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Worked Up #2
Nailed
A scorching ‘enemies to lovers’ office romance proves hazardous in this new stand-alone from NYT and USA Today bestselling author Cora Brent.
The good news: Audrey Gordon has just received a dream assignment managing one of the city’s largest construction projects.
The bad news: She’ll be teamed up with cocky office rival and former lover Jason Roma.
Audrey’s got a lot to prove to herself and to her overachieving family. She’s certainly not going to let arrogant Jason Roma get in the way of her success, despite the fact that he never passes up an opportunity to get under her skin. Audrey swears she’ll keep Jason at arm’s length no matter how fast her pulse races whenever he walks into the room.
However, Jason seems to have his own ideas about what Audrey needs. He’s determined to win another chance with her and prove that he’s not the callous jerk she thinks he is.
But when a personal tragedy shakes Audrey to her core, will she push Jason away forever?
Or will she learn a few lessons about love and finally let him into her heart?
The good news: Audrey Gordon has just received a dream assignment managing one of the city’s largest construction projects.
The bad news: She’ll be teamed up with cocky office rival and former lover Jason Roma.
Audrey’s got a lot to prove to herself and to her overachieving family. She’s certainly not going to let arrogant Jason Roma get in the way of her success, despite the fact that he never passes up an opportunity to get under her skin. Audrey swears she’ll keep Jason at arm’s length no matter how fast her pulse races whenever he walks into the room.
However, Jason seems to have his own ideas about what Audrey needs. He’s determined to win another chance with her and prove that he’s not the callous jerk she thinks he is.
But when a personal tragedy shakes Audrey to her core, will she push Jason away forever?
Or will she learn a few lessons about love and finally let him into her heart?
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 13, 2018
460 people are currently reading
1093 people want to read
About the author
Cora Brent
64 books3,758 followersI'm a huge fan of insta-love , grunge era flannel, my vintage Kenmore sewing machine, embroidered dishcloths and absolutely everything that has to do with 1980s pop culture (i.e. leg warmers, scrunchies, big hair, early Madonna, boom boxes, wood paneled walls, stonewash jeans, etc).
If you believe in Happily Ever After and improbable love stories, chances are I'll love you too!!
Email: corabrentwrites@yahoo.com
If you believe in Happily Ever After and improbable love stories, chances are I'll love you too!!
Email: corabrentwrites@yahoo.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
December 31, 2020
Audrey is exhausting. She's insecure, neurotic and privileged.
Her parents didn't abuse, neglect or hate her but she chose to self destruct as a teenager because apparently having loving (albeit busy) parents who provided everything is the zenith of tragedy. The poor little rich girl spent her teen years perpetually boozed, drugged, and sexed. She barely graduated high school, did 2 years of community college yet because of daddy's name she was employed as a project manager at a prestigious firm.
Brent can't have it both ways. You can't expect me to feel sympathy for someone who lacks awareness of her luck and privilege AND herself lacks empathy or sympathy for others.
Additionally, and as my friend, Jacob, would say I've grown to dislike love stories that are negatively motivated which is when the hero & heroine want to be together but can't because..... reasons.
In any event, I'm at 40% and don't really care anymore. DNF
Want to read
February 24, 2018💝 ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 💝
March 23, 2018
Cora Brent, you're amazing!
I simply adored this book! I love how Cora Brent makes it about so much more than love and sex. Her characters are always complex, hard working, with careers they're focused on and the love&sex part seems like a huge bonus to all that.
I remember loving Dominic & Melanie from the first book in the series and now i love Audrey & Jason just as much.
Don't miss out. Read this book asap.:)
I simply adored this book! I love how Cora Brent makes it about so much more than love and sex. Her characters are always complex, hard working, with careers they're focused on and the love&sex part seems like a huge bonus to all that.
I remember loving Dominic & Melanie from the first book in the series and now i love Audrey & Jason just as much.
Don't miss out. Read this book asap.:)
July 9, 2018
MY RATING: 4.5/5 STARS
I received a copy from Thomas Allen & Sons in exchange for an honest review.
Nailed was the first book I've read by Cora Brent and it was like a breath of fresh air in a city I've never visited before. The writing was unique in way because it was written very well, first of all. But then the dialogues felt like I was reading something a spunkier indie author would write for their characters. Does this make any sense? Does anyone know what I'm talking about? I feel like when I read traditionally published reads, the writing never strays from being 'normal.' On the other hand, indie published authors are not afraid of using unique cursing or are not afraid of acting out on ridiculous fantasies. Nailed was exactly a mix between these two styles and for that, I loved it.
Aside from the writing, Nailed was also had a great plot line. We follow Audrey who came from a very sheltered home. Her father owned a successful company that allowed to provide the family with wealth and status. Her older and seemingly perfect brother grew up to go to law school and become a judge later on in his mid-thirties. Even her mother volunteered her time in many organizations to give back to the community. Her life seemed perfect but deep down, she felt hollow. She felt unnoticed by her family. When an underage drinking scandal occurred involving her and her friend, her family finally noticed her. Audrey craved the attention. One taste of it, and she couldn't let it go. She continued down a dark path of drinking, drug use, and sex. When she finally hit her lowest and was sent to rehab at the fresh age of nineteen, she vowed to leave her dark past behind and so, she reinvented herself. Audrey became the controlling and prim and proper construction project manager. Everything she did, she made sure it was perfect. She no longer wanted to be a screw-up and wanted to prove to her family that she changed for the better. But her doubts continued to plague her. She felt her family still pull away.
The story mostly focuses on Audrey with little to no insight about our hero, Jason. Jason and Audrey had a fling. It was good. It was always about sex. But then Audrey realized control was starting to slip so she cut it off which left sour feelings for Jason who wanted to pursue more 'fun'. They both became each other's biggest enemies. So it's a huge surprise when they're both forced to work together on the firm's biggest project. I enjoyed Jason as a character. He always wanted teamwork, putting aside their feelings for each other but Audrey was the only one who wouldn't let go of control. She tended to make Jason agitated because she was so damn controlling. Instead of working together, he felt that she was more of a manager and he was an assistant. I also enjoyed Jason's backstory. It broke my heart when I read how he's still a good son despite his father being a total abusive .... you know what to him when he was young. I loved Jason for his nobility and love. Loved it. Loved!
MY RECOMMENDATION
If you're looking for a lovers-to-haters romance but with more depth in characters then Nailed by Cora Brent will be your next read! I found it so refreshing to see characters with brutal flaws like Audrey.
January 21, 2018
Nailed is a fun and entertaining enemies to lovers, workplace romance. The characters intrigued me and kept me on my toes. I loved the tension and chemistry between Jason and Audrey. Their banter kept me glued to the pages and begging for more. I loved the slow burn between them and couldn't wait to see what would happen next.
Nailed was an enjoyable and well written read. This is my first book by this author and I look forward to checking out more from her in the future.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
Nailed was an enjoyable and well written read. This is my first book by this author and I look forward to checking out more from her in the future.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
March 15, 2018
This was a big old nothing burger. I was hoping for some fun workplace shenanigans ala The Hating Game and instead got plenty of details about construction project management from a heroine who felt more like a chimera of 'strong, independent woman' pieces, instead of a person.
Audrey was.... not likable and I was ready to root for her. She was a woman trying to succeed in a male-dominated field. She stood her ground and was good at her job, but every difficulty she ran into was SO heavy-handed it was practically unbearable.
Not only did a subcontractor not listen to her ideas in a meeting, but he excluded her from calls and emails AND THEN tried to get her fired off of the project. And her bosses were all good with that without looking into anything at all. This is all after her chief contractor got a bit snippy when she snapped at him for asking a question... which of course he only asked because she was a woman (according to Audrey).
.. This is brought up several times. The dude asked something like if she had confirmed work with the electrician... which seemed like a reasonable question. But Audrey is looking for slights at every chance. No doubt this is due to her parents not having any faith in her succeeding at anything, but DAMN it was exhausting.
I think Audrey, who went through some shit as a teen, could have been a really interesting character if handled by a different author. But every beat of this book just landed with a dull, heavy thud. Nothing was subtle. It was all obvious and boring and used way too many words.
Then we have the core of every romance novel: the relationship. This was perhaps... the most boring part of the story? Audrey and Jason hooked up for three weeks when he first started at his firm. They broke up because they are both immature. Then six years pass. We hear constantly from Audrey that she has clashed with Jason over and over again during this time. No specifics. We just have to accept this. Then, apparently Jason has decided he has grown up and wants Audrey to be his girlfriend. She still has the hots for him, so she goes with it. There are some issues because Audrey can't relent any bit of control but then realizes that Jason is in fact on her side. The end.
No part of this was fun.
Audrey was.... not likable and I was ready to root for her. She was a woman trying to succeed in a male-dominated field. She stood her ground and was good at her job, but every difficulty she ran into was SO heavy-handed it was practically unbearable.
Not only did a subcontractor not listen to her ideas in a meeting, but he excluded her from calls and emails AND THEN tried to get her fired off of the project. And her bosses were all good with that without looking into anything at all. This is all after her chief contractor got a bit snippy when she snapped at him for asking a question... which of course he only asked because she was a woman (according to Audrey).
.. This is brought up several times. The dude asked something like if she had confirmed work with the electrician... which seemed like a reasonable question. But Audrey is looking for slights at every chance. No doubt this is due to her parents not having any faith in her succeeding at anything, but DAMN it was exhausting.
I think Audrey, who went through some shit as a teen, could have been a really interesting character if handled by a different author. But every beat of this book just landed with a dull, heavy thud. Nothing was subtle. It was all obvious and boring and used way too many words.
Then we have the core of every romance novel: the relationship. This was perhaps... the most boring part of the story? Audrey and Jason hooked up for three weeks when he first started at his firm. They broke up because they are both immature. Then six years pass. We hear constantly from Audrey that she has clashed with Jason over and over again during this time. No specifics. We just have to accept this. Then, apparently Jason has decided he has grown up and wants Audrey to be his girlfriend. She still has the hots for him, so she goes with it. There are some issues because Audrey can't relent any bit of control but then realizes that Jason is in fact on her side. The end.
No part of this was fun.
January 31, 2018
There isn't much to say about this book because I was expecting so much more from Cora! Audrey was just lacking for me I didn't like or but I didn't hate her either I wanted more depth to her character because she was just too average for me. Jason OMG he is just an asshole and in no way could I ever love him I thought maybe I might grow to love him but nope I never could he was just too much for me! Honestly wish I could give a better rating because Cora has written some fantastic books, but this one for me wasn't one of them!
March 15, 2018
I was given an advanced readers copy of this book and have decided to leave a voluntary review. I just love Cora's work my first books from her were the gentry brothers. Now I just finished nailed and loved it. I absolutely couldn't get enough of Jason Roma the man was walking Adonis and he brains to go with along with those looks. You could also tell Jason always has had strong feelings for Audrey it was written all over his face. Also I need to read Domantic and Melanie story now too!
January 25, 2018
I am a HUGE fan of Cora Brent and I adore her Gentry Boys series, so was very excited to be able to read this book. When you admire an author so much, you tend to have quite high expectations for each book they release and Brent never disappoints. Her stories are always so well written with characters you can easily connect with, and you just find yourself immersed in the story, forgetting the world around you.
Nailed is a brilliant, enemies to lovers romance and I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Audrey and Jason - those two have some serious chemistry!! This book is definitely one I will be recommending.
Nailed is a brilliant, enemies to lovers romance and I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Audrey and Jason - those two have some serious chemistry!! This book is definitely one I will be recommending.
March 16, 2018
Nailed is a very enjoyable enemies to lovers novel.
Audrey is a strong and focused career woman, and Jason is her arch rival and part time tormentor. I found both characters well written and well developed. Jason did seem like a bit of a jackass in the beginning but I never found him intolerable. I liked that both characters developed over the course of the book in believable ways. They went from being almost solely career focused to being more balanced. I also felt by the end of the book that they needed and complemented each other.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance.
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review.
Audrey is a strong and focused career woman, and Jason is her arch rival and part time tormentor. I found both characters well written and well developed. Jason did seem like a bit of a jackass in the beginning but I never found him intolerable. I liked that both characters developed over the course of the book in believable ways. They went from being almost solely career focused to being more balanced. I also felt by the end of the book that they needed and complemented each other.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance.
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review.
January 20, 2018
Another amazing and solid read by Cora Brent. A great enemies too lovers story. Loved the banter between Jason and Audrey, as well as their off the charts chemistry. This story has depth and a great storyline and you won’t want to put it down.
March 3, 2024
good read, preferred 1st book though
Preferred the first book. I did like the scenes with Melanie and Dom I also liked the way the ending was written. Check trigger warnings!
Preferred the first book. I did like the scenes with Melanie and Dom I also liked the way the ending was written. Check trigger warnings!
March 13, 2018
Nailed , I loved a great enemies to lovers story and Cora Nailed it !
Audrey is a strong, intelligent making her way in the world of construction as a project manager. She has to prove herself everyday to keep up in this world. Men are either hitting on her or looking down on her for her brain and great ideas .
Jason is a playboy he always was looking for a good time until he is now working again with Audrey . They had a past , friends with benefits but Audrey thought it best to move on and work on her career. Well here they are working side by side and Jason thinks that Audrey is the one that got away and his playboy days are numbered . They had a fabulous witty banter but as the story progressed we began to see a softer side of our playboy!
Great Read !
~~Michele McMullen ~~
Audrey is a strong, intelligent making her way in the world of construction as a project manager. She has to prove herself everyday to keep up in this world. Men are either hitting on her or looking down on her for her brain and great ideas .
Jason is a playboy he always was looking for a good time until he is now working again with Audrey . They had a past , friends with benefits but Audrey thought it best to move on and work on her career. Well here they are working side by side and Jason thinks that Audrey is the one that got away and his playboy days are numbered . They had a fabulous witty banter but as the story progressed we began to see a softer side of our playboy!
Great Read !
~~Michele McMullen ~~
January 20, 2018
Jason could be so good on a woman's ego, “I’ve known you for six years and I think you’re one of the hardest-working, most reliable people I’ve ever met. I also think that anyone who feels differently ought to have their effing head examined.” I really liked Jason, the man was charming, “It does feel good to be liked,” he said with a touch of wryness. Then his voice changed, deepened. “And Audrey, you already know I’m over the effing moon about you.” I liked this book, I loved Jason.
May 11, 2018
I won this book from Goodreads for honest review...
I didn’t know what to make of finding out about Jason and Audrey’s past history. The immature way they handled their first breakup had me not particularly liking either one of them.
At 50%, I realized not only was I not overly endeared to this couple, but I was getting extremely bored. There just didn’t seem much of a reason to continue this one.
I didn’t know what to make of finding out about Jason and Audrey’s past history. The immature way they handled their first breakup had me not particularly liking either one of them.
At 50%, I realized not only was I not overly endeared to this couple, but I was getting extremely bored. There just didn’t seem much of a reason to continue this one.
February 17, 2022
DNF. He was too much of an asshole man-child. Heroine wasn’t relatable. He was too callous. Also didn’t make sense to bring some family drama in the end, was a very weak ending. Their conflicts were childish. I skipped the middle parts because I wanted to pretend the heroine wasn’t getting together with him.
February 2, 2018
2 stars
I wished I liked this book. My husband is a civil engineer. I loved the idea that there was a WOMEN engineer in this book. The world needs more women in this profession! But the book didn't live up to my expectations. If anything, I hated the stereotypes that were portrayed.
I wished I liked this book. My husband is a civil engineer. I loved the idea that there was a WOMEN engineer in this book. The world needs more women in this profession! But the book didn't live up to my expectations. If anything, I hated the stereotypes that were portrayed.
May 9, 2023
Very different BUT not in a good way
This story is written in only HER POV. I wish it was both pov. I didn't like it, I felt like this story was all over the place
This story is written in only HER POV. I wish it was both pov. I didn't like it, I felt like this story was all over the place
March 12, 2018
I loved Fired book 1 in this series but i really think this one outdid it!!
Audrey is a driven career girl. She's usually the only woman on construction sites while she project manages. She has to prove herself time and time again. A huge opportunity comes to the firm she works for and she thinks she has it in the bag until someone, a certain sexy someone, a certain someone Audrey has a past with gets in the way.
Jason is a player. He never has girlfriends ever. He's now older and when a chance to work with an old buddy comes along he relishes it. He knows he can wind her up with a wink of his eye but that's not all he wants. He wants more pretty much from the start but is happy to take what she'll give him. He never forgot her and he knows she's hot but it's more than that. He sees how determined and strong she is.
After a truce is called will Audrey let herself go and risk all her hard work?
Bleeding loved it!!! This isn't an all action story but what it does is delve quite deep i think into Audrey's life. It's pretty much her tale to tell and i was hooked and intrigued. I found it riveting, all her thoughts and struggles, i was cheering her on to succeed and show everyone how good she was! I wanted her to come out on top!
After reading about Jason in Fired i was almost certain he'd be a bit of a player even if Audrey was in the picture but he was total opposite! I think seeing his best friend happy with a girl made him think about his own life. I was heartbroken for his past. The stuff with his dad was quite difficult to read i felt. My heart literally squeezed in my chest. But despite that he really was an incredible guy. So patient and so charming i swooned over him! I really think Audrey put him through the ringer a bit but he hung on in there seeing what others failed to see.
Audrey was such a complex person. Her struggles through most of her life from her youth till early adulthood made me feel really sorry for her. Thank goodness for her wonderful brother! Honestly i could have shook her mom and dad! I loved reading her struggles though, she fought so hard to redeem herself and to make a real go of a successful life it killed me when she was afraid to let go for fear of sliding back into bad habits. Luckily she came to her senses and saw what she could have and that she could let go with Jason and he's be there to catch her! awwwwwww!!!
They were pretty hot and steamy together but it was written so well that wasn't all you saw. There was definitely more in each encounter that your heart pitter patters in anticipation of them spitting out what they felt for one another!
I love this authors writing style. Its not like her usual books which can be quite angsty and a touch dark. This deals with some serious subjects but it's not as heavy i guess. More of a lighter read and really quite sweet. The plot kept me with them all the way. I wanted them together so badly there really was no choice but to go along for the ride.
Loved catching up with Melanie and Dominic too!!! Great to see them doing so well. I'm really really really hoping William gets a HEA because he needs it!!!! Please write him Cora!! You can't leave him where he is!
Highly recommend this amazing enemies to lovers/second chance romance. Lots to love. Lots to get stuck into and just a brilliant love story.
A is for Alpha B is for Books
Audrey is a driven career girl. She's usually the only woman on construction sites while she project manages. She has to prove herself time and time again. A huge opportunity comes to the firm she works for and she thinks she has it in the bag until someone, a certain sexy someone, a certain someone Audrey has a past with gets in the way.
Jason is a player. He never has girlfriends ever. He's now older and when a chance to work with an old buddy comes along he relishes it. He knows he can wind her up with a wink of his eye but that's not all he wants. He wants more pretty much from the start but is happy to take what she'll give him. He never forgot her and he knows she's hot but it's more than that. He sees how determined and strong she is.
After a truce is called will Audrey let herself go and risk all her hard work?
Bleeding loved it!!! This isn't an all action story but what it does is delve quite deep i think into Audrey's life. It's pretty much her tale to tell and i was hooked and intrigued. I found it riveting, all her thoughts and struggles, i was cheering her on to succeed and show everyone how good she was! I wanted her to come out on top!
After reading about Jason in Fired i was almost certain he'd be a bit of a player even if Audrey was in the picture but he was total opposite! I think seeing his best friend happy with a girl made him think about his own life. I was heartbroken for his past. The stuff with his dad was quite difficult to read i felt. My heart literally squeezed in my chest. But despite that he really was an incredible guy. So patient and so charming i swooned over him! I really think Audrey put him through the ringer a bit but he hung on in there seeing what others failed to see.
Audrey was such a complex person. Her struggles through most of her life from her youth till early adulthood made me feel really sorry for her. Thank goodness for her wonderful brother! Honestly i could have shook her mom and dad! I loved reading her struggles though, she fought so hard to redeem herself and to make a real go of a successful life it killed me when she was afraid to let go for fear of sliding back into bad habits. Luckily she came to her senses and saw what she could have and that she could let go with Jason and he's be there to catch her! awwwwwww!!!
They were pretty hot and steamy together but it was written so well that wasn't all you saw. There was definitely more in each encounter that your heart pitter patters in anticipation of them spitting out what they felt for one another!
I love this authors writing style. Its not like her usual books which can be quite angsty and a touch dark. This deals with some serious subjects but it's not as heavy i guess. More of a lighter read and really quite sweet. The plot kept me with them all the way. I wanted them together so badly there really was no choice but to go along for the ride.
Loved catching up with Melanie and Dominic too!!! Great to see them doing so well. I'm really really really hoping William gets a HEA because he needs it!!!! Please write him Cora!! You can't leave him where he is!
Highly recommend this amazing enemies to lovers/second chance romance. Lots to love. Lots to get stuck into and just a brilliant love story.
A is for Alpha B is for Books
March 13, 2018
Nailed (Worked up Book 2)
By: Cora Brent
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
What could happen if you let someone in?
First and probably foremost Cora Brent is an incredible writer. She has the ability to make whatever she writes believable from beginning to end and it’s full of angst, passion and love. Already a huge fan of hers it was easy to get sucked into the Worked Up series and love Nailed as much as her previously written tales. I added the authors blurb because reality is she explained it better than I ever could.
Authors Blurb: The good news: Audrey Gordon has just received a dream assignment managing one of the city’s largest construction projects.
The bad news: She’ll be teamed up with cocky office rival and former lover Jason Roma.
Audrey’s got a lot to prove to herself and to her overachieving family. She’s certainly not going to let arrogant Jason Roma get in the way of her success, despite the fact that he never passes up an opportunity to get under her skin. Audrey swears she’ll keep Jason at arm’s length, no matter how fast her pulse races whenever he walks into the room.
However, Jason seems to have his own ideas about what Audrey needs. He’s determined to win another chance with her and prove that he’s not the callous jerk she thinks he is.
But when a personal tragedy shakes Audrey to her core, will she push Jason away forever? Or will she learn a few lessons about love and finally let him into her heart?
I really enjoyed this book, it kept me engrossed throughout. I really loved the characters and the way they interacted with each other. This is a fun, hot, romantic must read book and I would definitely recommend this book to anyone.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in Her POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
Thanks you Netgally for letting me read and review.
By: Cora Brent
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
What could happen if you let someone in?
First and probably foremost Cora Brent is an incredible writer. She has the ability to make whatever she writes believable from beginning to end and it’s full of angst, passion and love. Already a huge fan of hers it was easy to get sucked into the Worked Up series and love Nailed as much as her previously written tales. I added the authors blurb because reality is she explained it better than I ever could.
Authors Blurb: The good news: Audrey Gordon has just received a dream assignment managing one of the city’s largest construction projects.
The bad news: She’ll be teamed up with cocky office rival and former lover Jason Roma.
Audrey’s got a lot to prove to herself and to her overachieving family. She’s certainly not going to let arrogant Jason Roma get in the way of her success, despite the fact that he never passes up an opportunity to get under her skin. Audrey swears she’ll keep Jason at arm’s length, no matter how fast her pulse races whenever he walks into the room.
However, Jason seems to have his own ideas about what Audrey needs. He’s determined to win another chance with her and prove that he’s not the callous jerk she thinks he is.
But when a personal tragedy shakes Audrey to her core, will she push Jason away forever? Or will she learn a few lessons about love and finally let him into her heart?
I really enjoyed this book, it kept me engrossed throughout. I really loved the characters and the way they interacted with each other. This is a fun, hot, romantic must read book and I would definitely recommend this book to anyone.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in Her POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
Thanks you Netgally for letting me read and review.
January 19, 2018
Audrey and Jason have a love/hate relationship. They had a brief co-worker fling that ended in not the best way. Audrey had a ton of issues, not the least of which was her OCD tendencies when it came to work. Audrey wasn't always put together like she is now. She was an unruly teen who drank too much, slept around too much and paid the price by embarrassing her family to the point that they still hold it against her 10 years later. Audrey didn't quite understand that, even though she was now a responsible adult, she did some damage and needed to acknowledge all of it. Her and her parents did not appear to have a great relationship and Audrey needed to own some of that. Although she was a smart, competent woman in a male dominated field, she did tend to over-compensate. I did not like how she stereo-typed Jason at points in this book.
Jason was dealing with his own family issues and was trying his best to get over his own past with his father. Jason showed great compassion and the ability to forgive. Audrey sold him short a lot and Jason didn't really stand up for himself for the majority of their relationship. Things seemed to change for him and he started to own his feelings and what he wanted. Audrey seemed to be the one pushing him away. Jason did open up to her and allowed her to know some of his secrets. He was also a man of his word.
There were points in this book where I just wanted to smack some sense into Audrey. Work is not what your life should be centered on. She had relationships that needed to be nurtured but would find an excuse not to do it. It did make me crazy when she would lament to herself that "if he turns around now I'll go home with him..." She should have just owned her feelings instead of copping out.
There was an interesting twist that did make things clear for Audrey. I liked how Cora Brent pulled the reader into this story. It flowed well, kept me entertained and did cause a mix of feelings to be pulled from me at points. Overall a good read. I was glad to have received an ARC from NetGalley for my honest review.
Jason was dealing with his own family issues and was trying his best to get over his own past with his father. Jason showed great compassion and the ability to forgive. Audrey sold him short a lot and Jason didn't really stand up for himself for the majority of their relationship. Things seemed to change for him and he started to own his feelings and what he wanted. Audrey seemed to be the one pushing him away. Jason did open up to her and allowed her to know some of his secrets. He was also a man of his word.
There were points in this book where I just wanted to smack some sense into Audrey. Work is not what your life should be centered on. She had relationships that needed to be nurtured but would find an excuse not to do it. It did make me crazy when she would lament to herself that "if he turns around now I'll go home with him..." She should have just owned her feelings instead of copping out.
There was an interesting twist that did make things clear for Audrey. I liked how Cora Brent pulled the reader into this story. It flowed well, kept me entertained and did cause a mix of feelings to be pulled from me at points. Overall a good read. I was glad to have received an ARC from NetGalley for my honest review.
March 13, 2018
Finally popped my Cora Brent cherry!! So glad I did and wondering what took me so long?! I loved Jason and Audrey and really enjoyed the banter and sexual tension between the pair. I loved seeing Audrey thaw to Jason. I mean, he's a charming, tall, dark and sexy, slice of cheese pizza! What's not to love? Plus he's got just the right amount of a filthy mouth and cockiness to boot.
Audrey hasn't exactly had a shiny past, so she strives to put her past behind her and prove to her parent's and herself she's not the same person as she was. She does so by burying herself in her work, and her hard work pays off as she's one of the top Project Managers, along with Jason. Which drives her kind of crazy. Yea, Jason definitely knows how to push her buttons, and it's fun seeing him get a rise out of her. And even though he seems to be incapable of being serious, at first, I love the fact that he's loyal to a fault. Some complications arise for Audrey and he always has her back one hundred and one percent. They're a team and he makes sure she understands that. The two are pretty much perfect for each other, so when the layers finally start peeling back, it sheds a whole new light on Jason and on Audrey. So maybe he isn't as bad as Audrey thinks and maybe he wants more than she imagined, but is Audrey willing to let him all the way in?
After I read this, I realized there's a book one in the series and now I'm like what?! Dom and Melanie? Ummm...yes please! I need to know their story...STAT!!! I really enjoyed this author's writing style, it's easy to fall into, and once I started reading, I couldn't put the book down. I read it almost in one sitting. I started reading during the day, but my kids weren't having it, so once they were in bed, it was game on. Finished around 3 a.m., but definitely one of those books that's so worth the loss of sleep. Can't wait to pick up more books by this author, easily see her as becoming a fave! Great book!
#B2BKristina
Audrey hasn't exactly had a shiny past, so she strives to put her past behind her and prove to her parent's and herself she's not the same person as she was. She does so by burying herself in her work, and her hard work pays off as she's one of the top Project Managers, along with Jason. Which drives her kind of crazy. Yea, Jason definitely knows how to push her buttons, and it's fun seeing him get a rise out of her. And even though he seems to be incapable of being serious, at first, I love the fact that he's loyal to a fault. Some complications arise for Audrey and he always has her back one hundred and one percent. They're a team and he makes sure she understands that. The two are pretty much perfect for each other, so when the layers finally start peeling back, it sheds a whole new light on Jason and on Audrey. So maybe he isn't as bad as Audrey thinks and maybe he wants more than she imagined, but is Audrey willing to let him all the way in?
After I read this, I realized there's a book one in the series and now I'm like what?! Dom and Melanie? Ummm...yes please! I need to know their story...STAT!!! I really enjoyed this author's writing style, it's easy to fall into, and once I started reading, I couldn't put the book down. I read it almost in one sitting. I started reading during the day, but my kids weren't having it, so once they were in bed, it was game on. Finished around 3 a.m., but definitely one of those books that's so worth the loss of sleep. Can't wait to pick up more books by this author, easily see her as becoming a fave! Great book!
#B2BKristina
March 25, 2018
I won this book from Goodreads. This book is told from Audrey's pov, which I think it would have been nice to also have Jason's pov. I liked the way Jason came across in the book, but it took me awhile for me to warm up to Audrey. They both are project managers for different construction sites for a large construction firm in Phoenix. Audrey considers to Jason to not only be her competition, but she also treats him like an enemy. She also believes that Jason doesn't like her because she ended a secret relationship between them years ago. Not only is she battling demons at work, but she is also battling demons from her persoanl life. They are both awarded project manager of the biggest job sit the company has ever had and Audrey doesn't know how to feel about working with Jason again. When she finds out who the architect is of the Court House, she feels that the universe is conspiring against her. The architect turns out to be a past lover of hers where things didn't end too well. Things get heated on the jobsite between Audrey and Jason. When Audrey finally relents and starts to date Jason, she has stipulations, the main one being that as before, no one can know that they are seeing each other. Meanwhile, she has to deal with her how her parents treat her, especially compared to her brother. She doesn't have ill feelings toward her brother because he has always been her biggest supporter. When tragedy strikers her family (which was one that I wasn't expecting), Audrey realizes what she really feels for Jason but is afraid to let him know. I liked the ending of this book but I just didn't like the way she treated Jason. He didn't deserve the she treated him due to her insecurities. I would have liked the book better if it would have had Jason's pov but overall it wasn't a bad read.
March 15, 2018
Audrey has become a huge workaholic, as she feels like she's trying to keep up with her very successful family. It doesn't help that she's been living with the guilt of her actions of the past, and she just wants to prove to them that she's different now. But when she's partnered up with Jason, who she formerly trained at her firm, not to mention had a friends with benefits thing going, she's none too happy. He loves to push her buttons, so as they try to successfully pull off the biggest project in the firm's history, they can't seem to stop fighting with each other. And even though she does her best to keep him at arm's length, their chemistry will not be denied, and Jason's out to show her what she truly needs. With that, no more about the plot will come out of me. Nailed is the first book that I've read by the talented Cora Brent, and boy did I laugh hard throughout at some of the crazy things that went on. That's not to say that the too uptight Audrey, who I loved even when she drove me nuts, didn't have her share of past demons that made for the angst factor, because she did, and I could feel her pain through my kindle. I wanted to junk punch Jason at first, as he seemed to go out of his way to push her buttons, but somewhere along the way, I fell hard for him. Plus, who couldn't cheer them on with all that heat that lit the sheets on fire when it was cranked up! With a huge twist that I didn't see coming, not only had the f-bombs dropping, but my eyes leaking as well, and a very colorful cast of secondaries that added more depth to the story, it had a little bit of everything to make it the perfect story in my opinion, and I cannot wait to read more of this author's work! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
April 3, 2018
I want to start this review by thanking Cora. Thanking her for the amazing stories and characters she brings and will continue to bring to life.
The character development and story lines were just beautiful. I’m a sucker for an enemy to lovers, second chance love story any day! I especially felt so close to this book & these characters stories because I could relate so well with each of them.
Audrey, she’s been to the dark side of what life can bring. When you’re getting to know her you think she’s just a regular woman, passionate about her career, her goals, etc. As the story progresses we witness her struggles & triumph. Hands down I believe she is one of Cora’s most strongest female characters. I absolutely loved her!
Jason, I instantly loved him! From his & Audrey’s first encounter to the end I was rooting for him all day. Like Audrey, he surprised me when it came to his back story. Which Cora has such an incredible talent of writing for all of her characters.
I’m incredibly blessed to be able to read each of her stories. And this is one of the stories where you can’t put it down. You tell yourself one more chapter, one more, but you just can’t stop.
Cora is honestly an author I respect and honor so much because of the stories she’s written & I’m so thankful as a reader that she is able to share these with us.
It’s always bittersweet, every time, when I finish one of her books. But I know she has so much more in store to give us. ❤️
I can’t put into words how much I enjoyed Nailed 💙
The character development and story lines were just beautiful. I’m a sucker for an enemy to lovers, second chance love story any day! I especially felt so close to this book & these characters stories because I could relate so well with each of them.
Audrey, she’s been to the dark side of what life can bring. When you’re getting to know her you think she’s just a regular woman, passionate about her career, her goals, etc. As the story progresses we witness her struggles & triumph. Hands down I believe she is one of Cora’s most strongest female characters. I absolutely loved her!
Jason, I instantly loved him! From his & Audrey’s first encounter to the end I was rooting for him all day. Like Audrey, he surprised me when it came to his back story. Which Cora has such an incredible talent of writing for all of her characters.
I’m incredibly blessed to be able to read each of her stories. And this is one of the stories where you can’t put it down. You tell yourself one more chapter, one more, but you just can’t stop.
Cora is honestly an author I respect and honor so much because of the stories she’s written & I’m so thankful as a reader that she is able to share these with us.
It’s always bittersweet, every time, when I finish one of her books. But I know she has so much more in store to give us. ❤️
I can’t put into words how much I enjoyed Nailed 💙
April 10, 2022
Is this a multi-part story? Yes
Does it end in a cliffhanger? No
Genre(s) : Romantic Comedy
Instalove? Yes and No
Was cheating involved? No
Any major triggers to be aware of? parent with dementia
3.25 Stars for me!
My rating range of this story... 2.5 - 3.5 Stars
If significant, why?
Biggest deduction?
Main Character Ratings...
H () = 6/10
h () = 4/10
TSTL Moment(s)? No
Narrator Rating(s)
M () = n/a
F (Kristin Watson Heintz) = 8/10
If below 5/10, why?
If Comedy... Type? Funny to mixed
Funny, Cute, Cringe Inducing, Mixed or Just No!
Angst Level? Please Stop
Light, Moderate, Heavy or Please Stop
Internal Monolog/Dialog? Heavy
Light, Moderate, Heavy or Please Stop
Scenes with heat... Yes
How much of the story? 10%
Anything beyond M/F? No
If yes, explained
Heat Rating... 6/10
Clean or Fade to Black - 1 or 2
Normal to Descriptive 3-5
Detailed Descriptive Sex - 6-7
Um, Wow, Beyond Descriptive Sex - 8 or above
Was there so much sex or unrealistic sex that you rolled your eyes and/or skipped forward? No
The back story... The h is a workaholic with a chip on her shoulder and gets paired up with the H on a Courthouse construction project. The problem is that they had a fling 5 years earlier.
Romance or Gist: Once the h gets out of her own way and the H dropped his attitude, the story got going.
The drama explosion... The h nearly gets kicked off the project.
Did it feel Real, OK or contrived? Ok
Was it OTT? No
Separation involved? Yes
Was it resolved properly or rushed? Properly
Final Notes... I did enjoy the story but not nearly as much as Fired. The h in this story was not as relatable and the H was a bit of a jerk at the start of the story.
HEA or HFN? HFN
Book Source: Kindle Unlimited
Does it end in a cliffhanger? No
Genre(s) : Romantic Comedy
Instalove? Yes and No
Was cheating involved? No
Any major triggers to be aware of? parent with dementia
3.25 Stars for me!
My rating range of this story... 2.5 - 3.5 Stars
If significant, why?
Biggest deduction?
Main Character Ratings...
H () = 6/10
h () = 4/10
TSTL Moment(s)? No
Narrator Rating(s)
M () = n/a
F (Kristin Watson Heintz) = 8/10
If below 5/10, why?
If Comedy... Type? Funny to mixed
Funny, Cute, Cringe Inducing, Mixed or Just No!
Angst Level? Please Stop
Light, Moderate, Heavy or Please Stop
Internal Monolog/Dialog? Heavy
Light, Moderate, Heavy or Please Stop
Scenes with heat... Yes
How much of the story? 10%
Anything beyond M/F? No
If yes, explained
Heat Rating... 6/10
Clean or Fade to Black - 1 or 2
Normal to Descriptive 3-5
Detailed Descriptive Sex - 6-7
Um, Wow, Beyond Descriptive Sex - 8 or above
Was there so much sex or unrealistic sex that you rolled your eyes and/or skipped forward? No
The back story... The h is a workaholic with a chip on her shoulder and gets paired up with the H on a Courthouse construction project. The problem is that they had a fling 5 years earlier.
Romance or Gist: Once the h gets out of her own way and the H dropped his attitude, the story got going.
The drama explosion... The h nearly gets kicked off the project.
Did it feel Real, OK or contrived? Ok
Was it OTT? No
Separation involved? Yes
Was it resolved properly or rushed? Properly
Final Notes... I did enjoy the story but not nearly as much as Fired. The h in this story was not as relatable and the H was a bit of a jerk at the start of the story.
HEA or HFN? HFN
Book Source: Kindle Unlimited
March 14, 2018
4.5 Stars!
Nailed is the second standalone book from Cora Brent's Worked Up series, and I enjoyed it just as much as the first. Office romances are one of my favorite tropes and Ms. Brent executes this one quite well.
Project managers Audrey Gordon and Jason Roma used to be more than friends, and then they weren't. Over the years, they avoided each other like the plague, while successfully climbing to the top of the corporate ladder. Because of their proven results, they have been teamed up to oversee the firm's largest and most challenging project to date. Their attraction remains as lustful as ever, as they get to know each other once again and find their forever happiness.
This is an well-written novel, and Audrey and Jason are interesting, complex and genuine. They are a hot and fun couple, both in the bedroom and on the construction site. Audrey's family's tragedy was heartbreaking, and as a result, I could not stop the waterworks. Audrey's nephews were beyond cute, and I found myself chuckling whenever they were part of the dialogue. If you enjoy a book with emotion and passion, then Nailed is for you.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
Nailed is the second standalone book from Cora Brent's Worked Up series, and I enjoyed it just as much as the first. Office romances are one of my favorite tropes and Ms. Brent executes this one quite well.
Project managers Audrey Gordon and Jason Roma used to be more than friends, and then they weren't. Over the years, they avoided each other like the plague, while successfully climbing to the top of the corporate ladder. Because of their proven results, they have been teamed up to oversee the firm's largest and most challenging project to date. Their attraction remains as lustful as ever, as they get to know each other once again and find their forever happiness.
This is an well-written novel, and Audrey and Jason are interesting, complex and genuine. They are a hot and fun couple, both in the bedroom and on the construction site. Audrey's family's tragedy was heartbreaking, and as a result, I could not stop the waterworks. Audrey's nephews were beyond cute, and I found myself chuckling whenever they were part of the dialogue. If you enjoy a book with emotion and passion, then Nailed is for you.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
January 24, 2018
I loved Jason from the first book in the series- FIRED and his story didn't disappoint.
Jason and Audrey are thrown together to be co-project managers on a huge courthouse build. They share a sizzling and secretive past which rears it's hot head when the two start spending entire days together.
Audrey is from an affluent family that has a public persona that doesn't quite match the neglectful, hateful family. Audrey is strong and independent and when you see how her parents are with her you will be even more impressed by the strong, successful woman.
Jason has his own heartbreak when it comes to family. His father was a nasty man who ends up in a most vulnerable position later in life to which Jason is bound.
Jason and Audrey are great together- hot! The story doesn't just linger on their sexual chemistry or their unfortunate family- parental relations. Audrey has an awesome brother and 2 sweetheart nephews. Laying everything aside in a time of tragedy is seemingly difficult during a huge point inthe building process but family is always first. I loved how tragedy brought healing.
Love this story!
Jason and Audrey are thrown together to be co-project managers on a huge courthouse build. They share a sizzling and secretive past which rears it's hot head when the two start spending entire days together.
Audrey is from an affluent family that has a public persona that doesn't quite match the neglectful, hateful family. Audrey is strong and independent and when you see how her parents are with her you will be even more impressed by the strong, successful woman.
Jason has his own heartbreak when it comes to family. His father was a nasty man who ends up in a most vulnerable position later in life to which Jason is bound.
Jason and Audrey are great together- hot! The story doesn't just linger on their sexual chemistry or their unfortunate family- parental relations. Audrey has an awesome brother and 2 sweetheart nephews. Laying everything aside in a time of tragedy is seemingly difficult during a huge point inthe building process but family is always first. I loved how tragedy brought healing.
Love this story!
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