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My Not So Wicked #1
My Not So Wicked Stepbrother
Librarian note: An alternative cover for this ISBN can be found here.
Loveless is more than a name, it’s a curse.
I, Emma Loveless, have a destiny. It’s not the greatest of destinies, but when you have a name like Loveless, what can you do? I’m cursed to always be the friend, never the girlfriend. Unless you count my love affair with Duncan Hines, Dr. Pepper, and the ever-lovable Pillsbury Doughboy. They’ve seen me through it all, but a girl needs more than refined sugar to curl up to every night. It doesn’t help that I have a meddling, albeit wonderful, mother who can’t help playing matchmaker. Thanks to her I can now say I’ve been on a date with a felon. Now she swears she’s found the one for me, her new optometrist, Dr. Sawyer King. Meanwhile, I’m preparing for the inevitable restraining order. That is, until I meet the handsome doctor and have to admit, my mother is right—love at first sight does exist.
Too bad not even true love is strong enough to interfere with my destiny. Not only do I find myself in the friend zone, but the twilight zone. Only in my world would Mr. Right turn into my stepbrother. I guess it will be me and the Dough Boy for eternity. Unfortunately, not even my love of bread can help me overcome my feelings for Sawyer. I’d dump Dough Boy in a second for the chance to be with him.
Loveless is more than a name, it’s a curse.
I, Emma Loveless, have a destiny. It’s not the greatest of destinies, but when you have a name like Loveless, what can you do? I’m cursed to always be the friend, never the girlfriend. Unless you count my love affair with Duncan Hines, Dr. Pepper, and the ever-lovable Pillsbury Doughboy. They’ve seen me through it all, but a girl needs more than refined sugar to curl up to every night. It doesn’t help that I have a meddling, albeit wonderful, mother who can’t help playing matchmaker. Thanks to her I can now say I’ve been on a date with a felon. Now she swears she’s found the one for me, her new optometrist, Dr. Sawyer King. Meanwhile, I’m preparing for the inevitable restraining order. That is, until I meet the handsome doctor and have to admit, my mother is right—love at first sight does exist.
Too bad not even true love is strong enough to interfere with my destiny. Not only do I find myself in the friend zone, but the twilight zone. Only in my world would Mr. Right turn into my stepbrother. I guess it will be me and the Dough Boy for eternity. Unfortunately, not even my love of bread can help me overcome my feelings for Sawyer. I’d dump Dough Boy in a second for the chance to be with him.
223 pages, Paperback
First published January 11, 2019
901 people are currently reading
905 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Peel
63 books1,362 followersJennifer Peel is the mother of three amazing kiddos. Wife to her one and only for the past twenty-two years. Lover of late night talks, beach vacations, the mountains, pink bubble gum ice cream, tours of model homes, and southern living. She can frequently be found with her laptop on, fingers typing away, indulging in chocolate milk, and writing out the stories that are constantly swirling through her head.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 281 reviews
February 25, 2019
Loved it!!! The funny snark (yet not annoying) of Emma kept me entertained throughout this angst and drama fest balanced by witty humor, genuine compassion, true friendship, and toe curling romance. The characters jump off the page, and the first person perspective of Emma really gets the reader in her head. Two of my favorite tropes blend nicely here- unrequited love and friends to lovers- as Emma and Sawyer are made for each other... except tragedy strikes and they end up as step brother and sister. (Since everyone is an adult when this happened and they never had to live together, I didn't find it off-putting). The friendship between Emma and Sawyer is so sweet and full of yearning, that when conflict arose and drove a wedge between them, I really felt the emotion and could not put the book down. I can always count on this author to keep me engrossed in her books no matter the hour! (I've learned the hard way not to start one at bedtime...) Highly recommend for fans of clean contemporary romance with depth and emotion!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
May 26, 2020
Cursed. Anyone with the last name Loveless would be. At least that's what Emma believes. She's always the best friend, never the girlfriend. But that doesn't stop her mother from playing matchmaker. She's determined to help Emma find the love of her life. When her mom tells her that she's found "the one" for Emma, she tries to discourage her, but to no avail.
One text. Just one text from an unknown number. Who knew that one text would be the catalyst to flip Emma's world upside down? Turns out her mom was right... Sawyer is the love of her life. But her mom was also wrong... she has been firmly put on the "just friends" shelf by Sawyer. It wasn't supposed to be like this. They were supposed to meet, go on a date and then see where the future led. But when tragedy struck, all plans came to a screeching halt. Who knew that love could hurt so much?
Things just keep going from bad to worse. Her dad remarried an evil stepmonster and hasn't been the same since. Her sisters are brats and treat her horribly. And to top it off, some blonde bombshell has set her sights on Sawyer. It would be easy to hate said beauty... if it wasn't for the fact that's she so nice. Emma doesn't need any of this. Why can't things be different?
But what if they could be different? What if the little things Sawyer has been saying and doing means that he feels for her in a more than friends kind of way? That would be icing on the brownies for Miss Emma Loveless. But before she has a chance to figure it out, stepmonster puts her in an uncomfortable position that can only end badly. Emma has to decide. Go along with and agree to what stepmonster says or stick to her guns knowing that in the end she could lose Sawyer.
There is really only one choice. And if Sawyer can't see past everything that his mother has been doing, then he doesn't deserve her friendship or her love.
But little does she know... Sawyer have been holding back. He's done with everyone getting in their way. He's done with not getting what he wants. Everything is about to change, for the better... and Emma won't know what hit her.
*dreamy sigh*
Oh. My. Gosh! You. Guys! Drop whatever you are reading and grab My Not So Wicked Stepbrother... RIGHT NOW! You will not regret it... I promise! Once I started it I found myself being kidnapped and held hostage within it's pages and was not released until the very end. An no... I am NOT complaining at all! I had no desire to leave those beautiful pages! Who would when you have a swoon worthy, thoughtful hero like Sawyer and selfless, adorable, full of love heroine like Emma?! And can we just take a moment to ponder that unforgettable first kiss?! *dreamy sigh* YOWZERS! It is definitely worth the wait! It will not be forgotten anytime soon! ;)
And can we take a minute to discuss who CAN be forgotten?! I could not STAND Sawyer's mom or his brother nor did I like Emma's dad and sisters the majority of the book. They all had me fuming! Like steam coming out of my ears and the top of my head exploding kind of fuming! They did not deserve to have someone as amazing as Emma in their lives! There's a quote from the movie My Best Friend's Wedding that describes these lovelies... they are "the pus that infects the mucus that cruds up the fungus that feeds on the pond scum." Her dad and sisters may have redeemed themselves but I still felt this way about them for a good portion of the book! ;) Haha.
I know I say this all the time BUT.... Jennifer Peel has done it again! I can always count on her books for that much needed break from reality! It's no wonder she's one of my all time favorites! I am definitely looking forward to the other books in this series! If they are anything like this one then I know I am going to absolutely ADORE them!
And of course my review would not be complete without my casting! These two were fun to cast! What do you think?!
One text. Just one text from an unknown number. Who knew that one text would be the catalyst to flip Emma's world upside down? Turns out her mom was right... Sawyer is the love of her life. But her mom was also wrong... she has been firmly put on the "just friends" shelf by Sawyer. It wasn't supposed to be like this. They were supposed to meet, go on a date and then see where the future led. But when tragedy struck, all plans came to a screeching halt. Who knew that love could hurt so much?
Things just keep going from bad to worse. Her dad remarried an evil stepmonster and hasn't been the same since. Her sisters are brats and treat her horribly. And to top it off, some blonde bombshell has set her sights on Sawyer. It would be easy to hate said beauty... if it wasn't for the fact that's she so nice. Emma doesn't need any of this. Why can't things be different?
But what if they could be different? What if the little things Sawyer has been saying and doing means that he feels for her in a more than friends kind of way? That would be icing on the brownies for Miss Emma Loveless. But before she has a chance to figure it out, stepmonster puts her in an uncomfortable position that can only end badly. Emma has to decide. Go along with and agree to what stepmonster says or stick to her guns knowing that in the end she could lose Sawyer.
There is really only one choice. And if Sawyer can't see past everything that his mother has been doing, then he doesn't deserve her friendship or her love.
But little does she know... Sawyer have been holding back. He's done with everyone getting in their way. He's done with not getting what he wants. Everything is about to change, for the better... and Emma won't know what hit her.
*dreamy sigh*
Oh. My. Gosh! You. Guys! Drop whatever you are reading and grab My Not So Wicked Stepbrother... RIGHT NOW! You will not regret it... I promise! Once I started it I found myself being kidnapped and held hostage within it's pages and was not released until the very end. An no... I am NOT complaining at all! I had no desire to leave those beautiful pages! Who would when you have a swoon worthy, thoughtful hero like Sawyer and selfless, adorable, full of love heroine like Emma?! And can we just take a moment to ponder that unforgettable first kiss?! *dreamy sigh* YOWZERS! It is definitely worth the wait! It will not be forgotten anytime soon! ;)
And can we take a minute to discuss who CAN be forgotten?! I could not STAND Sawyer's mom or his brother nor did I like Emma's dad and sisters the majority of the book. They all had me fuming! Like steam coming out of my ears and the top of my head exploding kind of fuming! They did not deserve to have someone as amazing as Emma in their lives! There's a quote from the movie My Best Friend's Wedding that describes these lovelies... they are "the pus that infects the mucus that cruds up the fungus that feeds on the pond scum." Her dad and sisters may have redeemed themselves but I still felt this way about them for a good portion of the book! ;) Haha.
I know I say this all the time BUT.... Jennifer Peel has done it again! I can always count on her books for that much needed break from reality! It's no wonder she's one of my all time favorites! I am definitely looking forward to the other books in this series! If they are anything like this one then I know I am going to absolutely ADORE them!
And of course my review would not be complete without my casting! These two were fun to cast! What do you think?!
February 6, 2019
WHAT IN THE ACTUAL FUCK?????!!!!!!
I haven't been so emotionally letdown and enraged like this since reading Just One Of The Guys in 2016. My Not So Wicked Stepbrother is almost exactly like that shitshow and I am ENRAGED I allowed this clusterfuck to take over my evening reading.
This shit is not a fucking Romance and it's so fucking far from a romantic comedy I'm not even smiling. What in the actual fuck.
Spoilers all up in this bitch
So. The heroine’s mother sets her with the hero in the prologue. THE FUCKING PROLOGUE. I should have stopped right there. They got along instantly and arranged a date. Then the book started ONE FUCKING YEAR LATER. The heroine’s mom died and the dad married the hero’s mom who is a bitch on wheels.
The rest of the book is a miserable series of situations where the heroine is depressed, sad, pining, crying, embarrassed and beating herself up over FIFTEEN FUCKING POUNDS. FUCK THIS BOOK.
There is no cute flirting. No hot touches. NO SEX. No real kisses. No sexy meet ups. It’s a fucking chick lit masquerading as a Romance.
15 pounds??! 15 fucking pounds??!??! The heroine is overweight by 15 lbs and she acts as if she is a fucking sumo wrestler. 15 pounds is your damned life! It’s having desert instead of twiddling your thumbs. It’s drinking a glass wine. It’s going out for dinner this week cause you don’t feel like cooking. It’s damn sure not what this book made it out to be.
I wanted this book over so fucking bad. But when I flipped to the end, beyond all expectations it got worse!!!!!!! How the FUCK did that happen?????
The ending what the cherry on the Shit Sunday: the hero’s mother becomes an extra cruel bitch just because. Dad doesn’t help because wife, sending the heroine into (yet another) crying fit.
The hero’s BROTHER fucks BOTH of the heroine’s twin sisters (they don’t know about each other) – taking their virginity. He also steals $4500 from the twins’ business. This is after the heroine has to accuse the brother of trying to steal from someone else.
FUCK. THS. BOOK.
I haven't been so emotionally letdown and enraged like this since reading Just One Of The Guys in 2016. My Not So Wicked Stepbrother is almost exactly like that shitshow and I am ENRAGED I allowed this clusterfuck to take over my evening reading.
This shit is not a fucking Romance and it's so fucking far from a romantic comedy I'm not even smiling. What in the actual fuck.
Spoilers all up in this bitch
So. The heroine’s mother sets her with the hero in the prologue. THE FUCKING PROLOGUE. I should have stopped right there. They got along instantly and arranged a date. Then the book started ONE FUCKING YEAR LATER. The heroine’s mom died and the dad married the hero’s mom who is a bitch on wheels.
The rest of the book is a miserable series of situations where the heroine is depressed, sad, pining, crying, embarrassed and beating herself up over FIFTEEN FUCKING POUNDS. FUCK THIS BOOK.
There is no cute flirting. No hot touches. NO SEX. No real kisses. No sexy meet ups. It’s a fucking chick lit masquerading as a Romance.
15 pounds??! 15 fucking pounds??!??! The heroine is overweight by 15 lbs and she acts as if she is a fucking sumo wrestler. 15 pounds is your damned life! It’s having desert instead of twiddling your thumbs. It’s drinking a glass wine. It’s going out for dinner this week cause you don’t feel like cooking. It’s damn sure not what this book made it out to be.
I wanted this book over so fucking bad. But when I flipped to the end, beyond all expectations it got worse!!!!!!! How the FUCK did that happen?????
The ending what the cherry on the Shit Sunday: the hero’s mother becomes an extra cruel bitch just because. Dad doesn’t help because wife, sending the heroine into (yet another) crying fit.
The hero’s BROTHER fucks BOTH of the heroine’s twin sisters (they don’t know about each other) – taking their virginity. He also steals $4500 from the twins’ business. This is after the heroine has to accuse the brother of trying to steal from someone else.
FUCK. THS. BOOK.
January 14, 2019
Years ago, I saw a movie where two adults were rekindling a romance while their children fell in love and I thought, "Ew! Gross! They could be step-siblings!" However, this story had none of that "ick" factor--it was all about that swoon!
Emma's situation nearly broke my heart in this modern-day Cinderella story, especially as she feels her last name is a curse. She is one down-to-earth and real character, which is super refreshing next to so many of the characters in this book. She embraces who she is and is so positive. Sawyer was her mom's choice for her, but an unexpected event thrust him into the friend zone and better best friends have never been seen.
Although Emma and Sawyer are BFFs, there is an underlying electrical current that kept zapping at me, threatening to ignite. The angsty tension was almost too much for me to handle at times, but boy, was the wait worth it!
I was enthralled by the characters, as they were all so well-written (even the villains) and couldn't get enough of them and the plot. I laughed; I rolled my eyes; I swooned; and I enjoyed every page. And can I just say--I'm not a soda drinker, but this story had me craving an ice cold Dr. Pepper.
Ms. Peel really has done it again! I think I melted into a puddle of swoony goo and it's going to take some time for my poor heart to recover. This is definitely a book you won't want to miss!
Content: mild+ romance (innuendo, kissing, vague talk of intimacy); mild language
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Emma's situation nearly broke my heart in this modern-day Cinderella story, especially as she feels her last name is a curse. She is one down-to-earth and real character, which is super refreshing next to so many of the characters in this book. She embraces who she is and is so positive. Sawyer was her mom's choice for her, but an unexpected event thrust him into the friend zone and better best friends have never been seen.
Although Emma and Sawyer are BFFs, there is an underlying electrical current that kept zapping at me, threatening to ignite. The angsty tension was almost too much for me to handle at times, but boy, was the wait worth it!
I was enthralled by the characters, as they were all so well-written (even the villains) and couldn't get enough of them and the plot. I laughed; I rolled my eyes; I swooned; and I enjoyed every page. And can I just say--I'm not a soda drinker, but this story had me craving an ice cold Dr. Pepper.
Ms. Peel really has done it again! I think I melted into a puddle of swoony goo and it's going to take some time for my poor heart to recover. This is definitely a book you won't want to miss!
Content: mild+ romance (innuendo, kissing, vague talk of intimacy); mild language
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
January 22, 2019
I always love diving into one of Ms. Peel's books. The cover and title really intrigued me with this one and I was excited to read it. I thought this was a fun read, kept me engaged and wanting to see how things would work out. Emma and Sawyer are best friends and new step-siblings, so how would a relationship ever work? I have to admit the "friends first" trope isn't a favorite for me, but I still thought this was a good story. I can see why it's already bringing in great reviews. I look forward to this series, I think it will be a lot of fun.
Content: Clean romance, mild language, no violence
Source: Kindle Unlimited
Content: Clean romance, mild language, no violence
Source: Kindle Unlimited
January 13, 2019
Another great book from Jennifer Peel... one I didn't want to put down.
Content: Steamy clean - Mild language & innuendo
Content: Steamy clean - Mild language & innuendo
January 14, 2019
First of all, I think this is my favorite Jennifer Peel book cover- and that's saying something because I think all her book covers are awesome. But this one just makes me happy. That classy man sitting there looking all sexy and then that pink to off set the black? Yum. Yeah, the glitter doesn't hurt either. This book cover says to me, "grab your chocolate, girl and settle in because Jennifer Peel is going to take you for a yummy ride!" This cover doesn't lie.
Emma is funny and that is awesome for me because I love a book with humor. I love to be entertained by banter and sarcasm and wit. Between Emma and Sawyer, I got my fill. And Sawyer? Oh my goodness. Oh my soul. He has to be the sweetest, most attentive "step-brother" on the face of the planet. The things he would do for Emma. So swoony.
Lest you think this book is all swoony, mushy stuff, let me also say that there are plenty of emotional, personal feelings in this book. Jennifer Peels always brings in a fantastic balance of the harder emotional situations that make the characters feel real and down to earth. It gives them substance and helps me relate to them on an emotional level.
The romantic tension kept building throughout this whole book. I swear to you I was ready to pull my hair out. Sweet torture. That's what it was. I can be so impatient at times. But then. 💗 door scene💗. That's what I'm calling it. It's where my whole world paused for a minute and my heart raced and then sighed, "Yes. Finally." I'm telling you, it's one of my favorite scenes ever. I've read it a few (cough, cough) times.
I read an ARC copy of this book but I've also bought my own copy. I'm going to read it again, the whole thing (not just the 💗 door scene 💗). Today. I can't wait!!
Oh, and this book is also on Kindle Unlimited! Wa-hoo!
Content: kissing
Merged review:
First of all, I think this is my favorite Jennifer Peel book cover- and that's saying something because I think all her book covers are awesome. But this one just makes me happy. That classy man sitting there looking all sexy and then that pink to off set the black? Yum. Yeah, the glitter doesn't hurt either. This book cover says to me, "grab your chocolate, girl and settle in because Jennifer Peel is going to take you for a yummy ride!" This cover doesn't lie.
Emma is funny and that is awesome for me because I love a book with humor. I love to be entertained by banter and sarcasm and wit. Between Emma and Sawyer, I got my fill. And Sawyer? Oh my goodness. Oh my soul. He has to be the sweetest, most attentive "step-brother" on the face of the planet. The things he would do for Emma. So swoony.
Lest you think this book is all swoony, mushy stuff, let me also say that there are plenty of emotional, personal feelings in this book. Jennifer Peels always brings in a fantastic balance of the harder emotional situations that make the characters feel real and down to earth. It gives them substance and helps me relate to them on an emotional level.
The romantic tension kept building throughout this whole book. I swear to you I was ready to pull my hair out. Sweet torture. That's what it was. I can be so impatient at times. But then. 💗 door scene💗. That's what I'm calling it. It's where my whole world paused for a minute and my heart raced and then sighed, "Yes. Finally." I'm telling you, it's one of my favorite scenes ever. I've read it a few (cough, cough) times.
I read an ARC copy of this book but I've also bought my own copy. I'm going to read it again, the whole thing (not just the 💗 door scene 💗). Today. I can't wait!!
Oh, and this book is also on Kindle Unlimited! Wa-hoo!
Content: kissing
Emma is funny and that is awesome for me because I love a book with humor. I love to be entertained by banter and sarcasm and wit. Between Emma and Sawyer, I got my fill. And Sawyer? Oh my goodness. Oh my soul. He has to be the sweetest, most attentive "step-brother" on the face of the planet. The things he would do for Emma. So swoony.
Lest you think this book is all swoony, mushy stuff, let me also say that there are plenty of emotional, personal feelings in this book. Jennifer Peels always brings in a fantastic balance of the harder emotional situations that make the characters feel real and down to earth. It gives them substance and helps me relate to them on an emotional level.
The romantic tension kept building throughout this whole book. I swear to you I was ready to pull my hair out. Sweet torture. That's what it was. I can be so impatient at times. But then. 💗 door scene💗. That's what I'm calling it. It's where my whole world paused for a minute and my heart raced and then sighed, "Yes. Finally." I'm telling you, it's one of my favorite scenes ever. I've read it a few (cough, cough) times.
I read an ARC copy of this book but I've also bought my own copy. I'm going to read it again, the whole thing (not just the 💗 door scene 💗). Today. I can't wait!!
Oh, and this book is also on Kindle Unlimited! Wa-hoo!
Content: kissing
Merged review:
First of all, I think this is my favorite Jennifer Peel book cover- and that's saying something because I think all her book covers are awesome. But this one just makes me happy. That classy man sitting there looking all sexy and then that pink to off set the black? Yum. Yeah, the glitter doesn't hurt either. This book cover says to me, "grab your chocolate, girl and settle in because Jennifer Peel is going to take you for a yummy ride!" This cover doesn't lie.
Emma is funny and that is awesome for me because I love a book with humor. I love to be entertained by banter and sarcasm and wit. Between Emma and Sawyer, I got my fill. And Sawyer? Oh my goodness. Oh my soul. He has to be the sweetest, most attentive "step-brother" on the face of the planet. The things he would do for Emma. So swoony.
Lest you think this book is all swoony, mushy stuff, let me also say that there are plenty of emotional, personal feelings in this book. Jennifer Peels always brings in a fantastic balance of the harder emotional situations that make the characters feel real and down to earth. It gives them substance and helps me relate to them on an emotional level.
The romantic tension kept building throughout this whole book. I swear to you I was ready to pull my hair out. Sweet torture. That's what it was. I can be so impatient at times. But then. 💗 door scene💗. That's what I'm calling it. It's where my whole world paused for a minute and my heart raced and then sighed, "Yes. Finally." I'm telling you, it's one of my favorite scenes ever. I've read it a few (cough, cough) times.
I read an ARC copy of this book but I've also bought my own copy. I'm going to read it again, the whole thing (not just the 💗 door scene 💗). Today. I can't wait!!
Oh, and this book is also on Kindle Unlimited! Wa-hoo!
Content: kissing
September 4, 2019
Quick and fun read.
nope
February 21, 2019I guess there is a genre called "Clean romance" and this book belongs to it with no intimacy or sex scenes but only some innocent kisses. Well, nope... too clean for me :)
January 9, 2020
I tried. I really did. I think if I hadn't just read a book very similar to this I would have been ok with it. Peel is a good author I just hated this book. The main character would go on and on for pages about her weight, and lack of good looks, her clumsiness. Her pinning over her step brother was annoying. You knew exactly where this was going early on and ONE conversation could have ended all of it real quick. I find these kinds of books more frustrating then fun. You need a real concrete reason to keep 2 people who obviously love each other and have chemistry apart. I also am having a pretty rough time with all the food references.....do people really eat like that? Uhg ...ok enough.
April 16, 2022
(2022) 🌟🌟🌟
Despite how the title may sound this is not a creepy sibling relationship .In a way it's a cinderalla story , and the character had fallen for the man before her step father married his mother . So really complicated yes , creepy no .
(2019)🌟🌟🌟🌟
I'm in literal shock about how good this story actually was .I had very low expecations .
Secondly I am shook by how sweet the love interest was , like who is this guy 😱
Sweetheart ✔
Angry only at appropriate times ✔
Gentleman ✔
Shares his food ✔
Gentle ✔
Respectful ✔
Loyal ✔
His only low points to me were he was smoking hot ,more so the fact that Emma had to remind us of this fact EVERY time she saw him .
We get it he's hot . 😂
Emma ;
I loved her character ,she was so relatable and realistic !
- loves food
-slightly overweight
- she's kind but human
-she has a job as a welder which is pretty frickin cool .
- she kicked butt ,without even picking up a weapon * looking at you Sarah J . Mass * be taking notes on this .
- struggles with body image
- rough around the edges but she still enjoys being feminine , and dressing up.
I wish more female characters were written in this manner .It's not wrong to get our hands dirty.Its also not vain to enjoy dressing up . Emma is a great balance of this .
Content ; PG
- sexual comments
- mild language
- two characters on a bed together ,not in a sexual way ,but it almost lead to kissing.
- several occasions where a side character *villain * was sleeping around.
- inuendos
- character admiring a man's butt ....like come on . Men are called perverts for doing this , but when a woman does this it's often portrayed as harmless .
Honestly it was super clean for a secular romance novel .
Despite how the title may sound this is not a creepy sibling relationship .In a way it's a cinderalla story , and the character had fallen for the man before her step father married his mother . So really complicated yes , creepy no .
(2019)🌟🌟🌟🌟
I'm in literal shock about how good this story actually was .I had very low expecations .
Secondly I am shook by how sweet the love interest was , like who is this guy 😱
Sweetheart ✔
Angry only at appropriate times ✔
Gentleman ✔
Shares his food ✔
Gentle ✔
Respectful ✔
Loyal ✔
His only low points to me were he was smoking hot ,more so the fact that Emma had to remind us of this fact EVERY time she saw him .
We get it he's hot . 😂
Emma ;
I loved her character ,she was so relatable and realistic !
- loves food
-slightly overweight
- she's kind but human
-she has a job as a welder which is pretty frickin cool .
- she kicked butt ,without even picking up a weapon * looking at you Sarah J . Mass * be taking notes on this .
- struggles with body image
- rough around the edges but she still enjoys being feminine , and dressing up.
I wish more female characters were written in this manner .It's not wrong to get our hands dirty.Its also not vain to enjoy dressing up . Emma is a great balance of this .
Content ; PG
- sexual comments
- mild language
- two characters on a bed together ,not in a sexual way ,but it almost lead to kissing.
- several occasions where a side character *villain * was sleeping around.
- inuendos
- character admiring a man's butt ....like come on . Men are called perverts for doing this , but when a woman does this it's often portrayed as harmless .
Honestly it was super clean for a secular romance novel .
February 10, 2019
Enjoyable and well written book.
January 14, 2019
It’s no secret that I LOVE any/all books by Jennifer Peel. I promise I’m no sycophant, but dang she is so unbelievable talented that I have yet to read a book by her that I don’t adore. When I saw this newest book available on Amazon yesterday (yes-last night I read the ENTIRE book!) I immediately bought it and did a happy dance around my kitchen.
The premise of this book piqued my curiosity from the beginning. The preface had me laughing so hard- goodness Emma and Sawyer can banter like no other. As the story unfolded I found myself crying, like literal tears. I don’t want to spoil the book, but there were some real soul-wrenching moments that really got to me.
Emma was a fantastic protagonist- spunky, outgoing, fun, and with a love affair of sweets that rivals mine. Sawyer is such a hunk! From the way he knows every nuance and quirk about Emma to the way he tries to fill her needs, I was swooning. Their playful bantering and unique relationship kept me hooked on the story.
There were many twists and unexpected turns in the book- I couldn’t put it down. So many supporting characters resonated with me.
By the end of this book I was a hot mess of tears and laughter, curling my toes in delight at this sizzling yet clean romance.
I believe the author has plans to make more books in this series, for which I am SO excited! Drop whatever you’re doing and go grab a copy of this book today!!
The premise of this book piqued my curiosity from the beginning. The preface had me laughing so hard- goodness Emma and Sawyer can banter like no other. As the story unfolded I found myself crying, like literal tears. I don’t want to spoil the book, but there were some real soul-wrenching moments that really got to me.
Emma was a fantastic protagonist- spunky, outgoing, fun, and with a love affair of sweets that rivals mine. Sawyer is such a hunk! From the way he knows every nuance and quirk about Emma to the way he tries to fill her needs, I was swooning. Their playful bantering and unique relationship kept me hooked on the story.
There were many twists and unexpected turns in the book- I couldn’t put it down. So many supporting characters resonated with me.
By the end of this book I was a hot mess of tears and laughter, curling my toes in delight at this sizzling yet clean romance.
I believe the author has plans to make more books in this series, for which I am SO excited! Drop whatever you’re doing and go grab a copy of this book today!!
August 29, 2019
My Not So Wicked book 1
The first book in the Not So Wicked Series
Emma and Sawyer
I have loved all of Jennifer Peel's books and so I was excited to finally get to read this series. I fell in love with the characters and story quickly and had a hard time putting the book down....but...my hesitation at giving it a higher rating was that I definitely felt it was much more "worldly" than any of Peels previous books that I've read .....and that both surprised and disappointed me. There were several sexual innuendos throughout the story and references to such. Enough that I would definitely consider it an adult read. Also mentioned in the story were instances of premarital sexual relations and affairs....neither of which involved the hero and heroine but mentioned enough and along with the other innuendo....that I definitely wouldn't be letting my teenage daughter read this one. A few D words were also present along with one heavy kissing scene. Not saying this to try and be nit picky....but so that others are aware. If the sexual innuendo wouldn't have been thrown in throughout....I would absolutely have given a 5 star rating for the characters and story itself. I love Peel's writing and how she can so easily make people and places come to life. She's so talented! I did adore Emma and Sawyer. I also loved Emma's parents soooo much. It made me wish their story would have been book 1. :) I would loved to have read it!
The first book in the Not So Wicked Series
Emma and Sawyer
I have loved all of Jennifer Peel's books and so I was excited to finally get to read this series. I fell in love with the characters and story quickly and had a hard time putting the book down....but...my hesitation at giving it a higher rating was that I definitely felt it was much more "worldly" than any of Peels previous books that I've read .....and that both surprised and disappointed me. There were several sexual innuendos throughout the story and references to such. Enough that I would definitely consider it an adult read. Also mentioned in the story were instances of premarital sexual relations and affairs....neither of which involved the hero and heroine but mentioned enough and along with the other innuendo....that I definitely wouldn't be letting my teenage daughter read this one. A few D words were also present along with one heavy kissing scene. Not saying this to try and be nit picky....but so that others are aware. If the sexual innuendo wouldn't have been thrown in throughout....I would absolutely have given a 5 star rating for the characters and story itself. I love Peel's writing and how she can so easily make people and places come to life. She's so talented! I did adore Emma and Sawyer. I also loved Emma's parents soooo much. It made me wish their story would have been book 1. :) I would loved to have read it!
January 16, 2019
Wow! A different and hilarious take on unrequitted love which turns out to be not-unrequitted
H and h talk on the phone and plan a date but h's mother dies before the date. H attends the funeral with his gold-digging mother (villain) who puts the moves on her distraught and rich father, making the H and h step-siblings and great friends.
This was hilarious, fun to read and Emma made a great h; she was comfortable in her own skin, had her eccentricities and was a generally lovable and sweet h.
H was very sweet and loving; OW was really a generally nice woman
This book also showed that a person doens't have to be a biological parent in order to be a mother or father ...
There are no intimate scenes between H and h for most of the book; only at the end ...
This book is definnitely worth reading; for the quirky and great h, the sweet H and the unique take on villain ...
H and h talk on the phone and plan a date but h's mother dies before the date. H attends the funeral with his gold-digging mother (villain) who puts the moves on her distraught and rich father, making the H and h step-siblings and great friends.
This was hilarious, fun to read and Emma made a great h; she was comfortable in her own skin, had her eccentricities and was a generally lovable and sweet h.
H was very sweet and loving; OW was really a generally nice woman
This book also showed that a person doens't have to be a biological parent in order to be a mother or father ...
There are no intimate scenes between H and h for most of the book; only at the end ...
This book is definnitely worth reading; for the quirky and great h, the sweet H and the unique take on villain ...
September 14, 2019
2 stars. It’s obvious from the beginning that there’s no friend zoning going on. It would’ve been nice to have a bit of romantic tension. Totally boring romance.
The wicked stepmother was of the murdering Dalmatian puppies and wearing them as a fur coat variety. There was no valid reason for her to hate Emma, yet befriend her gorgeous twin sisters. These are adult children, Emma’s 31, and her sisters are 25. Step-mama gets jealous if Emma gets a hug from her dad? Why? She only comes over on Sundays for family dinner. Emma has her own apartment, a career, and her own friends; In contrast, (25yo) twin sisters still live at home and are around their dad all the time.
Oh, did I forget to mention the twins are prettier than their older sister? They’re also shallow, selfish, and not smart. Emma, the short and chubby one, is responsible, intelligent, and has a heart of gold.
It also made zero sense that Sawyer, who’s older than Emma, thinks his mom is Suzy Sunshine. His rosy view of his childhood and the way he painted his dad as the villain weren’t believable. He also has a golden heart and a bad brother.
I think the story could’ve worked as a novella, even with the cardboard supporting characters. What truly bogged it down was Emma’s constant inner dialogue. I grew impatient with her constant pining and whining.
Big beef: Emma tells everyone how much she likes her body just the way it is, and makes sure we know she’s proud of how much junk food she eats. She throws her love affair with Dr Pepper, Betty Crocker, and the Pillsbury Doughboy in our faces at every opportunity, but complains about being fat and squishy through the whole book. She compares herself to other woman and can’t measure up. This is obviously not a woman who’s okay with her appearance. The author can’t have it both ways.
*Content - no sex between H/h. Vague discussion of characters sleeping together, cheating, and some mild joking about sex between a pregnant character and her husband.
The wicked stepmother was of the murdering Dalmatian puppies and wearing them as a fur coat variety. There was no valid reason for her to hate Emma, yet befriend her gorgeous twin sisters. These are adult children, Emma’s 31, and her sisters are 25. Step-mama gets jealous if Emma gets a hug from her dad? Why? She only comes over on Sundays for family dinner. Emma has her own apartment, a career, and her own friends; In contrast, (25yo) twin sisters still live at home and are around their dad all the time.
Oh, did I forget to mention the twins are prettier than their older sister? They’re also shallow, selfish, and not smart. Emma, the short and chubby one, is responsible, intelligent, and has a heart of gold.
It also made zero sense that Sawyer, who’s older than Emma, thinks his mom is Suzy Sunshine. His rosy view of his childhood and the way he painted his dad as the villain weren’t believable. He also has a golden heart and a bad brother.
I think the story could’ve worked as a novella, even with the cardboard supporting characters. What truly bogged it down was Emma’s constant inner dialogue. I grew impatient with her constant pining and whining.
Big beef: Emma tells everyone how much she likes her body just the way it is, and makes sure we know she’s proud of how much junk food she eats. She throws her love affair with Dr Pepper, Betty Crocker, and the Pillsbury Doughboy in our faces at every opportunity, but complains about being fat and squishy through the whole book. She compares herself to other woman and can’t measure up. This is obviously not a woman who’s okay with her appearance. The author can’t have it both ways.
*Content - no sex between H/h. Vague discussion of characters sleeping together, cheating, and some mild joking about sex between a pregnant character and her husband.
January 15, 2019
I could relate to Emma’s sweet tooth and extra 15 lbs haha. Just a fun book.
January 28, 2019
Cute, light and fun. The scene where they finally get together is totally worth the wait.
March 20, 2022
This book really hit home for me. I don't know if there were any trigger/content warnings for it, but this book definitely made me cry on more than one occasion. My mom died 2 years ago, so I totally understood where Emma was coming from and what she was feeling. My mom also died suddenly, so there was more than one moment that it felt like the author was writing about my life and experiences. I just wish I had something like Sawyer that was there for me the way he was there for Emma.
I absolutely loved the book, even when it made me cry. I also understood where Emma was coming from with her family. I have 1 half siblings and after my mom died, I was left alone. My siblings and I had different moms, but they weren't there for me. It became more than obvious that "family" only went so far.
I actually hate how quickly Emma forgave her sisters. I mean, I get it but I also hated it. I guess it just hit too close to home and I hold grudges and I hated how they treated Emma.
I did love Sawyer though. I do with I'd had someone there for me the way he was there for her. I can't remember the last time I loved a fictional guy as much as I did him.
This book was definitely one that will stick with me, and I know it will be a reread for me. I can't wait to go check out other books by the author.
I absolutely loved the book, even when it made me cry. I also understood where Emma was coming from with her family. I have 1 half siblings and after my mom died, I was left alone. My siblings and I had different moms, but they weren't there for me. It became more than obvious that "family" only went so far.
I actually hate how quickly Emma forgave her sisters. I mean, I get it but I also hated it. I guess it just hit too close to home and I hold grudges and I hated how they treated Emma.
I did love Sawyer though. I do with I'd had someone there for me the way he was there for her. I can't remember the last time I loved a fictional guy as much as I did him.
This book was definitely one that will stick with me, and I know it will be a reread for me. I can't wait to go check out other books by the author.
January 22, 2020
First time author for me and it will NOT be the last book I read by her! Right from the beginning she had me laughing out loud. There were a few moments where I wanted to the characters to hurry up and get on with whatever they were going to do but I think that just shows my impatience more than anything.
I did feel like it was kinda weird that Emma refused to believe that Sawyer felt something for her other than friendship especially with how he treated her. It was definitely more than friend moves he was puttin on with her. :-)
Rating: PG (adult situations, some "swear words")
Language: a couple uses of the d-word, no use of deity in a negative way
Recommend: absolutely!
I did feel like it was kinda weird that Emma refused to believe that Sawyer felt something for her other than friendship especially with how he treated her. It was definitely more than friend moves he was puttin on with her. :-)
Rating: PG (adult situations, some "swear words")
Language: a couple uses of the d-word, no use of deity in a negative way
Recommend: absolutely!
December 19, 2019
Humor abounds in this mashed up romantic comedy!
Read full review in the 2019 December issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2019 December issue of InD'tale Magazine.
February 19, 2019
4.5/5.0
Yes, I know, I know, this story embodies a trope I usually avoid like the plague - unrequited love between two “best friends”. This type always leaves me spending the entire reading experience wanting to scream at the page, “Just SAY something for heaven’s sake!!!” And, I did that throughout this entire book. Drove me nuts! That’s also the reason I gave it a 4.5 instead of a straight 5 stars. Still, that’s a huge rating considering how much this device drives me crazy.
See - the thing is, in-spite of it all, I absolutely adored the story! I understood Emma’s reluctance to speak up, although I didn’t get why Sawyer didn’t say something sooner. The humor was absolutely delightful, though! There were many truly laugh out loud moments such as when Sawyer asks Emma why she needs such a huge bed and she (embarrassed) responds, “Because I sleep like a starfish, thank you very much!”
There were also moments that actually had the tears leaking out such as the heart-wrenching moment she stood up for the employees at the ranch and her family turned against her.
Ultimately the pure reading loveliness outshone even my pet-peeve in this truly delightful,light-hearted yet poignant love story. Ms Peele, IMHO, is truly THE queen of the sweet romance genre!!
Yes, I know, I know, this story embodies a trope I usually avoid like the plague - unrequited love between two “best friends”. This type always leaves me spending the entire reading experience wanting to scream at the page, “Just SAY something for heaven’s sake!!!” And, I did that throughout this entire book. Drove me nuts! That’s also the reason I gave it a 4.5 instead of a straight 5 stars. Still, that’s a huge rating considering how much this device drives me crazy.
See - the thing is, in-spite of it all, I absolutely adored the story! I understood Emma’s reluctance to speak up, although I didn’t get why Sawyer didn’t say something sooner. The humor was absolutely delightful, though! There were many truly laugh out loud moments such as when Sawyer asks Emma why she needs such a huge bed and she (embarrassed) responds, “Because I sleep like a starfish, thank you very much!”
There were also moments that actually had the tears leaking out such as the heart-wrenching moment she stood up for the employees at the ranch and her family turned against her.
Ultimately the pure reading loveliness outshone even my pet-peeve in this truly delightful,light-hearted yet poignant love story. Ms Peele, IMHO, is truly THE queen of the sweet romance genre!!
March 15, 2021
I laughed out loud so hard and so many times reading this book! Emma was such a great lead character.
January 2, 2019
I loved this one! I'm so excited for this new series!
Right when everything was finally falling into place for Emma, it all blew up and fell apart instead. And the cute eye doctor that she likes? He's now her stepbrother and has her firmly in the friend zone. Even in the friend zone, Emma and Sawyer are so cute together! There are a lot of family dynamics for them to navigate - and throw in a new attractive office manager at Sawyer's eye clinic who is definitely chasing him - and Emma Loveless is sure that she's doomed/cursed to remain loveless!
I loved the sneak peek for the next book in this series; it was like getting a bonus epilogue!
Source: Advanced Reader Copy (opinion is 100% my own)
Right when everything was finally falling into place for Emma, it all blew up and fell apart instead. And the cute eye doctor that she likes? He's now her stepbrother and has her firmly in the friend zone. Even in the friend zone, Emma and Sawyer are so cute together! There are a lot of family dynamics for them to navigate - and throw in a new attractive office manager at Sawyer's eye clinic who is definitely chasing him - and Emma Loveless is sure that she's doomed/cursed to remain loveless!
I loved the sneak peek for the next book in this series; it was like getting a bonus epilogue!
Source: Advanced Reader Copy (opinion is 100% my own)
February 24, 2019
Slow Burn
Wow, they don't even get together until 91%. I like build up and angst, but this was not that. It was just redundant longing from the beginning. I was going to DNF at Chapter 5, but with such high ratings I was willing to make it to the end. At 50% I thought we would be do e with the repetative longing, but I was wrong.
The characters were all great, even the secondary characters. There are some funny parts and sweetness, but if you have a another choice for a book to read, I'd read that first. I'd live to read her spin off with Shelby, but i'm afraid doing laundry would be more entertaining.
Wow, they don't even get together until 91%. I like build up and angst, but this was not that. It was just redundant longing from the beginning. I was going to DNF at Chapter 5, but with such high ratings I was willing to make it to the end. At 50% I thought we would be do e with the repetative longing, but I was wrong.
The characters were all great, even the secondary characters. There are some funny parts and sweetness, but if you have a another choice for a book to read, I'd read that first. I'd live to read her spin off with Shelby, but i'm afraid doing laundry would be more entertaining.
August 11, 2019
**Review can be found at https://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/ **
I am such a sucker for the forbidden romance trope books so when I learned that this was a potential step-sibling relationship I was ready to jump into the story. A light-hearted romantic comedy was just what I was looking for, the perfect fluffy read to get sucked into.
There were so many times that I felt like my heart was breaking for Emma and I wished that I had a copy of the physical book so I could cheat and make sure that there was a happy ending because to be completely truthful I felt like my heart was breaking for Emma most of the book. I know the book is listed as a romantic comedy but I found almost none of it funny. The story pulled out the big guns with the emotional buttons, be it the death and depression from the loss of a loved one, unrequited love, and family drama, but on occasion I felt like I wanted to cry for the Emma and all the awful that was piled on her. That being said I enjoyed the story a lot, it was heartfelt and pulled me in and I rooted hard for a Emma/Sawyer love match in the worst of ways.
There were two reasons why I gave the book 4 stars instead of five. Firstly, the continuous mentioning of Emma's weight. I am in full support of her being a full figured woman, but at times it felt like her weight/squishy thighs/round stomach/eating habits was thrown in my face at every turn and occasionally it seemed to define her- she was the overweight female friend. I wanted her to own her body and looks, but instead she was so wishy washy- one minute saying how she loved who she was and the next hating herself and choices. A few mentions would have been ok, but it was too self deprecating for me to get behind. Second reason was the ending. Yes it was the HEA that I expected, but there was a lot of chaos and upheaval in the last part of the book and the happy wrap up felt a little rushed and was maybe only 20 minutes of the almost 7 hour book.
I absolutely loved the narrator, Melissa's performance was spot on. She did a fantastic job of bringing Emma to life, making her into a real person that I empathized with as well as creating new voices for the other characters as well. I would listen to her narrator more audiobooks in the future. Overall I really enjoyed this entire experience and I would love to listen to the next standalone romance in the My Not So Wicked series featuring the side character Shelby who was hysterical in this book.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Jennifer Peel. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
I am such a sucker for the forbidden romance trope books so when I learned that this was a potential step-sibling relationship I was ready to jump into the story. A light-hearted romantic comedy was just what I was looking for, the perfect fluffy read to get sucked into.
There were so many times that I felt like my heart was breaking for Emma and I wished that I had a copy of the physical book so I could cheat and make sure that there was a happy ending because to be completely truthful I felt like my heart was breaking for Emma most of the book. I know the book is listed as a romantic comedy but I found almost none of it funny. The story pulled out the big guns with the emotional buttons, be it the death and depression from the loss of a loved one, unrequited love, and family drama, but on occasion I felt like I wanted to cry for the Emma and all the awful that was piled on her. That being said I enjoyed the story a lot, it was heartfelt and pulled me in and I rooted hard for a Emma/Sawyer love match in the worst of ways.
There were two reasons why I gave the book 4 stars instead of five. Firstly, the continuous mentioning of Emma's weight. I am in full support of her being a full figured woman, but at times it felt like her weight/squishy thighs/round stomach/eating habits was thrown in my face at every turn and occasionally it seemed to define her- she was the overweight female friend. I wanted her to own her body and looks, but instead she was so wishy washy- one minute saying how she loved who she was and the next hating herself and choices. A few mentions would have been ok, but it was too self deprecating for me to get behind. Second reason was the ending. Yes it was the HEA that I expected, but there was a lot of chaos and upheaval in the last part of the book and the happy wrap up felt a little rushed and was maybe only 20 minutes of the almost 7 hour book.
I absolutely loved the narrator, Melissa's performance was spot on. She did a fantastic job of bringing Emma to life, making her into a real person that I empathized with as well as creating new voices for the other characters as well. I would listen to her narrator more audiobooks in the future. Overall I really enjoyed this entire experience and I would love to listen to the next standalone romance in the My Not So Wicked series featuring the side character Shelby who was hysterical in this book.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Jennifer Peel. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
August 4, 2021
4.5 stars - Woah...Just WOAH!! I loved this so much. When going into this one I did not expect to get too emotionally invested and I most definitely did not expect to shed any tears. But that I did.
First off: This story had so much potential for being cringe worthy but I really appreciated how the author handle the whole “stepbrother” debacle. It was very well executed and I was in no way weirded out.
Secondly: More often than not we read about heroines that are “absolutely perfect”🙄 With their luscious, silky hair; nonexistent tummies and perfectly toned legs & booty, not a cellulite in sight. I loved that Emma was real. She was pretty, charming, incredibly funny and she had the sweetest personality. Who cares if she had a squishy tummy and a few cellulites, don’t we all? She was so relatable that there’s no wonder why I was invested in her story. The dialogues and Emma’s inner monologues had we rolling with laughter. It was that good! Plus I really liked all the inspirational quotes.
Finally: Sawyer was a gem. Just a darling of a man. I loved his relationship with Emma. He was caring and attentive all while trying to be “just friends”. I liked seeing him through Emma’s eyes and although she was completely oblivious to his inner turmoil, I was not. Some heroines can be so dense it gets annoying real fast but I thought that Emma’s ignorance was actually cute and in no way over the top. I loved it when Em taught Sawyer how to walk on water. It was such an adorable scene. I really loved this book. Will highly recommend and re-read in the future.
Favorite Quotes:
I mean, sugar is always there for you, and it comes in so many forms, showing up exactly as you needed it, when you needed it.
“Em and I are friends.” Ugh. The dreaded F-word. The past year’s events had landed me smack dab in the middle of not only the friend zone, but also the twilight zone. 🤣
Where there is love there is a good chance somewhere else there is a rejected woman eating her feelings.
“My little darlings, there are two things you can count on in life, shoe sales, and that men will disappoint you.”
“Sometimes you have to be the one to start mending the fence even if you didn’t break it. Never be afraid of being the bigger person.”
Content: Clean/chaste, kissing, mild innuendo
First off: This story had so much potential for being cringe worthy but I really appreciated how the author handle the whole “stepbrother” debacle. It was very well executed and I was in no way weirded out.
Secondly: More often than not we read about heroines that are “absolutely perfect”🙄 With their luscious, silky hair; nonexistent tummies and perfectly toned legs & booty, not a cellulite in sight. I loved that Emma was real. She was pretty, charming, incredibly funny and she had the sweetest personality. Who cares if she had a squishy tummy and a few cellulites, don’t we all? She was so relatable that there’s no wonder why I was invested in her story. The dialogues and Emma’s inner monologues had we rolling with laughter. It was that good! Plus I really liked all the inspirational quotes.
Finally: Sawyer was a gem. Just a darling of a man. I loved his relationship with Emma. He was caring and attentive all while trying to be “just friends”. I liked seeing him through Emma’s eyes and although she was completely oblivious to his inner turmoil, I was not. Some heroines can be so dense it gets annoying real fast but I thought that Emma’s ignorance was actually cute and in no way over the top. I loved it when Em taught Sawyer how to walk on water. It was such an adorable scene. I really loved this book. Will highly recommend and re-read in the future.
Favorite Quotes:
I mean, sugar is always there for you, and it comes in so many forms, showing up exactly as you needed it, when you needed it.
“Em and I are friends.” Ugh. The dreaded F-word. The past year’s events had landed me smack dab in the middle of not only the friend zone, but also the twilight zone. 🤣
Where there is love there is a good chance somewhere else there is a rejected woman eating her feelings.
“My little darlings, there are two things you can count on in life, shoe sales, and that men will disappoint you.”
“Sometimes you have to be the one to start mending the fence even if you didn’t break it. Never be afraid of being the bigger person.”
Content: Clean/chaste, kissing, mild innuendo
February 11, 2019
I so did not understand why the writer chose the title. Our MCs don't begin with that relationship, nor does it become factual until way, WAY through a good part of it. Emma's mother was very alive and well when she meets our male protagonist; she later inherits the actual WICKED step-brother, who turns out to be her hero's younger brother.
Confusing, but plausible insofar as plotlines go, which is why I enjoyed this book. I just disliked and disagreed with the title choice since Emma was more concerned with the "less" in her last name and how very, very abundantly curvaceous she is.
I nearly passed this book by because of its title. I opened its blurb by accidentally misclicking the wrong book icon when I was trying to click on the back arrow at the bottom of my tablet. Once I saw the book cover, read the blurb, and read a third of the chapters of the borrowed Kindle copy, I bought it.
Notwithstanding the fact I purchased the book in the end, I may have never done so without that mistaken click of my tablet's touchscreen, because I wrinkled my nose at the title, being ever so disgusted by that mass exodus toward complicit, dirty step sibling books, each trying to out-degenerate the next. Yuk. They're not blood related, so WTH? I don't get the hype, or the taboo on that situation.
3.25 stars.
Confusing, but plausible insofar as plotlines go, which is why I enjoyed this book. I just disliked and disagreed with the title choice since Emma was more concerned with the "less" in her last name and how very, very abundantly curvaceous she is.
I nearly passed this book by because of its title. I opened its blurb by accidentally misclicking the wrong book icon when I was trying to click on the back arrow at the bottom of my tablet. Once I saw the book cover, read the blurb, and read a third of the chapters of the borrowed Kindle copy, I bought it.
Notwithstanding the fact I purchased the book in the end, I may have never done so without that mistaken click of my tablet's touchscreen, because I wrinkled my nose at the title, being ever so disgusted by that mass exodus toward complicit, dirty step sibling books, each trying to out-degenerate the next. Yuk. They're not blood related, so WTH? I don't get the hype, or the taboo on that situation.
3.25 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2023
3.5 stars and I'll tell you why.
I had a hard time getting into it because the prologue was fun but chapter one was so jarring. The prologue is all fun and I was a little confused because there's no mention at all of a stepbrother—and the title mentions him specifically—then chapter one comes and all becomes clear. I would have appreciated some transition into that. That's one point against it.
The second point is on me. It truly is a case of "It's not you, it's me." At the moment my reading taste is geared towards high, epic fantasy. I want the suspense, action, adventure, mystery, world calamity-type thing and the hard hitting moments—this is NOT THAT and it's not meant to be which is why it took me so long to get into. Because it takes a second to reconcile yourself to the oatmeal raisin cookie you grabbed instead of the chocolate chip.
But all in all, once I did get into it, I had fun, and Sawyer is too good to be true.
I loved the characters, especially Shelby because she was just so hilarious and I could hear her voice perfectly in my head. And the camping scene 😂
All in all, I really love the sense of humor in this book and the story itself is rather sweet.
I had a hard time getting into it because the prologue was fun but chapter one was so jarring. The prologue is all fun and I was a little confused because there's no mention at all of a stepbrother—and the title mentions him specifically—then chapter one comes and all becomes clear. I would have appreciated some transition into that. That's one point against it.
The second point is on me. It truly is a case of "It's not you, it's me." At the moment my reading taste is geared towards high, epic fantasy. I want the suspense, action, adventure, mystery, world calamity-type thing and the hard hitting moments—this is NOT THAT and it's not meant to be which is why it took me so long to get into. Because it takes a second to reconcile yourself to the oatmeal raisin cookie you grabbed instead of the chocolate chip.
But all in all, once I did get into it, I had fun, and Sawyer is too good to be true.
I loved the characters, especially Shelby because she was just so hilarious and I could hear her voice perfectly in my head. And the camping scene 😂
All in all, I really love the sense of humor in this book and the story itself is rather sweet.
January 16, 2019
This was a super fun friends to lovers romance. The characters are Emma Loveless and Sawyer King. Emma feels her last name has cursed her in life—every guy she falls for only sees her as a friend and burping buddy. She thought the curse might be broken when her mom set her up with Sawyer King. But then circumstances changed drastically before they could ever go on their first date. He became her stepbrother…and that first date never happened. But he’s become her best friend. She hates the f-word as it relates to him. And she also despises his mother, who is now her wicked stepmother. Ick. Emma was a fantastic and funny character who made me laugh the whole way through this book. She’s strong, confident, loves carbs and sugar (you go, girl!), and is forever cursed to be stuck in the friend zone. Peel’s books always are treats for my heart, and I’m super excited to read the next one in this series (from the teaser at the end of this one, it looks like it continues with the lives of side characters I got to know and love in this book—YEA!!!). Anyway, all I have to say is….this is a great, fun, heart-tugging romance I’ll read again (as I do most of Peel’s books).
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