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Caldwell Brothers #4
Hard Luck
I'm cooking up something sexy in my kitchen.As one of the top chefs in Las Vegas, I've built my Michelin star steakhouse from the ground up.Now, I want to take my thriving career to the next level, pimping myself out so that Hollywood will come calling. I'm so the best man for that job.And she's not a man.She's my rival.And all she serves in her redneck pescatarian restaurant is fish. I hate fish almost as much as I hate her. If it's not red meat, it's not an entrée.I'm willing to do whatever it takes to get my own show on the Food Network. But Pepper St. Claire and my crazy attraction to her puts my dream in jeopardy.Pepper's just as driven as I am, and she'll stop at nothing to take me down. After I finally make her mine, she does something so terrible, I can't even believe a woman's capable of such treachery.Oh, she's really started it.And now...it's on.***********HARD LUCK is a full-length novel from USA Today Bestselling Author, Colleen Charles, featuring an enemies to lovers romance with a lovable cast of characters. It's the fourth book in the spellbinding CALDWELL BROTHERS series but can be read as a standalone.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 9, 2017
140 people are currently reading
116 people want to read
About the author
Colleen Charles
167 books1,188 followersAfter 26 years in Corporate leadership at a Fortune 500, I discovered people within the organization lacked integrity. I’d always known deep in my soul that I was trying to fit a square peg in to a round hole since I’m the typical creative type. I miss my staff but I don’t miss the corporate world. It’s been said that the Universe will let you know if something isn’t right for you. The first time, it will hit you with a pebble. Then a brick. Then a boulder. Let’s just say that I got flattened. When my fifteen pound toy dog, Nigel, was threatened, I knew it was time to say goodbye.
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
December 12, 2017
I'm excited to get Carter's story in the Caldwell Brothers series! He and Pepper spiced up the pages with a fiery blast, especially when they discovered that they were rivals! This was a humorous but amazing romance, with two talented chefs fighting to win. I loved the dialogue and banter, as well as the way Carter and Pepper loved as much as they fought. The sparks flew throughout this sexy, engaging read!
December 10, 2017
Carter and Pepper… Rival chefs in rival restaurants-- He doesn’t have fish on his menu. She only has fish and seafood on hers…
He works for his brother.
She works for the Devil.
Ah, Pepper. There’s nothing like introducing your brother to your food critics, is there? And in Cody’s unique style, too. Ain’t family grand? But this time it seems you lassoed a great review.
And, Carter… There’s a slinking saboteur in your kitchen. With rats and Roman candles, your entire career could go up in flames. But, in spite of everything, the Michelin critics liked your food. And suddenly, it’s good to be you again.
But Pepper and Carter haven’t met yet… Until they both attend this charity thing… But, why ruin the evening with introductions?
Uh, oh.
Oh! And Carter and Pepper… there’s this little contest you’re invited to… on the Food Network… Choose your weapons. Pack up your knives… Enguard!
Just remember, all is fair is war… And Love.
Aaand-- Here’s Dante! The very Devil himself.
Just remember the Devil’s in the details. And he likes to mess around with lives. Especially the lives of the Caldwell brothers.
I got a feeling this isn’t over.
I enjoyed this book so much! It was fun to visit all the melodrama and competitivenes of the restaurant world (a world I’m familiar with)… I loved Claude!
Bottom line: Michelin would give it a 2 star rating. I give it 5.
He works for his brother.
She works for the Devil.
Ah, Pepper. There’s nothing like introducing your brother to your food critics, is there? And in Cody’s unique style, too. Ain’t family grand? But this time it seems you lassoed a great review.
And, Carter… There’s a slinking saboteur in your kitchen. With rats and Roman candles, your entire career could go up in flames. But, in spite of everything, the Michelin critics liked your food. And suddenly, it’s good to be you again.
But Pepper and Carter haven’t met yet… Until they both attend this charity thing… But, why ruin the evening with introductions?
Uh, oh.
Oh! And Carter and Pepper… there’s this little contest you’re invited to… on the Food Network… Choose your weapons. Pack up your knives… Enguard!
Just remember, all is fair is war… And Love.
Aaand-- Here’s Dante! The very Devil himself.
Just remember the Devil’s in the details. And he likes to mess around with lives. Especially the lives of the Caldwell brothers.
I got a feeling this isn’t over.
I enjoyed this book so much! It was fun to visit all the melodrama and competitivenes of the restaurant world (a world I’m familiar with)… I loved Claude!
Bottom line: Michelin would give it a 2 star rating. I give it 5.
December 12, 2017
Another amazing Caldwell Brother book by Colleen Charles!
Carter has always felt he was in his brother's shadows. Sure he is a great chef and runs an amazingly successful restaurant, but it's in his brother's hotel. He wants to have a success he can call his own. And he just might have a chance with the Food Network audition.
Pepper runs a wildly successful fish restaurant in the Mona Lisa casino. She has worked hard for her success. She came from a small farming town, put herself thru school and has made herself a huge success. And now her dream, having her own Cooking Show, is within reach thanks to her upcoming Food Network audition.
Carter and Pepper are two hugely different people that seem to hate each other and everything they stand for, while having this amazingly hot chemistry at the same time. Will they be able to overcome their issues and see the bigger picture, have a future together?
This 4th book in this series is every bit as good as the first 3! All are 5 star reads and I highly recommend them all!
Carter has always felt he was in his brother's shadows. Sure he is a great chef and runs an amazingly successful restaurant, but it's in his brother's hotel. He wants to have a success he can call his own. And he just might have a chance with the Food Network audition.
Pepper runs a wildly successful fish restaurant in the Mona Lisa casino. She has worked hard for her success. She came from a small farming town, put herself thru school and has made herself a huge success. And now her dream, having her own Cooking Show, is within reach thanks to her upcoming Food Network audition.
Carter and Pepper are two hugely different people that seem to hate each other and everything they stand for, while having this amazingly hot chemistry at the same time. Will they be able to overcome their issues and see the bigger picture, have a future together?
This 4th book in this series is every bit as good as the first 3! All are 5 star reads and I highly recommend them all!
December 14, 2017
Think back to how your last relationship started......now, was it that you were sworn enemies in the same line of work? Were you introduced, more or less, by a family member? Carter Caldwell and Pepper St. Claire share one thing in common.....their love for sharing their culinary abilities with their customers in their restaurants. Working at two different restaurants in the same city turned them into each other's sworn enemies. But they changed it all when they threw down their knives and shared in the ultimate experience of being on a Food Network show! What turned out to be an opportunity to further their careers, actually helped them cultivate their budding relationship! Carter comes from a well-known family in Las Vegas, where Pepper comes to Vegas for a chance of a lifetime. Another great book that was well written by Colleen Charles! I have a soft spot for this story.....my husband is a chef. So, I could really relate to how this story was written...and I couldn't put it down!!
April 16, 2018
This is such a funny, Steamy and entertaining book. As someone that enjoys cooking, reading, The Food Network, and romance novel, it was almost like this book was created with me in mind. Carter and Pepper are rival chefs. These two are opposites in almost every way. He's all red meat, she's all seafood, he's from Vegas, she's from Kansas. In fact they can't stand one another and have absolutely nothing in common.....except the flaming hot inferno of attraction they feel for each other. With lots of steam, heart, humor, and drama, this highly enjoyable read will keep you turning pages as Carter & Pepper heat up the kitchen and the bedroom! An excellent romance. I'm posting a totally voluntary, honest review after reading this book.
November 24, 2019
5 stars
I purchased a copy of the steamy novel Pony Up: The Caldwell Brothers Book 4:Carter and Pepper By Colleen Charles and this review was given freely.
Ironic humor and vivid characters fill the pages of this steamy opposites attract rivalry centered around The Food Network, two Las Vegas restaurants and Dante's latest sabotage attempts. This romance ends in a cliffhanger. As the Michelin critics come to Las Vegas, Carter struggles against feelings of inferiority and Dante sabotage attempts while Dante's Chief Chef Pepper struggles with her self image when her unrefined bull riding, rodeo winning brother Cody comes to town.
I purchased a copy of the steamy novel Pony Up: The Caldwell Brothers Book 4:Carter and Pepper By Colleen Charles and this review was given freely.
Ironic humor and vivid characters fill the pages of this steamy opposites attract rivalry centered around The Food Network, two Las Vegas restaurants and Dante's latest sabotage attempts. This romance ends in a cliffhanger. As the Michelin critics come to Las Vegas, Carter struggles against feelings of inferiority and Dante sabotage attempts while Dante's Chief Chef Pepper struggles with her self image when her unrefined bull riding, rodeo winning brother Cody comes to town.
December 16, 2017
The Caldwell Brothers series continues with Carter and Pepper's story. This one has more angst between the main characters. Their banter is fantastic. Will they even get their HEA? As usual, Dante plays a role in making things harder than they have to be. Pony Up also left me with a lot of questions regarding how the Caldwell Brothers are going to give Dante his due. I felt like the kid In The Princess Bride when he asks his grandfather, "Who gets Humperdink?" So, I'm waited with bated breath to find out who gets Dante!
December 10, 2017
Carter and pepper’s story is the 4th book in the Caldwell Brothers series. This series gets better and better and this book was my absolute favorite. There’s a bit of drama in this book but you’ll also find some funny parts. There are other characters who also bring great humor into this story. If you read any of the Caldwell Brothers books you’ll definitely love this one. Great job, and can’t wait for more of your books Colleen Charles.
December 12, 2017
Hot Vegas Chefs
I Love this series and I Love this book!
Every book in this series keeps getting better!
Colleen has written another Wonderful book!
This is Carter and Peppers story.
They are rival Las Vegas chefs both out for the same Food Network show.
From first sight they have an instant attraction, great chemistry and sparks are really flying in the love/ hate relationship!
You get pulled into the story and you won’t be able to put it down!
Once again Colleen has written a great book!
I Love this series and I Love this book!
Every book in this series keeps getting better!
Colleen has written another Wonderful book!
This is Carter and Peppers story.
They are rival Las Vegas chefs both out for the same Food Network show.
From first sight they have an instant attraction, great chemistry and sparks are really flying in the love/ hate relationship!
You get pulled into the story and you won’t be able to put it down!
Once again Colleen has written a great book!
December 15, 2017
**I voluntarily received an Advance Reader Copy of this book.**
I have a crush on this Caldwell brother. He is good looking and can cook. Perfect! His career has gotten him his dream of being on the cooking network. His dream girl has become his nightmare, as he has to battle it out, in the kitchen, against her! Sparks and knives will fly.
This is a definite must read for every romantic foodie out there.
I have a crush on this Caldwell brother. He is good looking and can cook. Perfect! His career has gotten him his dream of being on the cooking network. His dream girl has become his nightmare, as he has to battle it out, in the kitchen, against her! Sparks and knives will fly.
This is a definite must read for every romantic foodie out there.
December 28, 2017
Another amazing book from Colleen Charles, this 4th book in the Caldwell story tells the story of rival Vegas chefs Carter Caldwell and Pepper St Clare who are both ambitious and competitive, they may be different in the kitchen but oh boy does it get steamy in the bedroom. This is a beautiful love story of their courtship it’s fast pace will sweep you along for the ride. Superb book Colleen you keep getting better and better.
November 27, 2019
Fighting chefs romance
These two Las Vegas chefs are fighting over something really basic. One loves only fish dishes and the other loves only meat dishes. To further complicate things they have chemistry and don’t know how to keep from snipping at each other. Unbeknownst to them both the owner of one establishment is determined to ruin the other and they end up blaming each other for things neither did to the other. I love this series and could not put this book down.
These two Las Vegas chefs are fighting over something really basic. One loves only fish dishes and the other loves only meat dishes. To further complicate things they have chemistry and don’t know how to keep from snipping at each other. Unbeknownst to them both the owner of one establishment is determined to ruin the other and they end up blaming each other for things neither did to the other. I love this series and could not put this book down.
December 10, 2017
Carter Caldwell finally gets his story and who doesn't love a hot and sexy chef. Carter is trying to win his Food Network show but seems to have rival competition from Pepper St Claire, the beautiful chef who will do everything she can to beat the competition as well. Mixed with humor and hot steamy scenes these two can't help but let their world's collide. Great book Colleen!!!!
December 12, 2017
Another terrific, well written addition to the Caldwell Brothers series. A sassy heroine, a sexy hero, and some steamy head chef rivalry. This story has a lot of spunk and a fair bit of humour. Does stand alone but there's an intriguing and dastardly character who has an overarching plot line, so this series is really best read in order! Believe me, you'll be missing out if you don't!
December 13, 2017
Sparks fly when rival chef's Carter Caldwell and Pepper St. Clair (aka Raelynn Higginbottom) finally meet! Even though they seem to dislike everything about the other, their chemistry is off the charts...but will it be enough for these rival chefs to get their HEA. Great story and characters! Must read!
January 5, 2018
The best one yet!
The romance and the tension leaps off the page and causes the characters to burrow under your skin. Carter and Pepper have a lot to overcome as frenemies, but nothing brings people closer than a mutual enemy. Colleen Charles doesn’t disappoint, and neither do the Caldwell brothers.
The romance and the tension leaps off the page and causes the characters to burrow under your skin. Carter and Pepper have a lot to overcome as frenemies, but nothing brings people closer than a mutual enemy. Colleen Charles doesn’t disappoint, and neither do the Caldwell brothers.
December 11, 2017
Colleen Charles whips up a tasty treat about two competing chefs in Vegas. Will they get their just desserts? Or is it a recipe for disaster? Follow the antics of Carter Callahan, and Pepper St. Claire, as they fall in love. You’ll be glad you did!
December 28, 2017
Carter & Pepper had an incredible and fantastic rival to love story. The realistic plots and great character development is perfection as usual. I still love the strong female characters Colleen never fails to provide. A must read for sure.
December 28, 2017
There is humor in this story about two rival chefs Pepper and Carter. A touch of spice and plenty of love capture your attention and keep you reading. The rewards of love outweigh any heartache experienced. I received an advanced reader copy of this story and this is my honest review.
July 9, 2018
This is the fourth installment of the Caldwell brothers series and it doesn't disappoint. Carter and Pepper are just as explosive in the bedroom as in the kitchen. All the characters are well developed and real. Can't wait for the next book.
December 18, 2021
Tense moments and great charactization make this a good read.
A very different stealth a great plot make this a fun read. I enjoyed the interactions between the characters immensely.
A very different stealth a great plot make this a fun read. I enjoyed the interactions between the characters immensely.
December 10, 2017
Wow
Another wonderful story that pulls you in and keeps you reading. The Caldwell men are exciting and hotter than ever. I am so looking forward to reading the next book.
Another wonderful story that pulls you in and keeps you reading. The Caldwell men are exciting and hotter than ever. I am so looking forward to reading the next book.
December 11, 2017
Loved it!
Cooking competitions at their best! Can they turn their rivalries into something good?
Loved Pepper! Excellent read!
Cooking competitions at their best! Can they turn their rivalries into something good?
Loved Pepper! Excellent read!
January 1, 2018
Hot Sauce
Loved the development of the story between Pepper and Carter. Hot and sweet at the same time. Can’t wait to finish off Dante.....bring on the next book in this series.
Loved the development of the story between Pepper and Carter. Hot and sweet at the same time. Can’t wait to finish off Dante.....bring on the next book in this series.
June 16, 2018
Steamy
I think this is my favorite of the series so far. More cooking in the kitchen than just the food. Love it! #5 I'm anxious to read you!!
I think this is my favorite of the series so far. More cooking in the kitchen than just the food. Love it! #5 I'm anxious to read you!!
November 12, 2022
Oh this series just gets better and better. Absolutely loved Carter & Pepper’s story. Can’t wait to read the next book in this amazing series. Recommend to all
June 27, 2018
Can a pescatarian and a carnivore find a common ground?
Tempers flare between two high-class chefs with very different palates in this awesome novel. Pepper and Carter are both great chefs in their own right; she only cooks fish and he strictly cooks with red meats. When they meet it is instant fire crackers! Until they figure out who each other really is. You'll have to read the book to find out how/if they settle their differences. I loved these two and their supporting characters! Such a fun story and steamy romance! And as always watch out for flying lassos, exploding food, and that awful Dante.
Tempers flare between two high-class chefs with very different palates in this awesome novel. Pepper and Carter are both great chefs in their own right; she only cooks fish and he strictly cooks with red meats. When they meet it is instant fire crackers! Until they figure out who each other really is. You'll have to read the book to find out how/if they settle their differences. I loved these two and their supporting characters! Such a fun story and steamy romance! And as always watch out for flying lassos, exploding food, and that awful Dante.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews