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The Mixed Six-Pack #2
Second Breath: Dazzled by my Blind Date
What could possibly go wrong when a lawyer falls in love with a young woman whose reputation he was hired to destroy?
“Wow, what a breathtaking story! I'm simply blown away by the depth of emotions the author brought out in this book." ~Viper Spaulding
★★★★★
Dylan Rhodes is a cocky, up-and-coming lawyer who was just given his big break—all he has to do is win a questionable case to become the firm’s youngest partner. But after he meets the woman he’s meant to take down, all he can think about is taking her home.
Grad student Kama Ray is one date shy of finishing the research portion of her thesis about dating mind-tricks. The man who answers her ad is perfect. He’s an unapologetic player who treats women like tea bags—gets them wet, then tosses them out. But as they get deeper into the study, Kama’s not sure who’s mind-tricking whom.
As Kama falls for her research subject, she fears her feelings are a result she can’t defend. And when Dylan sees the truth about Kama’s study, his career goals grind against doing what’s right.
Will their romance be deadlocked or can they appeal to their hearts to find their forever?
~~~
Second Breath is a stand-alone in the steamy, Mixed Six-Pack contemporary romance series, featuring smart heroines, hottie heroes, funny family dynamics and quirky, witty banter. No cheating and a guaranteed HEA.
Buy Second Breath to witness the justice of love today!
“Wow, what a breathtaking story! I'm simply blown away by the depth of emotions the author brought out in this book." ~Viper Spaulding
★★★★★
Dylan Rhodes is a cocky, up-and-coming lawyer who was just given his big break—all he has to do is win a questionable case to become the firm’s youngest partner. But after he meets the woman he’s meant to take down, all he can think about is taking her home.
Grad student Kama Ray is one date shy of finishing the research portion of her thesis about dating mind-tricks. The man who answers her ad is perfect. He’s an unapologetic player who treats women like tea bags—gets them wet, then tosses them out. But as they get deeper into the study, Kama’s not sure who’s mind-tricking whom.
As Kama falls for her research subject, she fears her feelings are a result she can’t defend. And when Dylan sees the truth about Kama’s study, his career goals grind against doing what’s right.
Will their romance be deadlocked or can they appeal to their hearts to find their forever?
~~~
Second Breath is a stand-alone in the steamy, Mixed Six-Pack contemporary romance series, featuring smart heroines, hottie heroes, funny family dynamics and quirky, witty banter. No cheating and a guaranteed HEA.
Buy Second Breath to witness the justice of love today!
318 pages, Paperback
First published August 15, 2020
207 people are currently reading
292 people want to read
About the author
Danika Bloom
24 books252 followersDanika Bloom writes small-town (and small city) rom-coms where love gets wonderfully weird and family is whoever shows up with snacks during your breakdown. She's obsessed with the bizarre little rituals couples develop—because honestly, isn't declaring your feelings through origami made from grocery receipts more romantic than basic flower delivery?
When she's not writing stories about found families and the beautifully strange ways people connect, she's probably taste-testing a new baked good recipe her retired husband has made to lure her from her office.
Join my Bloom'n email list to get news about ARC opportunities, new releases, and other love&stuff.
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When she's not writing stories about found families and the beautifully strange ways people connect, she's probably taste-testing a new baked good recipe her retired husband has made to lure her from her office.
Join my Bloom'n email list to get news about ARC opportunities, new releases, and other love&stuff.
Find my books on Amazon
Follow me on BookBub
Say hello to me on Instagram
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
August 16, 2020
Very conflicted with this one. Did not like Kama at all. Manipulative, self centered, and always has to be in charge while he gave up everything for her. 3.5 STARS
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book sure had me confused about my thoughts and feelings. On one hand, the beginning was great and I really got into the plot. Second Breath is unique and allows for a lot of humorous situations.
However, the further I got into the book the more I began to dislike the female character, Kama. She was controlling and manipulative, and even though she and Dylan hit it off beautifully, I just could not find a positive side to her that changed my mind the further I delved into the story. And Lord knows I tried.
Dylan worked his butt off for her to try and make her happy without compromising his confidentiality. But the author chose to create her with so many issues and problems that it became exhausting to read for me. She still wanted to control him and that didn’t really work for me.
But when they are together, I do love their energy. The author did a great job writing the story and being creative with her plot. Their connection was definitely steamy. Dylan = yummy HOT, caring, and loving. Plus, they had a great energy that Bloom showcased well. Until it didn’t.
When I find myself watching to see how much longer until the book ends and how they’re going to wrap it up, then the author has lost me along the way. While the book showcases a lot of creativity, it also needs some positivity with Kama. I really had a hard time with her.
For me the positives and the negatives kind of balanced each other. Started off great, kind of lost me in the middle, and I relatively enjoyed the very end. For me, Dylan was the one that saved the story.
* copy received for review consideration
Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/second-breat...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book sure had me confused about my thoughts and feelings. On one hand, the beginning was great and I really got into the plot. Second Breath is unique and allows for a lot of humorous situations.
However, the further I got into the book the more I began to dislike the female character, Kama. She was controlling and manipulative, and even though she and Dylan hit it off beautifully, I just could not find a positive side to her that changed my mind the further I delved into the story. And Lord knows I tried.
Dylan worked his butt off for her to try and make her happy without compromising his confidentiality. But the author chose to create her with so many issues and problems that it became exhausting to read for me. She still wanted to control him and that didn’t really work for me.
But when they are together, I do love their energy. The author did a great job writing the story and being creative with her plot. Their connection was definitely steamy. Dylan = yummy HOT, caring, and loving. Plus, they had a great energy that Bloom showcased well. Until it didn’t.
When I find myself watching to see how much longer until the book ends and how they’re going to wrap it up, then the author has lost me along the way. While the book showcases a lot of creativity, it also needs some positivity with Kama. I really had a hard time with her.
For me the positives and the negatives kind of balanced each other. Started off great, kind of lost me in the middle, and I relatively enjoyed the very end. For me, Dylan was the one that saved the story.
* copy received for review consideration
Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/second-breat...
August 5, 2020
Dylan and Kama, two totally different characters and ones you would think could not work but do in this wonderfully wacky story. It’s different and was not what I was expecting.
She is psychology student who is working towards her thesis.
Dylan an upcoming lawyer who is getting noticed.
He has worked his whole life to earn the approval of his father.
She trying to prove herself to her family and herself.
Both trying achieve dreams for different reasons.
Enter Dylan – sexy lawyer, he’s been sent to debunk her thesis. The ultimate goal for him is an office with a view and a partnership in the law firm he works at, if he can prove that she’s doing something wrong. It would be his crowning glory.
What he didn’t expect was her. She’s different and he likes that.
The first date is a disaster. I felt for her. Her careful planning was not going the way it should. And it’s all his fault. He’s not like the others. While frustrated she also cant help but enjoy the verbal banter. This they both do well and I couldn’t help but laugh out loud. But Kama also has secrets. Ones she’s kept locked up tight. She does not let many people in.
Dylan looking for approval from his father nearly lets the goals he thought he needed to complete himself get in the way of what really mattered, and that’s her.
The misunderstanding that seem to arise when people don’t communicate is in abundance here and Danika manages to articulate this extremely well. She brings humour and warmth. Throw in the combustible chemistry between our leads and you have a slow burn that simmers until igniting.
Great secondary characters, who bring the added laughter. His brothers are hilarous.
Her brother? I really wanted to punch him in the face!
She is psychology student who is working towards her thesis.
Dylan an upcoming lawyer who is getting noticed.
He has worked his whole life to earn the approval of his father.
She trying to prove herself to her family and herself.
Both trying achieve dreams for different reasons.
Enter Dylan – sexy lawyer, he’s been sent to debunk her thesis. The ultimate goal for him is an office with a view and a partnership in the law firm he works at, if he can prove that she’s doing something wrong. It would be his crowning glory.
What he didn’t expect was her. She’s different and he likes that.
The first date is a disaster. I felt for her. Her careful planning was not going the way it should. And it’s all his fault. He’s not like the others. While frustrated she also cant help but enjoy the verbal banter. This they both do well and I couldn’t help but laugh out loud. But Kama also has secrets. Ones she’s kept locked up tight. She does not let many people in.
Dylan looking for approval from his father nearly lets the goals he thought he needed to complete himself get in the way of what really mattered, and that’s her.
The misunderstanding that seem to arise when people don’t communicate is in abundance here and Danika manages to articulate this extremely well. She brings humour and warmth. Throw in the combustible chemistry between our leads and you have a slow burn that simmers until igniting.
Great secondary characters, who bring the added laughter. His brothers are hilarous.
Her brother? I really wanted to punch him in the face!
August 4, 2020
*Minor Spoilers*
Danika does it again with one of the Rhodes brothers. A career driven, but good guy lawyer Dylan is assigned a case to investigate Kama Ray, a masters student, for professional misconduct. What he finds is a confident, intelligent, and hot woman who brings out his quick wit, and sharp tongue. Kama Ray is at the end of her thesis research, and her last date is gorgeous hot shot lawyer Dylan. Not like any of her previous "dates". Despite maintaining professional distance she is drawn to him, and he to her. A family secret keeps her from being able to get close enough to give her whole heart, but she is drawn to Dylan because he isn't just a soulless lawyer. Dylan has a major career goal, but he wonders if it is worth it if he loses Kama.
I love characters who connect like these two have. They like to give pleasure even more than they receive. It is awesome to see a woman not afraid to take her desire by the hands, and a man who knows that sexuality is nuanced. Even more, I love that both characters have a vulnerable chink in their armor that birngs us the wonderful conflict then resolution.
Here are the spoilers... Love the geeky references, the massage scene (wooh!), and Danika made me truly hate Rohan (an antagonist who you love to hate).
I am looking forward to seeing more of these wonderfully yummy brothers find their own happy endings.
Danika does it again with one of the Rhodes brothers. A career driven, but good guy lawyer Dylan is assigned a case to investigate Kama Ray, a masters student, for professional misconduct. What he finds is a confident, intelligent, and hot woman who brings out his quick wit, and sharp tongue. Kama Ray is at the end of her thesis research, and her last date is gorgeous hot shot lawyer Dylan. Not like any of her previous "dates". Despite maintaining professional distance she is drawn to him, and he to her. A family secret keeps her from being able to get close enough to give her whole heart, but she is drawn to Dylan because he isn't just a soulless lawyer. Dylan has a major career goal, but he wonders if it is worth it if he loses Kama.
I love characters who connect like these two have. They like to give pleasure even more than they receive. It is awesome to see a woman not afraid to take her desire by the hands, and a man who knows that sexuality is nuanced. Even more, I love that both characters have a vulnerable chink in their armor that birngs us the wonderful conflict then resolution.
Here are the spoilers... Love the geeky references, the massage scene (wooh!), and Danika made me truly hate Rohan (an antagonist who you love to hate).
I am looking forward to seeing more of these wonderfully yummy brothers find their own happy endings.
August 19, 2020
4.5 Stars
Second Breath evoked variety of emotions - joy, anxiety, giddiness, as well as a little but of dread. I adored both of the main characters (especially #sexylawyer), and I found that this was a big improvement from the first book in the series, First In.
Dylan and Kama meet under rather unconventional circumstances. Kama is an university student, currently in middle of writing her master's thesis about online dating. Dylan, who is the younger brother of Nick from the first book, is the lawyer hired to represent a man that feels like her was tricked by Kama. Dylan is then assigned to go on a date with Kama to figure out her game plan.
Second breath has really unique and interesting plot. I really adored Dylan, he was serious when he had to be but was also very goofy and not afraid to make fun of himself. He was also a good listener and was very supportive. He was also very ambitious which took the driver seat for a very long time, at least until he met Kama who has made him rethink his priorities.
I liked Kama, but it took me longer to warm up to her. While it was obvious that her thesis is everything to her and she has been honest about it from the very beginning, I did not like like her attitude at times, especially in the scene where she told Dylan that spending time with him was waste of time since she couldn't use any of the data collected for her thesis. I think that was very hurtful thing to say but thankfully she quickly apologized. She could also be a bit hypocritical at times. But overall I did like her character.
I really enjoyed the dynamic between Kama and Dylan. While Kama was not Dylan's usual type, the chemistry between them ran super hot. I really enjoyed their relationship and I found the things they did for each other super sweet. However, there was always a black cloud over their heads, representing the secrets they keep from each other. While I was rooting for the couple, I just waited for the second shoe to drop when things appeared to be a bit too perfect.
Dylan's brothers also make an appearance and I must say I liked Nick much better in this book than I did in First In. Dylan is really lucky to have band of brothers that always stand in your corner, but at the same time tell you get a grip when required. I also really liked Kama's friend Lizzie, who was also not afraid to throw any punches to tell her friend she was being unreasonable. Friends that don't sugarcoat things are the ones worth keeping. I think her and Josh would make a cute couple! I hope the next book is about them.
I would really recommend picking up this wonderful book which beautifully describes human connection that develops between two people and their own individual road to self-discovery.
*ARC provided by Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.*
"Am I messing with your parameters?" I said in a suggestive tone.
"You've annihilated them." She pantomimed an explosion with her hands, looked towards the ceiling, and said, "Poof."
Second Breath evoked variety of emotions - joy, anxiety, giddiness, as well as a little but of dread. I adored both of the main characters (especially #sexylawyer), and I found that this was a big improvement from the first book in the series, First In.
Dylan and Kama meet under rather unconventional circumstances. Kama is an university student, currently in middle of writing her master's thesis about online dating. Dylan, who is the younger brother of Nick from the first book, is the lawyer hired to represent a man that feels like her was tricked by Kama. Dylan is then assigned to go on a date with Kama to figure out her game plan.
"Let's get to the restaurant and I'll let you in on of my secrets. I'll even give you a vote in how I act on it tonight."
"I vote yes!"
"You don't even know what the question is, you dummy!"
"I'm using my mind-trick powers to convince you it ends with allowing my penis to befriend you vagina."
Second breath has really unique and interesting plot. I really adored Dylan, he was serious when he had to be but was also very goofy and not afraid to make fun of himself. He was also a good listener and was very supportive. He was also very ambitious which took the driver seat for a very long time, at least until he met Kama who has made him rethink his priorities.
I liked Kama, but it took me longer to warm up to her. While it was obvious that her thesis is everything to her and she has been honest about it from the very beginning, I did not like like her attitude at times, especially in the scene where she told Dylan that spending time with him was waste of time since she couldn't use any of the data collected for her thesis. I think that was very hurtful thing to say but thankfully she quickly apologized. She could also be a bit hypocritical at times. But overall I did like her character.
She didn't speak, and I still hadn't found my words. Nothing that felt like it was the right thing to say. And I needed to sat the right thing, now more than ever. More than any case I'd ever argued for a client.
I could not lose Rhodes v. Ray.
I really enjoyed the dynamic between Kama and Dylan. While Kama was not Dylan's usual type, the chemistry between them ran super hot. I really enjoyed their relationship and I found the things they did for each other super sweet. However, there was always a black cloud over their heads, representing the secrets they keep from each other. While I was rooting for the couple, I just waited for the second shoe to drop when things appeared to be a bit too perfect.
Dylan's brothers also make an appearance and I must say I liked Nick much better in this book than I did in First In. Dylan is really lucky to have band of brothers that always stand in your corner, but at the same time tell you get a grip when required. I also really liked Kama's friend Lizzie, who was also not afraid to throw any punches to tell her friend she was being unreasonable. Friends that don't sugarcoat things are the ones worth keeping. I think her and Josh would make a cute couple! I hope the next book is about them.
I would really recommend picking up this wonderful book which beautifully describes human connection that develops between two people and their own individual road to self-discovery.
*ARC provided by Booksprout in exchange for an honest review.*
August 6, 2020
I very much enjoyed this book! I thought the first book in this series was good but when I finished this one it definitely outshined even the first. Dylan is such a great guy! Of course he’s not perfect but I just love his character. Kama took me a little longer to warm to I think because she was holding back out of fear but once we got all of her I was loving her too! There were a few scenes in this book that made me seriously feel what I was reading and think how incredible that would be. Lol. Definitely recommend this one!
August 11, 2020
Do you know that? You have started in a new book that draws you into the story and does not let go. And then your partner says to you: Come on, we really have to leave now!
And all you want is to know how the characters will fare when you can't read any further!
That happened to me when I started with "Second Breathe".
Kama is completing her education in psycology and has chosen a daring subject for research. One of the men who went on a date with her wants to sue her because she makes men pay but gives nothing in return (read sex)
Dylan is the attorney who is put on this case. He thinks in advance that this is a lost cause but takes steps to get in touch with Kama.
On their 1st date it is clear that he will be part of her research, she even has a contract that he must sign before continuing. Eventually they will date 3x, which is what she needs to collect data. But Dylan wants to see her more often and Kama also wants to keep meeting him.
While something beautiful grows between them, secrets also remain between Kama and Dylan. Can their relationship withstand these secrets? And what if these secrets endanger their careers? Who or what do you choose?
I thought Kama was very credible. With the completion of this study she can start working for children who are not believed by others when something bad happens to them. This affects her because of her own experiences in her youth. But how great is her love for Dylan when his actions keep her from achieving her dreams?
I thought Dylan had a great character and with his looks he is used to women coming to him like flies to honey. Now he has to fight to get and keep a woman's attention. I loved the scene that is described when Kama first goes to his house. So full of emotions, focused on her pleasure without having sex in mind. The way in which the writer brings out the attraction is an ode to women. An emotional and very respectful scene where connection is central.
A wonderful story full of love and connection, the power of love and the independence of both characters. But also how choices made can lead to grief, betrayal, miscommunication and the ending of a relationship. But also self-reflection and looking for a way to find each other again.
Highly recommended!
And all you want is to know how the characters will fare when you can't read any further!
That happened to me when I started with "Second Breathe".
Kama is completing her education in psycology and has chosen a daring subject for research. One of the men who went on a date with her wants to sue her because she makes men pay but gives nothing in return (read sex)
Dylan is the attorney who is put on this case. He thinks in advance that this is a lost cause but takes steps to get in touch with Kama.
On their 1st date it is clear that he will be part of her research, she even has a contract that he must sign before continuing. Eventually they will date 3x, which is what she needs to collect data. But Dylan wants to see her more often and Kama also wants to keep meeting him.
While something beautiful grows between them, secrets also remain between Kama and Dylan. Can their relationship withstand these secrets? And what if these secrets endanger their careers? Who or what do you choose?
I thought Kama was very credible. With the completion of this study she can start working for children who are not believed by others when something bad happens to them. This affects her because of her own experiences in her youth. But how great is her love for Dylan when his actions keep her from achieving her dreams?
I thought Dylan had a great character and with his looks he is used to women coming to him like flies to honey. Now he has to fight to get and keep a woman's attention. I loved the scene that is described when Kama first goes to his house. So full of emotions, focused on her pleasure without having sex in mind. The way in which the writer brings out the attraction is an ode to women. An emotional and very respectful scene where connection is central.
A wonderful story full of love and connection, the power of love and the independence of both characters. But also how choices made can lead to grief, betrayal, miscommunication and the ending of a relationship. But also self-reflection and looking for a way to find each other again.
Highly recommended!
September 12, 2020
Steamy, Diverse, Canadian. Perfect for Kiss Quotient Fans.
I absolutely loved Second Breath. Danika's writing comes alive on the page, and the world she's created in this series is so amazingly immersive her books are impossible to put down! Danika's writing reminds me of Helen Hoang, and I highly recommend it to Kiss Quotient fans looking for the same level of detail, feels and steam.
I absolutely loved Second Breath. Danika's writing comes alive on the page, and the world she's created in this series is so amazingly immersive her books are impossible to put down! Danika's writing reminds me of Helen Hoang, and I highly recommend it to Kiss Quotient fans looking for the same level of detail, feels and steam.
August 4, 2020
This is my first Danika Bloom book and I was pleasantly surprised! The scenario was a brand new one to me. A psychology student researching how women can overcome the dating expectation that paying for dinner equals sex for the man and a lawyer hired to find holes in her methods for one of her jilted dates. They’re on opposite sides, yet their chemistry is undeniable! It started a bit slow for me until they met when Danika’s talent for whitty conversations sucked me fully in. I fell in love a little more every interaction!
Favorite things:
*Non-White Heroine (She's Indian and it's an important part of her family dynamic)
*Believable conflicts without overdoing the angst
*Unusual Trope
*Excellent give-and-take dialogue
*Fleshed out Side Characters
Non-Favorite
*Took a few chapters to get into the story
*Would've liked to see a more solid resolution the the mental health issue that arose (but, in the moment, it was dealt with gracefully and honestly)
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Favorite things:
*Non-White Heroine (She's Indian and it's an important part of her family dynamic)
*Believable conflicts without overdoing the angst
*Unusual Trope
*Excellent give-and-take dialogue
*Fleshed out Side Characters
Non-Favorite
*Took a few chapters to get into the story
*Would've liked to see a more solid resolution the the mental health issue that arose (but, in the moment, it was dealt with gracefully and honestly)
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
August 24, 2020Okay, Book Friends, have I got a fun one for you! From the new-to-me author, Danika Bloom comes Second Breath. The first few chapters are what did it for me as a reader/reviewer. Clever premise. Smart characters. Interesting yet funny banter and a volley of dialogue that just makes you smile.
Snag a copy for a fun afternoon read! ( https://amzn.to/2CVkDuJ )
~Tanja
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Snag a copy for a fun afternoon read! ( https://amzn.to/2CVkDuJ )
~Tanja
Follow me on
Instagram✿Twitter✿Facebook✿Pinterest✿
August 17, 2020
Delightfully Different
Second Breath is a delightfully different love story. So used to the typical storylines in this type of genre, I was surprised by it's realistic and unique telling.
Dylan Rhodes is a charismatic and career driven up and coming lawyer.
Kama Ray is a psychology masters student working on her final thesis on how to become a Jedi in the world of online dating.
The two meet on one of Kama's final "thesis" dates. Kama believing Dylan to be the perfect test subject...and Dylan investigating Kama for unethical practices on said dates for his firm.
Either unsure of why they were both so drawn to one another. Each interaction with each other brings them closer together. There is a lot of miscommunication, trust issues, and angst to keep you reading just to find out how these two will work out their differences with such drastically different personalities. These characters are real and flawed which makes the intimate moments have a real depth and closeness to them. The massage scene had me swooning! Kama and Dylan definitely bring out the best in one another! This book is so refreshingly honest in Dylan and Kama's relationship. A fantastic read and I can't wait to see what's next up for this author!
*I received an ARC copy of this book by the author for an honest review *
Second Breath is a delightfully different love story. So used to the typical storylines in this type of genre, I was surprised by it's realistic and unique telling.
Dylan Rhodes is a charismatic and career driven up and coming lawyer.
Kama Ray is a psychology masters student working on her final thesis on how to become a Jedi in the world of online dating.
The two meet on one of Kama's final "thesis" dates. Kama believing Dylan to be the perfect test subject...and Dylan investigating Kama for unethical practices on said dates for his firm.
Either unsure of why they were both so drawn to one another. Each interaction with each other brings them closer together. There is a lot of miscommunication, trust issues, and angst to keep you reading just to find out how these two will work out their differences with such drastically different personalities. These characters are real and flawed which makes the intimate moments have a real depth and closeness to them. The massage scene had me swooning! Kama and Dylan definitely bring out the best in one another! This book is so refreshingly honest in Dylan and Kama's relationship. A fantastic read and I can't wait to see what's next up for this author!
*I received an ARC copy of this book by the author for an honest review *
August 16, 2020
I have never read anything like Second Breath, and I read a LOT of romance. The witty, engaging, adorable banter between Dylan and Kama was so fun to read! It almost felt...magical reading about their interactions.
What starts off as a research project for Kama and a job prospect for Dylan slowly turns into a whirlwind of a romance with all the feels. Emotional, steamy, and completely beautiful.
There are miscommunication, mistakes, and angst within the pages, but the HEA is sweet and SO well deserved for this amazing couple.
I voluntarily received an ARC of this book and I solidly recommend it!
August 11, 2020
Wow, what a breathtaking story!
I'm simply blown away by the depth of emotions the author brought out in this book. The setup is absolutely delightful and wholly unique: Kama is doing her thesis research on the "quid-pro-quo" aspect of dating (ie: dinner reciprocated with sex) and Dylan is supposed to be her last test subject. Dylan doesn't know the extent to which her thesis requires her to manipulate the content and pacing of the "dates" while Kama has no idea that Dylan has been assigned to participate by his boss, whose smarmy client is wanting to sue Kama.
This story is filled with unexpected twists and turns, showing an unusual level of creativity and far-reaching insight that takes this story much deeper than was initially apparent. Their banter is biting, witty, and revealing all at once, with gasp-inducing humor and a strong undercurrent of attraction. Their first evening of intimacy is so very different than anything I've ever read before. Dylan surprised Kama every bit as much as the author surprised me, but it was beautiful even as it went in a totally unexpected direction.
The whole breathing together theme was magical. The physical intensity is off the charts, yet the emotional intensity cannot be overstated. As her family secrets come out and things start falling apart, the author linked second chances and second breaths until I found I was holding my breath as well, until a huge sigh of relief allowed me to savor their triumphant HEA.
I guarantee you've never read a book like this one, and you'll be doing yourself a huge favor by immersing yourself in this truly breathtaking romance. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I'm simply blown away by the depth of emotions the author brought out in this book. The setup is absolutely delightful and wholly unique: Kama is doing her thesis research on the "quid-pro-quo" aspect of dating (ie: dinner reciprocated with sex) and Dylan is supposed to be her last test subject. Dylan doesn't know the extent to which her thesis requires her to manipulate the content and pacing of the "dates" while Kama has no idea that Dylan has been assigned to participate by his boss, whose smarmy client is wanting to sue Kama.
This story is filled with unexpected twists and turns, showing an unusual level of creativity and far-reaching insight that takes this story much deeper than was initially apparent. Their banter is biting, witty, and revealing all at once, with gasp-inducing humor and a strong undercurrent of attraction. Their first evening of intimacy is so very different than anything I've ever read before. Dylan surprised Kama every bit as much as the author surprised me, but it was beautiful even as it went in a totally unexpected direction.
The whole breathing together theme was magical. The physical intensity is off the charts, yet the emotional intensity cannot be overstated. As her family secrets come out and things start falling apart, the author linked second chances and second breaths until I found I was holding my breath as well, until a huge sigh of relief allowed me to savor their triumphant HEA.
I guarantee you've never read a book like this one, and you'll be doing yourself a huge favor by immersing yourself in this truly breathtaking romance. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
August 15, 2020
Dylan’s witty banter and puns has him sharing an instant connection with Kama that is the start of a bumpy relationship between two wonderful people. The suspense keeps tugging at you through the whole book while you wait with anticipation for the other shoe to drop. I love the family aspect and being able to get to know each of their families better as their relationship progresses. Please tell me that we get stories for his brothers as I definitely want to know more about them. Dylan’s massage techniques are something every man should learn and was one of the hottest yet tender scenes I have read in a while. Kama and Dylan each learn what it truly means to trust in your feelings and do the right thing as they work through some tough issues in their relationship. I loved how to true to life this felt and the ending was just so right for them, focusing on what they really wanted and needed from each other.
I received an ARC of this book via Book Sprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC of this book via Book Sprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 16, 2020
I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
Firstly, I love the way Danika writes. She draws you in with her words and this book was incredibly well written.
It was sensual, emotional, witty, and took you on a rollercoaster of emotions. It certainly wasn’t predictable. If you haven’t read Danika’s books before then you should try them, you won’t be disappointed.
Firstly, I love the way Danika writes. She draws you in with her words and this book was incredibly well written.
It was sensual, emotional, witty, and took you on a rollercoaster of emotions. It certainly wasn’t predictable. If you haven’t read Danika’s books before then you should try them, you won’t be disappointed.
August 24, 2020
Another great heartwarming romance by Danika Bloom in the Mixed Six-Pack series.
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December 6, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/8/2020)! 🎁
August 17, 2020
Who would have thought that a relationship between a psychology student and a lawyer would work out. I sure did not but this book made me believe otherwise. I love the bantering between the two of them when they get to know each other on their first date and how he just confuses her!!!
But it al works out in the end, a nice read, i had a little bit of difficulties getting into the story in the beginning but i loved it just the same. It makes me want to read the other brothers stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But it al works out in the end, a nice read, i had a little bit of difficulties getting into the story in the beginning but i loved it just the same. It makes me want to read the other brothers stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 15, 2020
A thought provoking and realistic look at relationships
Kama, a masters of psychiatry student, agrees to a date with Dylan, a lawyer rising in the ranks of his firm, both of them with multiple reasons for meeting. As the story progresses science gets thrown out the window, they each hold something back, and when their worlds explode they may not survive the fallout. Danika Bloom has created a thought provoking and realistic look at relationships that will apply for years to come. I cannot express enough how much I would love to see more about Lizzie and all of Dylan’s brothers.
Kama, a masters of psychiatry student, agrees to a date with Dylan, a lawyer rising in the ranks of his firm, both of them with multiple reasons for meeting. As the story progresses science gets thrown out the window, they each hold something back, and when their worlds explode they may not survive the fallout. Danika Bloom has created a thought provoking and realistic look at relationships that will apply for years to come. I cannot express enough how much I would love to see more about Lizzie and all of Dylan’s brothers.
August 15, 2020
If you love alpha males than this is a must read book for you!!!This was an awesome book that I really enjoyed. The story and characters grabbed me from the beginning and I couldn't stop reading. I loved characters watching them grow together, they were well written and went well together. I found this book amazing with great word building making me feel apart of the story and watching it unfold in front of me. A definite must read for any fan and I can't wait to read more from this author!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 26, 2020
Second Breath: WOW! Amazing writing and fantastic characters. I loved the characters names. I like that Dylan was not your typical lawyer. He as also not quite your typical guy beside say he doesn't have time for relationships. I liked how he was picked to do the dating service. He was the right person for the job. Kama maybe a college student doing research for dating service and even though Dylan was investigating whether she was scam the firms client, he could tell she was doing everything correctly and he was honest with her when he knew that he client was wrong. I loved that they connected so well together and that he found someone he could see as long term. It was a wonderful story. It was very entertaining.
August 13, 2020
I loved First In, Danika's first book in the Mixed Six Pack series. However, Second Breath took a little too long to grab my attention. I'm giving this book 4 stars because I like that Danika's characters were a little jilted and had to overcome obstacles that I haven't seen often. This wasn't my favorite book of the series but I will continue to read on and find out what the next brother has in store for us.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 16, 2020
This story is really well written, has characters that are created with tantalizing depth and captivating story line.
Do yourself a favor and get this one. It is worth every penny.
This review has been voluntarily submitted for your consideration.
Do yourself a favor and get this one. It is worth every penny.
This review has been voluntarily submitted for your consideration.
August 17, 2020
This book hooked me from the get go I just couldn’t put it down I fell in love with these characters and omg what a story just a perfect read.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
August 9, 2020
I finished reading Second Breath seconds ago. First I wanted to say, I kept breathing by the characters. The tension is high, the come-backs are witty. The book flows smoothly, I hated it every time life interrupted and I had to stop reading for a while.
Kama is one of a kind master’s student. She is lovely, smart, strong. However she lacks emotional experience of a relationship and trust, she is young and child like at times. Dylan is very much like her although on the surface they do not. He is well achieved, has a brilliant career with lots of potential. But he also needs to grow. These two people are destined to be together.
If you like hot scenes, witty romance, high tension and sexy characters with emotional baggage, this one is for you. Highly recommended!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Kama is one of a kind master’s student. She is lovely, smart, strong. However she lacks emotional experience of a relationship and trust, she is young and child like at times. Dylan is very much like her although on the surface they do not. He is well achieved, has a brilliant career with lots of potential. But he also needs to grow. These two people are destined to be together.
If you like hot scenes, witty romance, high tension and sexy characters with emotional baggage, this one is for you. Highly recommended!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 12, 2020
I wasn’t sure if a romance between this lawyer & psych student would be believable, but I gotta say, I’m convinced. The connection between the two of them is undeniable, and so much deeper than what we would expect, especially when Dylan is portrayed as a never settle kind of man. No relationships, only ‘dates’, and not exactly in the romantic sense. And then Kama, who’s simply trying to get her thesis and doesn’t have the time or energy for real dates.
I really liked the characters, the little bit with Nick making a reappearance, as well as another brother being tossed into the fray. I can’t wait to see what’s next for this author.
I really liked the characters, the little bit with Nick making a reappearance, as well as another brother being tossed into the fray. I can’t wait to see what’s next for this author.
August 14, 2020
This book was a surprise. Lots of fun verbal banter between two people determined not to fall for one another and each with a hidden agenda. Her secrets and his issues with his father combined with awesome chemistry makes for an exciting read. This is the first story of this series that I've read and I'll be checking out the others!!
August 31, 2020
4.25 stars
“Second Breath” by Danika Bloom centers around Kama Ray (no, her name does NOT rhyme with gamma ray) , who is studying male expectations connected with dating a woman, and Dylan Rhodes, whose professional advancement depends on destroying her research. Neither one is looking for a life-changing relationship, but that may be just what they’ve found—for better or for worse?
This contemporary romance story is part of ‘The Mixed Six-Pack’ series and provides lots of intriguing twists and turns. I love the elements of multiculturalism that enrich the tale, and I thought the story did a great job of unfolding various elements gradually. The premise of Kama’s research is very relevant to any person who has been subjected to the pressure of expectations in exchange for having entertainment and/or a meal being paid for, while Dylan’s dilemmas are familiar to anyone who has to juggle personal preferences and job requirements. Both main characters were personable and easy to relate to, and the story was engaging and easy to read. I look forward to discovering more fun stories in this series.
A copy of this title was provided for review.
“Second Breath” by Danika Bloom centers around Kama Ray (no, her name does NOT rhyme with gamma ray) , who is studying male expectations connected with dating a woman, and Dylan Rhodes, whose professional advancement depends on destroying her research. Neither one is looking for a life-changing relationship, but that may be just what they’ve found—for better or for worse?
This contemporary romance story is part of ‘The Mixed Six-Pack’ series and provides lots of intriguing twists and turns. I love the elements of multiculturalism that enrich the tale, and I thought the story did a great job of unfolding various elements gradually. The premise of Kama’s research is very relevant to any person who has been subjected to the pressure of expectations in exchange for having entertainment and/or a meal being paid for, while Dylan’s dilemmas are familiar to anyone who has to juggle personal preferences and job requirements. Both main characters were personable and easy to relate to, and the story was engaging and easy to read. I look forward to discovering more fun stories in this series.
A copy of this title was provided for review.
January 19, 2021
I wasn't sure what to expect from a romance between a lawyer and a grad student - didn't sound very sexy to me. Boy, was I wrong. The banter between Kama and Dylan was funny and clever. Two smarties giving as good as they got. The character's flaws complemented each other and their struggle toward HEA was realistic. I totally read this series out of order, so I already know that the next book in the series is a winner. Can't wait for book four!!
August 19, 2020
Characters who are real
The thing I like so much about Danika’s books are how real her characters are. They have real lives, goals, conflicts and feelings. I felt it so much when I read First In. And now, having just finished Second Breath, I am amazed at how much I cared about the journey these two people were taking. This wasn’t just a romp in the hay - there was real substance beneath their stories and I was pulling so hard for them. I felt like I was coaxing them to find the truths of what was happening as they struggled through the ups and downs of this relationship they were in. And the outcome was totally worth it! Thanks for a great read. I only had a bit of an issue with some of the proof reading and one time Dylan’s name was used when it absolutely had to be Josh’s - but I got through it! Totally great story! I can hardly wait for Josh’s story. And for goodness sakes - please add a graphic somewhere of the family tree of how all these brothers are related. Two books down and they still all swirl in my brain. Thanks in advance!
The thing I like so much about Danika’s books are how real her characters are. They have real lives, goals, conflicts and feelings. I felt it so much when I read First In. And now, having just finished Second Breath, I am amazed at how much I cared about the journey these two people were taking. This wasn’t just a romp in the hay - there was real substance beneath their stories and I was pulling so hard for them. I felt like I was coaxing them to find the truths of what was happening as they struggled through the ups and downs of this relationship they were in. And the outcome was totally worth it! Thanks for a great read. I only had a bit of an issue with some of the proof reading and one time Dylan’s name was used when it absolutely had to be Josh’s - but I got through it! Totally great story! I can hardly wait for Josh’s story. And for goodness sakes - please add a graphic somewhere of the family tree of how all these brothers are related. Two books down and they still all swirl in my brain. Thanks in advance!
August 15, 2020
This book was an interesting read for me, the diversity to the characters, conflict and journey was not what I was expecting but it took me on an enjoyable but sometimes uncomfortable journey as I waited for the drama, angst, explosions and heartache I felt were coming.
At times I wasn't sure I could see a future for Dylan and Kama and at times I could; the story really highlighted how important communication is in a relationship and how unhealthy it is to keep things inside, to not share our fears or worries with someone.
I enjoyed the interaction with Dylan's brothers and their unique way of supporting him, guiding him and advising him. Lizzy was a really good friend to Kama and I hope things work out for her.
What spoke to me the most throughout this story was the strong connection Dylan and Kama had, take away everything else and their deep connection was beautifully written. I am looking forward to reading the next one in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
At times I wasn't sure I could see a future for Dylan and Kama and at times I could; the story really highlighted how important communication is in a relationship and how unhealthy it is to keep things inside, to not share our fears or worries with someone.
I enjoyed the interaction with Dylan's brothers and their unique way of supporting him, guiding him and advising him. Lizzy was a really good friend to Kama and I hope things work out for her.
What spoke to me the most throughout this story was the strong connection Dylan and Kama had, take away everything else and their deep connection was beautifully written. I am looking forward to reading the next one in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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