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Need You #4
When I Need You
A pro football player and a spitfire cheerleading coach toss the rules aside in New York Times bestselling author Lorelei James’s brand-new romance in the Need You series… Ladies’ man Jensen “The Rocket” Lund has three stipulations when it comes to 1) No single mothers 2) No cheerleaders 3) No medical personnel So his magnetic attraction to Rowan Michaels makes no sense since she breaks all three of his rules. Athletic trainer Rowan Michaels didn’t pass the rigorous requirements to become a Vikings cheerleader to score with a pro athlete. Been there, done her son is proof that football players and fidelity don’t go hand in hand. When Rowan discovers her new neighbor is Jensen Lund, the smoking-hot tight end, she’s grateful for the league’s strict “no fraternization” policy because the sweet and sexy man defines temptation. But Jensen plans on rushing straight to the goal line to prove to Rowan he’s much more than just a player…on and off the field.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2017
153 people are currently reading
2037 people want to read
About the author
Lorelei James
77 books8,325 followersLorelei James is New York Times & USA Today Bestselling author of contemporary erotic westerns and erotic romances. She lives in western South Dakota.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 289 reviews
March 30, 2018
Review available at Under the Pages.
July 24, 2017
4 STARS
Do you see that pile of utterly satisfied good over there in the corner, shuddering with happiness? Yep. That would be me. Because this book? ALL. OF. THE. SWOONS.
If slow burn, friends to lovers romance is your jam, this book is your catnip.
I had no idea what to expect when I started When I Need You. I've devoured Lorelei's entire backlist and I've loved her dirty talking cowboys, but this series is completely different. I was a little nervous because this was the first book in the series that I've read. Don't you judge me here! It's a thing I do, mkay? There's a reason to my madness....sometimes. I can happily report that I had no issues picking right up with the characters and the entire Lund crew. The author does a phenomenal job making sure new readers are able to dive right in without any confusion. Now as for the book?
*happy shudder*
Where do I start?! Jensen Lund is a pro football player. Coming off a recent injury that almost cost him his career, he's come to realize that meaningless hookups are no longer what he wants. A hot tumble in bed is great, but gets lonely in the long run. Unfortunately the first woman to catch his attention and hold it for the long haul is also someone that breaks every single one of his three dating rules.
Rowan Michaels is a single mom, a cheerleader for The Vikings, and completely over professional athletes. If there's anything her son's deadbeat father taught her, it's they're not reliable. But when she learns that the sinfully sexy Jensen is her next door neighbor, temptations proves to be hard. And when Jensen is determined to prove her insecurities and judgements wrong. That doesn't mean he's also not determined to prove that their friendship deserves a chance to be something more.
Can I just tell you how much I loved Jensen? I don't even have the words here, people. The man is just perfect. The unlikely friendship that Rowan and Jensen form is brimming with sexual tension and I thought that it may kill me with the slow burn. Yet it was so delicious watching these two fight the obvious attraction; Rowan more than Jensen.
Between the rest of the Lund family, Rowan's adorable son, and the swoony romance, I had a goofy smile on my face the entire time reading this book. I fell harder and harder for Jensen with every page. I'm telling you, guys, it just doesn't get more perfect than this man and his patience of a saint when it came to Rowan and her (justifiable) fears and insecurities.
Throw in an archaic no fraternization rule between cheerleaders and football players, and it's more than just friendship on the line for Rowan. But man oh man, was it ever satisfying watching her fall harder and harder for Jensen.
When I Need You was exactly what I needed. It was light-hearted, romantic, and deliciously fun. It was full of swoon and steam and had a smile on my face from beginning to finish. I was about to break into a cheer just to get these two together quicker. There was no crazy drama, no filler; every page had purpose. It was romantic perfection. I'm not sure how I haven't read this series before, but I'm certainly rectifying that mistake immediately. If you're looking for a sweet, easy read full of romance and a hero that's simply to die for, look no further!
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
Jensen Lund was one hundred percent prime alpha male and one hundred thousand percent off-limits.
Do you see that pile of utterly satisfied good over there in the corner, shuddering with happiness? Yep. That would be me. Because this book? ALL. OF. THE. SWOONS.
If slow burn, friends to lovers romance is your jam, this book is your catnip.
I had no idea what to expect when I started When I Need You. I've devoured Lorelei's entire backlist and I've loved her dirty talking cowboys, but this series is completely different. I was a little nervous because this was the first book in the series that I've read. Don't you judge me here! It's a thing I do, mkay? There's a reason to my madness....sometimes. I can happily report that I had no issues picking right up with the characters and the entire Lund crew. The author does a phenomenal job making sure new readers are able to dive right in without any confusion. Now as for the book?
*happy shudder*
Where do I start?! Jensen Lund is a pro football player. Coming off a recent injury that almost cost him his career, he's come to realize that meaningless hookups are no longer what he wants. A hot tumble in bed is great, but gets lonely in the long run. Unfortunately the first woman to catch his attention and hold it for the long haul is also someone that breaks every single one of his three dating rules.
Rowan Michaels is a single mom, a cheerleader for The Vikings, and completely over professional athletes. If there's anything her son's deadbeat father taught her, it's they're not reliable. But when she learns that the sinfully sexy Jensen is her next door neighbor, temptations proves to be hard. And when Jensen is determined to prove her insecurities and judgements wrong. That doesn't mean he's also not determined to prove that their friendship deserves a chance to be something more.
Can I just tell you how much I loved Jensen? I don't even have the words here, people. The man is just perfect. The unlikely friendship that Rowan and Jensen form is brimming with sexual tension and I thought that it may kill me with the slow burn. Yet it was so delicious watching these two fight the obvious attraction; Rowan more than Jensen.
“We’re more than friends, Jensen.”
“Tell me you missed me, sweetheart.”
“I missed you, sweetheart.”
Between the rest of the Lund family, Rowan's adorable son, and the swoony romance, I had a goofy smile on my face the entire time reading this book. I fell harder and harder for Jensen with every page. I'm telling you, guys, it just doesn't get more perfect than this man and his patience of a saint when it came to Rowan and her (justifiable) fears and insecurities.
Throw in an archaic no fraternization rule between cheerleaders and football players, and it's more than just friendship on the line for Rowan. But man oh man, was it ever satisfying watching her fall harder and harder for Jensen.
When I Need You was exactly what I needed. It was light-hearted, romantic, and deliciously fun. It was full of swoon and steam and had a smile on my face from beginning to finish. I was about to break into a cheer just to get these two together quicker. There was no crazy drama, no filler; every page had purpose. It was romantic perfection. I'm not sure how I haven't read this series before, but I'm certainly rectifying that mistake immediately. If you're looking for a sweet, easy read full of romance and a hero that's simply to die for, look no further!
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
July 29, 2017
4.5 Stars
Jensen “The Rocket” Lund suffered from a sports injury in last book, one that’s taken him out of the last playing season with surgeries and physical therapy. Facing such a serious and possibly life altering event has changed some of Jensen’s views on life. I like the change and growth it brought out in him. He wanted to be recognized as more than just an athlete, rich guy, or a playboy. Yes, football is a large part of his life, but he realized that things could change so easily. Casual hookups no longer appeal to him, either, but Rowan Michaels, the woman who lives across the hall breaks all his relationship rules: no single moms, no cheerleaders, and no health care workers. The rules have served him well, until he met Rowan. She’s gorgeous on the inside and out, so they’ll just be friends. Right…that’s really going to work out!
Rowan has worked hard to get where she is as a coach and cheerleader for The Vikings football team, and her job is important to her as the sole provider for her six-year-old son, Caulder. She’s very wary of jocks, won’t date one, since she got burned so badly by Caulder’s father. But Jensen Lund tempts her like no other man since she’s become a mother. He’s surprisingly sweet and funny, and has a way with Caulder. Still, no matter how much she’s attracted Rowan must be careful. It’s not only her heart on the line. Also, there’s a “no fraternization” policy that could threaten her career if she decides Jensen is worth the trouble.
When I Need You is my favorite installment so far in the Need You series! The romance was a slow build, friends-first-relationship that made the pay-off when they finally got together sweeter for the wait. I enjoyed their “just friends” situation, too. Their flirty banter back and forth, and sizzling chemistry made it obvious Jensen and Rowan would burn-up the sheets once they got together! I appreciated there wasn’t any unnecessary drama between them, because it’s so frustrating when that’s thrown in just to create conflict if it doesn’t feel natural. I liked how Jensen handled the “no fraternization” policy, as well.
I so love the Lund family, especially Jensen’s mom, Selka! This Swedish matriarch is a fierce momma cat to all her grown children, not that they always appreciated that, lol. Her attempts at English sayings were hilarious:
“You are feisty? Or just contrary?”
“Both. It’s harder for you to put me in a headlock if I’m standing across from you.”
“Headlock.” Her lips curled slightly. “I have no UPC moves.”
UPC? What the hell? “You mean…UFC?”
“Yah. Whatever. I am harmless.”
I laughed. “I doubt that.”
I look forward to a story centered on Dallas and Igor in the future, but I’m really hoping for one with Lucy and Jaxson Lund. It’s obvious Jax wants back in with his Lucy and young daughter, but he was a complete ass to them in the past! Not sure they could patch things up after all he did, but I’m sure Lorelei James could make it happen believably if she decides to.
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley Books in exchange for an honest review.
Jensen “The Rocket” Lund suffered from a sports injury in last book, one that’s taken him out of the last playing season with surgeries and physical therapy. Facing such a serious and possibly life altering event has changed some of Jensen’s views on life. I like the change and growth it brought out in him. He wanted to be recognized as more than just an athlete, rich guy, or a playboy. Yes, football is a large part of his life, but he realized that things could change so easily. Casual hookups no longer appeal to him, either, but Rowan Michaels, the woman who lives across the hall breaks all his relationship rules: no single moms, no cheerleaders, and no health care workers. The rules have served him well, until he met Rowan. She’s gorgeous on the inside and out, so they’ll just be friends. Right…that’s really going to work out!
Rowan has worked hard to get where she is as a coach and cheerleader for The Vikings football team, and her job is important to her as the sole provider for her six-year-old son, Caulder. She’s very wary of jocks, won’t date one, since she got burned so badly by Caulder’s father. But Jensen Lund tempts her like no other man since she’s become a mother. He’s surprisingly sweet and funny, and has a way with Caulder. Still, no matter how much she’s attracted Rowan must be careful. It’s not only her heart on the line. Also, there’s a “no fraternization” policy that could threaten her career if she decides Jensen is worth the trouble.
When I Need You is my favorite installment so far in the Need You series! The romance was a slow build, friends-first-relationship that made the pay-off when they finally got together sweeter for the wait. I enjoyed their “just friends” situation, too. Their flirty banter back and forth, and sizzling chemistry made it obvious Jensen and Rowan would burn-up the sheets once they got together! I appreciated there wasn’t any unnecessary drama between them, because it’s so frustrating when that’s thrown in just to create conflict if it doesn’t feel natural. I liked how Jensen handled the “no fraternization” policy, as well.
I so love the Lund family, especially Jensen’s mom, Selka! This Swedish matriarch is a fierce momma cat to all her grown children, not that they always appreciated that, lol. Her attempts at English sayings were hilarious:
“You are feisty? Or just contrary?”
“Both. It’s harder for you to put me in a headlock if I’m standing across from you.”
“Headlock.” Her lips curled slightly. “I have no UPC moves.”
UPC? What the hell? “You mean…UFC?”
“Yah. Whatever. I am harmless.”
I laughed. “I doubt that.”
I look forward to a story centered on Dallas and Igor in the future, but I’m really hoping for one with Lucy and Jaxson Lund. It’s obvious Jax wants back in with his Lucy and young daughter, but he was a complete ass to them in the past! Not sure they could patch things up after all he did, but I’m sure Lorelei James could make it happen believably if she decides to.
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley Books in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2017
2.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: This is a tough one to rate! I enjoyed their friendship, and I really enjoyed the relationship the H had with the h's son...but once they actually (and finally) got together (at close to 80%!!) it went downhill for me. We had these huge time jumps that just grazed over the transition from friends to more, and I felt like I got completely jipped! I felt like we had all this build up to have it fast-forwarded through the good stuff (but throw in some sex scenes) and then "the end"!! There was also no real conflict! It was just a minor blip that was resolved right away. We didn't even get an epilogue, and those who follow my reviews know how I feel about that.... 😒
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Rowan and Jensen's story. They meet when Rowan subleases her brother's apartment that happens to be across the hall from Jensen's. Jensen is on the injured reserved list for the NFL and Rowan is a professional cheerleader for his team, so there is a strict no-fraternization rule they know they need to follow. They also have their own personal rules that they follow that only leaves them with the option to be friends. Rowan, Jensen, and Rowan's son form a tight friendship that eventually turns into more. There is minimal drama, some sexy times, and some funny moments...and they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Rowan and Jensen's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: My biggest complaint (see above overall opinion section). I never skimmed and it flowed well for the most part.
Instalove: No. They become friends and then develop stronger feelings.
H rating: 4.5 stars. Jensen. He was a pretty great guy. Definitely not the stereotypical manwhore they implied he was before the h! I especially loved how he was with the h's son.
h rating: 3 stars. Rowan. She was just...ok 🤷🏻♀️
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. They don't become intimate until close to 80%!! Definitely a slow burn.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: No!
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No. Once they are together they stay together.
Possible Triggers: Yes, but mild
Closure: This had what I would call a HFN ending. It felt too abrupt for my liking, and we don't get an epilogue! Maybe the couple will show up again in another book in the series, but I wanted to see them get a HEA!
How I got it: I got it on loan through my public library.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: This is a tough one to rate! I enjoyed their friendship, and I really enjoyed the relationship the H had with the h's son...but once they actually (and finally) got together (at close to 80%!!) it went downhill for me. We had these huge time jumps that just grazed over the transition from friends to more, and I felt like I got completely jipped! I felt like we had all this build up to have it fast-forwarded through the good stuff (but throw in some sex scenes) and then "the end"!! There was also no real conflict! It was just a minor blip that was resolved right away. We didn't even get an epilogue, and those who follow my reviews know how I feel about that.... 😒
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Rowan and Jensen's story. They meet when Rowan subleases her brother's apartment that happens to be across the hall from Jensen's. Jensen is on the injured reserved list for the NFL and Rowan is a professional cheerleader for his team, so there is a strict no-fraternization rule they know they need to follow. They also have their own personal rules that they follow that only leaves them with the option to be friends. Rowan, Jensen, and Rowan's son form a tight friendship that eventually turns into more. There is minimal drama, some sexy times, and some funny moments...and they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Rowan and Jensen's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: My biggest complaint (see above overall opinion section). I never skimmed and it flowed well for the most part.
Instalove: No. They become friends and then develop stronger feelings.
H rating: 4.5 stars. Jensen. He was a pretty great guy. Definitely not the stereotypical manwhore they implied he was before the h! I especially loved how he was with the h's son.
h rating: 3 stars. Rowan. She was just...ok 🤷🏻♀️
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. They don't become intimate until close to 80%!! Definitely a slow burn.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: No!
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No. Once they are together they stay together.
Possible Triggers: Yes, but mild
Closure: This had what I would call a HFN ending. It felt too abrupt for my liking, and we don't get an epilogue! Maybe the couple will show up again in another book in the series, but I wanted to see them get a HEA!
How I got it: I got it on loan through my public library.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
July 27, 2017
When two people have rules of dating that should keep them away from each other, staying away shouldn’t be a problem. Right? Jensen and Rowan are all types of wrong for each other because of their views on who they should date, but that doesn’t keep them from wanting each other anyway.
I loved this story. It was a football romance, but it wasn’t your typical football romance and I liked that. This is also very much a slow burn romance. There was a lot of things in the way of these two being together so it took a lot for them to get on the page of dating. While I enjoyed them becoming friends and how they got along before dating, I also wanted them to get together a little faster. I understood the hesitation but I also wanted Rowan to throw the rules out the window before I ended up throwing the book out the window.
Though once they got together it was great and I loved their chemistry and how well they got along. I especially loved the relationship between Jensen and Rowan’s son. He was so great with him. I also really liked that there wasn’t unnecessary drama in this book. It was low drama even though the author could have made it the opposite and I appreciated that.
Overall, I loved this book. Rowan and Jensen made a great couple and I wish the book had been longer because I didn’t want their story to end. This book also made me want to read the first three books in the series so I will be doing that soon! I need more stories from Ms. James! -Leah, 4.5 Stars
I loved this story. It was a football romance, but it wasn’t your typical football romance and I liked that. This is also very much a slow burn romance. There was a lot of things in the way of these two being together so it took a lot for them to get on the page of dating. While I enjoyed them becoming friends and how they got along before dating, I also wanted them to get together a little faster. I understood the hesitation but I also wanted Rowan to throw the rules out the window before I ended up throwing the book out the window.
Though once they got together it was great and I loved their chemistry and how well they got along. I especially loved the relationship between Jensen and Rowan’s son. He was so great with him. I also really liked that there wasn’t unnecessary drama in this book. It was low drama even though the author could have made it the opposite and I appreciated that.
Overall, I loved this book. Rowan and Jensen made a great couple and I wish the book had been longer because I didn’t want their story to end. This book also made me want to read the first three books in the series so I will be doing that soon! I need more stories from Ms. James! -Leah, 4.5 Stars
July 25, 2017
Angeline & Slick each gave When I Need You 5 stars and the Purest Delight award!!!
Every time I read a book by Lorelei James I wonder, “How does she do it, time and time again?” How does she create such wonderful character driven stories that I can’t put down? Always fresh and different. I will never stop reading her.
The fourth book in the Need You Series is fantastic! I love this series and have enjoyed every book immensely. All are well-written, feature lovely, realistic characters, and make my kindle melt. When I Need You is no exception!
I’m a sucker for a friends-to-lovers story. I love watching a friendship grow and turn into a love that is solid and true. Jensen and Rowan did just that. Both Jensen and Rowan have “rules” on who they won’t date. Thankfully, rules are meant to be broken, because when these two get together sparks fly!
I loved watching their journey. I felt as though I was a part of it. Their dynamic was more than two people falling in love. Rowan’s son, Calder, plays an amazing role (as he should) and I can’t help but to have fallen in love with all of them.
We get to see more of the Lund clan. I hope for more stories. This family and these books are a breath of fresh air. They represent a goodness and honesty that seems to be lacking in people these days. I always take away something important when I read any Lorelei book. I appreciate her ability to make me escape into fiction and also think deeply about myself. I love that.
When I Need You is a realistic friends-to-lovers story that will keep you entertained from start to finish. I’ll always recommend starting with Book 1 in a series (I’m OCD like that). When I Need You can be read as a standalone. Go get your copy today! You won’t be disappointed.
I’m just going to put it all out there, I love Lorelei James’ Rough Riders series, I love her Blacktop Cowboy series, but I think her Need You series is some of her best writing. I love the story of falling in love even when the couple doesn’t realize they are doing it, I love the slow burn, I love the friendship before the sexy, I love the “breaking of the rules,” I love meddling family, I love big giving hearts, and most of all I love a “good guy” hero and the Lund family has been full of them. When I Need You is the last book in this line of the Lund family and it features Jensen Lund, a pro football player who is coming back from some serious injuries and a single mom who has moved in across the hall one that he should know but doesn’t. Intrigued? I was and from the first moment they meet, it was electric, exciting, and a bit confrontational and I could not wait to see how their story played out.
After an entire season on the injured reserve list Jensen Lund is ready to get back to football, but in the year he’s been away from the game he’s made drastic changes in his life. He’s curbed his party man lifestyle, he’s been celibate, and he’s come to the realization that he wants a deeper connection with someone he just doesn’t expect that someone to be a woman who breaks all three of his dating rules.
As a single mom Rowan Michaels is no stranger to hard work and sacrifice, but she doesn’t complain about it because she loves her son, her family, and her jobs in that order. She might be tired, she might wish for a few minutes of peace now and again, but she wouldn’t change her life for anything. When she realizes her new neighbor is Jensen Lund first she wants to knock her brother in the head for keeping that news to himself and then she locks down the want she hasn’t felt in years. She doesn’t get involved with men especially professional athletes.
Can you say sparks?? Holy wow, from their first face to face meeting through their “just friends” phase and on to their “gotta have you now” moments, I loved everything about this couple and their story. After his initial snafu of not recognizing Rowan, Jensen proved time and time again he had mad respect for everything Rowan did in her life but first and foremost her dedication to her son. I loved that he understood Calder came first in her life and he expected no less, but more than that it was his involvement and acceptance of every little unique thing about Calder that melted my heart. Rowan impressed me with the way she stood up to Jensen and didn’t let him get away with anything and while at times she frustrated me a wee bit making assumptions about him, I could also understand why she did it. I appreciated that she began to see behind the public persona and truly saw that Jensen was good, honest, and trustworthy. I also cheered (and yes that’s a bit of a pun) that when she faced losing an important part of her life, she didn’t make it about her because she wanted Jensen focused on his game not on her, but the fact that he took charge and tried to make it right for them BOTH was perfect and priceless.
Let me say just a bit about Rowan’s son Calder, I loved that he wasn’t a stereotypical boy and that he wasn’t afraid to pursue what made him happy (more so that his mom realized she needed to let him be him). I enjoyed watching the interplay between him and Jensen and I think Calder was good for Jensen in many ways because being the baby of the family he never really had a lot of responsibilities thrust on him and he always had people to look up to; to be the person someone looked up to was huge for him and it wasn’t in a “you are a football God” kind of way, it was in a “I like that you spend time with me” kind of way. Calder reveled in Jensen’s attention, but he gave back as much as he got which made Jensen feel like a king. While this was a romance between a man and a woman when there is a child involved it changes things, but Calder wasn’t shoved in a corner or sent off constantly to his grandparents, or always conveniently gone; he was front and center and the growing relationship between man and boy was just as important as the romance blossoming between man and woman.
Strong and intelligent characters, smart and fun dialog, an engaging plot, and smoldering sensuality, author Lorelei James offers up another strong and will written romance in When I Need You.
P.S.—Anyone who has read this series, there are some strong scenes with “Mama” Selka and they are both meaningful and crazy fun!
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Every time I read a book by Lorelei James I wonder, “How does she do it, time and time again?” How does she create such wonderful character driven stories that I can’t put down? Always fresh and different. I will never stop reading her.
The fourth book in the Need You Series is fantastic! I love this series and have enjoyed every book immensely. All are well-written, feature lovely, realistic characters, and make my kindle melt. When I Need You is no exception!
I’m a sucker for a friends-to-lovers story. I love watching a friendship grow and turn into a love that is solid and true. Jensen and Rowan did just that. Both Jensen and Rowan have “rules” on who they won’t date. Thankfully, rules are meant to be broken, because when these two get together sparks fly!
I loved watching their journey. I felt as though I was a part of it. Their dynamic was more than two people falling in love. Rowan’s son, Calder, plays an amazing role (as he should) and I can’t help but to have fallen in love with all of them.
We get to see more of the Lund clan. I hope for more stories. This family and these books are a breath of fresh air. They represent a goodness and honesty that seems to be lacking in people these days. I always take away something important when I read any Lorelei book. I appreciate her ability to make me escape into fiction and also think deeply about myself. I love that.
When I Need You is a realistic friends-to-lovers story that will keep you entertained from start to finish. I’ll always recommend starting with Book 1 in a series (I’m OCD like that). When I Need You can be read as a standalone. Go get your copy today! You won’t be disappointed.
I’m just going to put it all out there, I love Lorelei James’ Rough Riders series, I love her Blacktop Cowboy series, but I think her Need You series is some of her best writing. I love the story of falling in love even when the couple doesn’t realize they are doing it, I love the slow burn, I love the friendship before the sexy, I love the “breaking of the rules,” I love meddling family, I love big giving hearts, and most of all I love a “good guy” hero and the Lund family has been full of them. When I Need You is the last book in this line of the Lund family and it features Jensen Lund, a pro football player who is coming back from some serious injuries and a single mom who has moved in across the hall one that he should know but doesn’t. Intrigued? I was and from the first moment they meet, it was electric, exciting, and a bit confrontational and I could not wait to see how their story played out.
After an entire season on the injured reserve list Jensen Lund is ready to get back to football, but in the year he’s been away from the game he’s made drastic changes in his life. He’s curbed his party man lifestyle, he’s been celibate, and he’s come to the realization that he wants a deeper connection with someone he just doesn’t expect that someone to be a woman who breaks all three of his dating rules.
As a single mom Rowan Michaels is no stranger to hard work and sacrifice, but she doesn’t complain about it because she loves her son, her family, and her jobs in that order. She might be tired, she might wish for a few minutes of peace now and again, but she wouldn’t change her life for anything. When she realizes her new neighbor is Jensen Lund first she wants to knock her brother in the head for keeping that news to himself and then she locks down the want she hasn’t felt in years. She doesn’t get involved with men especially professional athletes.
Can you say sparks?? Holy wow, from their first face to face meeting through their “just friends” phase and on to their “gotta have you now” moments, I loved everything about this couple and their story. After his initial snafu of not recognizing Rowan, Jensen proved time and time again he had mad respect for everything Rowan did in her life but first and foremost her dedication to her son. I loved that he understood Calder came first in her life and he expected no less, but more than that it was his involvement and acceptance of every little unique thing about Calder that melted my heart. Rowan impressed me with the way she stood up to Jensen and didn’t let him get away with anything and while at times she frustrated me a wee bit making assumptions about him, I could also understand why she did it. I appreciated that she began to see behind the public persona and truly saw that Jensen was good, honest, and trustworthy. I also cheered (and yes that’s a bit of a pun) that when she faced losing an important part of her life, she didn’t make it about her because she wanted Jensen focused on his game not on her, but the fact that he took charge and tried to make it right for them BOTH was perfect and priceless.
Let me say just a bit about Rowan’s son Calder, I loved that he wasn’t a stereotypical boy and that he wasn’t afraid to pursue what made him happy (more so that his mom realized she needed to let him be him). I enjoyed watching the interplay between him and Jensen and I think Calder was good for Jensen in many ways because being the baby of the family he never really had a lot of responsibilities thrust on him and he always had people to look up to; to be the person someone looked up to was huge for him and it wasn’t in a “you are a football God” kind of way, it was in a “I like that you spend time with me” kind of way. Calder reveled in Jensen’s attention, but he gave back as much as he got which made Jensen feel like a king. While this was a romance between a man and a woman when there is a child involved it changes things, but Calder wasn’t shoved in a corner or sent off constantly to his grandparents, or always conveniently gone; he was front and center and the growing relationship between man and boy was just as important as the romance blossoming between man and woman.
Strong and intelligent characters, smart and fun dialog, an engaging plot, and smoldering sensuality, author Lorelei James offers up another strong and will written romance in When I Need You.
P.S.—Anyone who has read this series, there are some strong scenes with “Mama” Selka and they are both meaningful and crazy fun!
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
July 27, 2017
strong>Coffee Dates with When I Need You
First Date: I was a tad worried going in since football jocks aren't my thing, but Jensen Lund is a serious contender for book boyfriend of the year! Jenson is back from Florida after surgery and extensive therapy to repair injuries to his leg that kept him on the injured reserve list all last season. The setup for how Jenson met Rowan Michaels and her son was perfect. From the get go, I liked Rowan, adored her little boy and knew Jenson was in trouble. Jenson's rules make Rowan an impossibility for a hookup, let along a romance and Rowan has only one rule no professional players. Between the chemistry and the banter, these two are in serious trouble.
Second Date: A friendship begins and it was refreshing, fun and hilarious because these two are mentally undressing each other. The emerging friendship felt genuine, and James did a fantastic job of letting the reader get to know both characters through dual pov and alternating chapters. Both are strong, independent and focused. I loved how mature they were and appreciated how they communicated and processed things. In the meantime the three are becoming a little unit, only don't tell them that.
Third Date: Realizations, rules, family, and friends all made the story have depth while tugging at my heartstrings and making me belly laugh. When I learned Jenson loved a fictional series as much I do, it was all over I was completely smitten. The relationship between Jenson and Rowan was hot but also showed elements of a sustainable relationship. Lund's mom was precious from her incorrect puns to her love of family. The ending left me smiling and hoping that we get more books in this series. I am not quite ready to be done with this family and their friends.
Copy provided by publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
First Date: I was a tad worried going in since football jocks aren't my thing, but Jensen Lund is a serious contender for book boyfriend of the year! Jenson is back from Florida after surgery and extensive therapy to repair injuries to his leg that kept him on the injured reserve list all last season. The setup for how Jenson met Rowan Michaels and her son was perfect. From the get go, I liked Rowan, adored her little boy and knew Jenson was in trouble. Jenson's rules make Rowan an impossibility for a hookup, let along a romance and Rowan has only one rule no professional players. Between the chemistry and the banter, these two are in serious trouble.
Second Date: A friendship begins and it was refreshing, fun and hilarious because these two are mentally undressing each other. The emerging friendship felt genuine, and James did a fantastic job of letting the reader get to know both characters through dual pov and alternating chapters. Both are strong, independent and focused. I loved how mature they were and appreciated how they communicated and processed things. In the meantime the three are becoming a little unit, only don't tell them that.
Third Date: Realizations, rules, family, and friends all made the story have depth while tugging at my heartstrings and making me belly laugh. When I learned Jenson loved a fictional series as much I do, it was all over I was completely smitten. The relationship between Jenson and Rowan was hot but also showed elements of a sustainable relationship. Lund's mom was precious from her incorrect puns to her love of family. The ending left me smiling and hoping that we get more books in this series. I am not quite ready to be done with this family and their friends.
Copy provided by publisher. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
August 5, 2017
This series is getting better and better with each book!
When I Need You follows the story of Jensen "The Rocketman" Lund, tight-end for the Minnesota Vikings. In the last, Jensen suffered a potentially career ending injury... He also moved into the Axl's former apartment where he meets the heroine. She breaks all of his rules and yet he's drawn to her.
Rowan Michaels is a single mom who just wants to do right by her son and that means staying away from Jensen who has the power to destroy not only her heart but also her career as a cheerleader/coach.
Just like the previous books in this series, When I Need You is full of wicked humor and fun family interactions of the Lund family. This is one of the stronger aspects in the book which is fortunate since we get to see more Lunds in this book. I was especially intrigued by Jaxon and Lucy. Their drama has been playing out since the last book and we see more of it here. I'm definitely looking forward to reading their story soon.
I also enjoyed how the heroine was written. She had a lot of flaws and owns it. She's the perfect foil for Jensen. Throw in a precocious kid to the mix and you have a winning combination.
ARC provided by the publisher
When I Need You follows the story of Jensen "The Rocketman" Lund, tight-end for the Minnesota Vikings. In the last, Jensen suffered a potentially career ending injury... He also moved into the Axl's former apartment where he meets the heroine. She breaks all of his rules and yet he's drawn to her.
Rowan Michaels is a single mom who just wants to do right by her son and that means staying away from Jensen who has the power to destroy not only her heart but also her career as a cheerleader/coach.
Just like the previous books in this series, When I Need You is full of wicked humor and fun family interactions of the Lund family. This is one of the stronger aspects in the book which is fortunate since we get to see more Lunds in this book. I was especially intrigued by Jaxon and Lucy. Their drama has been playing out since the last book and we see more of it here. I'm definitely looking forward to reading their story soon.
I also enjoyed how the heroine was written. She had a lot of flaws and owns it. She's the perfect foil for Jensen. Throw in a precocious kid to the mix and you have a winning combination.
ARC provided by the publisher
July 25, 2017
Years ago, I went on a Lorelei James kick and absolutely devoured her Rough Riders series. I don’t recall the individual book details, but what I do remember was they were straight up contemporary romances and they were freaking hot. When I saw an arc available for When I Need You, I nabbed it thinking that it might be fun to rediscover Ms. James. Unfortunately, this was a friends-to-lovers slow burn romance, and when I say slow, I mean it. At times it felt like we were moving at glacial speeds.
Jensen is a pro football player who had been on injured reserve for over a year while he battled his way back from a major injury. It’s still up in the air whether he has recovered enough to play. While he’s been sidelined, he’s had to do some serious soul searching about what he will do if his football days are over.
Rowan is a pro-cheerleader for Jensen’s team and a cheer coach for the college. She’s also a single parent of an adorable 6-year-old boy named Calder. Rowan was singularly focused on being a Mom and was wary of getting in a relationship with anyone, much less a football player.
Jensen and Rowan get off to a seriously rocky start in more ways than one. Rowan sublets her brother’s apartment which just happens to be across the hall from Jensen’s. For a brief time, they didn’t even like one another. Then, quickly they morph into a great friendship. The chemistry between the two is palpable, but they both resist. These two have loads of obstacles to get through, not only the professional aspect seeing as they both are working for the same team but also personal ones.
I enjoyed the banter between the two which kept me from getting too frustrated at the super slow pace of the romance. There were times I wanted to knock their heads together since they both had boneheaded moments. My main frustration was the slow pace of not only the romance but the story too. I found myself putting the book down a lot to do other things. The story just didn’t completely grab me.
It wasn’t until I was writing this review that I realized I had actually read the first book in this series last year and from the review I wrote, although it was okay, like this one it didn’t wow me. I actually didn’t even recognize Brady and Lennox, the main characters from it and they had a lot of page time. Unfortunately, I think When I Need You Is about the same as the first one, a decent read but not one that’s going to stick with me.
3 Glacially Slow Stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Jensen is a pro football player who had been on injured reserve for over a year while he battled his way back from a major injury. It’s still up in the air whether he has recovered enough to play. While he’s been sidelined, he’s had to do some serious soul searching about what he will do if his football days are over.
Rowan is a pro-cheerleader for Jensen’s team and a cheer coach for the college. She’s also a single parent of an adorable 6-year-old boy named Calder. Rowan was singularly focused on being a Mom and was wary of getting in a relationship with anyone, much less a football player.
Jensen and Rowan get off to a seriously rocky start in more ways than one. Rowan sublets her brother’s apartment which just happens to be across the hall from Jensen’s. For a brief time, they didn’t even like one another. Then, quickly they morph into a great friendship. The chemistry between the two is palpable, but they both resist. These two have loads of obstacles to get through, not only the professional aspect seeing as they both are working for the same team but also personal ones.
I enjoyed the banter between the two which kept me from getting too frustrated at the super slow pace of the romance. There were times I wanted to knock their heads together since they both had boneheaded moments. My main frustration was the slow pace of not only the romance but the story too. I found myself putting the book down a lot to do other things. The story just didn’t completely grab me.
It wasn’t until I was writing this review that I realized I had actually read the first book in this series last year and from the review I wrote, although it was okay, like this one it didn’t wow me. I actually didn’t even recognize Brady and Lennox, the main characters from it and they had a lot of page time. Unfortunately, I think When I Need You Is about the same as the first one, a decent read but not one that’s going to stick with me.
3 Glacially Slow Stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
April 30, 2019
This is fourth in a series and the Lund family is a constant throughout. I recommend reading them in order for the family dynamic, but you can probably read this on its own if you like. But don't.
This should have been completely my jam. Jens is my favorite type of hero, the caring and capable guy who does his best to take care of the people he loves. He's in a vulnerable place and making a transition from a serious injury to be on the team roster so it's a good time to start acting on his new priorities (from the reflection during his recovery). And Rowan is my favorite type of heroine, a caring, kind, and capable woman doing her best for those around her and someone who needs Jens while being able to give him the steady affection he needs in return.
And I even liked that each had a set of dating "rules" that they'd built up. And that the other violated every one. This works because James showed the motivation behind those rules so I had more than simply the "no" that would constitute a purely negative motivation*. So Jens, for example, didn't want a medical professional because he didn't want random medical advice that would run counter to his trainers and get bent out of joint when he didn't heed them. So these rules gave Jens and Rowan time to become friends first and that worked out very well.
Unfortunately, I just didn't click much with the story. It was predictable, for one, but more than that, it was a bit idealized and a little too perfect. As an example, Jens' interactions with Rowan's son, Calder, were frictionless and while he was a relationship trial at times, it wasn't ever for personality or emotional reasons. There are other examples (like the camp. and Astrid. and etc.) And the conclusion fell flat for me, as well. I mean, we already had all the emotional intimacy so the last couple chapters where so much bookkeeping detail, really.
So I'm giving this three stars and a sad face because I expected so much better. It should have been my jam. But turned out it was just plain toasted bread.
A note about Steamy: There are a couple explicit sex scenes that were long and kind of ridiculous so it's the middle of my steam tolerance. The emotional intimacy was established way before any of that crap happened, so the explicit bits were mostly gratuitous.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
This should have been completely my jam. Jens is my favorite type of hero, the caring and capable guy who does his best to take care of the people he loves. He's in a vulnerable place and making a transition from a serious injury to be on the team roster so it's a good time to start acting on his new priorities (from the reflection during his recovery). And Rowan is my favorite type of heroine, a caring, kind, and capable woman doing her best for those around her and someone who needs Jens while being able to give him the steady affection he needs in return.
And I even liked that each had a set of dating "rules" that they'd built up. And that the other violated every one. This works because James showed the motivation behind those rules so I had more than simply the "no" that would constitute a purely negative motivation*. So Jens, for example, didn't want a medical professional because he didn't want random medical advice that would run counter to his trainers and get bent out of joint when he didn't heed them. So these rules gave Jens and Rowan time to become friends first and that worked out very well.
Unfortunately, I just didn't click much with the story. It was predictable, for one, but more than that, it was a bit idealized and a little too perfect. As an example, Jens' interactions with Rowan's son, Calder, were frictionless and while he was a relationship trial at times, it wasn't ever for personality or emotional reasons. There are other examples (like the camp. and Astrid. and etc.) And the conclusion fell flat for me, as well. I mean, we already had all the emotional intimacy so the last couple chapters where so much bookkeeping detail, really.
So I'm giving this three stars and a sad face because I expected so much better. It should have been my jam. But turned out it was just plain toasted bread.
A note about Steamy: There are a couple explicit sex scenes that were long and kind of ridiculous so it's the middle of my steam tolerance. The emotional intimacy was established way before any of that crap happened, so the explicit bits were mostly gratuitous.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
June 20, 2017
This series has really grown on me. I am in total love with this family and I'd love for the series to continue, at least with a spin-off of the cousins. Jensen and Rowan are a great match. They have some issues, mainly Rowan but there is little angst in this book which is refreshing. I loved them as a couple and her son was adorable. Jensen with him will melt your heart. This is super sexy read but you will have to be patient for a good portion of the book to get to the sexy times. S-L-O-W B-U-R-N. It totally fits the story so absolutely no complaints from me. Another FANTASTIC read from Lorelei James.
July 26, 2017
Life for Rowan Michaels has always been fairly straightforward: first comes her son and second her career. There isn’t room for anything or anyone outside her family. Yet, befriending Jensen Lund makes her realize she is missing something in her life, and he could be the perfect fit. Breaking down walls can be scary, but Jensen may be worth it.
Coming off a near-career-ending injury, Viking’s starter Jensen Lund has a new outlook on life, one that involves interests after his football days are over. So even though Rowan Michaels breaks all of his rules for dating, Jensen recognizes she, and her son, are special enough to break the rules.
When I Need You is another wonderful love story in the Need You series. Lorelei James knows how to capture my heart; her characters are honest, caring, wonderful people who love with their whole being. Jensen and Rowan may not believe they are the perfect fit for one another because of self-imposed rules and rocky histories, but Ms. James shows readers how they are actually two halves of a whole.
While I love pretty much every aspect of When I Need You, it is the fact that Ms. James creates a strong bond of friendship between Rowan and Jensen and then grows the romance slowly, that gives their story a solid foundation. I loved that external factors aren’t used to create conflict. It would have been so easy to use Jensen’s past, his fame, the no fraternization rule, or any number of other issues to drive a wedge between the pair. Yet instead, the author gives her characters inner-strength and integrity to examine their own choices and life decisions, then make the changes necessary to be happy. Both Jensen and Rowan are kind, giving, caring people, and the author uses this to bolster their romance, rather than take advantage of it to cause problems.
When I Need You focuses on Rowan and Jensen’s romance. Shared in first person, alternating POVs, there is little room to develop an external plot; however, the author does sew seeds for future couples and books. I found that I enjoyed remaining focused on the couple, seeing all aspects of their fledging romance, understanding their fears and concerns, and applauding their courage to open up with honest, heartfelt dialogue. It drew me in and kept me glued to the pages of my ebook.
Lorelei James has scored another touchdown with When I Need You. Overall, the Need You series is a winner, and you will not be disappointed picking up these standalone romances. (Sorry, I couldn’t resist… you’ll see when you read the book!)
My Rating: A, Loved It
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by publisher.
Coming off a near-career-ending injury, Viking’s starter Jensen Lund has a new outlook on life, one that involves interests after his football days are over. So even though Rowan Michaels breaks all of his rules for dating, Jensen recognizes she, and her son, are special enough to break the rules.
When I Need You is another wonderful love story in the Need You series. Lorelei James knows how to capture my heart; her characters are honest, caring, wonderful people who love with their whole being. Jensen and Rowan may not believe they are the perfect fit for one another because of self-imposed rules and rocky histories, but Ms. James shows readers how they are actually two halves of a whole.
While I love pretty much every aspect of When I Need You, it is the fact that Ms. James creates a strong bond of friendship between Rowan and Jensen and then grows the romance slowly, that gives their story a solid foundation. I loved that external factors aren’t used to create conflict. It would have been so easy to use Jensen’s past, his fame, the no fraternization rule, or any number of other issues to drive a wedge between the pair. Yet instead, the author gives her characters inner-strength and integrity to examine their own choices and life decisions, then make the changes necessary to be happy. Both Jensen and Rowan are kind, giving, caring people, and the author uses this to bolster their romance, rather than take advantage of it to cause problems.
When I Need You focuses on Rowan and Jensen’s romance. Shared in first person, alternating POVs, there is little room to develop an external plot; however, the author does sew seeds for future couples and books. I found that I enjoyed remaining focused on the couple, seeing all aspects of their fledging romance, understanding their fears and concerns, and applauding their courage to open up with honest, heartfelt dialogue. It drew me in and kept me glued to the pages of my ebook.
Lorelei James has scored another touchdown with When I Need You. Overall, the Need You series is a winner, and you will not be disappointed picking up these standalone romances. (Sorry, I couldn’t resist… you’ll see when you read the book!)
My Rating: A, Loved It
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by publisher.
July 25, 2017
Sexy football player and single mother professional cheerleader? Yes, please! This had all the markings for a story I was bound to love and Ms. James delivered on it. There are two things that stand out about this series. First is the Lund family unity and dynamics. I love their mom and how she makes mistakes when speaking English that are so cute and endearing. I love how most of the siblings or cousins are all up in people's business (although in real life I would throat punch someone). There's just a very sweet and loving vibe to all their interactions and it brings you into their fold. While you're reading, you're family. That just makes me smile. And second is the fact that you can get any type of story you are craving for with this series. Hot construction worker? Check. Billionaire business owner that needs to let loose? Check. Athletes? Check, check. There's such variety in this series that is always a nice change of pace and I enjoy that a lot.
All that being said, WHEN I NEED YOU is definitely my favorite in the series. I really connected with both Jensen and Rowan. He's not the typical asshole jock and he's struggling with where his life will go to after his career comes to an end. And she's not the stereotype of a cheerleader by any means but still she's had to fight people's pre-conceived ideas. I especially loved Rowan because she's such a tough cookie. Left pregnant and alone by her ex boyfriend, she's dedicated her life to her child but ALSO to pursuing her dreams and being the best in her field. Being a great coach, pro cheerleader AND a mom. She's basically superwoman. She doesn't shy away from hard work and doesn't need anyone. It was nice to see her slowly let Jensen in and help her. Her struggles felt realistic and I liked that the pacing of their romance reflected that. And I absolutely loved how they both broke each others rules completely because they were exactly what they swore they would never fall for.
As you can expect with this series, this is more of a slow burn type of romance but it will still leave you swooning and wanting a Jensen Lund of your own. The chemistry between these two kept me turning the pages and falling in love.
Now my interest is certainly peaked about a couple of other members of the Lund family and I can't wait to see more from them in the near future.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
August 16, 2017
This series just gets better and better! Jensen and Rowan were awesome. This was such an entertaining, sweet, sexy read! I loved it!
Right from the beginning I was smiling because heck of a way to meet a kid and kick of the book. I loved Jensen and Rowan's connection, her stubbornness, and really getting to know Jensen since he was so much more than he seemed. I liked him but he really grew on me and by the end I was loving him and totally swooning. Rowan and Jensen’s relationship is fun and flirty and I loved the build and the playfulness between the two. And the puns! The sports puns were the best. I enjoyed them coming together and Rowan's fight since she was so scared to move forward. Jensen was so patient and caring. I adored his persistence.
I loved the updates with the other Lund couples and some side stories that seem to be happening over the course of the series. I'd really love to see those couples get their own books, fingers crossed! I am just excited with all that is happening with the family. I love Mama Lund. She's so protective of her kids but she's quirky and tough as well and I love her moments of wisdom, for some reason they always make me choke up.
The writing was awesome. Great details and development. Love the progression and build. This was so entertaining with a nice mix of heat. It pretty light in the drama department which I was thankful for. I just loved the sweetness and the romance and the reality of life with a kid in the mix and how that came into play in their relationship.
This is one of those stories that falls into the prefect beach read category for me. It's charming and light but filled with humor, love, and sexiness and it just entertained the heck out of me with great characters and a solid story. Loved it!
Complimentary copy received for honest review.
Right from the beginning I was smiling because heck of a way to meet a kid and kick of the book. I loved Jensen and Rowan's connection, her stubbornness, and really getting to know Jensen since he was so much more than he seemed. I liked him but he really grew on me and by the end I was loving him and totally swooning. Rowan and Jensen’s relationship is fun and flirty and I loved the build and the playfulness between the two. And the puns! The sports puns were the best. I enjoyed them coming together and Rowan's fight since she was so scared to move forward. Jensen was so patient and caring. I adored his persistence.
I loved the updates with the other Lund couples and some side stories that seem to be happening over the course of the series. I'd really love to see those couples get their own books, fingers crossed! I am just excited with all that is happening with the family. I love Mama Lund. She's so protective of her kids but she's quirky and tough as well and I love her moments of wisdom, for some reason they always make me choke up.
The writing was awesome. Great details and development. Love the progression and build. This was so entertaining with a nice mix of heat. It pretty light in the drama department which I was thankful for. I just loved the sweetness and the romance and the reality of life with a kid in the mix and how that came into play in their relationship.
This is one of those stories that falls into the prefect beach read category for me. It's charming and light but filled with humor, love, and sexiness and it just entertained the heck out of me with great characters and a solid story. Loved it!
Complimentary copy received for honest review.
July 28, 2017
Thanks to the publisher for generously providing me a copy to review.
July 19, 2017
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kimberlyfaye reads.
I swear, the Need You series just gets better and better with each book — and that says something, because I've loved them all. But this one? It's going to be really tough to top. (It wouldn't surprise me if I wind up eating those words, however, because Lorelei James is a genius who somehow knows exactly what I need — even if I didn't know — and gives it to me.)
Jensen-freaking-Lund. My god. I'm claiming him. You can't have him. I think Rowan will be ok with sharing. (HA!) But seriously, Jensen is totally swoon-worthy and amazing and I could make this entire review about him. (I'll try not to.) But y'all, he's a Harry Potter fan. Like, hardcore Harry Potter fan... with a wand and everything. He's a professional football player who loves Harry Potter. Tell me, where can I find one for my own? More than that, however, he's a genuinely good guy and great football player and he made me swoon harder than I've swooned over a book in a long time. My love for Jensen shouldn't take anything away from Rowan, either. She was amazing — a strong, determined single mother. I want to be her friend. For real.
Jensen and Rowan's romance was of the delicious slow burn variety I've found I love so darn much this year. There was a bit of a forbidden aspect to it as the team's rules dictate players and cheerleaders aren't allowed to date. Not that they would've been all that tempted in the beginning, to be honest, because each is the opposite of what the other is looking for, based on their past experiences. That's part of what made their progression from strangers to friends to more even more special and fun to read. I shipped these two so freaking hard as I was reading. Jensen and Rowan gave me feels for days — especially when Ro's son, Calder, was added to the mix. There was a scene with Jensen and Calder where I was seriously concerned my ovaries would, in fact, explode. (Hint: It involved Harry Potter.)
When I Need You is easily one of my favorite books of the year so far. It was fun and sexy, delivering both laughs and feels. I'm so in love with this Lund family that I just can't get enough of them. Part of the beauty of this series is that my favorites from earlier in the series make an appearance in each new book and I love being treated to more from those characters. If you're looking for your next favorite romance book, grab this one. But remember, Jensen's mine and I'm not sharing. ;)
I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
FAVORITE QUOTES
"I'm very good at two things that begin with the letter F, Ro. The first is football. The second... doesn't have a damn thing to do with being friends."
He didn't have many books in his living room, but the ones he displayed looked well worn. He had three complete sets of Harry Potter books—hardcover, paperback and a leather-bound edition. He also had a wand in a box from Ollivanders and a PROPERTY OF HOGWARTS beer stein on the shelf next to the books, which I found sweet.
"Hanging out together... You're just Coach Bossy Pants, a contrary redhead, a fierce mother to your son, a friend who makes me laugh, makes me think, makes me sad, bakes for me ... and I forget you're a stunningly beautiful woman. Then I get this close to you and I'm reminded in vivid detail that you are mega-hot, with those fuck-me bedroom eyes and kiss-me-now lips."
"Christ, you smell like cookies and flowers and sex and I just want to devour you."
"Jensen Lund. I am so crazy for you I don't know what to do with it."
I swear, the Need You series just gets better and better with each book — and that says something, because I've loved them all. But this one? It's going to be really tough to top. (It wouldn't surprise me if I wind up eating those words, however, because Lorelei James is a genius who somehow knows exactly what I need — even if I didn't know — and gives it to me.)
Jensen-freaking-Lund. My god. I'm claiming him. You can't have him. I think Rowan will be ok with sharing. (HA!) But seriously, Jensen is totally swoon-worthy and amazing and I could make this entire review about him. (I'll try not to.) But y'all, he's a Harry Potter fan. Like, hardcore Harry Potter fan... with a wand and everything. He's a professional football player who loves Harry Potter. Tell me, where can I find one for my own? More than that, however, he's a genuinely good guy and great football player and he made me swoon harder than I've swooned over a book in a long time. My love for Jensen shouldn't take anything away from Rowan, either. She was amazing — a strong, determined single mother. I want to be her friend. For real.
Jensen and Rowan's romance was of the delicious slow burn variety I've found I love so darn much this year. There was a bit of a forbidden aspect to it as the team's rules dictate players and cheerleaders aren't allowed to date. Not that they would've been all that tempted in the beginning, to be honest, because each is the opposite of what the other is looking for, based on their past experiences. That's part of what made their progression from strangers to friends to more even more special and fun to read. I shipped these two so freaking hard as I was reading. Jensen and Rowan gave me feels for days — especially when Ro's son, Calder, was added to the mix. There was a scene with Jensen and Calder where I was seriously concerned my ovaries would, in fact, explode. (Hint: It involved Harry Potter.)
When I Need You is easily one of my favorite books of the year so far. It was fun and sexy, delivering both laughs and feels. I'm so in love with this Lund family that I just can't get enough of them. Part of the beauty of this series is that my favorites from earlier in the series make an appearance in each new book and I love being treated to more from those characters. If you're looking for your next favorite romance book, grab this one. But remember, Jensen's mine and I'm not sharing. ;)
I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
FAVORITE QUOTES
"I'm very good at two things that begin with the letter F, Ro. The first is football. The second... doesn't have a damn thing to do with being friends."
He didn't have many books in his living room, but the ones he displayed looked well worn. He had three complete sets of Harry Potter books—hardcover, paperback and a leather-bound edition. He also had a wand in a box from Ollivanders and a PROPERTY OF HOGWARTS beer stein on the shelf next to the books, which I found sweet.
"Hanging out together... You're just Coach Bossy Pants, a contrary redhead, a fierce mother to your son, a friend who makes me laugh, makes me think, makes me sad, bakes for me ... and I forget you're a stunningly beautiful woman. Then I get this close to you and I'm reminded in vivid detail that you are mega-hot, with those fuck-me bedroom eyes and kiss-me-now lips."
"Christ, you smell like cookies and flowers and sex and I just want to devour you."
"Jensen Lund. I am so crazy for you I don't know what to do with it."
April 16, 2019
4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Liked it!
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“So we’re the only ones who know that the first thing to keep The Rocket from asking a woman out on a date is if her status is a single mother?” Walker said. “Bite me,” I ground out. “The second thing is no cheerleaders,” Brady added. “And the third no-go . . . no health care professionals,” Walker finished.
“Maybe I don’t have a high opinion for that exact reason. I know what goes on when that door to the luxury hotel suite closes after the game.”
She wasn’t my type. She was nothing like the easy chicks that vied for my attention.
I liked blondes. She had fiery red hair.
I avoided confrontational women.
“It pisses me off that Lucy was struggling, right under our noses, raising your child alone while you were off hitting the bottle and nailing every chick who so much as breathed on you. And you had the balls to lie to all of us about it. So now that you’re finally on the right path, don’t put your frustration with yourself and your parental shortcomings on Lucy. Don’t turn into that bitter guy who blames everyone else for his crappy decisions.”
“I see she’s recruited another member of my family to Team Lucy,” he said testily.
During Jax’s drinking days, he invested in a bar with one of his puck bunnies. After he sobered up, he realized running a bar was no longer a retirement option. The partnership contract is a mess. But the bottom line is he can’t sell his half. His partner can’t sell hers. They’re stuck, so Ash and I are acting partners on Jax’s behalf.
August 30, 2018
This was just about perfect for me! When a book makes me smile and sigh when I think of it, I'm going to rate it very high. This was just great, I loved Jensen and Rowan! Their friends to lovers story was just so sweet. Calder and all the other family members added to the fun too. The end was just so awesome, not only was there a grand gesture, but a big statement about some injustices too - I loved it!
I listened to the audio with Lidia Dornet and Roger Wayne narrating. I thought they did a wonderful job and added to my enjoyment of this book. Honestly, I waited until the audio came out before 'reading' this book because I had enjoyed their narration so much in the earlier books!
PS - It sure looks like there are more stories to be told in this series, in just the family alone - who doesn't want to know Dallas' story?! I will be one upset reader if we don't get more!
I listened to the audio with Lidia Dornet and Roger Wayne narrating. I thought they did a wonderful job and added to my enjoyment of this book. Honestly, I waited until the audio came out before 'reading' this book because I had enjoyed their narration so much in the earlier books!
PS - It sure looks like there are more stories to be told in this series, in just the family alone - who doesn't want to know Dallas' story?! I will be one upset reader if we don't get more!
August 6, 2017
Are you a Richard Head?
That line got me laughing my ass off!
Jensen Lund surprised me, I thought I was done with this series but after reading several good reviews on this I decided to get it. This was an enjoyable read. From the beginning, Jensen was attracted to Rowan but instead of reading him supporting a constant hard on towards her, I get to read about a pretty decent guy who loved his family, football career and the things he did to help Rowan, his relationship with Rowan's son was phenomenal too, especially reading the Harry Potter's book.
Rowan was a though nut to crack but she was a great mum to Calder so that's okay with me.
Alright ,enough rambling.. Get this book, it's good!
That line got me laughing my ass off!
Jensen Lund surprised me, I thought I was done with this series but after reading several good reviews on this I decided to get it. This was an enjoyable read. From the beginning, Jensen was attracted to Rowan but instead of reading him supporting a constant hard on towards her, I get to read about a pretty decent guy who loved his family, football career and the things he did to help Rowan, his relationship with Rowan's son was phenomenal too, especially reading the Harry Potter's book.
Rowan was a though nut to crack but she was a great mum to Calder so that's okay with me.
Alright ,enough rambling.. Get this book, it's good!
July 16, 2017
Lorelei James never disappoints! I love this series and this book.
Jensen and Rowan are members of two highly stereotyped groups, jocks and cheerleaders. Everyone knows jocks, especially ones good enough for the pros, suffer from impossibly large egos. Cheerleaders are cliquish, rely on their physical attractiveness to get through life and have egos to match the jocks they hang around with. Right? Jensen admits to having been somewhat the stereotype in his past but he’s far beyond that now. Rowan doesn’t seem to have ever been so easily typecast. Being a single mom at a very young age hasn’t left her any time to be so self-indulgent.
These two are determined with their lists of who they won’t date and both have excluded the other by virtue of those lists. The friendship that develops happens quickly and completely disregards the lists. Despite a rocky start, Jensen and Rowan’s son, Calder, are soon best buds. Watching these two was incredibly heartwarming. When Jensen steps up to save Calder’s summer arts program, he shows just what a great guy he is. If Rowan didn’t see enough in him to love already, he proved himself with that.
The story includes strife, self-imposed, injury related, from the team, etc. The whole Lund clan is present, which I loved. The characters are complex and so very likable. The story moved at a great pace. We’re introduced to several new characters screaming for their own stories. Basically, When I Need You had everything I could hope for in a novel.
This book is just another of the numerous reasons Lorelei James remains on my “must read” list after many of my old favorites, often mega-selling, have dropped off.
Jensen and Rowan are members of two highly stereotyped groups, jocks and cheerleaders. Everyone knows jocks, especially ones good enough for the pros, suffer from impossibly large egos. Cheerleaders are cliquish, rely on their physical attractiveness to get through life and have egos to match the jocks they hang around with. Right? Jensen admits to having been somewhat the stereotype in his past but he’s far beyond that now. Rowan doesn’t seem to have ever been so easily typecast. Being a single mom at a very young age hasn’t left her any time to be so self-indulgent.
These two are determined with their lists of who they won’t date and both have excluded the other by virtue of those lists. The friendship that develops happens quickly and completely disregards the lists. Despite a rocky start, Jensen and Rowan’s son, Calder, are soon best buds. Watching these two was incredibly heartwarming. When Jensen steps up to save Calder’s summer arts program, he shows just what a great guy he is. If Rowan didn’t see enough in him to love already, he proved himself with that.
The story includes strife, self-imposed, injury related, from the team, etc. The whole Lund clan is present, which I loved. The characters are complex and so very likable. The story moved at a great pace. We’re introduced to several new characters screaming for their own stories. Basically, When I Need You had everything I could hope for in a novel.
This book is just another of the numerous reasons Lorelei James remains on my “must read” list after many of my old favorites, often mega-selling, have dropped off.
October 17, 2019
Jensen wasn’t just an playboy athlete. He has brains, brawn, a hidden marshmallow center, a love of Harry Potter (cue gooey awwww moment when Jensen reads HP to Rowan’s son) and he’s full of puns! Okay, I thought he was pretty hysterical...
Rowan is a single mom, a cheerleader for the same team Jensen plays on, and a cheer coach. She’s fiercely independent and strong willed, with a sarcastic humor that had me cracking up! I also liked how supportive she was of her son, Calder, refusing to box in his flamboyant personality. That kid was an intuitively smart cookie with a zest for life and a honesty only a kid could get away with.
Rowan and Jensen started out as...I wouldn’t call it friends exactly. They were briefly frenemies, then friends, then insert heavy attraction...yada, yada, but the friend foundation helped set their relationship up pretty solid. The plot was well done, as was the romance, and I liked that everything happened in a reasonable time-frame, making the developments quite believable.
And I have to mention the Lunds! Best fictional family I’ve come across in a while! As the youngest of four siblings...bless Jensen’s level of patience! His family was hysterical, protective, supportive, and holy smokes, nosy creatures, and oy, I Can only imagine what the holidays are like!
Obviously, I loved this book! I haven’t read others in this series, but I’m hoping to carve in some time to do so because, well, I really enjoyed this story. Steamy romance, strong characters, and a solid plot...what’s not to like?!
Rowan is a single mom, a cheerleader for the same team Jensen plays on, and a cheer coach. She’s fiercely independent and strong willed, with a sarcastic humor that had me cracking up! I also liked how supportive she was of her son, Calder, refusing to box in his flamboyant personality. That kid was an intuitively smart cookie with a zest for life and a honesty only a kid could get away with.
Rowan and Jensen started out as...I wouldn’t call it friends exactly. They were briefly frenemies, then friends, then insert heavy attraction...yada, yada, but the friend foundation helped set their relationship up pretty solid. The plot was well done, as was the romance, and I liked that everything happened in a reasonable time-frame, making the developments quite believable.
And I have to mention the Lunds! Best fictional family I’ve come across in a while! As the youngest of four siblings...bless Jensen’s level of patience! His family was hysterical, protective, supportive, and holy smokes, nosy creatures, and oy, I Can only imagine what the holidays are like!
Obviously, I loved this book! I haven’t read others in this series, but I’m hoping to carve in some time to do so because, well, I really enjoyed this story. Steamy romance, strong characters, and a solid plot...what’s not to like?!
July 26, 2017
There is nothing more exciting as meeting a new or new-to-me author's words for the first time. It's a HUGE HIGH like no other! Lorelei James' writing is a fierce fusion of sugar and spice. CAPTIVATING and CHARMING, When I Need You hits the heart and blazes the body where you can't help but MELT.
Jensen is PERFECTION!!! He is one HOT Swede who I pictured as Thor!!! His delicious dirty mouth is HEAVENLY!!!
"I am very, very good with my hands."
This football star is an all alpha with a huge heart. You can't help but FALL HARD for Jensen!
"I look at you, but I don't always see you, Rowan."
I found it hard to breathe.
Rowan is a strong heroine, so beautiful and brave. This single mama is a warrior woman: selfless and sweet. She is the perfect complement to Jensen.
The chemistry between Jensen and Rowan was palpable. This couple was on fire! Together, they were MAGNETIC!
I tasted the soft feminine flesh that glistened just for me. I demonstrated what every shudder, sigh, and gasp meant.
When I Need You is a SLOW BURN, a simmer of smolder, sweetness, and swoon. This sports romance made my heart dance! When I Need You is a tender and touching football fairytale. You can't help but feel this story's spell while reading.
"Now that I've had a taste of you?" I want more. I want it all."
💋💋💋💋 sweet and simmering kisses
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October 14, 2021
This is my favorite of the series. I’m a huge fan of single parent tropes. Jensen & Rowan are wonderful characters. I adored them as individuals and as a couple. I love that James made Rowan’s son, Calder, more than a prop. He was an integral part of the story and Jens fell in love with him as well.
This was a great mix of funny, sexy, & some serious as well. Unlikely friends to lovers to the perfect family.
Again the narration by Roger Wayne & Lidia Dornet was wonderful. They make a great team and are a wonderful fit for the whole series.
This was a great mix of funny, sexy, & some serious as well. Unlikely friends to lovers to the perfect family.
Again the narration by Roger Wayne & Lidia Dornet was wonderful. They make a great team and are a wonderful fit for the whole series.
July 16, 2017
I cannot get enough of the Lunds. When I Need You exceeded all my exceptions from Lorelei James. Jensen and Rowan make it work and work well even through their complicated situation, hindered by stereotypes and archaic rules. They are stubborn enough in their feelings for each other to kick the rules to the curb with the help of all the secondary players who play perfect rolls in their story. This 4th book in the series is everything I've come to love with the Need You series. It hits all my buttons that make pick up this author's books again and again and again, it's funny, sexy, a story line that pulls you in and makes you get lost in a wonderful world, LJ pulls this off every time and proves to everyone what an amazing talent she has for writing in multiple genres. I cannot recommend this series enough.
July 17, 2017
I LOVED Jensen....I knew Rowan was going break all of his dating rules. Jensen was not your stereotypical football star, he was down to earth, family oriented and great with Rowan's son. He would rather Neflix and chill than go out partying. Rowan was a badass momma bear, I loved that she just didn't blindly jump into a relationship even though she really wanted to. She thought about her past and made the best decision for herself and son. I loved the book and cannot wait to read more of the Lund collective.
July 19, 2017
This book is perfect! Rowan & Jensen are responsible adults, they both have priorities in their life. Throughout the book they have to figure out how to jump over the hurdles that might be in their relationship. With each book in this series, I love the Lunds even more! This book is funny too. It really has everything and is a great example of Lorelei James' work.
July 26, 2017
Sigh! I love the Lund family. Another great standalone in "The Need You" series by Ms. James. Jensen Lund, "The Rocket", star status pro football player, with a star-studded body, anxiously waiting for the new season to begin, wondering if he will be healed from last season injuries and still have a job, meets temporary neighbor Rowan Michaels, single mom, cheerleader coach at the university and pro cheerleader for Jens team, athletically fit and foxy. Both come with self-imposed rules, ha - love and attraction, has it's own set of rules - funny, sexy story to see what wins out! As always, the characters are portrayed, so well. Jens and Rowan, could be people you know. I couldn't put my book down and definitely look forward to the next in the series.
Lorelei James is at the top of my to read author list!
Lorelei James is at the top of my to read author list!
August 7, 2017
-3,5-
Very enjoyable story, with almost no drama but a lot of sass and humor.
Very enjoyable story, with almost no drama but a lot of sass and humor.
July 18, 2017
This is my favorite book in this series. Lorelei can make you laugh and cry on the same page, and I love this about her books. Jensen and Rowan are perfect for each other. I love the interaction between them, but cherished the interaction with Calder! It’s awesome to see someone write the “ready-made family” with such care. Plus catching up with the other Lunds is always a plus!
July 25, 2017
I wasn't sure anyone could beat Walker as my favorite Lund, but Jensen may have edged him out of the #1 spot. I'm kind of a sucker for a man who is great with kids, so Jensen's relationship with Rowan's son, Calder, was a huge bonus. I love Rowan's Independence, work ethic, and devotion to her son. She's used to doing it all on her own, and I expected her to be more resistant to Jensen, but I was pleasantly surprised to find little angst and drama as their relationship developed. What little drama there is felt very natural, the type of issues that would naturally arise in a new relationship for a single mom. I loved that Jensen and Rowan started out as friends. The evolution of their relationship felt very authentic, and was highly entertaining--it was truly a pleasure to read. The Need You series has quickly become one of my favorites!
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