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The Katie Chronicles ##1
To Katie With Love
Banker Katie James has a serious thing for romance novels. She’d almost rather settle for a fictional boyfriend than risk her heart on a flesh-and-blood man. Besides, the only real guy she’s remotely interested in is her rich, unattainable client, the mysterious Cooper Maxwell.
Looking less like the ultra-conservative man she knows and more like a drop-dead sexy character from one of her books, Cooper crashes Katie’s 29th birthday party. But one too many drinks lands Katie in uncharted territory… Cooper’s bedroom!
Drunk on love, Katie dives headfirst into the relationship only to discover that Cooper is keeping secrets… dangerous ones. As if things couldn’t get worse, her meddling mother makes a surprise visit, digging up a whole new set of problems.
Who would have guessed having an assassin for a boyfriend would be the least of her worries?
Looking less like the ultra-conservative man she knows and more like a drop-dead sexy character from one of her books, Cooper crashes Katie’s 29th birthday party. But one too many drinks lands Katie in uncharted territory… Cooper’s bedroom!
Drunk on love, Katie dives headfirst into the relationship only to discover that Cooper is keeping secrets… dangerous ones. As if things couldn’t get worse, her meddling mother makes a surprise visit, digging up a whole new set of problems.
Who would have guessed having an assassin for a boyfriend would be the least of her worries?
274 pages, ebook
First published April 18, 2013
98 people are currently reading
993 people want to read
About the author
Erica Lucke Dean
19 books208 followersAfter walking away from her career as a business banker to pursue writing full-time, Erica Lucke Dean moved from the hustle and bustle of the big city to a small tourist town in the North Georgia Mountains where she lived in a 90-year-old haunted farmhouse.
Tired of being woken up in the middle of the night by a pesky poltergeist, the author of contemporary young adult, romantic comedy, and paranormal romance moved into a cute little cabin in the woods, where she lives with her husband, her dogs, and the occasional bear. Much like the characters in her books, Ms. Dean is a magnet for disaster, and has been known to trip on air while walking across flat surfaces.
How she’s managed to survive this long is one of life’s great mysteries.
You can find out more about Erica, in addition to her humorous blog posts and disasters, on her website.
Represented by: Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.
Follow me on Bookbub to get notified when my books go on sale. https://www.bookbub.com/authors/erica...
Tired of being woken up in the middle of the night by a pesky poltergeist, the author of contemporary young adult, romantic comedy, and paranormal romance moved into a cute little cabin in the woods, where she lives with her husband, her dogs, and the occasional bear. Much like the characters in her books, Ms. Dean is a magnet for disaster, and has been known to trip on air while walking across flat surfaces.
How she’s managed to survive this long is one of life’s great mysteries.
You can find out more about Erica, in addition to her humorous blog posts and disasters, on her website.
Represented by: Cathie Hedrick-Armstrong of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.
Follow me on Bookbub to get notified when my books go on sale. https://www.bookbub.com/authors/erica...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
February 25, 2016
The story was actually super cute. It had funny moments. It remained pretty mysterious until the very end. Katie was so flipping dorky in an adorable way. Clumsy, hilarious, and her imagination (and admittedly mine as well) runs a little wild the more Cooper keeps to himself. Cooper is a total charmer. Super romantic and totally in love with Katie. He pulls out all the stops for Katie's courtship and makes the reader fall in love right along with her lol The other characters in this story are a little outrageous adding to the humorous tone of the book. The connection between the MCs is natural and sweet. The ending was written very cleverly and had me sweating for a sec. I totally enjoyed this nugget especially the few laugh out loud moments.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
March 1, 2016
When Katie James is out celebrating her birthday with her co-workers from the bank the drinks start flowing and somehow she gets talked into singing. As Katie starts her song in walks a man that looks like the one in her dreams, one that looks like he stepped right out of one of Katie's favorite romance novels. When the man turns around though she finds it's one of her clients, Cooper Maxwell, that Katie has had a crush on for the last year.
The next thing Katie knows she awakens in a strange bed after having a drink too many to calm her nerves around Cooper. She then finds that it was Cooper himself that brought Katie home to care for her since he didn't know where she lived. The two soon find themselves rushing into a relationship after both hiding their feelings for the past year but Katie soon finds that Cooper is full of secrets. Will she be able to trust him or is he too good to be true?
Erica Lucke Dean has a way with her characters that make me truly just love everything about them and their stories. Katie was the typical shy and unsure lead but she was also quite adorable with her fumbling and her wild imagination and Cooper is a too good to be true sexy male lead. The rest of Katie's co-workers were also hilarious in their own ways.
The one thing I was slightly disappointed in was that I had read another book not too long ago that had basically the same outcome as this one. I felt early on that I knew how the story was going to turn out but to be honest Erica Lucke Dean did the story and characters so much better than the other I'd read and after looking them up, this was actually even published first so even guessing the ending this is still getting five stars from me.
Overall, a wonderfully fun read, often very humorous with great characters and while there is sex involved it's more implied than described for those that don't enjoy anything too graphic.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
The next thing Katie knows she awakens in a strange bed after having a drink too many to calm her nerves around Cooper. She then finds that it was Cooper himself that brought Katie home to care for her since he didn't know where she lived. The two soon find themselves rushing into a relationship after both hiding their feelings for the past year but Katie soon finds that Cooper is full of secrets. Will she be able to trust him or is he too good to be true?
Erica Lucke Dean has a way with her characters that make me truly just love everything about them and their stories. Katie was the typical shy and unsure lead but she was also quite adorable with her fumbling and her wild imagination and Cooper is a too good to be true sexy male lead. The rest of Katie's co-workers were also hilarious in their own ways.
The one thing I was slightly disappointed in was that I had read another book not too long ago that had basically the same outcome as this one. I felt early on that I knew how the story was going to turn out but to be honest Erica Lucke Dean did the story and characters so much better than the other I'd read and after looking them up, this was actually even published first so even guessing the ending this is still getting five stars from me.
Overall, a wonderfully fun read, often very humorous with great characters and while there is sex involved it's more implied than described for those that don't enjoy anything too graphic.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
July 9, 2017
This was a fun read! I really enjoyed all the characters in this book. Katie is adorably clumsy and the girl everyone loves but doesn't take seriously. Cooper was hunky, romantic and completely smitten with Katie. Cooper didn't want to reveal his career to her, which just caused her to imagine all sorts of reasons to why he hid his occupation. The whole book is based off of Katie trying to find out what Cooper does for a living and in return kept getting in embarrassing situations. I really love reading books like this that just make me giggle at all the heroines antics. Super fun read! ARC provided by NetGalley.
May 16, 2013
*cheering* its like a super awesome, funny, charming, box of wine and popcorn in sweat pants chick-flick and a Maraghritas Senioritas themes party worthy read... no more...way to hit a home run, Erica!! -- REVIEW
Reading this book was a blast. I am not openly into chick-lit but I love a good chick-flick so it was no surprise I was tempted to pull on my university logo sweat pants with a whole in the knee, put my hair in a side ponytail order pizza or zap a Lean Cuisine meal, grab a box o' wine and dig into it. This book was a pure delight to read. Twists and turns and as it says on the book cover "Who would have thought having an assassin as a boyfriend would be the least of her problems!" Perhaps if she took a cold shower under all four shower heads in the Chandelier Room with Adjoining Toilet (CRWAT - yes you will have to read the book to understand the context) and perhaps she could have some clarity.
The story is fast paced and seemingly has the typical insta-love at the very beginning like every other romance novel out there. But the fact is both of them have been having feelings for each other for longer than the "first chapter". The truth is Cooper Maxwell had her as his personal banker for over a year and as we will learn he has had his eye on her for a very long time. Dean has written Katie, Cooper and the rest of the "cast" into believable, over the top and yet still well-rounded. Katie makes me want to give her a hug and a makeover at the beginning with her insecurities and total inability to handle a healthy relationship. Instead of accepting what Cooper is offering her at face value she starts letting her very vivid imagination get the best of her... despite the fact he fed her bacon. See, this would be it with me. I would not question him after the bacon no matter how many mysterious money transfers and bodies were piling up... (just saying!!)
Katie protects herself by hiding behind her pretend cat and her pretend boyfriend who lives on the pages of her favorite vampire romance novels she reads while laying in her average count sheets. But Katie has a very well meaning friend who decides to put her in a pair of "dangerous" boots and a not so subtle top ohh.. and not to mention the mini skirt and then sets her loose on her birthday to have some fun. What she doesn't know, as we read about her inability to handle alcohol, is her wardrobe is not the only one thing her friend has been arranging.
If I were to write a joke to describe the book it would start with "Dark steamy hot client walks into a bar..." wait, what is the punch line? Well it could be Katie as she throws back another shot and starts having dark steamy thoughts about Cooper aka dark steamy hot client as the night goes on and the drinks keep flowing... But this book is not a joke, no matter how funny Erica Lucke Dean writes some of the defining moments of Katies new found love.
Later on that night the joke maybe on Katie as she rolls over and wakes up face down in "magnificent sheets" and realizes she is not at home. The sheets should have been an indicator but I am willing to bet the missing pile of books with all the "dark steamy" parts marked were a bigger clue.
Katie's transformation begin that night as she gains more confidence and begins to face the day with a pair of dangerous boots and butterflies in her belly. But she also is faced with the mystery of who her new beau is. She knows how much money he makes yet.... how is he making it? Basically we have a recipe for a typical romance novel. Boy meets girl, girl falls for girl, boy falls for girl, they kiss, some secret ends in a misunderstanding, something fun and quirky happens and in the end............. they live happily ever after. But Dean has a whole new take on writing romance - and it involves a chick-flick style of writing. If this was a movie, I bet I could get Geoff to watch it with me because of how fun the whole story is! Especially all the twists and turns, which I guarantee you will be surprised with! It is all that and a bag of chips... wait no a bag of marshmallows (seriously read it, you will get it!!)
THE ERICA LUCKE DEAN take on a ROMANCE NOVEL
ingredients:
1 boy
1 girl
1-6 shots
1 pair of dangerous boots
magnificent Sheets
kisses (sprinkle to taste)
1 secret and/or misunderstanding
1 bag of marshmallows
directions:
Pour shy girl into hot outfit and dangerous boots on her birthday and pour alcohol into girl
tip off hot boy that shy girl will be at said bar and suggest he come
have hot boy take care of drunk girl and pour her into magnificent sheets
add lunch (see food is involved) and dinner and a first kiss.. and more...
hot boy has a job but won't tell she girl who is falling in love with hot boy what it is.
add marshmallows, hot boys shirt and a security guard with a gun.. oh and sans panties, and what do you have?
To Katie with Love
To Katie with Love
5-Star Marshmallow Review!
Reading this book was a blast. I am not openly into chick-lit but I love a good chick-flick so it was no surprise I was tempted to pull on my university logo sweat pants with a whole in the knee, put my hair in a side ponytail order pizza or zap a Lean Cuisine meal, grab a box o' wine and dig into it. This book was a pure delight to read. Twists and turns and as it says on the book cover "Who would have thought having an assassin as a boyfriend would be the least of her problems!" Perhaps if she took a cold shower under all four shower heads in the Chandelier Room with Adjoining Toilet (CRWAT - yes you will have to read the book to understand the context) and perhaps she could have some clarity.
The story is fast paced and seemingly has the typical insta-love at the very beginning like every other romance novel out there. But the fact is both of them have been having feelings for each other for longer than the "first chapter". The truth is Cooper Maxwell had her as his personal banker for over a year and as we will learn he has had his eye on her for a very long time. Dean has written Katie, Cooper and the rest of the "cast" into believable, over the top and yet still well-rounded. Katie makes me want to give her a hug and a makeover at the beginning with her insecurities and total inability to handle a healthy relationship. Instead of accepting what Cooper is offering her at face value she starts letting her very vivid imagination get the best of her... despite the fact he fed her bacon. See, this would be it with me. I would not question him after the bacon no matter how many mysterious money transfers and bodies were piling up... (just saying!!)
Katie protects herself by hiding behind her pretend cat and her pretend boyfriend who lives on the pages of her favorite vampire romance novels she reads while laying in her average count sheets. But Katie has a very well meaning friend who decides to put her in a pair of "dangerous" boots and a not so subtle top ohh.. and not to mention the mini skirt and then sets her loose on her birthday to have some fun. What she doesn't know, as we read about her inability to handle alcohol, is her wardrobe is not the only one thing her friend has been arranging.
If I were to write a joke to describe the book it would start with "Dark steamy hot client walks into a bar..." wait, what is the punch line? Well it could be Katie as she throws back another shot and starts having dark steamy thoughts about Cooper aka dark steamy hot client as the night goes on and the drinks keep flowing... But this book is not a joke, no matter how funny Erica Lucke Dean writes some of the defining moments of Katies new found love.
Later on that night the joke maybe on Katie as she rolls over and wakes up face down in "magnificent sheets" and realizes she is not at home. The sheets should have been an indicator but I am willing to bet the missing pile of books with all the "dark steamy" parts marked were a bigger clue.
Katie's transformation begin that night as she gains more confidence and begins to face the day with a pair of dangerous boots and butterflies in her belly. But she also is faced with the mystery of who her new beau is. She knows how much money he makes yet.... how is he making it? Basically we have a recipe for a typical romance novel. Boy meets girl, girl falls for girl, boy falls for girl, they kiss, some secret ends in a misunderstanding, something fun and quirky happens and in the end............. they live happily ever after. But Dean has a whole new take on writing romance - and it involves a chick-flick style of writing. If this was a movie, I bet I could get Geoff to watch it with me because of how fun the whole story is! Especially all the twists and turns, which I guarantee you will be surprised with! It is all that and a bag of chips... wait no a bag of marshmallows (seriously read it, you will get it!!)
THE ERICA LUCKE DEAN take on a ROMANCE NOVEL
ingredients:
1 boy
1 girl
1-6 shots
1 pair of dangerous boots
magnificent Sheets
kisses (sprinkle to taste)
1 secret and/or misunderstanding
1 bag of marshmallows
directions:
Pour shy girl into hot outfit and dangerous boots on her birthday and pour alcohol into girl
tip off hot boy that shy girl will be at said bar and suggest he come
have hot boy take care of drunk girl and pour her into magnificent sheets
add lunch (see food is involved) and dinner and a first kiss.. and more...
hot boy has a job but won't tell she girl who is falling in love with hot boy what it is.
add marshmallows, hot boys shirt and a security guard with a gun.. oh and sans panties, and what do you have?
To Katie with Love
To Katie with Love
5-
dnf
April 17, 2013Wasn't for me, but fans of Twilight and Shades will love it. It's the stalker hero who growls "you're mine" and has jealous tendencies and a weak heroine who doesn't seem to mind. Even the threat of job loss is okay because he promises to "get her another".
The writing is top-notch, the editing superb. It's just not my cuppa.
The writing is top-notch, the editing superb. It's just not my cuppa.
March 6, 2016
I received an eARC, from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
Katie James has just turned 29 and is still single but has a crush on her client for the last six months or so. While out with friends for drinking and karaoke for her birthday she sees Cooper Maxwell (her crush) come into the bar. The next morning she wakes up at Cooper's house with a handover. They start to talk and then start to go out. But Cooper seemed to be keeping a secret and is very hush hush about his job. This starts to get Katie thinking crazy things about what he does.
This is a really sweet and easy read. I really enjoyed this book.
Katie James has just turned 29 and is still single but has a crush on her client for the last six months or so. While out with friends for drinking and karaoke for her birthday she sees Cooper Maxwell (her crush) come into the bar. The next morning she wakes up at Cooper's house with a handover. They start to talk and then start to go out. But Cooper seemed to be keeping a secret and is very hush hush about his job. This starts to get Katie thinking crazy things about what he does.
This is a really sweet and easy read. I really enjoyed this book.
May 10, 2013
Romance novels have a basic formu … no, let’s call it something else. Time tested patterns. The basic blueprint is boy meets girls. Sparks fly (or sometimes just the opposite at first, but the sparks come before long). Then, we have the big misunderstanding (probably due to poor communication) and the couple seems headed their separate ways. Last, something causes them to realize they misunderstood each other, get back together and, go riding into the sunset. (Actually that last part is a Western. I wanted to make sure you were paying attention. Replace with “live happily ever after”)
But really, all novels fit a pattern. We’re so aware of it with Romance because of the relatively small number of templates for a novel; this is by far the most popular one. However, this means that for the story to feel fresh, an author has to come up with great characters and situations. They need to feel like real people. The situations have to be realistic. In To Katie With Love, Erica Lucke Dean came up with some great characters.
Katie is a character who should feel familiar to a big part of the target audience. In fact, many will see something of themselves in Katie. Other than the obvious gender difference, I did. She’s an avid reader, introverted, and will often choose a vicarious adventure in a romance novel over the alternatives on her social calendar. The people she works with are quirky, yet real enough to remind me of past co-workers. And her bank job gives her plenty of chances to meet men with both money and looks, especially the mysterious Cooper Maxwell.
The situations Katie gets herself into seem almost larger than life, yet not so much as to have me disbelieving. I was surprised multiple times as the story was working its way to a conclusion, never guessing the answer to the big question every reader is going to have by that point, nor guessing how (or even whether) Katie was going to get that ride into the sunset.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
But really, all novels fit a pattern. We’re so aware of it with Romance because of the relatively small number of templates for a novel; this is by far the most popular one. However, this means that for the story to feel fresh, an author has to come up with great characters and situations. They need to feel like real people. The situations have to be realistic. In To Katie With Love, Erica Lucke Dean came up with some great characters.
Katie is a character who should feel familiar to a big part of the target audience. In fact, many will see something of themselves in Katie. Other than the obvious gender difference, I did. She’s an avid reader, introverted, and will often choose a vicarious adventure in a romance novel over the alternatives on her social calendar. The people she works with are quirky, yet real enough to remind me of past co-workers. And her bank job gives her plenty of chances to meet men with both money and looks, especially the mysterious Cooper Maxwell.
The situations Katie gets herself into seem almost larger than life, yet not so much as to have me disbelieving. I was surprised multiple times as the story was working its way to a conclusion, never guessing the answer to the big question every reader is going to have by that point, nor guessing how (or even whether) Katie was going to get that ride into the sunset.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. **
May 1, 2013
What a fun and engaging read! This novel is infused with relatable humor, endearing characters, and plenty of twists and turns. I really connected with the main character, Katie James, who is shy and plucky at the same time. From her early awkward moments on, I enjoyed her evolution throughout the story.
Katie's love interest, Cooper Maxwell, proves an equally intriguing character. Ms. Dean does a great job of keeping the reader guessing about his background and motives throughout the story. Despite--or perhaps because of--his potential for performing dark deeds, he's the ultimate love interest.
Readers will enjoy plenty of laughs as this book's cast of characters takes them on a wild and crazy ride. If you like a fast-paced, well-written story and romance that makes your heart swoon, don't miss this book!
Katie's love interest, Cooper Maxwell, proves an equally intriguing character. Ms. Dean does a great job of keeping the reader guessing about his background and motives throughout the story. Despite--or perhaps because of--his potential for performing dark deeds, he's the ultimate love interest.
Readers will enjoy plenty of laughs as this book's cast of characters takes them on a wild and crazy ride. If you like a fast-paced, well-written story and romance that makes your heart swoon, don't miss this book!
February 26, 2015
Woo, plot twist.
The ending was the best part of the whole book.
Very real.
3.5 stars
The ending was the best part of the whole book.
Very real.
3.5 stars
May 1, 2013
I have been so excited since I heard Erica was writing this!!! When she asked me to review it and take part in the tour, I had to say yes!!! There may have been some happy jumping up and down....
I felt connected to Katie James. She's an avid reader who would rather be sitting in bed reading her favorite author, which is where she wanted to be on her birthday. I must say... there is nothing wrong with that, as I've done it!!! Anyhoo... she's not happy about being at the local karoke bar with her bank friends celebrating. She's even more annoyed at the semi-clad outfit her friend Silvia has picked out for her.
It's when she's on the stage singing, she notices Cooper Maxwell enter the bar. He's her client, she's very attracted to him. Little does she know, he feels the same way. At the urging her co-workers, much to her complete mortification, they invite him to the table. She's already feeling the effects of one too many shots, and Vicky.. I'll get to her later... makes it known she's VERY interested in Cooper herself.
When she awakes the next morning in Coopers bedroom, she doesn't know how to act. She's embarrassed about drinking so much, and her attraction for him is making her nervous. She does something at a turning point in their friendship, which honestly, is one of the funniest things I've ever read! Also... because I could see myself doing the exact thing!
She's determined to keep her distance, since he is her client and it would be unprofessional for them to get involved romantically. If only Cooper was decided on the line of thinking....
He makes it known that he's very interested in her, and he will stop at nothing to get Katie to go out with him. When she relents to a first date... I must say... I was jealous. This guy knows how to create an atmosphere for a first date!! It was amazing and romantic, and I totally wish my HB had thought about it for our first date.
One thing about Cooper... he's very secretive about what he does. Katie has now idea, and it's worrying her. Whenever she asks, he changes the subject or distracts as best he can. She knows it's a problem, but she likes him and overlooks it at the beginning.
If only her co-workers followed that same consideration. Vicky, I thought, was evil. She was constantly making comments about Cooper and how it was odd he wouldn't come clean about what he did for a living. When some powerful people start getting shot in Georgia and New York, Vicky is the first to tell Katie who might be responsible. Katie, who has a very vivid imagination, starts thinking she might be on to something.
When her mother states she's coming for an unexpected visit, Katie goes into panic mode. Her mother has never been a typical loving mother, and is always critical of Katie. She doesn't even believe her having a boyfriend, and comes to see for herself if he really exists. I felt horrible that she had to deal with someone that negative, and it gets worse after her mother makes her assumptions about Cooper.
Katie is filled with doubts about Cooper, and makes it known to him again she would like to know what he does for a living. He again refuses to tell her, but with her mother there filling her head with doubts it causes something to happen between her and Cooper that may not be repairable.
I loved this book!! I was laughing so much while reading it! I loved Katie's personality, because she was someone who I could relate to... trust me... I have been known to become involved in a book as well. Twilight anyone??
Now... onto Cooper!! I thought he was adorable, and his love for Katie was complete. I'm also jealous of his kitchen.... first time ever that I have salivated over a kitchen!!! I understood why he couldn't tell her what was going on, but in the end, he could have trusted her with his secret. She, of anyone, would have been able to keep it!
June 23, 2017
Elizabeth Jayne is Katie James’ favorite author. The vampire in her books is enough for her. She loves the happy endings and the characters in the books. She has decided that the books are much better than real life, flesh and blood men. Then she meets Copper Maxwell, her very rich and very secretive client. From the minute he walks into her birthday party Katie’s life is changed. Can she liver with the secrets and falling love with the mysterious Cooper?
I love everything about this novel. The characters are so entertaining. You get to know clumsy, curious, and shy Katie and watch her come out of her shell. I love that when she was trying to discover Coopers secrets that she compared herself to Stephanie Plum, one of my most favorite bounty hunters. The humor to me was as she started to believe what everyone was saying about Cooper. About where he got his money and why it was such a huge secret. She so wanted to believe that it was on the up and up, but then she would hear or see something and her imagination would run away with her.
Then there is her bank co-workers, with all their advice and muddling they kept me in stitches. Vicky, the sex maniac who told everyone exactly what she was thinking, reminded me of that friend that you see coming and want to turn the other way. Silvia was more of a mother figure to her and was really looking for Katie’s best interests. The rest of her co-workers were equally interesting.
Of course, I cannot forget Cooper. I started off loving him, oo-la-la, the romance. He had me right away. He had the right words, the right dates, the right car, and of course the right house. Most importantly he didn’t give up on getting that first date. Then I distrusted him with all his secrets. I couldn’t understand why his job was such a secret and his history was something that he would not talk about. I just knew that he was something that would shatter Katie and break her heart. By the end I could not help but love him again for never giving up on Katie. The secrets were told and Katie’s heart was not broken. He stood up to her mom and her co-workers.
I would definitely put this as chic-lit, but it has mystery, murder, and lots of giggles. This was a fun and entertaining read. I am highly recommending this novel.
I love everything about this novel. The characters are so entertaining. You get to know clumsy, curious, and shy Katie and watch her come out of her shell. I love that when she was trying to discover Coopers secrets that she compared herself to Stephanie Plum, one of my most favorite bounty hunters. The humor to me was as she started to believe what everyone was saying about Cooper. About where he got his money and why it was such a huge secret. She so wanted to believe that it was on the up and up, but then she would hear or see something and her imagination would run away with her.
Then there is her bank co-workers, with all their advice and muddling they kept me in stitches. Vicky, the sex maniac who told everyone exactly what she was thinking, reminded me of that friend that you see coming and want to turn the other way. Silvia was more of a mother figure to her and was really looking for Katie’s best interests. The rest of her co-workers were equally interesting.
Of course, I cannot forget Cooper. I started off loving him, oo-la-la, the romance. He had me right away. He had the right words, the right dates, the right car, and of course the right house. Most importantly he didn’t give up on getting that first date. Then I distrusted him with all his secrets. I couldn’t understand why his job was such a secret and his history was something that he would not talk about. I just knew that he was something that would shatter Katie and break her heart. By the end I could not help but love him again for never giving up on Katie. The secrets were told and Katie’s heart was not broken. He stood up to her mom and her co-workers.
I would definitely put this as chic-lit, but it has mystery, murder, and lots of giggles. This was a fun and entertaining read. I am highly recommending this novel.
May 3, 2013
This book was a breath of fresh air! I have never laughed so hard reading a romance story with lot's of twists and turns. Lord the whole idea of being in love with someone and afraid to tell them is so refreshing in a read. Lately we have this insta love thing going on with one minute they see each other and the next they are hooking up. I don't know about you but I like a little romance in my life and a little effort on the guys part. But this is where the book is so intriguing because there is no insta love and Katie has a secret crush on her client and when they are brought together socially they realize they both like each other but there are things that may keep them apart.
Katie has a huge crush on her client Cooper Maxwell. He is a mystery to her but she likes him all the same. He is gorgeous and every time Katie thinks about him she gets goose bumps. Then as luck would have it it is Katie's birthday and she is at the bar with her work friends celebrating when in comes Cooper. Katie is so nervous but her friends encourage her to talk to him and see what he is doing and invite him over to the table to have drinks. When Cooper agrees Katie is so nervous she drinks more and ends up in Coopers bed.
In the morning Katie has to do the walk of shame but Cooper is not hearing any of that and tells her he wants her. Cooper likes Katie and wants to date her. Katie decides she will give it a try but there is something so mysterious about Cooper. As time goes on she keeps asking him about his job but Cooper keeps it a secret and for good reason. But as we all know there is a nosy villainous co worker that keeps trying to add her 2 cents to the mix and makes Katie doubt poor cooper. If that is not enough Katie's crazy mother is coming to town and Katie does not want to deal with her. What unfolds from here is the crux of the story that I will not ruin for anyone but this is such a cute must read. I love a good romance and this is one of them and I look forward to more from Erica.
Katie has a huge crush on her client Cooper Maxwell. He is a mystery to her but she likes him all the same. He is gorgeous and every time Katie thinks about him she gets goose bumps. Then as luck would have it it is Katie's birthday and she is at the bar with her work friends celebrating when in comes Cooper. Katie is so nervous but her friends encourage her to talk to him and see what he is doing and invite him over to the table to have drinks. When Cooper agrees Katie is so nervous she drinks more and ends up in Coopers bed.
In the morning Katie has to do the walk of shame but Cooper is not hearing any of that and tells her he wants her. Cooper likes Katie and wants to date her. Katie decides she will give it a try but there is something so mysterious about Cooper. As time goes on she keeps asking him about his job but Cooper keeps it a secret and for good reason. But as we all know there is a nosy villainous co worker that keeps trying to add her 2 cents to the mix and makes Katie doubt poor cooper. If that is not enough Katie's crazy mother is coming to town and Katie does not want to deal with her. What unfolds from here is the crux of the story that I will not ruin for anyone but this is such a cute must read. I love a good romance and this is one of them and I look forward to more from Erica.
June 3, 2013
With non-stop humor, romance and a big ole secret waiting to be uncovered, Erica Lucke Dean's "To Katie with Love" is a perfect ten. This is a full length contemporary romance with a plot that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It was worth every turn of the page, as one of the funniest and most enjoyable reads I have had in a long while.
Ms. Dean fills this tale with quirky, sensational characters that add to the book's entertainment value. Our point of view is from her heroine Katie, who is so real I couldn't help but fall in love with her immediately. Katie adds a relateable element to an already well-developed line-up of characters. The caring and romantic, Cooper Maxwell is there to steam up Katie's life a bit and boy do they get hot together. Aside from being a swoon worthy sex-object, Cooper is everything a romance reader (or even just an average woman) could want in a man ... except there's that big secret of his.
That secret is the center of this book. The question should be easy to answer, so when Cooper avoids providing an explanation you'll put yourself in Katie's shoes and ask yourself, at what length would you be willing to love a man? When Katie's imagination turns to reality Ms. Dean begins to weave together an incredible story of intrigue and uncertain suspense. Using smart, down to Earth writing the plot flows so nicely that when it ends in high speed chaos you will be shocked, sad, angry, and then happy. The emotions you will feel about this book upon its completion will have you wondering if perhaps you are bipolar.
I can't say much more because I don't want to give anything away, but you will not see that ending coming. Do yourself a favor, and download this one at any cost. Ms. Dean doesn't disappoint.
(I was given a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I do not know her personally and my opinion was not persuaded by anything other than my own reading experience.)
Ms. Dean fills this tale with quirky, sensational characters that add to the book's entertainment value. Our point of view is from her heroine Katie, who is so real I couldn't help but fall in love with her immediately. Katie adds a relateable element to an already well-developed line-up of characters. The caring and romantic, Cooper Maxwell is there to steam up Katie's life a bit and boy do they get hot together. Aside from being a swoon worthy sex-object, Cooper is everything a romance reader (or even just an average woman) could want in a man ... except there's that big secret of his.
That secret is the center of this book. The question should be easy to answer, so when Cooper avoids providing an explanation you'll put yourself in Katie's shoes and ask yourself, at what length would you be willing to love a man? When Katie's imagination turns to reality Ms. Dean begins to weave together an incredible story of intrigue and uncertain suspense. Using smart, down to Earth writing the plot flows so nicely that when it ends in high speed chaos you will be shocked, sad, angry, and then happy. The emotions you will feel about this book upon its completion will have you wondering if perhaps you are bipolar.
I can't say much more because I don't want to give anything away, but you will not see that ending coming. Do yourself a favor, and download this one at any cost. Ms. Dean doesn't disappoint.
(I was given a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I do not know her personally and my opinion was not persuaded by anything other than my own reading experience.)
March 9, 2016
Overall rating: 3.5 stars
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with ow/om:
Intimate pasts:
Push/pull:
OM/ow drama:
HEA:
My review:
So why 3.5 stars? I liked this book and enjoyed it for the most part but didn't love it. I felt like, even though I loved Cooper, his secrecy was silly. I felt that Katie's doubts and who she thought Cooper really was was silly. And I am not a fan of fade to black sex scenes. This book did have a lot of them because neither character could keep their hands off of each other, but they were all fade to black. I felt that as passionate as Cooper was, that wasn't necessary. I needed more steam! I also felt after everything, we could have gotten more of a glimpse into the future. Don't get me wrong, I know this couple is the real deal, but it just fell kind of flat for me.
Overall this is a good, safe book that I would definitely recommend if you are looking for a light fairly quick read.
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with ow/om:
Intimate pasts:
Push/pull:
OM/ow drama:
HEA:
My review:
So why 3.5 stars? I liked this book and enjoyed it for the most part but didn't love it. I felt like, even though I loved Cooper, his secrecy was silly. I felt that Katie's doubts and who she thought Cooper really was was silly. And I am not a fan of fade to black sex scenes. This book did have a lot of them because neither character could keep their hands off of each other, but they were all fade to black. I felt that as passionate as Cooper was, that wasn't necessary. I needed more steam! I also felt after everything, we could have gotten more of a glimpse into the future. Don't get me wrong, I know this couple is the real deal, but it just fell kind of flat for me.
Overall this is a good, safe book that I would definitely recommend if you are looking for a light fairly quick read.
June 17, 2013
Katie James finds the perfect guy in Cooper Maxwell. He's handsome rich and has been secretly in love with her for a year. Katie falls head-over-heels but soon finds that Cooper has too many secrets. Getting few answers, she attempts to discover Cooper's secrets on her own leading to a few quirky situations. Then Katie's mom shows up and adventures occur at work.
The best part of this read was the last 25 pages or so. The rest was mildly entertaining at best and irritating at its worst. My biggest issue is that it took till about page 100 for the conflict to pop up. Until then we get lots of insta-love and a lot of back and forth where nothing really happens. Characters run into each other, fall in love, and go to work (at least Katie does). Even when Katie is at work, nothing really happens. Things progress a little better as soon as Katie starts to wonder about Cooper's job. The conclusions she jumps to is a bit flimsy for my taste. The irritating mom component didn't entertain me either. Or maybe the problem is that Cooper was too perfect and too nice that he didn't seem real. I enjoyed the end because it was unexpected and liked that Cooper's secret was actually a reasonable secret. I could understand why he needed to keep it a secret and I found his secret pretty fun. For me, this read needed better character and plot development to make this one entertaining and remotely believable. Overall, the end prevented this from being a complete wash for me.
The best part of this read was the last 25 pages or so. The rest was mildly entertaining at best and irritating at its worst. My biggest issue is that it took till about page 100 for the conflict to pop up. Until then we get lots of insta-love and a lot of back and forth where nothing really happens. Characters run into each other, fall in love, and go to work (at least Katie does). Even when Katie is at work, nothing really happens. Things progress a little better as soon as Katie starts to wonder about Cooper's job. The conclusions she jumps to is a bit flimsy for my taste. The irritating mom component didn't entertain me either. Or maybe the problem is that Cooper was too perfect and too nice that he didn't seem real. I enjoyed the end because it was unexpected and liked that Cooper's secret was actually a reasonable secret. I could understand why he needed to keep it a secret and I found his secret pretty fun. For me, this read needed better character and plot development to make this one entertaining and remotely believable. Overall, the end prevented this from being a complete wash for me.
August 1, 2014
To Katie With Love is a great romantic comedy full of random hilarity and mystery. Katie is such a fun character that I had no problems relating to. I couldn’t help but feel like I was right along with her letting my mind work into overdrive creating zany problems for myself. The characters were so lively and fun. Katie and Silvia were cracking me up, although I did want to slap Vicky around. Overall her friends were great and quirky, and I couldn’t help but chuckle at their crazy antics.
I loved the fact that Cooper and Katie had a history together prior to their romance. A history that seemed to get Katie in more trouble since she had access to his bank records as his banker. The only downside to their relationship is that Cooper is secretive about his job, which causes all the insanity to ensue!
This book made me laugh out loud on several occurrences, earning me weird looks from my family. Katie’s growth as she gains more confidence in herself is hidden in the midst of her Nancy Drew behavior, but it’s still there. By the time the book ends, she’s a strong woman that has no problems standing up for herself. This was such a change from the meek, romance reader that we’re introduced to.
Overall, this book is a great way to spend a summer day! This cast of loveable characters will keep you occupied long after the sun goes down! Read it!
Note: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the fact that Cooper and Katie had a history together prior to their romance. A history that seemed to get Katie in more trouble since she had access to his bank records as his banker. The only downside to their relationship is that Cooper is secretive about his job, which causes all the insanity to ensue!
This book made me laugh out loud on several occurrences, earning me weird looks from my family. Katie’s growth as she gains more confidence in herself is hidden in the midst of her Nancy Drew behavior, but it’s still there. By the time the book ends, she’s a strong woman that has no problems standing up for herself. This was such a change from the meek, romance reader that we’re introduced to.
Overall, this book is a great way to spend a summer day! This cast of loveable characters will keep you occupied long after the sun goes down! Read it!
Note: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 9, 2013
Brimming with humor and suspense, TO KATIE WITH LOVE will really knock your socks off. With an ending that you won’t see coming and a lot of laugh-out-loud moments, Erica Lucke Dean will entice you to quickly turn the pages to find out what happens next.
Katie James just turned 29 and to celebrate her special day, she and a group of her coworkers have gone to the local karaoke bar. Katie really isn’t much of a party girl. She would rather spend her time with her pretend boyfriend who lives in the pages of a romance novel.
Her friends have decided that Katie needs to find a real man and leave her imaginary boyfriend behind. There doesn’t appear to be any men in the bar who spark Katie’s interest until she gets onstage to sing. Then suddenly in walks a tall, gorgeous hunk that Katie can’t take her eyes off.
Cooper Maxwell has known Katie as his banker for the last year. He is invited over to the group’s table by one of Katie’s coworkers. It doesn’t take long for Cooper and Katie to cozy up to one another. Because Katie doesn’t usually drink, it doesn’t take much for her to become inebriated. The next thing Katie knows she is waking up from the most wonderful dream where she and Cooper share a tantalizing kiss.
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April 4, 2016
Title: To Katie With Love
Author: Erica Lucke Dean
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Format: Ebook
Pages: 274
Rating: 5
Main Characters: Katie, Cooper
Supporting Characters: Silvia, Vivian, Phil
Summary: Banker Katie, a romance novel junkie, would rather stay home with a fictional boyfriend and imaginary cat than go find a real man. That is until the night of her 29th birthday bash with her co-workers at a karaoke bar. In walks one of her clients, Cooper, not wearing his usual suit and looking sexy as sin. As things heat up between them, secrets are driving Katie’s imagination wild to where she believes that her new boyfriend is an assassin. What could possibly happen next?
Thoughts: I absolutely LOVED this story. Laugh out loud perfection! This had mystery, humor, love, and excitement. Katie is a total klutz, she’ll trip on air, which just makes her so adorkable that you can’t help but love her while you laugh at her. Cooper, so mysterious, yet so freaking romantic I ended up being a puddle on the floor I don’t know how many times. Ms. Dean has become one of my favorite authors! I so enjoy the humor, quirkiness, hotness, and just fun story with every book I’ve read so far.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Author: Erica Lucke Dean
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Format: Ebook
Pages: 274
Rating: 5
Main Characters: Katie, Cooper
Supporting Characters: Silvia, Vivian, Phil
Summary: Banker Katie, a romance novel junkie, would rather stay home with a fictional boyfriend and imaginary cat than go find a real man. That is until the night of her 29th birthday bash with her co-workers at a karaoke bar. In walks one of her clients, Cooper, not wearing his usual suit and looking sexy as sin. As things heat up between them, secrets are driving Katie’s imagination wild to where she believes that her new boyfriend is an assassin. What could possibly happen next?
Thoughts: I absolutely LOVED this story. Laugh out loud perfection! This had mystery, humor, love, and excitement. Katie is a total klutz, she’ll trip on air, which just makes her so adorkable that you can’t help but love her while you laugh at her. Cooper, so mysterious, yet so freaking romantic I ended up being a puddle on the floor I don’t know how many times. Ms. Dean has become one of my favorite authors! I so enjoy the humor, quirkiness, hotness, and just fun story with every book I’ve read so far.
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2013
Dean threw me back into that tentative, insecure mental framework of a young woman early in her career and still uncertain about how to define herself, let alone a good, healthy relationship. Her protagonist's headlong dive into a relationship is both predictable and realistic, but Dean writes in enough twists to make the culmination of the story a unique take on the happily ever after required by the romance genre. The pace was fast, the writing smart and true-to-life, and each chapter had at least one moment of laughter. It’s a classic bit of humorous chick lit that plays with tropes and expectations in a clever way, using language that further supports Dean’s characters’ development.
For anyone who enjoys contemporary romances with a hint of mystery and a tongue-in-cheek approach, this book is worth the price of admission. Run and enjoy a fun, afternoon read.
**Received ARC for review purposes.
For anyone who enjoys contemporary romances with a hint of mystery and a tongue-in-cheek approach, this book is worth the price of admission. Run and enjoy a fun, afternoon read.
**Received ARC for review purposes.
October 25, 2013
Why, why, why is everyone giving this 5 Stars? Um no. I want to say 3.5 stars, because I definitely liked it, but 5, no way. I'm going with 4 because it's the happy medium, and this book kept me going with interest and laughter. I honestly didn't figure out the "big mystery" till like the last 10 pages. And that's worth something.
And it just wouldn't be me if I didn't give you my gods honest opinion that there was way, way, way too much goo-go-ga-ga, lovey-dovey between Katie and Cooper. There was nothing hot about that, romantic and sweet at first but then, just too thick and syrupy. Gah! Bring on dark, mysterious and brooding any day.
And it just wouldn't be me if I didn't give you my gods honest opinion that there was way, way, way too much goo-go-ga-ga, lovey-dovey between Katie and Cooper. There was nothing hot about that, romantic and sweet at first but then, just too thick and syrupy. Gah! Bring on dark, mysterious and brooding any day.
April 29, 2013
Solid writing, engaging plot, fun flirty romance, and a few unexpected twists. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun, romantic romp.
May 7, 2013
Read this book and loved it. It's a wonderfully warm and funny read. love cooper! This book was given to me for my review on another site.
May 20, 2013
Katie James is not a social butterfly. A bit of a klutz, she'd rather curl up with her book boyfriend - the 700-year-old vampire - than deal with real-life men who are never interested in "a shy banker with too many hours on her hourglass figure". Well, there was one man who'd captured her attention ... her super rich, super sexy, and super off-limits client, Cooper Maxwell.
In honor of her 29th birthday, Katie's co-workers dress her up in a skimpy outfit, drag her to their favorite karaoke bar, ply her with shots, and shove her up on stage. Barely two bars into her song, she looks out through the lights at the most incredible man she has ever seen. When he turns around, her heart doesn't know whether to stop or leap out of her chest: Cooper Maxwell?!
And, from there, things spiral into everything a 29th birthday should never be; culminating with Katie, in Cooper's bedroom, throwing up on his feet.
Somehow they manage to not only get past this horrific evening, but fall headfirst into a relationship. Unfortunately, Cooper is less than forthcoming with certain aspects of his life. All it takes is overhearing a couple of phone conversations, an interfering mother, and Katie's imagination takes flight.
Little did she know, reality was about to get a lot worse than she could ever have imagined.
I have to admit - this was just a fun read, start to finish. Katie is confused and lost, and completely relateable. Although, at 29, one would expect her to be a little less ... high school ... about everything. I guess that's what happens when your social 'evolution' comes via romance novels.
The secondary characters - Katie's coworkers - were so real, they made me cringe. We've all worked with, or been, someone exactly like Vicky or Sylvia or June. And, heaven help us, some of us have had mothers who simply couldn't say something nice if their lives depended on it.
Absolutely loved the ending. But, Ms. Dean? I still wanna know about the peppermint breath. Please?
~*~*~
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary electronic copy of this book from the publisher, Red Adept Publishing [...]. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
In honor of her 29th birthday, Katie's co-workers dress her up in a skimpy outfit, drag her to their favorite karaoke bar, ply her with shots, and shove her up on stage. Barely two bars into her song, she looks out through the lights at the most incredible man she has ever seen. When he turns around, her heart doesn't know whether to stop or leap out of her chest: Cooper Maxwell?!
And, from there, things spiral into everything a 29th birthday should never be; culminating with Katie, in Cooper's bedroom, throwing up on his feet.
Somehow they manage to not only get past this horrific evening, but fall headfirst into a relationship. Unfortunately, Cooper is less than forthcoming with certain aspects of his life. All it takes is overhearing a couple of phone conversations, an interfering mother, and Katie's imagination takes flight.
Little did she know, reality was about to get a lot worse than she could ever have imagined.
I have to admit - this was just a fun read, start to finish. Katie is confused and lost, and completely relateable. Although, at 29, one would expect her to be a little less ... high school ... about everything. I guess that's what happens when your social 'evolution' comes via romance novels.
The secondary characters - Katie's coworkers - were so real, they made me cringe. We've all worked with, or been, someone exactly like Vicky or Sylvia or June. And, heaven help us, some of us have had mothers who simply couldn't say something nice if their lives depended on it.
Absolutely loved the ending. But, Ms. Dean? I still wanna know about the peppermint breath. Please?
~*~*~
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary electronic copy of this book from the publisher, Red Adept Publishing [...]. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
July 28, 2013
How Erica Lucke Dean managed to get wit, mystery, romance, gut splitting laughter and toe curling moments into one book is beyond me. But... she managed it. Katie is fun loving and a character one is easy to relate to. Cooper Maxwell is just one mysterious surprise after another. I am sure most can relate to the co-workers she has and even to the overbearing aloof mother. Even when you think you know where the plot is going...there is a twist and a turn and you find you were wrong.
I loved this book, the characters the story and most of all the surprise ending. I hope to see more from this author and I hope to see it soon. I most especially liked and appreciated how the characters are written and how they unfold where you get to know them and even laugh with them.
What's it all about? Well I can't tell you all I can however tell you the basics.
Katie James is a woman with a reading problem. The problem being that it is all she has and does in personal life. By day she works at a bank and by night she is dreaming of the men in her books. That is until her co-workers take her out for her birthday and there her life begins to change.
Oh but it's not the usual romance of being swept off your feet, oh no, not Katie. Things are not that easy.
Add the mixture of a handsome client, nosy co-workers, nerve racking mother, margaritas, karaoke, guns and clumsiness to boot... you get Katie's life thereafter.
After spending a few months reading horror and paranormal books, this was not only a refreshing change but a respite for me during a very hectic, stressful and horrible week. To Katie With Love became therapy, a way to escape and remember things like romance, fun, laughter, hope, mystery and good old fashion love.
Don't let the summer end without getting your copy of this book.
May 10, 2015
4.5
Banker Katie James has a serious obsession with romance novels. On her 29th birthday she’d rather be home reading one of her books, but her coworkers have persuaded her to celebrate with them at a local bar. Pushed into singing karaoke, it’s while she’s belting out a song that her crush walks in. Cooper Maxwell is one of her bank clients and one hot hunk of man. As a client he’s also off-limits even if she thought he was interested in her. The way he’s staring at her right at that moment though makes her wonder if it’s possible he is interested. Getting drunk, waking up at his house and barfing on his feet weren’t really in her plans, but somehow they adapt, overcome and start a whirlwind romance to rival any in some measly book. Katie’s life would be perfect if he would only stop dodging her questions about what he actually does for a living because clues are piling up and she fears she’s falling in love with a paid assassin.
Well-written, fast-moving and smooth-flowing with excellent characters this story is great entertainment. Cooper is hunky and mostly sure of himself except when it comes to Katie. Katie, after a lifetime of being put down by her mother, has low self-esteem and is finding it very hard to believe that Cooper is interested in her. Their mutual nervousness is endearing and yet so much fun to watch. Steamy without being graphic the sex scenes make me feel like a voyeur. Yum! For an afternoon of humorous delight I recommend picking this one up.
*Book source ~ Many thanks to Red Adept Publishing for providing me with a review copy. Please see disclaimer page on my blog.
Banker Katie James has a serious obsession with romance novels. On her 29th birthday she’d rather be home reading one of her books, but her coworkers have persuaded her to celebrate with them at a local bar. Pushed into singing karaoke, it’s while she’s belting out a song that her crush walks in. Cooper Maxwell is one of her bank clients and one hot hunk of man. As a client he’s also off-limits even if she thought he was interested in her. The way he’s staring at her right at that moment though makes her wonder if it’s possible he is interested. Getting drunk, waking up at his house and barfing on his feet weren’t really in her plans, but somehow they adapt, overcome and start a whirlwind romance to rival any in some measly book. Katie’s life would be perfect if he would only stop dodging her questions about what he actually does for a living because clues are piling up and she fears she’s falling in love with a paid assassin.
Well-written, fast-moving and smooth-flowing with excellent characters this story is great entertainment. Cooper is hunky and mostly sure of himself except when it comes to Katie. Katie, after a lifetime of being put down by her mother, has low self-esteem and is finding it very hard to believe that Cooper is interested in her. Their mutual nervousness is endearing and yet so much fun to watch. Steamy without being graphic the sex scenes make me feel like a voyeur. Yum! For an afternoon of humorous delight I recommend picking this one up.
*Book source ~ Many thanks to Red Adept Publishing for providing me with a review copy. Please see disclaimer page on my blog.
March 10, 2016
To Katie With Love by Erica Lucke Dean has to be one of the most quirky and fun romance novels that I have read this year.
The heroine, Katie James, was a lovable klutz that was so relatable. I could actually relate to this woman who would rather be at home reading than at a bar with friends/co-workers or on a date with a "real" man. Cooper Maxwell is tall, dark, handsome and mysterious. No one at the bank where Katie works seems to know what he does for a living. Which brings up a possible conflict of interest as he is one of her clients. Although she's had a crush on him for months, she's always
remained professional during their weekly meetings. However, he's often in her thoughts and her romance fueled fantasies.
The plot was fast paced and there were so many humorous moments that I was laughing throughout the book. The secondary characters, her friends/co-workers and her mother, were also likable and very relatable. Well, maybe not her mother as I didn't like her very much. One co-worker in particular was a little over the top. She was often the catalyst behind Katie's wild imaginings about Cooper and his secrets. I have known several people that I could easily see fit in these characters shoes. Ms. Dean wrote a terrific ending to this story. I never saw the twist coming and I have to confess that I did cheer for Katie and Cooper at the end.
I received an ARC from Red Adept Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed in my review are my own.
The heroine, Katie James, was a lovable klutz that was so relatable. I could actually relate to this woman who would rather be at home reading than at a bar with friends/co-workers or on a date with a "real" man. Cooper Maxwell is tall, dark, handsome and mysterious. No one at the bank where Katie works seems to know what he does for a living. Which brings up a possible conflict of interest as he is one of her clients. Although she's had a crush on him for months, she's always
remained professional during their weekly meetings. However, he's often in her thoughts and her romance fueled fantasies.
The plot was fast paced and there were so many humorous moments that I was laughing throughout the book. The secondary characters, her friends/co-workers and her mother, were also likable and very relatable. Well, maybe not her mother as I didn't like her very much. One co-worker in particular was a little over the top. She was often the catalyst behind Katie's wild imaginings about Cooper and his secrets. I have known several people that I could easily see fit in these characters shoes. Ms. Dean wrote a terrific ending to this story. I never saw the twist coming and I have to confess that I did cheer for Katie and Cooper at the end.
I received an ARC from Red Adept Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed in my review are my own.
May 16, 2013
Imagine being out with your colleagues from work on your birthday and the man you have secretly admired for months shows up and can't take his eyes off you. This is how we first meet Katie James, an ultra conservative banker by day and romance novel reader by night. Katie would much rather stay at home and read a book than join her co-workers for a drink.
The man of Katie's dreams is one of her clients, Cooper Maxwell. Cooper is charming, confident, sexy and smitten with Katie. A relationship developes between them, but Katie discovers Cooper has secrets.
Katie's mother is a constant irritant to Katie because of her continual nagging and negative remarks. Even though Katie is smart and successful, she lacks self confidence due to her mother.
Katie works with an interesting cast of characters at the bank and they are a wonderful addition to the story with their hilarious antics and quirky personalities. There is never a dull moment at the bank, including another client who is attracted to Katie. Who knew there was so much going on behind the scenes of a bank?
Cooper and Katie are likable characters with loads of sexual tension between them. This delightful contemporary romance has it all, witty dialogue, great characters and an engaging story. This is a laugh out loud book that I didn't want to put down.
Reviewed by Karen for Cocktails and Books
The man of Katie's dreams is one of her clients, Cooper Maxwell. Cooper is charming, confident, sexy and smitten with Katie. A relationship developes between them, but Katie discovers Cooper has secrets.
Katie's mother is a constant irritant to Katie because of her continual nagging and negative remarks. Even though Katie is smart and successful, she lacks self confidence due to her mother.
Katie works with an interesting cast of characters at the bank and they are a wonderful addition to the story with their hilarious antics and quirky personalities. There is never a dull moment at the bank, including another client who is attracted to Katie. Who knew there was so much going on behind the scenes of a bank?
Cooper and Katie are likable characters with loads of sexual tension between them. This delightful contemporary romance has it all, witty dialogue, great characters and an engaging story. This is a laugh out loud book that I didn't want to put down.
Reviewed by Karen for Cocktails and Books
June 4, 2013
Katie James gets herself into all kinds of trouble, in Erica Lucke Dean's debut novel"To Katie With Love". I really felt myself connecting and cheering for (and sometimes yelling at) Katie. She's an accident prone, book nerd who would rather spend time with the characters in books than the zany cast of characters in her real life.
Things get out of hand for Katie quite quickly and readers are taken on a fun and mysterious journey into the arms of a romance she only once thought possible in between the covers of her books.
Katie is real and funny. The book is written in first person which gives readers insight into James' quirky mind. I found myself chuckling at her train of thought and shaking my head...oh, Katie...
The rest of the cast of characters are really well rounded. They're funny, strange, and loveable.
Overall I really enjoyed the book. I read it quickly and it kept my attention, into the wee hours of the morning.
As other reviewers have mentioned, this book would be considered chick-lit, but there are also elements of romance and suspense. I liked the blending of genres. The plot was paced well and I loved the ending.
Wonderful debut novel by Erica Lucke Dean! I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Things get out of hand for Katie quite quickly and readers are taken on a fun and mysterious journey into the arms of a romance she only once thought possible in between the covers of her books.
Katie is real and funny. The book is written in first person which gives readers insight into James' quirky mind. I found myself chuckling at her train of thought and shaking my head...oh, Katie...
The rest of the cast of characters are really well rounded. They're funny, strange, and loveable.
Overall I really enjoyed the book. I read it quickly and it kept my attention, into the wee hours of the morning.
As other reviewers have mentioned, this book would be considered chick-lit, but there are also elements of romance and suspense. I liked the blending of genres. The plot was paced well and I loved the ending.
Wonderful debut novel by Erica Lucke Dean! I look forward to reading more books by this author.
July 9, 2013
A novel that has a bit of everything. Chick lit romance, mystery, adventure, excitement, enticing scenes, and loveable characters. Katie loved books. She loved them so much that she wanted her man to be “the perfect man” right out of her favorite book. Well.. one night on her 29th birthday Katie comes face to face with this man BUT he is COMPLETELY off limits.
Throughout the entire book I kept asking myself question after question. Would Katie and Cooper be able to make things work? Was Cooper her knight in shining armor or just a killer? The twist and turns of this novel are written exceptionanny well by Erica Dean and she has you completely fooled right up to the very last pages. NOW that is MY kind of novel.
Not your typical Chick Lit novel. A definate must read. You will be asking yourself the question “Is this REALLY Erica Lucke Dean’s first novel? I know the answer and I was still unsure. Anticipating a new novel soon from this awesome break-through author.
Throughout the entire book I kept asking myself question after question. Would Katie and Cooper be able to make things work? Was Cooper her knight in shining armor or just a killer? The twist and turns of this novel are written exceptionanny well by Erica Dean and she has you completely fooled right up to the very last pages. NOW that is MY kind of novel.
Not your typical Chick Lit novel. A definate must read. You will be asking yourself the question “Is this REALLY Erica Lucke Dean’s first novel? I know the answer and I was still unsure. Anticipating a new novel soon from this awesome break-through author.
May 23, 2013
Such a cute and quirky romance! I can totally see myself doing the some of the things that Katie James does because she is that kind of character. She is normal woman who can’t find her Prince Charming so she goes home to her imaginary cat and rereads her favorite romance novels. Then how she deals with falling for Cooper, I totally get her!
All during the book I kept going back and forth. Was Cooper a spy, does he worked for a secret government agency or maybe he was a hit man after all. I have to say what he really does is so completely not what I had expected. What surprised me even more was the way this book ended, I did not expect that!
So if you are looking for a fun romance that keeps you on your toes, well you will enjoy To Katie With Love!
All during the book I kept going back and forth. Was Cooper a spy, does he worked for a secret government agency or maybe he was a hit man after all. I have to say what he really does is so completely not what I had expected. What surprised me even more was the way this book ended, I did not expect that!
So if you are looking for a fun romance that keeps you on your toes, well you will enjoy To Katie With Love!
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