Dream Maker - Liebe

International Guy #10-12

by Audrey Carlan, Christiane Sipeer (Translator), Friederike Ails (Translator)

Parker Ellis, auch Dream Maker genannt, führt die legendäre Agentur 'International Guy'. Was er anbietet: alles, was sexy, tough und unwiderstehlich macht. Wer seine Kundinnen sind: Frauen aus der ganzen Welt, die Coaching in Sachen Liebe, Leben und Karriere suchen. Was ihn auszeichnet: Sein unglaublicher Sex-Appeal und seine beiden Partner Bogart ‚Bo‘ Montgomery, der Love Maker, und Royce Sterling, der Money Maker. Seine Aufträge führen den Dream Maker über den gesamten Globus.

Genres: Romance, Audiobook, New Adult, Erotica, Family, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary

496 pages, Paperback

Published April 15, 2019

About the author

Audrey Carlan is a No. 1 New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal best-selling author. She writes stories that help the reader find themselves while falling in love. Some of her works include the worldwide phenomenon Calendar Girl serial, Trinity series and the International Guy series. Her books have been translated into over thirty languages across the globe.
She lives in the California Valley, where she enjoys her two children and the love of her life. When she’s not writing, you can find her teaching yoga, sipping wine with her “soul sisters,” or with her nose stuck in a sexy romance novel.
If you would to hang out and learn more about my books, find me here:
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The Keeper of Gods - https://www.amazon.com/kindle-vella/s...
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AudreyCarlan
FB Reader Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/Audre...
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BookBub - http://bit.ly/AudreyCarlanBOOKBUB
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Reviews

[✰ Bianca ✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Back with our darlings from International Guy for one last time.

We're still dealing with the anonymous note-sender. Those little notes and texts are starting to sound really dangerous and threatening. Wendy is trying her best to find out who's behind it before someone gets hurt or worse.

Our first story takes us to Madrid to help a young girl find her inner and outer popstar. She's shy and her record company thinks she has to lose weight and have plastic surgery, but Parker, Bo and Sky know that they can make a star out of Juliet without changing her too much!

Book 2 is taking us to Rio. Parker's soon-to-be brother-in-law is having some embezzlement problems at his family's company and some private family problems too. Plus Skyler and Parker need some time away from Boston after everything that happend in the first story. ☺

Book 3 ... Los Angeles... we're going there to be in the jury of a dating show...but it ends up being a lot more! LOL!

But the main part during all three stories is the love story between Skyler and Parker and the crazy 'stalker' person!

What will happen to Parker & Skyler & the rest of International Guy in these last 3 stories??
READ THE BOOKs TO FIND OUT! ☺

══════════════════





Well, just like the other stories ... these 3 were really exciting and adorable and funny.

I'm sad to have to say good-bye now. I wouldn't mind staying with all these guys forever. A little story every few months would be amazing - to see what's happening in all their lives. ☺
(... and we kinda will, because Audrey is writing stories about Bo, Royce and Wendy!!!!)

You have to get used to the guys and the writing and the happenings in the books. But once you get to know them all - it's a really great world to read about!

I adored the stories.

The stalker thing is really exciting and dangerous and unfortunately a bit too obvious. No, not a bit, it's way too obvious. No idea if Audrey did that on purpose or if she just doesn't know how to build mysterious suspense in a story. It was a bit ridiculous. I wanted to throw my kindle out the next window a few times. And then Parker and the guys STILL don't get who is behind it after everything ... jeer deesus. I just couldn't believe it. BUT - it was still exciting and dangerous and adorable and funny. Just a bit not too well done with the mystery part.

I'm still not in love with all of Audrey's writing style. All characters talk way too weird for my tastes. All these HOW'S ABOUT WE (please someone tell me what that is all about? WHYYYY???) ... And I still don't like how Sky calls Parker Honey - it sounds so unmanly! And calling a partner MATE instead of lover, boyfriend, financé? We're not in a shapeshifter book. And, ugh - instead of just saying Thank you or Thanks when someone does something for you - they say My Gratitude brother! Jeez. Like in a bad black mafia/frat boy movie!
And I hated the religious feeling throughout the stories - especially in the Rio book. Praying and sh*t - not in my romances please! If I wanted to read christian romances, I would do that - which I'm never ever gonna do. Ew.

BUT I really enjoyed these 3 stories! All 12 stories really. I liked hearing a bit about every city.

All characters are just adorable and hilarious!

Let's hope we'll get that happy end for SkyPark by the end of the 12th story! ☺

INTERNATINAL GUY, VOL IV was the perfect finale in this great series. Sexy, funny, exciting & intersting & suspensy & adorable. ☺ Run to your nearest amazon for your own Parker, Bo & Royce & Mack & Paul & Dennis ... - they will be sold out in no time!!! Great cast! Wouldn't mind seeing this on Netflix one day!


♡ ♡

[ALEXISAMAILIBRI · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anche quest’ultima avventura è finita per gli SkyPark... che dire ogni viaggio è come sempre un’avventura unica, sebbene in uno di essi si capisce chi ci sia dietro. Ma andremo per ordine: avevamo lasciato Sky e Parker alle prese con uno stalker che ha cercato in tutti i modi di far separare questa coppia unita attraverso messaggi e minacce, senza riuscirci... per cosa direte, gelosia? Probabilmente c’è anche questa, ma la tematica è ben diversa. Gli avvenimenti che si susseguono e le storie in ospedale, soprattutto nella prima fa capire subito visto e considerato che fa due gesti estremi che davvero poteva costare la vita delle persone coinvolte, ad ogni modo quando ho scoperto chi è l’artefice (sapendo già coi primi due gesti estremi) avrei voluto schiaffeggiare sia Parker che Sky, soprattutto con lei che non ci è arrivata subito quando invece dice una frase, già contenuta negli altri libri, una frase che fa ribollire il sangue di rabbia (Sono la tua anima gemella)... per me è da psicopatici tutto il suo comportamento, neanche il manicomio avrei dato direttamente la sedia elettrica!
Le parti piccanti non mancano, ma è ció che caratterizza il libro in primis, ma vi è dell’altro come avere una famiglia e degli amici che sono disposti a fare tutto per aiutarti, anche nelle pazzie. Di fatti mi ha molto divertito tutta la parte di Los Angeles e il lieto fine meritato, che hanno avuto SkyPark... ma ora mi domando gli altri personaggi? Voglio sapere di più su di loro, soprattutto Bogart e Baylee visto quanto avvenuto tra loro e su questa la Carlan ha detto qualcosa

[Miss Bridgerton · Rating 5 out of 5]

En realidad es un 4.5

Con lucha y esfuerzo se puede todo.

Madrid, Río, Los Ángeles de Audrey Carlan cierra momentos duros y sufrimiento, completando una etapa que unirá dos grandes corazones y dos mundos bien distintos donde lo único a tener en cuenta será el inmenso amor entre Parker y Skyler y la maravillosa familia que rodea sus vidas.

Link de la reseña completa: http://florecilladecereza.blogspot.co...

[Il confine dei libri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Salve lettrici,
Oggi vi parlo dell’ultimo volume della serie “International Guy” della Carlan, che con le sue storie ci ha trasportato nelle più belle città del mondo.
In questo quarto e ultimo volume l’autrice ci porta a Madrid, a Rio e a Los Angeles, dove ritroveremo tutta la squadra del IG alle prese con i loro lavori.
Con Madrid, Rio de Janeiro e Los Angeles, si chiude dunque un cerchio e sinceramente mai avrei pensato di arrivare a sperare in una serie spin-off.
Questo ultimo volume mi è piaciuto davvero tanto e sono sicura che sentirò davvero la mancanza dei ragazzi del IG, soprattutto adesso che so che le cose per Bo e Royce si stanno facendo interessanti.
Ma torniamo alla storia.
Sky e Parker ne hanno passate tantissime e il loro amore ne è uscito sempre più forte. Il lieto fine però è vicino, ma prima di raggiungerlo dovranno superare un altro imprevisto, forse il peggiore di tutti. Ma il loro amore è forte e può contare sempre su una famiglia speciale, che li accompagnerà anche in questo ultimo viaggio.
“Ogni giorno che passo con te è un lieto fine, Skyler.”
Insomma lettrici, questo ultimo volume è quello che senz’altro mi ha colpito di più. È veramente bello e finalmente porta alla conclusione di questa storia e del mistero che gli girava intorno.
La storia in sé mi aveva colpito già dal primo volume, ma pagina dopo pagina ero sempre meno convinta a causa della sua lunghezza, invece questo libro mi ha fatto davvero ricredere.
Mi è piaciuto molto e l’ho trovato romantico e passionale ai punti giusti. Inoltre in questo romanzo ogni cosa va al suo posto e quindi, finalmente, i due innamorati avranno il loro lieto fine.

voto 4,5.

[Pocahontas · Rating 3 out of 5]

Die Reihe ging zu Ende wie sie begonnen hat. Der Schreibstil ist leicht und locker, die Idee für die Reihe nicht uninteressant aber im großen und ganzen nicht mein Ding. Die Gefühle der Protas konnte ich nicht fühlen. Für mich blieb alles blass. Für mich war manches übertrieben und das ständige bespringen ging mir auf den Geist. Das Ende schön gemacht. Aber zu wenig und zu spät.

[Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Madrid

So much happens in this installment. The stalker/harasser is ramping up their efforts, but all it does is cement Sky and Parker's love even more. This is a really exciting installment, super steamy, and I can really see how much Parker and Sky love each other, and can tell that their future is calling.

Rio

Then they head to Rio to help out Parker's brother, Paul, and Paul's man Dennis, with Dennis' family company's problems. I think Rio was even better than Madrid. I love how the extended family closed ranks and showed how much they all love and support each other. Paul in particular is a wonderful character, I would absolutely love to read his and Dennis' story from their very first meeting clear through to their HEA.

The stalker/harasser is still out there and starting to lose it and does something so heinous that it shakes Sky and Parker to their core. I have to admit I had already figured out who the stalker was, so I was a little let down that it had been so obvious the whole time. I was hoping that once their identity was revealed that I would have been wrong, and that I was just latching onto some red herrings or something. But alas, I was right all along.

Los Angeles

And finally the gang is back in LA so Parker can go on a dating show. No, not as a contestant, but as a consultant using his expertise to help the contestants. But what he doesn't know is that someone has some extra plans for him and when he finds out, his reaction is... well you'll just have to read and find out. This was a sweet, seriously sexy conclusion to Parker and Sky's story, and I loved seeing them come full circle.

I have really enjoyed this International Guy series. It's pretty epic and their journey is truly entertaining and fun. And now I can't wait for some of the secondary characters' stories that were promised after the end of Parker and Sky's story.



ARC via Give Me Books Promotions and NetGalley for an honest review.

Full review posted here ---> Live Through Books Blog.

[Jessica Morales · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I finished this book and series I am full of mixed emotions. Sad to see it end and because it did so beautifully. Yes I did cry a few times. Who couldn't with the love Parker and Sky have for eachother. This series is addicting because you end of loving the characters so much. Well except for one character lol.
This book is full of suspense, laughter, love, great steamy sex, and family. Thankful for Netgalley giving me this book. Thankful for the author what beautiful writing. Plus I am crossing my fingers that she gets inspired to write Bo and Royce story soon.

[Lisa (Two Bookish Brits) · Rating 5 out of 5]

We’re at the end, we’re finished omg.

Madrid hands us a pop star with no sex appeal what so ever. She’s shy and timid and needs help to overcome it, so I’m comes the IG team and Skyler to help build up her confidence.

Rio bring us to Paul’s boyfriend’s hometown and trying to figure out where the large amount of money has been disappearing to. But not only that we get some family drama in the mix too. This book is filled with an insane amount of drama and the plot twists hit hard, they left me speechless and wondering wtf.

Los Angeles brings us a dating show, a show that ends up being so much more than just a normal dating show. There’s surprises in the mix for some of the guys but who? You’ll find out.

I’m so sad the series is over but it’s been an absolute hoot reading all of these. These characters have quickly become a favourite and each took a piece of my heart. This author truly went all out on this series and I’m in love. THANK YOU.

[sarah.booksanddreams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Auf Parker, Bo und Royce warten drei neue Aufträge.
Ein aufstrebendes, aber an sich selbst zweifelndes, Musik-Sternchen benötigt die Unterstützung von Team IG.
Ebenso, wie Parkers Bruder und dessen große Liebe,
die sich sowohl mit geschäftlichen, als auch familiären Unstimmigkeiten auseinandersetzen müssen.
Im Hintergrund lauert auch noch immer der Stalker,
der für Sky und Parker zu einer immer größeren Bedrohung wird ...
Die wohl größte Überraschung fürs Team IG wartet bei einer TV-Dating-Show auf sie,
und wird das Leben von so manchem für immer verändern …

„Dream Maker – Liebe“ schließt die gleichnamige Reihe, um die Liebesgeschichte von Parker und Sky, von Audrey Carlan, ab.
Nach all den Erlebnissen mit Team „International Guy“, sowie der sich entwickelnden Beziehung von Skyler und Parker, war der abschließende Teil für mich ein Muss!

Der Klappentext und das Vorwissen aus den ersten drei Teilen weckten auch hier wieder mein Interesse!
Das Cover gliedert sich sehr schön in die Reihe ein.
Die hellen Farben und die Blumenpracht sind wirklich ein toller Anblick.

Der Schreibstil ist wieder sehr angenehm und locker.
Wie ich es bereits von Audrey Carlan gewohnt bin,
schafft sie es die Welt ihrer Geschichten zum Leben zu erwecken,
und mich dort direkt hineinzuziehen.
Auch hier, taucht man wieder in die Perspektiven von Parker und Sky ein.

Der letzte Band knüpft nahtlos an seinen Vorgänger an
und ich war sofort wieder ein Teil vom Team International Guy.
Gemeinsam mit Parker, Sky, Bo und Royce geht es dabei erneut durch die ganze Welt.

Wie schon zuvor, steht auch hier wieder sehr die Liebe, ihre Freundschaften
und die Familie im Vordergrund.
Noch offene Handlungsstränge, um Parker und Sky, werden zu Ende geführt,
und bieten den Leser so, nicht nur viele wirklich liebevolle Szenen,
sondern auch heiße Momente!
Obwohl, die Zwei wirklich noch oft die Gelegenheit nutzen, um übereinander herzufallen,
fand ich es hier nicht zu aufdringlich, sondern gut untergebracht.
Dabei prickelt es nicht nur ein wenig,
sondern breitet sich auch schon mal zu einem gewaltigen Funkenflug aus!

Neben all der Liebe,
wird es aber auch mächtig spannend.
Der große Showdown, um die Bedrohung,
die sich immer weiter ausgebreitet hat,
und nun noch einmal für jede Menge Aufruhr und Action sorgt,
steht an.
Hier legt die Autorin noch einmal eine schockierende Wendung hin,
die man beim Lesen aufgrund gezielt platzierter Hinweise,
jedoch schon vorausahnt.
Auch, wenn es hier, für den Leser offensichtlich wird,
empfand ich es doch als sehr überraschend und eindrucksvoll!

Diesen letzten Teil der Reihe habe ich nur so verschlungen!
Nicht nur, wegen all der Spannung und Liebe,
sondern auch wegen der Freunde, die hier wieder einmal eine große Rolle spielen
und einen tollen Beitrag zur Story leisten!
Man fühlt sich rundum wohl, und selbst, wie ein Teil des Teams ...
und die Seiten blätterten wieder einmal nur so dahin!

„Dream Maker – Liebe“ ist für mich ein rundum toller Abschluss, um die Geschichte von Parker und Sky!
Es enthielt mit all der Liebe, Spannung, Freundschaft
und Hoffnung wirklich alles, was ich brauchte, um die Reihe mit einem verträumten Lächeln zu beenden!

Ich vergebe 5 von 5 Sterne.

Ein großes Dankeschön gilt den Ullstein Buchverlagen für die Bereitstellung des Rezensionsexemplars!

[Marina Skinner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Madrid
Oh my goodness me!
This action packed story will have your heart pounding at the suspense, drama, the uplifting words and the real family of the IG team! Seriously they are so good at their job helping clients with what they are needed for! I just loved the inspirational moments the real love story between Sky and Parker! They are the couple dreams are made of! Seriously, though! When you think the story is going in a certain direction and you get a shock, needless to say this certainly didn’t disappoint at all! I really am excited for the last installments of the series! Im chomping at the bit to find things out!! Riveting series, start it now! You don’t know what your missing out on otherwise!

Rio
Dear goodness gracious me! This installment had me on such a tumultuous ride I wasn’t sure I would come out alive and in one piece!
I laughed, cried and felt so much throughout this truly amazing book that I felt a part of it!
I love how the authors words translate into feels so much so you wish you could be in there to help the characters and hug them when needed!
What it all comes down to though is true love and strength of family!! And this book has it in spades, a roller coaster of sorts!
Rio picks up where Madrid ended and needless to say the proverbial poo will hit the fan! Sky and Parker need to get away and what better place than Rio to help a company with financial issues! We learn so much about Parkers brother and his partner and there are some elements that get rather heated!
I loved so much about this book I was bursting at the seams and I have to say I had a gut feeling and I was right...i did pat myself on the back!! Haha!
In any case! International Guy series is amazing and theres only 1 story left! A definite must read!

Los Angeles
This book brings the series full circle and omg it made me deliriously happy for the whole IG team and their families!
Its amazing that after 12 stories that the team have made a huge impression on my heart and soul! I think its a real credit to the author that she could put together a series that had uplifting words, a real sense of love and family and strength of heart in all of the characters!
Los Angeles is where Parker and Royce head to for a new tv reality show but underneath it all Sky has something up her sleeve and thats all I will say! Ill leave you to be surprised!
An ending so good it will leave you with a happy heart that is full of joy!

This is a series that is an absolute favorite and I cannot wait to see what the author has in store for us next!! Well played Ms Carlan, well played!

[Up All Night With Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 International Stars
Review by Lisa
Late Night Support Group
Up All Night w\ Books Blog

We are off to see the world of Madrid, Rio and Los Angeles in International Guy number 4, which are books 10 through 12 in this series by Audrey Carlan. All I have to say is THANK GOD all three books were together because if I had to wait for each one to come out, I would have gone insane.

With around 450 pages, you would think that it would take a while to read. Nope, I just zipped right through these pages because I was captivated and hooked from the start. These stories are action-packed, filled with romance that will make you swoon and heartbreak that make you want to cry.

I did not read the previous books but I will be going back to read them.

This book follows Skyler and Parker’s story. And what a story it is. Ups and downs, twists and turns not to mention a cliffhanger after the first book!!! The drama is kicked up ten-fold in these stories due to the suspense of the mysterious texts and letters that cause problems that eventually leads to some crazy chases and secret hiding spots which in turn, leads to more drama.

One aspect that I loved about these stories is that it was just not Parker and Skyler, even though it was told from their dualing point of views. There were so many other stories that were being told, unraveled and put back together.

The ending of the series is bittersweet. It brings a sense of satisfaction and will leave you smiling but also sad, much like saying goodbye to a friend you’ve left at the airport.

**ARC received in exchange for an honest review***

[ab · Rating 3 out of 5]

This series was enjoyable, and I grew attached to most of the characters, but this book was the hardest for me to get through, for a number of reasons.

I thought it was glaringly obvious who the “bad guy” was, right from the get-go, which ruined some of the fun. That, and the fact that a hoard of seemingly intelligent people could not, for the life of them, figure out who it was. Even with the forks in the road (Annie and that guy that Skyler used to know—can’t remember his name right now), it was clear who the perpetrator was. And it seemed incredibly unrealistic for everyone to come to that conclusion so late, given all the clues.

Secondly, even after four books, I still can’t get behind Skyler’s character. For the others, even if they weren’t particularly likable (even Parker, at times), they were interesting; they pulled me in. But despite it all, I found Skyler boring and struggled to read the chapters in her POV. Her character seemed very naive and one note, and the annoying overuse of the word ‘honey’ had me eye-rolling. I couldn’t take her seriously most of the time, and it made it difficult to take her and Parker’s romance seriously, as a result.

All in all, though, I had fun reading Parker’s story and am looking forward to the others.

[Karen Machamer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to friends and family.

[April ♥"LOS" ♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve enjoyed all of the books in this series and I loved how this one tied it all up nicely.

[Sara M. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Carino... questa serie della Carlan mi è piaciuta a tratti, la conclusione è comunque da leggere e non vedo l'ora di poter sapere le novelle sugli altri coprotagonisti come si svolgeranno...

[Pinky13 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hier stimmt einfach alles: große Liebe, heißer Sex, mitreißende Dramen und atemberaubende Spannung-Empfehlenswert!

Zum Buch

Ein neuer Auftrag führt Parker mit seinem Geschäftspartner Bo nach Spanien. Diesmal sollen sie ein neues junges Gesangstalent am Popstarhimmel bühnentauglich machen. Juliet hat die Stimme eines Engels aber das Aussehen eines schüchternen und ängstlichen Teenies.
Und da bei dem Umstyling vor allem das Händchen einer Frau gefragt ist, nimmt Parker seine große Liebe Skyler mit nach Madrid. Es ist so toll zu lesen, wie das Team dieses junge Mädchen zu einer selbstbewussten und attraktiven jungen Frau umgestaltet.

Die zweite Aufgabe führt das Team nach Brasilien, genauer gesagt nach Rio de Janeiro. Dennis hat um Hilfe gebeten. Er arbeitet dort im eigenen Familienunternehmen, einem internationalen Importgeschäft. Da Dennis gerne in die USA und Asien expandieren will, hat er die Geschäftsberichte von seinem Bankberater angefordert, und dabei Unstimmigkeiten festgestellt. Royce, das Finanzgenie der I.G. nimmt sich der Sache an und natürlich hilft auch Hackergenie Wendy von zuhause aus mit. Daher dauert es nicht lange und sie finden den Betrüger, und auch da überrascht einen die Autorin zum wiederholten Male.

Ihre nächste berufliche Tätigkeit erwartet sie im dritten und letzten Teil in Los Angeles. Dort sollen sie für eine Dating Show, die ausgesuchten Paare auf die Show vorbereiten und das Produktionsteam beim reibungslosen Ablauf unterstützen. Und Parker soll in der Jury sitzen.

Wie gewohnt spannend, gibt es in den einzelnen Städten bzw. Ländern noch einiges an Verwicklungen und Dramen und natürlich auch ganz viel Liebe.

Cover

Das Titelbild ist vom Stil her genauso romantisch und verträumt gestaltet, wie die anderen Bücher dieser Reihe auch. Ebenfalls schmücken hier wieder exotische Blumen und Farne das Cover. Die Farben sind diesmal nicht so kräftig bunt, aber trotzdem wunderschön. Mit dem Cover verbinde ich sofort die Pflanzenwelt von Rio de Janeiro – paradiesisch, bunt und wild.

Meine Meinung

Vorab
Dies ist nun schon der 4. und auch letzte Teil dieser atemberaubenden Liebesgeschichte rund um Parker, Skyler und die International Guys.
Ich empfehle die vier Bände in chronologischer Reihenfolge zu lesen, da sie inhaltlich aufeinander aufbauen, und man versteht dann auch besser die verschiedenen Handlungsabläufe sowie die Dynamik untereinander.

Schreibstil und Erzähl-Perspektive
Audrey Carlan kann einfach richtig richtig gut schreiben, d.h. sie fesselt den Leser vom ersten Augenblick an und lässt ihn auch nicht mehr los. Genauso ergeht es mir mit ihren Büchern. Durch den leichten, lockeren und flüssigen Schreibstil liest sich das Buch einfach so weg, und ich bin immer erstaunt, wenn es zu Ende ist. Was bei fast 500 Seiten eigentlich nicht so schnell gehen sollte. Das zeigt wieder einmal mehr, wie wunderbar mich ihre Bücher unterhalten und wie faszinierend ihr Schreibstil ist.

Neben den vielen und unterschiedlichen Emotionen beschreibt die Autorin auch die jeweiligen Settings sehr anschaulich und bildhaft, so dass ich manche Szenen sofort vor Augen hatte. Wunderschön beschrieben ist auch das Umfeld rund um die Christusstatue in Rio de Janeiro auf dem Berg Corcovado. Da lief mein Kopfkino auf Hochtouren. Aber nicht nur da!!
Habe ich beim 3. Band noch bemängelt, dass die Geschichte fast nur aus Parkers Erzähl-Perspektive geschildert wird, und mir die Sichtweise von Skyler fehlt, erzählen jetzt sowohl Parker als auch Skyler abwechselnd ihre Sicht der Dinge. Das ist viel vorteilhafter, so weiß ich bei beiden Protagonisten direkt, was sie denken, wie sie handeln und was sie empfinden, und kann mir so einen viel besseren Überblick über alles machen.

Charaktere und Handlungen
Dieser 4. Teil schließt sich nahtlos an den Vorgängerband an. Als Leser wird man sofort hineingeworfen in die Geschichte und man ist direkt mittendrin. Die Ereignisse überschlagen sich und es geschehen unglaublich viele Dinge, so dass auch die Spannung fast bis zur letzten Seite erhalten bleibt.

Natürlich gibt es auch wieder einige wirklich heiße Sexszenen, und nein, mir waren sie nicht zu viel und zu oft. Sie sind genau in richtigem Maße und vor allem sind sie hot hot hot.

Das Buch ist wieder gegliedert in drei Kapitel (also die drei Städte), in denen die International Guys ihre neuen Aufträge erfüllen.

Nicht nur, dass sie im ersten Kapitel (Madrid) ihren Auftrag erfolgreich abschließen, nein Parker und Skyler müssen sich auch noch mit dem Stalker und einem Attentäter auseinandersetzen, und es wird echt unschön. Drohungen, Schüsse bis hin zu Bombenattentaten wirbeln das ganze Geschehen durcheinander. Das zieht sich auch noch bis zum Ende des 2. Kapitels hin. Als Leser kommt man kaum noch zum durchatmen. Es ist mir fast schon ein bisschen zu viel an Dramatik.

War Parker im vorigen Band noch äußerst eifersüchtig, hat er dies nun auch fast im Griff. Seine Liebe zu Skyler ist gefestigt, und er weiß, dass sie seine Seelengefährtin ist. Sie kaufen sogar ein Haus zusammen und wollen gemeinsam dort mit ihren Fellnasen leben. Aber jemandem behagt das ganz und gar nicht....

In Brasilien (also im 2. Kapitel) geht es nicht nur um den Betrug im Familienbetrieb, sondern hier wird auch die Liebe von Dennis und Paul vor eine große Probe gestellt. Denn die Familie von Dennis kann mit dessen Sexualität nicht umgehen, nein sie hassen alles was damit zusammenhängt, und lassen dies offen an Paul aus. Auf einem Familienfest kommt es dann zum Eklat. Aber da haben die Eltern nicht mit dem Zusammenhalt der Brüder Ellis und der anderen Freunde gerechnet. Sie verlassen das Fest und Dennis muss sich nun entscheiden, für seine Familie oder für seinen Mann!

Im dritten Teil der Geschichte geht es dann zum Glück etwas ruhiger zu, aber keineswegs langweilig.
Endlich heiraten Wendy und ihr Mick, aber auch da gibt es einen spannenden Moment und es ist sooo rührend als ...... nein, dass müsst ihr selber lesen.

Auf Wendys Hochzeit wird Skyler endlich klar, dass sie Parker von Anfang an geliebt hat, dass er ihre Seele berührt und dass sie seine Frau werden will. Aber wie kann sie ihn dazu bringen, dass er ihr einen Heiratsantrag macht? Tja, und dann hat sie eine Idee, wo einige ihrer Freunde und die Boys der I.G. mithelfen müssen. Wird das gutgehen? Oder geht das jetzt alles zu schnell und wie wird Parker reagieren?

Durchweg alle Charaktere, selbst die Nebenprotagonisten, sind authentisch und einzigartig dargestellt und bereichern die Geschichte. Es gibt facettenreiche Figuren, Schlüsselfiguren und auch Bösewichte, aber alle haben eins gemeinsam, sie sind mit viel Liebe zum Detail ausgestattet und für mich ganz wichtig, ich habe mit ihnen mitgelitten und mitgefiebert.

Fazit

Ich fand es großartig, Parker und Skyler auf ihrem gemeinsamen Weg zu begleiten und mitzuerleben, wie sich ihre Liebe entwickelt und auch gefestigt hat, wie sie geliebt und gelitten haben, wie sie über sich selbst hinausgewachsen sind und wie ihre Liebe an Tiefe gewonnen hat. Auch die Dynamik innerhalb der jeweiligen Familien haben mich fasziniert und der Zusammenhalt der Freunde ist einfach nur wunderbar gewesen.

Ein mitreißender Schreibstil, authentische Protagonisten, viele Emotionen, feinste Aktion und Dramatik, heiße Sexszenen und die perfekte Prise Humor machen dieses Buch zu einem Pageturner. Ich bin wirklich betrübt, dass die Geschichte nun zu Ende ist. Ich will mich nämlich noch gar nicht aus der Welt der International Guy verabschieden. Außerdem möchte ich sehr gerne wissen, ob Royce und Kendra sowie Bo und Baylee zueinander finden. Das Nachwort der Autorin versöhnt mich etwas, es sieht so aus, dass vielleicht noch mit einem Spin-off zu rechnen ist.
Ach ja, und der Epilog ist einfach nur zuckersüß.

Daher fällt mir nun die Sternevergabe nicht schwer, es gibt natürlich die volle Anzahl – nämlich 5 goldpolierte Sterne und eine absolute Leseempfehlung!

Ferner möchte ich mich bei Netgalley sowie beim Ullstein Verlag sehr herzlich für das kostenlose Rezensionsexemplar bedanken. Meine ehrliche Meinung wurde dadurch aber nicht beeinflusst.

[Jackie Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was I sad to see International Guy coming to an end hell yes but Audrey Carlan gave me everything I wanted and more in her final instalment of this great series.
Madrid; Skylar is just what the IG team need for their next client in Madrid, a young girl who is about to explode on the pop scene problem is she has no confidence and needs a makeover, this was just what Parker needed to make sure Skylar and his puppies were with him and protected but just when he thinks everyone is safe once again danger strikes......
Rio; This is family issue and as always the team protect family and friends so they have no hesitation heading off to Rio to look into Parker’s brother Paul’s boyfriends business which has been leaking money for a couple of months. Family means everything to Parker and he won’t standby and watch Paul hurt especially as Paul stepped up to protect Skylar when her security team were not available.
Los Angeles: The final instalment and what a way to end a series, this book brings all the other 11 books together as we see truths come to light from people the team and Skylar trusted. We get to attend a wedding and we get to learn a bit more about Royce and Bo which hopefully means more books about them and this series would not be complete if Parker and Skylar didn’t get the HEA they so deserve and what a perfect ending for the couple we have all come to love over these 12 books.
I loved this series, I loved the characters, I loved the plots and I love the idea of 12 stories about friends, families and lovers. Looking forward to were we go next with this very talented author.

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

After making the decision to buy a home together and solidify their future, Skyler and Parker head off to Spain. While there, as they help an up and coming singer find her confidence, they are bombarded with the news that the “stalker” letters have now been linked to someone they know. Can they get to the bottom of the mystery before anymore arrive? At the same time, more threatening texts messages arrive, upsetting Parker even more. Once home in Boston, all hell breaks loose. Another trip is panned to get the two lovers our of harms way. Off to Brazil they go. Will Skyler and Parker find the person responsible before anything else happens or anyone else gets hurt? A must read story of love and family and how the two intertwined make all things possible.

[Jenn (YeahOrNeighReviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fans of the Calendar Girl series will obsess over International Guy! This was one-heart stopping adventure after another and while I'm happy with the ending, I'm sad to see it end. I'll definitely be doing a re-read each book as the characters are amazing!

[Rosanna1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series. I can't get enough from this author. Great characters that will make you fall in love with their romance.

[Sonia Donelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

http://www.esmeraldaviaggielibri.it/i...

Recensione di Karmen – International Guy 4 Madrid, Rio de Janeiro, Los Angeles di Audrey Carlan – Contemporary Romance – Pubblicato il 5 marzo 2019 dalla Mondadori

Grande ritorno in casa Mondadori con l’ultimo attesissimo capitolo della serie International Guy di Audrey Carlan.

Rientriamo nella vita dei membri della International GuyInc. con i suoi fondatori e di tutti i componenti della Famiglia allargata che, capitolo dopo capitolo, ha sparso le proprie radici in tutti e quattro i continenti del globo.

Dove eravamo rimasti?

ALT! Se non avete ancora letto i tre capitoli precedenti non proseguite oltre nella lettura onde evitare spiacevoli spoiler.

Per tutte le altre mettetevi comode perché le prossime tappe hanno qualcosa di… come potrei dire?

Mmm, diciamo esclusivo!

Curiose?

Ricordate gli sms ricevuti?

Beh in questo nuovo capitolo le intimidazioni si intensificheranno e di parecchio anche, diventando delle vere e proprie minacce.

Nessuno sarà al sicuro e l’intera “famiglia” si metterà ancora una volta a disposizione di Parker e Sky per arginare il pericolo e proteggere le persone a loro care.

L’amore e la famiglia ancora una volta sono i temi dominanti e la Carlan, ancora una volta, non si è risparmiata su nulla.

Vivremo insieme a loro i momenti più dolci, romantici, spaventosi, passionali, esilaranti tanto attesi.

Ogni personaggio troverà il proprio posto nel quadro che l’autrice ha dipinto per loro.

Cuori, fiori, diamanti e bombe saranno gli elementi che caratterizzeranno queste ultime tre tappe ma, vediamo un po’ in quali luoghi ci condurrà per l’ultima volta la International Guy Inc.

Nome Cliente: Alejandro Rodriguez

Destinazione: Madrid

Squadra in campo: Sky, Parker e Bo

Problema: Cambiare l’immagine di Juliet, una timida e giovane cantante, e aiutarla a diventare la futura Star della musica pop spagnola.

Missione da compiere: Far acquisire maggiore fiducia in se stessa, con un nuovo taglio e una seduta con dei bravi truccatori che sappiano esaltare la sua bellezza naturale.

Ma anche, fare in modo che Juliet riconosca la propria bellezza, migliorando la presenza scenica, far sì che riesca a cantare di fronte al pubblico senza tremare come una foglia e ottenere copertura da parte dei media.

Messaggio di Parker:La perfezione è solo negli occhi di chi guarda – Non smettere mai di sognare.

I sogni talvolta si possono trasformare in incubi se non ti impegni perché diventino meravigliosi.

Devi avere fiducia: fiducia in noi, perché non ti faremo mai smarrire la strada; fiducia in tua sorella, nel suo amore e nel suo sostegno; fiducia nel tuo dono.

Ma soprattutto, devi avere fiducia in te stessa.



Nome Cliente: Danny (fidanzato di Paul, fratello di Parker)

Destinazione: Rio de Janeiro

Squadra in campo: Sky, Parker e Royce

Problema: Discrepanze nei rendiconti finanziari, merci smarrite, errori nelle consegne e mancato guadagno sui prodotti e sulle spedizioni.

Missione da compiere: Trovare il responsabile di tali ammanchi ma anche far capire alla famiglia di Dennis che l’Amore non ha genere e l’importante è essere sinceri con se stessi e con i propri sentimenti.

Messaggio di Parker e Sky:Vivete liberi con Amore – Noi

« Olhandoemseusolhos, sempre sereiperfeito» mormora Dennis.

“Guardando nei tuoi occhi è sempre tutto perfetto”».




Nome Cliente:Lo Show televisivo “il Partner Perfetto”

Destinazione: Los Angeles

Squadra in campo: Parker e Royce

Problema: Aiutare le coppie dello show a prepararsi per trovare l’anima gemella.

Missione da compiere: Lavorare al fianco della squadra di produzione perché tutto fili liscio, insegnare agli uomini ad essere più sicuri di se stessi, ad entrare nella parte e a recitare davanti alle telecamere.

Messaggio di Parker: LA FELICITA’ è UNA SCELTA

«Sei tu la mia verità, sei tu il mio cuore.» «E tu lo sei per me.»


Si conclude così l’ultima impresa raccontata nelle dodici tappe che ci hanno portato non solo ad esplorare con la fantasia luoghi meravigliosi, ma che ci hanno permesso anche di far parte di questa grande famiglia che si è formata tappa dopo tappa.

Se credete che tutto si concluda qui vi sbagliate di grosso perché la Carlan, nei ringraziamenti, ha promesso grandi novità in arrivo e sì ragazze mie, anche Bo, Royce e Wendy avranno dei romanzi e loro dedicati e noi non vediamo l’ora di leggerli.

[Lena · Rating 2 out of 5]

Das Märchen von der Schönen und dem Biest hat sein Happy End gefunden. Und nein, das Biest meint nicht Parker, zumindest nicht ihn als Ganzes. Nur einen ihm und seiner Auserwählten zur Folge äußerst imposanten, natürlich sehr ansehnlichen und allzeit bereiten Teil, den er leider auch in diesem Buch viel zu oft aus seiner Hose holt.
Die von ihm selbsternannte „Bestie“ kommt in jedem Kapitel mindestens einmal zum Einsatz und als unschuldiger Leser hat man dann das zweifelhafte Vergnügen, in ausschweifenden und detaillierten Beschreibungen dieser Vereinigung beizuwohnen, über viele, viele, viele, [...] viele Seiten Gestöhne, Geächze, Gefluche, peinlicher Kosenamen und widerlicher Formulierungen, die wirken, als hätte man einen billigen Porno verschriftlicht.
Ja, mir ist bewusst, dass das ein Erotikroman ist. Und ja, mir ist bewusst, dass die Figuren in solchen Büchern Sex haben. Das heißt aber nicht, dass das billig und flach dahingeklatscht sein muss, das heißt nicht, dass das Gefühl fehlen darf, und das heißt schon gar nicht, dass ich mich beim Lesen immer ekeln muss. Denn das habe ich an leider viel zu vielen Stellen.

Und es zeichnet sich ein Muster ab: Die widerlich beschriebenen Szenen sind immer in Kapiteln, die aus Parkers Sicht geschrieben werden. In diesem Buch wechseln sich Parker und Sky ab mit dem Erzählen, was ich persönlich gut fand, die Kapitel von seiner besseren Hälfte stellten zumindest eine kleine Erleichterung dar. Denn die Idee, eine Reihe aus der Sicht eines Typen zu schreiben, schien zunächst vielleicht faszinierend, stellte sich aber mit einem schwanzgesteuerten Protagonisten wie Parker als harte Probe für meine Nerven heraus.
Seine Gedanken schwanken, wenn er an Sky denkt, zwischen Hintern, Brüsten, ihren Geschlechtsteilen und Sex. Jeder ihrer Reize wird ständig erwähnt, mit immer neuen schmeichelnden Adjektiven versehen, in den Himmel gelobt. Und es ätzt irgendwann einfach nur noch.

Genauso sehr nerven die überall eingestreuten Beschreibungen von Outfits, die ich nicht verstehe. Sowohl von den Frauen, die sie treffen, allesamt gepaart mit Kommentaren zum Körper, als auch von Kerlen, und zwar aufs Ausführlichste, als würde man gerade einem Fashionblogger zuhören. Habe ich irgendwann nur noch übersprungen, genauso wie die Sexszenen, genauso wie eigentlich jedes Gespräch, in dem Sky und Parker sich lediglich endlos angehimmelt haben. Und, man hat es fast schon geahnt, es ist dann nicht mehr viel von der Story übrig geblieben.

Der einzige Grund, aus dem ich dieses Buch gelesen habe, ist der, dass es mir wie Verschwendung vergangener Lesezeit vorgekommen wäre, hätte ich Band eins bis drei gelesen ohne dann das Ende zu erfahren. Ab einem bestimmten Punkt war ich dann aber auch nicht mehr gespannt darauf, wer sich hinter dem sich langsam über die anderen Bände angebahnten wahnsinnigen Fan-Verhalten Sky gegenüber, dem Stalking und den zuletzt lebensgefährlichen Entwicklungen verbirgt, denn es wurde schnell mehr als deutlich, wer der Übeltäter war. Leider, denn davon hatte ich mir wenigstens ein wenig Spannung versprochen.

Auch mit dem Ende bin ich unzufrieden, denn natürlich lässt die Autorin sich jede Menge Handlungsstränge offen, um an vielen Stellen bei unterschiedlichsten Figuren noch eigene Geschichten anschließen zu können, wie sollte es auch anders sein. Sowohl über Bos als auch über Royces Zukunft erfahren wir nichts genaues, was mich persönlich sehr geärgert hat. Aber da ich von der Autorin nichts mehr lesen werde, werden diese Geheimnisse auf ewig ungelüftet bleiben.

Mein Fazit:
Zu viel Bett, zu viel Fokus auf Äußerlichkeiten, kein Gefühl, nur platte, oberflächliche, vorhersehbare Story. Ich musste mich arg zusammenreißen, um nicht ganze Kapitel sondern nur einzelne Szenen zu überspringen, um endlich ans Ende zu gelangen, ohne dass mir der Schädel von all dem Mist brummt, den Parker von sich gibt. Ich kann leider nur 1,5 beziehungsweise gerundet 2 von 5 Sternen vergeben.

[Tra Le Braccia Di Un Libro · Rating 3 out of 5]

RECENSIONE DI GABRIELLA
VOTO:3,5

Eccoci al quarto capitolo di questa serie, che come nei primi tre ci porterà in nuove città con nuovi clienti e nuove sfide per la squadra dell’International Guy; scopriremo a quale destino Parker e Sky andranno incontro e soprattutto l’identità dello stalker, che si mostrerà sempre più pericoloso e spietato.
Non mi perderò in descrizioni futili dei casi nelle tre città; purtroppo si riveleranno di gran lunga meno appassionanti o divertenti di quelli descritti nei libri precedenti, forse è stata una scelta voluta dall’autrice per dar spazio al fattore suspense riguardante lo stalker stesso.
Sicuramente il viaggio a Rio merita di essere menzionato, non tanto per la missione quanto per il tema trattato. Sappiamo bene che la Carlan denuncia volentieri contesti seri e attuali nei suoi libri; in questo caso mi è piaciuto particolarmente il modo in cui ha descritto il disagio e la tristezza estrema di un giovane omosessuale, la cui famiglia non riesce assolutamente a concepire e accettare il suo orientamento sessuale. Lo mettono alle strette, chiedendogli di scegliere e soprattutto mostrando un’intolleranza palese verso quello che loro considerano un problema, una vergogna, una malattia, il tutto senza rendersi conto della sofferenza del figlio. Assisteremo a uno scontro verbale davvero forte e crudo, ma che sicuramente, purtroppo, non dista dalla realtà di alcune famiglie.
Chiaramente l’amore e l’essere accettato nella ormai numerosa “famiglia allargata” della IG renderà la scelta più semplice per il ragazzo di Paul.
In questa mia recensione non vi delizierò con altri estratti del libro, oltre a quello che avete appena letto, mi dispiace. Volete sapere il perché? Ebbene sì, per quasi tutto il libro non si parla d’altro che di amore, amore, amore, amicizia, amicizia e amicizia. Scusate lo sfogo, ma mentre nei primi volumi di questa serie ho trovato quasi emozionante il modo in cui questi ragazzi si vogliono bene come fratelli, in quest’ultimo invece il tutto viene enfatizzato all’inverosimile, divenendo quasi una farsa.
La storia d’amore tra Park e Sky, poi, risulta veramente troppo zuccherosa, rendendo quasi esasperanti alcuni passaggi: più di una volta mi sono ritrovata a sbuffare o ad alzare gli occhi al cielo. Idem per quanto riguarda le scene erotiche, a volte per niente attinenti tra una scena e l’altra.
Non voglio dire che questa lettura sia stata una delusione totale, ma sinceramente a tratti non riuscivo a riconoscere la Carlan in ciò che leggevo.
La conclusione della storia, a parer mio sbrigativa, mi ha lasciata un po’ perplessa.
La scrittura rimane comunque gradevole e scorrevole e le descrizioni delle città sono accurate e appassionate, al punto che durante la lettura vien voglia di prendere il primo aereo e raggiungerle subito. Sono quasi certa che i personaggi di Roy, Bo e Wendy avranno il loro capitolo extra, visto che le loro storie non hanno ricevuto menzioni particolari.
Personalmente attenderò con ansia di leggere delle loro vicende.

https://tralebracciadiunlibro.blogspo...

[Kimberly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book 10: Madrid
Madrid is book 10 in the International Guy series.

We continue on with Parker and Skyler’s love story, with the couple jetting off to Spain, this time along with Bo and their dogs.

Before leaving, Tracey pays an unexpected visit to Skyler in Boston, hoping to spend time with her for a couple of weeks. To me, Skyler was unnecessarily bothered by the visit. Sure it was not planned in advance, but Tracey is supposed to be her BFF. Shouldn’t she be excited to see her?

On to Madrid! The IG team helps a young singer gain her confidence, and I truly loved the message that was sent. To love yourself no matter what.

The stalker resurfaces, sending messages to both Parker and Skyler, and a red herring of who the stalker might be is thrown into the story for drama. For me, all that did was make Parker look ridiculous. He was way over the top and was completely blinded by uninformed rage, tearing down people unnecessarily. Not cool.

Looking forward to the official reveal of the stalker, hopefully in the next installment!

Book 11: Rio
Rio is book 11 in the International Guy series.

This time, Parker and Royce, (and Skyler and their dogs 🙄) head to Brazil to help Paul’s boyfriend Dennis get to the bottom of who is embezzling from his family’s company.

Dennis‘s family is unaccepting of his relationship with Paul, so they shun him when the gang comes to dinner. All is resolved and most of the family reconciles once the embezzler has been identified.

The stalker is alsovidentified, and it really comes as no surprise who it is, but the reasons behind the stalking are intriguing.

All in all, an okay book for me in this series, and I am curious to see how the series wraps up in the final installment in Los Angeles.

Book 12: Los Angeles
The International Guy series wraps up with book 12, which is set in Los Angeles.

Parker and Royce find themselves as celebrity judges on a dating show, as well coaches for the male contestants.

Skyler creates an elaborate plan to propose to Parker, but I feel like there was unnecessary drama associated with the proposal. For example, why did one of the female contestants have to be a Skyler look-alike? It was all a little convoluted and confusing.

Parker does end up proposing to Schuyler at the very end of the book, and an epilogue shows their lives in the future.

I struggled with most of this series, because as Parker and Skyler fell in love with each other I didn’t really connect with their characters, and I really didn’t feel the love. Also, I really feel at times Parker was unnecessarily mean to his friends and family and Skyler begin to take on some of these characteristics as well. Their love definitely did not make them better versions of themselves, unfortunately.

As expected, there will be books for some of the secondary characters, and I plan on giving those a chance. I am really intrigued by Bo and Baylee’s story.

[Tracey Vuolo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audrey Carlan broke me in Madrid with this explosive installment by throwing me for more than one loop I did not see coming. A tidal wave came and blew my mind and crushed my heart. Ms. Carlan knows how to twist you up inside like nobody’s business and this installment is the start of psycho town where you will say, “what just happened?” You might cuss in your head or yell out loud or freak out. Oh wait that was me. On a lighter note, Skyler comes with Parker to help with a case and it couldn’t be more beautiful. Chasing your dreams and never giving up in order to achieve them plays out so exciting in Madrid. Parker and Sky make even more plans for forever and I am giddy about it. Bo made me bust a gut in this installment as someone gave him a run for his money and his commentary was infectious.

Then she blew me away in Rio. You will get your fill of action, suspense, drama, heartache, pain and love. The twists and turns were crazy town and so many questions got answered. My emotions were so raw and I was holding my breath and screaming out loud! I’m not gonna lie I may even have hoped that AC kill a certain character but you will have to read for yourself and find out who and if she did. The love that this tight knit group of people have for each other is out of this world. Audrey, this installment is an exceptional bombshell of epic proportions and couldn’t have been told better by anyone else.

This phenomenal series came to a close with all the feels in LA and had my heart bursting with joy. I couldn’t have asked for a better or more lovely ending . I adored these characters so much and am sad to see the series end. They truly were family in every sense of the word and I felt like I knew them in real life. I could be best friends with Sky, Wendy and Rachel. Everyone knows I have a huge crush on my smoking hot book boyfriend, Bo. But let’s be real, Parker and Royce are easy to love and hard to forget. I will miss their crazy adventures. Thank you for this enchanting finale my heart and soul needed to feel complete. It was so beautiful beyond words!

The mantras throughout the cities were fantastic and spot on and AC did not let me down with her final mirror moment. I was so giddy and grinning from ear to ear. In every story Ms. Carlan writes I find something I learn and it reminds me of my worth. I appreciate that more than she will ever know. IG fills your mind, heart and soul with hope, admiration, desire, love and faith. Don’t forget to Live Your Truth, Own Your Future, Embrace Your Sexy, Trust Your Heart, Feed Your Soul, Brave the Ride and Never Stop Dreaming and you will be happier than you can imagine in this crazy world. You are golden Ms. Carlan. Thank you Audrey for this unique, show stoping, magnificent, and panty melting series that will nestle deep in my heart for years to come. ❤️

[Bucheslust · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vielen Dank an Ullstein und NetGalleyDE für die Möglichkeit, Dream Maker- Liebe vorab lesen zu können.

Als erstes muss ich beichten, dass ich die vorherigen Bücher noch gar nicht gelesen habe- Bei Audrey Carlan als Autorin musste ich es einfach trotzdem verschlingen lesen. Dass ich trotzdem super schnell in die Story und die Charaktere/ Beziehungen hineingefunden habe, liegt an der flüssigen Schreibweise, die mich, wie so of , mitgerissen hat.


Madrid schmeißt den Leser sofort in die Handlung hinein und hat mir Tracey auf Anhieb verdächtig vorkommen lassen. -Nicht schlimm! Ich finde es super wenn man als Leser mit den Charakteren mitfiebert, bzw. nägelkauend wartet, bis sie den Bösen finden . Parker und Sky sind dabei, ihre gemeinsame Zukunft zu planen, was nicht allen Menschen in ihrem Umfeld passt. Sie begleiten Bo zu einem Auftrag nach Madrid und verbringen dort eine schöne Zeit , aber sicher sind sie auch dort nicht vor Sky's Stalker. Nach einer falschen Fährte wird dessen Identität noch nicht enthüllt , das Buch endet aber mit einem riesigen Knall in einem fiesen Cliffhanger.

Rio de Janeiro beginnt unmittelbar nach Ende von Madrid. Während nach dem immer aggressiver werdenden Stalker gesucht wird, fliegen Sky und Parker mit Paul und seinem Freund Denny lieber an die Copacabana. Nach und nach wird das Geheimnis des Bombenlegers gelüftet und es ist echt krank. Stacey war ja keine Überraschung, aber ihre Hintergrundgeschichte... *schauder* , was Sky erschüttert. Rio endet aber mit positivem Blick auf die Zukunft.

Los Angeles: Nachdem Sky etwas mit den Folgen der Enthüllung des Bombenlegers zu kämpfen hat, bringt ein befreundetes Paar dringend benötigte gute Nachrichten Wendy und Mick liefern eine superschöne, emotionale Szene. .
Parker fragt sich daraufhin, ob Sky von ihm konkrete Schritte in Richtung Ehe und Familie erwartet. Nachdem es im Kreis der Familie und Freunde endlich zur Entscheidung kommt und nach etwas Drama zwischen einem befreundeten Paar, ist es im 3 Jahre später angesetzten Epilog Zeit für das HEA.



Die Charaktere finde ich sehr sympathisch und gut geschrieben, man wünscht sich direkt, Teil dieses familiären Freundeskreises zu sein. Ich musste teilweise richtig lachen, wenn sie sich gegenseitig aufziehen. In jedem Buch schafft es Carlan aufs neue, solche starken Verbindungen zu beschreiben (Mein Favorit bleibt immernoch die Schwesternschaft in Trinity- sehr empfehlenswert). Der Gegenspieler oder eher die Gegenspielerin kam für mich nicht überraschend, und wurde meiner Meinung nach etwas vorhersehbar aufgelöst, war aber trotzdem in der Lage, eine Menge Spannung zu erzeugen. Die Chemie zwischen Sky und Parker stimmt einfach, was sich auch in dem sehr heißen Sexleben der beiden zeigt, das teils richtig exotisch, sogar witzig, wird:

„Ich kann nicht fassen, dass wir das wirklich tun, unter freiem Himmel, in Spanien, hinter einem Flamenco-Club.“

Ja wirklich, ein Flamenco-Club haha. Ich habe auch bei den Dialogen oft schmunzeln müssen.
Aber das tut der Romantik keinen Abbruch, davon gibt es wirklich genug:

„Er ist es.
Parker.
Er war es von Anfang an.
Er wird es für immer sein.“

Dream Maker ist etwas seicht, süß, spannend, und schnell zu lesen- ich sehe es schon als perfekte Strandlektüre im Sommer.
Definitiv empfehlenswert für alle, die einfach ein gutes Buch lesen wollen, dass ab der ersten Seite Spaß macht.

[Babel · Rating 4 out of 5]

The serial has come to an end... or not :-D

MADRID

I was starting to miss this couple :-)

Parker and Skyler have grown on me, and before they head to Madrid (my city!), they share a time of bliss and romance. The surprises were abundand too, and totally entertaining, both the bad and the good kind.

There's one thing that they share and make a decision over that I found endearing. Then, they fly to Madrid. I was curious about this city so close to my heart, yet I was comically disappointed when the first character they meet is a walking cliché from an old Italian movie, and he's suppossed to be Spanish? Oh well.

The theme of this installment is about finding beauty and inspiration in our unique and individual assets. What I liked the most of this episode is the deep love this couple exudes for one another and how close they've become against all odds. Those troubles really spike up in a nuclear way. It was awesome and absolutely tragic!

RIO

One of the most dramatic and meaningful chapters in this ever-intensifying serial. Tragedy follows Parker and Skyler through every moment from the aftermath of Madrid's cliffhanger to Brazil and back to Boston.

There's a strong stress on family unity that extends to friends, everybody supporting each other in their bleakest hours. Despite the tremendous hits they suffer, love and understanding shine bright. It was all very intense.

I loved the beauty of Rio de Janeiro, the attention given to the food and thte landmarks, as well as the relationship between Parker's brother and his lover. I could do without the religious vibe, but I understand that the author wanted to leave her spiritual imprint there.

Finally, a huge secret is out, and its heavy toll rains on Skyler with brutal foce. Brace for it!

LOS ANGELES

So satisfying!

Many relationships and friendships coalesce in this finale for the serial. After a long haul of tragedies, there's a bounty of romance and happy endings that had been brewing. As usual, my favourite part is Wendy and Sir Mick. Though I enjoyed Bo and Royce's shenaningans, too.

They're all trying to get back in track while supporting each other, and there's an optimism in the air throughout this final installment. Work takes Parker to LA and lots of unexpected events. Secret plans mix with sexy times in exciting ways, all wrapped up in the glamour of the show business and very public declarations of love.

I really appreciated the epilogues that gave us so much insight into the characters' future life. It's been a rollercoaster of emotion and fun to read this long serial, and I couldn't be happier if the IG world continued with a few characters that need closure ;-)

[Ceej Chargualaf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Madrid continues the wicked emotional rollercoaster that Audrey Carlan is an expert on. This book takes us from that initial grin to irritation to wowza to outrage to so many others, including shock, panic, and tears! First off, I do not like Tracey. Earlier in the series, she irritated me. Now, I’d like to put her in a headlock and twist. HARD. I mean, who does what she did??? I’m…just…aaarrrghhh!!! I just can’t.

Moving on before I spoil it more…Juliet…what a sweetheart! I just want to hug her and lift her spirits and join the team in uncovering the beautiful light she keeps hidden. I loved the SkyPark day in Madrid! And holy hotness, Audrey! That dinner! Whew! Then the end of the book…I can’t and don’t want to spoil it, but…what a way to make my heart race, make me cuss at you through my Kindle, and make tears fill my eyes. Why do you make me love your characters?!?!?!?!

Rio… What an amazing roller coaster!! This installment is unlike the others in so many ways. Park and Roy are not working a contracted case, Park and Sky are not just visiting another country. I am so in love with this family of characters that my heart beats so fast when they’re in danger, it stops when something bad happens, it bleeds when they’re hurting! And this stalker/bomber/arsonist…I admit to wanting the tides turned on them. But Audrey is too nice. LOL. I would LOVE 5 minutes in a windowless, soundproof room with that person. Seriously. After all that person did to Sky and Park and family?! Grrrr!!!!!

Los Angeles is everything a finale can ever dream to be! I fell so deeply in love with this family of characters that I felt everything they did from hope to despair, pain to relief, glee to terror, and hatred to love. This last installment is just…everything. Audrey, thank you for this installment. Thank you for reminding me that happiness is a choice. And yes, I choose to be happy. Thank you for such a beautiful book!

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

International Guy: Volume 4


MADRID: INTERNATIONAL GUY BOOK 10


“It’s my job. Your happiness, it’s all that’s important to me.”


This book has quite a twist in it that will have you questioning motives, decisions, sensing betrayal and put your emotions through the wringer! I’m afraid to say too much without giving away any spoilers!!!

“It’s not that I don’t think he’s right for you, it’s just you’re doing all the changing for him. What has he done to make his own commitment known?”


Never Stop Dreaming

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

RIO: INTERNATIONAL GUY BOOK 11

This book is such an emotional read from the start. The unknown, promises, betrayal, hope…some humor and good steaminess sprinkled in.

“You feel like heaven raining down on my skin...I want to drown in you, taste your soul…”


This book will test your faith on moving on after the ultimate betrayal. Questions the core of your existence. Your judgement. Trust. Faith in others.

“When you take the hand of the person you’re meant to be with, the person you love with your entire being, that person becomes your family.”


LIVE FREE Love, Us


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

LOS ANGELES: INTERNATIONAL GUY BOOK 12


“Just roll with life as it comes. Stop letting fear drive your decisions. It’s time to let love take the driver’s seat.”


This book is everything!!! As much as I didn’t want this series to end...you will not be disappointed with the way Audrey Carlson left the IG team. I sure hope some tidbits we were left with is a hint of more to come some day...

“I’m going to lick my wounds and regroup. She’s it. My endgame. I just have to find a way to convince her I’m hers.”


To my Dream Girl . . . To my Dream Maker . . . HAPPINESS IS A CHOICE . . . Love, US

[Rady Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gosh, this series could not get more exciting! As I read through the pages and in the beginning of Vol. 4 everything was quite relaxed. Later on tensions escalated and I have been sitting on pins and needles since. But as with everything there has to come an end. I could not wish for better ending with this series.
Audrey wrapped it up magnificently with one helluva HEA!! My heart was full of emotion, full of love.


Madrid

Beauty, angelic music, and lots of curves. IG teaches confidence and self-worth to an new-and upcoming musician.

Coaxing out the real star of a very shy and insecure person takes all the tricks and magic IG can muster.

Sky and Parker could not be more in love.
But the stalking still continues, in fact it’s worse than before. When they finally believe they have it all figured out....BOOM! Things aren't as they seem.

Rio

Skylar and Parker need to take a break from all the bad experiences that just seem to pile up. They decide to assist with some financial issues in a company of Parker's brother's boyfriend. Royce and his genius brain finds the leak but the threats against Sky and Parker are out of hand. The identity of the stalker couldn't be more surprising.

Los Angeles

Skyler and Parker are healing and enjoying themselves. But the life goes on and work cannot wait.

The IG was asked to prepare candidates for a new reality show Mix and Match.
What Parker wasn't planning on was becoming a spare candidate at the last minute instead of sitting on a jury.

This part was the most beautiful of the whole series. My heart beat in sync with all of the characters and I couldn't help but fall more in love with every single one of them.