Sir

by D.L. Hess

I look at him and my body reacts in a way that it never has before, even in the throes of passion. I look at him and I start aching so deep inside it takes all I can to think, to breathe, to speak. He’s like the brightest flame and it takes everything in me to resist its call.

I know that if I give in, I’ll get burned so deeply, there might be nothing left once I come out the other side.

But, god, I want to step into that flame.

*******************************************************

Hollywood movie star Nate Stone only dates supermodels, movie stars, and socialites. So why can't he keep his mind off of diner waitress Tori?

Nate never thought he’d return to Boden, Louisiana. Running off to Hollywood after high school to make it big, the kid from the wrong side of the tracks meant to leave his hometown in the dust. But twelve years later he’s preparing to make his directorial debut—and Boden is the perfect place to shoot his film. But he gets more than he bargained for when he ends up at the local diner and discovers the best cup of coffee in town is poured by a pretty waitress who dominates his every thought and fantasy. Now all he wants to do is to return the favor and make those fantasies a reality…

Tori Wilson never thought she’d end up a small-town diner waitress, but a couple of bad decisions paired with an unforeseen tragedy left her with no choice. Now the shy baker spends her days clocked in at Boden’s Finewhile Diner, whipping up her famous cherry pies and serving her customers hot coffee with an extra side of sweetness, until one day, she finds People’s Sexiest Man Alive sitting in a corner booth. The powdered sugar flies as Nate uses all his tricks and charm to attempt to seduce the headstrong waitress into his bed.

A man like Nate could have anyone he wants—but somehow, for some reason that Tori just doesn’t understand, he wants her. But maybe, just maybe, being with Nate, even for a short time, will be worth the heartache when he’s gone.

135 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 26, 2017

About the author

D.L. Hess picked up her first romance novel when she was ten years old. It was Judith McNaught’s Once and Always, and she spent all night hiding in the closet and reading. It left an imprint, an imprint she hopes to leave with you.

D.L. Hess grew up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and now goes between her hometown and Los Angeles. Her partner-in-crime is a nine pound Pomeranian-Chihuahua mix named Busby Berkeley who goes with her everywhere. D.L. Hess is an avid fan of cooking, traveling, and discovering new experiences. Her travel bucket list includes cruising all the major rivers in the world. So far, she has only hit two of them.

Reviews

[The Sassy Bookworm · Rating 3 out of 5]

This cover is OK. The heroine is a waitress, so I guess the coffee cup is somewhat representative of the story. The OCD graphics designer in me is annoyed that the steam from the coffee cup extends past that bar under the title. The title work is good though.

Sigh...unfortunately the author never got me to warm up to the hero in this one. After the nasty introduction where he brags in his inner thoughts about all the pussy he gets being an actor and the details about how he got his first BJ at 14 from a girl and then went on to sleep with her sister a month later, I was thoroughly disgusted by this guy. I had hoped that the author could get me to warm up to him after he meets the heroine, but nope. He still came across as a conceited player.

Exhibit A "I can’t promise a future or that I’ll be some sniveling boyfriend who pines away after you once I go back to L.A., But I will say that I have plans for you if you say yes."

Aww, how romantic. The heroine deserves WAY better. On the positive side of things, I thought the writing was very good, and it was well paced. I loved the heroine. There isn't any angst or OW/OM drama in this installment, but he just broke up with his psycho ex before he came back to his hometown, so I am sure she will be showing up to cause trouble at some point. The secondary characters were interesting (although I think Chance sounds like a douchecanoe as well). I am sure we will be getting a book featuring him and Elizabeth at some point. This one ends on a cliffy and book two continues on with this couple. I was kind enough to be given an ARC for that book as well, so who knows, maybe I will fall in love with the hero in that book. Fingers crossed!

[Kathleen R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 amazing stars



This book was a breath of fresh air. It seems like forever since the last book i read where the most 'action' our heroes get is only a kiss, and it's refreshing. Don't get me wrong, any BDSM novel has some of the kinkiet scenes i've had the pleasure to read, but it's rare that i get to sit back and simply enjoy the chase and the anticipation of being able to be intimate. D.L. Hess absolutely made me feel these two and can't wait to find out what's to happen to them.

3 cuddle worthy dreams



Now, my 'heat' rating is low but that's only because the most risque part of this book was Nate and Tori's kiss, and yet, i can't deny the fact that my heart sped up more than once, and for that to happen, then i KNOW that i was taken on an unforgettable journey. Honestly, i never would have guessed that this is this author's debut novel and i look forward to continuing to follow them as they keep releasing more books in the future.

*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books

 

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[Britt Chaotic Creatives · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who doesn't love a naughty Hollywood star? I certainly love them and Sir is no exception! Tori is a lost soul. Stuck in a no where town, working as a diner waitress after giving up her dreams for the man she thought she was in love with. When it turns out he's nothing but a spoiled liar it's too late and she's stuck. Luckily she meets her best friend and savior Elizabeth, so while she maybe trapped in this town she's got good friends and a roof over her head.

Nate is not happy to be back in the run down town he grew up in. After leaving the second he graduated he's now back as a famous actor and now producing his first film right where he started. Thanks to awful wifi he shows up at the diner Tori works at and discovers that maybe being back in his hometown isn't so bad after all.

This is obviously just the beginning with these two as *fair warning* this book is definitely a cliffhanger. We just get a peek at the heat that is going to come from them in Sir. I loved how even though Nate is most certainly a Dom, he still treated Tori so sweetly. There wasn't a bit of him taking over and controlling things, even though he was certainly protective.

Tori is coming into herself after finally leaving the nightmare of her ex. She's determined she won't be a doormat again no matter how incredibly handsome Nate is, and he fully respects that. Their beginning is off to a very sweet start and I'm so looking forward to the next installment of their story!

[For the love Of romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great start to the series. And I have to warn you this book will definitely end on a cliffhanger. So be warned if you are a cliffy hater.
Nate and Tori's story is actually sweet. Nate ran away from his hometown and his abusive father and swore he will never return. Until he has to direct his first movie and the set is there. Tori is out of a bad relationship and is putting her life together.
Obviously, considering the title, you would have guessed Nate is a dom and Tori a sub. So in that sense, the plot is not new. However, Nate is actually quite sweet and he doesn't push Tori like you would expect. So in that sense, it was refreshing.
This is a quick read, it was fun and naughty and I can't wait to read the next book in the series.

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just a taste but oh so delicious

Great story, leaves you wanting more. Love the heroine. And the hot hero, yum. Can't wait for the other books to get released.

[RP Wool · Rating 5 out of 5]

Addictive...interesting, intense and sexy. I read it in one sitting and can't wait for more!

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Sir' by D. L. Hess is the first book in the new series called "The Awakening". This is the story of Tori and Nate. Tori got involved with Brady and they had a relationship which side track Tori from going to College. Brady and her ended up in Boden, Louisiana. There they started having a on agaiof again relationship. Brady just slept around. Tori tried to stay strong by not going out with him each time he came back but always seemed to fail.
Nate was born in Boden, Louisiana but left as soon as he could. Nate became a Hollywood actor and such but now he's is back for a little while. When he sees Tori he knows she a born 'Submissive' and he attracted to her. But his attempts at asking her out fail until Tori finally decided to break the Brady hold, by trying to go out with Nate.
Enjoyable read!
I received this book in exchange for an honest review

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Absolutely loved this story. The author has written a great storyline with characters that you can believe in and relate to.

Nate, a Hollywood actor and 1 of 4 brothers all from the town of Boden, Louisiana, has returned to direct a movie in his home town. A town he couldn't wait to get out of years ago. But what he doesn't count on is meeting Tori, a waitress in the local diner who Nate finds himself instantly attractive to.

Tori has been mistreated by her boyfriend and come out of it a much stronger woman. So strong that no matter how handsome Nate Stone is, she isn't falling for his lines or any other male’s lines for that matter. Let the banter begin (grinning here).

This is a great prequel to the series. My only complaint would be it ended much too soon. This reader can't wait until the next book in the series arrive and we find out what is in store next for Tori, Nate and the folks of Boden, Louisiana. 2 Thumbs Up!!!

[Marie Brown (Marie's Tempting Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marie's Tempting Reads ARC Review:

A hot, sweaty, sexy, SINFUL mess that left me utterly breathless! This book was full of unstoppable surprises. Shocking ones and good ones, and even a few naughty ones that left me completely flabbergasted in a VERY good way. When I get a book that shocks me stupid in such a way that I can't find words, I take that as a good thing and is very exciting.

This story had me up down and in between. It was edgy, sexy, a bit angst-y and perfect! I have a new favorite addiction and it starts with Sir! I am totally crushing on DL Hess and her fabulous writing.

Sir gets a DELICIOUSLY WICKED FIVE SHOOTING STARS!

[The Reading Realtor Michelle Diomede · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sir by D. L. Hess

I voluntarily reviewed this ARC.

Book 1
Sir is an amazing seduction. It's the hill leading up to the drop on a roller coaster. Anticipation and adrenaline fill you click by click, page by page. Then just as your cresting the top and about to go down the hill, the end!
But that's ok...I have book 2;)
So, sorry to make this short, but I'm itching to get to book 2.
This book...um yea, I recommend it so much!!!

[MammieBabbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet slow burn contemporary romance with lots of promise...

I always get really excited about a taboo story, and when I read the blurb for  Sir that is most certainly how I felt— excited and giddy. I expected it to be a full length novel, with a cliff hanger at the end and a lot of filth in between covers. However, this was actually a rather short story, personally it felt like a prologue to the the series. I wouldn't even really say it is novella length, I wouldn't say that this was a problem for me. I'm a lover of quick reads, and that's exactly what this book was. As for the filth... well, there's some dirty talk and a couple of very heated kisses, but that's about it. I was a little disappointed because the whole build up of this book is a will they won't they, and there is reference to BDSM, I would've just liked to have that stage of their "relationship", if you can even call it that, concretised. To give you an idea of the flow— this book is around 125 pages long it wasn't till past the halfway mark that Nate finally asked Tori on a date, or even made a move on her. Their first date took up most of the second half of the book. Their first kiss happened into the fourth quarter of the story. So the pace is that of a full length novel. I would have much preferred full length at that slow burn pace.

Plot wise, I really enjoyed the story. It holds such great promise,  but I don't feel like I can exactly give great commentary on it because it doesn't feel like I'm in the thick of it yet however, what i will say is that the chemistry and sexual tension definitely makes this book. I have to also say that both Nate's and Tori's backstories are told rather beautifully, and the actual development of those aspects is flawless. In my opinion the dramatic flair of this book is very well matched to pace and together they form a beguiling flow and pull to the book. Quite frankly, I found it impossible to put it down. In fact, that's probably part of the reason why I felt like there should've been more. 

I really cannot wait for the next book in the series. I felt so in tune with both Nate and Tori, and I couldn't help but really enjoy them for the brilliant characters that they are. As far as the D/s aspect of this book goes, although it isn't elaborated and physically explored, you can already place Nate and Tori in their respective roles. These are characters that have been thoroughly mapped out and executed. I also really hope that we see Chance in the next book, and obviously more of Elizabeth and the oh so cute Benji. All in all, Sir is great debut to Hess' career and the Awakening series. I can really see this becoming the next Fifty Shades.

[Books Laid Bare · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a debut novel, I think this was a terrific book and as the first of a series this certainly left me looking for more…so congratulations to the author for kicking it off in style.
But one word of warning…there is a doozy of an ending in this book that doesn’t just creep up on you…Oh no this one has ninja skills and it completely caught me unawares. By the time I realised that the end had arrived I was ready to back track just to make sure that I hadn’t missed out on anything, I think I was reading at such a pace that I hadn’t realised that the story was going to end in such a fashion.
The story centres around Toni, an average everyday woman who is doing exactly what she needs to do in order to keep her head above water, after having had what can only be described as a whole heap of bad luck. But she is getting back on track and working hard at the local diner.
Nate Stone, is the man of the moment, a massive star on the cinema screens across the country but when he walks into Finewhile Diner in Boden, Louisiana, the purpose of being back in town is no longer just about his upcoming movie, nope there is a new challenge facing him and it is one that he is willing to pull out all the stops to win…a certain very pretty waitress.
Toni “saw” Nate as soon as he came into the diner but while her interest was certainly piqued that didn’t means she was going to be bowled over by him, she had been bitten by a love before that didn’t have the best outcome, so she isn’t shy when it comes to knocking him back!!
Challenge accepted…I could hear that phrase running around in Nate’s head, he could have any woman he wanted but in this small town, the woman that was occupying his every thought didn’t want a bar of him and that was a rejection that he wasn’t willing to just sit back and accept.
Could he break through the wall of doubt that she seemed shrouded in? Well he was going to give it his best shot!
Well written this was a pacy affair, a story that was able to hold my attention and to give me characters that were engaging.
Really Enjoyable

[Jae Mod · Rating 4 out of 5]

***ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review***

Sir by the talented D.L. Hess has brought us a steamy glimpse of a series that will only have you wanting more by the end. A small town waitress meets Hollywood’s sexiest man alive… wonder how that scenario ends up?!

Tori Wilson has ended up in Boden, LA after escaping from a negative past. Ever since she has found a job and a roof over her head she can’t seem to get away. Working at the Finewhile Diner, she can’t believe her eyes when Nate Stone sits down in her section. He only has eyes for her. He could get any type of girl, why her?

Nate Stone has found himself back in his hometown for his directorial debut. His sights are set on the pretty waitress that conjures up multiple fantasies and dominating tendencies… now, only if he can crack her fears.

“If you let me, Tori, I’ll open up a whole new world to you. I’ll make you fly.”

Does Tori give herself a second chance again at lust and possibly, hopefully love or is the hurt too great from her past mistakes to journey down that road again? No matter if it’s a hot, steamy actor sitting in your diner, in the small town trying to gain your attention at every turn. Even with that dominating persona!

Sweet sweet Nate! Dominating, protective nature that procures Tori’s submissive side. Even though Nate unleashes his Dom attitude with Tori he is not the hardcore Dom I have seen in other romance novels, no, he is sweet and caring and let’s Tori find her own way. I liked how the author wrote both their character descriptions this way. I am very interested to see what comes from the next installment and how their journey takes off.

This is just the beginning of a steamy, rocky adventure for Tori and Nate. Yes, looks like more books are being written and D.L. Hess has dangled a carrot in front of me and I can’t wait to see what else is in store between these two!

4.5 Small-town Stars

[MJ's Book Blog and Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review by: Jennifer
(4 stars)

Tori is trying to make the best of a situation gone wrong. When following her heart has left her basically homeless and broke, a stroke of luck has her ending up in the Finewhile Diner. Now she is a waitress, still stuck in this town but at least she has someone in her corner, a job, and a roof over her head. When one day movie star Nate Stone walks in, and proceeds to make her insides quiver. This is the last thing she needs, she has already been down the popular guy route and it didn't turn out well at all... but what if she were just to take a chance?

Nate left Boden years ago and hadn't looked back until now. In town to do work for an upcoming movie, when he walks into the diner he doesn't expect the surprises that he gets. But when his advances towards a certain waitress continue to be shot down, will he give up? Will he get a chance with Tori or will her fears kept her away?

I feel I should state this first before I get into my feelings, the ending hit me before I was aware I had read the whole thing, it just like... snuck up on me. I was happy, I'm just going along and enjoying the book and BAM last page, that says something about the author's writing. This has all the makings of an amazing novel, which is why I was taken by surprise that its not, and that its a cliffy. This almost was like the author wrote the novel and then decided to publish it in sections... WHO DOES THAT??? What is wrong with people??? Anyways, I can't wait to read the next... installment/book. I am however taking a star for the cliffy... cuz that really P-ed me off. So 4 stars.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m on the fence with this one. I’m not normally thrilled with slow burn reads and this one is more flirty than any action. The flirty was good, but it really leaves you wanting more. There are so many unanswered questions and the book appears to be setting up to seamlessly not only complete Nate and Toni’s story but also his brothers. There are so many ways for this series to go.

Toni is working at a diner after following her boyfriend back to his home town. Things haven’t worked out, said boyfriend is a real piece of work and his mother is completely against their relationship.

Nate is a steamy Hollywood hunk who is in town to shoot a movie. Turns out that he also has a connection to the town as he grew up there, but his upbringing was far from perfect.

Nate and Toni both have an immediate connection, but she doesn’t want to pursue him since he will return to his life in a few months. Nate has a whole dirty list of things he wants to do with her and to her, but can he convince her that he is more than she reads on the covers of the tabloids?

So that is the journey in this book….it really leaves you wanting more. Yes, it is book 1 in a series, but it is really a tease of what is to come. I’m hoping that we don’t have to wait too long for book 2.

Hero 4 stars / Heroine 4 / Steam 4 stars / Plot 4 stars / Overall 4 Stars
Keys: Dual POV, MF, Family Drama, Cliffie
#MSBB - I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book

[Cloud · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVE IT! Oh my gosh, was this ever a joy to read! I absolutely loved getting to know the main character and what brought her to such a sleepy little town, I really felt and understood her. I thought the pacing and character development were spot on and answered just enough questions to satisfy me and get a feel for her while not bogging down the story and keeping some things for a later reveal. The main heartthrob was a pleasure getting to know. Finding out about his past, his family, and what motivates him in life makes him feel like a real person and gives him so much depth.

The author does an excellent job making me feel like I'm part of this town and these are my friends who I'm visiting. It feels very authentic and kept me pulled in as a reader, I could not put this book down! The pacing and world building were top notch, and I can't wait for book 2! In fact, my only complaint was that the book ended and I still wanted more! Definitely will be recommending!

[Sassy Southern Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really good starter book. In this book you have Tori and Nate. Tori is a waitress at her friends diner. She had hopes to leave the crappy town that she lives in but screwed it up when she met Brady Broden. Luckily Elizabeth gave her a job and has helped her out alot. Right when she feels like she needs to do something in her life to change it, walks in Nate. He doesnt expect to find anything in this town. He walked away from it 12 yrs ago. It represents everything he hates. But he finds Tori when he goes into the diner for some coffee. I enjoyed the chemistry between the 2, and liked being able to read from both of their pov's. I look forward to reading the 2nd book in this series. I would recommend this book to my friends.

[Greer Hopkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this debut novel. A fun beach read and enjoyably escapist. I don't normally review and Romance novels aren't my normal genre but someone I know recommended the author and I am glad I picked it up. Looking forward to the next installments

My only complaint was there was a lot of exposition up front to set the scene (why I would give it truly a 3.5). Characters' thoughts, motivations, entire life histories, etc. before the plot started. It could have been worked into the narrative along the way.

Overall it was fun to spend an evening in Boden.

[Nancy Metsch · Rating 4 out of 5]

** Spoiler free review**
Nate Stone grew in Boden Louisiana, and he couldn'yt get away fast enough. Which he did on grad night.
Tori Wilson is with the wrong guy for aong time. she's meek and submits to his every whim. His name is Brady Boden.
This book was a really fast read. Tori is now a take no prisoners lady ot at least tries to be. Nate is now a very popular Actor in California. Though he vowed to never returm to Boden he does. Wait until you read this book

[Shades of Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting debut novel for sure. D. L. Hess's Sir is a book full of intiguing twists - some unexpected, some slightly expected.

The story evolves around particulary naughty Hollywood star and a girl whose dating experience isn't all that bright.

There were a lot of steamy and naughty parts that were amazing to read! I enjoyed the way D. L. Hess writes them!

Overall I would give the book 4 stars and I'm truly looking forward to more!

[Lapis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun and flirty from the first, with engaging and sympathetic characters who possess warmth, sincerity and charm. D.L.Hess has combined a burgeoning atmosphere of sensuality and a cliffhanger ending to leave the reader (and Tori) wanting more.

[Read.Review.Repeat Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a teaser. i want so much more than what I got. It grabbed my attention and held it until I got to the end and I was left feeling lost. I can't wait for the next book to come to find out how it all works out.

[Jennifer Alexander · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a teaser. i want so much more than what I got. It grabbed my attention and held it until I got to the end and I was left feeling lost. I can't wait for the next book to come to find out how it all works out.

[Kristen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is perfect for fans of contemporary romance, or for someone looking for a fun, guilty pleasure.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! My only complaint was I got to the end so fast and still wanted to read more - couldn't wait for volume 2!

[Dominique · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read

One of my new favs!!! If you liked 50shades of gray then you will love Sir! I can’t wait for book 3!!!! Let’s go Hess! Lease out book 3 out