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In the Heart of a Valentine #1
No Holds Barred
Love was no longer on the menu for Camilla Augustina. After her fiancé calls off the wedding not once but twice, Camilla's had enough. In a brazen move, she takes a new position in the windy city of Chicago; leaving her parents, friends, and ex in a bittersweet goodbye. Adapting to her new surroundings isn't easy but as Camilla settles in a chance encounter with an infamous playboy throws her off balance and rattles her world. She hadn't expected to be drawn so meticulously to another but denying the magnetism that lures her is a futile fight.
As President of VFC Energy, a fortune 500 company, Hunter Valentine is at the top of his game. The renowned bachelor holds no secrets about his risqué rendezvous, and his allegiance is saved for family only. However, when Hunter spots Camilla Augustina, dining alone at the breakfast hut in his building, he can't explain the adulation that runs through his core and shakes his entire world. Lust never weakened him like this, and the inclination of love at first site was silly. But when Hunter decides to prove the sudden rapture is unreal, he may find himself enamored by love.
*Each book in this series can be read as a standalone*
As President of VFC Energy, a fortune 500 company, Hunter Valentine is at the top of his game. The renowned bachelor holds no secrets about his risqué rendezvous, and his allegiance is saved for family only. However, when Hunter spots Camilla Augustina, dining alone at the breakfast hut in his building, he can't explain the adulation that runs through his core and shakes his entire world. Lust never weakened him like this, and the inclination of love at first site was silly. But when Hunter decides to prove the sudden rapture is unreal, he may find himself enamored by love.
*Each book in this series can be read as a standalone*
256 pages, Paperback
First published April 4, 2018
1454 people are currently reading
1373 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Nicole Norris
103 books1,222 followersStephanie Nicole Norris is an author from Tennessee with a humble beginning. After becoming a young adult, her love for romance sparked, leaving her captivated by heroes and heroines alike. With a big imagination and a creative heart, Stephanie penned her first novel in 2010. She went on to write grin-inducing romance and has received multiple literary awards.
As a prolific writer, Stephanie’s catalog continues to grow. Her books can be found at major retailers, including Amazon, and her website, www.stephanienicolenorris.com.
As a prolific writer, Stephanie’s catalog continues to grow. Her books can be found at major retailers, including Amazon, and her website, www.stephanienicolenorris.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 617 reviews
August 24, 2018
5 stars. I’m going to be completely honest, I picked this up because of the cover. I mean, hello! that man is sexy as shit. I had to read it. This book could’ve been about how to do your damn taxes and I wouldn’t have cared. That. 👏🏾 Man. 👏🏾 Is. 👏🏾 Fine. 👏🏾 Good. 👏🏾 Lord.
Anyways, my thirst for the sexy cover model aside this was such a good and addicting read. Right from the beginning there was just something about the writing that made this so easy to fly through and it had me hooked. The romance is really sweet and the smut is very steamy. It was just all so perfect and swoon worthy. Admittedly, it’s a bit on the insta-love side which normally grates my nerves outside of PNR reads but I didn’t mind it one bit here because it was so captivating.
Camilla is a wonderful character. She’s career driven, independent, feisty and I love her sense of humor. She’s a very strong character but she definitely isn’t afraid of being vulnerable which I always like. I loved seeing her slowly let her guards down around Hunter and fall in love with him.
Hunter Valentine is now one of my all time favorite book boyfriends. From the moment Camilla first lays eyes on him and described him as a mix between Idris Elba and Lance Gross??? *self destructs into a pile of hormones* Those men are two of my faves so I knew he was going to be someone I would fall in love with. And boy did I. He’s such a charming character. He has such a confident aura without being cocky. He’s so sure of himself but he’s not an asshole. He’s a very sweet man with a big heart. I loved his relationship with his mother, it was so cute. And he has such a way with words. I could swoon over him all day. The man is fine, educated, successful, kind and he loves his mama? Sign me up. I’ll take two of him, please.
Overall, I’m glad I found another new favorite book because this gave me everything I wanted. I look forward to reading this sequel (which is about one of Hunter’s brother’s—be still my heart!) soon. The cover model for that one is sexy, too. *sobs*
This is probably my thirstiest review ever and I am not ashamed about it.
{Challenges completed:
✔For Love of a Book: Shopping Cart Challenge
✔For Love of a Book: I Went to the Zoo Challenge}
Anyways, my thirst for the sexy cover model aside this was such a good and addicting read. Right from the beginning there was just something about the writing that made this so easy to fly through and it had me hooked. The romance is really sweet and the smut is very steamy. It was just all so perfect and swoon worthy. Admittedly, it’s a bit on the insta-love side which normally grates my nerves outside of PNR reads but I didn’t mind it one bit here because it was so captivating.
Camilla is a wonderful character. She’s career driven, independent, feisty and I love her sense of humor. She’s a very strong character but she definitely isn’t afraid of being vulnerable which I always like. I loved seeing her slowly let her guards down around Hunter and fall in love with him.
Hunter Valentine is now one of my all time favorite book boyfriends. From the moment Camilla first lays eyes on him and described him as a mix between Idris Elba and Lance Gross??? *self destructs into a pile of hormones* Those men are two of my faves so I knew he was going to be someone I would fall in love with. And boy did I. He’s such a charming character. He has such a confident aura without being cocky. He’s so sure of himself but he’s not an asshole. He’s a very sweet man with a big heart. I loved his relationship with his mother, it was so cute. And he has such a way with words. I could swoon over him all day. The man is fine, educated, successful, kind and he loves his mama? Sign me up. I’ll take two of him, please.
Overall, I’m glad I found another new favorite book because this gave me everything I wanted. I look forward to reading this sequel (which is about one of Hunter’s brother’s—be still my heart!) soon. The cover model for that one is sexy, too. *sobs*
This is probably my thirstiest review ever and I am not ashamed about it.
{Challenges completed:
✔For Love of a Book: Shopping Cart Challenge
✔For Love of a Book: I Went to the Zoo Challenge}
January 4, 2022
The first chapter was SO GOOD, it hooked me immediately and I thought "oh wow, this looks like a five star read". But as it went on I lost interest more and more and by the end I really didn't care what happened to the characters.
In a way I wish this cut off at a certain point, because their chemistry was amazing from their first meeting and, while it never went away, it wasn't enough to keep the story afloat.
The female narrator was amazing though, I love how she gave every character a distinct voice. So for her effort I'm going to round my rating up to three stars.
In a way I wish this cut off at a certain point, because their chemistry was amazing from their first meeting and, while it never went away, it wasn't enough to keep the story afloat.
The female narrator was amazing though, I love how she gave every character a distinct voice. So for her effort I'm going to round my rating up to three stars.
June 29, 2020
Finally ending things with her fiancé, Camilla Augustina has moved to Chicago for a new start, her new job is one she is excited about and she has no interest in thinking about men, that is until she meets Hunter Valentine, President of VFC Energy, a fortune 500 company. Both are undeniably drawn to each other from the get go.
Some good moments of heat in this. After a while it did get a tad silly that Camilla was still actively concealing the fact that she lived on the same floor as Hunter. The plot strand with Steven needed far more development.
Overall an enjoyable one time read, just wish there had been more development when it came to the relationship and plot.
Potential Trigger:
Acquired via KU.
Some good moments of heat in this. After a while it did get a tad silly that Camilla was still actively concealing the fact that she lived on the same floor as Hunter. The plot strand with Steven needed far more development.
Overall an enjoyable one time read, just wish there had been more development when it came to the relationship and plot.
Potential Trigger:
Acquired via KU.
May 20, 2020
This book was sooooooo good! No Holds Barred has the type of characters you never knew existed but, you so desperately wanted and needed. Hunter Valentine is swoon worthy! I didn't know a book character could be so damn sexy! Camilla is the black female with the awesome career we all aspire to be and Corrine is the BFF we all want. I loved the story line. It had all of the right components but, the realism was lacking in certain areas. Camilla and Hunter's relationship was extremely fast paced and they started having unprotected sex right from the jump. But, if you believe in love at first sight, I guess it's not so unrealistic. Other than her annoying azz ex ,who couldn't let go, there was absolutely no drama. Just two people falling in love rather quickly. When I finished, I had to ask myself "Everybody but me huh, God?!!!" 😞😞😞 This was my first book by Stephanie Nicole Norris and I can't wait to finish the rest of the series.
August 25, 2020
this book was a pleasant steamy surprise from a new to me author..
even though it was short, the storyline still felt cohesive and ticked all the important buttons..
and it gave me shivers..shivers I tell you... I am excited to read more of this series...
January 31, 2022
Well this was a surprise delight. I picked this up in Audible's recent sale, taking a chance on a new to me author that I had never heard of before. The cover and narrator (Jakobi Diem) really sold me, honestly.
But I am so happy I picked this up because I REALLY enjoyed it! Camilla and Hunter have such great chemistry. Hunter is a powerful alpha, a bit of a womanizer, but when he sees Camilla (their meet cute was perfection) he thinks maybe he has found the woman that is it for him.
Camilla is coming out of a broken engagement and is a bit wary of starting a new relationship but she can't deny the pull she feels towards Hunter. I loved the slow build of their relationship and could not get enough of the tension built between them.
Very excited to continue the series, very much enjoyed this!
But I am so happy I picked this up because I REALLY enjoyed it! Camilla and Hunter have such great chemistry. Hunter is a powerful alpha, a bit of a womanizer, but when he sees Camilla (their meet cute was perfection) he thinks maybe he has found the woman that is it for him.
Camilla is coming out of a broken engagement and is a bit wary of starting a new relationship but she can't deny the pull she feels towards Hunter. I loved the slow build of their relationship and could not get enough of the tension built between them.
Very excited to continue the series, very much enjoyed this!
July 26, 2021
Love this book!
October 3, 2021
Camilla moved the Chicago for a fresh start. Her ex is an asshole and jerked her around one too many times. She's a TV anchor and aware of herself. She's strong and doesn't take bullshit. She also lives next door to Hunter, a very successful and in demand businessman. Hunter loves living the bachelor lifestyle.
I was disappointed in this one. I hard a hard time understanding why Camilla was so instantly attracted to Hunter. Yes he is handsome, sexy, successful- most women's wet dream. But, he's also a male whore who had 3 (yes, 3) women at his apartment just the night before they meet. And Camilla is aware of that since she saw (and watched) them leave. If was just 1, no biggie, but 3? Camilla, who usually holds her own, becomes an idiot around Hunter.
Hunter also had an annoying habit of wanting to feed Camilla (and when they first met, weird!). And for calling her "Angel." To me, a nickname is something earned. He also held unto her credit card so he could see her again. And he doesn't give it back when she comes to his apartment to ask him for it. And I don't remember him (or it being mentioned) that he returned it. Hunter is also part of a set of septuplets (yes, you read that right- he did lose a brother about 1 1/2 months old) & they are all 38 yr hot, sexy, rich, AND single! And they are all Christian (mentioned more than once).
I might have rated this a 3, but what dropped this to a generous 2 star read were these things:
I was disappointed in this one. I hard a hard time understanding why Camilla was so instantly attracted to Hunter. Yes he is handsome, sexy, successful- most women's wet dream. But, he's also a male whore who had 3 (yes, 3) women at his apartment just the night before they meet. And Camilla is aware of that since she saw (and watched) them leave. If was just 1, no biggie, but 3? Camilla, who usually holds her own, becomes an idiot around Hunter.
Hunter also had an annoying habit of wanting to feed Camilla (and when they first met, weird!). And for calling her "Angel." To me, a nickname is something earned. He also held unto her credit card so he could see her again. And he doesn't give it back when she comes to his apartment to ask him for it. And I don't remember him (or it being mentioned) that he returned it. Hunter is also part of a set of septuplets (yes, you read that right- he did lose a brother about 1 1/2 months old) & they are all 38 yr hot, sexy, rich, AND single! And they are all Christian (mentioned more than once).
I might have rated this a 3, but what dropped this to a generous 2 star read were these things:
May 19, 2019
I had such high hopes for this book. I saw all the 4 and 5 star reviews and just new I was going to love it. Not so.
Alexandria House and Chelsea Maria write such rich well developed characters that I new Stephanie Nicole Norris was apart of that group.
I feel that if characters do not draw me in within the first chapter you can forget it. Camilia Augustina moved to Chicago from Florida to be the new anchor for a local channel. She meets rich, handsome, Hunter Valentine. There was an instant connection which I had no problem with but the characters were so one dimensional. I was hoping something would happen to make me like the story. That never happened.
I am not a fan of unnecessary detail to fill pages and I was not a fan of the author's word choices. I will not be reading the rest of this series.
Alexandria House and Chelsea Maria write such rich well developed characters that I new Stephanie Nicole Norris was apart of that group.
I feel that if characters do not draw me in within the first chapter you can forget it. Camilia Augustina moved to Chicago from Florida to be the new anchor for a local channel. She meets rich, handsome, Hunter Valentine. There was an instant connection which I had no problem with but the characters were so one dimensional. I was hoping something would happen to make me like the story. That never happened.
I am not a fan of unnecessary detail to fill pages and I was not a fan of the author's word choices. I will not be reading the rest of this series.
November 30, 2019
*I received a free audio copy of No Holds Barred from Tantor Media. This has in no way influenced my voluntary review which is honest and unbiased.*
No Holds Barred was a cute love story, with solid narration - however, everything happened so fast, and the ending was very abrupt.
No Holds Barred was a cute love story, with solid narration - however, everything happened so fast, and the ending was very abrupt.
September 28, 2020
Hunter and Camilla find love
I love stories with professionals who are hard working and are generally good people. Hunter and Camilla were fun to follow because there wasn’t a lot of games. They enjoyed each other and took time to build something special.
They both had some baggage but overall, it was so well written that you had to root for them.
This was my first story by this author and I really enjoyed it. I am looking forward to reading book 2.
I love stories with professionals who are hard working and are generally good people. Hunter and Camilla were fun to follow because there wasn’t a lot of games. They enjoyed each other and took time to build something special.
They both had some baggage but overall, it was so well written that you had to root for them.
This was my first story by this author and I really enjoyed it. I am looking forward to reading book 2.
October 18, 2020
Beautiful By Design (BBD) chose a sequel theme for this cycle. The series was suggested by the creator of BBD, Linda, and was voted in by the group. We are excited to read In the Heart of a Valentine which is an 8-part series by author Stephanie Nicole Norris. The first book was titled No Holds Barred. We rated this book 4.6 out of 5 stars. As we have settled into this virtual world of book club, we want to always give thanks to Skype for providing a virtual platform for us to come together during these new times. We are not calling this the ‘new normal’, but just a minor bump in the road until permanent repairs can be made. As always, BBD will keep it moving. Thanks to Cindy for being the host of Book 1 and providing us with thought-provoking questions to drive our discussions.
To describe this book with one adjective, we would collectively say it was definitely ‘SPICY’. And that was just the book cover! We want to thank the author for providing us with the eye candy to use as our visual for Hunter Valentine. But, BBD also thought the content inside the book equally matched the cover. The story line was a great read. It was well written and had an easy, readable flow to it. It kept us immersed into the story to the very end and left us anxious to get to the next book. Through the use of the detailed descriptors used by the author, we were able to imagine all the intricate details of clothing the characters wore to the type of club and restaurants they went to. We felt the emotions and the chemistry that developed between the two main characters. There were many “drop the mic” moments where BBD gave props to certain scenes that took place in the novel.
The only thing some members of BBD found a little distracting were the numerous grammatical and few punctuation errors throughout the book. BBD read the e-Book version of No Holds Barred so we cannot confirm if this was the result of how the book transferred to electronic devices or if it was written as such in the physical book. Even so, it did not detract from the story, but wanted to disclose this information for transparency.
Lastly, many of us are hoping that somewhere in the series, the author will continue to develop and closeout the two main characters’ story from this book. The ending, while leaving us breathless, left us also guessing where the relationship would go next. One member of BBD felt the author wrote the main female character as not knowing her worth and what she can give to a black man based on the way the character was written while some of us feel that could be the result of uncertainty due to previous bad relationships and slow to trust again. Either way, we will let other readers decide and feel free to leave a comment. No holds barred!
To describe this book with one adjective, we would collectively say it was definitely ‘SPICY’. And that was just the book cover! We want to thank the author for providing us with the eye candy to use as our visual for Hunter Valentine. But, BBD also thought the content inside the book equally matched the cover. The story line was a great read. It was well written and had an easy, readable flow to it. It kept us immersed into the story to the very end and left us anxious to get to the next book. Through the use of the detailed descriptors used by the author, we were able to imagine all the intricate details of clothing the characters wore to the type of club and restaurants they went to. We felt the emotions and the chemistry that developed between the two main characters. There were many “drop the mic” moments where BBD gave props to certain scenes that took place in the novel.
The only thing some members of BBD found a little distracting were the numerous grammatical and few punctuation errors throughout the book. BBD read the e-Book version of No Holds Barred so we cannot confirm if this was the result of how the book transferred to electronic devices or if it was written as such in the physical book. Even so, it did not detract from the story, but wanted to disclose this information for transparency.
Lastly, many of us are hoping that somewhere in the series, the author will continue to develop and closeout the two main characters’ story from this book. The ending, while leaving us breathless, left us also guessing where the relationship would go next. One member of BBD felt the author wrote the main female character as not knowing her worth and what she can give to a black man based on the way the character was written while some of us feel that could be the result of uncertainty due to previous bad relationships and slow to trust again. Either way, we will let other readers decide and feel free to leave a comment. No holds barred!
February 22, 2023
It was okay. But somebody please tell Ms. Norris to leave the thesaurus alone. And listen she has never met a metaphor or simile she didn’t love. Hunter came off a little like a rich cornball to me. I also couldn’t figure out how Camilla managed to afford to be a next door neighbor to a millionaire. Not sure if I’ll come back to this series.
Also I know authors don’t always have creative control over the cover but this styling screams lame to me. The man is attractive but the hat and what not… just not it.
Also I know authors don’t always have creative control over the cover but this styling screams lame to me. The man is attractive but the hat and what not… just not it.
April 4, 2022
I’m not going to front, when I first read about Hunter Valentine in Fever (Josiah and Santana’s story from the Rose brothers series) I thought he was sleazy 😬 but after getting to know him I fell in love. Him and Camilla were steamy! I will say that Camilla was a whole fool giving 15years to her ex! Really girl?! Anywho, I’m ready to get into these Valentine brothers.
February 7, 2023
Definitely No Holds Barred
The sexual tension, magnetic pull and then the love was felt throughout. From the first interaction between Hunter and Camilla to the end, alluring and coveting. I love reads like this. I wanted more, I would read more.
The sexual tension, magnetic pull and then the love was felt throughout. From the first interaction between Hunter and Camilla to the end, alluring and coveting. I love reads like this. I wanted more, I would read more.
June 8, 2018
A great story and actually these are the types of reads I have been missing, this book popped up in a reading group I am in on Facebook and I quickly 1-clicked.
Camilla Augustina has moved to the windy city of Chicago, snagging a job at new station WTZB as an anchorwoman. It's a chance for her to start anew and away from the drama of her ex-fiance who still lives in Florida. Camilla is living in her fabulous new place the Regency, also looking forward to a new career, new friends, and no love is nowhere on that list.
Hunter Valentine, President of VFC Energy a Fortune 500 company, he is working to make things greener and long lasting for the earth, is crazy about his family and he is not looking for love. Mr. Valentine has way too much to do in his life and will settle for being the eligible and elusive bachelor.
Camilla and Hunter are going to cross paths and unbeknownst to them, fate's hand is all about bringing them together, whether they are ready or not. They both cross paths one morning during breakfast, a little flirting happens and then Camilla rushes off for her first day on her new job. Hunter wants to know exactly who she is and if Camilla doesn't realize it as of yet, she has now become the prey.
What I enjoyed about this story is that Hunter is really a great guy, there was no drama lurking in his past, no crazy ex-girlfriend, no baby momma, just none of that. Camilla was a really great woman, she didn't have any baggage, even though she had an ex-fiance, she wasn't hard or broken down, Camilla had found a new job, moved to a new city and still wanted to live life.
Hunter is sexy, smart, rich, body for days and an exquisite lover Woot! Woot! Camilla is smart, sexy, kind, she doesn't have a stick figured body and family oriented. Author Stephanie Nicole Norris wrote the heck out of their story and again this is my first time reading a book by her. I am definitely looking forward to reading the next Valentine's brother story which will be Xavier and Camilla's best friend Corinne.
Also, her book covers are absolutely sexy.
Well Until My Next Review...Ciao Bellas!
Camilla Augustina has moved to the windy city of Chicago, snagging a job at new station WTZB as an anchorwoman. It's a chance for her to start anew and away from the drama of her ex-fiance who still lives in Florida. Camilla is living in her fabulous new place the Regency, also looking forward to a new career, new friends, and no love is nowhere on that list.
Hunter Valentine, President of VFC Energy a Fortune 500 company, he is working to make things greener and long lasting for the earth, is crazy about his family and he is not looking for love. Mr. Valentine has way too much to do in his life and will settle for being the eligible and elusive bachelor.
Camilla and Hunter are going to cross paths and unbeknownst to them, fate's hand is all about bringing them together, whether they are ready or not. They both cross paths one morning during breakfast, a little flirting happens and then Camilla rushes off for her first day on her new job. Hunter wants to know exactly who she is and if Camilla doesn't realize it as of yet, she has now become the prey.
What I enjoyed about this story is that Hunter is really a great guy, there was no drama lurking in his past, no crazy ex-girlfriend, no baby momma, just none of that. Camilla was a really great woman, she didn't have any baggage, even though she had an ex-fiance, she wasn't hard or broken down, Camilla had found a new job, moved to a new city and still wanted to live life.
Hunter is sexy, smart, rich, body for days and an exquisite lover Woot! Woot! Camilla is smart, sexy, kind, she doesn't have a stick figured body and family oriented. Author Stephanie Nicole Norris wrote the heck out of their story and again this is my first time reading a book by her. I am definitely looking forward to reading the next Valentine's brother story which will be Xavier and Camilla's best friend Corinne.
Also, her book covers are absolutely sexy.
Well Until My Next Review...Ciao Bellas!
December 15, 2022
Summary: Camilla takes the reins of her new news casting job seriously and is ready to restart her life. And in walks Hunter, the president of a very well know and successful green energy company. When she ends up interviewing him, the two have instant chemistry. And on camera Hunter didn’t hold back on his admiration of Camilla. Being that the infatuation was mutual, they start up a romantic relationship. Although a lot of single ladies in the city are probably sighing in sadness now that he’s off the market. Camilla is anything but sad
Okay I love seeing black women being spoiled and I love seeing successful black men in business so I was with it from the beginning. I also loved the chemistry between these two. But there needed to be way more conversations regarding safe sex.. I really don’t think they knew each other well enough to jump straight to wanting to make a baby. Especially directly after Camilla touched on not wanting to have kids at all. That was never brought back up she just turned an entire new leaf and was dick whipped into being mommy ready.. which will always be weird to me. Lol a character deciding to go from “not wanting kids” to “wanting kids” isn’t the character development you think it is. And if she did change her mind I need to see on page why that’s so for me to be on board.. overall it was pretty fast paced, great chemistry and steamy scenes and I liked them both together. I will still read more from this author to see if she’s for me.
Okay I love seeing black women being spoiled and I love seeing successful black men in business so I was with it from the beginning. I also loved the chemistry between these two. But there needed to be way more conversations regarding safe sex.. I really don’t think they knew each other well enough to jump straight to wanting to make a baby. Especially directly after Camilla touched on not wanting to have kids at all. That was never brought back up she just turned an entire new leaf and was dick whipped into being mommy ready.. which will always be weird to me. Lol a character deciding to go from “not wanting kids” to “wanting kids” isn’t the character development you think it is. And if she did change her mind I need to see on page why that’s so for me to be on board.. overall it was pretty fast paced, great chemistry and steamy scenes and I liked them both together. I will still read more from this author to see if she’s for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2018
Good but Lacked Realism
I enjoyed the book and the couple featured. Hunter, the self proclaimed consummate bachelor falls so suddenly and deeply for the fresh faced, new to the area, Camilla that it leaves your head spinning. I love a good love story and this one had the right components but the realism was lacking and took something away from the story. The reader gets their first glimpse of Hunter as three women are leaving his apartment. It is a reasonable assumption that he slept with at least one of them but not even a day later, he is smitten with his new neighbor in the span of a few hours. It also irked me when he started calling her "angel". That was a bit corny and contrived.
I also struggled with the septuplets all being mogul millionaires not to mention Hunter with his vast resources didn't have enough juice to know who his only neighbor was--Camilla withholding that info for as long as she did was dumb after while. Again, good story but it would have rounded out the story more to see Hunter struggle a bit with his feelings versus falling so quickly and irrevocably. Not to mention, this powerful CEO with a high profile is so gone that he engages in unprotected intimacies is not realistic 🤔
I enjoyed the book and the couple featured. Hunter, the self proclaimed consummate bachelor falls so suddenly and deeply for the fresh faced, new to the area, Camilla that it leaves your head spinning. I love a good love story and this one had the right components but the realism was lacking and took something away from the story. The reader gets their first glimpse of Hunter as three women are leaving his apartment. It is a reasonable assumption that he slept with at least one of them but not even a day later, he is smitten with his new neighbor in the span of a few hours. It also irked me when he started calling her "angel". That was a bit corny and contrived.
I also struggled with the septuplets all being mogul millionaires not to mention Hunter with his vast resources didn't have enough juice to know who his only neighbor was--Camilla withholding that info for as long as she did was dumb after while. Again, good story but it would have rounded out the story more to see Hunter struggle a bit with his feelings versus falling so quickly and irrevocably. Not to mention, this powerful CEO with a high profile is so gone that he engages in unprotected intimacies is not realistic 🤔
September 16, 2020
4.5 Stars and Recommend the read
This a first time read of this author and her books. Kudos to the mom who had septuplets and this the story of Hunter Valentine the eldest of the non identical brothers and Camilla Augustino.
As novellas go, very short and to the point. Some parts seemed unrealistic but if you are a romantic at heart, some things go just as read on page for some people. 😊 Anyhewwww, this novella was a very delightful read in this series and I totally enjoyed it very much. Will I re-read, yes but next time via audiobook as the male narration is done by Jakobi Diem who has a very sexy mail voice.
All books in this series I believe are novellas so on to the next episode to check out the next handsome Valentine brother. 😁
This a first time read of this author and her books. Kudos to the mom who had septuplets and this the story of Hunter Valentine the eldest of the non identical brothers and Camilla Augustino.
As novellas go, very short and to the point. Some parts seemed unrealistic but if you are a romantic at heart, some things go just as read on page for some people. 😊 Anyhewwww, this novella was a very delightful read in this series and I totally enjoyed it very much. Will I re-read, yes but next time via audiobook as the male narration is done by Jakobi Diem who has a very sexy mail voice.
All books in this series I believe are novellas so on to the next episode to check out the next handsome Valentine brother. 😁
August 2, 2020
DNF at 22%
OMG I couldn’t take this writing anymore. It was over wrought and unnecessarily dramatic - even for a romance.
Some of the words used didn’t make any sense in context and actually confused what was happening.
Things like:
“A deep, devouring laugh escaped him.“
“Shrill of heat”
“Camilla’s heart skipped a beat as her sight took in the magnificence of his stature.”
“Black suit pants laced around his powerful thighs”
And so on and on...
Basically almost every second sentence was awkward and took me out of the story so I’m moving on. I didn’t like this at all.
OMG I couldn’t take this writing anymore. It was over wrought and unnecessarily dramatic - even for a romance.
Some of the words used didn’t make any sense in context and actually confused what was happening.
Things like:
“A deep, devouring laugh escaped him.“
“Shrill of heat”
“Camilla’s heart skipped a beat as her sight took in the magnificence of his stature.”
“Black suit pants laced around his powerful thighs”
And so on and on...
Basically almost every second sentence was awkward and took me out of the story so I’m moving on. I didn’t like this at all.
August 19, 2022
I've had this audiobook for ages but it kind of got lost amongst my library. I am so bummed I didn't find it sooner because this book just made me happy. Two people found a home within the other and while there was some drama it was just good. It had everything I was looking for in the moment.
Camilla Augustina was the perfect heroine who found herself falling hard and fast for the President of VFC Energy Hunter Valentine. He fell equally as fast and once they got past the unexpected moments of their feelings it was magic.
Jakobi Diem and Wesleigh Siobhan did a wonderful job on bringing this story to life. I haven't checked yet, but I do hope they continue with the rest of the series.
I wonder which Valentine brother is going to lose his heart next...
Camilla Augustina was the perfect heroine who found herself falling hard and fast for the President of VFC Energy Hunter Valentine. He fell equally as fast and once they got past the unexpected moments of their feelings it was magic.
Jakobi Diem and Wesleigh Siobhan did a wonderful job on bringing this story to life. I haven't checked yet, but I do hope they continue with the rest of the series.
I wonder which Valentine brother is going to lose his heart next...
September 15, 2019
This was a very good read. This was my first time reading anything by Stephanie Nicole Noris. And it will not be my last If you like Alexandria House. You’ll definitely enjoy reading Stephanie Nicole Norris’ style as well. Ms. Noris writes about strong black men and women who know exactly who and what they want out of a relationship. And in particular the black male lead is very strong minded as well as has having great character and strong moral compass. The storyline is absolutely believable which is very important to me there’s nothing worse than reading a story and you’re saying no way could that happen in real life. So I give this book five stars. And I’m running to get the next book in the series see you on the other side.
July 19, 2020
Low key I might want to re-read this hoopla audiobook ... but I think I got it all
Camilla and Hunter are quite a pair. He's smitten from the start but SLIGHTLY cagey - a bit controlling ... Camilla is taken too.
What I found incredibly distracting though was ... there were so many ... odd/weird/wrong word choices. Like... adjectives and such that didn't QUITE work. It's like a thesaurus was cracked open but ... :x not the dictionary.
Contradictory phrases and ... it was constant. Definitely throughout the book, almost every paragraph, but sometimes it seemed like every sentence.
So I liked the characters, I liked the story, but man the writing/craft had major issues.
Honestly it was so bad I'd probably rate this 2.5 stars if I could...
I liked the Camilla was steady.
I know it's supposed to be romantic but Hunter was sometimes too much.
Ok - and thinking about it now ... taking it down to 2 stars because ....
Seriously how he acts at the hurricane/tornado and the jet and everything it's just not reasonable or rational, but more importantly, not SMART.
It was insanely OTT and just ... whut.
I did like him and his family, I liked the two of them - they were romantic, but he was too much sometimes and Camilla was ... I didn't dislike her, I liked her in fact but I didn't LIKELOVE her.
Things happened fast. Her friendship with the [new editor person?] - then her meeting his family ...
IDEK.
Like not love this book.
I WANT to read the rest in this series but I'm also not :X that excited about it, especially not sure if I can stand it with all these word issues so I read all the blurbs and went for his parents story.
D+ or C-- - ... ?
IDEK
am tired, obviously and fading fast.
Camilla and Hunter are quite a pair. He's smitten from the start but SLIGHTLY cagey - a bit controlling ... Camilla is taken too.
What I found incredibly distracting though was ... there were so many ... odd/weird/wrong word choices. Like... adjectives and such that didn't QUITE work. It's like a thesaurus was cracked open but ... :x not the dictionary.
Contradictory phrases and ... it was constant. Definitely throughout the book, almost every paragraph, but sometimes it seemed like every sentence.
So I liked the characters, I liked the story, but man the writing/craft had major issues.
Honestly it was so bad I'd probably rate this 2.5 stars if I could...
I liked the Camilla was steady.
I know it's supposed to be romantic but Hunter was sometimes too much.
Ok - and thinking about it now ... taking it down to 2 stars because ....
Seriously how he acts at the hurricane/tornado and the jet and everything it's just not reasonable or rational, but more importantly, not SMART.
It was insanely OTT and just ... whut.
I did like him and his family, I liked the two of them - they were romantic, but he was too much sometimes and Camilla was ... I didn't dislike her, I liked her in fact but I didn't LIKELOVE her.
Things happened fast. Her friendship with the [new editor person?] - then her meeting his family ...
IDEK.
Like not love this book.
I WANT to read the rest in this series but I'm also not :X that excited about it, especially not sure if I can stand it with all these word issues so I read all the blurbs and went for his parents story.
D+ or C-- - ... ?
IDEK
am tired, obviously and fading fast.
August 5, 2020
This is the first book I ever read coming from Stephanie Nicole Norris, and I thought it was pretty good. It was very sexy and hot, and a great introduction to all those beautiful Valentine brothers!🔥🔥 Hunter is definitely a "no holds barred" kind of guy. Once he meets Camilla, he is focused on becoming the man in her life. Hunter and Camilla absolutely fit into the insta-lust, insta-love category. I mean seriously, the woman allowed him to actually feed her breakfast from his fingers after a few minutes of meeting each other! Or was it the other way around? Anyway, you get the picture! LOL!!
Ms. Norris has something good going on with the Valentine Brothers. They're an interesting set of brothers and family as a whole.
The conflict with Camilla's ex was brushed over too quickly. I also thought she was handling him too nicely. I understand being over him, but she should have really kicked his arse for the foolishness he tried to pull! LOL!
All in all, it's a good book, and has me curious about the other brothers. I will definitely be hitting up the rest of this series. Be careful of those grammatical and editing errors though.💖💖
Ms. Norris has something good going on with the Valentine Brothers. They're an interesting set of brothers and family as a whole.
The conflict with Camilla's ex was brushed over too quickly. I also thought she was handling him too nicely. I understand being over him, but she should have really kicked his arse for the foolishness he tried to pull! LOL!
All in all, it's a good book, and has me curious about the other brothers. I will definitely be hitting up the rest of this series. Be careful of those grammatical and editing errors though.💖💖
April 18, 2018
Title: No Holds Barred
Author: Stephanie Nicole Norris
Publisher: S. N.N.
Series: In The Heart Of A Valentine Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"No Holds Barred" by Stephanie Nicole Norris
My Thoughts....
This was a wonderful sweet romance read featuring Camilla Augustina and Hunter Valentine as they are having 'fun, being sassy, sensual and not steamy chemistry' that will definitely keep you turning the pages till the very end. Be ready for a little bit of it all from a horrible ex, interesting secondary characters, then family issues, a baby and finally a HEA. Can't wait for the next installment featuring Xavier who is another one of the 'Valentine brothers!'
Author: Stephanie Nicole Norris
Publisher: S. N.N.
Series: In The Heart Of A Valentine Book 1
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"No Holds Barred" by Stephanie Nicole Norris
My Thoughts....
This was a wonderful sweet romance read featuring Camilla Augustina and Hunter Valentine as they are having 'fun, being sassy, sensual and not steamy chemistry' that will definitely keep you turning the pages till the very end. Be ready for a little bit of it all from a horrible ex, interesting secondary characters, then family issues, a baby and finally a HEA. Can't wait for the next installment featuring Xavier who is another one of the 'Valentine brothers!'
July 27, 2019
1st read and not disappointed
I got what I was looking for and maybe just a bit more. This romance of a few short weeks turned in to be one for the life of this adult couple. Neither one of them were looking for anything more, but were drawn to each other from the first moment. Camilla had her first introduction to her new neighbor in a not so subtle way. Hunter had his double take moment and had to make himself knonw to the pretty lady having breakfast in his building. Watching the interaction was entertaining. Although I found the ening couple of chaters to need more.
I don't believe that the title fits the read, but I could have missed something. I enjoyed enough that I want to go back and read the Rose series by this offer.
I got what I was looking for and maybe just a bit more. This romance of a few short weeks turned in to be one for the life of this adult couple. Neither one of them were looking for anything more, but were drawn to each other from the first moment. Camilla had her first introduction to her new neighbor in a not so subtle way. Hunter had his double take moment and had to make himself knonw to the pretty lady having breakfast in his building. Watching the interaction was entertaining. Although I found the ening couple of chaters to need more.
I don't believe that the title fits the read, but I could have missed something. I enjoyed enough that I want to go back and read the Rose series by this offer.
December 27, 2020
Wow
I didn't know what to expect with how unsure Camilla was, but boy oh boy was I relieved that Hunter kept at it. That ex was a bit off, but Hunter showed him that he didn't play when it came to his future. I loved the comedic tidbits and how there was a bit of tragedy, but not too much. I can tell the the mother, Mrs. Valentine, is going to be a fav character of mine throughout this series. This was a great introduction to this author and she didn't disappoint. Can't wait to read about the rest of the Valentine men.
I didn't know what to expect with how unsure Camilla was, but boy oh boy was I relieved that Hunter kept at it. That ex was a bit off, but Hunter showed him that he didn't play when it came to his future. I loved the comedic tidbits and how there was a bit of tragedy, but not too much. I can tell the the mother, Mrs. Valentine, is going to be a fav character of mine throughout this series. This was a great introduction to this author and she didn't disappoint. Can't wait to read about the rest of the Valentine men.
July 19, 2018
With the most unique writing style I've ever encountered comes the new series by STEPHANIE Nicole Harris. As usual, I was totally immersed in the fantasy world that SNN wove with the skill of a spider, enticing me into the silky threads of love and passion. I need more!!!🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
April 27, 2021
Get yourself a man who will travel through crazy hurricane weather to get to you... get yourself a Hunter
April 5, 2021
Love love love
Love, love ,love this story. I am so in love with Mr. Hunter Valentine.
The determination that he displayed to show is interest in the beautiful guarded Camilla. When you know you just know. And he knew Camilla was what he wanted. He proved to her that he is not his reputation. He was capable of love and being a one woman man.
I enjoyed all of the characters in this story. From Corrine her bf from Florida to her new bf she has gained at work. I cant wait to read the story of the other Valentine brothers.
Seems like the real relationship goals start and ends with a Valentine.
Love, love ,love this story. I am so in love with Mr. Hunter Valentine.
The determination that he displayed to show is interest in the beautiful guarded Camilla. When you know you just know. And he knew Camilla was what he wanted. He proved to her that he is not his reputation. He was capable of love and being a one woman man.
I enjoyed all of the characters in this story. From Corrine her bf from Florida to her new bf she has gained at work. I cant wait to read the story of the other Valentine brothers.
Seems like the real relationship goals start and ends with a Valentine.
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