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Those Scandalous Caffarellis #2
Never Underestimate a Caffarelli: A Billionaire Bad Boy Contemporary Romance
* Has this Caffarelli finally met his match? Millionaire playboy Raoul Caffarelli has always lived life in the fast lane. But when an accident confines him to a wheelchair--and to the care of a woman whose beauty taunts him--he's consumed with rage and frustration. Used to difficult patients, physical therapist Lily Archer won't be cowed by Raoul's arrogance or distracted by his Adonis-like physique. Carrying her own scars from the past, Lily has vowed never to relinquish her power to a man again. Both underestimate the power of the shared passion between them. Their physical scars may heal, but some wounds run much deeper....
187 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 17, 2013
57 people are currently reading
211 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Milburne
1,159 books396 followersI grew up on a small farm on the outskirts of Sydney and as a keen horse rider, often competed in local gymkhanas and even broke in a few horses from time to time. As I was surrounded by animals, I decided at an early age to become a nurse, however I couldn’t stand the sight of blood and so opted for a career in teaching. It’s a bit ironic that I married a surgeon.
I read my first Mills & Boon novel when I was 17 and that encouraged me to continue reading romance novels; the lure of the tall dark handsome hero, who in reality I fell in love with and knew I was going to marry on our second date! After marrying a year later, we moved to Scotland with our six week old baby so my husband could work and study for his MD in surgery. After the birth of our second son we came back to Australia to settle in Tasmania.
I went back to University and up-graded my teaching diploma to a degree and then went on to do a Masters but still I felt as if something was missing. I sat down one day and began writing and everything clicked into place - I had finally found ‘my brilliant career’! I used to write from instinct rather than a specific plan, but now, so many books later I find a loose plan doesn't go astray. An idea will pop into my head, sometimes it will be just a simple phrase or a what if question and I'm away.
Writing is a skill that can be learned and the best way to learn it is to read and to write. So many people feel they have a novel in them and very probably they are right-the only trick is to get it out. My advice to ‘would be’ writers is to write, write, and write even more. Carry a notebook at all times and jot down ideas. And like any other activity the more you do, the more it feels comfortable.
I hope you enjoy my stories and look forward to hearing from you.
I read my first Mills & Boon novel when I was 17 and that encouraged me to continue reading romance novels; the lure of the tall dark handsome hero, who in reality I fell in love with and knew I was going to marry on our second date! After marrying a year later, we moved to Scotland with our six week old baby so my husband could work and study for his MD in surgery. After the birth of our second son we came back to Australia to settle in Tasmania.
I went back to University and up-graded my teaching diploma to a degree and then went on to do a Masters but still I felt as if something was missing. I sat down one day and began writing and everything clicked into place - I had finally found ‘my brilliant career’! I used to write from instinct rather than a specific plan, but now, so many books later I find a loose plan doesn't go astray. An idea will pop into my head, sometimes it will be just a simple phrase or a what if question and I'm away.
Writing is a skill that can be learned and the best way to learn it is to read and to write. So many people feel they have a novel in them and very probably they are right-the only trick is to get it out. My advice to ‘would be’ writers is to write, write, and write even more. Carry a notebook at all times and jot down ideas. And like any other activity the more you do, the more it feels comfortable.
I hope you enjoy my stories and look forward to hearing from you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
December 19, 2016
I'm not a fan of nurse/patient romances - in this case - physiotherapist/patient. And I'm still not after reading this story.
The hero was full of self-pity and went on and on about it - in his thoughts and in his dialogue. I mean, he never let up until the last page. The only thing that broke up his pity party was psychoanalyzing the heroine who had been date raped five years before. She has visible scars on her arms and thighs from the cutting she had done after the rape (which was never reported). She didn't seek therapy, either. She just dressed dowdily until she could avail herself of sexual healing from the hero.
*sigh* There was so much angst for angst sake - including the black moment when the heroine was hit in the face with the bridal bouquet at the hero's brother's wedding (H/h from book one in this series). The hero thought she caught it on purpose to trap him, so he broke it off with her. Of course he returns two weeks later on crutches to propose and she takes him right back.
All the set pieces felt manufactured and ridiculous. For example: The hero is paralyzed, but he can get in and out of a swimming pool by himself? He has nightmares about drowning but he's in the pool at night putting the moves on the heroine? Same with riding his stallion. Doesn't riding require different muscles than swimming? Plus he's got a broken right arm - so is he just holding the reins with his left hand? Who knows. I didn't believe any of it.
The hero was full of self-pity and went on and on about it - in his thoughts and in his dialogue. I mean, he never let up until the last page. The only thing that broke up his pity party was psychoanalyzing the heroine who had been date raped five years before. She has visible scars on her arms and thighs from the cutting she had done after the rape (which was never reported). She didn't seek therapy, either. She just dressed dowdily until she could avail herself of sexual healing from the hero.
*sigh* There was so much angst for angst sake - including the black moment when the heroine was hit in the face with the bridal bouquet at the hero's brother's wedding (H/h from book one in this series). The hero thought she caught it on purpose to trap him, so he broke it off with her. Of course he returns two weeks later on crutches to propose and she takes him right back.
All the set pieces felt manufactured and ridiculous. For example: The hero is paralyzed, but he can get in and out of a swimming pool by himself? He has nightmares about drowning but he's in the pool at night putting the moves on the heroine? Same with riding his stallion. Doesn't riding require different muscles than swimming? Plus he's got a broken right arm - so is he just holding the reins with his left hand? Who knows. I didn't believe any of it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2013
3.5 stars
Second entry to The Caffarelli Brothers series. This one has more drama, more pain and torment. The characters are strong and real, struggling with their own demons.
MM does a wonderful job describing the very realistic pain and frustration of Raoul, an active playboy in his prime after a bad accident confined him in a wheelchair. Raoul is having difficulty coping with his injury and is struggling with the restraints of his body.
The author also describes the effects of the very traumatic experience Lily suffered on her 21 anniversary ( she had forced sex with her best friend's very drunk brother who didn't even remember what he had done ). Self- injury was her way to cope with the emotional pain, the anger and the frustration. From a confident, upbeat young woman she became introvert, shy and unsure of herself.
Lily is the physical therapist assigned by Rafe, Raoul brother, to help him get back to his feet. Raoul resents her presence and doesn't hesitate to express his resentment loud and clear. Sparks fly from the first encounter. And the attraction is hard to ignore. Raoul is intrigued by lily's uptight appearance and by the passion she keeps under a tight leash. As she gets to know Raoul, lily discovers that he has more depth than the playboy image she had of him.
Can these two damaged persons help heal each other ?
Second entry to The Caffarelli Brothers series. This one has more drama, more pain and torment. The characters are strong and real, struggling with their own demons.
MM does a wonderful job describing the very realistic pain and frustration of Raoul, an active playboy in his prime after a bad accident confined him in a wheelchair. Raoul is having difficulty coping with his injury and is struggling with the restraints of his body.
The author also describes the effects of the very traumatic experience Lily suffered on her 21 anniversary ( she had forced sex with her best friend's very drunk brother who didn't even remember what he had done ). Self- injury was her way to cope with the emotional pain, the anger and the frustration. From a confident, upbeat young woman she became introvert, shy and unsure of herself.
Lily is the physical therapist assigned by Rafe, Raoul brother, to help him get back to his feet. Raoul resents her presence and doesn't hesitate to express his resentment loud and clear. Sparks fly from the first encounter. And the attraction is hard to ignore. Raoul is intrigued by lily's uptight appearance and by the passion she keeps under a tight leash. As she gets to know Raoul, lily discovers that he has more depth than the playboy image she had of him.
Can these two damaged persons help heal each other ?
September 15, 2013
For anyone who has ever heard the words " Never underestimate the power of love" and thought the words are hollow and meaningless for love can surely never bring someone back from the deepest darkest depths of despair and depression, have never experienced it for themselves or they would know that not only can it free you from depression but it can give you more hope, strength and courage for life than you ever imagined.
Every-time it happens the world gains a little more insight into the meaning of the words, and in the new Melanie Milburne read the author clearly showed just how much brighter the world is when the power of love takes over.
The read is about Lily, physical therapist use to working with some of the toughest clients to ensure they find their feet again. So when asked to pull the notorious badboy Raoul Caffarelli out from his slump and help him to stand his ground again she sees no problem, his arrogance will be dealt with and his delicious touch-me-everywhere-I-know-you-want-to body won't be a temptation at all.
But when getting up close and personal to the once bedded-everything-wearing-a-skirt badboy she finds a man with scars running just as deep as her own and soon she finds herself trapped in a world of love and passion she simply does not want to let go of, only Raoul looks at himself and only sees the wheelchair he is now confined to and not the man he truly can be for Lily, and he hardens himself against feelings he does not need nor want, but once Lily is in his arms all his arguments seem invalid.
The character of Lily was strong and defensive to protect her wounds from the past, making her very realistic as she blames herself for what happened to her, yet also brings up the walls of defense to ensure it does not happen again. This showed her as we all are, we get past the moment by building walls and staying strong but we never really get over the moment instead we hold onto the past and that is what leads to our actions in life.
The character of Raoul was really neat he was a badboy but the not the biker driving getting drunk taking whatever he wants kind more the I get what I want simply because of my name and the power it holds. The author knocking him off his feet and effectively from his high and mighty pedestal linked back to real life and the very real truth that no matter who you are or how powerful you may be, tragedy can happen at any minute and no amount of money will be able to buy your way out of it.
The backdrop settings and dialogue was perfect for this read, it all blended beautifully with the characters and their emotional upset's. It was a heartfelt, passionate and sensual read with a message of the past is the past do not let it control your future and when tragedy comes your way it is life's way of telling you to come back down to earth so that you can see what you have been missing.
I highly recommend this read for all fans of Melanie Milburne books,with characters that are so strong and real that it feels as if the author truly delves into their souls to get behind the masks of pain.
In book one of this series it felt as if the author had lost her charm and heat always found in her books, but I am very happy to report the author is back and with a true emotional bang!
This read had me in tears both of joy and sorrow, the emotions of the characters were so powerful it felt as if I could touch Lily's pain, feel her scars and experience the turmoil Raoul goes through. A truly delicious, compassionate, heartwarming story of just how strong love can be. Truly excellent work Melanie keep it coming!
5/5 star review
" Never underestimate what lies beneath the layers of hurt and anger"
Every-time it happens the world gains a little more insight into the meaning of the words, and in the new Melanie Milburne read the author clearly showed just how much brighter the world is when the power of love takes over.
The read is about Lily, physical therapist use to working with some of the toughest clients to ensure they find their feet again. So when asked to pull the notorious badboy Raoul Caffarelli out from his slump and help him to stand his ground again she sees no problem, his arrogance will be dealt with and his delicious touch-me-everywhere-I-know-you-want-to body won't be a temptation at all.
But when getting up close and personal to the once bedded-everything-wearing-a-skirt badboy she finds a man with scars running just as deep as her own and soon she finds herself trapped in a world of love and passion she simply does not want to let go of, only Raoul looks at himself and only sees the wheelchair he is now confined to and not the man he truly can be for Lily, and he hardens himself against feelings he does not need nor want, but once Lily is in his arms all his arguments seem invalid.
The character of Lily was strong and defensive to protect her wounds from the past, making her very realistic as she blames herself for what happened to her, yet also brings up the walls of defense to ensure it does not happen again. This showed her as we all are, we get past the moment by building walls and staying strong but we never really get over the moment instead we hold onto the past and that is what leads to our actions in life.
The character of Raoul was really neat he was a badboy but the not the biker driving getting drunk taking whatever he wants kind more the I get what I want simply because of my name and the power it holds. The author knocking him off his feet and effectively from his high and mighty pedestal linked back to real life and the very real truth that no matter who you are or how powerful you may be, tragedy can happen at any minute and no amount of money will be able to buy your way out of it.
The backdrop settings and dialogue was perfect for this read, it all blended beautifully with the characters and their emotional upset's. It was a heartfelt, passionate and sensual read with a message of the past is the past do not let it control your future and when tragedy comes your way it is life's way of telling you to come back down to earth so that you can see what you have been missing.
I highly recommend this read for all fans of Melanie Milburne books,with characters that are so strong and real that it feels as if the author truly delves into their souls to get behind the masks of pain.
In book one of this series it felt as if the author had lost her charm and heat always found in her books, but I am very happy to report the author is back and with a true emotional bang!
This read had me in tears both of joy and sorrow, the emotions of the characters were so powerful it felt as if I could touch Lily's pain, feel her scars and experience the turmoil Raoul goes through. A truly delicious, compassionate, heartwarming story of just how strong love can be. Truly excellent work Melanie keep it coming!
5/5 star review
" Never underestimate what lies beneath the layers of hurt and anger"
October 16, 2013
NEVER UNDERESTIMATE A CAFFARELLI by USA Today Bestselling Author Melanie Milburne is a Harlequin Presents release for October 2013.
Raoul Caffarelli had everything money could buy. But after an accident he was now confined to a wheelchair and none too happy about it.
Then he is forced to meet Lily Archer, the physical therapist his brother hired. He doesn’t want her there. But would his arrogant behavior send this strong Lily running for cover? No way. Then he discovers the secrets Lily is hiding behind her tough exterior and now he understands her better. For though arrogant, he is a very honourable man. And Lily is drawn toward him. Their physical attraction explodes but would they be able to connect on the emotional level?
Read this mesmerizing romance to see how to never underestimate a Caffarelli!
NEVER UNDERESTIMATE A CAFFARELLI is a romance packed with sizzle and sexual tension amid the deep emotional drama, adding to the page turning quality of the book. I don’t believe I had come across such an emotionally charged story in recent times. Author Melanie Milburne did a great job showing how peoples’ behavior and guilt force them to self-harm and then later regret their action. And how it changes a person.
Highly recommended for all lovers of romance.
Raoul Caffarelli had everything money could buy. But after an accident he was now confined to a wheelchair and none too happy about it.
Then he is forced to meet Lily Archer, the physical therapist his brother hired. He doesn’t want her there. But would his arrogant behavior send this strong Lily running for cover? No way. Then he discovers the secrets Lily is hiding behind her tough exterior and now he understands her better. For though arrogant, he is a very honourable man. And Lily is drawn toward him. Their physical attraction explodes but would they be able to connect on the emotional level?
Read this mesmerizing romance to see how to never underestimate a Caffarelli!
NEVER UNDERESTIMATE A CAFFARELLI is a romance packed with sizzle and sexual tension amid the deep emotional drama, adding to the page turning quality of the book. I don’t believe I had come across such an emotionally charged story in recent times. Author Melanie Milburne did a great job showing how peoples’ behavior and guilt force them to self-harm and then later regret their action. And how it changes a person.
Highly recommended for all lovers of romance.
September 18, 2013
Could not finish. I read the authors previous book about the brother and hoped I would like this one. Unfortunately I didn't find it compelling and the asppects of the writing style were annoying because I did not like the drip drip drip revealing info on the heroine. I like to know what motivates/the background a hero/heroine early on. The slow info dump is torturous to me.
I found the heroine to be in need of therapy to deal with her rape and not a romance.
I found the heroine to be in need of therapy to deal with her rape and not a romance.
October 6, 2013
Melanie Milburne's Never Underestimate a Caffarelli is the eagerly awaited Book 2 of the Caffarelli Brothers series.
We start where Book 1 leaves off... Raoul, badly damaged and confined to a wheelchair absolutely refusing the therapy his brother has arranged for him. Lily Archer has been called a miracle worker by her previous clients and Rafe has gone to the ends of the world to convince her to come and try to restore Raoul. Rafe has paid Lily handsomely and there's a no refund clause so no matter how much of a bear Raoul is or how much Lily doesn't want to be there, neither are prepared to throw Rafe's money to the wind.
Raoul is as dark and brooding as his huge old chateau. The chateau is the perfect location for the majority of the book. Tempers flare and personalities clash big time as Raoul struggles to come to grips with his situation and his surroundings and the inner anger he feels at the loss of control. He cant sleep, he's turning to alcohol and worst of all he feels he cant visit his beloved horses which he can see from his window. Horses are his passion in life and without them he feels invaluable and useless. Raoul is basically hiding form the world, disgusted in himself for looking as he does in his chair. Having Lily invade his life is an unwanted complication which turns into quite a delightful battle of wills.
Lily has her own scars and issues with the past to deal with. She's a hard worker, an expert in her field and while it would be so easy to goad Raoul into making her leave, the integrity in her wont allow it and she battles on with starting Raoul's therapy. I liked the realism of Raoul's treatment and I loved Lily's spirit.
It's not long before Lily becomes the light in Raoul's day. He starts to let her in to his dark world inch by inch and slowly he realises just how valuable Lily is. It also doesn't take him long to realise how beautiful Lily is in both mind and body.
Never Underestimate a Caffarelli goes where no Mills and Boon has gone before. I think Melanie Milburne has touched on such personal topics with care and respect mixed with an honest approach. I was entirely transfixed with the questions like will Raoul be healed? If not, will he and Lily have a happy ever after? What is making Lily so against working with male patients? Can she fix Raoul? I literally couldn't put NUaC down and was so moved when I closed the last page, it's an emotional story, quite a deep story and touches on current day issues with a frank and realistic way.
Never Underestimate a Mills and Boon I say!
We start where Book 1 leaves off... Raoul, badly damaged and confined to a wheelchair absolutely refusing the therapy his brother has arranged for him. Lily Archer has been called a miracle worker by her previous clients and Rafe has gone to the ends of the world to convince her to come and try to restore Raoul. Rafe has paid Lily handsomely and there's a no refund clause so no matter how much of a bear Raoul is or how much Lily doesn't want to be there, neither are prepared to throw Rafe's money to the wind.
Raoul is as dark and brooding as his huge old chateau. The chateau is the perfect location for the majority of the book. Tempers flare and personalities clash big time as Raoul struggles to come to grips with his situation and his surroundings and the inner anger he feels at the loss of control. He cant sleep, he's turning to alcohol and worst of all he feels he cant visit his beloved horses which he can see from his window. Horses are his passion in life and without them he feels invaluable and useless. Raoul is basically hiding form the world, disgusted in himself for looking as he does in his chair. Having Lily invade his life is an unwanted complication which turns into quite a delightful battle of wills.
Lily has her own scars and issues with the past to deal with. She's a hard worker, an expert in her field and while it would be so easy to goad Raoul into making her leave, the integrity in her wont allow it and she battles on with starting Raoul's therapy. I liked the realism of Raoul's treatment and I loved Lily's spirit.
It's not long before Lily becomes the light in Raoul's day. He starts to let her in to his dark world inch by inch and slowly he realises just how valuable Lily is. It also doesn't take him long to realise how beautiful Lily is in both mind and body.
Never Underestimate a Caffarelli goes where no Mills and Boon has gone before. I think Melanie Milburne has touched on such personal topics with care and respect mixed with an honest approach. I was entirely transfixed with the questions like will Raoul be healed? If not, will he and Lily have a happy ever after? What is making Lily so against working with male patients? Can she fix Raoul? I literally couldn't put NUaC down and was so moved when I closed the last page, it's an emotional story, quite a deep story and touches on current day issues with a frank and realistic way.
Never Underestimate a Mills and Boon I say!
September 29, 2013
In Melanie Milburne’s latest book Never Underestimate a Caffarelli: Rafe Caffarelli has hired physical therapist Lily Archer to help his brother Raoul, who was hurt in a jet ski accident. He has pretty much become a recluse. The accident has left him in a wheelchair with a “mad at the world” attitude.
I thought Melanie did an amazing job with Raoul’s character. He was so angry and frustrated and he took it out on everyone. She was so convincing in her writing skills with this character I wanted to reach through the pages of my book and smack him one. Readers be patient with this Hero, he is suffering so. Oh but he is still so very sexy.
My heart just went out for Lily’s character. Lily might be feisty and strong now, but that was not always the case. Lily’s back story was a very emotional read for me. I don’t want to give too much away and ruin it for readers. She has suffered for years and what happens because of her past …wow. I will say I have never read in any book yet the extent of what that Lily went through. Especially not in a Harlequin Presents book. So hats off for addressing this issue.
I loved both main characters in this book and thought Melanie did a great job of bringing these two tortured souls together. The romance aspect was very believable. And it showed two people helping each other with the past and with their current issues. There were a couple of really special moments near the end of this book. But I am afraid if I say more it will take away from the story.
I highly recommend this book to fans of Melanie Milburne’s writing style. This is the second book in the series. The books are in the following order;
Never Say No To A Caffarelli: Rafe’s story was released Sept. 2013
Never Underestimate a Caffarelli: Raoul’s story release is Oct. 2013
Never Gamble with a Caffarelli: Remy’s story due out Nov. 2013 – I can’t wait for this one.
I had a number of lines that I enjoyed from this book but I choose the following because I didn’t want to give the story away with the other one I wanted to use:
‘Scars are a way of reminding ourselves of what we’ve learned in life. We all have them, Lily, it’s just that some are more visible than others.’
5/5 stars
I received an Autographed Copy of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review.
I thought Melanie did an amazing job with Raoul’s character. He was so angry and frustrated and he took it out on everyone. She was so convincing in her writing skills with this character I wanted to reach through the pages of my book and smack him one. Readers be patient with this Hero, he is suffering so. Oh but he is still so very sexy.
My heart just went out for Lily’s character. Lily might be feisty and strong now, but that was not always the case. Lily’s back story was a very emotional read for me. I don’t want to give too much away and ruin it for readers. She has suffered for years and what happens because of her past …wow. I will say I have never read in any book yet the extent of what that Lily went through. Especially not in a Harlequin Presents book. So hats off for addressing this issue.
I loved both main characters in this book and thought Melanie did a great job of bringing these two tortured souls together. The romance aspect was very believable. And it showed two people helping each other with the past and with their current issues. There were a couple of really special moments near the end of this book. But I am afraid if I say more it will take away from the story.
I highly recommend this book to fans of Melanie Milburne’s writing style. This is the second book in the series. The books are in the following order;
Never Say No To A Caffarelli: Rafe’s story was released Sept. 2013
Never Underestimate a Caffarelli: Raoul’s story release is Oct. 2013
Never Gamble with a Caffarelli: Remy’s story due out Nov. 2013 – I can’t wait for this one.
I had a number of lines that I enjoyed from this book but I choose the following because I didn’t want to give the story away with the other one I wanted to use:
‘Scars are a way of reminding ourselves of what we’ve learned in life. We all have them, Lily, it’s just that some are more visible than others.’
5/5 stars
I received an Autographed Copy of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2014
3.5
Tiene Spoilers...
Una buena historia Harlequin. Me gustó. como se fue desarrollando todo. Lo normal es que en este tipo de historias la chica es aunque inexperta, una chica hermosa y perfecta y Lily no lo es. Pasó por una violación, lo que la hice cortarse para descargar toda su rabia. Ahora está mutilada tanto por dentro como por fuera. Como es lógico no le gusta tener contacto con los hombres, pero la necesidad económica la lleva a aceptar trabajar como terapeuta de Raoul que es un hombre adinerado,pero debido a un accidente no puede caminar y tiene un genio insoportable, aun asi me gusto el.Me gustó que Lily no se quedará callada ante los ataques que le hacía el protagonista. Dentro de sus traumas era una chica fuerte. Mi único pero con la historia es que al final quedó como que un poco corta. Quería más.
Tiene Spoilers...
Una buena historia Harlequin. Me gustó. como se fue desarrollando todo. Lo normal es que en este tipo de historias la chica es aunque inexperta, una chica hermosa y perfecta y Lily no lo es. Pasó por una violación, lo que la hice cortarse para descargar toda su rabia. Ahora está mutilada tanto por dentro como por fuera. Como es lógico no le gusta tener contacto con los hombres, pero la necesidad económica la lleva a aceptar trabajar como terapeuta de Raoul que es un hombre adinerado,pero debido a un accidente no puede caminar y tiene un genio insoportable, aun asi me gusto el.Me gustó que Lily no se quedará callada ante los ataques que le hacía el protagonista. Dentro de sus traumas era una chica fuerte. Mi único pero con la historia es que al final quedó como que un poco corta. Quería más.
November 3, 2018
There will be spoilers galore in this one because there are a lot of triggers for people in here.
We have brother 2 from this trilogy and we start with the H from book 1 hiring the h to help his brother who is currently in a wheelchair due to the accident at the end of book 1.
This is the daredevil/adrenaline junkie bro he was injured when hit by a jetski while waterskiing. At the start of the story he is discharged from hospital and is brooding at home due to his change in circumstances as there is no guarantee he will walk again. He is also self medicating with booze rather than painkillers and generally struggling with his altered circumstances.
He can actually come across as feeling rather sorry for himself and sulky but I'm giving him a get out of jail free card because who can say how we will react if the same happened to us.
Our h does NOT want to help the h but is doing it for the money. As a rule she doesn't work with men and this is due to the fact that ***trigger*** she was raped by her best friends drunk brother at a party She never reported it and he seems to have no idea that he did that to her because he was so drunk. AS a result she has resorted to disguising herself as boring, doesn't touch alcohol or men and self harmed resulting in scars on her arms and thighs. I struggle with this part of the story because I hate it when justice is not served but I loved that the H backed her 100% and offered to help years after the fact.
They eventually give in to their attraction and its all going well until bros wedding where the H overhears some golddigging tarts commenting on him being less than in his wheelchair at this point he lacks confidence and ships the h back to the UK and reverts to brooding again. After family and help interference he goes after the h and its a realistic HEA for these 2 where he doesn't have a miracle recovery and is still working at it but looking good for the future.
I'm so glad he didn't have a HPlandia miracle recovery I'd have deducted 10 stars!
We have brother 2 from this trilogy and we start with the H from book 1 hiring the h to help his brother who is currently in a wheelchair due to the accident at the end of book 1.
This is the daredevil/adrenaline junkie bro he was injured when hit by a jetski while waterskiing. At the start of the story he is discharged from hospital and is brooding at home due to his change in circumstances as there is no guarantee he will walk again. He is also self medicating with booze rather than painkillers and generally struggling with his altered circumstances.
He can actually come across as feeling rather sorry for himself and sulky but I'm giving him a get out of jail free card because who can say how we will react if the same happened to us.
Our h does NOT want to help the h but is doing it for the money. As a rule she doesn't work with men and this is due to the fact that ***trigger*** she was raped by her best friends drunk brother at a party She never reported it and he seems to have no idea that he did that to her because he was so drunk. AS a result she has resorted to disguising herself as boring, doesn't touch alcohol or men and self harmed resulting in scars on her arms and thighs. I struggle with this part of the story because I hate it when justice is not served but I loved that the H backed her 100% and offered to help years after the fact.
They eventually give in to their attraction and its all going well until bros wedding where the H overhears some golddigging tarts commenting on him being less than in his wheelchair at this point he lacks confidence and ships the h back to the UK and reverts to brooding again. After family and help interference he goes after the h and its a realistic HEA for these 2 where he doesn't have a miracle recovery and is still working at it but looking good for the future.
I'm so glad he didn't have a HPlandia miracle recovery I'd have deducted 10 stars!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2013
When you have the world in the palm of your hand, you don't think much about anything that could go wrong. Excitement, adventure, unlimited female companionship, and endless partying made the women envious if they weren't the current flavor and the men wanting to emulate the latest adventure. Such was the life of Raoul Caffarelli until a jet ski accident left him with a broken arm and spinal injury, and to add insult to injury, his fiance had broken their engagement. Now he spends his days in a wheelchair growing more angry and frustrated with each passing day. Fearing his life is completely over, he has become a recluse in his chateau and drinks himself into oblivion every night, alternately ignoring and berating his therapist and staff unmercifully. Even his brother's desire to have him stand up at his upcoming wedding is no incentive to at least try. As far as he was concerned his life was over. No more excitement and adventure ready to be done. No more beautiful women wanting to be in his bed. No more riding his beloved horses. The Caffarelli mantra of ...Goal...Focus...Win... seems to have been banished from his mind.
When money is desperately needed, a person will do almost anything to get it. Sometimes even breaking your own rules and doing your best to overcome your most terrifying fear. This was the situation that Lily Archer found herself in. Her mother needed money and the clinic needed the exposure for their holistic approach to healing. Only the promise of money up front in order to help her mother could have possibly changed her mind about coming to this dark, drafty and cold chateau to help a man she had never even met. Difficult patients were her specialty, but only of the female variety. For more reasons than just one, men were taboo and she would not to be cowed or owned by a single one of them, but so the American saying went “if life gives you lemons, you make lemonade”. Or so they say. Above all else she would stick to her own mantra: pride...safety....security. And she intend to use all three.
With such insurmountable odds against them, future successes looked very slim, but with adversity comes respect. Both Raoul and Lily had it in spades. And simmering in the background was the growing desire between them that she wanted to ignore and he wanted to explore. Once Raoul began to set the goal of seduction, he finally found a stride to use his mantra again: Goal...Focus...Win.
The background story was superbly written to show why Lily had such a hangup about men. I wanted to cheer that Raoul was able to find the buttons he needed to push to bring her out of her shell. Lily found buttons of her own to push to make him desire to get better for himself and his brothers. Only was there any room in their lives for each other? Could they have the happily ever after? Or would her pride and his ruthlessness always keep them apart?
Excellent book! Smooth writing of well developed characters interwoven into a well rounded and thought out plot. The descriptions of the scenery and the chateau made you feel you were there. Enjoyed this book tremendously. From the first page to the last, the story was completely engaging.
I would recommend to all romance readers.
I received an autographed copy from the author for an honest review.
5/5 stars Could they work through their scars, both visible and invisible?
When money is desperately needed, a person will do almost anything to get it. Sometimes even breaking your own rules and doing your best to overcome your most terrifying fear. This was the situation that Lily Archer found herself in. Her mother needed money and the clinic needed the exposure for their holistic approach to healing. Only the promise of money up front in order to help her mother could have possibly changed her mind about coming to this dark, drafty and cold chateau to help a man she had never even met. Difficult patients were her specialty, but only of the female variety. For more reasons than just one, men were taboo and she would not to be cowed or owned by a single one of them, but so the American saying went “if life gives you lemons, you make lemonade”. Or so they say. Above all else she would stick to her own mantra: pride...safety....security. And she intend to use all three.
With such insurmountable odds against them, future successes looked very slim, but with adversity comes respect. Both Raoul and Lily had it in spades. And simmering in the background was the growing desire between them that she wanted to ignore and he wanted to explore. Once Raoul began to set the goal of seduction, he finally found a stride to use his mantra again: Goal...Focus...Win.
The background story was superbly written to show why Lily had such a hangup about men. I wanted to cheer that Raoul was able to find the buttons he needed to push to bring her out of her shell. Lily found buttons of her own to push to make him desire to get better for himself and his brothers. Only was there any room in their lives for each other? Could they have the happily ever after? Or would her pride and his ruthlessness always keep them apart?
Excellent book! Smooth writing of well developed characters interwoven into a well rounded and thought out plot. The descriptions of the scenery and the chateau made you feel you were there. Enjoyed this book tremendously. From the first page to the last, the story was completely engaging.
I would recommend to all romance readers.
I received an autographed copy from the author for an honest review.
5/5 stars Could they work through their scars, both visible and invisible?
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December 29, 2014'Milburne's sweet tale shows the healing power of love. Her narrative showcases the lavish vistas, and her couple meshes nicely and is aided by a cast of perfect co-stars." RT Book Reviews, rated 4 stars
Miniseries: Those Scandalous Caffarellis
Miniseries: Those Scandalous Caffarellis
March 16, 2024
"Never Underestimate a Caffarelli" is the story of Lily and Raoul.
Big bad boy is struggling with lower limb mobility after a car accident, and confined to a wheelchair. He is frustrated and angry, especially as his fiance has dumped him. Heroine is his hired therapist, who he is initially excessively antagonistic towards. Slowly she helps him and they fall in love.
Story was average but are you telling me the evil in heroine's past is never addressed or punished? Not happy about it.
Safe
2.5/5
Big bad boy is struggling with lower limb mobility after a car accident, and confined to a wheelchair. He is frustrated and angry, especially as his fiance has dumped him. Heroine is his hired therapist, who he is initially excessively antagonistic towards. Slowly she helps him and they fall in love.
Story was average but are you telling me the evil in heroine's past is never addressed or punished? Not happy about it.
Safe
2.5/5
February 6, 2019
trigger warning for rape mention, self-harm and some ableism
September 9, 2019
Protagonista: Rafe & Lily
Profesiones: Fisiatra & Empresario
Pais: Francia
Profesiones: Fisiatra & Empresario
Pais: Francia
August 17, 2021
Sweet
This is book 2 in the series. Lily and Raoul are definitely a pair. Both have issues to deal with and I liked that Lily wasn't afraid to speak her mind.
This is book 2 in the series. Lily and Raoul are definitely a pair. Both have issues to deal with and I liked that Lily wasn't afraid to speak her mind.
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May 5, 2022read the graphic novel version of this story.
March 4, 2017
Raoul was suffered a spinal injury in a jetski crash and is struggling to recover the ability to walk in addition to dealing with the limitations forced on him by his injury. How can he be the man he used to be? Lily Archer is hired as a holistic physical therapist to help Raoul to walk again. Only she's struggling with her own demons having . So these two clash. Until they don't. But then they have to deal with Raoul's self-confidence and being perceived as disabled and what that would do to any potential relationship they'd have.
This was an okay story - I liked the tension and Raoul's reaction to his injury and the sudden need to begin asking for help. That felt pretty realistic. In fact, I'd say the first 55% of the story was very enjoyable. Raoul was a pretty crabby and surly guy (with reason) and he was pretty much always on the offensive or the defensive - hardly ever just a neutral, sit down and chat kind of guy. And there started a gradual gentling of him. And then at the 60% mark, he suddenly turns into a completely different character. Suddenly he is gentle and patient and emotionally sensitive to Lily's pain. In fact his reaction to her revelation was almost too cliche. When they finally fall into bed together it felt like their chemistry had disappeared and it was like two strangers having sex. Then the rushed ending with Lily's immediate forgiveness... Eh. The story kind of went downhill in the second half, but it did have a lot of potential.
This was an okay story - I liked the tension and Raoul's reaction to his injury and the sudden need to begin asking for help. That felt pretty realistic. In fact, I'd say the first 55% of the story was very enjoyable. Raoul was a pretty crabby and surly guy (with reason) and he was pretty much always on the offensive or the defensive - hardly ever just a neutral, sit down and chat kind of guy. And there started a gradual gentling of him. And then at the 60% mark, he suddenly turns into a completely different character. Suddenly he is gentle and patient and emotionally sensitive to Lily's pain. In fact his reaction to her revelation was almost too cliche. When they finally fall into bed together it felt like their chemistry had disappeared and it was like two strangers having sex. Then the rushed ending with Lily's immediate forgiveness... Eh. The story kind of went downhill in the second half, but it did have a lot of potential.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2013
Reviewed by Maria
It sucks to be Raoul Caffarelli. One accident and he lost the use of his lower limbs,not to mention his fiance. Not only is he physically upset, but mentally too.
His brother Rafe is getting married in a month's time and wants his brother to be his best man. He wants him back on his feet. Rafe has paid physical therapist Lily Archer an obscene amount of money to just try and make it happen. Although Raoul resists initially, he becomes intrigued by Lily and her 'touch-me-not' attitude. They start working together and he comes to know about Lily's issues. Why, for example, she's so scared of men and relationships. In trying to help each other, the two main characters help each other and then the healing power of love works its magic.
It can't be easy to get inside the skin of someone who is so active one day and immobilized the next. Kudos to Melanie Milburne for a brave piece of writing.
It's pretty hot too, for those who are interested.
Recommended for readers and lovers of romance fiction.
I received a review copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
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It sucks to be Raoul Caffarelli. One accident and he lost the use of his lower limbs,not to mention his fiance. Not only is he physically upset, but mentally too.
His brother Rafe is getting married in a month's time and wants his brother to be his best man. He wants him back on his feet. Rafe has paid physical therapist Lily Archer an obscene amount of money to just try and make it happen. Although Raoul resists initially, he becomes intrigued by Lily and her 'touch-me-not' attitude. They start working together and he comes to know about Lily's issues. Why, for example, she's so scared of men and relationships. In trying to help each other, the two main characters help each other and then the healing power of love works its magic.
It can't be easy to get inside the skin of someone who is so active one day and immobilized the next. Kudos to Melanie Milburne for a brave piece of writing.
It's pretty hot too, for those who are interested.
Recommended for readers and lovers of romance fiction.
I received a review copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
------
October 16, 2013
Lily Archer must act as a physical therapist for a man she does not want to be around. Any man is bad, but Raoul Caffarelli is a ruggedly handsome, super rich, and devastatingly forceful male. Definitely beyond her league, Lily works to help homework towards a life with a physical challenge he needs to meet.
Raoul stands alone. He knows he has his brothers, but the death of his parents has made him believe withdrawing from the pain, is better than letting it be seen. Finding himself in a wheelchair, unable to walk, unable to live the life he wanted, he has to confront the demons in his nightmares, and work towards a life.
Ok, both have issues. Serious issues. For me, the story did not gel. I still feel I am missing chunks of the story between them. You have him, working towards walking, and you have her, a scarred past dragging down her future, but I never really felt a good story between them. It felt rushed and dull with a quick slam bam thank you mam, go away, come back to me, all in the last few pages. For me, the fast finish detracted from the rest.
Raoul stands alone. He knows he has his brothers, but the death of his parents has made him believe withdrawing from the pain, is better than letting it be seen. Finding himself in a wheelchair, unable to walk, unable to live the life he wanted, he has to confront the demons in his nightmares, and work towards a life.
Ok, both have issues. Serious issues. For me, the story did not gel. I still feel I am missing chunks of the story between them. You have him, working towards walking, and you have her, a scarred past dragging down her future, but I never really felt a good story between them. It felt rushed and dull with a quick slam bam thank you mam, go away, come back to me, all in the last few pages. For me, the fast finish detracted from the rest.
January 13, 2014
I read this one first not realizing there is a first book about his big brother. I guess I have to read that next. The story is well written and quite realistic. Both had experienced tragedy and now striving to resume normalcy in their lives. I think in order for us to cope, it certainly helps to look at other people's lives. The hero here thinks he's got it worst only to realize that other people around him are battling their own demons. It reminded me of this famous statement "Ya think you're having a bad day?" I like that the author kept it real by leaving the hero's recovery unknown. No one in that type of injury gets better in a month! The heroine -- hmm I think that her character is a bit under developed. I simply didn't really warm up to her character even though it's a likeable character! All in all I enjoyed this 2nd book. The 1st one sounds promising based on GoodReaders reviews! Gosh I love this crew... helps me decide what to read and what not to read.
January 10, 2017
I can relate alot to Raoul in the fact that I also have spinal injuries, mine wont heal but to go from able bodied to disabled does very much mess with your head definitely especially if it comes without warning, in my case I didn't know I had fractures from my accident and over years it got worse and the pain became constant then we found out about the fractures and the future for me, I'm so happy that Raoul and Lily got their HEA regardless of recovery or not it brings hope that even at our darkest times we can still find the light and also don't give alot of times people fully recover and sometimes they don't but were still here and can make a difference thank you for writing this story and reminding us Love is the best medicine and with courage and support you can get through it but you have to try to, totally love this story thank you xxx
March 20, 2014
I was pleasantly surprised by this romance. Second in a triad of books about the Caffarelli brothers - devastatingly rich and handsome - who fall for ordinary girls just like you & me. :) Both protags are damaged, and both work hard to hide their damage with anger and withdrawal. Happy ending. Believable characterization and dialogue, and even got me to wipe my eyes a few times toward the end. Satisfying.
October 16, 2013
Review Posted on HarlequinJunkie.com
I was so happy to be able to read and review another book in the “Scandalous Caffarellis” series! I loved the first book, Never Say No to a Caffarelli, and In my opinion, this one was even better. Read More
I was so happy to be able to read and review another book in the “Scandalous Caffarellis” series! I loved the first book, Never Say No to a Caffarelli, and In my opinion, this one was even better. Read More
December 10, 2013
I liked this story. I thought that Raoul and Lily made a good pair and that Lily's past was sensitively dealt with. I did think that their relationship moved forward a little too quickly - like within about three pages - which took away from both the characters, but overall this was a decent read for my Sunday evening.
3.5 stars.
3.5 stars.
December 29, 2023
The book starts with the Raoul in a wheelchair due to an accident, and fighting against having help in his rehabilitation. It was enjoyable reading as Lily helps him recovers, and makes him actually think how he is reacting emotionally to his injury and how he helps Lily recover from a tragedy in her past.
February 9, 2014
Very enjoyable and emotional read. Raoul and Lily turned out to be a great couple just what the other person needed to start living again. Neither letting what happen to them stop them from falling in love.
June 9, 2024
Definitely not my type of love story… heroine that was date raped five years ago? I read some amazing books by this author but this definitely not one of them. Very disappointed in this author writing. Disgusting 🤢
September 4, 2013
Was waiting for this one after reading the previous book from the same author. Love it, cannot wait for the final instalment!
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December 29, 2014Miniseries: Those Scandalous Caffarellis
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