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Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor #0.5
The Guy Next Door
Three sexy new spring-fling novellas from three of today's hottest contemporary romance authors!
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster
A vacation from her no-strings romance with her sexy next-door neighbor. That's what Natalie Alexander needs to get her head—and heart—together. But her solo trip south turns into a disaster when gorgeous Jett Sutter turns up with another challenge.
Gail's Gone Wild by Susan Donovan
Single mom Gail Chapman insists on chaperoning her teenage daughter's spring-break trip to Key West. But she never expects to face temptation—in the hunky form of Jesse Batista, the mysterious man in the cottage next door.
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl
All-work-and-no-play businessman Eric Donovan won't be distracted by a "businesswoman" who's all wrong for him. Beth Cantrell owns a women's erotica shop! And she has a juicy little secret. Can she tempt him to put pleasure before business for once?
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster
A vacation from her no-strings romance with her sexy next-door neighbor. That's what Natalie Alexander needs to get her head—and heart—together. But her solo trip south turns into a disaster when gorgeous Jett Sutter turns up with another challenge.
Gail's Gone Wild by Susan Donovan
Single mom Gail Chapman insists on chaperoning her teenage daughter's spring-break trip to Key West. But she never expects to face temptation—in the hunky form of Jesse Batista, the mysterious man in the cottage next door.
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl
All-work-and-no-play businessman Eric Donovan won't be distracted by a "businesswoman" who's all wrong for him. Beth Cantrell owns a women's erotica shop! And she has a juicy little secret. Can she tempt him to put pleasure before business for once?
378 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published February 22, 2011
133 people are currently reading
8961 people want to read
About the author
Lori Foster
425 books11.7k followersSince first publishing in January 1996, Lori Foster has become a USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and New York Times bestselling author. Lori has published through a variety of houses, including Kensington, St. Martin’s, Harlequin, Silhouette, Samhain, and Berkley/Jove. She is currently published with HQN.
Lori hosts a very special annual “Reader & Author” event in West Chester, Ohio. Proceeds from the event have benefited many worthy causes, including the Hamilton County YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter, the Animal Adoption Foundation, The Conductive Learning Center for children with spina bifida and cerebral palsy, and The One Way Farm, Children’s Home.
Each year Lori donates all proceeds from one book to charity. You can see the benefit romance books here: http://lorifoster.com/benefit-books/
Career Highlights
•In 2001, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Series Romantic Fantasy.
•In 2002, Lori’s book Too Much Temptation was the top-selling romance title for Amazon books.
•In 2003, Say No To Joe was the second “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for Waldenbooks.
•In 2004, Lori Foster was a clue in the New York Times crossword puzzle.
•In 2004, The Secret Life of Bryan was the “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for the BGI group.
•In 2005, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Contemporary Romance.
•In 2006, Jude’s Law was the “Bestselling Romantic Comedy” romance title for the BGI group.
•In 2007, Lori launched a new “urban fantasy” series under the name L.L. Foster. See more on her “dark side” at www.llfoster.com.
•In 2007, Causing Havoc was among Amazon’s Top Ten Editor’s picks in Romance.
•In 2008, Hard to Handle made #2 on The New York Times.
•In 2009, Servant: The Acceptance was Amazon’s #1 Editors’ Pick in Romance.
•In 2010, Lori was a clue in the USA Today Quick Cross puzzle.
Lori hosts a very special annual “Reader & Author” event in West Chester, Ohio. Proceeds from the event have benefited many worthy causes, including the Hamilton County YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter, the Animal Adoption Foundation, The Conductive Learning Center for children with spina bifida and cerebral palsy, and The One Way Farm, Children’s Home.
Each year Lori donates all proceeds from one book to charity. You can see the benefit romance books here: http://lorifoster.com/benefit-books/
Career Highlights
•In 2001, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Series Romantic Fantasy.
•In 2002, Lori’s book Too Much Temptation was the top-selling romance title for Amazon books.
•In 2003, Say No To Joe was the second “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for Waldenbooks.
•In 2004, Lori Foster was a clue in the New York Times crossword puzzle.
•In 2004, The Secret Life of Bryan was the “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for the BGI group.
•In 2005, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Contemporary Romance.
•In 2006, Jude’s Law was the “Bestselling Romantic Comedy” romance title for the BGI group.
•In 2007, Lori launched a new “urban fantasy” series under the name L.L. Foster. See more on her “dark side” at www.llfoster.com.
•In 2007, Causing Havoc was among Amazon’s Top Ten Editor’s picks in Romance.
•In 2008, Hard to Handle made #2 on The New York Times.
•In 2009, Servant: The Acceptance was Amazon’s #1 Editors’ Pick in Romance.
•In 2010, Lori was a clue in the USA Today Quick Cross puzzle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 312 reviews
March 5, 2011
Ugh, what a nightmare! This was one of the "strangest" anthologies I've ever read. The first story ends with a cliffhanger, the second has some of the most idiotic characters I've met, and the third makes no sense at all. :(
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster (3 stars)
This story is a prequel to LF's new series, Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor. Jett Sutter and Natalie Alexander are "neighbors with benefits". Their no-strings affair should be the perfect setup for a man intent on maintaining his bachelor status, but for whatever reason, Jett feels uneasy about it. He doesn't want to marry Natalie, of course, but having her using him only for booty calls isn't enough anymore. He wants to see her outside the bedroom, even date her, but he knows someone has hurt her in the past and she's wary of getting emotionally involved with him. Will he be able to get past her barriers and, maybe, reach her heart?
I liked this story, but the cliffhanger wasn't necessary. In fact, all the events connected to it could have been left out of the story, as they added nothing to the development of Jett and Natalie's relationship and were only there to hook readers to the upcoming series. It had been a while since I last read a book by Ms. Foster and I had forgotten how much I enjoy her writing and how good her love scenes are. She made me care and root for Jett and Natalie's HEA, and the ending was satisfying enough. (In case you're wondering, Jett and Natalie do get their HEA; the cliffhanger has nothing to do with them.)
Gail's Gone Wild by Susan Donovan (1 star)
Gail Chapman's seventeen-year-old daughter Holly wants to go to Florida with her friend Hannah for spring break, but Gail knows better than to let the two girls take that trip alone. After some thinking, Gail concludes that she deserves a spring-break vacation more than them and decides to enjoy it at Key West, offering to take the dynamic duo (Holly & Hannah) with her. Gail is supposed to be the chaperone for the girls during their vacation, but after meeting Key West neighbor Jesse Batista - a sultry, sexy, earring-wearing sea captain with a big secret - she's the girl who's about to go wild.
Oh boy, what can I say? I thought the premise was absurd, the romance didn't engage me, and I disliked all the characters in this story:
1. Gail was an hypocrite: her concern about her daughter's safety and "virtue" simply disappeared after she met Jesse and she had no qualms doing everything she'd told her daughter not to do. Granted, she was thirty-six and her daughter was only seventeen, but she should have thought about the kind of example she was setting. Plus, her ditching her chaperoning duties and saying that she trusted her daughter didn't make sense, considering how she'd made a point of forbidding the two girls to spend spring break by themselves because they couldn't be trusted to be behave. Huh?!? I guess lust short-circuited her brain.
2. Jesse was a lecher and a liar. He was introduced to Holly & Hannah when they were fresh out of the swimming pool and wearing skimpy bikinis, and he couldn't help noticing Hannah's "hellacious curves and video-ho bikini". A thirty-eight-year-old man having that kind of thought about a seventeen-year-old girl is too disgusting for words so all I can say is, eew eew eeeew!!! Then, Jesse decided to hide his identity from Gail - he was a successful author with eight New York Times bestsellers under his belt - so he could be sure she wasn't after his money and fame. He went so far as to ask a friend who owned a bookstore to hide his books so Gail didn't find out who he was, disregarding the fact that Jesse's name was the only marketing hook his friend got to face the competition of the new chain store that was threatening to kill his business. With friends like Jesse, that poor bookstore owner didn't need enemies.
3. Holly & Hannah were stereotypical dumb teenagers, and I'm still wondering why did they deserve to have their own POV in the story. Nothing happened with/to them, so what was the point?
This was my first read by Ms. Donovan and it was very disappointing. Most of my friends like her writing so I'm willing to give her another try, but I'll wait until this story is out of my mind.
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl (1 star)
This story is supposed to be a prequel to VD's new series, Donovan Brothers Brewery, but it's more like a teaser or a sneak peek because it has no ending. The story just stops and we're left with no resolution. WTF?!?
I don't know what to say about the plot(?), so I'll just copy/paste/edit some lines from Ms. Dahl's "Dear Reader" introduction:
The Donovan siblings run Donovan Brothers Brewery right in the heart of Boulder, Colorado. Tessa is the youngest of the family and the only sister, but she keeps her brothers wrapped around her little finger... while she keeps them in the dark about her extracurricular life. Jamie runs the front room at the brewery with ruthless charm and a devastating smile, though he can’t manage to get control of his love life. And then there’s the oldest brother, Eric...
Eric Donovan took charge of the family and the brewery at the age of twenty-three, and he doesn’t have a rebellious bone in his body. He’s the soul of responsibility... until the night he meets Beth Cantrell in a hotel hallway and decides there’s something to be said for an occasional walk on the wild side. Even the most straitlaced guy needs to loosen up once in a while, and Beth is a woman experienced in smalltown discretion.
That's it! Eric and Beth meet at a business convention, she somehow mistakes him for his brother Jamie and he doesn't set the record straight, they have wild-monkey sex and, after nothing was said and all was done, they part ways. The End.
Reading this story was a complete waste of my precious time. I'm sure everything that happened in it will be rehashed when the series is released, especially because Eric and Beth's book will be the last and readers will have forgotten this "prequel" by then. I could have ignored the lack of purpose in this story if Eric and Beth had been interesting characters, but alas, I didn't care for them. I never understood why she thought that being seen with him would ruin her reputation as an "erotic boutique" (aka sex shop) manager, and I thought his excuse for lying (by omission) about his identity was flimsy at best.
This was one of the most frustrating reads of my life and I'm sorry to say that, contrary to its goal, this story made me not want to read the series.
Note: I received this eARC from Harlequin via NetGalley. That had no influence on my review/rating.
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster (3 stars)
This story is a prequel to LF's new series, Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor. Jett Sutter and Natalie Alexander are "neighbors with benefits". Their no-strings affair should be the perfect setup for a man intent on maintaining his bachelor status, but for whatever reason, Jett feels uneasy about it. He doesn't want to marry Natalie, of course, but having her using him only for booty calls isn't enough anymore. He wants to see her outside the bedroom, even date her, but he knows someone has hurt her in the past and she's wary of getting emotionally involved with him. Will he be able to get past her barriers and, maybe, reach her heart?
I liked this story, but the cliffhanger wasn't necessary. In fact, all the events connected to it could have been left out of the story, as they added nothing to the development of Jett and Natalie's relationship and were only there to hook readers to the upcoming series. It had been a while since I last read a book by Ms. Foster and I had forgotten how much I enjoy her writing and how good her love scenes are. She made me care and root for Jett and Natalie's HEA, and the ending was satisfying enough. (In case you're wondering, Jett and Natalie do get their HEA; the cliffhanger has nothing to do with them.)
Gail's Gone Wild by Susan Donovan (1 star)
Gail Chapman's seventeen-year-old daughter Holly wants to go to Florida with her friend Hannah for spring break, but Gail knows better than to let the two girls take that trip alone. After some thinking, Gail concludes that she deserves a spring-break vacation more than them and decides to enjoy it at Key West, offering to take the dynamic duo (Holly & Hannah) with her. Gail is supposed to be the chaperone for the girls during their vacation, but after meeting Key West neighbor Jesse Batista - a sultry, sexy, earring-wearing sea captain with a big secret - she's the girl who's about to go wild.
Oh boy, what can I say? I thought the premise was absurd, the romance didn't engage me, and I disliked all the characters in this story:
1. Gail was an hypocrite: her concern about her daughter's safety and "virtue" simply disappeared after she met Jesse and she had no qualms doing everything she'd told her daughter not to do. Granted, she was thirty-six and her daughter was only seventeen, but she should have thought about the kind of example she was setting. Plus, her ditching her chaperoning duties and saying that she trusted her daughter didn't make sense, considering how she'd made a point of forbidding the two girls to spend spring break by themselves because they couldn't be trusted to be behave. Huh?!? I guess lust short-circuited her brain.
2. Jesse was a lecher and a liar. He was introduced to Holly & Hannah when they were fresh out of the swimming pool and wearing skimpy bikinis, and he couldn't help noticing Hannah's "hellacious curves and video-ho bikini". A thirty-eight-year-old man having that kind of thought about a seventeen-year-old girl is too disgusting for words so all I can say is, eew eew eeeew!!! Then, Jesse decided to hide his identity from Gail - he was a successful author with eight New York Times bestsellers under his belt - so he could be sure she wasn't after his money and fame. He went so far as to ask a friend who owned a bookstore to hide his books so Gail didn't find out who he was, disregarding the fact that Jesse's name was the only marketing hook his friend got to face the competition of the new chain store that was threatening to kill his business. With friends like Jesse, that poor bookstore owner didn't need enemies.
3. Holly & Hannah were stereotypical dumb teenagers, and I'm still wondering why did they deserve to have their own POV in the story. Nothing happened with/to them, so what was the point?
This was my first read by Ms. Donovan and it was very disappointing. Most of my friends like her writing so I'm willing to give her another try, but I'll wait until this story is out of my mind.
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl (1 star)
This story is supposed to be a prequel to VD's new series, Donovan Brothers Brewery, but it's more like a teaser or a sneak peek because it has no ending. The story just stops and we're left with no resolution. WTF?!?
I don't know what to say about the plot(?), so I'll just copy/paste/edit some lines from Ms. Dahl's "Dear Reader" introduction:
The Donovan siblings run Donovan Brothers Brewery right in the heart of Boulder, Colorado. Tessa is the youngest of the family and the only sister, but she keeps her brothers wrapped around her little finger... while she keeps them in the dark about her extracurricular life. Jamie runs the front room at the brewery with ruthless charm and a devastating smile, though he can’t manage to get control of his love life. And then there’s the oldest brother, Eric...
Eric Donovan took charge of the family and the brewery at the age of twenty-three, and he doesn’t have a rebellious bone in his body. He’s the soul of responsibility... until the night he meets Beth Cantrell in a hotel hallway and decides there’s something to be said for an occasional walk on the wild side. Even the most straitlaced guy needs to loosen up once in a while, and Beth is a woman experienced in smalltown discretion.
That's it! Eric and Beth meet at a business convention, she somehow mistakes him for his brother Jamie and he doesn't set the record straight, they have wild-monkey sex and, after nothing was said and all was done, they part ways. The End.
Reading this story was a complete waste of my precious time. I'm sure everything that happened in it will be rehashed when the series is released, especially because Eric and Beth's book will be the last and readers will have forgotten this "prequel" by then. I could have ignored the lack of purpose in this story if Eric and Beth had been interesting characters, but alas, I didn't care for them. I never understood why she thought that being seen with him would ruin her reputation as an "erotic boutique" (aka sex shop) manager, and I thought his excuse for lying (by omission) about his identity was flimsy at best.
This was one of the most frustrating reads of my life and I'm sorry to say that, contrary to its goal, this story made me not want to read the series.
Note: I received this eARC from Harlequin via NetGalley. That had no influence on my review/rating.
September 18, 2015
***4 Stars for The Guy Next Door***
"You haven't known the best relationships, honey, but I swear to you, we'll be good together. We'll be fucking amazing together."
Oh, Jett....
I met Jett and Natalie in When You Dare, the first book in the Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor series and absolutely fell in love. I originally wasn't going to read their novella since it was part of an anthology and they were brief secondary characters in the first book....but after their scene stealing moments, I just had to have more! I needed to know how they got together and why their relationship was such a whirlwind! And I have to say, reading it backwards really added to the enjoyment and I'd suggest doing it that way.
Jett and Natalie have been neighbors and sex buddies for a few months. They are ready, willing and able to scratch that itch when needed. However, Jett wants more. He'd like to get to know Natalie outside of the bedroom.
Natalie enjoys Jett's "company" and really likes things the way they are. She's tired of men using her due to her father's wealth and connections and she doesn't want to go through that again.
When Jett sets his mind to something....he gets what he wants. He's set a plan in motion and he'll get Natalie to open up one way or another. Curveballs are thrown there way with a stray dog, nosy sisters and one heck of a snowstorm. But the biggest cureveball of all is the realization that feelings run deeper than either thought?
Jett won me over in When You Dare, but he stole my heart in this novella. Just the right balance of sexy, sweet and protective. Did I mention sexy? Because SWEET MOTHER OF COCK did the man have a way with sexual warfare. His interrogation techniques are something I'd gladly endure! And on top of that his interactions with his sisters and Buddy melted my heart. Natalie took me a little longer to warm up to. I understood her insecurities, but I couldn't grasp how socially awkward she was.
And as seems to be the case with some novellas, the ending veered into the express lane and felt way too rushed. Jumping from one end of the spectrum to the other that quickly just didn't work for me. I hope we get more glimpses of Jett and Natalie later in the series.
***I did not read the other books in this anthology. My rating is only for The Guy Next Door***
May 15, 2012
This review is for Victoria Dahl's Just a Taste only...
Holy smokes this was one extra steamy prequel to the whole Donovan Brothers Brewery series. If you ever wondered what happened during that s-m-o-k-i-n' hot encounter (alluded to in book #3, Real Men Will between preppy, ultra-responsible brewery owner Eric Donovan and coming-to-terms-with-her-sexuality (and embracing it!) erotic store manager Beth Cantrell you're going to want to read this short story. H-O-T!
*I read this whole series out of order, starting with book #2 (Bad Boys Do), then #3 (Real Men Will), then #1 (Good Girls Don't), then finally the prequel to the series ("Just a Taste" from The Guy Next Door). Would I recommend that? Nope. Knowing what already happened kind of ruined book #1 a bit for me...however, I would recommend saving the prequel for last. Getting to know Eric and Beth first kind of made that one night stand they had in "Just a Taste" seem that much hotter, if that makes any sense?
Loved this whole series! 5 stars!
Holy smokes this was one extra steamy prequel to the whole Donovan Brothers Brewery series. If you ever wondered what happened during that s-m-o-k-i-n' hot encounter (alluded to in book #3, Real Men Will between preppy, ultra-responsible brewery owner Eric Donovan and coming-to-terms-with-her-sexuality (and embracing it!) erotic store manager Beth Cantrell you're going to want to read this short story. H-O-T!
*I read this whole series out of order, starting with book #2 (Bad Boys Do), then #3 (Real Men Will), then #1 (Good Girls Don't), then finally the prequel to the series ("Just a Taste" from The Guy Next Door). Would I recommend that? Nope. Knowing what already happened kind of ruined book #1 a bit for me...however, I would recommend saving the prequel for last. Getting to know Eric and Beth first kind of made that one night stand they had in "Just a Taste" seem that much hotter, if that makes any sense?
Loved this whole series! 5 stars!
December 19, 2010
As much as I'd love to, I can never meet Victoria Dahl in person. If I did, one of two things would happen: (1) I would get so overwhelmed that I'd crumble at her feet, overcome by laudable sobbing, or (2) I'd invade her personal space, shrieking hysterically and trying to hug her. Both cases would be resolved when security showed up to haul me away. All of that would be made worse by the fact that my luck dictated that the security personnel would be elderly grandfather-types who would call me 'Deary' and look nothing like the men I read about in these books.
Alas, I am limited to expressing my love for Dahl over the internet.
I love Dahl's contemporary work!!! I don't want to give anything away - but I've never seen anything like what she did in this short story. I absolutely loved reading it, I was completely absorbed in the characters and the setting. And I love how it ends.
I enjoy reading about two characters and watching their love as it develops from book to book. In purely romance novels, I haven't really found this - but I encountered it in the Mercy Thompson/Alpha and Omega series as well as the Lily Bard series. This is the first instalment of Eric and Beth's story and I love that! I can't wait to see what's happens next. But we'll all be waiting till November 2011 (which is cruel).
Anyway, Dalh's contribution was great and it looks like she has a good series cooking up for 2011. If it was a stand alone story I would rate it 5 stars.
I lost interest in Lori Foster's story. I felt like the story was going around in circles. The story took place over 2 days and was over 40% of this anthology (according to my kindle). It was sooo long. I would say 10% of the anthology too long. It's an OK concept but dragged on a bit with no real developments. A bit of a disappointment. But the first full book in Foster's new series is set up well in this short story. There is a lot of mystery surrounding the heroine's sister and I know I'll be lining up to read that book, so I suppose this short story served a purpose.
I have a Meh for Susan Donovan's story. I suppose it just didn't hit the spot for me because I just didn't care about the characters. But maybe I was just impatiently reading so I could get to Dahl's story. Who knows.
Bottom Line: read the book for Dahl, it's a great story.
Alas, I am limited to expressing my love for Dahl over the internet.
I love Dahl's contemporary work!!! I don't want to give anything away - but I've never seen anything like what she did in this short story. I absolutely loved reading it, I was completely absorbed in the characters and the setting. And I love how it ends.
I enjoy reading about two characters and watching their love as it develops from book to book. In purely romance novels, I haven't really found this - but I encountered it in the Mercy Thompson/Alpha and Omega series as well as the Lily Bard series. This is the first instalment of Eric and Beth's story and I love that! I can't wait to see what's happens next. But we'll all be waiting till November 2011 (which is cruel).
Anyway, Dalh's contribution was great and it looks like she has a good series cooking up for 2011. If it was a stand alone story I would rate it 5 stars.
I lost interest in Lori Foster's story. I felt like the story was going around in circles. The story took place over 2 days and was over 40% of this anthology (according to my kindle). It was sooo long. I would say 10% of the anthology too long. It's an OK concept but dragged on a bit with no real developments. A bit of a disappointment. But the first full book in Foster's new series is set up well in this short story. There is a lot of mystery surrounding the heroine's sister and I know I'll be lining up to read that book, so I suppose this short story served a purpose.
I have a Meh for Susan Donovan's story. I suppose it just didn't hit the spot for me because I just didn't care about the characters. But maybe I was just impatiently reading so I could get to Dahl's story. Who knows.
Bottom Line: read the book for Dahl, it's a great story.
November 12, 2011
Review Edited 12 November 2011 to include the Victoria Dahl story
I have just finished Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl story and yes I liked it but once again feel that it was probably unnecessary as I am sure we will re-visit it all when we read Eric and Beth's story. It has also kind of annoyed me that I will have to wait until the 3rd book in the series to finish reading their story.
Don't get me wrong I really enjoyed both Lori's and Victoria's works - I went on to read those the rest in Lori's series and now will go on to read Victoria's. I do actually think that yes they do deserve a lot more than 2 stars but have downgraded them because I feel that the book is totally unnecessary!
Lori Foster story only
This was a short sweet story but I am actually a little dissappointed in it. I think because it was a Lori Foster book I expected much more from it but I dont think it delivered. It might have been a better story if it had not been a novella. I am not a great lover of novellas/short stories as they dont have enough page space to make a decent story out of it and usually I dont buy them but as it was LF and because it was tied to the new series I went against my usual judgement but I really dont think it needs to be linked to the others as surely what is relevant could be easily inserted into the background history. Having said that I havent read the others yet so I could be wrong!
I feel like a bit of a traitor as I love Lori's work and know that she works really hard and pours her heart and soul into it but just dont feel like she pulled this one off - I am sorry Lori!
I have just finished Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl story and yes I liked it but once again feel that it was probably unnecessary as I am sure we will re-visit it all when we read Eric and Beth's story. It has also kind of annoyed me that I will have to wait until the 3rd book in the series to finish reading their story.
Don't get me wrong I really enjoyed both Lori's and Victoria's works - I went on to read those the rest in Lori's series and now will go on to read Victoria's. I do actually think that yes they do deserve a lot more than 2 stars but have downgraded them because I feel that the book is totally unnecessary!
Lori Foster story only
This was a short sweet story but I am actually a little dissappointed in it. I think because it was a Lori Foster book I expected much more from it but I dont think it delivered. It might have been a better story if it had not been a novella. I am not a great lover of novellas/short stories as they dont have enough page space to make a decent story out of it and usually I dont buy them but as it was LF and because it was tied to the new series I went against my usual judgement but I really dont think it needs to be linked to the others as surely what is relevant could be easily inserted into the background history. Having said that I havent read the others yet so I could be wrong!
I feel like a bit of a traitor as I love Lori's work and know that she works really hard and pours her heart and soul into it but just dont feel like she pulled this one off - I am sorry Lori!
August 8, 2011
This review was posted at Under The Covers
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster
3 Stars
This story is the prequel of a new series by Lori Foster called Men Who Walk The Edge of Honor. First of all, the whole concept of the series is very appealing to me, so I was very excited to start it by reading this story. AND this is my first time EVER reading Lori Foster. I have heard such great things about her writing and that just made my expectations higher.
And, quite frankly, I was disappointed! So disappointed with this short story. First of all I think the heroine, Natalie, is just a tad stupid. I mean, she's had issues because she comes from a wealthy family, where there was no concept of family at all, no values, and no love. And on top of that every man that has ever wanted anything to do with her was to get her money. So, ok I get it. She has to be very careful. But in this case, she just doesn't want anybody to know who she really is, and she feels that she can't EVER have a real relationship, no matter how much she likes the guy. Thaaaaaaat was a bit extreme for me.
So she's living in an apartment complex, and out of the blue, kind of, one thing leads to another and she ends up having a "booty call" affair with her hunky neighbor, Jett. And when I say booty call, that is strictly all she ever does. They don't have conversations other than dirty talk, they are never seen in public together, she leads her life as if nothing was happening between them. Supposedly, this is to protect herself.
But Jett really likes her, and he wants more from her. Since he was injured in the line of duty, he is now a PI of sorts and he does some background checks on her and discovers her past. He then decides that he will push his way into her life and into a relationship.
So, I'm not going to tell you how the story ends, but it just felt that she all of a sudden has a change of heart, on issues that I thought were a little stupid to begin with, and all of a sudden they're going to get married. Hmmmmm
One other thing that I didn't enjoy as much as I thought was the actual writing. I felt it was choppy at times, either something would drag and then all of a sudden it was done. It didn't flow for me as I was expecting. I have seen from other reviews that this is not Ms. Fosters usual style and I'm still very hopeful to read a full book by her. Novellas and short stories can be very difficult to write and still convey the same connection as a full book.
I am interested on how the first book of the series was set up and I can't wait to read it.
Gail's Gone Wild by Susan Donovan
2.75/3 Stars
This story was actually cute, it flowed nicely, it was entertaining at times, but it was one of those stories where you just want to beat the hero with a stick over the head.
Gail is 36, with a 17 year old daughter who's dying to go to the Florida Keys on spring break. Gail is recently divorced, her husband was actually embellishing money from a lot of people and just a lying con artist, so she's been hurt and has been alone for some time. So when her daughter brings up spring break vacation, she decides to go with her to chaperone and at the same time give herself a little much needed fun time.
What she wasn't expecting is the hot cuban who lives next door to her rental, with the salt and pepper hair and earring. She is smitten with Jesse's charm. But Jesse has also been burned before. At 38, he's a very successful author, and he recently had a woman who rented that house whom he became involved with only to find out she wanted to make money off of him, and she had sued him for abuse, accused him of getting her pregnant, in the end a media disaster.
So what does Jesse decide to do? NOT tell her who he really is. She thinks he's a tour guide. She is very straightforward with him, and tells him all about her past and how important honesty is for her. And he keeps going with his lie.
Of course, these two have really good chemistry, and during the course of her vacation they develop feelings for each other, that is until the time he decides to come clean.
This story was cute, it was sweet, but it certainly wasn't compelling me to not put the book down. There wasn't anything that special about it. But as short stories go, I think it's pretty good!
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl
4.5 Stars
And this is the reason why I wanted to read this book. I love Victoria Dahl and I can't wait to start on her new series about the Donovan brothers and their brewery. Set in Colorado, the Donovan brothers, and sister, have a pretty successful business and in this prequel, Eric Donovan, the oldest, gets stuck at manning the booth at the local business expo. He is the behind the scenes guy. His youngest brother should be the one doing this, you know serving beer to prospective clients wearing his kilt. But he can't make it and it's up to Eric to take his place, along with trying to make new business contacts to get their beer out to more people.
Except, he almost can't concentrate because all he can do is stare at the hottie in the booth across from him, and its a booth for the sex shop in town nonetheless. She is the last person he should try to get involved with. He's the serious guy. But he can't hide his attraction, and when she comes up to him thinking he is Jamie, he decides "Why not? Jamie would do it."
Beth has a thing for preppy guys. If her friends from work would know she'd be the talk of the town and ridiculed, but that's her ultimate fantasy. But that guy in the Donovan Brewery booth is a preppy God! When she passes the booth she looks at the name tag on the table: Jamie Donovan. She's heard of him, kind of a player reputation. Maybe she could have a fling with him and no one would have to know.
This story was sexy, hot, cute, everything. I loved it. And it has a very open ending which makes me want to rush and read book 1!!!!
Another great story by Ms. Dahl!
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster
3 Stars
This story is the prequel of a new series by Lori Foster called Men Who Walk The Edge of Honor. First of all, the whole concept of the series is very appealing to me, so I was very excited to start it by reading this story. AND this is my first time EVER reading Lori Foster. I have heard such great things about her writing and that just made my expectations higher.
And, quite frankly, I was disappointed! So disappointed with this short story. First of all I think the heroine, Natalie, is just a tad stupid. I mean, she's had issues because she comes from a wealthy family, where there was no concept of family at all, no values, and no love. And on top of that every man that has ever wanted anything to do with her was to get her money. So, ok I get it. She has to be very careful. But in this case, she just doesn't want anybody to know who she really is, and she feels that she can't EVER have a real relationship, no matter how much she likes the guy. Thaaaaaaat was a bit extreme for me.
So she's living in an apartment complex, and out of the blue, kind of, one thing leads to another and she ends up having a "booty call" affair with her hunky neighbor, Jett. And when I say booty call, that is strictly all she ever does. They don't have conversations other than dirty talk, they are never seen in public together, she leads her life as if nothing was happening between them. Supposedly, this is to protect herself.
But Jett really likes her, and he wants more from her. Since he was injured in the line of duty, he is now a PI of sorts and he does some background checks on her and discovers her past. He then decides that he will push his way into her life and into a relationship.
So, I'm not going to tell you how the story ends, but it just felt that she all of a sudden has a change of heart, on issues that I thought were a little stupid to begin with, and all of a sudden they're going to get married. Hmmmmm
One other thing that I didn't enjoy as much as I thought was the actual writing. I felt it was choppy at times, either something would drag and then all of a sudden it was done. It didn't flow for me as I was expecting. I have seen from other reviews that this is not Ms. Fosters usual style and I'm still very hopeful to read a full book by her. Novellas and short stories can be very difficult to write and still convey the same connection as a full book.
I am interested on how the first book of the series was set up and I can't wait to read it.
Gail's Gone Wild by Susan Donovan
2.75/3 Stars
This story was actually cute, it flowed nicely, it was entertaining at times, but it was one of those stories where you just want to beat the hero with a stick over the head.
Gail is 36, with a 17 year old daughter who's dying to go to the Florida Keys on spring break. Gail is recently divorced, her husband was actually embellishing money from a lot of people and just a lying con artist, so she's been hurt and has been alone for some time. So when her daughter brings up spring break vacation, she decides to go with her to chaperone and at the same time give herself a little much needed fun time.
What she wasn't expecting is the hot cuban who lives next door to her rental, with the salt and pepper hair and earring. She is smitten with Jesse's charm. But Jesse has also been burned before. At 38, he's a very successful author, and he recently had a woman who rented that house whom he became involved with only to find out she wanted to make money off of him, and she had sued him for abuse, accused him of getting her pregnant, in the end a media disaster.
So what does Jesse decide to do? NOT tell her who he really is. She thinks he's a tour guide. She is very straightforward with him, and tells him all about her past and how important honesty is for her. And he keeps going with his lie.
Of course, these two have really good chemistry, and during the course of her vacation they develop feelings for each other, that is until the time he decides to come clean.
This story was cute, it was sweet, but it certainly wasn't compelling me to not put the book down. There wasn't anything that special about it. But as short stories go, I think it's pretty good!
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl
4.5 Stars
And this is the reason why I wanted to read this book. I love Victoria Dahl and I can't wait to start on her new series about the Donovan brothers and their brewery. Set in Colorado, the Donovan brothers, and sister, have a pretty successful business and in this prequel, Eric Donovan, the oldest, gets stuck at manning the booth at the local business expo. He is the behind the scenes guy. His youngest brother should be the one doing this, you know serving beer to prospective clients wearing his kilt. But he can't make it and it's up to Eric to take his place, along with trying to make new business contacts to get their beer out to more people.
Except, he almost can't concentrate because all he can do is stare at the hottie in the booth across from him, and its a booth for the sex shop in town nonetheless. She is the last person he should try to get involved with. He's the serious guy. But he can't hide his attraction, and when she comes up to him thinking he is Jamie, he decides "Why not? Jamie would do it."
Beth has a thing for preppy guys. If her friends from work would know she'd be the talk of the town and ridiculed, but that's her ultimate fantasy. But that guy in the Donovan Brewery booth is a preppy God! When she passes the booth she looks at the name tag on the table: Jamie Donovan. She's heard of him, kind of a player reputation. Maybe she could have a fling with him and no one would have to know.
This story was sexy, hot, cute, everything. I loved it. And it has a very open ending which makes me want to rush and read book 1!!!!
Another great story by Ms. Dahl!
May 27, 2022
One Taste by Victoria Dahl. I purchased this book specifically because two of the stories (Foster, Dahl) are prequels to series I'm reading so I was well aware that they were not going to have clear cut conclusions.
As I'm preparing to read Eric's story in the Donovan Brothers Brewery series, it was important to first learn the origins of his "relationship" with Beth. I thought it helpful to read the first two books in the series prior to the prequel and my instincts were correct. You don't get an understanding of Eric in the prequel that's necessary, IMO, to getting why made the choices in this story. Having this context made it a more enjoyable story and allowed me to focus without question. If there is any weakness here it's that you wouldn't have a clue why Eric decided on a one-night stand and why that act in itself was extraordinary.
This was a quick read and Dahl is a skilled writer, adept at creating tension and steamy encounters. It set up Eric's story perfectly. Being a short story and a prequel, it's not a standout but did it's job. I'd rate this 3 stars.
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster. This is the prequel for When You Dare. Jett Sutter has been having a sex only relationship with his next door neighbor, Natalie Alexander, and is ready to expand what they have. The story is told mostly from his perspective as he works to disarm Natalie and break through her barriers. I thought the story was interesting as we were privy to Jett's own evolution as he realizes the depths of his feelings. Throwing the stray dog in the mix was clever and cute as Jett makes comparisons between Natalie and the pup, both having trust issues. For a short story, this was pretty good as I felt I knew both of these characters pretty well by the end. It's a nice job setting up the first book in the series. I'd rate this story 3.5 stars.
As I'm preparing to read Eric's story in the Donovan Brothers Brewery series, it was important to first learn the origins of his "relationship" with Beth. I thought it helpful to read the first two books in the series prior to the prequel and my instincts were correct. You don't get an understanding of Eric in the prequel that's necessary, IMO, to getting why made the choices in this story. Having this context made it a more enjoyable story and allowed me to focus without question. If there is any weakness here it's that you wouldn't have a clue why Eric decided on a one-night stand and why that act in itself was extraordinary.
This was a quick read and Dahl is a skilled writer, adept at creating tension and steamy encounters. It set up Eric's story perfectly. Being a short story and a prequel, it's not a standout but did it's job. I'd rate this 3 stars.
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster. This is the prequel for When You Dare. Jett Sutter has been having a sex only relationship with his next door neighbor, Natalie Alexander, and is ready to expand what they have. The story is told mostly from his perspective as he works to disarm Natalie and break through her barriers. I thought the story was interesting as we were privy to Jett's own evolution as he realizes the depths of his feelings. Throwing the stray dog in the mix was clever and cute as Jett makes comparisons between Natalie and the pup, both having trust issues. For a short story, this was pretty good as I felt I knew both of these characters pretty well by the end. It's a nice job setting up the first book in the series. I'd rate this story 3.5 stars.
May 22, 2012
4 stars – Contemporary Romance Anthology
This is really more like a 3 ½ star read, but I rounded up because I enjoyed the smokin’ hot, yummy morsel Just One Taste, the prequel to Dahl's Donovan Brothers Brewery series and by far my favorite of this anthology, so darn much!
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster -- 3-3.5 stars
Gail's Gone Wild by Susan Donovan -- 2.5-3 stars
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl -- 4.5 stars
This is really more like a 3 ½ star read, but I rounded up because I enjoyed the smokin’ hot, yummy morsel Just One Taste, the prequel to Dahl's Donovan Brothers Brewery series and by far my favorite of this anthology, so darn much!
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster -- 3-3.5 stars
Gail's Gone Wild by Susan Donovan -- 2.5-3 stars
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl -- 4.5 stars
March 10, 2011
Only 'Just One Taste' by Victoria Dahl was worth reading. The other two stories were lacking in substance that made me skimmed the pages to be done with it..
Victoria Dahl's story was very exciting. But I hated the way it ended. Beth still didn't know that his name was not really Jamie but Eric. And Eric shoulda fought harder to not let her go. Still, all will be resolved in the Donovan trilogy coming out next. Can't wait..
Victoria Dahl's story was very exciting. But I hated the way it ended. Beth still didn't know that his name was not really Jamie but Eric. And Eric shoulda fought harder to not let her go. Still, all will be resolved in the Donovan trilogy coming out next. Can't wait..
March 3, 2011
I sometimes feel bad when I read and review something that isn't my usual genre/preferred storyline/type it definitely isn't fair to read a book that has things you normally don't read and then give a bad review because you don't like those things. Still, I will request anything intriguing off of netgalley and have had some great experiences, so it's always worth trying something new. Just keep in mind that my preferences in romance tend to run towards historicals, and tend to prefer more of a romance heavy chick lit for anything set in modern day. That probably biases the review.
Ready Set Jett
I just couldn't handle this story, and after about 80 pages, just flipped through to get the gist of it. I was really bored by most of it, and there were bits that felt long and drawn out even though it is a novella. She has trust issues, he's this dreamy perfect guy. They have perfect and magical sex. She can't trust anyone. They find a dog and the fact that he feeds it and keeps it on the spur of the moment makes him a good guy (I would have suggested irresponsible maybe). They both had traumatic pasts where they could or could not save people. He invites himself along to her vacation that he overheard her plan on the telephone. Turns out that vacation is TOMORROW oh it was all a bit much.
I had given up on the story, no hard feelings, by the point that I got to the beautiful line "Babe, when you look at me like that, I feel like I'm already inside you". Also, the male lead, Jett, says "boner" all the time! So Beavis and Butthead, not sexy for me at all. boner boner boner
So, anyway... I couldn't finish. This just isn't my bag. I don't like "previews" of books and series that are disguised as stories in their own right. I am picky with my contemporaries. I just didn't like them.
Ready Set Jett
I just couldn't handle this story, and after about 80 pages, just flipped through to get the gist of it. I was really bored by most of it, and there were bits that felt long and drawn out even though it is a novella. She has trust issues, he's this dreamy perfect guy. They have perfect and magical sex. She can't trust anyone. They find a dog and the fact that he feeds it and keeps it on the spur of the moment makes him a good guy (I would have suggested irresponsible maybe). They both had traumatic pasts where they could or could not save people. He invites himself along to her vacation that he overheard her plan on the telephone. Turns out that vacation is TOMORROW oh it was all a bit much.
I had given up on the story, no hard feelings, by the point that I got to the beautiful line "Babe, when you look at me like that, I feel like I'm already inside you". Also, the male lead, Jett, says "boner" all the time! So Beavis and Butthead, not sexy for me at all. boner boner boner
So, anyway... I couldn't finish. This just isn't my bag. I don't like "previews" of books and series that are disguised as stories in their own right. I am picky with my contemporaries. I just didn't like them.
September 18, 2011
Rating and review is only for Victoria Dahl’s Just One Taste
This is the first I’ve read from Victoria Dahl and as the title suggests, it was just a taste of her wonderful writing. I’ve read such great things about the Donovon Brothers Brewery series, so I had to start at the beginning with this prequel!
Eric Donovon is the eldest of the brothers and rarely indulges in play. But at a business expo, he finds this inexplicable attraction to this woman in the brown, ass-hugging skirt and dark green heels. This woman is Beth Cantrell, a businesswoman of a women’s erotica ship called The White Orchid.
Their chemistry is undeniable and explosive and made me wish I had the next books on hand right away. For a novella, Dahl crafts a well-paced and satisfying read, even with the ending.
What I loved most about this prequel is the fact that we are introduced to Jamie and Tessa, the other major players in this series. I love series that are centered around family. It just brings something extra to each book in my opinion. I already can’t wait to read all their stories!
This is the first I’ve read from Victoria Dahl and as the title suggests, it was just a taste of her wonderful writing. I’ve read such great things about the Donovon Brothers Brewery series, so I had to start at the beginning with this prequel!
Eric Donovon is the eldest of the brothers and rarely indulges in play. But at a business expo, he finds this inexplicable attraction to this woman in the brown, ass-hugging skirt and dark green heels. This woman is Beth Cantrell, a businesswoman of a women’s erotica ship called The White Orchid.
Their chemistry is undeniable and explosive and made me wish I had the next books on hand right away. For a novella, Dahl crafts a well-paced and satisfying read, even with the ending.
What I loved most about this prequel is the fact that we are introduced to Jamie and Tessa, the other major players in this series. I love series that are centered around family. It just brings something extra to each book in my opinion. I already can’t wait to read all their stories!
May 16, 2012
Edit 5/13/2012
As I begin V.Dahl's Donovan Brothers Brewery series I re-read her prequel, Just One Taste, that is included in this Anthology. While all three siblings are introduced it centers around Eric Donovan and his one night stand with Beth Cantrell. It is Scorching HOT and left me wanting more.
I was tempted to jump to the third installment,Real Men Will just to finish their story.
As I begin V.Dahl's Donovan Brothers Brewery series I re-read her prequel, Just One Taste, that is included in this Anthology. While all three siblings are introduced it centers around Eric Donovan and his one night stand with Beth Cantrell. It is Scorching HOT and left me wanting more.
I was tempted to jump to the third installment,Real Men Will just to finish their story.
April 12, 2011
All three stories were easy reads, sexy and enjoyable. They didn't feel rushed because they were short and the heroes were nice guys not bad boy alphas. I liked Susan Donovan's the best about a single mom taking her teenagers on Spring Break to Key West. Foster's was the sexiest, but not as exciting (lead into her new series) and Dahl's was a teaser that didn't have an HEA ending, but leads into her new series that I will definitely pick up when it is released in September.
July 19, 2021
I liked Lori Foster's story, but I am a bit disappointed from the last one. I thought that this was short novella, but it turns out that it was just a prequel to Victoria Dahl's Donovan brother's series and that the story that started in the prequel will be the last book from those series. The story was good, but I wished to be only a single novella.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2011
3.75 Stars
I have to make a confession...I usually don't like these types of books, several novellas all rolled into a nice package. I am the type of gal who likes a longer read simply because, IMO, that gives the author more words to deliver a story that has everything I hope to gain. World building, character development & so on. I've often referred to novellas as the wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am for novels - while they are ok on occasion I'd much prefer the opposite. With that being said, I really enjoyed these 3 stories! The main reason I read this book was for the Lori Foster story. I received an ARC of Trace of Fever and before I read it, I had to read the 1st two stories (yes, I'm one of those people that must read a series in order ~ OCD-Obsessive chronological disorder). I've never had the pleasure of reading anything by any of the authors of this book, but, I intend to remedy that very quickly!
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster
Very sweet love story between Jett & Natalie who live next door to each other. They originally start off as no more than neighbors with benefits. Notice I didn't say friends, yeah, they weren't because they never got to know each other except in the biblical sense, lol. Jett gets tired of that and realizes that he wants more. The story that follows is all about them finding love. My only complaint with this story is that they are pronouncing their love for each other after only a few days. I know. I know, it's a book, but come on. Even if you count the few months they were sleeping together, they still weren't talking & trying to establish groundwork for a releationship. However, I see that in a lot of books I read so it's not really something that is specific to only this story so I don't really fault it. Overall, it made me want to read the next book in the series. It lays the groundwork for When You Dare very nicely!
Gail’s Gone Wild by Susan Donovan
Gail is a divorced 37 yr old woman with a teenage daughter who wants to go off by herself for spring break. Gail quickly squashes that idea and in turn suggests that she chaperone a trip instead. During the trip Gail meets & proceeds to have a whirlwind romance with a man who lives in the house next to their vacation rental. Short & hot love story between two people who aren’t scared to acknowledge what they want & need from a relationship. Loved the dynamic between the two characters and was very pleased with the story in general. It was the only one not tied to a series in any way so, it felt complete.
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl
Eric & Beth meet each other at a business convention. Beth wrongly assumes that Eric is his brother, Jaime. They end up having a one night stand and Eric, regretfully, never makes it known that he is not Jaime. This was my least favorite out of all the stories. Instead of it wrapping up nice & neat with Beth & Eric running off to happy ever after land, it ends up that they walk away from each other on a to be continued…basis until their full book comes out. Soooo, you would think that their book would be the first in the series right? Wrong, it’s the last one!!!!!! So my problem doesn’t really lie with the story, it’s just that I really liked the characters and want to see what happens to them. I just don’t want to wait until book 3. Patience is a virtue and Lord knows I wasn’t blessed with any!
I have to make a confession...I usually don't like these types of books, several novellas all rolled into a nice package. I am the type of gal who likes a longer read simply because, IMO, that gives the author more words to deliver a story that has everything I hope to gain. World building, character development & so on. I've often referred to novellas as the wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am for novels - while they are ok on occasion I'd much prefer the opposite. With that being said, I really enjoyed these 3 stories! The main reason I read this book was for the Lori Foster story. I received an ARC of Trace of Fever and before I read it, I had to read the 1st two stories (yes, I'm one of those people that must read a series in order ~ OCD-Obsessive chronological disorder). I've never had the pleasure of reading anything by any of the authors of this book, but, I intend to remedy that very quickly!
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster
Very sweet love story between Jett & Natalie who live next door to each other. They originally start off as no more than neighbors with benefits. Notice I didn't say friends, yeah, they weren't because they never got to know each other except in the biblical sense, lol. Jett gets tired of that and realizes that he wants more. The story that follows is all about them finding love. My only complaint with this story is that they are pronouncing their love for each other after only a few days. I know. I know, it's a book, but come on. Even if you count the few months they were sleeping together, they still weren't talking & trying to establish groundwork for a releationship. However, I see that in a lot of books I read so it's not really something that is specific to only this story so I don't really fault it. Overall, it made me want to read the next book in the series. It lays the groundwork for When You Dare very nicely!
Gail’s Gone Wild by Susan Donovan
Gail is a divorced 37 yr old woman with a teenage daughter who wants to go off by herself for spring break. Gail quickly squashes that idea and in turn suggests that she chaperone a trip instead. During the trip Gail meets & proceeds to have a whirlwind romance with a man who lives in the house next to their vacation rental. Short & hot love story between two people who aren’t scared to acknowledge what they want & need from a relationship. Loved the dynamic between the two characters and was very pleased with the story in general. It was the only one not tied to a series in any way so, it felt complete.
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl
Eric & Beth meet each other at a business convention. Beth wrongly assumes that Eric is his brother, Jaime. They end up having a one night stand and Eric, regretfully, never makes it known that he is not Jaime. This was my least favorite out of all the stories. Instead of it wrapping up nice & neat with Beth & Eric running off to happy ever after land, it ends up that they walk away from each other on a to be continued…basis until their full book comes out. Soooo, you would think that their book would be the first in the series right? Wrong, it’s the last one!!!!!! So my problem doesn’t really lie with the story, it’s just that I really liked the characters and want to see what happens to them. I just don’t want to wait until book 3. Patience is a virtue and Lord knows I wasn’t blessed with any!
January 12, 2013
This review is for Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster
Full review
3.5 stars
I have mixed feelings bout this book, i had it 4 a while but i never found the time for this series.
I really really loved Jett he is awesome, sweet, good locking, a totally alfa male and bad ass ex FBI and P.I. in present.
Natalie is a school teacher, cute, very skittish cuz of her back ground, coming from a rich family with a dad which expected perfection from her and her sister Molly and her mom which commits suicide when she was little.
They meet in the lobby of the building they are neighbours and after months
of flirting they jump each other bones and they can't get enough of each other but Jett dosen't understand why Natalie dosen't want's more from him and why she is quite happy with relation based purely on sex so he scoops in her past and finds out about her father and he is not surprised so he decide to find out more from her by tying her to the bed and drive her crazy with sex and to ask whatever he wants to know.I loved this scene OMG it was hot, not pain just purely pleasure and asking question and getting the answers by driving her crazy. In this way he finds out bout her ex which he wanted her money not her and that's way she dosen't wants to get involved again and she dosen't says teh truth bout her. Till in the end Jett convince Natalie to give a chance to they relation and see were it's going and after a night of pleasure they set for a 10 day holiday to discover more bout each other.
In they way to Tennessee they get caught in a snow storm and almost having an accident Jett discovers that he loves Natalie wants the same thing nothing else.
In my opinion Jett made this book he is sexy, charming, witty and can make her laugh and drives her crazy any time of the day. Makes Natalie comfortable something which is unusual for her in a relation with another man and sex was never the same for her.
He is the one who push her to take a risk and try to have more than a fling, he is the one who confess first that he loved her and many others first.
Even if the book had some lacking was a fun read.
Full review
3.5 stars
I have mixed feelings bout this book, i had it 4 a while but i never found the time for this series.
I really really loved Jett he is awesome, sweet, good locking, a totally alfa male and bad ass ex FBI and P.I. in present.
Natalie is a school teacher, cute, very skittish cuz of her back ground, coming from a rich family with a dad which expected perfection from her and her sister Molly and her mom which commits suicide when she was little.
They meet in the lobby of the building they are neighbours and after months
of flirting they jump each other bones and they can't get enough of each other but Jett dosen't understand why Natalie dosen't want's more from him and why she is quite happy with relation based purely on sex so he scoops in her past and finds out about her father and he is not surprised so he decide to find out more from her by tying her to the bed and drive her crazy with sex and to ask whatever he wants to know.I loved this scene OMG it was hot, not pain just purely pleasure and asking question and getting the answers by driving her crazy. In this way he finds out bout her ex which he wanted her money not her and that's way she dosen't wants to get involved again and she dosen't says teh truth bout her. Till in the end Jett convince Natalie to give a chance to they relation and see were it's going and after a night of pleasure they set for a 10 day holiday to discover more bout each other.
In they way to Tennessee they get caught in a snow storm and almost having an accident Jett discovers that he loves Natalie wants the same thing nothing else.
In my opinion Jett made this book he is sexy, charming, witty and can make her laugh and drives her crazy any time of the day. Makes Natalie comfortable something which is unusual for her in a relation with another man and sex was never the same for her.
He is the one who push her to take a risk and try to have more than a fling, he is the one who confess first that he loved her and many others first.
Even if the book had some lacking was a fun read.
May 8, 2011
http://riverinaromantics.blogspot.com/
I am still undecided about my opinion of novellas. One the one hand they are a great way to get a feel for an author that you haven’t read before. You can determine if you like their writing style. Do they have a good sense of humour? Are they boring as hell? Do they give long winded descriptions and then skim over the juicy bits? But on the other hand it is really hard to get a good romance in such a short amount of words without making the heroine out to be either completely dim witted for her sudden love at first sight moment or skanky for agreeing to marry someone she only just met.
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster 4 Stars
This novella was the whole reason behind reading this book. Holly (a Goodreads friend with great taste) told me that she was a must have author, so this was the first book I found and I really enjoyed it. I can already tell that I like Lori Foster’s style of writing; she is the type of author that uses just enough big words to make you feel smart and not so much that you need a dictionary handy. The storyline was romantic and very sexy and in the short space of time I found myself wanting more from this author.
Gail's Gone Wild by Susan Donovan 3 Stars
I wasn’t a huge fan of this story. I felt that there was too much description in the start of the book and then a lot of skimming in the end and the characters didn’t do a whole lot for me either.
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl 4 Stars
I have noticed a bit of talk about Victoria Dahl lately but haven’t paid too much attention, I am now kicking myself for it!! With the smallest story in this book Victoria Dahl WOW’d me. It was a great read and I fell in love with both Beth and Eric. I WANT MORE!!! Can’t wait to read more from this author.
I am still undecided about my opinion of novellas. One the one hand they are a great way to get a feel for an author that you haven’t read before. You can determine if you like their writing style. Do they have a good sense of humour? Are they boring as hell? Do they give long winded descriptions and then skim over the juicy bits? But on the other hand it is really hard to get a good romance in such a short amount of words without making the heroine out to be either completely dim witted for her sudden love at first sight moment or skanky for agreeing to marry someone she only just met.
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster 4 Stars
This novella was the whole reason behind reading this book. Holly (a Goodreads friend with great taste) told me that she was a must have author, so this was the first book I found and I really enjoyed it. I can already tell that I like Lori Foster’s style of writing; she is the type of author that uses just enough big words to make you feel smart and not so much that you need a dictionary handy. The storyline was romantic and very sexy and in the short space of time I found myself wanting more from this author.
Gail's Gone Wild by Susan Donovan 3 Stars
I wasn’t a huge fan of this story. I felt that there was too much description in the start of the book and then a lot of skimming in the end and the characters didn’t do a whole lot for me either.
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl 4 Stars
I have noticed a bit of talk about Victoria Dahl lately but haven’t paid too much attention, I am now kicking myself for it!! With the smallest story in this book Victoria Dahl WOW’d me. It was a great read and I fell in love with both Beth and Eric. I WANT MORE!!! Can’t wait to read more from this author.
July 1, 2011
I mainly read this book for the Victoria Dahl novella (but I also really enjoy Lori Foster, and am super interested in her new series now!) and I was so not dissapointed! Victoria Dahl has quickly became one of my fav. contemp. romance authors! Her books are sweet, funny, and extremely steamy! The novella in this book is actually more like the begining of the 3rd book in this upcoming series, and doesn't have a typical HEA...YET! I worried about that going it to it, but I was completly satisfied with the ending, except that now I want MORE of the Donovan family! This series will be release this summer/fall back to back each month starting with Aug. and ending in Oct, and I'm so glad I don't have to wait a freakin year between each one! (I don't think I could wait a year for Jamie the Kilt wearing, ladies man! ;)
August 6, 2011
I only read the short stories by Lori Foster and Victoria Dahl. Lori Foster is a new author to me, but I enjoyed this short story and will keep an eye out for her other titles. I purchased this book to read the Dahl short story that serves as a prequel to the Donovan Brothers Brewery Series. I am definitely looking forward to this new series. If you are looking for short, steamy contemporary stories, then I definitely recommend this one.
September 18, 2011
I only read it for Victoria Dahls story and what an OH-MY-SHITNESS-I-WANT-A-ERIC fantastic starter to the Donovan series. I can't wait to read them all!!!
March 23, 2016
The Guy Next Door is made up of three stories by three talented contemporary romance authors starring three incredibly sexy guys from next door. My main thought/question about the book is:
Can anyone hook me up with a realtor that can produce neighbors like these guys?
I have to say that this is one of the best romance anthologies I've read in awhile. Usually romance anthologies are carried by one or two big name authors and a couple lesser known authors are thrown in as filler which tends to result in an overall disappointing read. Not true in this case! The three big names on the cover deliver a better than average anthology.
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster was an incredibly sweet romance about neighbors (with benefits) becoming something more. I loved the characters (especially the drool-worthy main man, Jett!) My only complaint would be the length and timing of the story (it was a little too long and detailed to be a short story and a little too short and fast paced to be a full length novel). It is still a four star story on its own, though, and one of my all time favorite stories by Lori Foster to date.
Gail's Gone Wild by Susan Donovan was my favorite story of the series and it also happens to be written by my favorite author/contributor to this series. It tells the story of a single mom trying to keep her daughter and friend out of trouble (or at least keep them from becoming unintentional Girls Gone Wild stars) during their spring break in Key West. In the end it’s the mom, not the girls, that goes a little wild with the hunky local living next door. This full novel worth of romance, sex and emotion compacted into a single short story will have you sighing (and maybe a little teary by happily ever after). I can honestly say that I would buy this book for Susan Donovan's five star story alone!
The most disappointing story of the three for me was the last story, Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl. The story of lust (maybe love) at first sight between a brewery owner and an upscale sex shop manager had a lot of promise but was ultimately unfulfilling (mainly due to the fact the story had no ending and was included as an intro to a separate book to come). The sex scenes were hot but the timing felt off and I was frustrated with the lack of story progression. Mistaken identities can be hilarious but hearing the main male character's brother's name being called out by the main female character during a rather erotic scene was a turn off (confess already!) I'm definitely planning on checking out Victoria Dahl’s upcoming book/continuation of the story, Real Men Will, but it doesn't come out until November which in my book makes this story a three star tease!
I can understand the other reviewer's complaints that this anthology is "unfinished". It is. Two of the authors included are using their stories as introductions to other books/series. Would I still buy it? Definitely! Would I still read it more than once? Definitely! Would I still recommend it to friends? Definitely! Despite its several flaws it is still one of the best romance anthologies I've read in a long, long time. Definitely!
Can anyone hook me up with a realtor that can produce neighbors like these guys?
I have to say that this is one of the best romance anthologies I've read in awhile. Usually romance anthologies are carried by one or two big name authors and a couple lesser known authors are thrown in as filler which tends to result in an overall disappointing read. Not true in this case! The three big names on the cover deliver a better than average anthology.
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster was an incredibly sweet romance about neighbors (with benefits) becoming something more. I loved the characters (especially the drool-worthy main man, Jett!) My only complaint would be the length and timing of the story (it was a little too long and detailed to be a short story and a little too short and fast paced to be a full length novel). It is still a four star story on its own, though, and one of my all time favorite stories by Lori Foster to date.
Gail's Gone Wild by Susan Donovan was my favorite story of the series and it also happens to be written by my favorite author/contributor to this series. It tells the story of a single mom trying to keep her daughter and friend out of trouble (or at least keep them from becoming unintentional Girls Gone Wild stars) during their spring break in Key West. In the end it’s the mom, not the girls, that goes a little wild with the hunky local living next door. This full novel worth of romance, sex and emotion compacted into a single short story will have you sighing (and maybe a little teary by happily ever after). I can honestly say that I would buy this book for Susan Donovan's five star story alone!
The most disappointing story of the three for me was the last story, Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl. The story of lust (maybe love) at first sight between a brewery owner and an upscale sex shop manager had a lot of promise but was ultimately unfulfilling (mainly due to the fact the story had no ending and was included as an intro to a separate book to come). The sex scenes were hot but the timing felt off and I was frustrated with the lack of story progression. Mistaken identities can be hilarious but hearing the main male character's brother's name being called out by the main female character during a rather erotic scene was a turn off (confess already!) I'm definitely planning on checking out Victoria Dahl’s upcoming book/continuation of the story, Real Men Will, but it doesn't come out until November which in my book makes this story a three star tease!
I can understand the other reviewer's complaints that this anthology is "unfinished". It is. Two of the authors included are using their stories as introductions to other books/series. Would I still buy it? Definitely! Would I still read it more than once? Definitely! Would I still recommend it to friends? Definitely! Despite its several flaws it is still one of the best romance anthologies I've read in a long, long time. Definitely!
April 13, 2014
There was a theme to the three stories...concealed identity. In each story, the heroine has been intentionally misled as to the hero's true identity.
Lori Foster gives us a great story about two neighbors who have been using each other for booty calls but keeping it superficial. He wants more, she has fears to overcome. His profession would be an obstacle, so instead of coming clean he conceals it. Naturally, this deception becomes a part of the conflict delaying the happily-ever-after. I liked the advent of Buddy into the story, and I think you will also. Four out of Five for this one.
Susan Donovan's tale of a chaperone's spring break adventure bears the cute title "Gail's Gone Wild." Despite the obviousness of the setting, this is actually a very good boy meets girl tale. A famous person starts a fling with someone who is unaware of his notoreity, and though she has overtly stated the reasons for her antipathy to deception, he keeps his profession a secret. I liked that the end of spring break didn't bring a happy ending, the epilog shows further growth of the relationship. A solid three and a half for this story.
Victoria Dahl gave us a marvelous story that did not disappoint until the end. There was no good reason for one brother to leave intact the heroine's assumption that he was the other brother, Lorelei James has written an excellent erotic romance with this theme. I kept expecting his motive to come out in the wash, and it did not. The protagonists' thoughts were well expressed, the author doesn't leave us in the cold. I liked the story line. The ending showed me that this really was not an ending, just a teaser for an upcoming trilogy. This was not even a complete novella. At the end the heroine is still under the mistaken impression that the man with whom she slept bears his brother's name. Boo-ooo-oooo ... but the quality of the writing still compels me to award this a two and a half.
I'll probably read something else by Dahl to see if her work can win me over. I've read other novellas by Donovan in collections but never been tempted to seek out her novels. I own nearly everything Lori Foster ever wrote, I became a fan of hers early in her career.
I'll definitely read it again for more of Foster's and Donovan's wit.
Lori Foster gives us a great story about two neighbors who have been using each other for booty calls but keeping it superficial. He wants more, she has fears to overcome. His profession would be an obstacle, so instead of coming clean he conceals it. Naturally, this deception becomes a part of the conflict delaying the happily-ever-after. I liked the advent of Buddy into the story, and I think you will also. Four out of Five for this one.
Susan Donovan's tale of a chaperone's spring break adventure bears the cute title "Gail's Gone Wild." Despite the obviousness of the setting, this is actually a very good boy meets girl tale. A famous person starts a fling with someone who is unaware of his notoreity, and though she has overtly stated the reasons for her antipathy to deception, he keeps his profession a secret. I liked that the end of spring break didn't bring a happy ending, the epilog shows further growth of the relationship. A solid three and a half for this story.
Victoria Dahl gave us a marvelous story that did not disappoint until the end. There was no good reason for one brother to leave intact the heroine's assumption that he was the other brother, Lorelei James has written an excellent erotic romance with this theme. I kept expecting his motive to come out in the wash, and it did not. The protagonists' thoughts were well expressed, the author doesn't leave us in the cold. I liked the story line. The ending showed me that this really was not an ending, just a teaser for an upcoming trilogy. This was not even a complete novella. At the end the heroine is still under the mistaken impression that the man with whom she slept bears his brother's name. Boo-ooo-oooo ... but the quality of the writing still compels me to award this a two and a half.
I'll probably read something else by Dahl to see if her work can win me over. I've read other novellas by Donovan in collections but never been tempted to seek out her novels. I own nearly everything Lori Foster ever wrote, I became a fan of hers early in her career.
I'll definitely read it again for more of Foster's and Donovan's wit.
November 22, 2023
2.5 stars for the Lori Foster story only. I'll get to the other stories later.
If I hadn't already devoured the Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor series, I would never have picked it up based on this novella.
The rest of the books in the series are all incredibly intense and sexy Romantic Suspense.
This novella isn't. It starts out with Jett and Natalie who are neighbors and sex buddies, but nothing more. Those are Natalie's terms, but after a few months of this, Jett decides he wants more.
When Natalie comes over that night, he ties her wrists, and she's a bit nervous but goes with it, because for her, Jett is everything she's ever wanted, but is afraid to have, so she keeps it simple. Sex only.
But while he's turning her on, he begins to ask personal questions. Every time she doesn't want to answer, he turns her on some more to distract her. He's hoping to get answers out of her.
I didn't like that, but I was okay with it...until Natalie wasn't okay with it. To Jett's credit, he lets her go when she asks, but he only does it with the promise she'll stay if he unties her.
She was really understandably mad at him, but she lets him finish before and even though she's nervous, she doesn't really, I don't know, stay mad I guess. The scene I'm thinking of really pissed me off, and Natalie was mad too, until he sexed her up again. Then that made me even angrier.
I will say this-I like the idea of the novella. But it doesn't fit in well with a Rom Susp series. In fact the novella What Chris Wants is much better. I did like seeing how Molly's story ties in though. It just seems that with a her who's ex-military, ex-FBI, and now a PI, and the series a Rom Susp series, shouldn't this have some Rom Susp. elements?
3 stars This is just for the Victoria Dahl book:
This is a prequel to her Donovan Brothers Brewery and it's a good taste of the series. I didn't realize it was leading into their own full-length book though, and I just wish I had known that ahead of time.
That being said, it's great because Beth runs an erotic shop, but she's very buttoned up and khakis turn her on. Not exactly what you'd think of when you hear what she does. At one point she's almost embarrassed to be seen with Eric Donovan because she does have an image to maintain after all, and his polo shirt isn't it.
I look forward to reading their full-length book now that I know what happened when they first met.
If I hadn't already devoured the Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor series, I would never have picked it up based on this novella.
The rest of the books in the series are all incredibly intense and sexy Romantic Suspense.
This novella isn't. It starts out with Jett and Natalie who are neighbors and sex buddies, but nothing more. Those are Natalie's terms, but after a few months of this, Jett decides he wants more.
When Natalie comes over that night, he ties her wrists, and she's a bit nervous but goes with it, because for her, Jett is everything she's ever wanted, but is afraid to have, so she keeps it simple. Sex only.
But while he's turning her on, he begins to ask personal questions. Every time she doesn't want to answer, he turns her on some more to distract her. He's hoping to get answers out of her.
I didn't like that, but I was okay with it...until Natalie wasn't okay with it. To Jett's credit, he lets her go when she asks, but he only does it with the promise she'll stay if he unties her.
She was really understandably mad at him, but she lets him finish before and even though she's nervous, she doesn't really, I don't know, stay mad I guess. The scene I'm thinking of really pissed me off, and Natalie was mad too, until he sexed her up again. Then that made me even angrier.
I will say this-I like the idea of the novella. But it doesn't fit in well with a Rom Susp series. In fact the novella What Chris Wants is much better. I did like seeing how Molly's story ties in though. It just seems that with a her who's ex-military, ex-FBI, and now a PI, and the series a Rom Susp series, shouldn't this have some Rom Susp. elements?
3 stars This is just for the Victoria Dahl book:
This is a prequel to her Donovan Brothers Brewery and it's a good taste of the series. I didn't realize it was leading into their own full-length book though, and I just wish I had known that ahead of time.
That being said, it's great because Beth runs an erotic shop, but she's very buttoned up and khakis turn her on. Not exactly what you'd think of when you hear what she does. At one point she's almost embarrassed to be seen with Eric Donovan because she does have an image to maintain after all, and his polo shirt isn't it.
I look forward to reading their full-length book now that I know what happened when they first met.
January 20, 2011
Ready Set Jett by Lori Foster
Jett Sutter has admired Natalie Alexander since the moment he has spotted her in their apartment complex. Shortly after their introduction, they begin a hot, no-strings attached affair. The problem is that Jett is starting to care for Natalie and he wants something more. He just has to figure out how to convince Natalie. When Natalie mentions her plans for a vacation, he invites himself, seeking the perfect opportunity.
Wowza! Does Lori Foster know how to write hot sex scenes. The sexual chemistry between Jett and Natalie pops right at you. The only thing is that the rest of the story falls flat. Natalie does not give any real reason to keep Jett at bay. Her past fail relationships could have been just caused but they happened some time ago. Jett is a likeable guy and his character is well developed. The side story about Natalie’s missing sister distracts from the main story.
I have no problem with an author setting up future books inside of the story that I’m reading. However, this becomes a problem when the current story is just dropped and a huge cliffhanger is placed as an ending. Sorry, but this does not sit well with me. I expected more from this short story and I’m slightly disappointed.
Gail’s Gone Wild by Susan Donovan
When Gail Chapman’s daughter informs her that she and her friend is going to Key West for spring break, Gail rushes into action. There is no way she is allowing her teenage daughter to go away without any adult supervision. Despite her daughter’s protest, they pack up and head to Key West for a little fun. Surprisingly, it’s Gail who has all the fun when she meets sexy Jesse Batista, an author who heats up her life.
The story moves at a slow pace and the story is forgettable. The characters lack appeal. My problem with this story is that Gail’s reasons for going to Key West is to make sure her daughter is chaperoned. However, once Gail takes interest in the guy she forgets about the daughter. She went from super mom to I’m getting my groove back real quick.
The daughter is not a good addition to the book. My tolerance for children/teenagers in books without any real significant cause is low. Hannah and Holly (yes, they have similar names) is just another part of the stereotypical teenager thrown in the mix. Overall, this story is mediocre at its best.
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl
I never even got pass the first chapter because the plot did not pull me in. Overall, this book could not get rated.
Jett Sutter has admired Natalie Alexander since the moment he has spotted her in their apartment complex. Shortly after their introduction, they begin a hot, no-strings attached affair. The problem is that Jett is starting to care for Natalie and he wants something more. He just has to figure out how to convince Natalie. When Natalie mentions her plans for a vacation, he invites himself, seeking the perfect opportunity.
Wowza! Does Lori Foster know how to write hot sex scenes. The sexual chemistry between Jett and Natalie pops right at you. The only thing is that the rest of the story falls flat. Natalie does not give any real reason to keep Jett at bay. Her past fail relationships could have been just caused but they happened some time ago. Jett is a likeable guy and his character is well developed. The side story about Natalie’s missing sister distracts from the main story.
I have no problem with an author setting up future books inside of the story that I’m reading. However, this becomes a problem when the current story is just dropped and a huge cliffhanger is placed as an ending. Sorry, but this does not sit well with me. I expected more from this short story and I’m slightly disappointed.
Gail’s Gone Wild by Susan Donovan
When Gail Chapman’s daughter informs her that she and her friend is going to Key West for spring break, Gail rushes into action. There is no way she is allowing her teenage daughter to go away without any adult supervision. Despite her daughter’s protest, they pack up and head to Key West for a little fun. Surprisingly, it’s Gail who has all the fun when she meets sexy Jesse Batista, an author who heats up her life.
The story moves at a slow pace and the story is forgettable. The characters lack appeal. My problem with this story is that Gail’s reasons for going to Key West is to make sure her daughter is chaperoned. However, once Gail takes interest in the guy she forgets about the daughter. She went from super mom to I’m getting my groove back real quick.
The daughter is not a good addition to the book. My tolerance for children/teenagers in books without any real significant cause is low. Hannah and Holly (yes, they have similar names) is just another part of the stereotypical teenager thrown in the mix. Overall, this story is mediocre at its best.
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl
I never even got pass the first chapter because the plot did not pull me in. Overall, this book could not get rated.
September 12, 2013
The Guy Next Door is a contemporary romance anthology features stories by Lori Foster, Susan Donovan, and Victoria Dahl.
In Foster's story, Ready Set, Jett, teacher Natalie Alexnader and her private investigator neighbor Jett Sutter are enjoying a casual affair until Jett decides that he wants more out of their relationship.
In Donovan's story, Gail's Gone Wild, professor Gail Chapman takes her teenage daughter and her daughter's friend to Key West for spring break. But when Gail meets author Jesse Batista, she's the one who goes a little crazy.
In Dahl's story, Just One Taste, brewery owner Eric Donovan meets Beth Cantrell, who manages an erotica shop. The two run into each other during a local business expo and decide to explore the attraction between them.
I like anthologies because they let me try several authors in one book, and since I'd never read Foster or Donovan, I decided to pick up this book. And the cover didn't hurt either. LOL.
I liked Donovan's story the best. It was just a fun, spring break tale. Who wouldn't want to go to Key West and get swept off their feet by a sexy guy who looks like a modern-day pirate? Plus, Key West is one of those places that I've always wanted to go, and Donovan made me feel like I was there watching the cats run around Hemingway's house.
I didn't enjoy the other two stories quite as much. Foster's story was much more serious than what I thought it would be, given the book cover and back cover copy, and her characters (especially the heroine) had a lot of issues to work through. However, Foster does do a good job of packing a lot of emotion into a shorter story, and she also sets up a future book/series that sounds interesting.
I liked Dahl's story -- and then I got to the end and realized that the story doesn't really have a happy ending or resolution to it. It feels more like a prequel than a complete story, and I was a little jarred when I came to the end and realized that the hero and heroine weren't going to end up together. (At least, not in this book. I believe Dahl is writing another full-length book with these characters in it.) It just struck me as kind of odd that there wasn't more resolution, especially since this is a romance anthology.
Overall, if you're in the mood for some spring break stories, you might want to check this book out.
In Foster's story, Ready Set, Jett, teacher Natalie Alexnader and her private investigator neighbor Jett Sutter are enjoying a casual affair until Jett decides that he wants more out of their relationship.
In Donovan's story, Gail's Gone Wild, professor Gail Chapman takes her teenage daughter and her daughter's friend to Key West for spring break. But when Gail meets author Jesse Batista, she's the one who goes a little crazy.
In Dahl's story, Just One Taste, brewery owner Eric Donovan meets Beth Cantrell, who manages an erotica shop. The two run into each other during a local business expo and decide to explore the attraction between them.
I like anthologies because they let me try several authors in one book, and since I'd never read Foster or Donovan, I decided to pick up this book. And the cover didn't hurt either. LOL.
I liked Donovan's story the best. It was just a fun, spring break tale. Who wouldn't want to go to Key West and get swept off their feet by a sexy guy who looks like a modern-day pirate? Plus, Key West is one of those places that I've always wanted to go, and Donovan made me feel like I was there watching the cats run around Hemingway's house.
I didn't enjoy the other two stories quite as much. Foster's story was much more serious than what I thought it would be, given the book cover and back cover copy, and her characters (especially the heroine) had a lot of issues to work through. However, Foster does do a good job of packing a lot of emotion into a shorter story, and she also sets up a future book/series that sounds interesting.
I liked Dahl's story -- and then I got to the end and realized that the story doesn't really have a happy ending or resolution to it. It feels more like a prequel than a complete story, and I was a little jarred when I came to the end and realized that the hero and heroine weren't going to end up together. (At least, not in this book. I believe Dahl is writing another full-length book with these characters in it.) It just struck me as kind of odd that there wasn't more resolution, especially since this is a romance anthology.
Overall, if you're in the mood for some spring break stories, you might want to check this book out.
February 16, 2011
I only read the Foster and Donovan entries in this collection. I'm putting the Dahl on hold for now.
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster
Jett and his sexy neighbor Natalie have been having a no-strings-attached fling for months. Jett is ready to take it to the next level (much to his surprise) but Natalie shows no signs of feeling the same. So he does what any rational man would do when he finds himself falling in love with the woman who wants nothing more than sex from him - he ties her to the bed and forces here to talk to him. Then he invites himself on her spring break vacation.
This was a cute, sexy story laced with humor and depth. I really enjoyed both main characters, as well as their canine companion. That Jett was so confused over Natalie's lack of commitment was hilarious. I like that Natalie didn't dismiss out of hand Jett's offer to deepen their connection, even though she had baggage.
I do think a lot of their issues could have been cleared up with some good old fashioned communication, but I'm not going to hold that against them.
Gail's Gone Wild by Susan Donovan
When Gail's teenage daughter says she and her friend want to go to Key West for Spring Break, Gail says no-way, no-how. But after some consideration, she decides she needs a vacation and agrees they can go as long as she can go as chaperone. She plans to laze by the pool and visit some historical landmarks..until she meets their sexy new neighbor, Jesse. Then she decides it would be more fun to let her inner wild-child out and have a real Spring Break vacation. What's supposed to be a short fling turns into more as she gets to know Jesse. Only Jesse is keeping a big secret from Gail, one that could potentially ruin her trust in him for good.
This was another sexy read. I really enjoyed the budding romance between Jesse and Gail. They definitely had chemistry, but I liked that a lot of the story was dedicated to them getting to know one another. I do think the parts with Gail's daughter could have been a little more fleshed out. They were all about hitting the party scene hard, but nothing was ever said about it. Two teenage girls basically left to their own devices in Key West during spring break? I fully expected shenanigans.
Still, I appreciated Donovan's no-nonsense approach with Gail and her romance to let it go.
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster
Jett and his sexy neighbor Natalie have been having a no-strings-attached fling for months. Jett is ready to take it to the next level (much to his surprise) but Natalie shows no signs of feeling the same. So he does what any rational man would do when he finds himself falling in love with the woman who wants nothing more than sex from him - he ties her to the bed and forces here to talk to him. Then he invites himself on her spring break vacation.
This was a cute, sexy story laced with humor and depth. I really enjoyed both main characters, as well as their canine companion. That Jett was so confused over Natalie's lack of commitment was hilarious. I like that Natalie didn't dismiss out of hand Jett's offer to deepen their connection, even though she had baggage.
I do think a lot of their issues could have been cleared up with some good old fashioned communication, but I'm not going to hold that against them.
Gail's Gone Wild by Susan Donovan
When Gail's teenage daughter says she and her friend want to go to Key West for Spring Break, Gail says no-way, no-how. But after some consideration, she decides she needs a vacation and agrees they can go as long as she can go as chaperone. She plans to laze by the pool and visit some historical landmarks..until she meets their sexy new neighbor, Jesse. Then she decides it would be more fun to let her inner wild-child out and have a real Spring Break vacation. What's supposed to be a short fling turns into more as she gets to know Jesse. Only Jesse is keeping a big secret from Gail, one that could potentially ruin her trust in him for good.
This was another sexy read. I really enjoyed the budding romance between Jesse and Gail. They definitely had chemistry, but I liked that a lot of the story was dedicated to them getting to know one another. I do think the parts with Gail's daughter could have been a little more fleshed out. They were all about hitting the party scene hard, but nothing was ever said about it. Two teenage girls basically left to their own devices in Key West during spring break? I fully expected shenanigans.
Still, I appreciated Donovan's no-nonsense approach with Gail and her romance to let it go.
March 25, 2011
Ready, Set, Jett- Lori Foster
I really, really liked this story. I think I liked it more because I already was familiar with the characters from Lori's new book When You Dare. Although, Natalie in the new book really sort of annoyed me, in this short story I get why. I like that she is a school teacher and at first in it for the sex, but tries to hide her true feelings. Jett (Love Him) hot, sexy and typical guy (when it comes to the no strings attached sex) really is sweet, because he also has feelings for her. I was mad at him for digging around about her background without her permission, because really that wasn't necessary, but with his profession I guess it's a given. I love how Lori gave him, his wake up call during the snow storm and everything just falls into place with them. As always Lori really focuses on conversations with her characters and I love that about her. If you are wanting to read her new series, this short story isn't necessary, but I suggest you read it, it's enjoyable and will lead up to Molly & Dare in When You Dare.
Gail Gone Wild-Susan Donovan
I thought this story was cute and a good read. I love Gail's character as the middle aged mother who sets out to have fun on spring break with her teenage daughter. I enjoyed that she was clueless about dating and really has no idea about how to have a fling. Jesse the hot guy next door is all about teaching her how to have fun, while secretly falling for her. I loved the interactions with Gail & her daughter and how she tries to give her Mom advice about guys. I was really satisfied how it ended and I enjoyed it.
Just One Taste-Victoria Dahl
While reading this I forgot that it was a novella and was all into and it left me hanging....why??? UGH! I really loved it. Eric a beer maker & Beth the Sex Store manager, they both have issues I was hoping to see get resolved and I was saying Eric, just tell her, just tell her!! The author has set this story up to continue in an upcoming series and I am all over it when it comes out! Which is what she intended, I am sure! Great read and I can't wait for the new books!
I really, really liked this story. I think I liked it more because I already was familiar with the characters from Lori's new book When You Dare. Although, Natalie in the new book really sort of annoyed me, in this short story I get why. I like that she is a school teacher and at first in it for the sex, but tries to hide her true feelings. Jett (Love Him) hot, sexy and typical guy (when it comes to the no strings attached sex) really is sweet, because he also has feelings for her. I was mad at him for digging around about her background without her permission, because really that wasn't necessary, but with his profession I guess it's a given. I love how Lori gave him, his wake up call during the snow storm and everything just falls into place with them. As always Lori really focuses on conversations with her characters and I love that about her. If you are wanting to read her new series, this short story isn't necessary, but I suggest you read it, it's enjoyable and will lead up to Molly & Dare in When You Dare.
Gail Gone Wild-Susan Donovan
I thought this story was cute and a good read. I love Gail's character as the middle aged mother who sets out to have fun on spring break with her teenage daughter. I enjoyed that she was clueless about dating and really has no idea about how to have a fling. Jesse the hot guy next door is all about teaching her how to have fun, while secretly falling for her. I loved the interactions with Gail & her daughter and how she tries to give her Mom advice about guys. I was really satisfied how it ended and I enjoyed it.
Just One Taste-Victoria Dahl
While reading this I forgot that it was a novella and was all into and it left me hanging....why??? UGH! I really loved it. Eric a beer maker & Beth the Sex Store manager, they both have issues I was hoping to see get resolved and I was saying Eric, just tell her, just tell her!! The author has set this story up to continue in an upcoming series and I am all over it when it comes out! Which is what she intended, I am sure! Great read and I can't wait for the new books!
September 9, 2015
Three novellas about neighbors getting together, whether they are near each other due to where they live, where they vacation or even booths at a business convention. Two of the stories will have an incomplete feel to them unless you’ve read other books in the series.
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster is the reason I picked up this anthology from the library. You meet Jett and Natalie in this story which takes place during When You Dare. Without reading that other book, you are going to feel cut off as drama is taking place in the full length book and at this point all Natalie knows is that something is wrong involving her sister. But the characters are interesting, as is Natalie’s situation with wanting to remain friends with benefits, but Jett has other ideas. Got to love both Jett and his family. 4 stars
Gail’s Gone Wild by Susan Donovan appears to be a stand alone story about a woman who takes her high school senior daughter and the girl’s best friend to Key West for spring break. Gail seriously needs to let loose and Jesse, the guy next door sees someone both sexy and interesting. Love story that starts out with sexual tension. I wanted to smack her upside the head at one point, but it’s fun to see her be the person she was meant to be. Enjoyable. 4 stars
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl appears to be the beginning of a series involving the Donovan family. Eric and Beth meet at a business convention, 2 booths apart. She runs an erotica boutique and his family owns a brewery and both have images to maintain. She thinks he’s Jaime, Eric’s younger brother who is more well known with the ladies. To me this story was less satisfying, partly due to the rather abrupt ending. Perhaps if I’d read the series I’d have a better appreciation for this story that has a great deal of sexual tension and takes a long time to get anywhere. 2.5 stars
Ready, Set, Jett by Lori Foster is the reason I picked up this anthology from the library. You meet Jett and Natalie in this story which takes place during When You Dare. Without reading that other book, you are going to feel cut off as drama is taking place in the full length book and at this point all Natalie knows is that something is wrong involving her sister. But the characters are interesting, as is Natalie’s situation with wanting to remain friends with benefits, but Jett has other ideas. Got to love both Jett and his family. 4 stars
Gail’s Gone Wild by Susan Donovan appears to be a stand alone story about a woman who takes her high school senior daughter and the girl’s best friend to Key West for spring break. Gail seriously needs to let loose and Jesse, the guy next door sees someone both sexy and interesting. Love story that starts out with sexual tension. I wanted to smack her upside the head at one point, but it’s fun to see her be the person she was meant to be. Enjoyable. 4 stars
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl appears to be the beginning of a series involving the Donovan family. Eric and Beth meet at a business convention, 2 booths apart. She runs an erotica boutique and his family owns a brewery and both have images to maintain. She thinks he’s Jaime, Eric’s younger brother who is more well known with the ladies. To me this story was less satisfying, partly due to the rather abrupt ending. Perhaps if I’d read the series I’d have a better appreciation for this story that has a great deal of sexual tension and takes a long time to get anywhere. 2.5 stars
March 3, 2011
Each novella had a little bit of everything to suck me in and keep me engrossed within its pages to the very end.
I gave it 4 stars because the last piece cut off too soon in my opinion and I was a little irked by that. But to be honest... it was really well done.
Lori Foster does a wonderful job of setting up the scene for her new series featuring hot, uber alpha males. Jett was sexy as hell and my only problem was that there wasn't enough of him. I'm looking forward to reading The Men Who Walk The Edge Of Honor books. Lori's writing was flawless, sensual, and captivating. In this novella we saw how a relationship developed between Jett and Natalie.
It went from being a no strings attached agreement, to something deeper, something more, that was heated and completely satisfying. I loved it.
Susan Donovan brought us Jesse the mysterious next door neighbor. He's exotic, hot, attractive, and a famous writer. And Gail, the professor from Pennsylvania. She's the mother of a soon to be college student who's in dire need of a vacation. She made the decision to chaperon her daughter and her friend to Key West on Spring Break. Gail was able to relax and enjoy herself, and find a little love in the process. Susan did a lovely job with this piece, it was sweet, fun, and sexy.
Victoria Dahl gave us a taste of her upcoming new trilogy featuring the Donovan Brothers Brewery. Dahl's writing is, as per usual, fast paced, intriguing, and smooth. Eric and Beth's relationship was filled with such sexual tension, it was amazing and kept me turning the pages. She's set up a good beginning with the introduction of the Donovan family and their business and their personalities. Reading that just left me wanting more. I'm really looking forward to see how this plays out.
I gave it 4 stars because the last piece cut off too soon in my opinion and I was a little irked by that. But to be honest... it was really well done.
Lori Foster does a wonderful job of setting up the scene for her new series featuring hot, uber alpha males. Jett was sexy as hell and my only problem was that there wasn't enough of him. I'm looking forward to reading The Men Who Walk The Edge Of Honor books. Lori's writing was flawless, sensual, and captivating. In this novella we saw how a relationship developed between Jett and Natalie.
It went from being a no strings attached agreement, to something deeper, something more, that was heated and completely satisfying. I loved it.
Susan Donovan brought us Jesse the mysterious next door neighbor. He's exotic, hot, attractive, and a famous writer. And Gail, the professor from Pennsylvania. She's the mother of a soon to be college student who's in dire need of a vacation. She made the decision to chaperon her daughter and her friend to Key West on Spring Break. Gail was able to relax and enjoy herself, and find a little love in the process. Susan did a lovely job with this piece, it was sweet, fun, and sexy.
Victoria Dahl gave us a taste of her upcoming new trilogy featuring the Donovan Brothers Brewery. Dahl's writing is, as per usual, fast paced, intriguing, and smooth. Eric and Beth's relationship was filled with such sexual tension, it was amazing and kept me turning the pages. She's set up a good beginning with the introduction of the Donovan family and their business and their personalities. Reading that just left me wanting more. I'm really looking forward to see how this plays out.
June 8, 2011
This trio of short stories was a wonderful find.
In Ready, Set, Jett, Lori Foster gives us the perfect situation – Jett Sutter, who wants a no-strings-attached relationship, meets Natalie Alexander, a woman with the same goal – and he discovers that sometimes strings are very worthwhile. But he has his work cut out for him as he tries to convince her of that.
While Natalie’s falling in love, her sister, Molly, is missing. Molly’s story is continued in When You Dare, the first book in Foster’s new trilogy.
Susan Donovan hit the mark with Gail’s Gone Wild. Professor Gail Chapman plays chaperone on spring break...and ends up breaking all the rules she set for her teenage daughter. Somehow, their roles get reversed and Gail’s daughter, Holly, ends up worrying that her mother will be taken advantage of by next-door neighbor and famous author, Jesse Batista. Meanwhile, Gail discovers how wonderful it is to let go of her inhibitions.
A fun story about second chances and finding love when you least expect it, it’s the kind of adventure we often daydream about, but are seldom brave enough to capitalize on.
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl features a case of mistaken identity that allows Eric Donovan to let loose under the persona of his brother Jamie. Beth Cantrell assumes Eric is Jamie because she’s heard so much about Jamie’s sexual exploits. Eric assumes Beth is an accomplished seductress because she sells sex toys. Neither wants their friends or family to know about the other, but they end up rocking each other’s world.
This story continues in the trilogy, Good Girls Don’t, Bad Boys Do, Real Men Will.
Overall an outstanding trio of sexy tales. If you’re looking for hot reads, put this book on your list.
In Ready, Set, Jett, Lori Foster gives us the perfect situation – Jett Sutter, who wants a no-strings-attached relationship, meets Natalie Alexander, a woman with the same goal – and he discovers that sometimes strings are very worthwhile. But he has his work cut out for him as he tries to convince her of that.
While Natalie’s falling in love, her sister, Molly, is missing. Molly’s story is continued in When You Dare, the first book in Foster’s new trilogy.
Susan Donovan hit the mark with Gail’s Gone Wild. Professor Gail Chapman plays chaperone on spring break...and ends up breaking all the rules she set for her teenage daughter. Somehow, their roles get reversed and Gail’s daughter, Holly, ends up worrying that her mother will be taken advantage of by next-door neighbor and famous author, Jesse Batista. Meanwhile, Gail discovers how wonderful it is to let go of her inhibitions.
A fun story about second chances and finding love when you least expect it, it’s the kind of adventure we often daydream about, but are seldom brave enough to capitalize on.
Just One Taste by Victoria Dahl features a case of mistaken identity that allows Eric Donovan to let loose under the persona of his brother Jamie. Beth Cantrell assumes Eric is Jamie because she’s heard so much about Jamie’s sexual exploits. Eric assumes Beth is an accomplished seductress because she sells sex toys. Neither wants their friends or family to know about the other, but they end up rocking each other’s world.
This story continues in the trilogy, Good Girls Don’t, Bad Boys Do, Real Men Will.
Overall an outstanding trio of sexy tales. If you’re looking for hot reads, put this book on your list.
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