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Honeydew
(Previously published. This edition contains new content.)
Clarisse Jordan is a young single mother, who after the death of her fiancé, poured blood, sweat, and tears into her business, Honeydew Café, to provide for her children. A catering gig for successful and super sexy Dylan Price is the opportunity of a lifetime. But she quickly learns that Mr. Price is interested in more than her Southern cuisine. He has his sights set on her.
Dylan has been in love with Clarisse for years and would do anything to have her—even if it means forcing her into marriage. Lucky for him, the instant chemistry between them is hotter than a mid-summer day beneath the Georgia sun.
Yet Dylan is not completely honest with Clarisse, and when she learns the painful truth, will their love affair end? Or will they be able to find their way back to each other?
Clarisse Jordan is a young single mother, who after the death of her fiancé, poured blood, sweat, and tears into her business, Honeydew Café, to provide for her children. A catering gig for successful and super sexy Dylan Price is the opportunity of a lifetime. But she quickly learns that Mr. Price is interested in more than her Southern cuisine. He has his sights set on her.
Dylan has been in love with Clarisse for years and would do anything to have her—even if it means forcing her into marriage. Lucky for him, the instant chemistry between them is hotter than a mid-summer day beneath the Georgia sun.
Yet Dylan is not completely honest with Clarisse, and when she learns the painful truth, will their love affair end? Or will they be able to find their way back to each other?
182 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 7, 2019
145 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
June 8, 2020
I enjoyed the premise of this story, however I had a few problems. Certain things didn’t seem realistic. Dylan falling in love with Clarisse from a picture? Seems super unlikely. The maturity of the five year old twins was a little weird. At one point the boy twin FJ tells his sister in an argument that he was the designer and she did the labor. I’m not saying there aren’t smart, attentive 5 year olds who speak using vocabulary that is usually used by older children, but most 5 year olds don’t know how to use labor in the scenario of the argument that he was having with his sister. And that’s just ONE example of behavior that didn’t fit with the typical 5 year old.
The heroine is a 23 year old woman and the hero is a 25 year old man. Again, it’s not impossible but I found it hard to believe that he was 25 and the CEO of a Fortune 500 company. If a couple more years were added to all of the characters, I believe that their personalities, their speech, their actions, and their personal problems would seem to make a bit more sense (outside of the obsessive hero?).
While I did enjoy the gist of the story, one huge peeve was the way that the characters said each other’s names in just about every sentence.
So basically the dialogue was like:
“Are you okay Clarisse?”
“Yes, I’m okay Dylan.”
“That’s good, Clarisse.”
“Thank you for checking on me Dylan.”
That pulled me out of the story, a lot. It made the dialogue very stilted and not very smooth or immersive. While we’re speaking of lack of immersion, the sex scenes turned me OFF because they were honestly badly written. It felt very awkward reading them and it honestly goes back to the stilted dialogue problem. I truly believe readability would have worked so much better with removal of those sex scenes and smoother dialogue.
Again the premise was okay enough that it has great potential but there were some hefty problems that allows me to not be able to give this anything other than a hefty 3. I have faith that with better editing that this would be a 5 star story though.
The heroine is a 23 year old woman and the hero is a 25 year old man. Again, it’s not impossible but I found it hard to believe that he was 25 and the CEO of a Fortune 500 company. If a couple more years were added to all of the characters, I believe that their personalities, their speech, their actions, and their personal problems would seem to make a bit more sense (outside of the obsessive hero?).
While I did enjoy the gist of the story, one huge peeve was the way that the characters said each other’s names in just about every sentence.
So basically the dialogue was like:
“Are you okay Clarisse?”
“Yes, I’m okay Dylan.”
“That’s good, Clarisse.”
“Thank you for checking on me Dylan.”
That pulled me out of the story, a lot. It made the dialogue very stilted and not very smooth or immersive. While we’re speaking of lack of immersion, the sex scenes turned me OFF because they were honestly badly written. It felt very awkward reading them and it honestly goes back to the stilted dialogue problem. I truly believe readability would have worked so much better with removal of those sex scenes and smoother dialogue.
Again the premise was okay enough that it has great potential but there were some hefty problems that allows me to not be able to give this anything other than a hefty 3. I have faith that with better editing that this would be a 5 star story though.
February 25, 2019
Dylan and Charlisse interesting turn of events
You know what's funny about trying a new author? It's not comparing them to others. I think S. Taylor has the making to be a better author. Sometimes it's more about why something is written than what is. Case in point the story of Dylan and Charlisse. I would say this story is adult contemporary yet I feel there is some naivety in the character development. I also think the sex scenes come off juvenile in text. Cunt, pussy etc are never terms I find sexy or appealing when someone is conversing.
Nevertheless, you do want to know how Dylan gets himself out of the predicament he created. You also want independence to just be a thought for Charlisse but a reality. You'll smile at Conner and Mrs. Delta. The two characters add the familiar connection between the characters. I'm going to read the next story in this series because I want to learn about the supporting characters.
You know what's funny about trying a new author? It's not comparing them to others. I think S. Taylor has the making to be a better author. Sometimes it's more about why something is written than what is. Case in point the story of Dylan and Charlisse. I would say this story is adult contemporary yet I feel there is some naivety in the character development. I also think the sex scenes come off juvenile in text. Cunt, pussy etc are never terms I find sexy or appealing when someone is conversing.
Nevertheless, you do want to know how Dylan gets himself out of the predicament he created. You also want independence to just be a thought for Charlisse but a reality. You'll smile at Conner and Mrs. Delta. The two characters add the familiar connection between the characters. I'm going to read the next story in this series because I want to learn about the supporting characters.
March 7, 2019
Book Name: Honeydew (Southern Seduction Book 1)
Author: S. Taylor
Publisher: Garden Avenue Press
Favorite Quote: “You’re my better half, the mother of my children, my one true love”
Dylan and Clarrise are two of a sweet kind. Dylan falls in love with Clarrise before he ever meets her. Clarrise feels an instant connection with Dylan from the moment she meets him. Dylan places Clarrise in an uncompromising position where she must do as he says or risk losing it all. I loved Dylan’s personal thoughts. I chuckled to myself a few times from his serious and sarcastic thoughts. You can’t help but fall in love with a sweetheart like Clarrise who has a very bold passionate side and not afraid to show it.
Author: S. Taylor
Publisher: Garden Avenue Press
Favorite Quote: “You’re my better half, the mother of my children, my one true love”
Dylan and Clarrise are two of a sweet kind. Dylan falls in love with Clarrise before he ever meets her. Clarrise feels an instant connection with Dylan from the moment she meets him. Dylan places Clarrise in an uncompromising position where she must do as he says or risk losing it all. I loved Dylan’s personal thoughts. I chuckled to myself a few times from his serious and sarcastic thoughts. You can’t help but fall in love with a sweetheart like Clarrise who has a very bold passionate side and not afraid to show it.
February 10, 2019
To have someone love me like this!
What woman wouldn't want a man to love her to the point of removing obstacles to her success out of her way while giving her the space to actually achieve that success? I for one would be over the moon in love with such a man. I am glad our heroine saw the truth of our hero's love and concern for her so that the love they have for each other, their children, the ones on the way as well as their extended family can continue to grow and all of them can keep on being happily in love. I really enjoyed this book and now I will pick up the sequel. Great job Ms. Taylor, really great job.
What woman wouldn't want a man to love her to the point of removing obstacles to her success out of her way while giving her the space to actually achieve that success? I for one would be over the moon in love with such a man. I am glad our heroine saw the truth of our hero's love and concern for her so that the love they have for each other, their children, the ones on the way as well as their extended family can continue to grow and all of them can keep on being happily in love. I really enjoyed this book and now I will pick up the sequel. Great job Ms. Taylor, really great job.
February 11, 2019
Love At First Glance
I think Dylan and Clarisse instant attraction was off the charts. He fell in love with her after just seeing a picture of her and after the tragic death of her fiance, Frost, Dylan made sure that Clarisse, FJ, and Riley were all taken care of by any means necessary. Dylan gave Clarisse an ultimatum that resulted in them getting married and they still ended up being deeply in love with each other. I want to know what's going on between Connor and Rhonda but I really can't wait to read Peggy's story.
I think Dylan and Clarisse instant attraction was off the charts. He fell in love with her after just seeing a picture of her and after the tragic death of her fiance, Frost, Dylan made sure that Clarisse, FJ, and Riley were all taken care of by any means necessary. Dylan gave Clarisse an ultimatum that resulted in them getting married and they still ended up being deeply in love with each other. I want to know what's going on between Connor and Rhonda but I really can't wait to read Peggy's story.
May 8, 2019
Powerful Love
I knew Dylan was up to something, just didn't know what. Wanted to hate him for what he had done, but could not. His love for Clarisse was all consuming, intense and beautiful. The lengths he went to care for her, and provide for her was everything! Glad they were able to work it out. 👍
I knew Dylan was up to something, just didn't know what. Wanted to hate him for what he had done, but could not. His love for Clarisse was all consuming, intense and beautiful. The lengths he went to care for her, and provide for her was everything! Glad they were able to work it out. 👍
May 11, 2019
😍
I thoroughly enjoyed this love story. It was a little unconventional, but possibly believable. You have your alpha male making moves to get his hearts desires. He doesn't realize his ways are taking the control out of his love interest hands. Over time, he sees the error of his ways.
Loved it and definitely moving on to the next book in the series...💞
I thoroughly enjoyed this love story. It was a little unconventional, but possibly believable. You have your alpha male making moves to get his hearts desires. He doesn't realize his ways are taking the control out of his love interest hands. Over time, he sees the error of his ways.
Loved it and definitely moving on to the next book in the series...💞
August 27, 2019
Hot!bbb
I love Clarisse and Dylan as a couple. It was a little strange at first to believe that Dylan loved Clarisse; soon it became very clear that he was in love and in lust her and he loved her kids. I was glad when Clarisse became pregnant with D's babies. That was the perfect ending.
I love Clarisse and Dylan as a couple. It was a little strange at first to believe that Dylan loved Clarisse; soon it became very clear that he was in love and in lust her and he loved her kids. I was glad when Clarisse became pregnant with D's babies. That was the perfect ending.
February 21, 2019
Buttercup
An excellent story. Great details about each character. The author is an excellent writer. Loved how the story moved swiftly toward its delightful ending. I love forward to reading more by this author.
An excellent story. Great details about each character. The author is an excellent writer. Loved how the story moved swiftly toward its delightful ending. I love forward to reading more by this author.
May 1, 2019
An ok read
Honeydew was an ok read. If your looking for an almost perfect romance with sugary sweet words and a love-sick, somewhat obsessed male lead - this is the book for you. While I liked Dylan, his actions were a bit alarming and questionable.
Honeydew was an ok read. If your looking for an almost perfect romance with sugary sweet words and a love-sick, somewhat obsessed male lead - this is the book for you. While I liked Dylan, his actions were a bit alarming and questionable.
May 26, 2019
I love it!
Wow! Dylan is one crazy in love individual with Clarisse. But the steps he took to get her was brilliant. I don't think I would have tried it. But hey, he chased her with a vengeance. It was love at first sight.
Wow! Dylan is one crazy in love individual with Clarisse. But the steps he took to get her was brilliant. I don't think I would have tried it. But hey, he chased her with a vengeance. It was love at first sight.
October 14, 2019
A Sweet Love Story
I truly enjoyed this book. Dylan and Clarissa chemistry was off the chart from their first meeting. The dynamics of the story with family and friends brings this story to life. Kudos to S. Taylor on an awesome story.
I truly enjoyed this book. Dylan and Clarissa chemistry was off the chart from their first meeting. The dynamics of the story with family and friends brings this story to life. Kudos to S. Taylor on an awesome story.
December 20, 2019
Songbird Timmalynn
I'm very pleased with this author's writing style. It was refreshing to read about love without the usual hood backdrop and dope dealer shenanigans. You won't be disappointed when choosing this book. I look forward to reading more by this author.
I'm very pleased with this author's writing style. It was refreshing to read about love without the usual hood backdrop and dope dealer shenanigans. You won't be disappointed when choosing this book. I look forward to reading more by this author.
February 12, 2019
Good book
This was an easy read and nice romance. Some of Dylan’s actions were very extreme. I enjoyed reading this story.
This was an easy read and nice romance. Some of Dylan’s actions were very extreme. I enjoyed reading this story.
April 10, 2019
Awesome read!!!
Such a great read/real page turner... love the romance and developing love between Clarisse and Dylan...excited to read more upcoming books!!!
Such a great read/real page turner... love the romance and developing love between Clarisse and Dylan...excited to read more upcoming books!!!
May 8, 2019
Southern fire is what this is
I know their situation was a little different. It really displays your skills as an author because their story was fire
I know their situation was a little different. It really displays your skills as an author because their story was fire
May 8, 2019
Loved it
This is the first book I've ever read by Ms. Taylor and I really enjoyed it. I loved both characters and I cant wait to read the next one. This is a must read.
This is the first book I've ever read by Ms. Taylor and I really enjoyed it. I loved both characters and I cant wait to read the next one. This is a must read.
July 17, 2019
Great!!!
This story captivated my attention so much that I read it without interruption. It was an amazing story about Dylan and Clarisse so I move on to book 2.
This story captivated my attention so much that I read it without interruption. It was an amazing story about Dylan and Clarisse so I move on to book 2.
August 1, 2019
Nice couple
Even though the hero tricked his love interest into a relationship, It was so easy to see he loved this woman. I have him a pass.... A good read.
Even though the hero tricked his love interest into a relationship, It was so easy to see he loved this woman. I have him a pass.... A good read.
August 3, 2019
Good read
This was such a cute story. I liked how things progressed in their relationship. It was unexpected and pleasantly so.
This was such a cute story. I liked how things progressed in their relationship. It was unexpected and pleasantly so.
Read
September 21, 2019It was ok. Personally, I am not a fan of secrecy and deception, so it wasn't my cup of tea.
May 4, 2020
Too cute!
Dylan know he loves himself some Clarice. I love his dedication to her and the twins. The love scenes were sizzling. You go S. Taylor!
Dylan know he loves himself some Clarice. I love his dedication to her and the twins. The love scenes were sizzling. You go S. Taylor!
March 3, 2019
Honeydew is the first book in the Southern Seduction series. Clarisse Jordan is a single Mom who is trying to build a successful business after her fiancé passes away. She encounters sexy and very successful Dylan Price, when she caters an event for his company. Clarisse quickly learns that Dylan is interested in more than just some good cuisine.
Dylan Price has ulterior motives when he hires the Honeydew cafe to cater his company’s event. It’s obvious Clarisse and Dylan are both feeling each other, however it’s not obvious to Clarisse that Dylan has been been putting things in motion for them to meet and has to have her by any means necessary.
Things move really fast with the story. Dylan is likable in a lot of ways, but the way he goes about getting Clarisse is a bit extreme, and makes him come across as controlling early on. He eventually accomplishes his goal, but he goes miles out of the way to get something that would have been much easier with time. It turns out that his actions come back to bite him.
Clarisse is written as a dedicated Mother who is driven to succeed, despite her circumstances. Her twins were so cute. Despite the situation she is placed in, she is a very caring person and does some very sweet things for Dylan. Secondary characters Rhonda and Connor round out the story. Some things related to them appear to tee up a future book. The use of first person within the third person dialogue took some getting used to, but overall, it was an enjoyable read. I received a copy to review for Building relationships around books (BRAB) book club.
Dylan Price has ulterior motives when he hires the Honeydew cafe to cater his company’s event. It’s obvious Clarisse and Dylan are both feeling each other, however it’s not obvious to Clarisse that Dylan has been been putting things in motion for them to meet and has to have her by any means necessary.
Things move really fast with the story. Dylan is likable in a lot of ways, but the way he goes about getting Clarisse is a bit extreme, and makes him come across as controlling early on. He eventually accomplishes his goal, but he goes miles out of the way to get something that would have been much easier with time. It turns out that his actions come back to bite him.
Clarisse is written as a dedicated Mother who is driven to succeed, despite her circumstances. Her twins were so cute. Despite the situation she is placed in, she is a very caring person and does some very sweet things for Dylan. Secondary characters Rhonda and Connor round out the story. Some things related to them appear to tee up a future book. The use of first person within the third person dialogue took some getting used to, but overall, it was an enjoyable read. I received a copy to review for Building relationships around books (BRAB) book club.
February 14, 2019
Clarisse Jordan is starting to find a balance in her life after the death of her fiancé’. She has a new business, her kids and her friends and life is grand until she meets the Sexy Dylan Price and the chemistry between the two is off the charts. Dylan Price has had his eyes and heart on Clarisse Jordan for sometime now and he will go through great lengths to make her his.
Honeydew was a hot and steamy read it captured my attention from the beginning and did not let go. I loved the chemistry between Clarisse and Dylan and it seemed every time they were near each other it was like a instant Fire was started and they needed to carry a fire extinguisher with them at all times. I love the kids, they are so sweet and innocent and will reveal everything. I am hoping in the next book a few questions will be answered.
Honeydew was a hot and steamy read it captured my attention from the beginning and did not let go. I loved the chemistry between Clarisse and Dylan and it seemed every time they were near each other it was like a instant Fire was started and they needed to carry a fire extinguisher with them at all times. I love the kids, they are so sweet and innocent and will reveal everything. I am hoping in the next book a few questions will be answered.
February 8, 2019
Clarisse thinks she is finally coming into her own as a business owner and a single mother. Unbeknownst to Clarisse, Dylan has been in love with her for a long time. Dylan and Clarisse see each other for the first time, or so she thinks, at a company function for Dylan's company that her restaurant caters. Dylan decides the time has come to finally make his move and claim the woman he loves by any means necessary. As Clarisse gives in to Dylan's demands, there are secrets that still must come out. This book was truly enjoyable to read. The couple were very loving and passionate toward each other. The twins were super cute and there are secondary characters that I hope will have books of their own.
I received an advanced copy for my honest review of this book.
I received an advanced copy for my honest review of this book.
May 24, 2021
Honeydew
Good book about tragic and then love. Life can make changes that one is not ready for. Good love can always make life easier.
Good book about tragic and then love. Life can make changes that one is not ready for. Good love can always make life easier.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews