Down & Dirty #1

Down & Dirty #1

by J.H. Croix, Ali Parker

Dive into a whole new world of deception, love and family with Shameless Southern Nights, a new contemporary romance series from USA Today Bestselling Authors J.H. Croix & Ali Parker

A small town can hide many secrets. It can also expose every secret you have.

I’ve spent almost my entire life in Cypress Creek. My family was once a pillar of the community, but times have changed – for the worse.

One look at Marie Nix, and I’m determined to have her. She’s everything I want and then some. She may be too pure for me, but I can’t help myself.

Unfortunately, like me and our small town, she has skeletons in her closet. Her past isn’t staying in the shadows.

Regardless of the things she’s done, once I have a taste of life with her, all I want is more.

Even if it puts me face to face with the threats surrounding her, I’ll do whatever I have to in order to make her mine.

This is Book 1 of the Down & Dirty trilogy. You will have to purchase book 2 and 3 to continue the saga. The next trilogy, Slow and Steady will tell the story of Sonny, one of the other brothers.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Amazon, Suspense, Romantic Suspense, Mystery Thriller

216 pages, ebook

First published April 5, 2018

About the author

USA Today Bestselling Author J. H. Croix lives in a small town in the historical farmlands of Maine with her husband and two spoiled dogs. Croix writes steamy contemporary romance with strong independent women and rugged alpha men who aren't afraid to show some emotion. Her love for quirky small-towns and the characters that inhabit them shines through in her writing. Take a walk on the wild side of romance with her bestselling novels!


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Reviews

[Paula (In & Out) · Rating 1 out of 5]

The story in itself was nicely written, but for me, I have no patience, interest or the willingness to shelve out money for each read (3) when the author could have put it into 1 book. I absolutely HATE when authors & publishers do this! It's a rip off to shelve out our hard earned money. Even if I got it for free, I will pass because with me, I have no interest to wait around for weeks & months for the next one to come out. By then, I lost interest... So each to their own.....

[Coco.V]

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Blurb:
Dive into small town secrets in this brand new steamy contemporary romance series from USA Today Bestselling Authors J.H. Croix & Ali Parker!

A small town can hide many secrets. It can also expose every secret you have.

I’ve spent almost my entire life in Cypress Creek, my family once a pillar of the community. Oh, how times have changed.

One look at Marie Nix, and I’m determined to have her. She’s everything I want and then some. She may be too pure for me, but I can’t stay away.

Unfortunately, like me and our small town, she has skeletons in her closet. Her past isn’t staying in the shadows.

Once I have a taste, all I want is more. She’s more than I bargained for, but I can’t stay away.

Even if it puts me face to face with the threats nipping at her heels, I’ll do whatever I must to have her, to make her mine.

*This is Book 1 of the Down & Dirty trilogy.

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

So I kinda did it backwards I read 4-6 before I read 1-3 so I already know that Jeremy and Marie are going to end up together and part of the outcome. Again I love Marie and that is most of the reason that I actually decided to read it. I wanted to get more of Marie. I love hearing more about Marie's story and about her background with her ex. and Like the other series, cliffhanger of course

[María · Rating 3 out of 5]

Una interesante premisa. Lastima que termina en un gancho: Marie decidió por fin enfrentar a su tóxico ex novio para evitar que él siga arruinando su vida y la de su hijo. El miedo de Austin me partió el corazón. Me pregunto qué hará Jeremy para ayudarla.
Sí bien el enamoran es súper rápido, me parecieron muy tiernas las escenas de los tres juntos.

[Ana Rita · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I saw that an author, that I've been following for a while now, as a new series the only thought that crossed my mind was that I had to read it. No matter what, I had to read it so here I am.
I've been reading J. H. Croix books for a while and seeing that she was cowriting with another well known author was an amazing surprise. But I didn't knew any work from Ali Parker but I had heard wonders about her so I needed to see for myself.
Their writing complete each other, the feelings behing each scene are so intense that I felt suck into it and couldn't get away. You must take a chance with these two to see for yourself.
Down and Dirty #1 is the first book from this series and if this is just the beginning I can't even imagine what's about to happen...
This book explores the lifes of Jeremy and Marie.
Jeremy loved football and was very good at it back in highschool but an injury ended his dreams. Now he works in a contractor company, and just wants to be left alone. He's into one night stands without attachments. Just plain desire and sex...
Marie returned to Cypress Creek with her son to escape her abusive husband. She's tired of being abused and she just wants to raise her son in peace. One invite to dinner made her think...
And I'm done. I can't say more... I want to but I can't.
Do you know that feeling of wanting to read but the book was over??? I'm so freaking mad... I want more...
The plot is amazing, very well written, super engaging and intense. The story is surrounded by a cloud of madness, abuse that scared me but the love was so strong that pushed the cloud away... But it's still lurking...
I'm overwhelmed with curiosity to know what's about to happen...
J. H. and Ali... Oh girls... You nailed it... This series started perfectly and I'm dying to get the next book...
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

Merged review:

When I saw that an author, that I've been following for a while now, as a new series the only thought that crossed my mind was that I had to read it. No matter what, I had to read it so here I am.
I've been reading J. H. Croix books for a while and seeing that she was cowriting with another well known author was an amazing surprise. But I didn't knew any work from Ali Parker but I had heard wonders about her so I needed to see for myself.
Their writing complete each other, the feelings behing each scene are so intense that I felt suck into it and couldn't get away. You must take a chance with these two to see for yourself.
Down and Dirty #1 is the first book from this series and if this is just the beginning I can't even imagine what's about to happen...
This book explores the lifes of Jeremy and Marie.
Jeremy loved football and was very good at it back in highschool but an injury ended his dreams. Now he works in a contractor company, and just wants to be left alone. He's into one night stands without attachments. Just plain desire and sex...
Marie returned to Cypress Creek with her son to escape her abusive husband. She's tired of being abused and she just wants to raise her son in peace. One invite to dinner made her think...
And I'm done. I can't say more... I want to but I can't.
Do you know that feeling of wanting to read but the book was over??? I'm so freaking mad... I want more...
The plot is amazing, very well written, super engaging and intense. The story is surrounded by a cloud of madness, abuse that scared me but the love was so strong that pushed the cloud away... But it's still lurking...
I'm overwhelmed with curiosity to know what's about to happen...
J. H. and Ali... Oh girls... You nailed it... This series started perfectly and I'm dying to get the next book...
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Julianne Macneil · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book as part of an arc program. This is the first book in the Down & Dirty trilogy featuring Jeremy and Marie. Marie moves back to Cypress Creek from Savannah to escape an abusive relationship with her son Austin. Marie's ex Wesley stalked her and threatened her with violence. Wesley didn't care about Austin and only used him to hurt Marie. When Marie returned to Cypress Creek, she starts work in a hair salon and her and Austin settle into life nicely with Wesley. Jeremy is one of five brothers in Cypress Creek and each brother is very successful in their own way. Jeremy was a local football star in high school until an injury ended his career, he now works at a busy contractor company and keeps to himself. He is a bit of a playboy and doesn't have long relationships. Jeremy's father was a local politician who was very popular until his wife died and he fell from grace. He was now in prison for accepting bribes among other crimes. Jeremy was the only son who visited their father now. Jeremy was set to begin a renovation project at the salon and he is instantly attracted to Marie. When Jeremy asks Marie out to dinner, she refuses. A few days later, Marie tells Jeremy if the offer still stands, she will go out with him. They have a great dinner, and she goes back to Jeremy's house for the night, knowing Jeremy doesn't want children, Marie wants one night before ending things. Only when Jeremy learns Marie has a son, he still wants to see her. Jeremy and Marie start a relationship until Wesley finds her and threatens Jeremy if she doesn't stop seeing him. Marie is scared of Wesley and what he will do. Jeremy notices someone following him, but he doesn't know if it Wesley or related to his father's crime. Jeremy vows to protect Marie and Austin, regardless if he is still dating her. The closer Jeremy and Marie get, the more things try to tear them apart. I love this book and really can't wait to read the read of this series.

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to know more. It is definitely a cliff-hanger ending that leaves you asking all kinds of questions, but there’s enough here to whet my appetite for the rest of the story. It’s not quite a second-chance romance, but it has a little bit of that feeling with Marie returning to her home town bringing a very obvious complication with her. So far, I adore Jeremy. He seems to have a bit of the strong, silent type going for him, and that works for me. I’m not sure what to make of the chemistry between Jeremy and Marie yet. It’s instant and incendiary, but I kind of like watching the chemistry between him and her son Austin more. I’m intrigued by the layered mysteries here and I’m looking forward to the next book.

[Laila Viking · Rating 4 out of 5]

First part of a trilogy. Well written captivating story with nice storyline and plot. Unexpected twists and turns. Characters well described and develops nicely through the story.
I like it is written in dual POV, which gives the reader both the thoughts and feelings of the main characters. That makes the story even more emotional and captivating. The twists and turns are so unexpected that they made it worth the read. A story that is an emotional rollercoaster. It is of a nice length. But I hate the cliffhanger and that I have to wait for the next part.

I liked that about it that has a different approach. The story has drama, unexpected twists, love, secrets, trust and emotional ups and downs.
Lots of steamy chemistry and passion between the main characters.

[Rita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good story, although it took a long time to get to the steamy bit. But it was well worth the wait. 5 year old Austin was also a really cute and lovable character throughout. Looking forward to reading the following story as this does end on a cliff hanger.

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fast, easy read.

[Bibliophile at large · Rating 1 out of 5]

slow pacing

[Aynat · Rating 1 out of 5]

Like every other book. Predictable

I would like to read something not so predictable and boring. Maybe I should switch to a different genre because recently I’m not impressed.

[Merry Jelks-Emmanuel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story draws focus to domestic physical abuse and its effect of the individuals involved. In Maries case she chose to remove her and her son from the situation. She moves back to her hometown and reconnect with friends. Jeremy is attracted to Marie, but he is handling family problems of his own. As these two get acquainted there is an undeniable chemistry between them, but Marie's ex isn't finished just yet! I voluntarily agreed to receive an ARC of this story for an honest review.

[Inga · Rating 1 out of 5]

It was boring and to much inner dialogue.
Nothing happened and then there was 42 pages of the next book.
If the book was better written and the useless pages of the second book I’m sure it could have been done in 1 book.
It wasn’t interesting at all to start the second book.
What a waste of time this was.
Apparently I missed the suspense, romance, contemporary, mystery and the end.
Nothing happened

[Janice · Rating 3 out of 5]

Jeremy is one of five brothers — whose father is in prison. Jeremy is pretty jaded and rather a curmudgeon — until he meets Marie. Marie’s son Anthony is the highlight to the story. I felt the story got too bogged down in the stalking — but nothing really happened. And then the end is very anticlimactic.

[Debra Johnson]

Purch Amazon April 28, 2018

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really really enjoyed the first like 3/4s of this book. But unfortunately it was too long for what it was trying to do.

[JJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roy Lovett, widowed father to five boys and former Governor finds himself in prison...how and why is a mystery. When his son Jeremy visits him, Roy warns him "people are going to come after you, after all of you." No explanation follows, just a warning. That is when the reader realizes sinister events are in the works.

Marie Ann Nix had problems too. She and her young son Austin are in danger, it is just a matter of time before Wesley makes his move. She knew she had to leave, get away from him before it was too late. He was violent and abusive and he had been watching them. Her first priority was to keep her son safe and the only way she could do that was to leave Savannah as quickly as possible. She almost made it but then she spotted him and called for help. Next stop Cypress Creek, a place of hope and possibilities and a new start. It was home and she and her son need friends and stability right now.

This is a very engaging story filled with a variety of strong characters and some who live on the darker side. I found myself holding my breath more than once. In addition to the suspense, there is an introduction to a romantic encounter that provides a little exhale. All in all, if you like a healthy mix of emotions, some serious mystery and a young man you will want to hug, then this just might be in the right place for the perfect answer to an evening escape but be forewarned, there is a serious cliffhanger at the end of this novel. The good news is there are two more books in the series with a guaranteed HEA in book three. And let me just say this, it will be well worth it if the next two are as good as this one.

Personally, my reader copy was smoking by the time I got to the end and now I am anxiously awaiting the next two books. I am hooked --- it's just that good : ) It would seem the partnering of J.H. Croix and Ali Parker was an excellent idea - they have earned 5 stars for this collaboration.

Merged review:

Roy Lovett, widowed father to five boys and former Governor finds himself in prison...how and why is a mystery. When his son Jeremy visits him, Roy warns him "people are going to come after you, after all of you." No explanation follows, just a warning. That is when the reader realizes sinister events are in the works.

Marie Ann Nix had problems too. She and her young son Austin are in danger, it is just a matter of time before Wesley makes his move. She knew she had to leave, get away from him before it was too late. He was violent and abusive and he had been watching them. Her first priority was to keep her son safe and the only way she could do that was to leave Savannah as quickly as possible. She almost made it but then she spotted him and called for help. Next stop Cypress Creek, a place of hope and possibilities and a new start. It was home and she and her son need friends and stability right now.

This is a very engaging story filled with a variety of strong characters and some who live on the darker side. I found myself holding my breath more than once. In addition to the suspense, there is an introduction to a romantic encounter that provides a little exhale. All in all, if you like a healthy mix of emotions, some serious mystery and a young man who will grab your heart, then this just might be the right place for the perfect answer to an evening escape but be forewarned, there is a serious cliffhanger at the end of this novel. The good news is there are two more books in the series with a guaranteed HEA in book three. And let me just say this, it will be well worth it if the next two are as good as this one.

Personally, my reader copy was smoking by the time I got to the end and now I am anxiously awaiting the next two books. I am hooked --- it's just that good : ) It would seem the partnering of J.H. Croix and Ali Parker was an excellent idea - they have earned 5 stars for this collaboration.

[Lara · Rating 3 out of 5]

My review will be for the full 3 parts, since it's hard to review parts within a serial on their own.

I enjoyed it, but I did have some frustrations with the story that kept it from being a full 4 stars, and instead it's 3+ for me.

First of all, I had a complaint about my Kindle copy. The free copy I downloaded was supposed to be 1-3 of Down and Dirty, all in one volume. Then I get to the end of the first part, and nothing more! Just the cliffhanger! And no way to download parts 2 and 3, because they're just being offered as the bundle. Was REALLY frustrating. It did, however, get worked out. Had to update, re-download, etc. and then I had the full copy on my Kindle. SO, be warned, I guess, and learn from my frustration. Maybe you just need to re-log in and re-download everything.

On to the review...

Pretty standard premise. Shy younger girl meets older high school BMOC (former HS football star) as adults, and he falls head over heels. She's falls too, as he's a former crush. She's running from an abusive past, and he's there to save the day. All pretty according to formula.

I didn't dislike the characters. I actually think Jeremy's pretty sweet, and I like Marie, though she wasn't necessarily my favorite h. I felt like she stressed a bit unnecessarily and tended to overreact a little. I mean, she'll call the cops in Savannah, but not in Cypress Creek, when (1) Jeremy actually gets threatened, and (2) Jeremy's brother is actually on the police force. Isn't that EXACTLY the sort of situation where you can go to the cops and get action take? Instead, she dumps Jeremy and tries to withdraw from everyone. They have a good amount of chemistry together too. And her son isn't a horribly sweet or unnatural kid, nor an obvious plot device for bringing the leads together - yay! There's a lot of plot threads that aren't resolved through the three parts of the story, but they lay the groundwork for the rest of the brothers' stories, I suppose (can totally see the oldest brother falling for the family lawyer).

The writing is pretty well done. I've enjoyed a lot of Croix's books (love her Brit Boys series), though I haven't read any of Ali Parker's yet.

What bothered me most was the trilogy aspect of it. Well, not trilogy, but story in three parts (none stand on their own). It seems unnecessary. There were a lot of sections that could have been trimmed down to fit the story into a single volume. As it was originally published, the story is designed to draw readers in with a free first part, and then have them pay for each subsequent section separately. It's a racket, honestly, especially if there had been a little of the angst trimmed down, a sex scene or two less, and the whole story would have comfortably in one volume. I'd much rather pay for a single volume, than get a free first third of the story and have to pay $3-5 for each of the next two thirds in order to finish the story. It's exactly why I haven't read any of Ali Parker's works yet, actually - she (or her publisher) seems to prefer this format.

Published all in one volume, though, this was less irritating. It did however, mean there was a bit of repetition at the start of sections 2 and 3, and there were scenes that felt a bit more like filler to stretch it into 3 volumes.

In short, a bit overlong to stretch it into 3 volumes-worth. Pretty formulaic set-up and storyline. Likeable characters, though, and pretty easy reading. No cheating. If you get it in a single volume, Jeremy and Marie's story is a HEA. But if it's just part 1, then yes, definitely a cliffhanger.

[Peggy Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book and I want to read all of her books. A love story a mistake made by her that gave her her son but a nightmare of a ex. I want them both but first we need to fight him in court. I am not without my own dirt and some one me to pay for my dads mistakes. But I have to many things to fight for now and I am not my dad.

[Amelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is lots of sexual tension in the first Shameless Southern Nights book, and each scene in the story is convincing because of such genuine emotions. I was immediately drawn into the lives of two people whose past history could have made them bitter individuals, but both have persevered and not given up. J.H. Croix and Ali Parker have written a story filled with very realistic situations and a truly wonderful cast of main plus secondary characters, and every moment in DOWN & DIRTY #1 captured my full attention.

When a shocking incident has the residents of Cypress Creek, Georgia still talking about a local family for years afterward, Jeremy Lovett has learned to ignore the gossip and keeps to himself. He works for a construction company, and things are going well despite what some folks might think about him and his four brothers. His latest project is doing improvements at a hair salon, and it is there that Jeremy meets the new employee.

Life was not going great for Marie Nix, so she decided to come back to her hometown and get a new start. Though dating was not something she planned to do anytime soon, coming in contact with Jeremy on her first day at the salon certainly makes her fantasize. But each has issues that make not being in a relationship seem for the best, yet discovering if the desire between them is real might be worth the risk.

If a storyline can make me care for the characters like I did Jeremy and Marie, then it proves J.H. Croix and Ali Parker have created an outstanding book. Much background is revealed about this particularly appealing couple, and the details had me feeling empathy for what each has suffered. Both Jeremy and Marie are passionate people, and this made several scenes very sensual. Their natures are exposed through how they behave, and I certainly liked what they showed me. I am definitely eager to see how possible scenarios play out in the next book.

I voluntarily wrote a review after receiving a copy of the book via Booksprout

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a way to start a series, I couldn't put the book down. Jeremy and Marie grew up in the same small town but not knowing each other. He has stayed there with his family and now deals with the whispers behind their backs from his father now being in prison. Marie moved away and during this time she now has a 5 year old son and an ex who is very abusive and stalks her. Marie has decided to move back home with her son and get away from her ex Wesley. When her and Jeremy meet for the first time the chemistry between these two is sizzling. They end up going on a few dates and the three of them spend time together, that is until Marie gets a note from her ex. Not only was he at the daycare trying to get Austin out of school, she now finds a note on her car threatening any man who she gets involved with. You really have to read the book to really understand how good the story really is. This is book 1 of the series, so be prepared it doesn't end with one book. It's a must read.

Merged review:

What a way to start a series, I couldn't put the book down. Jeremy and Marie grew up in the same small town but not knowing each other. He has stayed there with his family and now deals with the whispers behind their backs from his father now being in prison. Marie moved away and during this time she now has a 5 year old son and an ex who is very abusive and stalks her. Marie has decided to move back home with her son and get away from her ex Wesley. When her and Jeremy meet for the first time the chemistry between these two is sizzling. They end up going on a few dates and the three of them spend time together, that is until Marie gets a note from her ex. Not only was he at the daycare trying to get Austin out of school, she now finds a note on her car threatening any man who she gets involved with. You really have to read the book to really understand how good the story really is. This is book 1 of the series, so be prepared it doesn't end with one book. It's a must read.

[Teresa Christianson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love J.H. Croix books and have really liked the few books I read by Ali Parker but together they are awesome.

This book definitely has a cliffhanger. It is about Marie who is trying to get away from her abusive, stalking ex boyfriend to have a better life for herself and her son, Austin. She finally get the courage to move back to her hometown and for a couple weeks they feel safe. Then she meets Jeremy who was once a big football star in high school and college until he blew out his shoulder and couldn't play anymore. His family was also rich and important until his mom died and his dad turned to political criminal.Marie is starting to have hope that she could have a normal family life until she realizes that her ex has found her and is threatening Jeremy. She tells Jeremy that they can't see each other anymore but no reason. Then she finds that her ex tried to get Austin from daycare and now is scared of what he will do and Austin picks up on this and is stressed too. Will Jeremy walk away because she tells him to? Will Marie tell anyone what is really going on or will she shoulder it all on her own like she always did?

Merged review:

I received an advanced copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Love J.H. Croix books and have really liked the few books I read by Ali Parker but together they are awesome.
This book definitely has a cliffhanger. It is about Marie who is trying to get away from her abusive, stalking ex boyfriend to have a better life for herself and her son, Austin. She finally get the courage to move back to her hometown and for a couple weeks they feel safe. Then she meets Jeremy and the she has hope that she could have a normal family life until she realizes that her ex has found her and is threatening Jeremy. Will Jeremy walk away because she tells him to?

[Diane W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Down & Dirty Book 1 , Shameless Southern Nights book by Ali Parker

What a way to start a trilogy than to writer characters with so much lust for each other that the other two books should combust and catch fire. Marie and Jeremy did not run around in the same circle in high school but Marie Nix certainly knew who Jeremy Lovett the football star was and she was lustful for him then. Marie had left her ex Wesley and has come back to Cypress Creek to start her life over where people who knew her could help her and help her 5 year-old son begin anew. Friends helped with the new apartment, Austin got enrolled in the new daycare and Marie got a job in the town hair salon. That is where Jeremy first looked at Marie while he was there on a renovation to the hair salon. He knew Marie looked familiar but he had really no idea who she was but that would not stop him from finding out – you know how small towns go – everyone know your business or the latest gossip. Needless to say one thing leads to another and Marie and Jeremy go out on a date. Over dinner the chemistry is heated to all out explosion and they spend time together at Jeremy's place for a torrid night escaped. All is not calm for the ex Wesley shows up throws a monkey wrench into the lovers happiness.
I have to wait for the next installment to this series but it is so worthwhile- wonder what will happen and to think there are four other brothers makes me salivate. Thank you J. H Croix and Ali Parker team.

Diane W

[Mom's Guilty Pleasure · Rating 4 out of 5]

Down & Dirty #1 A Shameless Southern Nights Novel by J.H. Croix Ali Parker
4 Stars


“If there was one thing I’d learned in this mess, it was people could surprise you. Good people could do bad things, and bad people could do good things. Humans were the opposite of one-dimensional.”

I have always loved small town stories. Maybe because I never grew up in one I find them fascinating. I knew going into this read it was a cliffhanger, but by the time I flipped the last page I had forgotten...I can’t wait to get started on book 2.

“This is your new start in an old place.”

This book had me feeling so many things. As a parent I could understand doing anything to protect your child, give them a sense of security and sacrifice my own hopes and fantasies to ensure theirs. I also could understand wanting to have security, friendship and romance for myself. Just wanting to put all your fears, sacrifices and responsibilities aside for a night of fun.


“The future held many paths, but a fairytale wasn’t one of them.”

Just when you think you can put your guard down and think things are turning around for you...your past may come back and rear its ugly head...do you trust your new friendships and let them in on your secrets...will you be putting them at risk...is it time to start over again...I can’t wait to find out the answers to these questions in book two.

[MJM · Rating 5 out of 5]

A New Start

This is a passionate, suspenseful action packed story that is quite unique and beautifully composed by J.H. Croix and Ali Parker. These two powerful authors have teamed together to give us this wonderful book based around the inhabitants of Cypress Creek and , in particular, Marie who has returned to her hometown and Jeremy who she meets on her first day back.   Marie is and her son are running form her crazy ex boyfriend, Wesley, who is dangerous and threatening and they need a new start away from him or where he can find them.  As they get settled in she meets Jeremy and he persuades her to go on a date with her friend, Savannah, babysitting for her.  Things seem to be going so well for once and when Jeremy and her son meet even that is way better than expected. So life is good. The attraction between the two of them is heating up very nicely [get out your fans/air con to max cool] as they are two very passionate people who are wonderful together but they both have secrets that could spoil their happiness. Will Wesley find out where they live? Will Jeremy and Marie 's feelings for one another be strong enough to weather the storm of events that could pull them apart?  So wonderfully written by J,H, and Ali and I look forward, with anticipation for their next joint adventure.

DEFINITELY RECOMMENDED

[Lexee Toste · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this read. I liked the characters and the story was written well. This is part of a trilogy and it does end on a little bit of a cliff hanger. Nothing too drastic but definitely problems unresolved. Marie and her son Austin are trying to get away from her ex, Austin's father. He has been abusive to her in the past and is not a good father. She moves back to her home town, about an hour away from where she was at before. It's not far but it does give her support and resources again that she didn't have. Jeremy and Marie are immediately drawn to each other. Their chemistry is off the charts but they realize that they have more than that as well. Marie isn't sure about getting involved with him because of her situation with her ex but she has a hard time staying away. I liked how things played out between them. The sex is explicit but not frequent. For the most part they end up taking things slow because Jeremy starts including Austin. I enjoyed the story and definitely have to find out what happens in the next book and how they are going to work things out.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Modern · Rating 4 out of 5]

First I absolutely love both of these authors! Second they produced one hell of a beginning for this series! Though I can not stand CH, I was mildly appeased being that I was able to read the second book (also awesome) which also ended in a CH.
Marie and Jeremy are so amazing, individually and together. Though life had handed them each burdens, they’re able to see light in each other. All the secondary characters are great too, rounding out a well written and well paced book.
I received this book for a voluntary, completely honest and non incentivized review.

Merged review:

First I absolutely love both of these authors! Second they produced one hell of a beginning for this series! Though I can not stand CH, I was mildly appeased being that I was able to read the second book (also awesome) which also ended in a CH.
Marie and Jeremy are so amazing, individually and together. Though life had handed them each burdens, they’re able to see light in each other. All the secondary characters are great too, rounding out a well written and well paced book.
I received this book for a voluntary, completely honest and non incentivized review.

[Raecharmed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jeremy Lovett's family is still talked about after a scandal with father years ago but him and his brother move on. Marie has come back to her hometown with her young son to start over again and get away from her nasty ex. Working in a hair salon she see Jeremy for the first time in years and they both have an instant connection. Even though they are really attracted to each other both have major issues with relationships so the don't immediately act on their attraction. However they end up giving into temptation anyways and have something special together that is until Marie's ex comes back on the scene. Can they remain together with Marie's past coming into town? Can Jeremy show Marie that he is the man she needs?

This is a great start to what is sure to be an amazing series. The chemistry between Jeremy and Marie is blazing hot. This is a very entertaining and well written story. Once I started it I couldn't put it down. I would recommend this to any of my book friends.

I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. I enjoyed it so much I got my own copy.