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Sierra Vista #2
Second First Kiss
From New York Times and #1 Amazon bestselling author Marina Adair, comes a hysterical and heartfelt opposites attract, hot-neighbor romantic comedy that fans of Nadia Lee, Lucy Score, and Jill Shalvis will adore.
Town ball-buster and reformed bad-girl, Kat Rhodes, has always had a love for trouble, not to mention trouble when it comes to love. Just last month she shared the most awkward, awful, terrible kiss in the history of kisses with the town’s most infuriating man—the straight-laced, stick-up-his-backside, golden boy. It was an experience she vowed never to repeat, until she does and, woah baby, it’s a fireworks, flutter-inducing, and all kinds of fanfare event. Which is ridiculous. He enforces laws, she breaks them. He’s walks the straight and narrow—she doesn’t even know how to color in the lines. Things in common: zero. Chances of a third kiss: negative zero.
Federal Law Enforcement agent, Nolan Carmichael moved back to his ski town of Sierra Vista, hoping to find some much needed solitude in the wide open spaces and fresh mountain air. But for a job that is supposed to bring him closer to nature, Nolan finds himself too busy handling drunken campers and heading up security at his family’s lodge to find any kind of peace. Or maybe his problem has something to do with the troublemaker next door. The woman is sexy, stubborn, and a distraction he can’t afford. Especially since she is opinionated, annoying as hell, and has a record of causing trouble almost as long as those legs of hers.
But when things start to go missing at the family lodge, and Kat’s sister gets mixed up with the wrong crowd, he decides he’ll do whatever it takes to get to the truth behind the burglaries—even if it means using his relationship with Kat. Which leaves Nolan two choices: follow the letter of the law or follow his heart.
Second First Kiss is a tender, laugh-out-loud romcom featuring a law man who comes equipped with his own cuffs, a reformed bad-girl, and a series of white lies that leads to an enemies-to-lovers romance that will make you fall in love. It's book 2 in a series, but can be read as a standalone, and is guaranteed to make you laugh, cry and bring all the feels in-between.
Second First Kiss is a frenemies-to-lovers, hot neighbor, what’s-one-little-lie romcom with no cheating, no triggers and a satisfying happily ever after.
Town ball-buster and reformed bad-girl, Kat Rhodes, has always had a love for trouble, not to mention trouble when it comes to love. Just last month she shared the most awkward, awful, terrible kiss in the history of kisses with the town’s most infuriating man—the straight-laced, stick-up-his-backside, golden boy. It was an experience she vowed never to repeat, until she does and, woah baby, it’s a fireworks, flutter-inducing, and all kinds of fanfare event. Which is ridiculous. He enforces laws, she breaks them. He’s walks the straight and narrow—she doesn’t even know how to color in the lines. Things in common: zero. Chances of a third kiss: negative zero.
Federal Law Enforcement agent, Nolan Carmichael moved back to his ski town of Sierra Vista, hoping to find some much needed solitude in the wide open spaces and fresh mountain air. But for a job that is supposed to bring him closer to nature, Nolan finds himself too busy handling drunken campers and heading up security at his family’s lodge to find any kind of peace. Or maybe his problem has something to do with the troublemaker next door. The woman is sexy, stubborn, and a distraction he can’t afford. Especially since she is opinionated, annoying as hell, and has a record of causing trouble almost as long as those legs of hers.
But when things start to go missing at the family lodge, and Kat’s sister gets mixed up with the wrong crowd, he decides he’ll do whatever it takes to get to the truth behind the burglaries—even if it means using his relationship with Kat. Which leaves Nolan two choices: follow the letter of the law or follow his heart.
Second First Kiss is a tender, laugh-out-loud romcom featuring a law man who comes equipped with his own cuffs, a reformed bad-girl, and a series of white lies that leads to an enemies-to-lovers romance that will make you fall in love. It's book 2 in a series, but can be read as a standalone, and is guaranteed to make you laugh, cry and bring all the feels in-between.
Second First Kiss is a frenemies-to-lovers, hot neighbor, what’s-one-little-lie romcom with no cheating, no triggers and a satisfying happily ever after.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 28, 2023
131 people are currently reading
1527 people want to read
About the author
Marina Adair
40 books1,941 followersMarina Adair is a New York Times author whose fun, flirty contemporary romances have sold over a million copies. She has hit #1 overall in Amazon Kindle Paid and her St. Helena Vineyard series was optioned and made into the original Hallmark Channel Vineyard movies: Autumn in the Vineyard, Summer in the Vineyard, and Valentines in the Vineyard. Raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. She holds a MFA from San Jose University and currently lives in Northern California with her husband, daughter, and two neurotic cats. Please visit her online at MarinaAdair.com and sign up for her newsletter at www.MarinaAdair.com/newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
Want to read
June 30, 2023I am looking forward for this one. 😏
January 29, 2024
I was really interested in Kat and Nolan after seeing them in the first book of the series, and getting the teaser of their connection. This book in the series had some interesting tropes and elements: single guardian (sibling), law enforcement hero, reformed bad girl, looming family court issue, and in-going investigation/ case.
Overall, the story was a quick, easy read. I read it in an evening, and I was interested in the characters / story. I could easily see this being a good one for an afternoon by the pool, a day off, or a travel read.
I’m generally a fan of the single parent / guardian trope, and I don’t mind the sibling angle either so I was intrigued by that piece. I wish we had gotten more of a build up of the sister relationship and/or the opportunity to see more facets of their relationship / interactions.
For the romantic side, I would have liked to see less spice and more interaction / slow burn build up of the relationship.
The story did feel like it had a good bit going on, and I wished for a little less so that some more delving could have happened as noted above. I think that also would have made the ending feel less rushed for me.
Thank you for the opportunity to read a gifted ebook. All thoughts and opinions are my own and freely offered.
Overall, the story was a quick, easy read. I read it in an evening, and I was interested in the characters / story. I could easily see this being a good one for an afternoon by the pool, a day off, or a travel read.
I’m generally a fan of the single parent / guardian trope, and I don’t mind the sibling angle either so I was intrigued by that piece. I wish we had gotten more of a build up of the sister relationship and/or the opportunity to see more facets of their relationship / interactions.
For the romantic side, I would have liked to see less spice and more interaction / slow burn build up of the relationship.
The story did feel like it had a good bit going on, and I wished for a little less so that some more delving could have happened as noted above. I think that also would have made the ending feel less rushed for me.
Thank you for the opportunity to read a gifted ebook. All thoughts and opinions are my own and freely offered.
December 3, 2024
66% I can’t. This is so dramatic and unnecessary. I could see what was happening from the moment dude man was on his phone and not doing anything. Then he says I’ll do anything to get my girl into an all girls school… fuck you dude man. You’re the worst. You probably shot yourself but I won’t find about because I’m done.
There’s all telling with no showing. Where are these conversations with Kat and her sister? Why is there so much repetitive inner monologue. I’m just so annoying when authors keep saying the same thing every chapter. This could have been a novella with how much was repeated.
Also. The writing style of this book is not for me. I don’t like the descriptions in this book. Most of it felt really cringe
There’s all telling with no showing. Where are these conversations with Kat and her sister? Why is there so much repetitive inner monologue. I’m just so annoying when authors keep saying the same thing every chapter. This could have been a novella with how much was repeated.
Also. The writing style of this book is not for me. I don’t like the descriptions in this book. Most of it felt really cringe
February 5, 2024
This book was very sweet. i liked that the struggles between the two characters were consistent throughout the story rather than one big bad drawn out blow up.. the development between Kat and Nolan made an engaging read and beautiful show of each of their personal growth. this series in general I am really enjoying.
October 13, 2024
3.5⭐️
Overall, I liked it. It was cute and the banter was flirty. The chemistry was good but this book was soooo repetitive. I’d rather read a shorter book than the same description over and over again to reach a word count.
Overall, I liked it. It was cute and the banter was flirty. The chemistry was good but this book was soooo repetitive. I’d rather read a shorter book than the same description over and over again to reach a word count.
June 9, 2024
Kat is doing anything she can to get guardianship of her teenaged sister, but her rebellious past keeps coming back to cause problems. Dares she took as a teen, a hostile home life, a toxic relationship, and too many run ins with local law enforcement are impacting the social worker's opinion on the type of environment she can provide. But her interfering neighbor, a Federal Agent, is committed to helping her with a second chance, despite her resistance for help.
This is my first book by Marina Adair and I have to say, it's not super great. The main character goes off on long internal monologues about how something reminds her of a friend, mid-conversation, or gets weirdly emotional at strange times. These things happen frequently and derail the narrative so it takes a few minutes to remember what was even going on. Her pet- a miniature horse- does not fit the tone of the story and is seriously cringy (I suspect it was supposed to be there for some comedy but that really backfired, especially with all the emotional monologuing. The tone was away off). I probably should've stopped this one pretty early in but I powered through while gardening.
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers
This is my first book by Marina Adair and I have to say, it's not super great. The main character goes off on long internal monologues about how something reminds her of a friend, mid-conversation, or gets weirdly emotional at strange times. These things happen frequently and derail the narrative so it takes a few minutes to remember what was even going on. Her pet- a miniature horse- does not fit the tone of the story and is seriously cringy (I suspect it was supposed to be there for some comedy but that really backfired, especially with all the emotional monologuing. The tone was away off). I probably should've stopped this one pretty early in but I powered through while gardening.
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers
February 16, 2024
This is the first Marina Adair book that I’ve read in a while. This book reminded me how much I enjoy her books. I haven’t read the first book in the series, but I will be adding it to my TBR.
I love her characters. Kat is strong and sassy. She’s had to take care of herself and her sister for so long. She’s loyal and protective of her family and close friends. She has a hard time letting people in. Nolan is a follow the book kind of guy. He’s also very protective of his friends and family. His world seems to be more black and white while Kate’s world is full of grey.
I enjoyed watching their relationship grow. There was one story line that I found fascinating. I just wish the ending wasn’t so rushed.
I was gifted an ebook in advance for an honest review.
I love her characters. Kat is strong and sassy. She’s had to take care of herself and her sister for so long. She’s loyal and protective of her family and close friends. She has a hard time letting people in. Nolan is a follow the book kind of guy. He’s also very protective of his friends and family. His world seems to be more black and white while Kate’s world is full of grey.
I enjoyed watching their relationship grow. There was one story line that I found fascinating. I just wish the ending wasn’t so rushed.
I was gifted an ebook in advance for an honest review.
February 3, 2024
I was so looking forward to this book it wasn’t even funny, and I have to say I’m pretty disappointed.
First things first I thought this book was going to be very fun and funny and it was not. I think I laughed twice the whole book. It was also anything but light hearted. When it came to the plot of the book I completely understand why it was more serious but I was seriously hoping for some more fun scenes with witty banter that unfortunately were not there.
I was pretty over this book about half way through but finally when they were beginning to accept their feelings for each other I started to like it more. However the ending pissed me off. Yes I thought the ending was predicable in finding out who was stealing from the company and how everything connected. But it was a roller coaster of emotions and not in a good way.
*spoilers ahead*
I loved the epic scene of the take down but then it all went to shit in a matter of seconds. Like SERIOUSLY?! They just admitted to loving each other and then she’s too betrayed over the dumbest thing that was totally blown out of proportion! Yes her sister could have been hurt but all Nolan did was ask for Tessa to keep an eye out considering she was going to see R.J. anyways!!!! UGH! And then them immediately making up, wtf!
Don’t even get me started on literally how dumb the court case was to decide on Tessa’s custody. That judge came to a decision way too easily and quite frankly it was so unrealistic. And the fact that Nolan came swooping in the be the hero and literally didn’t say anything of importance!
Anyways, whatever. Yes I am disappointed because it wasn’t what I expected but that ending was atrocious. I was ready to forgive everything after the take down, but it was all ruined in a matter of only 10 pages! *dramatic eye roll* Everything in the end felt rushed and really just needed more time to take place if the author was determined to go that route. However if you ask my opinion that was the dumbest decision to be made for the ending. They should have gotten their happy ending with their confessions of love and then gone to the court case. No dramatic break up needed.
First things first I thought this book was going to be very fun and funny and it was not. I think I laughed twice the whole book. It was also anything but light hearted. When it came to the plot of the book I completely understand why it was more serious but I was seriously hoping for some more fun scenes with witty banter that unfortunately were not there.
I was pretty over this book about half way through but finally when they were beginning to accept their feelings for each other I started to like it more. However the ending pissed me off. Yes I thought the ending was predicable in finding out who was stealing from the company and how everything connected. But it was a roller coaster of emotions and not in a good way.
*spoilers ahead*
I loved the epic scene of the take down but then it all went to shit in a matter of seconds. Like SERIOUSLY?! They just admitted to loving each other and then she’s too betrayed over the dumbest thing that was totally blown out of proportion! Yes her sister could have been hurt but all Nolan did was ask for Tessa to keep an eye out considering she was going to see R.J. anyways!!!! UGH! And then them immediately making up, wtf!
Don’t even get me started on literally how dumb the court case was to decide on Tessa’s custody. That judge came to a decision way too easily and quite frankly it was so unrealistic. And the fact that Nolan came swooping in the be the hero and literally didn’t say anything of importance!
Anyways, whatever. Yes I am disappointed because it wasn’t what I expected but that ending was atrocious. I was ready to forgive everything after the take down, but it was all ruined in a matter of only 10 pages! *dramatic eye roll* Everything in the end felt rushed and really just needed more time to take place if the author was determined to go that route. However if you ask my opinion that was the dumbest decision to be made for the ending. They should have gotten their happy ending with their confessions of love and then gone to the court case. No dramatic break up needed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2024
Marina Adair has done it again and has given her readers another incredible second chance love story! I absolutely LOVED Second First Kiss, the second book in her Sierra Vista series. It was an incredible story and I loved reading every moment on every page, and it was impossible to put it down. She provided her readers with the amazing characters, that I loved, who feel like close friends! Marina Adair continues to show with Second First Kiss that she is an incredible storyteller and continues to be one of my favorite authors to read. One of my favorite things that I love about Second First Kiss is how Marina Adair incorporates the title of the book into the love story. Who does not love hot sexy men, strong females, loving families, and friends, who always support one another, they are all such wonderful characters? Her characters in Second First Kiss are so believable and charming, they share great chemistry, lots of laughs, and steamy romance. Second First Kiss delivers all those things that I love most about Marina Adair’s books. I love how she incorporates the title into the book into their love story. I love that she writes from the perspective of the two main characters. I enjoy getting to see things from the viewpoints of the main characters. Second First Kiss is also filled with heartbreaking and heartwarming moments. Second First Kiss is filled with all those things that I have come to love and expect in a Marina Adair love story, especially the poignant and bittersweet moments that filled this page turner. Second First Kiss is a second chance love story between neighbor’s Nolan Carmichael, a National Park Service Agent who worked for the investigative service branch, and Kat Rhodes, an IT specialist for the county and a part-time bartender at Bigfoot’s Brews. Nolan and Kat originally meet in a high school where bad girl Kat had a crush on golden boy Nolan. Following the death of her best friend Zoe, Kat and her friend Gemma and Zoe’s sister Milly head to Bigfoot’s Brews to celebrate Zoe’s Ghost-lorette Party where Zoe left each one of them a letter containing a dare. Nolan enters the bar shortly after Kat reads her dare letter, and she performs her dare on him. After that night Kat and Nolan have avoided each other. Kat is focused on being awarded guardianship of her teenage sister, Tessa. Kat has self-esteem issues over the things that she has done in the past and the reputation she has created for herself. Nolan is a law enforcement agent and Kat does not want to get involved with him, because she wants to only focus on Tessa. I love Kat and Nolan’s interactions after they run into each other after hours at Sunrise Falls where Kat is looking for Tessa and Nolan is looking for R.J. Locke. Kat and Nolan decide to work together to help locate Tessa’s boyfriend, R. J. Locke, and who is behind the thefts at the Sierra Vista Lodge. Nolan is a rule follower and Kat is usually a rule breaker, she is a computer hacker. Mysterious events are occurring around Sierra Vista, and they are not sure who is behind them. Kat’s car is vandalized and Nolan loans Kat one of his trucks while her car is being repaired. I love that Kat calls Nolan either “Agent’ or “Ranger” and that Nolan calls Kat “Kitten”. Conversation between Kat and Nolan flows so easily, with innuendos and playful banter, and Nolan constantly flirts with Kat. Some conversations between Kat and Nolan are truly heartbreaking, make sure you have your Kleenex nearby. The moments that Kat details her relationship with her parents and her former boyfriend, Ryan, are heartbreaking. Nolan reveals what happened between him and his last girlfriend, Nina and her son Tommy. As Nolan and Kat spend more time together things begin to change between them. I love all the things that Nolan does for Kat, and with Kat. I love that both Kat and Nolan shares secrets with one another. I love Nolan and Kat’s love story, and how Nolan shows his vulnerable side to Kat. Then an unexpected plot twist changes things between them and puts their relationship and Kat’s guardianship of Tessa in jeopardy. I love the surprise revelation as to who was behind the mysterious events. I love the amazing chemistry between Kat and Nolan, and that it was more than chemistry, it was love and I am so happy that they admitted their true feelings for one another. I love the characters and the family dynamic in Second First Kiss, the characters feel like family and friends. I enjoyed all the interactions between the Macintyre brothers and the Carmichael siblings, it feels like real family love and makes me laugh at their teasing. I also loved the changes that both Kat and Nolan make in their lives to have a life with one another. Who does not love family and friends that always have each other’s backs? Second First Kiss is filled with all those things that I love in a Marina Adair love story, incredible characters, amazing story, light, poignant and bittersweet moments, and surprise plot twists. Marina Adair does not disappoint in her delivery of those things. I love how she resolved the surprise plot twist; it was truly a heartwarming moment. My favorite part of the book was the ending. I am so looking forward to reading the other books in the series, cannot wait to see who’s next. Second First Kiss was an amazing story and I highly recommend it. I received an advanced copy from the author.
January 30, 2024
Second First Kiss is the second book in the Sierra Vista series. I started reading this newest title and almost immediately I felt like I was home. The characters started bringing up past recollections and then all of a sudden, I was back in Sierra Vista visiting old friends. What a great feeling. And this propelled me to read the story in what felt like “warp” speed - ending WAY too quickly.
This second book in the series is the story of Kat Rhodes and Nolan Carmichael. And what a story. Kat is a single woman living with her younger sister (Tessa) and an absentee father… and Kat is trying to become Tessa’s legal guardian. One would think given the situation, it would be an easy enough task. But with Kat’s reputation around town and various other events (I shall leave you to read about those events ) that have happened in her life - it is no easy road to guardianship. Here enters Nolan into the equation - a very handsome, straight-laced law enforcement type. Kat and Nolan have had a brief “encounter” but as the tale begins, we find that their lives become entwined more than just being next door neighbours.
I found Kat’s story compelling. Throughout I was rooting for Kat to overcome the shadows from her past and that she obtains the goal of guardianship. I was definitely entertained by the interactions between Kat and Nolan. Especially as they heated up…and they did! Can you say “caliente” or “chaud” (both meaning “hot” in either Spanish or French?
Another aspect was experiencing the blurring of lines by Nolan. He finally understood how Kat obtained a bad rep and that it was not all on her! Sure she did some questionable things in the past, but her home life and choices she made to protect her little sister explained a lot. Now Kat’s family back story sure pulled at my heart strings.
I am wanting to leave you with the wanting of more from this book! First off - you do not need to read the first book in the series to appreciate this book, both books are independent of one another. Though getting to know the town and characters (i.e. all of Nolan’s brothers and his sister) are an added bonus and adds a wee bit to the history of the town. Second, set aside time to read as you may well want to read the tale in one or two sittings (as I did!). Thirdly, get cozy and if you are an emotional type - have a couple of Kleenexes on hand and enjoy yourself - it is worth the read.
I was gifted an e-book in advance for an honest review
This second book in the series is the story of Kat Rhodes and Nolan Carmichael. And what a story. Kat is a single woman living with her younger sister (Tessa) and an absentee father… and Kat is trying to become Tessa’s legal guardian. One would think given the situation, it would be an easy enough task. But with Kat’s reputation around town and various other events (I shall leave you to read about those events ) that have happened in her life - it is no easy road to guardianship. Here enters Nolan into the equation - a very handsome, straight-laced law enforcement type. Kat and Nolan have had a brief “encounter” but as the tale begins, we find that their lives become entwined more than just being next door neighbours.
I found Kat’s story compelling. Throughout I was rooting for Kat to overcome the shadows from her past and that she obtains the goal of guardianship. I was definitely entertained by the interactions between Kat and Nolan. Especially as they heated up…and they did! Can you say “caliente” or “chaud” (both meaning “hot” in either Spanish or French?
Another aspect was experiencing the blurring of lines by Nolan. He finally understood how Kat obtained a bad rep and that it was not all on her! Sure she did some questionable things in the past, but her home life and choices she made to protect her little sister explained a lot. Now Kat’s family back story sure pulled at my heart strings.
I am wanting to leave you with the wanting of more from this book! First off - you do not need to read the first book in the series to appreciate this book, both books are independent of one another. Though getting to know the town and characters (i.e. all of Nolan’s brothers and his sister) are an added bonus and adds a wee bit to the history of the town. Second, set aside time to read as you may well want to read the tale in one or two sittings (as I did!). Thirdly, get cozy and if you are an emotional type - have a couple of Kleenexes on hand and enjoy yourself - it is worth the read.
I was gifted an e-book in advance for an honest review
February 2, 2024
Second First Kiss by Marina Adair, book two in her Sierra Vista series, is a wonderful and heartwarming story of a law enforcement hero involved in an ongoing investigation/case and a reformed bad girl who is a single guardian to her sister with a family court issue looming on the horizon. This is Kat Rhodes and Nolan Carmichael’s story; and definitely a sizzling story of opposites attracting.
Kat is single, recently returned home from MIT to take care of her teenage sister, Tessa. Having an absentee father, she is fighting for custody. It should have been an easy decision, given the situation, only Kat’s prior behavior in high school has led to having a bad girl reputation which has followed her, despite the changes in her life. It is her past reputation and the town’s unwillingness to accept that she has changed that is making her journey to guardianship difficult. Nolan is a handsome, moral, stick up his back, Federal Law Enforcement Officer trying to solve a local drug case that recently got his partner shot and injured, blaming himself, in part, for the incident. Living next door to each other gives Kat and Nolan the chance to drive each other crazy.
Kat is intense toward everything she does, while Nolan is the image of trust and integrity; traits Kat has little to no experienced with and has a hard time accepting and understanding. A couple months back, Kat had accepted a dare that involved kissing Nolan in a bar filled with customers, positive it would never lead to anything else; but sparks clearly sizzled. Their pasts, going back to school- days, signified they had no future together, but a chance meeting involving Tessa's safety reignited their interests in each other. She might have a "bad girl" reputation and he being the "golden boy" who follows all the rules, but opposites do attract. The support Nolan gives Kat, and Tessa, shows how much he believes and understands Kat; wanting more than to just be neighbors or friends.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Kat is single, recently returned home from MIT to take care of her teenage sister, Tessa. Having an absentee father, she is fighting for custody. It should have been an easy decision, given the situation, only Kat’s prior behavior in high school has led to having a bad girl reputation which has followed her, despite the changes in her life. It is her past reputation and the town’s unwillingness to accept that she has changed that is making her journey to guardianship difficult. Nolan is a handsome, moral, stick up his back, Federal Law Enforcement Officer trying to solve a local drug case that recently got his partner shot and injured, blaming himself, in part, for the incident. Living next door to each other gives Kat and Nolan the chance to drive each other crazy.
Kat is intense toward everything she does, while Nolan is the image of trust and integrity; traits Kat has little to no experienced with and has a hard time accepting and understanding. A couple months back, Kat had accepted a dare that involved kissing Nolan in a bar filled with customers, positive it would never lead to anything else; but sparks clearly sizzled. Their pasts, going back to school- days, signified they had no future together, but a chance meeting involving Tessa's safety reignited their interests in each other. She might have a "bad girl" reputation and he being the "golden boy" who follows all the rules, but opposites do attract. The support Nolan gives Kat, and Tessa, shows how much he believes and understands Kat; wanting more than to just be neighbors or friends.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
January 27, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. Kat is such a great character who has been through so much in her life. She’s trying to be a better person, help out with her sister and works two jobs to make ends meet. Unfortunately her sister doesn’t make it easy for her, she’s hanging out/dating someone who is bad news and is making Kat have issues and almost gets fired at her second job. I love Kat and her car and her mini pony and she is so adamant that her sister isn’t going to make the same mistakes that she did growing up. Cue the hot federal agent who has been crushing on Kat since forever and they shared a pretty not so good kiss at one time. I really liked Nolan and Kat even though at first it was pretty much they didn’t like each other at all friendship then when things started happening and things turned around when he helped her out and in turn she helped him out as well. Things definitely went from cool/lukewarm to hot in no time. While Kat and Nolan are trying to solve some things that have been going on at the bar and other things and trying to tell her sister Tessa that her boyfriend is bad news, the worst possible thing happens, her sister’s boyfriend with the help of someone Nolan used to work with went off the deep end and Kat being who she is thought she could handle things until Nolan and the rest of the cops showed up except she didn’t expect to end up looking at the front of a gun. Finally, she realizes reinforcements have arrived and she creates a diversion and the police swarm in and arrest the bad guys. I can’t believe the two would join forces but money and drugs will do that to a person but at least they got them off the streets. The ending was so wonderful with Kat getting what she ultimately wanted in regards to her sister and when the town showed up en masse to support her, what a great ‘show up’ moment for Kat. I definitely need to read the previous book so I can see how everything started and I’m excited for what comes next. Great book!
January 30, 2024
My first introduction to Adair was when I won a copy of SUGAR'S TWICE AS SWEET from Goodreads.com and I have been enjoying her nooks ever since. Her characters are sassy , likable people dealing with what life sends their way, written in an upbeat witty voice.
This series takes place in Sierra Vista, a small town at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Kat Rhodes has had a difficult life. Her mother walked out on the family when Kat and her sister, Tessa were both young and their father, a lumberjack was not hands-on. With no caring parent showing any interest, Kat grew up wild and got into trouble, but she was also used by others who left her holding the bag, while their parents got them to appear innocent. So she doesn't trust. But she is also an IT genius, got a scholarship to MIT and was living her dream in Boston, until she was called home by her father, who injured himself. Now she is back in Sierra Vista, working two jobs and trying to gain custody of her sister. But her sister isn't helping, by suddenly starting to act out, grades dropping, skipping class ... etc. But meanwhile her high school crush Nolan Carmichael, Special Agent for the US Forest Service, Investigative Service Branch, had bought the house next door, preparing to move his girlfriend and her son in. But then she broke up with him. He has been heartbroken, but he is busy with an investigation of drugs in the area and serious thievery from the family owned bar and grill and ski lodge. He doesn't need the distraction next door, but after a weird kiss on a dare at the bar a few months ago, he wants a second chance.
This second chance romance also has some intrigue and danger. Love the characters, cleaver banter and story. This is my voluntary, honest and unbiased review for a gifted copy of Second First Kiss.
This series takes place in Sierra Vista, a small town at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Kat Rhodes has had a difficult life. Her mother walked out on the family when Kat and her sister, Tessa were both young and their father, a lumberjack was not hands-on. With no caring parent showing any interest, Kat grew up wild and got into trouble, but she was also used by others who left her holding the bag, while their parents got them to appear innocent. So she doesn't trust. But she is also an IT genius, got a scholarship to MIT and was living her dream in Boston, until she was called home by her father, who injured himself. Now she is back in Sierra Vista, working two jobs and trying to gain custody of her sister. But her sister isn't helping, by suddenly starting to act out, grades dropping, skipping class ... etc. But meanwhile her high school crush Nolan Carmichael, Special Agent for the US Forest Service, Investigative Service Branch, had bought the house next door, preparing to move his girlfriend and her son in. But then she broke up with him. He has been heartbroken, but he is busy with an investigation of drugs in the area and serious thievery from the family owned bar and grill and ski lodge. He doesn't need the distraction next door, but after a weird kiss on a dare at the bar a few months ago, he wants a second chance.
This second chance romance also has some intrigue and danger. Love the characters, cleaver banter and story. This is my voluntary, honest and unbiased review for a gifted copy of Second First Kiss.
February 12, 2024
I loved the story. Kat is attempting to take custody of her younger sister - due to their parents have walked away / or are frequently absent from their lives.
Kat does not want her sister to grow up the same way she did - feeling like no one wants to support her / stand by her. Kat grew up with the only person - her grandfather being there for her consistently when she needed him the most. Tessa will not have her grandfather in her life like Kat did.
Kat has a reputation of always going after what she wants and learning the consequences after. She is brilliant with computers and can hack into any system. She on a dare hacked into the SAT testing headquarter to get the answers to the coming tests and was promptly denied access to her scholarship at MIT.
With hard work at the local JR college, she was able to redeem herself - and was able to go to MIT. In her jr. year her dad got hurt at his job in the logging business, thus ending his career. Kat rushed home to care for her dad and sister. After her dad was well enough to go back to work - he chose to drive long haul trucks - meaning he was not available to raise Tessa.
Kat has been fighting her whole life to change the opinions of the entire town about her family. Even the court appointment social worker has an opinion on Kat being the guardian for her sister.
Nolan has always wanted to date Kat -even in High school - but due to her reputation with the SAT fiasco and his career choice as being in Law enforcement.
Nolan now lives right next door to Kat , her sister and Tiny Dancer (miniature horse). They have been circling each other since Kat acted on a dare by her friends take the next guy's belt off with her teeth in under 20 seconds. Nolan was the next guy -and she did in under 15 seconds.
Marina Adair really did a fantastic job of being the reader into the story and to feel the angst that the characters felt. If I could give 6 stars I would.
Kat does not want her sister to grow up the same way she did - feeling like no one wants to support her / stand by her. Kat grew up with the only person - her grandfather being there for her consistently when she needed him the most. Tessa will not have her grandfather in her life like Kat did.
Kat has a reputation of always going after what she wants and learning the consequences after. She is brilliant with computers and can hack into any system. She on a dare hacked into the SAT testing headquarter to get the answers to the coming tests and was promptly denied access to her scholarship at MIT.
With hard work at the local JR college, she was able to redeem herself - and was able to go to MIT. In her jr. year her dad got hurt at his job in the logging business, thus ending his career. Kat rushed home to care for her dad and sister. After her dad was well enough to go back to work - he chose to drive long haul trucks - meaning he was not available to raise Tessa.
Kat has been fighting her whole life to change the opinions of the entire town about her family. Even the court appointment social worker has an opinion on Kat being the guardian for her sister.
Nolan has always wanted to date Kat -even in High school - but due to her reputation with the SAT fiasco and his career choice as being in Law enforcement.
Nolan now lives right next door to Kat , her sister and Tiny Dancer (miniature horse). They have been circling each other since Kat acted on a dare by her friends take the next guy's belt off with her teeth in under 20 seconds. Nolan was the next guy -and she did in under 15 seconds.
Marina Adair really did a fantastic job of being the reader into the story and to feel the angst that the characters felt. If I could give 6 stars I would.
February 1, 2024
Full disclosure, I did not read the first in this series (will def be going to read it now as it is the only of this authors nooks I’ve missed for some reason), but had zero issues reading as a stand alone and loved every moment. I am a sucker for second chance, opposites attract stories so adored this read. The main characters are fully formed people, have real life experience and are who they are as a result of it. Kat is amazing, fierce, loving, and a great example of the ride of die person everyone needs in their life and to be to someone. She was a bit of a wild child in her high school days having almost no parental influence. In a small town, its virtually impossible to lose that moniker even when she returns home as a mature functional adult. When she sees her younger sister seemingly going down the same path she steps in to get custody and give her some stability before too late. She is at odds with the town golden child/do gooder/straighter than straight rule following federal agent. They could not be more different and yet their sizzle is so obvious and they’re both thrilled and horrified by it. Their journey to finding a way to each other without compromising who they are as individuals, losing their moral compass and ethical beliefs, saving her sister from the bad and dangerous crowd she has become a part of, Nolan doing his job he has sworn an oath to do, neither of them always getting it right, but recovering, Kat learning to trust and letting people in to help and ultimately a fabulous happily ever after ending was a very enjoyable fun emotional read that has left me anxiously awaiting the next in the series.
I was gifted a copy of the book for an honest review. My thanks to all involved in the process.
I was gifted a copy of the book for an honest review. My thanks to all involved in the process.
January 28, 2024
Second First Kiss is another great book by Marina Adair. It's filled with abundant humor and engaging characters to keep one turning the pages to see what's going to happen next. The two main characters, Kat and Nolan, are both dealing with issues from the start. Nolan is a Federal Law Enforcement Officer trying to solve a local drug case that recently got his partner shot and injured - blaming himself, in part, for the incident; Kat, who has recently returned home from MIT, is fighting for custody of her teenage sister, Tessa. Kat is fierce in everything she does, an all-in type of personality; Nolan is an icon of trust and sincerity, something Kat has not experienced and has a hard time accepting and understanding. A couple months back, Kat had accepted a dare that involved kissing Nolan in a bar filled with customers, positive it would never lead to anything else - but sparks flew. Their pasts, going back to school-time days, indicated they had no future together, but a recent chance meeting involving Tessa's safety reignited their interests in each other. She has a "bad girl" reputation and he is the "golden boy" who follows all the rules, but you know what they say about opposites attracting . . . .
In addition to the storyline, I once again enjoyed the closeness of Nolan's family, the owners of the snow ski lodge in the Sierra Vista Village. Although they don't always agree on everything, they are there for each other. I'm ready for the next book in the series - great characters!
Thank you, Marina Adair, for gifting me an ebook pre-release.
#marinaadair #SecondFirstKiss #Goodreads
In addition to the storyline, I once again enjoyed the closeness of Nolan's family, the owners of the snow ski lodge in the Sierra Vista Village. Although they don't always agree on everything, they are there for each other. I'm ready for the next book in the series - great characters!
Thank you, Marina Adair, for gifting me an ebook pre-release.
#marinaadair #SecondFirstKiss #Goodreads
January 29, 2024
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see what else happens in Sierra Vista. Nolan and Kat are like oil and water. He is the federal agent and she is the trouble maker. Even though they both know they should stay away, there is an invisible tether that keeps them near.
Nolan is determined to find out who is behind the drugs that are being sold in town, but he is stretched thin. Between his job, the family owned business and trying to prove to Kat that he won’t let her down, he doesn’t have much free time. When things start happening at his house and business it becomes personal.
Kat is doing everything she can to change the town’s opinion of her, but it is difficult. She is also trying to get guardianship of her teenaged sister, who is rebelling. Everything that is going on in her life and her job keeps making it look like she is failing. My heart broke for her a time or two and when she finally let someone in, I was shocked.
There were a few times I was upset: when we didn’t get to see the conversation between Nolan, Tommy and Tommy’s mom, when Nolan wasn’t honest with Kat, and when they found out who was stealing from the bar/behind the drug ring (even though I figured out who it was). The way Nolan made amends was awesome and I was glad to see an outcome that was realistic.
This book had a little of everything and I can’t wait for more. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
Nolan is determined to find out who is behind the drugs that are being sold in town, but he is stretched thin. Between his job, the family owned business and trying to prove to Kat that he won’t let her down, he doesn’t have much free time. When things start happening at his house and business it becomes personal.
Kat is doing everything she can to change the town’s opinion of her, but it is difficult. She is also trying to get guardianship of her teenaged sister, who is rebelling. Everything that is going on in her life and her job keeps making it look like she is failing. My heart broke for her a time or two and when she finally let someone in, I was shocked.
There were a few times I was upset: when we didn’t get to see the conversation between Nolan, Tommy and Tommy’s mom, when Nolan wasn’t honest with Kat, and when they found out who was stealing from the bar/behind the drug ring (even though I figured out who it was). The way Nolan made amends was awesome and I was glad to see an outcome that was realistic.
This book had a little of everything and I can’t wait for more. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
April 6, 2024
came from the belt scene
Second First Kiss, Marina Adair
⭐️ 3.5
🌶️ 2
What you can expect
💻 Second Chance
🎿 Single Parent/Guardian
💻 Frenemies to Lovers
🎿 Reformed Bad Girl/Law Informant
Dena’s Thoughts
I was genuinely excited to read this book! I really enjoyed the first one and the way it set up Kat and Nolan. I mean how can you not get romance off a drunken dare where you have to take off a man’s belt using your teeth?? Perfect.
Kat is trying to not follow in her parent’s footsteps. She put her dreams on hold to help raise her sister but true to her parents form, it went from helping so being sole guardian. Going through the custody process, Kate’s past keeps getting thrown in her face potentially putting at her keeping her sister at risk.
Nolan is a by the books, strictly black and white, towns golden boy. He doesn’t color outside the line for anyone, however having Kat in his life makes him realize, he likes the mess and chaos. When there a heavy drugs on the streets and someone is stealing from his family’s business and the not so girl next door becomes involved, he starts to see that maybe the lines need to be crossed every now and again.
Kat and Nolan have a great banter and the tension between them is great! Kat is so used to doing everything alone but with Nolan continuously showing up for her, her walls start to lower. I really loved Nolan. He’s confident, protective, and patient. His steadiness is exactly what Kat needs. This was a little more serious than her last book but I still enjoyed it so much! I’m really looking forward her next!
Second First Kiss, Marina Adair
⭐️ 3.5
🌶️ 2
What you can expect
💻 Second Chance
🎿 Single Parent/Guardian
💻 Frenemies to Lovers
🎿 Reformed Bad Girl/Law Informant
Dena’s Thoughts
I was genuinely excited to read this book! I really enjoyed the first one and the way it set up Kat and Nolan. I mean how can you not get romance off a drunken dare where you have to take off a man’s belt using your teeth?? Perfect.
Kat is trying to not follow in her parent’s footsteps. She put her dreams on hold to help raise her sister but true to her parents form, it went from helping so being sole guardian. Going through the custody process, Kate’s past keeps getting thrown in her face potentially putting at her keeping her sister at risk.
Nolan is a by the books, strictly black and white, towns golden boy. He doesn’t color outside the line for anyone, however having Kat in his life makes him realize, he likes the mess and chaos. When there a heavy drugs on the streets and someone is stealing from his family’s business and the not so girl next door becomes involved, he starts to see that maybe the lines need to be crossed every now and again.
Kat and Nolan have a great banter and the tension between them is great! Kat is so used to doing everything alone but with Nolan continuously showing up for her, her walls start to lower. I really loved Nolan. He’s confident, protective, and patient. His steadiness is exactly what Kat needs. This was a little more serious than her last book but I still enjoyed it so much! I’m really looking forward her next!
January 27, 2024
I love Kat's take-no-prisoners attitude. She is fierce in everything she does, especially when it comes to her little sister. Kat is trying to get guardianship over her teenage sister, but Kat's past keeps popping back up and she isn't sure that it will happen. Her dad is always gone, and her mother was never much of a mother. They live in a small town, and everyone remembers how it was when Kat was a teenager. Her sister has been hanging out with an older guy who is bad news and if she keeps seeing him, they might take her away from Kat. So, Kat is doing everything possible to keep them apart. Then Nolan steps in and messes things up, at least temporarily. Nolan is a federal agent, and he wants RJ so bad. The man has led a charmed life. He gets into so much trouble, but daddy always bails him out. His dad knows too many people for anything to stick. The sparks fly between Kat and Nolan, but she can't afford to be distracted from her main purpose. Nolan isn't sure that his job won't be in jeopardy if he starts something with Kat, but he really wants to start something. Kat doesn't trust anyone because she has been disappointed by people her whole life. Will she ever let Nolan in?
November 14, 2025
Nolan and Kat’s combustible romance unites an even tempered, by the book, peace officer and a feisty, rule breaking, petite bundle of trouble in an entertaining and heartfelt spectacular clash of wills. Nolan takes his job very seriously and Kat survives by the seat of her pants as she struggles to keep her younger sister on the path of righteousness. When Nolan’s case and Tessa’s latest rebellious adventure put them on opposite sides the far ranging fireworks are combustible. I liked Nolan’s ideals, and Kat’s fierce protectiveness as they find themselves reluctantly attracted but seem destined to destruct. Kat has always been a victim of circumstances beyond her control and her porcupine quills are a protective way to disguise her vulnerabilities. Nolan swore an oath to protect and he’s not willing to compromise his ideals. It’s a one step forward, two steps back battle of wills, and sexual attraction that kept me engaged from start to finish as Kat fights for custody of her sister and Nolan’s latest case threatens her success. Engaging, emotionally complex storytelling with fallible, vulnerable characters are this author’s signature style and I loved every minute of Nolan and Kat’s journey to finding th
February 4, 2024
SECOND FIRST KISS is the second book in the Sierra Vista series but the first one I’ve read. I definitely can’t wait to read more since Ms. Adair has not been on my radar for a while and I want to rectify that.
Bad ass Kat can’t get away from her bad reputation no matter how much she tries or how she acts. While trying to get custody of her sister and working two jobs to keep their family home one thing after another gets in her way. When next door neighbor Nolan keeps coming to her rescue she doesn’t know what to think. But there’s a definite attraction and lots of chemistry which keeps burning hot and draws them together over and over again.
There was a good flow to the story and multiple stories being told. There’s lots of steam in this contemporary romance. But there are also crimes committed as we try to figure out who’s behind the thefts, vandalism and the drugs being distributed. The characters have a depth to them but not are all as they seem. There is closure with a happily ever after in the offing but I wish the story went on a little longer to see how their lives turned out.
I was gifted a free book in exchange for an honest review.
Bad ass Kat can’t get away from her bad reputation no matter how much she tries or how she acts. While trying to get custody of her sister and working two jobs to keep their family home one thing after another gets in her way. When next door neighbor Nolan keeps coming to her rescue she doesn’t know what to think. But there’s a definite attraction and lots of chemistry which keeps burning hot and draws them together over and over again.
There was a good flow to the story and multiple stories being told. There’s lots of steam in this contemporary romance. But there are also crimes committed as we try to figure out who’s behind the thefts, vandalism and the drugs being distributed. The characters have a depth to them but not are all as they seem. There is closure with a happily ever after in the offing but I wish the story went on a little longer to see how their lives turned out.
I was gifted a free book in exchange for an honest review.
January 28, 2024
Small town, reputed to be a bad girl, Kat Rhodes, is trying her hardest to get custody of her teenage sister and keep her 'bad girl' exploits behind her. Unfortunately, even her hardest isn't good enough...she's still a take no prisoners woman who isn't afraid to stick up for herself and those she thinks are being wronged.
Nolan Carmichael, law enforcement agent, is intrigued with Kat. He is straight-laced and feels like right is right and wrong is wrong. Pretty much a law enforcement god, and has been since they were in high school together.
Now, Kat's sister is getting involved with a really bad guy. Nolan has this guy in his sights, and he wants him behind bars bad. Attraction for Kat has Nolan doing very un-Nolan like kinds of things and Kat is kind of liking it!!!
The bit of intrigue that Ms. Adair's books usually don't have, is very well done. Really enjoyed this departure from her usual RomCom's. I see Nolan has many more brothers, so I'm looking forward to more books in this series.
Nolan Carmichael, law enforcement agent, is intrigued with Kat. He is straight-laced and feels like right is right and wrong is wrong. Pretty much a law enforcement god, and has been since they were in high school together.
Now, Kat's sister is getting involved with a really bad guy. Nolan has this guy in his sights, and he wants him behind bars bad. Attraction for Kat has Nolan doing very un-Nolan like kinds of things and Kat is kind of liking it!!!
The bit of intrigue that Ms. Adair's books usually don't have, is very well done. Really enjoyed this departure from her usual RomCom's. I see Nolan has many more brothers, so I'm looking forward to more books in this series.
February 2, 2024
I’m a fan of Author Marina Adair so when I heard her new book Second First Kiss was coming out I couldn’t wait to read it. It didn’t disappoint. It’s the kind of book I look for when I want something to read on vacation. A fun page turner with characters I came to really care about.
I was rooting for Kat and Nolan through the whole book as individuals and a couple. She is the bad girl who never seems to get a break and he is the good guy who always is trying to do the right thing. The chemistry between them is obvious from the first time they are together in the book.
I also really liked the relationship between Kat and her teenage sister Tessa. Complicated and layered with the difficulty of their family’s history. I couldn’t help but hope things worked out with Kat raising her and trying her hardest to do better for her than their parents had.
I am grateful that I was gifted an e-book in advance for an honest review. Already looking forward to book 3 in the Sierra Vista series.
I was rooting for Kat and Nolan through the whole book as individuals and a couple. She is the bad girl who never seems to get a break and he is the good guy who always is trying to do the right thing. The chemistry between them is obvious from the first time they are together in the book.
I also really liked the relationship between Kat and her teenage sister Tessa. Complicated and layered with the difficulty of their family’s history. I couldn’t help but hope things worked out with Kat raising her and trying her hardest to do better for her than their parents had.
I am grateful that I was gifted an e-book in advance for an honest review. Already looking forward to book 3 in the Sierra Vista series.
February 2, 2024
Marina Adair’s second book in the Sierra Vista series, “Second First Kiss” is an entertaining read. But do not miss the undercurrents of emotion, the desire to have a companion, and the intense need to have a family and keep it all together.
Kat Rhodes is a character you’ll fall in love with her sassy attitude that shelters so much longing, hurt and fear. A sister to take care of, and a father MIA, she has a lot at stake. Throw in a federal agent who loves her, only wants to become her support and make her his, forever is enough for Kat to keep her distance.
Nolan Carmichael, the federal agent and a rule follower, has his job cut out for him. Between the drunken campers and helping run his family’s lodge, Kat Rhodes throws a wrench into his life. He has a hard road ahead of him convincing Kat to be his forever and not skate outside of the law.
“Second First Kiss” is an endearing story of two lovable characters, as they navigate a road filled with fun, family and anxiety to their forever.
Gifted an e-book in advance for an honest review.
Kat Rhodes is a character you’ll fall in love with her sassy attitude that shelters so much longing, hurt and fear. A sister to take care of, and a father MIA, she has a lot at stake. Throw in a federal agent who loves her, only wants to become her support and make her his, forever is enough for Kat to keep her distance.
Nolan Carmichael, the federal agent and a rule follower, has his job cut out for him. Between the drunken campers and helping run his family’s lodge, Kat Rhodes throws a wrench into his life. He has a hard road ahead of him convincing Kat to be his forever and not skate outside of the law.
“Second First Kiss” is an endearing story of two lovable characters, as they navigate a road filled with fun, family and anxiety to their forever.
Gifted an e-book in advance for an honest review.
February 3, 2024
I received a gifted ebook pre-release, I would like to share my experience with this delightful tale of the bad girl who wins the heart of the Federal agent. The author has created a charming world which continues with this story of Kat and Nolan. Bad Girl is maybe stretching things a little too far. Kat is that friend who has terrible luck with men, who buys the car (a lemon) from the "friend" who they were trying to help out. She is the woman trying desperately hard not to drown while she struggles against the current. She is in over her head and she knows it. And she has a younger sister who she is trying to save from making all the same type of bad choices. Kat has a full plate. Nolan is the uptight, in control next door neighbor who just happens to be a Federal Agent. What doesn't work on paper, is perfect in this story. The author creates two characters who come together like peanut butter and jelly. The reader has such pleasure being along for the ride. Don't miss this fun story!
February 16, 2024
I just don't get this book.
So Nolan, has a crush on Kat in high school but didn't ask her out because he wanted to be federal agent and didn't want to tangle with "trouble". Then he engaged with someone else, mind you his family said he's happy and very invested in this woman, but when the relationship failed he suddenly pursue Kat again?
And what? During this "courtship" he always thought Kat is trouble. In his POV he always said she's not girl next door type he usually like, she's too much trouble and didn't have motherly instinct like his ex, etc. THIS is after he had sex with Kat. In Kat's POV, you can see that she always hate when people always associate her with her parents' parenting inability, or her previous SAT hack. So basically, Nolan just like everybody else: judging her.
I hate that guy. I love Kat, and amazed with her smart and willingness to be a better version of herself because of Tessa. But I really really hate Nolan because he thought he's better than everyone else. Just.. Ewww.
So Nolan, has a crush on Kat in high school but didn't ask her out because he wanted to be federal agent and didn't want to tangle with "trouble". Then he engaged with someone else, mind you his family said he's happy and very invested in this woman, but when the relationship failed he suddenly pursue Kat again?
And what? During this "courtship" he always thought Kat is trouble. In his POV he always said she's not girl next door type he usually like, she's too much trouble and didn't have motherly instinct like his ex, etc. THIS is after he had sex with Kat. In Kat's POV, you can see that she always hate when people always associate her with her parents' parenting inability, or her previous SAT hack. So basically, Nolan just like everybody else: judging her.
I hate that guy. I love Kat, and amazed with her smart and willingness to be a better version of herself because of Tessa. But I really really hate Nolan because he thought he's better than everyone else. Just.. Ewww.
January 28, 2024
Marina Adair returns to the Sierra Vista series with Second First Kiss. I was really looking forward to this book, and it did not disappoint!
From the very beginning Kat and Nolan had so much chemistry. It was easy to see that despite their occasional bickering and banter there was a real connection between them. I liked the dual POV quite a bit as you get to understand what they are going through individually and how it affects their relationship. I have to say I was just as invested in Kat's relationship with her sister Tessa as I was in the romance with Nolan. She cares so much for Tessa and I admired her stepping up when their dad wasn't doing his job as a parent.
The story had its serious and emotional moments, but it also had lots of humor and sweet moments too. I really enjoyed this story and the characters are some of my favorite Marina has written. I can't wait for more from this series!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
From the very beginning Kat and Nolan had so much chemistry. It was easy to see that despite their occasional bickering and banter there was a real connection between them. I liked the dual POV quite a bit as you get to understand what they are going through individually and how it affects their relationship. I have to say I was just as invested in Kat's relationship with her sister Tessa as I was in the romance with Nolan. She cares so much for Tessa and I admired her stepping up when their dad wasn't doing his job as a parent.
The story had its serious and emotional moments, but it also had lots of humor and sweet moments too. I really enjoyed this story and the characters are some of my favorite Marina has written. I can't wait for more from this series!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
January 28, 2024
I have not read the first book in this series but will be looking for it and future books to come. Kat is the main character, who lives in a very small town she grew up in, and is trying. to get custody of her younger sister. The big issue is that everyone remembers what Kat was like as a teenager when she was too smart for her own good and ended up in so many scapes. Now she is working two jobs and trying to be responsible so that she can get custody. Nolan is a federal agent from that town and although there are sparks between them, this is a case of Mr. Black and white life only and Kat who skirts the borders of right and wrong. A great story with this couple who want to make a go of it, but for that to happen, both need to compromise. A wonderful HEA and loved watching those two come together and how to town rallied around them. I voluntarily read and reviewed a gifted copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 5, 2024
Second First Kiss is book two in Marina Adairs Sierra Vista series (don’t miss out on Faux Beau if you haven’t picked it up already)!
“Bad girl” Kat has had a rough patch. After leaving college early to take care of her teenage sister, she lost her best friend to cancer at a tragically young age. Now her sole focus is her n gaining custody of sis and getting her through the rest of high school in a stable environment.
The last thing Kat needs is a meddling, law enforcement officer for a neighbor, and for him to take an interest in her sisters new boyfriend. But as the two spend time together, the sparks begin to fly.
This enemies to lovers has all of the components that keep me coming back to Adair again and again.
Quirky pet? You better believe it!
Tribe of amazing best friends? Check!
Witty/sexy banter? Check!
Off the charts chemistry? Check and Mate.
Grab your copy of Second First Kiss today, and strap in for the ride!
“Bad girl” Kat has had a rough patch. After leaving college early to take care of her teenage sister, she lost her best friend to cancer at a tragically young age. Now her sole focus is her n gaining custody of sis and getting her through the rest of high school in a stable environment.
The last thing Kat needs is a meddling, law enforcement officer for a neighbor, and for him to take an interest in her sisters new boyfriend. But as the two spend time together, the sparks begin to fly.
This enemies to lovers has all of the components that keep me coming back to Adair again and again.
Quirky pet? You better believe it!
Tribe of amazing best friends? Check!
Witty/sexy banter? Check!
Off the charts chemistry? Check and Mate.
Grab your copy of Second First Kiss today, and strap in for the ride!
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