Once in a Lifetime by Jill Shalvis { Review }

Once in a Lifetime

{ Lucky Harbor #9}

by Jill Shalvis
Expected publication: February 18th 2014
         by Grand Central Publishing

SOMETIMES WRONG IS OH-SO-RIGHT

After a wrenching loss, Ben McDaniel tried to escape his grief by working in dangerous, war-torn places like Africa and the Middle East. Now he's back in his hometown and face-to-face with Aubrey Wellington, the hot-as-hell woman who is trouble with a capital T. Family and friends insist she's not the one to ease his pain, but Aubrey sparks an intense desire that gives Ben hope for the future.

Determined to right the wrongs of her past, Aubrey is working hard to make amends. But by far, the toughest challenge to her plan is sexy, brooding Ben - even though he has absolutely no idea what she's done . . .

Can this unlikely couple defy the odds and win over the little town of Lucky Harbor?

First Line(s): There was one universal truth in Lucky Harbor, Washington- you could hide a pot of gold in broad daylight and no one would steal it, but you couldn't hide a secret.


My Review:  Jill Shalvis is my number one go to author.  I have said this before and I will say it again and again. She is a sure thang! You want hunky guys? Cool down to earth female characters? Real, light, funny stories? You get all of those things in anyone of Jill Shalvis' novels. Go ahead pick any of them up and prove me wrong.


Ben and Aubrey are each others perfect ying to the others yang. They couldn't be anymore different but that is what makes this story line seem so real and honest. Both have things in their pass they are trying to work through and neither wanted a relationship but this story proves that things happen when we least expect them.

I'll close with this statement, if Lucky Harbor really existed, I'd book my one way ticket to there like yesterday.

All the Lucky Harbor novels could stand alone but you would be missing out on such a wonderful series if you go out of order, I promise you wont be sorry,

My Rating:   

A big thank you goes out to Net Galley who gave me a digital copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.

You can find Jill Shalvis here...
Website   Facebook  Twitter  Goodreads

 

 

Until next time... Happy Reading!

It Had to Be You by Jill Shalvis { Review}

It Had to Be You

{ Lucky Harbor Series #7}

by Jill Shalvis

ebook, 368 pages

Published May 28th 2013 by Grand Central Publishing

Ali Winters is not having a good day. Her boyfriend left her, everyone in town thinks she's a thief, and now she's about to be kicked out of her home. Her only shot at keeping a roof over her head and clearing her name is to beg for help from a police detective who's as sexy as he is stern.... 

After a high-profile case goes wrong, Luke Hanover returns to his hometown for some peace and quiet. Instead he finds a bombshell brunette in a heap of trouble. As he helps Ali put her world back together, the pieces of Luke's own life finally seem to fall into place. Is this the start of a sizzling fling? Or are Luke and Ali on the brink of something big in a little town called Lucky Harbor?

First Line(s): Some things were set in stone: The sun would rise every morning, the tide would come in and out without fail and a girl needed to check herself out in the mirror before a date no matter the obstacle.

Favorite Quote(s): "He was sprawled out like a decadent dessert, the kind that was totally fattening but was so good that you couldn't regret the calories."

My Thoughts: 

Those who have been around my blog once or twice should know that I adore Jill Shalvis and she is one of my go to authors. She has never failed me in the past and she didn't fail me with It Had to Be You. 

The characters in this book, Ali and Luke were so real and I loved how they played off each other. The humor and love in this book (the entire Lucky Harbor Series actually) make every last character stick with you long after you put the book down.

 I love how J. Shalvis brings a few past characters back into her new books just to give us a little check up on them. At one time I wasn't sure how this series was going to keep going after the first few books  but J. Shalvis is a mastermind and you can feel her love for this series as you sit down to read them.

It Had to Be You is book #7 in the Lucky Harbor series and it could stand alone but why would you want it to. Read them all!!!!!

My Rating:  

Under the Mistletoe by Jill Shalvis { Review }

Under The Mistletoe

( Lucky Harbor #6.5}

by Jill Shalvis

Kindle Edition, Short story, 55 pages

Published December 4th 2012 by Grand Central Publishing

JUST ONE MORE KISS

There's no place like home for the holidays. And the Lucky Harbor Bed & Breakfast is bursting with festive lights and good cheer. But for Mia, Christmas is turning out to be anything other than merry and bright. Her recent break-up with her boyfriend Nick has made her return bittersweet. But then a surprise arrives, when Nick follows her to town bearing gifts-and asking for forgiveness.

Nick grew up without a family of his own so he's overwhelmed by the love that Mia receives from all her relatives, gathered together to celebrate the season. Under their watchful eyes, Nick finds earning back her trust the hardest thing he's ever had to do. If he succeeds, he will receive the greatest gift of all, Mia's love for a lifetime.     

   

 

 First Lines: Holding on to her hat, Mia ran along the streets on her killer four-inch red heels, her matching red skirt ruffling in the breeze.

Favorite Line(s): “Try asking sometime. Not all women will stand for that 50 Shades crap, you know.” 

My Review: Too short!! Since Jill Shalvis is one of my go to authors it pains me when her books don't go on forever.

What a fun treat it was to go back and get Mia's story after she was introduced in book number 2 ( I believe this was the book?). I think Mia and Nick's story needed a bit more story line to really feel like I connected to them. With that being said it's hard to say what I loved about this book... no that's a lie, loved that it was a book by Jill ( and that is enough for me :D). I have a few things that bugged me but I think that if there was room for more depth it would have worked itself out. That's the problem with novella's, they tend to leave you with more questions then if you didn't read up on the characters at all!

My Rating: 

You can find Jill Shalvis here....

Jill Shalvis Website

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Goodreads

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Until next time...

Happy Reading

Rescue My Heart by Jill Shalvis {Review}

Rescue My Heart

{ Animal Magnetism #3}

by Jill Shalvis

Animal Magnetism, Book Three (Adam’s story!)

After a tragic stint in the National Guards, Adam Connelly returns to Idaho and to Belle Haven, the animal shelter he owns with his brothers. All Adam wants is to be alone. Then he opens the door to the past—the woman whose heart he once broke. Still gorgeous, still tough-as-nails, but this time, unusually vulnerable.

Holly learned the hard way to never depend on a man for anything. Now, of all men, it’s the last one she wants to see, and the only one she needs. Her father has gone missing in the Bitterroot Mountains and she could use someone with tracking skills to help find him.

For Holly and Adam, each with their ghosts, a trek this desperate, this unpredictable, and this intimate, will have its share of risks—including opening their hearts one more time.

First Line: There was a fine line between being exhausted and being comatose, and Adam Connelly had just about found it.

Favorite Quote(s): Therapy 101- sitting on the guilt was unproductive
and
Because everyone knew that sharing a brownie meant that the calories didn't count.


My Review: The Animal Magnetism series is oh so very yummy!

A hot dude only gets hotter when you put him with adorable fur babies ( animals). Which translates into me getting nothing done when I pick a book up in the Animal Magnetism series. Add to the hot hero's, strong heroines and the small town life and you have a winner! No joke, I want to move to a small town when I read Jill Shalvis' Animal Magnetism series.

I do the happy dance whenever I get my hands on a Jill Shalvis book before the release date BUT that means a longer wait time for her next to come out.


My Rating:

Find Jill Shalvis here...
Website
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Until next time... Happy Reading!

Forever and a Day by Jill Shalvis {Review}

Forever and a Day

{ Lucky Harbor Series #6}

by Jill Shalvis

Mass Market Paperback, 324 pages

Published July 31st 2012 by Grand Central

 LOVE CAN HAPPEN IN A HEARTBEAT.

Grace never thought she’d be starting her life over from scratch. Losing everything has landed her in Lucky Harbor, working as a dog walker for overwhelmed ER doctor Josh Scott. But the day his nanny fails to show up, Grace goes from caring for Josh’s loveable mutt to caring for his rambunctious kids. Soon Grace is playing house with the sexy single dad…

With so many people depending on him, Josh has no time for anything outside of his clinic and family–until Grace arrives in town. Now this brainy blonde is turning his life inside out and giving a whole new meaning to the phrase “good bedside manner.” Josh and Grace don’t know if what they have can last. But in a town like Lucky Harbor, a lifetime of love starts with just one day…

First Line(s): "It's just that I'm not going to be in Lucky Harbor much longer, so while I'm here, I'm aiming for... fun," said Grace.

Favorite Quote(s): " I think you have a case of being a little girl. Maybe you should presribe yourself a heavy dose of man the fuck up."

"It's because love is one of those really bossy bitches, " Amy said. "There's no telling it what to do."

My Review: I sound like a broken record but I will stand on my soap box and preach to whoever will listen until everyone has read a book by Jill Shalvis. She is FANTASTIC!! We all know by now she is my top go to author. I will bet it all on her in Las Vegas, she is just that damn good! Don't believe me, pick up any one of her books... especially one in the Lucky Harbor Series.

I adored Grace. She seemed real  ( I love when I feel this way about a character). While she was wishy washy at times it wasn't to thick that you wanted to reach into the book and slap her, saying " Snap out of it!!"

As for Josh, what's not to love. He seems like the whole package. Loyal to his family... check! Good job....check! Funny....check! And let's not forget, hot...check!

My Rating:

You can find Jill Shalvis here:
Website
Twitter
Facebook

Until next time... Happy Reading!

Waiting on Wednesday: Rescue My Heart

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week I'm not so patiently waiting for....

Rescue My Heart

( Animal Magnetism Series #3)

by Jill Shalvis

Animal Magnetism, Book Three (Adam’s story!)

After a tragic stint in the National Guards, Adam Connelly returns to Idaho and to Belle Haven, the animal shelter he owns with his brothers. All Adam wants is to be alone. Then he opens the door to the past—the woman whose heart he once broke. Still gorgeous, still tough-as-nails, but this time, unusually vulnerable.

Holly learned the hard way to never depend on a man for anything. Now, of all men, it’s the last one she wants to see, and the only one she needs. Her father has gone missing in the Bitterroot Mountains and she could use someone with tracking skills to help find him.

For Holly and Adam, each with their ghosts, a trek this desperate, this unpredictable, and this intimate, will have its share of risks—including opening their hearts one more time.

Rescue My Heart is set to hit the shelves on November 6, 2012.

What book are you waiting on?

Until next time... Happy Reading!

Forever and a Day by Jill Shalvis {Review}

Forever and a Day

{ Lucky Harbor #6}

by Jill Shalvis

Expected publication: July 31st 2012 by Grand Central

LOVE CAN HAPPEN IN A HEARTBEAT.

Grace never thought she’d be starting her life over from scratch. Losing everything has landed her in Lucky Harbor, working as a dog walker for overwhelmed ER doctor Josh Scott. But the day his nanny fails to show up, Grace goes from caring for Josh’s loveable mutt to caring for his rambunctious kids. Soon Grace is playing house with the sexy single dad…

With so many people depending on him, Josh has no time for anything outside of his clinic and family–until Grace arrives in town. Now this brainy blonde is turning his life inside out and giving a whole new meaning to the phrase “good bedside manner.” Josh and Grace don’t know if what they have can last. But in a town like Lucky Harbor, a lifetime of love starts with just one day…

First Line(s): Maddie drove the narrow, curvy highway with her past still napping at her heels after fourteen hundred miles.

Favorite Line(s): "It's because love is one of those really bossy bitches," Amy said. "There's no telling it what to do."

" I think you have a case of being a little girl. Maybe you should prescribe yourself a heavy dose of man- the fuck up."

My Review: A real treat from beginning to end!

I had a smile on my face the whole time I was reading this book. It was sweet and endearing and funny! 

I think Dr. Josh just might be my favorite dude out of all the Lucky Harbor hotties and that is saying a lot because Jill Shalvis knows how to write a story with a smoking hot leading man!

Josh and Grace were the real deal from the first time they met. Grace was what Josh needed in his crazy life and she was not afraid to take on his crazy life but instead she embraced it. It was nice to see Grace emerge from a timid person living in her parents shadows to a butterfly who felt free to live her life for herself!

I have said it before and I will say it a million times more... Jill Shalvis is the real deal.  You can't go wrong with any of her books/series. Lucky Harbor is a treat you must not deprive yourself from! Perfect Summer Reading! Or Fall, Winter or Spring... you get the point, read Jill Shalvis!!

My Rating:

thanks Net Galley for the chance to read another amazing book!

Until next time... Happy Reading!

At Last by Jill Shalvis {Review}

At Last

{ Lucky Harbor #5}

by Jill Shalvis

 Paperback, 400 pages

Published June 26th 2012 by Forever

HER LOVE HAS COME ALONG . . . 

Amy Michaels loves her new life in Lucky Harbor. A waitress in the local diner, she's looking forward to her first weekend hike through the mountains. But when a wrong turn takes her off the trail, she finds herself up close and personal with forest ranger Matt Bowers. And even though she's tempted to kiss that sexy smile right off his face, she won't make the mistake of getting involved with the town heartthrob.

A former cop whose life went south, Matt doesn't let anyone get too close. But something about the feisty beauty caught his eye the moment he first saw her in the diner. After a hot night under a starry sky, Matt can't deny their attraction-or the fact that for the first time in a long time, he feels the stirrings of something more. Now it's up to Matt to help Amy see that, no matter what is in their past, together they can build a future in Lucky Harbor.

First Line(s): I'm not lost," Amy Michaels said to the squirrel watching her from his perch on a tree branch.

My Review: By now you all know of my love for Jill Shalvis and well all of her books. It's true I have enjoyed all of them and a lot of the characters remain with me long after I have put the book(s) down. That right there shows you just how damn good she is!

Her Lucky Harbor series has been amazing, fun, hot and lovable! J. Shalvis has the ability to make you feel things for her characters and the locations her stories take place in.

Matt and Amy are not acceptation.... I loved the hot headed duo! 

At Last took us on the journey of Amy trying to find herself and her place by visiting the same places her grandmother had visited in her youth. While on this journey we see how raw Amy's emotions are. We also  see Matt come to terms with his past and accept that he needs to let go in order to find his own peace in Lucky Harbor.

At Last was an adorable contemporary romance read, although it is missing some of the steam that can be found in other Lucky Harbor books.

I look forward to seeing what is next for the chocolate lover friends!

My Rating: 

Thanks Net Galley for the chance to read At Last!

Favorite Quote(s):

Jill Shalvis Blog Tour: Lucky in Love

If your heading to Vegas I suggest you put it all on Jill Shalvis. She is a sure thing!

Fans of Contemporary Romance need to go no farther than the "S" section on the bookshelves. If someone new to the whole romance genre comes up to me and asks for a book recommendation it is ALWAYS Jill Shalvis.

Lucky in Love

{Lucky Harbor Series #4}

Mallory Quinn has had enough of playing it safe. As a nurse and devoted daughter, she takes care of everyone but herself. And as the local good girl, she's expected to date Mr. Right. But for once, she'd like to take a risk on Mr. Wrong. And who could be more wrong than Ty Garrison? The mysterious new guy in town has made it clear that he's only passing through, which suits Mallory just fine. Besides, his lean, hard body and sexy smile will give her plenty to remember once he's gone...

For the first time in his life, Ty can't bear to leave. Helping this sexy seductress-in-training walk on the wild side is making him desire things he shouldn't -- including leaving the military for good. As their just-for-fun fling becomes something more, Mallory and Ty wonder if they could really be this lucky in love. After all...anything can happen in a town called Lucky Harbor.

 My Review: The Lucky Harbor series has something for everyone. The characters feel like real people that could be your next door neighbors. I love being able to connect with my characters and that's just what J. Shalvis delivers. I dare you not to think about the characters in this series long after you have put th books down. Especially the men!

This book starts out fast and never lets up! I loved seeing Mallory step out of the shadows of who her family needed/wanted her to be and the person she longed to be and who better to help her than the towns mystey bad boy, Ty!

This book proves that you can't help who you fall in love with and most times it is the least person you would expect.

I can't wait till J.Shalvis releases her next installment in the Lucky Habor series. It's going to be on sexy Forest Ranger Matt and Amy.  Please stay tuned becaue if it is put out by J. Shalvis you know there will be talks about it here on Crazy Book Slut!

My Rating:

Books like this make me wish I gave 1/2 stars because I would have given it a 4 1/2

*ARC provided by publisher

You can find J. Shalvis all over the web....

Website    Twiiter   Facebook

Superb and Sexy by Jill Shalvis {Review}

Superb and Sexy

(Sky High Air #3)
by Jill Shalvis

Paperback, 320 pages
Published June 1st 2008

by Brava (first published 2008)

When you want to fly the best, you fly Sky High Air. And when you want spectacular adventure and scorching seduction, Jill Shalvis’s tantalizing, talented pilots Noah, Shayne, and Brody will get you there—fast, slow, or any way you want it…

Buckle Up. It’s Going To Be Quite A Ride...
Despite his brooding bad-boy attitude, Brody knows life has treated him pretty well. His luxury charter airline, Sky High, has given him financial security and the means to take to the skies whenever things on the ground get complicated. And lately, things have become very complicated, thanks to the insanely passionate, or perhaps just insane, kiss he shared with Sky High’s gorgeous, wisecracking concierge, Maddie. He’s tried to keep his distance, but now Maddie desperately needs help, and it’s triggering protective alpha-male urges Brody didn’t even know he had…

For months, Maddie hid her crush on sexy, exasperating Brody behind a cool, kick-ass exterior…and then blew that to smithereens by jumping him in the lobby. Yeah, real smooth. She’s tried to break her ties with Sky High, but Brody won’t let her walk away—especially now that he knows that Maddie and her twin sister Leena are in big-time trouble. To save Leena, Maddie and Brody must pose as husband and wife, and Maddie is amazed that the man she thought was oblivious to her existence knows her very well indeed. But that’s nothing compared to the way she’s about to get to know him—intimately, in depth, and over and over again…

My Review: Another good book put out by J. Shalvis!
There was a small/light amount of suspense, tension between the two main characters who shared a decent amount of love scenes ( that were warm at best).

It's always nice to feel contentment at the end of a series and I can say I walked away feeling this way.

My Rating:

I am still behind like 7(ish) reviews, so if I picked up a book on my own free will the review is going to be short and sweet until the New Year. The idea of starting the New Year behind on reviews kinda gives me anixety. All books sent to us for reviews have been read, we are working on getting those "full" reviews hammered out and posted as well. Please be patient with us, all of them will be up soon!

Until next time...Happy Reading!

Animal Attraction by Jill Shalvis {Review}

Animal Attraction

(Animal #2)
by Jill Shalvis

Mass Market Paperback, 293 pages
Published October 4th 2011 by Berkley

She's tempting his basic instincts...
Sunshine, Idaho, is a quiet ranching town that provides a perfect refuge for ijured animals... and sometimes, people. And veterinarian Dell Connelly suspects there's a reason his clinic's uberefficient receptionist has taken shelter here.
Jade Bennett couldn't be happier to escape her well-meaning but smothering family and their expectations, not to mention the big city jungle. There's nothing like working with animals, having a forlorn, grumpy stray kitten make it's home under her desk... or enjoying the gorgeous views of her ruggedly sexy boss to help forget her past.
But Dell's seductive, alluring ways have sparked an uncontrollable desire, one Jade hadn't expected to feel again. And though Dell has never had time for love, Jade's strength and sass is the kind of call no red blooded male can resist...

First Line(s): " Come on baby," he murmured. "Give it up for me. You know you want to."

My Review: I enjoyed Animal Attraction just as much if not more than the first book in this series.
Jill Shalvis is one of my top go to authors, I just started reading her books maybe 6 months ago and I have tackled almost all of them, to die for!

The details she uses in not only her characters but their surroundings is perfection! If I close my eyes I can almost picture what the small town looks like.

Can NOT wait for Adam's story!!

My Rating:

Mentioned this a few times but just a reminder that my next few reviews are going to be short, sweet and to the point. I want to start the New Year off fresh. If you contacted CBS for a review you will get the real "full" review. All books have been read, just trying to hammer all the reviews out, please bare with us.

XOXO!

Until next time...Happy Reading!

Instant Temptation by Jill Shalvis {Review}

Instant Temptation

(Wilder #3)

by Jill Shalvis

Paperback, 273 pages

Published April 1st 2010 by Brava

T.J. Wilder is the perfect package of breathtaking adventure and raw sex appeal. Even better, he's about to reconnect with the one woman he's never been able to forget...

Get Your Pulse Racing

To Harley, the landscape around Wishful, California, is exhilarating, untamed, and more than a little dangerous. The same could be said for T.J. Wilder, who's invited himself along on her trek to study a rare coyote. Harley's career is riding on this trip, and she doesn't need a stubborn, incredibly sexy distraction. But T.J. is a professional guide who knows when to stay back and when to provide invaluable expertise-just like he's done since they were in high school. And Harley, as usual, is torn between throttling him and giving in to the raw attraction that's been smoldering all these years.

T.J. knows how proud and capable Harley is, but he's damned sure not letting her put herself at risk when there are illegal hunters in the area. She needs him, with the same soul-stirring urgency that he's always craved her. And here, in this beautiful place days from civilization, he'll finally have a chance to prove it-over and over again...

First Line(s): If you asked TJ Wilder to chose between a warm Autumn night in the Sierras or a warm woman, he knew that most people would put money on him taking the woman.

Favorite Line(s): "oh honey" her mom stroked her hair. "If there's one thing you've always been, it's strong as hell; mind, body and spirit. You're sure what you want. All you have to do is admit it."

My Review: If you can get past the weak suspense plot that is weaved into the story you will be left with a gem of a book!

I have read many many books and I can honestly say that Jill Shalvis made the Wilder boys stand out in my heart. They are so endearing in the way they choose to take on each day with all they got and that there is nothing more important than family!

With that said I believe TJ would be the Wilder boy to win my heart out of the 3 of them. I can't pinpoint what he has that his brothers don't, but I loved him!!!

I am sad to see the end of this series ( I assume it is the end?). The Wilder family will stick with me for years to come.

If you want a fun, sexy, sweet and witty series to start... these 3 books is a great one to pick!

My Rating:


Until next time...Happy Reading!

Instant Temptation by Jill Shalvis {Review}

Instant Temptation

(Wilder #3)

by Jill Shalvis

Paperback, 273 pages

Published April 1st 2010 by Brava

T.J. Wilder is the perfect package of breathtaking adventure and raw sex appeal. Even better, he's about to reconnect with the one woman he's never been able to forget...

Get Your Pulse Racing

To Harley, the landscape around Wishful, California, is exhilarating, untamed, and more than a little dangerous. The same could be said for T.J. Wilder, who's invited himself along on her trek to study a rare coyote. Harley's career is riding on this trip, and she doesn't need a stubborn, incredibly sexy distraction. But T.J. is a professional guide who knows when to stay back and when to provide invaluable expertise-just like he's done since they were in high school. And Harley, as usual, is torn between throttling him and giving in to the raw attraction that's been smoldering all these years.

T.J. knows how proud and capable Harley is, but he's damned sure not letting her put herself at risk when there are illegal hunters in the area. She needs him, with the same soul-stirring urgency that he's always craved her. And here, in this beautiful place days from civilization, he'll finally have a chance to prove it-over and over again...

First Line(s): If you asked TJ Wilder to chose between a warm Autumn night in the Sierras or a warm woman, he knew that most people would put money on him taking the woman.

Favorite Line(s): "oh honey" her mom stroked her hair. "If there's one thing you've always been, it's strong as hell; mind, body and spirit. You're sure what you want. All you have to do is admit it."

My Review: If you can get past the weak suspense plot that is weaved into the story you will be left with a gem of a book!

I have read many many books and I can honestly say that Jill Shalvis made the Wilder boys stand out in my heart. They are so endearing in the way they choose to take on each day with all they got!

With that said I believe TJ would be the Wilder boy to win my heart out of the 3 of them. I can't pinpoint what he has that his brothers don't, but I loved him!!!

I am sad to see the end of this series ( I assume it is the end?). The Wilder family will stick with me for years to come.

If you want a fun, sexy, sweet and witty series to start... these 3 books is a great one to pick!

My Rating:


Until next time...Happy Reading!

Instant Gratification by Jill Shalvis {Review}

Instant Gratification

(Wilder #2)
by Jill Shalvis

Paperback, 284 pages
Published July 1st 2009 by Brava

In Instant Attraction, Jill Shalvis introduced Cameron, Stone, and T.J.—the sexy, daredevil brothers who run Wilder Adventures. And for Stone Wilder, the thrill of a lifetime is about to arrive in a surprising package. . .

The Doctor Is In Deep

Wishful, California, is 3000 miles from Dr. Emma Sinclair's last job in a New York City ER. It may as well be another galaxy. Here, running her father's clinic for a summer, Emma treats bee stings, stomach flu, and the occasional pet cat. Plus, she has to contend with patients like Stone Wilder: gorgeous, laid-back, and irritating beyond belief. The man laughs at her. A lot. And Emma loathes him. All except that tiny part of her that wants to throw him on her examining table and break every doctor-patient rule in the book. . .

When Stone tries to help Emma learn to loosen up a bit, he pictures white-water rafting or scenic mountain hikes. Not a mind-blowing affair that shakes them both to the core. Emma's sure she has no place in a town like Wishful, but Stone knows different. Emma belongs here—in this town, in his life. And convincing this strong-minded, stubborn, sexy woman of that fact will be a challenge no Wilder man could resist. . .

First Line(s): Hot and bothered, and not in the good way, Dr. Emma Sinclair switched the sign on her father's medical clinic from closed to open.

Favorite Line(s): "Yeah, and a smile that always puts one on my mouth as well, and a way of looking at me that weeds through all the bullshit and sees the real me. You make me laugh, you make me think. You turn me on Emma, in everyway." As proven when he sttled his hands on her hips and pulled her into him so that she could feel him, fully aroused. "You are truly the most beautiful woman I'ver ever had the pleasure of kissing."

My Review: I love Jill Shalvis' writing so much. I'm waiting to pick up one of her novels and feel like it was a "miss" for me but it just hasn't happened yet ( maybe never?). Jill Shalvis is a winner ( maybe she has tiger's blood). Her writing is funny, witty, light-hearted, and deep with the emotions!

We all know the motto of not judging a book by the cover... this series is a prime example of why we should not do this! The covers do NOT do this series justice! Instant Gratification could stand alone without reading the first book in the series, but I would suggest reading them in order. These brothers are too drool worthy to miss one single detail about them. I am the least outdoorsy girl ever and if I knew they would be the one's dragging me around the mountain tops I would sign up in a heartbeat! Yum-o!

My Rating:



Stay tuned for the review of Instant Temptation later on this week!

Until next time...Happy Reading!

Strong and Sexy by Jill Shalvis {Review}

Strong and Sexy

(Sky High Air #2)

by Jill Shalvis

Paperback, 320 pages
Published January 1st 2007 by Brava

Starring the wildly seductive heroes Noah, Shayne, and Brody, Jill Shalvis's exhilarating new series features a delectable concoction of sex appeal and adventure. Whether they're up in the air or between the sheets, these hot, hardy pilots know exactly where the action is.
BLOWING IT ALL SKY HIGH

In a family of serious over-achievers, Shayne Mahoney has always been the laid-back, easy-going rebel. But running Sky High Air-a charter airline catering to the rich and famous-is a dream come true, in-flight specials included. Like kissing his client's beautiful, brainy daughter in a coat closet. But before Shayne can say "Fasten Your Seatbelts," Dani claims to witness a murder, gets stalked in her own apartment, and as added bonus, gets them both shot at by a mystery sniper. Normally Shayne would be running from the obviously crazy woman, and yet he finds himself trying to help her, leaving him to doubt his own sanity.

There's a reason Dani never attends her mother's high society parties. The fake people, the shallow conversation-and the fact that she doesn't fit in. She's a zoologist, not a starlet, and happy about it, even if she wishes men like ruggedly handsome Shayne Mahoney would spare her a second glance. Of course, dodging bullets isn't exactly what she'd call the perfect follow-up to their heated kiss, but Shayne makes it clear she can depend on him. All she has to do is hold on tight to his delicious hard body until the ride is over.

First Line(s): She rushed into Shayne Mahoney's party as if there was a firecracker on her ass, wobbling on heels she clearly wasn't comfortable in, wearing a little black dress that revealed pale, porcelain curves most people found unfashionable these days.

Favorite Line(s): n/a

My Review: Strong and Sexy demonstrates the witty, romance, smoking hot and adventure that we have all grown to love in Jill Shalvis' novels.

Shayne and Dani played off each other in every element of this story. Whether it be the way they were at each other's throats, the heated chemistry and hott sex... it worked well throughout the whole story.

I felt the ending to be a tad rushed but if that is the worst thing I can come up with than I'd say we still have a winner on our hands.

Strong and Sexy lives up to it's title!

My Rating:

Here at CBS we think a rating of a 3 is a solid read!

Until next time...Happy Reading!

Instant Attraction by Jill Shalvis {Review}

Instant Attraction

(Wilder #1)
by Jill Shalvis

302 pages
Published February 1st 2009 by Brava

The first in a sensational new series, Jill Shalvis introduces Cameron, Stone, and T.J. Wilder—three bad-boy heroes who effortlessly mix breathtaking adventure and scorching sex appeal...

Get Wild...And Then Get Wilder...

Accountant Katie Kramer is a quintessential good girl—working hard, recycling diligently, all the while trying to ignore the feeling that she doesn't fit in anywhere. That's all she wants. Well, that—and amazing sex, and the kind of daredevil escapade she can look back on when she's crunching numbers in a dusty cubicle. Which explains why she just took a job in Wishful, California, working for Wilder Adventures and Expeditions. Waking up to find a magnificently built stranger towering over her bed—that part defies explanation...

After wandering the planet for months following a life-changing accident, Cameron Wilder has come back to the only home he knows. Under other circumstances, he might be thrilled to find a gorgeous woman sleeping in his cabin, but now, while he'll risk his body taking clients on adrenaline-drenched excursions, his heart is off limits. Still, Katie's killer smile triggers something deep in his gut...among other places. Showing her how exhilarating it can be to stop balancing her life as if it was a checkbook is the biggest rush he's ever felt—and an adventure Katie's wishing would never end. . .

"Jill Shalvis sweeps you away."—Cherry Adair

First Line(s): "Live life balls out," Katie Kramer told herself every night and even though she didn't own a pair, she hoped the manta would keep the nightmares away.

Favorite Line(s): “Who’s there?”
“The scratcher of your itch,” he said.
She opened the door a crack and stuck her nose out. “Was that supposed to be romantic?”

My Review: First thing first... the cover model threw me off on what I thought Cameron Wilder looked like from the story. I normally don't put entirely too much thought into the cover models but for some reason I couldn't stop comparing the Cameron Wilder on the cover and the Cameron Wilder in the story. Just putting that out into the universe, ha!

Instant Attraction was sexy, funny, and an overall fun read! The H/h were so believeable in their quicky ways they played off each other. Cameron poked, Katie poked right back. I loved that this story was full of overcoming things life throws at you and making the most of each day. This story was solid and a perfect start to the Wilder Series.

Jill Shalvis is my new go to author, as you all can see I am on a roll with her books and I just started reading her books in the middle of the summer. She has yet to fail me and I would be blown over if she ever does. She just might be queen of Contemporary Romance for me right now!

My Rating:

Stay tune, the other two books in the Wilder Series are coming to CBS for a review!

Until next time...Happy Reading!

Slow Heat by Jill Shalvis: { Review}

Slow Heat

(Pacific Heat #2)
by Jill Shalvis

Paperback, 315 pages
Published February 2 2010 by Berkley

characters: Wade O'Riley, Samantha McNead

setting: Santa Barbara, California (United States)

After a woman claims she's pregnant with Wade O'Riley's love child, Major League Baseball's most celebrated catcher and ladies' man is slapped on the wrist by management and ordered to improve his image. His enforcer is the team's publicist, the tough and sexy Samantha mcNead.

When Wade needs a date for a celebrity wedding, Sam steps up to the plate as his "girlfriend". But given her secret crush on him and that one awkward night a year ago in a stalled elevator with too much Scotch, the whole thing is an exercise in sexual tension.

Wade is thrilled when the pretense turns into an unexpected night of hot passion. But the next day Sam is back to her cool self. As a catcher, Wade's used to giving the signals, not struggling to read them. Now, to win the love of his "pretend" girlfriend, he needs a home run--even if it involves stealing a few bases...

First Line: She'd read somewhere that the way to a man's heart was through his stomach, but Samantha McNead knew better than that-- in certain men the stomach was aiming a bit too high.

Favorite Line(s): n/a

My Review: Batter Up!

Jill Shalvis brings back the hot and sexy boys of summer in Slow Heat and she does not disappoint!Slow Heat was a fun, sexy read, filled with sexual tension.
Slow Heat had everything I enjoy in a contemporary story--fast pace, strong character development, and a believable plot. Jill Shalvis has a way to make you feel for her characters and remember them long after you put the story down, that is not any easy task.
I will say that this book could have used a few more chapters to help tie some story lines up but maybe Jill Shalvis has plans to re-visit these story lines in future books??

My Rating:

I am sorry for the short and to the point review but I am still behind about 12 book reviews and it is kinda giving me anixety so I need to hammer them out!

HA HA HA!

Until next time...Happy Reading!

Double Play by Jill Shalvis: { Review}

Double Play

(Pacific Heat #1)
by Jill Shalvis

Paperback, 282 pages
Published July 7th 2009 by Berkley

Pace Martin is the ace pitcher for the Pacific Heat. He's got the arm, the experience, and the wins. He's also got the pain, the pressure, and the possible end of his career looming over him. The last thing he needs now is a distraction, even if it comes in the form of a tough, beautiful, tell-it-like-it-is writer who sees past his defences.

Holly Hutchins knows a good story when she sees one, and the tall, dark, and slightly attitude-challenged Pace Martin fits the bill. But when she realizes there's more at stake than just a win, shouldered jock in a different light.

Pace and Holly begin a seductive game, but in the face of unexpected betrayal and challenges, they'll have to find the courage to swing for the fences...

First Line: If Pace Martin had the choice between sex and a nap, he'd actually take the nap, and wasn't that just pathetic enough to depress him.

My Review: What attracted me to Double Play was it was a sports themed romance novel ( and I am looking to finish my 2011 Men in Uniform Challenge) and of course it being written by Jill Shalvis. Of course the yummie cover didn't hurt my decision, yum-o!

Double Play's story did not disappoint me, it was a fun, sexy, witty and fast read. Score!Jill Shalvis writing in Double Play was funny and light till the last page, which made this a light and enjoyable read. The relationship between all characters was funny and down to earth... real. I love when the characters just seem like your everyday people, makes them very appealing and real to me. While this story was witty and fun in also had depth, Jill Shalvis gave us a perfect look into the characters background history before we met up with them.

I also love that Jill Shalvis used an area that I am familiar with and wrote of the area so beautifully, makes me want to pile into the car for a quick weekend giveaway, maybe I can run into Pace... ha ha ha!

I could have gone for a bit more steamy action but the amount given was just enough to get the engine roaring and your imagination to kick in. I really enjoyed Double Play.
My Rating:


Stay turned for Slow Heat, the second installment in the Pacific Heat series!


Until next time...Happy Reading!

Smart and Sexy by Jill Shalvis { Review}

Smart and Sexy

(Sky High Air #1)
by Jill Shalvis

Mass Market Paperback, 288 pages
Published April 1st 2007 by Brava

Noah Fisher has worked for months to make Sky High the most prestigious charter airline in California. He's long overdue for a break - something involving ski slopes, cold beers, and hot ski bunny babes, not necessarily in that order. The itinerary doesn't include being hijacked by Bailey Sinclair, gorgeous widow of one of Sky High's wealthiest (ex-) clients. But here they are, and being crammed in a cockpit with the scared, stubborn, unbelievably sexy former model he's been fantasizing about invokes Superman tendencies that could get Noah in serious trouble. Bailey is desperate to find the stash of money hidden by her conniving, thieving late husband - before the bad guys he owed find her. It's a long shot, but nothing compared to the gamble she's taking by being so close to Noah. Every minute in his company has Bailey thinking about doing crazy, reckless things like touching, grabbing, kissing...and oh wow, being kissed right back. Suddenly, seat-of-your-pants seems like the only way to fly, and maybe it's the altitude playing tricks, but this is one trip she never wants to end...

First Line: Noah Fisher needed a double diamond ski slope, a hot ski bunny babe, and a beer, and not necessarily in that order.

Favorite Line: “Hey,” Shayne said through the door. “You going to stay in there all night, because we’re getting tired of trying to eavesdrop from out here. Can’t hear a damn thing.”

My Review: Okay we have already discussed that Jill Shalvis is one of my new ( to me) favorite authors!
Smart and Sexy is the first in a trilogy about three men who own and run a private airplane business. This book was good and this just might be the first book/series I have ever read where the main hero is a pilot. It worked for me, I get it, pilots = sexy! Smart and Sexy is one of Shalvis’ earlier books and it is more on the suspense side of things, but don't fear she still works the sexy into it perfectly.
All Shalvis' books have witty storylines and entertaining fun characters. I adore the way Shalvis writes and I am both happy to have started reading her books and bummed it took me this long to find her.

It was nice to read one of Shalvis older pieces and to see how she writes suspense, it worked for me!

My Rating:

Have you read Smart and Sexy? Would love to hear your thoughts? If you haven't read it, will you now?

Until next time...Happy Reading!

Animal Magnetism by Jill Shalvis {Review}

Animal Magnetism

(Animal #1)
by Jill Shalvis

Mass Market Paperback, 304 pages
Published February 1st 2011 by Berkley

Co-owner of the town's only kennel, Lilah Young has lived in Sunshine, Idaho, all her life. Pilot-for-hire Brady Miller is just passing through. But he soon has Lilah abandoning her instincts and giving in to a primal desire.

It's Brady's nature to resist being tied down, but there's something about Lilah and her menagerie that keeps him coming back for more.

First Line: Brady Miller's ideal Saturday was pretty simple- sleep in, be woken by a hot, naked woman for sex, followed by a breakfast that he didn't have to cook.

My Review: Animal Magnetism is a fun romance that held my attention and kept me reading page after page. I just could not get enough of the main characters Brady and Lilah! I love how the two of them played off one another. Brady being ex-military is rough around the edges while Lilah is the type who appears to wear her heart on her sleeve. Jill Shalvis keeps everything about her books real, and how I love this in a book. The characters seemed real, like run into them on the street real and her story line was endearing and heart warming.
Animal Magnetism had me from the first word (Brady) and left me longing for the next book in the series. I not only highly recommend this book I recommend Jill Shalvis all together, she has yet to fail me and as I mentioned before she is kinda my author crush at the moment!

My Rating:

Until next time...

Happy Reading!