Year of Passion. April: Roman (Year of Passion-Serie 4)

Man of the Month #4

by J. Kenner, Anu Katariina Lindemann (Translator)

Alle lieben meinen anzüglichen Humor, doch niemand weiß, wie viel Schmerz sich dahinter verbirgt. Vor allem nicht die Frauen, die mein Bett teilen, denn ich lasse sie niemals an mich heran. Ich lasse sie niemals hinter die Fassade meiner Celebrity-Persönlichkeit blicken.

Dann traf ich sie. Shelby Drake.

Eine ehrgeizige, konservative, schüchterne Wirtschaftsprüferin, nicht der Typ Frau, der mir normalerweise auffällt. Doch ihr weicher Mund, die Andeutung ihrer Kurven, ihre tiefe Sinnlichkeit, das alles raubt mir den Verstand. Und nach einem betrunkenen One-Night-Stand bin ich mir sicher, dass ich mehr will. Viel mehr.

Nun bin ich auf sinnlicher Mission. Denn ich werde alles tun, um Shelby zu beweisen, dass sich Gegensätze anziehen.



Über »Year of Passion«

Sexy Sixpacks, breite Schultern und verführerische Blicke – in der Bar The Fix geht es heiß her. Ein attraktiver Mann nach dem anderen liefert auf dem Laufsteg eine atemberaubende Show. Und die Damen in der Jury haben die Qual der Wahl: Welche zwölf Kandidaten werden gewinnen und am Fotoshooting für den heißesten Kalender aller Zeiten teilnehmen?

Mit dieser genialen Publicity-Aktion will eine Gruppe von Freunden ihre Lieblingsbar vor dem Aus retten. Schnell wird klar, dass es um noch viel mehr geht als den Kalender: Während sich die Atmosphäre immer weiter aufheizt, entflammen die Gefühle – und für jeden der zwölf Männer führt eine aufregende Begegnung zu ungeahnten Konsequenzen ...

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Audiobook, Contemporary, Humor, Erotic Romance, Erotica

221 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 27, 2018

About the author

J. Kenner (aka Julie Kenner) is the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, Wall Street Journal and #1 International bestselling author of over one hundred novels, novellas and short stories in a variety of genres.

Though known primarily for her award-winning and international bestselling erotic romances (including the Stark and Most Wanted series) that have reached as high as #2 on the New York Times bestseller list, JK has been writing full time for over a decade in a variety of genres including paranormal and contemporary romance, “chicklit” suspense, urban fantasy, and paranormal mommy lit.

JK has been praised by Publishers Weekly as an author with a “flair for dialogue and eccentric characterizations” and by RT Bookclub for having “cornered the market on sinfully attractive, dominant antiheroes and the women who swoon for them.” A six time finalist for Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA award, JK took home the first RITA trophy awarded in the category of erotic romance in 2014 for her novel, Claim Me (book 2 of her Stark Trilogy) and in 2017 for Wicked Dirty in the same category. Her Demon Hunting Soccer Mom series (as Julie Kenner) is currently in development as a television show.

Her books have sold over three million copies and are published in over twenty languages.

In her previous career as an attorney, JK worked as a clerk on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and practiced primarily civil, entertainment and First Amendment litigation in Los Angeles and Irvine, California, as well as in Austin, Texas. She currently lives in Central Texas, with her husband, two daughters, and two rather spastic cats.

Reviews

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Man of the Month series all started when the local bar called The Fix on Sixth's loan was called in. Tyree, the owner, trusted the wrong guy to finance the start of the bar and now this guy wants the loan paid off in full or lose it.

Employees and friends do not want to see the bar close. Long time friends, Jenna, Reece and Brent jump in to invest in the bar and come up with ways to raise money and bring more customers in.

Jenna comes up with the idea to hold a Calendar of the Month contest for the public to choose each months model for the Calendar as a way to bring in more customers.

In the fourth book of the series we have Nolan, DJ for the local radio station that has been helping with advertisement of the Man of the Month Calendar contest and Shelby, a very straight-laced accountant.

We see the first hint to their attraction in book 2 through Brooke's POV and then again in Start Me Up in Shelby and Nolan's POV. What was suppose to be a one night stand, turns into so much more but could a couple be more opposite?

I love nerdy, quirky characters and we get that with Shelby. Nolan is the sexy, outspoken player that has no trouble finding a date. He's also a man who has some hidden insecurities of his own. On paper, they don't work but in real life they are a perfect fit for each other. Shelby just needs a little bit of convincing.

As long as you know the basics to the overall storyline in the series, you can easily read this as a standalone. I would recommend reading them all since I've enjoyed every book so far. I'm looking forward to Tyree's book next.

ARC provided by SocialButterfly PR

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review



Hey romance readers….it’s time to wake up to Mornings With Wood in J. Kenner’s latest installment of the Man of the Month Series. Yes, it’s time to meet Mr. April and boy oh boy this man got some serious wood. (pun intended, haha) That’s right, Nolan Wood in Start Me Up is your morning radio DJ who has built a name and reputation for himself. And so when he meets a young woman at a bar, he never expected this hot one night stand to be something that he would find craving for. So if you are looking for a romance that speaks volumes of opposites attract and lust turned into love romance then this book is for you. As always, Kenner brings forth a romance that was a riot of fun and entertainment. She reminds us all that it’s okay to let loose and live and for Shelby Drake, she needed a man like Nolan Wood in her life.



J. Kenner

[Marie Vasquez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall: 4/5 stars
Naughty Factor: 3/5
POV: Dual/3rd person

So far, I think Mr. April is my #ManoftheMonth. I fell in love with Nolan from the start. He was funny and a bit raunchy with a kind heart and a sexy bod. His personality just spoke to my introvert self.

With Nolan and Shelby’s instant connection, they were a great example of opposites attract. For someone as prim and proper Shelby was, Nolan made it easy for her to let down many of her walls and sate her curiosity in and out of the sheets. But no matter how easy going everything was between them, her biggest hurdle was his radio show. How does someone as private as Shelby deal with having particulars of their relationship relayed for the city’s morning entertainment? That is what she has to figure out.

With Start Me Up, J. Kenner had me laughing with Nolan’s wildly funny morning show antics, swooning with his tender and sweet moments with Shelby and completely envious I wasn’t her.

Both characters were relatable, entertaining and their story provided me with complete enjoyment. For a quick read, it gave me everything I could have asked for...and more.

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yep, I got to smile again last Friday when I opened my Kindle. I knew Nolan was waiting for me and I couldn't wait to read all about him. But, I am really starting to wonder if The Fifth on Six has nothing but hot men with really hot bodies that know just what to do with a woman.
Nolan … raunchy, gorgeous and outrageous. His radio show, Mornings with Wood was just down-right hysterical. Give him a story and he'll find something in it to have fun with. Usually dirty and always laugh-out-loud funny. He also had a way of wearing his heart on his sleeve and letting everyone know just who and what he was thinking about.

Shelby … uptight, goal-oriented with an inner goddess looking to get out. Mortified that her sex life is being broadcast throughout Austin every morning. Even though he doesn't mention her by name, she's afraid that everyone will figure out it's her. Faced with having to figure out just what she would and wouldn't do to keep Nolan, she makes the only decision that is right for her.

Two of the most unlikely people to meet and fall in love. But, they did … much to everyone's surprise! Of course, they would have to have some push-back, some differences that may take a lot to overcome. But, surprised as I was with how this story ended, I was thrilled with everything that lead up to Nolan and Shelby getting their HEA.

I really am loving this binge-read series. J. Kenner is keeping me involved and on my toes. I love how each story starts in January and concludes with the Man of the Month contest. So far, every ending has been different, so you honestly wonder just what she is going to do on that Wednesday night. Now, I am really looking forward to May … Tyree, Tyree, Tyree! The dumb-ass that I am, I read the blurb and now I can't wait to Get It On!

Don't forget, we will be having a contest at the end of all of this. As I previously suggested, you should read all the books … you may have to work a little for it.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mr. April is here!

Cute, sexy read where opposites attract and a tortured Hero who isn’t actually that tortured. I had a lot of fun with this even if I didn’t want to if I am being honest.

The writing is engaging and keeps you highly entertained. The characters are solid and in depth and you just want to be part of the gang and The Fix on Sixth and to see this Austin institution to keep going.

It is time for Nolan Wood & Shelby Drake to find their happily for now.

Nolan Wood is an Austin celebrity what with his morning radio show. He is vulgar, crude and has no filter. He takes it one step too far but always gets away because he is a shocker but he has a secret. Nothing to be ashamed of but it is hard to let childhood experiences go. I was trying to stand my ground and to keep my dislike for Nolan but even though he is a manwhore he I likeable and out of the two MC I love him more. Shocker!!!

Shelby Drake had her life planned out and as a CPA waiting to become partner. She leads a boring life with a boring man who checks all the boxes on paper but what happens off paper. Off paper she is out for a bachelorette party and she meets the man of her naughty dreams.

What starts off as a one night stand soon turns into more and once the characters developed I was really enjoying this more than I thought that I would. There is a miscommunication between them because Shelby doesn’t want to live in the limelight but Nolan revels in it. Are they doomed?
Actually no!

Now and again it is refreshing when the lady has to grovel which was a nice switch up.

Tyree is up next!

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[Sofia Lazaridou · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nolan is a good character. He is unashamed of what he does for a living and his is enjoying life. One night at a bar he meets Shelby and their chemistry is explosive. They end up in bed and things couldn't go further than that because Shelby has a boyfriend who is perfect for her life. He checks all her boxes for the perfect husband, so he must stay in the picture. They are not exclusive though since they didn't have the talk and what Shelby did with Nolan is justified. Not. I wasn't happy with her or her choice to keep having a thing with her boyfriend after she met Nolan. I am not happy with her and this book made me think that the series is not for me. I like the idea of the Man of the month contest, but the characters are deeply flawed and there is always one main character who is annoying me in each book. I must admit that I am excited about the next book though even if it is a second chance romance. That epilogue was the best part of the book. I want to see how they will get together and how everything is going to work out. One thing I would like not to see in one of the future books is something that has happened in each book so far. During the contest, one of the main characters will use it as an opportunity to declare his/her feelings for the other main character. For once I would like to just see the hero winning the contest while having the girl without much fanfare and declarations of love. I don't know if I misunderstood Shelby, but I didn't like her.

[Bookgasms Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am so enjoying this amazing Man of the Month series!

Start Me Up's Mr. April is Nolan Wood, a morning radio shock jock. He's rude, crude and no topic is off limits from his radio show. And he isn't lacking attention from the ladies. But there's no one special in his life—no one who gets too close to see the real man behind the mask he wears. Until Shelby Drake.

Shelby is not Nolan's normal type. She's smart, quiet, goal-oriented, and focused. She's not one to fall into the arms of a handsome playboy. But there's just something about Nolan that works its way under Shelby's skin and into her heart. She's never been a risk-taker before, but is Nolan worth it?

Wow, I kinda adored Shelby and Nolan's whole opposites attract relationship, because in all honesty, they were perfect for each other. Nolan helped Shelby loosen up, find the fun in life and Shelby showed Nolan that it was okay to be vulnerable and real—especially when with the one they loved. Their romance wasn't easy—they both had personal obstacles to overcome—but they were perfectly imperfect for each other. ~ Missy, 4 stars

[Siobhan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Start Me Up is the fourth book in J. Kenner’s Man of the Month series, and it’s another winner. After finishing book one, Down on Me, I was excited for more; after finishing book two, Hold on Tight, I was desperate for more; after finishing book three, Need You Now, my desperation had reached epic proportions. Now, four books in, I’m starting to regret my decision to read these books as they release – a part of me wishes I had waited until all twelve were out, and then I would binge read them all. After all, these are very much binge worthy books – after each one, you’re left wanting more.

The Man of the Month series is a collection of interconnected romance stories, proving individual stories as a larger story plays out. Each novel features a favourite romance trope, ensuring there is something for everyone. The first book, Down on Me, provided us with the friends-to-lovers trope; the second book, Hold on Tight, provided us with the second chance romance; the third book, Need You Now, provided us with the brother’s best friend trope. I’m not entirely sure what the correct label is for the Start Me Up trope, but I’m going to label it the one-night stand. You all know the story – that one-night stand that leads into something much more, the night that changes a person’s life.

Although each book is an individual story with a start and an end, I would recommend reading these books in order. To understand some of the details of the story in full, you need to understand how things came to be throughout the prior books. You’re certainly told, to ensure you have the basic facts to understand the story, but it is not the same as experiencing all that happened – for a bigger picture, read the series in order. This is especially true with this book. By this point, we’re a few weeks into the story line, and events in this book take us back to things that happened in the earlier books. In particular, it adds a lot more meaning to events that played out in the earlier books. Sure, you’re can pick and choose with these books – but to get the best experience I beg you read them in order, especially if you want the full impact of each story.

Like the prior two stories, you knew how things were going to play out in this one. You know how the trope plays out, and you know our male lead will be April’s man of the month. Despite this, the smaller details quickly pull you in. You know where things are going, but you want to see how things will come together. It’s the small details that suck you in, that leave you wanting more. Although this fourth book is not my favourite of the series, it provided all the feel-good elements I have come to enjoy in the prior book.

In fact, if I’m completely honest, this one shocked me. I went in with low expectations of this one, not overly interested by the characters – only to enjoy it so much more than I’d initially anticipated. It may not be my favourite in the series thus far, but it is certainly the one to have shocked me the most. Not because of any surprise twist, but simply because I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this one. It was mainly the characters I was unsure about, but it turns out I adored them both and the relationship.

Without a doubt, another fun addition to the series. Now, I’m super in need of book five. Book five is giving us one of the stories I’m really excited to find out more about – and the sooner I can jump in the better. That little snippet at the end of this book – it’s not enough, I need to see what comes next.

Hurry up and give me Get It On!

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘Mornings with Wood’ – how awesome of a double entendre is that catchy radio talk show title?

And let me tell you, Nolan Wood’s On-Air personality is all about lewd comments, raunchy remarks, as well as a bevy of humorous and sexy undertones that make his show a hit with the ladies and a good way to spend mornings for all KIKX radio listeners.

But beneath Nolan’s joker personality and his easy going lifestyle is a man that he allows few people to see; the man who’s a bit jaded when it comes to relationships and chooses to keep things light and easy in every aspect of his life, making him notorious for his one-night stands and the type of willing and ready women who he tends to take home for a physical release and nothing more.

And it’s Nolan’s comedic façade that makes his attraction to straight-laced, reserved accountant, Shelby Drake, so perplexing; they’re opposites in every sense of the word, which is why when ‘Drunk Shelby’ comes out to play one night at The Fix with looser lips and lowered inhibitions, ‘Buttoned-Up Shelby’ is determined to stay as far away from Mr. April even if her body craves more time with the sexy radio personality.

Nolan and Shelby’s story illustrates just how much opposites do indeed attract, and once again, J. Kenner chose the perfect man to pose as her man of the month…this time Mr. April…not only does Nolan have the looks and the personality that will have females snatching up their own calendar but he also has found the woman who makes him think seriously about a relationship instead of playing things light and easy when it comes to his personal life.

J. Kenner’s Man of the Month series is definitely one of my most favorite guilty pleasures, and the fact that Kenner still has many more men to introduce to readers, add to The Fix’s fundraising calendar, and help find their ‘better half’ makes me anxiously anticipate who’s coming up next in her twelve months of alpha male goodness!

4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Start Me Up in book four in this binge-reading series from J. Kenner. For someone who isn't a fan of quick stories (I need depth in my books), I am really enjoying these quick reads.

Book four is Nolan's book and we get to delve more into him and his ways. Nolan is a radio DJ and quite filthy one at that. He pushes the boundaries but has so much fun doing it. When the series started, I didn't really care for Nolan when we first met him, but I enjoyed getting to know him more in this book.

Shelby is the exact opposite of Nolan. She is career-driven, shy and definitely more introverted compared to Nolan. She finds comfort in her job and rarely ever lets her hair down. So when she and her girlfriends are out for a bachelorette party, they force her out of her comfort zone for once.

I enjoyed these two from the start. From their initial meeting, to their bickering and the challenges they faced with the new relationship, to eventually their heated desires. There was no denying the chemistry between these two. They may be complete opposites, but they were able to help each other out in so many ways. I loved that I went from not really caring about this story (again, Nolan wasn't a character of mine) to loving every interaction between Nolan and Shelby.

Another great read in this series. Looking forward to the next one!

[MammieBabbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A hilariously sweet and sexy romantic comedy that'll have you laughing and drooling and swooning...

I'm not sure how to vocalise how I feel. It's no secret that I am in love and in lust with this series. For me, The Man of the Month series is such a genius concept. J. Kenner has really pulled it out of the bag for me. I'll admit that Reece (Down On Me #1) has been really hard for me to let go of, however Nolan  has come very close to ruining me. I went in struggling to see how Julie was going to tie Nolan and Shelby to The Fix on Sixth plot, but it was a very silly worry on my part. We had already met Nolan in the previous books, with him being the resident superstar radio presenter. I liked him well enough but I wasn't itching for his story like I am for others...namely Brent's. I am dying for his story.

Anywho, going into Start Me Up I was a little blasé about it and then it hit me. I don't know how, but I went from meh to Christ, I can't put this book down! This story had me in fits of laughter. Yes, the other books have had a dry humour to them, however this was a proper tongue in cheek, belly laugh till you cry sort of humour. I can even tell you how many times I got given the WTF are you reading on your kindle look from people around me. In fact I laughed so much that my cheeks were complaining by the end. The plot for this story I found actually really sweet and although it is an insta-love story it has pull and magic of a slow-burn. The twists were very well done and I love that the drama was minimal but had enough of an impact to make my heart go into over drive. For a moment I was worried where Nolan and Shelby's story would end. Of all the books so far I've found that the third person narrative really elevated this story. It gave t so many angle and dimensions that you just wouldn't get in the first person narrative. I have to admit that I never saw this day coming. I never thought I'd say that I preferred a story  in third person! Ms. Kenner has converted me.

As far as characters go I found both Nolan and Shelby really likeable. I had expected Nolan's cheeky chappie persona to grate on me and become irritating, but actually Julie has done such a great job of showing all the bigger parts that laid just under the "clown" surface. Again, I loved his dirty, filthy humour. I loved that despite his one track mind when things got serious he knew where to drop the act. He was so outrageous at times that when he was required to be serious it really threw me. Not in a bad way. In fact that's what made him such a brilliant hero to me. It was also what made the similarities between him an Shelby come through. She is very much the complete opposite to Nolan. She's serious and driven...ambitious and although she comes across as uptight, I actually feel like she's actually just shy and reserved. Let's face it, if she were uptight they would not be rocking the bed the way they do. What is it about the guys at this place their talented appendages? Do they have a cleaner that hasn't been mentioned yet that goes around with a mop 24/7 to make sure the floors aren't slippery?

In the end Start Me Up was just such a great read. It developed the calendar plot and it fit so well with all the other books—duh! I'm almost disappointed in myself for underestimating it before I went in. I really cannot wait for the next book in the series and I hope that we see a lot more of Nolan because he is a bright ray of sunshine. He's that guy that just has a way of making you smile even when you want to kick and scream and cry.

[Aaly · Rating 3 out of 5]

*** ARC kindly provided for an honest review. ***

The Fix became the matchmaking place for sure.

For this man of the month, please meet Nolan Wood, local celebrity, infamous radio playboy, who’s gonna meet his match.

April didn’t know what’s gonna hit him when Shelby Drake, who was trying to run away from the first time they met, a sexy paradox that Nolan is willing to unravel.

When opposites did attract and when one night of passion turned into something more, Nolan wasn’t going to give without a fight, showing how good they were together. But with the show’s reputation, and being exposed that way is definitely something that would tear them apart.

Sexy, with some dirty talks, heart-lighted, Shelby and Nolan were the perfect fit. The banter was quite fun and the upfront side of Nolan was the perfect balance of Shelby’s more uptight one, who was definitely more than meets the eye. Nolan saw the real Shelby, with no inhibitions, a fire under the ice.

I enjoyed it, a quick read with a shot of dirty talks and hotness. It was good to see the playboy settled. There’s no pretense of high expectations, just a sexy read about two opposites that made sense, who had to accept each other’s entirely, not to be afraid to show their true colors and to take a chance on love.

I’m used about how the storyline is going to be handled, it can be seen as repetitive but quite efficient somehow. 

[Vika aka ♔ of GIF & Grumpy Smut-ateer *P/T Freebie Fairy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yep it’s official Mr April is my favorite!!! But seriously don’t hold me to it because all the guys in this series has been amazing so far and we still have 8 more meet. I love these short stories that deliver enough romance, sass, humor, close comradely that unites all the characters in this world that J. Kenner has built.

Start Me Up is the perfect addition to the series. One night stand between local morning radio show celebrity, Nolan Wood and buttoned-down accountant, Shelby Drake. They are the perfect example of opposites attract and yet because of that they are the perfect couple.

I loved them from the get-get, from how they met, to their stupid hang-ups, their eventual fights, and their scorching hot chemistry.

I have got to admit there was that 5% towards the end that had me bawling my eyes out. You know that perfect storm before the long awaited HEA. But no worries J. Kenner always leaves off each book with an Epilogue that blows the mind and makes those fingers itchy for MOOOOOORE!

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[Ruthie Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~

This is the fourth in the series and I am loving this series - it is becoming a firm favourite when it hits my Kindle, and feels rather like a romantic tv drama, but in e-ink! Now that we are four books in, there are subtle overlaps and a depth which can only develop over time. I would definitely recommend that you read them in order.

In this installment we learn more about radio DJ and joker, Nolan, and discover his deepest, most private secret, and just how that has affected his life. It is done well, and is a reminder of how parents can damage their children. He is a fun guy and so his unexpected attraction, well beyond the usual, to Shelby is something that surprises him, but he is more than happy to investigate. There is no denying the chemistry between these two opposites. I loved Shelby's secret sexiness (as an accountant myself I object to the stereotype!)

So we now have Mr Jan - Apr, and a huge hint about who will be the main feature in the next installment, and very exciting it will be!

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

START ME UP by J. Kenner is Book Four in the "Man of the Month" series. This is the story of Nolan Wood and Shelby Drake. This is a standalone book.
Shelby has plans for her life to work hard, marry and have kids. Shelby has just started dating a Professor Named Alan who checks all the boxes she is looking for in a man to marry but he doesn't check off the exciting and sexually exciting box. During a bachelorette party at a bar she happens to meet Nolan a famous DJ who is all about excitement and no commitments. Nolan married in his early 20's and that marriage only lasted about six months. After that he swore to only have a good time and now he is about to turn thirty that is what he has been doing. But Nolan and Shelby sleep together that night and he wants more. Shelby thinks Nolan isn't what she wants and tries to turn him down each time But maybe Nolan is what Shelby needs to make her dreams come true!
Loved their story!

[Marie Brown (Marie's Tempting Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marie's Tempting Reads ARC Review:

The Newest Man of The Month story, Start Me Up is everything dreamy, sexy and sweet! I have been intrigued with Nolan since the moment I first met him in previous books and I have to say, he is more than I expected. He is supremely gorgeous, and knows how to take sensual, decadent control and I found the way he made his life to be truly amazing. He hides a bit of darkness in him but all it took was a special woman for him to want to get out of that darkness. Shelby may seem tight and independent and not care about being spontaneous and wild, but she surprised me with her inner vixen and her thought process and how she too lived her life. She doesn't understand that she is beautiful but Nolan doesn't have a issue showing her just how pretty and special she is. These two seemed to...fit. Opposites really do attract in Start Me Up and I couldn't be happier with it too!

This also had some great heartfelt moments that really made an impact on my heart. It added to the story and between that and the sexy times and great characters we ended up with a superb read! This book gets a DELIGHTFULLY SENSUAL FIVE SHOOTING STARS!

[Booked & Busy Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Fix on Sixth is once again the place to be with Mr. April!

Nolan is a sexy morning radio show host who has no filter. Shelby is a CPA who is waiting to make partner. These two opposites definitely attract when they meet at the Fix on Sixth during a bachelorette party. A one night stand leads to so much more but when miscommunication comes into play, are they destined to be over before they really start?

Nolan and Shelby were a breath of fresh air. Start Me Up was a really enjoyable read that had me hook, line and sinker from the first chapter. I loved seeing these two characters come together and their chemistry was amazing! I’m looking forward to the next installment in the series, Get It On which is Mr. May!

[Tania's Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick and short read but very good. Shelby and Nolan were omg so completely different but oh so damn good for each other.

Shelby was a very educated woman that had her life planned out just to please her parents. She was controlled by them. Nolan was a high school dropout but was the local celebrity DJ. On paper they make no sense but in the bedroom they were compatible.

At first Shelby didn’t want Nolan and he wanted her from the very start. When they finally hooked up things were looking up until Shelby let insecurities and her family meddling get in her head. Nolan wasn’t having it and gave her the space she needed.

Shelby eventually came to her senses and Nolan was hesitant but then she did something so out of character that would put a smile on your face.

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

See the full review at HarlequinJunkie.com

Opposites attract stories don’t get much more fun or steamy than this! Start Me Up paired a naughty-talkin’ radio host with a buttoned-up CPA and boy did the sparks fly between them, proving that J. Kenner’s Man of the Month series is only getting hotter with each new book.

First off, each of the romances in this series can be read as standalones–although I’ve loved them all so far and would highly recommend reading every single one. If you’ve been following the series, then welcome back to the Fix on Sixth! The trope Kenner focused on this time was opposites attract. And, yep, Nolan and Shelby had completely different personalities, which was super fun, watching them get together and figure out if they could fit as a couple. Read More

[Arys · Rating 5 out of 5]

Start Me Up by J. Kenner is part of the Man of the Month Series. Nolan Wood is a character we know from previous books. He has worked his way up and made a name for himself in the the local broadcast industry. Shelby Drake is a wiz with numbers and planning. Things are ok and that's generally the way she likes it. When she goes out to a bachelorette party at The Fix on Sixth and meets Nolan, courtesy of inebriation loosening her up, things get interesting.

I liked how Nolan was in Start Me Up. J. Kenner gives the back story for him and why he is the way he is with women. Shelby is something different for him. Not a fan-girl and not his ice queen ex-wife. Each of them make mistakes, but in the end each knows deep down that the other is the one for them.

Overall I have been enjoying all the books in J. Kenner's The Man of the Month series and Start Me Up was no exception. Each story delved deeper into another character while still having familiar faces. Nolan's story is one of perseverance whereas Shelby's is one of needing to escape from the path planned for her. These are two opposites who fit together and make something special. I very much recommend and can't wait for the next one.


(I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book I received for free from the publisher in exchange for my open and honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.)

[Shelly Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

"This woman had the power to break his heart - and that scared him to death."

I can't tell you enough about how much I am loving this series!! Each couple, each story, each book in this series is full of humor, a little heartbreak, and some steamy scenes!!

Nolan Wood never has to chase women. They come to him, wanting a piece of his celebrity ,his devastatingly good looks, and his....well, you know. As host of Austin's morning show Mornings With Wood, the raunchy, raw show full of innuendo's and dirty talk, he's never short of female attention. That is, until her. He's going to have to fight for this one. Shelby intrigues him. Buttoned up and straight laced on the outside, and a vixen underneath. They are opposites in more ways than one. Can he show her that they're worth it, despite their differences? Or, will she realize that she's too good for him, and walk away, just like his ex-wife did?

Shelby Drake has her life planned out. Become a partner in her accounting firm, and marry Alan. He's a decent man - a little dull, but he fits the plan and image that she's been conditioned to have her life become. Everything is on track. Until she sees HIM across The Fix. Everything about him unleashes the minx in her. he's everything she never would have wanted. He doesn't fit her plan. But, is she so sure of her plan anymore? Does being with him mean she has to sacrifice what she has been working toward? Does following her plan mean she has to lose him? Are they just too different to make this work? When she makes her choice, where will they end up?

I loved Nolan! He's not the suave billionaire. He's not not the bad boy biker. He's just a man - a real man. And what a sexy one at that! I wouldn't mind have a few "mornings with wood" if you catch my drift!

Can't wait for Tyree's story next!!

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book, given by the author.
https://thesecretworldofbooklovers.bl...
Beautiful and sweet story.
There was almost no drama, which is good for a change. They met, things clicked and after they decided they were perfect for each other there was no looking back.

I truly liked Shelby, but I hated what she did to her actual boyfriend.
Yeah they weren't exclusive or so she says, but she just kept stringing him along.
There was nothing wrong with their relationship, he just wasn't the guy for her. I would have respected her more if she just let him go when she decided she was gonna give Wood a chance.

Nolan was just perfect, he had a hard time in a past relationship which made him scared so he just close his heart off.
It was all sex and meaningless relationships for him, until he saw her. The moment he met her he knew there was no walking away.

Kudos for him, he was not scared, he let his fears go and pursued her like he had no other choice. There was something about her that seemed familiar, she was all sweetness on the outside but had an edge on the inside.

He freed her true self even though she had no idea she was trapped in her perfect life. And once that happened she could go back; she was changed forever and everything else in her life seemed plain in comparison.

Get ready for some steamy scenes!

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

***ARC Provided by the Author and Social Butterfly PR***

I have enjoyed all of the books in this series, and I love that they are all interconnected with the desire to save their favorite Austin bar, the Fix on Sixth.

And, oddly, what I really enjoyed about this one is that the setting wasn't really the bar. Yes, Nolan and Shelby meet there, and they start their relationship after what was only really a hookup...sort of. But then it branches out into Shelby and her work as a CPA at a somewhat conservative firm and Nolan and the work he does as a radio personality. I loved that, while their initial meeting was at the bar, and they are motivated to not allow it to close, that their story moved out of that world. It gave this book in the series a feel that it was fresh and it was a glimpse into another part of that interconnected world.

I thought their chemistry was wonderful, and I actually would have loved this book to be a little longer, as I was really enjoying the character development and the exploration of the new relationship between Shelby and Nolan and all of the challenges they faced because of how different their jobs, and the expectations around those jobs, were.

I enjoyed this title, and I recommend it.

[Booknerd_1107 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Start Me Up

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

4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This by far has been my favorite out of the Man Of The Month Series. I loved the interaction between Nolan and Shelby. The way they were so at ease with each other and how they didn’t hold back was great. The pace of this book was also a plus, nothing felt rushed and you didn’t feel like you missed a whole section.

Shelby has always been the conservative one and always done what is expected of her, but when our for a friend’s bachelorette she will find a man who will have her thinking twice about playing it safe.

When Nolan spots Shelby at the bar he can’t look away from her. She grabs his attention like no one has in awhile and he knows he wants to meet her. What he isn’t expecting is a night that he won’t forget with a woman who is a game changer.

While they figure out their relationship, they will encounter some bumps, but hopefully together they be able to overcome them and not let old insecurities take over.

[CDBW · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Crazy Ass Must Read Stars!!!!!

If you haven't read this series, let me stop you right here. Start with book one, Down on Me. You don't necessarily have to start at the beginning but it is highly recommended you do so in order to get a better grasp on other characters and the backstory.
Now that that's out of the way....
This is my favorite book in this series. Nolan! I was intrigued by him and had been wanting his story. And this whole opposites attract thing just worked for me. Usually, I find that trope to be a little too cliche but the way J. Kenner wrote this had me falling in love with both Nolan and Shelby. Shelby had her moments though where she did aggravate me but I think that just endeared her more to me in the end.
I'm so looking forward to getting Tyree's story next.

[BookSmackedMel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Start Me Up was a fantastic surprise and one that had me quickly engaged in it.

This was an opposites attract romance. The two main characters couldn't be different with Nolan Wood as the morning radio host of "Mornings With Wood" (I mean you can imagine what type of radio show that is) and Shelby the accountant.

Shelby's proper, she comes from a background where everything is done by the book while as Nolan is anything but by the book.

This storyline was so cute and sweet yet sexy and funny at the same time. I loved how this relationship built between the two of them. Their banter, their flirtiness, their chemistry it was all engaging for me.

I definitely got invested in their story and whether or not they would end up together despite their differences.

So far this is my fav book of this series.

[Amber - TBR Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE Nolan!!!! He's crass, he's funny and he's hot. What more could you want?? Especially someone like Shelby to tame him. And she needs someone like Nolan to make sure she has fun and messes her up a little.

I really hope that Nolan will make an appearance in the rest of the series because he's perfect and I just love that about him!

[Shamima · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED IT

Each book just gets better and better.

Loving the series

[Jenny B · Rating 4 out of 5]

And J Kenner has another winner in Start Me Up. These characters are a delight to read about and I think my favorite part was reading about them growing together. They each had their insecurities to work through and I loved the journey. This book went quickly (too quickly) and I loved all the sexy humor written from a morning DJ standpoint and just the humor in general. And the one thing that fuels my love for reading is watching how characters grow into who they are supposed to be which J Kenner does a great job in this one.

[Lisa Mandina · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

If you remember, I read the third book of the series earlier this month, Need You Now, and while I enjoyed it, I wasn't thrilled with it. My thoughts after reading this next book in the series, Start Me Up, is that it must have just been that I didn't connect with those characters, because I really, really liked this one! I sped through this one, as I could barely put it down. I'd tell myself only one more chapter before bed, but then I'd look up at the clock and realize that I hadn't stopped and I needed to go to bed.

This story was just as sweet as the other one, but the humor in it really stood out for me. Maybe it is because I related more to the female main character, Shelby. She was worried about how people saw her because of her job. As a high school librarian, a former middle school teacher, I totally have to be concerned about my social media presence and how people see me. Maybe it is because I love to hang out with people who have the raunchy, tongue-in-cheek humor of our male lead, Nolan. Another reason I might have loved the story is that it started off with a scene in a sex toy shop, and that reminds me of so many other stories and tv shows that I love.

One of the issues I had with the last story was how many side characters there were, and trying to keep them straight. This one was a bit better, probably because I did read the last one, and I assume they'll get better as we go along, as I get to know more of them through the stories themselves. I definitely liked this one a lot, and it is definitely got me excited to read on for the next stories. Based on the two stories I've read, I'm going to have to say that Mr. April has my vote, and would be the calendar page I'd probably want to leave hanging up all year, so far that is.

I've also realized, yeah, maybe I'm slow, that the titles are lines from songs. And so whenever I say them in my head, the song, that line specifically plays in my head and gets stuck for a while. This time it is the Rolling Stones, whereas last time it was INXS.