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The Hackers #2
Love Hack
Security analyst Spencer Weiler is excited when he lands a job at Afire Industries. The responsibility is daunting, but nowhere near as exhilarating as working with Josie Johnson, the pretty program manager in charge. Spencer lusts after her, but knows that she only sees him as a work friend. He needs to make himself over if he’s going to have a shot with her.
Josie is all too aware of the cute computer geek watching over her. He was tempting before, but with his newfound muscles and sexy haircut, he’s suddenly an irresistible stud. She makes the first move and is stunned to learn that her hot IT guy is just as studious in the sack. Their affair turns hot and heavy, but Josie had broken her rule about dating coworkers once before. It hadn’t ended well. When her ex returns and posts scandalous pictures of her on the Internet, it’s not Spencer’s muscles that she needs. She needs a hacker.
Josie is all too aware of the cute computer geek watching over her. He was tempting before, but with his newfound muscles and sexy haircut, he’s suddenly an irresistible stud. She makes the first move and is stunned to learn that her hot IT guy is just as studious in the sack. Their affair turns hot and heavy, but Josie had broken her rule about dating coworkers once before. It hadn’t ended well. When her ex returns and posts scandalous pictures of her on the Internet, it’s not Spencer’s muscles that she needs. She needs a hacker.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
151 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 8, 2018
14 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Dean
49 books386 followersWhen taking the Myers-Briggs personality test in high school, Kimberly was rated as an INFJ (Introverted-Intuitive-Feeling-Judging). This result sent her into a panic, because there were no career paths recommended for the type. Fortunately, it turned out to be well-suited to a writing career. Since receiving that dismal outlook, Kimberly has become an award-winning author of romance and erotica. She has written for seven publishing houses, both domestic and international, and has recently focused her efforts on the exciting world of self-publishing. When not writing, she enjoys movies, sports, traveling, music, and sunshine. In her mind, a beach, some rock 'n' roll, and a good book make for a perfect day.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 18, 2018
2.5 - 3 Stars
Full Review on my blog
*a copy was provided by NetGalley*
I fully admit that I probably had way too high expectations for this book.
Love Hack follows Spencer, a computer geek / security analyst new to the company of Afire, and Josie, his new program manager that he must work with to re-enhance their company’s security protocol. There’s an undeniable attraction between Spencer and Josie that the both of them try to ignore. But when Josie’s ex comes roaring back into the picture with some terrible blackmail, Spencer is there to help her.
The characters could have had more depth and development, the good ones and the bad ones. I feel like I really didn’t know the characters at all and even the major villain was pretty lackluster. The plot could have also been a little less predictable and have a little more build up, whether it be in sexual situations or in the major plot points. There just could have been a little more of everything. I probably won’t find myself reaching for something else by this author any time soon.
Overall, Love Hack was a quick read with some quality steamy scenes. It was well written and engaging sometimes. It is a must read if you love geeky dorky hero or heroine.
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Full Review on my blog
*a copy was provided by NetGalley*
I fully admit that I probably had way too high expectations for this book.
Love Hack follows Spencer, a computer geek / security analyst new to the company of Afire, and Josie, his new program manager that he must work with to re-enhance their company’s security protocol. There’s an undeniable attraction between Spencer and Josie that the both of them try to ignore. But when Josie’s ex comes roaring back into the picture with some terrible blackmail, Spencer is there to help her.
The characters could have had more depth and development, the good ones and the bad ones. I feel like I really didn’t know the characters at all and even the major villain was pretty lackluster. The plot could have also been a little less predictable and have a little more build up, whether it be in sexual situations or in the major plot points. There just could have been a little more of everything. I probably won’t find myself reaching for something else by this author any time soon.
Overall, Love Hack was a quick read with some quality steamy scenes. It was well written and engaging sometimes. It is a must read if you love geeky dorky hero or heroine.
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March 10, 2018
Why did I read this book? Well the cover, obviously. It's not what you think though. For once I didn't pick a book because of the hot as heck couple on the cover. I saw the catch phrase, some firewalls are hotter than others and it made me laugh.
Truth be told, I have a thing for computer folk. I'm surrounded by them in real life, which means I rarely crave them in books. So this book was out of the ordinary for me.
This was a timely read as it dealt with the issue of intimate photos being posted online without permission. Unfortunately, a situation way too many people have found themselves in. I have to be honest in saying this is another situation where I based my rating on the plot not the whole package.
The characters seemed under developed in my opinion. It was unfortunate because I could feel so much bubbling just under the surface. This book also didn't offer much as far as deep emotional conversations. Again, it's unfortunate because I thought there were so many opportunities; even a couple conversations that seemed to have taken place off the page.
I understand the book is fiction, and I wasn't really expecting a lot of technical accuracy but my imagination has limits. Any hope I had of loving the book or even taking it seriously went out the window at the 45% point. We're expected asked to believe an elite cyber security company doesn't have automatically generated back ups of their security camera feed. It's comical in its absurdity.
Overall, Love Hack was a quick read with some quality steamy scenes. It was well written and engaging. I'd recommend for people who enjoy TV shows like CSI Cyber.
Hey everyone! This ebook was kindly provided by the author/publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Truth be told, I have a thing for computer folk. I'm surrounded by them in real life, which means I rarely crave them in books. So this book was out of the ordinary for me.
This was a timely read as it dealt with the issue of intimate photos being posted online without permission. Unfortunately, a situation way too many people have found themselves in. I have to be honest in saying this is another situation where I based my rating on the plot not the whole package.
The characters seemed under developed in my opinion. It was unfortunate because I could feel so much bubbling just under the surface. This book also didn't offer much as far as deep emotional conversations. Again, it's unfortunate because I thought there were so many opportunities; even a couple conversations that seemed to have taken place off the page.
I understand the book is fiction, and I wasn't really expecting a lot of technical accuracy but my imagination has limits. Any hope I had of loving the book or even taking it seriously went out the window at the 45% point. We're expected asked to believe an elite cyber security company doesn't have automatically generated back ups of their security camera feed. It's comical in its absurdity.
Overall, Love Hack was a quick read with some quality steamy scenes. It was well written and engaging. I'd recommend for people who enjoy TV shows like CSI Cyber.
Hey everyone! This ebook was kindly provided by the author/publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
March 10, 2018
I love my nerds and this was a cute story with a bit of suspense. Both main characters were nerdy but Spencer was adorable when he got completely tongue tied around Josie.
For a short story, you get to see Spencer’s character growth from the tongue tied geek to a more confident and dare I say Alpha persona. When Josie’s ex threatens her, Spencer becomes her protector.
Josie is a sweet woman. She’s the shy bombshell who doesn’t know she’s pretty. She’s avoiding her ex until he blackmails her which ends up giving the push to her and Spencer’s attraction to each other.
You don’t need to read the first book even though the characters are in this book as well. ARC provided by NetGalley.
For a short story, you get to see Spencer’s character growth from the tongue tied geek to a more confident and dare I say Alpha persona. When Josie’s ex threatens her, Spencer becomes her protector.
Josie is a sweet woman. She’s the shy bombshell who doesn’t know she’s pretty. She’s avoiding her ex until he blackmails her which ends up giving the push to her and Spencer’s attraction to each other.
You don’t need to read the first book even though the characters are in this book as well. ARC provided by NetGalley.
August 25, 2018
I received a copy from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Actual Rating: 3.5
This was an enjoyable read. The storyline was cute and short. I did think that the story could have been long. The writing style was good, but could have been better. I thought the characters were good. I thought Josie was funny and smart. I thought Spencer was sexy and smart. They had great chemistry together. I thought the ending could have been better. Overall, a great read.
Actual Rating: 3.5
This was an enjoyable read. The storyline was cute and short. I did think that the story could have been long. The writing style was good, but could have been better. I thought the characters were good. I thought Josie was funny and smart. I thought Spencer was sexy and smart. They had great chemistry together. I thought the ending could have been better. Overall, a great read.
March 10, 2018
Spenser Weiler is a security expert on software industry and the story begins when we shows up for his first day in Afire Industries. Luke McAllister is his new boss and he shows him around the building and introduces him to Josie Johnson the program manager with whom Spenser will work closely.
Spenser is the kind of geek with not so much social skills while Josie is the stunning beauty standing out. Spenser loses his words in front of her and when his boss Luke asks about his development plan, he will ask to help him work out on the gym. As Spenser starts building muscles, Josie will be receiving texts and threats by her ex-boyfriend, who will even end up publishing naked pictures of her on internet. Will Josie be able to handle the situation? How will things turn out between her and Spenser?
An interesting story about the software industry, though the author will touch only in the surface the subject of hacking. It is obvious that she did not do much of a search in the field. The story is quite fast-paced with enough hot scenes but in general not something special or unique. One of the things I missed in all the love scenes is that the author left completely out the topic of safe sex. The lovers are not using condoms, they do not even ask if both of them are clean or if the girl is on the pill. I would prefer to read stories conveying the rights messages to their readers.
Spenser is the kind of geek with not so much social skills while Josie is the stunning beauty standing out. Spenser loses his words in front of her and when his boss Luke asks about his development plan, he will ask to help him work out on the gym. As Spenser starts building muscles, Josie will be receiving texts and threats by her ex-boyfriend, who will even end up publishing naked pictures of her on internet. Will Josie be able to handle the situation? How will things turn out between her and Spenser?
An interesting story about the software industry, though the author will touch only in the surface the subject of hacking. It is obvious that she did not do much of a search in the field. The story is quite fast-paced with enough hot scenes but in general not something special or unique. One of the things I missed in all the love scenes is that the author left completely out the topic of safe sex. The lovers are not using condoms, they do not even ask if both of them are clean or if the girl is on the pill. I would prefer to read stories conveying the rights messages to their readers.
March 29, 2018
i lovvve it c;
March 11, 2018
I fully admit that I probably had way too high expectations for this book. I’ve previously worked in both network security and as a project manager, so when the blurb had characters with those careers, I practically broke my keyboard requesting it. Alas, there were no raunchy firewall jokes. This is the second book in the Hackers series (the first was Kylie and Luke’s relationship), but I read it as a standalone.
Spencer is the new security hire for Afire, and part of his job is working with Josie, the program manager for Start ‘er Up, Afire’s startup accelerator. While he doesn’t appear to be particularly socially inept with most people, when he first meets Josie, he can’t even get a word in English out – he greets her with “Hi-lo” (instead of “hello”) which becomes their own private joke. He’s completely bowled over by her at first sight, and while obviously he doesn’t make a great first impression with Josie, his expressive puppy-dog eyes and sweet goofiness soon have her thinking about him in a different light. I enjoyed that Spencer was the ugly duckling in this book, though after a few weeks of working out and a haircut, suddenly he’s beefcake material. Josie, on the other hand, prides herself on her organization and problem-solving skills, interfacing between the various startups at the accelerator, venture funds, and Afire itself. Cutely enough, Spencer loves the managerial way she handles things, and calls her “Strawberry” because of her red hair. While it’s obvious to everyone else that Josie is the essential piece in Start ‘er Up, she constantly feels the need to prove herself – Afire is a geeky company, and she isn’t a geek, and she’s a woman in tech, on top of that.
One of my main problems was that Spencer was a Big Bang Theory kind of geek. He’s a good guy, just completely socially awkward, especially around the woman he’s interested in. At one point, he talks about reverse-engineering his boss’s relationship to figure out how he, as a geek guy, can be in a relationship with a “normal girl.” It was initially charming and funny, but after a few jokes about hacking his relationship, it got a bit old. Some of the “geek jokes” were a bit too twee for me. For instance:
If you can’t tell – that was in the middle of a sex scene, and it was jarring enough that I put the book down for a while.
Overall, this was enjoyable, but hit somewhat short of the mark for me.
I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
“Pages in her day planner flipped this way and that. He didn’t know if she was truly looking for notes. He couldn’t make heads or tails of her system with all those Post-it flags, page separators, and various colors of ink. ‘What is that thing?’ he finally asked.
[…]
She turned to another page. ‘My day planner.’
It was like something out of the Jurassic period. ‘It’s paper.’
She shot him a sideways look of surprise that slowly narrowed. ‘I know. I write on it with this thing. It’s called a ‘pen.’”
Spencer is the new security hire for Afire, and part of his job is working with Josie, the program manager for Start ‘er Up, Afire’s startup accelerator. While he doesn’t appear to be particularly socially inept with most people, when he first meets Josie, he can’t even get a word in English out – he greets her with “Hi-lo” (instead of “hello”) which becomes their own private joke. He’s completely bowled over by her at first sight, and while obviously he doesn’t make a great first impression with Josie, his expressive puppy-dog eyes and sweet goofiness soon have her thinking about him in a different light. I enjoyed that Spencer was the ugly duckling in this book, though after a few weeks of working out and a haircut, suddenly he’s beefcake material. Josie, on the other hand, prides herself on her organization and problem-solving skills, interfacing between the various startups at the accelerator, venture funds, and Afire itself. Cutely enough, Spencer loves the managerial way she handles things, and calls her “Strawberry” because of her red hair. While it’s obvious to everyone else that Josie is the essential piece in Start ‘er Up, she constantly feels the need to prove herself – Afire is a geeky company, and she isn’t a geek, and she’s a woman in tech, on top of that.
“’I’m not so different from you, Spencer,’ she said in a quiet voice. ‘I’m geeky in my own way. I like structure and schedules. I work with people and form connections, but I’m about as far from a party girl as you can get.’”
One of my main problems was that Spencer was a Big Bang Theory kind of geek. He’s a good guy, just completely socially awkward, especially around the woman he’s interested in. At one point, he talks about reverse-engineering his boss’s relationship to figure out how he, as a geek guy, can be in a relationship with a “normal girl.” It was initially charming and funny, but after a few jokes about hacking his relationship, it got a bit old. Some of the “geek jokes” were a bit too twee for me. For instance:
“‘Oh God, Spencer.’ She clutched his muscled back. ‘You’re too good for me.’
For a moment, his hips stopped plunging. ‘You’re sweet, Strawberry, but I’m the one who’s leveling up.’”
If you can’t tell – that was in the middle of a sex scene, and it was jarring enough that I put the book down for a while.
Overall, this was enjoyable, but hit somewhat short of the mark for me.
I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
March 27, 2018
Actual Rating: 2.5 Stars
“Maybe rules weren’t one size fits all.”
Love Hack was provided to me by NetGalley for an honest review.
Sigh. I wasn’t expecting the moon and the stars when I picked up Love Hack by Kimberly Dean, but I wish I would have gotten something a little better.
Love Hack follows Spencer, a computer geek / security analyst new to the company of Afire, and Josie, his new program manager that he must work with to re-enhance their company’s security protocol. There’s an undeniable attraction between Spencer and Josie that the both of them try to ignore. But when Josie’s ex comes roaring back into the picture with some terrible blackmail, Spencer is there to help her.
I found Love Hack to be really shallow and have many a gratuitous moment. I didn’t relate to the characters, nor did I find myself caring for any of them, despite their somewhat troublesome situations. Some of the ideas and progressions of relationships and situations were unrealistic, and therefore, unsatisfying. I feel that these characters were just pawns created so that there could be a multitude of sex scenes thrown in willy-nilly. I’m particularly frustrated with the character “development” of Spencer. He started off as this nerdy, nervous computer geek who stumbled over his words at even just the sight of a woman. Yet, when he has sex with this woman, he does a complete 180, turning in to a completely different person. He still says that he is this “computer geek,” but his actions and his demeanor say otherwise. It’s as if having sex for him completely transformed who he was as a person, and I didn’t find that all too realistic. You can still have sex with a beautiful woman and still be this cute computer geek who stumbles over his words. He seemed split into two different characters all together and it was rather frustrating to work through.
I gave this story 2.5 stars mainly because I actually finished it and it wasn’t so terrible that I wanted to chuck it at a wall. There were just so many things that this author could have done better. The characters could have had more depth and development, the good ones and the bad ones. I feel like I really didn’t know the characters at all and even the major villain was pretty lackluster. The plot could have also been a little less predictable and have a little more build up, whether it be in sexual situations or in the major plot points. There just could have been a little more of everything. I probably won’t find myself reaching for something else by this author any time soon.
This review can also be found on my blog, https://riaoum.wordpress.com .
“Maybe rules weren’t one size fits all.”
Love Hack was provided to me by NetGalley for an honest review.
Sigh. I wasn’t expecting the moon and the stars when I picked up Love Hack by Kimberly Dean, but I wish I would have gotten something a little better.
Love Hack follows Spencer, a computer geek / security analyst new to the company of Afire, and Josie, his new program manager that he must work with to re-enhance their company’s security protocol. There’s an undeniable attraction between Spencer and Josie that the both of them try to ignore. But when Josie’s ex comes roaring back into the picture with some terrible blackmail, Spencer is there to help her.
I found Love Hack to be really shallow and have many a gratuitous moment. I didn’t relate to the characters, nor did I find myself caring for any of them, despite their somewhat troublesome situations. Some of the ideas and progressions of relationships and situations were unrealistic, and therefore, unsatisfying. I feel that these characters were just pawns created so that there could be a multitude of sex scenes thrown in willy-nilly. I’m particularly frustrated with the character “development” of Spencer. He started off as this nerdy, nervous computer geek who stumbled over his words at even just the sight of a woman. Yet, when he has sex with this woman, he does a complete 180, turning in to a completely different person. He still says that he is this “computer geek,” but his actions and his demeanor say otherwise. It’s as if having sex for him completely transformed who he was as a person, and I didn’t find that all too realistic. You can still have sex with a beautiful woman and still be this cute computer geek who stumbles over his words. He seemed split into two different characters all together and it was rather frustrating to work through.
I gave this story 2.5 stars mainly because I actually finished it and it wasn’t so terrible that I wanted to chuck it at a wall. There were just so many things that this author could have done better. The characters could have had more depth and development, the good ones and the bad ones. I feel like I really didn’t know the characters at all and even the major villain was pretty lackluster. The plot could have also been a little less predictable and have a little more build up, whether it be in sexual situations or in the major plot points. There just could have been a little more of everything. I probably won’t find myself reaching for something else by this author any time soon.
This review can also be found on my blog, https://riaoum.wordpress.com .
July 25, 2018
I thought this book was really good. I don't like mushy romance novels, I prefer when there's a bit more substance and mystery to them, and for me, this one fit the bill. This is the second book in a series, but it works just fine as a standalone novel.
This story is about Spencer, a new hire at the tech company Afire Industries, who is brought on to work as a security analyst after a recent hack to the company's systems. On his first day, he is introduced to program manager Josie, who he'll be working closely with. Unfortunately, Spencer is your typical tech geek with social skills that are somewhat lacking, and he has trouble functioning when he's around Josie, which I found quite endearing. Josie begins to have trouble with an ex posting photos of her online, and this is where Spencer is able to shine, working behind the scenes to thwart her ex's attempts at blackmail.
I enjoyed the storyline, it was suspenseful, and as a bit of a computer geek myself, I found it interesting. The book didn't go into too much detail about the hacking side of things, but I think that's okay because it's a complex topic, and just brushing over the surface reduces the possibility of factual mistakes that would annoy me and/or jar me out of the story. I didn't find the plot to be overly predictable, and it held my attention until the end. I thought the romance aspect of it was very good and...well, exciting.
There were a couple things that could have been better...I did find myself rolling my eyes a few times in the first few pages, but it improved greatly after that. Of course there were some details that weren't quite so believable, but it's a romance/erotic novel, not a guidebook or instruction manual, and the details were small enough for me to overlook. I'm normally very easily irritated by errors, so the fact that I'm able to overlook them is not something to scoff at.
This is the first book I've read by this author, and I am looking forward to reading more! Much thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this book.
This story is about Spencer, a new hire at the tech company Afire Industries, who is brought on to work as a security analyst after a recent hack to the company's systems. On his first day, he is introduced to program manager Josie, who he'll be working closely with. Unfortunately, Spencer is your typical tech geek with social skills that are somewhat lacking, and he has trouble functioning when he's around Josie, which I found quite endearing. Josie begins to have trouble with an ex posting photos of her online, and this is where Spencer is able to shine, working behind the scenes to thwart her ex's attempts at blackmail.
I enjoyed the storyline, it was suspenseful, and as a bit of a computer geek myself, I found it interesting. The book didn't go into too much detail about the hacking side of things, but I think that's okay because it's a complex topic, and just brushing over the surface reduces the possibility of factual mistakes that would annoy me and/or jar me out of the story. I didn't find the plot to be overly predictable, and it held my attention until the end. I thought the romance aspect of it was very good and...well, exciting.
There were a couple things that could have been better...I did find myself rolling my eyes a few times in the first few pages, but it improved greatly after that. Of course there were some details that weren't quite so believable, but it's a romance/erotic novel, not a guidebook or instruction manual, and the details were small enough for me to overlook. I'm normally very easily irritated by errors, so the fact that I'm able to overlook them is not something to scoff at.
This is the first book I've read by this author, and I am looking forward to reading more! Much thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this book.
April 25, 2018
So in this book we have Spencer, newly hired to Afire to help with security after a hack in the start up company portion of Afire. As soon as he meets Josie, who runs the start up, he's instantly smitten. In love, even. He's never seen anyone like her and he can't help but lose his cool around her. She has sworn off dating people she works with after her ex Nolan continues to harass her. That doesn't stop Spencer though, when he finds out some compromising photos of Josie are unleashed onto the Internet, he steps in to save the day... which jump starts their relationship.
I'm giving this one a solid 3.5 stars and I'm only knocking it down a bit because I hate that Spencer feels like he has to buff up for Josie. I'm appreciative that he did for description purposes, but I hate when people feel like they have to change who they are to impress someone else.. is that a good basis for a relationship? I don't think so. I did like the story line with the compromising photos and the ex, and I love how Spencer steps in to save the day (repeatedly). If I had to find another fault it would definitely be Josie and her damsel in distress, over-reacting, and unable to help herself for all of her logical thinking, it almost doesn't jive. Her pen collection? Love it and I'm secretly jealous.
Overall? It's a great little read, plenty of sexy action and a pretty solid little story to go along with it, minus the little things I didn't care for. Solid 3.5 star.
I'm giving this one a solid 3.5 stars and I'm only knocking it down a bit because I hate that Spencer feels like he has to buff up for Josie. I'm appreciative that he did for description purposes, but I hate when people feel like they have to change who they are to impress someone else.. is that a good basis for a relationship? I don't think so. I did like the story line with the compromising photos and the ex, and I love how Spencer steps in to save the day (repeatedly). If I had to find another fault it would definitely be Josie and her damsel in distress, over-reacting, and unable to help herself for all of her logical thinking, it almost doesn't jive. Her pen collection? Love it and I'm secretly jealous.
Overall? It's a great little read, plenty of sexy action and a pretty solid little story to go along with it, minus the little things I didn't care for. Solid 3.5 star.
April 10, 2018
A nerdy computer geek and a beautiful lady at a tech firm meet and get instantly hot for each other. . . of course. She’s got an annoying ex, and in what was probably an earlier entry in what feels like a series, there was a major computer intrusion that the company is still recovering from.
There’s some excellent writing here. During a scene where they’re making love by a fire, the paragraph about their shadows joining in was superb.
The plot was relatively simple, the ending obvious, but it doesn’t matter when the characters are both relatable and special, and the writing this much fun. . . at least that’s how I felt before the last twist, which was completely out of character and forced, just for the sake of. . . I don’t know why. It was the very textbook definition of anticlimactic. Perhaps there’s some blueprint, some book on writing these types of novels, that says they can’t live happily ever after just yet; there must be some other obstacle to overcome, after one or both act stupidly in some manner. That probably cost what was otherwise an excellent book a higher score.
Fun note: I think this author is a Judy Greer fan. First there’s the “Hi-Lo” line from The Big Bang Theory—which could also be an Evanescence/Lindsey Stirling shoutout—and then there’s the huge planner/organizer right out of 27 Dresses.
3.5 pushed up to 4/5
There’s some excellent writing here. During a scene where they’re making love by a fire, the paragraph about their shadows joining in was superb.
The plot was relatively simple, the ending obvious, but it doesn’t matter when the characters are both relatable and special, and the writing this much fun. . . at least that’s how I felt before the last twist, which was completely out of character and forced, just for the sake of. . . I don’t know why. It was the very textbook definition of anticlimactic. Perhaps there’s some blueprint, some book on writing these types of novels, that says they can’t live happily ever after just yet; there must be some other obstacle to overcome, after one or both act stupidly in some manner. That probably cost what was otherwise an excellent book a higher score.
Fun note: I think this author is a Judy Greer fan. First there’s the “Hi-Lo” line from The Big Bang Theory—which could also be an Evanescence/Lindsey Stirling shoutout—and then there’s the huge planner/organizer right out of 27 Dresses.
3.5 pushed up to 4/5
April 17, 2018
I had some high expectations for Love Hack since I married a guy who works in IT and I've been around "geeks" my whole life. While the story was interesting, the characters fell a little flat for me. I wanted a bit more from Spencer and the instant stud scenario didn't really help anything.
Josie is a pretty typical girl navigating a high stress work situation while trying to deal with an ex boyfriend who invaded her privacy in the worst way. Her bubbly personality comes through as her attraction to the geek guy grows.
Spencer was a little far fetched for me. He was described as going from a lanky geek guy to a hot stud with abs after a few weeks of working out. He discusses "studying" for sex and is apparently really great at it. There was even a comment about "leveling up" while in the act. It was all a little.... meh for me. Geeks are normal people, with normal hang ups. Inserting some slang terms and stereotypes doesn't really create a great character for me. I wanted more from him.
That being said, I did enjoy this little novel. It's fun and flirty and of course a bit suspenseful too. An interesting take on the perks of knowing IT security and how that can be advantageous when dealing with people posting things about you on the internet that may not be flattering.
I would recommend this to readers who enjoy a good romance book with a bit of suspense.
Josie is a pretty typical girl navigating a high stress work situation while trying to deal with an ex boyfriend who invaded her privacy in the worst way. Her bubbly personality comes through as her attraction to the geek guy grows.
Spencer was a little far fetched for me. He was described as going from a lanky geek guy to a hot stud with abs after a few weeks of working out. He discusses "studying" for sex and is apparently really great at it. There was even a comment about "leveling up" while in the act. It was all a little.... meh for me. Geeks are normal people, with normal hang ups. Inserting some slang terms and stereotypes doesn't really create a great character for me. I wanted more from him.
That being said, I did enjoy this little novel. It's fun and flirty and of course a bit suspenseful too. An interesting take on the perks of knowing IT security and how that can be advantageous when dealing with people posting things about you on the internet that may not be flattering.
I would recommend this to readers who enjoy a good romance book with a bit of suspense.
March 16, 2018
This is an honest review for a book provided by Netgalley! I love this book, this is not my first Kimberly Dean but it had been a while, so I was delighted to read her again.
Onto the story, this is the story of Josie and Spencer, they both work at Afire Industry, a online security company. Josie is an organizational manager, and Spencer is their new security expert, Spark fly the minute Spencer met Josie, in fact, he became so tongue tied he was barely making sense. Sensing he had no chance with her and seeing her eyeing more muscular guy, Spencer decide to brave the one place self-respecting geek would be caught dead in: the office gym. His efforts were rewarded when after doing her a particularly huge favor, she plant one on him. And Spencer being a geek not a moron, carpe diem and run with the ball with all it was worth.
It was a sweet story, as I love geek hero and heroine, and Spencer awkwardness was chuckle ready at the next corner. It is a must read if you love geeky dorky hero or heroine.
Onto the story, this is the story of Josie and Spencer, they both work at Afire Industry, a online security company. Josie is an organizational manager, and Spencer is their new security expert, Spark fly the minute Spencer met Josie, in fact, he became so tongue tied he was barely making sense. Sensing he had no chance with her and seeing her eyeing more muscular guy, Spencer decide to brave the one place self-respecting geek would be caught dead in: the office gym. His efforts were rewarded when after doing her a particularly huge favor, she plant one on him. And Spencer being a geek not a moron, carpe diem and run with the ball with all it was worth.
It was a sweet story, as I love geek hero and heroine, and Spencer awkwardness was chuckle ready at the next corner. It is a must read if you love geeky dorky hero or heroine.
March 26, 2018
I got this book for free to write my honest opinion about it. If you are looking for an easy going, romance filled story line with some erotic scenes on the side, this is the book for you! Not like your average erotic story, this book doesn't have a dashing male character who all the girls fall in love with; he's a computer geek. A breath of fresh air in my opinion. With a pathetic and unwanted ex comes into the scene, the book really starts to shine and the characters come alive. I would recommend this is anyone who needs an easy and amazing romance book to just relax to and enjoy. Amazing :) #LoveHack #NetGalley
April 26, 2018
* I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own *
This is the story of nerdie geek Spenser Weiler, a security expert who starts his first day in Afire Industries where the hack started in their start up company. He is teamed up with Josie Johnson the program manager for the start up. He is instantly attracted to Josie, but being the nerd his social skills aren’t much until he finds out that Josie is receiving threatening texts from her old boyfriend.
Spenser instantly becomes the protector and starts building up muscles at the gym.
This was a great story by Kimberly Dean and look forward to the next instalment.
This is the story of nerdie geek Spenser Weiler, a security expert who starts his first day in Afire Industries where the hack started in their start up company. He is teamed up with Josie Johnson the program manager for the start up. He is instantly attracted to Josie, but being the nerd his social skills aren’t much until he finds out that Josie is receiving threatening texts from her old boyfriend.
Spenser instantly becomes the protector and starts building up muscles at the gym.
This was a great story by Kimberly Dean and look forward to the next instalment.
March 6, 2018
Fun, sexy and oh so smart.
This is the first book I've read by Kimberly Dean and I'm so glad I picked it up.
Josie and Spencer were such a fun couple. I absolutely loved Spencer and all his geekiness, his buffing up just added to his hotness. The underlying "suspense" portion really held my attention and made the plot move quickly. While there were some glitches on their way to HEA so glad Josie and Spencer got there.
I received an advance reader copy from Netgalley.
This is the first book I've read by Kimberly Dean and I'm so glad I picked it up.
Josie and Spencer were such a fun couple. I absolutely loved Spencer and all his geekiness, his buffing up just added to his hotness. The underlying "suspense" portion really held my attention and made the plot move quickly. While there were some glitches on their way to HEA so glad Josie and Spencer got there.
I received an advance reader copy from Netgalley.
March 18, 2018
This is an honest review for a book provided by Netgalley! I really liked this book, this is my first Kimberly Dean and I would for sure read her again.
This the the second in a series but I never felt lost or that I was being "caught up" on previous info. I loved the tech terms and humor that did go so far into the tech world that it went over my head. I enjoyed the puppy to guard dog transformation as well.
Thanks for the read! Will be looking forward to more!
This the the second in a series but I never felt lost or that I was being "caught up" on previous info. I loved the tech terms and humor that did go so far into the tech world that it went over my head. I enjoyed the puppy to guard dog transformation as well.
Thanks for the read! Will be looking forward to more!
April 5, 2018
This is the first book I've read by Kimberly Dean and I'm so glad I did as this book is, well for me, didn't seem to be the normal hot and heavy sexy man romance, so to speak. This is one of those book that is better read to understand what I'm talking about. But these two characters are so lovable! Highly recommended!
August 24, 2018
This was a really cute little read I am a sucker for a good nerdy romance. I just loved Spencer and Josie I just loved how nervous and tongue-tied he got around her it was really sweet what I liked best was watching him come into his own and the way he was with her she really had no idea just how beautiful she was. When she was in trouble he was really protective of her this was a good read
April 18, 2021
Although I liked the book, I wasn't as overwhelmed as I was by the first book in the series. I can't put a finger on why other than the interactions between the protagonists seemed a little forced and childish rather than loving.
July 19, 2025
ᴛʜᴇ ᴇᴀꜱᴇ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ꜱᴏꜰᴛᴡᴀʀᴇ ɪꜱ ɢʀᴇᴀᴛ. ɪᴛ ʜᴇʟᴘꜱ ᴍᴇ ᴛʀᴀᴄᴋ ᴀʟʟ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ʜɪꜱᴛᴏʀʏ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴠᴀʀɪᴏᴜꜱ ꜱᴏᴄɪᴀʟ ᴍᴇᴅɪᴀ ᴀᴘᴘ, ᴘʜᴏᴛᴏꜱ& ᴠɪᴅᴇᴏꜱ, ɢᴘꜱ
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ᴛʜᴀɴᴋꜱ ᴛᴏ ᴊʙᴇᴇ ꜱᴘʏ ᴛᴇᴀᴍ ᴏɴ ɪɴꜱᴛᴀɢʀᴀᴍ ɪ ʀᴇᴄᴏᴍᴍᴇɴᴅ ꜰᴏʀ ɢᴏᴏᴅ ꜱᴇʀᴠɪᴄᴇ ꜱᴇɴᴅ ᴍᴇꜱꜱᴀɢᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇᴍ ᴏɴ ᴛᴇʟᴇɢʀᴀᴍ +44 7456 058620 ᴀʟꜱᴏ ᴏɴ ᴇᴍᴀɪʟ> ꜱᴄᴏɴʟᴇʏᴊʙᴇᴇꜱᴘʏ606@ɢᴍᴀɪʟ.ᴄᴏᴍ
December 24, 2018
This was a cute quick read.
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