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Natural History #3
Sharkbait
My name is Louise and I’m a serial-monogamist marine biologist.
Try saying that five times fast.
Fresh out of an awful relationship and tired of always doing the right thing, this girl is finally saying “screw it” and having herself a meaningless fling.
Here’s the thing about flings though: they only work if you keep feelings out of the equation.
Well, that won’t be a problem for a sensible scientist like me… that is, until a one night stand with a hot single dad rocks my world and blows my plans completely out of the water.
If I’ve learned anything from the ocean world, it’s that those with the hardest shells have the most to fear. And something tells me this guy is going to crack mine wide the hell open.
Try saying that five times fast.
Fresh out of an awful relationship and tired of always doing the right thing, this girl is finally saying “screw it” and having herself a meaningless fling.
Here’s the thing about flings though: they only work if you keep feelings out of the equation.
Well, that won’t be a problem for a sensible scientist like me… that is, until a one night stand with a hot single dad rocks my world and blows my plans completely out of the water.
If I’ve learned anything from the ocean world, it’s that those with the hardest shells have the most to fear. And something tells me this guy is going to crack mine wide the hell open.
270 pages, Paperback
Published September 16, 2022
10 people are currently reading
2559 people want to read
About the author
Erin Mallon
578 books697 followersErin Mallon's debut romantic comedy novel, Flirtasaurus releases in July 2020. She is an award-winning narrator of over 450 books and an accomplished playwright and producer in New York City. She has written over 40 plays, which have been produced Off-Broadway and all over the country, including These Walls Can Talk, a raucous theatrical love letter to the romance audiobook community. She lives in a little yellow house on the outskirts of NYC with her husband and Three J's.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
October 2, 2022
Two months ago Louise met James. She impulsively had sex with the hot, considerate bartender in the walk-in refrigerator at the bar during girls' night out. Their eyes met across the room and then boom, Insta attraction, like nothing Louise has ever experienced before, she felt compelled to be with this irresistible man. She thought he was extremely hot, albeit a bit chatty. Louise is a relationship girl but after giving herself permission to be a bit reckless and give into what her body craves, just for one night
‘I’m not interested in anything beyond what we do here tonight, okay, James?’ ‘Listen up because this is very important.’ ‘After tonight? If you ever run into me again, we pretend this never happened.’ ‘Got it?’
He tilts his head slightly. His lips are barely an inch from mine. His warm breath caresses my skin. ‘Then I guess we’ll need to make tonight count, won’t we.’
Louise is a marine biologist who recently moved into a new apartment in Philadelphia and has started a new job as an education specialist at the Philadelphia Aquarium. Her small circle of friends include Calliope & Ralph (her brother) and Mabel & Wally. She has her career plans all mapped out so while she may be the only single in her circle she is focused on what she needs to do. When she does date, she is a relationship sort of person but for now she has sworn off that option.
James is a successful bar owner and recovering alcoholic. He has a daughter called Iris who he shares the care of with his ex. One night stands are not his usual habit but when he laid eyes on Louise he just felt a pull he couldn’t ignore.
‘Two months ago, the woman of my dreams walked into my bar, gave me fuck-me eyes all night, then dragged me into the walk-in refrigerator and proceeded to rock my world against some cold ass beer kegs. Now I keep seeing her around town, I can’t say a damn thing to her, and I feel like a total and utter chump.’
It turns out that James is also friends with Louise’s circle and now they keep bumping into each other. The pull is definitely still there and it is obvious that neither of them are truly capable of passing off what they had as a one night stand. James would love to share his life with someone, someone who not only wants him but open to his daughter Iris too. He knows there is a connection with Louise, he can feel it between them and it’s not something he wants to ignore.
This is such a fun romantic comedy, James and Louise have great banter between them. I especially loved all the jeopardy moments and the visit to the oral surgeon. I loved the connection Louise formed with Iris. So many laugh out loud scenes and the supporting characters from previous books only added to my enjoyment.
I listened to the audio version of this story. Teddy Hamilton and Erin Mallon (the author) did a superb job of bringing the characters to life. The narration was perfect and just makes the reading experience so much better when you can hear and feel the emotions :)
‘I’m not interested in anything beyond what we do here tonight, okay, James?’ ‘Listen up because this is very important.’ ‘After tonight? If you ever run into me again, we pretend this never happened.’ ‘Got it?’
He tilts his head slightly. His lips are barely an inch from mine. His warm breath caresses my skin. ‘Then I guess we’ll need to make tonight count, won’t we.’
Louise is a marine biologist who recently moved into a new apartment in Philadelphia and has started a new job as an education specialist at the Philadelphia Aquarium. Her small circle of friends include Calliope & Ralph (her brother) and Mabel & Wally. She has her career plans all mapped out so while she may be the only single in her circle she is focused on what she needs to do. When she does date, she is a relationship sort of person but for now she has sworn off that option.
James is a successful bar owner and recovering alcoholic. He has a daughter called Iris who he shares the care of with his ex. One night stands are not his usual habit but when he laid eyes on Louise he just felt a pull he couldn’t ignore.
‘Two months ago, the woman of my dreams walked into my bar, gave me fuck-me eyes all night, then dragged me into the walk-in refrigerator and proceeded to rock my world against some cold ass beer kegs. Now I keep seeing her around town, I can’t say a damn thing to her, and I feel like a total and utter chump.’
It turns out that James is also friends with Louise’s circle and now they keep bumping into each other. The pull is definitely still there and it is obvious that neither of them are truly capable of passing off what they had as a one night stand. James would love to share his life with someone, someone who not only wants him but open to his daughter Iris too. He knows there is a connection with Louise, he can feel it between them and it’s not something he wants to ignore.
This is such a fun romantic comedy, James and Louise have great banter between them. I especially loved all the jeopardy moments and the visit to the oral surgeon. I loved the connection Louise formed with Iris. So many laugh out loud scenes and the supporting characters from previous books only added to my enjoyment.
I listened to the audio version of this story. Teddy Hamilton and Erin Mallon (the author) did a superb job of bringing the characters to life. The narration was perfect and just makes the reading experience so much better when you can hear and feel the emotions :)
September 26, 2022
(audiobook+ebook) I enjoyed the first book of the series–and first novel by the author–but there were some problems that I was hoping would get fix in the subsequent books. And they were!
My main problem at first was the predominance of dialogues. It was way better in this book. We get more insights into the characters’ mind, but also a better feeling of the setting and mood. The characters aren’t just people who talk, they’re also people who feel. People who live and love. A great improvement.
Also, though it’s a personal taste, this book was sexier too. And this time, it’s also serious sexy, not just crazy sexy. That pushes the chemistry between Louise and James off the charts. And the balance between humor and sexiness is better. I mean, there’s still plenty of humor, and of the crazy kind too. But the characters are more than just comedic functions–at least the main characters, side characters are often more gimmicky.
The fact that, this time, we get the male character’s point of view, gives him more flesh. The series is clearly about the female characters and their quirks, but leaving aside the male character’s thoughts puts the books more in the women’s fiction genre than in the romance genre. Here the author goes full romcom and James’s point of view helps the love story progress.
I guess the theme was how much space you allow people to take in your life and why. We have parents who make sacrifice for their kids, and parents who sacrifice their time with their kids. We have Louise who used to live her life for others–like her mother–and decides that she won’t make choices depending on other peoples ever again. We have James who’s going to upend his life to live closer to his daughter.
One aspect of the story baffled me a bit. The author wrote James as an alcoholic who’s been sober for a long time. Sure, his backstory explains how he came to this, but his status as an ex-alcoholic has no relevance to the love story. He doesn’t struggle. It isn’t a problem for Louise that could become a point of contention. It doesn’t mean that it doesn’t work. It becomes some kind of symbol between James and Louise, and gives James a group of friends separated from Louise’s. Maybe that’s just me trying to find a purpose when it should just be a fact.
The narration was on point. The author narrates her book once again, and she does it with talent–she knows the story and the characters, and she knows how to convey what emotion she put in words. For James, she chose my favorite narrator, who also happens to have the perfect timing and the right energy to give life to her words. Together, they bring the story to another level. While the humor is still very present, feelings and emotions shine brighter. A great book to listen to.
Quickie
- Series: The natural history #3 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #romcom #one night stand #single dad #age gap
- Triggers: parental negligence
- Main couple: Louise Anderson & James
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + another woman empowerment story, love it
- – miscommunication, argh…
My main problem at first was the predominance of dialogues. It was way better in this book. We get more insights into the characters’ mind, but also a better feeling of the setting and mood. The characters aren’t just people who talk, they’re also people who feel. People who live and love. A great improvement.
Also, though it’s a personal taste, this book was sexier too. And this time, it’s also serious sexy, not just crazy sexy. That pushes the chemistry between Louise and James off the charts. And the balance between humor and sexiness is better. I mean, there’s still plenty of humor, and of the crazy kind too. But the characters are more than just comedic functions–at least the main characters, side characters are often more gimmicky.
The fact that, this time, we get the male character’s point of view, gives him more flesh. The series is clearly about the female characters and their quirks, but leaving aside the male character’s thoughts puts the books more in the women’s fiction genre than in the romance genre. Here the author goes full romcom and James’s point of view helps the love story progress.
I guess the theme was how much space you allow people to take in your life and why. We have parents who make sacrifice for their kids, and parents who sacrifice their time with their kids. We have Louise who used to live her life for others–like her mother–and decides that she won’t make choices depending on other peoples ever again. We have James who’s going to upend his life to live closer to his daughter.
One aspect of the story baffled me a bit. The author wrote James as an alcoholic who’s been sober for a long time. Sure, his backstory explains how he came to this, but his status as an ex-alcoholic has no relevance to the love story. He doesn’t struggle. It isn’t a problem for Louise that could become a point of contention. It doesn’t mean that it doesn’t work. It becomes some kind of symbol between James and Louise, and gives James a group of friends separated from Louise’s. Maybe that’s just me trying to find a purpose when it should just be a fact.
The narration was on point. The author narrates her book once again, and she does it with talent–she knows the story and the characters, and she knows how to convey what emotion she put in words. For James, she chose my favorite narrator, who also happens to have the perfect timing and the right energy to give life to her words. Together, they bring the story to another level. While the humor is still very present, feelings and emotions shine brighter. A great book to listen to.
Quickie
- Series: The natural history #3 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #romcom #one night stand #single dad #age gap
- Triggers: parental negligence
- Main couple: Louise Anderson & James
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + another woman empowerment story, love it
- – miscommunication, argh…
October 4, 2022
Much less silly than the previous two books, and from the point-of-view of both leads, both changes that I felt lifted the story compared to the previous two books.
November 3, 2022
Sharkbait (The Natural History Series Book 3) by Erin Mallon
Narrated by Erin Mallon and Teddy Hamilton
Book three in a standalone series. Can easily stand alone.
4.5 Stars
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Flirtasauraus and Lovebug were on my 2020 and 2021 Top Favorites lists. I loved the group of crazy characters that I wanted to be friends with, and the feel-good giggles it gave me. So I was very excited for Sharkbait by Erin Mallon , the third book in the Natural History Series. Though it may be a little better if you read the first two to meet the friend group, it’s really not necessary. But I promise you’ll want to read them after.
Sharkbait is different than the two previous books. I was so surprised when Teddy Hamilton started speaking, because Flirtasaurus and Lovebug were only from the female POV. Sharkbait had more depth and emotion. And while it still had laugh-out-loud moments, it just wasn’t as silly as the previous two.
“Listen up because this is very important. After tonight? If you ever run into me again, we pretend this never happened. Got it?”
Louise, a marine biologist, just got out of a bad relationship and has no intention of getting into a new one. But a girl has needs, am I right? So one night she sees a hot bartender, drags him into the back and proceeded to make them both very happy (when he finally stopped talking). No names, no strings, no talking to each other after.
“Two months ago, the woman of my dreams walked into my bar, gave me fuck-me eyes all night, then dragged me into the walk-in refrigerator and proceeded to rock my world against some cold ass beer kegs. Now I keep seeing her around town, I can’t say a damn thing to her, and I feel like a total and utter chump.”
Turns out they kind of have the same friend group so he is pretty hard to avoid. James is 7 years sober, owns 2 bars and is a devoted dad to a little girl who just moved to Hawaii with her mom. James plans on following in a few months, but he didn’t expect to fall for someone right when he’s about to move away.
Louise isn’t as crazy as her two friends Calliope and Mabel, she has been the voice of reason, so most of the really silly moments were with those two women…except one or two, and you will know it them you read/hear them! Louise had a lot of baggage, so Sharkbait was deeper and more emotional than the first two. The addition of the male POV really let us get to know James better as well, though this story was mostly about Louise’s growth.
"You make me re-think sunsets."
Likes:
•Had me snort-laughing a few times.
•Visiting with Mabel and Calliope.
•Meilani the Sea Lion.
•I worked for the Welcome Wagon too, and loved Splash.
•Oral surgery scenes are always funny.
•Bonnie the Praying Mantis.
•James’s daughter and his relationship with her mom.
•He’s such a good dad.
•Louise’s Jeopardy habit.
Dislikes:
•She doesn’t like The Beatles? At least he does (but he quoted a Wings song instead of Beatles). Luckily she had a good reason.
•This book was written a little better than the others, but it wasn’t quite as funny. I think part of the first ones’ charm is that they were different than most other books—heavy on dialogue and didn’t follow a typical romance novel design. Sharkbait was a little more ‘normal’.
The Narration:
Erin Mallon narrating the characters she wrote is part of why I love these books so much. Her comedic timing is brilliant, her male voices are sexy as hell, and she is also great at serious stories. But doing the same with her own characters steps it up a bit more. Teddy Hamilton was perfect as James. I highly recommend listening to this series over reading it, because it’s part of what makes it so special.
The Down & Dirty:
I am so glad Erin Mallon will be releasing some novellas from the Natural History series because I’m not quite ready to let it go yet. I love this whole series and it’s interesting to see how much her writing has matured since her first novel Flirtasaurus. I absolutely loved Sharkbait, but it wasn’t as ridiculous as the first two, which is what I loved about them. Still, the laugh-out-loud moments and the deeper relationship still made Sharkbait a very special read.
Rating: 4.5 Stars, 3.5 Heat, 5+ Narration
Purchase Sharkbait by Erin Mallon
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See my review for Flirtasaurus
See my review for Lovebug
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October 15, 2022
I am in two minds about this book as the previous two in this series I absolutely loved so much and I have never laughed so hard in a book. That's why I was so over the moon excited to read Sharkbait but it just wasn't as good in my opinion. It's amazing how the main character can make or break the book, as Louise our Marine biologist who by the way hates water and can't swim, was just too much of a cold character for me and I found her irritating as she felt like those cold logical people who have sticks up their butt. It's like seriously, how can you be friends with Mabel and Calliope and be Ralph's sister when you act like this? You have all the love around you, seriously you even had a one-night stand - so freaking loosen up. There were parts of her character I did like, especially the jeopardy and her waking up from surgery. The rest though, she was like a wet soggy blanket. I feel for myself if it wasn't for the humour from the other characters like Calliope and Ralph, Mabel and Wally, and James and Iris- then the book would have fallen flat for me. The character I would love to see a book of is Iris - as long as she doesn't lose her sass as an adult, she is hilarious and awesome for a young girl.
Overall, it was a good read and worth being reunited with the previous characters, I just felt the side characters carried this book rather than Louise and James. I am now looking forward to what else Erin Mallon brings to the table.
September 20, 2022
🎧 Audio Review 🎧
Another awesome book from Erin Mallon!! I have to say that I love how each book is so different, especially this one. Louise isn't as crazy as Calliope and not whimsical like Mabel and that means her story is very different from their stories. This book still had many funny scenes and so many perfect lines to make you bust out laughing but it also had a serious side and the balance was perfect for me.
I loved that James's was the one who fell first and that he was the one who had to convince her that they worked so perfectly. I just loved their relationship all around. They had ups and downs, secrets and troubles and they worked though it all. For me their story for perfection. Erin hit all my favorite with the book. Single Dads are my weakness ;)
I also LOVED that this book was dual POV and dual narrated. I always feel like I can really FEEL the story getting a glimpse into their inner monologue. This was perfectly narrated by Erin and Teddy Hamilton (my dream duo) I mean I couldn't ask for more!!
Another awesome book from Erin Mallon!! I have to say that I love how each book is so different, especially this one. Louise isn't as crazy as Calliope and not whimsical like Mabel and that means her story is very different from their stories. This book still had many funny scenes and so many perfect lines to make you bust out laughing but it also had a serious side and the balance was perfect for me.
I loved that James's was the one who fell first and that he was the one who had to convince her that they worked so perfectly. I just loved their relationship all around. They had ups and downs, secrets and troubles and they worked though it all. For me their story for perfection. Erin hit all my favorite with the book. Single Dads are my weakness ;)
I also LOVED that this book was dual POV and dual narrated. I always feel like I can really FEEL the story getting a glimpse into their inner monologue. This was perfectly narrated by Erin and Teddy Hamilton (my dream duo) I mean I couldn't ask for more!!
October 4, 2022
AUDIO COMING SEPT 27, 2022 !!
PAPERBACK IS OUT NOW !!
PAPERBACK IS OUT NOW !!
March 2, 2023
Pour me a Cold Brew! Sharkbait by Erin Mallon was a laugh-out-loud, heartfelt romantic comedy that had me grinning and swooning from start to finish. Erin once again delivers hilarious, memorable characters that you will instantly fall in love with and want to be best friends with! In book three of the Natural History Series, we get Louise and James’ love story. I loved that Louise, a marine biology grad student, is full of fierce determination to start fresh and stay focused on her career path. Her connection to art and Meilani the sea lion, made my heart so happy. James is a complete dream as a devoted, charismatic bar owner and volunteer scuba diver with hopes and plans of his own. Not to mention his dedication and love for his daughter, Iris, made my heart squeeze! Together, Louise and James have magnetic undeniable chemistry! When these two first get together, it was supposed to be only a fling, but fate would prove to have other plans! Plus, big brother Ralph, sister friend Calliope, Mabel (unleashed), and supportive best friend, Wally add intriguing, humorous, and entertaining shenanigans on Louise and James’ journey to HEA!
Overall I LOVED this book! If you are a fan of a romantic comedy with a hot hunky single dad, a sassy Jeopardy mouth spewing heroine, raw dogging in a refrigerator, Philadelphia Aquarium, a sea lion named Meilani, Adventure Bar, #MableUnleashed, a modern family that works, celestial orgies, synchronicity, Splash the movie, Beatles references, oral surgery mishaps, delicious steamy times, and a HEA that will make your heart flip, then you will love Louise and James’ story! Erin Mallon has won my heart again, added another favorite couple to my list, and I always look forward to more!
**Audio Review**
What an absolute treat for my ears! Sharkbait by Erin Mallon in audio was everything I wanted and so much more! I loved reading the ebook, but then getting to experience Erin performing her own words along with the charming Teddy Hamilton was “flippin” fantastic! You could feel Erin’s joy in her performance, and that simply made me smile. Also, Erin’s performance of Louise’s fact-spewing, guarded, and passionate personality was amazing. Teddy showcased James’ lovable, charismatic, and dedicated persona perfectly, and made me swoon so hard! Plus, both narrators presented Louise and James’ magnetic, meant-to-be chemistry brilliantly! This audio made me laugh out loud, tugged at my heartstrings, and had me cheering for James and Louise’s HEA.
Overall I LOVED this book! If you are a fan of a romantic comedy with a hot hunky single dad, a sassy Jeopardy mouth spewing heroine, raw dogging in a refrigerator, Philadelphia Aquarium, a sea lion named Meilani, Adventure Bar, #MableUnleashed, a modern family that works, celestial orgies, synchronicity, Splash the movie, Beatles references, oral surgery mishaps, delicious steamy times, and a HEA that will make your heart flip, then you will love Louise and James’ story! Erin Mallon has won my heart again, added another favorite couple to my list, and I always look forward to more!
**Audio Review**
What an absolute treat for my ears! Sharkbait by Erin Mallon in audio was everything I wanted and so much more! I loved reading the ebook, but then getting to experience Erin performing her own words along with the charming Teddy Hamilton was “flippin” fantastic! You could feel Erin’s joy in her performance, and that simply made me smile. Also, Erin’s performance of Louise’s fact-spewing, guarded, and passionate personality was amazing. Teddy showcased James’ lovable, charismatic, and dedicated persona perfectly, and made me swoon so hard! Plus, both narrators presented Louise and James’ magnetic, meant-to-be chemistry brilliantly! This audio made me laugh out loud, tugged at my heartstrings, and had me cheering for James and Louise’s HEA.
September 25, 2022
I don't think Erin will ever stop surprising me.
I liked that we got to see all three of our fierce females interact in this book and you can clearly see the difference in personalities. I LOVED that the most.
I liked that Louise is more serious but that she goes with the flow. Is she standoffish a lot yes but with reasons.
We find out those reasons and so much more. Your childhood really does shape who you are, I don't think we notice it as much until you have to take a step back and see why you do things this way or that is what Louise is finding out.
James is the sweetest part of this book for me. I loved him and his little girl, the way he and his best friend/ex are together is utterly sweet and is what I wish anyone who is co-parenting would be like. Because wow what well-adjusted people we all would be.
I am going to leave you with a favourite quote. "You make me re-think sunsets." That is a powerful quote.
I loved the dual narration; I mean anytime we get Teddy it's amazing, but I am really glad that James got to give us his POV.
I really don't need to sing Erin's narration praises, but I will because I just love her style its effortless to listen to her. And bonus we get a really awesome story as the cherry on top.
I liked that we got to see all three of our fierce females interact in this book and you can clearly see the difference in personalities. I LOVED that the most.
I liked that Louise is more serious but that she goes with the flow. Is she standoffish a lot yes but with reasons.
We find out those reasons and so much more. Your childhood really does shape who you are, I don't think we notice it as much until you have to take a step back and see why you do things this way or that is what Louise is finding out.
James is the sweetest part of this book for me. I loved him and his little girl, the way he and his best friend/ex are together is utterly sweet and is what I wish anyone who is co-parenting would be like. Because wow what well-adjusted people we all would be.
I am going to leave you with a favourite quote. "You make me re-think sunsets." That is a powerful quote.
I loved the dual narration; I mean anytime we get Teddy it's amazing, but I am really glad that James got to give us his POV.
I really don't need to sing Erin's narration praises, but I will because I just love her style its effortless to listen to her. And bonus we get a really awesome story as the cherry on top.
September 25, 2022
4/5 ⭐
2/5 🌶️
I was excited to read Sharkbait and it still exceeded my expectations. It was hilarious and sweet, with some depth and a little bit of spice. I absolutely loved the main characters and the supporting cast was great too.
I started off laughing out loud and almost never stopped. Some of it was silly humor and other moments were comedic gold. Mabel was an endearing weirdo, but she had me giggling often. Lou's nervous jeopardy moments were to die for and her banter with James was amazing. The whole friend group had such a fun vibe that kept me grinning for a really good portion of the book.
I really loved the overall storyline. Lou has a lot of abandonment and self-esteem issues from her parents and past relationships, so she's sworn off men and is taking some time to be herself. Enter "refrigerator séx man", her chatty one-night stand that she refuses to tell her name too and let's him know from the start this is it, just this one rendezvous. Except when 2 months down the road, she can't stop running into him and realizes she has some major feelings for him. Oh and by the way, he's a single dad moving back to Hawaii in a few months, so clearly this will never work long term.... But over that few months, Lou learns what it's like to have a relationship with a real partner and he shows her what a family is supposed to look like.
I'll be going back to read Mabel and Calliope's stories, along with waiting impatiently for the Natural History Novella Epilogues. I can't get enough of these characters!
2/5 🌶️
I was excited to read Sharkbait and it still exceeded my expectations. It was hilarious and sweet, with some depth and a little bit of spice. I absolutely loved the main characters and the supporting cast was great too.
I started off laughing out loud and almost never stopped. Some of it was silly humor and other moments were comedic gold. Mabel was an endearing weirdo, but she had me giggling often. Lou's nervous jeopardy moments were to die for and her banter with James was amazing. The whole friend group had such a fun vibe that kept me grinning for a really good portion of the book.
I really loved the overall storyline. Lou has a lot of abandonment and self-esteem issues from her parents and past relationships, so she's sworn off men and is taking some time to be herself. Enter "refrigerator séx man", her chatty one-night stand that she refuses to tell her name too and let's him know from the start this is it, just this one rendezvous. Except when 2 months down the road, she can't stop running into him and realizes she has some major feelings for him. Oh and by the way, he's a single dad moving back to Hawaii in a few months, so clearly this will never work long term.... But over that few months, Lou learns what it's like to have a relationship with a real partner and he shows her what a family is supposed to look like.
I'll be going back to read Mabel and Calliope's stories, along with waiting impatiently for the Natural History Novella Epilogues. I can't get enough of these characters!
September 27, 2022
Sharkbait
Natural History #3
By Erin Mallon
Narrated by Erin Mallon & Teddy Hamilton
Looking for a couple to fall in love with? A book you can smile and laugh out loud to? A narration to love? Well, look no further, Erin Mallon's third book in the Natural History series is all that and more. This is Louise and James's story and it's so much fun! Louise is tired of bad relationships, blaming her parents for her lack of the ability to have a healthy one. Now she just wants to let go and enjoy a one night stand. Who better than the bartender? James takes on the challenge, chatty when he's nervous, and the two enjoy a quickie. But what happens when they meet again? This is just so much fun! From Cold Brew to Meilani the seal, we have a good time getting to know about James and Louise, as well as learn a little about the sea! It's fast paced, has fantastic characters(some we have met before in the first two books) and love that will fill your heart. There is something about the way Mallon writes, letting us feel like we are there, friends with this amazing cast and experiencing it all as it happens. It's a great listen that will leave you smiling.
And who better to narrate this one but Erin herself along with the voice in her head for James, Teddy Hamilton? These two are an amazing team, and truly bring all the humor and love alive. It's one you cannot resist! Grab it as soon as it releases!
#ALC #comingsoon #romcom #romanticcomedy #marinebiology #onenightstand #audioromance #erinmallon #teddyhamilton
Natural History #3
By Erin Mallon
Narrated by Erin Mallon & Teddy Hamilton
Looking for a couple to fall in love with? A book you can smile and laugh out loud to? A narration to love? Well, look no further, Erin Mallon's third book in the Natural History series is all that and more. This is Louise and James's story and it's so much fun! Louise is tired of bad relationships, blaming her parents for her lack of the ability to have a healthy one. Now she just wants to let go and enjoy a one night stand. Who better than the bartender? James takes on the challenge, chatty when he's nervous, and the two enjoy a quickie. But what happens when they meet again? This is just so much fun! From Cold Brew to Meilani the seal, we have a good time getting to know about James and Louise, as well as learn a little about the sea! It's fast paced, has fantastic characters(some we have met before in the first two books) and love that will fill your heart. There is something about the way Mallon writes, letting us feel like we are there, friends with this amazing cast and experiencing it all as it happens. It's a great listen that will leave you smiling.
And who better to narrate this one but Erin herself along with the voice in her head for James, Teddy Hamilton? These two are an amazing team, and truly bring all the humor and love alive. It's one you cannot resist! Grab it as soon as it releases!
#ALC #comingsoon #romcom #romanticcomedy #marinebiology #onenightstand #audioromance #erinmallon #teddyhamilton
October 3, 2022
I love this series! I’m really happy there is Novellas coming out so I don’t have to miss it so much!
Louise’s story was different from the other characters in the previous books in this series. For me, it was the most relatable! I really enjoyed watching her grow and take a leap of faith. I’ve had to do the same recently!
Erin always keeps me entertained with this series! In this book, I learned about marine biology and I liked that art was also part of the plot! I enjoyed James character as well! He was a great support system for Louise and it was nice to see her have a happy ending!
Thank you for such a fun, creative series!
Louise’s story was different from the other characters in the previous books in this series. For me, it was the most relatable! I really enjoyed watching her grow and take a leap of faith. I’ve had to do the same recently!
Erin always keeps me entertained with this series! In this book, I learned about marine biology and I liked that art was also part of the plot! I enjoyed James character as well! He was a great support system for Louise and it was nice to see her have a happy ending!
Thank you for such a fun, creative series!
September 27, 2022
Another fun book by Erin Mallon. This book had me cracking up from the first chapter. Cold Brew, I mean Louise, was trying to change things up in her love life. Having a one night stand with Jason was the easy part. She wasn't expecting everything that followed it. Love where story took Jason & Louise. Excellent Narration by Erin Mallon & Teddy Hamilton.
October 7, 2022
Oh, I really liked Louise's story. The story might not be as over the top funny as the other two books in the series, but Louise is a more serious character.
October 13, 2022
LOVED Erin Mallon's new Natural History book. So funny and sweet! I'm not normally into single dad romances but this was SOOOO good. I say that just in case someone for whom that is also not generally their jam might also like this.
April 7, 2023
Meet Cold Brew… I mean Louise. We met her a couple of years ago, as Ralph’s estranged little sister, in Flirtasaurus - but we didn’t get to know her. We meet a completely different side of her, right from page 1 of Sharkbait! She and James meet and have a very quick introduction, and that is all she wants, but suddenly they’re running into each other everywhere..
Louise is a marine biologist working towards a special internship in Florida, and isn’t looking for any sort of a relationship. James is a recovering alcoholic single father, devoted to his daughter, and is really interested in a relationship with Louise. Their goals completely clash…
Erin, as usual, has written another gold-star novel with this one! I loved the first two in the series like nobody’s business, but this one - it has blown them both out of the water (pun completely intended)! Everything about this one, from how the couple interacts, the conversations, the friendships between the girls from the three books (and the guys), the chemistry and the steams - it’s all perfect!
The audio - what can I say that I haven’t said before… Erin is my number one gal! Her voice always soothes me and is pretty much one of the only ones I can have on when I’m migraine-ing. Teddy Hamilton (swoon!) is another voice I can pick out anytime and I think I could listen to both of them non-stop. His voice is beautiful. The audio was perfection!
I’m glad I read this first and then listened, because the double experience made it even more special! I’m definitely recommending this book to everyone - in fact, I’m going to be shouting it from the rooftops, for my favourite Erin! Pick up this book, especially the audio, and the entire Natural History series (meet Calliope and Mabel!)!!!
I received an advance review & listen copy from Erin Mallon & Social Butterfly PR, and this is my honest feedback.
Louise is a marine biologist working towards a special internship in Florida, and isn’t looking for any sort of a relationship. James is a recovering alcoholic single father, devoted to his daughter, and is really interested in a relationship with Louise. Their goals completely clash…
Erin, as usual, has written another gold-star novel with this one! I loved the first two in the series like nobody’s business, but this one - it has blown them both out of the water (pun completely intended)! Everything about this one, from how the couple interacts, the conversations, the friendships between the girls from the three books (and the guys), the chemistry and the steams - it’s all perfect!
The audio - what can I say that I haven’t said before… Erin is my number one gal! Her voice always soothes me and is pretty much one of the only ones I can have on when I’m migraine-ing. Teddy Hamilton (swoon!) is another voice I can pick out anytime and I think I could listen to both of them non-stop. His voice is beautiful. The audio was perfection!
I’m glad I read this first and then listened, because the double experience made it even more special! I’m definitely recommending this book to everyone - in fact, I’m going to be shouting it from the rooftops, for my favourite Erin! Pick up this book, especially the audio, and the entire Natural History series (meet Calliope and Mabel!)!!!
I received an advance review & listen copy from Erin Mallon & Social Butterfly PR, and this is my honest feedback.
March 16, 2023
Erin always give us the best quirky, fun and entertaining characters. Sharkbait will have you laughing out loud, wanting to binge read the book and fall in love with the characters in this book. Loved the cameo appearances from the character in the books in the series.
Louise is a smart and determined woman who is working herself into the ground to meet her goals. She acts out of character one night and it leads to so much more than she anticipated.
James is a great human, a great dad and a great friend. Iris is his daughter that is his absolute world. He is strong, caring and isn’t afraid to show his feelings.
Louise and James are such a fun couple who have great banter and their chemistry is undeniable. I literally laughed out out several times - the oral surgeon scene is priceless!!
I highly recommend reading this book - it is a stand alone but reading the other books will help with the other characters who make cameo appearances.
The audiobook is phenomenal. Erin and Teddy Hamilton are gifted narrators with smooth and fabulous voices. They bring amazing energy and emotion to each of their characters. As with reading the book, listening to the oral surgeon scene and praying mantis scene will have you laughing so hard you will cry!
I received a complimentary copy and I am leaving my honest review.
Louise is a smart and determined woman who is working herself into the ground to meet her goals. She acts out of character one night and it leads to so much more than she anticipated.
James is a great human, a great dad and a great friend. Iris is his daughter that is his absolute world. He is strong, caring and isn’t afraid to show his feelings.
Louise and James are such a fun couple who have great banter and their chemistry is undeniable. I literally laughed out out several times - the oral surgeon scene is priceless!!
I highly recommend reading this book - it is a stand alone but reading the other books will help with the other characters who make cameo appearances.
The audiobook is phenomenal. Erin and Teddy Hamilton are gifted narrators with smooth and fabulous voices. They bring amazing energy and emotion to each of their characters. As with reading the book, listening to the oral surgeon scene and praying mantis scene will have you laughing so hard you will cry!
I received a complimentary copy and I am leaving my honest review.
November 2, 2025
This book was amazing. It was funny as hell and I just loved it. I can’t wait for the next one.
September 27, 2022
I loved this final full length novel of the Natural History series. Erin Mallon’s humor in these books is perfection! Or at least it is my perfectly matched to my own sense of humor! I loved getting to be back with Calliope from Flirtasaurus and Mabel from Lovebug. And oh my gosh was Mabel definitely #unchained or whatever different craziness she was about at the time!
This book had the same crazy out there wackiness of the situations the characters found themselves in or how they reacted to people or events around them. And while the first book will always be my favorite, because, dinosaurs, this one came pretty close to being better than the first two in that I LOVED getting both sides of the story as it alternated between Louise and James. While the love interests in the first two books, Ralph (snort-laugh) and Wally, definitely had their personalities shine through with Mallon’s writing, James getting his own voice in this story just made everything even better!
Now the family issues in this one were definitely deep for Louise, Cold Brew as James nicknamed her, they made sense and I liked how they were all wrapped up in the end. I feel like it was done realistically. The single dad bit as well, what a unique situation James had that led to his daughter Iris, and it was perfect how he dealt with her and even with dating. I totally got Louise’s points about a father should put his daughter/child first. It was based on her lack of that with her own parents. But even with my own good experience with divorced and remarried parents, I have always felt that is important too.
So many things to mention that stuck out for me. One, just like one of the characters mentioned, I also always have to think when I’m trying to spell the word jeopardy. You didn’t see it of course, but I had to pause and think as I typed it for that last sentence. A line thrown in about how the rhythm is going to get you just randomly, but hilarious if you caught it. AND THEN! OH MY GOSH! The bedroom scene where one of Mabel’s praying mantises makes a guest appearance had me laughing so hard and later on googling just what or if a praying mantis might actually be able to lift anything like in this scene. A sarcastic reply to Louise from James asking if she was “inviting him into her oven”. So so good. Love love love! I think with Teddy Hamilton narrating, I’ll have to buy this on audio to listen to as well. Another hit from Erin Mallon, and I was so pleased to see she’s got some short stories coming out that will fill in some details and add some fun scenes for these characters.
This book had the same crazy out there wackiness of the situations the characters found themselves in or how they reacted to people or events around them. And while the first book will always be my favorite, because, dinosaurs, this one came pretty close to being better than the first two in that I LOVED getting both sides of the story as it alternated between Louise and James. While the love interests in the first two books, Ralph (snort-laugh) and Wally, definitely had their personalities shine through with Mallon’s writing, James getting his own voice in this story just made everything even better!
Now the family issues in this one were definitely deep for Louise, Cold Brew as James nicknamed her, they made sense and I liked how they were all wrapped up in the end. I feel like it was done realistically. The single dad bit as well, what a unique situation James had that led to his daughter Iris, and it was perfect how he dealt with her and even with dating. I totally got Louise’s points about a father should put his daughter/child first. It was based on her lack of that with her own parents. But even with my own good experience with divorced and remarried parents, I have always felt that is important too.
So many things to mention that stuck out for me. One, just like one of the characters mentioned, I also always have to think when I’m trying to spell the word jeopardy. You didn’t see it of course, but I had to pause and think as I typed it for that last sentence. A line thrown in about how the rhythm is going to get you just randomly, but hilarious if you caught it. AND THEN! OH MY GOSH! The bedroom scene where one of Mabel’s praying mantises makes a guest appearance had me laughing so hard and later on googling just what or if a praying mantis might actually be able to lift anything like in this scene. A sarcastic reply to Louise from James asking if she was “inviting him into her oven”. So so good. Love love love! I think with Teddy Hamilton narrating, I’ll have to buy this on audio to listen to as well. Another hit from Erin Mallon, and I was so pleased to see she’s got some short stories coming out that will fill in some details and add some fun scenes for these characters.
September 27, 2022
You know those books that you pick up in the evening thinking you’ll just read a couple of chapters before you go to bed and the next thing you know it’s one in the morning and you’re 78% finished? This is one of those books.
Of course, the next day I got an advanced copy of the audiobook and got to start it all over again that way. Which is perfectly fine with me. One of the first audiobooks I ever listened to was narrated by Erin Mallon’s alter ego and I’ve loved listening to her ever since. Our hero James is narrated by Teddy Hamilton, who is easily in my top 5 male narrator list. This pairing is a joy to listen to.
In a moment of spontaneity, Louise has sex with the hot bartender in the walk-in refrigerator during girls' night out. What was supposed to be a single night of no-name sex gets complicated when James keeps appearing wherever Louise goes. For Louise, his appearance is a mortifying reminder but for James, it may be a sign of the universe.
Louise is kind of a hot mess. The child of self-centered, neglectful parents, she is convinced she’s going to follow in her mother's poor dating habits. After yet another horrible ex-boyfriend she decides she’s done with dating and is going to focus on her classes to become a marine biologist and her new job at the aquarium. Of course, because the rules of the universe dictate, as soon as she decides she is done dating, the perfect guy falls into her lap.
The balance between the two characters couldn’t be more perfect. Well, Louise is still at a point in her life where she’s trying to figure out who she is and get to where she wants to be in her education and career. James has figured his stuff out. He owns two bars, he’s planning another adventure business, and he has an awesome co-parenting situation with his daughter's mother. And after his struggle with alcohol when he was young he’s seven years sober. James is a solid studying influence in Louise's unsteady life.
And while the attraction simmers between James and Louise the entire story, and the romance arc works perfectly, the real story is Louise's personal growth. The way she takes back her life and begins to accept herself and stop letting others' failings define her is the real MVP of the story. Shark Bait is the perfect mix of comedy, romance, and emotion.
I received an ARC but voluntarily read.
Of course, the next day I got an advanced copy of the audiobook and got to start it all over again that way. Which is perfectly fine with me. One of the first audiobooks I ever listened to was narrated by Erin Mallon’s alter ego and I’ve loved listening to her ever since. Our hero James is narrated by Teddy Hamilton, who is easily in my top 5 male narrator list. This pairing is a joy to listen to.
In a moment of spontaneity, Louise has sex with the hot bartender in the walk-in refrigerator during girls' night out. What was supposed to be a single night of no-name sex gets complicated when James keeps appearing wherever Louise goes. For Louise, his appearance is a mortifying reminder but for James, it may be a sign of the universe.
Louise is kind of a hot mess. The child of self-centered, neglectful parents, she is convinced she’s going to follow in her mother's poor dating habits. After yet another horrible ex-boyfriend she decides she’s done with dating and is going to focus on her classes to become a marine biologist and her new job at the aquarium. Of course, because the rules of the universe dictate, as soon as she decides she is done dating, the perfect guy falls into her lap.
The balance between the two characters couldn’t be more perfect. Well, Louise is still at a point in her life where she’s trying to figure out who she is and get to where she wants to be in her education and career. James has figured his stuff out. He owns two bars, he’s planning another adventure business, and he has an awesome co-parenting situation with his daughter's mother. And after his struggle with alcohol when he was young he’s seven years sober. James is a solid studying influence in Louise's unsteady life.
And while the attraction simmers between James and Louise the entire story, and the romance arc works perfectly, the real story is Louise's personal growth. The way she takes back her life and begins to accept herself and stop letting others' failings define her is the real MVP of the story. Shark Bait is the perfect mix of comedy, romance, and emotion.
I received an ARC but voluntarily read.
September 27, 2022
Thank you, Erin Mallon, Social Butterfly PR and Oh Yes She Did Productions for allowing me to participate in the Advanced Listener program. The following is my honest audiobook review.
Erin Mallon has done it again. In this latest and last installment of her Natural History series she brought her gang of characters back together in Louise’s story. Can a serial-monogamist marine biologist find true love while actively trying to avoid any relationship all together for fear of losing herself all over again in the guy? Well, leave it to Louise to have a one-night stand with a guy who is incapable of having a one-night stand, and who talks her ear off during the deed. All of this culminates in a laugh out loud romantic comedy told from Louise’s AND James’s point of view. Bringing in the second point of view with Teddy Hamilton as narrator was a brilliant surprise. Being a huge fan of the Erin Mallon and Teddy Hamilton narration duo made the audiobook even more special. Together they achieved a five-star performance.
Unlike book one and two of this series, Louise tends to take things a little more seriously than her counterparts sometimes, however don’t misconstrue my words - there are so many hilarious scenes (Note- Bonnie, the praying mantis). Nevertheless, as Erin herself explains in the “backstage pass” part of the audiobook, Louise has been the voice of reason for others, but this time the readers/listeners get to experience her personal struggles while becoming friends with James.
I shed a few tears while listening to Sharkbait. They were tears of laughter AND tears after being emotionally moved by Louise’s true love for the ocean and its wildlife. This story was especially touching for me because I almost became a Marine Biologist, and the way Erin depicts Louise and Meilani’s first interaction fondly reminded me of my first time to seeing a killer whale in real life. Sharkbait briefly yet gracefully touches on topics of abandonment, sobriety, family conflict and single parenting without going to deep.
Overall: ★★★★★
Performance: ★★★★★
Story: ★★★★★
Sharkbait by Erin Mallon
Erin Mallon has done it again. In this latest and last installment of her Natural History series she brought her gang of characters back together in Louise’s story. Can a serial-monogamist marine biologist find true love while actively trying to avoid any relationship all together for fear of losing herself all over again in the guy? Well, leave it to Louise to have a one-night stand with a guy who is incapable of having a one-night stand, and who talks her ear off during the deed. All of this culminates in a laugh out loud romantic comedy told from Louise’s AND James’s point of view. Bringing in the second point of view with Teddy Hamilton as narrator was a brilliant surprise. Being a huge fan of the Erin Mallon and Teddy Hamilton narration duo made the audiobook even more special. Together they achieved a five-star performance.
Unlike book one and two of this series, Louise tends to take things a little more seriously than her counterparts sometimes, however don’t misconstrue my words - there are so many hilarious scenes (Note- Bonnie, the praying mantis). Nevertheless, as Erin herself explains in the “backstage pass” part of the audiobook, Louise has been the voice of reason for others, but this time the readers/listeners get to experience her personal struggles while becoming friends with James.
I shed a few tears while listening to Sharkbait. They were tears of laughter AND tears after being emotionally moved by Louise’s true love for the ocean and its wildlife. This story was especially touching for me because I almost became a Marine Biologist, and the way Erin depicts Louise and Meilani’s first interaction fondly reminded me of my first time to seeing a killer whale in real life. Sharkbait briefly yet gracefully touches on topics of abandonment, sobriety, family conflict and single parenting without going to deep.
Overall: ★★★★★
Performance: ★★★★★
Story: ★★★★★
Sharkbait by Erin Mallon
September 25, 2022
** Review based on audio book **
I loved Erin’s These Walls Can Talk audio plays and enjoy her performances as a narrator but hadn’t read or listened to any of her novels. So before I dove into Sharkbait I downloaded and listened to Flirtasaurus and Lovebug and I am so glad I did! While each story is technically a stand-alone, the friendships and personalities of these female lead characters just got richer from one story to the next. Calliope and Mabel are so endearingly quirky, loveable and very intelligent, and their men not only embrace, but celebrate, all their quirkiness. And the comedy is strong in these books, people. I can’t count the number of times I laughed out loud listening to Calliope and Mabel’s antics. If you’ve only experienced Sharkbait, you definitely want to pick up Flirtasaurus and Lovebug at some point!
In Sharkbait, we learn more about Louise who is the sister of Calliope’s boyfriend, Ralph. While not as extroverted as Calliope and Mabel, Louise has her own eccentricities, like an obsession with Jeopardy and knowing what not to search on the Internet. (Anyone Google Erector Sets?) She’s got a lot on her plate pursuing her marine biology degree while working at The Philadelphia Aquarium which, oddly, helps reawaken her passion for painting. Louise is also in deep denial about being in a relationship with the guy who rocked her world in a walk-in beer fridge. Along with the humor of unusual surprise birthday performers and voyeuristic praying mantises, there were moments in this book where my heart ached for Louise. Deep down she wants someone to love her and treat her like she matters, but will she be able to realize James is that person before it’s too late?
Flirtasaurus and Lovebug are told from the single POV of the female main characters while Sharkbait is a dual POV. Erin does a brilliant job performing these women’s stories with humor, strength and poignancy. Teddy Hamilton is a great compliment to Erin as James in Sharkbait performing James’ lighthearted, fun persona as well as his dedication to the things he loves most.
It's been so fun digging into this series and finding one more reason to fangirl over Erin Mallon!
I loved Erin’s These Walls Can Talk audio plays and enjoy her performances as a narrator but hadn’t read or listened to any of her novels. So before I dove into Sharkbait I downloaded and listened to Flirtasaurus and Lovebug and I am so glad I did! While each story is technically a stand-alone, the friendships and personalities of these female lead characters just got richer from one story to the next. Calliope and Mabel are so endearingly quirky, loveable and very intelligent, and their men not only embrace, but celebrate, all their quirkiness. And the comedy is strong in these books, people. I can’t count the number of times I laughed out loud listening to Calliope and Mabel’s antics. If you’ve only experienced Sharkbait, you definitely want to pick up Flirtasaurus and Lovebug at some point!
In Sharkbait, we learn more about Louise who is the sister of Calliope’s boyfriend, Ralph. While not as extroverted as Calliope and Mabel, Louise has her own eccentricities, like an obsession with Jeopardy and knowing what not to search on the Internet. (Anyone Google Erector Sets?) She’s got a lot on her plate pursuing her marine biology degree while working at The Philadelphia Aquarium which, oddly, helps reawaken her passion for painting. Louise is also in deep denial about being in a relationship with the guy who rocked her world in a walk-in beer fridge. Along with the humor of unusual surprise birthday performers and voyeuristic praying mantises, there were moments in this book where my heart ached for Louise. Deep down she wants someone to love her and treat her like she matters, but will she be able to realize James is that person before it’s too late?
Flirtasaurus and Lovebug are told from the single POV of the female main characters while Sharkbait is a dual POV. Erin does a brilliant job performing these women’s stories with humor, strength and poignancy. Teddy Hamilton is a great compliment to Erin as James in Sharkbait performing James’ lighthearted, fun persona as well as his dedication to the things he loves most.
It's been so fun digging into this series and finding one more reason to fangirl over Erin Mallon!
September 29, 2022
This was really cute!
I hadn't read the first two books in the series ( Flirtasaurus and Lovebug ) but this worked just fine as a standalone. Louise and James's story was a lot of fun--at times it was a bit OTTish (Lousie's deciding to be a marine biologist despite her near pathological fear of water, Lovebug Mabel's at-home nuditiy) but overall it had me LOLing and smiling (and fanning myself!) a lot more than I was cringing or shaking my head. (Who hates The Beatles? Though at least the explanation--once we got it--made some sense. But still...)
I loved how Louise figured out how to interact with the sea lion, and I adored how James was 110% on board with giving her space and letting her figure herself out at every stage of their story. And gah! his daughter Iris is the BOMB. Even when she was being a little too precocious by half, she never felt like a plot moppet, not even for a second.
I listened to the audiobook, and to the surprise of no one it was fantastic. I've actually heard both the narrators read countless books before (it wasn't actually until I started the audio that I even realized that the author was the narrator I'd listened to so many times already) and they always do a great job. I'm really glad that this was a dual POV book (from the author's note, the first two weren't) because I really enjoyed seeing things from both MC POVs.
Plus, I mean--Teddy Hamilton. ;)
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I hadn't read the first two books in the series ( Flirtasaurus and Lovebug ) but this worked just fine as a standalone. Louise and James's story was a lot of fun--at times it was a bit OTTish (Lousie's deciding to be a marine biologist despite her near pathological fear of water, Lovebug Mabel's at-home nuditiy) but overall it had me LOLing and smiling (and fanning myself!) a lot more than I was cringing or shaking my head. (Who hates The Beatles? Though at least the explanation--once we got it--made some sense. But still...)
I loved how Louise figured out how to interact with the sea lion, and I adored how James was 110% on board with giving her space and letting her figure herself out at every stage of their story. And gah! his daughter Iris is the BOMB. Even when she was being a little too precocious by half, she never felt like a plot moppet, not even for a second.
I listened to the audiobook, and to the surprise of no one it was fantastic. I've actually heard both the narrators read countless books before (it wasn't actually until I started the audio that I even realized that the author was the narrator I'd listened to so many times already) and they always do a great job. I'm really glad that this was a dual POV book (from the author's note, the first two weren't) because I really enjoyed seeing things from both MC POVs.
Plus, I mean--Teddy Hamilton. ;)
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
September 27, 2022
This is the 3rd book in the Natural History Series. It stands alone but there are a lot of crossover characters from the first 2 books and I feel like it would be a lot more fun if I had read both books. I have listened to Love Bug so I got all the Mabel & Wally notes, but missed some of the Calliope and Ralph context.
Louise is a Marine Biology student, she's working on her post grad (on full scholarship) and working full time at the aquarium, she's on track for everything she's ever wanted. But then comes James, a guy that refuses to stay in the one-night-stand box she wants to put him in.
James is an alcoholic single dad and entrepreneur. He had a single awesome encounter with an unnamed woman (Louise) who wanted absolutely nothing to do with him after that event. However, his path keeps crossing with hers. All he wants to do is talk to her and try to see if they can be awesome again but with more get-to-know-you this time. However, he's also just made plans to move his entire existence across the country to be with his daughter. What should he fight for? should he try to get a chance knowing there is a ticking clock counting down to his departure?
This was a balancing act of a book. There was some incredibly awesome Erin Mallon humour that I have come to expect, but there were also some emotionally deep moments while exploring Louise and what has formed her opinions of relationships. Both she and James have some deep moments in their past that have shaped who they are and how they react to the world around them. It was so interesting to be able to watch them work their way into each other's lives.
The audiobook for Shark Bait was performed by the author Erin Mallon and for the first time in the series, the hero wanted to be included and Teddy Hamilton brings James to life so wonderfully. These two narrators both slayed me with laughter, making me crack up in public or get dirty looks from the family when I just couldn't keep it inside. But there was also the other end of the spectrum, the emotional pain and growth and warmth. I teared up, choked up and felt the raw "now" in places. This audiobook just yanked me out of reality and forced me to exist in the story for a time, feeling the ebb and swell of the emotional flow. This was excellent for me.
I requested and was generously provided with an advance copy of the audiobook. These are my honest thoughts and feelings.
Louise is a Marine Biology student, she's working on her post grad (on full scholarship) and working full time at the aquarium, she's on track for everything she's ever wanted. But then comes James, a guy that refuses to stay in the one-night-stand box she wants to put him in.
James is an alcoholic single dad and entrepreneur. He had a single awesome encounter with an unnamed woman (Louise) who wanted absolutely nothing to do with him after that event. However, his path keeps crossing with hers. All he wants to do is talk to her and try to see if they can be awesome again but with more get-to-know-you this time. However, he's also just made plans to move his entire existence across the country to be with his daughter. What should he fight for? should he try to get a chance knowing there is a ticking clock counting down to his departure?
This was a balancing act of a book. There was some incredibly awesome Erin Mallon humour that I have come to expect, but there were also some emotionally deep moments while exploring Louise and what has formed her opinions of relationships. Both she and James have some deep moments in their past that have shaped who they are and how they react to the world around them. It was so interesting to be able to watch them work their way into each other's lives.
The audiobook for Shark Bait was performed by the author Erin Mallon and for the first time in the series, the hero wanted to be included and Teddy Hamilton brings James to life so wonderfully. These two narrators both slayed me with laughter, making me crack up in public or get dirty looks from the family when I just couldn't keep it inside. But there was also the other end of the spectrum, the emotional pain and growth and warmth. I teared up, choked up and felt the raw "now" in places. This audiobook just yanked me out of reality and forced me to exist in the story for a time, feeling the ebb and swell of the emotional flow. This was excellent for me.
I requested and was generously provided with an advance copy of the audiobook. These are my honest thoughts and feelings.
September 27, 2022
I love this third book in the Natural History series so much that I just need to gush about it! This was such a fun story that is so hilarious, and entertaining, with a heartfelt 'feel good factor' and a steamy romance with lots of fiery chemistry! Sharkbait has everything that I crave in romance novels: a heroine's journey to self-discovery, a leading man worthy of a woman's love, (bonus for being a swoony, single dad!), a few misty tears, and lots of laughter, and sizzling passion along the way!
Louise and James meet and have one night of fiery passion. Louise has always been the sensible one except when it came to losing herself in relationships. She is done with men and only wants an occasional fling. But when she keeps running into James, they can't stay away from each other. James is moving back to Hawaii in a few months, so it is easy for Louise to agree to have a fling with an end date. But what happens when they realize they are so much more than a fling, and their lives are going in different directions? Will they fight to be together, or will they turn their backs, breaking both their hearts? I loved Louise and James so much! They were so perfect together, both so geeky with trivia and word play, their shared love of the ocean, how they respected and supported each other's vulnerabilities, and their chemistry that leaped right off the page. I also loved James' beautiful modern family, and how Louise fit in so easily, despite her fears. I also loved all the friends and family, who were so quirky, hilarious, and lovely, and made this story even more delightful.
Mallon is so gifted at seeing life with all it's quirks and complications and then weaves an entertaining story that is completely heartfelt, and hilarious. It isn’t everyday that you find a book/series that will completely captivate you with it’s clever writing, laugh out loud dialogue, and wonderful characters you want to be friends with!
I loved listening to Erin Mallon & Teddy Hamilton's narration. They were so perfect as Louise and James. They made these smart, unique and witty characters come to life, including Hamilton's precocious, and very sweet little girl voice. I also think they have perfect comedic timing. I loved their humor, and their easy ability to make this heartwarming, fun and sizzling romance one that you will want to listen to again and again! I absolutely adored this book and know you will too!
Louise and James meet and have one night of fiery passion. Louise has always been the sensible one except when it came to losing herself in relationships. She is done with men and only wants an occasional fling. But when she keeps running into James, they can't stay away from each other. James is moving back to Hawaii in a few months, so it is easy for Louise to agree to have a fling with an end date. But what happens when they realize they are so much more than a fling, and their lives are going in different directions? Will they fight to be together, or will they turn their backs, breaking both their hearts? I loved Louise and James so much! They were so perfect together, both so geeky with trivia and word play, their shared love of the ocean, how they respected and supported each other's vulnerabilities, and their chemistry that leaped right off the page. I also loved James' beautiful modern family, and how Louise fit in so easily, despite her fears. I also loved all the friends and family, who were so quirky, hilarious, and lovely, and made this story even more delightful.
Mallon is so gifted at seeing life with all it's quirks and complications and then weaves an entertaining story that is completely heartfelt, and hilarious. It isn’t everyday that you find a book/series that will completely captivate you with it’s clever writing, laugh out loud dialogue, and wonderful characters you want to be friends with!
I loved listening to Erin Mallon & Teddy Hamilton's narration. They were so perfect as Louise and James. They made these smart, unique and witty characters come to life, including Hamilton's precocious, and very sweet little girl voice. I also think they have perfect comedic timing. I loved their humor, and their easy ability to make this heartwarming, fun and sizzling romance one that you will want to listen to again and again! I absolutely adored this book and know you will too!
September 23, 2022
I love this third book in the Natural History series so much that I just need to gush about it! This was such a fun story that is so hilarious, and entertaining, with a heartfelt 'feel good factor' and a steamy romance with lots of fiery chemistry! Sharkbait has everything that I crave in romance novels: a heroine's journey to self-discovery, a leading man worthy of a woman's love, (bonus for being a swoony, single dad!), a few misty tears, and lots of laughter, and sizzling passion along the way!
Louise and James meet and have one night of fiery passion. Louise has always been the sensible one except when it came to losing herself in relationships. She is done with men and only wants an occasional fling. But when she keeps running into James, they can't stay away from each other. James is moving back to Hawaii in a few months, so it is easy for Louise to agree to have a fling with an end date. But what happens when they realize they are so much more than a fling, and their lives are going in different directions? Will they fight to be together, or will they turn their backs, breaking both their hearts? I loved Louise and James so much! They were so perfect together, both so geeky with trivia and word play, their shared love of the ocean, how they respected and supported each other's vulnerabilities, and their chemistry that leaped right off the page. I also loved James' beautiful modern family, and how Louise fit in so easily, despite her fears. I also loved all the friends and family, who were so quirky, hilarious, and lovely, and made this story even more delightful.
Mallon is so gifted at seeing life with all it's quirks and complications and then weaves an entertaining story that is completely heartfelt, and hilarious. It isn’t everyday that you find a book/series that will completely captivate you with it’s clever writing, laugh out loud dialogue, and wonderful characters you want to be friends with! I absolutely adored this book and know you will too!
Louise and James meet and have one night of fiery passion. Louise has always been the sensible one except when it came to losing herself in relationships. She is done with men and only wants an occasional fling. But when she keeps running into James, they can't stay away from each other. James is moving back to Hawaii in a few months, so it is easy for Louise to agree to have a fling with an end date. But what happens when they realize they are so much more than a fling, and their lives are going in different directions? Will they fight to be together, or will they turn their backs, breaking both their hearts? I loved Louise and James so much! They were so perfect together, both so geeky with trivia and word play, their shared love of the ocean, how they respected and supported each other's vulnerabilities, and their chemistry that leaped right off the page. I also loved James' beautiful modern family, and how Louise fit in so easily, despite her fears. I also loved all the friends and family, who were so quirky, hilarious, and lovely, and made this story even more delightful.
Mallon is so gifted at seeing life with all it's quirks and complications and then weaves an entertaining story that is completely heartfelt, and hilarious. It isn’t everyday that you find a book/series that will completely captivate you with it’s clever writing, laugh out loud dialogue, and wonderful characters you want to be friends with! I absolutely adored this book and know you will too!
September 22, 2022
"Sharkbait" is a loud out loud good time with lots of swooning moments and all the classic Erin Mallon witty banter that I love.
Louise is in Philadelphia and working at the aquarium as she works on her degree to become a Marine Biologist. Before she started her new job, she had a one-night stand with a bartender named James. It was supposed to be a one time thing with no names or emotions. However, life likes to throw curveballs and James keeps coming back into her life. Especially since he's friends with her friends.
Oh my gosh, I just loved Louise and James so much. From the very first chapter, I was laughing and swooning. Louise is someone that everyone can relate to on some level. She has some quirks, some insecurities and cares so deeply for her friends and family. And she has the ability to make some sort of connection with everyone or every animal that she meets. Especially with a sweet sea lion missing part of her flipper named Melani. And James was something special too. So genuine, caring and just overall amazing. His love for his daughter was so special and reminded me of the bond and friendship I share with my Dad. We get lots of scenes and literal laugh out moments from my book BFFs, Calliope and Mabel. I love these trio of women Erin Mallon has written.
Reading this story with your eyeballs is amazing. But listening to Erin read her own words is magical, And this story was written in duel POV so we rgt to hear the amazing Teddy Hamilton as James. I went in blind with the audio and let out a scream of happiness when I heard Teddy come across my earbuds. This book and the other two are instant repeat listens for me.
Louise is in Philadelphia and working at the aquarium as she works on her degree to become a Marine Biologist. Before she started her new job, she had a one-night stand with a bartender named James. It was supposed to be a one time thing with no names or emotions. However, life likes to throw curveballs and James keeps coming back into her life. Especially since he's friends with her friends.
Oh my gosh, I just loved Louise and James so much. From the very first chapter, I was laughing and swooning. Louise is someone that everyone can relate to on some level. She has some quirks, some insecurities and cares so deeply for her friends and family. And she has the ability to make some sort of connection with everyone or every animal that she meets. Especially with a sweet sea lion missing part of her flipper named Melani. And James was something special too. So genuine, caring and just overall amazing. His love for his daughter was so special and reminded me of the bond and friendship I share with my Dad. We get lots of scenes and literal laugh out moments from my book BFFs, Calliope and Mabel. I love these trio of women Erin Mallon has written.
Reading this story with your eyeballs is amazing. But listening to Erin read her own words is magical, And this story was written in duel POV so we rgt to hear the amazing Teddy Hamilton as James. I went in blind with the audio and let out a scream of happiness when I heard Teddy come across my earbuds. This book and the other two are instant repeat listens for me.
September 24, 2022
Add a water phobic Marine Biologist to an alcoholic Bar owner in recovery and you have a sure fire comedy-filled romance!
Poor Louise just wanted to cut loose and not be herself for once. A ONS with the hottie bartender seemed like the perfect plan. So why did she manage to find the one that wants to chat, get to know her and know her name! She hates the nickname he gives her - Cold Brew, but the poor lad has to call her something! When they keep bumping into each other and then Louise finds out she now has to WORK with the guy - her poor wee world implodes! All those self-imposed rules, regulations and theories are going right out the window!
James has a lot on his plate - his sobriety, co-parenting his little girls from across the country, and getting his bar in a good place so that he can finally be a full-time dad in Hawaii. he didn't need or want an attraction to the prickly Marine Biologist but that's what he got. The more he learns about Louise, the more he loves her but what can he do when their relationship already has an expiration date?
All the secondary characters are brilliant but I must admit Meilani the sea lion stole my heart! James is so devoted to his daughter and he was determined that he wasn't letting her down, even if he broke his own heart in the process. Iris is such a precocious little cherub - such big words and grown-up sense come from such a small package!
I hadn't read any of the other books in the series but I don't think that dulled my enjoyment any.
I felt such empathy towards Louise and her Jeopardy-itis! I get motormouth syndrome when I'm nervous too. All the misnomers like raw dogging had me in hysterics.
Poor Louise just wanted to cut loose and not be herself for once. A ONS with the hottie bartender seemed like the perfect plan. So why did she manage to find the one that wants to chat, get to know her and know her name! She hates the nickname he gives her - Cold Brew, but the poor lad has to call her something! When they keep bumping into each other and then Louise finds out she now has to WORK with the guy - her poor wee world implodes! All those self-imposed rules, regulations and theories are going right out the window!
James has a lot on his plate - his sobriety, co-parenting his little girls from across the country, and getting his bar in a good place so that he can finally be a full-time dad in Hawaii. he didn't need or want an attraction to the prickly Marine Biologist but that's what he got. The more he learns about Louise, the more he loves her but what can he do when their relationship already has an expiration date?
All the secondary characters are brilliant but I must admit Meilani the sea lion stole my heart! James is so devoted to his daughter and he was determined that he wasn't letting her down, even if he broke his own heart in the process. Iris is such a precocious little cherub - such big words and grown-up sense come from such a small package!
I hadn't read any of the other books in the series but I don't think that dulled my enjoyment any.
I felt such empathy towards Louise and her Jeopardy-itis! I get motormouth syndrome when I'm nervous too. All the misnomers like raw dogging had me in hysterics.
September 27, 2022
“You are absolutely everything. The things I would do for you, if you’d let me.”
Well Erin Mallon, queen of romcoms certainly knows how to start a book with a bang! Sharkbait is one of my favorite reads of the year. Calliope & Ralph and Mable & Wally are wonderful, but there’s something special about Louise & James. Erin Mallon switched up the structure and style a bit for Sharkbait, and it absolutely paid off. In this series finale, Erin dives deeper into gritty real life issues and human experiences, while maintaining her signature humor. The resulting story has a beautiful & hilarious narrative, lovely character arcs, and swoon-tastic romance. I love that Erin wrote this book in dual POV to amplify James’s voice and give readers a more detailed backstory. He is a kind, compassionate, slightly flawed cinnamon roll; the quintessential book boyfriend you just want to wrap your arms around and never let go. Louise was introduced in Flirtasaurus as Ralph’s sister. I have enjoyed the way her character has evolved throughout this series. From somewhat estranged sister to bestie and an integral addition to the Natural History Series crew, Louise is a total delight. She’s a strong, clever, artistic genius with a wee bit of an unhealthy, albeit hilarious obsession with a certain game show host. I adore her relationship with Meilani! Louise and James have a marvelous witty banter and scorching chemistry. If you’re a Mabel fan, beware…her filter switch has been flipped; get ready to laugh your face off! Erin has once again outdone herself with Sharkbait!
Erin Mallon and Teddy Hamilton are romcom gold in Sharkbait. Erin is phenomenal in her performance of Louise, and let’s be real her voice for James is flat out seductive! Teddy embodies the flirty, charming, well-rounded hottie James. The dual narration is off-the-charts fabulous! Sharkbait is Erin’s best book yet; it made me laugh out loud countless times, it’s even spicier than the first two books, and has oceans of heart. Whether you’re an audiobook fan or an eyeball reader, Sharkbait is a must-experience book!
Well Erin Mallon, queen of romcoms certainly knows how to start a book with a bang! Sharkbait is one of my favorite reads of the year. Calliope & Ralph and Mable & Wally are wonderful, but there’s something special about Louise & James. Erin Mallon switched up the structure and style a bit for Sharkbait, and it absolutely paid off. In this series finale, Erin dives deeper into gritty real life issues and human experiences, while maintaining her signature humor. The resulting story has a beautiful & hilarious narrative, lovely character arcs, and swoon-tastic romance. I love that Erin wrote this book in dual POV to amplify James’s voice and give readers a more detailed backstory. He is a kind, compassionate, slightly flawed cinnamon roll; the quintessential book boyfriend you just want to wrap your arms around and never let go. Louise was introduced in Flirtasaurus as Ralph’s sister. I have enjoyed the way her character has evolved throughout this series. From somewhat estranged sister to bestie and an integral addition to the Natural History Series crew, Louise is a total delight. She’s a strong, clever, artistic genius with a wee bit of an unhealthy, albeit hilarious obsession with a certain game show host. I adore her relationship with Meilani! Louise and James have a marvelous witty banter and scorching chemistry. If you’re a Mabel fan, beware…her filter switch has been flipped; get ready to laugh your face off! Erin has once again outdone herself with Sharkbait!
Erin Mallon and Teddy Hamilton are romcom gold in Sharkbait. Erin is phenomenal in her performance of Louise, and let’s be real her voice for James is flat out seductive! Teddy embodies the flirty, charming, well-rounded hottie James. The dual narration is off-the-charts fabulous! Sharkbait is Erin’s best book yet; it made me laugh out loud countless times, it’s even spicier than the first two books, and has oceans of heart. Whether you’re an audiobook fan or an eyeball reader, Sharkbait is a must-experience book!
September 21, 2022
Louise and James started out hot and heavy then promptly hit the brakes thinking they would never see each other again but that changes when they realize their friend groups are connected. Slowly, Louise and James go from one night to friends to dating but there’s always been an end date. With James moving to Hawaii, Louise tries really hard to keep her feelings, insecurities and emotions in check but she feels she’s drowning and doesn’t know how to separate her need to stand on her own two feet and wanting to be with James. The minute James met Louise he just knew there was something about her and couldn’t help falling head over heels for her. James is already all in with both feet but can Louise get there or will the end date really be the end of them?
James is a sweetheart and his relationship with his daughter is perfect and the love and care he extends to those he loves is amazing. Louise has a dream job and when she finally found how to incorporate her two passions together she truly glowed just like James said. James and Louise are perfect together, their chemistry is amazing, they actually see each other, support each other and truly care about each other.
I haven’t read the first two books in this inter connected series but I’m definitely going to because Louise’s friends are hilarious and I wanna know more about their antics.
Thank you @socialbutterfly_pr_ and @mallonerin for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
James is a sweetheart and his relationship with his daughter is perfect and the love and care he extends to those he loves is amazing. Louise has a dream job and when she finally found how to incorporate her two passions together she truly glowed just like James said. James and Louise are perfect together, their chemistry is amazing, they actually see each other, support each other and truly care about each other.
I haven’t read the first two books in this inter connected series but I’m definitely going to because Louise’s friends are hilarious and I wanna know more about their antics.
Thank you @socialbutterfly_pr_ and @mallonerin for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
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