Review: Want You to Want Me by Lorelei James

Want You to Want Me (Want You #2) by Lorelei James

Publication Date: August 4th 2020 by Berkley Books

Pages: 384

Source: Publisher

Rating: ★★★★

Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Goodreads

About the book:

The new sexy contemporary romance in New York Times bestselling author Lorelei James's Want You series, set in Minneapolis-St. Paul.

Hockey player Gabriella "Gabi" Welk spent her life in pursuit of championships, but she has little to show for it besides dusty trophies and second-place medals. Now her career consists of several part-time jobs to make ends meet. When Gabi gets a chance at her dream job, she swallows her pride and asks her nemesis--smart, sexy and savvy Nolan Lund--for help.

Since being named future CEO of Lund Industries, Nolan has tried hard to overcome his reputation as a fun-loving playboy and ladies' man. For the first time ever, he's more focused on the company than his personal life. He spends his free time at the ice rink his brother owns, cheering on his niece at her hockey games...and watching Gabriella Welk, the superstar athlete and assistant coach who gets under his skin in a way he can't ignore. He's shocked when Gabi agrees to trade a favor for a favor.

They have little in common besides their mutual mistrust, but between family crises and sibling rivalries, Nolan and Gabi realize they want to be more than just friends--much more.

My Thoughts:

Gabriella Welk is at a crossroads in her professional life and has just been dumped by her guy friend for younger sister. When she goes to drown her feelings the last person she expects to accompany her is Nolan Lund.  Just when she thinks she was wrong about the guy, and they might have a connection, he goes and says something that hurts. But she doesn’t care what “Mr. Fancy Pants” thinks of her, right?

Nolan Lund is supposed to be the future CEO of Lund Industries, but his family hasn’t been including him in crucial decisions, and the lack of confidence burns. His serious commitment and long hours don’t seem to be enough.

In Want You to Want Me Gabriella is the athlete, and while Nolan is very masculine, he’s known for his fashion savvy and flair. In the previous books it’s usually been the male set in sports role, however the switch worked, and I liked seeing a Gabriella cast a strong athlete.  The story tackled some of the stereotypes female athletes face, like being called “butch” or not feminine, having people assume you’re a lesbian because you excel in sports. And Gabriella’s confidence did take a hit over the years because of this. She questions her desirability, and so Nolan’s words at the bar hurt. Nolan has had the opposite problem, his looks and interest in looking good has had people assume he doesn’t have a head for business, or he’s gay.

Once Gabi and Nolan got past the initial hiccup over his words, they get to know each other more and more through flirty texts, reaching out to each other more and more for guidance and support. So, when Gabi gets a chance to interview for a sportscasting job and needs the perfect outfit to nail the interview she goes to Nolan for help. Oh, loved the trying on scene, sparks flying as Nolan gets a full on look at just how gorgeous is, and Gabi enjoying his lusty appraisal!

I loved this slow burn romance, the flirty banter back and forth through texts and in person was a delight! At a glance, Nolan and Gabi seemed to be complete opposites, but they got each other on a deeper, meaningful level, and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing these two fall in love!

This is book two in the Want You series, but the Need You series ties in as well, featuring more of the Lund’s and their romances. I’ve loved every book, but each holds up as a standalone romance. There was some history with Gabi and Nolan in the previous book, I Want You Back, a situation I didn’t remember until I started reading this one that gives some insight into their relationship. It wouldn’t be a bad idea to read it first, and there is the fact that it was sooo good! I LOVED Lucy and Jaxon’s second chance romance so much!

4 Suns

Review & Giveaway: I Want You Back by Lorelei James

I Want You Back (Want You #1) by Lorelei James

Publication Date: April 2nd 2019 by Berkley 

Pages: 400

Source: ARC provided by Publisher

Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo 

About the book: 

New York Times bestselling author Lorelei James kicks-off her Want You Series with a Lund family cousin hot enough to melt the ice and mend a broken heart.

Former NHL star Jaxson Lund has returned to the Twin Cities, but he's at loose ends, unsure if he belongs at Lund Industries, or where he stands with Lucy, his ex-girlfriend and mother of his daughter, Mimi. Despite the signs she'd like to leave him in the penalty box, the attraction burning between them reinforces his determination to prove that he deserves a second chance...

Lucy Quade is in a good place with a steady job, a nice apartment, and a well-adjusted daughter, which is why she's hesitant when Jax insists on co-parenting. It's not that Lucy doesn't trust Jax...she's just unconvinced he can handle multiple responsibilities when he's been singularly focused on playing hockey. But when issues arise with Mimi, Lucy's shocked at how levelheaded and paternal he acts, giving her a glimpse of the Jax she used to know, the sexy, sweet man she fell for years ago.

Once Lucy lets her guard down, Jax goes all in to show her how good they are together, but will their past remain too large an obstacle to ever overcome?

My Thoughts:

I’m such a sucker for a good second chance romance, even more so when the couple have a child together, so I was really rooting for Jax and Lucy to get their HEA!  From the beginning this couple felt like they were always meant-to-be, which was enhanced by flashbacks to some of their first dates.  A super meet-cute, and palpable chemistry had me hooked!  I loved the flashbacks, and I felt like it gave a depth to their connection that wouldn’t have been there otherwise, but I was glad we didn’t relive their messy breakup, as I’m not fond of super angsty romances. 

My heart ached for the loss of their relationship since it was clear neither were over the breakup even though it happened years ago, right around when their eight-year-old daughter Sophie was born.  It’s always tough for me to get over a cheating in a relationship, but Ms. James handled it beautifully! Not to excuse Jax’s behavior, but alcoholism and toxic peer influence contributed. I appreciated he never made excuses, and acknowledged how badly he screwed up, losing “the love of his life” in the process. He definitely made up for it! Lucy wasn’t completely blameless in the death of their relationship, IMO, and I’m glad she recognized her part and worked to change. 

Jax and Lucy’s story was mentioned here and there in the Need You series, so I’ve been eagerly anticipating their turn, and I Want You Back did not disappoint! Loved Jax and Lucy’s story to pieces! This series is a new spin-off, something I just figured out. I thought is was part of the Need You series, and we do have cross-over characters. However, you don’t have to read any of the other books to love Jax and Lucy’s story.

4.5 Suns

The lovely people of Berkley have generously provided A Paperback Copy of I Want You Back to one reader!  The giveaway is open to US Residents only.  Fill out the rafflecopter for a chance to win. Good luck! 

Review & Giveaway: Racked and Stacked by Lorelei James

Racked and Stacked (Blacktop Cowboys #9) by Lorelei James

Publication Date: August 7th 2018 by Berkley

Pages: 352

Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

About the book:

Opposites don't just attract in the West--they sizzle--and Wyoming has never been hotter than in the latest sexy Blacktop Cowboys(R) novel.

Growing up with three older brothers, Larissa "Riss" Thorpe defines the term tomboy--a moniker that never mattered to her until she crossed paths with sexy cowboy player Ike Palmer. Seeing him in action on the road, Riss can tell that Ike prefers his women soft-spoken and feminine. And since Riss is obviously not his type, it's unlikely that they'll mix business and pleasure when they're in close quarters together.

Former cattle broker Ike Palmer was ready for a new chapter in his life as a stock contractor when he started working with Riss, a sassy truck driver who gets under his skin at every turn. But Riss is unlike any woman he's ever met and her candor inflames him in the most unexpected ways.

After circumstances force a truce between them, Riss and Ike will have to choose to maintain the stubbornness that keeps them apart or take a chance on the fiery attraction that could lead to something more...

My Thoughts:

Ike and Larissa at one time wanted to tear each other’s throats out, but after being in a truce they’ve come to sort of like each other. On the eve of their friend’s (Tobin & Jade from the last book) wedding the Mud Lilies pull them aside to give the third degree.  Thinking their previous hate has turned into lust making assumptions that aren’t true, but get Ike and Larissa thinking about each other in a new, interesting light. 

As these new thoughts are circling, an unexpected accident throws Larissa and Ike together in close quarters and they struggle with mutual attraction.  Heated looks, accidental brushes, and a few steamy kisses make staying apart an impossible feat. All that pent-up desire turned into fiery hot pleasure once they gave in! Larissa and Ike’s romance was fun, sassy, and at times sizzling hot! Ike was a dirty talker and followed through with action!

But this was more than just a romance. Both Ike and Larissa are at a turning point with their jobs. Larissa because her injury may end the career she loves and Ike because his company is on the rocks. Problems that real people face every day in life. I’m glad they didn’t wallow, they each helped each other look at things realistically and come up with workable solutions.  They came up with cheap dates to have fun while not breaking the bank, all the while growing closer and closer, and I just knew these two were in it for the long haul.  

With Racked and Stacked Lorelei James once again captured my heart, made me laugh, and got me all hot and bothered!  I loved every minute!

4 Suns

Connect with Lorelei James:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Berkley has generously provided a Paperback Copy of Racked and Stacked to giveaway to one lucky reader.  The giveaway is open to US Residents only.  Fill out the rafflecopter for a chance to win. Good luck!

Review & Giveaway: When I Need You by Lorelei James

When I Need You (Need You #4) by Lorelei James

Publication Date: July 25th 2017 by Berkley Books
Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

About the book:

Rules are tossed aside when a pro football player join forces with a spitfire cheerleading coach in New York Times bestselling author Lorelei James’s brand-new romance…

Heir to Lund Enterprises and ladies’ man Jensen “The Rocket” Lund has three conditions when it comes to dating:
1) No single mothers
2) No cheerleaders
3) No medical personnel
So it makes no sense that he’s wildly attracted to Rowan Michaels, who breaks all three.

Rowan Michaels didn’t pass the rigorous requirements to become an athletic trainer and Vikings cheerleader in the hopes of landing a pro athlete: been there, done that, and she has a young son as proof that football players and fidelity don’t go hand in hand. When Rowan learns her new neighbor is Jensen Lund, the smoking-hot tight end who takes being neighborly to a whole new level, she’s grateful for the team’s strict “no fraternization” policy because the sexy man defines temptation.

But Jensen is intent on rushing straight to the goal line to prove to Rowan he’s much more than just a player…on and off the field.

My Thoughts:

Jensen “The Rocket” Lund suffered from a sports injury in last book, one that’s taken him out of the last playing season with surgeries and physical therapy. Facing such a serious and possibly life altering event has changed some of Jensen’s views on life.  I like the change and growth it brought out in him. He wanted to be recognized as more than just an athlete, rich guy, or a playboy.  Yes, football is a large part of his life, but he realized that things could change so easily. Casual hookups no longer appeal to him, either, but Rowan Michaels, the woman who lives across the hall breaks all his relationship rules:  no single moms, no cheerleaders, and no health care workers. The rules have served him well, until he met Rowan.  She’s gorgeous on the inside and out, so they’ll just be friends.  Right…that’s really going to work out!

Rowan has worked hard to get where she is as a coach and cheerleader for The Vikings football team, and her job is important to her as the sole provider for her six-year-old son, Caulder.   She’s very wary of jocks, won’t date one, since she got burned so badly by Caulder’s father. But Jensen Lund tempts her like no other man since she’s become a mother.  He’s surprisingly sweet and funny, and has a way with Caulder.  Still, no matter how much she’s attracted Rowan must be careful.  It’s not only her heart on the line.  Also, there’s a “no fraternization” policy that could threaten her career if she decides Jensen is worth the trouble.

When I Need You is my favorite installment so far in the Need You series! The romance was a slow build, friends-first-relationship that made the pay-off when they finally got together sweeter for the wait.  I enjoyed their “just friends” situation, too. Their flirty banter back and forth, and sizzling chemistry made it obvious Jensen and Rowan would burn-up the sheets once they got together!  I appreciated there wasn’t any unnecessary drama between them, because it’s so frustrating when that’s thrown in just to create conflict if it doesn’t feel natural. I liked how Jensen handled the “no fraternization” policy, as well.

I so love the Lund family, especially Jensen’s mom, Selka! This Swedish matriarch is a fierce momma cat to all her grown children, not that they always appreciated that, lol. Her attempts at English sayings were hilarious:

“You are feisty? Or just contrary?”

“Both. It’s harder for you to put me in a headlock if I’m standing across from you.”

“Headlock.” Her lips curled slightly. “I have no UPC moves.”

UPC? What the hell? “You mean…UFC?”

“Yah. Whatever. I am harmless.”

I laughed. “I doubt that.”

I look forward to a story centered on Dallas and Igor in the future, but I’m really hoping for one with Lucy and Jaxson Lund.  It’s obvious Jax wants back in with his Lucy and young daughter, but he was a complete ass to them in the past! Not sure they could patch things up after all he did, but I’m sure Lorelei James could make it happen believably if she decides to.

4.5 Suns

Connect with Lorelei James:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

The fabulous people of Berkley Books have generously provided a copy of one book from The Need You series (What You Need, Just What I Needed, All You Need or When I Need You) to one lucky reader.  Winner's choice! The giveaway is open to US residents only.  Simply fill out the rafflecopter below for a chance to win. Good luck!

Review & Giveaway: All You Need by Lorelei James

All You Need (Need You #3) by Lorelei James
Publication Date: April 4th by Berkley Books
Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

About the book:

A hockey romance burns up the ice in the third sexy Need You novel from the New York Times bestselling author of the Mastered Series and the Blacktop Cowboys® Series.

PR agent Annika Lund can spin any disaster into a win. But revamping the reputation of a notorious Swedish hockey player will take every trick in her arsenal, especially when his agent insists that convincing everyone he’s no longer a playboy is top priority. And that it requires a sham relationship—with Annika playing the part of loving girlfriend.

On fire in the rink and in the bedroom, Axl Hammerquist couldn’t care less about being anyone’s golden boy. So when his agent forces him to play nice with a new publicist, he takes satisfaction in being as much of a pain as possible. But the more time he spends getting to know Annika, the more Axl starts to think that being Mr. Nice Guy might be worth it if it gets him the girl...

My Thoughts:

I’ve been waiting to get my hands on Annika and Axl’s story ever since Axl got all up in Annika’s space in Just What I Needed.  The sparks were flying then, so I knew this was going to be good!

Axl’s reputation as a manwhore and partier has affected his hockey career badly, resulting in a trade to a new team.  Axl needs to come off as serious and focused on hockey, so in an attempt to up his appeal Axl has to clean up his act. Part of that plan is pairing up with Annika, his new fake girlfriend.  She’s gorgeous, a perfect Swedish beauty, nick-named the Iron Princess for her ruthless reputation, and Annika thinks he’s the scum of the earth.

Annika Lund is head of Lund Industries’ PR division. She didn’t think taking on Axl as a client would include being forced into a fake relationship with him. They get off on the wrong foot, both pretty much despising each other.  It’s just cruel that Annika finds herself attracted to Axl, but hey, he is the epitome of a big hot Nordic god, so how can you really blame her?

Axl and Annika are blond, beautiful and Swedish; they look like the ultimate couple. Behind closed doors, though, they snipe and snarl, exchanging barbs, a hot attraction brewing in spite of all the jabs, and I loved it! They had a great antagonistic relationship to start off, filled with heated exchanges; so much fun!  I had to laugh at the names they had for each other: Attila for Annika, but Annika’s names were the best: Ax-Hell, the pucktard, Swedish meathead, Ax-hole, etc, you get the picture.

As they’re forced to spend time together, they get to know each other, and slowly the animosity fades, the ice begins to melt.  Reputations are not always as they seem, both for Axl and Annika, and their “fake relationship” turns into more: hot, passionate and delicious! They had oodles of chemistry, just the way I like it!

Love it when an author can make me initially hate a character, and then completely turn things around.  I couldn’t stand Axl at the beginning, and then loved him by the end! Annika impressed me from the first page; she was strong, independent, smart with a soft heart underneath it all. 

Lorelei James’ scored with her new hockey romance! I just love a well done antagonistic romance with a sweet, sappy HEA!

4 Suns

Connect with Lorelei James:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Berkley has kindly provided a Paperback Copy of All You Need by Lorelei James to giveaway to one reader.  The giveaway is open to US residents only.  Fill out the rafflecopter below for a chance to win. Good luck!

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Review & Giveaway: Hang Tough by Lorelei James

Hang Tough (Blacktop Cowboys #8) by Lorelei James

Publication Date: November 1st 2016 by Berkley

Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

About the book: 

In the new Blacktop Cowboys® novel from the New York Times bestselling author of Wrapped and Strapped, one woman learns that when it comes to cowboys, looks can be deceiving...

When Tobin Hale stepped in to stop Garnet Evans’s son from railroading her out of her own home, he knew moving in with his favorite Mud Lily could be seen as strange. But nothing prepared him for the arrival of Garnet’s fiery, beautiful granddaughter, Jade—or her assumption that he’s up to no good...

While Tobin might be the hottest man Jade Evans has ever seen, his physical attributes won’t distract her from protecting her grandma from his sweet-talking ways. But the stubborn cowboy digs in his boot heels and refuses to leave. Stuck in close quarters together, Jade learns Tobin is the real deal—a hardworking, fiercely loyal man and she’s the one in danger of losing her heart.

And just when he was prepared to leave Muddy Gap behind, Tobin may have found the kind of woman worth sticking around for...

My Thoughts:

Tobin is at crossroads in his life. He's been working at the Split Rock Ranch as a ranch hand, and under utilizing his specialties in farm animal reproductive and genetic research. Also, he's watched as each of his friends found love, and settled down, while Tobin, unfortunately, remains alone. Leaving Muddy Gap for those reasons becomes an imperative.

He's all set to take a job in Cheyanne when his favorite Mud Lilly, Garnet, needs his assistance and protection. Seems like Garnet's stunts (Waving a gun around, and being locked up overnight for a drunken disorderly. Yes, she's a bit of an eccentric grandma!) have finally caught up with her, and Garnet's son is wondering if she's safe living on her own after hearing about her shenanigans. Garnet asks Tobin to move in and fend off any movers that might come and try and take her away to a nice, quite, boring nursing home. Tobin is happy to oblige because he couldn't bear for anyone to crush Garnet's free spirit.

Jade Evans loves her Grandma Garnet. She knows GG gets up to trouble here and there, but mostly harmless fun. However, the news that some young cowboy has taken up residence at GG's is worrisome. Jade heads over to Muddy Gap to make sure her Grandma isn't being taken advantage of by some enterprising freeloader. What she finds is an infuriating, but oh-so-hot cowboy challenging her at every turn.

Both Jade and Tobin are dissatisfied with the direction their lives have taken them, so each can relate, (after they stop the snarking and snipping at each other) and find they have so much in common. Their mutual attraction was immediate, delicious, and intense! Love-to-hate romances are a lot of fun especially when they don't go on for too long. Jade and Tobin's relationship was low on drama and hot has hell!

I loved Tobin's determined, bossy, possessive side, and oh lordy, a muscled cowboy gets me hot and bothered! Jade was normally a shy girl, but for some reason she had no problem sparring with Tobin, and pushing his buttons!

All around, Hang Tough was a sizzling romance with great quirky secondary characters, making for a story I thoroughly enjoyed!

4 Suns

Connect with Lorelei James:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Berkley has kindly provided a Paperback Copy of Hang Tough by Lorelei James to one of our readers. The giveaway is open to US & CA residents only.  Simply fill out the rafflecopter below for a chance to win. Good luck!

Review & Giveaway: Just What I Needed by Lorelei James

Just What I Needed (Need You #2) by Lorelei James 

Publication Date: August 2nd 2016 by Signet

Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

About the book:

The second sexy novel in the Need You series, from the New York Times bestselling author of the Mastered Series and the Blacktop Cowboys® Series.
 
Trinity Carlson might be having the worst day ever. And that was before she started drinking in a dive bar, right across from her ex and his new girlfriend. So when she finally decides enough is enough, she grabs hold of a hot, blond stranger and gives him the kiss of his life.

Walker Lund never expected that a chance at love would hit him right on the mouth. Since the moment his brother decided to settle down, Walker has been dodging his family’s hopes that he’ll do the same.  He’s never been interested in following in anyone’s footsteps. But when he discovers his sexy assailant has given him a fake name and number he suddenly finds himself in the mood for a little hot pursuit...

My Thoughts:

Just What I Needed was fun, flirty and oh-so-hot! But it had a serious side to it as well. Trinity’s issues were more at the forefront, but Walker had some struggles as well.   I loved that these two just clicked and got each other so well, were a listening and supportive ear through their trials.

At first Trinity’s manic, impulsive behavior had me wanting to shake some sense into her, but she grew on me. She had a zest for life and a fun sense of humor, a believable personality for an artist.  Also, Walker was just the right fit for her and vice versa. Trinity struggled with self-doubt, thanks to her upbringing (horrid father and stepmother!), but she didn’t let it totally win.  Even when Trinity made a stupid decision or assumption, she’d eventually think it through logically, and come to her senses, and after she was forthright with Walker about her feelings every time. I’m glad I stuck with the story past a couple of Trinity’s knee-jerk reactions, because I really enjoyed this romance!  Every time these two were around each other sparks flew and the temperature definitely soared!  

While I had some initial reservations about Trinity, Walker was an absolute dream throughout the book! He was sweet, hot, and sexy with touch of possessiveness, ready to stand up for Trinity at every turn! I was pleased that Trinity felt the same sort of protective instincts for Walker, too. 

Walker’s mom, Selka, is a woman I’d want in my corner! Both Walker and Trinity’s happiness seemed very important to her and her husband.  The family was just the right amount of fun craziness! I’d love to know what happened with Annika and “Santa”.

Lorelei James took a straightforward romance and made it unique, and fun!

4 Suns

The wonderful people of Signet graciously provided a giveaway of Just What I Needed by Lorelei James to one lucky reader!  Giveaway is open to US and CA residents only!

Review: Wrapped and Strapped by Lorelei James

Wrapped and Strapped (Blacktop Cowboys #7) by Lorelei James

Publication Date: November 3rd 2015 by Signet

Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

About the book:

In the new Blacktop Cowboys® Novel from the New York Times bestselling author of Hillbilly Rockstar strange bedfellows find common ground after the lights go down…

Flower child, vegetarian and humanitarian Harlow Pratt and gruff and strapping cattle ranch foreman Hugh Pritchett have been taunting each other for years. Hugh thinks she’s nothing but a spoiled rich girl, and he’s had enough of that life with his ex-wife. Harlow thinks Hugh is an ill-mannered trouble-maker who wouldn't know fun if it bit him on his tight denim-clad butt.

When they’re forced together at the Split Rock Ranch and Resort, everything changes. They might be polar opposites, but working out their differences skin to skin, in the dark, seems to help their incompatibility a lot. But when trouble from both their pasts comes calling, Harlow and Hugh have no one else to lean on. Can they trust one another enough to make it through the hard times together… or will their tentative truce fall apart?

My Thoughts:

Harlow has been involved in humanitarian operations for most of her life, having an inherent need to help people. Most just write it off as a guilt reaction to being the daughter of a very wealthy man, but it goes so much deeper for Harlow than that.  However, three years ago she took some time off to spend the summer with her pregnant sister, Tierney, at Split Rock Ranch, and met a sexy and very broody cowboy, Hugh. Unfortunately, their relationship didn’t end well and Hugh broke her heart. She doesn’t look forward to seeing him again, but that can’t be helped when her father suffers a heart attack and decides to recover at the Ranch with his daughters.

Hugh knows he screwed up big time with Harlow three years earlier. After a bitter divorce, he was plagued by cold feet and fear, and he let that creep into his feelings for Harlow. Now that Harlow has returned, he’s determined to show her just how much she means to him. What he doesn’t know is that in addition to being angry and hurt by him, Harlow’s also dealing with the nightmare she went through on her last mission. 

I love me a sexy cowboy, and Hugh fit that bill perfectly!  Well, present day Hugh did, anyway.  The story is told with flashbacks to the past so we know exactly what went down, and he definitely deserved Harlow’s anger.  The present Hugh doesn’t let his bitter divorce guide his actions anymore.  He’s a passionate, protective and supportive man, everything Harlow needs and deserves.  While Harlow was angry, it’s not long before their mutual intense attraction, and Hugh’s groveling, override her will to stay away from him. Please take note men: Never underestimate the power of groveling!  

Harlow was sweet and a naturally nurturing person.  She gets flack and snap judgments from people when they hear about her humanitarian endeavors, especially when they find out she comes from a rich family, and it was really unfair.  Even her sister and father were condescending over her choices, so I was happy they got some time together to sort out all of that out.  Her relationship with her father is rocky at best, but a healing and understanding take place with their time at Split Rock Ranch.  When I discovered what Harlow’s father did to get her out of the nightmare situation she was stuck in on her last mission, I couldn’t help but soften my feelings for the man. 

There were some fun times and a lot of them involved the Mud Lilies, a group of hot-to-trot older mature women.  These women were a riot from their fashion choices to their impulse control, and use of firearms.

“Reenact William Tell with a cantaloupe and a forty-five, just one time, and everyone looks at you sideways. It’s not fair,” Vivien complained.  “It wasn’t like I missed.”

Wrapped and Strapped was a second chance romance at its best: steamy and hot, but so much more. While Harlow and Hugh worked through their past, there were a lot of deep emotions unearthed.  They connected, and grew as friends in the past, but Hugh’s hang-ups always got in the way.  I enjoyed seeing the change from the past to present and they grew closer even still as they spent long hours working and sleeping together.

4 Suns