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West Investigations #1
Mad, Bad and Blonde
When a man's too good to be true...
Jilted on her wedding day for being the queen of dullsville, librarian Faith West goes on her Italian honeymoon solo, hoping to leave her pain behind. That could take a miracle, but she's about to discover miracles do happen. His name is Caine Hunter. Smart, spontaneous, hot, and sexy, he has her feeling like a real woman for the first time ever--until the truth surfaces...
A former Force Recon Marine turned PI, Caine was doing what he does best: spying. And his new target was Faith. But falling for the enemy's daughter was never part of his plan. Caine is a man used to winning, but this time his mission is much more personal--and now that he and Faith are both back in Chicago, the rewards could be, too...
Jilted on her wedding day for being the queen of dullsville, librarian Faith West goes on her Italian honeymoon solo, hoping to leave her pain behind. That could take a miracle, but she's about to discover miracles do happen. His name is Caine Hunter. Smart, spontaneous, hot, and sexy, he has her feeling like a real woman for the first time ever--until the truth surfaces...
A former Force Recon Marine turned PI, Caine was doing what he does best: spying. And his new target was Faith. But falling for the enemy's daughter was never part of his plan. Caine is a man used to winning, but this time his mission is much more personal--and now that he and Faith are both back in Chicago, the rewards could be, too...
275 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 11, 2010
26 people are currently reading
813 people want to read
About the author
Cathie Linz
98 books126 followersCathie Linz Baumgardner was an American librarian and a prolific romance novelist, publishing over 50 novels under the names Cathie Linz and Cat Devon. Her books, known for their humor and witty dialogue, have been translated into nearly 20 languages worldwide. She contributed to the acclaimed anthology Dangerous Men and Adventurous Women: Romance Writers on the Appeal of the Romance and received multiple honors, including the Romantic Times Career Achievement Storyteller of the Year, Reviewers' Choice Award, eHarlequin Readers' Choice Award, and Write Touch Award. An avid traveler, she lived in the Chicago area with her family and her cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
May 23, 2011
Mad Bad and Blonder was an enjoyable read, but not a blow my mind out one.
Faith West is about to get married when she gets a text from her fiancee that he can't marry her, her needs excitement. Well Faith is angry and goes off alone on her honeymoon since she always wanted to go to Italy. Faith is a librarian but she is also an ace-shooter and holds a PI license since her dad owns one of the biggest investigating companies.
Caine Hunter is an ex-marine on a mission, to keep an eye on Faith. He is working for Faith's father arch-rival and also has an axe to grind, he blames Faith's father for his father's suicide and believes that he was falsely blamed for a theft.
Unexpectedly for Caine sparks fly between them and they end up in bed but Faith finds out that he lied to her, since she does have deductive skills taught by her father and gets mad and usurps him by changing her look and escaping from right under his nose.
Well Faith has had many knocks in the past weeks but she takes it on the chin. Dumps her old job, her bed, her looks and joins her father's company and decides to find out if Caine was lying. Caine and Faith keep running into each other and let's just say they have chemistry and good banter.
I enjoyed the book. I like a heroine who is not wimpy and Faith fits that bill.
Faith West is about to get married when she gets a text from her fiancee that he can't marry her, her needs excitement. Well Faith is angry and goes off alone on her honeymoon since she always wanted to go to Italy. Faith is a librarian but she is also an ace-shooter and holds a PI license since her dad owns one of the biggest investigating companies.
Caine Hunter is an ex-marine on a mission, to keep an eye on Faith. He is working for Faith's father arch-rival and also has an axe to grind, he blames Faith's father for his father's suicide and believes that he was falsely blamed for a theft.
Unexpectedly for Caine sparks fly between them and they end up in bed but Faith finds out that he lied to her, since she does have deductive skills taught by her father and gets mad and usurps him by changing her look and escaping from right under his nose.
Well Faith has had many knocks in the past weeks but she takes it on the chin. Dumps her old job, her bed, her looks and joins her father's company and decides to find out if Caine was lying. Caine and Faith keep running into each other and let's just say they have chemistry and good banter.
I enjoyed the book. I like a heroine who is not wimpy and Faith fits that bill.
July 27, 2018
This went a lot better than I thought it would. I felt bad for Faith and I was glad that she met Caine. Even though he annoyed the crap out of her at first. Another cool thing about this books was that it took place not far from where I live.
May 30, 2017
Librarian Faith West never expected her wedding to end with a text from her fiancee, well now ex. Deciding she is not boring like her ex inferred, she takes off for her singlemoon (honeymoon). It doesn't take long before she realizes she is just as sad there as she would be at home but then she meets fellow traveler Caine Hunter. Faith knows she is not the type to get involved in a fling but she jumps full in with Caine, that is until he finds out he works for her dad's competitor and was sent to spy on her. What happens next is the push she needed to make sure Caine know he made a big mistake with her because now she is mad, bad, and blonde.
You will get the full spectrum of the title while reading but this was an absolute delight. Faith manages to catch Caine off guard and they end up joining forces on an investigation into his father who he believes was falsely accused by Faith's dad. If your looking for a laugh out loud book to put a smile on your face this is one to pick up.
You will get the full spectrum of the title while reading but this was an absolute delight. Faith manages to catch Caine off guard and they end up joining forces on an investigation into his father who he believes was falsely accused by Faith's dad. If your looking for a laugh out loud book to put a smile on your face this is one to pick up.
April 1, 2010
It's about a librarian in Italy. Awesome:) Or so I thought....
This was a terrible book. Absolutely terrible. I thought, "Oh, she's blond like me. Oh, she's been to Italy like me. Oh, she likes libraries like me." Yeah none of that mattered. I don't know if I just can't read romance novels anymore or what, but it felt like the writing was meant for a child. The subject matter was a little bit more adult, but mostly they just argued with each other and themselves like they were in middle school. Silly and not worth it.
This was a terrible book. Absolutely terrible. I thought, "Oh, she's blond like me. Oh, she's been to Italy like me. Oh, she likes libraries like me." Yeah none of that mattered. I don't know if I just can't read romance novels anymore or what, but it felt like the writing was meant for a child. The subject matter was a little bit more adult, but mostly they just argued with each other and themselves like they were in middle school. Silly and not worth it.
May 13, 2010
If you're looking for a serious romance with lots of drama and passion, move on to something else. But if you're looking for a fun, quick, humorous read, Mad, Bad and Blonde fits the bill.
February 23, 2014
Mad, Bad, and Blonde is another fabulous title from Cathie Linz. I am admittedly biased toward stories that feature librarian characters, but I also just love anything that Cathie Linz writes. I definitely recommend this story, along with Linz's other titles like, Tempted Again, Big Girls Don't Cry, or Smart Girls Think Twice.
April 1, 2010
Children's librarian Faith West is left at the altar by text message on her Blackberry from her fiancé Alan who doesn't want to be married to her. He longs for adventure and excitement and doesn't want Faith because he feels she's boring. Faith is crushed, but decides to suck it up and go on her honeymoon to Positano, Italy by herself. And it's a good thing Alan hopped on a plane to Bali because Faith is a crack shot with a gun, thanks to her father who first took her to the firing range when she was ten.
While in Italy, Faith meets a dark, mysterious and sexy Caine Hunter. What she doesn’t know is that Caine is spying on her. This former Force Recon Marine works for King Investigations, a rival company of her father's. Vince King and Jeff West used to be best friends, but King betrayed him by starting his own agency, even thought West owns the most successful investigation firm in Chicago. Caine has a secret agenda. He has a grudge against Jeff because he blames him for his father's death. Faith is floored because she ended up sleeping with Caine in Italy and has been played for a fool once again.
Faith runs back home, quits her librarian job she never really cared for, and starts working for her father. She is more than angry with Caine and will beat him at his own gain and steal his clients. Caine had no idea what he was getting into when he scorned Faith and now has to work double time as he investigate his father's death. Faith refuses to be pushed to the side and recommends they team up to clear her father's name.
Caine thinks Faith can't handle the undercover work, although he likes having her around, as well as protecting her at the same time. Faith is under even more stress. Her mother thinks her father is having an affair and Alan suddenly re-enters the pictures, wanting to pick up where he and Faith left off. Caine isn't too happy about that and will claim Faith as his own before that can happen.
Mad, Bad and Blonde has its moments of humor and some slapstick comedy, even though some of these ha-ha scene don't deliver as they should. Faith and Caine have great chemistry together, but things between them are a bit too rushed. The first fifty pages or so happens so fast and the attraction Caine and Faith have for one another is not all that realistic, especially with Faith trying to get over being dumped by her slimy fiancé.
As Faith and Caine become partners of sorts. Their interactions cement their feelings and their banter back and forth is very amusing and sweet. Faith knows how to handle herself when the going gets tough and has a great support system with her family. Caine acts like a loner, but once Faith enters into the picture, he feels as if he belongs.
Mad, Bad and Blonde is a quick, fast read that may make your head spin by the non- stop action. Those readers, who enjoy a loopy, contemporary romance with some light mystery, will want to give this latest by Cathie Linz a read.
While in Italy, Faith meets a dark, mysterious and sexy Caine Hunter. What she doesn’t know is that Caine is spying on her. This former Force Recon Marine works for King Investigations, a rival company of her father's. Vince King and Jeff West used to be best friends, but King betrayed him by starting his own agency, even thought West owns the most successful investigation firm in Chicago. Caine has a secret agenda. He has a grudge against Jeff because he blames him for his father's death. Faith is floored because she ended up sleeping with Caine in Italy and has been played for a fool once again.
Faith runs back home, quits her librarian job she never really cared for, and starts working for her father. She is more than angry with Caine and will beat him at his own gain and steal his clients. Caine had no idea what he was getting into when he scorned Faith and now has to work double time as he investigate his father's death. Faith refuses to be pushed to the side and recommends they team up to clear her father's name.
Caine thinks Faith can't handle the undercover work, although he likes having her around, as well as protecting her at the same time. Faith is under even more stress. Her mother thinks her father is having an affair and Alan suddenly re-enters the pictures, wanting to pick up where he and Faith left off. Caine isn't too happy about that and will claim Faith as his own before that can happen.
Mad, Bad and Blonde has its moments of humor and some slapstick comedy, even though some of these ha-ha scene don't deliver as they should. Faith and Caine have great chemistry together, but things between them are a bit too rushed. The first fifty pages or so happens so fast and the attraction Caine and Faith have for one another is not all that realistic, especially with Faith trying to get over being dumped by her slimy fiancé.
As Faith and Caine become partners of sorts. Their interactions cement their feelings and their banter back and forth is very amusing and sweet. Faith knows how to handle herself when the going gets tough and has a great support system with her family. Caine acts like a loner, but once Faith enters into the picture, he feels as if he belongs.
Mad, Bad and Blonde is a quick, fast read that may make your head spin by the non- stop action. Those readers, who enjoy a loopy, contemporary romance with some light mystery, will want to give this latest by Cathie Linz a read.
June 20, 2010
Faith West finds herself dumped at the altar by of all things, a text message. Leaving her family to clean up the mess, Faith decides to go on to Italy by herself where she would have honeymooned. She runs into Caine Hunter and being on the rebound and romantic Italy, she sleeps with him. Afterwards she finds out that Caine was working for her father's arch rival as a PI. Caine is trying to clear his father's name and blames Faith's father for botching an investigation that eventually led to his father's suicide. Faith and Caine keep bumping into each other as they investigate the same case by trying to clear their fathers' of any wrong doing.
Mad, Bad and Blonde is my first Cathy Linz book. At first I found her writing style to be a little unusual. She has a tendency to keep descriptions short and sweet and the writing style comes across very straight forward and concise. I thought this was especially noticeable in the beginning. She also uses a lot of dialogue to move the plot forward. While I do like good dialogue, I felt that the setting and mood suffered. My emotional connection to the book was not as strong as it could have been.
I did enjoy both the main characters Faith and Caine. Faith is a no nonsense women not afraid to speak her mind or take charge if the situation allows for it. Caine can come across as gruff at first, but underneath he is a fair and reasonable man. Mad, Bad and Blonde had a good plot with good family values to help strengthen it. There are several secondary characters which added humor and depth to the book. I happened to enjoy Faith's grandmother and Buddy the private investigator as they start their own little romance.
Mad, Bad and Blonde is my first Cathy Linz book. At first I found her writing style to be a little unusual. She has a tendency to keep descriptions short and sweet and the writing style comes across very straight forward and concise. I thought this was especially noticeable in the beginning. She also uses a lot of dialogue to move the plot forward. While I do like good dialogue, I felt that the setting and mood suffered. My emotional connection to the book was not as strong as it could have been.
I did enjoy both the main characters Faith and Caine. Faith is a no nonsense women not afraid to speak her mind or take charge if the situation allows for it. Caine can come across as gruff at first, but underneath he is a fair and reasonable man. Mad, Bad and Blonde had a good plot with good family values to help strengthen it. There are several secondary characters which added humor and depth to the book. I happened to enjoy Faith's grandmother and Buddy the private investigator as they start their own little romance.
June 3, 2011
WTH? I thought this book was going to be 80% Italy and 20% nonsensical change of career, not the other way around.
December 30, 2023
i thought i would not read anymore as it is already the end of the month, but this book wanted to join the 2023 read books AND it did not disappoint.
i just randomly grabbed this book from a thrift shop because of the intriguing premise of the book, after reading the first few chapters i had a feeling that i would enjoy reading this book, and i was right!
This book is about this librarian gal, Faith West, that was ditched by her groom on her wedding day, then she goes to her honeymoon in Italy solo. and hereeee she meets the hot and sexy former marine, Caine Hunter. Caine was ordered to spy on Faith as she is the daughter of a rich private investigator. They have an immediate attraction for each other (THEIR BANTERS ARE AWESOME), buuuuut here’s the catch! Faith’s father and Caine’s boss are enemies. Then majority of the book was them finding out what really happened with the death of Caine’s father.
for me, this is one of the most refreshing reads i have picked up. super easy to read and easy to follow, read it in four hours ^^ THEIRRRR TENSION THOOOO 🔥🔥🔥 i never really knew this book had smut until i read it, its not graphic (like most books are now TT) they are like super gentle with each other (and honestly, hungry for one another, I HONESTLY CANNOT BLAME THEM) i was taken by surprise with how good this book was, really ate this book up!
i just randomly grabbed this book from a thrift shop because of the intriguing premise of the book, after reading the first few chapters i had a feeling that i would enjoy reading this book, and i was right!
This book is about this librarian gal, Faith West, that was ditched by her groom on her wedding day, then she goes to her honeymoon in Italy solo. and hereeee she meets the hot and sexy former marine, Caine Hunter. Caine was ordered to spy on Faith as she is the daughter of a rich private investigator. They have an immediate attraction for each other (THEIR BANTERS ARE AWESOME), buuuuut here’s the catch! Faith’s father and Caine’s boss are enemies. Then majority of the book was them finding out what really happened with the death of Caine’s father.
for me, this is one of the most refreshing reads i have picked up. super easy to read and easy to follow, read it in four hours ^^ THEIRRRR TENSION THOOOO 🔥🔥🔥 i never really knew this book had smut until i read it, its not graphic (like most books are now TT) they are like super gentle with each other (and honestly, hungry for one another, I HONESTLY CANNOT BLAME THEM) i was taken by surprise with how good this book was, really ate this book up!
July 9, 2021
This was a quick read. A contemporary romance that left Faith jilted at the church, not even making it to the alter and finding love in Italy. Little more worrying about what each other were doing and not enough worrying about the bigger picture. What happened to Caine's father. A little Fifty Shades towards the end leaving me on the edge of my seat shaking my head. I will read next in series. Will Caine leave Faith?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2020
Good concept but the execution was overstuffed. Too many mysteries to figure out. Too many side characters, too many investigators, too many stake outs. Liked the end, heroine don’t need no saving, thank goodness. But the couple didn’t seem to know much about each other by the end. Seemed like they needed to date a bit more.
August 29, 2021
Lots of back story written as unlikely dialogue, lots of rah rah hometown stuff, which even as a Chicago area resident got on my nerves, and lots of really dumb behavior from characters that should know better, based on their careers/station in life. Ok as a beach read/throw away. Don't go looking for it.
September 26, 2021
3.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️ it took a while to get into this book. But then I was living the humor and banter! This reminded me a lot of the Sophie Katz books but a little less crazy. Only issue I had with this book was all the Chicago names/places/history "droppings".
July 20, 2022
Too cutesy and pretty much predictable, although there were a few twists thrown in at the very end. The best I can say about it is that it was a quick read, mostly entertaining, and didn't require a lot of thought.
October 2, 2024
All the time I was reading this, I was thinking what a silly book it was. So how is it that I finished it, in under 3 hours? Just had to get to the happy ending I guess. Still, I only recommend it for someone looking for a very light read as an antidote to more intellectual pursuits.
May 15, 2011
faith-librarian, good with guns and cars
caine hunter-spy agent hired by vince to spy on faith,holds a grudge on jeff because he thinks that jeff is the reason his father commited suicide along time ago while working for jeff
vince-faith dads enemy
alan-faiths ex- fiance
megan-faith's cousin and pal
jeff-faiths dad
yuri-faith's doorman, he also knew caine when they both were in the marine
sara-faith's mom
karl-caines dead dad
faith was bombed when she recieved a message while standing on the atlar from alan saying he doesnt want to marry her anymore.torn and heart-broken faith uses the tickets tht were suppose to be her and alans honeymoon tickets and went to italy by herself.there she meets caine on her first day n italy, and after spending about a week with caince and having sex with him, she finds out from her dad that caine is a agent that works for vince and was hired to watch her every move. Now with faith betrayed by 2 guys all in a month, she is not happy about it, especially about already having sex within the week with an enemy.
now faith decides to become a new person, not an ratty librarian anymore...and to spend her last day or few last days in italy, she decided to go shopping for "edgy look-at-me" clothes and have a model haircut.right now caine is following a lady with a big hat and sandals that are faiths, everything is under control, hes got her hired sales clerk in his sight, and he thinks that she is faith.
caine still plans to go on his mission following faith even after she found out about caine as a spy of vince and all.so now caine is following faith(or so he thinks) going in and out of stores and walking around like she owns italy.
faith did well, right now she is glad of the plan she did, having caine think hes following her but instead was following a sales clerk that faith paid for the sales clerk to walk around italy looking like faith.now all she had to do was leave italy and go back home while caine is following the clerk around.
once faith was back in her town, she went to the library and quitted her job because shes going to have a fresh start as a new person..her person.so she decides to quit her job as a librarian and work with her father as an investigator.
caine returns to vince in faiths city mad, because he found out later on that faith just bambozooed him and planned everything out from him following someone else to finding out that someone was a fuckin sales clerk.the war between them arnt over yet, caine plans to get faith back for her fooling him, and he plans to win
when caine starts to come back into faiths life by showing at her condo door the next day, everything goes nuts from there
faith plans to look at karls case, and prove that her dad didnt make him do suicide so that caine can just get out of her life
later on since faith and caine kept on bumping into each other, they decided at the last minute to work together on the karl thing and prove each other wrong
faith was later told by sara(her mom) that faiths dad is cheating on her and having an affair with someone else...at least her mother thinks so from all the times he tells her hes busy and tells her ha has to do something at a place but he really isnt there.so sara askes faith to dig alittle deep into her dads personal life and find out if her dad is really having an affair
well, at the end of the book they married and all that, hapily ever after...yay!
i couldnt finish the whole book because there was too much fighting between caine and faith in this book, and i just like a book that flows smoothely, one gets jelous of the other because they see them out with someone else, the person does their new combat, and they get married and live hapily ever after.but this book was alright too.
caine hunter-spy agent hired by vince to spy on faith,holds a grudge on jeff because he thinks that jeff is the reason his father commited suicide along time ago while working for jeff
vince-faith dads enemy
alan-faiths ex- fiance
megan-faith's cousin and pal
jeff-faiths dad
yuri-faith's doorman, he also knew caine when they both were in the marine
sara-faith's mom
karl-caines dead dad
faith was bombed when she recieved a message while standing on the atlar from alan saying he doesnt want to marry her anymore.torn and heart-broken faith uses the tickets tht were suppose to be her and alans honeymoon tickets and went to italy by herself.there she meets caine on her first day n italy, and after spending about a week with caince and having sex with him, she finds out from her dad that caine is a agent that works for vince and was hired to watch her every move. Now with faith betrayed by 2 guys all in a month, she is not happy about it, especially about already having sex within the week with an enemy.
now faith decides to become a new person, not an ratty librarian anymore...and to spend her last day or few last days in italy, she decided to go shopping for "edgy look-at-me" clothes and have a model haircut.right now caine is following a lady with a big hat and sandals that are faiths, everything is under control, hes got her hired sales clerk in his sight, and he thinks that she is faith.
caine still plans to go on his mission following faith even after she found out about caine as a spy of vince and all.so now caine is following faith(or so he thinks) going in and out of stores and walking around like she owns italy.
faith did well, right now she is glad of the plan she did, having caine think hes following her but instead was following a sales clerk that faith paid for the sales clerk to walk around italy looking like faith.now all she had to do was leave italy and go back home while caine is following the clerk around.
once faith was back in her town, she went to the library and quitted her job because shes going to have a fresh start as a new person..her person.so she decides to quit her job as a librarian and work with her father as an investigator.
caine returns to vince in faiths city mad, because he found out later on that faith just bambozooed him and planned everything out from him following someone else to finding out that someone was a fuckin sales clerk.the war between them arnt over yet, caine plans to get faith back for her fooling him, and he plans to win
when caine starts to come back into faiths life by showing at her condo door the next day, everything goes nuts from there
faith plans to look at karls case, and prove that her dad didnt make him do suicide so that caine can just get out of her life
later on since faith and caine kept on bumping into each other, they decided at the last minute to work together on the karl thing and prove each other wrong
faith was later told by sara(her mom) that faiths dad is cheating on her and having an affair with someone else...at least her mother thinks so from all the times he tells her hes busy and tells her ha has to do something at a place but he really isnt there.so sara askes faith to dig alittle deep into her dads personal life and find out if her dad is really having an affair
well, at the end of the book they married and all that, hapily ever after...yay!
i couldnt finish the whole book because there was too much fighting between caine and faith in this book, and i just like a book that flows smoothely, one gets jelous of the other because they see them out with someone else, the person does their new combat, and they get married and live hapily ever after.but this book was alright too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2011
I wanted to like this book more than I did. It starts out terrific, even though it’s a theme we’ve read before. I liked the heroine and felt for her when she’s left at the alter. But then she gets mad. And then bad. And blonde. Then I got irritated.
Faith is a librarian, in love, and it’s her wedding day. Only the groom doesn’t show up. He texts her, though. She’s just not what he’s looking for, too dull, not enough adventure and excitement. Going through the usual emotions after such a traumatic event, Faith ends up with a makeover and heads out to Italy, her honeymoon destination, on her own. She’s mad, now bad and blonde, and she’s not going to take such crap from anyone anymore.
Former marine Caine Hunter’s current job is to spy on Faith West, find out what’s she doing in Italy. His PI boss just knows she’s there to steal an important client for her father. So grabbing opportunity when it knocks, Caine insinuates himself into Faith’s week of sightseeing, relaxation, and fun. He has another agenda too, something involving both of their fathers, but that wait until their return to Chicago.
In the meantime, Caine finds himself falling for this hot and sexy woman who doesn’t act like her fiance just jilted her. But the ecstasy ends abruptly when Faith finds out who he is. Figuring her father’s bitter rival sent Caine after her, Faith heads home, quits her job at the library and goes to work for West Investigations. Not believing Caine’s version of the case her father supposedly botched, Faith is determined to prove him wrong and begins her own investigation into the old case.
So far the book had me hooked to this point. I like the characters. I enjoyed their time in Italy. I didn’t know what was going to happen to them when they were back in Chicago, but with a great setup, everything looked good. Of course, once back home Caine and Faith are in each other’s way when investigating the same case. They cross paths all the time. The first few times I can see where they’d be at each other’s throats, one-upping the other, insulting one another, etc. But that didn’t happen a few times. This went on every time they met. Even between kisses and touches and whispers, they sniped and snipped and it just got to be too much.
Faith is the worst of the two. She doesn’t know when to let up. She has to have the last word. She’s always right. Caine has his moments, but it’s usually in reaction to Faith’s insults or taking potshots at him. Even when she realizes she’s falling for the man, she still won’t give in. She keeps at him and keeps at him until I could have just shaken her silly. I wish Caine would have.
Because of that, I really don’t even remember the rest of the book. I don’t remember their love scenes. I don’t remember who the true culprit is they discover. I don’t remember how they come together and finally admit their feelings. I don’t even remember how the book ends, now that I think about it.
That’s all too bad too, because this could have been a much better book. Faith even has an Aunt Lorraine that none of the family can stand because of her insults and whatnot. Seems like they didn’t learn much from their dislike of the woman for the very reason I’ve ended up not liking most of their story.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
Faith is a librarian, in love, and it’s her wedding day. Only the groom doesn’t show up. He texts her, though. She’s just not what he’s looking for, too dull, not enough adventure and excitement. Going through the usual emotions after such a traumatic event, Faith ends up with a makeover and heads out to Italy, her honeymoon destination, on her own. She’s mad, now bad and blonde, and she’s not going to take such crap from anyone anymore.
Former marine Caine Hunter’s current job is to spy on Faith West, find out what’s she doing in Italy. His PI boss just knows she’s there to steal an important client for her father. So grabbing opportunity when it knocks, Caine insinuates himself into Faith’s week of sightseeing, relaxation, and fun. He has another agenda too, something involving both of their fathers, but that wait until their return to Chicago.
In the meantime, Caine finds himself falling for this hot and sexy woman who doesn’t act like her fiance just jilted her. But the ecstasy ends abruptly when Faith finds out who he is. Figuring her father’s bitter rival sent Caine after her, Faith heads home, quits her job at the library and goes to work for West Investigations. Not believing Caine’s version of the case her father supposedly botched, Faith is determined to prove him wrong and begins her own investigation into the old case.
So far the book had me hooked to this point. I like the characters. I enjoyed their time in Italy. I didn’t know what was going to happen to them when they were back in Chicago, but with a great setup, everything looked good. Of course, once back home Caine and Faith are in each other’s way when investigating the same case. They cross paths all the time. The first few times I can see where they’d be at each other’s throats, one-upping the other, insulting one another, etc. But that didn’t happen a few times. This went on every time they met. Even between kisses and touches and whispers, they sniped and snipped and it just got to be too much.
Faith is the worst of the two. She doesn’t know when to let up. She has to have the last word. She’s always right. Caine has his moments, but it’s usually in reaction to Faith’s insults or taking potshots at him. Even when she realizes she’s falling for the man, she still won’t give in. She keeps at him and keeps at him until I could have just shaken her silly. I wish Caine would have.
Because of that, I really don’t even remember the rest of the book. I don’t remember their love scenes. I don’t remember who the true culprit is they discover. I don’t remember how they come together and finally admit their feelings. I don’t even remember how the book ends, now that I think about it.
That’s all too bad too, because this could have been a much better book. Faith even has an Aunt Lorraine that none of the family can stand because of her insults and whatnot. Seems like they didn’t learn much from their dislike of the woman for the very reason I’ve ended up not liking most of their story.
See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com
April 3, 2010
I’ve read all of Cathie Linz’s previous books and quite enjoy her as an author. Mad, Bad and Blonde was not one of my favorites.
Dumped at the alter by text message. A sign of the times? This takes social networking to an all new low.
That’s what happened to poor Faith West on her wedding day when her fiancé Alan decided that he wasn't ready to tie the knot with a dull, boring librarian. Faith doesn’t let his rejection get her down though; no way she’s off on her Italian honeymoon solo to have a good time and forget about her cowardly fiancé.
Former Marine Caine Hunter just happens to be in Italy the same time as Faith and it doesn’t take long for this hotty to sooth and comfort the recently jilted Faith. But appearances can be deceiving and Caine is not the lawyer from Philadelphia he is pretending to be and after a hot and steamy night of sex, the morning after discovery of who Caine really is sends Faith racing right back home to Chicago. It doesn’t take long for Caine to cross paths with the newly blonde Faith once again as it turns out he's right from her very own backyard and is a resident of the windy city himself.
Once back home Faith quits her job at the library and goes to work for her father’s P.I. firm West Investigations. Time and time again she “runs” into Caine, who just happens to really be a P.I. for a rival investigation firm of her father’s. Caine is determined to prove his father did not commit suicide and Faith is just as determined to prove that her father did not botch the investigate that ultimately led to the death of the elder Mr Hunter.
So this sounds like it should have been a good beginning to a fun contemporary romance and it did have a few cute moments. Unfortunately I just found myself trying to get through it. I didn’t care if Caine and Faith ended up together; or killed each other. There was lots of talk about libraries and landmarks around Chicago and other information that seemed like filler and had little relevance to progressing the story. I found myself doing a lot of skimming.
There was very little romance between Caine and Faith after their quick initial hook-up in Italy, mostly they fought and their arguments were like rapid-fire staccato gunfire. I am sure the dialogue was intended to be witty and fun, but I just found that it made reading the book faster.
Here’s an example:
“I know a shortcut.”
“I bet you do.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
“That I was an idiot to ever get in this car with you. Stop right now.”
“Why? We’re only two block from your condo.”
“I’ll walk.”
“With those?”
“If I have to.”
“You don’t have to. Just stay calm. Don’t panic.”
“I don’t panic.”
“Right. See, here we are. At your front door.”
This is a fast, quick contemporary read and if that's what you are in the market for then you should enjoy Mad Bad and Blonde.
Dumped at the alter by text message. A sign of the times? This takes social networking to an all new low.
That’s what happened to poor Faith West on her wedding day when her fiancé Alan decided that he wasn't ready to tie the knot with a dull, boring librarian. Faith doesn’t let his rejection get her down though; no way she’s off on her Italian honeymoon solo to have a good time and forget about her cowardly fiancé.
Former Marine Caine Hunter just happens to be in Italy the same time as Faith and it doesn’t take long for this hotty to sooth and comfort the recently jilted Faith. But appearances can be deceiving and Caine is not the lawyer from Philadelphia he is pretending to be and after a hot and steamy night of sex, the morning after discovery of who Caine really is sends Faith racing right back home to Chicago. It doesn’t take long for Caine to cross paths with the newly blonde Faith once again as it turns out he's right from her very own backyard and is a resident of the windy city himself.
Once back home Faith quits her job at the library and goes to work for her father’s P.I. firm West Investigations. Time and time again she “runs” into Caine, who just happens to really be a P.I. for a rival investigation firm of her father’s. Caine is determined to prove his father did not commit suicide and Faith is just as determined to prove that her father did not botch the investigate that ultimately led to the death of the elder Mr Hunter.
So this sounds like it should have been a good beginning to a fun contemporary romance and it did have a few cute moments. Unfortunately I just found myself trying to get through it. I didn’t care if Caine and Faith ended up together; or killed each other. There was lots of talk about libraries and landmarks around Chicago and other information that seemed like filler and had little relevance to progressing the story. I found myself doing a lot of skimming.
There was very little romance between Caine and Faith after their quick initial hook-up in Italy, mostly they fought and their arguments were like rapid-fire staccato gunfire. I am sure the dialogue was intended to be witty and fun, but I just found that it made reading the book faster.
Here’s an example:
“I know a shortcut.”
“I bet you do.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
“That I was an idiot to ever get in this car with you. Stop right now.”
“Why? We’re only two block from your condo.”
“I’ll walk.”
“With those?”
“If I have to.”
“You don’t have to. Just stay calm. Don’t panic.”
“I don’t panic.”
“Right. See, here we are. At your front door.”
This is a fast, quick contemporary read and if that's what you are in the market for then you should enjoy Mad Bad and Blonde.
October 27, 2010
I became friends with Cathie Linz on facebook. Whenever I become friends with an author I check out what their books are about and all that. Her book sounded really interesting so I finally saved up my pennies and got a copy. I am so happy I did this.
Now, my opinion! This book, to me, really stressed women empowerment. Faith, (and yes I find it funny that my main character in Vampyre Kisses is also named Faith ::giggles::) started out in this book feeling weak and vulnerable. Show of hands, how many have you felt that way? Cause I know I have! The reason I could really relate to her was also because she didn’t know what she wanted but she wanted to do what would make her happy. She wanted to go “where your heart lies” (page 270) and I think some of us forget this.
We take jobs that are good enough for us because they pay the bills, but not because they make us happy. I for one want to find what Faith ended up finding. I think I have with my writing but I don’t really get paid well enough to do that. But she didn’t give up. She made decisions that were right for her. Even when they weren’t the right decisions after all she still took what she could learn from them and kept going. That to me is a really amazing trait in a person.
The dynamic between Faith and Cain was a lot of fun to read. They hate each other but they just can’t keep their hands off one another. That was so much fun cause you never knew where or when they were going to kiss next! It also holds you in suspense of wondering if they will be able to be together. Something you will have to read the book to figure out.
Also, the story line was fantastic. Personally, I’m a great detective when I what NCIS and read books. I normally figure out the ending pretty quick. I had a feeling I knew where this book was going but in the end I couldn’t figure out how Cain was going to react. That was what really pushed me to finish this book; because depending on his reaction would make him able to be with Faith or not.
Truly, I really enjoyed reading this book. I am a slow reader to begin with but the longer I take on a book normally means it isn’t really exciting me. I finished this book in four days. It would have been sooner but I had a Roller Derby bout on Saturday and went to Frightland on Sunday. I hope my review gets you hyped up to read this book. I truly can’t wait for the second one to come out!
Best quote from book: “Faith was such a strange combination of vulnerability and strength, of power and empathy, of primness and passion. And he loved her, God help him.” (page 253)
I think that quote explains the way the reader ends up feeling about Faith in the book as well. At least, it did for me.
Find out more information on Cathie Linz at: http://www.cathielinz.com/
Happy Reading!
Liz ^_^
www.vampyrekisses.com
Now, my opinion! This book, to me, really stressed women empowerment. Faith, (and yes I find it funny that my main character in Vampyre Kisses is also named Faith ::giggles::) started out in this book feeling weak and vulnerable. Show of hands, how many have you felt that way? Cause I know I have! The reason I could really relate to her was also because she didn’t know what she wanted but she wanted to do what would make her happy. She wanted to go “where your heart lies” (page 270) and I think some of us forget this.
We take jobs that are good enough for us because they pay the bills, but not because they make us happy. I for one want to find what Faith ended up finding. I think I have with my writing but I don’t really get paid well enough to do that. But she didn’t give up. She made decisions that were right for her. Even when they weren’t the right decisions after all she still took what she could learn from them and kept going. That to me is a really amazing trait in a person.
The dynamic between Faith and Cain was a lot of fun to read. They hate each other but they just can’t keep their hands off one another. That was so much fun cause you never knew where or when they were going to kiss next! It also holds you in suspense of wondering if they will be able to be together. Something you will have to read the book to figure out.
Also, the story line was fantastic. Personally, I’m a great detective when I what NCIS and read books. I normally figure out the ending pretty quick. I had a feeling I knew where this book was going but in the end I couldn’t figure out how Cain was going to react. That was what really pushed me to finish this book; because depending on his reaction would make him able to be with Faith or not.
Truly, I really enjoyed reading this book. I am a slow reader to begin with but the longer I take on a book normally means it isn’t really exciting me. I finished this book in four days. It would have been sooner but I had a Roller Derby bout on Saturday and went to Frightland on Sunday. I hope my review gets you hyped up to read this book. I truly can’t wait for the second one to come out!
Best quote from book: “Faith was such a strange combination of vulnerability and strength, of power and empathy, of primness and passion. And he loved her, God help him.” (page 253)
I think that quote explains the way the reader ends up feeling about Faith in the book as well. At least, it did for me.
Find out more information on Cathie Linz at: http://www.cathielinz.com/
Happy Reading!
Liz ^_^
www.vampyrekisses.com
July 26, 2016
I have read many, many romance novels. This is one of the few that I can describe as so poorly executed that I could almost feel my brain cells dying as I continued to read it. In general, I stay away from contemporary romance, but I decided to try my luck with a Cathie Linz book because I liked what she managed to do with her half of one of those old Harlequin Duets books and I wanted to see how much better her work would be with time to develop the characters and the plot in a full-length novel. It turns out, giving her more space gave her more time to make a mess of things.
Not only was this book very poorly written (it reads like bad fanfiction or amateur writing with all these references to songs, travel fantasies, awkwardly described "intimate" encounters, and just bad writing in general) but I harbored intense dislike for both the hero and the heroine. This book made me question if the author hates librarians and Marines in spite of her claims to the contrary because both characters are fairly incompetent investigators when they aren't being walking stereotypes (everything Caine knew about being a Marine seemed to consist of a motto or something written on a T-shirt) they are doing everything they can to make themselves unlikable to each other and to this reader. Not that dead characters escaped Linz's clumsy stereotyping. Caine's poor father. Every character in this book was a cardboard cutout of a person. And since when did awkward public groping pass for sexy, romantic encounters in romance novels?
The mystery element was also really poorly executed. I never felt like Caine was that affected by the death of his father until the very end of the book. He was way too easily distracted. He treated things far too lightly. And when he did bother to investigate, he came across as stubborn rather than determined to clear the name of the father he had loved. The characters barely exerted any effort to solve the mystery. It just seemed like an excuse to put them in different locations. And then it just completely resolved itself in the second to last chapter as if even the guilty party was tired of watching these characters bumble about.
Not only was this book very poorly written (it reads like bad fanfiction or amateur writing with all these references to songs, travel fantasies, awkwardly described "intimate" encounters, and just bad writing in general) but I harbored intense dislike for both the hero and the heroine. This book made me question if the author hates librarians and Marines in spite of her claims to the contrary because both characters are fairly incompetent investigators when they aren't being walking stereotypes (everything Caine knew about being a Marine seemed to consist of a motto or something written on a T-shirt) they are doing everything they can to make themselves unlikable to each other and to this reader. Not that dead characters escaped Linz's clumsy stereotyping. Caine's poor father. Every character in this book was a cardboard cutout of a person. And since when did awkward public groping pass for sexy, romantic encounters in romance novels?
The mystery element was also really poorly executed. I never felt like Caine was that affected by the death of his father until the very end of the book. He was way too easily distracted. He treated things far too lightly. And when he did bother to investigate, he came across as stubborn rather than determined to clear the name of the father he had loved. The characters barely exerted any effort to solve the mystery. It just seemed like an excuse to put them in different locations. And then it just completely resolved itself in the second to last chapter as if even the guilty party was tired of watching these characters bumble about.
January 27, 2013
~3.5/5
[Also available on my blog (with extras!).]
There were a couple of things that seemed to happen too quickly, that were a bit rushed, at the beginning, but that seemed to smooth out later on in the book, and overall this one was just pretty good.
Faith West, the daughter of the owner of West Investigations, gets left at the altar on her wedding day, and decides to go on her planned honeymoon to Italy alone. Where she meets Caine, who works for her father’s rival, and who also has a personal vendetta against her father. Her father worked on a case involving Caine’s father, and Caine doesn’t think the case was handled very well at all, which he is trying to prove. At the same time, he and Faith are trying to ignore the attraction between them, which isn’t working as well as they’d like.
I liked Faith enough, and I liked Caine enough. I liked them together, and enjoyed reading their scenes during the investigation. I liked the scenes with Faith and her family; all of their interactions were entertaining.
I did really like that Faith knew Caine's intentions pretty early on, that it wasn't kept a secret for over half the book, and instead that she took part of it. I also enjoyed reading about Faith's journey to finding herself. I liked that she was a librarian (if only because that's a career I've thought about pursuing and because I love books), but enjoyed her involvement with West Investigations, and liked how she started taking charge of her life.
I don’t really have much to say. This was a very light, nice read, and I enjoyed it. It doesn’t leave as big an impression as I’d like, but it was fun while I was reading it.
I’m looking forward to reading more by Linz, when I can get my hands on another of her books. I want to read the next in this series, about Megan, Faith's best friend and cousin, and there's also some books in a different series that I want to read.
[Also available on my blog (with extras!).]
There were a couple of things that seemed to happen too quickly, that were a bit rushed, at the beginning, but that seemed to smooth out later on in the book, and overall this one was just pretty good.
Faith West, the daughter of the owner of West Investigations, gets left at the altar on her wedding day, and decides to go on her planned honeymoon to Italy alone. Where she meets Caine, who works for her father’s rival, and who also has a personal vendetta against her father. Her father worked on a case involving Caine’s father, and Caine doesn’t think the case was handled very well at all, which he is trying to prove. At the same time, he and Faith are trying to ignore the attraction between them, which isn’t working as well as they’d like.
I liked Faith enough, and I liked Caine enough. I liked them together, and enjoyed reading their scenes during the investigation. I liked the scenes with Faith and her family; all of their interactions were entertaining.
I did really like that Faith knew Caine's intentions pretty early on, that it wasn't kept a secret for over half the book, and instead that she took part of it. I also enjoyed reading about Faith's journey to finding herself. I liked that she was a librarian (if only because that's a career I've thought about pursuing and because I love books), but enjoyed her involvement with West Investigations, and liked how she started taking charge of her life.
I don’t really have much to say. This was a very light, nice read, and I enjoyed it. It doesn’t leave as big an impression as I’d like, but it was fun while I was reading it.
I’m looking forward to reading more by Linz, when I can get my hands on another of her books. I want to read the next in this series, about Megan, Faith's best friend and cousin, and there's also some books in a different series that I want to read.
January 16, 2011
When children's librarian Faith West gets dumped at the altar on her wedding day, she doesn't dissolve...she gets on a plane and heads off to her honeymoon destination solo. In Italy, she meets sexy, dark, and handsome Caine Hunter, a Philadelphia lawyer. Wait a minute!...after checking in his wallet (after all, she is the daughter of Chicago's top private investigator), she discovers that Caine, an ex-Marine, works for her father's arch enemy, Vince King of King Investigations. In a huff, she leaves Italy and back to the safety and security of storytimes, her parent's arms, and her Streeterville condo.
Faith's father, Jeff West, is furious when he finds out the Caine Hunter trailed her to Italy. The feud between the two PI companies has gone too far this time. Yet, the attraction between Caine and Faith is too much to handle and Caine shows up just about everywhere Faith goes. Underlying all this tension, is the fact that Caine blames Faith's father for botching a 2-year-old investigation involving his father. His father, Caine is sure, was innocent of wrongdoing, but he couldn't prove it. Sadly, his father committed suicide because of it.
There lot and LOTS of sexual tension in this story...happily it all works out in the end. Faith seems to have found her soul-mate, tensions are relaxed, and life libraryland is happy once again.
Faith's father, Jeff West, is furious when he finds out the Caine Hunter trailed her to Italy. The feud between the two PI companies has gone too far this time. Yet, the attraction between Caine and Faith is too much to handle and Caine shows up just about everywhere Faith goes. Underlying all this tension, is the fact that Caine blames Faith's father for botching a 2-year-old investigation involving his father. His father, Caine is sure, was innocent of wrongdoing, but he couldn't prove it. Sadly, his father committed suicide because of it.
There lot and LOTS of sexual tension in this story...happily it all works out in the end. Faith seems to have found her soul-mate, tensions are relaxed, and life libraryland is happy once again.
December 3, 2015
About the book: After being jilted at the altar, librarian Faith West goes on her Italian honeymoon solo, but doesn't stay that way too long. And though her sexy rebound man has ulterior motives, feelings surface that neither of them are prepared for.
When a man's too good to be true...
Jilted on her wedding day for being the queen of dullsville, librarian Faith West goes on her Italian honeymoon solo, hoping to leave her pain behind. That could take a miracle, but she's about to discover miracles do happen. His name is Caine Hunter. Smart, spontaneous, hot, and sexy, he has her feeling like a real woman for the first time ever--until the truth surfaces...
A former Force Recon Marine turned PI, Caine was doing what he does best: spying. And his new target was Faith. But falling for the enemy's daughter was never part of his plan. Caine is a man used to winning, but this time his mission is much more personal--and now that he and Faith are both back in Chicago, the rewards could be, too...
My review: Mad, Bad and Blonde was the first book I read from Cathie Linz and it was all I needed when I picked it up. I hoped for for a bit of a light reading with a hint of mistery and a dash of romance.
Sweet and spicy. I would love to read the whole West Investigations series.
When a man's too good to be true...
Jilted on her wedding day for being the queen of dullsville, librarian Faith West goes on her Italian honeymoon solo, hoping to leave her pain behind. That could take a miracle, but she's about to discover miracles do happen. His name is Caine Hunter. Smart, spontaneous, hot, and sexy, he has her feeling like a real woman for the first time ever--until the truth surfaces...
A former Force Recon Marine turned PI, Caine was doing what he does best: spying. And his new target was Faith. But falling for the enemy's daughter was never part of his plan. Caine is a man used to winning, but this time his mission is much more personal--and now that he and Faith are both back in Chicago, the rewards could be, too...
My review: Mad, Bad and Blonde was the first book I read from Cathie Linz and it was all I needed when I picked it up. I hoped for for a bit of a light reading with a hint of mistery and a dash of romance.
Sweet and spicy. I would love to read the whole West Investigations series.
September 21, 2011
Another book about librarian recommeded by Veeta.
Tema ceritanya sih sebetulnya menarik. Konflik keduanya justru muncul setelah mereka tidur bareng karna Faith ga nyangka dia tidur ama pihak musuh, while Caine, yah, dia emang dtugasin nguntit Faith, sekalian balas dendam ke bapaknya Faith yg dianggap bertanggung jawab atas bunuh dirinya bapaknya Caine, but sleeping with her was not part of his plan.
Waktu Faith akhirnya mutusin gabung di perusahannya bapaknya, Faith dan Caine jadi rebutan klien. Dan kerjasama diem-diem untuk ngungkapin misteri kematian bapaknya Caine.
Boleh dibilang ketegangan di antara mereka tinggi terus. Agak gimana gitu wktu Caine nyamar jd geek and did wicked thing to Faith di tengah acara Geek Meet. :D
Sayangnya, cerita yg lumayan menarik ini kebanyakan dialog. Sangat banyak dialog gak penting. Capek ngikutinnya, jadi suka ketuker-tuker siapa yg ngomong.
Ini buku kedua Cathie Linz yg saya selesai baca. Ada 3 buku lainnya (seri Good Girls 234) yang belum saya selesaiin karna keburu males. Penasaran ama lanjutan buku ini, Luck Be a Lady, tentang Megan, sepupunya Faith, dan Logan, cucunya Buddy Doyle yang berencana nikah sama neneknya Faith and Megan.
But maybe next month.
Tema ceritanya sih sebetulnya menarik. Konflik keduanya justru muncul setelah mereka tidur bareng karna Faith ga nyangka dia tidur ama pihak musuh, while Caine, yah, dia emang dtugasin nguntit Faith, sekalian balas dendam ke bapaknya Faith yg dianggap bertanggung jawab atas bunuh dirinya bapaknya Caine, but sleeping with her was not part of his plan.
Waktu Faith akhirnya mutusin gabung di perusahannya bapaknya, Faith dan Caine jadi rebutan klien. Dan kerjasama diem-diem untuk ngungkapin misteri kematian bapaknya Caine.
Boleh dibilang ketegangan di antara mereka tinggi terus. Agak gimana gitu wktu Caine nyamar jd geek and did wicked thing to Faith di tengah acara Geek Meet. :D
Sayangnya, cerita yg lumayan menarik ini kebanyakan dialog. Sangat banyak dialog gak penting. Capek ngikutinnya, jadi suka ketuker-tuker siapa yg ngomong.
Ini buku kedua Cathie Linz yg saya selesai baca. Ada 3 buku lainnya (seri Good Girls 234) yang belum saya selesaiin karna keburu males. Penasaran ama lanjutan buku ini, Luck Be a Lady, tentang Megan, sepupunya Faith, dan Logan, cucunya Buddy Doyle yang berencana nikah sama neneknya Faith and Megan.
But maybe next month.
December 25, 2011
A fine story with a cast of original and eccentric characters. What lifted Mad, Bad and Blonde far above similar prickly love-hate romances was the effortlessly sparkling dialogue.
The mysterious death that forms the pivot of the story is perfectly placed, adding not only intrigue and tension but also a focus for the the relationship between the two main characters: Caine, an ex-Marine trying to prove that the circumstances of his father's death were covered up, and, Faith, a children's librarian who finds herself maddeningly attracted to the man committed to proving her PI father was involved in the cover-up.
One of the few books in this genre that I read in one sitting, not because of page-turning suspense but the sheer joy of the stormy but scintillating relationship between Faith and Caine.
A wonderful read that thoroughly justifies the Starred Review it received from Publishers Weekly.
The mysterious death that forms the pivot of the story is perfectly placed, adding not only intrigue and tension but also a focus for the the relationship between the two main characters: Caine, an ex-Marine trying to prove that the circumstances of his father's death were covered up, and, Faith, a children's librarian who finds herself maddeningly attracted to the man committed to proving her PI father was involved in the cover-up.
One of the few books in this genre that I read in one sitting, not because of page-turning suspense but the sheer joy of the stormy but scintillating relationship between Faith and Caine.
A wonderful read that thoroughly justifies the Starred Review it received from Publishers Weekly.
November 21, 2010
Faith is a children's librarian left at the altar on the day of her wedding for not being exciting enough. She goes on her honeymoon by herself and meets the handsome Caine. Turns out he works for her father's rival (her father owns a private investigation company). Caine also believes Faith's father botched the investigation into the events surrounding his own father's suicide. There is a definite attraction between Faith and Caine, and they seem to keep running into each other (accidentally and on purpose) as they investigate what really happened to Caine's father.
I really liked Faith and Caine. Their relationship was fun to see progress. I wasn't as impressed with the secondary characters as everyone else appears to be judging by the quotes on the jacket. They were alright, but I like Jennifer Crusie and Millie Criswell's secondary characters better.
I really liked Faith and Caine. Their relationship was fun to see progress. I wasn't as impressed with the secondary characters as everyone else appears to be judging by the quotes on the jacket. They were alright, but I like Jennifer Crusie and Millie Criswell's secondary characters better.
March 9, 2011
This was almost a 5 star book. It was light, fun, and delightful - perfect for me after I read a book about a serial killer. I loved the sparring between the two main characters: it wasn't done in a way that was annoying, you know, when all they do is fight then all of the sudden "love" each other. It didn't seem ridiculous when they fell in love (it was more of a "forbidden love," in the sense that they knew they shouldn't like each other, but couldn't help it), though it was a trifle fast for my tastes. I also loved the librarian/PI angle - makes me wish I could become a PI (though it'll never happen because sometimes I can't figure out the end to mystery novels). Anyway, I really enjoyed it, and I'm excited to read the next in the series.
March 17, 2010
Likable enough contemporary romance. I got very tired of the bickering between the hero (ex-Marine Caine) and heroine(children's librarian Faith). Author was going for witty repartee and all I got was childish bickering. However the plot/mystery was interesting and, once the bickering stopped, our main characters were fine. The romance was hot, but very quick to get them into bed together. I was happy to see that it took them several more months to get to the alter and I do believe in their HEA.
If you liked the old Moonlighting TV show, you'll like this one. I was never really a fan, so my reaction to this book is meh.
If you liked the old Moonlighting TV show, you'll like this one. I was never really a fan, so my reaction to this book is meh.
January 4, 2011
Just a very sweet love story, styled much like Susan Elizabeth Phillips'. A take on the jilted-at-the-alter theme, this one having our heroine, Faith, flying off alone on what was to be her honeymoon on the beatiful Amalfi coast in Italy.
Of course she meets the sexiest man alive, Chase, during her stay and sparks fly - along with french fries but you'll have to read the book to get the 411 ;)
Can't go further without ruining the book for new readers, but know that this little contemporary romance is fresh and the characters are likable, making it a good read. Not at all sappy, but grab a few tissues anyway.
Of course she meets the sexiest man alive, Chase, during her stay and sparks fly - along with french fries but you'll have to read the book to get the 411 ;)
Can't go further without ruining the book for new readers, but know that this little contemporary romance is fresh and the characters are likable, making it a good read. Not at all sappy, but grab a few tissues anyway.
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