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Au Naturel Trilogy #2
Natural Impulse
I'm a computer nerd who can't keep a girlfriend, but now I've got the best job ever as assistant manager at Au Naturel Naturist Resort. As a naturist—aka nudist—I'm right at home here. Until Mara Severins shows up. She's wicked hot, but the girl thinks "naturist" means birdwatching, and when she catches her first glimpse of all the naked guests here, she freaks out. What else can I do? My job, that's what. I take care of the guests, which means I have to babysit Mara. It would help if I didn't develop an, um, embarrassing condition every time I see her. She's an uptight city girl at a rural nudist resort, so yeah… Mission control, we've got a problem. Her wacky hang-ups drive me almost as crazy as her sexy body does. Then she kisses me. Then I kiss her. And then things start to get out of hand, and the line between assistant manager and guest gets awfully blurry. Natural Impulse is the second book in the Au Naturel Trilogy of romantic comedies from Anna Durand, bestselling author of the Hot Scots series.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 22, 2020
About the author
Anna Durand
98 books475 followersAnna Durand is a bestselling, multi-award-winning author of contemporary and paranormal romance. Her books have earned bestseller status on every major retailer and wonderful reviews from readers around the world. But that’s the boring spiel. Here are some really cool things you want to know about Anna!
Born on Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, Anna grew up moving here, there, and everywhere thanks to her dad’s job as an instructor pilot. She’s lived in Texas (twice), Mississippi, California (twice), Michigan (twice), and Alaska—and now Ohio.
As for her writing, Anna has always invented stories in her head, but she didn’t write them down until her teen years. Those first awful books went into the trash can a few years later, though she learned a lot from those stories. Eventually, she would pen her first romance novel, the paranormal romance Willpower, and she’s never looked back since.
To get exclusive content, join Anna’s Facebook group, Anna’s Romance Addicts, or sign up for her newsletter at AnnaDurand.com/newsletter.
Born on Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, Anna grew up moving here, there, and everywhere thanks to her dad’s job as an instructor pilot. She’s lived in Texas (twice), Mississippi, California (twice), Michigan (twice), and Alaska—and now Ohio.
As for her writing, Anna has always invented stories in her head, but she didn’t write them down until her teen years. Those first awful books went into the trash can a few years later, though she learned a lot from those stories. Eventually, she would pen her first romance novel, the paranormal romance Willpower, and she’s never looked back since.
To get exclusive content, join Anna’s Facebook group, Anna’s Romance Addicts, or sign up for her newsletter at AnnaDurand.com/newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
June 19, 2023
This was also set in the nudist resort the first book was set at, H is supposedly this nerdy tech guy, with classic glasses and is often called a gay best friend (When he isn't bc he is into girls) who now had taken the job as an assistant to Evie, who is also hot and a nudist. h has come to the resort thinking it is a sort of nature resort where she can explore nature and contemplate birds only to find out the person who had booked her the trip made a mistake and checked her in the nudist resort, which she is uncomfortable indulging the idea of, so she is on guard and avoids being or seeing people in the nude, majorly bc of her upbringing. h is also divorced.
So upon first meeting between the two characters, there is a sort of sparkle (are we surprised? no, we aren't), H immediately likes her or likes how she looks, first thing you notice in a person naturally, he is considerate to her skepticism and helps her stay somewhere else, h thinks he is a nice cute looking guy, etc. Off the beat after he had accompagnied her to her room, they start lusting after each other. h kisses him, he pushes back saying he doesn't want to take advantage of her in a vulnerable situation since she had a hard time dealing with all the nudism shebang. Alright, h is disappointed, she is like okay he is a nice guy but he isn't into me, swallow ur pride.
Later on things develop and they start doing things together, he starts showing her around, not telling her he is a nudist himself but afraid she'll take it badly, whatever you get the idea, it gives you the illusion of slow romance development but it isn't really bc they skip ahead to some sexy times, which i admit, were good.
if you want to read a good smutty romance with a nude resort for a setting again, you might like it, i liked it a bit but what bothered me was the whole Heidi situation and Mara's constant doubt, she doubts once every hour about her attraction towards Oliver. Both Mara and Heidi were a bit annoying in their own way, i liked the whole mother character development moment, but meeh.
So upon first meeting between the two characters, there is a sort of sparkle (are we surprised? no, we aren't), H immediately likes her or likes how she looks, first thing you notice in a person naturally, he is considerate to her skepticism and helps her stay somewhere else, h thinks he is a nice cute looking guy, etc. Off the beat after he had accompagnied her to her room, they start lusting after each other. h kisses him, he pushes back saying he doesn't want to take advantage of her in a vulnerable situation since she had a hard time dealing with all the nudism shebang. Alright, h is disappointed, she is like okay he is a nice guy but he isn't into me, swallow ur pride.
Later on things develop and they start doing things together, he starts showing her around, not telling her he is a nudist himself but afraid she'll take it badly, whatever you get the idea, it gives you the illusion of slow romance development but it isn't really bc they skip ahead to some sexy times, which i admit, were good.
if you want to read a good smutty romance with a nude resort for a setting again, you might like it, i liked it a bit but what bothered me was the whole Heidi situation and Mara's constant doubt, she doubts once every hour about her attraction towards Oliver. Both Mara and Heidi were a bit annoying in their own way, i liked the whole mother character development moment, but meeh.
June 24, 2020
She comes for the The Au Natural wildlife and gets a whole other Au Natural
Natural Impulse is the second book in the Au Naturel Trilogy series. This story is Mara Severins and Oliver "Olie" Jackson. Ollie is the assistant manager at the naturalist resort and a wonderfully sweet geek who you want to see get his girl. That girl walks through the doors of the resort and right into his arms, well not quite like that but it is sweet. Mara is a sweet, beautiful and likeable young woman. She is also more than a little naive as she thought the Au Natural Naturist Resort was about the natural wildlife in the area. Well then is natural wildlife at the resort it is not the type she has imagined.
This is a fun, sweet, charming and romantic story. There is a definite chemistry between Mara and Ollie that develops into something much more deep and meaningful than a vacation fling. The cast of characters is wonderful and adds to the story by rounding it out and helping it along at times.
I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
Natural Impulse is the second book in the Au Naturel Trilogy series. This story is Mara Severins and Oliver "Olie" Jackson. Ollie is the assistant manager at the naturalist resort and a wonderfully sweet geek who you want to see get his girl. That girl walks through the doors of the resort and right into his arms, well not quite like that but it is sweet. Mara is a sweet, beautiful and likeable young woman. She is also more than a little naive as she thought the Au Natural Naturist Resort was about the natural wildlife in the area. Well then is natural wildlife at the resort it is not the type she has imagined.
This is a fun, sweet, charming and romantic story. There is a definite chemistry between Mara and Ollie that develops into something much more deep and meaningful than a vacation fling. The cast of characters is wonderful and adds to the story by rounding it out and helping it along at times.
I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
June 22, 2020
This is a well written book with strong , well developed characters in Mara and Oliver .. two insecure people who meet under hilarious circumstances. The author does a fantastic job pulling you in right from the start and keeping you reading with all the twists and turns as well as the friendship to love. I had quite a few laugh out loud moments reading their story. The secondary characters played a huge role in bringing the story around. I loved this book and am looking forward to reading the next one.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
June 22, 2020
Mara Severins, a city girl through-and-through, was on her way to what she thought was a blissful two-week vacation at a "naturist" birdwatching retreat where she could relax and break out of her doldrums. Au Naturel Naturist Resort even sounded relaxing and blissful, a place where – the travel agent assured her – people go to enjoy nature, hike, birdwatch, and learn about wildlife. It didn’t explain, though, why the cab driver leered at her and no one else would drive her out here!
Oliver Jackson (“Ollie”) was a computer systems engineer and now the assistant manager of Au Naturel Naturist Resort. Being a naturist, or nudist, he loves his job here. He can’t stop staring at Mara. When the cab driver opens the trunk so he can get her luggage, his eyes widen at the 4 suitcases of clothes and 2 small ones for makeup and hair stuff. Considering the resort’s “purpose”, 4 suitcases seemed a bit much. While he started the multiple trips to deliver all her suitcases to the room, he sent her ahead to the dining hall to join the other guests. Her eyes closed to inhale the wonderful aroma – and when she opened them in the doorway, everyone was NAKED, and she screamed! Why would birdwatchers eat in the nude???? Worse yet, Oliver seemed so calm about it all! He couldn’t understand her alarm and just repeated that was the point of the naturist resort, and yes, that did explain it (when she kept asking him to explain)! And when he explained she was at a nudist resort, she fainted in his arms!
Oliver figured she might be better off staying at the guest room in the separate building where the owners lived. They were both gone for now and he was using their room, but the guest room was available and no one else stayed there. He got her settled, but she expressed relief that at least HE was not a nudist! Where did she get that idea? He only dressed when he met newcomers to the resort. Having forgotten the other suitcases back at the main resort, he went to get them. She found she could not unzip her new dress, so asked for his help. He tried to rush out once he had it halfway unzipped, but she grabbed him and kissed him. He pushed her away, telling her he wanted to kiss her, but would not take advantage when she was upset over the naturist situation. She was so embarrassed at her actions. He was such a good guy. When he came back, he found her moaning in the kitchen while eating a red velvet cupcake. His voice sounded strange, though, deeper, when he talked to her. Was he okay? When he said he liked her pink toenails, his voice got even deeper and huskier! Seeing the look on his face, she had a sudden thought he wanted her – but no, he had pushed her away so that couldn’t be it. He quickly turned and left, so she continued eating her third red velvet cupcake.
This book continues to keep the laughs coming in a good way. An older guest, Ruth, is really fantastic and eager to see Ollie help the uptight city girl relax. Ollie's best friend, Damian, decides to surprise him, and he’s quite the ladies man and flirt. Then the unexpected arrival of Mara's ex, Nico, and her parents give us even more chuckles! Poor Mara! But Ollie and Mara continue to fall more and more for each other, and it’s really adorable. With all of the distractions, it’s difficult to imagine deepening their relationship, but they do make it work. Is there a HEA waiting for them? And will Mara find out her sweetie is also a naturist who would love to see her get more comfortable in her own skin! Grab your copy of this fun book and get back to nature!
Oliver Jackson (“Ollie”) was a computer systems engineer and now the assistant manager of Au Naturel Naturist Resort. Being a naturist, or nudist, he loves his job here. He can’t stop staring at Mara. When the cab driver opens the trunk so he can get her luggage, his eyes widen at the 4 suitcases of clothes and 2 small ones for makeup and hair stuff. Considering the resort’s “purpose”, 4 suitcases seemed a bit much. While he started the multiple trips to deliver all her suitcases to the room, he sent her ahead to the dining hall to join the other guests. Her eyes closed to inhale the wonderful aroma – and when she opened them in the doorway, everyone was NAKED, and she screamed! Why would birdwatchers eat in the nude???? Worse yet, Oliver seemed so calm about it all! He couldn’t understand her alarm and just repeated that was the point of the naturist resort, and yes, that did explain it (when she kept asking him to explain)! And when he explained she was at a nudist resort, she fainted in his arms!
Oliver figured she might be better off staying at the guest room in the separate building where the owners lived. They were both gone for now and he was using their room, but the guest room was available and no one else stayed there. He got her settled, but she expressed relief that at least HE was not a nudist! Where did she get that idea? He only dressed when he met newcomers to the resort. Having forgotten the other suitcases back at the main resort, he went to get them. She found she could not unzip her new dress, so asked for his help. He tried to rush out once he had it halfway unzipped, but she grabbed him and kissed him. He pushed her away, telling her he wanted to kiss her, but would not take advantage when she was upset over the naturist situation. She was so embarrassed at her actions. He was such a good guy. When he came back, he found her moaning in the kitchen while eating a red velvet cupcake. His voice sounded strange, though, deeper, when he talked to her. Was he okay? When he said he liked her pink toenails, his voice got even deeper and huskier! Seeing the look on his face, she had a sudden thought he wanted her – but no, he had pushed her away so that couldn’t be it. He quickly turned and left, so she continued eating her third red velvet cupcake.
This book continues to keep the laughs coming in a good way. An older guest, Ruth, is really fantastic and eager to see Ollie help the uptight city girl relax. Ollie's best friend, Damian, decides to surprise him, and he’s quite the ladies man and flirt. Then the unexpected arrival of Mara's ex, Nico, and her parents give us even more chuckles! Poor Mara! But Ollie and Mara continue to fall more and more for each other, and it’s really adorable. With all of the distractions, it’s difficult to imagine deepening their relationship, but they do make it work. Is there a HEA waiting for them? And will Mara find out her sweetie is also a naturist who would love to see her get more comfortable in her own skin! Grab your copy of this fun book and get back to nature!
Did Not Finish
December 11, 2020Natural Impulse offered cheek and humor in the preview, but a few things were hard for me to sit through.
Mara is bound to the image of being a proper lady. She calls cheese “forbidden food.” She’s never eaten red velvet cake, gone on a hike, or had a best friend. Sure, we don’t all have the same life experiences, privilege playing a large role. But by the time I’d heard the fourth or fifth thing she hadn’t experienced, I wondered what she had experienced.
The idea of being proper extended to sex, obviously. She likes kissing, and she was told she shouldn’t. Her ex told her “sex is for men, not women,” it’s women’s “marital duty,” and guys would be disgusted by how excited she gets about sex.
Here’s where I struggle. People can have varying levels of interest in sex for different reasons. Abusive people can feed garbage like that to their partners, leading to sexual repression. It’s a positive in that a reader who sees themselves in Mara’s character may walk away understanding or accepting themselves better. But there’s something about the way it was executed coupled with the need to be proper and self-deprecation that just landed weirdly for me.
I wanted to tell her she’s inherently enough and give her a hug and the name of a good therapist.
There may be a really satisfying arc here, but I couldn’t stick it out. I couldn’t take Mara calling herself stupid, an idiot, or embarrassing anymore. I couldn’t hear Ollie say he was a computer geek, nerd, rebound guy, or loser again. (He also calls her “crazy” pretty liberally in the first 20%, and that’s just not cool).
Some of the early points of conflict felt pretty low stakes, but everything else felt very high and it didn’t balance out for me.
It has great reviews, so maybe it’ll work for you. It just didn’t work for me.
Romance level rating: hot (explicit scenes).
Mara is bound to the image of being a proper lady. She calls cheese “forbidden food.” She’s never eaten red velvet cake, gone on a hike, or had a best friend. Sure, we don’t all have the same life experiences, privilege playing a large role. But by the time I’d heard the fourth or fifth thing she hadn’t experienced, I wondered what she had experienced.
The idea of being proper extended to sex, obviously. She likes kissing, and she was told she shouldn’t. Her ex told her “sex is for men, not women,” it’s women’s “marital duty,” and guys would be disgusted by how excited she gets about sex.
Here’s where I struggle. People can have varying levels of interest in sex for different reasons. Abusive people can feed garbage like that to their partners, leading to sexual repression. It’s a positive in that a reader who sees themselves in Mara’s character may walk away understanding or accepting themselves better. But there’s something about the way it was executed coupled with the need to be proper and self-deprecation that just landed weirdly for me.
I wanted to tell her she’s inherently enough and give her a hug and the name of a good therapist.
There may be a really satisfying arc here, but I couldn’t stick it out. I couldn’t take Mara calling herself stupid, an idiot, or embarrassing anymore. I couldn’t hear Ollie say he was a computer geek, nerd, rebound guy, or loser again. (He also calls her “crazy” pretty liberally in the first 20%, and that’s just not cool).
Some of the early points of conflict felt pretty low stakes, but everything else felt very high and it didn’t balance out for me.
It has great reviews, so maybe it’ll work for you. It just didn’t work for me.
Romance level rating: hot (explicit scenes).
September 24, 2020
I was thrilled to receive an ALC copy of this audiobook. I am absolutely loving Anna Durand's Au Natural Trilogy! Natural Impulse was so yummy and heartfelt. This book picks up right where the Epilogue in Natural Passion ended with Ollie. I just love Ollie. Ollie is a former computer engineer, who now works as an assistant manager at the resort. Eve and Val are away when this book begins, so Ollie is running the resort. Mara arrives at the resort needing an escape from her life. Mara thinks she is going to get in touch with nature and bird watch at the Au Naturel Resort. She has no idea that the resort and is instantly acquainted with other resort guests and all their glory when you goes to the dining hall. Since Ollie is wearing clothes, she instantly confides in him. Mara would leave and go home, but she claims that she can't change her ticket.
As the story progresses, Mara slowly becomes more comfortable being at the resort. Ollie finally reveals to Mara that he is in fact a Nudist as well. Mara accepts this and the two begin to have a fling! Mara and Ollie begin to explore and find out more and more about each other their pasts. Ollie is insecure because he claims he is always dumped due to being "like a gay best friend." Mara is insecure because she is constantly trying to live up to her uptight parents expectations.
Overall, I really enjoyed this fun, yummy, light, and heartfelt romance with the perfect HEA. Jason Clarke and Ava Lucas narrate! These narrators are such a delight, and I thoroughly enjoyed their performance being sucked in and hooked right from the start. I am looking forward to Damian's story in the third book!
As the story progresses, Mara slowly becomes more comfortable being at the resort. Ollie finally reveals to Mara that he is in fact a Nudist as well. Mara accepts this and the two begin to have a fling! Mara and Ollie begin to explore and find out more and more about each other their pasts. Ollie is insecure because he claims he is always dumped due to being "like a gay best friend." Mara is insecure because she is constantly trying to live up to her uptight parents expectations.
Overall, I really enjoyed this fun, yummy, light, and heartfelt romance with the perfect HEA. Jason Clarke and Ava Lucas narrate! These narrators are such a delight, and I thoroughly enjoyed their performance being sucked in and hooked right from the start. I am looking forward to Damian's story in the third book!
October 2, 2020
Mara and Ollie are ADORABLE and hot, which is the perfect combination in my book! I love Natural Impulse, the second in the Au Naturel Trilogy from Anna Durand. It's hot, it's fun, it's engaging, and it's so entertaining, you may want to try a naturist resort for your next vacation.
Having read the first book in this series, I knew that the setting was a naturist (nudist) resort. Mara, our female lead, however, is under a misconception of what, exactly, a naturist resort is. She thinks she'll be spending time in the great outdoors, enjoying the wildlife, bird watching, and getting some much needed space from her ex and her micro-managing family. What she didn't expect was for everyone to be clothes free! Mara is in for the shock of her life when she arrives.
Ollie, our intrepid resort manager, doesn't know what to do to help Mara become comfortable, but he does know that he wants to spend more time with her. He wants to help her break out of her shell and have some fun. Their attraction is instant, and their chemistry is through the roof.
Narrated by Jason Clarke and Ava Lucas, the audio for this book is so entertaining, so enjoyable, and just so much fun. I laughed out loud more than a few times, mostly at the characters inner monologues. Ollie has been burned my love so many times, but he's still optimistic and determined to win Mara over and he works hard at getting to really know her. Mara is trying to really get to know herself in the meantime. Jason and Ava both captured the optimism, the uncertainty and the longing in their characters. I could listen to this audio repeatedly and be happy!
Having read the first book in this series, I knew that the setting was a naturist (nudist) resort. Mara, our female lead, however, is under a misconception of what, exactly, a naturist resort is. She thinks she'll be spending time in the great outdoors, enjoying the wildlife, bird watching, and getting some much needed space from her ex and her micro-managing family. What she didn't expect was for everyone to be clothes free! Mara is in for the shock of her life when she arrives.
Ollie, our intrepid resort manager, doesn't know what to do to help Mara become comfortable, but he does know that he wants to spend more time with her. He wants to help her break out of her shell and have some fun. Their attraction is instant, and their chemistry is through the roof.
Narrated by Jason Clarke and Ava Lucas, the audio for this book is so entertaining, so enjoyable, and just so much fun. I laughed out loud more than a few times, mostly at the characters inner monologues. Ollie has been burned my love so many times, but he's still optimistic and determined to win Mara over and he works hard at getting to really know her. Mara is trying to really get to know herself in the meantime. Jason and Ava both captured the optimism, the uncertainty and the longing in their characters. I could listen to this audio repeatedly and be happy!
July 27, 2020
After reading Book 1 of the Au Naturel Trilogy, I couldn’t wait to pick up Book 2 and read about the shy, nerdy, and sexy Oliver “Ollie” Jackson. It did not disappoint.
Ollie is a man any woman could ask for. He is respectful, considerate, smart and hot as hell. He thinks he is a nerd and has bad luck with women loving and leaving him, but he’s met his match with Mara.
Mara is beautiful, neurotic, prudish, and has never explored the great outdoors, but Ollie can cure all that. A man has never made her feel so good about herself and so happy. Is it too good to be true?
I love Ollie and Mara’s story. They are quirky and insecure at first, but you can see the mutual respect and love build which is wonderful to see. Mara’s abrasive mom took some getting used to, but she comes around eventually and got a laugh or two out of me. I also love Mara’s dad who is a little late in the game for standing up to his wife, but he has been Mara’s true support system throughout her life. Ollie’s best friend, Damian, is a ladies man, but I have a feeling in the next book, he may be taken down a peg or two. And of course, it was great fun to see the Kittens and the other vacationers playing miniten, doing yoga, and just hanging out au naturel.
Overall, this is a sexy and fun romantic comedy with hilarious adventures, and endearing characters. If you want a sexy romantic read this summer, pick this one up.
Thank you to Ms. Durand for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
Ollie is a man any woman could ask for. He is respectful, considerate, smart and hot as hell. He thinks he is a nerd and has bad luck with women loving and leaving him, but he’s met his match with Mara.
Mara is beautiful, neurotic, prudish, and has never explored the great outdoors, but Ollie can cure all that. A man has never made her feel so good about herself and so happy. Is it too good to be true?
I love Ollie and Mara’s story. They are quirky and insecure at first, but you can see the mutual respect and love build which is wonderful to see. Mara’s abrasive mom took some getting used to, but she comes around eventually and got a laugh or two out of me. I also love Mara’s dad who is a little late in the game for standing up to his wife, but he has been Mara’s true support system throughout her life. Ollie’s best friend, Damian, is a ladies man, but I have a feeling in the next book, he may be taken down a peg or two. And of course, it was great fun to see the Kittens and the other vacationers playing miniten, doing yoga, and just hanging out au naturel.
Overall, this is a sexy and fun romantic comedy with hilarious adventures, and endearing characters. If you want a sexy romantic read this summer, pick this one up.
Thank you to Ms. Durand for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
June 14, 2020
I am voluntarily writing this review for this book I received through
Booksprouts arc.
Mara was watching all the trees and land thinking she was thrilled on this vacation spent bird watching. When they get to the resort a handsome man opens the cab door to help out. Mara went to eat lunch but freaked when she sees all the people sitting naked at the tables. Ollie came over to see what was wrong and then explained it was a nudist retreat but clothing optional. Mara couldn’t believe she would be there for two weeks her travel agent told her it was a naturist resort where she could bird watch which was one of the activities. Ollie meanwhile has not told her that he was also a nudist. They take a hike to get to the picnic spot where she won’t freak out. Mara was trying her hardest to deal with all the nude members and finding out it is a family friendly place. Ollie and Mara start to see one another and became close. Mara’s Ex husband and her parents show up at the resort and couldn’t believe Mara would ever go to such a place. Mara had been basically made to think she was not go enough but, Ollie showed her that it really didn’t matter what people thought. The female character drove me crazy always screeching and screaming worked my last nerve. But the book was really really good
October 16, 2021
3.75 Stars for me!
My rating range of this story... 3 - 4 Stars
If significant, why?
Main Character Ratings...
H = 6/10
h = 7/10
Was cheating involved? No
Any major triggers to be aware of?
Scenes with heat... Yes
What point does it start? 25%
How much of the story? 20%
Anything beyond M/F? No
If yes, explained
Heat Rating... 7/10
Clean or Fade to Black - 1 or 2
Normal to Descriptive 3-5
Detailed Descriptive Sex - 6-7
Um, Wow, Beyond Descriptive Sex - 8 or above
Was there so much sex or unrealistic sex that you rolled your eyes and/or skipped forward? No
The back story... The H has terrible luck with dating and is feeling conflicted when considering future girlfriends. The h needs to get away from her ex husband and her controlling mom and a travel agent books a trip to a bird sanctuary (only it ends up being the Naturalist resort.
The Romance... Kind of builds but fluctuates and gets very strong.
The drama explosion... the h freaks out and needs space
Did it feel real or contrived? A bit contrived
Was it OTT? A bit
Separation involved? Yes
Was it resolved properly or rushed? Ok
Final Notes... Less sex than the first book and the ex controversy was definitely a bit contrived. I liked the storyline better in the first story but still enjoyed this book.
HEA or HFN?
My rating range of this story... 3 - 4 Stars
If significant, why?
Main Character Ratings...
H = 6/10
h = 7/10
Was cheating involved? No
Any major triggers to be aware of?
Scenes with heat... Yes
What point does it start? 25%
How much of the story? 20%
Anything beyond M/F? No
If yes, explained
Heat Rating... 7/10
Clean or Fade to Black - 1 or 2
Normal to Descriptive 3-5
Detailed Descriptive Sex - 6-7
Um, Wow, Beyond Descriptive Sex - 8 or above
Was there so much sex or unrealistic sex that you rolled your eyes and/or skipped forward? No
The back story... The H has terrible luck with dating and is feeling conflicted when considering future girlfriends. The h needs to get away from her ex husband and her controlling mom and a travel agent books a trip to a bird sanctuary (only it ends up being the Naturalist resort.
The Romance... Kind of builds but fluctuates and gets very strong.
The drama explosion... the h freaks out and needs space
Did it feel real or contrived? A bit contrived
Was it OTT? A bit
Separation involved? Yes
Was it resolved properly or rushed? Ok
Final Notes... Less sex than the first book and the ex controversy was definitely a bit contrived. I liked the storyline better in the first story but still enjoyed this book.
HEA or HFN?
June 23, 2020
Oliver is not the typical romance novel hero. He is not a ripped & growly alpha, not a womanizer or a manwhore, and not a military or motorcycle badass. He is simply a physically fit, yoga teaching computer geek who happens to be the assistant manager of a clothing-optional resort. Mara is from a super uptight, wealthy family. She is a successful entrepreneur, yet she has severely impaired self-esteem issues caused by her controlling mother and her cheating ex-husband.
Mara’s arrival at the resort is extremely funny when she realizes that her travel agent totally messed up. She and Oliver enjoy an instant spark of attraction between them that launches them headlong into relationship where they bring out the best in one another. When his ex and her ex and her parents all show up at the resort, things get understandably crazy.
I really enjoyed this story and read it straight through from cover to cover. I thought the characters were excellent, and their feelings were completely relatable. Their HEA was very sweet and totally deserved. I also liked how the secondary characters added terrific dimension to the story. I will definitely be ordering the next book in the series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mara’s arrival at the resort is extremely funny when she realizes that her travel agent totally messed up. She and Oliver enjoy an instant spark of attraction between them that launches them headlong into relationship where they bring out the best in one another. When his ex and her ex and her parents all show up at the resort, things get understandably crazy.
I really enjoyed this story and read it straight through from cover to cover. I thought the characters were excellent, and their feelings were completely relatable. Their HEA was very sweet and totally deserved. I also liked how the secondary characters added terrific dimension to the story. I will definitely be ordering the next book in the series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 23, 2021
Ollie is the assistant manager at Au Natural naturist reserve. He was a former tech geek, and seemed to find his home at this resort. While he has a gift for pleasing the ladies, they don't stick around. Mara, the daughter of an affluent family, is newly divorced, and finds herself accidentally vacationing at the naturist reserve. After having her sensibilities eviscerated, she and Ollie become fast friends. They share a connection, and feelings happen.
When Ollie's ex comes to the resort, and Mara's parents and ex-husband arrive to collect Mara, things get really crazy. Mara seems to find herself comfortable at the resort; more than when she's at home. Her mother can't understand why she has to hang out with "perverts" and tries to get her to go back home. Mara's always lived her life by her mother's standards, and for the first time in her life, she's pushing back.
I really enjoyed this story. Both Ollie and Mara felt something was wrong w/them, and wondered if they'd ever find the right person. They were just waiting for each other. This was such a beautifully told story.
Jason Clarke and Ava Lucas do a wonderful job narrating. You get to see what the other folks from previous books in this series are up to.
When Ollie's ex comes to the resort, and Mara's parents and ex-husband arrive to collect Mara, things get really crazy. Mara seems to find herself comfortable at the resort; more than when she's at home. Her mother can't understand why she has to hang out with "perverts" and tries to get her to go back home. Mara's always lived her life by her mother's standards, and for the first time in her life, she's pushing back.
I really enjoyed this story. Both Ollie and Mara felt something was wrong w/them, and wondered if they'd ever find the right person. They were just waiting for each other. This was such a beautifully told story.
Jason Clarke and Ava Lucas do a wonderful job narrating. You get to see what the other folks from previous books in this series are up to.
June 16, 2020
Loved this rom-com's natural humor!
Mara books a birdwatching vacation through her travel agent at a remote resort, only to find out that the "naturist" in the Au Naturel Naturist Resort's name is a euphemism for "nudist." Cue all the shrieking and embarrassing gaffes as she comes to terms with her predicament. Her hands-on guide is Ollie, the sweetheart resort guest from the first book who stepped up to help manage the resort.
There's a full cast of hilarity in this book, including the return of the Kitten Brigade, more helpful tips from Ruth and Sly, the unexpected arrivals of both Ollie's best friend, Damian, and Mara's ex, Nico, along with Mara's parents who are still trying to figure out how to let Mara grow up. Throughout it all, Mara and Ollie find their instant chemistry turning into something much more serious, if only they can navigate all the assorted obstacles in their path.
I was impressed with the body positivity throughout. The HEA was delightful, especially since we were treated to Eve and Val's wedding. As with the first book, this one ends with setting up the two main characters for the next book, and I'm looking forward to reading it. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Mara books a birdwatching vacation through her travel agent at a remote resort, only to find out that the "naturist" in the Au Naturel Naturist Resort's name is a euphemism for "nudist." Cue all the shrieking and embarrassing gaffes as she comes to terms with her predicament. Her hands-on guide is Ollie, the sweetheart resort guest from the first book who stepped up to help manage the resort.
There's a full cast of hilarity in this book, including the return of the Kitten Brigade, more helpful tips from Ruth and Sly, the unexpected arrivals of both Ollie's best friend, Damian, and Mara's ex, Nico, along with Mara's parents who are still trying to figure out how to let Mara grow up. Throughout it all, Mara and Ollie find their instant chemistry turning into something much more serious, if only they can navigate all the assorted obstacles in their path.
I was impressed with the body positivity throughout. The HEA was delightful, especially since we were treated to Eve and Val's wedding. As with the first book, this one ends with setting up the two main characters for the next book, and I'm looking forward to reading it. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
June 25, 2020
I received this book as a ARC read and voluntarily provide my review. This book is the story of Oliver, a manager at a nudist private resort and Mara, a girl that has been raised to be prim and proper. Mara is on vacation and didn’t realize that the resort was for nudists, she thought naturists we’re birdwatchers. I tried very hard to get into this book as the description caught my eye; but found it hard for me to really like the characters and a bit slower moving. Both characters come across as weak and fall flat in my opinion. Mara, is awkward, unsure, iffy, and not a lot of esteem. Ollie is also cute but too uncertain, he runs away a lot, just way too nice, and worried. Just not a book that I could get Into. Not much excitement. It does have steam and a plot around Mara breaking free of her prim and proper life and overprotective mother, a ex that wants her back, Ollies ex, and the whole nudist lifestyle etc. This is a full length book with a HEA and introduces other characters that would appear in other standalones in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2020
This is going to be such a great series!! Book two in this wild and funny series has Mara arriving at Au Naturel Naturist Resort thinking it is a resort for persons interested in nature and nature activities! What she discovers is a resort that caters to people who enjoy being free to enjoy the great outdoors in their most natural form per se! Oliver to the rescue! Oliver is the computer tech that maintains all things geek to ensure the smooth operation of the resort and he willingly steps in to be an escort and buffer for Mara during her stay at the resort. Too bad his physical response to her can become quite embarrassingly obvious at times. Just as the two of them begin to explore the possibility of a relationship, trouble arrives in the form of his ex, her ex, and her parents! Things were fun before but now they just entered wackyville!! You have got to read this to find out how everything works out for this most unlikely of couples!! This is another winner for Anna Durand!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 24, 2020
Mara wanted to go bird watching and commune with nature so she booked a vacation but the agent who booked her vacation made a mistake and instead sent her to a naturist resort where clothing is optional. She met Oliver/Ollie, the assistant manager of the resort. They were attracted to each other. Mara had some fears and anxiety and somehow Oliver was able to help her through them. Things were going great until Mara's parents, her ex-husband and Oliver's ex-girlfriend entered the picture. It is a funny and light love story. I like Oliver's character. While he had some issues with his past relationships, he still maintained a good attitude. It was Mara who has some issues to overcome but little by little she was able to do it. The pacing of the story is somewhat slow for me but I still enjoyed reading the story. And I am looking forward to reading Damian's (Oliver's best friend) story as well.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 22, 2020
Becoming a naturist
This is a book about Mara and Ollie. She’s naïve, in an endearing way, thinking being ‘naturist’ has something to do with birdwatching. He on the other hand, is a true naturist, and is excited to be in his new role as the assistant manager at the Au Naturel Naturist Resort. And he’s the one to greet her when she arrives!
Their mutual attraction and chemistry grows to be sizzling hot, but he has to be careful not to over-step the professional boundaries. But there’s also a real immaturity to them that is frustrating at times. The intrusion of Nico was annoying too, but at least he finally got the message. The other characters made the story both interesting and strange at the same time.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a book about Mara and Ollie. She’s naïve, in an endearing way, thinking being ‘naturist’ has something to do with birdwatching. He on the other hand, is a true naturist, and is excited to be in his new role as the assistant manager at the Au Naturel Naturist Resort. And he’s the one to greet her when she arrives!
Their mutual attraction and chemistry grows to be sizzling hot, but he has to be careful not to over-step the professional boundaries. But there’s also a real immaturity to them that is frustrating at times. The intrusion of Nico was annoying too, but at least he finally got the message. The other characters made the story both interesting and strange at the same time.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2021
Not as good as the first one. Mara and Ollie were cute but it felt like instead of focusing on them/banter/bonding, it kept throwing in semi relevant people for dramatics. Both Mara's parents, Mara's ex-husband. Ollie's ex and then Ollie's best friend.
And ok. What is with Mara CONSTANTLY comparing Ollie to her exes anytime they're about to fool around? OUT LOUD?! What guy wants to hear his girlfriend describe how much her ex-husband enjoyed her blow jobs one second before she gives him a blow job? Or hear about all the men she's kissed right before they make out? Or sex, right before they have sex. Ohmygahddd stoppppp. Don't do that.
Those are inside thoughts. There is no way that would not kill the moment. She does it repeatedly, and Ollie never reacts to it. So awkward and uncomfortable.
Really though. Don't do that.
The whole drama with her mom was weird too.
And ok. What is with Mara CONSTANTLY comparing Ollie to her exes anytime they're about to fool around? OUT LOUD?! What guy wants to hear his girlfriend describe how much her ex-husband enjoyed her blow jobs one second before she gives him a blow job? Or hear about all the men she's kissed right before they make out? Or sex, right before they have sex. Ohmygahddd stoppppp. Don't do that.
Those are inside thoughts. There is no way that would not kill the moment. She does it repeatedly, and Ollie never reacts to it. So awkward and uncomfortable.
Really though. Don't do that.
The whole drama with her mom was weird too.
January 22, 2022
This is the second book in the Au Naturel Trilogy, a romantic comedy. Oliver (Ollie) and Mara's story is hilarious, steamy, and sweet. The story is set at Au Naturel Naturist Resort, a naturist, aka nudist resort. OMG! The misunderstanding! Some scenes are hilarious! I laughed, a lot! Mara is beautiful, sweet, and naive! Ollie, the resort manager, is handsome, charming, and supportive! They are perfect together. The tension between them is hot! The supporting characters are great. I loved to see again Eve and Val, along with some new colorful characters. The world building is original, and entertaining! Ava Lucas and Jason Clarke did a fantastic job with the narration. I enjoyed it! Looking forward to listening to Natural Satisfaction, the next book in the series. If you like sexy romantic comedy, this one is definitely for you!
June 20, 2020
This book was about Maya and Ollie. Maya was from an uptight wealthy family and has decided to take a 2 week vacation to A nature resort get away from life. She is looking forward to bushwalking and bird watching. She is shocked to find out that she isn’t at a nature resort rather a naturist resort. Ollie is the assistant manager of the naturalist resort and help Maya get settled in.
This book is hot and steamy. It has lots of nudity and has twists being thrown all of the place. The epilogue is actually the lead into the next book in the series. It was a compelling read that I couldn’t put down. I enjoyed reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is hot and steamy. It has lots of nudity and has twists being thrown all of the place. The epilogue is actually the lead into the next book in the series. It was a compelling read that I couldn’t put down. I enjoyed reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2020
Mara arrives at the Au Naturel Naturist Resort thinking it’s a bird watching retreat, lol. When she sees the people in the dining room, without their clothes, she screams and faints. Oliver “Ollie” explains this a nudist resort, clothing is optional. Last year, Oliver dated Heidi, one of the members of the Kitten Brigade, but she dumped him to give her ex another chance. Mara is divorced from Nico. What’s going to happen when Heidi and Nico show up wanting them back? I won’t leave any spoilers, but I will say I enjoyed all these wonderful characters and the laugh out loud moments. Grab your copy and see what happens. I can’t wait to read Damian’s story next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 24, 2020
This is a wonderful series set in the Au Natural Naturist Resort in Oregon. Book 2 is Oliver "Ollie" Jackson and Mara Serverins story. Ollie is the assistant manager of the resort and a former computer nerd. He has not had any luck keeping a girlfriend. Mara is a neurotic klutz who thinks she is going birdwatching for her vacation. She was brought up to always be a proper lady and literally faints when she sees a room of nude resort guests. They start falling for each other but then they have to deal with her parents, her ex-husband and his ex-girlfriend showing up. They have to find their way back together and get their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 30, 2020
This is Book 2 in the Au Naturel Trilogy and my first read by this author, and I must say that I quite enjoyed the storyline and characters. It is a sweet romance between naturist resort assistant manager Oliver and city girl Mara. Their sizzling chemistry and strong connection are undeniable as they navigate the bumpy road to their forever after. These two relatable souls and the unique plot make for an intriguing read. It is a romantic adventure with humor, along with passion and love, plus engaging secondary characters to keep the reader interested. Overall, it is a fun read with heart, heat, and a happy ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2020
Fresh hot off a divorce Mara needs to get away, so she goes on a two week vacation. That is precisely when everything takes a turn for the unexpected, love her initial reaction to realizing what type of resort she is staying. Ollie is a gem, truly a wonderful and patient man who does the best by bringing out Mara’s true nature. Definitely, drama in this book with ex-husbands, ex-girlfriends,parents all trying to keep Mara and Ollie apart. Interesting scenarios with some pretty hot encounters. Great ending for such a tumultuous ride to finding oneself and someone to love.
I am voluntarily leaving a review for this book that I received free. I
I am voluntarily leaving a review for this book that I received free. I
June 24, 2020
Mara wanted to get away from her regular life and get in touch with nature. Her travel agent booked her into Au Naturel Naturist Resort. Mara grew up rather prudish, and is shocked when she arrives at the resort and finds out that a naturist is equal to a nudist.
Ollie, acting manager of the resort falls almost immediately for Mara, but how to overcome her fear of nude people?
A funny story of letting go of fears, of new starts and of being honest to not just to others, but to yourself. A truly entertaining story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ollie, acting manager of the resort falls almost immediately for Mara, but how to overcome her fear of nude people?
A funny story of letting go of fears, of new starts and of being honest to not just to others, but to yourself. A truly entertaining story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2020
I volunteered to read this ARC for an honest review. I enjoyed this story about Mara and Oliver. Oliver works at Au Naturel Naturist Resort as assistant manager. Mara is headed there for a break, but doesn't realize it's a nudist resort. When she finds herself surrounded by nude people she freaks and faints, Oliver catches her. They have a spark. But when her ex husband shows up things her complicated, then Oliver's ex, Heidi comes with the kitten brigade, making it even more insane. Great beginnings of a true HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 27, 2020
Natural Impulse is a hysterical read! It is a romantic comedy which is placed in the Au Naturel Naturist Resort, a nudist resort, which has been build by a travel company as having outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching. It features Ollie, the assistant manager at the resort, and Mara, who actually comes for the hiking and birdwatching and freaks out when she sees the naked bodies. I highly recommend this hilarious read with its wonderful characters and a plot which will make you laugh until you cry.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 25, 2020
I adored Mara and Oliver. Both very sweet people who just wanted to be loved as they were. They were both a little insecure but were a great match together. She is adorably naive and I really enjoyed her journey of finding her inner strength and not being a doormat. At the same time, she was not needlessly cruel to those who fed her insecurities.
The book was sexy but I would consider the sex scenes to be of medium heat. Just right for this story.
I enjoyed the performance of both narrators and feel they were perfect for the characters.
I did not read the first story in this series but liked the characters enough that I will go back to book one.
The book was sexy but I would consider the sex scenes to be of medium heat. Just right for this story.
I enjoyed the performance of both narrators and feel they were perfect for the characters.
I did not read the first story in this series but liked the characters enough that I will go back to book one.
June 22, 2020
If you’re not a recreational nudist, you might have been caught by surprise by the subtle invite to a “naturist” event. An invite should really say “clothing optional”. Where “semi-formal attire” or whatever usually appears
In fiction, it makes for an humorous meeting with a hot chick and a nerd. In real life, it can just be a bit awkward.
For outdoor events there is just not enough sunscreen in the world
Enjoy the awkward and the funny with a bit of quirky romance
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In fiction, it makes for an humorous meeting with a hot chick and a nerd. In real life, it can just be a bit awkward.
For outdoor events there is just not enough sunscreen in the world
Enjoy the awkward and the funny with a bit of quirky romance
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 28, 2020
I loved Ollie in the first book and was excited to see him get his own book and his own HEA. Mara is a city girl trying to get away from it all by going to what she thinks is a resort for nature lovers. Unfortunately, she gets a shock when she finds out a "naturist" is a nudist, not someone who likes the outdoors. This is really a story of Mara's growth from a girl always trying to please her parents and failing, to a woman confident in her own abilities. Of course, with any Anna Durand book, there are plenty of light hearted moments and plenty of laughs!
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