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Hotline Hookup #2
Ring Ready
“I do.” Two little words I’ve always wanted to say...
You know before I turned into a perpetually single, TV-dinner-eating party of one with thirty cats and a worn-out BOB. Wink. Wink.
I’ve swiped left, right, up, down. I’m over it! Now I’m taking matters into my own manicured hands and changing the dating game with my guaranteed to set a date love app.
The only thing standing in my way? Owen Decker. And his huge...ego.
With his perfect hair, perfect teeth, and less than perfect proposal. Not the down-on-one-knee kind. Oh no. A business proposal to merge my dating app with the Hotline Hookup brand.
What harm could it do? Owen is the last person I would walk down the aisle to. After all, he’s my brother’s best-friend and business partner.
Been there. Done that...literally!
I guess you can say we’re frenemies with benefits.
But I’m looking for the one. And this app is going to help me find him. Just not in the way I’d planned.
It’s easy to fall for the enemy when you’re ring ready!
You know before I turned into a perpetually single, TV-dinner-eating party of one with thirty cats and a worn-out BOB. Wink. Wink.
I’ve swiped left, right, up, down. I’m over it! Now I’m taking matters into my own manicured hands and changing the dating game with my guaranteed to set a date love app.
The only thing standing in my way? Owen Decker. And his huge...ego.
With his perfect hair, perfect teeth, and less than perfect proposal. Not the down-on-one-knee kind. Oh no. A business proposal to merge my dating app with the Hotline Hookup brand.
What harm could it do? Owen is the last person I would walk down the aisle to. After all, he’s my brother’s best-friend and business partner.
Been there. Done that...literally!
I guess you can say we’re frenemies with benefits.
But I’m looking for the one. And this app is going to help me find him. Just not in the way I’d planned.
It’s easy to fall for the enemy when you’re ring ready!
ebook
First published December 5, 2019
70 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
About the author
Cary Hart
36 books1,576 followersCary Hart hails from the Midwest. A sassy, coffee drinking, sometimes sailor swearing, Spotify addict, lover of all things books!
When not pushing women down the stairs in the fictional world, Cary has her hands full. Soccer mom in all sense of the word to two wild and crazy, spoiled kiddos, and wife to the most supportive husband. In addition to writing full time, she enjoys binge watching Netflix, laying around in her hammock and baking up cookies for her family and friends.
Cary writes real, raw romance! In her stories the characters deal with life's everyday struggles and unwanted drama, they talk about the ugly and they become the broken. Everyone deserves a happy ending, but sometimes before you can appreciate the light, there has to be darkness.
Growing up, if someone would have told her she would become a writer, she wouldn't have believed them. It wasn't until she got her hands on her first romance novel, that the passion grew. Now she couldn't imagine her life any other way - she's living her dream.
When not pushing women down the stairs in the fictional world, Cary has her hands full. Soccer mom in all sense of the word to two wild and crazy, spoiled kiddos, and wife to the most supportive husband. In addition to writing full time, she enjoys binge watching Netflix, laying around in her hammock and baking up cookies for her family and friends.
Cary writes real, raw romance! In her stories the characters deal with life's everyday struggles and unwanted drama, they talk about the ugly and they become the broken. Everyone deserves a happy ending, but sometimes before you can appreciate the light, there has to be darkness.
Growing up, if someone would have told her she would become a writer, she wouldn't have believed them. It wasn't until she got her hands on her first romance novel, that the passion grew. Now she couldn't imagine her life any other way - she's living her dream.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
May 13, 2020
DNF
I can not finish this.
Nothing works for me in Ring Ready. Nothing connect with me at all. The story, the characters, the chemistry. I even found myself wondering off to something else while listening to this book.
2 stars
I can not finish this.
Nothing works for me in Ring Ready. Nothing connect with me at all. The story, the characters, the chemistry. I even found myself wondering off to something else while listening to this book.
2 stars
December 22, 2019
4.25 Stars / 3 Steam Fans
Video review available in Week 51 Dec 15 – 21 weekly book reviews.
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk
Video review available in Week 51 Dec 15 – 21 weekly book reviews.
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk
May 6, 2020
I haven’t finished this novel yet but so far I hate it. Reasons:
How pathetic is this h. She slept with H two years ago and the next he acted like nothing happened and tells her not to tell anyone, makes her life so miserable in their workplace she quits her job then he goes ahead starts dating her Bff. What a douche. I don’t know the reasons behind it because it not mentioned in 80% of the novel, where I am at.
The H Owen is so oblivious it’s not fun. I mean either he is completely blind or a toddler who’s brain is still developing. What made me more pissed of at him was when he hired h’s replacement the woman h hates and doesn’t want him to hire because the assistant is hot and wants in his pants and is a shameless flirt without even telling her. His mature way to handle any problem is apparently to kiss her, and he is right to do so because it always works. Even when he hires the woman h hates. He doesn’t even tries to understand the h or any other person.
Heroine has her brain between her legs and thinks from there. I really hated her more than the H because though she is a has job which is the only point in her favor, she is everything I hate in a h. She is a pushover, a doormat, pathetic, no self respect and let’s H treat her however he wants.
Second time they have sex he avoids her and acts like it didn’t happen.
There is no humor in this novel except CJ. She was the best and the only bright spot in the novel.
Let’s hope his his REASONS are good.
Done reading 100% :
Still didn’t like it. Reasons:
We still don’t know why he dated h’s bff after dumping her because it’s not mentioned in this novel, maybe it was mentioned in book 1 which I didn’t read but shouldn’t it be mentioned in his book. So this basically makes him a douche in my eyes. I don’t care whether they slept or not but they’re twitts were good or sweet.
I standby assessment that kiss can solve any problem, which we can see till the end.
This novel contains i love you but will fuck other, which I hate.
Heroine is a doormat and a looser who has no self respect. A disgrace to women kind.
H self centered oblivious asshole.
Needed more groveling. She forgave him for all his asshole behavior, heartache, humiliation in a nano second. Even when he was apologizing she was smiling instead of being pissed! See no self respect.
Not worth your time. There’s nothing sweet or redeeming about this one. No character development , nothing.
How pathetic is this h. She slept with H two years ago and the next he acted like nothing happened and tells her not to tell anyone, makes her life so miserable in their workplace she quits her job then he goes ahead starts dating her Bff. What a douche. I don’t know the reasons behind it because it not mentioned in 80% of the novel, where I am at.
The H Owen is so oblivious it’s not fun. I mean either he is completely blind or a toddler who’s brain is still developing. What made me more pissed of at him was when he hired h’s replacement the woman h hates and doesn’t want him to hire because the assistant is hot and wants in his pants and is a shameless flirt without even telling her. His mature way to handle any problem is apparently to kiss her, and he is right to do so because it always works. Even when he hires the woman h hates. He doesn’t even tries to understand the h or any other person.
Heroine has her brain between her legs and thinks from there. I really hated her more than the H because though she is a has job which is the only point in her favor, she is everything I hate in a h. She is a pushover, a doormat, pathetic, no self respect and let’s H treat her however he wants.
Second time they have sex he avoids her and acts like it didn’t happen.
There is no humor in this novel except CJ. She was the best and the only bright spot in the novel.
Let’s hope his his REASONS are good.
Done reading 100% :
Still didn’t like it. Reasons:
We still don’t know why he dated h’s bff after dumping her because it’s not mentioned in this novel, maybe it was mentioned in book 1 which I didn’t read but shouldn’t it be mentioned in his book. So this basically makes him a douche in my eyes. I don’t care whether they slept or not but they’re twitts were good or sweet.
I standby assessment that kiss can solve any problem, which we can see till the end.
This novel contains i love you but will fuck other, which I hate.
Heroine is a doormat and a looser who has no self respect. A disgrace to women kind.
H self centered oblivious asshole.
Needed more groveling. She forgave him for all his asshole behavior, heartache, humiliation in a nano second. Even when he was apologizing she was smiling instead of being pissed! See no self respect.
Not worth your time. There’s nothing sweet or redeeming about this one. No character development , nothing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2020
It wasn't too shabby. The chemistry was undeniable and I thought they made an ideal pairing though the whole 'game kink' was not up my alley. Nevertheless it wasn't a bad read and would definitely categorize this as mediocre.
February 1, 2020
Mallory and Owen are enemies, or so we think. They both work for Mal’s brother at Hotline Hookup. While I love the trope of enemies to lovers, I feel this one missed the mark. I felt like this story was all over the place.
Mal was angry at Owen because after a perfect night together, Owen acted like a jerk and pushed her away. And I feel the reason why is soo silly. For 2 years Owen treated her like dirt while she worked for him, and he did it because he loved to get her riled up? Lame! And while he claimed to have loved her through the 2 years he treated her like crap, he flirted with women, hooked up with women, etc. When he finally apologized to her, she forgave him in seconds. WHAT?
I just skimmed over most of the story as it didn’t keep my interest. I forced myself to finish, because I really like the first book of the series and I was HOPING it got better, it didn’t. UGH. Glad I got it through Kindle Unlimited, because ‘d be mad if I had to pay for it.
Mal was angry at Owen because after a perfect night together, Owen acted like a jerk and pushed her away. And I feel the reason why is soo silly. For 2 years Owen treated her like dirt while she worked for him, and he did it because he loved to get her riled up? Lame! And while he claimed to have loved her through the 2 years he treated her like crap, he flirted with women, hooked up with women, etc. When he finally apologized to her, she forgave him in seconds. WHAT?
I just skimmed over most of the story as it didn’t keep my interest. I forced myself to finish, because I really like the first book of the series and I was HOPING it got better, it didn’t. UGH. Glad I got it through Kindle Unlimited, because ‘d be mad if I had to pay for it.
December 11, 2019
5 Cranky Stars
Owen and Mallory have that type of tension that makes even complete strangers say my god just do it already!! Sadly, they are too busy dodging their feelings like a game of Frogger. Mal wants a forever and Owen is just here for one night. It also doesn’t help that they work together, and their common thread is Austin. This is their story. We caught glimpses of it in Austin and Clovers story and we couldn’t wait to read more.
Mallory works with Hotline Hookup as Owens assistant. Since they shared a passionate night where Owen acted like it was a one and done and Mallory had her heart broken they have acted like brats to each other. Owen throwing barbs at Mallory any chance he gets and taking great satisfaction from it too. Mal has quit the job multiple times because she has feelings for Owen and knows they aren’t returned. When she comes up with an idea for a dating app she pitches it to her brother Austin and he goes with it but with one condition she partners with Owen since he has the experience and some pretty awesome ideas as well. Over the next few months they trade insults, sexy glances, feelings they never wanted to admit, one scheming assistant, and the fear of hearts being broken yet they make Hotline Hookup dating app a success.
I just loved these two. They were nothing short of throwing things at each other which I’m sure Mal has wanted to do repeatedly. It’s like that old school yard adage that if a boy picks on you he likes you which is bullcrap by the way.
They both needed a push and that push seemed to come from their family and friends. CJ is still a riot and I can’t wait to see who the man who brings her down is. This book isn’t all heart though it has some serious sexy times between these two. Smoke up the kindle sexy times. I had a hard time putting this book down which is saying a lot since I have been in a book funk lately. Also, any chance to see Kramer the deranged parrot is always a good time. This is a series people need to read!
Owen and Mallory have that type of tension that makes even complete strangers say my god just do it already!! Sadly, they are too busy dodging their feelings like a game of Frogger. Mal wants a forever and Owen is just here for one night. It also doesn’t help that they work together, and their common thread is Austin. This is their story. We caught glimpses of it in Austin and Clovers story and we couldn’t wait to read more.
Mallory works with Hotline Hookup as Owens assistant. Since they shared a passionate night where Owen acted like it was a one and done and Mallory had her heart broken they have acted like brats to each other. Owen throwing barbs at Mallory any chance he gets and taking great satisfaction from it too. Mal has quit the job multiple times because she has feelings for Owen and knows they aren’t returned. When she comes up with an idea for a dating app she pitches it to her brother Austin and he goes with it but with one condition she partners with Owen since he has the experience and some pretty awesome ideas as well. Over the next few months they trade insults, sexy glances, feelings they never wanted to admit, one scheming assistant, and the fear of hearts being broken yet they make Hotline Hookup dating app a success.
I just loved these two. They were nothing short of throwing things at each other which I’m sure Mal has wanted to do repeatedly. It’s like that old school yard adage that if a boy picks on you he likes you which is bullcrap by the way.
They both needed a push and that push seemed to come from their family and friends. CJ is still a riot and I can’t wait to see who the man who brings her down is. This book isn’t all heart though it has some serious sexy times between these two. Smoke up the kindle sexy times. I had a hard time putting this book down which is saying a lot since I have been in a book funk lately. Also, any chance to see Kramer the deranged parrot is always a good time. This is a series people need to read!
December 20, 2019
Mallory and Owen have a tumultuous relationship as not only do they have to work together but he is her brother’s best friend as well. They spent one night together which Mallory thought might be the beginning of forever, but Owen had different ideas and couldn’t flee fast enough. Since then their hostile interactions have only escalated in volume.
Mallory has devised a dating app that will allow people to find their soulmates but for it to get lift off she is dismayed to find she must partner with Owen. Will the sparks of animosity between them turn into sparks of a different kind?
Owen and Mallory’s journey is filled with sarcastic banter, hot chemistry and misunderstandings but there is denying that they are perfect together and the great secondary characters definitely enhance the story.
Mallory has devised a dating app that will allow people to find their soulmates but for it to get lift off she is dismayed to find she must partner with Owen. Will the sparks of animosity between them turn into sparks of a different kind?
Owen and Mallory’s journey is filled with sarcastic banter, hot chemistry and misunderstandings but there is denying that they are perfect together and the great secondary characters definitely enhance the story.
December 11, 2019
Ahhhh I loved this story!!! I was hoping to see more of the secondary characters from UNlucky in Love (clover’s awesome story) and have been excited for this one.
This story is HILARIOUS! I mean, rolling around the floor with a belly ache kind of laughing. Though... however much I love the characters, CJ drove me nuts. She was funny, don’t get me wrong but she was a bit OTT in places. And Mal could be a total drama queen... but that was just her. Owen is your classic a-hole turn soppy git. He’s hot, he’s rude and he’s a bit of a d. But he’s a great main character.
The storyline seem to flow from scene to scene, and do you know what? I’d love to see this series as movies! They would be awesome rom-coms!
This author knows how to write a comical story filled with best, love and angst. She delivers beautifully with each book and so deserves the five stars for this book.. hell, so far, for the series!
This story is HILARIOUS! I mean, rolling around the floor with a belly ache kind of laughing. Though... however much I love the characters, CJ drove me nuts. She was funny, don’t get me wrong but she was a bit OTT in places. And Mal could be a total drama queen... but that was just her. Owen is your classic a-hole turn soppy git. He’s hot, he’s rude and he’s a bit of a d. But he’s a great main character.
The storyline seem to flow from scene to scene, and do you know what? I’d love to see this series as movies! They would be awesome rom-coms!
This author knows how to write a comical story filled with best, love and angst. She delivers beautifully with each book and so deserves the five stars for this book.. hell, so far, for the series!
January 13, 2020
I love me a snarky, fluffy heroine with some hilarious banter! This is a great rom com that I recommend to anyone who likes any of the above.
December 4, 2019
Cary Hart made me laugh out loud and want to find my perfect match in Ring Ready. Mal and Owen will drive you crazy while you fall in love with them. You need to read this book to find out about the closet, donuts, Kramer, the secret and the proposal! Their wonderful friends are also back to entertain us!
Cary always puts in a twist that I’m not expecting and these one or two make my heart explode with happiness. Ring Ready is a funny, engaging story that proves frenemies with benefits can turn into forever love!!!
Tracey, Life Reads With Friends
Cary always puts in a twist that I’m not expecting and these one or two make my heart explode with happiness. Ring Ready is a funny, engaging story that proves frenemies with benefits can turn into forever love!!!
Tracey, Life Reads With Friends
May 8, 2022
Don’t even know where to start with this one. Characters are all immature. None of the ‘business’ stuff makes any sense. The dialogue is dull, doesn’t make any sense, and goes on for far too long. Absolutely 0 chemistry between the leads. Seriously, zilch. Nothing. Nada. The big love confession was rushed and anticlimactic and had absolutely no build up. Literally just “blah blah blah, oh guess what? I love you!” And then, despite the mcs being at each others throats the entire book, they instantly settled into soft, sweet domestic bliss. So many things in the book were poorly explained or barely touched upon- particularly why exactly Owen acted like an absolute a-hole towards the female lead (I forgot her name already). I mean he kind of explains it in his POV (doesn’t make any sense, barely even eludes to a real reason), then kind of explains it to the female lead (still doesn’t make sense and is somehow vaguer than before). God, the amount of time I’ve wasted on a book that fluctuated between overly detailed and long filler scenes, and poorly written and vague important scenes (eg explaining ANYTHING about the app), all while managing to ignore the consequences of anyone’s actions (like srsly this guy treats you that badly for two years and you’re just cool with it?) and having zero chemistry anywhere. Just blegh. Only gave it two stars because I reserve one star for the worst of the worst, and at least I mostly finished this one.
December 7, 2019
Ring Ready is the second book in the Hotline Hookup series and it was funny, frustrating but also sweet and satisfying when they finally admitted their love for each other!!! Owen and Mallory work together. Owen's boss and also best friend is Austin who is also Mallory's brother. Austin's HEA is in the first book. These two, Owen and Mal, were so entertaining with their annoying frustrated banter with each other. These two love to dish it out with each other, never really backing down. But, deep down, there are deeper feelings involved and one of them doesn't know how to handle it. They try really hard to avoid each other because all they do is fight and bicker, but the reasoning for all the bickering comes out and you find out why so much animosity there is. But now, with a new project, they have to work closely together to make it work!!!!
I really enjoyed their sweet moments together. They had to really "grow" up in a sense because they knew they were it for each other, deep down. I loved seeing Austin, Clover and Kramer!!!! That bird is adorable! I really enjoyed the friendships, Clover, Mal and CJ had with each other. I am hoping she writes a story about Logan! I neeeeed it!!! Fun read!!!!
I really enjoyed their sweet moments together. They had to really "grow" up in a sense because they knew they were it for each other, deep down. I loved seeing Austin, Clover and Kramer!!!! That bird is adorable! I really enjoyed the friendships, Clover, Mal and CJ had with each other. I am hoping she writes a story about Logan! I neeeeed it!!! Fun read!!!!
December 19, 2025
Owen & Malorie
🎧 audiobook review
Book #2 in series / can be standalone
5/5 ⭐️ Narration
4/5 ⭐️ overall
✔️coworkers / partners
✔️ mutual pining
✔️ best friend’s sister
✔️ no 3rd act breakup
✔️ all the characters are likable
The narrators rocked this! They were both perfect and brought the story alive and kept me thoroughly entertained.
Did you read/listen to book #1? Malorie is Austin’s little sister and also works at Hotline Hookup Radio with Owen. This could be a standalone, but you’ll have more fun if you enjoy book 1 first. Lots of cameo appearances!
The story itself was really cute, albeit predictable, but that’s what made it feel comfy. Owen and Mal have liked each other a couple years. They had one sexy encounter a couple years ago, but have continued working together as if it didn’t happen. It is explained later in the story why.
It was pure joy with a lot of banter and laughs. Pacing was right on and the friend group was fun! Characters were truly likable and respected each other.
A couple intimate scenes, but not uncomfortable if that’s not your thing. It was rather mild. The ending was ADORABLE! I swooned over Owen taking Malorie to meet his mom.
Looking forward to Book 3 and others by this author
🎧 audiobook review
Book #2 in series / can be standalone
5/5 ⭐️ Narration
4/5 ⭐️ overall
✔️coworkers / partners
✔️ mutual pining
✔️ best friend’s sister
✔️ no 3rd act breakup
✔️ all the characters are likable
The narrators rocked this! They were both perfect and brought the story alive and kept me thoroughly entertained.
Did you read/listen to book #1? Malorie is Austin’s little sister and also works at Hotline Hookup Radio with Owen. This could be a standalone, but you’ll have more fun if you enjoy book 1 first. Lots of cameo appearances!
The story itself was really cute, albeit predictable, but that’s what made it feel comfy. Owen and Mal have liked each other a couple years. They had one sexy encounter a couple years ago, but have continued working together as if it didn’t happen. It is explained later in the story why.
It was pure joy with a lot of banter and laughs. Pacing was right on and the friend group was fun! Characters were truly likable and respected each other.
A couple intimate scenes, but not uncomfortable if that’s not your thing. It was rather mild. The ending was ADORABLE! I swooned over Owen taking Malorie to meet his mom.
Looking forward to Book 3 and others by this author
January 15, 2020
3.75 Stars
Honestly, the only real issue I had was Owen’s attitude. He was acting like a major dick... and not in the sexy way.
But I liked the story. It’s fun and different. Brings enemies to lovers and brother’s best friend together in an office setting. It brought laughs, steam, and heart.
Bring on CJ’s story!!
Honestly, the only real issue I had was Owen’s attitude. He was acting like a major dick... and not in the sexy way.
But I liked the story. It’s fun and different. Brings enemies to lovers and brother’s best friend together in an office setting. It brought laughs, steam, and heart.
Bring on CJ’s story!!
May 6, 2020
The main characters annoyed the ef out of me. Owen has no good qualities accept his physical hotness.
I'm curious when authors write romances, do they ask themselves why one person likes/loves the other? Because I've read a lot of books and many of them suggested people will love you as long as you're hot.
I'm curious when authors write romances, do they ask themselves why one person likes/loves the other? Because I've read a lot of books and many of them suggested people will love you as long as you're hot.
October 19, 2022
This is such a predictable and cringey book. Totally rushed the the storyline without bothering to develop the character and their relationship. The one star is for Mal's friend who provided some much needed comedic relief
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2020
Mallory Montgomery works at Hotline Hookup which is owned by her brother Austin. She absolutely hates her boss Owen Decker who is her brother's best friend and the two have a bit of a history. Her best friend, CJ Collins, thinks that Mallory should turn her own bad dating around by creating a perfect app that will allow her to find Mr. Right.
When Owen Decker learns about Mallory's plans he decides that he wants to create his own dating app, even though he knows it will make Mallory angry. What he doesn't expect is that Austin will force them to work together.
Can Mallory and Owen find a way to successfully work together or will their past and Owen's reputation cause too much tension for them to succeed?
This was such a great read full of laughs and lots of sexual tension!
I thought Mallory was a great character who had a great idea and wanted a chance to succeed with it on her own but unfortunately her brother had different ideas. I liked the ideas that Mallory had and how she had a great support system with CJ and Cleo. It was obvious that Owen had done a number on her in the past and she wanted to prove herself to her brother and to Owen.
Owen seemed like quite the player right from the start and I could see how he could have broken Mallory's heart. I was mad that he wanted in on the app and never gave Mallory a chance to do it on her own.
There was so much sexual tension between Mallory and Owen and I wondered when things would happen and when they did I was so mad at Owen after!! I felt horrible for Mallory because they had been drinking and everything that Owen did after. I was especially mad about him hiring Kayla as you could tell right from the get go that she wanted him.
I enjoyed Owen and Mallory trying out the app and the different stages that they had to go through in the app. I really loved the idea of getting to know someone before seeing them and discovering more about the people through conversation.
I was impressed with Owen when he finally figured out how he felt and did something about it and where he brought Mallory.
I was so mad right along with Mallory when she discovered something sideways and I knew who was to blame and I was so angry! I was impressed with Owen and how he reacted and he was definitely lucky!! I was so proud of Mallory after that with what she did!
I loved the conversation that Owen had with Austin and how he pretty much knew everything already!
The epilogue with Owen and Mallory was awesome!
When Owen Decker learns about Mallory's plans he decides that he wants to create his own dating app, even though he knows it will make Mallory angry. What he doesn't expect is that Austin will force them to work together.
Can Mallory and Owen find a way to successfully work together or will their past and Owen's reputation cause too much tension for them to succeed?
This was such a great read full of laughs and lots of sexual tension!
I thought Mallory was a great character who had a great idea and wanted a chance to succeed with it on her own but unfortunately her brother had different ideas. I liked the ideas that Mallory had and how she had a great support system with CJ and Cleo. It was obvious that Owen had done a number on her in the past and she wanted to prove herself to her brother and to Owen.
Owen seemed like quite the player right from the start and I could see how he could have broken Mallory's heart. I was mad that he wanted in on the app and never gave Mallory a chance to do it on her own.
There was so much sexual tension between Mallory and Owen and I wondered when things would happen and when they did I was so mad at Owen after!! I felt horrible for Mallory because they had been drinking and everything that Owen did after. I was especially mad about him hiring Kayla as you could tell right from the get go that she wanted him.
I enjoyed Owen and Mallory trying out the app and the different stages that they had to go through in the app. I really loved the idea of getting to know someone before seeing them and discovering more about the people through conversation.
I was impressed with Owen when he finally figured out how he felt and did something about it and where he brought Mallory.
I was so mad right along with Mallory when she discovered something sideways and I knew who was to blame and I was so angry! I was impressed with Owen and how he reacted and he was definitely lucky!! I was so proud of Mallory after that with what she did!
I loved the conversation that Owen had with Austin and how he pretty much knew everything already!
The epilogue with Owen and Mallory was awesome!
December 20, 2019
Ring Ready by Cary Hart
This story involves Mallory Montgomery, Austin’s sister from Unlucky in Love (Book 1 in the Hotline Hookup series). Austin ends up with Clover (one of Mallory’s close friends) in Book 1. This is Book 2 in the series. The male protagonist in this book is Owen Decker, who is Austin’s best friend and his Hotline Hookup producer.
Mal and Owen shared one steamy night several month ago, and it has haunted both of them ever since. Owen got scared that night because everything was so good, and he wasn’t in a good place to pursue a relationship. He wasn’t sure what was going to happen with his mother, who just suffered a stroke. So he high-tailed it away from Mal and left her feeling like she was unworthy and unlovable. So they have been avoiding each other ever since.
Mal comes up with an idea for a dating app, and Owen is the guy who can make it happen. He needs it to succeed to pay for the specialized care his mother needs to recover from her stroke diagnosis. But he doesn’t communicate this to anyone, so when this information finally comes out, there are some misunderstandings and some hurt feelings.
Because of this lack of communication, the tension gets ratcheted up rather quickly. It’s evident that both Mallory and Owen are attracted to each other, but because of the lack of previously mentioned communication, there are lots of bruised egos and feelings. This leads to hurtful words and frustration. In spite of all of this, there is a lot of fun to be found in this book. There are some funny parts and some awkward situations that go right along with the misunderstandings and hurt feelings. The reader gets a glimpse into the marriage between Austin and Clover, and how they are doing. A new character is introduced; we will probably be seeing him again, possibly ending with him getting together with CJ, but that is conjecture at this stage.
This is a fun story and well worth reading. It is a stand-alone, but will be a richer experience if the reader tackles Unlucky in Love first, as events from that book are referenced occasionally.
This story involves Mallory Montgomery, Austin’s sister from Unlucky in Love (Book 1 in the Hotline Hookup series). Austin ends up with Clover (one of Mallory’s close friends) in Book 1. This is Book 2 in the series. The male protagonist in this book is Owen Decker, who is Austin’s best friend and his Hotline Hookup producer.
Mal and Owen shared one steamy night several month ago, and it has haunted both of them ever since. Owen got scared that night because everything was so good, and he wasn’t in a good place to pursue a relationship. He wasn’t sure what was going to happen with his mother, who just suffered a stroke. So he high-tailed it away from Mal and left her feeling like she was unworthy and unlovable. So they have been avoiding each other ever since.
Mal comes up with an idea for a dating app, and Owen is the guy who can make it happen. He needs it to succeed to pay for the specialized care his mother needs to recover from her stroke diagnosis. But he doesn’t communicate this to anyone, so when this information finally comes out, there are some misunderstandings and some hurt feelings.
Because of this lack of communication, the tension gets ratcheted up rather quickly. It’s evident that both Mallory and Owen are attracted to each other, but because of the lack of previously mentioned communication, there are lots of bruised egos and feelings. This leads to hurtful words and frustration. In spite of all of this, there is a lot of fun to be found in this book. There are some funny parts and some awkward situations that go right along with the misunderstandings and hurt feelings. The reader gets a glimpse into the marriage between Austin and Clover, and how they are doing. A new character is introduced; we will probably be seeing him again, possibly ending with him getting together with CJ, but that is conjecture at this stage.
This is a fun story and well worth reading. It is a stand-alone, but will be a richer experience if the reader tackles Unlucky in Love first, as events from that book are referenced occasionally.
December 31, 2019
Ring Ready is the second book in the Hotline Hookup Series. It can be read as a stand-alone. I haven’t read the the first book, Unlucky In Love, and I was able to follow along just fine. Ring Ready is a romcom, frenemies to lover, older brother’s best friend and office romance read. I’m pretty sure this is my first time reading Cary Hart ☺️.
Mallory is our heroine. She is getting fed up in the dating world. Tried of dating and trying to find someone who isn’t just looking for a hookup. In the mist of all of this, she is still hung up on Owen. Her brothers best friend. Who she also happens to work with. They had one glorious night, led her to believe he wanted more, and then ghosted her.
Owen is a jerk, or at least that’s what he wants Mallory to believe. He has no desire to have Austin (Mallory’s brother, and also their boss), to find out about them. So he is literally a dick to her on purpose. What Mallory and Austin don’t know, is that Owens mother had a stroke, and he is trying to find a way to pay for the care that she needs.
Mallory comes with an idea for a dating app that will help you find love-if that’s what you are looking for 😉. Owen tries to beat her to the punch, but Austin puts them both on the project, which forces them to work more closely together. What’s the worst that could happen?
This book does have a lot of humor and snark. I was able to connect with the characters and liked seeing them get the HEA.
I voluntarily read an arc and this is my honest review
Mallory is our heroine. She is getting fed up in the dating world. Tried of dating and trying to find someone who isn’t just looking for a hookup. In the mist of all of this, she is still hung up on Owen. Her brothers best friend. Who she also happens to work with. They had one glorious night, led her to believe he wanted more, and then ghosted her.
Owen is a jerk, or at least that’s what he wants Mallory to believe. He has no desire to have Austin (Mallory’s brother, and also their boss), to find out about them. So he is literally a dick to her on purpose. What Mallory and Austin don’t know, is that Owens mother had a stroke, and he is trying to find a way to pay for the care that she needs.
Mallory comes with an idea for a dating app that will help you find love-if that’s what you are looking for 😉. Owen tries to beat her to the punch, but Austin puts them both on the project, which forces them to work more closely together. What’s the worst that could happen?
This book does have a lot of humor and snark. I was able to connect with the characters and liked seeing them get the HEA.
I voluntarily read an arc and this is my honest review
January 11, 2020
Ring Ready was so hilarious, that I'm laughing all over again as I start to type this review up, and really just want everyone to experience it for themselves! The characters were so awesome, though so opposite that to me, made it all the better. Mallory aka Mal, is our heroine who could be a drama queen at times, while Owen was the typical douche bag who only is in it for one night with the opposite sex. She's forever, he's certainly not, as they spent a night together in the past, where it went a bit sideways. Now, it's more of landmine as they're at work, and while she's been his assistant for a cool minute, she's quit more than once. Mal finally comes up with a great idea for a dating app, takes it to her brother to help her, but he will if she partners with Owen on it. Did I forget to mention that Owen is her brother's best buddy?! Yeah, you already know that it's going to be a complication. I wasn't a fan of Owen for some time, as he just seemed too mean to Mal for me. So, I spent a portion of this story totally calling him names of the colorful metaphor variety. Did he eve get better so I would stop?! Well, you'll just have to one click for yourselves to find out, and hell, you could totally have a different opinion of him. Anyway, I LOVE this series, and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
December 11, 2019
This was a new author for me. I’ve wanted to read a Cary heart book for some time now. I’ve had a few of her books on my TBR list for a minute now.
I enjoyed watching Owen and Malory aka Mal’s love bloom. They have known each other for a while now, since Owen is Mal’s brothers best friend. They had an intense love hate relationship to say the least. They either were kissing and loving or they were yelling and slapping.
While, i enjoyed the story as a whole, there were parts that just didn’t click for me. I thought Mal and Owen dragged out their hate fueled interactions for a long time ( two years) when their issues were minor, a simple conversation with her brother could of cleared years and months of heartache up quickly. I know we needed the angst and drama and it made sense, i just felt it was a minor issue and could of easily been worried out pages ago. However, this could of just been me, I’m coming off a major book hang over, and think i need to read another book by Ms. Hart to see if it was just my hang over causing a block, or if the book and i just didn’t mesh well. I enjoyed the secondary characters a lot, and pray that crazy CJ gets herself a big soon!
** ARC was kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review **
I enjoyed watching Owen and Malory aka Mal’s love bloom. They have known each other for a while now, since Owen is Mal’s brothers best friend. They had an intense love hate relationship to say the least. They either were kissing and loving or they were yelling and slapping.
While, i enjoyed the story as a whole, there were parts that just didn’t click for me. I thought Mal and Owen dragged out their hate fueled interactions for a long time ( two years) when their issues were minor, a simple conversation with her brother could of cleared years and months of heartache up quickly. I know we needed the angst and drama and it made sense, i just felt it was a minor issue and could of easily been worried out pages ago. However, this could of just been me, I’m coming off a major book hang over, and think i need to read another book by Ms. Hart to see if it was just my hang over causing a block, or if the book and i just didn’t mesh well. I enjoyed the secondary characters a lot, and pray that crazy CJ gets herself a big soon!
** ARC was kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review **
December 12, 2019
Omg where do i even begin this book is amazing and as always leaving me wanting more. Mal is trying to prove too herself that she is more of an assistant to her asshole of a boss who she may have hooked up with a few years ago and he completely broke her heart. Owen Decker is a hot shot producer for a big radio show Hotline Hookup and is trying to do everything he can to hold his feeling for Mal in even if it makes her life a living nightmare. When Mal come up with an idea to pitch a new app to her brother to take Hotline Hookup to the next level he makes her work with Owen and they have to try and get along for the sake of the app. Can these two put the past behind them and make this app the next best thing or will they get caught up in their feelings for one another and get tangled up in the sheets once again. You will definitely be swooning over Owen and Mal’s chemistry. I freaking love this books os much and the characters that we met in the first book. Kramer is back and just as hilarious as before. CJ and Clover are there for Mal proving just how amazing it is to have a core group of friends that you can tell anything to.
December 11, 2019
Multiple Reviews Below
4Stars
Mallory Montgomery battles Owen Decker at work and personally. The contest to decide who is the winner is a fun one to witness.
I have to admit, as I am sure was the author’s intent, Owen drove me batty in the beginning with his antics and cocky attitude but I warmed up to him. 😂 Mal I did like, quickly, she had a great quirky personality, worked hard and aimed high. Together they had a combustible chemistry.
All of the characters are fun, especially CJ. I will definitely be interested in reading her story, she’s a card. Kramer, the bird, is a bit of light fun as well.
This is a light hearted romance that is enjoyable to read. There are some great one liners that are thrown away left, right and centre."
Reviewed by Robyn
4Stars
A quirky, funny and highly entertaining romantic comedy! Owen was an arrogant, cheeky great looking guy who loved to push Mal's buttons. Mal was his assistant who just also happened to be his best friends little sister... the two had chemistry that was off the charts HOT!! When they are forced to work together on a project at work, their lives become much more interesting and this is where the fun begins. Highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a romantic comedy with fun characters and a fabulous storyline!
Reviewed by Nat
4Stars
Mallory Montgomery battles Owen Decker at work and personally. The contest to decide who is the winner is a fun one to witness.
I have to admit, as I am sure was the author’s intent, Owen drove me batty in the beginning with his antics and cocky attitude but I warmed up to him. 😂 Mal I did like, quickly, she had a great quirky personality, worked hard and aimed high. Together they had a combustible chemistry.
All of the characters are fun, especially CJ. I will definitely be interested in reading her story, she’s a card. Kramer, the bird, is a bit of light fun as well.
This is a light hearted romance that is enjoyable to read. There are some great one liners that are thrown away left, right and centre."
Reviewed by Robyn
4Stars
A quirky, funny and highly entertaining romantic comedy! Owen was an arrogant, cheeky great looking guy who loved to push Mal's buttons. Mal was his assistant who just also happened to be his best friends little sister... the two had chemistry that was off the charts HOT!! When they are forced to work together on a project at work, their lives become much more interesting and this is where the fun begins. Highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a romantic comedy with fun characters and a fabulous storyline!
Reviewed by Nat
March 11, 2020
Ring Ready
4.5 Stars
I loved this one just as much as the first book. Owen and Mal had one night together a few years ago but then he pushed her away and started treating her badly. He would do or say things just to get a rise out of her. They developed a bit of a love/hate relationship. Then Mal comes up with an idea for an Online dating app tying into the Luck at Love radio show forcing them to work even closer. One drinking night blurs their Frenemies relationship, slowly pushing it towards more.
So of course there is a lot of great banter and the sexual tension always runs high with these two. Some parts were a little predictable were you could tell what was coming but it was a low drama, fun read. I especially loved the last scene
Looking forward to CJ’s book.
4.5 Stars
I loved this one just as much as the first book. Owen and Mal had one night together a few years ago but then he pushed her away and started treating her badly. He would do or say things just to get a rise out of her. They developed a bit of a love/hate relationship. Then Mal comes up with an idea for an Online dating app tying into the Luck at Love radio show forcing them to work even closer. One drinking night blurs their Frenemies relationship, slowly pushing it towards more.
So of course there is a lot of great banter and the sexual tension always runs high with these two. Some parts were a little predictable were you could tell what was coming but it was a low drama, fun read. I especially loved the last scene
Looking forward to CJ’s book.
December 7, 2019
What an entertaining romantic comedy with characters that seem to love to hate! lol
I just loved Mal and her friends, who wouldn't want girlfriends like them, that support each other no matter what??
Mal and Owen clash when they are near each other and when they have to work on a project together, needless to say butting heads happens often. Frustration, sarcasm, witty banter and sizzling tension really made this such a fantastic read!
I love it when a book has lots of fun, lighthearted and snarky parts that make reading so enjoyable and this book had it in spades.
Owen and Mal are definitely a force to be reckoned with, do they really hate each other that much???? Or is nothing as it seems. You definitely need to read it for yourself to understand what I mean!
Absolutely brilliant Rom com!
I just loved Mal and her friends, who wouldn't want girlfriends like them, that support each other no matter what??
Mal and Owen clash when they are near each other and when they have to work on a project together, needless to say butting heads happens often. Frustration, sarcasm, witty banter and sizzling tension really made this such a fantastic read!
I love it when a book has lots of fun, lighthearted and snarky parts that make reading so enjoyable and this book had it in spades.
Owen and Mal are definitely a force to be reckoned with, do they really hate each other that much???? Or is nothing as it seems. You definitely need to read it for yourself to understand what I mean!
Absolutely brilliant Rom com!
December 8, 2019
Release Date: December 4th 2019
Spoken In: Dual POV
Rating: 4 Stars ⭐️
Ring Ready is the second novel in Cary Harts Hotline Hookup series. It can be read as a standalone but you should definitely read in order to get a bit more of this couples back story as we meet them in the previous book.
Mallory and Owen were amazing together, trying to forget a night between them from a few years ago isn't easy when they have to work together and have a combustible chemistry but the snarky banter and antics they get up to was so much fun.
This book was such a light, sweet and sexy read with some laugh out loud moments and incredible side characters!
I can't wait for CJ's book next, she is an absolute hoot!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review
Spoken In: Dual POV
Rating: 4 Stars ⭐️
Ring Ready is the second novel in Cary Harts Hotline Hookup series. It can be read as a standalone but you should definitely read in order to get a bit more of this couples back story as we meet them in the previous book.
Mallory and Owen were amazing together, trying to forget a night between them from a few years ago isn't easy when they have to work together and have a combustible chemistry but the snarky banter and antics they get up to was so much fun.
This book was such a light, sweet and sexy read with some laugh out loud moments and incredible side characters!
I can't wait for CJ's book next, she is an absolute hoot!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review
December 30, 2019
3.5 funny stars!!
This is book two of the “Hotline Hookup” and can be read as a stand alone. But I will say I absolutely adored the first book!
Mal works for her older brother, Austin, at a radio show. She is ready to shine and make this life hers. Problem is one asshat is standing in her way. Her boss, Owen.
Mal and Owen have so much tension but the banter is hilarious!! Mal is like the perfect chick, I just love her. Owen is the sarcastic ass you love to hate. These two are hot together!!
One thing about this series is for some reason I get lost in all the characters at the beginning. I can’t tell who is speaking and who belongs where. I can’t figure out why but both books did that. With that said I actually love all the characters. This group of friends are hilarious. Cj’s book will be laugh out loud funny!!
**I received this as an ARC and in return gave my honest review**
This is book two of the “Hotline Hookup” and can be read as a stand alone. But I will say I absolutely adored the first book!
Mal works for her older brother, Austin, at a radio show. She is ready to shine and make this life hers. Problem is one asshat is standing in her way. Her boss, Owen.
Mal and Owen have so much tension but the banter is hilarious!! Mal is like the perfect chick, I just love her. Owen is the sarcastic ass you love to hate. These two are hot together!!
One thing about this series is for some reason I get lost in all the characters at the beginning. I can’t tell who is speaking and who belongs where. I can’t figure out why but both books did that. With that said I actually love all the characters. This group of friends are hilarious. Cj’s book will be laugh out loud funny!!
**I received this as an ARC and in return gave my honest review**
December 7, 2019
Reviewed for She’s a Lip Biter Blog
Mallory Montgomery battles Owen Decker at work and personally. The contest to decide who is the winner is a fun one to witness.
I have to admit, as I am sure was the author’s intent, Owen drove me batty in the beginning with his antics and cocky attitude but I warmed up to him. 😂 Mal I did like, quickly, she had a great quirky personality, worked hard and aimed high. Together they had a combustible chemistry.
All of the characters are fun, especially CJ. I will definitely be interested in reading her story, she’s a card. Kramer, the bird, is a bit of light fun as well.
This is a light hearted romance that is enjoyable to read. There are some great one liners that are thrown away left, right and centre.
Mallory Montgomery battles Owen Decker at work and personally. The contest to decide who is the winner is a fun one to witness.
I have to admit, as I am sure was the author’s intent, Owen drove me batty in the beginning with his antics and cocky attitude but I warmed up to him. 😂 Mal I did like, quickly, she had a great quirky personality, worked hard and aimed high. Together they had a combustible chemistry.
All of the characters are fun, especially CJ. I will definitely be interested in reading her story, she’s a card. Kramer, the bird, is a bit of light fun as well.
This is a light hearted romance that is enjoyable to read. There are some great one liners that are thrown away left, right and centre.
December 13, 2019
Hilarious, absolutely hilarious. Mallory and Owen hooked up over two years ago and she gave it her all, so did Owen, but he lied. It's been a tumultuous two years and now they have to work together. It's almost cringe worthy what they say and do to each other.
Mal's posse consists of Clover (her future sister-in-law) and CJ, an over the top bestie. There are donuts, Monopoly strategy and cheap properties, glitter and the tri-fold board, coffee, Alice, pizza porn, and of course Kramer! Watch out for coffee shop authors writing their next novel.
It's an enjoyable read and a great next chapter in The Hotline Connection series.
I received this advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
Mal's posse consists of Clover (her future sister-in-law) and CJ, an over the top bestie. There are donuts, Monopoly strategy and cheap properties, glitter and the tri-fold board, coffee, Alice, pizza porn, and of course Kramer! Watch out for coffee shop authors writing their next novel.
It's an enjoyable read and a great next chapter in The Hotline Connection series.
I received this advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 7, 2019
Ring Ready has all the things I look for in a rom com.
Hilarious shenanigans ✔
Best friends that are hilarious and over the top ✔
An asshole who needs to grovel ✔
Cuteness ✔
All of that and so much more make up Ring Ready. Not only was Mal adorable, she was real. She is tired of living the single life and is done complaining about it. Instead she does something about it. Add in Owen who is a huge asshole, yet a lovable one, and you get two people desperate to stay away from each other yet they can't fight their attraction.
Mal and Owen have a hilarious ride, kinda hard not to with these two.
Hilarious shenanigans ✔
Best friends that are hilarious and over the top ✔
An asshole who needs to grovel ✔
Cuteness ✔
All of that and so much more make up Ring Ready. Not only was Mal adorable, she was real. She is tired of living the single life and is done complaining about it. Instead she does something about it. Add in Owen who is a huge asshole, yet a lovable one, and you get two people desperate to stay away from each other yet they can't fight their attraction.
Mal and Owen have a hilarious ride, kinda hard not to with these two.
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