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Love looks easy, but it’s harder than you think…

Done. Harper is done with men. They’re too complicated, frustrating—and dangerous. After a run-in with her ex-husband, Harper ends all contact with her boyfriend, Jack, the one man who stole her heart.

But when Jack and Harper are thrown together to help a friend, all her old feelings reignite. Torn between closing herself off and her desire to understand his life and choices, Harper delves into his world. Jack’s past may complicate things even more. Will Harper see that the payoff is greater than the risk?

280 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 6, 2018

86 people are currently reading
338 people want to read

About the author

Jessa York

51 books1,000 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].
3,037 reviews25.3k followers
September 7, 2018
RATING 4.5 STARS

Over Hard is book two in the Santa Lena Sizzles duet by Jessa York. In the first book in this series, Over Easy, I fell in strong like with this series. Now in book two, I fell in love. Harper, the heroine, grew so much and had such a huge impact on the other characters. And Jack, the sexy, swoony, dirty talking chef, well, we’ll just leave it at that.

I don’t want to give too much away in case you haven’t read Over Easy yet but things pretty much start right up where book one left off. Harper knows the truth, or what she thinks is the truth. Mostly she just knows that Jack has lied. That after all she had been through with her ex-husband, that Jack wasn’t honest with her. But she wouldn’t let him explain. She wouldn’t talk to him. When her friends are in trouble and need her help, she’s finally thrown back into Jack’s path and it’s just what she needed to finally hear him out. And this is where I started to really fall in love with Harper. Because in the blink of an eye, she forgave him. She loved Jack. Over the time they were apart, she was miserable and knew she wanted him in her life.

adorable 3 year old girl

Jack had been lost without Harper. Now that he had her back, he wasn’t letting her go again. But Jack’s family is a mess. His ex-wife lives to make him miserable. And then there are his issues with his family.

Just like real life, when you love someone, you also get their family, and Harper was thrown right into the midst of Jack’s family’s problems. But rather than stay out of it, she dove right in and tried to help. She ran herself ragged keeping up with her own job as well as running back and forth helping Jack’s family with their problems. Some of the things she is doing, he knows about, and some he doesn’t. It’s the ones he doesn’t know about that she’s worried about.

sexy times

All the while, Jack and Harper grew closer. I love the scenes with Jack cooking, mostly shirtless, for Harper and her friends. Not only did he provide some nice scenery, he provided them with fantastic food as well.

“This is so good,” she said, digging into her breakfast. “What did he put in these eggs? Mine never taste this good.”
“I’ve no clue. Who can concentrate on what he’s doing with food when he’s in there shirtless?”


Image result for sexy male cook gif

Don’t get me wrong, Jack and Harper are tested. At one point, I was ready to give Jack a smack down. But he got back in my good graces again. The reason is that they talked, and worked things out. Like I said earlier, they both grew so much.



The first two books in this series are a duet, but are coming out within a very short time of each other so there will be no long wait. Jack and Harper’s story is brought to a conclusion at the end of this book. There will be future books in this series with recurring characters but Jack and Harper are done. I think Jessa York is making a great entry into the book world as an author and I am so glad that I had the chance to read this. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next.

If you want to know more about this book and so many others, come and hang out with me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World! https://www.facebook.com/groups/44036...

Profile Image for Sentranced Jem.
1,229 reviews612 followers
September 24, 2018
~An ARC Was Kindly Provided In Exchange For An Honest Review~

I have got to hand it to Jessa York, Over Hard was the perfect end to Harper and Jack's story.
I was a little apprehensive (like i always am when I am reading a duet or a series) starting book 2 as book 1, Over Easy was such a perfect entry into the book community.

Harper and Jack are easy to love.....and just like their connection, I couldn't help but hang tight and just go with the flow of the love story that is the story of jack and Harper.
But let's be real here for a moment ok? because i have a bone to pick too.... because Jack .... jack had moments where I wished he would honestly get his head out of his ass cause in a love/hate kind of way ...i found that there were moments where the over bearing nature and the whole 'alpha male' vibe pissed me off. But, have no fear.. You can't get mad at Jack for long.

Over Hard is the perfect. I loved being introduced to these characters.... I love the chemistry between the Jack and Harper. Their connection is palpable and intense.
Over Hard is fast paced and it never has a dull moment in this book.

I tip my imaginary hat off to Jessa York!
I can't wait to read more from this author......

4-stars
Profile Image for Carvanz.
2,382 reviews896 followers
March 21, 2019
Holy Wow!!! I loved this book!

This story picks up right where book one ends. It’s full of fun, flirty goodness that just about made my heart explode with the happiness this couple found.

There’s lots of family drama pushing Jack and Harper to find a place where everyone can work together. I really enjoyed the side story of Jack’s dad and how the author played it all out. We’ve definitely got some ex drama going on but she never makes a move on Jack which was refreshing.

I found Harper to be a great heroine as she grew into confidence and self-assurance. Jack was dynamite! He had his eyes on Harper and he didn’t hold back. The secondary characters shift around a bit this time and we are introduced more to Jack’s family than Harper’s friends…although they are still very much in the picture as well.

This was a great conclusion to a wonderful story that is actually low angst and high steam. The relationship is realistic and so heartwarming that I wanted to twirl in a giddy circle for all the joy it brought. And I’m not even going to mention the little twist. Oops!

Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Profile Image for Candace Tidwell.
326 reviews36 followers
September 30, 2018
Jessa York has earned a spot on my favorite authors list. She hooked me with the first book and the second sealed the deal. I had so many questions after reading Over Easy and York delivered the answers and more in this book. Her writing flows seamlessly and the storyline was lovely. Jack and Harper's relationship is sweet yet hot. You will soak up the words so easily that you feel pulled into the book. I was captivated and I look forward to any and all future projects by York.
Profile Image for Janie.
873 reviews81 followers
October 22, 2018
I’m honestly very shocked that this duet is the author’s debut. The writing and humor are fantastic. The bathroom scene had me laughing my ass off for like 10 minutes. Harper is definitely one of my most favorite heroines ever. I also loved Jack but there were a couple of times I wanted to throat punch him. He needed to grovel a bit more imo. The secondary characters are so well written and add to the story. I can’t wait to read their books. I want to be friends with this crew in real life lol.
Profile Image for Michelle Claypot_Reads.
2,513 reviews61 followers
September 10, 2018
The book picks up right where book one left off (you MUST read Over Easy first).

Misunderstandings and secrets have a big impact in this one. Jack and Harper certainly don't like to make things too easy for each other along the way. This time round we get to see more of each of their families and their backgrounds. It's a richer story for that inclusion. The chemistry is off the charts in this one and we get plenty of feels too.

Add in some intrigue with a side character, a dash of action and you've got a really well rounded story. I am definitely keen to read more from this author and hope that one character in particular is getting a story.

I received an arc of this book.
Profile Image for A Book Lover's Emporium Book Blog.
2,816 reviews171 followers
September 26, 2018
OMG, you have to read this duet!! High five to Jessa York on this well rounded, a little bit of everything story that had me laughing and crying, smiling and Ugh…frustrated too. It’s a loving story with some angst but not overly so with an interesting twist, I didn’t see coming. It’s perfectly balanced with well-defined and loveable characters. There are a few tense moments as well as some funny LOL moments. I was laughing so hard in bed I had to get up so I didn’t wake my husband. It’s so hard to laugh quietly. The bathroom with the kids…Jack’s discovery in the master bedroom…hilarious. I seriously had tears!! His comment to Gabe….one last jab, you gotta love this guy!

I am so enamoured with Jack and Harper’s story! This couple is so sweet and absolutely adorable together. I love the family they’ve created, Harper is amazing and selfless as well as a fixer. What she did for his dad and Brooke showing them the importance of family, sacrifice, putting aside your differences for those you care about. Harper’s unlimited support for and devotion to Ava is inspiring, just another reason to love her character. Ava is just as much a part of Harper’s life as Jack is, and it warmed my heart.

I am looking forward to more by Jessa York. I’ll definitely read more Harper and Jack. I also have my fingers crossed we get a story about Riley and….I can’t tell. I bet it would be a scorcher, I could feel the heat between these two from the little pieces she gave me.
Profile Image for Jewlsbookblog.
2,209 reviews74 followers
January 28, 2019
Over Hard picks up right where the first book left off and took off running! There was a lot going on starting with Harper and Jack fixing matters between them, Jack’s daughter Ava -cute as a button and a set of pipes that reminded me of my own daughter’s toddler meltdowns when her Little People went missing, Jack’s family drama, and of course, Harper’s lunatic ex, who’s crazier then I expected him to be!

When Over Easy ended, Jack’s secrets and the cliffhanger with Harper about killed me! I was on the fence about Jack and was thrilled he managed to redeem himself. Harper has also grown into her own and I was quite happy with the maturer tone this story had over the first book. Harper’s friends are still quite the colorful group with one holding a few secrets of her own, and when you add in Jack’s family...the laughs just kept coming! Overall, this turned out to be a great read!
Profile Image for Sissy's Romance Book Review .
8,992 reviews16 followers
September 25, 2018
Over Hard by Jessa York is book Two in the Santa Lena Sizzles series. This continues the story of Harper and Jack, so you should read the previous book to full enjoy this one.
Harper is reeling from finding out Jack has lied along with her Ex Husband and his stalking. Jack wants to explain what happened which he finally gets the chance. Jack's ex too is causing issue between the two but they slowly start to work things out.
From the first few pages I was hooked into their story...enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Auden Dar.
Author 8 books1,168 followers
October 3, 2018
After that crazy cliffhanger, I couldn't wait to get my hands on Over Hard. What an incredible conclusion and I can't believe this is the author's debut. There are so many wonderful reasons why I love this duet. The main characters AND supporting characters are well-developed. The story line is fresh and heart-felt, and beautifully written. Oh Jack, you are so swoon worthy!
Profile Image for Bex_Book_Revieux.
812 reviews57 followers
September 7, 2018
*I received an ARC of Over Hard in exchange for a fair and honest review. *

Jack and Harper are back in the sequal to Jessa York's debut novel Over Easy with some new/old characters, high drama with Jack's family, and a twist in the last chapter I never saw coming.

Harper's ex is getting crazier by the week, and Jack's ex is alternating between being a right bitch, and helping Harper learn to deal with her own issues.

Jack's father John blows his family's last gasket when Harper talks Jack into going to his Mom's birthday dinner, and finally realizing what they were missing Jack's Mom, brother, and sister finally decide to defend him.

This book has a lot more crazy kids, hijinks with Roza, and is Riley a double agent? And what the heck is Jack's dad doing with Harper?

Harper finally learns to stand up for herself, and in a twisted crazy HEA Jack figures out what he really wants in life! I can't wait to see what happens next with this power couple!
Profile Image for AmyLynn.
990 reviews21 followers
March 21, 2019
Over Hard is the second book in the Santa Lena Sizzles Series and I can’t get enough. I absolutely loved this final installment of Jack and Harper’s story. Jessa York did a fantastic job. She pulls you right in and has you laughing, crying, pretty much all the feels. can’t wait to see where she takes us with all her side characters especially Riley. This is one author I will surely be following. 5+ Stars from me.
Profile Image for Crystal Andrews.
349 reviews2 followers
March 9, 2019
So good!

I love this story and the stories within it! Jessa can really pull a person into this world. I found myself very invested in Jack's parents relationship as well as the other relatives. I can't wait to read more of her work!!
Profile Image for Nate.
24.1k reviews19 followers
November 11, 2018
Loved Harper & Jack's story. Wow. Didn't want to put this one down. Gave me the feels. I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review for a copy of the book.
Profile Image for Kayla Busch.
347 reviews5 followers
January 27, 2019
I can't even begin to tell you how much I loved this duet. At the end of the first book, a major secret was revealed and the fate of Harper and Jack's relationship was uncertain. I couldn't read this book fast enough. I was invested in their relationship and I needed them to get their happy ending. I won't reveal the huge secret because I think it's a major part of the book but I will say this, Jack is so swoonworthy. The way he loves and adores Harper, will have your heart bursting with joy. Harper is so compassionate, her ability to forgive is amazing and the love she has for Jack is inspiring. I loved every minute of their journey and I loved being able to see Jack's parents weather their own storm throughout the book. I cannot say enough good things about this duet, the characters are unforgettable and the storyline is captivating from start to finish. Don't miss out on this incredible duet!
Profile Image for A.BookNerd.Bookseller&Bibliophile.Blog.
2,787 reviews107 followers
September 27, 2018
I had a hard time deciding on how many stars to give this book, going back and forth between 3 and 4. I actually liked it better than the first one, which rarely (if ever!) happens! But towards the end I feel like it went off on a tangent that didn’t go with the rest of the story. The connection between Harper and Jack that I didn’t feel in Over Hard was sizzling in this book! I think this book made Jack more human because of what we find out about his family which helped me to connect with the character and believe that he could fall in love with Harper. Overall it was an enjoyable book but I just wish the ending was a bit different.

Reviewed by: Alexis.B
Profile Image for Tiffany Hannick.
755 reviews6 followers
February 2, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. It was sweet watching Jack and Harper figure out their relationship while navigating their families and the drama that came with them. My heart went on a rollercoaster ride with every fight and every time they made up. I think I fell in love with Jack's daughter almost as quick as Harper did. This story will make you laugh and cry. It is easy to relate to the characters and how their lives are not perfect but face pain from all different directions. Their love story isn't easy but to me, that makes it some much more relatable.
Profile Image for Lynn.
1,051 reviews14 followers
September 13, 2019
What a great conclusion for this duet! Jack and Harper have such chemistry and connection but have to overcome their issues to make their way back together. Once they are finally honest with one another- can they make it work!

This story flowed well, has great secondary characters which made me love the story more. It had a few twists, loving characters and some drama which keep me turning the pages to see what was happening next! I look forward to more of Jessa York’s books!
Profile Image for Helen M.A.
227 reviews22 followers
September 12, 2018
After that big ending in Over Easy, I was itchy to get back into the story!
Thankfully, I didn’t have to wait long.
Over Hard starts right where Over Easy leaves off.
You go out with a bang, you come back in with a bang. That’s how it felt starting chapter 1.
In this book, you will get more of an inside look into Jack’s family as much as we got into Harper’s in the first.
And, whoa! What family drama goes on in those “four walls and a roof.”
We get to see Jack and Harper explore more their relationship and I can now count on Jessa York to pull out giggle fits from me.
Oh, Jesus! There were a few times that I wanted to feel bad over Harper’s situation, but I just couldn’t stop laughing.
There’s definitely a couple of twists in there that I was definitely not expecting. And, I still wanted to throw my arms into my kindle to punch a few people; I STILL SUPPORT THIS!
Towards the end of the book, the was this huge reveal that had my mouth agape. I have that itch again, my friends. And, now? I want—no, NEED—to explore this character’s story.
All in all, another fantastic read from Jessa York. I can’t wait to see where she takes us in the next installment.
1,535 reviews21 followers
September 2, 2018
This was a fantastic follow-up and conclusion to Over Easy!! I absolutely loved it!! Between crazy ex spouses and major family drama, Jack and Harper did have a lot to overcome in their relationship. But, they had such a powerful connection and chemistry that there was no doubt in my mind that they would get to their happily ever after. I just adored these two together and hopefully we get to see them in future books in the series.

I have to say, one of the things I loved most about this story was the secondary characters - they were so much fun! Roza, Riley (whose story I need now!), and Audrey.....those three ladies just kept me entertained more than I can say.

This was just a well-written, fun and sexy story, filled with plenty of love, humor, drama - this story truly had it all! Jessa York is definitely on my list of favorites now and I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next!

283 reviews3 followers
April 3, 2019
Over Hard is the follow-up to Over Easy. Another great read! We get the answers from Jack as to what was actually happening. It wasn't right, but it all boiled down to him being scared. He owned up to it and Harper is able to work through it. There are a few hiccups along the way, but they got past them without too much drama. We are introduced to Jack's family and his tumultuous relationship with his father which had a wonderful resolution for everyone. I really enjoyed how Brooke and Harper's relationship changed. The kids were written so accurately and with so much heart and humor. I loved the banter between all the girls and I especially loved the banter in Harper's head. There were some real laugh out loud moments, and as much as I read, it's hard to make me really laugh. Jessa York was able to flawlessly weave suspense, humor, friendship and love in a story that kept my interest from beginning to end.
Profile Image for Radd Reader.
1,004 reviews603 followers
September 4, 2021

“People do shit, people say shit, but until you know the real story, you don’t know shit.”

**Synopsis:**
Book 2 of a Duet
This book picks up exactly where Falling For Jack left off. Harper is convinced Jack has lied and wants nothing to do with him.
Thankfully, their issue is resolved pretty quickly.

** The following are my thoughts about this book: **

* * Harper automatically assuming Jack was married ticked me off a little. I mean, shes’s divorced, so why assume he’s married rather than divorced? It made her seem a little childish.

* * for how mad Harper was, it was kind of hard to believe a tiny conversation resolved everything.

* * after they fix everything (which happens quickly) there is very little drama between Jack and Harper. It really becomes all about living daily life. I was ok with that because normal life has enough issues anyway. So, dealing with friends in need, a bitchy ex spouse, a child who needs to be carted around to various activities, parents/sibling squabbles and careers is something most people can relate to. It was nice just to sit back and read about normal chaos in someone else’s life rather than actually having to deal with it.

* * I was wondering why time was spent from Jack’s dads POV. But, in the end his dad imparted some good wisdom that Jack needed to hear. So it was beneficial from a growth perspective for both Jack and his dad.

* * Just like the previous book, there is a ton of crying. But unlike the last book where it was limited to Harper, I swear Every Single character cried at some point. Talk about a weepy bunch of people. Geez.

* * I enjoyed this one better than the first book.

**Overview:**
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: Yes
- POV: Dual POV. Even a couple side characters have some chapters
- Who is the Hero? Jack McCallister. (age: almost 30). Chef who owns an upscale restaurant. He also has a three year old daughter and shares custody with his ex
* H likable? Yes.
- Who is the Heroine? Harper Halle (age: ?). Admin assistant for an organic food company. She has a deranged ex who wants her back
* h likable? Yes.
- First time they say I Love You 35%
- steamy? Yes. Descriptive bedroom scenes
- OW/OM drama? A little
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? A few weeks
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? No (the big lie was revealed in book 1)
- Did I cry? No
- Did I laugh? I did laugh during the bathroom scene thanks to the comments from the little kids
- Did I swoon🥰? I liked Jack, but not much swooning.
- Cliffhanger? No
- HEA? Yes
- Epilogue? Yes
- Recommend? I liked this one better than book 1, but you have to read book 1 before this one. So, I think if you want low angst this would be a good series for you.

**Quotes**
“I’m still mad at you, so don’t think you’re forgiven because I look like some dime store hooker,”

“You shouldn’t flush while you’re on the potty. Mommy says it could suck your butt into the sour system,”

“Whooooeeeee, it smells ripe in here!” she yelled for all to hear.
“Auntie Harper ate beans,” Levi explained.
“Then her butt exploded,” Ava said.”
Profile Image for Barbara.
2,643 reviews61 followers
September 8, 2018
What a fabulous conclusion to the duet. Over Hard takes up rights where Over Easy (Book 1) ends. The author continues with this wonderful storyline with absolutely no drop off in humor, romance or suspense. If anything she steps things up keeping the reader engrossed in the story.

Harper has just found out Jack lied to her and feels like her life is crumbling around her. Between Jack’s lies and her ex stalking her she is at her wits ends. On the other end of things Jack is going out of his mind without her. When Harper is forced to see Jack because he’s keeping her friends twins they finally have a chance to talk things out. From here the story takes off and oh what a wildly delicious ride it is.

The author’s words will have you laughing, your toes curling and at time wanting to bite your nails as the storyline unfolds. Between both their crazy ex’s, Jacks dysfunctional family and Harpers wacky friends this is an amazing duet that I highly recommend. 2 Thumbs Up for a fun, sexy exciting read!
Profile Image for Stephanie S.
679 reviews2 followers
September 4, 2018
WOW! absolutely loved this one also! I was having a bad day and when I got to a certain part of this book I was laughing I almost had tears in my eyes. It was much needed and apprieciated. I am so glad to have been introduced to this author and can't wait for more.

This one was funny, informative and I thouroughly enjoyed it. I can't wait for more of Harper, Jake and now need more on Riley.
Profile Image for Michelle.
309 reviews
May 30, 2019
This book is the conclusion of Harper and Jack’s story. There was so much going on, it got complicated, like in real life, but in the end thongs did work out and they got their HEA. I really liked this couple and their family and friends. I liked the author’s writing style and how the story developed. I am definitely a fan of Jessa York. This book is worth 5 stars!
Profile Image for Tracy.
1,575 reviews10 followers
February 2, 2019
Loved this too. It begins right after the 1st one ends. No cliffhanger...just leading into some questions about Riley. Jack and Harper remain adorable.
Profile Image for Maria Mayfield.
27 reviews1 follower
March 11, 2019
I’m totally in love with Jack! Attentive, sexy, chef with an appetite for food & his woman !! How could you not love it? I managed to read every second I had a chance! So lucky I didn’t burn dinner or mess up the recipe while reading!! If you read the first book, you must read this one!
Profile Image for Pat Labrie.
411 reviews4 followers
November 19, 2018
This book continues right it left off in book one. It is absolutely an amazing read and I highly recommend it. It was a emotional rollercoaster ride that kept me hooked from the first page.
Profile Image for Katie Hansen.
577 reviews1 follower
March 3, 2019
There is never a dull moment in this book and it will definitely have you glued to the pages until the last one!
Profile Image for Gladys.
13.9k reviews162 followers
November 7, 2018
This is book two of this series and you really need to read book one first. Harper and Jack's story picks up right after the ending of book one and quickly pulls you back into this intense, emotional and dramatic romance. I felt really bad for Harper. She has already been through so much with her ex and now she's heartbroken over Jack's lies and secrets. I also felt bad for Jack. I never doubted his feelings for Harper but sometimes I got so angry and frustrated with his actions but it never lasted long and just like Harper, I'd forgive him and move on. Of coarse there are more stumbling blocks along their road to a HEA and much drama and emotional turmoil. I really enjoyed this steamy read and look forward to book three. I'm voluntarily posting a truthful review.
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