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Sinful Men #5
My Sinful Temptation
Just because you want a woman doesn't mean you get to have her.
I've been lusting after Mindy Gamble since the night I met her, but romance
was never in the cards. Working to crack a case was the only order of the
day.
Now, a year later, she's one of my closest friends. The feisty,
no-nonsense, sexy-as-hell blonde that I just want to slap my handcuffs on
and do bad things to.
I resist though, since I need her too much as a friend. Until the night all
my resistance cracks, and we fall into bed together.
And I start thinking we can maybe find a way to make this work. Until she
tells me she's leaving town...
I've been lusting after Mindy Gamble since the night I met her, but romance
was never in the cards. Working to crack a case was the only order of the
day.
Now, a year later, she's one of my closest friends. The feisty,
no-nonsense, sexy-as-hell blonde that I just want to slap my handcuffs on
and do bad things to.
I resist though, since I need her too much as a friend. Until the night all
my resistance cracks, and we fall into bed together.
And I start thinking we can maybe find a way to make this work. Until she
tells me she's leaving town...
3 pages, Audible Audio
First published May 12, 2020
267 people are currently reading
1156 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Blakely
251 books24.6k followersYou can find Lauren on TikTok at @laurenblakelybooks! A #1 New York Times Bestselling, #1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling, and #1 Audible Bestselling author, Lauren Blakely is known for her contemporary romance style that’s sexy, feel-good and witty. Lauren likes dogs, cake and show tunes and she is the vegetarian at your dinner party.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
June 14, 2020
My Sinful Temptation was a great addition to the Sinful Men series. As a reader who has followed the Sloan family through the previous four books, I personally was excited to know this was coming.
John played a really important part in the previous four books and I started getting attached to him. Mindy was the same. They were secondary characters in each previous book but I was rooting for them to get together.
And while I would have been okay (and I say that grudgingly) with them getting together at the end of the previous book, I'm beyond happy that they got their own book. It was short but so good. I got to know them both better as the leading characters. They had their own obstacles to get through from actually getting together to how to stay together. But it unfolded perfectly.
I loved this story and feel like this was really the perfect ending to the series.
June 14, 2020
Audiobook Review
Overall 4 stars
Performance 4 stars
Story 4 stars
I'm so glad that Mindy and John got their own story and happily ever after. They crossed paths thanks to the Sloan family and I loved seeing them circle each other and slowly give into their feelings. There isn't a lot of angst in this one, but there is a lot of steam thanks to "after dark" John ;) I really enjoyed the narration by Scott Brick and Samantha Cook. Scott Brick was perfect as straight laced John, but I did have a little bit of a hard time differentiating between characters in his chapters. A quick and fun listen and I absolutely loved the epilogues. This was the perfect way to end the series!
Overall 4 stars
Performance 4 stars
Story 4 stars
I'm so glad that Mindy and John got their own story and happily ever after. They crossed paths thanks to the Sloan family and I loved seeing them circle each other and slowly give into their feelings. There isn't a lot of angst in this one, but there is a lot of steam thanks to "after dark" John ;) I really enjoyed the narration by Scott Brick and Samantha Cook. Scott Brick was perfect as straight laced John, but I did have a little bit of a hard time differentiating between characters in his chapters. A quick and fun listen and I absolutely loved the epilogues. This was the perfect way to end the series!
February 27, 2021
A short, sweet, and steamy friends-to-lovers romance that serves its purpose as a fan service. John and Mindy’s story is low in conflict and meant to be. This is essentially a novella-length epilogue to the Sinful Men series.
May 18, 2020
Awe I am so glad we got this short story of John and Mindy. You could feel their attraction in other books so getting their story is bitter sweet because it means the series is over.
I did enjoy the end because it gave us a little of what the Sloan family is like after. Great epilogue.
The narration as always was perfect.
I did enjoy the end because it gave us a little of what the Sloan family is like after. Great epilogue.
The narration as always was perfect.
June 25, 2020
3.5-4 stars.
December 21, 2020
This was a great read. Sexy hot cop - what's not to like?
I thoroughly recommend the Sinful Men series if you enjoy hunky alpha males, sexy romance, with some suspense thrown in, among the lights of Las Vegas.
I thoroughly recommend the Sinful Men series if you enjoy hunky alpha males, sexy romance, with some suspense thrown in, among the lights of Las Vegas.
May 18, 2020
Book 5 in the Sinful Nights series and each can be read as a standalone. A great addition to the series. I really enjoyed Mindy and John’s story. They were friends first but each had a secret longing to be with the other. Great storyline and wonderful characters. Loved this quick read.
I read an early review copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I read an early review copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
June 25, 2020
*Audio Review*
4 STARS
I have been intrigued and wanting more of Detective John Winston since he was first introduced at the beginning of the Sinful Nights series and I am so glad that he got his HEA with Mindy. This was short but written well. The characters well developed. John has been devoted to job as Detective and has never really made time for love in his life. Until he realizes he could have more with Mindy and starts to rethink things. John is extremely protective, loving and the chemistry and connect he had to Mindy was explosive. Mindy was shy and reserved about her attraction to John but once she realizes he feels the same John becomes so much more to her. I loved this entire series and the extended epilogue and being able to check in one last time with all the Sloans. Lauren Blakely has written the perfect short story to end off this series.
The narration by Samantha Cook and Scott Brick was perfectly done. Loved it!
4 STARS
I have been intrigued and wanting more of Detective John Winston since he was first introduced at the beginning of the Sinful Nights series and I am so glad that he got his HEA with Mindy. This was short but written well. The characters well developed. John has been devoted to job as Detective and has never really made time for love in his life. Until he realizes he could have more with Mindy and starts to rethink things. John is extremely protective, loving and the chemistry and connect he had to Mindy was explosive. Mindy was shy and reserved about her attraction to John but once she realizes he feels the same John becomes so much more to her. I loved this entire series and the extended epilogue and being able to check in one last time with all the Sloans. Lauren Blakely has written the perfect short story to end off this series.
The narration by Samantha Cook and Scott Brick was perfectly done. Loved it!
July 25, 2020
A novella that tells the story of how John Winston and Mindy Gamble from the Sinful Men series got together. After all you can't have all the other major characters in the series paired off and not wrap up the final two! It was a short, but entertaining listen and the narration was good as always.
June 13, 2023
Eh 🤷🏻♀️
February 24, 2023
Loved this novella!
May 10, 2020
My Sinful Temptation is the fifth and final book in the Sinful Men series by one of my all-time favorite authors, Lauren Blakely. I can’t believe it’s been four years since the last book and I am so looking forward to reading the re-written version of the series. I loved it the first time around so I know I will fall even harder now. But, this one is brand new! If you read the series then you have met Mindy and John.
She works private security for hotels. He was a detective. They both had demanding jobs. They even worked a case together but that wasn’t the first time they met. It was at an engagement party. Even then John wanted her but knew his work wouldn’t allow him to give her his all. And now, a year later, it was still the case but he did make time for her friendship. They were gym buddies. Sparring partners. He loved to watch her sweat and at the same time it was torture. He wanted her sweating in other ways. Making those sexy grunts and purrs in his bed. He maintained his willpower until he just...couldn’t.
Mindy felt the sparks. She always did but it looked like friendship was in the cards for them. She didn’t know how he felt so they stayed in the friend-zone until something changed. It wasn’t a boom! It was a slow burn and it was worth it. So fucking worth it. She was on cloud 9 until she had to decide if she should stay or she should go. Stay in Las Vegas to see what could happen next or go on a new adventure...
Wow!! I can’t believe that was a novella. It’s was full of story, heat, love, family, and decisions. I even cried and that’s hard to do in a short amount of time. That’s how much I loved these characters. It was a fun,flirty and sinful ride. i loved every minute of it!
Quotes:
There was just something hot as sin about a woman who knew how to channel her frustration into the physical.
This kiss felt like he wanted to memorize every detail of my lips, my skin, my taste. And I wanted that too.
The prospect of this calm, measured, in-charge man losing control was intoxicating.
She works private security for hotels. He was a detective. They both had demanding jobs. They even worked a case together but that wasn’t the first time they met. It was at an engagement party. Even then John wanted her but knew his work wouldn’t allow him to give her his all. And now, a year later, it was still the case but he did make time for her friendship. They were gym buddies. Sparring partners. He loved to watch her sweat and at the same time it was torture. He wanted her sweating in other ways. Making those sexy grunts and purrs in his bed. He maintained his willpower until he just...couldn’t.
Mindy felt the sparks. She always did but it looked like friendship was in the cards for them. She didn’t know how he felt so they stayed in the friend-zone until something changed. It wasn’t a boom! It was a slow burn and it was worth it. So fucking worth it. She was on cloud 9 until she had to decide if she should stay or she should go. Stay in Las Vegas to see what could happen next or go on a new adventure...
Wow!! I can’t believe that was a novella. It’s was full of story, heat, love, family, and decisions. I even cried and that’s hard to do in a short amount of time. That’s how much I loved these characters. It was a fun,flirty and sinful ride. i loved every minute of it!
Quotes:
There was just something hot as sin about a woman who knew how to channel her frustration into the physical.
This kiss felt like he wanted to memorize every detail of my lips, my skin, my taste. And I wanted that too.
The prospect of this calm, measured, in-charge man losing control was intoxicating.
June 10, 2022
Nice side story about a couple of friends/relations of the Sloan family. Both John and Mindy helped with the case in the earlier books but with things wrapped up, it was finally time for them. Simple and sweet - worked for me!
I listened to the audio with Scott Brick and Samantha Cook narrating and enjoyed it too.
I listened to the audio with Scott Brick and Samantha Cook narrating and enjoyed it too.
May 14, 2020
4.5 stars
I loved the Sinful Nights series when it was first released due to the bonds of family, the dynamic couples, and the ongoing mystery thread. But I always wanted to see something happen with Detective John Winston and Mindy Gamble. They were there not only to assist with the case, but as friends to these couples during some challenging times. And I always thought I saw a spark there.
Now this series has had a reboot into first-person point of view and some added embellishments to the storylines, so it is a wonderful time to revisit. And I was so glad that the author has now given us a fifth book. It is a novella about John and Mindy, but also acts as an extended epilogue for all of the couples in this series.
John has been married to his work and when he is on a case it consumes him. But seeing his sister and friends find love has made him rethink a bit. He is thoughtful, intelligent, loyal, and all man, but he is still not sure how much he has to give a relationship. He has had the hots for Mindy for a while but has missed opportunities and now they seem to be comfortable in the friend zone.
Mindy has been through a lot in her personal life but persevered. She has had a crush on John too, but his failure to make a move has made her think he does not feel the same. She is smart, funny, and understanding. But her own life is undergoing some changes and she has to make some decisions about her future.
Are they destined to be friends or can they be something more? Will they be willing to take the risk or stay in their comfort zones?
I really enjoyed this couple and their story. They have a witty rapport, obvious chemistry, and a shared support system. It was fun to check in with the other couples from the series and get another peek into their future. This novella can be read as a sweet and sexy, friends-to-lovers stand-alone, but it also ties up this whole series a bit more. So whether you enjoyed the original series or are just jumping into the reboot, you will enjoy this story and these characters.
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I loved the Sinful Nights series when it was first released due to the bonds of family, the dynamic couples, and the ongoing mystery thread. But I always wanted to see something happen with Detective John Winston and Mindy Gamble. They were there not only to assist with the case, but as friends to these couples during some challenging times. And I always thought I saw a spark there.
Now this series has had a reboot into first-person point of view and some added embellishments to the storylines, so it is a wonderful time to revisit. And I was so glad that the author has now given us a fifth book. It is a novella about John and Mindy, but also acts as an extended epilogue for all of the couples in this series.
John has been married to his work and when he is on a case it consumes him. But seeing his sister and friends find love has made him rethink a bit. He is thoughtful, intelligent, loyal, and all man, but he is still not sure how much he has to give a relationship. He has had the hots for Mindy for a while but has missed opportunities and now they seem to be comfortable in the friend zone.
Mindy has been through a lot in her personal life but persevered. She has had a crush on John too, but his failure to make a move has made her think he does not feel the same. She is smart, funny, and understanding. But her own life is undergoing some changes and she has to make some decisions about her future.
Are they destined to be friends or can they be something more? Will they be willing to take the risk or stay in their comfort zones?
I really enjoyed this couple and their story. They have a witty rapport, obvious chemistry, and a shared support system. It was fun to check in with the other couples from the series and get another peek into their future. This novella can be read as a sweet and sexy, friends-to-lovers stand-alone, but it also ties up this whole series a bit more. So whether you enjoyed the original series or are just jumping into the reboot, you will enjoy this story and these characters.
May 10, 2020
I’m always excited to start a new release by Lauren Blakely because I know it will be wonderful. I have never been disappointed and My Sinful Temptation, book 5 in the Sinful Men series, is another check on the author’s perfect winning streak.
To rate a book 5 stars, I have to admire the heroine. Mindy Gamble is a veteran, smart, hardworking, understanding, and humble. I really loved her! Loved her patience and positive attitude and how she worked in security and bounced back after she was informed of an unexpected change. How she stayed fit and how she pined for John Winston, her friend and a local detective from the Los Vegas Police Department where they both lived. These two had so much in common recently working on a case together, and were truly the perfect match. I loved the slow burn of their romance and their sizzling chemistry, but watch out, because once he asked her out on that first date, it was pure steam ahead! I loved how she internalized the meaning of the date knowing their relationship was moving in a new direction, an intimate one they both desperately wanted.
What I loved best was how she supported the demands of his career and understood him. She didn’t play games or make him feel guilty, and he also respected and admired her career and ambition. What makes this couple special is that they made their relationship a priority. They knew in order to be together, they had to communicate and make sacrifices, and that’s exactly what they did. Their mature and heartfelt commitment gave me goosebumps because it’s what I believe you need to make it for the long haul.
There is no doubt that Lauren Blakely is a romantic at heart because her heroes always deserve the title. They have morals and values and just say and do the swooniest things, and most importantly, know how to take care of their girl during their sexy times!
This is a standalone, but I enjoyed reading updates on characters from the interconnected previous books in this series. Loved the epilogue into the future as my mind always goes there when I finish a book. I need assurance that the couple I have fallen in love with get their HEA and have no doubt, Mindy and John do!
To rate a book 5 stars, I have to admire the heroine. Mindy Gamble is a veteran, smart, hardworking, understanding, and humble. I really loved her! Loved her patience and positive attitude and how she worked in security and bounced back after she was informed of an unexpected change. How she stayed fit and how she pined for John Winston, her friend and a local detective from the Los Vegas Police Department where they both lived. These two had so much in common recently working on a case together, and were truly the perfect match. I loved the slow burn of their romance and their sizzling chemistry, but watch out, because once he asked her out on that first date, it was pure steam ahead! I loved how she internalized the meaning of the date knowing their relationship was moving in a new direction, an intimate one they both desperately wanted.
What I loved best was how she supported the demands of his career and understood him. She didn’t play games or make him feel guilty, and he also respected and admired her career and ambition. What makes this couple special is that they made their relationship a priority. They knew in order to be together, they had to communicate and make sacrifices, and that’s exactly what they did. Their mature and heartfelt commitment gave me goosebumps because it’s what I believe you need to make it for the long haul.
There is no doubt that Lauren Blakely is a romantic at heart because her heroes always deserve the title. They have morals and values and just say and do the swooniest things, and most importantly, know how to take care of their girl during their sexy times!
This is a standalone, but I enjoyed reading updates on characters from the interconnected previous books in this series. Loved the epilogue into the future as my mind always goes there when I finish a book. I need assurance that the couple I have fallen in love with get their HEA and have no doubt, Mindy and John do!
May 21, 2020
This fifth book in the series is the perfect culmination of one of the best series I have read this year! Throughout the series I have been intrigued by John and Mindy as ancillary characters. John is a perfect leading man. You just want him to find love, even though he is married to his work. Mindy's feisty personality is the perfect fit for John. She is one of the few people who can truly understand his devotion to work and what his job truly entails. Friends to lovers is a favorite trope, and this short story absolutely delivers all the feels in true Lauren fashion - Simply awesome! Both have high-demand jobs and struggle with that complexity on top of a new relationship and you just fall in love along with them as they work through it. This final book in the series checks all of my boxes - Wooohoo!
Samantha Cook and Scott Brick do a great job with these complex characters! I look forward to more books with these two!
Samantha Cook and Scott Brick do a great job with these complex characters! I look forward to more books with these two!
May 17, 2020
John is devoted to his career as a police detective but working with his best friend Mindy on a case has him wondering what if. He has been attracted to her since he first met her a year ago and although they have never crossed the line he is determined to change that.
Mindy provides hotel security and she has been attracted to John from their first meeting but he seems content to keep their relationship strictly platonic so she has come to the conclusion that friends is all they will ever be.
When the chemistry between ignites it only brings them closer but when Mindy is faced with a life changing opportunity will it bring them closer or tear them apart?
This is a sweet and sexy friends to lovers story that doesn’t disappoint. Getting to know the characters of John and Mindy was fun and it was great to catch up with the other characters in the series.
Mindy provides hotel security and she has been attracted to John from their first meeting but he seems content to keep their relationship strictly platonic so she has come to the conclusion that friends is all they will ever be.
When the chemistry between ignites it only brings them closer but when Mindy is faced with a life changing opportunity will it bring them closer or tear them apart?
This is a sweet and sexy friends to lovers story that doesn’t disappoint. Getting to know the characters of John and Mindy was fun and it was great to catch up with the other characters in the series.
November 22, 2024
This was a super short listen as I listened to this whole series. I enjoyed this book as I got to listen to one of my fav characters in this series love story even if it was short.
March 21, 2022
This suspenseful family oriented series concludes with a wonderful bonus romance between John and Mindy who appeared throughout the series. I loved the tantalizing glimpse it provides into the happily ever afters for the previous couples which is a real treat. I wish it had been longer because it’s hard to say goodbye because I really enjoyed the narration performances of Scott Brick and Samantha Cook throughout the Sloan saga.
May 27, 2020
Not fully convinced with Scott Brick as a romance narrator 😕 His voice is better suited for thrillers and mysteries/crime novels.
Part of the Audible Escape catalogue ❤️
Part of the Audible Escape catalogue ❤️
August 22, 2021
I loved this short story of John and Mindy and how finally they gave into the chemistry that had been building for over a year between them. There ending was perfect! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
February 7, 2023
It was short but sweet.. a second chance and tender start can be just perfect. Thank you Lauren Blakely for a great conclusion of the series. I can not wait to start a new one
March 19, 2023
I got lost in this one a little bit, enough to not know this was a short book. I kept reading and before I knew it, I was 87% finished with it and couldn’t believe it. When a story is that good, it’s so easy for this to happen. Normally with novellas there is very little information and a quick fall into love. For this one, it was a short time span but Lauren built it up. It was appropriate because as you read the other books in this series, you already knew about Mindy and John. This book gives a glimpse behind the man who cracked the case of the Sloans and you see John in a different, vulnerable, light as he takes a chance with love. You also get a glimpse of Mindy and how she wears her emotions on her sleeve that you don’t see in the other books. This one shares how Mindy and John are as lovers and a couple with no barriers because of work. They are insatiable, tender, and passionate. I loved reading about this side of them. This story was strictly romance based. There was no case to worry about, no high stakes or fear involved. After reading this series, it was amazing to finally just get a story about a budding relationship and the emotions that go with it. Sure, Mindy and John fell in love with each other quickly but this has been building since the first book, though it was never touched on until the 3rd and 4th book in the series. Because they knew each other a long time, it made it easier to read about them falling in love so quickly because it makes sense from this perspective. Normally I have complaints about the book being too short, but in this case it worked and it flowed well. I didn’t feel like the story was cut short at all. However, it could also be because of how these characters stuck around during the series so I felt like I knew them. If only novellas could be this well written and able to keep the interest going. I’m so sad this series ended, I have really enjoyed reading them.
May 21, 2025
Audio-Sinful Men Series 1-5 Reviewing the NEWER version published 2020
I heard the updated 2020 version. This is a reboot of the Sinful Nights series. I admire when an author will revisit and improve upon a previous series when it's not just a token ploy to sell more. This was actually rewritten then newly recorded.
Here's how you'll know if you have the updated version; at the beginning of each book, you'll be told "...new characterizations of the hero and heroine as well as the motivations, tension, and conflict. While the underlying details of the character's professions, hometown, relationships, and circumstances remain the same, nearly everything else is new, including the dialogue, how they interact, and why. All told, this reimagined storyline contains about 80% new material, and it's been rewritten from 3rd to 1st person..."
It has a whole crew of amazing narrators: Andi Arndt, Joe Arden, Maxine Mitchell, Teddy Hamilton, Samantha Cook, Tim Page, Emma Wilder, Scott Brick, Lili Valente, Zachary Webber, Sebastian York, Shane East, Ava Erickson, Brian Pallino, Vanessa Edwin, Jonathan Davis, January Lavoy, Sean Crisden, Jason Clark, Savannah Peachwood, (listed in order of appearance)
The only cautions I have to share are that the titles didn't seem to fit the couples in each story, but I understand they were kept similar to the previous titles for the sake of continuity. It will actually be helpful to the readers, so not really a negative.
Just know that there are sweet couples who treat each other well, lots of spice within couples, and an ongoing mystery that continues and builds throughout the series. I don't know what it was like before the rewrite, but I'm glad I found this version!
You may not appreciate this book as much if you haven't read the rest of the series. This story was added after reader requests.
I heard the updated 2020 version. This is a reboot of the Sinful Nights series. I admire when an author will revisit and improve upon a previous series when it's not just a token ploy to sell more. This was actually rewritten then newly recorded.
Here's how you'll know if you have the updated version; at the beginning of each book, you'll be told "...new characterizations of the hero and heroine as well as the motivations, tension, and conflict. While the underlying details of the character's professions, hometown, relationships, and circumstances remain the same, nearly everything else is new, including the dialogue, how they interact, and why. All told, this reimagined storyline contains about 80% new material, and it's been rewritten from 3rd to 1st person..."
It has a whole crew of amazing narrators: Andi Arndt, Joe Arden, Maxine Mitchell, Teddy Hamilton, Samantha Cook, Tim Page, Emma Wilder, Scott Brick, Lili Valente, Zachary Webber, Sebastian York, Shane East, Ava Erickson, Brian Pallino, Vanessa Edwin, Jonathan Davis, January Lavoy, Sean Crisden, Jason Clark, Savannah Peachwood, (listed in order of appearance)
The only cautions I have to share are that the titles didn't seem to fit the couples in each story, but I understand they were kept similar to the previous titles for the sake of continuity. It will actually be helpful to the readers, so not really a negative.
Just know that there are sweet couples who treat each other well, lots of spice within couples, and an ongoing mystery that continues and builds throughout the series. I don't know what it was like before the rewrite, but I'm glad I found this version!
You may not appreciate this book as much if you haven't read the rest of the series. This story was added after reader requests.
May 15, 2020
My Sinful Temptation is the fifth book in the Sinful Men series by the talented and fabulous Lauren Blakely. It's been a few years since the rest of the series was out and if you haven't read it yet, you can read the re-written series now! I always wanted to know what happened to John and Mindy and now Lauren finally gave it to me! John and Mindy always had chemistry, but they were just friends. They got comfortable in their relationship even though they were both attracted to each other, but neither willing to make the first move. But John is done waiting. He wants Mindy and he's not going to wait any longer. After their first kiss, they knew it was worth the wait and they already knew everything about each other so they didn't have to wait to show their feelings. Now they are out in the open and it is going great, Mindy gets a job opportunity across the country. Will John step up and ask her to stay? Will Mindy choose love over her work? I loved this story!! Yay, John! I loved him as the no nonsense cop in the series and he is the perfect leading man. Serious, confident and sexy as sin. Mindy is his perfect match. Willing to give in when he wants to take control. But they are equals. I feel so content to finally have their story and to catch up with the Sloans!
Audio: This was my first time listening to Scott Brick and Samantha Cook. I loved Scott's voice and I think he was the perfect John. Strong and sexy, but you could hear the rare humor in his voice when he let loose. Samantha was also great! I hope to hear more from them in the future!
Audio: This was my first time listening to Scott Brick and Samantha Cook. I loved Scott's voice and I think he was the perfect John. Strong and sexy, but you could hear the rare humor in his voice when he let loose. Samantha was also great! I hope to hear more from them in the future!
June 10, 2020
Short and Sinful
My Sinful Temptation is the fifth and final installment in the Sinful Men series. It's a novella that rounds out the series by allowing us to see the sinfully sexy relationship blown between Detective John Winston and Mindy Gamble. Both of whom have been participating characters in all four previous stories and deserved their own deliciously sinful excapade, which Lauren Blakely surely delivered.
Typically consumed by work and leaving little time for a social life, John has been the dutiful cop his whole career. But finding both a devoted friend and possibly more in Mindy has been a year-long pleasure that he may finally be ready to explore. But can he convince Mindy to take the leap as well? The two have been precariously riding the fence between friendship and lovers and she's secretly desired more as well. What happens when they throw caution to the wind becomes a truly inspiring story that I had a pleasure reading.
While I did enjoy getting to see Mindy and John finally have a little fun outside of work, this wasn't my favourite of the five installments. That might actually be because I really enjoyed the crime and suspense aspect of the previous stories and this one was simply a romance. But the author does include updates about the previous characters in the series as they make cameos and participate in their own ways so that was essential in rounding out everything. Nevertheless, I did enjoy it and I do recommend the series in its entirety.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
My Sinful Temptation is the fifth and final installment in the Sinful Men series. It's a novella that rounds out the series by allowing us to see the sinfully sexy relationship blown between Detective John Winston and Mindy Gamble. Both of whom have been participating characters in all four previous stories and deserved their own deliciously sinful excapade, which Lauren Blakely surely delivered.
Typically consumed by work and leaving little time for a social life, John has been the dutiful cop his whole career. But finding both a devoted friend and possibly more in Mindy has been a year-long pleasure that he may finally be ready to explore. But can he convince Mindy to take the leap as well? The two have been precariously riding the fence between friendship and lovers and she's secretly desired more as well. What happens when they throw caution to the wind becomes a truly inspiring story that I had a pleasure reading.
While I did enjoy getting to see Mindy and John finally have a little fun outside of work, this wasn't my favourite of the five installments. That might actually be because I really enjoyed the crime and suspense aspect of the previous stories and this one was simply a romance. But the author does include updates about the previous characters in the series as they make cameos and participate in their own ways so that was essential in rounding out everything. Nevertheless, I did enjoy it and I do recommend the series in its entirety.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 18, 2020
Sweet serving of Temptation.
This is the story of John Winston and Mindy Gamble. John is the detective that solved the Price-Paige murder, and Mindy is Brent’s best friend. They’ve been here from the beginning, but now it’s their turn to find a happy ever after.
Both have been attracted to the other since they first met, but the murder mystery took precedence in John’s head, and the ended up just good friends instead. But, that attraction hadn’t faded. Now, with the case closed and time to ponder, John starts seeing Mindy in the way he first did. As a woman, a sexual creature not just a friend.
And Mindy, she’d pushed her feelings to the back of her mind, ignored but not forgotten. So, when John gets that gleam in his eye and his chats are more than flirty, she doesn’t hold back and soon they are in the place where they should’ve have been a year ago.
And, boy, does Mr. stoic and in charge, have a hidden side. Mindy is more than happy to comply and play along.
John is one hot between the sheets lover and he likes to be in control. It’s a sexy and seductive, just the way I like it.
This was a wonderful addition to the other four ‘Sinful’ books by Lauren Blakely and truly worth reading if you’ve read the series. It can be read as a stand-alone as well as it doesn’t delve too much into the previous story.
This is the story of John Winston and Mindy Gamble. John is the detective that solved the Price-Paige murder, and Mindy is Brent’s best friend. They’ve been here from the beginning, but now it’s their turn to find a happy ever after.
Both have been attracted to the other since they first met, but the murder mystery took precedence in John’s head, and the ended up just good friends instead. But, that attraction hadn’t faded. Now, with the case closed and time to ponder, John starts seeing Mindy in the way he first did. As a woman, a sexual creature not just a friend.
And Mindy, she’d pushed her feelings to the back of her mind, ignored but not forgotten. So, when John gets that gleam in his eye and his chats are more than flirty, she doesn’t hold back and soon they are in the place where they should’ve have been a year ago.
And, boy, does Mr. stoic and in charge, have a hidden side. Mindy is more than happy to comply and play along.
John is one hot between the sheets lover and he likes to be in control. It’s a sexy and seductive, just the way I like it.
This was a wonderful addition to the other four ‘Sinful’ books by Lauren Blakely and truly worth reading if you’ve read the series. It can be read as a stand-alone as well as it doesn’t delve too much into the previous story.
May 21, 2020
Reviewed on my blog, Becky on Books, on 3/21/2020.
Friends to lovers FTW!
I've found that the romance novella format tends to work best when the main characters have a prior relationship, making their journey to HEA more believable in the shorter format. That was definitely the case here--Mindy and John have been friends for about a year, barely even admitting to themselves that they *might* like to explore the idea of more.
Until they do. Oh, goodness, do they!
Their relationship is given realistic urgency by Mindy getting a job offer, which ramps up their intimacy, but also puts a deadline on it. Or does it? Decisions are made pretty fast here--again, it's a novella--but they still feel true-to-life and relatively angst-free. Theirs is a grown-up friends-to-lovers story that will both make you smile and need to reach for the fan a time or two.
Or seven... ;)
My Sinful Temptation was the first book I've read in the Sinful Men series (definitely not the last, though!) but it worked fine as a standalone. The focus was really on Mindy and John, and no prior knowledge of series characters was needed to enjoy it.
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Friends to lovers FTW!
I've found that the romance novella format tends to work best when the main characters have a prior relationship, making their journey to HEA more believable in the shorter format. That was definitely the case here--Mindy and John have been friends for about a year, barely even admitting to themselves that they *might* like to explore the idea of more.
Until they do. Oh, goodness, do they!
Their relationship is given realistic urgency by Mindy getting a job offer, which ramps up their intimacy, but also puts a deadline on it. Or does it? Decisions are made pretty fast here--again, it's a novella--but they still feel true-to-life and relatively angst-free. Theirs is a grown-up friends-to-lovers story that will both make you smile and need to reach for the fan a time or two.
Or seven... ;)
My Sinful Temptation was the first book I've read in the Sinful Men series (definitely not the last, though!) but it worked fine as a standalone. The focus was really on Mindy and John, and no prior knowledge of series characters was needed to enjoy it.
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
May 8, 2020
I’m soooo excited to be back in the Sinful Nights world which has been rebooted into My Sinful Men!!! Love this world. My Sinful Temptation is the newest installment and completely brand new. John Winston is a detective with the LVPD who helped bring a conclusion to a big case that was very important to his sister’s husband, Ryan Sloan, and his siblings. John has spent the last year secretly crushing(or he hope’s it’s been secret) on Mindy Gambler, a security expert who helped with the recently solved case. Mindy unexpectedly experiences some changes in her life and decides a change is in order. Will John and Mindy ever take that last step and give in to the obvious sexual tension between them? Or will they each assume they know what the other person is feeling or wants out of life? Lauren Blakely writes characters that are real with character, personality, and hearts-of-gold. Lauren is also an expert at creating/writing sexy times between the sheets with lots of heat. If you like stories with love of family, some suspense, sexual tension, and heat between the sheets then you will totally enjoy My Sinful Temptation along with the rest of Lauren’s Sinful Men Series!! I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. 5 stars *****
May 15, 2020
What a perfectly dazzling ending for the Sinful Men series!
Set about a year after the previous book, this one shows us how the Sloan family is moving on while showcasing the budding romance between Brent’s best friend, Mindy, and Sophie’s brother, John. Both of these characters are very familiar to anyone who has read the earlier books in this series, so this novella doesn’t have to take long to get us to the good stuff.
Mindy is at a career crossroads, and her timing with moving from friends to more with John couldn’t be worse. She’s not even sure if her future lies in Las Vegas or if it’s time to move on. John is in between cases for a while, but he’s not sure how much he’ll be able to put into a meaningful relationship once he’s assigned to another all-consuming case. Watching these two navigate through these and other emotional roadblocks was pure poetry, with a huge helping of steam on the side, and I loved every last bit of it.
Just when you think their HEA is everything, we’re treated to a blissfully satisfying epilogue that catches us up on all the characters from the entire five-book series. The tribute in store was beautifully heartwarming, and the solution to the main conflict of the story was truly a stroke of genius. I couldn’t have loved this more. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Set about a year after the previous book, this one shows us how the Sloan family is moving on while showcasing the budding romance between Brent’s best friend, Mindy, and Sophie’s brother, John. Both of these characters are very familiar to anyone who has read the earlier books in this series, so this novella doesn’t have to take long to get us to the good stuff.
Mindy is at a career crossroads, and her timing with moving from friends to more with John couldn’t be worse. She’s not even sure if her future lies in Las Vegas or if it’s time to move on. John is in between cases for a while, but he’s not sure how much he’ll be able to put into a meaningful relationship once he’s assigned to another all-consuming case. Watching these two navigate through these and other emotional roadblocks was pure poetry, with a huge helping of steam on the side, and I loved every last bit of it.
Just when you think their HEA is everything, we’re treated to a blissfully satisfying epilogue that catches us up on all the characters from the entire five-book series. The tribute in store was beautifully heartwarming, and the solution to the main conflict of the story was truly a stroke of genius. I couldn’t have loved this more. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
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