What do you think?
Rate this book
Last Shot #3
Long Shot
Reese Kirkwell
Waitressing at a tequila bar on the beach in sunny San Diego may not be what I want to do forever, but for now it’s perfect—other than the flashbacks to the tragedy I caused in Boston. And the fact that one of my bosses is a domineering, first-class manwhore who’s as stubborn as he is sexy. If he’d just listen to me, I could double his business. But it would also mean getting close to someone, and that’s a risk I can’t afford.
Cade Hardy
My partners at Conquistadors are like my brothers, but I’m the money man trying to keep us all afloat. To blow off steam, I’ve been sleeping around a little. The last thing I need is business advice from our crazy-hot new waitress. I can’t figure Reece out. She’s smarter than she lets on, and she doesn’t hide her disgust for my active sex life. But after I recognizes her PTSD symptoms, I’m determined to save her . . . unless she saves me first
Waitressing at a tequila bar on the beach in sunny San Diego may not be what I want to do forever, but for now it’s perfect—other than the flashbacks to the tragedy I caused in Boston. And the fact that one of my bosses is a domineering, first-class manwhore who’s as stubborn as he is sexy. If he’d just listen to me, I could double his business. But it would also mean getting close to someone, and that’s a risk I can’t afford.
Cade Hardy
My partners at Conquistadors are like my brothers, but I’m the money man trying to keep us all afloat. To blow off steam, I’ve been sleeping around a little. The last thing I need is business advice from our crazy-hot new waitress. I can’t figure Reece out. She’s smarter than she lets on, and she doesn’t hide her disgust for my active sex life. But after I recognizes her PTSD symptoms, I’m determined to save her . . . unless she saves me first
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 27, 2018
64 people are currently reading
452 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Jamieson
115 books2,649 followersKelly Jamieson is a USA Today bestselling author of over 70 romance novels and novellas. Her writing has been described as “emotionally complex,” “sweet and satisfying,” and “blisteringly sexy.” She likes black coffee, white wine and high heels…and of course cheering on her Winnipeg Jets during hockey season! She loves hearing from readers, so please visit her website at www.kellyjamieson.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
November 16, 2025
Jameson knew exactly how to hit that emotional cord. A completely heartfelt tale with lovable characters and the most adorable Surf loving dog.
I received this ARC copy of Long Shot from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept. This is my honest and voluntary review. Long Shot is set for publication Feb. 13, 2018.
I received this ARC copy of Long Shot from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept. This is my honest and voluntary review. Long Shot is set for publication Feb. 13, 2018.
February 17, 2018
Reese is a waitress. Just a waitress. She’s trying to get her life together after a devastating incident. Working at Conquistadors is helping her to do that. Now if she can just stay out of the kitchen and away from Cade, one of the owners.
Cade is the spreadsheet guy of the business. It’s his job to make the bottom line black instead of red and it’s been a real struggle. When their waitress keeps sticking her nose into things that are not a part of her job description he finds himself getting riled. He needs to be in control and he’s quickly learned that there is no control where Reese is concerned.
This was such a good book! I loved the interactions between this couple and even Reese’s dog Jack. There were so many different layers that needed to be unearthed as they moved forward from antagonistic boss and employee to lovers.
Reese’s character was broken and struggling so hard to find solid ground. I respected that she never gave up. She kept fighting to find peace. Cade had his own demons to battle and he recognized the same in Reese and offered her the support needed to help her step out of the darkness and into the light. He was protective and caring and even though a manho prior to Reese, he was never an a-hole about it.
This is fast paced and well written with secondary characters from previous books that didn’t dominate the story but added to it. The steam level is perfect and the epilogue will make you smile.
This is an honest review of an advanced copy provided by NetGalley and Loveswept.
Dual POV
Safe – a tad ow/om drama
Possible trigger
Cade is the spreadsheet guy of the business. It’s his job to make the bottom line black instead of red and it’s been a real struggle. When their waitress keeps sticking her nose into things that are not a part of her job description he finds himself getting riled. He needs to be in control and he’s quickly learned that there is no control where Reese is concerned.
This was such a good book! I loved the interactions between this couple and even Reese’s dog Jack. There were so many different layers that needed to be unearthed as they moved forward from antagonistic boss and employee to lovers.
Reese’s character was broken and struggling so hard to find solid ground. I respected that she never gave up. She kept fighting to find peace. Cade had his own demons to battle and he recognized the same in Reese and offered her the support needed to help her step out of the darkness and into the light. He was protective and caring and even though a manho prior to Reese, he was never an a-hole about it.
This is fast paced and well written with secondary characters from previous books that didn’t dominate the story but added to it. The steam level is perfect and the epilogue will make you smile.
This is an honest review of an advanced copy provided by NetGalley and Loveswept.
Dual POV
Safe – a tad ow/om drama
Possible trigger
January 6, 2018
Kelly Jamieson continues her “Last Shot” series with this sweet and sensual tale of womanizing bar owner Cade Hardy and spitfire waitress Reece Kirkwell.
Reece isn’t really a waitress and she isn’t planning on staying in San Diego for the rest of her life, but for the moment she’s content working at a tequila bar and it would be perfect if she could help revamp the bar’s menu and wasn’t affected by her boss’ flings from constantly parading around. The first she can do, revealing the latter would mean admitting feelings can’t risk.
Cade would love nothing more than a booming business, but getting advice from his new waitress regarding their food seems like a stretch. He’s almost certain she’s hiding something, it certainly isn’t her disapproval of his extracurricular activities, and he’s more than intrigued by her. As they get to know each other better, the employee/employer lines are blurred and soon they’re both helping each other face their fears.
Set against the very familiar to me backdrop of sunny San Diego, the story is an appealing composition of two hardworking, good, loving people who slowly realize they’re perfect for each other and fall in love.
The supporting characters are not only Cade’s business partners but also his best friends and family which includes their significant others who’ve been presented in the previous books. They help Cade and Reece navigate the bumps and turns in the highway of love and wonderfully complement the story as well as the vivid descriptions about the subtle differences between Tequilas. The passages about añejo and silver are so rich they transported me to the small quaint town where the spirit is produced.
Long Shot is book #3 of the Last Shot series by Kelly Jamieson who writes stories you can’t help but want to curl up with. It can be read in order or as a standalone contemporary romance. Told from both points of view. Office-romance. Tortured hero and heroine.
4.5 stars
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2CMABWW
Stalk us on FaceBook * Twitter * Pinterest Book Teasers * More reviews
Reece isn’t really a waitress and she isn’t planning on staying in San Diego for the rest of her life, but for the moment she’s content working at a tequila bar and it would be perfect if she could help revamp the bar’s menu and wasn’t affected by her boss’ flings from constantly parading around. The first she can do, revealing the latter would mean admitting feelings can’t risk.
Cade would love nothing more than a booming business, but getting advice from his new waitress regarding their food seems like a stretch. He’s almost certain she’s hiding something, it certainly isn’t her disapproval of his extracurricular activities, and he’s more than intrigued by her. As they get to know each other better, the employee/employer lines are blurred and soon they’re both helping each other face their fears.
Set against the very familiar to me backdrop of sunny San Diego, the story is an appealing composition of two hardworking, good, loving people who slowly realize they’re perfect for each other and fall in love.
The supporting characters are not only Cade’s business partners but also his best friends and family which includes their significant others who’ve been presented in the previous books. They help Cade and Reece navigate the bumps and turns in the highway of love and wonderfully complement the story as well as the vivid descriptions about the subtle differences between Tequilas. The passages about añejo and silver are so rich they transported me to the small quaint town where the spirit is produced.
Long Shot is book #3 of the Last Shot series by Kelly Jamieson who writes stories you can’t help but want to curl up with. It can be read in order or as a standalone contemporary romance. Told from both points of view. Office-romance. Tortured hero and heroine.
4.5 stars
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/2CMABWW
Stalk us on FaceBook * Twitter * Pinterest Book Teasers * More reviews
November 13, 2017
4stars.
I really do like Kelly Jamieson books. They always hold my interest.
This author pretty much has a guaranteed "want-to-read" rating by me for all of her books on the goodreads site and in this case was an automatic request for an ARC from netgalley.
"Long Shot" surprisingly wasn't a sports romance like many of the others that I have previously read by this author. It also appears to be the final book in the "Last Shot" series as well as the third one .
I haven't read either of the previous books but this one reads just fine as a standalone.
However if you are thinking of reading the complete series, I absolutely recommend reading them in order as there definitely appears to be a lot of crossover between stories and also significant plot reveals.
I loved that it was set in San Diego (where I live also) and all the locations and characters resonated with me. I really loved the writing and the story flowed nicely as well. Reese was a lot more vivid for me as a character, whereas Cade was just a little bit harder for me to relate to but I definitely liked both MC's and I really enjoyed reading this book.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
I really do like Kelly Jamieson books. They always hold my interest.
This author pretty much has a guaranteed "want-to-read" rating by me for all of her books on the goodreads site and in this case was an automatic request for an ARC from netgalley.
"Long Shot" surprisingly wasn't a sports romance like many of the others that I have previously read by this author. It also appears to be the final book in the "Last Shot" series as well as the third one .
I haven't read either of the previous books but this one reads just fine as a standalone.
However if you are thinking of reading the complete series, I absolutely recommend reading them in order as there definitely appears to be a lot of crossover between stories and also significant plot reveals.
I loved that it was set in San Diego (where I live also) and all the locations and characters resonated with me. I really loved the writing and the story flowed nicely as well. Reese was a lot more vivid for me as a character, whereas Cade was just a little bit harder for me to relate to but I definitely liked both MC's and I really enjoyed reading this book.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2018
This series is centered around three ex-seals who retired and opened up a tequila bar called the Conquistadors. Beck and Hayden's story is book one, Marco and Carrie's is book two and Long Shot, we get Cade and Reese.
Cade is the typical playboy that sticks to one night stands only. He doesn't have time for a relationship and he doesn't really believe he can love someone. He's upfront with the women but that doesn't stop them from coming to his bar to try and change his mind.
Reese is the new waitress at Conquistador and she's pretty vocal about the lousy food being served there. Being a strong personality, her and Cade are often butting heads. As they bicker, Cade realizes Reese seems more invested in how the bar is run for being a waitress.
Out of the three guys in this series, Cade was the one I thought I would like the least. I ended up really loving his book. I'm not a big fan of playboys but when they stop their ways for the ONE, I must admit they can win me over.
I liked the mystery surrounding Reese for the first part of the book. You learn she is running from something but the author was pretty good about keeping you guessing.
When a love/hate relationship is done right, the chemistry can be pretty hot. I would say Reese and Cade's was done right! Arc provided by Netgalley.
Cade is the typical playboy that sticks to one night stands only. He doesn't have time for a relationship and he doesn't really believe he can love someone. He's upfront with the women but that doesn't stop them from coming to his bar to try and change his mind.
Reese is the new waitress at Conquistador and she's pretty vocal about the lousy food being served there. Being a strong personality, her and Cade are often butting heads. As they bicker, Cade realizes Reese seems more invested in how the bar is run for being a waitress.
Out of the three guys in this series, Cade was the one I thought I would like the least. I ended up really loving his book. I'm not a big fan of playboys but when they stop their ways for the ONE, I must admit they can win me over.
I liked the mystery surrounding Reese for the first part of the book. You learn she is running from something but the author was pretty good about keeping you guessing.
When a love/hate relationship is done right, the chemistry can be pretty hot. I would say Reese and Cade's was done right! Arc provided by Netgalley.
February 26, 2018
Long Shot
Last Shot #3
Kelly Jamieson
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cute and flirty romance!! The third and final exSEAL/bar owner finds love.
It’s not always a great idea to mix business and pleasure. Reese and Cade both try to avoid their feelings toward each other. But a panic attack draws them together and there’s no turning back.
This was such a great series by Kelly Jamieson. I have really enjoyed reading her books.
Thanks NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
Last Shot #3
Kelly Jamieson
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cute and flirty romance!! The third and final exSEAL/bar owner finds love.
It’s not always a great idea to mix business and pleasure. Reese and Cade both try to avoid their feelings toward each other. But a panic attack draws them together and there’s no turning back.
This was such a great series by Kelly Jamieson. I have really enjoyed reading her books.
Thanks NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
February 27, 2018
I love when a book catches me off guard, sweeping me away when I'm least expecting it. That's what happened with Long Shot, a sweet and sexy "office" romance of sorts about a restaurant owner and his new waitress. Business mixes with pleasure on these pages and a deliciously complicated tangle of emotion ensues.
I loved it. I enjoyed this story so much. I felt SO MUCH. The chemistry and the undeniable attraction between Cade and Reese are woven seamlessly with heart-wrenching drama and smart humor to make for a wholly satisfying romance that I just adored. Long Shot had me completely consumed, rapt by this workplace hookup that was bound to become more but would surely face some hiccups.
Kelly Jamieson's newest dish is as entertaining as it is STEAMY HOT, and it's perfectly peppered with just the right amount of heavy to make for an emotionally fulfilling love story. I literally had tears in my eyes in one particular scene and that's when I realized what a gem this story truly is. I didn't see this one coming, didn't expect such a delicious treat in Long Shot. But that's what it is... delicious and smooth going down, full of heat and surprisingly layered with flavor. Once again this author has me eager for more.
I loved it. I enjoyed this story so much. I felt SO MUCH. The chemistry and the undeniable attraction between Cade and Reese are woven seamlessly with heart-wrenching drama and smart humor to make for a wholly satisfying romance that I just adored. Long Shot had me completely consumed, rapt by this workplace hookup that was bound to become more but would surely face some hiccups.
Kelly Jamieson's newest dish is as entertaining as it is STEAMY HOT, and it's perfectly peppered with just the right amount of heavy to make for an emotionally fulfilling love story. I literally had tears in my eyes in one particular scene and that's when I realized what a gem this story truly is. I didn't see this one coming, didn't expect such a delicious treat in Long Shot. But that's what it is... delicious and smooth going down, full of heat and surprisingly layered with flavor. Once again this author has me eager for more.
February 27, 2018
4.5 stars
There is something about the bar in this Last Shot series that has me giving it the name the little bar that could, three ex-Navy SEALS, brothers in every way, leave the service and decide to open a tequila bar called Conquistadors in San Diego and throughout this series we’ve watched these men figure out how to be business owners, watched them worry about making it, and watch two them find love when they least expect it. Long Shot is the third and final book in this series and in it we watch the most troubled friend, the man-slut extraordinaire flummoxed by the bar’s newest waitress. Smart and sexy, but not without emotion, Long Shot was an excellent story.
There was such tension between bar owner Cade Hardy and waitress Reese Kirkwell from the start and it was evident Cade was interested in Reece and while she tried to pretend it wasn’t so, she was interested in him. I’m going to admit that Cade’s sex partners showing up over and over at Conquistadors got a little old for me and while I don’t care how many people someone chooses to sleep with in addition to making sure they knew it was only one night of fun, he needed to make sure they knew his place of business wasn’t a place to discuss their encounter. As someone who was all business, it flummoxed me that he allowed it over and over and over. In the last book I knew there was something to the mysterious Reese, but I had no idea what her story would entail. At first I couldn’t understand the animosity is seemed Cade had for Reese, but then it became evident that she threatened him because of her knowledge of the restaurant and bar business and having everything under control was how he coped.
I enjoyed watching both Cade and Reese open up to one another even when they used Reese’s foster dog, Jack, as an excuse to hang out together. They both had baggage which is why I think they gravitated to one another because while they didn’t necessarily want to share their own story, they could sense the other needed a friend. Cade constantly surprised me with his caring side and watching Reese rediscover her passion for food and cooking was captivating. There was no denying the heat and attraction between them, but with two damaged souls admitting what they shared was more, left them open for heartbreak.
Long Shot was intriguing, sexy, and intense and I absolutely loved it!
November 13, 2017
Loved this series...
November 13, 2017
ARC Netgalley for honest review...
I enjoyed the characters and wished I was as tasting all the food and tequila. The book had characters that we're from the other books in the series but this could standalone. Story was very original and seemed very current. Oh, it was pretty sexy too. Jack was fun too.
I enjoyed the characters and wished I was as tasting all the food and tequila. The book had characters that we're from the other books in the series but this could standalone. Story was very original and seemed very current. Oh, it was pretty sexy too. Jack was fun too.
July 25, 2019
I truly don’t understand why this book has such a high rating. It has the emotional depth of an empty glass and next to no facility with language and characterizations. Though I hate to damn with faint praise, they only reason I gave it two instead of one is because I’ve read worse.
The author tried to build resonance, with both protags being trauma survivors, and added a rescue dog in for giggles. But there are just so many things that fell flat for me.
Reece, a former rising star chef, left her fame behind after a traumatic event at her restaurant, for which she has survivor’s guilt. Understandably, she’s after a change of pace. Less understandably, that change of pace is waitressing at a poorly-run tequila bar on the opposite side of the country, spending her days looking mysterious and being annoyed by the incompetence. Sure, fine, whatever.
Her bosses, as this is a 3 book series, are three hot former Navy SEALS. Cade is the star of this one. It’s not enough for poor Cade to have survived Afghanistan and all it had to offer, he must also have a mountain bike accident. That left him with one testicle. And some erectile dysfunction. Temporary, of course, but he’s four shades of messed up over it. Not the war zone, guys, but the mountain bike. He can’t get back on a bike, he can’t handle his emotions, I can’t handle his shaggy fucking hair and his raging out over truly stupid things. Cade is a manboy. No, thank you.
So anyway, Reece takes over the terrible kitchen on the completely obvious sly, gets caught out an incomprehensible number of pages later, Cade loses his shit about being lied to (??? Over the vast improvement of the food? Seriously Cade?) and wants to fire her immediately. She disappointingly does not tell him exactly where he can stick the tater tot nachos they used to serve and instead he is rescued from his own idiocy by his two business partners, who are like, “Dude bruh, this is a good thing, we get a chef for waitress wages” and he relents. Because men only listen to men.
Meanwhile, Reece has a panic attack and as we all know, everyone who has a panic attack immediately wants to have sex. Nothing makes you feel like getting pounded like clammy anxiety sweats, nausea and an oppressive sense of dread. Then they are in love, of course, but in denial, and then there’s some more not very well-written sex and in between they teach her plot moppet pet how to surf. Oh, and a plot device in a the form of an ex-boyfriend boss, AN ANGRY ASSHOLE FAMOUS BRITISH CHEF NAMED GRAHAM. Reece clearly has a Type and the author definitely isn’t making a Gordon Ramsey reference. Entirely coincidental.
All of these things alone and together are enough to be not good. But the final straw was when Reece, rising star chef, and Gordon Ramsey are sitting down for a business proposition and he commends her for her “inspired” touch of cotija on posole. Dude. Come on. There’s nothing inspired about adding cotija to posole. I want to be commended for my inspired addition of cheese to my goulash. If you are going to write about chef life, you can’t dial it in like that.
So long story short, this was not a good use of my time and I finished it feeling both disgruntled and dissatisfied. But as always, your mileage may vary.
The author tried to build resonance, with both protags being trauma survivors, and added a rescue dog in for giggles. But there are just so many things that fell flat for me.
Reece, a former rising star chef, left her fame behind after a traumatic event at her restaurant, for which she has survivor’s guilt. Understandably, she’s after a change of pace. Less understandably, that change of pace is waitressing at a poorly-run tequila bar on the opposite side of the country, spending her days looking mysterious and being annoyed by the incompetence. Sure, fine, whatever.
Her bosses, as this is a 3 book series, are three hot former Navy SEALS. Cade is the star of this one. It’s not enough for poor Cade to have survived Afghanistan and all it had to offer, he must also have a mountain bike accident. That left him with one testicle. And some erectile dysfunction. Temporary, of course, but he’s four shades of messed up over it. Not the war zone, guys, but the mountain bike. He can’t get back on a bike, he can’t handle his emotions, I can’t handle his shaggy fucking hair and his raging out over truly stupid things. Cade is a manboy. No, thank you.
So anyway, Reece takes over the terrible kitchen on the completely obvious sly, gets caught out an incomprehensible number of pages later, Cade loses his shit about being lied to (??? Over the vast improvement of the food? Seriously Cade?) and wants to fire her immediately. She disappointingly does not tell him exactly where he can stick the tater tot nachos they used to serve and instead he is rescued from his own idiocy by his two business partners, who are like, “Dude bruh, this is a good thing, we get a chef for waitress wages” and he relents. Because men only listen to men.
Meanwhile, Reece has a panic attack and as we all know, everyone who has a panic attack immediately wants to have sex. Nothing makes you feel like getting pounded like clammy anxiety sweats, nausea and an oppressive sense of dread. Then they are in love, of course, but in denial, and then there’s some more not very well-written sex and in between they teach her plot moppet pet how to surf. Oh, and a plot device in a the form of an ex-boyfriend boss, AN ANGRY ASSHOLE FAMOUS BRITISH CHEF NAMED GRAHAM. Reece clearly has a Type and the author definitely isn’t making a Gordon Ramsey reference. Entirely coincidental.
All of these things alone and together are enough to be not good. But the final straw was when Reece, rising star chef, and Gordon Ramsey are sitting down for a business proposition and he commends her for her “inspired” touch of cotija on posole. Dude. Come on. There’s nothing inspired about adding cotija to posole. I want to be commended for my inspired addition of cheese to my goulash. If you are going to write about chef life, you can’t dial it in like that.
So long story short, this was not a good use of my time and I finished it feeling both disgruntled and dissatisfied. But as always, your mileage may vary.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2018
It’s never a good sign when it takes me five days to read a book.
I have read one other book by Kelly Jamieson - Dancing in the Rain. It was fantastic, which is why I requested the ARC for Long Shot. However, right from the beginning it seemed like this was written by a completely different author, reading more like a YA story than one about people who are in their 30s (or very close to it), and had multiple things that just made me roll my eyes. Which is unflattering for a woman on the downward slope of her 40s.
Reese has fled from New York City for some mysterious reason (this is strike one for me against this book - I don’t like when something is held back for the purpose of artificially creating drama). She works as a waitress at a tequila bar owned by Cade and his two friends, all of whom are former Navy SEALS (because, of course they are). Reese is a good waitress, but Cade can tell she’s not really who she’s pretending to be.
Besides a lot of talk about food, not much else really happens in this book, especially in the first third of the book. Reese’s internal monologue spends a lot of time alluding to some big event that happened in NYC, and when revealed it was actually a good reason for picking up and moving to San Diego - but there was no reason to keep it a big secret. And then when Cade finds out who she really was before moving to San Diego, he’s so furious that he wants to fire her?! I’m sorry, but that reaction was over-the-top and ridiculous.
A decent attempt was made at character development, but again, I felt things were overdone. Cade’s backstory was extremely sad, but it seemed like the author thought, oh, crappy parents aren’t bad enough, what else can I throw in? And the “reason” why he was going through women like cheap tequila almost made sense to me, but didn’t make me like him any better (although I did give the author bonus points for something original there!).
Another thing that made me roll my eyes were the descriptions of her new friends, Carrie, who is a photographer, and Hayden, a scientist “who’s working on a cure for cancer.” Maybe I’m just in a cynical mood, but really? To round out the group, maybe Carrie could be working towards world peace while Reese solves world hunger. Throw in a dog that they teach to surf (and spent half a long chapter on it), and I think my eyes may get stuck in the top of my head. Sorry, that’s a bit snarky of me, but that’s what this book made me do!
There just wasn’t much that worked for me in this book. I didn’t care for the writing, I didn’t care for the story, I didn’t care for the characters (I haven’t even touched on my dislike of the manskank “hero”), and I barely made it through this book. The only thing that saved it from a single-star rating was a sorta decent ending, although an epilogue that covers the next week after the story ends seems kinda silly. I’ll give Kelly Jamieson another try, but sadly this book was a miss for me.
* thank you to NetGalley and Loveswept for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
I have read one other book by Kelly Jamieson - Dancing in the Rain. It was fantastic, which is why I requested the ARC for Long Shot. However, right from the beginning it seemed like this was written by a completely different author, reading more like a YA story than one about people who are in their 30s (or very close to it), and had multiple things that just made me roll my eyes. Which is unflattering for a woman on the downward slope of her 40s.
Reese has fled from New York City for some mysterious reason (this is strike one for me against this book - I don’t like when something is held back for the purpose of artificially creating drama). She works as a waitress at a tequila bar owned by Cade and his two friends, all of whom are former Navy SEALS (because, of course they are). Reese is a good waitress, but Cade can tell she’s not really who she’s pretending to be.
Besides a lot of talk about food, not much else really happens in this book, especially in the first third of the book. Reese’s internal monologue spends a lot of time alluding to some big event that happened in NYC, and when revealed it was actually a good reason for picking up and moving to San Diego - but there was no reason to keep it a big secret. And then when Cade finds out who she really was before moving to San Diego, he’s so furious that he wants to fire her?! I’m sorry, but that reaction was over-the-top and ridiculous.
A decent attempt was made at character development, but again, I felt things were overdone. Cade’s backstory was extremely sad, but it seemed like the author thought, oh, crappy parents aren’t bad enough, what else can I throw in? And the “reason” why he was going through women like cheap tequila almost made sense to me, but didn’t make me like him any better (although I did give the author bonus points for something original there!).
Another thing that made me roll my eyes were the descriptions of her new friends, Carrie, who is a photographer, and Hayden, a scientist “who’s working on a cure for cancer.” Maybe I’m just in a cynical mood, but really? To round out the group, maybe Carrie could be working towards world peace while Reese solves world hunger. Throw in a dog that they teach to surf (and spent half a long chapter on it), and I think my eyes may get stuck in the top of my head. Sorry, that’s a bit snarky of me, but that’s what this book made me do!
There just wasn’t much that worked for me in this book. I didn’t care for the writing, I didn’t care for the story, I didn’t care for the characters (I haven’t even touched on my dislike of the manskank “hero”), and I barely made it through this book. The only thing that saved it from a single-star rating was a sorta decent ending, although an epilogue that covers the next week after the story ends seems kinda silly. I’ll give Kelly Jamieson another try, but sadly this book was a miss for me.
* thank you to NetGalley and Loveswept for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
December 13, 2017
I received an ARC from NetGalley
This book was really slow out of the gates. REALLY. SLOW. In fact, for the first third of this book, I was pretty sure the hero of this book was restaurant/food/kitchen rather than the actual hero. Is there such a craving in romances for such long, loving descriptions of food prep? I honestly found myself in the whole first half thinking way more about the success of the restaurant venture rather than the couple that was supposed to be getting together. Idk, maybe everyone else out there really does love reading about cooking so much? I felt like entire paragraphs were recipes in longhand. Where was the romance???
Once it got going, which was around the 50% mark, it was fine. I liked the characters, I liked how they were together once Cade stopped being such a jerk. I liked the reveal of their troubled past and how they soothed each other. I definitely liked when they stopped talking about going to the food wholesaler and smelling peppers and tomatillos. Perhaps if I'd read the first 2 books in the series, I would have been more invested in the restaurant plot and why the chef didn't even know how to cook? And how uncomfortable it made me that in San Diego, a famously multicultural city with a huge Latinx population, it’s a white woman who is some kind of virtuoso chef in Mexican and South American cuisine? It was super hard for me to overcome the fact that half of the book was about how to make the restaurant successful rather than how to make this couple successful.
This book was really slow out of the gates. REALLY. SLOW. In fact, for the first third of this book, I was pretty sure the hero of this book was restaurant/food/kitchen rather than the actual hero. Is there such a craving in romances for such long, loving descriptions of food prep? I honestly found myself in the whole first half thinking way more about the success of the restaurant venture rather than the couple that was supposed to be getting together. Idk, maybe everyone else out there really does love reading about cooking so much? I felt like entire paragraphs were recipes in longhand. Where was the romance???
Once it got going, which was around the 50% mark, it was fine. I liked the characters, I liked how they were together once Cade stopped being such a jerk. I liked the reveal of their troubled past and how they soothed each other. I definitely liked when they stopped talking about going to the food wholesaler and smelling peppers and tomatillos. Perhaps if I'd read the first 2 books in the series, I would have been more invested in the restaurant plot and why the chef didn't even know how to cook? And how uncomfortable it made me that in San Diego, a famously multicultural city with a huge Latinx population, it’s a white woman who is some kind of virtuoso chef in Mexican and South American cuisine? It was super hard for me to overcome the fact that half of the book was about how to make the restaurant successful rather than how to make this couple successful.
November 6, 2017
So, maybe the problem is my own, but this one fell a bit short for me. I just couldn't connect with these characters, and I never felt engaged in the story at all. Part of the problem might be that I hadn't read the stories that came before this one. I agree with other reviewers that this can be read as a standalone, but I think I personally might have been more invested if I'd been immersed with this group from the beginning. Cade and Reese were likeable characters--I just wasn't feeling anything for them, and I found myself skimming large chunks of the book. Nonetheless, I did finish the story, so I was interested enough to see what Reese was hiding and how it all ended. With all that being said, I liked the author's writing style; the problem was all about the characters in this one for me. Thus, I would definitely read another book by this author, knowing that I might feel a much stronger connection with different personalities. I also wouldn't discourage someone else from reading this one. I am clearly in the minority here, and other readers may absolutely adore this story and these people.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2023
It’s the final visit to Conquistadors the Tequila Bar owned by 3 guys who are more like brothers than friends and this is Cade’s story, Cade is the figure man in the partnership it’s his job to make sure the bar stays in the black and at times that’s been hard so he finds himself always looking for new ideas to up the profits. Reese is a new waitress and she is trying to put the past behind her and get her life back together but in order to do that she needs to stay away from Cade !!! Two people fighting their own demons, could it be they need each other to put their pasts to rest.......
I loved this series and I’m sad to see it come to an end , I love the characters, the storylines and this one in particular captivated me, this is a love story but it’s also Cade and Reese’s journey to find peace. This book is beautifully written and it’s told in the dual POV, I would say you can read this as a stand-alone but I think you would get so much more out of it if you have read the previous books.
I loved this series and I’m sad to see it come to an end , I love the characters, the storylines and this one in particular captivated me, this is a love story but it’s also Cade and Reese’s journey to find peace. This book is beautifully written and it’s told in the dual POV, I would say you can read this as a stand-alone but I think you would get so much more out of it if you have read the previous books.
November 7, 2017
3 Stars
I really enjoyed this series, but to be honest, this was my least favorite book in this series. I never felt a real connection between Cade and Reese. He was the typical "bad boy" to stay away from and she was the women who was hiding something dark in her past (she did so by running away to the other side of the country and taking a waitress job that she was over qualified for).
I loved the other couples in this series and I enjoyed how the author made the books intertwine so that it was a continuation of the "gang". I just felt that Cade was going to go out with a bang. He was after all, the womanizer of the group.
I really enjoyed this series, but to be honest, this was my least favorite book in this series. I never felt a real connection between Cade and Reese. He was the typical "bad boy" to stay away from and she was the women who was hiding something dark in her past (she did so by running away to the other side of the country and taking a waitress job that she was over qualified for).
I loved the other couples in this series and I enjoyed how the author made the books intertwine so that it was a continuation of the "gang". I just felt that Cade was going to go out with a bang. He was after all, the womanizer of the group.
November 15, 2017
3.5 stars
The final book in the "Last Shot" series. It can be read a stand alone but really works best if you read the other two first.
I grew to like Cade although I couldn't stand him at first. Manwhore is too minor of a word for him. Some things come out in the story that kind of explain his actions but still. I wish he had been toned down a little. I did feel his attraction to Reese but I don't understand some of his anger towards her. She saves their butts with coming up with some awesome dishes for the restaurant to serve and he's all mad cause she's just supposed to be a waitress? Okaaaaay. Like I said though, he did grow on me. He had such a rough upbringing and my heart hurt for him. I did start to feel like there was more there between him and Reese than just lust. I liked watching them grow together and finding out her story. I liked seeing her get her life back together after something tragic. And they burned up the sheets. Kelly Jamieson can bring on the heat! Loved it.
My big problem. I don't understand why an author has to throw a guy's past into the readers face. I get mentioning he's a player etc. The whole bad boy reformed thing I love. But I do not need to know how many women a guy has slept with since he met the heroine. "Ooooooo says here Reese knows he slept with at least 28 women since she met him 2 months ago. Awesome!" Said no reader EVER. Less is more people. Tell me he's a player, that's fine, but do not tell me about his conquests please. I can't even believe Reese let that penis anywhere near her.
All in all though I did enjoy it pretty well. Loved all the food and tequila descriptions. Yum!
I'm looking forward to the authors next book.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The final book in the "Last Shot" series. It can be read a stand alone but really works best if you read the other two first.
I grew to like Cade although I couldn't stand him at first. Manwhore is too minor of a word for him. Some things come out in the story that kind of explain his actions but still. I wish he had been toned down a little. I did feel his attraction to Reese but I don't understand some of his anger towards her. She saves their butts with coming up with some awesome dishes for the restaurant to serve and he's all mad cause she's just supposed to be a waitress? Okaaaaay. Like I said though, he did grow on me. He had such a rough upbringing and my heart hurt for him. I did start to feel like there was more there between him and Reese than just lust. I liked watching them grow together and finding out her story. I liked seeing her get her life back together after something tragic. And they burned up the sheets. Kelly Jamieson can bring on the heat! Loved it.
My big problem. I don't understand why an author has to throw a guy's past into the readers face. I get mentioning he's a player etc. The whole bad boy reformed thing I love. But I do not need to know how many women a guy has slept with since he met the heroine. "Ooooooo says here Reese knows he slept with at least 28 women since she met him 2 months ago. Awesome!" Said no reader EVER. Less is more people. Tell me he's a player, that's fine, but do not tell me about his conquests please. I can't even believe Reese let that penis anywhere near her.
All in all though I did enjoy it pretty well. Loved all the food and tequila descriptions. Yum!
I'm looking forward to the authors next book.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 22, 2017
Absolutely loved this book. The last of the Conquistadors bites the romance bullet and what a story it is!
Reese works at the bar for the guys, Marco and Carrie are soon to be engaged. Beck and Hayden now married and all we see of Cade is the woman in and out of the bar in tears as he gently escorts them out reminding them that he doesn't do relationships and reminds them it was only one night. Reese rolls her eyes and she knows her boss is a manwhore.
Cade is intrigued by Reese, by the things he doesn't know about her mostly. Her comments dropped here and there about the food and running a business leading Cade to believe she knows more than she lets on. Reese wisely does her best to avoid him. Beck and Marco have warned him to stay away from her. After all Reese moved from NY to San Diego to leave the past behind her, to live simply, content to be a waitress and that's it.
The food menu sucks, she knows it, the guys sort of know it and so she can't help herself when she helps the foundering cook Sid with some new recipes. They're a big hit of course and Reese finds herself drawn more and more to the kitchen. What will happen when the guys find out. And what about Cade? His attraction for Reese is getting stronger and at times their relationship is tense. Cade is a control freak. Reese also likes control-in the kitchen.
I have to say this is a must read and my favorite of the series. I loved Cade, jack hat that he was at times and loved Reese. The whole gang at the bar was fantastic. I hope Kelly brings us another book in this series. I can't say enough good things about this one. Steamy, intense and you'll love the Cade and Reese.
10 stars!
Arc from NetGalley and LoveSwept in exchange for a fair review**
Reese works at the bar for the guys, Marco and Carrie are soon to be engaged. Beck and Hayden now married and all we see of Cade is the woman in and out of the bar in tears as he gently escorts them out reminding them that he doesn't do relationships and reminds them it was only one night. Reese rolls her eyes and she knows her boss is a manwhore.
Cade is intrigued by Reese, by the things he doesn't know about her mostly. Her comments dropped here and there about the food and running a business leading Cade to believe she knows more than she lets on. Reese wisely does her best to avoid him. Beck and Marco have warned him to stay away from her. After all Reese moved from NY to San Diego to leave the past behind her, to live simply, content to be a waitress and that's it.
The food menu sucks, she knows it, the guys sort of know it and so she can't help herself when she helps the foundering cook Sid with some new recipes. They're a big hit of course and Reese finds herself drawn more and more to the kitchen. What will happen when the guys find out. And what about Cade? His attraction for Reese is getting stronger and at times their relationship is tense. Cade is a control freak. Reese also likes control-in the kitchen.
I have to say this is a must read and my favorite of the series. I loved Cade, jack hat that he was at times and loved Reese. The whole gang at the bar was fantastic. I hope Kelly brings us another book in this series. I can't say enough good things about this one. Steamy, intense and you'll love the Cade and Reese.
10 stars!
Arc from NetGalley and LoveSwept in exchange for a fair review**
February 26, 2018
This is the third book in the series but it could be read as a standalone, though I would advise that you read the previous two books as those characters feature in this book not heavily but having an understanding of their stories would enhance your reading. This book follows Cafe and Reece, Reece is working as a waitress in conquistadors but as time goes on it becomes apparent that she is much more than that. Although Reece winds Cade up, he can see she is hiding something and he makes it his mission to find out her secret and who she really is.
I loved both these characters, we get to see a different side to Cade than the one he has shown in previous books, I loved that he fought his own demons to help Reece face hers and helped her to move on. Reece was feisty even though she struggled at times, some of her early interactions with Cade made me giggle! I loved the banter between them and also jack, her dog, that brought some lighthearted moments. This is more than a boss/employee romance, it has a lot of hidden depth that unravel the further into the story you go. The chemistry between Cade and Reece is off the charts and panty melting hot at times! I’m sad this series is over, I’ve loved every minute of it.
*** reviewed for sweet & spicy reads-ARC provided for honest review ***
I loved both these characters, we get to see a different side to Cade than the one he has shown in previous books, I loved that he fought his own demons to help Reece face hers and helped her to move on. Reece was feisty even though she struggled at times, some of her early interactions with Cade made me giggle! I loved the banter between them and also jack, her dog, that brought some lighthearted moments. This is more than a boss/employee romance, it has a lot of hidden depth that unravel the further into the story you go. The chemistry between Cade and Reece is off the charts and panty melting hot at times! I’m sad this series is over, I’ve loved every minute of it.
*** reviewed for sweet & spicy reads-ARC provided for honest review ***
February 27, 2018
***ARC Provided by the Author/Publisher via NetGalley***
3.5 Stars
Conquistadors is a tequila bar, run by 3 friends who also happen to be former Navy SEALS. So, it's popular. But, the food is bad, they know it and Reece knows it. And she tells the customers, which makes Cade angrier at her than he should be...but, there's more going on than what is on the surface.
I liked Cade, a lot. There was an appeal to the guy who looked like a surfer with no cares in the world and the idea that he was so much more than you would have guessed, once you get to know him. Reece was also interesting, but a little more obvious about it, if that makes sense. She was more open, and more willing to share about her life, whereas Cade, you felt a little bit of a struggle to figure out what was going on with him. I enjoyed getting to know both of them in the story.
I enjoyed this title, and as there were 3 friends and owners, and this is the 3rd book, I am guessing this is the last in the series. I like that it left all of them in a good place, and that it also resolved some of the small uncertainties that had been present in the other books.
I enjoyed this title and I recommend it.
***This and other reviews featured on our blog Booked All Night http://bookedallnightblog.com/***
3.5 Stars
Conquistadors is a tequila bar, run by 3 friends who also happen to be former Navy SEALS. So, it's popular. But, the food is bad, they know it and Reece knows it. And she tells the customers, which makes Cade angrier at her than he should be...but, there's more going on than what is on the surface.
I liked Cade, a lot. There was an appeal to the guy who looked like a surfer with no cares in the world and the idea that he was so much more than you would have guessed, once you get to know him. Reece was also interesting, but a little more obvious about it, if that makes sense. She was more open, and more willing to share about her life, whereas Cade, you felt a little bit of a struggle to figure out what was going on with him. I enjoyed getting to know both of them in the story.
I enjoyed this title, and as there were 3 friends and owners, and this is the 3rd book, I am guessing this is the last in the series. I like that it left all of them in a good place, and that it also resolved some of the small uncertainties that had been present in the other books.
I enjoyed this title and I recommend it.
***This and other reviews featured on our blog Booked All Night http://bookedallnightblog.com/***
February 22, 2018
Not my favorite of the series but a good read none-the-less! Reece and Cade took me a while to get invested in but getting glimpses of the characters from previous books kept me reading on.
Reece is a chef who had an bit of an incident that had her up and leave her old life behind to now be working as a waitress at a tequila bar. Reece’s true passion is in the kitchen though and when her bosses, especially Cade, are looking to improve their menu Reece can’t keep her mouth shut about what a terrible job they’re doing. Cade finds Reece infuriating and annoying and he can’t stand that she keeps criticizing the bar food… then on the other hand he can’t help the crazy attraction he has for her. Reece’s severe PTSD from her old life make it difficult for her but when Cade steps in to offer his support the two end up more than just boss and employee.
Reece and Cade just weren’t my favorite characters – I love Kelly Jamieson’s writing though and will definitely be checking out future books. Not being invested in the characters really made it easy to skim so I found myself doing that a lot towards the beginning. There was so much detail about the food that I just wanted to get to the romance between Cade and Reece! I will say the ending makes it worth finishing.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Reece is a chef who had an bit of an incident that had her up and leave her old life behind to now be working as a waitress at a tequila bar. Reece’s true passion is in the kitchen though and when her bosses, especially Cade, are looking to improve their menu Reece can’t keep her mouth shut about what a terrible job they’re doing. Cade finds Reece infuriating and annoying and he can’t stand that she keeps criticizing the bar food… then on the other hand he can’t help the crazy attraction he has for her. Reece’s severe PTSD from her old life make it difficult for her but when Cade steps in to offer his support the two end up more than just boss and employee.
Reece and Cade just weren’t my favorite characters – I love Kelly Jamieson’s writing though and will definitely be checking out future books. Not being invested in the characters really made it easy to skim so I found myself doing that a lot towards the beginning. There was so much detail about the food that I just wanted to get to the romance between Cade and Reece! I will say the ending makes it worth finishing.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
March 8, 2018
While I liked Long Shot, it fell a little bit flat for me. It honestly could be just me being in a bit of a blah mood, but overall I found the book a tiny bit lacking.
I really like the characters Jamieson generally has in her book. And while I didn't dislike Cade or Reece, I found Cade kind of hollow. Not like he wasn't a fleshed out character so much as just one of those guys who has very little depth. Reece, was likable enough, as well, but I questioned if she would ever really get the kind of support she would need longterm from Cade. Again, this is just my opinion and it could really be me being cantankerous.
Overall, the Last Shot series is really fun and Long Shot was a fairly solid ending to the series.
I would recommend this book or any of Jamieson's many other books for anyone who enjoys contemporary romance.
I received an ARC in exchange of my honest review.
I really like the characters Jamieson generally has in her book. And while I didn't dislike Cade or Reece, I found Cade kind of hollow. Not like he wasn't a fleshed out character so much as just one of those guys who has very little depth. Reece, was likable enough, as well, but I questioned if she would ever really get the kind of support she would need longterm from Cade. Again, this is just my opinion and it could really be me being cantankerous.
Overall, the Last Shot series is really fun and Long Shot was a fairly solid ending to the series.
I would recommend this book or any of Jamieson's many other books for anyone who enjoys contemporary romance.
I received an ARC in exchange of my honest review.
February 6, 2018
I love this series! I’m sad to see it end but am happy to finally get to see the mighty womanizing Cade fall prey to love. Beck and Marco already found their HEAs with Hayden and Carrie but Cade is determined to keep up his wild ways with one night stands. Until Reese starts working at Conquistadors. He is instantly attracted but knows he shouldn’t act on it because he is her boss. But best laid plans and all that. She ends up being everything he never knew he wanted and turns out was also afraid he could never have. I just love them together! They heal each other and are simply perfect together ! I also love Jack; he’s an adorable surfing surprise!!
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
February 27, 2018
A complete 5 Stars for the last book in this series by Kelly Jamieson. I fall in love with every hero she writes and Cade is no different. You just knew from the other two books (though this one can be read as a stand-alone) that Cade would meet his match. He did in one of their waitresses, Reece. But looks can be deceiving sometimes. And there is so much more to Reece than she shows to her bosses. Will Cade break through and get the truth from her?
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book provided by NetGalley.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book provided by NetGalley.
January 9, 2018
3.5
Playboy (actually that deserves to be capitalized in his case...dog may even apply... PLAYBOY)bar owner vs his waitress. I try to request absolutely anything written by this author. She is one of my favorites.
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
Playboy (actually that deserves to be capitalized in his case...dog may even apply... PLAYBOY)bar owner vs his waitress. I try to request absolutely anything written by this author. She is one of my favorites.
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 9, 2021
Easy vacation read. Two or three mildly detailed encounters, nothing graphic or taboo. Eye-rolling predictable events, but again, good for when you need an easy read to take your mind off things.
January 1, 2018
3.5 Stars
ARC provided VIA Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
3.5 Stars.
I liked this book, I just didn't love it. This is the third standalone book in the Last Shot series. I did not read the first two books yet, but that did not change my opinion in this book and i am planning on going back to read the first two since I liked their characters in The Long Shot.
Reece Kirkwel left NY and came to San Diego to get away from her past, but only temporarily. She is working as a waitress when she meets one of the owners Cade. Cade was a Navy Seal and owns the bar with two of his best friends. He never wants to get close to a woman because he feels he doesn't deserve to. All in all i just never felt anything strong for either main character and felt my self skipping some parts.
ARC provided VIA Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
3.5 Stars.
I liked this book, I just didn't love it. This is the third standalone book in the Last Shot series. I did not read the first two books yet, but that did not change my opinion in this book and i am planning on going back to read the first two since I liked their characters in The Long Shot.
Reece Kirkwel left NY and came to San Diego to get away from her past, but only temporarily. She is working as a waitress when she meets one of the owners Cade. Cade was a Navy Seal and owns the bar with two of his best friends. He never wants to get close to a woman because he feels he doesn't deserve to. All in all i just never felt anything strong for either main character and felt my self skipping some parts.
February 14, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the third in the series - and I would highly recommend that you read them in order, as the story of the three men flows through each book, and the experience will be all the richer.
In this story, Cade, the behind the scenes man, gets to find that maybe, just maybe he has been infected by the love bug too. It is fun watching him realise what is happening and trying to rationalise his feelings. He has a constant stream of women wanting a second date, yet new waitress Reece is all that he can think about. Her obvious knowledge beyond her job description, her criticism of the food, all get under his skin.
As we discover more about Reece and her past, we understand her behaviour far better. I love that she becomes friends with Carrie and Hayden, and works hard to help the bar succeed.
Super cute and very romantic ending - no spoilers here, read it and see!
This is the third in the series - and I would highly recommend that you read them in order, as the story of the three men flows through each book, and the experience will be all the richer.
In this story, Cade, the behind the scenes man, gets to find that maybe, just maybe he has been infected by the love bug too. It is fun watching him realise what is happening and trying to rationalise his feelings. He has a constant stream of women wanting a second date, yet new waitress Reece is all that he can think about. Her obvious knowledge beyond her job description, her criticism of the food, all get under his skin.
As we discover more about Reece and her past, we understand her behaviour far better. I love that she becomes friends with Carrie and Hayden, and works hard to help the bar succeed.
Super cute and very romantic ending - no spoilers here, read it and see!
July 20, 2019
This ended up being my favorite one. I was surprised because everyone talked about how much of a playboy Cade was. He was like that for a long time but once he met Reece everything changed. Both of them have been dealing with some things in life and that is what brought them together. They had some ups and downs but in the end it all worked out.
November 20, 2017
I was provided a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley.
Reece was a rising star East Coast chef until tragedy struck, now she's burying her head in the San Diego sand, slinging bad tot-chos at a tequila bar, and not-so-silently judging her (attractive) womanizing boss. Cade and his Navy SEAL buddies have poured everything into their bar and restaurant except halfway decent food. In true military fashion, Cade does not care for his new waitress openly criticizing their food, or sneaking into the kitchen to whip up better dishes herself, even when the improved food is a local hit. In butting heads, they learn they both have a lot more to like about each other than either first thought. Mingling with his staff is a big no-no, and Reece still has culinary dreams that don't involve staying at a smalltime San Diego operation. There is a peace to be found together, but only if they're both willing to take the chance.
Full disclosure: I was not familiar with Jamieson's work prior to reading this, and based on personal experience, Navy SEAL romance novels tend to land somewhere in the realm of "hate-reading for comedy value" for me, so my expectations were uh, low. That being said, not only was I pleasantly surprised, this was easily my favorite of the NetGalley reads I've done so far.
The prose was descriptive and strong, without spending too much time wandering down paths that didn't actually support the story. The supporting characters (friends and family from the two previous novels in the series) flesh out the narrative without overwhelming it. Reece and Cade were both well developed and flawed while still being sympathetic. Jamieson covered two big character development points that always make me crazy: a protagonist whose primary internal conflict is that he/she is "city" person and/or can't fathom moving, and a military protagonist who is all military all the time. Although Reece has running qualms with relocating, she is always open to it and is reasonably realistic in her understanding that she may never return to the East Coast. Additionally, her main internal conflict is dealing (rather not dealing) with a very real tragedy, not something superficial and blown way out of proportion, as I find common in romance and chick lit. I'm a fan of high stakes - emotional, physical, all of it, and the stakes for Reece are up there. Cade is a Navy man and exhibits some of the more subtle traits of a military career, without crossing into that comically overt territory less experienced writers can fall into (think constant references to dog tags, incorrect and excessive jargon, references to being stationed in a war zone for years on end, having an endless skillset from knowing how to hack satellite feeds to performing invasive surgery, etc). Cade also suffers from a traumatic injury that is not only uncommon in this genre, but is also entirely unrelated to his military career. It might have been easy to make him the wounded veteran character, but instead Jamieson went the less conventional but more realistic route, which is something I appreciated.
The romance is built up in a believable arc, and it's nice to see these characters slowly realizing their mutual attraction. Jamieson firmly establishes why these characters should like each other; there's no head-scratching wondering what one partner or the other actually brings to the relationship because he/she could be replaced with a lamp. They are separate and distinct with their own goals and interests that happen to intersect from time to time, until they both start taking steps to make those things intersect.
4/5 Stars, would definitely recommend to a friend.
Reece was a rising star East Coast chef until tragedy struck, now she's burying her head in the San Diego sand, slinging bad tot-chos at a tequila bar, and not-so-silently judging her (attractive) womanizing boss. Cade and his Navy SEAL buddies have poured everything into their bar and restaurant except halfway decent food. In true military fashion, Cade does not care for his new waitress openly criticizing their food, or sneaking into the kitchen to whip up better dishes herself, even when the improved food is a local hit. In butting heads, they learn they both have a lot more to like about each other than either first thought. Mingling with his staff is a big no-no, and Reece still has culinary dreams that don't involve staying at a smalltime San Diego operation. There is a peace to be found together, but only if they're both willing to take the chance.
Full disclosure: I was not familiar with Jamieson's work prior to reading this, and based on personal experience, Navy SEAL romance novels tend to land somewhere in the realm of "hate-reading for comedy value" for me, so my expectations were uh, low. That being said, not only was I pleasantly surprised, this was easily my favorite of the NetGalley reads I've done so far.
The prose was descriptive and strong, without spending too much time wandering down paths that didn't actually support the story. The supporting characters (friends and family from the two previous novels in the series) flesh out the narrative without overwhelming it. Reece and Cade were both well developed and flawed while still being sympathetic. Jamieson covered two big character development points that always make me crazy: a protagonist whose primary internal conflict is that he/she is "city" person and/or can't fathom moving, and a military protagonist who is all military all the time. Although Reece has running qualms with relocating, she is always open to it and is reasonably realistic in her understanding that she may never return to the East Coast. Additionally, her main internal conflict is dealing (rather not dealing) with a very real tragedy, not something superficial and blown way out of proportion, as I find common in romance and chick lit. I'm a fan of high stakes - emotional, physical, all of it, and the stakes for Reece are up there. Cade is a Navy man and exhibits some of the more subtle traits of a military career, without crossing into that comically overt territory less experienced writers can fall into (think constant references to dog tags, incorrect and excessive jargon, references to being stationed in a war zone for years on end, having an endless skillset from knowing how to hack satellite feeds to performing invasive surgery, etc). Cade also suffers from a traumatic injury that is not only uncommon in this genre, but is also entirely unrelated to his military career. It might have been easy to make him the wounded veteran character, but instead Jamieson went the less conventional but more realistic route, which is something I appreciated.
The romance is built up in a believable arc, and it's nice to see these characters slowly realizing their mutual attraction. Jamieson firmly establishes why these characters should like each other; there's no head-scratching wondering what one partner or the other actually brings to the relationship because he/she could be replaced with a lamp. They are separate and distinct with their own goals and interests that happen to intersect from time to time, until they both start taking steps to make those things intersect.
4/5 Stars, would definitely recommend to a friend.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews