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Houston's Finest #2
Needing to Love You
Carlos Ramirez has always prided himself on two things: being damn good at his job on the Houston police force and being able to land any woman he wants. When a devastating car accident leaves him crippled and in excruciating pain, he begins to rely too heavily on his prescription painkillers. The only person who can help him heal is the only woman who has ever rejected him—and on more than one occasion. Living with Kelsey while he works through physical therapy wasn’t anything he ever expected to happen, but it might just be what he needs.
After a divorce that left her doubting her ability to love, Kelsey Byrne wants nothing to do with relationships. Unfortunately for her, the only man she could see herself loving needs a place to live and help while he recovers. She had a hard time pushing him away after a one-night stand, so how can she possibly keep him at arm’s length when he’s in her house every day, playing with her son, cooking her meals, and leaving her cute notes every morning? Carlos may be working his way into her heart one sweet gesture at a time, but can she give him everything knowing that she’s more than a little broken inside?
After a divorce that left her doubting her ability to love, Kelsey Byrne wants nothing to do with relationships. Unfortunately for her, the only man she could see herself loving needs a place to live and help while he recovers. She had a hard time pushing him away after a one-night stand, so how can she possibly keep him at arm’s length when he’s in her house every day, playing with her son, cooking her meals, and leaving her cute notes every morning? Carlos may be working his way into her heart one sweet gesture at a time, but can she give him everything knowing that she’s more than a little broken inside?
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 12, 2019
26 people are currently reading
246 people want to read
About the author
Erin Rylie
5 books118 followersI'm a Montana born, Texas raised New Jersey transplant with a degree in hospitality. At 29 years old, I decided it was finally time for me to pursue my real passion in life - writing. I've been writing princess stories and LOTR fan-fiction since I was in middle school, so the transition into romance has been fun!
When I'm not writing, I'm reading (fantasy, sci-fi and romance are my genres) or working. I'm currently obsessed with Brooklyn Nine Nine which should tell you all you need to know about my sense of humor.
Finally, I am 100% an old cat lady. My cats Socks and Kaz are little weirdos and I love them more than most people.
When I'm not writing, I'm reading (fantasy, sci-fi and romance are my genres) or working. I'm currently obsessed with Brooklyn Nine Nine which should tell you all you need to know about my sense of humor.
Finally, I am 100% an old cat lady. My cats Socks and Kaz are little weirdos and I love them more than most people.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
June 5, 2019
Because reasons - review shall be posted at a later date.
September 9, 2019
Read more of my reviews at Cornerfolds.com!
Needing to Love You is way outside of my comfort zone, but recently I was in the mood for an adult romance and this is the book I reached for! It ended up making for a great, quick read for my flight to Washington DC and back.
Carlos Ramirez is recovering after an accident and subsequent surgery when he finds himself at the mercy of Kelsey who has offered him a place to stay. He moves in with her and quickly finds himself at a pity party and in too deep with his prescription painkillers. As Kelsey tries to understand how to navigate Carlos's issues as well as her own, the two find themselves being drawn together and romance ensues.
I really loved Kelsey and Carlos! It was definitely difficult to watch Carlos struggle with addiction and feelings of not being good enough after his accident. I also hated seeing the two of them push each other away instead of leaning on each other when they both needed it. But the two of them when they were getting along were a fantastic pair! I loved Carlos's snarky attitude, Kelsey's quirk of spouting off random fun facts, and their banter back and forth. Their relationship was sweet and obviously passionate.
My favorite thing about this book is that, while it was a fantastic, spicy romance novel, it had a lot of depth and tackled real life issues. There were painful moments dealing with addiction, depression, and moving on after painful relationships. I felt that Erin Rylie handled these issues really well and I loved that it made the story so much more impactful.
Although this is actually the second book in the Houston's Finest series, it read fine as a standalone and I felt like enough was filled in by the author that skipping the first book was okay. There were certainly times when I would have been more in the loop had I read the first book, though.
Needing to Love You was my first book by this author, but I can definitely see myself picking up others!
Actual rating: 4.5 stars
Needing to Love You is way outside of my comfort zone, but recently I was in the mood for an adult romance and this is the book I reached for! It ended up making for a great, quick read for my flight to Washington DC and back.
Carlos Ramirez is recovering after an accident and subsequent surgery when he finds himself at the mercy of Kelsey who has offered him a place to stay. He moves in with her and quickly finds himself at a pity party and in too deep with his prescription painkillers. As Kelsey tries to understand how to navigate Carlos's issues as well as her own, the two find themselves being drawn together and romance ensues.
I really loved Kelsey and Carlos! It was definitely difficult to watch Carlos struggle with addiction and feelings of not being good enough after his accident. I also hated seeing the two of them push each other away instead of leaning on each other when they both needed it. But the two of them when they were getting along were a fantastic pair! I loved Carlos's snarky attitude, Kelsey's quirk of spouting off random fun facts, and their banter back and forth. Their relationship was sweet and obviously passionate.
My favorite thing about this book is that, while it was a fantastic, spicy romance novel, it had a lot of depth and tackled real life issues. There were painful moments dealing with addiction, depression, and moving on after painful relationships. I felt that Erin Rylie handled these issues really well and I loved that it made the story so much more impactful.
Although this is actually the second book in the Houston's Finest series, it read fine as a standalone and I felt like enough was filled in by the author that skipping the first book was okay. There were certainly times when I would have been more in the loop had I read the first book, though.
Needing to Love You was my first book by this author, but I can definitely see myself picking up others!
Actual rating: 4.5 stars
April 14, 2019
Whew. That is definitely the best I can say right now... seriously, I am in love. After reading Hating to Love You, I couldn't help but come back for more of this Houston's Finest series. Especially considering the charming Carlos is our main squeeze and getting to know the next girlfriend in the trio of amazingness that is the leading ladies has me hooked. So yeah, obsession has been commenced because Needing to Love You was plum delicious.
I love the charm that Carlos has with his personality. He has this snide, charismatic sarcastic essence that just drips with the swoon-worthy antics; I am melting with glee. Everything about how he interacts with every character, not just Kelsey, but the rest of the girl gang, especially Becky. But not only that but the bromance that is Carlos and Rafe - flipping adorably hilarious. And now adding in Reese. Holy moly cracker barrel on a stick, gimmie some of Reese and Carlos together more. Just their meeting interaction made me chuckle so hard, I can see even more bromance-a-brewing. Though I really did love his character, amazing personality, but at many points how he acted was rather annoying. Not saying it wasn't unwarranted with his personal struggles he was going through, but honestly for most of the novel he acted slightly childish. I felt that Kelsey needed to give him a good punch to the balls...
And speaking of Kelsey, I liked her. I liked her a lot. I absolutely adored her quirkiness. Her spewing of random facts when she is nervous was perfection, I thought everything about Kelsey was just downright adorable. My only pet peeve is at some points I felt her story was left with awkward unanswered issues. I understood the issue with her ex-husband and their interactions. At one point he was abrasive towards her and the next he wanted to have dinner and discuss their next steps to being friends. It was semi rushed for my tastes.
Kelsey and Carlos together - oh my lanta. Their passion and chemistry absolutely radiated off the pages. Honestly I felt that they just had so much to gain from one another; Carlos I think really aided in helping Kelsey see how amazing she was, or maybe it was helping her feel wanted and beautiful, it was perfect. Kelsey in turn really showed Carlos how to really just man up. They just meshed well together, developed together and their character growth was scrumptious - and lets face it, the sexy scenes were yummy.
Overall, I am loving this series by Rylie. She blows me away with her writing style, fun, light and just entertaining with her characters. Needing to Love You was an absolute gem, even with my personal pet peeves, it was enjoyable to say the least. I laughed, I cried, I chuckled - possible snortable happened, and definitely swooned. Carlos and Kelsey swooped in and stole my heart and soul - I cannot wait to continue my support for Erin Rylie, she can only go up from here!
Next up, I cannot wait to get my hands on Reese and that Becky! Seriously, I have a feeling it is going to be phenomenal. Hopefully I see you in Wanting to Love You!
***Received an Advanced Readers Copy from author in exchange for an honest review***
I love the charm that Carlos has with his personality. He has this snide, charismatic sarcastic essence that just drips with the swoon-worthy antics; I am melting with glee. Everything about how he interacts with every character, not just Kelsey, but the rest of the girl gang, especially Becky. But not only that but the bromance that is Carlos and Rafe - flipping adorably hilarious. And now adding in Reese. Holy moly cracker barrel on a stick, gimmie some of Reese and Carlos together more. Just their meeting interaction made me chuckle so hard, I can see even more bromance-a-brewing. Though I really did love his character, amazing personality, but at many points how he acted was rather annoying. Not saying it wasn't unwarranted with his personal struggles he was going through, but honestly for most of the novel he acted slightly childish. I felt that Kelsey needed to give him a good punch to the balls...
And speaking of Kelsey, I liked her. I liked her a lot. I absolutely adored her quirkiness. Her spewing of random facts when she is nervous was perfection, I thought everything about Kelsey was just downright adorable. My only pet peeve is at some points I felt her story was left with awkward unanswered issues. I understood the issue with her ex-husband and their interactions. At one point he was abrasive towards her and the next he wanted to have dinner and discuss their next steps to being friends. It was semi rushed for my tastes.
Kelsey and Carlos together - oh my lanta. Their passion and chemistry absolutely radiated off the pages. Honestly I felt that they just had so much to gain from one another; Carlos I think really aided in helping Kelsey see how amazing she was, or maybe it was helping her feel wanted and beautiful, it was perfect. Kelsey in turn really showed Carlos how to really just man up. They just meshed well together, developed together and their character growth was scrumptious - and lets face it, the sexy scenes were yummy.
Overall, I am loving this series by Rylie. She blows me away with her writing style, fun, light and just entertaining with her characters. Needing to Love You was an absolute gem, even with my personal pet peeves, it was enjoyable to say the least. I laughed, I cried, I chuckled - possible snortable happened, and definitely swooned. Carlos and Kelsey swooped in and stole my heart and soul - I cannot wait to continue my support for Erin Rylie, she can only go up from here!
Next up, I cannot wait to get my hands on Reese and that Becky! Seriously, I have a feeling it is going to be phenomenal. Hopefully I see you in Wanting to Love You!
***Received an Advanced Readers Copy from author in exchange for an honest review***
August 17, 2021
This could have been so cute BUT
1. There is such a thing is too much dirty talking
And 2. He asks her to communicate and then didn’t communicate.
1. There is such a thing is too much dirty talking
And 2. He asks her to communicate and then didn’t communicate.
April 8, 2019
Needing to Love You by Erin Rylie
“Can they pull through? 4 stars”
First off, I’m going to offer you a trigger warning before you read any further. If you struggle with books involving addiction walk away now. This probably isn’t the story for you. If addiction doesn’t bother you or you want to read a success story then go ahead and one-click Needing to Love You.
Carlos came into Kelsey’s life when she needed it. She was going through a divorce and she could use someone with his sense of humor to keep her spirits up. The chemistry between them is undeniable but Kelsey won’t go there. But when Carlos needs her, she steps up to the plate. Will she be able to keep him at arm’s length or will she push him away? Will Carlos be able to pull himself out of the depression he’s found himself in or will he stay there? Only one way to find out..
Needing to Love You is a beautiful story about how sometimes you just need to love someone even though you don’t want to. Carlos and Kelsey can’t stay away from each other but both have their own baggage holding them back. Rylie is a new to me author and I was highly impressed. I cannot wait to see what she does next.
Plot-4/5
Characters-4/5
Heat-4/5
Writing style-5/5
Overall-4/5
“Can they pull through? 4 stars”
First off, I’m going to offer you a trigger warning before you read any further. If you struggle with books involving addiction walk away now. This probably isn’t the story for you. If addiction doesn’t bother you or you want to read a success story then go ahead and one-click Needing to Love You.
Carlos came into Kelsey’s life when she needed it. She was going through a divorce and she could use someone with his sense of humor to keep her spirits up. The chemistry between them is undeniable but Kelsey won’t go there. But when Carlos needs her, she steps up to the plate. Will she be able to keep him at arm’s length or will she push him away? Will Carlos be able to pull himself out of the depression he’s found himself in or will he stay there? Only one way to find out..
Needing to Love You is a beautiful story about how sometimes you just need to love someone even though you don’t want to. Carlos and Kelsey can’t stay away from each other but both have their own baggage holding them back. Rylie is a new to me author and I was highly impressed. I cannot wait to see what she does next.
Plot-4/5
Characters-4/5
Heat-4/5
Writing style-5/5
Overall-4/5
April 17, 2019
Needing to Love you sucked me in from the start. This is book two in Erin Rylie's Houston's Finest series, but can definitely be read as a stand alone (as it is my first book of hers). I found myself hooked on this story, because the characters are compelling, there's a lot of depth there, with both of them having their own separate issues that cloud their lives stemming from the past.
Carlos had me both wanting to know him better and feeling bad for certain things I learned, he's a good man but he has so many facets that have made him who he is. I loved that he oozed charm and yet it didn't always work for him in getting what he wanted - at least not right away. He's very easy to like and to fall in love with. His interactions with not only his leading lady, Kelsey, but also the other characters within these pages were fun, and sweet and enticing to see more.
Kelsey was a woman who'd been hurt, she's cautious because of it, but she's also someone who just came off as a friend. I liked her from the get go, from her talking random facts to calm her nerves to her to her strong need to help Carlos and keep him in Houston rather than letting him go with his mother. She fought for what he needed before she even really thought about why she was doing it.
I really enjoyed watching as these two discovered what truly lie between them and just how good it could be.
Carlos had me both wanting to know him better and feeling bad for certain things I learned, he's a good man but he has so many facets that have made him who he is. I loved that he oozed charm and yet it didn't always work for him in getting what he wanted - at least not right away. He's very easy to like and to fall in love with. His interactions with not only his leading lady, Kelsey, but also the other characters within these pages were fun, and sweet and enticing to see more.
Kelsey was a woman who'd been hurt, she's cautious because of it, but she's also someone who just came off as a friend. I liked her from the get go, from her talking random facts to calm her nerves to her to her strong need to help Carlos and keep him in Houston rather than letting him go with his mother. She fought for what he needed before she even really thought about why she was doing it.
I really enjoyed watching as these two discovered what truly lie between them and just how good it could be.
April 26, 2019
Wow I loved this book! I thought nothing could top Rafe and Sophie, but boy was I wrong. Carlos is such a multidimensional character and he had me laughing but also wanting to shout at him this whole book. The emotions were high in this one and were so well written. I love that both Kelsey and Carlos have their flaws - they were such real characters that I instantly wanted to be their friends. I was rooting for them the whole time - I adored the non-traditional happy ending and I can’t wait to see more of them in the next book (PLEASE!) Of course the romance was hot hot hot which I loved. And the ending DRAMATIC - I’m dying for the next one!
May 23, 2019
In all honesty : how could you not love a book when the author add Illuminae and Jay Kristoff references next to the Hemsworth brother and Friends while combining sweet random fact and heartbreaks and sexy make up sessions.
I loved the first one but damn Carlos wins the pot - love this goofball so much.
And this ending ! damn ... book 3 is needed like RIGHT. NOW.
I loved the first one but damn Carlos wins the pot - love this goofball so much.
And this ending ! damn ... book 3 is needed like RIGHT. NOW.
March 7, 2019
Another great book by the fabulous Erin!
Review coming closer to release date.
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April 17, 2019
I really enjoyed my second book by Erin Rylie. I loved the storyline and the characters. I really connected with the female protagonist I loved her quirky nature. I love how real the book is with the relationship between the two characters. I can't wait for the next book all about Reese and Becky
March 5, 2019
I was lucky enough to get my hands on this baby early and while the wait for this book was brutal, it was also so so worth it!
Meeting Carlos in book one was a highlight for me because instantly I adored him, he was charismatic and charming and funny and while he played way to much you could tell it was always done with love.
Kelsey was more reserved, not that she was cold or standoffish but she didn’t use humor as a shield and therefore seeing her go up against Carlos and his humor was a joy.
I’ll give you no spoilers here but know that these two sweet and silly and wounded people struggle with serious things. They go through pain and loss and growing pains alone and with their families and friends and with one another. It’s not always the easiest story because of the subject matter but it’s damn worth it because it’s seriously special.
I’ll give you one truth, if you enjoyed book one or love to see the terrifying fall into love, you will enjoy this story.
Meeting Carlos in book one was a highlight for me because instantly I adored him, he was charismatic and charming and funny and while he played way to much you could tell it was always done with love.
Kelsey was more reserved, not that she was cold or standoffish but she didn’t use humor as a shield and therefore seeing her go up against Carlos and his humor was a joy.
I’ll give you no spoilers here but know that these two sweet and silly and wounded people struggle with serious things. They go through pain and loss and growing pains alone and with their families and friends and with one another. It’s not always the easiest story because of the subject matter but it’s damn worth it because it’s seriously special.
I’ll give you one truth, if you enjoyed book one or love to see the terrifying fall into love, you will enjoy this story.
April 15, 2019
When it comes to romances my favorite ones have a perfect balance of witty banter and scorching encounters between the heroes and heroines and I’m happy to report that this tale has all this and more. With an entertaining main couple in Carlos and Kelsey who singe the sheets while dealing with their painful pasts and personal issues, I was invested in their HEA from the very start and found myself laughing one moment while fanning my face the next. Heavy issues of emotional abuse and addiction were also touched on to pull me into the lives of this couple and kept me rooting for them every step of the way.
Carlos Ramirez is a cop whose job means everything to him. He defines himself by his work, so when an injury forces him into a lengthy recovery it throws him for a loop. It takes him to a dark place that brings up his painful past and has him making choices that could ruin everything. Before his accident he had an unforgettable night with a friend of his partner’s wife, one that he wanted to see become something more, but she kept him firmly in the friend-zone. Just when he needs her most though she opens up her home to help him recover and in the process it’s their hearts and minds that also need to recover. Living together has them becoming a family, something that she subtly fights against out of fear, while he comes to crave it more and more in a tender and angsty journey to HEA. Carlos is a sexy hero, a carefree one who’s quick to make a joke. He may be serious when it comes to his job, but in his personal life he’s a fun-loving jokester who can be counted on to provide a laugh. Behind that fun and sexy veneer though is a man full of vulnerabilities, fears of failure fueled by his mother and Kelsey’s inability to open her heart. It’s a heartbreaking journey of recovery for his body and soul, one that I was fully invested in and it drew me to him all the more. It’s a journey full of realism that had Carlos ultimately addressing his demons head-on in a scene that was empowering and showed him to be a true hero.
Kelsey Byrne is still recovering from a divorce, one that she decided upon. From that moment on it’s her son James who becomes her focus until an unforgettable night with a friend of her friend’s boyfriend. Since that night though she’s kept him firmly in the friend-zone, despite his constant attempts to charm his way into her life, as she’s afraid of giving into her ever-strengthening feelings for him. With him needing a place to recover though she’s quick to offer to play nursemaid which sets them on a rocky road to HEA, a road that pulled at my heartstrings while frustrating me a time or two. Kelsey’s a fierce mama bear when it comes to her son James and there are many scenes that showed their strong bond. She’s a great support to her friends too and I enjoyed their Girl’s Nights as they were funny but it showed her tendency to keep things to herself. Whereas they were an open book, she hid many of her feelings behind a strong and stoic wall, a wall that she learned to erect in her youth. Her fears of being vulnerable though did a disservice to Carlos as he loves with his whole heart and never held back when it came to his feelings for her. To hide her fears she was quick to find fault when Carlos was at his lowest and it disappointed me as she made sure to cut deep. She was content with superficiality until he forced her into reality, a messy reality that had her ultimately putting her heart on the line in a hard-fought HEA.
I found this an immensely satisfying read courtesy of Carlos and his fun and flirty nature. He was a master at dirty talk, but not afraid to express his feelings for Kelsey which had him desperate to get her to be honest in exchanges late in the story that brought a tear to my eye. Along with them dealing with heavy emotional issues were many scorching scenes that made me blush and highlighted their crackling banter. His interactions with James further won me over and though I don’t normally enjoy children in my romance books I found James a real charmer who brought out an endearing side to Carlos. Though Kelsey sometimes frustrated me, by the end I appreciated how far she came in opening up and it made for an even more feel-good ending. Though this book ended with a definite HEA it also ended with a small shocker...one that I had seen coming and that has me excited for what comes next as Kelsey’s friend Becky has her own truths to tell to the man who’s Carlos’ new partner. In a cast of equally entertaining secondary characters I was immediately drawn to Reese and his Mountain Man looks and the fallout of his and Becky’s pasts promises fireworks. Not having read the first book in this series I still found myself enjoying Carlos’ old partner Rafe and his new wife Sophie who’s Kelsey’s other friend. They were a sweet and supportive couple and I found Rafe’s wholehearted embrace of fatherhood utterly charming. On a whole this was an immensely appealing romance full of angst, laughs, sizzling encounters, and characters who were easy to relate to and I recommend it to readers looking for a story full of heart and soul!
4.5 STARS
Carlos Ramirez is a cop whose job means everything to him. He defines himself by his work, so when an injury forces him into a lengthy recovery it throws him for a loop. It takes him to a dark place that brings up his painful past and has him making choices that could ruin everything. Before his accident he had an unforgettable night with a friend of his partner’s wife, one that he wanted to see become something more, but she kept him firmly in the friend-zone. Just when he needs her most though she opens up her home to help him recover and in the process it’s their hearts and minds that also need to recover. Living together has them becoming a family, something that she subtly fights against out of fear, while he comes to crave it more and more in a tender and angsty journey to HEA. Carlos is a sexy hero, a carefree one who’s quick to make a joke. He may be serious when it comes to his job, but in his personal life he’s a fun-loving jokester who can be counted on to provide a laugh. Behind that fun and sexy veneer though is a man full of vulnerabilities, fears of failure fueled by his mother and Kelsey’s inability to open her heart. It’s a heartbreaking journey of recovery for his body and soul, one that I was fully invested in and it drew me to him all the more. It’s a journey full of realism that had Carlos ultimately addressing his demons head-on in a scene that was empowering and showed him to be a true hero.
Kelsey Byrne is still recovering from a divorce, one that she decided upon. From that moment on it’s her son James who becomes her focus until an unforgettable night with a friend of her friend’s boyfriend. Since that night though she’s kept him firmly in the friend-zone, despite his constant attempts to charm his way into her life, as she’s afraid of giving into her ever-strengthening feelings for him. With him needing a place to recover though she’s quick to offer to play nursemaid which sets them on a rocky road to HEA, a road that pulled at my heartstrings while frustrating me a time or two. Kelsey’s a fierce mama bear when it comes to her son James and there are many scenes that showed their strong bond. She’s a great support to her friends too and I enjoyed their Girl’s Nights as they were funny but it showed her tendency to keep things to herself. Whereas they were an open book, she hid many of her feelings behind a strong and stoic wall, a wall that she learned to erect in her youth. Her fears of being vulnerable though did a disservice to Carlos as he loves with his whole heart and never held back when it came to his feelings for her. To hide her fears she was quick to find fault when Carlos was at his lowest and it disappointed me as she made sure to cut deep. She was content with superficiality until he forced her into reality, a messy reality that had her ultimately putting her heart on the line in a hard-fought HEA.
I found this an immensely satisfying read courtesy of Carlos and his fun and flirty nature. He was a master at dirty talk, but not afraid to express his feelings for Kelsey which had him desperate to get her to be honest in exchanges late in the story that brought a tear to my eye. Along with them dealing with heavy emotional issues were many scorching scenes that made me blush and highlighted their crackling banter. His interactions with James further won me over and though I don’t normally enjoy children in my romance books I found James a real charmer who brought out an endearing side to Carlos. Though Kelsey sometimes frustrated me, by the end I appreciated how far she came in opening up and it made for an even more feel-good ending. Though this book ended with a definite HEA it also ended with a small shocker...one that I had seen coming and that has me excited for what comes next as Kelsey’s friend Becky has her own truths to tell to the man who’s Carlos’ new partner. In a cast of equally entertaining secondary characters I was immediately drawn to Reese and his Mountain Man looks and the fallout of his and Becky’s pasts promises fireworks. Not having read the first book in this series I still found myself enjoying Carlos’ old partner Rafe and his new wife Sophie who’s Kelsey’s other friend. They were a sweet and supportive couple and I found Rafe’s wholehearted embrace of fatherhood utterly charming. On a whole this was an immensely appealing romance full of angst, laughs, sizzling encounters, and characters who were easy to relate to and I recommend it to readers looking for a story full of heart and soul!
4.5 STARS
May 1, 2019
I am just so in love with Erin Rylie and the stories that she has to tell! It is amazing to me that she is a relatively new author and her stories are already so well written.
We met Carlos and Kelsey in the first book, Hating to Love You, and I knew they were going to have an epic story. Kelsey is recently divorced and strongly believes that she can’t stay in love with anyone if she couldn’t even stay in love with her husband. Carlos is a recently injured police officer who never learned how to love himself and it struggling to find meaning in a world without being a police officer…even if its only temporary.
Carlos and Kelsey had an explosive night one year ago, but when Carlos was ready to make it serious…Kelsey ran, thinking it was too soon. Now, Carlos is recovering in Kelsey’s house while battling demons, and Kelsey is trying to keep things strictly on the friendship level while fighting her desire for more.
Kelsey is a beautiful woman who puts her son first…even at the cost of her happiness. I really liked Kelsey and related to her aversion to sharing what she was feeling. She has a protective guard up a mile high and only a special person will be able to knock it down.
I think Carlos was my favorite in this book. I really loved his humor, which he wore as a mask to hide his feelings. He said the most ridiculous things, but it brought levity into a book that was dealing with potentially devastating topics. I loved Carlos’ tenacity and how he never gave up even when the cards were stacked against him.
Another one of my favorite things about this book is that we got to see Race and Sophie as well as their beautiful daughter. I am salivating for Becky and Reese’s book because based on the ending of this one…book 3 is going to be even more epic than this one!
Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars!
Blog: www.radbabesread.com
We met Carlos and Kelsey in the first book, Hating to Love You, and I knew they were going to have an epic story. Kelsey is recently divorced and strongly believes that she can’t stay in love with anyone if she couldn’t even stay in love with her husband. Carlos is a recently injured police officer who never learned how to love himself and it struggling to find meaning in a world without being a police officer…even if its only temporary.
Carlos and Kelsey had an explosive night one year ago, but when Carlos was ready to make it serious…Kelsey ran, thinking it was too soon. Now, Carlos is recovering in Kelsey’s house while battling demons, and Kelsey is trying to keep things strictly on the friendship level while fighting her desire for more.
Kelsey is a beautiful woman who puts her son first…even at the cost of her happiness. I really liked Kelsey and related to her aversion to sharing what she was feeling. She has a protective guard up a mile high and only a special person will be able to knock it down.
I think Carlos was my favorite in this book. I really loved his humor, which he wore as a mask to hide his feelings. He said the most ridiculous things, but it brought levity into a book that was dealing with potentially devastating topics. I loved Carlos’ tenacity and how he never gave up even when the cards were stacked against him.
Another one of my favorite things about this book is that we got to see Race and Sophie as well as their beautiful daughter. I am salivating for Becky and Reese’s book because based on the ending of this one…book 3 is going to be even more epic than this one!
Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars!
Blog: www.radbabesread.com
April 6, 2019
*I received this ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. *
I enjoyed Needing to Love You a lot. Kelsey had me wanting to bang my head against a wall for most of the book with her stubbornness and the reasons she used to keep Carlos at bay. Needing to Love You was more angsty than the first book and dealt with some deep issues for both characters. I found myself relating to parts of Carlos and Kelsey's characters. I have experience with some of the things they have so I was able to connect with both of them as I was reading and was drawn into the book instantly. I liked both Kelsey and Carlos in Hating to Love You so I was excited to see their story.
I loved how Erin made it all work. Even though this one was more angsty I still laughed a lot and there was plenty of steam in this one. The book had good pacing and nothing really happened too fast. Kelsey did not immediately fold on her stance just because Carlos was living with her. Carlos wasn't just okay after the accident he was in. It took a long while for him to recover and I loved seeing the issues he went through to get there. I loved their relationship and James was so adorable. He made this story so much more than it was. I loved seeing more of Rafe, Sophie, and Becky and meeting baby Ella. I also liked meeting Reese who seemed to fit in with Rafe and Carlos just fine.
I cannot wait for Wanting to Love You (Reese and Becky's story)! I love Erin's writing style and the stories she weaves are masterful.
I enjoyed Needing to Love You a lot. Kelsey had me wanting to bang my head against a wall for most of the book with her stubbornness and the reasons she used to keep Carlos at bay. Needing to Love You was more angsty than the first book and dealt with some deep issues for both characters. I found myself relating to parts of Carlos and Kelsey's characters. I have experience with some of the things they have so I was able to connect with both of them as I was reading and was drawn into the book instantly. I liked both Kelsey and Carlos in Hating to Love You so I was excited to see their story.
I loved how Erin made it all work. Even though this one was more angsty I still laughed a lot and there was plenty of steam in this one. The book had good pacing and nothing really happened too fast. Kelsey did not immediately fold on her stance just because Carlos was living with her. Carlos wasn't just okay after the accident he was in. It took a long while for him to recover and I loved seeing the issues he went through to get there. I loved their relationship and James was so adorable. He made this story so much more than it was. I loved seeing more of Rafe, Sophie, and Becky and meeting baby Ella. I also liked meeting Reese who seemed to fit in with Rafe and Carlos just fine.
I cannot wait for Wanting to Love You (Reese and Becky's story)! I love Erin's writing style and the stories she weaves are masterful.
April 7, 2019
Okay, first of all, I want to give a huge applause to Erin. She just became one of my favorite authors. I never say that after reading one book, but now I’ve read a second book by her and it was even better I can just say it.
Needing To Love You is heart-breaking and heart-warming all in one. It has the perfect amount of everything in it, drama, emotion, hot and sexy scenes and of course, scenes with the little one. In my opinion, this is how a book should be written. At all times, this book felt so real to me. The things the characters were going through, their feelings, their reactions, everything happening, consequences of something, it was all perfectly real, which is a huge plus because that makes a story way better and makes it that you –as a reader- can really connect to the book and its characters.
I don’t even have words to say how much I loved this book. Did I go through the book as fast as I went through the first? No, but that’s because I have work to do now. This book actually got me out of a reading slump –again, Erin Rylie is really good at that. Really, hands up for this author. This is just her second book, but she writes it as though she’s been writing since birth. She’s amazingly talented and I can’t wait for her next book –as well as in this series as her next upcoming series.
I definitely, definitely recommend this book. It’s just amazing. I loved every second reading it and I think everyone should read this book and Hating To Love You as well. Can’t wait for Wanting To Love You!
5/5 stars.
Needing To Love You is heart-breaking and heart-warming all in one. It has the perfect amount of everything in it, drama, emotion, hot and sexy scenes and of course, scenes with the little one. In my opinion, this is how a book should be written. At all times, this book felt so real to me. The things the characters were going through, their feelings, their reactions, everything happening, consequences of something, it was all perfectly real, which is a huge plus because that makes a story way better and makes it that you –as a reader- can really connect to the book and its characters.
I don’t even have words to say how much I loved this book. Did I go through the book as fast as I went through the first? No, but that’s because I have work to do now. This book actually got me out of a reading slump –again, Erin Rylie is really good at that. Really, hands up for this author. This is just her second book, but she writes it as though she’s been writing since birth. She’s amazingly talented and I can’t wait for her next book –as well as in this series as her next upcoming series.
I definitely, definitely recommend this book. It’s just amazing. I loved every second reading it and I think everyone should read this book and Hating To Love You as well. Can’t wait for Wanting To Love You!
5/5 stars.
June 7, 2019
Ok... there was a couple of things that got to me. The first being not looking up this book to see if it was part of a series. I’ve never read anything by this author. So, I just assumed this was a stand-alone. It’s not.
It’s my fault... I should’ve looked it up before signing up for the blog tour. This book is a second in a series. I hate! Jumping into a series. Because you just never know if you’re constantly going to be missing something. Some books pull it off. This book did not. Some major things must’ve happened between Kelsey and her ex that involved Carlos.
I found that little bit of information 11% in when Kyle the ex said something to Kelsey.
“Too late, she realized her mistake and Kyle’s features closed off in front of her. “You know, you keep telling me you didn’t fucking cheat on me with that douchebag—that you left because you just weren’t happy—but I’m still not buying it. Nobody puts in this much effort for someone who is just a friend.”
I hate having to guess at things. That’s why I like to read books in order.
I just wasn’t feeling the writing in this book. It just wasn’t flowing for me. I wasn’t feeling the characters. This book just wasn’t for me.
*ARC provided for an honest review*
It’s my fault... I should’ve looked it up before signing up for the blog tour. This book is a second in a series. I hate! Jumping into a series. Because you just never know if you’re constantly going to be missing something. Some books pull it off. This book did not. Some major things must’ve happened between Kelsey and her ex that involved Carlos.
I found that little bit of information 11% in when Kyle the ex said something to Kelsey.
“Too late, she realized her mistake and Kyle’s features closed off in front of her. “You know, you keep telling me you didn’t fucking cheat on me with that douchebag—that you left because you just weren’t happy—but I’m still not buying it. Nobody puts in this much effort for someone who is just a friend.”
I hate having to guess at things. That’s why I like to read books in order.
I just wasn’t feeling the writing in this book. It just wasn’t flowing for me. I wasn’t feeling the characters. This book just wasn’t for me.
*ARC provided for an honest review*
April 13, 2019
That was an amazing read. 5 stars! A must read!
Needing to Love You is about two people who are broken and are afraid to commit to a true relationship. Kelsey who just recently divorced and has the cutest 3 yr old boy knows it's her fault that she's divorced, but isn't sure why. Carlos is a police officer bachelor who might want to settle down with Kelsey but wants full communicate that Kelsey isn't willing to give. Can these two fix each other and love completely?
Erin did a fantastic job with this one. It's part of a series but can be read as a standalone. The characters are loveable especially James (Kelsey's 3 yr old). Erin brings to in and had to laughing and at times crying but you'll love every minute till the end. Easy to follow along with Carlos and Kelsey's point of view.
***ARC provided in return for honest review, read for Sweet and Spicy Reads***
Needing to Love You is about two people who are broken and are afraid to commit to a true relationship. Kelsey who just recently divorced and has the cutest 3 yr old boy knows it's her fault that she's divorced, but isn't sure why. Carlos is a police officer bachelor who might want to settle down with Kelsey but wants full communicate that Kelsey isn't willing to give. Can these two fix each other and love completely?
Erin did a fantastic job with this one. It's part of a series but can be read as a standalone. The characters are loveable especially James (Kelsey's 3 yr old). Erin brings to in and had to laughing and at times crying but you'll love every minute till the end. Easy to follow along with Carlos and Kelsey's point of view.
***ARC provided in return for honest review, read for Sweet and Spicy Reads***
April 13, 2019
Kelsey is a divorced single mother to her three year old son James. Carlos was there to help her with the aftermath of the most painful experience of her life and they shared one night together. After that due to her past she pushed him back into the friend zone.
Carlos not only loves his career as a police officer, but he needs him. After an accident leaves him unable to work until he recovers he is at a loss and having difficulty coping. Kelsey agrees to have him life with her until he heals but dealing with the feelings she has for him, especially when she sees how he is with her son is not making it any easier.
This is an emotional story about love, family and second chances. This story illustrates that love isn’t all champagne and roses, it is messy, and it is how you support each other through the ups and downs that makes it worthwhile.
Carlos not only loves his career as a police officer, but he needs him. After an accident leaves him unable to work until he recovers he is at a loss and having difficulty coping. Kelsey agrees to have him life with her until he heals but dealing with the feelings she has for him, especially when she sees how he is with her son is not making it any easier.
This is an emotional story about love, family and second chances. This story illustrates that love isn’t all champagne and roses, it is messy, and it is how you support each other through the ups and downs that makes it worthwhile.
April 12, 2019
So this was my first book by Erin Rylie. It was really well written and took a hold of me from the very first page. Needing To Love You started off funny and flirty but soon became so much more on a deeper level dealing with addiction and being able to open yourself up to true love.
Carlos and Kelsey are made for each other but at every turn Kelsey pushes Carlos away. When Carlos is injured in the line of duty Kelsey is there to help nurse him back to health but it's not going to be easy.
Can they both fight off their demons and and finally be honest with each other before it's to late and they lose each other forever.
A great story that I thoughly enjoyed I'm really looking forward to Reese and Becky's book and I'll also be going back and reading book 1 in this series too.
Carlos and Kelsey are made for each other but at every turn Kelsey pushes Carlos away. When Carlos is injured in the line of duty Kelsey is there to help nurse him back to health but it's not going to be easy.
Can they both fight off their demons and and finally be honest with each other before it's to late and they lose each other forever.
A great story that I thoughly enjoyed I'm really looking forward to Reese and Becky's book and I'll also be going back and reading book 1 in this series too.
April 13, 2019
4.5 Stars
This was such a good book. I loved the characters so much. Carlos had me laughing quite often. I loved his humorous personality. The banter between Kelsey and Carlos was one of my favorite parts of the book. Kelsey's son is just too adorable I could eat him up. The scenes with Carlos and Kelsey's son were so heartwarming. Carlos is a big kid at heart and it shows how much he enjoys speeding time with James This does have a very playful fun vibe, but it also has hit you in the heart serious moments. It's a well rounded book that delivers on heat, humor, and heart. I can't tell you how much this one has left me eagerly awaiting the next book with the set up this book delivered. This is a book you don't want to miss!
This was such a good book. I loved the characters so much. Carlos had me laughing quite often. I loved his humorous personality. The banter between Kelsey and Carlos was one of my favorite parts of the book. Kelsey's son is just too adorable I could eat him up. The scenes with Carlos and Kelsey's son were so heartwarming. Carlos is a big kid at heart and it shows how much he enjoys speeding time with James This does have a very playful fun vibe, but it also has hit you in the heart serious moments. It's a well rounded book that delivers on heat, humor, and heart. I can't tell you how much this one has left me eagerly awaiting the next book with the set up this book delivered. This is a book you don't want to miss!
April 13, 2019
3.75 stars
Carlos was hilarious and so happy-go-lucky in the first book of the series, and I was surprised to find so much more than his good attitude and jokes to love about him.
He and Kelsey shared one night together a year ago, but she steps up after Carlos is in an accident and needs help.
Really great chemistry between them and the ups and downs they faced felt relatable and real. There were also some appearances from Sophie and Rafe and their new baby girl!
Needing to Love you had a nice balance of moments that made me laugh out loud and more serious, thoughtful moments. I am really looking forward to the next book, especially after that epilogue!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
Carlos was hilarious and so happy-go-lucky in the first book of the series, and I was surprised to find so much more than his good attitude and jokes to love about him.
He and Kelsey shared one night together a year ago, but she steps up after Carlos is in an accident and needs help.
Really great chemistry between them and the ups and downs they faced felt relatable and real. There were also some appearances from Sophie and Rafe and their new baby girl!
Needing to Love you had a nice balance of moments that made me laugh out loud and more serious, thoughtful moments. I am really looking forward to the next book, especially after that epilogue!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
April 14, 2019
5 STAR Review by Jodi for Ruby Red Romance Review
I'm new to Erin Rylie, but I'm pleased to say I'm a huge fan now. I loved Needing to Love You from start to finish. Carlos loves his job and he's good at it, but now he's been injured and he needs help. Kelsey has dealt with her share of pain. She's kind and reserved, which I liked. She and Carlos really were made for each other, but Kelsey doesn't want to get to close. She doesn't want to get hurt. But when Carlos needs her, all that goes out the window.
I loved the fall in this book. I loved these two together. I loved getting to know their stories and why they are who they are. I needed this story almost as much as Kelsey and Carlos needed each other. Great book! Please check it out.
I'm new to Erin Rylie, but I'm pleased to say I'm a huge fan now. I loved Needing to Love You from start to finish. Carlos loves his job and he's good at it, but now he's been injured and he needs help. Kelsey has dealt with her share of pain. She's kind and reserved, which I liked. She and Carlos really were made for each other, but Kelsey doesn't want to get to close. She doesn't want to get hurt. But when Carlos needs her, all that goes out the window.
I loved the fall in this book. I loved these two together. I loved getting to know their stories and why they are who they are. I needed this story almost as much as Kelsey and Carlos needed each other. Great book! Please check it out.
April 14, 2019
Needing to Love you by Erin Rylie was a read that was easy to fall into and get lost in. I fell in love with Carlos and Kelsey in book one in this series and couldn’t wait to see how their love played out. With each of them fighting their own internal battles of self love/worth, it was great watching them still fight for each other when they needed it. The chemistry was fire and the emotion was heart melting.
It also really loved getting to see where Rafe and Sophie were in their lives since their story ended. I’m such a fan of Erin’s writing style. She is such a great addition to the contemporary romance scene and I can’t wait for more from her.
*Arc generously provided for honest review.
April 11, 2019
Kelsey and Carlos aren't your standard romance couple. Needing to Love You doesn't hand readers a happy ending on a silver platter. Author Erin Rylie makes us work for it. That makes for a more realistic and relatable journey. Delving deep into the humanity of their story, gives insight into the struggles each needs to overcome. What develops is a full course meal. From the sneak peaks into their emotions to the tempting attraction and the roadblocks that keep pulling them back to square one, we see the best and worst parts of what heartache can do and the spirit it takes to conquer the pain.
March 26, 2019
OH MY GOD! I didn't think I could love this book as much as the first one but Erin did it! This book is my new favorite book! Carlos and Kelsey are the most adorable, geeky pairing and I love them! I laughed out loud more times in this one than the first one, especially at James and his love of learning and knowledge overall. I truly hope to have a child like James some day because the kid is so freaking adorable! The whole story had my heart going and a smile on my face. The ending has me reeling and NEEDING the next book!
March 27, 2019
My girl does it again! I finished this puppy in one sitting and I’m already in need of her next book! I truly enjoyed the stripping back of Carlos and Kelsey that occurred while I laughed and cried my way through this book. Erin balanced the lightheartedness, laughter and love with some real, tough topics and let me tell you, it was all worth it! So proud to call this incredible woman my friend and if you know what’s good for you, you’ll pick this book up!
April 17, 2019
This author is new to me but I def enjoy her style and will coming back for more.
I truly enjoyed this story! Carlos and Kelsey are def great together, even when they fight it, but how they are as individuals and how they are together..there is def a benefit because they each bring to the other person something they miss.
It's a lovely story, one that made me feel a lot and also made me laugh.
I liked the other characters as well.
I truly enjoyed this story! Carlos and Kelsey are def great together, even when they fight it, but how they are as individuals and how they are together..there is def a benefit because they each bring to the other person something they miss.
It's a lovely story, one that made me feel a lot and also made me laugh.
I liked the other characters as well.
September 23, 2019
It's hard when two characters you're attached to struggle to work their shit out. Not as funny as the first one, but maybe sweeter? I'm glad the ex husband drama that started in the first book, ended there.
To be honest about halfway through, I debated not finishing it (Because I didn't feel like I super needed to, I knew a HFN was coming/things were dragging along) but it sets up for the third one. So eh.
To be honest about halfway through, I debated not finishing it (Because I didn't feel like I super needed to, I knew a HFN was coming/things were dragging along) but it sets up for the third one. So eh.
April 12, 2019
This is a beautifully emotional story that I could not put down! The journey that both Carlos and Kelsey go through in this book was heartbreaking, but it was so worth it in the end. The writing in Needing to Love You was amazing - it just flowed and kept me hooked the entire time I was reading. LOVED!
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