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The Kingston Family #9
Just One Tease
He’s the last single Dare sibling standing.
She’s his lost love who disappeared.
Now she’s back, bringing secrets and danger.
Hadley Stevens is on the run with her younger sister—again—but this time, she’s in control. Zach Dare might hate her, but she knows he’d never turn away someone in need. He’s the only man she trusts. The man she’s never gotten over. Even if she left him without a word.
Zach never expected the girl he once loved to walk into his bar. The last time he saw her, he’d dropped her off after school and promised to pick her up for prom. Except she disappeared.
Now, she’s back with a new name, but the same doe eyes and pouty lips, and she’s asking for the help he would have gladly given her all those years ago.
Zach agrees to protect them, but he refuses to fall for Hadley again. But late nights working side by side give them a tempting glimpse at the life they could have had…and all the reasons he loved her come flooding back.
He’ll have to keep her safe.
Before he can convince her to stay.
*Though connected by family, all books stand alone.'
She’s his lost love who disappeared.
Now she’s back, bringing secrets and danger.
Hadley Stevens is on the run with her younger sister—again—but this time, she’s in control. Zach Dare might hate her, but she knows he’d never turn away someone in need. He’s the only man she trusts. The man she’s never gotten over. Even if she left him without a word.
Zach never expected the girl he once loved to walk into his bar. The last time he saw her, he’d dropped her off after school and promised to pick her up for prom. Except she disappeared.
Now, she’s back with a new name, but the same doe eyes and pouty lips, and she’s asking for the help he would have gladly given her all those years ago.
Zach agrees to protect them, but he refuses to fall for Hadley again. But late nights working side by side give them a tempting glimpse at the life they could have had…and all the reasons he loved her come flooding back.
He’ll have to keep her safe.
Before he can convince her to stay.
*Though connected by family, all books stand alone.'
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 14, 2023
249 people are currently reading
1449 people want to read
About the author
Carly Phillips
400 books9,778 followersNY Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestseller, Carly Phillips is the queen of Alpha Heroes, at least according to The Harlequin Junkie Reviewer.. Carly married her college sweetheart and lives in Purchase, NY along with her crazy dogs who are featured on her Facebook and Instagram pages. The author of over 75 romance novels, she has raised two incredible daughters and is now an empty nester. Carly’s book, The Bachelor, was chosen by Kelly Ripa as her first romance club pick. Carly loves social media and interacting with her readers. Want to keep up with Carly? Sign up for her newsletter and receive TWO FREE books at www.carlyphillips.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
October 23, 2023
Just One Tease (The Kingston Family, #10) by Carly Phillips
I love this series and the Kingston Family. Hadley Stevens (Mia) and Zack Dare get their second chance at romance when she has to flee her home to save her sister and herself. She runs to Zack for help and the action never stops. There is angst, hurt feelings, discovery, danger, wonderful friends and family, laughter, tears, resentfulness, forgiveness, understanding, love and plenty of steam to get to a HEA. I hope Remy's story is next.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Unpredictable Steamy Action-packed Entertaining Tear-jerker Wonderful characters Scary Easy-to-read Great world building Funny Happily Ever After Informative Romantic Page-turner.
I love this series and the Kingston Family. Hadley Stevens (Mia) and Zack Dare get their second chance at romance when she has to flee her home to save her sister and herself. She runs to Zack for help and the action never stops. There is angst, hurt feelings, discovery, danger, wonderful friends and family, laughter, tears, resentfulness, forgiveness, understanding, love and plenty of steam to get to a HEA. I hope Remy's story is next.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Unpredictable Steamy Action-packed Entertaining Tear-jerker Wonderful characters Scary Easy-to-read Great world building Funny Happily Ever After Informative Romantic Page-turner.
Read
November 16, 2023Just One Tease might be the ending to the Dirty Dares, but it is just the beginning for Hadley and Zach, offering them the forgiveness and second chance at love that they always deserved and the chance for a life they should have had from the beginning. Zach is the Dare sibling who has been the most mysterious and canny, but we finally learn all of his past and get to see that he has more layers than we ever imagined. He is sexy, smart, caring, tender, and passionate and truly the perfect match for Hadley once he learns to let go of the pain of their shared past. Hadley has had so many heartbreaks but has stood strong against the pain and heartbreak and finally takes a chance on the man she loved and lost when she needs help for her sister and herself. Her pain is nothing compared to the need she feels for Zach and the need to protect her sister, but she never imagined he would truly give her the forgiveness she wanted or the chance to have him in her heart again. I loved the passion and fire between these two and it truly was spectacular to see these two fall into one another and find their way back to love. I am dying for the next series Carly plans to release, revolving around Remy Sterling—Zach’s partner—and his large and crazy family, and I imagine that series will be just as awesome as all the Dare series. Carly, as always, finds a way to end a series with a bang and shows us that two people truly can be made for one another, even if they are separated by year, miles, and circumstances, because nothing can truly keep love apart if it is meant to be. Well played Carly, well played.
November 15, 2023
Zach's Story At Last
Introduced in the earlier Dirty Dare stories, Zach is an intriguing character. Owner of a bar and a PI agency, with mad hacking and investigative skills, he's a stunning mystery man with soft spots. He's very loyal to his family and everyone's favorite uncle. In Just One Tease, he gets his second chance romance.
Hadley, Zach's first love, disappeared on high school prom night. Forced into witness protection by her father's crimes, she's been missing for 10 years with no contact. After her father's misdeeds place her and her teenage sister in danger, she runs back to NY and asks Zach for help.
While Zach is angry and bitter that she ghosted him as teenagers, he can't turn someone in trouble away. As they reconnect and he learns why she disappeared, he opens himself up to their abiding love. With nobody available as backup and responsibility for her sister, Hadley is afraid to depend on anyone. But she has never forgotten Zach and their deep connection.
In addition to a story of two people finding each other again, there's some suspense related to Hadley's father's and stepmother's crimes.
Introduced in the earlier Dirty Dare stories, Zach is an intriguing character. Owner of a bar and a PI agency, with mad hacking and investigative skills, he's a stunning mystery man with soft spots. He's very loyal to his family and everyone's favorite uncle. In Just One Tease, he gets his second chance romance.
Hadley, Zach's first love, disappeared on high school prom night. Forced into witness protection by her father's crimes, she's been missing for 10 years with no contact. After her father's misdeeds place her and her teenage sister in danger, she runs back to NY and asks Zach for help.
While Zach is angry and bitter that she ghosted him as teenagers, he can't turn someone in trouble away. As they reconnect and he learns why she disappeared, he opens himself up to their abiding love. With nobody available as backup and responsibility for her sister, Hadley is afraid to depend on anyone. But she has never forgotten Zach and their deep connection.
In addition to a story of two people finding each other again, there's some suspense related to Hadley's father's and stepmother's crimes.
November 6, 2023
5 Star Review Just One Tease (The Kingston Family #10) by Carly Phillips
I love my visits with the Kingston family and Just One Tease was a fabulous addition to the series. I love Carly Philips style of writing and from the first chapter I was hooked on Hadley and Zach’s second chance at love story.
Ten years ago Hadley disappeared from Zach’s life with no trace; thrown into witness protection with her sister Dani and her father she was forced to leave without telling anyone.
I loved this story and was riveted from the first chapter. The chemistry between them still sizzles just as much as it once did.
Fast forward and it appears that Hadley and Dani are in danger and are being forced to flee once again and heads to New York, to the one man she hopes will protect them.
When Hadley turns up again, Zach cannot hide his anger or the hurt he still carries. Leaning what has transpired, Zach agrees to help. What happens when danger rears its head, will Zach do whatever it takes to protect them?
Can Zach keep his heart safe or will Hadley break it again? Once click and find out.
I love my visits with the Kingston family and Just One Tease was a fabulous addition to the series. I love Carly Philips style of writing and from the first chapter I was hooked on Hadley and Zach’s second chance at love story.
Ten years ago Hadley disappeared from Zach’s life with no trace; thrown into witness protection with her sister Dani and her father she was forced to leave without telling anyone.
I loved this story and was riveted from the first chapter. The chemistry between them still sizzles just as much as it once did.
Fast forward and it appears that Hadley and Dani are in danger and are being forced to flee once again and heads to New York, to the one man she hopes will protect them.
When Hadley turns up again, Zach cannot hide his anger or the hurt he still carries. Leaning what has transpired, Zach agrees to help. What happens when danger rears its head, will Zach do whatever it takes to protect them?
Can Zach keep his heart safe or will Hadley break it again? Once click and find out.
August 18, 2024
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
I was really looking forward to Zach’s story and it was just ok for me. I’m being generous by bumping up the rating. It was honestly more like a 3 star read but I will say I had trouble putting it down so for that alone, I rounded up. I do love a second chance romance 🥰
I was really looking forward to Zach’s story and it was just ok for me. I’m being generous by bumping up the rating. It was honestly more like a 3 star read but I will say I had trouble putting it down so for that alone, I rounded up. I do love a second chance romance 🥰
November 20, 2023
Zach and Hadley get an unexpected second chance at romance. Hadley entered witness protection at age sixteen with her dad, step mom and baby sister, leaving New York, her friends, and her boyfriend Zach without an explanation or any future contact. Unfortunately her father doesn’t know how to stay out of trouble and Hadley has to take her now thirteen year old sister on the run from some awful men. Seeing a magazine article on the Dare family, which featured Zach finding and helping people, Hadley made a hasty decision to go to him for help. Zach is involved in several businesses and puts his computer skills to work for good these days. After Hadley left without a word in high school, he attempted to hack his way into some government data bases. Luckily he was given a chance to develop programs against hackers instead of going to jail. He never found Hadley, and never expected to have her walk into his bar asking for help. Both are cautious and unsure, but Zach can’t turn Hadley away. The chemistry between them has only gotten hotter and neither can deny their mutual desire. Both attempt to protect their hearts. Luckily they get their happy ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 10, 2023
Just One Tease (The Kingston Family, #9) by Carly Phillips
4 stars
M/F Second chance romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Hadley finds herself in need of something, but when you're told to take your sister and get away and stay away, your mind might not be thinking super clear. When Hadley sees her old boyfriend - the one she had to leave behind all of those years ago, she takes it as a sign. He will know how to protect her sister. That's all that matters to Hadley.
Zach never forgot Hadley. He looked for her and found nothing for years. And, while it was his ability to search that landed him some lucrative jobs, he always wondered.
When Hadley and Zach find each other again, it's not under the best of circumstances. However, Zach isn't able to turn his back on Hadley and Hadley isn't willing to just let things be. She needs him.
With forces trying to separate Zach and Hadley again, it will take everyone in the family to help these two figure out how to trust, love and be safe again.
You won't be disappointed in this story. It's a little predictable, but it's a fun read.
4 stars
M/F Second chance romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Hadley finds herself in need of something, but when you're told to take your sister and get away and stay away, your mind might not be thinking super clear. When Hadley sees her old boyfriend - the one she had to leave behind all of those years ago, she takes it as a sign. He will know how to protect her sister. That's all that matters to Hadley.
Zach never forgot Hadley. He looked for her and found nothing for years. And, while it was his ability to search that landed him some lucrative jobs, he always wondered.
When Hadley and Zach find each other again, it's not under the best of circumstances. However, Zach isn't able to turn his back on Hadley and Hadley isn't willing to just let things be. She needs him.
With forces trying to separate Zach and Hadley again, it will take everyone in the family to help these two figure out how to trust, love and be safe again.
You won't be disappointed in this story. It's a little predictable, but it's a fun read.
October 30, 2023
Finally we get Zach’s story! I really enjoyed it and I was instantly hooked. The only thing that got a little bit annoying was Hadley’s constantly saying how when everything was over she was going to resume her life back in Chicago. She finally had her second chance with Zach, his family was more than welcoming and considered her family, yet she had one foot ready to leave. But I loved and respected her loyalty and wanting to be there for her 13 year old sister, Dani- who was the voice of reason in the end.
Zach and Hadley were a perfect couple, they still had the connection and pull even a decade later. I loved seeing them get their second chance.
Hadley upended his life when she disappeared a decade prior, but she upended it again when she walked back into his life- and for the better!
I can’t wait for Remy’s book next!
Zach and Hadley were a perfect couple, they still had the connection and pull even a decade later. I loved seeing them get their second chance.
Hadley upended his life when she disappeared a decade prior, but she upended it again when she walked back into his life- and for the better!
I can’t wait for Remy’s book next!
November 13, 2023
Reviewed For Saucy Review
On Kinky Korner
I absolutely love a second chance romance, and we got a great one when Hadley runs back into Zachs life. We find out why she left with no trace more than 10 years ago. And through the discovery, we get to read an angst fueled, heartbreaking story.
I really don't want to spoil anything and tell a word of this story. I want you to be able to read and experience as I have done. Just know it's a great edition to this series, where all the normal characters from over the series appear.
I'm not sure if it's cos this series is slowly drawing to a close or if this book made me emotional whilst reading. But for me, as the books, series, and time ticks by, I do not want them to end. This book is a huge recommend from me.
On Kinky Korner
I absolutely love a second chance romance, and we got a great one when Hadley runs back into Zachs life. We find out why she left with no trace more than 10 years ago. And through the discovery, we get to read an angst fueled, heartbreaking story.
I really don't want to spoil anything and tell a word of this story. I want you to be able to read and experience as I have done. Just know it's a great edition to this series, where all the normal characters from over the series appear.
I'm not sure if it's cos this series is slowly drawing to a close or if this book made me emotional whilst reading. But for me, as the books, series, and time ticks by, I do not want them to end. This book is a huge recommend from me.
November 14, 2023
4 Stars!
Carly Phillips is back with the next new release in the Kingston Family series and y'all, this go round we get introduced to Hadley and Zach. Just One Tease was everything I expected it to be when I read a Carly book and y'all, there is just something about this Kingston Family that is just pure magic and special. Sweet, swoony, and easy read that will hook you from the first page to the very last.
I can't recommend this author enough y'all.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
Carly Phillips is back with the next new release in the Kingston Family series and y'all, this go round we get introduced to Hadley and Zach. Just One Tease was everything I expected it to be when I read a Carly book and y'all, there is just something about this Kingston Family that is just pure magic and special. Sweet, swoony, and easy read that will hook you from the first page to the very last.
I can't recommend this author enough y'all.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
April 25, 2025
The storyline in this book is really good. Such a nice twist on the second chance trope.
Hadley and Zach are such great characters. And as always, the secondary characters are stellar, and all the familiar characters play a nice role in the story. Just an enjoyable book.
Hadley and Zach are such great characters. And as always, the secondary characters are stellar, and all the familiar characters play a nice role in the story. Just an enjoyable book.
November 10, 2023
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review
Ranking: 4.5⭐
Zach was my favorite Dare since I met this family and I was dying to read him. His story with Hadley was as I expected and at the same time Carly Phillips took me by surprise with the dynamic between these two and the characters that surround them, it was definitely worth the wait.
Zach is the only single one in the Dare family, the owner of two bars and a private investigation agency specializing in finding missing people, something that became his goal when his high school girlfriend disappeared without a trace and which left Zach with many questions, feeling desperate and a little lost. The personal story of this character is one of the most interesting in the series, I loved learning more about his past, reading more about the love that Zach has for his family, his friendship with Remy and all the feelings he experiences when Hadley returns to his life, even when things are not easy for him. Zach is a very sweet, tender and thoughtful man who is willing to fight so that the love of his life stays by his side permanently.
Hadley is Zach's ex-girlfriend, the girl who disappeared overnight with the sole objective of saving her life, she managed to achieve her dreams and although her life is far from ideal, Hadley has her younger sister, Danika, by her side, unfortunately she is forced to run away again and search for Zach after 11 years without communication. She's a very strong, brave and independent woman, kind with a good heart and who loves being a teacher, a good girl, that's why it was so frustrating to read how she finds herself alone in the world when she needs someone to support herself, even so, I really enjoyed her, the way she faced Zach after so many years and the decisions she made throughout the book.
And even though things weren't easy at first, Zach & Hadley share a special bond that has continued over the years: together they are the sweetest, most tender and adorable, I particularly loved that Hadley finally found in Zach someone to trust, lean on and feel safe with, that he knew how to understand the reason behind her absence and that he always gave her the space she needed, that's why it's my favorite.
🩷Zach: 4.5/5
🩷Hadley: 5/5
🩷Plot: 4.5/5
🩷Love story: 5/5
🩷Secondary characters: 3/5
🩷Universe: 5/5
🩷Cover: 4/5
🌶️: 2/5
🇪🇸
ARC amablemente proporcionada a cambio de una reseña honesta
Puntuación: 4.5/5⭐
Zach fue mi Dare favorito desde que conocí a esta familia y estaba muriendo por leerlo. Su historia con Hadley fue como la esperaba y al mismo tiempo Carly Phillips me tomó por sorpresa con la dinámica entre estos dos y los personajes que los rodean, sin duda alguna valió la pena la espera.
Zach es el único soltero de los Dare, dueño de dos bares y una agencia de investigación privada especializada en encontrar a personas desaparecidas, algo que se volvió su mete cuando su novia de la preparatoria desapareció sin dejar rastro y que dejo a un Zach con muchas preguntas, sintiéndose desesperado y un poco perdido. La historia personal de este personaje es de las más interesantes en la serie, me encantó conocer más de su pasado, leer más del amor que Zach tiene por su familia, su amistad con Remy y todos los sentimientos que experimenta cuando Hadley vuelve a su vida, aún cuando las cosas no son sencillas para él. Zach es un hombre muy dulce, tierno y detallista que esta dispuesto a pelear para que el amor de su vida se quede a su lado de manera definitiva.
Hadley es a ex novia de Zach, la chica que desapareció de la noche a la mañana con el único objetivo de salvar su vida, logro alcanzar sus sueños y aunque su vida está lejos de ser ideal, Hadley tiene a su hermana menor, Danika, a su lado, desafortunadamente se ve forzada a huir de nuevo y buscar a Zach después de 11 años sin comunicación. Ella es una mujer muy fuerte, valiente e independiente, amable de buen corazón y que ama ser profesora, una chica buena, por eso fue tan frustrante leer como se encuentra sola en el mundo cuando más necesita a alguien para apoyarse, aún así, disfrute mucho de ella, de la manera en la que enfrentó a Zach después de tantos años y las decisiones que tomó a lo largo del libro.
Y aún cuando las cosas no fueron sencillas al principio, Zach & Hadley comparten un vinculo especial que se ha mantenido con el paso de los años: juntos son los más dulces, tiernos y adorables, me encantó particularmente que Hadley por fin encontrara en Zach alguien en quien confiar, apoyarse y con quien sentirse segura, que él supiera entender la razón detrás de su ausencia y que siempre le diera el espacio que ella necesitaba, por eso es mi favorito.
🩷Zach: 4.5/5
🩷Hadley: 5/5
🩷Trama: 4.5/5
🩷Historia de amor: 5/5
🩷Personajes secundarios: 3/5
🩷Universo: 5/5
🩷Portada: 4/5
🌶️: 2/5
Ranking: 4.5⭐
Zach was my favorite Dare since I met this family and I was dying to read him. His story with Hadley was as I expected and at the same time Carly Phillips took me by surprise with the dynamic between these two and the characters that surround them, it was definitely worth the wait.
Zach is the only single one in the Dare family, the owner of two bars and a private investigation agency specializing in finding missing people, something that became his goal when his high school girlfriend disappeared without a trace and which left Zach with many questions, feeling desperate and a little lost. The personal story of this character is one of the most interesting in the series, I loved learning more about his past, reading more about the love that Zach has for his family, his friendship with Remy and all the feelings he experiences when Hadley returns to his life, even when things are not easy for him. Zach is a very sweet, tender and thoughtful man who is willing to fight so that the love of his life stays by his side permanently.
Hadley is Zach's ex-girlfriend, the girl who disappeared overnight with the sole objective of saving her life, she managed to achieve her dreams and although her life is far from ideal, Hadley has her younger sister, Danika, by her side, unfortunately she is forced to run away again and search for Zach after 11 years without communication. She's a very strong, brave and independent woman, kind with a good heart and who loves being a teacher, a good girl, that's why it was so frustrating to read how she finds herself alone in the world when she needs someone to support herself, even so, I really enjoyed her, the way she faced Zach after so many years and the decisions she made throughout the book.
And even though things weren't easy at first, Zach & Hadley share a special bond that has continued over the years: together they are the sweetest, most tender and adorable, I particularly loved that Hadley finally found in Zach someone to trust, lean on and feel safe with, that he knew how to understand the reason behind her absence and that he always gave her the space she needed, that's why it's my favorite.
🩷Zach: 4.5/5
🩷Hadley: 5/5
🩷Plot: 4.5/5
🩷Love story: 5/5
🩷Secondary characters: 3/5
🩷Universe: 5/5
🩷Cover: 4/5
🌶️: 2/5
🇪🇸
ARC amablemente proporcionada a cambio de una reseña honesta
Puntuación: 4.5/5⭐
Zach fue mi Dare favorito desde que conocí a esta familia y estaba muriendo por leerlo. Su historia con Hadley fue como la esperaba y al mismo tiempo Carly Phillips me tomó por sorpresa con la dinámica entre estos dos y los personajes que los rodean, sin duda alguna valió la pena la espera.
Zach es el único soltero de los Dare, dueño de dos bares y una agencia de investigación privada especializada en encontrar a personas desaparecidas, algo que se volvió su mete cuando su novia de la preparatoria desapareció sin dejar rastro y que dejo a un Zach con muchas preguntas, sintiéndose desesperado y un poco perdido. La historia personal de este personaje es de las más interesantes en la serie, me encantó conocer más de su pasado, leer más del amor que Zach tiene por su familia, su amistad con Remy y todos los sentimientos que experimenta cuando Hadley vuelve a su vida, aún cuando las cosas no son sencillas para él. Zach es un hombre muy dulce, tierno y detallista que esta dispuesto a pelear para que el amor de su vida se quede a su lado de manera definitiva.
Hadley es a ex novia de Zach, la chica que desapareció de la noche a la mañana con el único objetivo de salvar su vida, logro alcanzar sus sueños y aunque su vida está lejos de ser ideal, Hadley tiene a su hermana menor, Danika, a su lado, desafortunadamente se ve forzada a huir de nuevo y buscar a Zach después de 11 años sin comunicación. Ella es una mujer muy fuerte, valiente e independiente, amable de buen corazón y que ama ser profesora, una chica buena, por eso fue tan frustrante leer como se encuentra sola en el mundo cuando más necesita a alguien para apoyarse, aún así, disfrute mucho de ella, de la manera en la que enfrentó a Zach después de tantos años y las decisiones que tomó a lo largo del libro.
Y aún cuando las cosas no fueron sencillas al principio, Zach & Hadley comparten un vinculo especial que se ha mantenido con el paso de los años: juntos son los más dulces, tiernos y adorables, me encantó particularmente que Hadley por fin encontrara en Zach alguien en quien confiar, apoyarse y con quien sentirse segura, que él supiera entender la razón detrás de su ausencia y que siempre le diera el espacio que ella necesitaba, por eso es mi favorito.
🩷Zach: 4.5/5
🩷Hadley: 5/5
🩷Trama: 4.5/5
🩷Historia de amor: 5/5
🩷Personajes secundarios: 3/5
🩷Universo: 5/5
🩷Portada: 4/5
🌶️: 2/5
February 11, 2024
I am a sucker for second chance romances! Loved Zach and Hadley's story!!
April 24, 2024
This is my favorite in The Kingston Family series. Can a lost teenage love be rekindled? I really loved the way this story progressed and the conclusion was great! 8 out of 10.
November 5, 2025
It’s what it is. Not a deep plot, not deep characters, in bed every other page, but not particularly spicy, either.
January 13, 2025
Second chance romance with a storyline filled with suspense and mystery.
Note: I read this book as a standalone and I must say I was overwhelmed with the side characters and couldn't follow so I would highly suggest to read in order in order to know the other characters.
This book was nice; it was nothing very fancy or different from books of similar type. I didn't feel the emotion or spark between the characters much, but I did get the gist of the MMC's personality given that he let her in and helped in any way possible and the FMC for being strong... though I don't know why she was insistent on heading back to the place where threat was still looming. Also, third person POV by itself is a bit confusing and messy but I sometimes felt in this book that instead of each sections focusing on one of the characters as sole focus and talking from their perspective in third person, it kind of got a bit messy here and there. Apart from that, this is a good read but it doesn't "keep you at the edge of your seat".
Note: I read this book as a standalone and I must say I was overwhelmed with the side characters and couldn't follow so I would highly suggest to read in order in order to know the other characters.
This book was nice; it was nothing very fancy or different from books of similar type. I didn't feel the emotion or spark between the characters much, but I did get the gist of the MMC's personality given that he let her in and helped in any way possible and the FMC for being strong... though I don't know why she was insistent on heading back to the place where threat was still looming. Also, third person POV by itself is a bit confusing and messy but I sometimes felt in this book that instead of each sections focusing on one of the characters as sole focus and talking from their perspective in third person, it kind of got a bit messy here and there. Apart from that, this is a good read but it doesn't "keep you at the edge of your seat".
January 25, 2024
I’m gonna be honest,
this is one of the worst books i’ve ever listened to. okay there i guess there was a plot but like you could tell what was going to happen. While listening to this i always got distracted by something else and i couldn’t focus on what was happening. There was no smut at all (very sad). I guess some people like books like these but I’m normally very very attached to a book and want to listen to it where as this book I forced myself to read it.
this is one of the worst books i’ve ever listened to. okay there i guess there was a plot but like you could tell what was going to happen. While listening to this i always got distracted by something else and i couldn’t focus on what was happening. There was no smut at all (very sad). I guess some people like books like these but I’m normally very very attached to a book and want to listen to it where as this book I forced myself to read it.
January 25, 2024
After Zach being introduced in previous books, I was most excited for his story, but it fell flat for me, and I’m a little disappointed.
March 11, 2024
Sorry- narrators were awful. Characters were awful. Thought process was awful. Sex scenes, awful. Totally not a fan. The only reason I finished it, is I wanted to see how it ended
November 14, 2023
A sexy second chance romance
5 stars
Zach is the last Dare sibling standing and so, I suppose, this might just be the last Dare book that we get from Carly Phillips! Say it isn’t so! If you are an avid reader of Carly Phillips, Zach is part of the large Dare family that crossed into the Kingston clan. While he’s appeared in previous books in the series, and mostly in the previous book, Just One Fling, you don’t have to have read any other books to enjoy and understand this story which completely stands alone.
We start off with Hadley, who after having to leave her life and enter the witness protection programme at 16, suddenly finds herself in the same position again. But this time she’s an adult and the only person she can think of to run to is the very same boy she ran out on all those years ago. Hadley is a great character - strong and confident, taking charge of her life and looking after her younger sister, even when she doesn’t quite feel as strong as she thinks she should be. I liked her a lot and was rooting for her.
Zach is a delicious hero. All strong and broody - still hung up on the girl that suddenly disappeared from his life when he was a teen. When she comes back, he’s stunned - and very angry. But he’s very self-aware and he listens and understands. From there, it definitely feels like he falls back in love first. Or at the very least realises he never fell out of love. I was surprised how much I loved him being the one who was wanting something more.
There was a time - a very short time - when there was no rekindling between our pair but that doesn’t last long. Zach and Hadley have a huge amount of chemistry and it was definitely a bit more adult this time around. Perfectly delicious sex scenes as you would expect from Carly Phillips’ stories.
We also have Hadley’s sister, Dani, as a secondary character. She was a teen and was a likeable character - if that’s the right word - but I was very glad that she went to stay at Zach’s parent’s house leaving Zach and Hadley together to figure things out. It would have been a very different, cock-blocking kind of story, had Dani been in the same household as our couple!
This was a fairly short story at just under 200 pages. But it whizzes by and I was hooked from the first to the last. There’s lots of different things going on but we never lose our focus from the romance and story of Zach and Hadley. They’re the main focus and I loved them as a couple. I especially loved the way everything was resolved. It was just felt a little different and in a way where both Zach and Hadley were the driving force of getting things sorted. It made me smile.
While this may be the last of the Dare books, we do get a teaser that we might be getting to know another family, the Sterlings. And it’s all tied up in a lovely epilogue of Zach and Hadley. I adore an epilogue! And I’m sure that we might get a few more Dare relatives coming out of the woodwork at some point in the future. And I’d be a-okay with that scenario. This is another sure-fire Dare winner and a book that cements Carly Phillips as one of my very favourite auto-buy authors. 5 stars.
November 15, 2023
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When Hadley needs help, she turns to the one man who probably wants nothing to do with her. Back when they were in high school, in love and ready to go to prom, she, her sister, and her dad were whisked into Witness Protection, and she wasn't allowed to say goodbye to Zach, or anyone for that matter. All these years since, she's been sustained by the love they had, but knows he probably hates her for ghosting him. So to turn to him for help means she's just that desperate. Will he turn her away? Or does he have even just an ounce of positive feelings left for her?
I love second chance romances, especially when the couple deserve that second chance, work to obtain it, and their love has only deepened in the years since. Zach had a hard time forgiving and trusting Hadley when she reappeared in his life, but it was inevitable that they'd fall back into love, that they'd never gotten over each other. Throw in some suspense and a little action to round out the relationship - Just One Tease is a great second chance with a deserving couple, an fabulous secondary cast for support, and a preview of Remy's upcoming story, I can't wait for it now.
ARC provided by Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.
Ebook also purchased through Amazon.
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October 27, 2023
*An advance reader copy was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*
Zach Dare is the last sibling standing… His brothers and sister have found their person. Not that Zach’s hurting for anything. He has two successful bars ~ one in New York City and one out in the Hamptons where his family has homes. He also has a PI business with his partner, Remy. Zach is that brother that the rest of the family turns to when they need some information. Plus, he has a piece of the family’s Dare Spirits business, as they all do.
What Zach doesn’t have is anyone to share his life with. Back when he was a teenager, he was in love with Mia Roberts. After a day spent together, Zach dropped her off with plans to pick her up the next night for his prom, but when he arrived, Mia’s family had disappeared. This changed the course of Zach’s life and made him the man he is today.
Ten years have passed since Mia, now going by Hadley Stephens, has seen Zach Dare. Back then it wasn’t her choice to relocate but she had no choice thanks to her father’s dirty dealings. Once again, it seems that her father has gotten himself in trouble. Hadley is approached one afternoon when she’s leaving the school where she teaches and is given a “message” for her father. It seems that he’s never learned. Upon arriving home, her father tells her to pack up her sister and run. He’ll let her know when it’s safe to come home. Even though it’s been years since Hadley has seen him, she knows that Zach is the one who could protect her and Dani from the bad guys if he even lets them in the door.
You can sense the pull between them when they meet again, this time as adults, when Hadley and Dani walk into Zach’s NYC bar that’s hosting a family party. Zach wants to be mad, hurt and all the emotions in between, but once he hears that they need help, he quickly puts a plan into motion. He sends her sister home with his parents and youngest sister, who’s not much older than Dani. Hadley goes home with him, while he and Remy try to figure out what’s going on with her father this time.
Hadley knows that she still has feelings for Zach, but he’s not opening himself up to her, at least at first. Once Hadley explains what happened all those years ago, the hurt that Zach has been holding on to mostly dissipates. The walls come down and they give in to those feelings. However, Hadley has told Zach that once it’s safe to return home, she will leave to get her and Dani’s lives back on track.
As time goes on, both Hadley and Dani are completely accepted into Zach’s and his family’s lives. But is that enough for her to stay? Is she actually strong enough to walk away from Zach on her own this time? And was Zach just going to accept that this is the right thing for Hadley to do? He needed to get to the bottom of her father’s mess and then prove to Hadley that they belonged together. Is she going to realize before it’s too late that Zach is her person and where she is meant to be?
I love love love second chance romance and Carly Phillips gave us the story that Zach deserves. I’m sad that this is the end of the Dare and Kingston families, but I have a feeling next up is Zach’s partner Remy and a certain beauty that manages their New York City Bar. There’s definitely a story there that needs to be told.
Zach Dare is the last sibling standing… His brothers and sister have found their person. Not that Zach’s hurting for anything. He has two successful bars ~ one in New York City and one out in the Hamptons where his family has homes. He also has a PI business with his partner, Remy. Zach is that brother that the rest of the family turns to when they need some information. Plus, he has a piece of the family’s Dare Spirits business, as they all do.
What Zach doesn’t have is anyone to share his life with. Back when he was a teenager, he was in love with Mia Roberts. After a day spent together, Zach dropped her off with plans to pick her up the next night for his prom, but when he arrived, Mia’s family had disappeared. This changed the course of Zach’s life and made him the man he is today.
Ten years have passed since Mia, now going by Hadley Stephens, has seen Zach Dare. Back then it wasn’t her choice to relocate but she had no choice thanks to her father’s dirty dealings. Once again, it seems that her father has gotten himself in trouble. Hadley is approached one afternoon when she’s leaving the school where she teaches and is given a “message” for her father. It seems that he’s never learned. Upon arriving home, her father tells her to pack up her sister and run. He’ll let her know when it’s safe to come home. Even though it’s been years since Hadley has seen him, she knows that Zach is the one who could protect her and Dani from the bad guys if he even lets them in the door.
You can sense the pull between them when they meet again, this time as adults, when Hadley and Dani walk into Zach’s NYC bar that’s hosting a family party. Zach wants to be mad, hurt and all the emotions in between, but once he hears that they need help, he quickly puts a plan into motion. He sends her sister home with his parents and youngest sister, who’s not much older than Dani. Hadley goes home with him, while he and Remy try to figure out what’s going on with her father this time.
Hadley knows that she still has feelings for Zach, but he’s not opening himself up to her, at least at first. Once Hadley explains what happened all those years ago, the hurt that Zach has been holding on to mostly dissipates. The walls come down and they give in to those feelings. However, Hadley has told Zach that once it’s safe to return home, she will leave to get her and Dani’s lives back on track.
As time goes on, both Hadley and Dani are completely accepted into Zach’s and his family’s lives. But is that enough for her to stay? Is she actually strong enough to walk away from Zach on her own this time? And was Zach just going to accept that this is the right thing for Hadley to do? He needed to get to the bottom of her father’s mess and then prove to Hadley that they belonged together. Is she going to realize before it’s too late that Zach is her person and where she is meant to be?
I love love love second chance romance and Carly Phillips gave us the story that Zach deserves. I’m sad that this is the end of the Dare and Kingston families, but I have a feeling next up is Zach’s partner Remy and a certain beauty that manages their New York City Bar. There’s definitely a story there that needs to be told.
November 14, 2023
Check out our full post for JUST ONE TEASE on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆
M/F Second-Chance Romance
Hadley finds herself in need of something, but when you're told to take your sister and get away and stay away, your mind might not be thinking super clear. When Hadley sees her old boyfriend – the one she had to leave behind all of those years ago – she takes it as a sign. He will know how to protect her sister. That's all that matters to Hadley.
Zach never forgot Hadley. He looked for her and found nothing for years. And while it was his ability to search that landed him some lucrative jobs, he always wondered.
When Hadley and Zach find each other again, it's not under the best of circumstances. However, Zach isn't able to turn his back on Hadley and Hadley isn't willing to just let things be. She needs him.
With forces trying to separate Zach and Hadley again, it will take everyone in the family to help these two figure out how to trust, love, and be safe again.
You won't be disappointed in this story. It's a little predictable, but it's a fun read.
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the ninth book in the series, and I definitely would recommend that you read them all, as they are really good reads. Zach really was last man standing – mainly because after his first love disappeared on the day of their high school prom, he has never really got past the betrayal. Then she turns back up in his life and needs his help.
The start of this story is pretty tense, and I was delighted that Hadley made it safely out of Illinois with her sister, Dani. She has no choice but to ask for help, and a chance sighting of an article about Zach sends her towards New York City.
As the two of them try and reconcile their ten years apart, realise how much they still care, but also that Hadley and Dani have a life elsewhere, possibly, we are invested in them resolving the complexities left them by Hadley's dad, and how to forgive and move forward.
I really enjoyed the tension – both sexual and due to the situation – which keep these two people on edge and trying to do the right thing. It was also fun that Zach's family are happy to pitch in and give their advice.
Excellent news hinted at the end that Remy might finally find a way to find his happily ever after with Raven!
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
November 22, 2023
A satisfying ending to the series!
This is the final story in this series, for the last single brother standing, Zach Dare. He comes from a wealthy family, but he's now wealthy in his own right, with the sale of a lucrative app, 2 successful bars, and a PI business. But, the one woman he could never find was his high school girlfriend, who disappeared before prom without a trace, leaving him heartbroken. He's never forgotten her, and as time has gone on, he's become more angry with her and the situation, thinking it will never be resolved.
Hadley Stevens is on the run with her younger sister, Dani, after her father made a dangerous mistake. AGAIN. Hadley didn't used to be her name, and she's worked hard over the last 10 years to forget about her old life. The one she had to leave for the Witness Protection program. But, there's one thing she could never forget: her first love, Zach Dare. And when she needs help, he's the first person she thinks of to run to.
When Hadley walks into Zach's bar, SPARKS FLY, in so many ways. Zach is so ANGRY at her, and she's so sad with how she had to leave things. But she was still a kid, and had no choice but to leave with her dad and sister when the FBI came calling. When they reconnect, they finally get to say everything they wish they could've said before, and it's so satisfying. Zach finally comes to terms with her disappearance, and he's desperate to help her stay safe in her current predicament. Hadley has to figure out how Zach can possibly fit in to the new life she's built for herself.
Dani was a great side character. She was a typical teenage girl, and younger sister, without being annoying, or acting too mature for her age. I loved the bond between Dani and Hadley, as Hadley has basically raised her, and they have the closeness that illustrates that. She fit right in with the extended Dare clan immediately, and I loved seeing all the Kingstons and Dares from earlier in the series here too.
I'm excited for Zach's business partner, Remy, and their bar manager, Raven's story next! Can't wait to see where this Carly Phillips universe takes us!
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. This review is my personal opinion, voluntarily given.
Reviewed by Megan from Romanced by the Book
This is the final story in this series, for the last single brother standing, Zach Dare. He comes from a wealthy family, but he's now wealthy in his own right, with the sale of a lucrative app, 2 successful bars, and a PI business. But, the one woman he could never find was his high school girlfriend, who disappeared before prom without a trace, leaving him heartbroken. He's never forgotten her, and as time has gone on, he's become more angry with her and the situation, thinking it will never be resolved.
Hadley Stevens is on the run with her younger sister, Dani, after her father made a dangerous mistake. AGAIN. Hadley didn't used to be her name, and she's worked hard over the last 10 years to forget about her old life. The one she had to leave for the Witness Protection program. But, there's one thing she could never forget: her first love, Zach Dare. And when she needs help, he's the first person she thinks of to run to.
When Hadley walks into Zach's bar, SPARKS FLY, in so many ways. Zach is so ANGRY at her, and she's so sad with how she had to leave things. But she was still a kid, and had no choice but to leave with her dad and sister when the FBI came calling. When they reconnect, they finally get to say everything they wish they could've said before, and it's so satisfying. Zach finally comes to terms with her disappearance, and he's desperate to help her stay safe in her current predicament. Hadley has to figure out how Zach can possibly fit in to the new life she's built for herself.
Dani was a great side character. She was a typical teenage girl, and younger sister, without being annoying, or acting too mature for her age. I loved the bond between Dani and Hadley, as Hadley has basically raised her, and they have the closeness that illustrates that. She fit right in with the extended Dare clan immediately, and I loved seeing all the Kingstons and Dares from earlier in the series here too.
I'm excited for Zach's business partner, Remy, and their bar manager, Raven's story next! Can't wait to see where this Carly Phillips universe takes us!
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. This review is my personal opinion, voluntarily given.
Reviewed by Megan from Romanced by the Book
November 13, 2023
4.25stars—JUST ONE TEASE is the ninth instalment in Carly Phillips’ contemporary, adult THE KINGSTON FAMILY erotic, romance series. This is bar owner and Private Investigator Zach Dare, and English teacher Hadley Stevens’ story line. JUST ONE TEASE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Zach and Hadley) JUST ONE TEASE follows the second chance romance between our story line couple. On the night of their senior prom Hadley Stevens aka Mia, ghosted her boyfriend and childhood friend Zach Dare, leaving Zach wondering what happened and why. Fast forward to present day, Hadley and her sister Dani show up at Zach Dare’s bar, desperate for help in the wake of trouble back home. Coming face to face with the woman who broke his heart, Zach struggles to come to terms with Hadley’s betrayal but secrets revealed show Zach there is more to the story than he could have ever imagined, and he and Hadley are about to be thrown into a nightmare, not of their making. What ensues is the rekindling romance and relationship between Hadley and Zach, and the potential fall-out as the sins of the father threaten our story line couple.
The world building continues to focus on the Dare/Kingston extended and combined family of brothers, sisters, cousins and friends. Hadley grew to love the Dare family but betraying Zach meant betrayal the family as well.
The relationship between Hadley and Zach is one of second chances. Hadley ghosted Zach without explanation but neither one found love with anyone else. Zach battles between head and heart, struggling to forgive the woman he once loved; Hadley knows her time with Zach comes with an expiry date when all is said and done. The $ex scenes are passionate and seductive without the use of over the top sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters, many of whom we met in the previous storylines.We are introduced to Hadley’s thirteen year old sister Dani, as well as their questionable and embattled parents.
JUST ONE TEASE is a story of betrayal and deceit, secrets and lies, family and friendships, forgiveness and love. The premise is riveting and captivating; the romance is impassioned; the characters are edgy and determined.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Zach and Hadley) JUST ONE TEASE follows the second chance romance between our story line couple. On the night of their senior prom Hadley Stevens aka Mia, ghosted her boyfriend and childhood friend Zach Dare, leaving Zach wondering what happened and why. Fast forward to present day, Hadley and her sister Dani show up at Zach Dare’s bar, desperate for help in the wake of trouble back home. Coming face to face with the woman who broke his heart, Zach struggles to come to terms with Hadley’s betrayal but secrets revealed show Zach there is more to the story than he could have ever imagined, and he and Hadley are about to be thrown into a nightmare, not of their making. What ensues is the rekindling romance and relationship between Hadley and Zach, and the potential fall-out as the sins of the father threaten our story line couple.
The world building continues to focus on the Dare/Kingston extended and combined family of brothers, sisters, cousins and friends. Hadley grew to love the Dare family but betraying Zach meant betrayal the family as well.
The relationship between Hadley and Zach is one of second chances. Hadley ghosted Zach without explanation but neither one found love with anyone else. Zach battles between head and heart, struggling to forgive the woman he once loved; Hadley knows her time with Zach comes with an expiry date when all is said and done. The $ex scenes are passionate and seductive without the use of over the top sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters, many of whom we met in the previous storylines.We are introduced to Hadley’s thirteen year old sister Dani, as well as their questionable and embattled parents.
JUST ONE TEASE is a story of betrayal and deceit, secrets and lies, family and friendships, forgiveness and love. The premise is riveting and captivating; the romance is impassioned; the characters are edgy and determined.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
November 16, 2023
Zach Dare is finally here
The last single Dare finally gets to tell their story, and it's the one I've been waiting for. JUST ONE TEASE is an emotional second chance romance involving anger, understanding, tears, laughter, family, and of course, love.
Zach Dare has always been my favourite Dare, he's the alpha, strong and broody. He's the owner of two successful bars and a P.I. specializing in locating missing persons. As a teenager he was meant to take his girlfriend to their prom, yet she disappeared, he searched for her without any success. Heartbroken, his life continued, yet he never found love again.
Hadley Stevens has lived a quiet life with her father and her younger sister. Her life changed eleven years ago when her family suddenly had to leave their home. Hadley spent that time practically raising her younger sister, Dani, and fulfilling her dream of becoming a teacher, life wasn't easy, but she was content. Unexpectedly her life changes again and Hadley finds herself on the run, taking Dani with her, heading toward the only person she could trust, Zach Dare, the boy she never forgot.
Hadley's sudden return throws Zach's emotions into turmoil, he will do anything to keep her safe while trying to keep his heart at a safe distance. Even though it's been more than a decade since Zach and Hadley had seen each other it's obvious that their chemistry, attraction, and connection are still there and still strong, will they be strong enough to keep Zach and Hadley together? While Zach and his best friend and partner, Remy, try to Hadley, she's determined to see everything through and then return home. As time passes and they spend more time together, Zach and Hadley's walls begin to crumble. He is sweet, caring, and still full of love for the girl he lost and the woman he has come to know, he wants her back, but will Hadley realise too late that Zach is the only man for her?
Once again, the entire Dare family is present, which means plenty of laughter, teasing, antics and love. Zach and Hadley's story was far from what I expected, the strength, love, and care between them was exquisitely written. Sadly though, it means the end of the Dare family stories, but I'm sure Carly Phillips will ensure there will be another family to love.
DARE TO TEASE is another heartwarming story from Carly and another MUST READ.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE SECOND CHANCE STARS ✨✨✨✨✨
The last single Dare finally gets to tell their story, and it's the one I've been waiting for. JUST ONE TEASE is an emotional second chance romance involving anger, understanding, tears, laughter, family, and of course, love.
Zach Dare has always been my favourite Dare, he's the alpha, strong and broody. He's the owner of two successful bars and a P.I. specializing in locating missing persons. As a teenager he was meant to take his girlfriend to their prom, yet she disappeared, he searched for her without any success. Heartbroken, his life continued, yet he never found love again.
Hadley Stevens has lived a quiet life with her father and her younger sister. Her life changed eleven years ago when her family suddenly had to leave their home. Hadley spent that time practically raising her younger sister, Dani, and fulfilling her dream of becoming a teacher, life wasn't easy, but she was content. Unexpectedly her life changes again and Hadley finds herself on the run, taking Dani with her, heading toward the only person she could trust, Zach Dare, the boy she never forgot.
Hadley's sudden return throws Zach's emotions into turmoil, he will do anything to keep her safe while trying to keep his heart at a safe distance. Even though it's been more than a decade since Zach and Hadley had seen each other it's obvious that their chemistry, attraction, and connection are still there and still strong, will they be strong enough to keep Zach and Hadley together? While Zach and his best friend and partner, Remy, try to Hadley, she's determined to see everything through and then return home. As time passes and they spend more time together, Zach and Hadley's walls begin to crumble. He is sweet, caring, and still full of love for the girl he lost and the woman he has come to know, he wants her back, but will Hadley realise too late that Zach is the only man for her?
Once again, the entire Dare family is present, which means plenty of laughter, teasing, antics and love. Zach and Hadley's story was far from what I expected, the strength, love, and care between them was exquisitely written. Sadly though, it means the end of the Dare family stories, but I'm sure Carly Phillips will ensure there will be another family to love.
DARE TO TEASE is another heartwarming story from Carly and another MUST READ.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE SECOND CHANCE STARS ✨✨✨✨✨
November 14, 2023
Just One Tease is Zach Dare's book and all I can say is it was totally worth the wait! Zach has always been a bit of a mystery, and I loved learning about his past as he and Hadley reconnected.
Zach is the last single Dare among his siblings who have all found their person and their HEA. Zach knows he found his person years ago, and then she disappeared with no warning and no contact all these years...until Hadley and her younger sister Dani show up in his bar in NYC. Hadley is once again on the run with her little sister, only this time she runs to Zach in hopes that he can help keep them safe. The chemistry between Zach and Hadley was smoking hot from the moment they saw each other again. I absolutely loved that even though Zach was still hurt from Hadley's disappearance, he was willing to keep both her and Dani safe from the beginning.
I absolutely loved Zach and Hadley getting their second chance at love. Their connection was so strong, and their chemistry was off the charts HOT!!! I loved Zach's family accepted Hadley and Dani into the family pretty much from day one. The suspense element in this story was strong throughout the entire book. I loved that Zach and his business partner Remy stepped up in a big way to keep Hadley and Dani safe while figuring out what was going on with their father. Hadley is one of the strongest female characters in this series. She pretty much has had to be the adult in her family since they were put into witness protection as a teenager. She all but raises her teen sister, and neither of Dani's parents seem to have her best interests at heart, and she is the primary person responsible for keeping a roof over their heads and food on the table. She also hasn't had much say in how her life goes because of having to step up at such a young age to care for everyone. I got her need to make her own decisions about her future instead of just once again letting people tell her what to do. I loved that Zach was a strong enough man to accept Hadley and her needs, and trusted her no matter what.
Just One Tease was the perfect story for Zach and Hadley, and gave me all the happy feels! I've loved each and every book in this series, and am so excited to see we will get to spend time with these characters in the Sterling Family series coming soon from Carly Phillips. I can't wait to read Remy's book when it is released in early 2024!
Rating: 5 Stars (A+)
Review copy provided by publisher
Zach is the last single Dare among his siblings who have all found their person and their HEA. Zach knows he found his person years ago, and then she disappeared with no warning and no contact all these years...until Hadley and her younger sister Dani show up in his bar in NYC. Hadley is once again on the run with her little sister, only this time she runs to Zach in hopes that he can help keep them safe. The chemistry between Zach and Hadley was smoking hot from the moment they saw each other again. I absolutely loved that even though Zach was still hurt from Hadley's disappearance, he was willing to keep both her and Dani safe from the beginning.
I absolutely loved Zach and Hadley getting their second chance at love. Their connection was so strong, and their chemistry was off the charts HOT!!! I loved Zach's family accepted Hadley and Dani into the family pretty much from day one. The suspense element in this story was strong throughout the entire book. I loved that Zach and his business partner Remy stepped up in a big way to keep Hadley and Dani safe while figuring out what was going on with their father. Hadley is one of the strongest female characters in this series. She pretty much has had to be the adult in her family since they were put into witness protection as a teenager. She all but raises her teen sister, and neither of Dani's parents seem to have her best interests at heart, and she is the primary person responsible for keeping a roof over their heads and food on the table. She also hasn't had much say in how her life goes because of having to step up at such a young age to care for everyone. I got her need to make her own decisions about her future instead of just once again letting people tell her what to do. I loved that Zach was a strong enough man to accept Hadley and her needs, and trusted her no matter what.
Just One Tease was the perfect story for Zach and Hadley, and gave me all the happy feels! I've loved each and every book in this series, and am so excited to see we will get to spend time with these characters in the Sterling Family series coming soon from Carly Phillips. I can't wait to read Remy's book when it is released in early 2024!
Rating: 5 Stars (A+)
Review copy provided by publisher
November 13, 2023
Just One Tease is the 10th book in the Kingston Family series by Carly Phillips, featuring a steamy second chance romantic suspense story for Zach and Hadley. Zach Dare thought he found the one in high school, until she disappeared without a trace right before prom. Losing her like that changed the entire course of his life, so when she showed back up 10 years later with a new name and her teenage sister in tow begging for help, his world tilted once again. He was angry, confused, curious, and yes, still drawn to her. Once she came clean about the past, his priority had to be keeping them safe, but he couldn’t deny the connection and passion between them. Do they have a chance for a future, or is Zach destined to get his heart broken again?
Finally! I’ve been waiting for this story, and it did not disappoint! These characters are so compelling and authentic in the emotion, and the chemistry between Zach and Hadley sizzles right off the page!!🔥🔥 The suspense aspect starts right away and stays entertaining throughout with a couple twists and turns, including an interesting little side caper that I bet is a character layer that will pop up in a later story!😉 I just love the way the characters in this world come together in the light-hearted moments with the witty banter, and in the dramatic moments with formidable family support. Hadley is an inspirational character with the way she sacrificed in order to raise her sister. I just love that the girls will have all the support of the Dare/Kingston family now. I enjoyed every sweet, spicy, and suspenseful, minute, and I can’t wait to see who’s story comes next!!
I received a review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶️
#carlyphillips #justonetease #kingstonfamily #darefamily #romanticsuspense #FamilySaga #BillionaireRomance #SecondChance #ForcedProximity #newbookalert #lovereading #bookcommunity #reading #bookish #romancenovels #booknerds #bookishlove #mustread #ebooks #wildfiremarketingsolutions #bookstagram #romancebookstagram #bookrecommendation #romancebookreview #bookreview #arcreader #arcreviews #ARCreview
Finally! I’ve been waiting for this story, and it did not disappoint! These characters are so compelling and authentic in the emotion, and the chemistry between Zach and Hadley sizzles right off the page!!🔥🔥 The suspense aspect starts right away and stays entertaining throughout with a couple twists and turns, including an interesting little side caper that I bet is a character layer that will pop up in a later story!😉 I just love the way the characters in this world come together in the light-hearted moments with the witty banter, and in the dramatic moments with formidable family support. Hadley is an inspirational character with the way she sacrificed in order to raise her sister. I just love that the girls will have all the support of the Dare/Kingston family now. I enjoyed every sweet, spicy, and suspenseful, minute, and I can’t wait to see who’s story comes next!!
I received a review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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#carlyphillips #justonetease #kingstonfamily #darefamily #romanticsuspense #FamilySaga #BillionaireRomance #SecondChance #ForcedProximity #newbookalert #lovereading #bookcommunity #reading #bookish #romancenovels #booknerds #bookishlove #mustread #ebooks #wildfiremarketingsolutions #bookstagram #romancebookstagram #bookrecommendation #romancebookreview #bookreview #arcreader #arcreviews #ARCreview
November 14, 2023
Mia Roberts thought her life was perfect in high school. She was planning a future with Zach Dare and couldn't wait for their prom. Unfortunately, after Zach dropped her off from school, government officials were at her house telling her that she was leaving, getting a new name and moving. For the last eleven years Mia has been living as Hadley Stevens and her younger sister was now Danika. Always afraid to put Zach's life in danger, Hadley stayed away. Now it seems that it was all for naught....Hadley's dad got caught up in a bad situation again and now the bad guys are threatening her. Hadley's dad tells her to take Dani and run. Unsure what to do, Hadley decides to run to the only person in the world she has ever truly trusted.....Zach Dare in New York.
Zach cannot believe his eyes when he sees Hadley. She explains her story of why they suddenly left and he agrees to help her and her sister, but he will NOT fall for her again! In typical Dare fashion, the entire family rushes in to help. Dani ends up staying with Zach's parents and Hadley stays with Zach. Of course the more time Zach and Hadley spend together, the stronger those feelings come flying back until they finally give in to their temptations.
Soon Hadley realizes that the danger has followed her to New York and is surprised to see who is involved in their problems. Finally the situation comes to a head and everyone is safe. Now that the danger is gone, Hadley heads back to her life in Illinois. It doesn't take her long to realize that she had left something back in New York....her heart....so she and Dani permanently go back so Hadley can finally have her perfect happy ever after.
I just adored this steamy second chance at love story. I really loved Zach and Hadley and the chemistry they had together. Neither of them ever really moved on from each other and it was great that they were able to reunite. I enjoyed how Hadley fit right back in with the Dare's and also accepted Dani as one of their own. Next, I can't wait for Remy's story with Raven!
Zach cannot believe his eyes when he sees Hadley. She explains her story of why they suddenly left and he agrees to help her and her sister, but he will NOT fall for her again! In typical Dare fashion, the entire family rushes in to help. Dani ends up staying with Zach's parents and Hadley stays with Zach. Of course the more time Zach and Hadley spend together, the stronger those feelings come flying back until they finally give in to their temptations.
Soon Hadley realizes that the danger has followed her to New York and is surprised to see who is involved in their problems. Finally the situation comes to a head and everyone is safe. Now that the danger is gone, Hadley heads back to her life in Illinois. It doesn't take her long to realize that she had left something back in New York....her heart....so she and Dani permanently go back so Hadley can finally have her perfect happy ever after.
I just adored this steamy second chance at love story. I really loved Zach and Hadley and the chemistry they had together. Neither of them ever really moved on from each other and it was great that they were able to reunite. I enjoyed how Hadley fit right back in with the Dare's and also accepted Dani as one of their own. Next, I can't wait for Remy's story with Raven!
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