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Keeping Her Close: A Slow-Burn Standalone
When a heart is broken, it withdraws, shielding itself from further pain, but also from further life.
Brandon Kuvat gave up on love ten years ago—the year he was set to become a dad. A wealthy playboy pilot, he still sees plenty of action, but he’s not the man he once was. Or the man he wishes he could be. The first time he encounters Jordan, he knows immediately she is different. He also knows hurting her is inevitable. Still, he can’t stay away, even if it means he'll have to settle for a friendship—but only for as long as that can last.
Wounded by a disastrous relationship, Jordan Artesian has put her whole focus on work, nurturing her dreams of owning her own fashion line. But though her creativity blooms, the rest of her is still frozen, that is, until Brandon charms his way into her life. He's irritating, but somehow...intriguing. She hates that she finds his charming and challenging ways attractive. He isn’t supposed to make her feel things she’s given up on feeling.
For these two, friendship will never be enough—not when she’s what he needs to heal, and he’s what she needs to feel again. But can they find their way down the path of friendship to truly love and trust one another, or will they only destroy each other’s hearts all over again?
Brandon Kuvat gave up on love ten years ago—the year he was set to become a dad. A wealthy playboy pilot, he still sees plenty of action, but he’s not the man he once was. Or the man he wishes he could be. The first time he encounters Jordan, he knows immediately she is different. He also knows hurting her is inevitable. Still, he can’t stay away, even if it means he'll have to settle for a friendship—but only for as long as that can last.
Wounded by a disastrous relationship, Jordan Artesian has put her whole focus on work, nurturing her dreams of owning her own fashion line. But though her creativity blooms, the rest of her is still frozen, that is, until Brandon charms his way into her life. He's irritating, but somehow...intriguing. She hates that she finds his charming and challenging ways attractive. He isn’t supposed to make her feel things she’s given up on feeling.
For these two, friendship will never be enough—not when she’s what he needs to heal, and he’s what she needs to feel again. But can they find their way down the path of friendship to truly love and trust one another, or will they only destroy each other’s hearts all over again?
- GenresRomance
Kindle Edition
First published August 14, 2018
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August 16, 2018Cheating Douchebag - wished heroine cut his dick off! AVOID people!!! This is NOT a romance!
UPDATE: Author advised a reviewer that Hero did not "cheat" however, what do you call this scene?
"With Jordan still on the edge of his mind, he closed his eyes and bit his lip as Tina’s mouth slid down his shaft. Why couldn’t he stop thinking about her? Even in his drunken state, it was all too fucked up. Someone else was sucking his cock, for God’s sake. He needed to speed things up, fuck his frustrations away, and hopefully in the process, fuck Jordan out of his mind. Tina loved it when he took control, which was why he’d called her. He just needed to pound into her until he was empty. But as luck would have it, he couldn’t get his release".
So yes, Hero DID cheat! He had sex with this woman, Tina, (even if he couldn't get off) AFTER meeting heroine and going on dates with her. He had FEELINGS for heroine, so even if they were not in a "committed" relationship, he DID cheat!!!
UPDATE: Author advised a reviewer that Hero did not "cheat" however, what do you call this scene?
"With Jordan still on the edge of his mind, he closed his eyes and bit his lip as Tina’s mouth slid down his shaft. Why couldn’t he stop thinking about her? Even in his drunken state, it was all too fucked up. Someone else was sucking his cock, for God’s sake. He needed to speed things up, fuck his frustrations away, and hopefully in the process, fuck Jordan out of his mind. Tina loved it when he took control, which was why he’d called her. He just needed to pound into her until he was empty. But as luck would have it, he couldn’t get his release".
So yes, Hero DID cheat! He had sex with this woman, Tina, (even if he couldn't get off) AFTER meeting heroine and going on dates with her. He had FEELINGS for heroine, so even if they were not in a "committed" relationship, he DID cheat!!!
August 14, 2018
✓ A Slow-burn, Standalone Contemporary
✓ Alternating POV
✓ Can't wait for everyone to meet these two!
US: https://amzn.to/2NoSNaw
UK: https://amzn.to/2Kv7z1L
CA: https://amzn.to/2KPvDbI
AU: https://amzn.to/2lVSV58
EXCERPT (Jordan's POV)
✓ Alternating POV
✓ Can't wait for everyone to meet these two!
US: https://amzn.to/2NoSNaw
UK: https://amzn.to/2Kv7z1L
CA: https://amzn.to/2KPvDbI
AU: https://amzn.to/2lVSV58
EXCERPT (Jordan's POV)
He handed her a glass and clicked his to hers. “To happiness and beautiful people.”
“And official first dates,” she added.
When she finished her glass before him, he poured her another.
“Is there a drinking contest I don’t know about?” he asked.
“No. I need it. I just remembered where we’re going, and I need to relax.” She frowned as she remembered her dates with Todd. They were always awkward. She was always the outsider with his smart lawyer friends, and tonight would be the same with Brandon. She wouldn’t know anyone. This was Brandon’s lifestyle and friends, and she was just an accessory.
“You shouldn’t be nervous. You’re with me,” he soothed, taking her free hand in his. His touch warmed her body. “It’ll be fun. I promise.” He kissed the back of her hand, causing her lower abdomen to flutter at the softness of his lips.
No, don’t do that, a small voice in her head squeaked. Tension spread out from his hand still connected with hers.
She swallowed champagne until a nice buzz settled over her. To letting go and starting over, she mentally toasted. Taking a deep breath, she relaxed into her seat and closed her eyes. “I feel it now. You need to get on my level.”
He chuckled. “Oh, really? And which level are you on?”
“Mmm, about level three and a half. Maybe four.”
He laughed. “I’ll be there with you in a few.” He released her hand, picked up the bottle of champagne, and started to chug it. But then he stopped. “On a second thought, I shouldn’t.”
“Why not?”
“Because I can’t be tipsy and alone with you in that dress in here. I’m already too tempted as it is.”
August 23, 2018
I was disappointed with this one. I got this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Brandon is hot and sexy. I just so tired with the back and forth like in a YA book. Do I date him or her for most of the book?
October 11, 2018
Can we say SLOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWW???
My goodness... the building of the friendship takes forever in this book. I didn't think they'd ever move forward.
But even if I could look past that, the part where he cheats is something that I can't. Yes, I read the author's comment that it technically wasn't cheating as far as she was concerned. But, they had engaged in physical affection and intimacy with one another when the act occurred. I think it would be different if they had talked and decided that despite everything they should just be friends. But that's not the case. They teetered on this line of friends/something more and THEN he went and slept with someone else. Even though the entire time she was on his mind.
Just not for me.
My goodness... the building of the friendship takes forever in this book. I didn't think they'd ever move forward.
But even if I could look past that, the part where he cheats is something that I can't. Yes, I read the author's comment that it technically wasn't cheating as far as she was concerned. But, they had engaged in physical affection and intimacy with one another when the act occurred. I think it would be different if they had talked and decided that despite everything they should just be friends. But that's not the case. They teetered on this line of friends/something more and THEN he went and slept with someone else. Even though the entire time she was on his mind.
Just not for me.
January 30, 2019
I really hate giving bad reviews and I am sure there are lots of readers who will love this book, but I just did not like this story!
Plus I loathed the ‘hero’, who slept with other women during the story after he meets the heroine and has slept with her (which is a hard no in romance for me).
The writing is not bad at all, hence the 2 stars. But this is not a romcom in my eyes. Furthermore, I dislike having to sign up for an epilogue. Just put it in the book!
I requested and received an ARC via Netgalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Plus I loathed the ‘hero’, who slept with other women during the story after he meets the heroine and has slept with her (which is a hard no in romance for me).
The writing is not bad at all, hence the 2 stars. But this is not a romcom in my eyes. Furthermore, I dislike having to sign up for an epilogue. Just put it in the book!
I requested and received an ARC via Netgalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
August 13, 2018
Never have I wanted to throw my kindle in frustration as much as I did when reading 'Keeping Her Close'! These characters frustrated and annoyed me to varying degrees but I was addicted to their story.
Brandon and Jordan want each other but Jordan doesn't see a relationship beyond friendship for them despite her attraction to him. Given that he is such a ladies man, protecting her heart is her top priority. The will they, won't they push and pull takes a great chunk of this book and every time you think 'at last', there is more push and pull to come.
It took me a little while to warm to these characters. Brandon had an arrogance to his character that didn't win him any favours with Jordan. Jordan came across as slightly cold to start with but it is only caution rather than coldness. You should quickly warm up to these two.
A really good read, with some charismatic characters.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
Brandon and Jordan want each other but Jordan doesn't see a relationship beyond friendship for them despite her attraction to him. Given that he is such a ladies man, protecting her heart is her top priority. The will they, won't they push and pull takes a great chunk of this book and every time you think 'at last', there is more push and pull to come.
It took me a little while to warm to these characters. Brandon had an arrogance to his character that didn't win him any favours with Jordan. Jordan came across as slightly cold to start with but it is only caution rather than coldness. You should quickly warm up to these two.
A really good read, with some charismatic characters.
***Reviewed for LBM Book Blog***
August 11, 2018
I recieved this one through Netgalley. I'm was so excited and anxious to read this one. The last book I've read by this author I loved it. Now this one was a tough read. I found myself skimming and wanting not to finish it at times. Brandon and Jordan are both afraid of relationships. They have been hurt in their past relationships.
August 12, 2018
That was an incredible read. A must read for sure. 5/5 stars
Two broken souls who are attracted at first sight. But only end up friends till it's too much. Jordan is a shy designer wanted to get her designs out there. Brandon is a wealthy man who isn't feeling the same as he did when started his carefree attitude. An outing for Brandon brings him in contact with Jordan, but she's different than the others. Will he get her in more ways than one or not at all?
Jordan is a great character that you'll fall in love with cause she is a shy feisty woman. Brandon on the other hand you'll want to slap or strangle, but in time fall in love with as well. The build of this story was on spot if you'd done it differently it wouldn't have been the same. Casey I totally couldn't put this story down once I started. You had me from the beginning straight to the end. Times you had me laughing and others in tears. I could feel both characters feelings because you delivered them well with your words. The story flowed between the characters point of view.
***Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads, arc provided in return for honest rewiew***
Two broken souls who are attracted at first sight. But only end up friends till it's too much. Jordan is a shy designer wanted to get her designs out there. Brandon is a wealthy man who isn't feeling the same as he did when started his carefree attitude. An outing for Brandon brings him in contact with Jordan, but she's different than the others. Will he get her in more ways than one or not at all?
Jordan is a great character that you'll fall in love with cause she is a shy feisty woman. Brandon on the other hand you'll want to slap or strangle, but in time fall in love with as well. The build of this story was on spot if you'd done it differently it wouldn't have been the same. Casey I totally couldn't put this story down once I started. You had me from the beginning straight to the end. Times you had me laughing and others in tears. I could feel both characters feelings because you delivered them well with your words. The story flowed between the characters point of view.
***Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads, arc provided in return for honest rewiew***
January 8, 2019
How could you end it leaving me wanting more?! I was engulfed in this book from the moment I began reading. Casey Diam crafted her characters well, giving just enough snippets of their past at a time to keep you guessing. I liked the story alternating leads to portray both point of views. I did expect more for an ending, but I would not hesitate to read more from this author. I read the exclusive epilogue as well and found myself with more unanswered questions than I had from finishing the book itself. All in all, I feel the ending could use more content but the rest of the book was intriguing and well written.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 8, 2018
This is a new author to me, but I will certainly be looking out for her work in the future. Brandon is a bad boy playboy, and Jordan is dedicated to her fashion line. There is an instant attraction between these two, but they are both broken souls who have many obstacles to overcome along their way. This is a well written story, and a slow burn romantic novel, which in my opinion is they only downside, as it was really a tad too slow for me, however, this author is very talented, and I recommend her work.
September 17, 2018
I received this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
In a nutshell, Brandon and Jordan are both not ready for relationships, but their feelings for one another are too intense, they can't stay away from each other.
The overall plot of Keeping Her Close reminded me of Fifty Shades of Grey; Brandon was a millionaire and a player, and Jordan was an innocent girl with a hidden wild side.
I felt like this story lacked substance. It completely revolved around the on-and-off love story between Brandon and Jordan. There were specific events which would have added a lot more to the story had they been focused on.
In a nutshell, Brandon and Jordan are both not ready for relationships, but their feelings for one another are too intense, they can't stay away from each other.
The overall plot of Keeping Her Close reminded me of Fifty Shades of Grey; Brandon was a millionaire and a player, and Jordan was an innocent girl with a hidden wild side.
I felt like this story lacked substance. It completely revolved around the on-and-off love story between Brandon and Jordan. There were specific events which would have added a lot more to the story had they been focused on.
October 18, 2018
Plot: Our main characters are Brandon Kuvat and Jordan Artesian. Brandon is a billionaire playboy who's been burned in the past and won't let himself trust any woman again. Jordan has a traumatic past where she has been hurt and won't open her heart for anyone.
What I loved most about this story was how it did not follow the traditional billionaire playboy model. While Brandon is clearly loaded with lots of money, there is no over-the-top flaunting of his lifestyle or his wealth. Brandon and Jordan meet during a chance encounter in the mall at Jordan's clothing store. They are instantly attracted to one another and spend a good portion of the first half of the book fighting the charge between them and trying to be friends. Since both of have been deeply hurt in the past, they are fearful of allowing themselves to get too close to anyone again.
Another thing I enjoyed about this story, and must admit I'm starting to realize I prefer these "slow-burn" novels, is that 75% of it is spent leading to build up of them actually getting down and dirty. While there is plenty of interaction and attraction throughout the book, that slow burn working up to the event is pretty magical.
Characters: Both of the main characters are completely adorable and lovable! The fact that they both carry such traumatic emotional burdens from their past relationships but are able to still find love is heart warming and endearing. It was interesting though that Brandon seems to finally announce his burden in a way that came across as if it was easy to share, even though it had been building throughout the entire book. While, Jordan who has experienced some extremely traumatic events, carried a tremendous burden and the release of her past was overwhelming and moving.
General Feeling: Once I started this story, I had a really hard time putting it down. There was so much going on between, not just the main characters, but every person in the story had their own little side stories and experiences that helped to support the overall feel and development of the plot. Each character went through an agonizing development stage where they really had to face their own issues and either fall into the fire, or come through in the end.
There was a significant amount of loss and sadness through events that happen and experiences the characters have, but it all adds to the momentum of everything that is going on and doesn't detract from anything at all. I greatly enjoyed this one and will be telling my romance reading friends all about it!
What I loved most about this story was how it did not follow the traditional billionaire playboy model. While Brandon is clearly loaded with lots of money, there is no over-the-top flaunting of his lifestyle or his wealth. Brandon and Jordan meet during a chance encounter in the mall at Jordan's clothing store. They are instantly attracted to one another and spend a good portion of the first half of the book fighting the charge between them and trying to be friends. Since both of have been deeply hurt in the past, they are fearful of allowing themselves to get too close to anyone again.
Another thing I enjoyed about this story, and must admit I'm starting to realize I prefer these "slow-burn" novels, is that 75% of it is spent leading to build up of them actually getting down and dirty. While there is plenty of interaction and attraction throughout the book, that slow burn working up to the event is pretty magical.
Characters: Both of the main characters are completely adorable and lovable! The fact that they both carry such traumatic emotional burdens from their past relationships but are able to still find love is heart warming and endearing. It was interesting though that Brandon seems to finally announce his burden in a way that came across as if it was easy to share, even though it had been building throughout the entire book. While, Jordan who has experienced some extremely traumatic events, carried a tremendous burden and the release of her past was overwhelming and moving.
General Feeling: Once I started this story, I had a really hard time putting it down. There was so much going on between, not just the main characters, but every person in the story had their own little side stories and experiences that helped to support the overall feel and development of the plot. Each character went through an agonizing development stage where they really had to face their own issues and either fall into the fire, or come through in the end.
There was a significant amount of loss and sadness through events that happen and experiences the characters have, but it all adds to the momentum of everything that is going on and doesn't detract from anything at all. I greatly enjoyed this one and will be telling my romance reading friends all about it!
August 10, 2018
Sometimes you are better off just friends. But how do you know if there should be more and when do you choose to find out? Up and coming author Casey Diam gives her own take on this age old question with Keeping Her Close, where two people meet at the right time in life but have to navigate the rough waters of the what ifs, the what should bes, and the what is.
Brandon Kuvat is who he is and doesn't make any apologies for it. He's on top of the world with a very successful businesses, great friends, and plenty of women falling at his feet. But the casual hookups aren't doing it for him anymore and after a chance encounter with a store manager brings up long buried feelings, Brandon knows he just has to know her no matter what.
Jordan Artesian has been walking the straight and narrow for far too long until Brandon waltzes into her life and makes himself right at home. Finally agreeing to get to know him, a bond starts to form that becomes stronger and harder to ignore, despite Jordan not wanting to feel anything for him. With Brandon not letting up and constantly showing how sweet he can be, Jordan's thick walls start to slowly crumble and her old self rises back to the surface.
I love how well Brand and Jordan got to know each other without anything intimate happening. Casey Diam gives us two great characters who meshed so well together even when the first few meetings were really rocky. Just proves that you can prevail when you don't give up on what you want. It was frustrating at times knowing both Brandon and Jordan wanted each other but never made a move but I feel like it's something that could happen in real life when a guy and girl are friends and don't know if they want to chance a friendship for more. Keeping Her Close is a different story from her previous two but lovable in its own way and anyone looking for something cute and funny should definitely give this one a try.
Brandon Kuvat is who he is and doesn't make any apologies for it. He's on top of the world with a very successful businesses, great friends, and plenty of women falling at his feet. But the casual hookups aren't doing it for him anymore and after a chance encounter with a store manager brings up long buried feelings, Brandon knows he just has to know her no matter what.
Jordan Artesian has been walking the straight and narrow for far too long until Brandon waltzes into her life and makes himself right at home. Finally agreeing to get to know him, a bond starts to form that becomes stronger and harder to ignore, despite Jordan not wanting to feel anything for him. With Brandon not letting up and constantly showing how sweet he can be, Jordan's thick walls start to slowly crumble and her old self rises back to the surface.
I love how well Brand and Jordan got to know each other without anything intimate happening. Casey Diam gives us two great characters who meshed so well together even when the first few meetings were really rocky. Just proves that you can prevail when you don't give up on what you want. It was frustrating at times knowing both Brandon and Jordan wanted each other but never made a move but I feel like it's something that could happen in real life when a guy and girl are friends and don't know if they want to chance a friendship for more. Keeping Her Close is a different story from her previous two but lovable in its own way and anyone looking for something cute and funny should definitely give this one a try.
July 28, 2018
3.5 STARS!!!
This book could have easily been a 5 star read for me but the problem was that I hated how it ended. It seemed as if the ending came out of nowhere and Brandon and Jordan's story wasn't finished. This is supposed to be a standalone story and it is because the author gives readers an ending, but it truly wasn't the ending I wanted or hoped for. I needed more! However, readers get the option of receiving an exclusive epilogue to their story but I wanted it in the book not to have to sign up to receive it. That small difference might have made this story seem "more" complete; at least to me. With that being said, I enjoyed Brandon, Jordan and the side characters. They have a great group of friends. The back and forth banter between Brandon and Jordan made me smile and laugh out loud, and their chemistry was undeniable. I truly have mixed feeling because I enjoyed everything about this story but the ending. In my opinion the ending matters the most because it can either leave readers satisfied or dissatisfied with the story. Would I suggest romance readers to give this book a try? Yes. It wasn't a bad read it just wasn't satisfying to me. However, I would also give another book from this author a try and just hope for a better ending.
This book could have easily been a 5 star read for me but the problem was that I hated how it ended. It seemed as if the ending came out of nowhere and Brandon and Jordan's story wasn't finished. This is supposed to be a standalone story and it is because the author gives readers an ending, but it truly wasn't the ending I wanted or hoped for. I needed more! However, readers get the option of receiving an exclusive epilogue to their story but I wanted it in the book not to have to sign up to receive it. That small difference might have made this story seem "more" complete; at least to me. With that being said, I enjoyed Brandon, Jordan and the side characters. They have a great group of friends. The back and forth banter between Brandon and Jordan made me smile and laugh out loud, and their chemistry was undeniable. I truly have mixed feeling because I enjoyed everything about this story but the ending. In my opinion the ending matters the most because it can either leave readers satisfied or dissatisfied with the story. Would I suggest romance readers to give this book a try? Yes. It wasn't a bad read it just wasn't satisfying to me. However, I would also give another book from this author a try and just hope for a better ending.
December 18, 2018
Just finished Keeping Her Close last night and by the end, I could not put it down!
I'm a huge fan of Casey's other series so I was excited to get my hands on this stand alone. It was definitely a slow burn, I found myself screaming at Brandon and Jordan 90% of the time to just speak their minds!!
My emotions were everywhere, I was happy, sad, and heartbroken for the struggles that both Brandon and Jordan faced in their pasts that made it so hard to love again.
Watching them build up their feelings for each other made the pay off at the end so much sweeter.
This was not your typical romance novel where guy and girl meet and fall in love instantly, que sex scene, end story. It was refreshing seeing the story develop as it did and I can't wait to see what Casey Diam comes out with next!
I'm a huge fan of Casey's other series so I was excited to get my hands on this stand alone. It was definitely a slow burn, I found myself screaming at Brandon and Jordan 90% of the time to just speak their minds!!
My emotions were everywhere, I was happy, sad, and heartbroken for the struggles that both Brandon and Jordan faced in their pasts that made it so hard to love again.
Watching them build up their feelings for each other made the pay off at the end so much sweeter.
This was not your typical romance novel where guy and girl meet and fall in love instantly, que sex scene, end story. It was refreshing seeing the story develop as it did and I can't wait to see what Casey Diam comes out with next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2018
I received Keeping Her Close for review from Netgalley. I honestly have to give this book a 1/5 stars. I found that I could not connect with either of the main characters. Brandon really bothered me as a character. He constantly was claiming to be into Jordan but it never felt genuine to me, especially when he was not committing to just her. I did, however feel that Jordan had the potential to be a really strong female lead in the story but it always felt like her character was holding back.
I also felt like there were several times through out the story that I was just being told what has happening rather than be drawn a picture.
Overall, I felt that this book was really lacking what I was looking for.
I also felt like there were several times through out the story that I was just being told what has happening rather than be drawn a picture.
Overall, I felt that this book was really lacking what I was looking for.
August 1, 2018
I loved this book. It was a slow burn and I am usually not a fan of those but the chemistry between Jordan and Brandon had me captivated from the very beginning. I just could not wait to see what happens next. This was my first read from Casey and I am now a huge fan. I loved the angst and loved the tension between the two. The only thing I wanted was more. I felt like we had just gotten to the best part of the book when it ended.
Arc was kindly given in exchange for an honest review.
Arc was kindly given in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2018
3.5 stars
I truly adored Casey Diem’s previous two books, and wanted to read this one as well. It wasn’t quite as thought provoking as the ‘Things That Matter’ series, but it was still good in it’s own right, although written in 3rd POV rather than 1st, so we don’t get inside the characters’ heads quite the same. It was a slow burner which I’m not a huge fan of to be honest, but the chemistry between these two held it together. Plenty of angst and tension leading up to them getting together. But that ending? It truly needed more.
I truly adored Casey Diem’s previous two books, and wanted to read this one as well. It wasn’t quite as thought provoking as the ‘Things That Matter’ series, but it was still good in it’s own right, although written in 3rd POV rather than 1st, so we don’t get inside the characters’ heads quite the same. It was a slow burner which I’m not a huge fan of to be honest, but the chemistry between these two held it together. Plenty of angst and tension leading up to them getting together. But that ending? It truly needed more.
August 10, 2018
I just LOVED Jordan and Brandon. This book gave me so many feels throughout.
My mind is a mess knowing the book ended but their HEA was so so good. I love Casey Diam's writing she brings life to her characters beautifully!
Also DONT forget to check out the extended epilogue at the end of the book. You'll absolutely love it!
My mind is a mess knowing the book ended but their HEA was so so good. I love Casey Diam's writing she brings life to her characters beautifully!
Also DONT forget to check out the extended epilogue at the end of the book. You'll absolutely love it!
August 13, 2018
A captivating love story that hooked me from the start. Casey is amazing with this book and with her characters who share and create such an beautiful bond. I loved and laughed right along with Brandon and Jordan, so much I hate that it's finished. This is such an outstanding, noteworthy read, you will not be disappointed.
August 15, 2018
Brandon is a wealthy man who has been burned by relationships in his past. He’s decided he only wants friends with benefits. Then he meets Jordan when he’s out shopping with a friend. He feels pulled toward her in a way he hasn’t felt in a while. Jordan has also been hurt by a boyfriend who hurt her. Can two wounded people find the love they need?
August 19, 2018
This book was very much a slow burn. For me, the book started out slow and took a quite a bit to get into but once I got passed a certain point, the flow was much better and things picked up. This is my first book I’ve read by this author. I don’t want to put spoilers in here but god,I wanted to kill Brandon. Like strangle him....still not sure how I feel about Jordan yet. That being said, I did like the ending and the epilogue.
August 14, 2018
After Loving Trust and Hope by Casey I was definitely looking forward to reading this one but I was a little disappointed when I started it just because I am not really a fan of 3rd person narrative, HOWEVER, I found myself completely hooked with this story and just could not put it down!
It’s a slow burn and sometimes I find these can get a little boring but with Brandon and Jordan their chemistry is explosive, they have constant sparks around them and this alone makes it a real page turner for me because your just dying for them to give in! They have a brilliant friendship with great banter that gives us some amusing moments!
These two characters gave all the feels, but there was times I disliked Brandon but then loved him, times Jordan annoyed me but understood her but I think it was just a case of I wanted to bang their heads together.
A Slow Burn totally worth the wait! Expect Hot & Steamy!!
It’s a slow burn and sometimes I find these can get a little boring but with Brandon and Jordan their chemistry is explosive, they have constant sparks around them and this alone makes it a real page turner for me because your just dying for them to give in! They have a brilliant friendship with great banter that gives us some amusing moments!
These two characters gave all the feels, but there was times I disliked Brandon but then loved him, times Jordan annoyed me but understood her but I think it was just a case of I wanted to bang their heads together.
A Slow Burn totally worth the wait! Expect Hot & Steamy!!
August 14, 2018
I have to tell you, I just adored the story between these two very different people. Brandon is a player and a little bit of a cynic when it comes to love and relationships. While Jordan is a woman with no time for the player type of guy. Therefore, there was plenty of tensions between these two at first.
The story between doesn’t take long to change, but it was a slow burn for them. We get to see their fears, their flaws and even some hope for something more. Their interactions were sweet and steamy at times, but that isn’t to say that there weren’t some issues that came up along the way. What would the story be without a little bit of angst?
The ending was a little bit rushed but for as much as I adored these two all throughout, I didn’t let me bother me. It was such a sweet read and just what I was hoping it would be. I think fan of contemporary romances will enjoy this one!
The story between doesn’t take long to change, but it was a slow burn for them. We get to see their fears, their flaws and even some hope for something more. Their interactions were sweet and steamy at times, but that isn’t to say that there weren’t some issues that came up along the way. What would the story be without a little bit of angst?
The ending was a little bit rushed but for as much as I adored these two all throughout, I didn’t let me bother me. It was such a sweet read and just what I was hoping it would be. I think fan of contemporary romances will enjoy this one!
August 19, 2018
This was a slow burn (ha ha) book. I did not mind it, it just was not one that I fell in love with. I would still recommend this book to people because it was a good read.
-NightWolf Book Blog
-NightWolf Book Blog
August 21, 2018
First time
This was the first time I read this author and I enjoyed this story and will gladly read more from her in the future
This was the first time I read this author and I enjoyed this story and will gladly read more from her in the future
November 7, 2018
Brandon Kuvat is a playboy pilot who runs a multi-million dollar company with his father and uncle. He has kept his heart closed off for the last ten years--when he was supposed to become a dad. That whole relationship crashed and burned. He was so burned, he doesn't let any woman close to him. The only close relationships he maintains are his friends and family. The women in his life are revolving. He never stays with one long enough to develop feelings. He doesn't even let these women into his bedroom instead he uses one of his four guest rooms for his rendezvous. Everything changes for him when he meets Jordan in her boutique. He keeps her close. He doesn't try to bed her right away. Of course, he flirts and jokes about it. He doesn't even kiss her until after a few dates. Grant it, he does that because he's scared if he starts kissing her he won't stop. He's never had restraint like this with any other woman.
Jordan Artesian is a determined woman. She has a dream of having her own fashion line and having multiple locations of her boutique including a shop on Rodeo Drive. The creativity has been flowing since her horrendous relationship ended. That relationship has made her skittish in terms of dating. She's only been on a handful of dates since breaking up with her ex over two years ago.
The cocky playboy who is attempting to sweep her off her feet is making life incredibly difficult. She thought he was a cocky self centered asshole. After befriending him, she realized that only two of those are accurate. But he's generous and kind to his friends and family. He holds her when she needs it. He brings out her fun side something that has been missing from her life for a number of years. She balances him out. She calms him down.
Neither of them are ready for a relationship. Both of their pasts relationships are still haunting them. They attempt to only be friends. But that's not enough for one of them. Too bad the other has already started dating someone else. Then tragedy strikes--changing Brandon's life and everyone within his circle of friends. He struggles to overcome the aftermath. The only person to pull him out of it is --Jordan. But can they have a lasting relationship in spite of everything that has happened? Can Brandon ever truly settle down? Can Jordan trust him?
Jordan Artesian is a determined woman. She has a dream of having her own fashion line and having multiple locations of her boutique including a shop on Rodeo Drive. The creativity has been flowing since her horrendous relationship ended. That relationship has made her skittish in terms of dating. She's only been on a handful of dates since breaking up with her ex over two years ago.
The cocky playboy who is attempting to sweep her off her feet is making life incredibly difficult. She thought he was a cocky self centered asshole. After befriending him, she realized that only two of those are accurate. But he's generous and kind to his friends and family. He holds her when she needs it. He brings out her fun side something that has been missing from her life for a number of years. She balances him out. She calms him down.
Neither of them are ready for a relationship. Both of their pasts relationships are still haunting them. They attempt to only be friends. But that's not enough for one of them. Too bad the other has already started dating someone else. Then tragedy strikes--changing Brandon's life and everyone within his circle of friends. He struggles to overcome the aftermath. The only person to pull him out of it is --Jordan. But can they have a lasting relationship in spite of everything that has happened? Can Brandon ever truly settle down? Can Jordan trust him?
November 18, 2018
An entertaining story that needed some polish
A new to me author, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this, but I enjoy stories about damaged characters needing to heal, so the blurb had me sucked me in.
I really liked the premise and I enjoyed the setup of multiple secondary characters made up of friends and family who added depth to the story. I liked how determined and talented Jordan was, and her closeness with her family, and I certainly understood her reluctance to get involved with Brandon. Brandon was kind of an a-hole to Jordan at the beginning; his arrogance made me dislike him at first, and while he did win me over, there were still times he needed a whap across the back of his head. And then he’d do or say something sweet, and I’d be, awww. He and Jordan certainly had chemistry together, even if it did take them a while to really act on it.
I admit I was a little on the fence with this book as it did have some problems for me, though none were enough to make me stop reading. While the slow burn romance wasn’t an issue (I liked that they took time to develop their friendship), the slowness of the reveal Brandon and Jordan’s individual pasts did make me impatient. The other things seemed like a lack of experience or polish to me—uneven story flow with little or no scene transition, dialogue that occasionally sounded a little off, even childish, to my ear, and humor that sometimes tried too hard. None of these last were all the time and they mostly did improve for me as the book went on.
Sweet, funny, and heartbreaking, this was an entertaining story that I felt just could have used a little more polish. 3.5 stars
B2B Kelly
A new to me author, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this, but I enjoy stories about damaged characters needing to heal, so the blurb had me sucked me in.
I really liked the premise and I enjoyed the setup of multiple secondary characters made up of friends and family who added depth to the story. I liked how determined and talented Jordan was, and her closeness with her family, and I certainly understood her reluctance to get involved with Brandon. Brandon was kind of an a-hole to Jordan at the beginning; his arrogance made me dislike him at first, and while he did win me over, there were still times he needed a whap across the back of his head. And then he’d do or say something sweet, and I’d be, awww. He and Jordan certainly had chemistry together, even if it did take them a while to really act on it.
I admit I was a little on the fence with this book as it did have some problems for me, though none were enough to make me stop reading. While the slow burn romance wasn’t an issue (I liked that they took time to develop their friendship), the slowness of the reveal Brandon and Jordan’s individual pasts did make me impatient. The other things seemed like a lack of experience or polish to me—uneven story flow with little or no scene transition, dialogue that occasionally sounded a little off, even childish, to my ear, and humor that sometimes tried too hard. None of these last were all the time and they mostly did improve for me as the book went on.
Sweet, funny, and heartbreaking, this was an entertaining story that I felt just could have used a little more polish. 3.5 stars
B2B Kelly
November 17, 2018
I guess that I didn't pay close enough attention to the whole A Slow Burn Standalone part in the title when I started this story, because that was one of the things that really frustrated me to no end. Like made me want to rip my hair out by the roots frustrate me. But in the same breath, it also was the reason that I couldn't put the book down either, because I had to know if anything was ever going to happen. It's the story of playboy pilot Brandon Kuvat, who really doesn't put any stock in relationships, since he's been burned so badly, and yeah, it took FOREVER to get the whole story, and Jordan Artesian, who also has her own set of baggage, and yes, also took FOREVER, to get that info as well. They meet, have sparks, then BAM, friend zoned. The book keeps going, more sparks, just friends, maybe more, something happens, he runs, she friend zones him again, and he makes straight up douchey decisions because I think he could have waiting on some of them to be honest, and no longer do I have his back ever again. And that's just half the book. So you see, it's quite the story, and so much angst that I wanted to take a ton of shots. I'm not giving any more away, because honestly, there's a ton more that happens, so you'll just have to read it for yourselves. But I'll say this, I absolutely LOVED the group of friends that were the main secondaries, as they stole the show for me. Anyway, I will read more of the talented Casey Diam in the future, because she kept me reading when I was blind with rage at some of Brandon's decisions, so HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
August 26, 2025
3 stars: I like it.
Both Jordan and Brandon are 'once bitten, twice shy'. But oh my goodness. For two people who can't sit nor see straight due to their 24/7 preoccupation with sexual desire for each other, they sure did take an eternity to hook up. And once they did, they were oh, so too perfect together. Although the writing was very good, making it easy reading, I didn't like anyone in the book. They were both just too privileged, too lucky with finances, too perfect, and too obnoxious. Jordan was oh, so beautiful, that everyone just loved her the second they saw her. Co-workers, Brandon's mom, everyone. Brandon was some sort of billionaire sex god with the Midas touch that miraculously somehow was 'clean' despite sleeping with every woman he came in contact with - and who were all over him like bugs on a bumper. Even though they were Barbie and Ken, their previous almost true loves - who burned them - those two were probably the characters that I would have enjoyed the most, but they were referred to and not developed in the story.
I won this book on Goodreads in exchange for an honest review. You could say it was one of those books that I loved to hate but it was an enjoyable read.
Both Jordan and Brandon are 'once bitten, twice shy'. But oh my goodness. For two people who can't sit nor see straight due to their 24/7 preoccupation with sexual desire for each other, they sure did take an eternity to hook up. And once they did, they were oh, so too perfect together. Although the writing was very good, making it easy reading, I didn't like anyone in the book. They were both just too privileged, too lucky with finances, too perfect, and too obnoxious. Jordan was oh, so beautiful, that everyone just loved her the second they saw her. Co-workers, Brandon's mom, everyone. Brandon was some sort of billionaire sex god with the Midas touch that miraculously somehow was 'clean' despite sleeping with every woman he came in contact with - and who were all over him like bugs on a bumper. Even though they were Barbie and Ken, their previous almost true loves - who burned them - those two were probably the characters that I would have enjoyed the most, but they were referred to and not developed in the story.
I won this book on Goodreads in exchange for an honest review. You could say it was one of those books that I loved to hate but it was an enjoyable read.
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