mami it is a good one! Alice Story comes from an influential family whose dad lives in the dark ages, thinking that a woman should never run the family business, so Alice stands up to her dad and quits in dramatic fashion to start her own business. In comes the younger handsome mail boy that trusts her before he even really knows her and he leaves the company to work at her startup. Three years down the road and the business is great and Carlos who has always had a thing for his beautiful boss is starting to realize she may feel the same even if she doesn't want to. Can he convince her to chose him as her Latin lover? This is one HOT HOT STORY that is a fast, hard, trip into love that you don't want to miss!!!!!
July 6, 2017
REVIEW: 4 You "SHOULD" Stars
"Only we know, you and I, how much we suffer for this love."
As usual, Katy Regnery spins a story with realistic emotions that make you understand and feel the ache her characters are feeling. There was so much honesty and reality to Carlos and Alice's story, it showed the complications and the fact that they didn't have an easy road to follow. True to her abilities, this story whisked me away and allowed me to fall in love and swoon over her super sweet and innocent characters. Katy's Blueberry Lane series is a very innocent series, no angst or drama to really delve through. Her heroes are swoony and her heroines are sweet (mixed with a little feisty), always making their men smile.
The Director and Don Juan was a fun mix of a forbidden workplace romance with an added issue of an age gap. Now, I am not usually one to read a book where "she" is older than "him"....not my normal read, but I trust Katy's ease of telling a great love story, so I knew she would be able to write me one I could enjoy and not think about that age gap. And she did. With Alice older than Carlos, Alice was having a hard time with that little detail, as well as her role in his job. I liked that she warred with herself mentally over it because those are true fears and emotions. There was some back and forth, some hemming and hawing, but Carlos was steadfast and he knew that she was the one for him and nothing was standing in his way. And my goodness, he gave a whole new meaning to a swoony latin lover! I loved his understated cockiness, his mental strength, and his unwavering support for her in every aspect of her life. He believed in her from the get go and that played significantly well into their relationship.
With these two skirting around their own emotions about their attraction, the air between them became charged exponentially when their location changed. Talk about turning the dial up on the heat! I love the fact that Carlos knew what she needed, when she needed it. He was always there for her and the fact that he knew when to push her and when to back off, that says something. He truly knew her. There was such a delicate mental dance between Carlos and Alice. The rights fighting the wrongs. The morals fighting their desires. Their needs fighting the misconceptions. Carlos was there every step of the way and he didn't allow traditional gender roles to dictate how he took care of her. Katy did a good job showing what true love and support can do in a relationship.
I love instalove. I know it's not for everyone, and I can understand some of it isn't written very believable in some books, but I love it when it's done right. To me, there is no timeline for true and everlasting love. It happens when it's supposed to happen and I feel like this storyline actually satiates both sides of that argument quite nicely. While some of the side stories may have buttoned up a little too quickly, making it feel a little brushed over, it still worked with the overall theme of her Blueberry Lane Series. This is the MOST innocent series I will ever read. I keep coming back to her BLS and will continue to do so. It offers a guaranteed HEA, super sweet and swoony characters, and an easy, palate-cleansing read in between my heavier, emotional reads.
"...and those long, long lashes that made his gray eyes looks so sweet, so innocent, when his body was clearly made for wickedness."
ENTER ON MY BLOG FOR YOUR CHANCE AT AN ECOPY: http://bit.ly/2usaigC
PURCHASE: http://amzn.to/2tGok0F
"Only we know, you and I, how much we suffer for this love."
As usual, Katy Regnery spins a story with realistic emotions that make you understand and feel the ache her characters are feeling. There was so much honesty and reality to Carlos and Alice's story, it showed the complications and the fact that they didn't have an easy road to follow. True to her abilities, this story whisked me away and allowed me to fall in love and swoon over her super sweet and innocent characters. Katy's Blueberry Lane series is a very innocent series, no angst or drama to really delve through. Her heroes are swoony and her heroines are sweet (mixed with a little feisty), always making their men smile.
The Director and Don Juan was a fun mix of a forbidden workplace romance with an added issue of an age gap. Now, I am not usually one to read a book where "she" is older than "him"....not my normal read, but I trust Katy's ease of telling a great love story, so I knew she would be able to write me one I could enjoy and not think about that age gap. And she did. With Alice older than Carlos, Alice was having a hard time with that little detail, as well as her role in his job. I liked that she warred with herself mentally over it because those are true fears and emotions. There was some back and forth, some hemming and hawing, but Carlos was steadfast and he knew that she was the one for him and nothing was standing in his way. And my goodness, he gave a whole new meaning to a swoony latin lover! I loved his understated cockiness, his mental strength, and his unwavering support for her in every aspect of her life. He believed in her from the get go and that played significantly well into their relationship.
With these two skirting around their own emotions about their attraction, the air between them became charged exponentially when their location changed. Talk about turning the dial up on the heat! I love the fact that Carlos knew what she needed, when she needed it. He was always there for her and the fact that he knew when to push her and when to back off, that says something. He truly knew her. There was such a delicate mental dance between Carlos and Alice. The rights fighting the wrongs. The morals fighting their desires. Their needs fighting the misconceptions. Carlos was there every step of the way and he didn't allow traditional gender roles to dictate how he took care of her. Katy did a good job showing what true love and support can do in a relationship.
I love instalove. I know it's not for everyone, and I can understand some of it isn't written very believable in some books, but I love it when it's done right. To me, there is no timeline for true and everlasting love. It happens when it's supposed to happen and I feel like this storyline actually satiates both sides of that argument quite nicely. While some of the side stories may have buttoned up a little too quickly, making it feel a little brushed over, it still worked with the overall theme of her Blueberry Lane Series. This is the MOST innocent series I will ever read. I keep coming back to her BLS and will continue to do so. It offers a guaranteed HEA, super sweet and swoony characters, and an easy, palate-cleansing read in between my heavier, emotional reads.
"...and those long, long lashes that made his gray eyes looks so sweet, so innocent, when his body was clearly made for wickedness."
ENTER ON MY BLOG FOR YOUR CHANCE AT AN ECOPY: http://bit.ly/2usaigC
PURCHASE: http://amzn.to/2tGok0F
July 11, 2017
Every time that I think that Katy Regnery can not possibly get any better she manages to prove me wrong. At this point, I will continue to expect more, more and MORE because her newest release The Director And Don Juan is a MUST READ! It is my favorite of her books to date!!!
Ms. Regnery has set the bar so high with The Director And Don Juan that I shudder to think what she has in store for her readers next! The writing is phenomenal and you will fall in deep, obsessive love with this couple and their simmering, deeply passionate relationship that eventually reaches its boiling point and consumes them both!
Carlos and Alice’s characters are the foundation of my love for this book! My goodness how I loved Carlos!!! This gorgeous, tanned, Spanish-Speaking Don Juan swept me off of my feet with his quiet longing for Alice, his dedication to her professional success and his determination to meet her every need!! I FELT his frustration as he coveted and desired Alice from afar yet hesitated to pursue her because of their professional relationship. His doubt is palpable and his yearning is fierce. Both hit me deep in my heart.
“Would she let her heart, for once overrule her head?” ~Carlos
My soul wanted to cry for him! And every single time that he spoke Spanish I just wanted to just tumble out of my seat and personally ask Alice “what the hell is your problem and why are you not ALL over him??!”
But again, Ms. Regnery earns my deepest respect because before I asked the aforementioned original question the answer to said question had already been laid out before me!!! YES Carlos is all of that and more but Alice is a career-driven, focused and ambitious heiress who has “never known anything but clawing her way to get ahead in a mans world” and she has been highly successful in doing so.
Her conflict is clear.
“She was no longer a business owner with the weight of the world on her shoulders; she was a woman….hot blooded and aching.” ~ Alice
Her feelings for Carlos are undeniable, heartfelt and true but should she risk her company, her reputation and business ethics for love, especially to pursue a relationship with her “younger but wiser” subordinate employee?
The relationship that slowly blossoms between this couple over years of working together to launch a lucrative business consumed me but it is the author’s masterful portrayal of the Puerto Rican culture that intrigued and captivated me. She addresses the theme of “machismo” beautifully and the use of the Spanish language throughout the novel is spot on. Her depiction of the natural beauty surrounding the Puerto Rican islands enthralled me, yet it is the culture of the Puerto Rican people, including the deep seated love and respect for family that truly owned my heart. I was even inspired to make my first batch of Asopao de Pollo after reading this book!!!
Yes, I LOVED The Director And Don Juan. I HIGHLY recommend it and there are no words that are strong enough to contain my enthusiasm for this romantic, entertaining, swoon-worthy romance!
5/5 WELL EARNED, shining, sparkling stars that light up the night and blind you with brilliance!!!! I will read this novel again and again and you will too!
Ms. Regnery has set the bar so high with The Director And Don Juan that I shudder to think what she has in store for her readers next! The writing is phenomenal and you will fall in deep, obsessive love with this couple and their simmering, deeply passionate relationship that eventually reaches its boiling point and consumes them both!
Carlos and Alice’s characters are the foundation of my love for this book! My goodness how I loved Carlos!!! This gorgeous, tanned, Spanish-Speaking Don Juan swept me off of my feet with his quiet longing for Alice, his dedication to her professional success and his determination to meet her every need!! I FELT his frustration as he coveted and desired Alice from afar yet hesitated to pursue her because of their professional relationship. His doubt is palpable and his yearning is fierce. Both hit me deep in my heart.
“Would she let her heart, for once overrule her head?” ~Carlos
My soul wanted to cry for him! And every single time that he spoke Spanish I just wanted to just tumble out of my seat and personally ask Alice “what the hell is your problem and why are you not ALL over him??!”
But again, Ms. Regnery earns my deepest respect because before I asked the aforementioned original question the answer to said question had already been laid out before me!!! YES Carlos is all of that and more but Alice is a career-driven, focused and ambitious heiress who has “never known anything but clawing her way to get ahead in a mans world” and she has been highly successful in doing so.
Her conflict is clear.
“She was no longer a business owner with the weight of the world on her shoulders; she was a woman….hot blooded and aching.” ~ Alice
Her feelings for Carlos are undeniable, heartfelt and true but should she risk her company, her reputation and business ethics for love, especially to pursue a relationship with her “younger but wiser” subordinate employee?
The relationship that slowly blossoms between this couple over years of working together to launch a lucrative business consumed me but it is the author’s masterful portrayal of the Puerto Rican culture that intrigued and captivated me. She addresses the theme of “machismo” beautifully and the use of the Spanish language throughout the novel is spot on. Her depiction of the natural beauty surrounding the Puerto Rican islands enthralled me, yet it is the culture of the Puerto Rican people, including the deep seated love and respect for family that truly owned my heart. I was even inspired to make my first batch of Asopao de Pollo after reading this book!!!
Yes, I LOVED The Director And Don Juan. I HIGHLY recommend it and there are no words that are strong enough to contain my enthusiasm for this romantic, entertaining, swoon-worthy romance!
5/5 WELL EARNED, shining, sparkling stars that light up the night and blind you with brilliance!!!! I will read this novel again and again and you will too!
June 26, 2017
The Director and Don Juan is the second Story Sisters book and newest addition to the addictive Blueberry Lane series. It can be easily read as a complete standalone. I'm a huge fan of these amazing books - they are light and fast reads that always leave me in a happy place. What truly fascinates me is that Katy Regnery still manages to surprise me every time with something fresh and new in her stories that hasn't been told in the previous 14 books. And that's, honestly speaking, very hard to accomplish.
This story has a taboo factor with Alice being Carlos boss and also 8 years his senior. Both are coming from two completely different cultural and family backgrounds. Carlos is from a middle class working family in Puerto Rico while Alice is a rich heiress to a family empire from Philly. But as impossible as they may seem as a couple at first glance they are actually made for each other and complement one another perfectly.
Alice Story left her father's company three years ago inviting all of his employees to jump ship and join her. The only one who accepted her offer was mail room clerk Carlos Vega who became her right-hand man while she was establishing her own company. When Alice is offered a very lucrative business deal in Puerto Rico, island-born Carlos is the perfect person to accompany her on her trip. During their travel from Philly to Santo Domingo and then to Ponce they will discover that their feelings for each other run far deeper than they could ever have imagined ...
Carlos Vega is a hot blooded, sexy and flirty Latino. Every single time he said something in Spanish to Alice my heart was mealting and my panties wanted to disintegrate. What I especially like about Carlos is that he wasn't intimidated by Alice's success and wealth. He admired her for her intelligence and persistence but also her kindness and compassion. Those were the reasons he fell slowly but surely in love with Alice. He saw all this vulnerability behind the professional business woman facade and wanted her to lean on him and let him care for her.
Alice is truly a remarkable woman - she is smart, ambitious and assertive. She left her father's company in order to start her own business and pursue her dreams. Her love life was therefore nearly non-existent because she didn't trust easily and never felt comfortable enough around men to let go. But Carlos was always an exception to that. I understood Alice's reluctance to start a relationship with a man who was her employee and also 8 years younger than her. But love doesn't ask for age, time or place - it just happens and we need to embrace it.
I highly recommend this story. Who wouldn't love a hot Latino guy who whispers Spanish words into his woman's ears and goes all Alpha when another guy hits on her? I shipped these characters hard and enjoyed reading how their friendship developed into a crush and finally into a love they both couldn't deny.
This story has a taboo factor with Alice being Carlos boss and also 8 years his senior. Both are coming from two completely different cultural and family backgrounds. Carlos is from a middle class working family in Puerto Rico while Alice is a rich heiress to a family empire from Philly. But as impossible as they may seem as a couple at first glance they are actually made for each other and complement one another perfectly.
Alice Story left her father's company three years ago inviting all of his employees to jump ship and join her. The only one who accepted her offer was mail room clerk Carlos Vega who became her right-hand man while she was establishing her own company. When Alice is offered a very lucrative business deal in Puerto Rico, island-born Carlos is the perfect person to accompany her on her trip. During their travel from Philly to Santo Domingo and then to Ponce they will discover that their feelings for each other run far deeper than they could ever have imagined ...
Carlos Vega is a hot blooded, sexy and flirty Latino. Every single time he said something in Spanish to Alice my heart was mealting and my panties wanted to disintegrate. What I especially like about Carlos is that he wasn't intimidated by Alice's success and wealth. He admired her for her intelligence and persistence but also her kindness and compassion. Those were the reasons he fell slowly but surely in love with Alice. He saw all this vulnerability behind the professional business woman facade and wanted her to lean on him and let him care for her.
Alice is truly a remarkable woman - she is smart, ambitious and assertive. She left her father's company in order to start her own business and pursue her dreams. Her love life was therefore nearly non-existent because she didn't trust easily and never felt comfortable enough around men to let go. But Carlos was always an exception to that. I understood Alice's reluctance to start a relationship with a man who was her employee and also 8 years younger than her. But love doesn't ask for age, time or place - it just happens and we need to embrace it.
I highly recommend this story. Who wouldn't love a hot Latino guy who whispers Spanish words into his woman's ears and goes all Alpha when another guy hits on her? I shipped these characters hard and enjoyed reading how their friendship developed into a crush and finally into a love they both couldn't deny.
June 26, 2017
This book was another winner from Katy Regnery and a swoon-worthy and sweet addition to the Blueberry Lane series. As a super huge fan of hers I can't get enough of these books! They are my happy place. No matter how stressed or down I feel, I just need to pick up one of her books to feel better.
The Director and Don Juan is the second of four books about the Philadelphia-based and rich Story sisters who are all on the look-out for love.
Alice Story has always been the tough and ambitious one among the sisters. She left her father's company three years ago after a huge fight with him, inviting all of his employees to jump ship and join her if they wanted a better job and life. But only one of them accepted her offer: the Puerto Rican mail room clerk, Carlos Vega.
While Alice spent the next three years building her own company from nothing, Carlos became her right-hand man. As her executive assistant he turned into a trusted and indispensable co-worker. Working side by side made them form a special bond, while they were secretly falling in love with each other.
When Alice is offered a lucrative business deal in Puerto Rico, island-born Carlos is the perfect person to accompany her on her trip. But as they travel together from Philadelphia to Santo Domingo to Ponce, they will discover that their feelings for each other have grown far deeper than they ever could have imagined.
Proper and business-like Alice will try her best to ignore her feelings for Carlos, coming up with several reasons why they could never be together. Luckily scorching hot and insanely sexy Carlos has no intention of giving up or letting her go. But will the differences between them end up tearing them apart for good or will they bring them together forevermore?
I loved to read about a hero from Puerto Rico. Every time he spoke in Spanish to Alice my heart was melting. This guy knew what he wanted and made sure to get it. I loved how he took care of Alice and protected her. He showed her how real love feels like! There was no doubt that Alice was the boss in the office but in the bedroom he was in charge!!!
Alice was a tough and successful chick with a big heart. I admired her so much! It broke my heart that she felt unloved because her father was such a cold-hearted person who totally failed at showing his daughters what real love and affection look like.
Even though the Director and the Don Juan is #15 in the Blueberry Lane series it can be read as a standalone. I have to give it to Katy Regnery that after so many books, she still manages to come up with different and fresh story lines. The books don't feel repetitive at all!
If you are looking for a light summer read that will help you to escape to beautiful places like Puerto Rico and a flirty Latino hero that will make you swoon hard - then this book is for you! 5 stars
The Director and Don Juan is the second of four books about the Philadelphia-based and rich Story sisters who are all on the look-out for love.
Alice Story has always been the tough and ambitious one among the sisters. She left her father's company three years ago after a huge fight with him, inviting all of his employees to jump ship and join her if they wanted a better job and life. But only one of them accepted her offer: the Puerto Rican mail room clerk, Carlos Vega.
While Alice spent the next three years building her own company from nothing, Carlos became her right-hand man. As her executive assistant he turned into a trusted and indispensable co-worker. Working side by side made them form a special bond, while they were secretly falling in love with each other.
When Alice is offered a lucrative business deal in Puerto Rico, island-born Carlos is the perfect person to accompany her on her trip. But as they travel together from Philadelphia to Santo Domingo to Ponce, they will discover that their feelings for each other have grown far deeper than they ever could have imagined.
Proper and business-like Alice will try her best to ignore her feelings for Carlos, coming up with several reasons why they could never be together. Luckily scorching hot and insanely sexy Carlos has no intention of giving up or letting her go. But will the differences between them end up tearing them apart for good or will they bring them together forevermore?
I loved to read about a hero from Puerto Rico. Every time he spoke in Spanish to Alice my heart was melting. This guy knew what he wanted and made sure to get it. I loved how he took care of Alice and protected her. He showed her how real love feels like! There was no doubt that Alice was the boss in the office but in the bedroom he was in charge!!!
Alice was a tough and successful chick with a big heart. I admired her so much! It broke my heart that she felt unloved because her father was such a cold-hearted person who totally failed at showing his daughters what real love and affection look like.
Even though the Director and the Don Juan is #15 in the Blueberry Lane series it can be read as a standalone. I have to give it to Katy Regnery that after so many books, she still manages to come up with different and fresh story lines. The books don't feel repetitive at all!
If you are looking for a light summer read that will help you to escape to beautiful places like Puerto Rico and a flirty Latino hero that will make you swoon hard - then this book is for you! 5 stars
June 28, 2017
This novel was read and reviewed for My Timeout Book blog by Melissa.
So we enter back into the lives of the Story sisters with book two in this series. This is also book 16 in the Blueberry lane series, to be completely honest I have not read any of those except the two Story sisters novels. This is a standalone but since this is a series about sisters you will see the same characters popping up. I found that the author gave enough back story though that you can easily follow along without ready the first one.
This time around we enter into Alice's life. She has left her fathers company and started her own import company Story Sisters Imports. You get to see some of Alice and her personality in the first novel but it is this one that makes her come alive. She is strong, loyal, determine, and you could also call her stubborn. She worked hard to get her little company to where it is today. I have to say that I wasn't to sure that I would enjoy Alice's story. In the first book she seemed a little too up tight and work oriented. This novel though really let you see another side of Alice. You get to see just how much she cares for her family and her employees. She is fiercely loyal to them all.
Of course it would not be a romance novel without a romantic interest. This comes in the form of Carlos , Alice's business manger and personal assistant. He was the only one who took a leap with her when she walked out of her fathers company after years of not getting further ahead because she was a female. He has been her right hand man and one of the few people that she trusts completely. Carlos is organically from Puerto Rico, who came to the US to do more with his life. We find out that while he is a ladies man h, he wants to settle down with the right woman. These two have been falling for each other for years but only one will reach for what they want. It was wonderful to read just how Carlos works to break down the walls that Alice has up in order to get her to admit her feeling and give them a chance.
It was another great light love story. I can not wait to get into the life of the next story sister.
So we enter back into the lives of the Story sisters with book two in this series. This is also book 16 in the Blueberry lane series, to be completely honest I have not read any of those except the two Story sisters novels. This is a standalone but since this is a series about sisters you will see the same characters popping up. I found that the author gave enough back story though that you can easily follow along without ready the first one.
This time around we enter into Alice's life. She has left her fathers company and started her own import company Story Sisters Imports. You get to see some of Alice and her personality in the first novel but it is this one that makes her come alive. She is strong, loyal, determine, and you could also call her stubborn. She worked hard to get her little company to where it is today. I have to say that I wasn't to sure that I would enjoy Alice's story. In the first book she seemed a little too up tight and work oriented. This novel though really let you see another side of Alice. You get to see just how much she cares for her family and her employees. She is fiercely loyal to them all.
Of course it would not be a romance novel without a romantic interest. This comes in the form of Carlos , Alice's business manger and personal assistant. He was the only one who took a leap with her when she walked out of her fathers company after years of not getting further ahead because she was a female. He has been her right hand man and one of the few people that she trusts completely. Carlos is organically from Puerto Rico, who came to the US to do more with his life. We find out that while he is a ladies man h, he wants to settle down with the right woman. These two have been falling for each other for years but only one will reach for what they want. It was wonderful to read just how Carlos works to break down the walls that Alice has up in order to get her to admit her feeling and give them a chance.
It was another great light love story. I can not wait to get into the life of the next story sister.
July 1, 2017
4.5 stars!! Another sexy, charming and fun loving Blueberry Lane story!!
This can be read as a stand alone but I do not recommend it. You should def try and read "The Bohemian and the Businessman" first. This is book two in the "Story Sisters". Also there are like tons of Blueberry Lane books and though I haven't read them all I have read a lot of them (the ones I have not are on my kindle waiting patiently) and I suggest getting started if you have not yet done so.
❤️This is Alice and Carlos's love story...
“Alice, when I call you ‘baby’ later, it won’t have nothin’ to do with seein’ you as a child either.”
ALICE- Well if you read the first book you know I broke away from my father and now run my own business. I am doing great but one thing is for sure, I have no love life....
CARLOS- When I saw this mujer hermosa (beautiful woman) standing on a desk asking people to believe I knew she was the one. So I took a leap of faith and followed her to a new business venture and damn did it pay off. Now I have an amazing boss and an amazing job. And don't worry I do fine with the ladies. Except being Don Juan is getting kind of old...
"Once we cross that line, I’m not stepping back. You’ll be mine, mi amor. And once you belong to me, I don’t intend to walk away. Ever.”
“I loved you yesterday. I love you today. I will love you tomorrow.” He leaned forward and pressed his lips to hers. “I love you, Alice.”
MY THOUGHTS...
Wow!! What a hot and sexy read! I mean I know I love a good accent but damn Carlos had charm in the bag. What I loved about his character is he was straight laced businessman who seemed somewhat subdued at work but catch him outside and he's a flirty panty dropper!!! Exactly what Alice needs.
Just like every Blueberry Lane book this is written beautifully and I love getting a peek at the other family members. Elizabeth is gonna drive me crazy!! This had the right amount of everything!! The beginning of the book was slow but trust me it spices up!!
**I received this book as an ARC and in return gave my honest review**
This can be read as a stand alone but I do not recommend it. You should def try and read "The Bohemian and the Businessman" first. This is book two in the "Story Sisters". Also there are like tons of Blueberry Lane books and though I haven't read them all I have read a lot of them (the ones I have not are on my kindle waiting patiently) and I suggest getting started if you have not yet done so.
❤️This is Alice and Carlos's love story...
“Alice, when I call you ‘baby’ later, it won’t have nothin’ to do with seein’ you as a child either.”
ALICE- Well if you read the first book you know I broke away from my father and now run my own business. I am doing great but one thing is for sure, I have no love life....
CARLOS- When I saw this mujer hermosa (beautiful woman) standing on a desk asking people to believe I knew she was the one. So I took a leap of faith and followed her to a new business venture and damn did it pay off. Now I have an amazing boss and an amazing job. And don't worry I do fine with the ladies. Except being Don Juan is getting kind of old...
"Once we cross that line, I’m not stepping back. You’ll be mine, mi amor. And once you belong to me, I don’t intend to walk away. Ever.”
“I loved you yesterday. I love you today. I will love you tomorrow.” He leaned forward and pressed his lips to hers. “I love you, Alice.”
MY THOUGHTS...
Wow!! What a hot and sexy read! I mean I know I love a good accent but damn Carlos had charm in the bag. What I loved about his character is he was straight laced businessman who seemed somewhat subdued at work but catch him outside and he's a flirty panty dropper!!! Exactly what Alice needs.
Just like every Blueberry Lane book this is written beautifully and I love getting a peek at the other family members. Elizabeth is gonna drive me crazy!! This had the right amount of everything!! The beginning of the book was slow but trust me it spices up!!
**I received this book as an ARC and in return gave my honest review**
July 6, 2017
Katy Regnery brings Cabribbean heat to the Story Sisters series in her Blueberry Lane world. "The Director and the Don Juan" brings us an older (early thirties) heroine and a younger (late twenties) Latino hero. Alice Story's the sister who left her father's import/export business in order to start her own company. She makes this decision when it becomes clear he never allowing any of his daughters to takeover the company. Atop her desk she announces she's opening her own business and invites anyone interested to join her. Only one brave person does; Carlos from the mailroom. With Alice's sisters' investment and partnership, Story Sisters Trading's successful and growing larger. Carlos's Alice's dedicated administrative assistant, right-hand man, and Office Manager with aspirations for his MBA. Both feel a connection and a pull but resist for different reasons. Finally a business opportunity spurs these latent feelings into a full-blown passionate possibility.
"The Director and the Don Juan" feature a strong-willed, independent heroine. Her only insecurities lie in her age and finding a man who doesn't want to use her or overpower her. Despite Alice's strength she's easily swayed by the opinion of her sisters and her father. But when it comes down to it Alice is her own woman. She makes her own decisions about her business and her personal life. Carlos is a strong and Alpha hero for what he lacks in age he makes up for in wisdom and self-confidence. He's able to sway Alice's interest back to him and secure her feelings for him. Carlos not only takes care of Alice's business and personal needs he protects her from unscrupulous potential business partners. Not to mention he's sexier than her panties can bear.
To read the entire review please visit: http://wp.me/p4XqxF-20h
This novel was provided, voluntarily read, and honestly reviewed.
"The Director and the Don Juan" feature a strong-willed, independent heroine. Her only insecurities lie in her age and finding a man who doesn't want to use her or overpower her. Despite Alice's strength she's easily swayed by the opinion of her sisters and her father. But when it comes down to it Alice is her own woman. She makes her own decisions about her business and her personal life. Carlos is a strong and Alpha hero for what he lacks in age he makes up for in wisdom and self-confidence. He's able to sway Alice's interest back to him and secure her feelings for him. Carlos not only takes care of Alice's business and personal needs he protects her from unscrupulous potential business partners. Not to mention he's sexier than her panties can bear.
To read the entire review please visit: http://wp.me/p4XqxF-20h
This novel was provided, voluntarily read, and honestly reviewed.
June 29, 2017
Alice Story left her father's company with nothing. The only person who believed in her enough to follow her was the mailroom guy. Three years later she has built her own reputation in her own company. And the mail guy is now her very competent, very handsome office manager.
Carlos wanted more than it was becoming clear he'd find working at Story Imports. Following Alice as she built her own company was the best decision he made. It wasn't just because she gave him more responsibility sooner than her father's company ever would have. It wasn't just because he wasn't happy with his previous employment. It was because she intrigued him. He was attracted to her body and mind.
These two had to come to terms with what had been building for the years they had worked so closely together. Alice was afraid of workplace relationships because of her father’s example. Carlos just wanted to take care of Alice outside the office.
It was interesting to watch the cultural differences between these two play out as well as the cultural allowances Carlos had to make as a Latino man working for a woman, the woman he wanted outside the office. There was no shying away from the cultural aspects of this story and they added to the reality of Alice and Carlos’s situation.
This was another fast fun addition to the Blueberry Lane series. Each Story sister is her own woman and the lasting effects of their father’s disapproval has marked each woman differently. I am looking forward to Elizabeth's story, though I feel like I know the least about this sister who continues to work for and champion her father.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Carlos wanted more than it was becoming clear he'd find working at Story Imports. Following Alice as she built her own company was the best decision he made. It wasn't just because she gave him more responsibility sooner than her father's company ever would have. It wasn't just because he wasn't happy with his previous employment. It was because she intrigued him. He was attracted to her body and mind.
These two had to come to terms with what had been building for the years they had worked so closely together. Alice was afraid of workplace relationships because of her father’s example. Carlos just wanted to take care of Alice outside the office.
It was interesting to watch the cultural differences between these two play out as well as the cultural allowances Carlos had to make as a Latino man working for a woman, the woman he wanted outside the office. There was no shying away from the cultural aspects of this story and they added to the reality of Alice and Carlos’s situation.
This was another fast fun addition to the Blueberry Lane series. Each Story sister is her own woman and the lasting effects of their father’s disapproval has marked each woman differently. I am looking forward to Elizabeth's story, though I feel like I know the least about this sister who continues to work for and champion her father.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2017
Alice Story rebelled against her father and quit his company after years of doing everything that was expected of her. Now three years later she owns her own successful business, but she has no real love or social life. The only man she truly trusts is the only employee of her father's that took a chance and went with her, Carlos Vega. Carlos is a younger, and of a Puerto Rican heritage who has been Alice ‘s “ right hand man”. Carlos would rather be more to Alice , he would love to catch her eye and have her seen him as a man , see him other than just a business associate. But he doesn’t think that day would ever come… never say never.
When Alice gets a business deal in Puerto Rico which is in Carlos’s hometown, it is naturally considered that Carlos would accompany Alice on the trip. As soon as they get to their destination, all heck breaks loose and that is when Alice starts to see Carlos in a different vein. She sees him as a “Latin” Lover, this hero, and a man that she has deeper feelings for but she doesn’t know if Carlos could ever have those feelings for. Will the differences between them end up tearing them apart for good or will they bring them together forever?
I enjoyed reading about a female lead who is more in assertive while Carlos is laid back until he was pushed to the extreme and then he became a possessive alpha male. I Enjoyed the chemistry between the main characters and the flow of this story. The ending really worked for this story .
My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
When Alice gets a business deal in Puerto Rico which is in Carlos’s hometown, it is naturally considered that Carlos would accompany Alice on the trip. As soon as they get to their destination, all heck breaks loose and that is when Alice starts to see Carlos in a different vein. She sees him as a “Latin” Lover, this hero, and a man that she has deeper feelings for but she doesn’t know if Carlos could ever have those feelings for. Will the differences between them end up tearing them apart for good or will they bring them together forever?
I enjoyed reading about a female lead who is more in assertive while Carlos is laid back until he was pushed to the extreme and then he became a possessive alpha male. I Enjoyed the chemistry between the main characters and the flow of this story. The ending really worked for this story .
My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
June 21, 2017
Cinco estrellas. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I enjoyed The Director and Don Juan immensely. Devoured it within a couple of hours. I couldn't put it down, I was smiling the whole time I was reading it. From the beginning with the Jerry Maguire-ish scene, until the epilogue with the HEA, I was engaged and charmed.
Multicultural romance is my catnip. It is my life, my reality. I loved that this book acknowledged the issues that they'd face outside of their relationship. There are so many things going against them --their differing ethnicities, their age gap, their social status, to name a few--but they chose to share the same world. And they're very good at sharing it with each other. What I liked is that there's no unnecessary, dragged out drama, but it still has plenty of substance. I also loved the Spanish dialogues. They really add something extra-special to the storytelling. And of course, I loved both Alice Story and Carlos Vega. Katy made them real people, with certainties and doubts.
The last lines in TDADJ resonated strongly with me because I wrote the same sentiment in my book - "The future is not perfect...The best thing you can do is find a partner who loves you and tackle it together."
Note: I won this ARC with the promise to write and post an honest review.
Multicultural romance is my catnip. It is my life, my reality. I loved that this book acknowledged the issues that they'd face outside of their relationship. There are so many things going against them --their differing ethnicities, their age gap, their social status, to name a few--but they chose to share the same world. And they're very good at sharing it with each other. What I liked is that there's no unnecessary, dragged out drama, but it still has plenty of substance. I also loved the Spanish dialogues. They really add something extra-special to the storytelling. And of course, I loved both Alice Story and Carlos Vega. Katy made them real people, with certainties and doubts.
The last lines in TDADJ resonated strongly with me because I wrote the same sentiment in my book - "The future is not perfect...The best thing you can do is find a partner who loves you and tackle it together."
Note: I won this ARC with the promise to write and post an honest review.
July 2, 2017
3.5 stars
Alice Story has spent her whole life trying to be good enough for her father and in a moment of passion she quit her father’s company to start her own company. When asked if anyone would join her on her new venture, Carlos Vega who works in the mailroom puts up his hand.
Three years later, Alice has a successful business with Carlos as her right hand man. Carlos is a younger man from Puerto Rico and has worked hard to be where he is today. Carlos has been a bit of a player but has come to the point in his life where he is ready to settle down.
A business trip near his home in Puerto Rico allows them see each other in a new life. Certain things happen that allows Alice to see her true feelings for Carlos. She trusts Carlos implicitly but there are many things she must sought through before a relationship is possible.
Carlos, once realising the same feelings as Alice, their love evolves quickly but has been three years in the making. Carlos is willing to fight for Alice and is determined to fight any obstacles that may stand in their way.
Overall this was a fun story but kind of average. It was enjoyable and was great seeing Alice and Carlos fall in love for the first time. Looking forward to more for the series.
https://www.auniversaltruth.com/?p=78...
Alice Story has spent her whole life trying to be good enough for her father and in a moment of passion she quit her father’s company to start her own company. When asked if anyone would join her on her new venture, Carlos Vega who works in the mailroom puts up his hand.
Three years later, Alice has a successful business with Carlos as her right hand man. Carlos is a younger man from Puerto Rico and has worked hard to be where he is today. Carlos has been a bit of a player but has come to the point in his life where he is ready to settle down.
A business trip near his home in Puerto Rico allows them see each other in a new life. Certain things happen that allows Alice to see her true feelings for Carlos. She trusts Carlos implicitly but there are many things she must sought through before a relationship is possible.
Carlos, once realising the same feelings as Alice, their love evolves quickly but has been three years in the making. Carlos is willing to fight for Alice and is determined to fight any obstacles that may stand in their way.
Overall this was a fun story but kind of average. It was enjoyable and was great seeing Alice and Carlos fall in love for the first time. Looking forward to more for the series.
https://www.auniversaltruth.com/?p=78...
June 29, 2017
Well now, I have a new favorite Katy Regnery book, and it's The Director and the Don Juan!
Alice is a driven, hard working woman. Once she left the confines of her dead end job, she creates her own business and Carlos leaves with her. She's a bit uptight and Carlos balances with her. Carlos is strong, but enlightened. He's calculating and has good sense.
I really enjoyed The Director and the Don Juan. It was a diverse story, and very respectful in that aspect. It was paced well and had beautiful dialogue. The characters were complex, and had real world problems. There was fabulous chemistry between the characters, and they were so in tune with each other. It played on the CEO/Employee aspect, but also a troupe you don't see much of- Older Woman/Younger Man. I loved that; especially because Carlos is wise beyond his years. 5 stars from me and recommended to any romance reader.
*Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads*
Alice is a driven, hard working woman. Once she left the confines of her dead end job, she creates her own business and Carlos leaves with her. She's a bit uptight and Carlos balances with her. Carlos is strong, but enlightened. He's calculating and has good sense.
I really enjoyed The Director and the Don Juan. It was a diverse story, and very respectful in that aspect. It was paced well and had beautiful dialogue. The characters were complex, and had real world problems. There was fabulous chemistry between the characters, and they were so in tune with each other. It played on the CEO/Employee aspect, but also a troupe you don't see much of- Older Woman/Younger Man. I loved that; especially because Carlos is wise beyond his years. 5 stars from me and recommended to any romance reader.
*Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads*
June 17, 2017
I am in love with this book , it is more than Amazing , Katy regnery again wrote an outstanding story ......
Although Alice as a character is complicated but Carlos true love and sweetness made her believe that she can , she can be a successful businesswoman , a mother and simply she can love ....
Regardless any socioeconomic or cultural differences between them they did it , they respected each other , worked and loved ......
Katy delivered again a great concept , a great story , with a huge love and a lovelier couple .....
Totally enjoyed it and would absolutely love to reread it one more time and another and another........ Because simply it is just that AWESOME , so beautiful and cute .
"The future isn’t something perfect. The future isn’t something predictable. The best thing you can do is find a partner who loves you and tackle it together."
"Only we know, you and I, how much we suffer for this love."
The Director and Don Juan , Katy Regnery
Although Alice as a character is complicated but Carlos true love and sweetness made her believe that she can , she can be a successful businesswoman , a mother and simply she can love ....
Regardless any socioeconomic or cultural differences between them they did it , they respected each other , worked and loved ......
Katy delivered again a great concept , a great story , with a huge love and a lovelier couple .....
Totally enjoyed it and would absolutely love to reread it one more time and another and another........ Because simply it is just that AWESOME , so beautiful and cute .
"The future isn’t something perfect. The future isn’t something predictable. The best thing you can do is find a partner who loves you and tackle it together."
"Only we know, you and I, how much we suffer for this love."
The Director and Don Juan , Katy Regnery
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