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Intrigue
Never did I think a girl like Gretchen Hawthorne would be the woman of my dreams.
She is stubborn, irritating, and can piss me off at the drop of a hat. But she is also sweet and has a vulnerability about her that she doesn’t allow many to see.
She let me in for a split second, and what I found was even more than I had bargained for. Her façade is nothing more than a mask to hide her fears.
One wild night in the barn at my cousin’s house, and I’m hooked.
She’s intriguing.
She’s beautiful.
But she also has it in her head that she and I will never work.
Which is ridiculous, and I vow to prove her wrong.
I’m Colton Thomas, and I’m stubborn too, and I do not give up easily.
She better hold on tight because I’m coming for her. And I plan to break down all those walls she’s built so high around her.
She is stubborn, irritating, and can piss me off at the drop of a hat. But she is also sweet and has a vulnerability about her that she doesn’t allow many to see.
She let me in for a split second, and what I found was even more than I had bargained for. Her façade is nothing more than a mask to hide her fears.
One wild night in the barn at my cousin’s house, and I’m hooked.
She’s intriguing.
She’s beautiful.
But she also has it in her head that she and I will never work.
Which is ridiculous, and I vow to prove her wrong.
I’m Colton Thomas, and I’m stubborn too, and I do not give up easily.
She better hold on tight because I’m coming for her. And I plan to break down all those walls she’s built so high around her.
- GenresWesternsContemporary
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 10, 2023
57 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
About the author
C.A. Harms
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❤ One Sizzling Romance at a Time ❤
FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorCAHarms/
WEBSITE: https://www.authorcaharms.com/
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Charms0814
INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/authorcaharms/
NEWSLETTER: http://bit.ly/1xsgHCS
AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/C.A.-Harms/e/B0...
❤ One Sizzling Romance at a Time ❤
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
June 10, 2023
I loved this one. I can't wait for the next book. This one was amazing. I just love this series.
January 15, 2023
Boy I hate to write this
But the editing was such a mess throughout the book that it was distracting.
The relationship between Colton and Gretchen could have used more development, less time in the sack and more time showing them building a connection. The dialogue was spent mostly in repetitive thoughts in their own heads.
But the editing was such a mess throughout the book that it was distracting.
The relationship between Colton and Gretchen could have used more development, less time in the sack and more time showing them building a connection. The dialogue was spent mostly in repetitive thoughts in their own heads.
January 5, 2023
Gretchen may frustrate you, but she’ll also break your heart a little. She’s used to being discarded and belittled, so it’s nearly impossible to change a lifetime of indifference (at best) when the one guy she would love a chance with looks her way. But she’s not counting on Colt. He’s stubborn, he’s patient to an extent, and he’s not going to let Gretchen live an empty life if he can help it. Yeah, he plays some games, but she sort of does also. The only difference is that Gretchen is learning who she can trust and count on, while Colt is proving that he’s exactly who he says he is and that he’s all in when it comes to her.
These two have an excellent slow burn after one single time together. Colt knows that kindness, friendship, and honesty go a long way, and he’s got the time and desire to prove to Gretchen just how great they are together. It helps that he doesn’t back down from any fight. He can fight Gretchen, her family, random people trying to drag her down, anyone. He’s not letting Gretchen get hurt on his watch. Not at all. And he’s also making sure she knows that he’s got her heart marked as precious, as well as his to give to her whenever she’s ready.
And as much as I loved this couple and their story, now I’m already hoping for more. You see, Garrett may have some trouble on his hands. And I’m 100% here to find out what that trouble is and how it all works out!
These two have an excellent slow burn after one single time together. Colt knows that kindness, friendship, and honesty go a long way, and he’s got the time and desire to prove to Gretchen just how great they are together. It helps that he doesn’t back down from any fight. He can fight Gretchen, her family, random people trying to drag her down, anyone. He’s not letting Gretchen get hurt on his watch. Not at all. And he’s also making sure she knows that he’s got her heart marked as precious, as well as his to give to her whenever she’s ready.
And as much as I loved this couple and their story, now I’m already hoping for more. You see, Garrett may have some trouble on his hands. And I’m 100% here to find out what that trouble is and how it all works out!
January 2, 2023
Can I move to Brooklet please??? I just love small town romance novels, and this series is really one of the best I have read. Ever.
Each time I step into this world, it’s like I belong and I am just hanging out with my friends.
I have to say Colt stole my heart in this book. He is now officially my first book boyfriend of the new year. The way he fell hard for Gretchen and was all in fairly early on in the book was everything I love to read in my romance novels. She made him work for it, not to prove anything, but because of her past. Which I won’t go into details because it plays a huge part in their story and I know I will give away probably the whole storyline.
I liked how this ended, it has set up the start of the next book fantastically. But I need to get my hands on it now!! I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book
Each time I step into this world, it’s like I belong and I am just hanging out with my friends.
I have to say Colt stole my heart in this book. He is now officially my first book boyfriend of the new year. The way he fell hard for Gretchen and was all in fairly early on in the book was everything I love to read in my romance novels. She made him work for it, not to prove anything, but because of her past. Which I won’t go into details because it plays a huge part in their story and I know I will give away probably the whole storyline.
I liked how this ended, it has set up the start of the next book fantastically. But I need to get my hands on it now!! I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book
January 17, 2023
I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am totally hooked on this series and if you love hot cowboys and their sassy women in a small town then you will love this series. This is Colt and Gretchen's story, and it was full of humor, passion and a woman running scared but the man who falls instantly for her but has to work hard to make her believe in them.
I loved Colt in this story. He is a very strong character, and he meets Gretchen, and he knows he wants her, and he makes that happen. Sometimes that meant he had to push Gretchen a little to let him in and really see that he wanted only her and for the long run.
I also loved that we get to see all the previous couples and their kids, and we get to see them finding their happily ever after. Gretchen was a character I was totally rooting for and I loved how centered Colt was on winning her heart.
I am totally hooked on this series and if you love hot cowboys and their sassy women in a small town then you will love this series. This is Colt and Gretchen's story, and it was full of humor, passion and a woman running scared but the man who falls instantly for her but has to work hard to make her believe in them.
I loved Colt in this story. He is a very strong character, and he meets Gretchen, and he knows he wants her, and he makes that happen. Sometimes that meant he had to push Gretchen a little to let him in and really see that he wanted only her and for the long run.
I also loved that we get to see all the previous couples and their kids, and we get to see them finding their happily ever after. Gretchen was a character I was totally rooting for and I loved how centered Colt was on winning her heart.
April 9, 2023
Loved it! I've volunteered to review this book for United Indie Book blog. This is my first time reading a book from CA Harms. Intrigue is the fifth book in the Brooklet Dreams series. This is Colton and Gretchen's story. Gretchen is stubborn and sassy. Colt is sexy and determined. Gretchen has always been the pushed to the side until she catches Colton's eye. Nothing easy is ever worth it. So, when Gretchen makes Colton work really hard to break down the walls surrounding her heart, true love is revealed. The connection between Colton and Gretchen is intense and powerful. I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. Love small town romance and dynamic. I fell so in love with this family and all the new additions. Can’t wait for the next book!! I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend. Definitely need to go back and read the rest of this series. Keep up the awesome work!!!!
May 9, 2023
INTRIGUE by CA Harms is the fifth book in the Booklet Dreams series. About the book Never did Colton think a girl like Gretchen Hawthorne would be the woman of his dreams. She is stubborn, irritating, and can piss him off at the drop of a hat. But she is also sweet and has a vulnerability about her that she doesn’t allow many to see.
One wild night in the barn at Colton’s cousin’s house, and he was hooked. She’s intriguing. She’s beautiful.But she also has it in her head that she and Colton will never work. Colton vows to prove her wrong. Colton plans to break down all those walls she’s built so high around her. What I loved most about this book is the two main characters and their development throughout the story. Their initial dislike turns into a truce when they agree to help each other and the more time they spend together, the more they talk and trust each other, revealing their true characters. I loved this entire series and would definitely recommend this book.
April 10, 2023
This is my first time reading a book from CA Harms. Intrigue is the fifth book in the Brooklet Dreams series. This is Colton and Gretchen's story. Gretchen is stubborn and sassy. Colt is sexy and determined. Gretchen has always been the pushed to the side until she catches Colton's eye. Nothing easy is ever worth it. So, when Gretchen makes Colton work really hard to break down the walls surrounding her heart, true love is revealed. The connection between Colton and Gretchen is intense and powerful. I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. Love small town romance and dynamic. I fell so in love with this family and all the new additions. Can’t wait for the next book!! I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend. Definitely need to go back and read the rest of this series. Keep up the awesome work!!!!
REVIEW BY Chantelle
REVIEW BY Chantelle
May 9, 2023
I swear to all that's holy that CA Harms is the one author who makes me love cowboys as they're yummy & addictive as all get out. Colt is our sexy cowboy while Gretchen is the woman that will bring him to his knees, and he never looked back. She drives him crazy which entertained me to no end, and yet, she's really his person. Gretchen is the holdout though, and while she's worth it, she also leads him on a merry chase, but Colt is not backing down. They have serious chemistry which gets the sparks flying, and the connection is certainly intense despite the steel walls Gretchen has up but again, Colt is going to get his girl. Their journey is filled with all kinds of goodness like humor, heat, heart, and a fantastic supporting cast all wrapped up in CA Harms' signature small town charm making it another perfect read in my eyes! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
February 16, 2023
With such a painful past, Gretchen was so afraid to trust people to love her, care for her, that she almost missed out on true happiness. I felt for her pain but was glad to see others saw who she really was. Colton was so sweet. He was determined to have the woman he loved that he patiently wooed her while being friends. The spark was so strong between them that Gretchen finally allowed herself to trust and love. This was a good story, but I felt it took a bit longer than necessary to reach its end. I still recommend this story for those who enjoy reluctant friends to lovers.
I received a copy of this story through Enticing Journey Book Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.
I received a copy of this story through Enticing Journey Book Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.
November 17, 2023
Intrigue
Colton knows what he wants even since leaving that barn many months ago. He can’t stop thinking about her. She is all he wants and will ever want. He doesn’t understand why she can’t/ won’t talk to him anymore.
Gretchen doesn’t know what love is… her parents are more of business partners than a couple she has no clue what love is or how to show it. She just wanted a good time… she never knew she would start falling for him but doesn’t know how to share her feelings.
Colton knows what he wants even since leaving that barn many months ago. He can’t stop thinking about her. She is all he wants and will ever want. He doesn’t understand why she can’t/ won’t talk to him anymore.
Gretchen doesn’t know what love is… her parents are more of business partners than a couple she has no clue what love is or how to show it. She just wanted a good time… she never knew she would start falling for him but doesn’t know how to share her feelings.
January 12, 2023
love this series
I was so happy to be back in the world of Brooklet Dreams. Colt and Gretchen are funny, hot and amazing. When Colt sets his sights on Gretchen she’s not having it but we all know how stubborn these men can be. She never knew love like Colt and his family’s. She was terrified but Colt is out to prove she can trust him. I can’t wait for more of this family.
I was so happy to be back in the world of Brooklet Dreams. Colt and Gretchen are funny, hot and amazing. When Colt sets his sights on Gretchen she’s not having it but we all know how stubborn these men can be. She never knew love like Colt and his family’s. She was terrified but Colt is out to prove she can trust him. I can’t wait for more of this family.
January 18, 2023
I love 2nd generation series. Seeing the kids grown and finding their HEA.. I love Colt and how sweet and patient he is Gretchen . I love how strong and independent she is , even tho she’s dying inside to just be loved. This one is one of my faves so far. I loved watching Colt with the kids and can’t wait to see him with his own in the future….
January 19, 2023
Gretchen and Colt’s story was a good but frustrating one. I loved how willing Colt was to push past her reservations, to show her that the words he said were true. It took a little longer than I would have liked to get there but it was a good read.
The slow burn love story is one of my favorites but there was a little more slow than burn here, but holy mama was the burn HOT!
The slow burn love story is one of my favorites but there was a little more slow than burn here, but holy mama was the burn HOT!
February 26, 2025
Gretchen and Colt's story was so good! Their connection/chemistry was off the charts but man is she stubborn lol. Colt was determined to break down her walls though. She had some baggage that was keeping those walls up. He stood up for her and I absolutely loved it! Jack Calihan and Stephanie Rose have done a wonderful job, as usual, with these characters.
January 13, 2023
aww
This book was so good! I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. Love the small town romance and dynamic. Love this family and all the new additions. Can’t wait for the next book!!
This book was so good! I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. Love the small town romance and dynamic. Love this family and all the new additions. Can’t wait for the next book!!
February 18, 2023
Great read
I really liked this book and all the characters! Great writing, Harms did a great job! Can't wait for the next one!
I really liked this book and all the characters! Great writing, Harms did a great job! Can't wait for the next one!
December 19, 2023
4 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below, I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Allure (Brooklet Dreams Book 1)
Captivate (Brooklet Dream #2)
Gravitate (Brooklet Dreams #3)
Entice (Brooklet Dreams Book 4)
This is Gretchen and Colton’s story. Gretchen has had a hard life because of her family and how they treat her. He has two people she trusts and has had a hard time letting people in. Colton knew from the first time they were together he wanted more but he has to take it slow. But what is taking it slow is not working and he is just hurting them both. Can they figure out if they can be together or are they both about to walk away?
I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
Merged review:
4 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below, I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Allure (Brooklet Dreams Book 1)
Captivate (Brooklet Dream #2)
Gravitate (Brooklet Dreams #3)
Entice (Brooklet Dreams Book 4)
This is Gretchen and Colton’s story. Gretchen has had a hard life because of her family and how they treat her. He has two people she trusts and has had a hard time letting people in. Colton knew from the first time they were together he wanted more but he has to take it slow. But what is taking it slow is not working and he is just hurting them both. Can they figure out if they can be together or are they both about to walk away?
I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below, I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Allure (Brooklet Dreams Book 1)
Captivate (Brooklet Dream #2)
Gravitate (Brooklet Dreams #3)
Entice (Brooklet Dreams Book 4)
This is Gretchen and Colton’s story. Gretchen has had a hard life because of her family and how they treat her. He has two people she trusts and has had a hard time letting people in. Colton knew from the first time they were together he wanted more but he has to take it slow. But what is taking it slow is not working and he is just hurting them both. Can they figure out if they can be together or are they both about to walk away?
I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
Merged review:
4 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below, I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Allure (Brooklet Dreams Book 1)
Captivate (Brooklet Dream #2)
Gravitate (Brooklet Dreams #3)
Entice (Brooklet Dreams Book 4)
This is Gretchen and Colton’s story. Gretchen has had a hard life because of her family and how they treat her. He has two people she trusts and has had a hard time letting people in. Colton knew from the first time they were together he wanted more but he has to take it slow. But what is taking it slow is not working and he is just hurting them both. Can they figure out if they can be together or are they both about to walk away?
I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
January 19, 2023
Oh, I loved this! It’s a slow burn and we all saw it coming if you’ve followed this series. One night will never be enough.
Colton may have been a fun-loving playboy but all it takes is the right woman and he knows what and who he wants in his life…forever.
Gretchen has lived what most would believe is a fairy tale life yet she had no happily ever after. Coming from an influential family that’s shown her no support or love has damaged her outlook on life and on others. Trust doesn’t come easy, it hardly comes at all. The walls she has built up are almost impenetrable…almost. All it takes is the right man, persistence and a whole lot of stubbornness to chip that wall piece by piece.
I LOVE this series. Each of these books makes me feel like I’m in the story and this one was no different. A must read (this whole series is!) Then there’s the little tidbit dropped about Garrett-I can’t wait!!
Colton may have been a fun-loving playboy but all it takes is the right woman and he knows what and who he wants in his life…forever.
Gretchen has lived what most would believe is a fairy tale life yet she had no happily ever after. Coming from an influential family that’s shown her no support or love has damaged her outlook on life and on others. Trust doesn’t come easy, it hardly comes at all. The walls she has built up are almost impenetrable…almost. All it takes is the right man, persistence and a whole lot of stubbornness to chip that wall piece by piece.
I LOVE this series. Each of these books makes me feel like I’m in the story and this one was no different. A must read (this whole series is!) Then there’s the little tidbit dropped about Garrett-I can’t wait!!
April 4, 2023
I really enjoyed this one. What's not to love hot cowboys and sassy women to keep your attention and entertain.
This one is Colt and Gretchen's story and it was a great insta-love story. Soon as Colt meets Gretchen he knows he wants her and will do whatever he needs to to make her his and she seriously makes him work for it but it was totally worth it..
Gretchen has been through a lot and is attempting to run from her painful past. She is afraid of loving and trusting anyone but Colt will break down her walls. Whilst the connection and spark between them was total insta-love i did like that they took the time to build something strong and beautiful.
I was gifted a copy of this book by the Author. This my honest opinion
https://ilovebookreviewscom.wordpress...
This one is Colt and Gretchen's story and it was a great insta-love story. Soon as Colt meets Gretchen he knows he wants her and will do whatever he needs to to make her his and she seriously makes him work for it but it was totally worth it..
Gretchen has been through a lot and is attempting to run from her painful past. She is afraid of loving and trusting anyone but Colt will break down her walls. Whilst the connection and spark between them was total insta-love i did like that they took the time to build something strong and beautiful.
I was gifted a copy of this book by the Author. This my honest opinion
https://ilovebookreviewscom.wordpress...
January 17, 2023
Every time that I think I have read my favorite C.A. Harms book, I read her next one and BAM I am now in love with that one! This time is no different! Brooklet may be made up but I wish there really was a place like it. The characters are so well written you feel yourself becoming invested in what happens to them like you would a good friend. Each of the characters have so many layers which may include flirty, stubborn, sensitive, withdrawn and many more. Colt is amazing and may be strong, but isn't afraid to show his sensitive side. I felt like I really got to know Gretchen and was hoping she would work through her issues. Then the cherry on top is being able to see how some of the other characters are doing in Brooklet. I love this series and cannot wait to read the next one!!!!
January 12, 2023
Intrigue will bring you everything your heart has desired. Colton is the man that you dream of. He's smart, handsome, witty, and can love like no other. Gretchen has walls so high that she's not even sure she can scale them. She's beautiful and has had a crap life. Not only do Colton and Gretchen have a steamy night together they have an attraction that is off the charts. It's more than that thought. They both want the same thing but are not sure it can happen. They make beautiful art and have issues like everyone else. For Colton, though he has his work cut out for him in Gretchen, when you know you know. And he's about to show her everything that is good and positive in her life. Will she fall in love and let her guard down?
January 16, 2023
Due to her past Gretchen has learnt to only let people so close and then backing away before they can hurt you. When it comes to Colt she believes that the connection they share can only be physical however she is about to find out that he is the one man she can count on to always be there for her.
Colt was enchanted by Gretchen from their first meeting and the he isn’t about to let her walk out of his life. He will allow her to set the pace as he shows her that he will protect her and her heart from anyone who means it harm.
Colt is so supportive and understanding as he shows her there is so much more to life than the way she is living it and I enjoyed seeing her open her heart and having hope for a future she never dreamed was possible.
Colt was enchanted by Gretchen from their first meeting and the he isn’t about to let her walk out of his life. He will allow her to set the pace as he shows her that he will protect her and her heart from anyone who means it harm.
Colt is so supportive and understanding as he shows her there is so much more to life than the way she is living it and I enjoyed seeing her open her heart and having hope for a future she never dreamed was possible.
January 17, 2023
This is the fifth book in this incredible series, and this is Gretchen and Colton’s story. Gretchen is sassy, stubborn, sweet, yet vulnerable, while Colton is stubborn and persistent, and he sees through Gretchen’s façade, and he is determined to break through the walls around her heart and convince her to take a chance of them. This is a beautifully written small-town romance, with humor, witty banter, friendships, passion, emotions, drama, undeniable chemistry, drama, and love, which leads to an entertaining and heartfelt page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
January 4, 2023
Intrigue had me enchanted right from the start. The connection between Colton and Gretchen is intense and powerful. This emotional small town romance is one that pulls at your heartstrings. The way Colton goes out of his way to show Gretchen her worth, value and how much he loves her will have your heart melting. The chemistry between these two will set the pages on fire. It is witty, passionate, overflowing with drama and heartfelt moments. These two will easily steal your heart and that ending will have you on the edge of your seat and eager for the next book.
January 10, 2023
Love, love, love Colt and Gretchen’s story! Small town romance, stubborn & sassy girl, the awesome friends that make the story so much fun and let’s not forget about our leading guy! This is one of those stories that you wish you could keep reading. I’m a huge fan of the Southern Boys and Brooklet Dreams series, I first fell in love with the small town of Brooklet, GA in Forgiving Reed and I just can’t get enough! So as I sit here with Colt, Gretch and the gang still living in my head, I can’t help but be anxious for the next book. Can’t wait to get back to Brooklet ❤️.
January 23, 2023
I am a sucker for small-town romances and when they are executed correctly they are one of my favourite genres and this author pulled off one mesmerising, captivating story with Intrigue, Gretchen was so worthy of being our heroine I just wanted to hug her and tell her it was going to be OK and not let the past no matter how bad it had been, take away the promise of a spectacular future with Colt, but I totally get why she made Colt work for their relationship and Colt well, swoon 1-O-1, this guy just was the perfect book boyfriend.
Highly recommend
Highly recommend
January 10, 2023
What a great addition to this series! Gretchen is used to being second best or ignored completely. Enter Colt. He is enamored of her since the first time he met her and is determined to make her his. Even though it was instalove on Colt's part, I liked that it took him awhile to win her over and make her believe in them. Love the appearances of the extended family members. Looking forward to more!
Thank you for the privilege of reading this book!
Thank you for the privilege of reading this book!
February 2, 2023
absolutely loved this amazing book! Ever since Grace’s book I’ve been looking forward to getting my hands on Gretchen and Colton’s book. These two have so much chemistry, but Gretchen is fighting it! She has been treated horribly by her family and finally has her own life away from them. She will not let Colton in though. Colton is so sweet and does not give up on what he wants. This book is so good and I loved every moment. I can not wait until the next one!
July 14, 2024
Nothing easy is ever worth it, so when Gretchen makes Colton work really hard to break down the walls surrounding her heart true love is revealed. Small town love, but big time hearts are intertwined throughout this book making it a great read to start off the new year. Totally in love with Brooklet - I almost wish I could live there.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews