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Opposites Attract #4
The Something about Her
I quit life. Or at least my new job.
My new, fancy, head chef position at one of the most acclaimed restaurants in the city is not turning out like I’d hoped. I’m a mess. Totally out of my element and underqualified, I’ve been thrown into a fiery kitchen and I’m not sure I can handle the heat.
On top of that, my personal life is falling apart. And to make matters worse, my best friend's brother keeps popping up at all my worst moments to save the day.
I’ve never claimed to have it together, but I certainly don’t need a man to rescue me every time I get my heel stuck in a sewer grate. Except that’s what keeps happening.
Vann Delane is pushy and stuck up and thinks he knows everything there is to know about everything. And for whatever reason, he keeps saving me.
Not that he’s happy about it. He’s made it clear what he thinks about my money and dream job and the designer shoes he saved last weekend. He’s not impressed with me and my penchant for disaster.
I’ve decided to stay away from him. I’ve got too many other fires to put out to worry about the something between us that doesn’t have a name.
So, he can give his knight in shining armor kindness to someone else. And he can save those intense glances and butterfly-inducing smiles for the nice girl he’s looking for. And he can deny it all he wants, but I know he likes me.
He says I drive him crazy. But I know there’s something about me that he can’t deny.
My new, fancy, head chef position at one of the most acclaimed restaurants in the city is not turning out like I’d hoped. I’m a mess. Totally out of my element and underqualified, I’ve been thrown into a fiery kitchen and I’m not sure I can handle the heat.
On top of that, my personal life is falling apart. And to make matters worse, my best friend's brother keeps popping up at all my worst moments to save the day.
I’ve never claimed to have it together, but I certainly don’t need a man to rescue me every time I get my heel stuck in a sewer grate. Except that’s what keeps happening.
Vann Delane is pushy and stuck up and thinks he knows everything there is to know about everything. And for whatever reason, he keeps saving me.
Not that he’s happy about it. He’s made it clear what he thinks about my money and dream job and the designer shoes he saved last weekend. He’s not impressed with me and my penchant for disaster.
I’ve decided to stay away from him. I’ve got too many other fires to put out to worry about the something between us that doesn’t have a name.
So, he can give his knight in shining armor kindness to someone else. And he can save those intense glances and butterfly-inducing smiles for the nice girl he’s looking for. And he can deny it all he wants, but I know he likes me.
He says I drive him crazy. But I know there’s something about me that he can’t deny.
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First published February 26, 2019
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About the author
Rachel Higginson
122 books3,496 followersRachel Higginson is the best-selling author of The Five Stages of Falling in Love, Every Wrong Reason, Bet on Us and The Star-Crossed Series.
She was born and raised in Nebraska, and spent her college years traveling the world. She fell in love with Eastern Europe, Paris, Indian Food and the beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka, but came back home to marry her high school sweetheart. Now she spends her days writing stories and raising five amazing kids.
She was born and raised in Nebraska, and spent her college years traveling the world. She fell in love with Eastern Europe, Paris, Indian Food and the beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka, but came back home to marry her high school sweetheart. Now she spends her days writing stories and raising five amazing kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
February 25, 2019
This series has consistently drawn my attention and THE SOMETHING ABOUT HER did it again with Dillon and Vann. This was a slow burn offering that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.
Vann has previously been a quirky character, especially in book one. He was just lacking some focused attention in my opinion because Vann was all good guy. Books about good guys are underrated and I will champion reads like this for ever. Dillon was a complex, under confident and messy character but she sure was likeable. Vann and Dillon were the third wheels thrown together and considering this series has had its majority share of a hate-to-more trope, this switch-up was refreshing.
There was a serious underlying issue to this story and I felt it was handled reasonably well perhaps with less focus than I wished. When the issue did reveal, it was well written and compellingly narrated. It was a real bonus in this book to see the previous couples story arcs come to completion. Happy sigh.
I highly recommend this book but the series as a whole from start to finish.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.
Vann has previously been a quirky character, especially in book one. He was just lacking some focused attention in my opinion because Vann was all good guy. Books about good guys are underrated and I will champion reads like this for ever. Dillon was a complex, under confident and messy character but she sure was likeable. Vann and Dillon were the third wheels thrown together and considering this series has had its majority share of a hate-to-more trope, this switch-up was refreshing.
There was a serious underlying issue to this story and I felt it was handled reasonably well perhaps with less focus than I wished. When the issue did reveal, it was well written and compellingly narrated. It was a real bonus in this book to see the previous couples story arcs come to completion. Happy sigh.
I highly recommend this book but the series as a whole from start to finish.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.
February 27, 2019
I have loved Rachel Higginson's Opposites Attract series from the first book as I could not get enough of the spitfire banter and fiery attraction between her heroes and heroines in each respective novel. In particular after reading The Problem with Him, I was hoping we would get Dillon's book as she seemed to have a story that needed to be told. And honestly after reading this I was blown away. I loved her and Vann together and their chemistry and spirited back and forth exchanges. Their love story was filled with humor, swoony knee-weakening moments and emotional gut punches. This was a fantastic finale to an amazing series!
Without giving away any spoilers, The Something About Her begins when Dillon Baptiste is poised to start a new adventure in her life as the new Executive Chef at her brother's failing restaurant. With all the pressure of the world on her shoulders and faced with her own doubts and insecurities, she finds herself crossing paths with her bestfriend's brother, (and complete opposite), Vann Delane, and in the process becomes the unwelcome recipient of his Knight and Shining Armor ways. But as they spend more time with one another, they find that they have more in common than they initially thought and may not be so different after all.
Gah!! This novel was filled to the brim with the delicious chemistry we have come to expect from this author. Vann and Dillon's romance was honestly a slow-burn cauldron of goodness. It was a mixture of undeniable attraction, fun banter and an unexpected friendship that turned into something more. I especially loved this story as it was raw, visceral and painful at times and yet filled with moments that just made my heart melt with a million sighs.
Overall, Dillon was the epitome of a person living a broken life, not fully whole nor knowing who she really was inside as she forced herself to play a part for those around her. But along comes Vann and in his honest and forthright manner, he becomes the sanctuary she has always needed to finally breathe, feel safe and come into her own. He handled her as the prize she was and with the strength and courage he knew she had in her heart. I truly was swept away by this story, the familiar cast of characters and Vann and Dillon's love! I look forward to seeing more of Will English and his story in the future. Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
***
Good gravy, y'all. If you are not reading these Opposites Attract books, you are not living your best life. I've been a huge fan of this series from the very beginning and even I did not expect Dillon and Vann to root themselves so deeply into my heart. I'm still riding the high of how fantastic this story was.
Ms. Higginson has a gift for seamlessly layering her stories with heartfelt emotion, sharp, smart humor, and real world drama that is both interesting - and sometimes a little heartbreaking - to read. The Something About Her was no exception. There are so many layers here and I got blissfully lost in every one of them. Some serious, and yes - heartbreaking, subject matter was touched on here and it was handled with such grace and sensitivity that it somehow made my heart swell at the same time it caused it to shatter. The writing is so lovely, the tone so thoughtful, and the end result is a story that was impossible not to love.
I adored Dillon in a way that I didn't even see coming. I hurt for her and I was so insanely proud of her. I was completely sucked into not only her love story (and I'll get to my crazy adoration of that in a second) but also her growth as a chef and a leader.
But let's be real, the love story is the sweet spot and it was phenomenal. Y'all Vann is a perfect hero. God, I am just so crazy in love with him and the way he loved Dillon. These two together are romance perfection and I am literally one breath away from jumping up and down and squealing at you about how very much I loved them.
LOVED. Them.
Loved their sparky banter and palpable chemistry. Loved the push/pull they gave each other. Loved the way they communicated. Loved the way they fought each other and then fought for each other. Just -every single thing about them made my heart soar. They're a wonderfully mis-matched couple who somehow fit together perfectly. They were everything and - as it happens - so was this story.
On top of that, Ms. Higginson delivered a super satisfying update on each of the other couples in this series, and set up a friendship among this group that had me smiling so big as my heart swelled ever bigger. This book was the whole package - the writing, the storytelling, and the fantastic characters were all completely on-point and my goodness I'd read 1000 more of these if given the chance! ~ Shelly, 5 Stars
Without giving away any spoilers, The Something About Her begins when Dillon Baptiste is poised to start a new adventure in her life as the new Executive Chef at her brother's failing restaurant. With all the pressure of the world on her shoulders and faced with her own doubts and insecurities, she finds herself crossing paths with her bestfriend's brother, (and complete opposite), Vann Delane, and in the process becomes the unwelcome recipient of his Knight and Shining Armor ways. But as they spend more time with one another, they find that they have more in common than they initially thought and may not be so different after all.
Gah!! This novel was filled to the brim with the delicious chemistry we have come to expect from this author. Vann and Dillon's romance was honestly a slow-burn cauldron of goodness. It was a mixture of undeniable attraction, fun banter and an unexpected friendship that turned into something more. I especially loved this story as it was raw, visceral and painful at times and yet filled with moments that just made my heart melt with a million sighs.
Overall, Dillon was the epitome of a person living a broken life, not fully whole nor knowing who she really was inside as she forced herself to play a part for those around her. But along comes Vann and in his honest and forthright manner, he becomes the sanctuary she has always needed to finally breathe, feel safe and come into her own. He handled her as the prize she was and with the strength and courage he knew she had in her heart. I truly was swept away by this story, the familiar cast of characters and Vann and Dillon's love! I look forward to seeing more of Will English and his story in the future. Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
***
Good gravy, y'all. If you are not reading these Opposites Attract books, you are not living your best life. I've been a huge fan of this series from the very beginning and even I did not expect Dillon and Vann to root themselves so deeply into my heart. I'm still riding the high of how fantastic this story was.
Ms. Higginson has a gift for seamlessly layering her stories with heartfelt emotion, sharp, smart humor, and real world drama that is both interesting - and sometimes a little heartbreaking - to read. The Something About Her was no exception. There are so many layers here and I got blissfully lost in every one of them. Some serious, and yes - heartbreaking, subject matter was touched on here and it was handled with such grace and sensitivity that it somehow made my heart swell at the same time it caused it to shatter. The writing is so lovely, the tone so thoughtful, and the end result is a story that was impossible not to love.
I adored Dillon in a way that I didn't even see coming. I hurt for her and I was so insanely proud of her. I was completely sucked into not only her love story (and I'll get to my crazy adoration of that in a second) but also her growth as a chef and a leader.
But let's be real, the love story is the sweet spot and it was phenomenal. Y'all Vann is a perfect hero. God, I am just so crazy in love with him and the way he loved Dillon. These two together are romance perfection and I am literally one breath away from jumping up and down and squealing at you about how very much I loved them.
LOVED. Them.
Loved their sparky banter and palpable chemistry. Loved the push/pull they gave each other. Loved the way they communicated. Loved the way they fought each other and then fought for each other. Just -every single thing about them made my heart soar. They're a wonderfully mis-matched couple who somehow fit together perfectly. They were everything and - as it happens - so was this story.
On top of that, Ms. Higginson delivered a super satisfying update on each of the other couples in this series, and set up a friendship among this group that had me smiling so big as my heart swelled ever bigger. This book was the whole package - the writing, the storytelling, and the fantastic characters were all completely on-point and my goodness I'd read 1000 more of these if given the chance! ~ Shelly, 5 Stars
March 9, 2019
Book: The something about her
Author: Rachel Higginson
Chatty romance book thoughts:
In my opinion this is a series that definitely doesn’t get the attention it fully deserves - from book one and beyond I’ve been completely and utterly hooked and I don’t mind admitting that I’m a little sad that this book completes the series. Rachel Higginson is a creative romance writer, her books are always original with a capital ‘O’ and this book is not exempt from that star quality. This book had some great story telling, a hero you can easily fall in love with and a heroine that I couldn’t help but adore. There’s some deeper issues that Higginson takes on, but it only further highlights this author’s writing talent and for those that like their romance to go off with a bang, there are appropriately placed steamy parts which only added to the story building. All in all a fabulous read and great way to end this series.
Why not five:
As fond as I was of this storyline I wanted more of the focus to be on the protagonists - throughout the book I would find myself desperate for the author to switch the spotlight back to the romance and interaction between the hero and heroine. With that being said I truly found myself hooked on this couple and their story. Would I recommend? - whole heartedly.
Star rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Rachel Higginson
Chatty romance book thoughts:
In my opinion this is a series that definitely doesn’t get the attention it fully deserves - from book one and beyond I’ve been completely and utterly hooked and I don’t mind admitting that I’m a little sad that this book completes the series. Rachel Higginson is a creative romance writer, her books are always original with a capital ‘O’ and this book is not exempt from that star quality. This book had some great story telling, a hero you can easily fall in love with and a heroine that I couldn’t help but adore. There’s some deeper issues that Higginson takes on, but it only further highlights this author’s writing talent and for those that like their romance to go off with a bang, there are appropriately placed steamy parts which only added to the story building. All in all a fabulous read and great way to end this series.
Why not five:
As fond as I was of this storyline I wanted more of the focus to be on the protagonists - throughout the book I would find myself desperate for the author to switch the spotlight back to the romance and interaction between the hero and heroine. With that being said I truly found myself hooked on this couple and their story. Would I recommend? - whole heartedly.
Star rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 6, 2020
DNF 35%. Insecure, gutless chef heroine who gets handed a restaurant to manage and lord over by her older restauranteur brother. She painfully bumbles through the first few weeks completely clueless and unprepared for the job. No research the day before entering the work place. Not bothering to check the menu or stock when she got there. Runs off crying when people showed her disrespect instead of stepping in and acting like she owns the place in order to earn their respect. Continues to feel bad and wants to apologise to the unforgivably rude and out-of-line employee for rightfully sacking her. In the meantime, the she engages in ongoing rude behaviour towards the man who keeps stepping in to save her butt in various situation. Constantly refers to his arrogance when there is no evidence of such. And why the hell would you not want to close a flagging restaurant for a week or so to update the menu and the image and familiarise the staff with the new changes? What kind of newly promoted head chef would just jump in and accept the existing menu in a struggling restaurant for weeks without making any changes?
Narration was pleasant enough but couldn't save this book.
Narration was pleasant enough but couldn't save this book.
February 26, 2019
“In the middle of a kitchen, covered in sweat and grease, I discovered who I was.”
“The burn he’d set off inside me turned into a consuming fire driven by desire and a conviction I didn’t even know I had. I wanted this job. More than anything I had ever wanted in my life.”
“And then I was falling. Falling over the edge of sensation and feeling. Falling in love with him deeper and deeper and deeper. And falling right into his safe and wonderful arms.”
The Something about Her is the final book in the Opposites Attract series and was so worth the wait.
The Something about Her follows the story of Dillon and Vann. Dillon is at a sort of crossroads in life. She doesn’t know who she is or what she wants to be. The only thing she does know is that she loves cooking. So, when her brother offers her the chance of a lifetime to be an executive chef of one of his restaurants, she’d be a fool to turn him down. Despite feeling insecure and unsure about the direction her life has taken, Dillon is up for the challenge and is seeking advice from an unlikely source. Vann is Dillon’s total opposite. He’s exactly what Dillon needed in her life. He offered up a fresh insight to the plights of the world. He is a total health nut and comes off as a total jerk. But, man is there ever more to him than meets the eye. Sure he messed up in the beginning making assumptions about Dillon, but he’s not afraid to admit when he’s got it wrong. Together these two might seem like an unlikely pairing, but they balance each other out in ways I don’t think either of them expected.
The Something about Her was a terrific read from beginning to end. I couldn’t help but get swept up in Dillon and Vann’s story. I loved seeing Dillon take more chances and trust her instincts. I loved seeing how far Dillon has come and how hard she worked in changing her life. And Vann, while he came off as kind of a jerk, I think he was just brutally honest and didn’t always have the best delivery when it came to airing his thoughts. I loved the way he came to care for Dillon and loved seeing their relationship take course. The road to happily ever after wasn’t an easy one for these two. There were a ton of bumps in the road, but I really loved the slow burn and loved seeing these two overcome the hurdles that life threw at them.
Overall, this book was a really enjoyable read. I loved getting to know these characters and I course I loved catching up with all the previous ones. This book was exactly what I was looking for and had just the right amount of drama, romance and steamy moments. As sad as I am to see this story end, I can’t help but be excited to see what adventure this author has in store for us next……
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
“The burn he’d set off inside me turned into a consuming fire driven by desire and a conviction I didn’t even know I had. I wanted this job. More than anything I had ever wanted in my life.”
“And then I was falling. Falling over the edge of sensation and feeling. Falling in love with him deeper and deeper and deeper. And falling right into his safe and wonderful arms.”
The Something about Her is the final book in the Opposites Attract series and was so worth the wait.
The Something about Her follows the story of Dillon and Vann. Dillon is at a sort of crossroads in life. She doesn’t know who she is or what she wants to be. The only thing she does know is that she loves cooking. So, when her brother offers her the chance of a lifetime to be an executive chef of one of his restaurants, she’d be a fool to turn him down. Despite feeling insecure and unsure about the direction her life has taken, Dillon is up for the challenge and is seeking advice from an unlikely source. Vann is Dillon’s total opposite. He’s exactly what Dillon needed in her life. He offered up a fresh insight to the plights of the world. He is a total health nut and comes off as a total jerk. But, man is there ever more to him than meets the eye. Sure he messed up in the beginning making assumptions about Dillon, but he’s not afraid to admit when he’s got it wrong. Together these two might seem like an unlikely pairing, but they balance each other out in ways I don’t think either of them expected.
The Something about Her was a terrific read from beginning to end. I couldn’t help but get swept up in Dillon and Vann’s story. I loved seeing Dillon take more chances and trust her instincts. I loved seeing how far Dillon has come and how hard she worked in changing her life. And Vann, while he came off as kind of a jerk, I think he was just brutally honest and didn’t always have the best delivery when it came to airing his thoughts. I loved the way he came to care for Dillon and loved seeing their relationship take course. The road to happily ever after wasn’t an easy one for these two. There were a ton of bumps in the road, but I really loved the slow burn and loved seeing these two overcome the hurdles that life threw at them.
Overall, this book was a really enjoyable read. I loved getting to know these characters and I course I loved catching up with all the previous ones. This book was exactly what I was looking for and had just the right amount of drama, romance and steamy moments. As sad as I am to see this story end, I can’t help but be excited to see what adventure this author has in store for us next……
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
March 19, 2019
Hooray, she's back! The Rachel Higginson whose books I adore, the one that makes me giddy with joy and swoon over her beautiful characters.
I'm totally willing to ignore the mess that was the third book in this series because this one was truly amazing.
It was funny, emotional, sweet and sexy and I loved how much I got to see all those characters from the previous books that I hold so dear.
And while I really liked the heroine, Dillon, it was Vann who totally stole my heart. Just like I knew he would since I've adored him from the first time he showed up in the very first installment of this series. He was all the things I love in an alpha-hero: protective, charming, caring, determinded, sweet, and all of that without the need for possessive caveman antics. I loved how the two of them kept challenging one another, and how their slow-burn relationship was built upon trust and respect instead of solely on physical attraction and drama.
Dillon and Vann were the perfect couple to wrap up this series, and I'm looking forward to the spin-off the author has announced in her acknowledgements.
April 22, 2019
This was my absolute favorite in the series! Dillon was so awesome. Her strength and resilience was so inspiring. Vann appeared to be a grump, but in reality he was a sweetheart that lifted Dillon up and helped her to see how great she was. I'm sad to see them go and I hope to see the whole gang again when we get Will's story!
July 14, 2020
This review may contain SPOILERS!
I was so pleasantly surprised by this final story! Vann and Dillon have been a constant presence in these stories since the first book, but I never noticed nor pictured them together ... until now! Even though I've never come close to the thing that happened to Dillon, I can feel her pain and heartbreak of the aftermath, and I still feel a lot of compassion for women who have gone through such a painful experience. I can just admire how Vann handled the situation and how empathetic, compassionate and soft-spoken he is with Dillon, they really are the cutest couple. I think this might be my favorite story out of all the four, cause it drew me in from the first minute and with each passing page it just got better and better. Also, before, I saw Vann as this side character without any major presence, but this book just turned that right around. Now, he is my second favorite male character from this series ... but nobody can beat Ezra! ;)
4,5/5 stars
I was so pleasantly surprised by this final story! Vann and Dillon have been a constant presence in these stories since the first book, but I never noticed nor pictured them together ... until now! Even though I've never come close to the thing that happened to Dillon, I can feel her pain and heartbreak of the aftermath, and I still feel a lot of compassion for women who have gone through such a painful experience. I can just admire how Vann handled the situation and how empathetic, compassionate and soft-spoken he is with Dillon, they really are the cutest couple. I think this might be my favorite story out of all the four, cause it drew me in from the first minute and with each passing page it just got better and better. Also, before, I saw Vann as this side character without any major presence, but this book just turned that right around. Now, he is my second favorite male character from this series ... but nobody can beat Ezra! ;)
4,5/5 stars
February 25, 2019
I received this book for free from Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I was excited about this book from the moment we knew it was coming out. Even without really knowing who it was about. I'll be honest, I didn't look at blurb/teasers to even know who the hero would be so I was pleasantly surprised when I cracked this book open because of how opposites these two really are.
Dillon Baptiste is Ezra's younger half sister. She was working in Wyatt's kitchen in the last book and I loved seeing her carefree and fun attitude. She's just a ball of energy! And I was really looking forward to seeing her grow more as a character in this book. This starts out with Ezra offering her the Executive Chef position at his struggling restaurant Bianca. And while she's having a freak out moment over the fact she's not ready yet to take that on, Vann Delane (Vera's very tight laced brother) is the one that throws down the challenge she needs to take that step even if it's just to prove him wrong. From there, he manages to be the one there to save her time and time again and pushing her to be better.
Dillon and Vann couldn't be more different. Vann is all about calm and order and Dillon had this nervous energy about her. As the book progresses and we start seeing that she was much different just six years ago before going to culinary school, my heart started sinking. I knew there would be something dark coming and while I think the author handled it very well in my opinion, I also think it may be a little triggering. One particular scene towards the end especially. From my side, my heart really felt for her and I was even more impressed at what she made of her life all on her own without seeking any support. I was also really happy that she has Vann because he's exactly that rock solid safe ground she needs. He was just perfection and the two of them worked for me.
THE SOMETHING ABOUT HER has great chemistry, great friends and great emotion. I loved the ups and down we went with these characters, in Dillon's personal struggles and their relationship as well. And I really enjoyed the found family aspect as we get to see more of the whole crew interacting together. Rachel Higginson is becoming one of my go to authors for slow burn romances and this was just another great example of that.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
March 5, 2019
Dillon has always known that one day she would be the Executive Chef of her own kitchen but the timing needs to be right. When her brother Ezra tells her he wants her to run his ailing restaurant Bianca, Dillon feels like she has been backed into a corner What most chefs would see as the opportunity of a lifetime, completely overwhelms and terrifies her.
‘But it wasn’t fair to compare me to them. Or even put my name in the same category. They were experts at their craft. And I was still learning from them. How could I ever become one of them?’
After an unlikely conversation with Vann Delane she decides to accept the challenge and sets out to prove that she can handle what Ezra has entrusted her with. After a few teething problems Dillon begins to change things up at Bianca and it seems that Vann turns out to be her greatest ally. He is a part of her wider circle of friends and seeing as they are the only singles they seem to end up spending a lot of time with each other.
After a night out that Dillon simply cannot remember and Vann doesn’t want to forget things change between them. Dillon is definitely attracted to Vann but she doesn’t want to admit it to herself just yet. She falls back on her usual excuse of not having time to give to dating anyone.
‘There’s something about you, Baptiste.’ His gray eyes turned silvery with heat, pinning me in place and stealing whatever response I was trying to spit out. ‘I don’t know what it is yet, but it’s enough that I know this isn’t The End. This is just the beginning.’
Vann is completely intrigued by this girl who has managed to turn his head. There is just something about Dillon and he isn’t willing to give up on someone who that could potentially be the greatest experience of his life. Convincing Dillon to explore what they have will take some time but they already have begun the construction with a foundation of trust and friendship.
‘Go out with me, Dillon. Let’s see how good this is.’ ‘What if it goes badly?’ More of that rumbly laughter. ‘What if it’s the best thing that has ever happened to either of us?’
Dillon has never felt safer and more cared for when than she is with Vann. She is still a bit hesitant to completely open up to him but when she is faced with her past he is the one who takes care of her. Nurturing her, loving her. These two may be ‘opposites’ but together they simply make sense.
I really do think that Rachel saved the best story until the end of this series… Having said that I have loved every one of these books but Vann was so bloody melt into a puddle swoony.
Vann has been in the background of this whole series but was more prominent in Vera & Killian’s book so we got a little bit of insight into his character. Nothing could have prepared me for what was to come in this story though. Be prepared to fall in love with a new book boyfriend readers ☺
‘But it wasn’t fair to compare me to them. Or even put my name in the same category. They were experts at their craft. And I was still learning from them. How could I ever become one of them?’
After an unlikely conversation with Vann Delane she decides to accept the challenge and sets out to prove that she can handle what Ezra has entrusted her with. After a few teething problems Dillon begins to change things up at Bianca and it seems that Vann turns out to be her greatest ally. He is a part of her wider circle of friends and seeing as they are the only singles they seem to end up spending a lot of time with each other.
After a night out that Dillon simply cannot remember and Vann doesn’t want to forget things change between them. Dillon is definitely attracted to Vann but she doesn’t want to admit it to herself just yet. She falls back on her usual excuse of not having time to give to dating anyone.
‘There’s something about you, Baptiste.’ His gray eyes turned silvery with heat, pinning me in place and stealing whatever response I was trying to spit out. ‘I don’t know what it is yet, but it’s enough that I know this isn’t The End. This is just the beginning.’
Vann is completely intrigued by this girl who has managed to turn his head. There is just something about Dillon and he isn’t willing to give up on someone who that could potentially be the greatest experience of his life. Convincing Dillon to explore what they have will take some time but they already have begun the construction with a foundation of trust and friendship.
‘Go out with me, Dillon. Let’s see how good this is.’ ‘What if it goes badly?’ More of that rumbly laughter. ‘What if it’s the best thing that has ever happened to either of us?’
Dillon has never felt safer and more cared for when than she is with Vann. She is still a bit hesitant to completely open up to him but when she is faced with her past he is the one who takes care of her. Nurturing her, loving her. These two may be ‘opposites’ but together they simply make sense.
I really do think that Rachel saved the best story until the end of this series… Having said that I have loved every one of these books but Vann was so bloody melt into a puddle swoony.
Vann has been in the background of this whole series but was more prominent in Vera & Killian’s book so we got a little bit of insight into his character. Nothing could have prepared me for what was to come in this story though. Be prepared to fall in love with a new book boyfriend readers ☺
February 24, 2019
Alright, I first met Dillon in Wyatt's book (for some reason I haven't read Ezra's book yet?) however, Dillon is Ezra's half sister (same dads, different moms.) Dillon is beautiful, likes to have fun, and is a great chef but underneath that "nice girl" exterior is someone with a boatload of insecurity, a major identity crisis, and a secret from her past that haunts her.
When Ezra gifts her Bianca, his failing French restaurant, with the hopes that she's exactly the new life the restaurant needs, her first response is "no." With some prodding and encouragement from her friends and a strange anti-endorsement from a near stranger (Vera's cycle shop owning brother, Vann) she decides to give it a try. Bringing a restaurant back from the red is hard, however, and when life keeps throwing Vann in her path he becomes a welcome distraction and sounding board. Dillon seems to be making baby steps forward, with a few hiccups along the way, until her past hits her smack in the face. Can she finally put the past behind with Vann's help and become the version of herself she's always wanted to be?
I really liked Dillon's character and although Vann took some warming up to, I really liked the two of them together. I just love this group of friends Rachel has created with this series, they are all fabulous couples so anytime the group was together my heart gave a little squeeze :) Dillon is shouldering a secret that unfortunately many women carry and the discussion that followed is one that was heartbreak-ingly real, yet important.
So, why no 5 stars? I'm a dialogue person and as much as I loved Dillon she had an insane amount of internal dialogue going on and it got a little repetitive for me. I also got a little bored with the sexy parts and skimmed them some, not that I didn't think they had good chemistry, they did, but the one scene I wanted to read happened in a drunken haze.
I truly adore this series and am excited there will be a spin off!
When Ezra gifts her Bianca, his failing French restaurant, with the hopes that she's exactly the new life the restaurant needs, her first response is "no." With some prodding and encouragement from her friends and a strange anti-endorsement from a near stranger (Vera's cycle shop owning brother, Vann) she decides to give it a try. Bringing a restaurant back from the red is hard, however, and when life keeps throwing Vann in her path he becomes a welcome distraction and sounding board. Dillon seems to be making baby steps forward, with a few hiccups along the way, until her past hits her smack in the face. Can she finally put the past behind with Vann's help and become the version of herself she's always wanted to be?
I really liked Dillon's character and although Vann took some warming up to, I really liked the two of them together. I just love this group of friends Rachel has created with this series, they are all fabulous couples so anytime the group was together my heart gave a little squeeze :) Dillon is shouldering a secret that unfortunately many women carry and the discussion that followed is one that was heartbreak-ingly real, yet important.
So, why no 5 stars? I'm a dialogue person and as much as I loved Dillon she had an insane amount of internal dialogue going on and it got a little repetitive for me. I also got a little bored with the sexy parts and skimmed them some, not that I didn't think they had good chemistry, they did, but the one scene I wanted to read happened in a drunken haze.
I truly adore this series and am excited there will be a spin off!
July 31, 2019
4-4.5
I love this series and have no idea how I missed the release of this book in February!! When I found out I had, I abandoned the book I was reading to start this. Yes, I love this series that much.
This book follows Vann and Dillon. We meet Vann back in book one, as he is Vera’s brother. I was so excited to get a book about him! He was perfect for Dillon and such a good guy!
Dillon was such a well written character. Her story, while difficult, was written beautifully. Watching her true self emerge was breath taking.
I loved being back with all the characters I’ve loved throughout this series. I’m sad that this is the last book of the series, but I know they are only a reread away!
I love this series and have no idea how I missed the release of this book in February!! When I found out I had, I abandoned the book I was reading to start this. Yes, I love this series that much.
This book follows Vann and Dillon. We meet Vann back in book one, as he is Vera’s brother. I was so excited to get a book about him! He was perfect for Dillon and such a good guy!
Dillon was such a well written character. Her story, while difficult, was written beautifully. Watching her true self emerge was breath taking.
I loved being back with all the characters I’ve loved throughout this series. I’m sad that this is the last book of the series, but I know they are only a reread away!
March 22, 2021
4🌟
Zum Glück ein schöner Abschluss für die Reihe nachdem ich den dritten Teil so garnicht geliebt hab 🙈 ich finde Dillon ist eine tolle Protagonistin und auch Vann war mega süß trotzdem finde ich die ersten beiden Bände besser weil ich da in der Liebesgeschichte mehr mitgefühlt habe aber alles in allem empfehle ich die Reihe 💪
Zum Glück ein schöner Abschluss für die Reihe nachdem ich den dritten Teil so garnicht geliebt hab 🙈 ich finde Dillon ist eine tolle Protagonistin und auch Vann war mega süß trotzdem finde ich die ersten beiden Bände besser weil ich da in der Liebesgeschichte mehr mitgefühlt habe aber alles in allem empfehle ich die Reihe 💪
March 3, 2019
Find this review and more at kimberlyfaye reads.
I fell in love with Rachel's writing and characters a couple years ago after picking up The Opposite of You. I've been devouring her new releases ever since. The Opposites Attract series is one of my top series, so I was so excited to finally get Dillon's story. The Something About Her absolutely exceeded my expectations. There's just so much good here and I'll try to talk about it without giving too much away.
I've been anxious to get Dillon's story for awhile now. I was so happy to learn this book would be hers. The Something About Her opens with Dillon learning she would be taking over her brother's (Ezra of The Difference Between Us fame) failing restaurant. It was easy to relate to her excitement and nervousness over this opportunity. She has something to prove and does a damn good job of it, honestly. It was so easy to root for her. Vann was an unlikely ally, but ended up being that and more. I loved how he encouraged her and pushed her. He was adorable and swoony and the growing attraction between them gave me life.
Rachel gives good slow burn, so things developed pretty slowly between Dillon and Vann, giving them a chance to really get to know each other. (Well, with the exception of that one night...) I absolutely adored these two. It was impossible not to read this book without a big, cheesy grin on my face. The Something About Her wasn't all fun and swoony though. It definitely hit on some issues, but did it in a way that it wasn't overly heavy. Dillon's journey and growth was wonderful and inspiring, especially once you learn more about her past. There was real pain there, but I loved that she found a way to turn it into something positive eventually.
The Something About Her did SO MANY THINGS to my heart. Not only with Dillon and Vann and their story, but also with the appearances by my faves from earlier in the series. Ahhhhh these characters. As sad as I am to see the Opposites Attract series end, I love how everything wrapped up. I don't want to give these characters up, but hey that's what rereads are for right? I'm super excited to see what Rachel gives us next.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Favorite Quotes:
"I don't know what it is yet, but it's enough that I know this isn't The End. This is just the beginning."
"I had to live for something. I needed a purpose. And I found it cooking."
"Woman, you are some kind of magic."
And then I was falling. Falling over the edge of sensation and feeling. Falling in love with him deeper and deeper and deeper. And falling right into his safe and wonderful arms.
April 10, 2019
This was a good conclusion to a really fun series. This is Dillon's book. And while it took me a bit of time to warm up to her I really did by the end.
This book also focuses on all the other characters from the previous books A LOT. So much so that I would say that this book really should not be read as a standalone. You especially should read The Opposite of You (first book). As there is a lot of stuff about the main characters from that book here.
The narrator of this book is 27 year old chef Dillon Baptiste (Ezra's sister). The story is set in Durham, North Carolina.
The beginning started off a bit slow for me. I love this series. I love these characters. But I was not expecting Dillon to be the way that she was described at the beginning of this book.
I knew that the main characters from the previous books would play a part in this book. But I was not expecting them to be the focus of this story. I enjoyed that aspect of the book a lot. But it was interesting to have this book be just as much about Vera, Molly and Ezra as it was about Dillon.
I enjoyed the romance in this book. I was not sure who the love interest would be. But I was happy with who the author chose. However something happened in this book that I am not a big fan of .
The last half of this book was the strongest. By the end of the book I was really invested in Dillon.
Just an FYI -the story does deal with something quite serious. And I really liked how that was incorporated into the story. Overall a really good conclusion to this fun series.
This book also focuses on all the other characters from the previous books A LOT. So much so that I would say that this book really should not be read as a standalone. You especially should read The Opposite of You (first book). As there is a lot of stuff about the main characters from that book here.
The narrator of this book is 27 year old chef Dillon Baptiste (Ezra's sister). The story is set in Durham, North Carolina.
The beginning started off a bit slow for me. I love this series. I love these characters. But I was not expecting Dillon to be the way that she was described at the beginning of this book.
I knew that the main characters from the previous books would play a part in this book. But I was not expecting them to be the focus of this story. I enjoyed that aspect of the book a lot. But it was interesting to have this book be just as much about Vera, Molly and Ezra as it was about Dillon.
I enjoyed the romance in this book. I was not sure who the love interest would be. But I was happy with who the author chose. However something happened in this book that I am not a big fan of .
The last half of this book was the strongest. By the end of the book I was really invested in Dillon.
Just an FYI -the story does deal with something quite serious. And I really liked how that was incorporated into the story. Overall a really good conclusion to this fun series.
March 3, 2019
3.5 stars. Quite a nice addition to this series. It was good to revisit with Ezra and Molly and all the guys.
The h in this one was once . She also had a crappy childhood, and as a result of all this she is a pretty mixed-up person. But working in a restaurant kitchen has helped her find herself.
And then there's Vann. What a great guy Vann is. He's just an all-round nice guy. He is so patient with Dillon, as they slowly fall in love.
So it was a decent storyline, with a likeable H and h. Overall, an enjoyable read.
BTW I really like the book cover of this edition - it's different, eye-catching and fun, and suits the book. I'm so over the naked torso thing.
The h in this one was once . She also had a crappy childhood, and as a result of all this she is a pretty mixed-up person. But working in a restaurant kitchen has helped her find herself.
And then there's Vann. What a great guy Vann is. He's just an all-round nice guy. He is so patient with Dillon, as they slowly fall in love.
So it was a decent storyline, with a likeable H and h. Overall, an enjoyable read.
BTW I really like the book cover of this edition - it's different, eye-catching and fun, and suits the book. I'm so over the naked torso thing.
April 22, 2019
I haven’t been following this series closely, but whenever I see one of them appear on KU, I jump on it. The first one set the series off to a great start but I wasn’t the biggest fan of the second one. The third one was better and I honestly forgot their story/my opinion on the series so I had no expectations going in. After having finish it though, I can say with full conviction that this story is by far my favourite of the series.
The writing is so effortless, the connection with the characters so easy before anything substantial is even revealed. I love the way everything was handled with grace and poise, and I absolutely fucking love Dillon. An underdog, but the best comeback/redemption story.
The writing is so effortless, the connection with the characters so easy before anything substantial is even revealed. I love the way everything was handled with grace and poise, and I absolutely fucking love Dillon. An underdog, but the best comeback/redemption story.
October 21, 2019
3.5 STARS
I have really enjoyed this series. Dillon was an adorable heroine, but I wanted to see more of Vann. He's been hanging in the shadows throughout the entire series, and I had anticipated more focus on his story. Another thing I've have noticed with Higginson is her lack of dialogue between characters. and a focus on internal dialogue. This book seemed to be worst in the series, and it was distracting at times.
Overall, it was fitting end to the series. I can't wait to the spinoff!
I have really enjoyed this series. Dillon was an adorable heroine, but I wanted to see more of Vann. He's been hanging in the shadows throughout the entire series, and I had anticipated more focus on his story. Another thing I've have noticed with Higginson is her lack of dialogue between characters. and a focus on internal dialogue. This book seemed to be worst in the series, and it was distracting at times.
Overall, it was fitting end to the series. I can't wait to the spinoff!
July 25, 2019
If you like very slow, very very slow, very very very slow burn romance, this book is for you!!!
I like kitchen ambient, I love cooking and love to read about it in my romance books, but this book was too much slow for me, heroine was too much annoying, I missed the hero's point of view.
Hero was a good man. Safe read
I like kitchen ambient, I love cooking and love to read about it in my romance books, but this book was too much slow for me, heroine was too much annoying, I missed the hero's point of view.
Hero was a good man. Safe read
February 25, 2019
You can also read my review here → http://elenasbookblog.com/new-review-...
The Something About Her by Rachel Higginson is not just a love story. It’s a book about self discovery, survival and finding your path. This is another addition to Opposites Attract series and I have to say that “Her” is the main focus of this book. It’s a story about a woman who overcomes the stigma and fear of being a victim and becomes the one that brings her own happily ever after.
If you have read the previous books in this series, I am sure you would have been curious about Dillon, the carefree girl and sister of Ezra. I expected a light, fun book but Dillon had many faces and her own truth was harder and more emotional than I would have thought. Dillon is a young woman who used to be a party girl but now she feels a little lost until she is given a chance to run her own cuisine. Becoming the head chef is not an easy task but finally she finds a purpose and success.
On top of that, every one of her friends is moving on with their soulmates and she feels lonely. She wants to find someone too but she is scarred and scared from her past.
Vann is certainly not the man for her since he keeps provoking her and pushing her. He is brutally honest so he can keep his opinions for himself. She tries to stay away but the man is like a modern prince who keeps saving her again and again.
Dillon is a girl who has to overcome much but I liked how much she found her courage throughout the book. As for Vann, it was refreshing seeing a man who is not playing games and he is really open with his feelings.
This is a slow burn romance and the author focuses more on the journey of the heroine. It’s a story about this woman’s forgiveness of herself. I loved the scenes between her and Vann and I would have liked to see more of them. These little encounters between them were adorable and cute so my only complaint was that the romance aspect of this story took a second place in this book.
I really like the fact that all the couples from the previous books are a basic part of every story and the new characters that are introduced are interesting enough for you to see more of them!
If you want a book full of feelings and taste, then this series is perfect for you! The Something About Her is a book about hope and second chances and it speaks of difficult subjects but it lightens with this adorable love story!
The Something About Her by Rachel Higginson is not just a love story. It’s a book about self discovery, survival and finding your path. This is another addition to Opposites Attract series and I have to say that “Her” is the main focus of this book. It’s a story about a woman who overcomes the stigma and fear of being a victim and becomes the one that brings her own happily ever after.
If you have read the previous books in this series, I am sure you would have been curious about Dillon, the carefree girl and sister of Ezra. I expected a light, fun book but Dillon had many faces and her own truth was harder and more emotional than I would have thought. Dillon is a young woman who used to be a party girl but now she feels a little lost until she is given a chance to run her own cuisine. Becoming the head chef is not an easy task but finally she finds a purpose and success.
On top of that, every one of her friends is moving on with their soulmates and she feels lonely. She wants to find someone too but she is scarred and scared from her past.
Vann is certainly not the man for her since he keeps provoking her and pushing her. He is brutally honest so he can keep his opinions for himself. She tries to stay away but the man is like a modern prince who keeps saving her again and again.
Dillon is a girl who has to overcome much but I liked how much she found her courage throughout the book. As for Vann, it was refreshing seeing a man who is not playing games and he is really open with his feelings.
This is a slow burn romance and the author focuses more on the journey of the heroine. It’s a story about this woman’s forgiveness of herself. I loved the scenes between her and Vann and I would have liked to see more of them. These little encounters between them were adorable and cute so my only complaint was that the romance aspect of this story took a second place in this book.
I really like the fact that all the couples from the previous books are a basic part of every story and the new characters that are introduced are interesting enough for you to see more of them!
If you want a book full of feelings and taste, then this series is perfect for you! The Something About Her is a book about hope and second chances and it speaks of difficult subjects but it lightens with this adorable love story!
March 1, 2019
**********3.5 Star Review********
I have loved this series from book one and was so excited to get Dillon's story and was geeked that she was paid with Vann! There was probably a scream and so weird happy dance at the new ;)
One of my favorite aspect of this whole series the culinary scene that is so vibrating described in this series. I swear I drool while reading each book. in Something about Her, Dillion passion for cooking is what saved her and it was fun to read about her cooking journey and love of food. I love how the women in this series eat and make no excuses for eating and enjoying good food, it's so refreshing to see.
Dillon was a girl that was broken from life and dealing with demons from her past. Insecurity was ruling her life and was preventing her from achieving her dream. The people in her life, treated her like a china doll, easily broken at the first sign of trouble. This lead to a lot of self-doubt and unbelief in herself. Then Vann walks into her life and challenges everything she believes and gives her the ability to see that she isn't easily breakable, but strong capable women that can take over the cooking world.
Dillon and Vann together were so stinking cute and their chemistry was off the charts. I think I wore a big cheesy grin every time they interacted. I loved on Vann's character wouldn't let Dillon scare him off. His action told that Dillon's past and messiness didn't scare him, but he accepted and loved all parts of her and was ready to take the journey with Dillon no matter where it led. A real swoon-worthy hero
The only thing i wanted more was seeing their relationship developed. We were told they talked and it made them developed a deep bond, but I wanted to see that played out, then just be told about it. I felt this book could have had real depth to the story and characters that allowed for some great emotional bonding, but instead, we just skimmed the surface of these two amazing characters.
Overall a great read that will have you smiling from beginning to end!
*********Author Provided a Review Copy*************
I have loved this series from book one and was so excited to get Dillon's story and was geeked that she was paid with Vann! There was probably a scream and so weird happy dance at the new ;)
One of my favorite aspect of this whole series the culinary scene that is so vibrating described in this series. I swear I drool while reading each book. in Something about Her, Dillion passion for cooking is what saved her and it was fun to read about her cooking journey and love of food. I love how the women in this series eat and make no excuses for eating and enjoying good food, it's so refreshing to see.
Dillon was a girl that was broken from life and dealing with demons from her past. Insecurity was ruling her life and was preventing her from achieving her dream. The people in her life, treated her like a china doll, easily broken at the first sign of trouble. This lead to a lot of self-doubt and unbelief in herself. Then Vann walks into her life and challenges everything she believes and gives her the ability to see that she isn't easily breakable, but strong capable women that can take over the cooking world.
Dillon and Vann together were so stinking cute and their chemistry was off the charts. I think I wore a big cheesy grin every time they interacted. I loved on Vann's character wouldn't let Dillon scare him off. His action told that Dillon's past and messiness didn't scare him, but he accepted and loved all parts of her and was ready to take the journey with Dillon no matter where it led. A real swoon-worthy hero
The only thing i wanted more was seeing their relationship developed. We were told they talked and it made them developed a deep bond, but I wanted to see that played out, then just be told about it. I felt this book could have had real depth to the story and characters that allowed for some great emotional bonding, but instead, we just skimmed the surface of these two amazing characters.
Overall a great read that will have you smiling from beginning to end!
*********Author Provided a Review Copy*************
December 18, 2020
I liked better second part book because then Dillan and Vann then spend more time together, otherwise ok.
March 2, 2019
I had a hard time getting into this one at first. It took until about 50% but ultimately I really enjoyed this one. I would say this is my second favorite one in the series, Vera and Killian’s story is hard to beat!
April 2, 2019
Update: I've since contacted this author recommending she include a trigger warning and have not yet heard back.
First of all, let me say that this book deals with sexual assault...it features in the heroine's life prominently. And yet nothing in the blurb tells us that, nor does it have a trigger warning. That really upsets me. I wouldn't have chosen to read this at the time I did if I had known it dealt with r/pe.
The author deals with sexual assault fairly well. The emphasis is on survivors who don't speak out—and I really liked that because not everyone wants to share and it can be really tough. This book was a metoo for those survivors who are silent. Dillon's healing was realistic, in that it didn't happen all at once. Her physical anxiety reactions were fitting, as was her inability to tell her family.
I have issues with how her first time with Vann is when they are drunk. Yes, there's a difference between two people who like each other getting drunk at a party and having fun, good sex. Drunk sex can be consensual, but it's never really the *best* idea because when drunk it's tough to gauge your partner's consent. So I really struggled with her first time with Vann being when she was too drunk to remember. It seemed like an unnecessary plot device on the author's part, and a way of re-traumatizing her nearly. It felt really wrong. It felt like the author wanted to be all #metoo but also...somehow say that drunk sex can be good. I don't really think those two issues should be tackled within the same narrative as she does here. The same impact could have been made if Dillon was a bit tipsy and remembered everything and felt ashamed because she thought it was a night stand. I just found this plot really weirdly done tbh.
Despite my dislike of part of the story, I found Dillon to be a really compelling character, as was Vann. The side characters here are really good, as is the background plot of Dillon as a chef.
First of all, let me say that this book deals with sexual assault...it features in the heroine's life prominently. And yet nothing in the blurb tells us that, nor does it have a trigger warning. That really upsets me. I wouldn't have chosen to read this at the time I did if I had known it dealt with r/pe.
The author deals with sexual assault fairly well. The emphasis is on survivors who don't speak out—and I really liked that because not everyone wants to share and it can be really tough. This book was a metoo for those survivors who are silent. Dillon's healing was realistic, in that it didn't happen all at once. Her physical anxiety reactions were fitting, as was her inability to tell her family.
I have issues with how her first time with Vann is when they are drunk. Yes, there's a difference between two people who like each other getting drunk at a party and having fun, good sex. Drunk sex can be consensual, but it's never really the *best* idea because when drunk it's tough to gauge your partner's consent. So I really struggled with her first time with Vann being when she was too drunk to remember. It seemed like an unnecessary plot device on the author's part, and a way of re-traumatizing her nearly. It felt really wrong. It felt like the author wanted to be all #metoo but also...somehow say that drunk sex can be good. I don't really think those two issues should be tackled within the same narrative as she does here. The same impact could have been made if Dillon was a bit tipsy and remembered everything and felt ashamed because she thought it was a night stand. I just found this plot really weirdly done tbh.
Despite my dislike of part of the story, I found Dillon to be a really compelling character, as was Vann. The side characters here are really good, as is the background plot of Dillon as a chef.
February 2, 2020
3.5/5 🌟
September 6, 2020
4.5 Stars.
I had been waiting along time for Vann's book, as I loved him as soon as he made an appearance in book one. Dillon has been growing on me with each book and I didn't realise her story was going to rip me apart as much as it did. She had a troubled teen life, and from that it has shaped her adulthood and made her more aware of her surroundings. As a couple, after Killian and Vera, these two could me my next favourite, but it is so hard to pick, as each and every one of them has moved me to cherish them all.
Vann is the big brother to Vera, and he is very protective and supportive of everything she does. When he meets Dillon they are indifferent to each other but over time he has the same feelings but it is definitely nothing brotherly about them either. They became friends with each interaction they have, and by the end, they were each others everything. For Dillon, she was just trying to survive from day to day as sometimes it was overwhelming. Not just becoming Executive Chef at Bianca, her brothers restaurant, but also navigating her entire life. Vann has a way to make you trust him and feel at ease, and did this for Dillon even before they became solid friends. Then one night they took it to a whole new level and from there, even though it gets complicated for Dillon, their time spent together develops into something special. I am sad for two reasons, one that she never confided in Ezra on that night six years prior because I think he would be another milestone for her to achieve and move past it, and he would be one more person she could completely trust being her brother. Vann was exceptional in the way he handled looking after Dillon when she broke down, it only made me love him more. Secondly, I am sad that this is the end of the series. I have a massive book hangover with this gang, one that will compel me to come back and do a read of this series in the future.
I had been waiting along time for Vann's book, as I loved him as soon as he made an appearance in book one. Dillon has been growing on me with each book and I didn't realise her story was going to rip me apart as much as it did. She had a troubled teen life, and from that it has shaped her adulthood and made her more aware of her surroundings. As a couple, after Killian and Vera, these two could me my next favourite, but it is so hard to pick, as each and every one of them has moved me to cherish them all.
Vann is the big brother to Vera, and he is very protective and supportive of everything she does. When he meets Dillon they are indifferent to each other but over time he has the same feelings but it is definitely nothing brotherly about them either. They became friends with each interaction they have, and by the end, they were each others everything. For Dillon, she was just trying to survive from day to day as sometimes it was overwhelming. Not just becoming Executive Chef at Bianca, her brothers restaurant, but also navigating her entire life. Vann has a way to make you trust him and feel at ease, and did this for Dillon even before they became solid friends. Then one night they took it to a whole new level and from there, even though it gets complicated for Dillon, their time spent together develops into something special. I am sad for two reasons, one that she never confided in Ezra on that night six years prior because I think he would be another milestone for her to achieve and move past it, and he would be one more person she could completely trust being her brother. Vann was exceptional in the way he handled looking after Dillon when she broke down, it only made me love him more. Secondly, I am sad that this is the end of the series. I have a massive book hangover with this gang, one that will compel me to come back and do a read of this series in the future.
February 28, 2019
He was a risk-the biggest kind.
But was he worth it?
My mind said no. My mind remembered the consequences from my life before. My mind knew how badly men could hurt, how easily they could destroy.
My heart argued a different story.
***
Dillon Baptiste is given the opportunity of a lifetime: the head chef position of Bianca. But she is allowing her past and doubt and fear to overrun her emotions and tell herself she will fail before she even starts. So she looks to an unlikely ally to give her the boost to take her new job and be the best EC the town of Durham has ever know. Vann Delane.
The story was absolutely fantastic, the characters are easily loveable, and if it is at all possible to gain weight just by salivating over all the amazing foods Higginson mentions in her story, I most likely achieved it. Mercy, I need some of these foods in my life.
Dillon is one of those characters you can easily relate to. Or at least for me. Not so much about having a fat bank account but more along the lines of her insecurities. She has a past that changed her. It would anyone. And the fear of failing gripped her ferociously to the point she nearly turned her brother down on becoming the newest head chef. But I loved who she became when she was with Vann. He truly brought out the best in her. He saw who she really was. They shared this beautiful, slow burn romance. It was done to perfection.
“Always, Dillon. I’ll always save you.”
5 Stars!
But was he worth it?
My mind said no. My mind remembered the consequences from my life before. My mind knew how badly men could hurt, how easily they could destroy.
My heart argued a different story.
***
Dillon Baptiste is given the opportunity of a lifetime: the head chef position of Bianca. But she is allowing her past and doubt and fear to overrun her emotions and tell herself she will fail before she even starts. So she looks to an unlikely ally to give her the boost to take her new job and be the best EC the town of Durham has ever know. Vann Delane.
The story was absolutely fantastic, the characters are easily loveable, and if it is at all possible to gain weight just by salivating over all the amazing foods Higginson mentions in her story, I most likely achieved it. Mercy, I need some of these foods in my life.
Dillon is one of those characters you can easily relate to. Or at least for me. Not so much about having a fat bank account but more along the lines of her insecurities. She has a past that changed her. It would anyone. And the fear of failing gripped her ferociously to the point she nearly turned her brother down on becoming the newest head chef. But I loved who she became when she was with Vann. He truly brought out the best in her. He saw who she really was. They shared this beautiful, slow burn romance. It was done to perfection.
“Always, Dillon. I’ll always save you.”
5 Stars!
August 28, 2024
I would have given this book a higher rating but there’s a part in this book that really bothered me. First of all, let me say I really liked the 2 main characters in this book, we met Dillon, Ezra’s sister, and Vann, Vera’s brother, earlier in the series and it’s lovely to see them getting their HEA, especially Dillon who has had a very difficult past. The thing that really bothered me is that the first time they sleep together, Dillon is so drunk that she has no recollection of the events when she wakes up. And to me, if you’re that inebriated, you lack capacity for consent. Vann is also drunk but not drunk enough that he has no memory of the night before, so it really bothered me a lot that their first sexual experience together, only maybe one of them was sober enough to have given consent. And that’s really not ok especially in light of the fact that this night happens after 6 years of celibacy on Dillon’s part, a decision she made after she was drugged and raped at a party she went to. And the fact that after Dillon reveals her rape trauma to Vann, they never discuss that she was too drunk to remember their first time, is seriously bothering me even more. I just wish the consent had been handled better especially when the heroine is a rape survivor.
Content notes: description of rape in the past; parental death and abandonment, mentions of alcohol and drug abuse
Content notes: description of rape in the past; parental death and abandonment, mentions of alcohol and drug abuse
March 8, 2019
What a great way to end this FABULOUS series!
I'll admit, I almost gave this 4 stars. I found a lot of Dillion's internal dialogue about her fears kind of annoying. It's a bit repetitive and I found myself skimming many a paragraph.
I was a bit disappointed that there was no chapters from Vann's perspective. It's completely told in Dillion's first person narrative. But by the end, I totally understand why it was written that way.
The way that Ms. Higginson wrote about and handled Dillion's past was excellent. I don't want to give away any spoilers (though I think it's easy to guess what happened to her from the very beginning), but it's an extremely sensitive subject especially in today's world and I think it's handled wonderfully and sensitively. It's why I decided to give the book 5 stars.
And omg I LOVE VANN! I think he's my favorite RH hero to date! (Though I do have a big soft spot for Killian.)
I highly recommend reading this series in order. While the individual romances are unique to each book, the friendships and working relationships overlap so much I think each book is enhanced by reading them all in order.
I'll admit, I almost gave this 4 stars. I found a lot of Dillion's internal dialogue about her fears kind of annoying. It's a bit repetitive and I found myself skimming many a paragraph.
I was a bit disappointed that there was no chapters from Vann's perspective. It's completely told in Dillion's first person narrative. But by the end, I totally understand why it was written that way.
The way that Ms. Higginson wrote about and handled Dillion's past was excellent. I don't want to give away any spoilers (though I think it's easy to guess what happened to her from the very beginning), but it's an extremely sensitive subject especially in today's world and I think it's handled wonderfully and sensitively. It's why I decided to give the book 5 stars.
And omg I LOVE VANN! I think he's my favorite RH hero to date! (Though I do have a big soft spot for Killian.)
I highly recommend reading this series in order. While the individual romances are unique to each book, the friendships and working relationships overlap so much I think each book is enhanced by reading them all in order.
February 27, 2019
**My thanks to the author for providing me with a free copy for an honest review**
Every time i read a book by this author, the books seem to be getting better and better and this book is no exception.
This is the last book in the series and focuses on Dillion, Ezras sister and Vann Delane, Vera's sister. Both are characters that we have seen in previous books and gotten to know a little bit, but now felt for the characters, especially Dillion as we see just how much of a survivor and how strong she really is.
Vann really comes out of his shell and we see more that a sarcastic man, he shows lots of sides of himself, especially around Dillon.
Dillon is still sweet, but we see her struggle as she finally feels comfortable in her skin as who she is now, even if she never really knew who she was before. Dillon carves a name for herself within a kitchen and with a job that really becomes her. She finds a strength in herself to get the job done, and done well.
I really enjoyed this book and the sensitive topic that is woven through right until the end where she finally opens up to Vann.
I was also very happy to get more on the previous books characters as they forge together as a group of friends and become more and more like a large family.
I cannot recommend this series enough.
Every time i read a book by this author, the books seem to be getting better and better and this book is no exception.
This is the last book in the series and focuses on Dillion, Ezras sister and Vann Delane, Vera's sister. Both are characters that we have seen in previous books and gotten to know a little bit, but now felt for the characters, especially Dillion as we see just how much of a survivor and how strong she really is.
Vann really comes out of his shell and we see more that a sarcastic man, he shows lots of sides of himself, especially around Dillon.
Dillon is still sweet, but we see her struggle as she finally feels comfortable in her skin as who she is now, even if she never really knew who she was before. Dillon carves a name for herself within a kitchen and with a job that really becomes her. She finds a strength in herself to get the job done, and done well.
I really enjoyed this book and the sensitive topic that is woven through right until the end where she finally opens up to Vann.
I was also very happy to get more on the previous books characters as they forge together as a group of friends and become more and more like a large family.
I cannot recommend this series enough.
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