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Charleston Heat #3
Southern Gentleman
I know two things when I meet my new boss, Greyson Parker Montgomery III.
One, he’s an egomaniac. And two, we’re going to get naked.
Something I didn’t know? That I’d end up pregnant.
No one is more surprised by our off-the-charts chemistry than me. I’m a free spirit with a passion for design and a taste for the bohemian. Greyson is a cocky venture capitalist who’s as pretentious as his sharply cut power suits.
He owns half of Charleston, and has the other half at his beck and call. But the only place he owns me is in bed...or in the backseat of his car, boneless and begging for mercy.
We argue over contracts and costs all day long. Behind closed doors, however, we engage in a different kind of business. The kind that has me surrendering to his unique brand of dominance.
Our no-strings attached arrangement suits me just fine. Until I wake up one morning with what I think is a wicked hangover.
Only it’s not a hangover.
I thought Greyson was a typical “greed is good” grump. But when he demands to be involved in the life we accidentally created, I start to see a different side of him. One that’s more gentleman than jerk.Am I crazy to think we could be a family together? Or is making me fall for him just another one of his power plays?
SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN is a STANDALONE, full length, accidental pregnancy/enemies-to-lovers romance.
One, he’s an egomaniac. And two, we’re going to get naked.
Something I didn’t know? That I’d end up pregnant.
No one is more surprised by our off-the-charts chemistry than me. I’m a free spirit with a passion for design and a taste for the bohemian. Greyson is a cocky venture capitalist who’s as pretentious as his sharply cut power suits.
He owns half of Charleston, and has the other half at his beck and call. But the only place he owns me is in bed...or in the backseat of his car, boneless and begging for mercy.
We argue over contracts and costs all day long. Behind closed doors, however, we engage in a different kind of business. The kind that has me surrendering to his unique brand of dominance.
Our no-strings attached arrangement suits me just fine. Until I wake up one morning with what I think is a wicked hangover.
Only it’s not a hangover.
I thought Greyson was a typical “greed is good” grump. But when he demands to be involved in the life we accidentally created, I start to see a different side of him. One that’s more gentleman than jerk.Am I crazy to think we could be a family together? Or is making me fall for him just another one of his power plays?
SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN is a STANDALONE, full length, accidental pregnancy/enemies-to-lovers romance.
288 pages, Paperback
First published July 24, 2019
3543 people are currently reading
5582 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Peterson
34 books5,160 followersJessica Peterson writes romance with heat, humor, and heart. Heroes with hot accents are her specialty. When she’s not writing, she can be found bellying up to a bar in the south’s best restaurants with her husband Ben, reading books with her adorable daughters Gracie and Madeline, or snuggling up with her 70-pound lap dog, Martha.
A Carolina girl at heart, she fantasizes about splitting her time between Charleston and Asheville, but currently lives in Charlotte, NC.
A Carolina girl at heart, she fantasizes about splitting her time between Charleston and Asheville, but currently lives in Charlotte, NC.
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July 18, 2019
Southern Gentleman is book three in the Charleston Heat series by Jessica Peterson. This is my very fist book by Jessica. The books can definitely be read as stand alones. I fell so in love with ALL of the characters in this book. The main two, plus all of the secondary characters, which means I’ll need to go back and read the first two books!!
By day, Julia Lassiter is a professor of twentieth century literature. She loves romance and one of her classes is specifically on just that. On the side, she is an interior designer. She’s great at both of her jobs, loves them. She’s sort of a free spirit, kind of a bohemian in style. Julia is currently working on a project for Luke, designing an old barn into a farmer’s market. It’s at her first meeting with Luke to map out the project that she meets his investor, Greyson Montgomery.
Greyson owns Montgomery Partners, along with his brother Ford. When Greyson and Julia first meet, it’s like Luke isn’t even in the room. They can’t take their eyes off of each other. The chemistry is zinging between them. But Greyson immediately sets the tone of their relationship. He’s the boss. He challenges every single thing Julia does and shows up every time she’s at the site. It doesn’t take long before Grey and Julia give in to that pull between them. Julia calls it hate sex. But one thing for certain is that it is only sex. Hot, Fast and Dirty. Wherever and Whenever! No strings attached. Until everything changes. Until they realize that no matter how careful they were, they defied the odds and managed to make a baby.
Julia always hoped she’d fall in love one day and perhaps have a family. But was she ready now? And how would Greyson react? Would he want to be a part of their lives. Greyson has a past, a past he feels he has to atone for. He has never forgiven himself and buries himself in his work. Is there even room in his life for anything more?
As Julia and Grey adjust to their new reality, they begin to get acquainted. They are obviously doing this out of order. The more Julia gets to know Grey, the more she realizes that she had him all wrong. That the growly buttoned up business man is only one part of him. That he is also a loving brother, uncle and son. That when he smiles, really smiles, the sun seems to shine a little brighter. And it makes Julia determined to see that smile more often.
I loved this book. I loved Greyson but I think I loved Julia even more. I loved her “village” of friends as well. These women had her back. I think what I really loved about this book was that what these characters experienced was so real. The doubts, the fears. I loved the effect that Julia had on Grey. She got him to relax a little bit, to smile, to open up, to finally live. And I need to mention that these two burned up the pages. They were hot! This was fun, sweet, sexy as heck, and lots of swoon. Because Greyson is going to melt your heart. All I can say is that you need to read this. It’s okay to read them out of order like I am. Or do the smart thing, and start at the beginning of the series if you haven’t already. Because this is a series you don’t want to miss.
For more about this book and so many more, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/44036...
By day, Julia Lassiter is a professor of twentieth century literature. She loves romance and one of her classes is specifically on just that. On the side, she is an interior designer. She’s great at both of her jobs, loves them. She’s sort of a free spirit, kind of a bohemian in style. Julia is currently working on a project for Luke, designing an old barn into a farmer’s market. It’s at her first meeting with Luke to map out the project that she meets his investor, Greyson Montgomery.
Greyson owns Montgomery Partners, along with his brother Ford. When Greyson and Julia first meet, it’s like Luke isn’t even in the room. They can’t take their eyes off of each other. The chemistry is zinging between them. But Greyson immediately sets the tone of their relationship. He’s the boss. He challenges every single thing Julia does and shows up every time she’s at the site. It doesn’t take long before Grey and Julia give in to that pull between them. Julia calls it hate sex. But one thing for certain is that it is only sex. Hot, Fast and Dirty. Wherever and Whenever! No strings attached. Until everything changes. Until they realize that no matter how careful they were, they defied the odds and managed to make a baby.
Julia always hoped she’d fall in love one day and perhaps have a family. But was she ready now? And how would Greyson react? Would he want to be a part of their lives. Greyson has a past, a past he feels he has to atone for. He has never forgiven himself and buries himself in his work. Is there even room in his life for anything more?
As Julia and Grey adjust to their new reality, they begin to get acquainted. They are obviously doing this out of order. The more Julia gets to know Grey, the more she realizes that she had him all wrong. That the growly buttoned up business man is only one part of him. That he is also a loving brother, uncle and son. That when he smiles, really smiles, the sun seems to shine a little brighter. And it makes Julia determined to see that smile more often.
I loved this book. I loved Greyson but I think I loved Julia even more. I loved her “village” of friends as well. These women had her back. I think what I really loved about this book was that what these characters experienced was so real. The doubts, the fears. I loved the effect that Julia had on Grey. She got him to relax a little bit, to smile, to open up, to finally live. And I need to mention that these two burned up the pages. They were hot! This was fun, sweet, sexy as heck, and lots of swoon. Because Greyson is going to melt your heart. All I can say is that you need to read this. It’s okay to read them out of order like I am. Or do the smart thing, and start at the beginning of the series if you haven’t already. Because this is a series you don’t want to miss.
For more about this book and so many more, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/44036...
September 7, 2021
When you start a book review with a loss for words, it can either be a good thing or a bad thing. Let me tell you this is A Very Good Thing! This book stole my heart from page one. Going into this book I had a preconceived idea of how this story was going to play out. I was wrong. This book is everything you want but it is SO much more. It’s real! To know what I’m talking about you have to read it. You deserve to enjoy this story as much as I did. Believe me I want so much to discuss this book. The author took it to a whole other level. Don’t worry you get your laughs, your heat (excellent I might add. Turn on the A.C. You’re gonna need it!), the tearing up, all the swoons and probably be very hungry by the end! What you truly get is an in-depth look into real life with some twists you don’t see coming. You need to expect the unexpected.
Julia, is a kick butt designer, as well as a college professor, who knows how to get things done. She’s independent, fun and ready to take on challenges. She also has another more Bohemian side to her that really works. She’s a true renaissance woman. All that being said she has her own issues to deal with. Julia was probably one of the truest persons I’ve ever read.
Greyson, is woah.... he’s growly, grumpy, sexy, smart, wealthy and somewhat of an enigma. He’s also very delicious. However, just like every coin there’s two sides.
Together their sexual chemistry is off the charts, as for personally, in the beginning, totally different story. What I can tell you is, as they say, “Life is what happens while you’re busy making other plans”. Both of these individuals are true heroes trying to find their way. You will truly enjoy the journey as well as the destination.
The dialogue is honest and funny. The references to books, tv shows and authors I deeply appreciated. One of my favorite lines of Greyson’s was, “Now I’m one of Khaleesi’s dragons”....In the context of what it was referring to I laughed out loud. It’s just smart. As always we get an eduction about Charleston. The author paints stunningly vivid pictures. I’m going to get there.
Fortunately, we get reacquainted with many characters from previous books by this author. That makes the story so cohesive. They play vital roles to the story and we get to see that there is possibly more coming in the future. Yay!
Honestly, the best part of this book is it’s true, it’s real and doesn’t paint unrealistic pictures but shows actual life in all it’s dimensions, the good, the bad and the funny. The end alone is worth reading this book! I’ve loved the previous books but this book went to another level. I’m not a bonafide critic or reviewer. Im just someone who enjoys reading good stories and passing on my feelings to others. This will definitely be added to my re-read list. To the author I say, Bravo. To you reading this review I say, Read this book!
Julia, is a kick butt designer, as well as a college professor, who knows how to get things done. She’s independent, fun and ready to take on challenges. She also has another more Bohemian side to her that really works. She’s a true renaissance woman. All that being said she has her own issues to deal with. Julia was probably one of the truest persons I’ve ever read.
Greyson, is woah.... he’s growly, grumpy, sexy, smart, wealthy and somewhat of an enigma. He’s also very delicious. However, just like every coin there’s two sides.
Together their sexual chemistry is off the charts, as for personally, in the beginning, totally different story. What I can tell you is, as they say, “Life is what happens while you’re busy making other plans”. Both of these individuals are true heroes trying to find their way. You will truly enjoy the journey as well as the destination.
The dialogue is honest and funny. The references to books, tv shows and authors I deeply appreciated. One of my favorite lines of Greyson’s was, “Now I’m one of Khaleesi’s dragons”....In the context of what it was referring to I laughed out loud. It’s just smart. As always we get an eduction about Charleston. The author paints stunningly vivid pictures. I’m going to get there.
Fortunately, we get reacquainted with many characters from previous books by this author. That makes the story so cohesive. They play vital roles to the story and we get to see that there is possibly more coming in the future. Yay!
Honestly, the best part of this book is it’s true, it’s real and doesn’t paint unrealistic pictures but shows actual life in all it’s dimensions, the good, the bad and the funny. The end alone is worth reading this book! I’ve loved the previous books but this book went to another level. I’m not a bonafide critic or reviewer. Im just someone who enjoys reading good stories and passing on my feelings to others. This will definitely be added to my re-read list. To the author I say, Bravo. To you reading this review I say, Read this book!
June 18, 2019
Here we are, back in the deep south once again with some of my favorite people!!...and food :)
I've been craving more from this series, possibly because I'm super excited to be traveling to Charleston myself this July. And I would be lying if I said that Jessica wasn't to blame for me to be heading to The Holy City. Ever since Charmer, I've been dying to experience the sights, the people, and most definitely the FOOD!
Don't worry guys, we get plenty more southern cuisine in Southern Gentleman!
But this book? This book is going to be different ya'll. Hate to lovers, surprise pregnancies, secretive pasts.... Julia and Grey have a lot to overcome. If I would have to describe Julia and Grey's journey in one sentence this would be it(ok, technically two):
Julia and Greyson's relationship is like a delicious pad of butter dolloped on top of a fresh batch of homemade grits. It slowly melts into a delicious meal that warms your heart and soul.
Ya'll are going to LOVE Julia and Greyson's story!! What a fantastic addition to the Charleston Heat Series!!
I've been craving more from this series, possibly because I'm super excited to be traveling to Charleston myself this July. And I would be lying if I said that Jessica wasn't to blame for me to be heading to The Holy City. Ever since Charmer, I've been dying to experience the sights, the people, and most definitely the FOOD!
Don't worry guys, we get plenty more southern cuisine in Southern Gentleman!
But this book? This book is going to be different ya'll. Hate to lovers, surprise pregnancies, secretive pasts.... Julia and Grey have a lot to overcome. If I would have to describe Julia and Grey's journey in one sentence this would be it(ok, technically two):
Julia and Greyson's relationship is like a delicious pad of butter dolloped on top of a fresh batch of homemade grits. It slowly melts into a delicious meal that warms your heart and soul.
Ya'll are going to LOVE Julia and Greyson's story!! What a fantastic addition to the Charleston Heat Series!!
July 14, 2019
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"She’s got a nuanced understanding of me. My story. The world."
There is just something about Jessica Peterson. Southern Gentleman is the third book I've read that she's written, and she's quickly setting herself apart as a romance writer with an intentional voice geared at socially-conscious romance.
As was the case with Southern Charmer and Southern Player, Southern Gentleman gives us a heroine with the internal fortitude to accept and love an imperfect hero. And Greyson is pretty imperfect.
Julia is a modern day woman. She isn't your typical romantic heroine who easily navigates her accidental pregnancy. With most heroines, there would be no question about keeping the baby. Yet, Peterson takes a modern day route and actually has Julia toy with the idea of choice. Whether your.personal beliefs lean a certain way, Peterson isn't necessarily asking us to choose. Instead, she's offering a real life dilemma in a fictional realm. In Julia working through her decision with her "tribe" or her "village," Peterson is marrying realism with fiction. She does it further when Julia struggles with pregnancy. This is real life thinking. This is how real women do pregnancy. And that's the power of Peterson's kind of Romance, and it's what hooked me in.
Even more, the wisdom in this book resides in Julia. As Greyson struggles with his past, trying to atone for it in the present, Julia reminds us that everyone's imperfect and that adds the spice to life: "'...Villain in one story, hero in another.'" Julia is profound and a "straight shooter." It's one of the qualities that Greyson adores, and it's one of the many reasons this book is so good. Her direct manner forces Greyson to evaluate his life. In doing so, it advances the plot and draws them even further together. Peterson has drawn such a strong woman in Julia that she creates this eloquent realistic tale of an imperfect love.
Greyson is all of us, or at least he's many of us. Always striving but never progressing. He represents the broken human condition who needs healing through his love for Julia. And the Greyson of Southern Player is really nowhere to be found in this book. Thankfully, Peterson gives us a character with greater, more emotional depth especially after he bares his soul to Julia. You can't help but fall in love with him as we discover his soft underbelly. I love that she makes him a feminist for his niece. I love that he adores his family. And I love that he requires more saving than Julia. He is Peterson's version of a modern day hero, and it works well.
If anything, I would have liked to see more of his "villain" because I think we see more hero, and it seems confusing that Julia remains at odds with him when he clearly adores her easily.
That being said, once they truly connect, their coupling is electric. Their chemistry screams off the page, and it's palpable for the reader. Together, these two are hot.
Lastly, as Peterson illustrates her message of imperfection, her words in Southern Gentleman are profound. I spent so much time highlighting her words, her golden nuggets of truth found in the mouths and minds of Greyson and Julie. To illustrate:
"'Shadows come with the light. You can’t have one without the other. And you have to know by now that I believe they make the other more interesting. It’s our shadows that give us depth. Literally and figuratively,' she says, reaching up with her other hand to trail her thumb over the indent in my chin. 'I like your depths. Same as you like mine.'"
This is but one example. Peterson's depth of language and thought is only one of the many reasons to buy and read this book.
Peterson's Southern Gentleman is a modern day romance seeking to remind us that romance isn't about perfection. It's about "life turned all the way up." Greyson struggles to live the perfect life but, in doing so, lives no life at all. Until Julia.
And in a typical romance, Julia would never doubt pregnancy. It would be perfect, all sweet feelings. Except that, in the real world, it isn't. Jessica Peterson is giving us real love, real feelings, and real people in Southern Gentleman because it places us, the reader, directly in her story. Because it IS our story.
"She’s got a nuanced understanding of me. My story. The world."
There is just something about Jessica Peterson. Southern Gentleman is the third book I've read that she's written, and she's quickly setting herself apart as a romance writer with an intentional voice geared at socially-conscious romance.
As was the case with Southern Charmer and Southern Player, Southern Gentleman gives us a heroine with the internal fortitude to accept and love an imperfect hero. And Greyson is pretty imperfect.
Julia is a modern day woman. She isn't your typical romantic heroine who easily navigates her accidental pregnancy. With most heroines, there would be no question about keeping the baby. Yet, Peterson takes a modern day route and actually has Julia toy with the idea of choice. Whether your.personal beliefs lean a certain way, Peterson isn't necessarily asking us to choose. Instead, she's offering a real life dilemma in a fictional realm. In Julia working through her decision with her "tribe" or her "village," Peterson is marrying realism with fiction. She does it further when Julia struggles with pregnancy. This is real life thinking. This is how real women do pregnancy. And that's the power of Peterson's kind of Romance, and it's what hooked me in.
Even more, the wisdom in this book resides in Julia. As Greyson struggles with his past, trying to atone for it in the present, Julia reminds us that everyone's imperfect and that adds the spice to life: "'...Villain in one story, hero in another.'" Julia is profound and a "straight shooter." It's one of the qualities that Greyson adores, and it's one of the many reasons this book is so good. Her direct manner forces Greyson to evaluate his life. In doing so, it advances the plot and draws them even further together. Peterson has drawn such a strong woman in Julia that she creates this eloquent realistic tale of an imperfect love.
Greyson is all of us, or at least he's many of us. Always striving but never progressing. He represents the broken human condition who needs healing through his love for Julia. And the Greyson of Southern Player is really nowhere to be found in this book. Thankfully, Peterson gives us a character with greater, more emotional depth especially after he bares his soul to Julia. You can't help but fall in love with him as we discover his soft underbelly. I love that she makes him a feminist for his niece. I love that he adores his family. And I love that he requires more saving than Julia. He is Peterson's version of a modern day hero, and it works well.
If anything, I would have liked to see more of his "villain" because I think we see more hero, and it seems confusing that Julia remains at odds with him when he clearly adores her easily.
That being said, once they truly connect, their coupling is electric. Their chemistry screams off the page, and it's palpable for the reader. Together, these two are hot.
Lastly, as Peterson illustrates her message of imperfection, her words in Southern Gentleman are profound. I spent so much time highlighting her words, her golden nuggets of truth found in the mouths and minds of Greyson and Julie. To illustrate:
"'Shadows come with the light. You can’t have one without the other. And you have to know by now that I believe they make the other more interesting. It’s our shadows that give us depth. Literally and figuratively,' she says, reaching up with her other hand to trail her thumb over the indent in my chin. 'I like your depths. Same as you like mine.'"
This is but one example. Peterson's depth of language and thought is only one of the many reasons to buy and read this book.
Peterson's Southern Gentleman is a modern day romance seeking to remind us that romance isn't about perfection. It's about "life turned all the way up." Greyson struggles to live the perfect life but, in doing so, lives no life at all. Until Julia.
And in a typical romance, Julia would never doubt pregnancy. It would be perfect, all sweet feelings. Except that, in the real world, it isn't. Jessica Peterson is giving us real love, real feelings, and real people in Southern Gentleman because it places us, the reader, directly in her story. Because it IS our story.
August 1, 2020
I needed this book so much. I had found myself in a book funk where it seemed every book I picked to read ended up being a slow burn. I have come to appreciate a slow burn some, however, they aren’t my favorites. So this, this book right here is exactly what I was looking for. If you want a steamy, sexy read then you came to the right place. Don’t get me wrong, there are a lot of feelings packed in it too. It has hate sex and making love. Opposites attract in the best way. Julia and Greyson go on an amazing journey through pregnancy and love. Learning how to balance work and life. You don’t have to do things in a particular order to find happiness. If a grumpy, alpha male is your catnip like it is mine then grab this one up. I definitely recommend this book
July 14, 2019
What a great book! I love a cranky male with a gooey center! This book handles real life issues in a real way...no candy coating it. Relationships are hard and communication is key....what we think we are saying and what the other person hears might not always match up. Pregnancy and raising kids is hard. Life is hard. This book is a good reminder that when are surrounded by our “tribe” of friends, family, and a partner we can breathe a little easier and know that if we stumble someone in our tribe will be there to pick us. A 5 star read for sure!
November 12, 2020
Hey y'all! SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN is NOW LIVE and free in Kindle Unlimited! Grab your copy here!
SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN is a standalone romance in my bestselling Charleston Heat series. This is Julia and Greyson's story. If you like accidental pregnancy romances, enemies-to-lovers, and super hot hate sex, then I think you're going to like their book!
Be sure to join my Facebook reader group, The City Girls, for exclusive excerpts and giveaways galore!
SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN is a standalone romance in my bestselling Charleston Heat series. This is Julia and Greyson's story. If you like accidental pregnancy romances, enemies-to-lovers, and super hot hate sex, then I think you're going to like their book!
Be sure to join my Facebook reader group, The City Girls, for exclusive excerpts and giveaways galore!
January 1, 2020
Surprisingly - I liked this book.
This was a well written second chance at love book. This is the only book I like of the author.
I went into this book reading other reviewers' comments about "heroine being second best", "hero being in love with ex".
I am going to be honest with you, I didn't find those comments convincing while reading. Was the hero in love with his ex wife? Yes. He loved his ex wife. Would you rather have a doucehbag who is horrible to his ex wife and married her for other nefarious reasons? I wouldn't. They grew up together. It was almost an arranged marriage. Once married, after a certain period of time, he no longer loved his ex-wife. He fell out of love. That is not unnatural. Neither is his guilt, because even if he DID fell out of love, the divorce did hurt the ex wife, and any decent person would feel guilty and his mourning the loss of the relationship for a while was very natural and realistic. His doubt in his ability to form relationship doesn't make the h second best, rather if he didn't doubt it, that would have made him a callous inhuman being.
Was the heroine second best? No. When he met the heroine he was completely over his ex wife, if not over the guilt for falling out of love. It was NOT a rebound. It was a relationship. He loved the h wholeheartedly. He didn't make the change for the heroine, he made the changes because that's what was necessary for him to be happy WITH the heroine and he understood that.
I am not sure what a lot of reader expects from romance, but since the H was not virgin, I'd say a respectful relationship with his ex was more acceptable to me than fuckbuddies. I guess a lot of reviewers are also happily married and never been separated or divorced, but for those who have been, it is unrealistic not to accept that hero/heroine may love their SO during their first marriage, and it is possible to fall out of love and then move on to future SOs without making them second best. It is also ok for men to grieve the loss of a relationship even if they wanted an out because ending relationship still hurts, and it's not always just between two families.
This was a well written second chance at love book. This is the only book I like of the author.
I went into this book reading other reviewers' comments about "heroine being second best", "hero being in love with ex".
I am going to be honest with you, I didn't find those comments convincing while reading. Was the hero in love with his ex wife? Yes. He loved his ex wife. Would you rather have a doucehbag who is horrible to his ex wife and married her for other nefarious reasons? I wouldn't. They grew up together. It was almost an arranged marriage. Once married, after a certain period of time, he no longer loved his ex-wife. He fell out of love. That is not unnatural. Neither is his guilt, because even if he DID fell out of love, the divorce did hurt the ex wife, and any decent person would feel guilty and his mourning the loss of the relationship for a while was very natural and realistic. His doubt in his ability to form relationship doesn't make the h second best, rather if he didn't doubt it, that would have made him a callous inhuman being.
Was the heroine second best? No. When he met the heroine he was completely over his ex wife, if not over the guilt for falling out of love. It was NOT a rebound. It was a relationship. He loved the h wholeheartedly. He didn't make the change for the heroine, he made the changes because that's what was necessary for him to be happy WITH the heroine and he understood that.
I am not sure what a lot of reader expects from romance, but since the H was not virgin, I'd say a respectful relationship with his ex was more acceptable to me than fuckbuddies. I guess a lot of reviewers are also happily married and never been separated or divorced, but for those who have been, it is unrealistic not to accept that hero/heroine may love their SO during their first marriage, and it is possible to fall out of love and then move on to future SOs without making them second best. It is also ok for men to grieve the loss of a relationship even if they wanted an out because ending relationship still hurts, and it's not always just between two families.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2019
This right here is the reason why I don’t like or read romances with characters that were married/engaged to OP, and/or obsessed by an ex. This Zero was just too much. He married OW because he loved her & because his family liked her & were close friends with her parents. He had the “perfect” fairytale marriage – only to find out later on that he fell out of love with her and divorced her. So we have a Zero who spends the entire story feeling guilty & miserable for breaking his ex-wife’s heart & his vows.
But the truth of the matter is the only one who was miserable was me – and anyone else who reads this. LOL.
But the truth of the matter is the only one who was miserable was me – and anyone else who reads this. LOL.
July 12, 2019
Talk about some southern heat! Y'all. You need this book in your lives. It has everything you could want in a romance novel: witty banter, sexual chemistry, hot, growly alpha-male who doesn't think he deserves to be loved, and a feisty heroine who sees the deeper parts of our Growly Greyson (Totally just gave him a nickname) and a surprise pregnancy! Plus plenty of swoon worthy and steamy moments! Let's dig in!
When Julia and Greyson first meet, not only do the sparks fly, but so do the insults. Greyson is very particular in his business, and he's the money that's helping rejuvenate Luke's barn, while Julia is the interior designer who fully believes in making this spot the best in the area, and because she's friends with both Luke and Gracie, she wants to do it justice and doesn't back down when Greyson growls(!!) Demands at her. This eventually leads them to having a hate-sex filled romp in the backseat of his car (very hot, btw). The only rules? No feelings and no kissing on the mouth. Cue Pretty Woman music!!
Fast forward three months, and the two are still having hate sex as much as they can, until one morning when Julia, who's been feeling off for the last few weeks, finds out she's pregnant. She experiences varying emotions, which not only is very refreshing to readers, but incredibly honest about what a woman feels like when she finds out she's pregnant, but doesn't want her entire life to change. She eventually comes to the conclusion that she wants this baby, and of course she will tell Greyson, but she has two conditions: either he's in this all the way with her as a co-parent, or not at all. When she tells Greyson the news, he of course is all in on raising this baby with Julia, and as much as he wants more with this beautiful, crazily infuriating woman, he feels like he'll ruin her if he lets her too close, so he doesn't let his emotions show, but promises to be there for her for whatever she needs.
As the days and weeks continues through her pregnancy, Julia's internal dialogue is amazing through all her feelings: she wants this baby, but pregnancy is not all rainbows and butterflies. She's sick most of her first trimester, she's depressed, and as much as she wants herself to be happy, she can't let herself feel that way. And that's totally ok. In our society, women are pressured into feeling exactly one way about pregnancy: insanely happy at all times. And that's just not the case. As a personal note, I've had two hard pregnancies, and as much as I love my children, I didn't love being pregnant. Plus all the health issues that went with it, plus a hard delivery with my second baby, it was so damn amazing to find our heroine experiencing all these feelings that most women experience at some point, but are always told that we shouldn't. So this made me love Jessica Peterson even more. (Both as an author and as a person.)
Anyway, Greyson is doing his best to be there for her, but when he goes to tell his brother the news (helllo Ford!!) We are given the insight on why Greyson doesn't feel like he should have the happily ever after: he was married once before, and as much as he tried to make it work, he simply fell out of love with his wife. And after some soul searching he realized that he wasn't in love with her at all, but more in love with the comfort and stability that he thought he should want. So in his mind, he's a monster who destroyed a woman, and feels like he shouldn't get close to Julia in fear that he will do the same. However, Ford tells him that he is a good man, who goes above and beyond for his family (making sure his mom and dad have everything they need, to helping Ford himself when his wife died, leaving him to raise their daughter by himself.) Greyson still doesn't believe it, but he vows to always be there for his child and Julia.
A few days later, Julia has her first ultrasound appointment and Greyson promises to be there with her, and after a hilarious scene them almost being late (and her being honest with him that she was disappointed that it was because of his work, and how she needs him to withhold his promises on being there when he says he will--which again, is so refreshing! There's no fight, just them talking things through like adults!) They grow even closer when they see their baby via ultrasound, which leads Greyson to cook dinner for Julia. There is where things heat up between them, and they each feel such a strong pull towards the other, and all Julia wants is for Greyson to let her in, because she already believes he's a great man who could possibly be the best thing for her. Through a power outage, an impromptu sleep over, and morning sexiness, there relationship officially take a a turn and Greyson accepts that he wants to be the one that Julia and this baby can count on. That he can provide a life for her that's so amazing, and filled with love, because he is in love with her.
The progression of their relationship, (which is so swoon worthy, and their sext times that are so incredibly hot) they fall even more in love with each other, and Grey eventually confides into Julia about being married before, and how he felt like he was playing a role in his imperfect, perfect marriage and he just couldn't do it anymore. Julia of course understands why he did what he did, and doesn't think of him as a monster or someone who doesn't deserve love, he was just stuck in the wrong fairy tale.
I won't spoil the rest, but oh my goodness this book made me laugh so hard, and then made me cry just as much. Julia's thoughts and feelings about her pregnancy, as well as trying to rely on someone whom she doesn't really know, and then watching Greyson opening up and them falling in love was absolutely perfect. I say this everything Jessica Peterson writes, but I think Julia and Grey are my favorite couple!!! They are the complete opposite of each other, but they just work. And their love, it's so honest and pure, and so damn good that I'm going to start rereading the series over again! Though this book is a standalone in this interconnected series, I strongly suggest reading the other two books before you start this one. I can't gush enough about this book!!!
Also: I am so excited for Ford and Eva's story that is coming next!! I love a good second chance romance! :)
**I I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
When Julia and Greyson first meet, not only do the sparks fly, but so do the insults. Greyson is very particular in his business, and he's the money that's helping rejuvenate Luke's barn, while Julia is the interior designer who fully believes in making this spot the best in the area, and because she's friends with both Luke and Gracie, she wants to do it justice and doesn't back down when Greyson growls(!!) Demands at her. This eventually leads them to having a hate-sex filled romp in the backseat of his car (very hot, btw). The only rules? No feelings and no kissing on the mouth. Cue Pretty Woman music!!
Fast forward three months, and the two are still having hate sex as much as they can, until one morning when Julia, who's been feeling off for the last few weeks, finds out she's pregnant. She experiences varying emotions, which not only is very refreshing to readers, but incredibly honest about what a woman feels like when she finds out she's pregnant, but doesn't want her entire life to change. She eventually comes to the conclusion that she wants this baby, and of course she will tell Greyson, but she has two conditions: either he's in this all the way with her as a co-parent, or not at all. When she tells Greyson the news, he of course is all in on raising this baby with Julia, and as much as he wants more with this beautiful, crazily infuriating woman, he feels like he'll ruin her if he lets her too close, so he doesn't let his emotions show, but promises to be there for her for whatever she needs.
As the days and weeks continues through her pregnancy, Julia's internal dialogue is amazing through all her feelings: she wants this baby, but pregnancy is not all rainbows and butterflies. She's sick most of her first trimester, she's depressed, and as much as she wants herself to be happy, she can't let herself feel that way. And that's totally ok. In our society, women are pressured into feeling exactly one way about pregnancy: insanely happy at all times. And that's just not the case. As a personal note, I've had two hard pregnancies, and as much as I love my children, I didn't love being pregnant. Plus all the health issues that went with it, plus a hard delivery with my second baby, it was so damn amazing to find our heroine experiencing all these feelings that most women experience at some point, but are always told that we shouldn't. So this made me love Jessica Peterson even more. (Both as an author and as a person.)
Anyway, Greyson is doing his best to be there for her, but when he goes to tell his brother the news (helllo Ford!!) We are given the insight on why Greyson doesn't feel like he should have the happily ever after: he was married once before, and as much as he tried to make it work, he simply fell out of love with his wife. And after some soul searching he realized that he wasn't in love with her at all, but more in love with the comfort and stability that he thought he should want. So in his mind, he's a monster who destroyed a woman, and feels like he shouldn't get close to Julia in fear that he will do the same. However, Ford tells him that he is a good man, who goes above and beyond for his family (making sure his mom and dad have everything they need, to helping Ford himself when his wife died, leaving him to raise their daughter by himself.) Greyson still doesn't believe it, but he vows to always be there for his child and Julia.
A few days later, Julia has her first ultrasound appointment and Greyson promises to be there with her, and after a hilarious scene them almost being late (and her being honest with him that she was disappointed that it was because of his work, and how she needs him to withhold his promises on being there when he says he will--which again, is so refreshing! There's no fight, just them talking things through like adults!) They grow even closer when they see their baby via ultrasound, which leads Greyson to cook dinner for Julia. There is where things heat up between them, and they each feel such a strong pull towards the other, and all Julia wants is for Greyson to let her in, because she already believes he's a great man who could possibly be the best thing for her. Through a power outage, an impromptu sleep over, and morning sexiness, there relationship officially take a a turn and Greyson accepts that he wants to be the one that Julia and this baby can count on. That he can provide a life for her that's so amazing, and filled with love, because he is in love with her.
The progression of their relationship, (which is so swoon worthy, and their sext times that are so incredibly hot) they fall even more in love with each other, and Grey eventually confides into Julia about being married before, and how he felt like he was playing a role in his imperfect, perfect marriage and he just couldn't do it anymore. Julia of course understands why he did what he did, and doesn't think of him as a monster or someone who doesn't deserve love, he was just stuck in the wrong fairy tale.
I won't spoil the rest, but oh my goodness this book made me laugh so hard, and then made me cry just as much. Julia's thoughts and feelings about her pregnancy, as well as trying to rely on someone whom she doesn't really know, and then watching Greyson opening up and them falling in love was absolutely perfect. I say this everything Jessica Peterson writes, but I think Julia and Grey are my favorite couple!!! They are the complete opposite of each other, but they just work. And their love, it's so honest and pure, and so damn good that I'm going to start rereading the series over again! Though this book is a standalone in this interconnected series, I strongly suggest reading the other two books before you start this one. I can't gush enough about this book!!!
Also: I am so excited for Ford and Eva's story that is coming next!! I love a good second chance romance! :)
**I I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
July 13, 2019
I am very fortunate to have visited Charleston, South Carolina, a few times and am just in love with the Charleston Heat series! The author expertly writes each chapter so that it captures the charm and uniqueness of this beautiful city and its residents, including at least four smoking hot and swoony men who live there–Ford is next y’all so look out for book 4, Southern Heartbreaker!
Southern Gentleman is so relatable…it features real people with real jobs, real families, and love stories that will make your heart race. Elijah is a professional chef and Olivia is a popular romance author in Southern Charmer. Eli’s sister, Gracie, who has her MBA and owns the local coffee shop, falls in love with her brother’s best friend, Luke Rodgers, a former pro-baseball player turned farmer in Southern Player.
We are introduced to Julia Lassiter and Greyson Mongomery at the end of book 2. Their alleged backseat hook-up left us all begging for more and Jessica Peterson delivered! Oh, did she deliver…no pun intended. In book three, Southern Gentleman, Julia and Greyson are brought together to work on a project for Luke’s expanding business venture of building a farmers market and storefront. Greyson is a venture capitalist, the money-man behind the project, and Julia is the very talented and passionate designer.
When these two meet, sparks fly right off the page. I can’t even begin to tell you how much I enjoyed each and every interaction. She is a little spitfire who holds her own to grumpy Grey. She has advanced degrees, a gift for historical restoration, and familiarity with renovating and designing buildings (both the interior and exterior) as her dad was an architect. And if you couldn’t love her enough, she is also a vivacious reader and professor of romance literature at Charleston College!
While working with Grey who is technically her boss, Julia is no pushover and is not afraid to go head to head to get what she wants–both in business and in pleasure! It is so fun to read and the slow burn will have you turning page after page! If I lived in Charleston, she and I would be besties. That’s how much I adored and respected her.
These enemies to lovers fight every step of the way as he tries to curb her vision due to financial constraints. Their sexual tension brews deep in their bellies and all of their banter builds and builds and is just a big old orga$m waiting to happen. Obviously they give in to their desire because as the overview states, she gets pregnant. That is when Grey has to make hard life choices and decide if he is all in, willing to be vulnerable, and share his past so that he may have a future.
I always liked Grey even when he was a distant, brooding, alphahole. But once he found out he was going to be a father, that is when the true hero emerges. I don’t want to give much away because reading his transformation and commitment to Julia and his unborn baby is just beautiful. I LOVED him and would marry him in a heartbeat. He not only is smart and successful, but a family man who just had to forgive himself. Julia is so up-lifiting and supportive and it was very emotional to read at times. I smiled so hard my cheeks hurt; I sighed and cried, my eyes went wide during all the sexy times, and I felt every emotion when reading this book.
An added note is how much I loved how the returning characters from the previous books were featured and new characters were introduced like Ford, our hero’s brother. Julia is blessed to have such great friends and they are there for her as she tries to figure out her future as an unexpectant mother. She wouldn’t settle for less than she felt she and her child deserved, and I so admired her honesty and high standards. She was independent and didn’t need to have a man in her life, but did she want to? Read Southern Gentleman and find out just what she decided.
This book is a stand-alone but I highly recommend you read all of the books in this series so that you, too, can bask in the glow of all this Southern Heat.
Southern Gentleman is so relatable…it features real people with real jobs, real families, and love stories that will make your heart race. Elijah is a professional chef and Olivia is a popular romance author in Southern Charmer. Eli’s sister, Gracie, who has her MBA and owns the local coffee shop, falls in love with her brother’s best friend, Luke Rodgers, a former pro-baseball player turned farmer in Southern Player.
We are introduced to Julia Lassiter and Greyson Mongomery at the end of book 2. Their alleged backseat hook-up left us all begging for more and Jessica Peterson delivered! Oh, did she deliver…no pun intended. In book three, Southern Gentleman, Julia and Greyson are brought together to work on a project for Luke’s expanding business venture of building a farmers market and storefront. Greyson is a venture capitalist, the money-man behind the project, and Julia is the very talented and passionate designer.
When these two meet, sparks fly right off the page. I can’t even begin to tell you how much I enjoyed each and every interaction. She is a little spitfire who holds her own to grumpy Grey. She has advanced degrees, a gift for historical restoration, and familiarity with renovating and designing buildings (both the interior and exterior) as her dad was an architect. And if you couldn’t love her enough, she is also a vivacious reader and professor of romance literature at Charleston College!
While working with Grey who is technically her boss, Julia is no pushover and is not afraid to go head to head to get what she wants–both in business and in pleasure! It is so fun to read and the slow burn will have you turning page after page! If I lived in Charleston, she and I would be besties. That’s how much I adored and respected her.
These enemies to lovers fight every step of the way as he tries to curb her vision due to financial constraints. Their sexual tension brews deep in their bellies and all of their banter builds and builds and is just a big old orga$m waiting to happen. Obviously they give in to their desire because as the overview states, she gets pregnant. That is when Grey has to make hard life choices and decide if he is all in, willing to be vulnerable, and share his past so that he may have a future.
I always liked Grey even when he was a distant, brooding, alphahole. But once he found out he was going to be a father, that is when the true hero emerges. I don’t want to give much away because reading his transformation and commitment to Julia and his unborn baby is just beautiful. I LOVED him and would marry him in a heartbeat. He not only is smart and successful, but a family man who just had to forgive himself. Julia is so up-lifiting and supportive and it was very emotional to read at times. I smiled so hard my cheeks hurt; I sighed and cried, my eyes went wide during all the sexy times, and I felt every emotion when reading this book.
An added note is how much I loved how the returning characters from the previous books were featured and new characters were introduced like Ford, our hero’s brother. Julia is blessed to have such great friends and they are there for her as she tries to figure out her future as an unexpectant mother. She wouldn’t settle for less than she felt she and her child deserved, and I so admired her honesty and high standards. She was independent and didn’t need to have a man in her life, but did she want to? Read Southern Gentleman and find out just what she decided.
This book is a stand-alone but I highly recommend you read all of the books in this series so that you, too, can bask in the glow of all this Southern Heat.
July 13, 2019
Wow! Just. Wow.
If I could give this book ten amazing stars I would (but for some insane reason I’m limited to 5)!
Where do I start- amazing story, amazing characters and amazingly written.
It was beautiful, real, brutally honest, raw and of course, hot. So many writers create conflict for the sake of it to drive their characters apart and we all know the feeling at 70-80% through where we’re waiting for all hell to break loose and devastate us. What’s beautiful about Southern Gentleman is that any conflict is real- the sort you or a friend has gone through, the type that can be worked through. It makes you feel all the feelings without breaking your heart.
Julia is a fearless and thoughtful, accomplished woman who gets accidentally knocked up by a guarded and closed off Greyson. The pregnancy is the perfect chance for Greyson to evaluate his life and work on letting someone back into his heart. Julia has patience and love for him during this process but she’s not afraid to speak her mind either.
One of the things I LOVE about this book- the raw honesty about what pregnancy is really like. That first trimester isn’t all that great but society tells us we have to be grateful and glowing about the amazing thing that’s happening to us when actually, it’s terrifying for so many different reasons and you feel ill in some capacity for months. Jessica Peterson bravely tells the truth of this and to me, that cements her as one of the greats. I want more realism, elements that I can relate to that tell me and other women that it’s okay not be okay sometimes. And the scene after the baby arrives....hilariously accurate!
This book is amazing. Period. There’s nothing I’d change and it’s not often that I fall in love with both protagonists and their story - usually there’s something I’d tweak or one person’s behaviour that bugs me. Not this time. Jessica Peterson has written a unicorn of a book - one of those rarity’s that is perfect.
If I could give this book ten amazing stars I would (but for some insane reason I’m limited to 5)!
Where do I start- amazing story, amazing characters and amazingly written.
It was beautiful, real, brutally honest, raw and of course, hot. So many writers create conflict for the sake of it to drive their characters apart and we all know the feeling at 70-80% through where we’re waiting for all hell to break loose and devastate us. What’s beautiful about Southern Gentleman is that any conflict is real- the sort you or a friend has gone through, the type that can be worked through. It makes you feel all the feelings without breaking your heart.
Julia is a fearless and thoughtful, accomplished woman who gets accidentally knocked up by a guarded and closed off Greyson. The pregnancy is the perfect chance for Greyson to evaluate his life and work on letting someone back into his heart. Julia has patience and love for him during this process but she’s not afraid to speak her mind either.
One of the things I LOVE about this book- the raw honesty about what pregnancy is really like. That first trimester isn’t all that great but society tells us we have to be grateful and glowing about the amazing thing that’s happening to us when actually, it’s terrifying for so many different reasons and you feel ill in some capacity for months. Jessica Peterson bravely tells the truth of this and to me, that cements her as one of the greats. I want more realism, elements that I can relate to that tell me and other women that it’s okay not be okay sometimes. And the scene after the baby arrives....hilariously accurate!
This book is amazing. Period. There’s nothing I’d change and it’s not often that I fall in love with both protagonists and their story - usually there’s something I’d tweak or one person’s behaviour that bugs me. Not this time. Jessica Peterson has written a unicorn of a book - one of those rarity’s that is perfect.
July 13, 2019
This book was so good, with so many things to appreciate. Greyson and Julia start out with this magnetic attraction to each other mixed with a banter that takes no crap as they trade barbs back and forth with each other. Julia is such a great character. I love how she is non-judgmental, embraces the people in her life, and doesn’t get hung up on societal expectations. Greyson is a bit buttoned up to begin with, but Julia helps him get past that pretty quick. Oh, and he is super-hot!
This book follows their relationship in a very real way that is not always present in books. Julia really struggles with the pregnancy and how it makes her feel physically as well as how it is going to change her life as she knows it. Grey struggles too with what it means to be all in as a co-parent and a solid half of their committed relationship. I appreciate that it is not all roses all the time because life is not either. Real relationships take work, communication, and compromise and the author nails that as this couple develops their relationship from hate sex to love.
As always in this series, we also get to follow a historical romance story-within-a -story written by Olivia from “Southern Charmer.” It echoes some of the struggles faced by Julia and Grey. As romance as a genre is discussed within the story, with shout outs to other authors (Yay!), the reader gets to experience the discussion of how romance has changed as social tenets have changed. Certainly, I have been reading romance for almost 40 years and there have definitely been changes within the genre. I love that we are in a place now where a story like Julia and Grey’s can be told honestly and beautifully with a very real HEA instead of the fairy tale that used to be the expected norm.
We get to see characters from the first two books in the series progress in their relationships, and characters are developed for the upcoming “Southern Heartbreaker.” This book has all of the good southern food, sweet tea, hot sex, and soft heart you need in a story. The city of Charleston remains a solid character in the series with descriptions of different areas of town. Do not miss this great addition to the series and the beautiful story of Grey and Julia and their sweet baby.
This book follows their relationship in a very real way that is not always present in books. Julia really struggles with the pregnancy and how it makes her feel physically as well as how it is going to change her life as she knows it. Grey struggles too with what it means to be all in as a co-parent and a solid half of their committed relationship. I appreciate that it is not all roses all the time because life is not either. Real relationships take work, communication, and compromise and the author nails that as this couple develops their relationship from hate sex to love.
As always in this series, we also get to follow a historical romance story-within-a -story written by Olivia from “Southern Charmer.” It echoes some of the struggles faced by Julia and Grey. As romance as a genre is discussed within the story, with shout outs to other authors (Yay!), the reader gets to experience the discussion of how romance has changed as social tenets have changed. Certainly, I have been reading romance for almost 40 years and there have definitely been changes within the genre. I love that we are in a place now where a story like Julia and Grey’s can be told honestly and beautifully with a very real HEA instead of the fairy tale that used to be the expected norm.
We get to see characters from the first two books in the series progress in their relationships, and characters are developed for the upcoming “Southern Heartbreaker.” This book has all of the good southern food, sweet tea, hot sex, and soft heart you need in a story. The city of Charleston remains a solid character in the series with descriptions of different areas of town. Do not miss this great addition to the series and the beautiful story of Grey and Julia and their sweet baby.
July 23, 2019
I loved all the books of this wonderful series, but Greyson stole my heart.
Grumpy, gruff, and argumentative- and yes - growly, he found his perfect mate in the equally argumentative, sassy, Julia. I loved their chemistry, his misguided attempts at giving her what he thought she should have, rather than what she truly needed, then his sweet ways of making it up.
The sex was hot, the romance hotter, and Greyson - he lit up the pages.
5 huge want-to-find-me-a-Greyson-stars!
Grumpy, gruff, and argumentative- and yes - growly, he found his perfect mate in the equally argumentative, sassy, Julia. I loved their chemistry, his misguided attempts at giving her what he thought she should have, rather than what she truly needed, then his sweet ways of making it up.
The sex was hot, the romance hotter, and Greyson - he lit up the pages.
5 huge want-to-find-me-a-Greyson-stars!
July 14, 2019
It has been an incredibly long time since I've fallen so in love with a story, that as soon as I've finished the book, I've found myself starting it again.
Southern Gentleman has all the boxes on your favorite romance requirements checked off and more. Julia and Greyson, the stars of the story, finally meet and collide after both getting hired to work on the refurbishing of a local business. From the moment they are introduced, sparks fly. Both hard headed, they each refuse to back down from any sort of conflict which ends up having the tension broken in the best way - they finally sleep together.
Like the summary explains, Julia falls pregnant with Greyson's baby but this isn't your normal accidental baby story. Jessica Peterson hits the nail on the head for ALL of the real ups and downs with pregnancy. As a mother myself, I have never fully been able to relate to a pregnancy in a novel until now and BOY do I feel seen! What is absolutely beautiful is, not only Julia's experiences with this pregnancy, but how she handles the interactions of those around her. Each relationship formed feels real and relatable. Each conversation natural and unforced. Which is something that not all authors are able to accomplish and done in a manner that leaves the reader wanting MORE.
I've enjoyed Jessica Peterson's prior work but this one has made me a life long fan and supporter. I can not wait to see how the Charleston Heat series continues!
Southern Gentleman has all the boxes on your favorite romance requirements checked off and more. Julia and Greyson, the stars of the story, finally meet and collide after both getting hired to work on the refurbishing of a local business. From the moment they are introduced, sparks fly. Both hard headed, they each refuse to back down from any sort of conflict which ends up having the tension broken in the best way - they finally sleep together.
Like the summary explains, Julia falls pregnant with Greyson's baby but this isn't your normal accidental baby story. Jessica Peterson hits the nail on the head for ALL of the real ups and downs with pregnancy. As a mother myself, I have never fully been able to relate to a pregnancy in a novel until now and BOY do I feel seen! What is absolutely beautiful is, not only Julia's experiences with this pregnancy, but how she handles the interactions of those around her. Each relationship formed feels real and relatable. Each conversation natural and unforced. Which is something that not all authors are able to accomplish and done in a manner that leaves the reader wanting MORE.
I've enjoyed Jessica Peterson's prior work but this one has made me a life long fan and supporter. I can not wait to see how the Charleston Heat series continues!
July 14, 2019
What a great story. An unexpected twist, well, maybe not, but it's enemies to lovers and Julia is quite the quick wit to Greyson's barbs. He's her boss, she works for him on a project, the sparks fly and things escalate quite quickly in the back of a Yukon. It's wonderful writing about all the ups and downs of what she's going through, quite detailed which brought back a lot of memories for me as the mother of three grown boys. Some of it's quite hilarious. You see some of your favourite characters from the first two books in this series, which is great. The TDP chapter is over the top and bust a gut snickering. That's all I'll say. I loved Charlie Brown. You need to read this book.
I received this advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received this advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2019
I was blessed to receive an advanced reader copy of Southern Gentleman. Y’all, this book is amazing! It’s so real and raw! There’s a buildup and a growth in the characters. It’s lovely to see play out. The sex and the chemistry between Julia and Grey is phenomenal! If you love enemies to lovers and accidental pregnancy tropes, you’ll love this book!
April 20, 2022
3.5 Oh, That Thin Line Stars
* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
You know the saying, "It's a thin line between love and hate." Well, Jessica Peterson took that idea and ran with it.
In her 3rd entry, Southern Gentleman (Charleston Heat, #3), she had her main characters frothing at the mouth with distaste for each other one moment and then had them hooking up with the best sex of their lives.
It was Addictive...
And then it became something else altogether different...
You see these two were thrown together to do a project...It started out so innocent. But then our gal had to start interacting with the investor who happened to be a paradise for the eyes.
He was bossy and annoying...but oh, how he kissed...
So one never-should-have-happened-kiss turns into more than kisses...And working together started to become more "being Worked" if you get my drift...
And the joke was all of this was happening with them still not liking each other much...
But then Mother Nature decided to Pooh, Pooh the idea of...We will just be Sex... and gave them something to really deal with...
A bun in the oven...and that changes everything.
Now we have a couple which will have to work their way backward, relationship-wise. They will have to learn about each other and understand the person staring at them is someone who wants to make a go of this.
This story takes all the ups and downs in relationships and making babies and turns a huge magnifier on all of the things that can go right as well as wrong. This was a good addition to the series.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
You know the saying, "It's a thin line between love and hate." Well, Jessica Peterson took that idea and ran with it.
In her 3rd entry, Southern Gentleman (Charleston Heat, #3), she had her main characters frothing at the mouth with distaste for each other one moment and then had them hooking up with the best sex of their lives.
It was Addictive...
And then it became something else altogether different...
You see these two were thrown together to do a project...It started out so innocent. But then our gal had to start interacting with the investor who happened to be a paradise for the eyes.
He was bossy and annoying...but oh, how he kissed...
So one never-should-have-happened-kiss turns into more than kisses...And working together started to become more "being Worked" if you get my drift...
And the joke was all of this was happening with them still not liking each other much...
But then Mother Nature decided to Pooh, Pooh the idea of...We will just be Sex... and gave them something to really deal with...
A bun in the oven...and that changes everything.
Now we have a couple which will have to work their way backward, relationship-wise. They will have to learn about each other and understand the person staring at them is someone who wants to make a go of this.
This story takes all the ups and downs in relationships and making babies and turns a huge magnifier on all of the things that can go right as well as wrong. This was a good addition to the series.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
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January 25, 2024
Oh my ya'll!!! Jessica Peterson absolutely knocked it out of the park with Southern Gentleman - it was just wonderful and amazing and I loved every minute of this story!!
Greyson......that man surprised me. I was expecting a total a*hole, but that softer side to him really snuck up on me. I knew that he would step up to the plate and take care of his own child, but the way he was there for Julia when she didn't expect it really made my heart skip a beat. And those texts - gah, I loved his texting. Showed his vulnerable side, as well as his sense of humor. Don't get me wrong, I loved his growly, dickishness; but good lord that man just made me swoon a million times over.
And Julia.....such a breath of fresh air. I adored her free spirit and no-nonsense attitude. She never once strayed from her true self - and I think that's what really caught Grey's attention (besides the obvious, outward beauty). I loved how she called Grey out on his crap, and didn't once say things were ok when they were not.
Together.....Grey & Julia......oh man, were they incredible!! The banter between them - wow. Sometimes verbal sparring that happens between characters in books is almost better than physical foreplay, and these two together just lit a fire under the other that nobody else would ever be able to match. And that definitely translated into some insane chemistry and passion - I mean, hello.....those backseat hookups were crazy hot!
And as much as I love Eli & Olivia...….Grey & Julia and Southern Gentleman have easily become my favorite couple and story in the Charleston Heat series. And it's easily one of my top 10 reads of the year!! You definitely don't want to miss out on this one!!
And Ford......Grey's brother......single dad story next, right?
**Jason Clarke as Growly Grey......so good!!! Emma Wilder is amazing as Julia as well. These two do such a great job bringing these characters to life!**
Greyson......that man surprised me. I was expecting a total a*hole, but that softer side to him really snuck up on me. I knew that he would step up to the plate and take care of his own child, but the way he was there for Julia when she didn't expect it really made my heart skip a beat. And those texts - gah, I loved his texting. Showed his vulnerable side, as well as his sense of humor. Don't get me wrong, I loved his growly, dickishness; but good lord that man just made me swoon a million times over.
And Julia.....such a breath of fresh air. I adored her free spirit and no-nonsense attitude. She never once strayed from her true self - and I think that's what really caught Grey's attention (besides the obvious, outward beauty). I loved how she called Grey out on his crap, and didn't once say things were ok when they were not.
Together.....Grey & Julia......oh man, were they incredible!! The banter between them - wow. Sometimes verbal sparring that happens between characters in books is almost better than physical foreplay, and these two together just lit a fire under the other that nobody else would ever be able to match. And that definitely translated into some insane chemistry and passion - I mean, hello.....those backseat hookups were crazy hot!
And as much as I love Eli & Olivia...….Grey & Julia and Southern Gentleman have easily become my favorite couple and story in the Charleston Heat series. And it's easily one of my top 10 reads of the year!! You definitely don't want to miss out on this one!!
And Ford......Grey's brother......single dad story next, right?
**Jason Clarke as Growly Grey......so good!!! Emma Wilder is amazing as Julia as well. These two do such a great job bringing these characters to life!**
July 14, 2019
Southern Gentleman hooked me right in to the story! I absolutely adored the perspective of Julia’s pregnancy. There are a million single mom or unexpected pregnancy romances available but this one is so unique. The experience is real, and true and relatable. At the same time, it is funny, awe inspiring and even brought a tear to my eye. The fresh perspective blended so well with the story line to make it even more endearing. This is the third book in the AMAZING Charleston Heat series, and I must say that it is my FAVORITE so far.
Julia is a confident, kick butt heroine who is living her dream. She can’t help being attracted to the new investor that is funding her most recent project. Greyson is arrogant, tough, and an all-around jerk that loves to push her buttons. However, their chemistry is hot enough to start a nuclear meltdown. When a no-strings arrangement turns into the surprise of their lives, they both have to face their past. Learning that people are more than what is on the outside, they listen to what their hearts were already trying to tell them.
I really loved this story so much.
Julia is a confident, kick butt heroine who is living her dream. She can’t help being attracted to the new investor that is funding her most recent project. Greyson is arrogant, tough, and an all-around jerk that loves to push her buttons. However, their chemistry is hot enough to start a nuclear meltdown. When a no-strings arrangement turns into the surprise of their lives, they both have to face their past. Learning that people are more than what is on the outside, they listen to what their hearts were already trying to tell them.
I really loved this story so much.
July 12, 2019
OMG y'all, this book, I reckon it's slap yo' Momma good! For real, this book was so true and real and honest about love, in a way I haven't seen captured in quite some time. I mean, lots of books paint love with colorful words and sweetness and they focus on the absolute best parts about love. On the opposite side, sometimes we get sucked into a book where the hero and heroine suffer unbearable (and often unrealistic) challenges, and because its a romance, true love wins, blah blah the end. This book was nothing like that. Tighta$$ed Greyson and wild child Julia don't think they have much in common other than their animal attraction to each other. I really enjoyed traveling their journey with them as they discovered they were more alike than they knew. I loved how even when they didn't LIKE each other, they didn't really hate each other, and the book was more about them learning how to merge their lives. If the heart is there, the drive will find a way. I kind of saw it as if their love was a buried pebble, and they needed to move the dirt surrounding it to see how bright it shined. Love was there, buried deep, and they each had to work for it. I loved every dirty second of it!
July 25, 2019
Seriously the whole divorcee thing was so over the top. Like get over it already. This quite boring. The same thing over and over. More lust than anything.
July 12, 2019
Pack my bags, I'm headed to Charleston STAT! this book was so steamy, I'm ready to move down south and find me a Southern Gentleman! I loved the growly Greyson and I thought Julia was the perfect match for him. Their story starts off with to alpha personalities who clash with how they work together but then crash into well a backseat! Forward a few weeks, throw in an accidental pregnancy and watch these two characters figure out life as adults, do it together, and all the while falling in love. This book should almost be a how to guide for people to get along! The maturity of the characters says so much about Jessica Peterson's writing. This story had me crying, I was so invested in their lives! Most of those were happy tears, or because the sweet words really got me. Just like the previous two books in this series, they just keep getting better than the last one!
I received an ARC of this book in return for my honest review.
I received an ARC of this book in return for my honest review.
July 14, 2019
Wow wow wow!!!! I am swooning over Grey! I think Julia is really amazing as well. I love the brutal honesty between them. They balanced each other perfectly. He ended up being the perfect mate once the armor was taken down.
I really enjoyed reading the closeness of friends and family they each had.
I loved the nick name Charlie Brown.
All of the sweet gestures in the book from bringing pumpkin muffins to Julia’s class to cooking family recipes it was just perfect!! Without giving away all the secrets to the book it defiantly should be on your TBR!!!! I can’t wait to read about Fords journey i hope he’s next 😍.
LOVED this book and i wish i could star it more!!!
I really enjoyed reading the closeness of friends and family they each had.
I loved the nick name Charlie Brown.
All of the sweet gestures in the book from bringing pumpkin muffins to Julia’s class to cooking family recipes it was just perfect!! Without giving away all the secrets to the book it defiantly should be on your TBR!!!! I can’t wait to read about Fords journey i hope he’s next 😍.
LOVED this book and i wish i could star it more!!!
July 25, 2019
Ohh this book! <3 I didn’t know it could get better than books 1 & 2!! You could totally read this as a standalone with no issues...but you really need to read Southern Charmer and Southern Player just because they’re amazing!!
Jessica’s books are SO compelling. I find myself DEVOURING them, and then feeling bereft (in the best way) when I finish, already wanting to read them again. This is no exception.
Going in, I had forgotten that these books are funny, too. “I always took you for the kind of guy who lived off raw kale and the souls of innocent children.” So many funny one-liners. These two have the best banter!
The character development and growth of both Greyson and Julia is so phenomenal. I love how Juliet slowly cracks Greyson open, while giving him space, and inside of this gruff businessman is this funny, sweet, amazing person. And then she examines herself, and realizes she had some growing to do, as well.
Can we talk about how beautiful Jessica’s words and advise always are? I feel like I learn at least 10 life lessons in every one of these books. “I’m not going to fix you. I’m definitely not going to save you. But I am going to listen.” AND “Just because you’re a villain in one story doesn’t mean you can’t be a hero in another.”
And the truths about pregnancy and motherhood in this book are SO relatable. And true. So true.
Overall, this book made me laugh out loud, made me tear up, made me clutch my pearls, and also made me speak with a southern accent for a few days. I want to be in their world. Time to go read it again!
*I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my honest review.”
Jessica’s books are SO compelling. I find myself DEVOURING them, and then feeling bereft (in the best way) when I finish, already wanting to read them again. This is no exception.
Going in, I had forgotten that these books are funny, too. “I always took you for the kind of guy who lived off raw kale and the souls of innocent children.” So many funny one-liners. These two have the best banter!
The character development and growth of both Greyson and Julia is so phenomenal. I love how Juliet slowly cracks Greyson open, while giving him space, and inside of this gruff businessman is this funny, sweet, amazing person. And then she examines herself, and realizes she had some growing to do, as well.
Can we talk about how beautiful Jessica’s words and advise always are? I feel like I learn at least 10 life lessons in every one of these books. “I’m not going to fix you. I’m definitely not going to save you. But I am going to listen.” AND “Just because you’re a villain in one story doesn’t mean you can’t be a hero in another.”
And the truths about pregnancy and motherhood in this book are SO relatable. And true. So true.
Overall, this book made me laugh out loud, made me tear up, made me clutch my pearls, and also made me speak with a southern accent for a few days. I want to be in their world. Time to go read it again!
*I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my honest review.”
August 2, 2019
In the words of Britney - Oops she did it again!!!! Oh yes she did!!! Jessica Peterson has been a one click author for me for a while now, and her last book Southern Charmer was a six star read for me. But this one right here - Southern Gentleman has cemented her there FOREVER!!!
I binged this in one late night session & hubs says a HUGE THANK YOU for his 2am wake up call. Nudge, nudge, wink, wink.... seriously though - it's heartfelt and hot and funny and filthy and EVERYTHING I love about smart romance.
Nobody writes Southern guys like Jessica - in Grey she gives you the heat you're looking for along with some actual brains to go with his sexy brawn and her female characters are some of my favourite written. They have brains and jobs and hopes and baggage - in other words they're real women! I always connect with them and Julia was no exception. Girl Crush Activated!
It's book 3 in the Charleston Heat series but can absolutely be read as a standalone - I will say you'd be bonkers to miss out on the first two though... absolutely bonkers!
I received an ARC of this book
I binged this in one late night session & hubs says a HUGE THANK YOU for his 2am wake up call. Nudge, nudge, wink, wink.... seriously though - it's heartfelt and hot and funny and filthy and EVERYTHING I love about smart romance.
Nobody writes Southern guys like Jessica - in Grey she gives you the heat you're looking for along with some actual brains to go with his sexy brawn and her female characters are some of my favourite written. They have brains and jobs and hopes and baggage - in other words they're real women! I always connect with them and Julia was no exception. Girl Crush Activated!
It's book 3 in the Charleston Heat series but can absolutely be read as a standalone - I will say you'd be bonkers to miss out on the first two though... absolutely bonkers!
I received an ARC of this book
March 17, 2020
Overall an OK Read.
A strong likeable heroine. The hero was ok. The divorce plot was fine for me. He was not ok with how his life turned out. Divorce is not a joke. Maybe he falls out of love and divorces his wife. Even if the whole thing was initiated by him but still, it's a trauma and the changes it brings to your life will leave some deep scar. So, I get it.
safety Issue: The heroine was celibate for 6 months and the hero was celibate for maybe a longer period. The book was safe.
A strong likeable heroine. The hero was ok. The divorce plot was fine for me. He was not ok with how his life turned out. Divorce is not a joke. Maybe he falls out of love and divorces his wife. Even if the whole thing was initiated by him but still, it's a trauma and the changes it brings to your life will leave some deep scar. So, I get it.
safety Issue: The heroine was celibate for 6 months and the hero was celibate for maybe a longer period. The book was safe.
August 24, 2019
I love finding out new authors to read. Actually, that's a lie hahaha
I am ashamed to say that I have a hard time branching out BUT I have been doing pretty well in that aspect lately.
Jessica Peterson is a new author for me. I really liked the sound of the book while I read the synopsis so I was intrigued.
Southern Gentleman was a really good read. Surprisingly so.
Now, I know a lot of people don't really like the whole accidental pregnancy trope but I really enjoy reading about it.
I won't call Greyson and Julia's relationship as enemies to lovers. I think they just had a whole lot of frustration because you can't deny that they are attracted to each other. These are two very strong characters and I really enjoyed reading their war of words. I loved their chemistry. I really liked the flow of the entire storyline from how they went from basically strangers who end up working together to people who are undoubtedly attracted to each other and then towards parenthood. Their relationship dynamics didn't feel forced.
Southern Gentleman had the perfect balance of fun, sexy, swoony and sweet.
You know one of the best parts? Julia LOVES romance novels and she isn't ashamed to admit it or show it off.
I am ashamed to say that I have a hard time branching out BUT I have been doing pretty well in that aspect lately.
Jessica Peterson is a new author for me. I really liked the sound of the book while I read the synopsis so I was intrigued.
Southern Gentleman was a really good read. Surprisingly so.
Now, I know a lot of people don't really like the whole accidental pregnancy trope but I really enjoy reading about it.
I won't call Greyson and Julia's relationship as enemies to lovers. I think they just had a whole lot of frustration because you can't deny that they are attracted to each other. These are two very strong characters and I really enjoyed reading their war of words. I loved their chemistry. I really liked the flow of the entire storyline from how they went from basically strangers who end up working together to people who are undoubtedly attracted to each other and then towards parenthood. Their relationship dynamics didn't feel forced.
Southern Gentleman had the perfect balance of fun, sexy, swoony and sweet.
You know one of the best parts? Julia LOVES romance novels and she isn't ashamed to admit it or show it off.
July 16, 2019
Southern Gentleman is the third book in Jessica Peterson’s Charleston Heat series, and like the prior books in the series this one had me hooked. It was another book I finished in no time at all, demonstrating once again why Jessica Peterson is one of my favourite romance writers.
As with each of the books in the series, Southern Gentleman can be enjoyed as a standalone novel. I certainly recommend reading the prior books, though, as you get to see more of the characters from the prior books and get that added extra fun. Not to mention, all the books in the Charleston Heat series are well worth reading.
With Southern Gentleman, Jessica Peterson gives us another trope she has yet to write, and she does it well. It’s filled with the classic Jessica Peterson greatness, ensuring you’ll be hooked throughout. The chemistry between the characters is wonderful, the romance is steamy, and the events are emotion filled. As always, there is plenty of humour to be found throughout, ensuring you’ll be giggling away at certain events.
Although there is a lot I love about this series, I think the way it’s so romance book positive is my favourite. We have a story within a story (I really need Jessica Peterson to write the historical romances we’re seeing throughout these books, even if they’re just novellas for us to enjoy), and lots of discussion about romance and the expectations it gives us in life. It’s meta in the best of ways, and I love it.
Without a doubt, Southern Gentleman is a great addition to the Charleston Heat series. It’s filled with the things Jessica Peterson does so well and has left me desperate for book four.
As with each of the books in the series, Southern Gentleman can be enjoyed as a standalone novel. I certainly recommend reading the prior books, though, as you get to see more of the characters from the prior books and get that added extra fun. Not to mention, all the books in the Charleston Heat series are well worth reading.
With Southern Gentleman, Jessica Peterson gives us another trope she has yet to write, and she does it well. It’s filled with the classic Jessica Peterson greatness, ensuring you’ll be hooked throughout. The chemistry between the characters is wonderful, the romance is steamy, and the events are emotion filled. As always, there is plenty of humour to be found throughout, ensuring you’ll be giggling away at certain events.
Although there is a lot I love about this series, I think the way it’s so romance book positive is my favourite. We have a story within a story (I really need Jessica Peterson to write the historical romances we’re seeing throughout these books, even if they’re just novellas for us to enjoy), and lots of discussion about romance and the expectations it gives us in life. It’s meta in the best of ways, and I love it.
Without a doubt, Southern Gentleman is a great addition to the Charleston Heat series. It’s filled with the things Jessica Peterson does so well and has left me desperate for book four.
September 24, 2019
This was much more than just a sweet, cute enemies-to-lovers story. This has some real meat on the bones with a touch of angst that will twist your heart.
When Julia and Greyson’s antagonism turns to desire, it opens up a series of quick hook-ups. For three months they remain adversaries in business but lovers at opportune moments. But an unexpected pregnancy changes everything and only time will tell if this working together to co-parent has a chance of success.
I loved the fiery meeting between Julia and Greyson. They were electric and fierce with a pulse of desire running through them. I actually wanted more of the back and forth they exhibited during that first meeting. But the story pretty much jumps forward after their hook-up and from that point on this couple is working on how to make everything work, part of which includes their relationship.
This book has a lot of detail regarding Julia’s emotions and thought process when she learns she’s pregnant, as well as her symptoms and how to deal with them during the first trimester. I have to admit, some of it was a bit too much simply because I didn’t need to know all of it and I found myself skimming in certain parts.
The relationship between Julia and Greyson felt organic as they moved from where they were prior to pregnancy, to where they were during pregnancy. The true angst of this story comes from Greyson and his own need to provide and care for those he loves. You’d never think that would be an issue, but with Greyson, it totally was. I loved how Julia communicated what she needed from him, even if he didn’t completely understand what she was saying.
This includes a lot of friends and family that help this couple along the way and ends with a sweet epilogue a few months later. Overall, it was a nice read but again, I just wanted more of the fiery banter and would have liked to have seen that they could still have that type of back and forth even in a loving relationship.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
When Julia and Greyson’s antagonism turns to desire, it opens up a series of quick hook-ups. For three months they remain adversaries in business but lovers at opportune moments. But an unexpected pregnancy changes everything and only time will tell if this working together to co-parent has a chance of success.
I loved the fiery meeting between Julia and Greyson. They were electric and fierce with a pulse of desire running through them. I actually wanted more of the back and forth they exhibited during that first meeting. But the story pretty much jumps forward after their hook-up and from that point on this couple is working on how to make everything work, part of which includes their relationship.
This book has a lot of detail regarding Julia’s emotions and thought process when she learns she’s pregnant, as well as her symptoms and how to deal with them during the first trimester. I have to admit, some of it was a bit too much simply because I didn’t need to know all of it and I found myself skimming in certain parts.
The relationship between Julia and Greyson felt organic as they moved from where they were prior to pregnancy, to where they were during pregnancy. The true angst of this story comes from Greyson and his own need to provide and care for those he loves. You’d never think that would be an issue, but with Greyson, it totally was. I loved how Julia communicated what she needed from him, even if he didn’t completely understand what she was saying.
This includes a lot of friends and family that help this couple along the way and ends with a sweet epilogue a few months later. Overall, it was a nice read but again, I just wanted more of the fiery banter and would have liked to have seen that they could still have that type of back and forth even in a loving relationship.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
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