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Grayson Friends #11
All That I Desire
LOVE IS NEVER PICTURE-PERFECT.
Nothing can stop a woman like Skylar Dupree once she makes up her mind. Defying her family and leaving law school, she’s landed her dream job as an event director at the prestigious Navarone Resorts in Arizona. It’s all that Skylar’s ever wanted—until she sees Rio Sanchez, the resort owner’s bodyguard. He’s the hottest, sexiest, most striking man she’s ever met.
SOMETIMES IT’S EVEN BETTER…
When Skylar starts planning a huge charity auction at the resort, it’s Rio’s job to keep an eye on the prized art she collects from donors. He’s not blind to Skylar’s beauty, brains, and other charms—but Rio is nothing if not professional, and he refuses to make a move. It’s enough to drive Skylar crazy…with desire. But when a mysterious stranger enters the picture—and puts Skylar’s life in danger—Rio has no choice but to protect her…and never let her go.
Nothing can stop a woman like Skylar Dupree once she makes up her mind. Defying her family and leaving law school, she’s landed her dream job as an event director at the prestigious Navarone Resorts in Arizona. It’s all that Skylar’s ever wanted—until she sees Rio Sanchez, the resort owner’s bodyguard. He’s the hottest, sexiest, most striking man she’s ever met.
SOMETIMES IT’S EVEN BETTER…
When Skylar starts planning a huge charity auction at the resort, it’s Rio’s job to keep an eye on the prized art she collects from donors. He’s not blind to Skylar’s beauty, brains, and other charms—but Rio is nothing if not professional, and he refuses to make a move. It’s enough to drive Skylar crazy…with desire. But when a mysterious stranger enters the picture—and puts Skylar’s life in danger—Rio has no choice but to protect her…and never let her go.
301 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 29, 2013
51 people are currently reading
316 people want to read
About the author
Francis Ray
72 books539 followersFrancis Ray was a New York Times and USA Today bestselling African-American writer of romance novels. Her literary fiction series – Taggart and Falcon, the Invincible Women, Grayson Family of New Mexico, and Grayson Friends – have consistently made bestseller's lists. She was born in Richland, Texas, and studied nursing, receiving a bachelor's degree from Texas Woman's University in 1967. She began writing in 1987, while continuing to work as a nurse, and had her first book published in 1992.
AWARDS
Romantic Times Career Achievement
EMMA
The Golden Pen
The Atlantic Choice
Romantic Times 2008 Reviewers' Choice Award Winners for AFRICAN-AMERICAN ROMANCE Reviewers' Choice Awards – Best Books Not Even If You Begged, St. Martin's Griffin (February 2008)
Borders 2008 Bestselling Multicultural Romance Award for Nobody but You
Written's 2010 Readers Choice Book of the Year for If You Were My Man
AWARDS
Romantic Times Career Achievement
EMMA
The Golden Pen
The Atlantic Choice
Romantic Times 2008 Reviewers' Choice Award Winners for AFRICAN-AMERICAN ROMANCE Reviewers' Choice Awards – Best Books Not Even If You Begged, St. Martin's Griffin (February 2008)
Borders 2008 Bestselling Multicultural Romance Award for Nobody but You
Written's 2010 Readers Choice Book of the Year for If You Were My Man
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
November 22, 2013
I waited so long for Rio's book and it was amazing. I laughed, I cried I had all kinds of emotions running thru me. I purposely read this one slowly because I didn't want it to end for two reasons: I wanted the story to go on forever and I knew this was the last book I would read from Francis Ray. What an amazing author you will truly be missed by your fans. Rest in peace Ms. Ray.
November 6, 2015
I was so looking forward to Rio's story...and although it was a decent read...it fell short...sort of fizzled at times...his background story was a bit lacking...not as exciting as I had hoped for...some SIZZLING moments between Rio and Skylar...but I was a bit disappointed...and there were lots of errors in this novel...something I'm not used to seeing in a Francis Ray novel...just MHO...still love her work...and I will miss her and her AMAZING storytelling abilities.
February 10, 2014
4.5 Stars
This is the tenth novel in the Grayson friends series. This novel is romantic suspense at its best. The storyline moved a little slow and was repetitive because there were characters from previous novels. This novel can definitely be read as a standalone. I didn't read any of the other novels, and I had no trouble following the storyline.
Again, I'm sure the author knew readers might skip or only read this book and that's why the beginning is a little slow and repetitive. I loved having a woman take charge and pursue the man. I cheered Skylar all the way through the book. After the initial slow start things pick up nicely. Skylar and Rio work together to thwart someone that is trying to take her life. The author does a great job of allowing the reader to see into Rio and understand how he develops a connection with Skylar. I didn't see the why Skylar was initially attracted to Rio, but by the end of the novel I was willing to be her fiercest competitor.
This installment features Skylar Dupree. Skylar bucked the family trend and expectations by leaving law school to pursue a career as an event director at the prestigious Navarone Resorts. Skylar has had her eye on Rio Sanchez. Rio is tall, dark, handsome, and brooding man. Skylar longs to find out why Rio ignores her and make him see that she is the woman for him. And what Skylar wants...Skylar gets.
I liked Skylar. She had a bold, brash attitude with a heart of pure gold. She was no wilting violet or helpless handmaiden. When Rio refused her invitations to dinner she went alone, and she could literally kick his butt. Skylar is every woman. Rio was the strong, silent type. I loved that he was very protective, and my heart broke once I knew the story of his past. Initially I thought...why would Skylar want Rio. However, as the storyline unfolded I was able to see that Rio was like any other person..he had past and his personality was the result of those scars. Very special people can look past the scars and coal dust to find the diamond underneath and Skylar was his very special person.
I enjoyed this book, but I am saddened that Francis Ray is no longer here to read this review.
Reviewed by Michelle for Cocktails and Books
This is the tenth novel in the Grayson friends series. This novel is romantic suspense at its best. The storyline moved a little slow and was repetitive because there were characters from previous novels. This novel can definitely be read as a standalone. I didn't read any of the other novels, and I had no trouble following the storyline.
Again, I'm sure the author knew readers might skip or only read this book and that's why the beginning is a little slow and repetitive. I loved having a woman take charge and pursue the man. I cheered Skylar all the way through the book. After the initial slow start things pick up nicely. Skylar and Rio work together to thwart someone that is trying to take her life. The author does a great job of allowing the reader to see into Rio and understand how he develops a connection with Skylar. I didn't see the why Skylar was initially attracted to Rio, but by the end of the novel I was willing to be her fiercest competitor.
This installment features Skylar Dupree. Skylar bucked the family trend and expectations by leaving law school to pursue a career as an event director at the prestigious Navarone Resorts. Skylar has had her eye on Rio Sanchez. Rio is tall, dark, handsome, and brooding man. Skylar longs to find out why Rio ignores her and make him see that she is the woman for him. And what Skylar wants...Skylar gets.
I liked Skylar. She had a bold, brash attitude with a heart of pure gold. She was no wilting violet or helpless handmaiden. When Rio refused her invitations to dinner she went alone, and she could literally kick his butt. Skylar is every woman. Rio was the strong, silent type. I loved that he was very protective, and my heart broke once I knew the story of his past. Initially I thought...why would Skylar want Rio. However, as the storyline unfolded I was able to see that Rio was like any other person..he had past and his personality was the result of those scars. Very special people can look past the scars and coal dust to find the diamond underneath and Skylar was his very special person.
I enjoyed this book, but I am saddened that Francis Ray is no longer here to read this review.
Reviewed by Michelle for Cocktails and Books
January 1, 2022
I’d probably give this 3.5 stars, but I didn’t realize this was the last book in a super long series. So, I got a little confused at some of the characters. It’s still technically a stand alone, but I probably would have enjoyed it more had I read the other books first. I also wanted the main conflict to last more than a page or two, but it was a cute story overall and I’ll definitely check this author out more.
May 8, 2020
So far the book is interesting. However Skyler maybe a little pushy however she was going after what she wants. This line of action aligns with her actions throughout her life. However her strong well sometimes got her in uncomfortable situations. I do believe during those moments, are best times we learn a lesson and or gain a lifetime of friendship.
Skyler is very clever
Skyler is very clever
January 15, 2021
I expected fast paced, mystery, romance. Romantic it was. Rio never let a woman give him gray hairs until he met Skylar Dupree. Most of the action was in the last pages. I expected twists an turns. Glad for the catchup with other family members.
January 16, 2022
Determination
Rio was determined not to fall in love but Skylar was determined to have what she had been admiring for 2 years. When a won see 's what she desire we put a plan in place and work the plan until we are successful. This was a 👍💘story.
Rio was determined not to fall in love but Skylar was determined to have what she had been admiring for 2 years. When a won see 's what she desire we put a plan in place and work the plan until we are successful. This was a 👍💘story.
November 27, 2023
I haven't read the other books in this series, but wow this was cringe. Elements of forced/arranged romance, "I'll make him love me", virginity purity weirdness, and manipulation from a few different angles. One of the least romantic books I've ever read.
August 20, 2017
Oh Francis Ray, I will love your writing forever.
September 17, 2018
Book Riot Reading Harder challenge #10 - A romance novel by or about a person of color.
Oh, the gender stereotypes!
Oh, the gender stereotypes!
December 10, 2020
This book was amazing. It was a great stand alone book, even though I am interested in the series. You can def. follow along without knowing any background information.
January 2, 2021
Nice read
Great quick read.I love the conclusion to some of the other novels in this series and a a few others not tied to everyone together.
Great quick read.I love the conclusion to some of the other novels in this series and a a few others not tied to everyone together.
February 21, 2021
Typical love story with some fun humor and mysteries
December 27, 2021
Love forever
I have been a fan of Francis ray from the first time I read her first book. She was
an amazing writer. I miss her so very much. Glad I got to know her thre
I have been a fan of Francis ray from the first time I read her first book. She was
an amazing writer. I miss her so very much. Glad I got to know her thre
September 17, 2022
2nd favorite Ray book
Absolutely love this book and have read it at least 10 times. I love the chase and the mystery of Rio. Something about him that makes you love him.
Absolutely love this book and have read it at least 10 times. I love the chase and the mystery of Rio. Something about him that makes you love him.
Read
May 5, 2023Long at first, good read tho
April 23, 2024
This book was so good.
January 18, 2025
It probably would have helped to read the other books; I didn’t realize it was a series. But I did enjoy the story line!
The publishing company needs to hire me as a proofreader, though!! Yikes!
The publishing company needs to hire me as a proofreader, though!! Yikes!
December 30, 2020
Awesome book
Because I read about Luke and his siblings and how they fell in love and wanted to know how Ruth was going to make it happen for the friends of the family
Because I read about Luke and his siblings and how they fell in love and wanted to know how Ruth was going to make it happen for the friends of the family
September 18, 2024
I'm enjoying the Grayson Friends series. I read the first (Shane and Paige's story) now the last Rio and Skylar. I admire a woman who goes after what she wants and who’s handy with a firearm. In the beginning, you feel a little sorry for Skylar but then you realize Rio desires her just as much if not more but he's afraid. She keeps his butt literally at one point into gear.
This novel has fun characters to go along with a mystery mixed in with a high end auction and lots of romance.
This is a great read. I assume if Ms. Ray was still with us, we would have gotten Dakota's story next.
This novel has fun characters to go along with a mystery mixed in with a high end auction and lots of romance.
This is a great read. I assume if Ms. Ray was still with us, we would have gotten Dakota's story next.
March 8, 2014
An inspiring, passionate read by Francis Ray, All That I Desire will leave you with a smile on your face. Once Skylar Dupree makes up her mind to do something, she does it. And this time, she’s set her sights on none other than, Rio Sanchez, head of security for Skylar’s boss. Skylar is determined to break through that hard exterior shell and find the kind, passionate, lovable man she knows is trapped inside. When Skylar puts on her battle armor, aka, sexy clothes, and starts flaunting her gorgeous body, Rio can��t help but notice. But he’s professional. He won’t budge, until Skylar’s life is put in danger by an unknown person. It becomes obvious that someone wants Skylar out of their way. But for what? And how close is Rio willing to let Skylar get while he tries to protect her from certain danger? Will Skylar finally be able to chip away at the wall Rio has built around his heart and will Rio finally decide to let go and give into his desires?
An excellently written, easy read by Mrs. Ray. I loved the characters and the fast paced story line. It was truly a fun, exciting read. While I did read this book as a stand-alone, not having read the others in the Grayson Friends Novels, I don’t know that I would recommend reading it this way. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a great book, but I did feel like I was missing a lot of the background story for both of these characters and other supporting characters found in the story as well. I found myself quite a few times rereading a paragraph trying to gain just a little more knowledge and trying to read between the lines. In short, read some of the other novels in the series if you are interested in reading this one, I know I’m going to be catching up on this series! I thought the action and mystery behind who was trying to kill Skylar gave this romance novel a whole other dimension and made me keep turning page after page. And the chemistry between Skylar and Rio? Wow….simply amazing. So if you’re unfamiliar with the Grayson Friends Series, pick up a book and get to reading! Or you’ll be missing out on some super great reads.
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: Hot
Reviewed by AprilP
Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
An excellently written, easy read by Mrs. Ray. I loved the characters and the fast paced story line. It was truly a fun, exciting read. While I did read this book as a stand-alone, not having read the others in the Grayson Friends Novels, I don’t know that I would recommend reading it this way. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a great book, but I did feel like I was missing a lot of the background story for both of these characters and other supporting characters found in the story as well. I found myself quite a few times rereading a paragraph trying to gain just a little more knowledge and trying to read between the lines. In short, read some of the other novels in the series if you are interested in reading this one, I know I’m going to be catching up on this series! I thought the action and mystery behind who was trying to kill Skylar gave this romance novel a whole other dimension and made me keep turning page after page. And the chemistry between Skylar and Rio? Wow….simply amazing. So if you’re unfamiliar with the Grayson Friends Series, pick up a book and get to reading! Or you’ll be missing out on some super great reads.
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: Hot
Reviewed by AprilP
Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
September 16, 2016
WOW!!! Rio story was worth the wait. I know this is the last book but i really wished there was a epilouge for all of the stories to see what happened to everyone. Also I wonder why Rio was abandoned if he was clean and had on expensive clothes, maybe he just wondered away from his home.
March 8, 2014
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
All That I Desire is the final volume of the Grayson Friends series. While each novel shares background information and characters, they can be read as standalone books. In this edition, we follow a fundraising auction to support the music program at St. John’s College. Skylar, the event coordinator for Navarone Resorts has been called in to organize the event and she has decided to finally take the opportunity to let Rio, one of the Navarone family body guards, know that she is attracted to him.
Unfortunately in an effort to make Rio mysterious and unreachable, he comes across as completely devoid of personality. Skylar, while purporting to be a strong and independent woman, throws herself at Rio time and time again, finally reaching a point where she has decided that they are in a relationship, with little input from him.
This book was entertaining; it was well written for the most part, but Ms. Ray’s staccato writing style took some getting used to and while there was a happy ending, for both the book and series, I simply wasn’t “wowed”. Fans of the series may find this a fitting conclusion, but as a newcomer, it didn’t work for me.
All That I Desire is the final volume of the Grayson Friends series. While each novel shares background information and characters, they can be read as standalone books. In this edition, we follow a fundraising auction to support the music program at St. John’s College. Skylar, the event coordinator for Navarone Resorts has been called in to organize the event and she has decided to finally take the opportunity to let Rio, one of the Navarone family body guards, know that she is attracted to him.
Unfortunately in an effort to make Rio mysterious and unreachable, he comes across as completely devoid of personality. Skylar, while purporting to be a strong and independent woman, throws herself at Rio time and time again, finally reaching a point where she has decided that they are in a relationship, with little input from him.
This book was entertaining; it was well written for the most part, but Ms. Ray’s staccato writing style took some getting used to and while there was a happy ending, for both the book and series, I simply wasn’t “wowed”. Fans of the series may find this a fitting conclusion, but as a newcomer, it didn’t work for me.
October 31, 2013
This was a bittersweet read. I am so glad that Rio's story was told and it was told at the right time in this series. Francis Ray was an incredible, talented, wonderful writer. I am so grateful that I discovered her books while browsing the book section in my local Wal-Mart. I did not know her personally, but through her writing, I felt as if I did. I am going to truly miss this remarkable woman. I am also grateful for the courage of her daughter Michelle, kudos to you.
Skylar is a woman who knows what she wants and sets her eyes on the prize. That prize is none other than Mr. Rio Sanchez, the dangerous, sexy, and bigger than life head of Navarone security worldwide. Rio is determined to keep this headstrong woman from seeping into his heart. One unfortunately event has made Skylar the target of one vengeful man. Not a wise choice when you have Rio as your protector. This Grayson friend's novel has everything from passion, mystery, intrigue, loyalty and protection all rolled up into a 5+ star read. I am grateful that it was told. Do yourself a big service and pick up your copy as soon as possible, HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!!!
Tasha - Divas of the Serengeti Book Club
Skylar is a woman who knows what she wants and sets her eyes on the prize. That prize is none other than Mr. Rio Sanchez, the dangerous, sexy, and bigger than life head of Navarone security worldwide. Rio is determined to keep this headstrong woman from seeping into his heart. One unfortunately event has made Skylar the target of one vengeful man. Not a wise choice when you have Rio as your protector. This Grayson friend's novel has everything from passion, mystery, intrigue, loyalty and protection all rolled up into a 5+ star read. I am grateful that it was told. Do yourself a big service and pick up your copy as soon as possible, HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!!!
Tasha - Divas of the Serengeti Book Club
August 9, 2014
Suck me in tie me up and let me be protected by Rio.
I have waited a long time to get Rio's story. I am very sorry that it will be no more of the Grayson's Friends to come in the future. I would have loved to seen Dakota's story.
Anyway, Rio is a tough man with a past filled with shadow and smoke. He has two friends in this world that knows him for who he is and not what they want him to be. In 'All That I Desire' we get to finally get his past and see the present that unfolds for him.
Skylar Dupree has been patient for two years, she is no longer willing to wait any longer. She stakes her claim and makes it what she wants from it. She is from a family that can trace the history back hundreds of year (all the way back to slavery). He is a man that can only trace to his childhood and that does not include family. He makes a big deal of this but Skylar is her own woman and wants him for him.
Ray has made this an absolutely beautiful romance with its action, chase, thrill and some intrigue. I will read it over again just for more of Rio.
I have waited a long time to get Rio's story. I am very sorry that it will be no more of the Grayson's Friends to come in the future. I would have loved to seen Dakota's story.
Anyway, Rio is a tough man with a past filled with shadow and smoke. He has two friends in this world that knows him for who he is and not what they want him to be. In 'All That I Desire' we get to finally get his past and see the present that unfolds for him.
Skylar Dupree has been patient for two years, she is no longer willing to wait any longer. She stakes her claim and makes it what she wants from it. She is from a family that can trace the history back hundreds of year (all the way back to slavery). He is a man that can only trace to his childhood and that does not include family. He makes a big deal of this but Skylar is her own woman and wants him for him.
Ray has made this an absolutely beautiful romance with its action, chase, thrill and some intrigue. I will read it over again just for more of Rio.
February 24, 2015
I’ve waited so long for Rio’s story and Ms. Ray did not disappoint. While I’ve been a little disenchanted with some of her most recent books, All That I Desire just served to remind me of why I fell in love with Ms. Ray’s writing in the first place.
Skylar is everything a heroine should be. She’s smart, kind, compassionate, beautiful and thoughtful. And her sensitive nature was the perfect foil for Rio’s steel edginess. He is strong, and intelligent, with a strong sense of duty and loyalty. Skylar and Rio’s chemistry was beyond electric and I enjoyed the journey of their love.
True to form, Rio fought being knocked ass over heels by love, but eventually he couldn’t resist the mini-tsunami that is Skylar, and her love and kindness finally broke down his defenses. This was such a good story and this book has renewed my interest in Ms. Ray’s work!
Skylar is everything a heroine should be. She’s smart, kind, compassionate, beautiful and thoughtful. And her sensitive nature was the perfect foil for Rio’s steel edginess. He is strong, and intelligent, with a strong sense of duty and loyalty. Skylar and Rio’s chemistry was beyond electric and I enjoyed the journey of their love.
True to form, Rio fought being knocked ass over heels by love, but eventually he couldn’t resist the mini-tsunami that is Skylar, and her love and kindness finally broke down his defenses. This was such a good story and this book has renewed my interest in Ms. Ray’s work!
June 1, 2022
There are just some books that you could read every month
Blade, Shane and Rio books are a part of that group!
Update:
I just had to read again Blade, Shane and Rio stories!
Loved them again
Update to the Update:
Third time reading!
I bought this book on 2/20/14 (yes, I have the receipt), this was the day that I was told that Ms Ray had passed. I was at loss for any words, my thoughts were for her family and friends.
I just read this book and it was great, as all her books are.
I had to wait to read it, because I had to accept this would be my last book from such a great writer, but to my surprise it was Rio's story, you see it did not matter what the book was about; when I saw a book written by her, I just bought it.
Truly a great read!
Blade, Shane and Rio books are a part of that group!
Update:
I just had to read again Blade, Shane and Rio stories!
Loved them again
Update to the Update:
Third time reading!
I bought this book on 2/20/14 (yes, I have the receipt), this was the day that I was told that Ms Ray had passed. I was at loss for any words, my thoughts were for her family and friends.
I just read this book and it was great, as all her books are.
I had to wait to read it, because I had to accept this would be my last book from such a great writer, but to my surprise it was Rio's story, you see it did not matter what the book was about; when I saw a book written by her, I just bought it.
Truly a great read!
November 7, 2013
An excellent read! I tried to read Rio and Skylar's story slowly, to make it last. I've waited for someone to love and loosen Rio up since Sierra and Blade's story. Skylar was an excellent choice to choose for Rio. She was his equal and did not back down (often). Was close to tears at the end of this book because it hit me that there won't be any more Francis Ray books coming out. Mrs. Francis Ray, I know that you're penning some excellent work in heaven and that God is having a ball reading your work. Continue Resting in Paradise and THANK YOU for the great reads you left behind.
October 31, 2013
What a way to end a series!! Rio's story was definitely well worth the wait!! The elusive, brooding, hunky and way too hot and gorgeous for his own good Rio is finally off the market!! Rio and Skylar are perfect for each other. He doesn't take any mess and she does not back down from what she wants. She knew what she wanted and she went for it, and believe me, Rio is thanking his lucky stars that she did. Very well done, Mrs. Ray!!
May 29, 2014
All that I desire.
All that I desire.
As always Ms. Ray has written another winner. The love affair of Rio and Skylar was breath taking. It appears this is the last writing for Ms. Ray since she passed away last July 2013. She will truly be missed. I have read all her books and she was one of a kind. I just wish they would have made some fair well dedication at the end of the book for her fans that may not have known she died.
All that I desire.
As always Ms. Ray has written another winner. The love affair of Rio and Skylar was breath taking. It appears this is the last writing for Ms. Ray since she passed away last July 2013. She will truly be missed. I have read all her books and she was one of a kind. I just wish they would have made some fair well dedication at the end of the book for her fans that may not have known she died.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews