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Bad Angels #1
Heartbreaker
Mistakes? She’s made a few…
Dropped out of high school? Check. Ran away with loser boyfriend at age sixteen? Check. Fell for every line from every guy? Sadly, check. But now, Tess Paplion has started over. Juggling multiple part-time jobs while finishing her college degree, she’s not letting anything get in her way. Especially not a sexy angel investor with “one-night disaster” written all over him.
Mason Coleman just inherited a 200-pound invalid Mastiff—and an intriguing, unusual, and thoroughly infuriating dog nanny who turns his life upside down the moment she steps through his front door. No matter how she makes him feel Mason doesn’t do commitment—so what happens when he falls for her? And worse, what happens when she wants nothing to do with him?
Dropped out of high school? Check. Ran away with loser boyfriend at age sixteen? Check. Fell for every line from every guy? Sadly, check. But now, Tess Paplion has started over. Juggling multiple part-time jobs while finishing her college degree, she’s not letting anything get in her way. Especially not a sexy angel investor with “one-night disaster” written all over him.
Mason Coleman just inherited a 200-pound invalid Mastiff—and an intriguing, unusual, and thoroughly infuriating dog nanny who turns his life upside down the moment she steps through his front door. No matter how she makes him feel Mason doesn’t do commitment—so what happens when he falls for her? And worse, what happens when she wants nothing to do with him?
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 25, 2019
59 people are currently reading
198 people want to read
About the author
Inara Scott
24 books676 followersI wrote my first book when I was in high school--a romance called "A Wild and Stormy Passion," which featured swordplay, kidnapping, a pirate heroine, and lots of naughty bits (that came entirely from my adolescent imagination!). Since then, I've written young adult novels and adult romances of the category, contemporary, and fantasy varieties. My books are romantic and sensual. I like strong women and strong men and the sparks that fly when they get together.
I am a dabbler and an emotional sponge. I can't read scary books or anything with an unhappy ending. I reserve the right to enjoy country music, puppies, true love, and happily ever after.
If you're perusing my Goodreads shelves, you should know I only review books I want to share the word about. If you ask me, life's too short to read something you don't enjoy.
I am a dabbler and an emotional sponge. I can't read scary books or anything with an unhappy ending. I reserve the right to enjoy country music, puppies, true love, and happily ever after.
If you're perusing my Goodreads shelves, you should know I only review books I want to share the word about. If you ask me, life's too short to read something you don't enjoy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
June 6, 2022
This is a modern day fairytale with a guarded Cinderella who walks dogs to put herself through college at 26 and a charming, heartbreaking Prince who has it all.
Tess typifies Independent woman sydrome after a decade long struggle seeing her mum throw away everything in the name of love and dragging her along to deal with the mess. And a jerk boyfriend who left her pregnant at 16 adds to her belief that she can rely only on herself. Now she has three part time jobs, an ongoing online degree and the nature of a hedgehog.
Everyone who knows Mason Coleman has dubbed him a 'Pretty face with a strict adherence to the four-date rule'. A successful Venture Capitalist with the face of an Angel and supposedly one of the Black Angels, he agrees to take care of his beloved sister's sick dog the size of a bull, with bladder control issues. In dire need of a trainer, Mason stumbles upon Tess (along with his giant over-excited dog) while she's walking dogs for someone in the same building and makes her an offer she cannot refuse.
What follows is a seriously sexy, funrelationship friends-with-benefits thingy where a pricky Tess, a commitment phobic Mason and their dogs find a way towards happily-ever-after.
Now, give me Nate's and Cece's story already!
Tess typifies Independent woman sydrome after a decade long struggle seeing her mum throw away everything in the name of love and dragging her along to deal with the mess. And a jerk boyfriend who left her pregnant at 16 adds to her belief that she can rely only on herself. Now she has three part time jobs, an ongoing online degree and the nature of a hedgehog.
Everyone who knows Mason Coleman has dubbed him a 'Pretty face with a strict adherence to the four-date rule'. A successful Venture Capitalist with the face of an Angel and supposedly one of the Black Angels, he agrees to take care of his beloved sister's sick dog the size of a bull, with bladder control issues. In dire need of a trainer, Mason stumbles upon Tess (along with his giant over-excited dog) while she's walking dogs for someone in the same building and makes her an offer she cannot refuse.
What follows is a seriously sexy, fun
Now, give me Nate's and Cece's story already!
maybe-not-sure-yet
February 25, 2019Update 25/2/2019
€5.03 and not on KU ☹
I saw the dog on the cover and my stone heart melted.
Will read it, if on KU 😝
€5.03 and not on KU ☹
I saw the dog on the cover and my stone heart melted.
Will read it, if on KU 😝
February 25, 2019
Every once in a while, you just need one of those feel good, heartfelt romances. HEARTBREAKER is one of those novels. It made me want to just curl up by a warm fire and enjoy!
Tess is working three jobs and taking online college courses for her degree. One of Tess’ jobs is a dog walker.
Mason is at wits end watching his sister’s mastiff. He is poorly trained and needs to go out all the time. Afraid to leave him alone, Mason knows he will need someone’s help with the dog. Just then he runs into a dog walker in his buildings elevator and offers Tess a full time position watching the misbehaving dog. Tess grabs the opportunity offered by Mason because it will give her enough time to finish up her finals while still providing enough money to survive.
HEARTBREAKER is a touching story. Tess has learned a life lesson to be 100% self-reliant and when feelings start to emerge between the two, Tess’ walls become one hard shell to crack. Then you have the relationship-phobic Mason, who can’t seem to get the frumpy Tess out of his head. He knows there is much more under the mask she hides behind.
Easy, entertaining and heartfelt...perfectly fit into what I needed in a good reading pick.
I received this ARC copy of HEARTBREAKER from Entangled Publishing, LLC - Amara. This is my honest and voluntary review. HEARTBREAKER is set for publication Feb. 25, 2019.
My Rating: 4 stars
Written by: Inara Scott
Publisher: Entangled: Amara
Publication Date: February 25, 2019
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Heartbreaker-I...
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hear...
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/hear...
Tess is working three jobs and taking online college courses for her degree. One of Tess’ jobs is a dog walker.
Mason is at wits end watching his sister’s mastiff. He is poorly trained and needs to go out all the time. Afraid to leave him alone, Mason knows he will need someone’s help with the dog. Just then he runs into a dog walker in his buildings elevator and offers Tess a full time position watching the misbehaving dog. Tess grabs the opportunity offered by Mason because it will give her enough time to finish up her finals while still providing enough money to survive.
HEARTBREAKER is a touching story. Tess has learned a life lesson to be 100% self-reliant and when feelings start to emerge between the two, Tess’ walls become one hard shell to crack. Then you have the relationship-phobic Mason, who can’t seem to get the frumpy Tess out of his head. He knows there is much more under the mask she hides behind.
Easy, entertaining and heartfelt...perfectly fit into what I needed in a good reading pick.
I received this ARC copy of HEARTBREAKER from Entangled Publishing, LLC - Amara. This is my honest and voluntary review. HEARTBREAKER is set for publication Feb. 25, 2019.
My Rating: 4 stars
Written by: Inara Scott
Publisher: Entangled: Amara
Publication Date: February 25, 2019
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Heartbreaker-I...
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hear...
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/hear...
June 6, 2022
4 stars.
So quick recap first. This is the story of Tess and Mason, who meet when he hires her to be his dog walker. It’s a little bit of a Cinderella story since Tess is a mess when they first meet, and he has to look beyond her oversized clothes, and messy appearance, to see her beauty. She even compares herself to Cinderella and the hero is her prince who she can’t imagine keeping long-term because he’s a commitment-phobe. They get to know each other and move from strangers, to friends, to friends with benefits, and finally end up with a sweet HFN ending.
I really thought I would be giving this book 3 stars for nearly the entire time I was reading. Not because I didn’t like it, but because I anticipated the same lazy, predictable ending that so many other romance books have. You know what I’m talking about: that last 20% where any old conflict will do to separate the MCs for a minute before they are finally reunited? So sick of that shit!
Is it bad that I just expect the worst? 🤔
However, I was really impressed with this author for not just barreling down that path, but actually giving this book a more thoughtful and satisfying ending. Now, I’m not saying that this ending was life-changing or anything. But, it was better than what I was expecting and that really upped my enjoyment of this book.
Overall, this is a pretty solid read (well, listen because i listened to the audiobook). I thought the author did a good job telling the story in a way that kept my interest. This story also has a good balance of angst - I never felt overwrought, but also didn’t feel bored. I really didn’t expect to like the hero as much as I did by the end. He’s introduced as a seemingly shallow ladies man, but he was no longer as one dimensional once the story progressed. The heroine is also a really well-written character, but I didn’t always love her. She’s very multi-faceted with a lot of contradictory traits that did make her seem more human. She’s strong in some ways while weak in others, very smart about most of her life choices but also prone to terrible decisions at times. She’s just such a contradictory character, and I honestly wanted to slap some sense into her at times. She pissed me off quite a bit at the end… but I think the author saved her JUST before I crossed the line into full annoyance.
Read it, or don’t… but def go in with low expectations so it’s not a disappointment. 😜 Only sorta kidding.
Safe; heroine not a virgin but may as well have been since she’s been celibate for 5 years. Hero initially presented as a manwhore (he calls himself “heartbreaker” 🙄) but later there was a comment made that his history wasn’t as bad as it seemed. Not sure what that really meant, but I’ll just say that he didn’t strike me as the type to stay celibate for more than a couple of weeks. He seemed to (unintentionally) be in a pattern where he took women out 4 times before he ended the relationship, citing that he never felt a lingering connection. He does go on a date with OW near beginning of the story (set up before he met the heroine) but he later says the date didn’t go well. There are no others once they meet, no scenes with om/ow, no om/ow drama, no cheating. There are frequent mentions of his past, but they’re not graphic, so they didn’t bother me.
TW: mentions of pregnancy and miscarriage (past), child neglect and abuse (mentions of past events), euthanasia of an animal (not one central to the story)
So quick recap first. This is the story of Tess and Mason, who meet when he hires her to be his dog walker. It’s a little bit of a Cinderella story since Tess is a mess when they first meet, and he has to look beyond her oversized clothes, and messy appearance, to see her beauty. She even compares herself to Cinderella and the hero is her prince who she can’t imagine keeping long-term because he’s a commitment-phobe. They get to know each other and move from strangers, to friends, to friends with benefits, and finally end up with a sweet HFN ending.
I really thought I would be giving this book 3 stars for nearly the entire time I was reading. Not because I didn’t like it, but because I anticipated the same lazy, predictable ending that so many other romance books have. You know what I’m talking about: that last 20% where any old conflict will do to separate the MCs for a minute before they are finally reunited? So sick of that shit!
Is it bad that I just expect the worst? 🤔
However, I was really impressed with this author for not just barreling down that path, but actually giving this book a more thoughtful and satisfying ending. Now, I’m not saying that this ending was life-changing or anything. But, it was better than what I was expecting and that really upped my enjoyment of this book.
Overall, this is a pretty solid read (well, listen because i listened to the audiobook). I thought the author did a good job telling the story in a way that kept my interest. This story also has a good balance of angst - I never felt overwrought, but also didn’t feel bored. I really didn’t expect to like the hero as much as I did by the end. He’s introduced as a seemingly shallow ladies man, but he was no longer as one dimensional once the story progressed. The heroine is also a really well-written character, but I didn’t always love her. She’s very multi-faceted with a lot of contradictory traits that did make her seem more human. She’s strong in some ways while weak in others, very smart about most of her life choices but also prone to terrible decisions at times. She’s just such a contradictory character, and I honestly wanted to slap some sense into her at times. She pissed me off quite a bit at the end… but I think the author saved her JUST before I crossed the line into full annoyance.
Read it, or don’t… but def go in with low expectations so it’s not a disappointment. 😜 Only sorta kidding.
Safe; heroine not a virgin but may as well have been since she’s been celibate for 5 years. Hero initially presented as a manwhore (he calls himself “heartbreaker” 🙄) but later there was a comment made that his history wasn’t as bad as it seemed. Not sure what that really meant, but I’ll just say that he didn’t strike me as the type to stay celibate for more than a couple of weeks. He seemed to (unintentionally) be in a pattern where he took women out 4 times before he ended the relationship, citing that he never felt a lingering connection. He does go on a date with OW near beginning of the story (set up before he met the heroine) but he later says the date didn’t go well. There are no others once they meet, no scenes with om/ow, no om/ow drama, no cheating. There are frequent mentions of his past, but they’re not graphic, so they didn’t bother me.
TW: mentions of pregnancy and miscarriage (past), child neglect and abuse (mentions of past events), euthanasia of an animal (not one central to the story)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2019
I love love love reading romance stories that have animals present in them, preferable dogs and horses. So when I got the opportunity to read an arc of this one, I couldn't pass up on it. It didn't take me long to finish this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Mistakes? She’s made a few…
Dropped out of high school? Check. Ran away with loser boyfriend at age sixteen? Check. Fell for every line from every guy? Sadly, check. But now, Tess Papion has started over. Juggling multiple part-time jobs while finishing her college degree, she’s not letting anything get in her way. Especially not a sexy angel investor with “one-night disaster” written all over him.
Mason Coleman just inherited a 200-pound invalid Mastiff—and an intriguing, unusual, and thoroughly infuriating dog nanny who turns his life upside down the moment she steps through his front door. No matter how she makes him feel Mason doesn’t do commitment—so what happens when he falls for her? And worse, what happens when she wants nothing to do with him?
Story-line
To be honest, it wasn't the most original story. I don't mind reading stories that aren't original, don't mind it at all, if characters and the romance are well written down. This was the case in this book. Somehow it didn't wow me as much overall, not in the way I was hoping for beforehand, but I still liked reading it nonetheless.
Remark: There's the fact that there's a lot of miscommunication happening in this book, which is something I often experience as frustrating. This was the case in this one as well for me, from time to time. Unfortunately. I know not everyone minds this as much in a story as I do maybe, but it's a peeve of mine I guess so that's definitely a personal opinion on the matter. Don't let yourself being held back by this opinion of mine, because you may end up not feeling like this at all of course.
The characters
I really liked the set of characters in this book, both humans and the dogs.
Tess, our female lead character was quite relatable and I always like that. She's stubborn/headstrong, hard working and independent. This left me quite frustrated from time to time, when she was being a stubborn mule yet again, lol, but I also admired her for it as well. She's such a strong character! But I really liked it as well, when she opens up to Mason. She was in need of finding someone to be her anchor, aside from her best friend, and reading about this was a joy.
Then we have this male lead character, called Mason: He's such a frigging sweetheart and I loved him right from the very first page. I always like reading from dual pov's and Mason's thoughts were such a joy to read about and a great addition to the book in general. I love how willing he is to go after what he wants. I love how good of a friend he is to the other characters in the book. He's just a really good guy and I sometimes really felt sorry for him when Tess was being stubborn and kept shutting him out or not believing him when he was trying his damnest to do good by her. Yeah, Mason stole my heart and could do no wrong to me haha.
I loved the presence of the supportive characters. The friendships in this book were fun to read about and have me craving more. The dogs were fun to read about, although I sometimes felt like things were being left a bit superficial. Not enough of the dogs' character traits came to surface to my liking though. I prefer, when there's an animal present in a story, there's just more 'presence' of the animal you know? They are present physically but they aren't always Really 'present' you know? - God, I suck with words, lol.
The Romance
The chemistry and attraction between the two characters was really palpable and believable, which only adds up to a well developed romance being present. The pace of the development wasn't always to my liking though, but I'm known for being too greedy sometimes, lol. I like a well developed romance, but to be honest, sometimes it felt things dragged on a tiny bit too long, you know?
To me, the romance in the first part of the book was more enjoyable than the second part of the book. I liked the way the characters met, their chemistry and their banter. I liked how they were slowly falling in love with one another. But towards the end there were some developments that just weren't always fully to my liking, like the dragging part for example.
I really liked this romance though, overall. I like that there's friendship first for example, while they're both also trying to fight off their attraction to one another as well. In general, when there's friendship first, I think the base of the developing romance is just a tad more well developed in my opinion and that was also palpable in this romance development in my opinion.
Overall, it's definitely a story I enjoyed reading. It's definitely a book I'd recommend to other romance readers out there who like a cute, light and sexy romance.
It was fast-paced, it had likable characters, it had DOGS and what's not to love about them right?!, it had a cute romance and I really liked the writing style of this author. It was a perfect in between romance book for me that I really enjoyed reading overall. It's probably not one that I'll remember down the road but that's okay though. The most important part to me is that I enjoy a book While reading it and that's something I did with this one.
This author has left me curious and excited to read more of her work. I'd really love to read a book that's about some of the supportive characters for example, since they were so much fun to read about as well!
Thanks for reading!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Mistakes? She’s made a few…
Dropped out of high school? Check. Ran away with loser boyfriend at age sixteen? Check. Fell for every line from every guy? Sadly, check. But now, Tess Papion has started over. Juggling multiple part-time jobs while finishing her college degree, she’s not letting anything get in her way. Especially not a sexy angel investor with “one-night disaster” written all over him.
Mason Coleman just inherited a 200-pound invalid Mastiff—and an intriguing, unusual, and thoroughly infuriating dog nanny who turns his life upside down the moment she steps through his front door. No matter how she makes him feel Mason doesn’t do commitment—so what happens when he falls for her? And worse, what happens when she wants nothing to do with him?
Story-line
To be honest, it wasn't the most original story. I don't mind reading stories that aren't original, don't mind it at all, if characters and the romance are well written down. This was the case in this book. Somehow it didn't wow me as much overall, not in the way I was hoping for beforehand, but I still liked reading it nonetheless.
Remark: There's the fact that there's a lot of miscommunication happening in this book, which is something I often experience as frustrating. This was the case in this one as well for me, from time to time. Unfortunately. I know not everyone minds this as much in a story as I do maybe, but it's a peeve of mine I guess so that's definitely a personal opinion on the matter. Don't let yourself being held back by this opinion of mine, because you may end up not feeling like this at all of course.
The characters
I really liked the set of characters in this book, both humans and the dogs.
Tess, our female lead character was quite relatable and I always like that. She's stubborn/headstrong, hard working and independent. This left me quite frustrated from time to time, when she was being a stubborn mule yet again, lol, but I also admired her for it as well. She's such a strong character! But I really liked it as well, when she opens up to Mason. She was in need of finding someone to be her anchor, aside from her best friend, and reading about this was a joy.
Then we have this male lead character, called Mason: He's such a frigging sweetheart and I loved him right from the very first page. I always like reading from dual pov's and Mason's thoughts were such a joy to read about and a great addition to the book in general. I love how willing he is to go after what he wants. I love how good of a friend he is to the other characters in the book. He's just a really good guy and I sometimes really felt sorry for him when Tess was being stubborn and kept shutting him out or not believing him when he was trying his damnest to do good by her. Yeah, Mason stole my heart and could do no wrong to me haha.
I loved the presence of the supportive characters. The friendships in this book were fun to read about and have me craving more. The dogs were fun to read about, although I sometimes felt like things were being left a bit superficial. Not enough of the dogs' character traits came to surface to my liking though. I prefer, when there's an animal present in a story, there's just more 'presence' of the animal you know? They are present physically but they aren't always Really 'present' you know? - God, I suck with words, lol.
The Romance
The chemistry and attraction between the two characters was really palpable and believable, which only adds up to a well developed romance being present. The pace of the development wasn't always to my liking though, but I'm known for being too greedy sometimes, lol. I like a well developed romance, but to be honest, sometimes it felt things dragged on a tiny bit too long, you know?
To me, the romance in the first part of the book was more enjoyable than the second part of the book. I liked the way the characters met, their chemistry and their banter. I liked how they were slowly falling in love with one another. But towards the end there were some developments that just weren't always fully to my liking, like the dragging part for example.
I really liked this romance though, overall. I like that there's friendship first for example, while they're both also trying to fight off their attraction to one another as well. In general, when there's friendship first, I think the base of the developing romance is just a tad more well developed in my opinion and that was also palpable in this romance development in my opinion.
Overall, it's definitely a story I enjoyed reading. It's definitely a book I'd recommend to other romance readers out there who like a cute, light and sexy romance.
It was fast-paced, it had likable characters, it had DOGS and what's not to love about them right?!, it had a cute romance and I really liked the writing style of this author. It was a perfect in between romance book for me that I really enjoyed reading overall. It's probably not one that I'll remember down the road but that's okay though. The most important part to me is that I enjoy a book While reading it and that's something I did with this one.
This author has left me curious and excited to read more of her work. I'd really love to read a book that's about some of the supportive characters for example, since they were so much fun to read about as well!
Thanks for reading!
September 4, 2019
This is one of those impulse buy books. It was only 99 cents AND there was a dog on the cover! It was meant to be.
Normally these turn out to be very good, but this one was a diamond in the rough! This book had a lot of the elements I like: seeing things from the male's POV, humor, a sassy woman who doesn't take crap, and - need I say it again? - a dog!
Love it!
Normally these turn out to be very good, but this one was a diamond in the rough! This book had a lot of the elements I like: seeing things from the male's POV, humor, a sassy woman who doesn't take crap, and - need I say it again? - a dog!
Love it!
February 26, 2019
I wonder how I was able to finish the book. The only thing I loved about it was the cover since I have a thing for animals in a book. I can't say that either main character was likable and I couldn't stand Tess. I felt like she changed personalities halfway through the book and I wasn't a big fan of hers I couldn't understand her, let alone relate to her in some way and as pages were turned I was liking her less and less. I was more drawn to the secondary characters and particularly Nate and Cece. If they get a book I am gonna read it. I hope their book won't be like this one. The premise was good but the execution was lacking and I wasn't really a fan of the book. I thought 3 times to DNF it and I kept reading just because I had to write a review for it. The end wasn't redeeming and I closed the book being dissatisfied.
February 2, 2019
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
I'm a sucker for a book that has dogs present. I will always want to see how cute it can be and the dogs here do make the book a bit more cute. They aren't mentioned as much as I would like, but they weren't needed to... anymore and it would have felt overdone, so good dog inclusion I think.
I unfortunately read this during a romance binge and this one just isn't sticking out. I think there are some good parts, for sure. Tess is independent, hard-working, and relateable. Mason is cute, loving, and willing to put in effort. The thing is this book uses one of my pet peeves: miscommunication. At times it felt more like lack of listening on the characters' parts which made it worse.
Tess has a darker past and doesn't want to trust anyone enough to have a relationship AND she doesn't want to lean on anyone. She ends up coming across as really stubborn and I wanted the characters to just sit down and have a conversation. Mason had some shining moments and there are moments that poke at other tropes and ideas that could be done for the story which his friends tell him not to do -- I loved this!! Except for then what he ended up doing anyhow!
So, while this one has cute and fresh moments, it also had characters that seemed to act certain ways in order to prolong the story. I would recommend this one to people looking for something cute and lighter, but this isn't one I'll probably remember down the road.
I'm a sucker for a book that has dogs present. I will always want to see how cute it can be and the dogs here do make the book a bit more cute. They aren't mentioned as much as I would like, but they weren't needed to... anymore and it would have felt overdone, so good dog inclusion I think.
I unfortunately read this during a romance binge and this one just isn't sticking out. I think there are some good parts, for sure. Tess is independent, hard-working, and relateable. Mason is cute, loving, and willing to put in effort. The thing is this book uses one of my pet peeves: miscommunication. At times it felt more like lack of listening on the characters' parts which made it worse.
Tess has a darker past and doesn't want to trust anyone enough to have a relationship AND she doesn't want to lean on anyone. She ends up coming across as really stubborn and I wanted the characters to just sit down and have a conversation. Mason had some shining moments and there are moments that poke at other tropes and ideas that could be done for the story which his friends tell him not to do -- I loved this!! Except for then what he ended up doing anyhow!
So, while this one has cute and fresh moments, it also had characters that seemed to act certain ways in order to prolong the story. I would recommend this one to people looking for something cute and lighter, but this isn't one I'll probably remember down the road.
February 4, 2019
Really cute storyline about Mason, who “inherits” a troublesome dog and are in acute need of help from someone who actually knows anything about this monster dog - Tess to the rescue!
Tess is juggling multiple part-time jobs while finishing her college degree, but gets persuaded to dog and house sit for Mason. Actually, Mason was desperate enough to end up begging.
There is some really nice and snarky banter, like:
“Ah, thanks, I guess? But we’ve known each other for less than one minute. I usually wait at least five before I bring over my toothbrush.”
Of course they end up super attracted to each other, and since they both are kind of commitment phobic, they agree to a friends with benefits arrangement. I don't think I reveal anything by saying that, of course they end up falling in love.
It was a very sweet romance, and I had a wonderful time reading it.
☛ I requested an advanced copy of this title from NetGalley, and I'm voluntarily making this review.
Tess is juggling multiple part-time jobs while finishing her college degree, but gets persuaded to dog and house sit for Mason. Actually, Mason was desperate enough to end up begging.
There is some really nice and snarky banter, like:
“Ah, thanks, I guess? But we’ve known each other for less than one minute. I usually wait at least five before I bring over my toothbrush.”
Of course they end up super attracted to each other, and since they both are kind of commitment phobic, they agree to a friends with benefits arrangement. I don't think I reveal anything by saying that, of course they end up falling in love.
It was a very sweet romance, and I had a wonderful time reading it.
☛ I requested an advanced copy of this title from NetGalley, and I'm voluntarily making this review.
March 8, 2019
Mason Coleman : Founding member (with his two friends) of one of the hottest investment fund firm. Of the trio, he's the pretty boy. Also a good older brother. Proof ? He agreed to take care of his sister's dog until her graduation, Wick, a big mastiff and the worst behaved canine he's ever seen who need constant attention and medication.
Tess Papion : Run a dog-walking and pet care business, also work part-time at a vet clinic, doing landscaping on the side and online college too. She own a dog, Astro, a tiny white Maltese. Have a disastrous history with men and used to made bad choices.
His sister's dog arrived 48 hours ago, and already, Mason realize that Wick need a babysitter. What a chance that he just come across the woman he saw walking dogs around before when going out with Wick. Tess doesn't need the job, she's got enough on her plate already, but she needs money and can't refuse such a good offer. The attraction between them is instant, but they don't act on it right away. There's the fact Tess doesn't trust easily, the fact that so far, Mason's been commitment phobe and the fact the young woman doesn't want to get involve with an employer. So they mutually decide to stay friends. But the sexual tension might be too strong for their good intentions ;p
I liked the story, the characters and the romance, but just for the excellent dialogues, this book would have been worth the read ! I loved the wit ! What was also interesting to me is how the heroine was described. We can guess she's a pretty girl but that's not what draw Mason first. She's a fashion disaster but that never stopped him from finding her fascinating. I love when it's so obvious that a hero doesn't fall for the look but really for the personality. I also loved his sense of observation, his attentiveness and his empathy. I appreciated Tess's honesty and her independence, even if at times I wanted her be a little less prideful. An other great part was the beautiful and true friendship between Tess and her best friend Cece.
So why not 5 star ? Just because the pace wasn't quite sustained until the end. And I must say, even if they were just jesting, I don't find funny jokes about euthanasia (I'm picky like that ;p).
Tess Papion : Run a dog-walking and pet care business, also work part-time at a vet clinic, doing landscaping on the side and online college too. She own a dog, Astro, a tiny white Maltese. Have a disastrous history with men and used to made bad choices.
His sister's dog arrived 48 hours ago, and already, Mason realize that Wick need a babysitter. What a chance that he just come across the woman he saw walking dogs around before when going out with Wick. Tess doesn't need the job, she's got enough on her plate already, but she needs money and can't refuse such a good offer. The attraction between them is instant, but they don't act on it right away. There's the fact Tess doesn't trust easily, the fact that so far, Mason's been commitment phobe and the fact the young woman doesn't want to get involve with an employer. So they mutually decide to stay friends. But the sexual tension might be too strong for their good intentions ;p
I liked the story, the characters and the romance, but just for the excellent dialogues, this book would have been worth the read ! I loved the wit ! What was also interesting to me is how the heroine was described. We can guess she's a pretty girl but that's not what draw Mason first. She's a fashion disaster but that never stopped him from finding her fascinating. I love when it's so obvious that a hero doesn't fall for the look but really for the personality. I also loved his sense of observation, his attentiveness and his empathy. I appreciated Tess's honesty and her independence, even if at times I wanted her be a little less prideful. An other great part was the beautiful and true friendship between Tess and her best friend Cece.
So why not 5 star ? Just because the pace wasn't quite sustained until the end. And I must say, even if they were just jesting, I don't find funny jokes about euthanasia (I'm picky like that ;p).
March 1, 2019
Just look at that dog on the cover! I couldn't resist requesting a copy of this and was lucky enough to be given a copy of it, via NetGalley. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.
The main characters in this story are total contrasts in their upbringing and achievements to date. He's Mason Coleman who has been brought up as part of a caring family, aced his way through school and life in general though not in personal romance. Meanwhile Tess Paplion was dragged around by her mother, rarely staying in one school long enough to make friends and finally dropping out without finishing. Now, however, she's determinedly independent, working multiple jobs to ensure she doesn't run up any debts and living in her late grandmother's house which is in dire need of repairs and upgrades. She's also studying like mad and has almost finished an online college degree.
The two are brought together when Mason's sister leaves her invalid 200 pound Mastiff for him to care . . . . initially he rarely sits obediently like the one on the cover- unless he really wants to! The dog is definitely in charge and Mason is really struggling when he spots Tess walking dogs for one of his neighbours. He offers to pay her to dog sit to let him return to work and, eventually, she agrees - especially when she can do her college work and still do some of her other jobs, too. Now the fact that the two are attracted to each other is something both strive to resist but will love find a way to bring them together? He doesn't do commitment, she doesn't trust or want to rely on anyone - can they change each other?
This is a heartwarming romance with great canine as well as human characters. Mind you, there's also some self opinionated entrepreneurs and one dog that really need some training! There are some fun, laugh out loud incidents, lots of love and healing in this story which I really enjoyed reading and have no hesitation in recommending to anyone who enjoys their romance with a strong man learning to open his heart to romance by a feisty, independent lady who had no intention of ever letting him into her own heart - but did!
The main characters in this story are total contrasts in their upbringing and achievements to date. He's Mason Coleman who has been brought up as part of a caring family, aced his way through school and life in general though not in personal romance. Meanwhile Tess Paplion was dragged around by her mother, rarely staying in one school long enough to make friends and finally dropping out without finishing. Now, however, she's determinedly independent, working multiple jobs to ensure she doesn't run up any debts and living in her late grandmother's house which is in dire need of repairs and upgrades. She's also studying like mad and has almost finished an online college degree.
The two are brought together when Mason's sister leaves her invalid 200 pound Mastiff for him to care . . . . initially he rarely sits obediently like the one on the cover- unless he really wants to! The dog is definitely in charge and Mason is really struggling when he spots Tess walking dogs for one of his neighbours. He offers to pay her to dog sit to let him return to work and, eventually, she agrees - especially when she can do her college work and still do some of her other jobs, too. Now the fact that the two are attracted to each other is something both strive to resist but will love find a way to bring them together? He doesn't do commitment, she doesn't trust or want to rely on anyone - can they change each other?
This is a heartwarming romance with great canine as well as human characters. Mind you, there's also some self opinionated entrepreneurs and one dog that really need some training! There are some fun, laugh out loud incidents, lots of love and healing in this story which I really enjoyed reading and have no hesitation in recommending to anyone who enjoys their romance with a strong man learning to open his heart to romance by a feisty, independent lady who had no intention of ever letting him into her own heart - but did!
January 16, 2022
it was okay. i don't want to continue with the series though.
April 4, 2020
I loved the banter between Tess and Mason! Their conversations were actually my favorite bits of the entire story. Then there’s Wick, Mason’s sister’s drooling mastiff, who was rather amusing with his lazy-bones way. And Astro, Tess’s Maltese...she’d have fit perfectly with the cast from The Secret Life of Pets with her utter cuteness! Rounding out the group was a great group of supportive characters, whom I hope have/and or get stories of their own! Overall, this was a cute read.
February 20, 2019
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5 Stars)
Title: Heartbreaker
Author(s): Inara Scott
Character(s):
― Tess Papion: 26 years old, Brunette, Brown Eyed
― Mason Coleman: 30 years old, Brunette, Hazel Eyed
Setting: San Francisco, California
Tag(s): Romance, Contemporary
Content Rating: PG-13
POV: Third Person
Smexy Level: Warm
Favorite Quote(s):
― “Ah, thanks, I guess? But we’ve known each other for less than one minute. I usually wait at least five before I bring over my toothbrush.”
― “You don’t get the big rewards unless you take a the big risks.”
― “How many times do I have to tell you that’s not what it’s about! Is it so impossible to believe that I. Just. Want. You? That I look at you and all I can think of is kissing those ridiculously pink lips of yours, especially when you’re telling me off? That your body drives me crazy? That I think about your curves when I go to sleep at night and can’t wait to see you in the morning? That’s impossible to you?”
― “It’s the coffee that’s cold and bitter, understand? Not me. Definitely not me.”
Overall Opinion:
Who doesn't like some snarky banter and maybe a little sexual tension? Juggling multiple part-time jobs while finishing up her undergrad degree, Mason nearly begs Tess to be his new dog walker to the newly inherited mastiff Wick when they bumped into each other at his high rise building elevator. A strong connection forms between the employer and employee from the get-go, and day by day the tension arises and it becomes a little more difficult for then keep their hands off each other. Agreeing to be friends with benefits, what happens when boundaries are crossed and feelings start to surface?
“Heartbreaker” started off on a high note and the refreshing content drew me in but once I managed ½ through the series, the series failed to meet my expectations. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't exactly awful, I really liked the Tess and Mason relationship and how their backstories defined them. It's that just in the course of 2 (give or take) weeks of knowing each other the leads shared intimate details about their lives, had sex (I must point out that it was rather lackluster), fell in love and moved in together. It obviously was a faced paced romance even though it didn't feel like it. The overall flow of the story was fine, characters were good but how quickly their relationship escalated made this series fall flat. I found myself more interested in Cecilia and Nate story. Their banter, hit it where it hurts attitude and mutual dislike had me going! I'm more than looking forward to their story. Overall, the Bad Angels “Heartbreaker” series was a good read but nothing memorable.
March 1, 2019
Well the story kept me flipping through the pages waiting to see what would happen next.
The storyline is kinda cute and I had good time while reading, maybe because lately I like to read easy, feel good romances with a happy ending and this is one of those books.
I am looking forward of reading other books by this author.
The storyline is kinda cute and I had good time while reading, maybe because lately I like to read easy, feel good romances with a happy ending and this is one of those books.
I am looking forward of reading other books by this author.
February 21, 2019
The push pull of this story lured me in and kept me flipping through the pages waiting to see what would happen next. Mason is saddled with his sisters Mastiff, untrained, poor bladder control and all around thorn in Mason's side when he meets Tess who happens to be a dog walker and trainer. He lures her into dog sitting for Wick while he's working and evenings if he's got events he needs to tend to. The money is too good for Tess to pass up.
Mason is a highly successful and wealthy businessman with his two college friends. Each of them have different qualities, together they make a tremendous living with a great reputation. Mason is a nice guy. Despite the fact he gets teased about his 4 date rule; which is untrue and that comes back to haunt him in his relationship with Tess. Tess has such a crappy upbringing, until her Grandmother steps in and brings her to live with her near Oakland. Tess is doing her best to make a better life for herself, back in college, working three jobs and the dog walking, the girl works hard to keep a roof over her head and the walls to her heart even harder. Mason takes up a lot of her time and the chemistry between them is outrageously hot. He's clearly taken with her, as she is with him, but pushes him away when he gets close. She's frustrating and I have to hand it to Mason for being fully present and consistent with her. Tess doesn't know how to handle someone who just wants her, she trusts no one except for her best friend Cece.
I loved this story although the book was a slower read than I like and seemed to lag in some spots.
The ending seemed anti-climatic for me. However it doesn't take away that this was a good read and well written. The dogs were the best!
I look forward to Cece's book!
Mason is a highly successful and wealthy businessman with his two college friends. Each of them have different qualities, together they make a tremendous living with a great reputation. Mason is a nice guy. Despite the fact he gets teased about his 4 date rule; which is untrue and that comes back to haunt him in his relationship with Tess. Tess has such a crappy upbringing, until her Grandmother steps in and brings her to live with her near Oakland. Tess is doing her best to make a better life for herself, back in college, working three jobs and the dog walking, the girl works hard to keep a roof over her head and the walls to her heart even harder. Mason takes up a lot of her time and the chemistry between them is outrageously hot. He's clearly taken with her, as she is with him, but pushes him away when he gets close. She's frustrating and I have to hand it to Mason for being fully present and consistent with her. Tess doesn't know how to handle someone who just wants her, she trusts no one except for her best friend Cece.
I loved this story although the book was a slower read than I like and seemed to lag in some spots.
The ending seemed anti-climatic for me. However it doesn't take away that this was a good read and well written. The dogs were the best!
I look forward to Cece's book!
February 10, 2019
Heartbreaker by Inara Scott a five-star read that will surprise you. I have to be honest and I nearly gave this a four-star or lower rating, but the ending pulled it round for me and pulled it up to a five. I loved the Main characters Tess Paplion and Mason Coleman they were great together and the secondary characters of the bad angels and Cecilia (I hope we hear more from her in the future as she was someone you know has a story begging to come out) gave a great story lines, the dogs Astro and Wick definitely played their parts making it overall a very good, heartfelt and compelling read but at times it did drag a little and I was like how much more time till its over, then a couple of pages later I could wait to turn the page. Give this a go if you like your romance slow burning, most definitely give this a go if you like dogs, in fact give this a go if you like a good romantic story.
February 27, 2019
New to Me Author Success!
Inara Scott is a completely new to me author that I’m so glad I tried! Heartbreaker is the first book in her Bad Angels series and it features a gifted businessman who’s know for his pretty face and ability to schmooze and a tough as nails dog whisper trying to put herself through school.
I absolutely loved the dynamics between the three business partners, the Bad Angels, it was very reminiscent of two of my favorite authors, Kate Meader and Lauren Layne. Mason and Tess were also wonderfully developed and just flawed enough to keep me interested without making me want to smack them. Watching them realize that they liked each other, wanted each other, and finally loved each other was so fun. I also adored the doggie characters! Can’t wait for more...like maybe Nate and CeeCee and Connor and Zoe!
Inara Scott is a completely new to me author that I’m so glad I tried! Heartbreaker is the first book in her Bad Angels series and it features a gifted businessman who’s know for his pretty face and ability to schmooze and a tough as nails dog whisper trying to put herself through school.
I absolutely loved the dynamics between the three business partners, the Bad Angels, it was very reminiscent of two of my favorite authors, Kate Meader and Lauren Layne. Mason and Tess were also wonderfully developed and just flawed enough to keep me interested without making me want to smack them. Watching them realize that they liked each other, wanted each other, and finally loved each other was so fun. I also adored the doggie characters! Can’t wait for more...like maybe Nate and CeeCee and Connor and Zoe!
March 14, 2019
There's plenty of humor, sizzle, tenderness, and emotion to find in this story. The chemistry between Tess and Mason is great and the banter is so much fun. But I also enjoyed the tenderness and caring that develops. Scott allows us to really get to know these two characters by slowly growing their friendship before upping the stakes for each of them individually as well as a couple. We're also introduced to an interesting group of friends who I can't wait to discover more about in future books.
If you're in the mood for a fast-paced, contemporary romance, with plenty of humor and heart, likable characters (both two and four legged), and a satisfying, heart-tugging, happily-ever-after, I enthusiastically recommend Heartbreaker by Inara Scott.
*Read my full review at theromancedish.com
*I received an ARC of the book for a fair and unbiased review.
If you're in the mood for a fast-paced, contemporary romance, with plenty of humor and heart, likable characters (both two and four legged), and a satisfying, heart-tugging, happily-ever-after, I enthusiastically recommend Heartbreaker by Inara Scott.
*Read my full review at theromancedish.com
*I received an ARC of the book for a fair and unbiased review.
February 25, 2019
Fun, relaxing, and heartwarming. Tess and Mason just made me smile. Mason is at his wits end caring for his sister's slobbering, unruly, completely out of control Mastiff. That's how Tess enters his life. Tess is working three jobs while finishing up her degree. Trying hard to get her life back on track. She doesn't have time for the uptight, stoic Mason Coleman. The last thing she needs is a man distracting her. When he makes her and offer she can't afford to refuse she caves into helping him. Mason has no idea how Tess will turn his well ordered world upside down!
You don't want to miss this one. I highly recommend it.
You don't want to miss this one. I highly recommend it.
June 12, 2022
Wow I really enjoyed this!
I loved Tess. I thought she was strong, smart, driven and sassy. I thought her backstory added to the overall plot and was handled well. It also explained her fears. Mason was wonderful. I wasn’t sure if I was going to like him because in the beginning their are remarks making it seem that he gets around with a lot of women, but it doesn’t really seem to be true and he is so genuinely sweet that it made me fully buy in to the whole idea that he was waiting for the right woman. I thought their chemistry was amazing, and the secondary characters were all intriguing. Definitely recommend!
I loved Tess. I thought she was strong, smart, driven and sassy. I thought her backstory added to the overall plot and was handled well. It also explained her fears. Mason was wonderful. I wasn’t sure if I was going to like him because in the beginning their are remarks making it seem that he gets around with a lot of women, but it doesn’t really seem to be true and he is so genuinely sweet that it made me fully buy in to the whole idea that he was waiting for the right woman. I thought their chemistry was amazing, and the secondary characters were all intriguing. Definitely recommend!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2019
Surprising, sexy, smart and touching story. NIce read.
January 23, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
That handsome fellow on the cover drew me in. I'm a sucker for dogs on the cover, in the story. So when I got the approval for the ARC of this book from NetGalley, I was pretty excited to read this book.
The first 25-30% of the book was everything I like in a romance. The meet-cute was indeed cute. The banter was snarky and sassy. Things were going along swimmingly well.
But as the story moved along, I thought the pace, the story-telling turned wonky. Some parts felt like they dragged on and others felt like they went by in a blur. Furthermore, the earlier heat that the two MC's had as they were flirting with each other, for me, totally fizzled out as they grew closer to each other. So much so that I thought their sex scene (as described) was quite boring.
To me, it sorta read like someone wrote the 1st 25-30% and someone else wrote the rest. Sorry if that's harsh.
Honestly, I found myself more interested in two of the secondary characters, Nate and Cece, than the MCs. Seems like the author is setting them up for another book. Nate and Cece have some history and their snark, their I-hate-you-but-damn-you're-sexy banter were hot.
Overall, while it was a cute enough story, I didn't really get any feels from the MC's. I liked the dogs in the story --- Wick the mastiff on the cover and Astro (the h's dog) --- a whole lot more than I did the MC's.
That handsome fellow on the cover drew me in. I'm a sucker for dogs on the cover, in the story. So when I got the approval for the ARC of this book from NetGalley, I was pretty excited to read this book.
The first 25-30% of the book was everything I like in a romance. The meet-cute was indeed cute. The banter was snarky and sassy. Things were going along swimmingly well.
But as the story moved along, I thought the pace, the story-telling turned wonky. Some parts felt like they dragged on and others felt like they went by in a blur. Furthermore, the earlier heat that the two MC's had as they were flirting with each other, for me, totally fizzled out as they grew closer to each other. So much so that I thought their sex scene (as described) was quite boring.
To me, it sorta read like someone wrote the 1st 25-30% and someone else wrote the rest. Sorry if that's harsh.
Honestly, I found myself more interested in two of the secondary characters, Nate and Cece, than the MCs. Seems like the author is setting them up for another book. Nate and Cece have some history and their snark, their I-hate-you-but-damn-you're-sexy banter were hot.
Overall, while it was a cute enough story, I didn't really get any feels from the MC's. I liked the dogs in the story --- Wick the mastiff on the cover and Astro (the h's dog) --- a whole lot more than I did the MC's.
February 20, 2019
This was enjoyable, not fantastic but easy to past the time. So we meet Tess who had a difficult past and due to that she was untrusting and stubborn. I liked her but sometimes I wanted to shake her, yes I get the difficult past but sometimes too much is just that too much. We also meet Mason, who is a cute and a sweetheart to his friends, yet he is a commitment phobe and yet he is interested in Tess who he is will have a difficult time to get thru, but what does he want? What bugged me is that if they just would have talked, communicated than they could have avoided much, but then we wouldn't have had a book..Anyhoo that was my issue.
Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions.
Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions.
June 8, 2019
Heartbreaker by Inara Scott
Source: NetGalley and Entangled Publishing
Rating: 4/5 stars
Not many love stories start with a 200 pound Mastiff with a bum leg 😊 Mason Coleman doesn’t actually own the lazy beast he currently has possession of, but he is going to care for him until his sister can reclaim her slobbery monster. Unfortunately, Mason can’t be there 24/7 for the beast as he so clearly needs which leads Mason to an embarrassing bit of begging which results in Tess Papion becoming the beast’s caretaker.
Tess’s background has brought her to the point in her life where she has learned to rely on only herself. In Tess’s experience, relying on others only brings you heartbreak, disappointment, and debt. Tess may have next to nothing now, but she doesn’t have any debt and she sure isn’t looking for a man to cause her anymore heartbreak. With many jobs, a house that’s falling apart but hers, and a goal of vet school, Tess only accepts Mason Coleman’s offer because of the beautiful beast who clearly needs her, and the ridiculous amount of money Mason is offering. Sure, Mason is smoking hot and certainly knows how to turn on the charm, but he has “love ‘em and leave ‘em” written all over him. Yeah, it’s best to avoid temptation like that.
Mason just can’t understand Tess. He can clearly see she wants him, but she is startingly stubborn and insistent on keeping their relationship strictly professional. Because he’s a gentleman, Mason agrees to most of Tess’s terms, but doesn’t agree to ignoring her and letting her be to just complete her job and go home. In fact, Mason makes it his mission to get to know Tess, understand her, and with luck, that effort will be rewarded with some sexy times. Because of his own past, Mason naturally assumes he will be successful, but he hasn’t ever met anyone like Tess. In short order, Mason realizes he hasn’t ever met anyone like Tess and that changes everything for Mason. In fact, meeting Tess and getting to know her causes Mason to reevaluate nearly every aspect of his life.
The days go by quickly for both Tess and Mason and as they get to know one another, over coffee and long walks with the slobbery beast, each begins to question some their most basic life choices. Mason makes Tess want to consider trying and trust someone other than herself, and Tess causes Mason to consider seeing the same woman beyond his normal four dates. Their lives begin to blend beyond the care of the hulking beast, and both find it harder and harder to ignore the growing feelings and palpable chemistry. That is, until the unthinkable happens and Tess completely melts down!
The Bottom Line: This was my first Inara Scott read and I’m feeling pretty good about coming back for some more! With the exception of one thing – Tess’s constant whining about not relying on anyone other than herself – I quite enjoyed this book! I have a hard time resisting a hot guy caring for a fur baby in need so this one really started off quite right for me. As the book wore on I found I very much liked the entire cast of characters, especially Mason’s two best friends. The expanded cast of characters very much adds to the overall depth of the read and clearly sets up the next two books in the series. To be sure, this one has a bit of everything including good dialogue, appropriate sexy times (nothing gratuitous!), some fine humor, and just enough drama to be a properly emotional read. I’m ready for book two and sincerely hoping it’s Connor’s story; what a wonderfully oblivious nerd he is 😊
Source: NetGalley and Entangled Publishing
Rating: 4/5 stars
Not many love stories start with a 200 pound Mastiff with a bum leg 😊 Mason Coleman doesn’t actually own the lazy beast he currently has possession of, but he is going to care for him until his sister can reclaim her slobbery monster. Unfortunately, Mason can’t be there 24/7 for the beast as he so clearly needs which leads Mason to an embarrassing bit of begging which results in Tess Papion becoming the beast’s caretaker.
Tess’s background has brought her to the point in her life where she has learned to rely on only herself. In Tess’s experience, relying on others only brings you heartbreak, disappointment, and debt. Tess may have next to nothing now, but she doesn’t have any debt and she sure isn’t looking for a man to cause her anymore heartbreak. With many jobs, a house that’s falling apart but hers, and a goal of vet school, Tess only accepts Mason Coleman’s offer because of the beautiful beast who clearly needs her, and the ridiculous amount of money Mason is offering. Sure, Mason is smoking hot and certainly knows how to turn on the charm, but he has “love ‘em and leave ‘em” written all over him. Yeah, it’s best to avoid temptation like that.
Mason just can’t understand Tess. He can clearly see she wants him, but she is startingly stubborn and insistent on keeping their relationship strictly professional. Because he’s a gentleman, Mason agrees to most of Tess’s terms, but doesn’t agree to ignoring her and letting her be to just complete her job and go home. In fact, Mason makes it his mission to get to know Tess, understand her, and with luck, that effort will be rewarded with some sexy times. Because of his own past, Mason naturally assumes he will be successful, but he hasn’t ever met anyone like Tess. In short order, Mason realizes he hasn’t ever met anyone like Tess and that changes everything for Mason. In fact, meeting Tess and getting to know her causes Mason to reevaluate nearly every aspect of his life.
The days go by quickly for both Tess and Mason and as they get to know one another, over coffee and long walks with the slobbery beast, each begins to question some their most basic life choices. Mason makes Tess want to consider trying and trust someone other than herself, and Tess causes Mason to consider seeing the same woman beyond his normal four dates. Their lives begin to blend beyond the care of the hulking beast, and both find it harder and harder to ignore the growing feelings and palpable chemistry. That is, until the unthinkable happens and Tess completely melts down!
The Bottom Line: This was my first Inara Scott read and I’m feeling pretty good about coming back for some more! With the exception of one thing – Tess’s constant whining about not relying on anyone other than herself – I quite enjoyed this book! I have a hard time resisting a hot guy caring for a fur baby in need so this one really started off quite right for me. As the book wore on I found I very much liked the entire cast of characters, especially Mason’s two best friends. The expanded cast of characters very much adds to the overall depth of the read and clearly sets up the next two books in the series. To be sure, this one has a bit of everything including good dialogue, appropriate sexy times (nothing gratuitous!), some fine humor, and just enough drama to be a properly emotional read. I’m ready for book two and sincerely hoping it’s Connor’s story; what a wonderfully oblivious nerd he is 😊
February 4, 2019
Any story with a giant dog in it already has a leg up on the competition in my book! In this book, it went way beyond a meet-cute between the characters with their silly animals. This was a very emotional book - where both Tess and Mason had a lot of growing to do before they could be together.
Tess is epically poor, extremely hardworking, and fiercely independent. She refuses to take "handouts" or any form of help from anyone - even her best friend. I think the defining moment of her character happened when To describe Tess as proud, would probably be an understatement. But in order for her and Mason to fully come together, she needed to open up and accept help when it was offered freely.
Mason is the opposite of poor - but has progressively lost his confidence and seems to be feeling separate from his friends and partners. His whole life he has been repeatedly told things - and then, as a result of apathy maybe? - lived up to those very things. His friends joke about a "four date rule" and it really hurts him. He also doesn't feel like his contributions carry the same weight. Before he can be with Tess - he has to take ownership of his contributions and let go of his fears of taking a chance to be something other than what people tell him he supposed to be/do.
Overall - I think the defining quote of this book comes from Mason's friend and partner - who says - Just because they are saying that about you, doesn't mean you have to believe them.
I enjoyed the book and thought the emotions and reactions of the characters were written beautifully and in a very honest way. The easy answer would have been to let Mason come in an save the day and have Tess thank him for it. The hard way was to have each character learn more about themselves in the process.
Overall a good read - and I am hoping for at least four more books about this crew.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book via Netgalley - but the opinions are all my own!
Tess is epically poor, extremely hardworking, and fiercely independent. She refuses to take "handouts" or any form of help from anyone - even her best friend. I think the defining moment of her character happened when To describe Tess as proud, would probably be an understatement. But in order for her and Mason to fully come together, she needed to open up and accept help when it was offered freely.
Mason is the opposite of poor - but has progressively lost his confidence and seems to be feeling separate from his friends and partners. His whole life he has been repeatedly told things - and then, as a result of apathy maybe? - lived up to those very things. His friends joke about a "four date rule" and it really hurts him. He also doesn't feel like his contributions carry the same weight. Before he can be with Tess - he has to take ownership of his contributions and let go of his fears of taking a chance to be something other than what people tell him he supposed to be/do.
Overall - I think the defining quote of this book comes from Mason's friend and partner - who says - Just because they are saying that about you, doesn't mean you have to believe them.
I enjoyed the book and thought the emotions and reactions of the characters were written beautifully and in a very honest way. The easy answer would have been to let Mason come in an save the day and have Tess thank him for it. The hard way was to have each character learn more about themselves in the process.
Overall a good read - and I am hoping for at least four more books about this crew.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book via Netgalley - but the opinions are all my own!
February 2, 2023
I really enjoyed Heartbreaker. Mason is just the best guy. How many brothers would take in your huge dog? One that's not really trained. I have to admit as a dog lover I didn't care for Mason's sister. All dogs should be trained. As I said I loved that he took in the dog and care about him even when he was a pain in the butt.
Mason might be a shark when it comes to business but he really has a good heart. I understood his feelings about his job and his partners. He was going tired of being thought of as just a player when he's so much more.
I also enjoyed Tess. But not as much and not always. I felt at times, a lot of times she spent way too much time in her head. She was so busy trying to stand on her own that she wasn't sharing life with anyone. Not even her best friend. She thought so little of herself that she ended up wanting no one to help her and see her only as someone who stood on her own, or alone which was more like it.
Because of her issues, she was very unfair to Mason and he put way more work into their relationship than she did. As much as I liked her and understood why she acted the way she did I wanted better for him.
Even with the issues I had with Tess, I liked them together when she worked on them. They just work. The flow between them is easy and relaxed. When she also gives of herself the book is better. I'm not saying that her issues aren't or shouldn't be part of the book they just seemed to sometimes take over the romance. I did enjoy the story enough that I am looking forward to reading the next book.
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February 25, 2019
This was a seriously feel-good romance, from the lead characters, Tess and Mason, to Tess's little white dog, Astro, right down to Wick, the utterly adorable, but rather untrained mastiff on the cover.
Tess is 26 yrs old and due to a rather crappy upbringing, dropped out of school at 16, but eventually got her GED, and is now in college, trying to finish up a degree and move on to vet school. She lives in a falling down old house inherited from her grandma, and tries to make ends meet and stay out of debt by working 3 PT jobs (dog walker, vet assistant, and gardener) while going to school. One day, while taking out a couple of dogs in his swanky San Francisco building, she meets Mason, a golden-boy venture capitalist who recently got saddled with Wick, his sister's untrained mastiff. Unfortunately for Mason, the dog is on medication that makes him need to relieve himself pretty much every hour. As the "rainmaker" partner in his firm, Mason's job mainly consists of socializing with movers and shakers, taking meetings, and bringing in new business, so Wick has put a real crimp in his work. When he meets Tess in the elevator, he sees her as the answer to his prayers, and hires her for immediate 8 AM to 8 PM dog sitting.
Although their attraction is immediate, self-reliant Tess is hesitant to get involved with anyone, while commitment-phobic Mason wants to take care of her and just generally wants her, but can't recognize how much deeper his feelings go. These two are pretty adorable as they get to know each other. For Tess, trust comes especially hard as she's been betrayed by pretty much everyone in her life other than her grandma and her best friend. The book wasn't all just surface and light, it definitely plucked my heartstrings a few times. I really enjoyed it and I'm looking forward to the next book which I think might feature Tess's best friend and Mason's business partner.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Tess is 26 yrs old and due to a rather crappy upbringing, dropped out of school at 16, but eventually got her GED, and is now in college, trying to finish up a degree and move on to vet school. She lives in a falling down old house inherited from her grandma, and tries to make ends meet and stay out of debt by working 3 PT jobs (dog walker, vet assistant, and gardener) while going to school. One day, while taking out a couple of dogs in his swanky San Francisco building, she meets Mason, a golden-boy venture capitalist who recently got saddled with Wick, his sister's untrained mastiff. Unfortunately for Mason, the dog is on medication that makes him need to relieve himself pretty much every hour. As the "rainmaker" partner in his firm, Mason's job mainly consists of socializing with movers and shakers, taking meetings, and bringing in new business, so Wick has put a real crimp in his work. When he meets Tess in the elevator, he sees her as the answer to his prayers, and hires her for immediate 8 AM to 8 PM dog sitting.
Although their attraction is immediate, self-reliant Tess is hesitant to get involved with anyone, while commitment-phobic Mason wants to take care of her and just generally wants her, but can't recognize how much deeper his feelings go. These two are pretty adorable as they get to know each other. For Tess, trust comes especially hard as she's been betrayed by pretty much everyone in her life other than her grandma and her best friend. The book wasn't all just surface and light, it definitely plucked my heartstrings a few times. I really enjoyed it and I'm looking forward to the next book which I think might feature Tess's best friend and Mason's business partner.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 26, 2019
Heartbreaker is book one of The Bad Angels Series by Inara Scott.
Tess Papion is a 26 year old college student who works several part time jobs to make ends meet. She has had a rough childhood, and has made her own fair share of mistakes in life. But she is finally beginning to get her life on track. One of the jobs she does is dog walker. Twice a week she walks dogs from San Fransisco’s swankiest new high rise – The Stella. And that is where she met Mason!
Mason Coleman is 30 years old and is one of the founding members of one of Silicon Valleys hottest venture capital firms. He is handsome, wealthy and currently stuck dogsitting his sisters 200 pound Mastiff, Wick. Wick comes with his own issues, allergies, steroids and behavioral problems. Mason agrees to keep Wick while his sister gets her life together but he has no clue what dogsitting a 200 pound dog entails. After missing an important business lunch and another event he realizes he doesn’t have time for this and needs some help!
That’s when he bumps into dog walker Tess, in the elevator of The Stella.
When Mason makes Tess an offer she simply can’t refuse – she finds herself in his presence every day! While they both have their own trust and commitment issues, they can’t deny the natural urge that is pulling them toward each other!
Tess is determined to not mix romance with work. But for how long can she deny what her body, mind and soul wants? Will Mason be able to lose his Heartbreaker ways and settle down I to new relationship territory with Tess?
I also love the amount of dogs mixed into this book! The cover was a huge attraction for me.
I am first a visual reader and the cover pulls you in, especially if you are a dog lover. Next the story was original and something new. The story was fast paced, the seduction and building of a budding relationship was wonderful and exciting! Not to mention steamy! I look forward to reading more in this series.
Tess Papion is a 26 year old college student who works several part time jobs to make ends meet. She has had a rough childhood, and has made her own fair share of mistakes in life. But she is finally beginning to get her life on track. One of the jobs she does is dog walker. Twice a week she walks dogs from San Fransisco’s swankiest new high rise – The Stella. And that is where she met Mason!
Mason Coleman is 30 years old and is one of the founding members of one of Silicon Valleys hottest venture capital firms. He is handsome, wealthy and currently stuck dogsitting his sisters 200 pound Mastiff, Wick. Wick comes with his own issues, allergies, steroids and behavioral problems. Mason agrees to keep Wick while his sister gets her life together but he has no clue what dogsitting a 200 pound dog entails. After missing an important business lunch and another event he realizes he doesn’t have time for this and needs some help!
That’s when he bumps into dog walker Tess, in the elevator of The Stella.
When Mason makes Tess an offer she simply can’t refuse – she finds herself in his presence every day! While they both have their own trust and commitment issues, they can’t deny the natural urge that is pulling them toward each other!
Tess is determined to not mix romance with work. But for how long can she deny what her body, mind and soul wants? Will Mason be able to lose his Heartbreaker ways and settle down I to new relationship territory with Tess?
I also love the amount of dogs mixed into this book! The cover was a huge attraction for me.
I am first a visual reader and the cover pulls you in, especially if you are a dog lover. Next the story was original and something new. The story was fast paced, the seduction and building of a budding relationship was wonderful and exciting! Not to mention steamy! I look forward to reading more in this series.
February 24, 2019
This is my first book by Inara Scott. It will most certainly not be my last. I loved “Heartbreaker”! The book is sweet, sexy and a definite page turner. I loved the main characters, Tess and Mason. They seem to be total opposites. Tess had a rough childhood and is trying to finish her schooling while juggling several jobs. Mason had a great childhood and is part of a group of friends who have made billions in Silicon Valley. When Mason’s sister dumps her adorable dog, Wick, at his place, Mason is at a loss how to deal with the big, goofy mastiff. Enter Tess, a woman working several jobs, including dog walker/trainer. Mason grabs at a chance meeting with Tess and convinces her to be Wick’s dog sitter.
The sparks fly from the moment the two meet, and it only gets better. Tess is living pay check to pay check, trying desperately to put her difficult past behind her and move on, studying to become a veterinarian. She is defensive about her life and wary of men like Mason, who seem to have it all. Mason, meanwhile, is intrigued by the “grubby urchin” he’s met, and little by little he begins to needle his way into her life. The two embark on an affair, with neither of them realizing just how close they are becoming with each day.
The characters were so much fun, and I had a serious crush on Mason. And it was so easy to identify with Tess and her struggles. The dialogue was snappy and fun, and I was so sorry when the book ended. Ms. Inara created a world that I was more than happy to inhabit. And I am eagerly awaiting the next books in the series. I highly recommend this one!
Note: I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
The sparks fly from the moment the two meet, and it only gets better. Tess is living pay check to pay check, trying desperately to put her difficult past behind her and move on, studying to become a veterinarian. She is defensive about her life and wary of men like Mason, who seem to have it all. Mason, meanwhile, is intrigued by the “grubby urchin” he’s met, and little by little he begins to needle his way into her life. The two embark on an affair, with neither of them realizing just how close they are becoming with each day.
The characters were so much fun, and I had a serious crush on Mason. And it was so easy to identify with Tess and her struggles. The dialogue was snappy and fun, and I was so sorry when the book ended. Ms. Inara created a world that I was more than happy to inhabit. And I am eagerly awaiting the next books in the series. I highly recommend this one!
Note: I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
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