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The Mackay Sisters #2
Lean on Me
Sweet, shy, rubenesque Lori Mackay, she’s lived all her life in the small country town. No one knows her secret desires.
Still waters run deep, and local paramedic Matt Winters suspects the sexy, curvaceous beauty has hidden depths he just aches to explore.
In a town where gossip is rife and secrets abound, can Matt convince Lori that they're meant to be together?
Still waters run deep, and local paramedic Matt Winters suspects the sexy, curvaceous beauty has hidden depths he just aches to explore.
In a town where gossip is rife and secrets abound, can Matt convince Lori that they're meant to be together?
Kindle Edition
First published August 19, 2013
22 people are currently reading
672 people want to read
About the author
Angela Verdenius
66 books679 followersI am a mixture of things - full-time worker, cat owner, writer, bookworm, supernatural horror movie buff, mystery series fan, and daydreamer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
August 28, 2013
Ever since I read Call On Me, I've been anxiously awaiting the story of Lori and Matt--the shy Mackay sister and the neighbor/EMT that is patiently waiting for the right moment to smooch on her. Lean On ME did not disappoint!
I expected the signature humor, ever-present fur-babies, and scorching sex. I got all that and more. The gossipy old townsfolk had me in stitches, Matt's newly discovered caveman possessiveness had me fanning myself (hoo-boy), and Lori's love for her Minxy made me shed a tear.
Angela Verdenius' books have fast become my favorites to read and re-read. Her characters are relatable--working normal jobs, overcoming obstacles that are real, having relationships that include joking, fighting, loving, interfering, consoling. These are all people you love and root for.
And, I think it's worth mentioning that many of her books are BBW's, meaning that they feature a larger heroine. I read as many BBW's as I can get my hands on and I find myself increasingly frustrated by what is offered in this sub-genre. It seems like there's a lot of short (20-60 page) erotic serials or short stories that seem to be nothing but erotica that is catering to those with a fetish. Maybe I'm wrong, maybe it's just me, but there's a market out there for women like me who want erotic romance of substance that feature a larger woman. Multi-dimensional characters, sweet romance, laughter, believable HEA's...that's what I'm after.
Ms. Verdenius brings exactly what I'm looking for every time. So, please, keep 'em coming!!!
I expected the signature humor, ever-present fur-babies, and scorching sex. I got all that and more. The gossipy old townsfolk had me in stitches, Matt's newly discovered caveman possessiveness had me fanning myself (hoo-boy), and Lori's love for her Minxy made me shed a tear.
Angela Verdenius' books have fast become my favorites to read and re-read. Her characters are relatable--working normal jobs, overcoming obstacles that are real, having relationships that include joking, fighting, loving, interfering, consoling. These are all people you love and root for.
And, I think it's worth mentioning that many of her books are BBW's, meaning that they feature a larger heroine. I read as many BBW's as I can get my hands on and I find myself increasingly frustrated by what is offered in this sub-genre. It seems like there's a lot of short (20-60 page) erotic serials or short stories that seem to be nothing but erotica that is catering to those with a fetish. Maybe I'm wrong, maybe it's just me, but there's a market out there for women like me who want erotic romance of substance that feature a larger woman. Multi-dimensional characters, sweet romance, laughter, believable HEA's...that's what I'm after.
Ms. Verdenius brings exactly what I'm looking for every time. So, please, keep 'em coming!!!
December 21, 2018
Nailed it!!! This was JUST the kind of angsty insecure heroine I adore!!! I loved this. Too bad it makes me vainly hope for someone just like Matt. There's no way he (and half the other guys in that town) exist. But I love to read about it!!
March 10, 2014
4.5 stars
So far, this book is my favorite from this author. I loved both the H/h equally (doesn’t happen too often since I have a tendency to favor the hero), all the confrontation and interaction between the H/h were spot on, and I loved the nosy neighbors – they brought humor and heart to the story – I especially loved the part when they went to see Lori and brought her a rose, funny and sweet!
The little side story with Minx was emotional but in a good way and it was a great way to show Lori’s truly soft and vulnerable side (not just her shyness) in contrast to the mettle and attitude Lori has within her that rarely shows its face – though it made its appearance in this book a few times! Go Lori!
It also goes without saying that we got the author’s signature hot and steamy scenes, she doesn’t disappoint in this department. I especially love the beginning when Matt’s attempts to ask Lori on a date kept getting waylaid, so his growing frustration because of this plus the jealousy he felt with the misunderstanding involving Tommy was such a great way to get to his breaking point – their first kiss! It was electric and the chemistry with this couple didn’t lessen at any point!
So far, this book is my favorite from this author. I loved both the H/h equally (doesn’t happen too often since I have a tendency to favor the hero), all the confrontation and interaction between the H/h were spot on, and I loved the nosy neighbors – they brought humor and heart to the story – I especially loved the part when they went to see Lori and brought her a rose, funny and sweet!
The little side story with Minx was emotional but in a good way and it was a great way to show Lori’s truly soft and vulnerable side (not just her shyness) in contrast to the mettle and attitude Lori has within her that rarely shows its face – though it made its appearance in this book a few times! Go Lori!
It also goes without saying that we got the author’s signature hot and steamy scenes, she doesn’t disappoint in this department. I especially love the beginning when Matt’s attempts to ask Lori on a date kept getting waylaid, so his growing frustration because of this plus the jealousy he felt with the misunderstanding involving Tommy was such a great way to get to his breaking point – their first kiss! It was electric and the chemistry with this couple didn’t lessen at any point!
September 15, 2013
I am a huge fan of this authors work. Why? Her characters are just so entirely relatable. I get the big girl with confidence issues. What is refreshing is the insecurity frequently shown by our hot paramedic hero. So few contemporary romances particularly those featuring BBW realistically portray heroes who are concerned that the women they love will love them back. Thank you Ms Verdenius very much!
I loved this instalment and am eagerly awaiting more.
I loved this instalment and am eagerly awaiting more.
August 26, 2013
This story is about the second sister, Lori. I laughed in spots and cried in others. In some places I wanted to scream. This book brought out a lot of feelings for me and I loved seeing Lori come into her own.
The impression I get of 3 characters in the books. Guess who I'm thinking of. LOL! :)
The impression I get of 3 characters in the books. Guess who I'm thinking of. LOL! :)
January 29, 2016
Angela Verdenius never fails to give me something sweet and sexy. Her characters are just so relatable.
Lean on Me was great. It was fun, sweet, sad, quirky romantic, funny, and we can not forget hot.
Lean on Me was great. It was fun, sweet, sad, quirky romantic, funny, and we can not forget hot.
February 5, 2017
Ms. Verdenius did it again. Another great heart-warming, emotional (I actually cried), fun and sexy story! I can't wait to read the next book! Highly recommended. Enjoy.
August 16, 2015
Too many cats and nosy gossips for my taste.
November 8, 2020
Been a while since I read the first one in this series, about Ali, but I caught on. The first 40% of the book or so, kinda dragged a bit for me. It's all about getting to know Lori, the supposedly shy sister with a hidden undercurrent of rebellion and her neighbor Matt, the ambo who has had a crush on her for a while but done nothing about it. It sets the scene and attraction between them well enough, but not much happens (except for a slight conflict with a local townsperson) and I wasn't terribly engaged. I liked the writing style, but wanted something more to happen. Then, around that 40% mark, the author hits you with an emotional punch that had me in tears. I'd seen it coming, I KNEW it was going to happen, but the author still managed to rip my emotions to shreds with it. And this was quickly followed by a resolution of UST that was also extremely well-written (so hot!) and some lovely dramatic angst. Unfortunately, that angst gets resolved too quickly and our hero, who was being an ass, needed to suffer just a bit longer. But that gets wrapped up, the relationship angst is over and they end up dealing with the external conflicts (town gossip, that local townsperson's issues and introducing the next characters' conflict). All-in-all, the author has some serious writing talent, but I didn't wholly care for the pacing of it all. On top of that, there is another reviewer here that mentions how the characters all feel the same, and I am totally seeing that. Although at least in this one, our insecure heroine is not hung up on her insecurities and she's not a "runner." Matt though, with his "dominant" side just starts to feel like a controlling, arrogant ass...and I much prefer him when he's channeling his softer, sensitive side. I was also quite intrigued by what the heck is going on with Adam and Barbie, so I did get hooked there.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2013
Quiet and shy, voluptuous Lori Mackay isn't used to much attention, especially of the male kind. But suddenly everyone in her small town is gossiping about her love life, even though there is nothing to tell. Matt Winters has been falling for Lori since he moved in to her neighbourhood, he just needs to convince her that he wants her curves and all but convincing Lori is easier said than done.
Angela Verdenius never fails to give me something sweet and sexy, her combination of too-good-to-be-true heroes and rubenesque heroines is fun to read and sends me straight to fantasyland, where the stud with the 6 pack doesn't mind my Buddha belly.
If you like other books by this author you will like this one; the storyline doesn't differ that much from book to book. But that doesn't stop me from enjoying them and Lean on Me had funny and likable characters, the sexy parts are enough to get you squirming and the romance bloomed beautifully between Matt and Lori.
This was a light and fluffy read, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing, it was fun and I would recommend if you want something nice to chill out with.
August 25, 2013
Adorable story with a sweet hero!
I loved Matt, I love reading about a hero that gets a little harried and crazy in his pursuit of his girl. And that is what Matt did. He was adorably confused but no less determined to get Lori to date him and see him. I think I may know those crazy gossipy people in the book, doesn't everyone have someone like that in their lives, they frustrate me while they try to make up stories if nothing is really happening that is gossip-worthy according to them and reading about them in this book just cracked me up all along.
I love this author's work, she can make a story sweet but really hot and I love the characters in all her contemporary books, I have read them all.
I loved Matt, I love reading about a hero that gets a little harried and crazy in his pursuit of his girl. And that is what Matt did. He was adorably confused but no less determined to get Lori to date him and see him. I think I may know those crazy gossipy people in the book, doesn't everyone have someone like that in their lives, they frustrate me while they try to make up stories if nothing is really happening that is gossip-worthy according to them and reading about them in this book just cracked me up all along.
I love this author's work, she can make a story sweet but really hot and I love the characters in all her contemporary books, I have read them all.
July 21, 2017
I forgot how much I loved this book. There is something about rereading an old favorite that reminds you of having lunch with an old friend you haven't seen in a while.
This story tears me up inside every time. And yes. I did have a good cry with Minx. Always do, o matter how many times I read this.
I like Matt. He's a good guy. I actually love all of Angela's stories.
This story tears me up inside every time. And yes. I did have a good cry with Minx. Always do, o matter how many times I read this.
I like Matt. He's a good guy. I actually love all of Angela's stories.
September 2, 2013
Lori and Matt's story all I can say is WOW I love it. Can't wait for the next one. Who will it be?
Angela is one of my favorite authors. Her stories are so well written.
Angela is one of my favorite authors. Her stories are so well written.
April 3, 2021
Solid 4. It was sweet cute little book 🙈💖
October 4, 2017
Standalone/Cliffhanger: Standalone but part of a series.
Ages of H and h: Late 20s i'd guess
Multi-Luv'n/Ménages:
Was There Descriptive Sex:
Descriptive Sex &/Or Drama Between H/h With OW/OM:
>>If So, Before or After H/h Hookup:
Contains Cheating:
Amount of Sex In The Book:
HEA/HFN/etc Ending:
Will This Meet My 'Safety Gang' Buddies' Approval:
Any Triggers/Warnings: No
>>Detail: N/A
Do You Recommend This Book: Yes.
Will You Re-read This Book: No
Would You Read More Books By This Author: Yes
My Thoughts
The book starts off with Matt already head over heels in love with Lori, which makes me a happy reader. Lori was a little self-conscious with her weight, but it wasn't a pressing issue once her and Matt got together. i enjoyed the book and the back-stories of the other side-characters.
Ages of H and h: Late 20s i'd guess
Multi-Luv'n/Ménages:
Was There Descriptive Sex:
Descriptive Sex &/Or Drama Between H/h With OW/OM:
>>If So, Before or After H/h Hookup:
Contains Cheating:
Amount of Sex In The Book:
HEA/HFN/etc Ending:
Will This Meet My 'Safety Gang' Buddies' Approval:
Any Triggers/Warnings: No
>>Detail: N/A
Do You Recommend This Book: Yes.
Will You Re-read This Book: No
Would You Read More Books By This Author: Yes
My Thoughts
The book starts off with Matt already head over heels in love with Lori, which makes me a happy reader. Lori was a little self-conscious with her weight, but it wasn't a pressing issue once her and Matt got together. i enjoyed the book and the back-stories of the other side-characters.
July 7, 2020
This is my second read of this book and I truly like it. This is part 2 of the Mackay sisters series and I've not read part 1. Its on my tbr. This can be read as a stand alone too.
Its a sweet romance where both hero and heroine are really likeable people. We can feel Lori's insecurities wrt her weight and shyness. However, this doesn't mean she's a pushover, she stands up for herself appropriately when caught in an embarrassing scandal.
Matt is a regular likeable, caring guy. He's been working up courage to ask Lori out, and luckily for him situations spiral out of control throwing them together.
Its the love both show towards their pets thats really sweet. The cats have their own strong place here. Losing an aging cat Lori goes out and adopts an abandoned Maine Coon. Matt"s support physically and emotionally is extremely evident throughout.
This is one of those books that one connects with instantly. Yes, I do like BBW romances and have read some.more of this author. But by far this seems.to.be my favourite.
I would strongly recommend reading Lean On Me.
Its a sweet romance where both hero and heroine are really likeable people. We can feel Lori's insecurities wrt her weight and shyness. However, this doesn't mean she's a pushover, she stands up for herself appropriately when caught in an embarrassing scandal.
Matt is a regular likeable, caring guy. He's been working up courage to ask Lori out, and luckily for him situations spiral out of control throwing them together.
Its the love both show towards their pets thats really sweet. The cats have their own strong place here. Losing an aging cat Lori goes out and adopts an abandoned Maine Coon. Matt"s support physically and emotionally is extremely evident throughout.
This is one of those books that one connects with instantly. Yes, I do like BBW romances and have read some.more of this author. But by far this seems.to.be my favourite.
I would strongly recommend reading Lean On Me.
July 14, 2017
2.5 stars
September 18, 2024
3.5 stars
This book is like drinking a warm cup of coffee while cuddling on the couch in the morning.
This book is like drinking a warm cup of coffee while cuddling on the couch in the morning.
October 10, 2016
As good as the first one. Likable characters. It feels like a 3 star book. But i have to give it 4 stars, because it basically had me hooked from beginning to end.
August 27, 2013
Oh My Goodness, I absolutely loved this book. Angela Verdenius did it again, producing another great book.
Ali Mackay is a shy sweet girl in a small country town and has hidden desires and fantasies that have yet to be unleashed, well that is until Matt Winters came along.
Matt Winters is a local paramedic and who wants Ali and suspects there are hidden depths to her. and he is very determined to convince her that they are meant to be together with his sexy cavemen and dominant tendencies that heat her up, oh lets not forget the charm and his love for her. :)
Lean on Me was fantastic. It was fun, sweet, heartbreaking sad, quirky romantic, freaking hilarious as hell, and we can not forget HOT HOT HOT. The scene at the cafe was hilarious, the two couples fighting and about to get into a brawl and then all of sudden Lori rips into all four of them, loved it. I can't wait to read more about the other characters especially Adam and Barbie. I'm really excited to hear more about them. Also wondering if Sam from The Virgin Sex Queen is going to get his own book? I love Angela Verdenius' books and I can't wait to read more.
Ali Mackay is a shy sweet girl in a small country town and has hidden desires and fantasies that have yet to be unleashed, well that is until Matt Winters came along.
Matt Winters is a local paramedic and who wants Ali and suspects there are hidden depths to her. and he is very determined to convince her that they are meant to be together with his sexy cavemen and dominant tendencies that heat her up, oh lets not forget the charm and his love for her. :)
Lean on Me was fantastic. It was fun, sweet, heartbreaking sad, quirky romantic, freaking hilarious as hell, and we can not forget HOT HOT HOT. The scene at the cafe was hilarious, the two couples fighting and about to get into a brawl and then all of sudden Lori rips into all four of them, loved it. I can't wait to read more about the other characters especially Adam and Barbie. I'm really excited to hear more about them. Also wondering if Sam from The Virgin Sex Queen is going to get his own book? I love Angela Verdenius' books and I can't wait to read more.
August 3, 2014
I like this author's style of writing and I enjoy her books. Problem is I'm starting to see a pattern. All her h's and even her H's tend to always be the same. This on is no different and that's why I'm a little disappointed in this one.
This is the second in a series. The first one, which I really liked, was based on the older outspoken sister. This was supposed to be the shy one, so you can see why I'd expect a different type of character in this book... But that's not what happens. Somehow the shy sister suddenly finds her voice and becomes just as outspoken as her older sister and to me they almost seem like the same character.
I've also begun to notice a pattern with the H's. They're usually pretty laid back nice men, but somehow the h always brings out a dominant side to them when it comes to sex. This has now happened in several books I've read by this author.
Like I said, I do enjoy this author's writing, but I'd like a little more variety in her characters. Reading 4 of her books within a month is just a bad idea.
This is the second in a series. The first one, which I really liked, was based on the older outspoken sister. This was supposed to be the shy one, so you can see why I'd expect a different type of character in this book... But that's not what happens. Somehow the shy sister suddenly finds her voice and becomes just as outspoken as her older sister and to me they almost seem like the same character.
I've also begun to notice a pattern with the H's. They're usually pretty laid back nice men, but somehow the h always brings out a dominant side to them when it comes to sex. This has now happened in several books I've read by this author.
Like I said, I do enjoy this author's writing, but I'd like a little more variety in her characters. Reading 4 of her books within a month is just a bad idea.
January 3, 2015
First book read in 2015, really sweet book, loved the secondary stories running through it with Tommy & Harriet, (oh the drama)! but back to the main couple Matt and Lori, he's the likeable Paramedic and she's the shy quite Mackay sister or are they?, both find out about themselves with each other, that was really lovely to read as they were perfect pair he called her love and gave her forehead kisses which made me sigh a lot. I did cry, Ms Angela always manages to make shed a tear or two, but not for something bad just the inevitable which you know is coming. Great to hear about Ghost and Ali and also about Adam whom I'm assuming will get a book too, hope so, Barbie sounds like a handful!, great series of books this really enjoyable, long may they continue.
March 13, 2015
More of a 2.5 star story - it's very sweet, slightly boring, more character-driven little story that follows the romance of Lori and Matthew, two characters introduced in the first book, Call on Me.
I like Angela Verdenius, primarily since all her stories are based in Australia. She's had better stories, and this one is alright, but not exciting. I gave the extra star because she actually had me tear up a bit at I would have preferred that I felt that emotion for the love story
I like Angela Verdenius, primarily since all her stories are based in Australia. She's had better stories, and this one is alright, but not exciting. I gave the extra star because she actually had me tear up a bit at I would have preferred that I felt that emotion for the love story
November 13, 2016
Love it!
This is a wonderful story about a BBW Lori and her neighbor, Matt. Matt has had his eye on Lori for a while. He is drawn to her sweet personality but senses a deep river of passion below the surface. He loves her curves. Lori has been attracted to her neighbor for a while for doesn't think he could possibly be interested in her. Then add in the small town gossips and the silly and grossly exaggerated rumors and the laughs show up. There is plenty of heat. You will thoroughly enjoy this book!
This is a wonderful story about a BBW Lori and her neighbor, Matt. Matt has had his eye on Lori for a while. He is drawn to her sweet personality but senses a deep river of passion below the surface. He loves her curves. Lori has been attracted to her neighbor for a while for doesn't think he could possibly be interested in her. Then add in the small town gossips and the silly and grossly exaggerated rumors and the laughs show up. There is plenty of heat. You will thoroughly enjoy this book!
December 8, 2013
I loved it! Even though there are some moments in the middle that I didn't really fancy, but overall I enjoyed it.
Just like Angela's other books, Lean On Me really made me jealous of the heroine. Seriously. I want to find my own man who'll love me no matter what size I have or how big my body is.
Nailed it, Angie. I can't wait to read Adam and Barb's story. Please keep writing about BBW romance, because among other authors, you are the best! ;)
Just like Angela's other books, Lean On Me really made me jealous of the heroine. Seriously. I want to find my own man who'll love me no matter what size I have or how big my body is.
Nailed it, Angie. I can't wait to read Adam and Barb's story. Please keep writing about BBW romance, because among other authors, you are the best! ;)
September 9, 2016
This is an Ok read. I'm annoyed by the neighbors' gossip! The misunderstanding between the hero and heroine is so annoying that I have to skip some or I will begin to lose my patience. Both hero and heroine are sooooo stubborn, or its just their poor communication. Only when they clear up their misunderstanding can I read the story patiently.
February 1, 2020
Fantastic
I really enjoyed reading this story. I loved Ali and Ghost's book, and was hoping Lori and Matt would get one as well...bonus, they ended up together. Matt did have a few moments of being a jerk, but shy Lori quickly put him in his place. I am looking forward to reading more by this author.
I really enjoyed reading this story. I loved Ali and Ghost's book, and was hoping Lori and Matt would get one as well...bonus, they ended up together. Matt did have a few moments of being a jerk, but shy Lori quickly put him in his place. I am looking forward to reading more by this author.
September 13, 2013
4 stars. I have to be honest, I was in love with Matt from the first book and still am. But this book was everywhere was not feeling Harriet and Tommy also adding Adam and the other girl. Sorry! But the first one still the best for me. Still love the languistic of the conversation. Cheers!
September 16, 2013
Another great book from this author. She is one that I know I can start with the first and read all the rest in the series in one sitting if I could. Loved the characters, romance and humor. Hoping there maybe a couple more in there somewhere form her!
July 15, 2014
Liked it but wish the secondary couple got a more concrete resolution.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews