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Fusion #1
Listen to Me
THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
In New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kristen Proby’s brand new series, five best friends open a hot new restaurant, but one of them gets much more than she bargained for when a sexy former rock star walks through the doors—and into her heart.
Seduction is quickly becoming the hottest new restaurant in Portland, and Addison Wade is proud to claim 1/5 of the credit. She’s determined to make it a success and can’t think of a better way to bring in new customers than live music. But when former rock star Jake Keller swaggers through the doors to apply for the weekend gig, she knows she’s in trouble. Addie instantly recognizes him—his posters were plastered all over her bedroom walls in high school—he’s all bad boy...exactly her type and exactly what she doesn’t need.
Jake Keller walked away from the limelight five years ago and yearns to return to what’s always driven him: the music. If he gets to work for a smart-mouthed, funny-as-hell bombshell, all the better. But talking Addie into giving him the job is far easier than persuading her that he wants more than a romp in her bed. Just when she begins to drop her walls, Jake’s past finally catches up with him.
Will Addie be torn apart once again or will Jake be able to convince her to drown out her doubts and listen to her heart?
In New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kristen Proby’s brand new series, five best friends open a hot new restaurant, but one of them gets much more than she bargained for when a sexy former rock star walks through the doors—and into her heart.
Seduction is quickly becoming the hottest new restaurant in Portland, and Addison Wade is proud to claim 1/5 of the credit. She’s determined to make it a success and can’t think of a better way to bring in new customers than live music. But when former rock star Jake Keller swaggers through the doors to apply for the weekend gig, she knows she’s in trouble. Addie instantly recognizes him—his posters were plastered all over her bedroom walls in high school—he’s all bad boy...exactly her type and exactly what she doesn’t need.
Jake Keller walked away from the limelight five years ago and yearns to return to what’s always driven him: the music. If he gets to work for a smart-mouthed, funny-as-hell bombshell, all the better. But talking Addie into giving him the job is far easier than persuading her that he wants more than a romp in her bed. Just when she begins to drop her walls, Jake’s past finally catches up with him.
Will Addie be torn apart once again or will Jake be able to convince her to drown out her doubts and listen to her heart?
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 12, 2016
About the author
Kristen Proby
117 books14.9k followersKristen Proby has published more than fifty titles, many of which have hit the USA Today, New York Times and Wall Street Journal Bestsellers lists. She continues to self publish, best known for her With Me In Seattle and Boudreaux series, The Big Sky Series, as well as others.
Kristen and her husband, John, make their home in her hometown of Whitefish, Montana with their two cats and dog.
Kristen and her husband, John, make their home in her hometown of Whitefish, Montana with their two cats and dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,074 reviews
May 9, 2016
4 stars!
It’s been a while since I’ve read a Kristen Proby book. After reading some crazy angst-filled books, I needed something sweet, sexy and light on the drama and I knew her newest read would fit the bill. I was right. Listen to Me was just the book I needed.
Addison Wade is a co-owner of Seduction (a hot new restaurant) with her four best friends. Addie is a sucker for the bad boy and always chooses the wrong guy. It’s her thing. When Jake Keller comes to audition for her restaurant, they’re hiring a musician, she knows she needs to stay far, far away. Jake is just the type of guy that she's always gone for and that type of guy is 100% trouble. The thing is, Jake isn’t really the way she thinks he is. And he’s hard to resist.
Jake Keller was a very successful musician, but five years ago he walked away from it all. Now he spends his time producing music and out of the limelight. He has his reasons. He hasn’t been in a serious relationship in a while, but when he meets Addie, he knows he has to have her. And she’s not the kind of girl he can just be with a few times. He wants her completely.
Kristen Proby always writes with heart. Her stories are always heartwarming, funny, sexy and sweet. I really love that I know what to expect when I read one of her books and am rarely disappointed. This book was a promising start to a new series- all of the characters intrigued me and I can’t wait to read more of these stories! Bring on Cami and Landon and their best friends brother story!!!
It’s been a while since I’ve read a Kristen Proby book. After reading some crazy angst-filled books, I needed something sweet, sexy and light on the drama and I knew her newest read would fit the bill. I was right. Listen to Me was just the book I needed.
Addison Wade is a co-owner of Seduction (a hot new restaurant) with her four best friends. Addie is a sucker for the bad boy and always chooses the wrong guy. It’s her thing. When Jake Keller comes to audition for her restaurant, they’re hiring a musician, she knows she needs to stay far, far away. Jake is just the type of guy that she's always gone for and that type of guy is 100% trouble. The thing is, Jake isn’t really the way she thinks he is. And he’s hard to resist.
Jake Keller was a very successful musician, but five years ago he walked away from it all. Now he spends his time producing music and out of the limelight. He has his reasons. He hasn’t been in a serious relationship in a while, but when he meets Addie, he knows he has to have her. And she’s not the kind of girl he can just be with a few times. He wants her completely.
“I need someone who calls me out on my bullshit. I need someone who sees the fire in my eyes and wants to play with it, not try to extinguish it. I need someone who challenges me; in the bedroom, in my career, in my crazy head. And you know what? I found all of that in you.”I loved both Jake and Addie. Neither were perfect and both had some hang ups from past relationships and issues, but they were great together. The mistakes they made I completely understood and weren’t over the top and didn’t take away from their love story.
Kristen Proby always writes with heart. Her stories are always heartwarming, funny, sexy and sweet. I really love that I know what to expect when I read one of her books and am rarely disappointed. This book was a promising start to a new series- all of the characters intrigued me and I can’t wait to read more of these stories! Bring on Cami and Landon and their best friends brother story!!!
May 1, 2016
*****FOUR STARS*****
{ARC Provided by Edelweiss}
This is a brand new series by Kristen Proby that centers around five girlfriends who co-own the hottest new restaurant in Portland called Seduction. Their restaurant offers the most delicious food with a sexy ambiance. Each friend will get their own romantic story. This first installment is about Addie. She is the Manager of the restaurant. Addie was a model at one time but left because she didn’t want to live her life always watching what she eats. She also has huge abandonment issues stemming from her dysfunctional relationship with her parents and her poor choices in boyfriends. Addie is normally drawn to the bad boy musicians, who always end up breaking her heart in the end. The story opens with Addie catching her current “bad boy” having sex with two women in her apartment, proving yet again to her that she is incapable of being loved by a man.
Jake Knox was the lead singer of the group Hard Knox. The band broke up a few years ago due to a personal tragedy. Jake has given up performing but he has been writing songs and producing them for other artists. After three years of not performing he decides to go to an open mic night and that’s where he and Addie cross paths. He’s instantly attracted to her and she happens to be at the club looking for a musician to perform at Seduction on the weekends. He ends up getting the job and eventually after some persistent flirting, he gets Addie to go out with him. From there the relationship starts to get hot and heavy. But all the while Addie tries to withhold her heart from Jake because she is positive he will end up annihilating her in the end.
It took me a while to warm up to this story. It seemed a bit slow in the beginning and I literally lost count as to how many times Jake called Addie, ”BEAUTIFUL”!! I couldn’t stop rolling my eyes. It wasn’t until he makes an ass of himself and jeopardizes the relationship that I started to get engrossed in the story. Plus the sexy times are pretty steamy.
I really enjoyed the bits we get of the next couple in the series. It will be a ”Friends to Lovers” romance and the hero is the best friend's older brother!! Right up my alley!!! I’m still very optimistic about this series and can’t wait for book two.
{ARC Provided by Edelweiss}
This is a brand new series by Kristen Proby that centers around five girlfriends who co-own the hottest new restaurant in Portland called Seduction. Their restaurant offers the most delicious food with a sexy ambiance. Each friend will get their own romantic story. This first installment is about Addie. She is the Manager of the restaurant. Addie was a model at one time but left because she didn’t want to live her life always watching what she eats. She also has huge abandonment issues stemming from her dysfunctional relationship with her parents and her poor choices in boyfriends. Addie is normally drawn to the bad boy musicians, who always end up breaking her heart in the end. The story opens with Addie catching her current “bad boy” having sex with two women in her apartment, proving yet again to her that she is incapable of being loved by a man.
Jake Knox was the lead singer of the group Hard Knox. The band broke up a few years ago due to a personal tragedy. Jake has given up performing but he has been writing songs and producing them for other artists. After three years of not performing he decides to go to an open mic night and that’s where he and Addie cross paths. He’s instantly attracted to her and she happens to be at the club looking for a musician to perform at Seduction on the weekends. He ends up getting the job and eventually after some persistent flirting, he gets Addie to go out with him. From there the relationship starts to get hot and heavy. But all the while Addie tries to withhold her heart from Jake because she is positive he will end up annihilating her in the end.
It took me a while to warm up to this story. It seemed a bit slow in the beginning and I literally lost count as to how many times Jake called Addie, ”BEAUTIFUL”!! I couldn’t stop rolling my eyes. It wasn’t until he makes an ass of himself and jeopardizes the relationship that I started to get engrossed in the story. Plus the sexy times are pretty steamy.
I really enjoyed the bits we get of the next couple in the series. It will be a ”Friends to Lovers” romance and the hero is the best friend's older brother!! Right up my alley!!! I’m still very optimistic about this series and can’t wait for book two.
April 12, 2016
NOW LIVE!!!
*Amazon US*Amazon UK*Barnes & Noble*
Kristen Proby has done it again! This is just yet another amazing book from her, and a great start to a new series. The Fusion series is about five, very different, friends that open a restaurant together and navigate through life, always being there for one another. Truly a spectacular story.
Listen to Me focuses mainly on Addison Wade, proud part owner of Seduction, and the person who has to look for a musician to play at the restaurant on weekends. Her search leads her to an open mic night where she sees Jake Keller aka Jake Knox, former rockstar perform.
Jake left the limelight five years ago after a tragic accident that he blames himself for. But he misses being able to get up and perform for people, and writing songs for other artist just isn't the same as singing them himself. His best friend urges him to go to Seduction and ask for the musician spot, and when he does he spots Addie, the girl he saw on open mic night and wanted to know more about. But Addie has dealt with the bad boy rockstars in the past and she's done with dating musicians - or so she thinks.
I've actually had this books on my Kindle for awhile and I'm kicking myself for not reading it sooner. I loved meeting all the new characters that we'll get to read about in this series. The book told us a lot about the friends but not too much that it took away from the main characters and their story. Oh and we got some mentions of Leo Nash!
I loved Jake and Addie as characters, and didn't have any issue's with them throughout the book. Usually there will be at least something that bugs me about a character but with them I just loved everything. They were very real and there was nothing fake about them. I thought they were really well developed characters and KP gave us enough information from their pasts to keep them interesting, but not too much that we got sucked into a past story that didn't have relevance to the book, which can happen sometimes.
There was a little bit of drama near the end that I could have done without, but it didn't make me hate Jake or Addie. By the time the book ended I had mostly forgotten about it, and was back to loving the story.
Bottom line, this was a great story and I can't wait for everyone to get to read it. The ending wasn't a cliffhanger but it did hint at the next book and will make you want that story ASAP, so be prepared.
ARC kindly provided via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
*Amazon US*Amazon UK*Barnes & Noble*
Kristen Proby has done it again! This is just yet another amazing book from her, and a great start to a new series. The Fusion series is about five, very different, friends that open a restaurant together and navigate through life, always being there for one another. Truly a spectacular story.
Listen to Me focuses mainly on Addison Wade, proud part owner of Seduction, and the person who has to look for a musician to play at the restaurant on weekends. Her search leads her to an open mic night where she sees Jake Keller aka Jake Knox, former rockstar perform.
Jake left the limelight five years ago after a tragic accident that he blames himself for. But he misses being able to get up and perform for people, and writing songs for other artist just isn't the same as singing them himself. His best friend urges him to go to Seduction and ask for the musician spot, and when he does he spots Addie, the girl he saw on open mic night and wanted to know more about. But Addie has dealt with the bad boy rockstars in the past and she's done with dating musicians - or so she thinks.
I've actually had this books on my Kindle for awhile and I'm kicking myself for not reading it sooner. I loved meeting all the new characters that we'll get to read about in this series. The book told us a lot about the friends but not too much that it took away from the main characters and their story. Oh and we got some mentions of Leo Nash!
I loved Jake and Addie as characters, and didn't have any issue's with them throughout the book. Usually there will be at least something that bugs me about a character but with them I just loved everything. They were very real and there was nothing fake about them. I thought they were really well developed characters and KP gave us enough information from their pasts to keep them interesting, but not too much that we got sucked into a past story that didn't have relevance to the book, which can happen sometimes.
There was a little bit of drama near the end that I could have done without, but it didn't make me hate Jake or Addie. By the time the book ended I had mostly forgotten about it, and was back to loving the story.
Bottom line, this was a great story and I can't wait for everyone to get to read it. The ending wasn't a cliffhanger but it did hint at the next book and will make you want that story ASAP, so be prepared.
ARC kindly provided via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
December 11, 2016
Kristen Proby has delivered another winner with Listen to me !
I have been a huge fan of Kristen Proby since her first book of the amazing With Me Series. Since then I devoured and loved every-single-one of her books ! And this one is no exception. She’s a wonderful story teller and you can help to fall in love with all her characters. She creates the perfect mix of heart and heat I love in romance.
Listen to Me is book one in the Fusion series. The story is about former rock star Jake Keller and Addison Wade co-owner with four of her best friends of the hottest new restaurant in Portland, Seduction.
I enjoyed everything in this book. I loved Jake and Addie’s relationship and the teasing banter between them. Their chemistry is incredible and not just in the bedroom. When they are together the atmosphere is so alluring and electric.
If you already know Kristen Proby's all kinds of awesome male characters, you will not be disappointed with Jake. He’s sexy, sweet, funny, charming with an edge and has a delicious dirty mouth. The same for her female characters, they are always awesome women. Addie is beautiful, strong, driven, independant and feisty. One of the many things I like about this author is her ability to develop attaching characters whose stories make you feel intensely.
Behind Jake’s rock star image and Addie’s cool and composed professional façade, you get to see their strengths and weaknesses, their insecurities, their fears and hopes which help to become emotionally invested in their journey. They both have issues they are dealing with and find comfort and friendship in each other. Addie and Jake both have such depth in their personalities.
I also loved the amazing supporting characters. Addie and her four best friends Cami, Mia, Kat, and Riley are family. They are fiercely loyal and protective. Jake also has a strong and solid relationship with his best friends Cristina and her husband Mike, and Max. Jake and Addie both have the love and support of true good friends.
This story has it all, some ups and downs, a little angst, funny and emotional moments, entertaining banters, friendship, passion, romance and love. All that and so much more!
Highly recommended. Can’t wait to read Close to You, Cami and Landon’s story.
I have been a huge fan of Kristen Proby since her first book of the amazing With Me Series. Since then I devoured and loved every-single-one of her books ! And this one is no exception. She’s a wonderful story teller and you can help to fall in love with all her characters. She creates the perfect mix of heart and heat I love in romance.
Listen to Me is book one in the Fusion series. The story is about former rock star Jake Keller and Addison Wade co-owner with four of her best friends of the hottest new restaurant in Portland, Seduction.
I enjoyed everything in this book. I loved Jake and Addie’s relationship and the teasing banter between them. Their chemistry is incredible and not just in the bedroom. When they are together the atmosphere is so alluring and electric.
If you already know Kristen Proby's all kinds of awesome male characters, you will not be disappointed with Jake. He’s sexy, sweet, funny, charming with an edge and has a delicious dirty mouth. The same for her female characters, they are always awesome women. Addie is beautiful, strong, driven, independant and feisty. One of the many things I like about this author is her ability to develop attaching characters whose stories make you feel intensely.
Behind Jake’s rock star image and Addie’s cool and composed professional façade, you get to see their strengths and weaknesses, their insecurities, their fears and hopes which help to become emotionally invested in their journey. They both have issues they are dealing with and find comfort and friendship in each other. Addie and Jake both have such depth in their personalities.
I also loved the amazing supporting characters. Addie and her four best friends Cami, Mia, Kat, and Riley are family. They are fiercely loyal and protective. Jake also has a strong and solid relationship with his best friends Cristina and her husband Mike, and Max. Jake and Addie both have the love and support of true good friends.
This story has it all, some ups and downs, a little angst, funny and emotional moments, entertaining banters, friendship, passion, romance and love. All that and so much more!
Highly recommended. Can’t wait to read Close to You, Cami and Landon’s story.
May 13, 2016
4 Musical Stars.
This series starts with 5 friends that open a restaurant together, “Fusion”, that immediately turns into a success. This first book starts with Addie, the restaurant manager. Addie hasn’t been having much luck in love, her boyfriends all seem to turn out assholes… and all of them musicians.
So when they hire Jake, a former rock star, to sing live in their restaurant, Addie is determined to get out of his away, despite his amazing looks and the crazy chemistry between them. But Jake is decided to have Addie and show her that he’s different from the others.
I’ve been waiting for this series for a while and let me say this book didn’t disappoint. One of the reasons Kristen Proby is because the always write sexy romances, low on angst and with nice heroes and strong supportive characters. This one was no exception.
Despite both main characters had their moments of bad decisions, they were sexy together and they were believable as couple, although it’s a little hard do believe that a former huge music star like Jake, even after 5 years of hiding could pass so unnoticed.
Anyway, if you’re looking for a sexy, sweet and entertaining romance this book is definitely a good choice.
Rating: 4 Stars.
Steam: Some hot scenes.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
This series starts with 5 friends that open a restaurant together, “Fusion”, that immediately turns into a success. This first book starts with Addie, the restaurant manager. Addie hasn’t been having much luck in love, her boyfriends all seem to turn out assholes… and all of them musicians.
So when they hire Jake, a former rock star, to sing live in their restaurant, Addie is determined to get out of his away, despite his amazing looks and the crazy chemistry between them. But Jake is decided to have Addie and show her that he’s different from the others.
I’ve been waiting for this series for a while and let me say this book didn’t disappoint. One of the reasons Kristen Proby is because the always write sexy romances, low on angst and with nice heroes and strong supportive characters. This one was no exception.
Despite both main characters had their moments of bad decisions, they were sexy together and they were believable as couple, although it’s a little hard do believe that a former huge music star like Jake, even after 5 years of hiding could pass so unnoticed.
Anyway, if you’re looking for a sexy, sweet and entertaining romance this book is definitely a good choice.
Rating: 4 Stars.
Steam: Some hot scenes.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
June 8, 2016
Addison is one of five owners at Seduction. Since they opened six months ago, their restaurant has been gaining in popularity. To help bring in even more customers they decide to hire a musician to come and play on the weekends. They had no idea that a former rock god would walk into their front door looking for a job. He's set his sights on Addison and isn't pulling any punches, but she's been burned one too many times by musicians and she's not about to go down that road again.
I was really excited to read Listen to Me. It has everything that I love in a good romance. It's got a successful woman, humor, a celebrity, and of course romance. However, this story just lacked depth. You read about all these people but they were just background noise. I could never remember her friends/co-owners names or who they were. Plus, I found the romance to be really cheesy. I mean, Jake walks into Seduction to apply for a job and once he's given a time/day for an audition he immediately starts hitting on Addison. There were even moments where he told one of her friends that she had really beautiful hair and the internal dialogue goes on to say how he wasn't hitting on her, he's just nice to everyone. What?! It's not that Jake was a sleeze-ball or anything but the characters just lacked so much depth and development that everything the voice for the whole book was pretty monotone.
I really thought I've love this one but it just wasn't for me in the end.
I was really excited to read Listen to Me. It has everything that I love in a good romance. It's got a successful woman, humor, a celebrity, and of course romance. However, this story just lacked depth. You read about all these people but they were just background noise. I could never remember her friends/co-owners names or who they were. Plus, I found the romance to be really cheesy. I mean, Jake walks into Seduction to apply for a job and once he's given a time/day for an audition he immediately starts hitting on Addison. There were even moments where he told one of her friends that she had really beautiful hair and the internal dialogue goes on to say how he wasn't hitting on her, he's just nice to everyone. What?! It's not that Jake was a sleeze-ball or anything but the characters just lacked so much depth and development that everything the voice for the whole book was pretty monotone.
I really thought I've love this one but it just wasn't for me in the end.
Read
March 6, 2017DNF @ 25...
I don't know, maybe I am in a bad mood and everything sets me off, but this line just made a negative impression on me and I cannot quite shrug it off of my chest...
“You have beautiful hair,” I say. I’m usually attracted to brunettes, and Mia is a very pretty woman. She’s also curvy, a little curvier than Addie, and much shorter, with long, dark hair and gorgeous dark eyes. The smile that tickles her lips is one of pure female satisfaction.
“Thank you.”
“If you’re done flirting with the owners, you can leave,” Addie says. I glance up to find her scowling at me, which only makes me smirk.
“I’m leaving when you leave, beautiful.”
“He is flirty,” Kat says to Mia, as if I’m not sitting right here.
“I am not.”
“Okay, beautiful,” Kat replies with a smug smile.
The Hero complements OW, whilst heroine Addie is there and it seems she did not like it (me either)...I don't know..Am I exaggerating here? I just did not like him having those thoughts...and literally in front of the heroine, and he was flirting! yeah, i know male is a male, but I rather not have that in my romantic fantasy...at least I want my man to be more subtle about the opposite female, nothing wrong with seeing beautiful woman, but when the lady you are interested in is "there" its not a good impression to "notice other beautiful women" under her nose!
I don't know, maybe I am in a bad mood and everything sets me off, but this line just made a negative impression on me and I cannot quite shrug it off of my chest...
“You have beautiful hair,” I say. I’m usually attracted to brunettes, and Mia is a very pretty woman. She’s also curvy, a little curvier than Addie, and much shorter, with long, dark hair and gorgeous dark eyes. The smile that tickles her lips is one of pure female satisfaction.
“Thank you.”
“If you’re done flirting with the owners, you can leave,” Addie says. I glance up to find her scowling at me, which only makes me smirk.
“I’m leaving when you leave, beautiful.”
“He is flirty,” Kat says to Mia, as if I’m not sitting right here.
“I am not.”
“Okay, beautiful,” Kat replies with a smug smile.
The Hero complements OW, whilst heroine Addie is there and it seems she did not like it (me either)...I don't know..Am I exaggerating here? I just did not like him having those thoughts...and literally in front of the heroine, and he was flirting! yeah, i know male is a male, but I rather not have that in my romantic fantasy...at least I want my man to be more subtle about the opposite female, nothing wrong with seeing beautiful woman, but when the lady you are interested in is "there" its not a good impression to "notice other beautiful women" under her nose!
July 31, 2017
Audiobook Review
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was a pretty light, low drama, sexy book. I can't say I LOVED it, but I didn't dislike it either. I felt like the little bit of drama that there was was kind of stupid, and could be avoided by some good ol' communication (which is a pet peeve of mine). I also feel like there was a lot of focus on the side characters too. It felt to me like the author was using this book to prepare to have a large series of other books with others side characters, and tbh -- that got kind of old. I'm not sure if I'll continue this series, because overall it was just kind of...meh *shrugs*
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Addison and Jake's story. Addison and her friends are running a hot new restaurant and decide that they need some musical talent to come in on the weekends. They go to an open mike night to scout out some people, and end up coming up short but also seeing Jake perform. Jake used to be part of an extremely popular band, but after it breaking-up he is coming around to dabbling in the music scene again. He shows up at the restaurant after his friend pushes him to apply for the weekend musician position. Sparks fly instantly, but they have some past baggage to get around. There are some funny and sweet moments, some steamy times, and a little drama...but they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Addison and Jake's POV.
Instalove: Kind of, but I don't think it's the annoying type.
H rating: 3 stars. Jake. I liked him, except when he pushed the h away stupidly.
h rating: 3 stars. Addison. I liked her, but I also didn't. I didn't like how she took out her bad relationship past on the H at times.
Sadness level: Low. No tissues needed.
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level/Descriptive sex: Moderate. They have some steamy chemistry and scenes (still feeling awkward with the audiobook -- but I'm sure that's just me).
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes, but pretty mild
Closure: This had ok closure. I thought it needed more!! I would call it a HFN ending . This seemed like another book that had their conflict, some sex, then the happy ending with not much in between. The epilogue seemed to be more focused on setting up the next book than giving us closure IMO (which always bugs me).
How I got it: It was an audiobook that was included in my scribed subscription.
Safety: I'd say that this is probably Safe for most readers (**see bottom note)
** Please note that since it was an audiobook that I might have missed some information that might affect my review. I have found that I just don't retain as much information from audiobooks as I do in reading them. Forgive me if I have any wrong or missing information, and take this review with a grain of salt ;) **
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was a pretty light, low drama, sexy book. I can't say I LOVED it, but I didn't dislike it either. I felt like the little bit of drama that there was was kind of stupid, and could be avoided by some good ol' communication (which is a pet peeve of mine). I also feel like there was a lot of focus on the side characters too. It felt to me like the author was using this book to prepare to have a large series of other books with others side characters, and tbh -- that got kind of old. I'm not sure if I'll continue this series, because overall it was just kind of...meh *shrugs*
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Addison and Jake's story. Addison and her friends are running a hot new restaurant and decide that they need some musical talent to come in on the weekends. They go to an open mike night to scout out some people, and end up coming up short but also seeing Jake perform. Jake used to be part of an extremely popular band, but after it breaking-up he is coming around to dabbling in the music scene again. He shows up at the restaurant after his friend pushes him to apply for the weekend musician position. Sparks fly instantly, but they have some past baggage to get around. There are some funny and sweet moments, some steamy times, and a little drama...but they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Addison and Jake's POV.
Instalove: Kind of, but I don't think it's the annoying type.
H rating: 3 stars. Jake. I liked him, except when he pushed the h away stupidly.
h rating: 3 stars. Addison. I liked her, but I also didn't. I didn't like how she took out her bad relationship past on the H at times.
Sadness level: Low. No tissues needed.
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level/Descriptive sex: Moderate. They have some steamy chemistry and scenes (still feeling awkward with the audiobook -- but I'm sure that's just me).
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes, but pretty mild
Closure: This had ok closure. I thought it needed more!! I would call it a HFN ending . This seemed like another book that had their conflict, some sex, then the happy ending with not much in between. The epilogue seemed to be more focused on setting up the next book than giving us closure IMO (which always bugs me).
How I got it: It was an audiobook that was included in my scribed subscription.
Safety: I'd say that this is probably Safe for most readers (**see bottom note)
** Please note that since it was an audiobook that I might have missed some information that might affect my review. I have found that I just don't retain as much information from audiobooks as I do in reading them. Forgive me if I have any wrong or missing information, and take this review with a grain of salt ;) **
January 24, 2016
*** ARC kindly provided by the publisher William Morrow Paperbacks, via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review. ***
The right book at the right moment! I needed a light, fun read which didn’t need to much thinking and this one was perfect.
Addison Wade and 4 of her closest friends are all co-owners of Seduction. Business is going great and when they add hot musician Jake Keller to the menu … euh I mean entertainment Addie has difficulties keeping her distance. She has several bad experiences with his TYPE. Jake used to perform in a well-known band but unfortunate events made him stop enjoy performing. Can Jake convince Addie he’s not like her past boyfriends? Or will he abandon her too?
As I said this was a fun, easy read without too much drama. I loved both main characters but also their friends. Reading the interactions with their friends was nice too. Jake messed up near the end but he did the right amount of groveling ;)
I’m looking forward to read the next books in this series and am so glad to see on GoodReads that the next book in this series “Close to You” is going to be Cami and Landon’s story! Yay!
The right book at the right moment! I needed a light, fun read which didn’t need to much thinking and this one was perfect.
Addison Wade and 4 of her closest friends are all co-owners of Seduction. Business is going great and when they add hot musician Jake Keller to the menu … euh I mean entertainment Addie has difficulties keeping her distance. She has several bad experiences with his TYPE. Jake used to perform in a well-known band but unfortunate events made him stop enjoy performing. Can Jake convince Addie he’s not like her past boyfriends? Or will he abandon her too?
As I said this was a fun, easy read without too much drama. I loved both main characters but also their friends. Reading the interactions with their friends was nice too. Jake messed up near the end but he did the right amount of groveling ;)
I’m looking forward to read the next books in this series and am so glad to see on GoodReads that the next book in this series “Close to You” is going to be Cami and Landon’s story! Yay!
November 8, 2016
This is the first book in the FUSION series and it is the love story between the blue-eyed blond bombshell ex-model, now restaurant owner, Addison & the green-eyed sexy ex-rock star, Jake Keller (Knox)...
There is not much to say about it. It is again one of those very uneventful sweet love stories. It didn't make me feel much, I mean, sometimes light and sweet love stories can become one of my favorite reads but this wasn't one of them. I didn't find it special.
There isn't much to the story other than Addison, having abandonment issues and thus having reservations towards him and Jake, feeling guilty of the terrible thing that happened to his best friend which resulted in him falsely assuming that he somehow caused it and he is bad for the ones he loves.
While the two of them struggle between their mutual attraction and their personal demons, the story progresses very slowly. There are "sweet, funny, emotional and hot" moments but I must say that I mostly got bored, knowing it wouldn't go anywhere interesting. There is no angst, no sexual tension built up, no interesting story line, etc... To cut it short, it is a decent read nothing else to criticize about other than its sort of cliché, uneventful and slow story line.
Some dialogues from the book...
“All you had to say was I miss you, Addie. ” I snort.
“I just saw you.”
“You missed me,” she repeats confidently.
God, her mouth turns me on. In a million different ways. “Okay, I missed you.”
“Now say, You’re always right, Addie. ”
“Not a chance,” I reply with a laugh.
“A girl can try.”
***
“Oh my God,” she says, staring at me with wide eyes. “I thought the dishwasher-loading man was a myth.”
“Nope, I found one in his natural habitat.”
***
"How am I going to fix this? How am I going to convince her that she needs to run toward me rather than from me?"
***
“Did it ever occur to you that while you were sending me expensive flowers and cheeseburgers, what I really wanted was you ? Just you.”
There is not much to say about it. It is again one of those very uneventful sweet love stories. It didn't make me feel much, I mean, sometimes light and sweet love stories can become one of my favorite reads but this wasn't one of them. I didn't find it special.
There isn't much to the story other than Addison, having abandonment issues and thus having reservations towards him and Jake, feeling guilty of the terrible thing that happened to his best friend which resulted in him falsely assuming that he somehow caused it and he is bad for the ones he loves.
While the two of them struggle between their mutual attraction and their personal demons, the story progresses very slowly. There are "sweet, funny, emotional and hot" moments but I must say that I mostly got bored, knowing it wouldn't go anywhere interesting. There is no angst, no sexual tension built up, no interesting story line, etc... To cut it short, it is a decent read nothing else to criticize about other than its sort of cliché, uneventful and slow story line.
Some dialogues from the book...
“All you had to say was I miss you, Addie. ” I snort.
“I just saw you.”
“You missed me,” she repeats confidently.
God, her mouth turns me on. In a million different ways. “Okay, I missed you.”
“Now say, You’re always right, Addie. ”
“Not a chance,” I reply with a laugh.
“A girl can try.”
***
“Oh my God,” she says, staring at me with wide eyes. “I thought the dishwasher-loading man was a myth.”
“Nope, I found one in his natural habitat.”
***
"How am I going to fix this? How am I going to convince her that she needs to run toward me rather than from me?"
***
“Did it ever occur to you that while you were sending me expensive flowers and cheeseburgers, what I really wanted was you ? Just you.”
May 23, 2017
6 stars! This was incredible! Perfection. Loved the story and characters so much. It was entertaining, witty, and sexy. It was my first Kristen Proby book and I feel like I need to apologize to her for being late to the game because seriously, I have been missing out.
There was nothing about this I didn't enjoy. It was an absolute joy to read. At 10% I had a really good feeling. At 20% I was thinking it was pretty darn perfect and it just got better and better from there. Jake and Addie were so real to me and they had the best banter, so fun and playful. And oh man Jake, talk about a guy who gives great flirt. Totally swoon worthy! I loved Addie's wit, and how smart and determined she was. I loved the build between the two of them. Sexy and fun and flirty and hot... then really, really hot! ;-) Besides the fun and sexy, there's a lot of emotion happening as they open up. I thought they had a beautiful story.
This was just so extremely well written and developed. Loved all the characters and how they played into everything. Addie's friends and business partners each have great personalities that really shine through. Getting to know them makes me super excited for their stories. I am so completely pulled in. Those girls together are priceless! Jake’s friends were great too. Loved their interactions and the healing process Jake went enough with them for past issues.
The end had my heart in my throat, caught up in the moment and emotion. I was in this weird place where I couldn't read it fast enough but at the same time, I didn't want it to end. It was just an amazingly well rounded story with great details and bits of whimsy throughout.
I don't give many 6 star review but this one, right from that very first chapter, I was all in, thinking it just doesn't get better than this. But it did! Every single moment of it I was 100% invested and I completely caught up in everything. I just kept thinking to myself, this, THIS is awesome.
Seriously, this is a MUST READ. I highly recommended it. Kristen Proby has a new fan in me. 6 stars all the way!
Complimentary copy received for honest review.
There was nothing about this I didn't enjoy. It was an absolute joy to read. At 10% I had a really good feeling. At 20% I was thinking it was pretty darn perfect and it just got better and better from there. Jake and Addie were so real to me and they had the best banter, so fun and playful. And oh man Jake, talk about a guy who gives great flirt. Totally swoon worthy! I loved Addie's wit, and how smart and determined she was. I loved the build between the two of them. Sexy and fun and flirty and hot... then really, really hot! ;-) Besides the fun and sexy, there's a lot of emotion happening as they open up. I thought they had a beautiful story.
This was just so extremely well written and developed. Loved all the characters and how they played into everything. Addie's friends and business partners each have great personalities that really shine through. Getting to know them makes me super excited for their stories. I am so completely pulled in. Those girls together are priceless! Jake’s friends were great too. Loved their interactions and the healing process Jake went enough with them for past issues.
The end had my heart in my throat, caught up in the moment and emotion. I was in this weird place where I couldn't read it fast enough but at the same time, I didn't want it to end. It was just an amazingly well rounded story with great details and bits of whimsy throughout.
I don't give many 6 star review but this one, right from that very first chapter, I was all in, thinking it just doesn't get better than this. But it did! Every single moment of it I was 100% invested and I completely caught up in everything. I just kept thinking to myself, this, THIS is awesome.
Seriously, this is a MUST READ. I highly recommended it. Kristen Proby has a new fan in me. 6 stars all the way!
Complimentary copy received for honest review.
July 29, 2016
2.5
Listen To Me was a surprisingly good book. I can't rave about it and name it a new favourite, but it was a book that had good elements and bad elements to it. I was frustrated in some parts but giddily smiling at others.
I want to point out the major positives first:
We had some kick ass characters. Addison and her close group of friends had established a business which highlighted each of their degrees from college. They were all such strong women who supported each other, always being there and never belittling one another. It was inspiring considering kickass female characters like that tend to be rare in fiction. I loved the fact that Addison stood up for herself as well, she could take care of herself and her friends.
Jake was a character I didn't like as much as Addison. He was a tad whiny, obsessed with Addison, and was always blaming himself. It got slightly frustrating. Though, it was nice to have a male character who wasn't some alpha asshole who got jealous over ever single thing. At one stage in the book Addison is joking with a guy she dated in high school and Jake doesn't get crazy jealous and annoyed (thank the lord himself). I also loved Jake's platonic relationship with Christina, I'm so sick of seeing boy/girl relationships which always develop into something more why can't two people of opposite genders just be friends?
I obviously had some problems with this book, hence the rating it received. For most of the book I was leaning towards a 4 star review, but the ending dropped it right down to 3. And now 2, the more I think about it. About a 2.5 actually.
I didn't like how short the book was. I felt there was barely time to get to know the characters before the book was over. It didn't take me that long to read it ultimately, so I'm just frustrated that the writing wasn't full of quality.
The ending also felt rushed. I didn't like the pointless drama between Addison and Jake so close to the end. It was pointless and there was no need to it. I swear, books always throw a problem in right before the end in order to make it interesting. In my case? It makes me bored. I also felt some problems were left hanging e.g Addison and her parents etc. I didn't really care for the cliffhanger ending either really.
There also wasn't much of a plot. It was purely romance centred (which if you've read enough of my reviews it's obvious I hate that). I was hoping for more substance as the story continued but I got nothing of the sort.
This review is slightly scattered, but my thoughts on this book are slightly scattered. I liked it, but I also hated it which makes it hard to be fair when reviewing. If the premise of this book interests you I would recommend it, but otherwise I probably wouldn't due to the ultimate cheese fest for the rest of the book.
Listen To Me was a surprisingly good book. I can't rave about it and name it a new favourite, but it was a book that had good elements and bad elements to it. I was frustrated in some parts but giddily smiling at others.
I want to point out the major positives first:
We had some kick ass characters. Addison and her close group of friends had established a business which highlighted each of their degrees from college. They were all such strong women who supported each other, always being there and never belittling one another. It was inspiring considering kickass female characters like that tend to be rare in fiction. I loved the fact that Addison stood up for herself as well, she could take care of herself and her friends.
Jake was a character I didn't like as much as Addison. He was a tad whiny, obsessed with Addison, and was always blaming himself. It got slightly frustrating. Though, it was nice to have a male character who wasn't some alpha asshole who got jealous over ever single thing. At one stage in the book Addison is joking with a guy she dated in high school and Jake doesn't get crazy jealous and annoyed (thank the lord himself). I also loved Jake's platonic relationship with Christina, I'm so sick of seeing boy/girl relationships which always develop into something more why can't two people of opposite genders just be friends?
I obviously had some problems with this book, hence the rating it received. For most of the book I was leaning towards a 4 star review, but the ending dropped it right down to 3. And now 2, the more I think about it. About a 2.5 actually.
I didn't like how short the book was. I felt there was barely time to get to know the characters before the book was over. It didn't take me that long to read it ultimately, so I'm just frustrated that the writing wasn't full of quality.
The ending also felt rushed. I didn't like the pointless drama between Addison and Jake so close to the end. It was pointless and there was no need to it. I swear, books always throw a problem in right before the end in order to make it interesting. In my case? It makes me bored. I also felt some problems were left hanging e.g Addison and her parents etc. I didn't really care for the cliffhanger ending either really.
There also wasn't much of a plot. It was purely romance centred (which if you've read enough of my reviews it's obvious I hate that). I was hoping for more substance as the story continued but I got nothing of the sort.
This review is slightly scattered, but my thoughts on this book are slightly scattered. I liked it, but I also hated it which makes it hard to be fair when reviewing. If the premise of this book interests you I would recommend it, but otherwise I probably wouldn't due to the ultimate cheese fest for the rest of the book.
December 8, 2015
No one writes with the heat and heart of Kristen Proby. I adore her!
April 1, 2016
great book 1 to a series I am excited to read as it releases http://amzn.to/1MgAmzm
July 19, 2016
This audiobook was well narrated and engaging. I listened to it fairly quickly as the story was smooth and flowed really well.
Addison Wade and four other friends owned a restaurant called Seduction together. In order to add more flavor to their establishment, they decided to hire a singer to perform there. During auditions, Jake Keller, former lead singer of a defunct boy band, performed a song and made an impression. He was eventually hired to play at Seduction.
Jake made his interest in Addison known fairly quickly, but Addison who had a pennant for bad boy rockers tried her best to resist him. Eventually, Jake wore her down and they began dating.
The story was told using a Dual Point of View so we could spend equal time in Jake and Addy’s head. They were both working out past issues that were added weight to their new blossoming relationship. Addison used to be a model but was now considered too curvy. Jake had overcome addiction and now worked hard to remain sober and present in his new reality. They were both really likable characters and their respective friends added a nice supporting cast to this love story. I can’t say the story was dissimilar to books in this genre but it was entertaining nonetheless. I couldn’t put it down because I really connected with Addison and loved Jake as a hero too. They were flawed characters but they were so relatable and delightful. Addison felt like a person everyone knows and cares about. You can only hope they would find their Jake someday. It hit all the right chords within me. I had a great time reading this book.
It was pretty low on angst but there was still an emotional pull towards the main characters. I had read this author once before and it was just an okay experience. But this story was more developed and the characters had more depth. I really enjoyed this story and look forward to book 2.
* *Special Thanks to William Morrow Paperback via Edelweiss for the book given in exchange for an honest review*
Addison Wade and four other friends owned a restaurant called Seduction together. In order to add more flavor to their establishment, they decided to hire a singer to perform there. During auditions, Jake Keller, former lead singer of a defunct boy band, performed a song and made an impression. He was eventually hired to play at Seduction.
Jake made his interest in Addison known fairly quickly, but Addison who had a pennant for bad boy rockers tried her best to resist him. Eventually, Jake wore her down and they began dating.
The story was told using a Dual Point of View so we could spend equal time in Jake and Addy’s head. They were both working out past issues that were added weight to their new blossoming relationship. Addison used to be a model but was now considered too curvy. Jake had overcome addiction and now worked hard to remain sober and present in his new reality. They were both really likable characters and their respective friends added a nice supporting cast to this love story. I can’t say the story was dissimilar to books in this genre but it was entertaining nonetheless. I couldn’t put it down because I really connected with Addison and loved Jake as a hero too. They were flawed characters but they were so relatable and delightful. Addison felt like a person everyone knows and cares about. You can only hope they would find their Jake someday. It hit all the right chords within me. I had a great time reading this book.
It was pretty low on angst but there was still an emotional pull towards the main characters. I had read this author once before and it was just an okay experience. But this story was more developed and the characters had more depth. I really enjoyed this story and look forward to book 2.
* *Special Thanks to William Morrow Paperback via Edelweiss for the book given in exchange for an honest review*
Read
June 24, 2017Unfortunately, I won't be finishing this one. I just couldn't jive with the female lead. This doesn't happen often, especially with one of my all time favorites authors, so I'm a bit speechless. I wish I could say it's me (that may still be the case), but I don't think so this time. The heroine is immature and I couldn't ignore it. Maybe my expectations are too lofty. Who knows!
At any rate, I adore Kristen Proby. She's one of my all time faves. I love the concept. I think the group dynamic is great. The idea of close friends running a business together really resonated with me, I just couldn't get past the heroine. The next book in the series sounds pretty interesting. Unrequited love/ 2nd chance is a fave of mine, so hopefully I'll enjoy that one.
This will in no way affect my love of the author and obviously I'll continue with the series.
No rating since I stopped listening at 70%. The narration was pretty good :)
At any rate, I adore Kristen Proby. She's one of my all time faves. I love the concept. I think the group dynamic is great. The idea of close friends running a business together really resonated with me, I just couldn't get past the heroine. The next book in the series sounds pretty interesting. Unrequited love/ 2nd chance is a fave of mine, so hopefully I'll enjoy that one.
This will in no way affect my love of the author and obviously I'll continue with the series.
No rating since I stopped listening at 70%. The narration was pretty good :)
December 8, 2017
I really love Kristen Proby because her books are extremely refreshing and with a very familiar vibe. You become extremely addictive to the plot and characters and you begin to want to know more about this universe she built within her books.
I enjoyed so much The Boudreaux Series and last week I actually wanted something light and funny to keep me up all night, so I chose another one of her series to see if it does the trick for me again. It actually worked, because I am planning to continue the series.
So, "Listen to Me" is the first book from The Fusion Series and here we meet Jake and Addie, 2 extremely different characters who try to leave their pasts and fears behind in order to start over.
Addie had a lot of bad luck in love, experiencing broken heart issues mainly with artists/ musicians. After dozens of this episodes, she finally learns a lesson and try to not mingle with this type of men. So she is determined to ignore the gorgeous Jake that wants to play in her fancy restaurant "Seduction". Jake is not in the spotlight anymore, but his love for music is still very much alive. When Addie gives him the opportunity to continue doing what he loves in her restaurant, he is there in a second, but also extremely attracted to her.
You know what I liked about the characters? They were very easy to relate to and normal. They didn't have a complex past, with tragic things that had to be discovered. Addie had trust issues, beginning with her love life and ending with her parents, and this made her vulnerable and very hard to trust someone again completely. Jake made some mistakes in his life and payed the consequences, and because of a certain period in his life, he believed that he couldn't be loved, that everybody around him gets hurt. He also stop singing and focused more on producing, but his mind was constantly at his first love. They will learn to trust each other, to leave their past behind and open their hearts in order to have a future together.
This book is perfect if you want something sexy, adorable, light and funny. I like the focus Kristen puts on family and friends, on unity and trust. It is very important while reading a book to have good examples of friendship, of a good environment, because in this way you can aspire to have it in your life as well. I think that by default, you will like to be closer to your friends, to be more successful, to follow your dreams and pursue a goal. It made me more ambitious and showed me how normal people can manage something through ambition and dedication.
I loved the good vibe this book gave me and this encouraged me to continue this series, because there are a lot of characters there that are worthy and I'll think they will provide us with excellent stories down the road.
4 stars!
For more reviews please check https://readwithloveblog.wordpress.com
I enjoyed so much The Boudreaux Series and last week I actually wanted something light and funny to keep me up all night, so I chose another one of her series to see if it does the trick for me again. It actually worked, because I am planning to continue the series.
So, "Listen to Me" is the first book from The Fusion Series and here we meet Jake and Addie, 2 extremely different characters who try to leave their pasts and fears behind in order to start over.
Addie had a lot of bad luck in love, experiencing broken heart issues mainly with artists/ musicians. After dozens of this episodes, she finally learns a lesson and try to not mingle with this type of men. So she is determined to ignore the gorgeous Jake that wants to play in her fancy restaurant "Seduction". Jake is not in the spotlight anymore, but his love for music is still very much alive. When Addie gives him the opportunity to continue doing what he loves in her restaurant, he is there in a second, but also extremely attracted to her.
You know what I liked about the characters? They were very easy to relate to and normal. They didn't have a complex past, with tragic things that had to be discovered. Addie had trust issues, beginning with her love life and ending with her parents, and this made her vulnerable and very hard to trust someone again completely. Jake made some mistakes in his life and payed the consequences, and because of a certain period in his life, he believed that he couldn't be loved, that everybody around him gets hurt. He also stop singing and focused more on producing, but his mind was constantly at his first love. They will learn to trust each other, to leave their past behind and open their hearts in order to have a future together.
This book is perfect if you want something sexy, adorable, light and funny. I like the focus Kristen puts on family and friends, on unity and trust. It is very important while reading a book to have good examples of friendship, of a good environment, because in this way you can aspire to have it in your life as well. I think that by default, you will like to be closer to your friends, to be more successful, to follow your dreams and pursue a goal. It made me more ambitious and showed me how normal people can manage something through ambition and dedication.
I loved the good vibe this book gave me and this encouraged me to continue this series, because there are a lot of characters there that are worthy and I'll think they will provide us with excellent stories down the road.
4 stars!
For more reviews please check https://readwithloveblog.wordpress.com
September 28, 2017
I needed something sweet and light to read and Listen to Me was just the fit for it.
The story was heartwarming, funny, sexy and sweet. I fell everything in the story was reasonable and all of the characters intrigued me and I can’t wait to read more of these stories
The story was heartwarming, funny, sexy and sweet. I fell everything in the story was reasonable and all of the characters intrigued me and I can’t wait to read more of these stories
May 9, 2019
Realy liked the concept of this serie but for the rest i mixed up the characters a lot and found it kinda boring exept the sexy times.
June 28, 2017
This book had a lot of potential, but got in its own way with some things that just didn't work for me.
Let me just get this out there: Jake is outstanding. He's sweet and centered and good-natured and almost perfect for Addie. I had qualms about the ex-rocker bad-boy thing, but Proby does a good job showing how his past has made him the grounded, sincere guy he is now. With one exception that I'll get to later.
Addie isn't so much of a win, mostly because she wears the damage from her past on her sleeve. Also, she has a huge case of negative motivation* and that bogged everything down hard. So the whole story, she's all "I can't possibly" or "I have such a bad history" blah blah blah.
Also in the plus column is that Proby's writing is at its best with the banter. Seriously, there are some awesome moments there. Between Jake and the banter this should have been four stars.
Unfortunately...
Added to Addie's negative motivation, Jake has this brain damage about relationships that feels wholly manufactured. I mean, how stupid is this guy that he blames himself for every bad thing that happens around him? And he looks even dumber when we finally learn details. And the thing is, Proby foreshadows the damage from both Jake and Addie so hard that professional "wrestlers" with percussive romance inclinations could see the eventual conflict coming and Daffy Duck could have dodged the fallout with his bill plastered on backwards. And then, when it arrives, it's even worse than expected because both have a brainectomy before and during the blowup.
Anyway, between the telegraphed conflict and the setup just not working (see below), this is three stars, but lucky to remain that high. The relationship could have been so much better that I'm a bit torn up about the might-have-beens.
A nit-pick about Business: the whole restaurant/friend setup doesn't work even a very little bit. Going into business with friends always seems like a great idea but I've never seen it work in real life. Nothing blows up the tension like disagreements with your livelihood on the line and emotional investments matching capital ones. And a romance-themed restaurant in downtown Portland that is such a big hit that they can afford an extra $1,000 a week for musicians? Sorry, but those margins are thin and they're already top-heavy with five executives on staff. And frankly, if the restaurant is that successful, then the very last thing they need is a gimmick to bring people in on the weekends. If they're successful, then the weekends are already packed. And displacing space where you could fit another table or two is costing you enough already...
A note about Steamy: There are six or seven explicit scenes (depending on how you count scenes). They're mostly on the short side, but still multiple pages. Which puts this on the high end of my steam tolerance, and nearly breaking out. And, as you might expect, the last couple are completely unnecessary.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
Let me just get this out there: Jake is outstanding. He's sweet and centered and good-natured and almost perfect for Addie. I had qualms about the ex-rocker bad-boy thing, but Proby does a good job showing how his past has made him the grounded, sincere guy he is now. With one exception that I'll get to later.
Addie isn't so much of a win, mostly because she wears the damage from her past on her sleeve. Also, she has a huge case of negative motivation* and that bogged everything down hard. So the whole story, she's all "I can't possibly" or "I have such a bad history" blah blah blah.
Also in the plus column is that Proby's writing is at its best with the banter. Seriously, there are some awesome moments there. Between Jake and the banter this should have been four stars.
Unfortunately...
Added to Addie's negative motivation, Jake has this brain damage about relationships that feels wholly manufactured. I mean, how stupid is this guy that he blames himself for every bad thing that happens around him? And he looks even dumber when we finally learn details. And the thing is, Proby foreshadows the damage from both Jake and Addie so hard that professional "wrestlers" with percussive romance inclinations could see the eventual conflict coming and Daffy Duck could have dodged the fallout with his bill plastered on backwards. And then, when it arrives, it's even worse than expected because both have a brainectomy before and during the blowup.
Anyway, between the telegraphed conflict and the setup just not working (see below), this is three stars, but lucky to remain that high. The relationship could have been so much better that I'm a bit torn up about the might-have-beens.
A nit-pick about Business: the whole restaurant/friend setup doesn't work even a very little bit. Going into business with friends always seems like a great idea but I've never seen it work in real life. Nothing blows up the tension like disagreements with your livelihood on the line and emotional investments matching capital ones. And a romance-themed restaurant in downtown Portland that is such a big hit that they can afford an extra $1,000 a week for musicians? Sorry, but those margins are thin and they're already top-heavy with five executives on staff. And frankly, if the restaurant is that successful, then the very last thing they need is a gimmick to bring people in on the weekends. If they're successful, then the weekends are already packed. And displacing space where you could fit another table or two is costing you enough already...
A note about Steamy: There are six or seven explicit scenes (depending on how you count scenes). They're mostly on the short side, but still multiple pages. Which puts this on the high end of my steam tolerance, and nearly breaking out. And, as you might expect, the last couple are completely unnecessary.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
August 17, 2016
4 stars!
Sweet, fun, romantic, oh-so-sexy and lots of heart. Kristen Proby does it again!
Addison Wade and her four best friends are the co-owners of hot new restaurant, Seduction. They are an incredibly close-knit group and they work hard to make their restaurant the huge success that it is. But despite her business success as the restaurant’s Manager, Addie has had nothing but bad luck when it comes to relationships. Her ex-boyfriends have been bad boy musicians, and most of them have treated her badly, leaving her broken hearted. Her latest break up is more of the same and she is determined to stay away from her usual type of men in the future.
When the girls decide to bring on a musical act for their weekend customers, they end up hiring Jake Keller – formerly known as Jake Knox, lead singer of rock band Hard Knox. Five years ago Jake’s band broke up and he retired from performing and is now a sought-after producer. But he misses the stage, and weekend gigs at a restaurant are just what he needs to satisfy his love of performing.
From the very first moment, Jake makes his attraction to Addie known. He is smooth and confident with a great sense of humour, and I love his cocky charm as he pursues her – especially the scene where he overhears her talking about her perfect guy…
Addie’s pain over her failed relationships is still fresh so she does her best to push Jake away, but the man is persistent. And as he makes his case, proving that he’s actually a good guy who wants something meaningful with her, she is powerless to resist - and the joking, teasing and banter is fantastic!
I love this relationship! The fun, sweet moments are perfectly woven in with the steamy passion and deep emotion that grows between Addie and Jake. Their chemistry is undeniable (in and out of the bedroom… whew!), and there is lots of time spent with them getting to know each other, growing close and falling hard.
But with all of their baggage, of course there is the inevitable drama, but it serves a purpose in allowing Addie and Jake to figure out what they want and where their hearts truly lie, and I enjoyed the build-up as they worked to sort out their issues.
I loved this book! Funny, sexy, gorgeously romantic and lots of fun, Kristen Proby proves why she is my go-to author for an easy-to-read romance that will always leave me smiling. This is a really strong start to the Fusion series, I’m looking forward to getting to know each of these ladies better as their stories are told, and with a bit of a tease at the next book, I’m so excited for Cami and Landon up next!
4 stars
Sweet, fun, romantic, oh-so-sexy and lots of heart. Kristen Proby does it again!
Addison Wade and her four best friends are the co-owners of hot new restaurant, Seduction. They are an incredibly close-knit group and they work hard to make their restaurant the huge success that it is. But despite her business success as the restaurant’s Manager, Addie has had nothing but bad luck when it comes to relationships. Her ex-boyfriends have been bad boy musicians, and most of them have treated her badly, leaving her broken hearted. Her latest break up is more of the same and she is determined to stay away from her usual type of men in the future.
When the girls decide to bring on a musical act for their weekend customers, they end up hiring Jake Keller – formerly known as Jake Knox, lead singer of rock band Hard Knox. Five years ago Jake’s band broke up and he retired from performing and is now a sought-after producer. But he misses the stage, and weekend gigs at a restaurant are just what he needs to satisfy his love of performing.
From the very first moment, Jake makes his attraction to Addie known. He is smooth and confident with a great sense of humour, and I love his cocky charm as he pursues her – especially the scene where he overhears her talking about her perfect guy…
“I'm taller than you, you know. And I have tats. I know that wasn't a deal breaker, but it's a bonus.”
I shake my head.
“I have brown hair, but I could lighten it. And I think you settled on blue eyes, but I heard green mentioned, and...bingo.” He bats his eyes at me and before I know what's happening, he lifts the hem of his shirt.
Oh, sweet Jesus.
“And I'm not the one to brag, but, abs.”
Addie’s pain over her failed relationships is still fresh so she does her best to push Jake away, but the man is persistent. And as he makes his case, proving that he’s actually a good guy who wants something meaningful with her, she is powerless to resist - and the joking, teasing and banter is fantastic!
Holy mother of God, that feels good.
“I’m not having sex with you,” I say primly and try to inch away from him.
“I didn’t invite you to. Stop squirming.”
He nuzzles my neck, making my eyes cross, and continues to play my stomach like a freaking guitar. Then he pushes more firmly against me, making me giggle. “Whatever it is that’s pressed to my ass disagrees with you.”
“That’s nothing. Just a flashlight.”
I burst out laughing. “Do you carry a flashlight in your pocket often?”
“Mostly just in the morning,” he replies seriously and kisses my neck, right under my ear.
I love this relationship! The fun, sweet moments are perfectly woven in with the steamy passion and deep emotion that grows between Addie and Jake. Their chemistry is undeniable (in and out of the bedroom… whew!), and there is lots of time spent with them getting to know each other, growing close and falling hard.
“I need someone who calls me out on my bullshit. I need someone who sees the fire in my eyes and wants to play with it, not try to extinguish it. I need someone who challenges me; in the bedroom, in my career, in my crazy head. And you know what? I found all of that in you.”
“I know that our love isn’t perfect, Addie. But I do know that I will fight for us.”
But with all of their baggage, of course there is the inevitable drama, but it serves a purpose in allowing Addie and Jake to figure out what they want and where their hearts truly lie, and I enjoyed the build-up as they worked to sort out their issues.
“Addie, I can’t promise you that there won’t be times I fuck up or that things won’t ever feel broken.” His voice is a shaky whisper, his mouth planted against my temple. “But I can promise you that I will never walk away from us.”
Us.
Not me. Us.
I hug him tighter as tears form at the corners of my eyes. “That’s the best promise you can make.”
I loved this book! Funny, sexy, gorgeously romantic and lots of fun, Kristen Proby proves why she is my go-to author for an easy-to-read romance that will always leave me smiling. This is a really strong start to the Fusion series, I’m looking forward to getting to know each of these ladies better as their stories are told, and with a bit of a tease at the next book, I’m so excited for Cami and Landon up next!
4 stars
April 20, 2016
A good start to Proby’s new Fusion series featuring five female friends who are partners in a high-end restaurant they have named “Seduction.” Yes, it can be read as a standalone. But each installment will build upon the characters introduced here with each book centered on a new couple and their own story. High fives for the “natural” and “feel good” covers for this book and the next one. I was immediately drawn to both.
I liked the premise and enjoyed this story. It was an "ok" read but nothing extraordinary or new – just what you would expect with a brooding rocker and a girl who has been cast aside by those she’s loved too many times. On the positive side, the interaction between the close friends and partners in business is solid and very realistically written. They appeared responsible and willing to work hard to succeed. Their friendship offered lots of wit and sassy dialogue and a few too many bottles of wine shared as they offered helping hands and shoulders to cry on at all the appropriate times.
One complaint that kept this just a “meh” read is that, although Addison and Jake were older and supposedly wiser with age and established careers, I found their relationship a bit on the juvenile side. Taking advice from the title of their book might have helped their situation if they had only listened to each other. Again, it’s that ongoing and never-ending misunderstood breakup circle. They simply don’t converse with one another on items of importance to their relationship. A decision is made by one party or the other thinking they know what's best for everyone involved without talking out the problems or confirming their reasoning with the so-called guilty party. Even so, the drama is light with nothing shockingly frightful or that will send you into days of depression. Predictable but still emotional and downright hot!
A light and easy music-related sexy pick-me-up read. There are definitely a few places where your heartstrings will feel well-strummed! I definitely enjoyed it enough to stick with it to see what the next installment brings. Close to You (Cami and Landon, the best friend's brother & fighter pilot) is the second installment due out in August 2016.
July 2, 2017
4.5 Listen to Me Stars
I really liked that this series is based around a group of girlfriend’s and how each one gets her man.
This one happens to be about Addison, she is attracted to the bad boys. (Aren’t we all?) And how the bad boys are just not right for her.
Enter sexy musician Jake Keller and feelings and emotions run wild!
I quiet liked that Jake’s best friend is a female. And his back story with her is what keeps him from really opening up and letting someone in. But Addy’s charisma knows no bounds and she worms her way in.
I loved there love story and how all things come to though who wait or are patience or even who let a second chance in.
It’s a feel good romance and who doesn’t love thoughts.
Also SebYo is the male pov… Yummy as always. But I really enjoyed the female narrator she does great females and male voices!
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
I really liked that this series is based around a group of girlfriend’s and how each one gets her man.
This one happens to be about Addison, she is attracted to the bad boys. (Aren’t we all?) And how the bad boys are just not right for her.
Enter sexy musician Jake Keller and feelings and emotions run wild!
I quiet liked that Jake’s best friend is a female. And his back story with her is what keeps him from really opening up and letting someone in. But Addy’s charisma knows no bounds and she worms her way in.
I loved there love story and how all things come to though who wait or are patience or even who let a second chance in.
It’s a feel good romance and who doesn’t love thoughts.
Also SebYo is the male pov… Yummy as always. But I really enjoyed the female narrator she does great females and male voices!
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
January 24, 2018
This was fun and sexy and had that kind of slow burn romance I love so much. I would have ended up giving this 5 stars if not for the last third of the book. We all know how these stories go. There needs to be some kind of conflict to create drama so the couple can break up only to find each other again in a way that makes us readers swoon. In this one the conflict felt forced and overused and took away from the enjoyment I’ve had with this up until that point. Otherwise this is definitely recommendable if you’re looking for something light and sexy.
March 13, 2017
“I know that our love isn’t perfect, Addie. But I do know that I will fight for us, I will protect you.”
“Even though I’m a wreck sometimes?” I whisper.
“In spite of it. I love your chaos, sweetheart.”
Addison Wade together with her five best friends owns Seduction, a very up and coming restaurant in Portland. And to make sure their restaurant pleases all of their customers’ senses, they’ve decided that live music is just what they need. But when Jake Keller, who used to be famous rock star, applies for the position, Addie knows she’s in trouble. Jake is perfect for their restaurant but everything about him tells Addie he’s bad news. Her penchant for bad boy musicians has only brought pain for her in the past and she’s not about to make the same mistake again. No matter how sexy and charming Jake is.
Jake walked away from what he loves most five years ago. The rock star life brought out the worst in him, and he knows he will never go back to being that person. But he misses playing in front of people and when he gets the opportunity to play at Seduction, he sees it as his chance to get back the part of his life he misses. And working for the sassy and beautiful Addie makes it even better. Now if only he can convince her to give him a chance on more than just working for her.
“You scare me a little,” she admits softly.
“You scare me a lot,” I reply with a grin. “I think that if it wasn’t scary it wouldn’t mean as much.”
But what will happen when Jake’s past comes back to haunt him? Will he have broken through Addie’s walls only to hurt her like all the others in her past has?
This man is potent.
Dangerous.
So fucking hot.
“Seriously, Jake, I am not having sex with you.”
“Seriously, Addie, I am not even attracted to you. Stop trying to have sex with me.”
I really liked Addie, her confidence, her love of fashion and her take charge attitude. Even though Addie was attracted to Jake right from the start, she didn’t want to be. She’s always had a weak spot for bad boys and musicians, but she’s been burned by them so many times and with Jake being a musician and his wild past she’s too afraid to believe it would be different with him.
“Addie, you’re a grown woman. Of course you’ve had life experiences that have broken your heart, made you guarded. I don’t need someone with a spotless heart. Give me someone who’s been through some shit, who’s had to pick herself up, dust herself off, and get on with it.”
Jake was such a great hero. He’s made a lot of mistakes in his past, but he’s not that guy anymore. I loved his intense reaction to Abbie right from the start, how he couldn’t keep his eyes off of her.
“It may have taken me a while to break through some of your walls, but here we are. You’re wild about me.”
“I tolerate you,” she replies with a smile in her voice.
“Stop fawning. It’s embarrassing.”
I like the slow burn of their romance and their banter was so funny and sweet. I’m not a fan of angst, but I really enjoyed the drama near the end. Both Addie and Jake has issues which made them react badly at certain points, but it added depth and a sense of real to their relationship. And I love that Addie didn’t just forgive Jake easily, she actually gave him a hard time and it felt refreshing and so true to the person she is, after all the hurt she experienced from her parents and the losers she dated before. Also, Jake did some good grovelling, which I really liked.
I love this author’s writing, the way she blends the sweetness with the sexiness and all the feelings. And the friendships she writes, whether it’s between siblings like her Boudreaux series or friends like this series, it’s all amazing. She captures their loyalty and closeness perfectly and I loved Addie and her friends in this book. I can’t wait to read the next book. This book is a must read for all romance fans.
June 8, 2016
Published: 2016
:: 5 Pretty Little Stars ::
This book is a GREAT start to an all new series and I can’t wait to see where the author takes all the rest of the characters (who are secondary in this novel). Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It’s a pretty light read and not packed with dramatics. The heroine is someone all females can relate to and the hero is one hot man with whom we can all fall in love with. He (Jake) is a tattooed musician and she (Addison) is a sweet, strong, caring, and easily likeable. So why did I decide to read this one? Well, I bought this book on a whim at my local bookstore when I saw it standing on the new release display and was immediately drawn to the cover. Once I read the blurb a few times (to make sure it was really going to be something I would enjoy) I decided to go ahead and purchase a copy. Well, I am so glad I did and I certainly plan to read the rest of the series as they are released. Normally I won’t pick up these books in paperback, especially when I am not too familiar with the author, but in this case I am glad I did and will happily display it as one of my favorites on my book shelf. So yes, I highly recommend this read. It’s really great!
This story is about Addison who is a partial owner of a new restaurant called Seduction. She and four of her best friends (who will each receive their own story in this series) are doing really well business wise but to add a bit more spice to their restaurant they decide to hire a musician to play on the weekends. So when Addison goes to a local club on open mic night to find someone who will fit she is immediately drawn to the smooth voice and killer looks of Jake Keller (aka Knox). But then she realizes that he used to be in a band that all her friends have fangirled over. At first Addison wants nothing to do with this because she knows how rock stars are and doesn’t want to be involved in the dramatics. But once she gets to know him her views start to change. And the cocky yet completely charming Jake begins to make a big difference in her life. But can Addison get over his bad boy image and the fact that he is a former rockstar? You’ll have to read to find out!
Fans of the author will definitely want to start out this all new series. Even those who love a sweet romance with some very SPICY scenes. I enjoyed it immensely and I can’t wait until August when book 2 comes out (which will feature a different BFF/couple). Is this one highly recommend? YES! Pick up this one.
:: 5 Pretty Little Stars ::
This book is a GREAT start to an all new series and I can’t wait to see where the author takes all the rest of the characters (who are secondary in this novel). Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It’s a pretty light read and not packed with dramatics. The heroine is someone all females can relate to and the hero is one hot man with whom we can all fall in love with. He (Jake) is a tattooed musician and she (Addison) is a sweet, strong, caring, and easily likeable. So why did I decide to read this one? Well, I bought this book on a whim at my local bookstore when I saw it standing on the new release display and was immediately drawn to the cover. Once I read the blurb a few times (to make sure it was really going to be something I would enjoy) I decided to go ahead and purchase a copy. Well, I am so glad I did and I certainly plan to read the rest of the series as they are released. Normally I won’t pick up these books in paperback, especially when I am not too familiar with the author, but in this case I am glad I did and will happily display it as one of my favorites on my book shelf. So yes, I highly recommend this read. It’s really great!
This story is about Addison who is a partial owner of a new restaurant called Seduction. She and four of her best friends (who will each receive their own story in this series) are doing really well business wise but to add a bit more spice to their restaurant they decide to hire a musician to play on the weekends. So when Addison goes to a local club on open mic night to find someone who will fit she is immediately drawn to the smooth voice and killer looks of Jake Keller (aka Knox). But then she realizes that he used to be in a band that all her friends have fangirled over. At first Addison wants nothing to do with this because she knows how rock stars are and doesn’t want to be involved in the dramatics. But once she gets to know him her views start to change. And the cocky yet completely charming Jake begins to make a big difference in her life. But can Addison get over his bad boy image and the fact that he is a former rockstar? You’ll have to read to find out!
Fans of the author will definitely want to start out this all new series. Even those who love a sweet romance with some very SPICY scenes. I enjoyed it immensely and I can’t wait until August when book 2 comes out (which will feature a different BFF/couple). Is this one highly recommend? YES! Pick up this one.
August 8, 2019
Addison Wade is co-owner of Seduction, a hot new restaurant in Portland, with four of her best friends and she couldn’t feel luckier. In her career, Addison is successful, but in her love life, not so much. Addison always goes for the same bad-boy musician and after catching her last boyfriend cheating on her, she’s had enough and decides to swear off all musicians from then on out.
So when Jake Keller, former rockstar and heartthrob, walks into Seduction, looking to fill their ad for a weekend musician, Addison knows she needs to stay far away from Jake. Addison assumes he’s a bad boy just like every other musician she’s been involved with, but Jake is not the man Addison thinks he is.
5-years ago, Jake left the spotlight when his band broke up and has been working behind the scenes ever since. But he’s itching to sing again and when he sees the ad at Seduction, it seems like fate. When Jake lays eyes on Addison for the first time, he knows she’s something special. And now he just has to do anything possible to win over this pessimist’s heart.
Listen to Me by Kristen Proby is book one in the Fusion series. This was a feel-good rockstar romance with two overall likable love interests. My favorite part about this story was how integral the side characters are to the book. You can definitely tell that this series will be featuring all the same characters and that along the way, you’ll form some serious bonds with them along the way. This story lacks in drama but definitely doesn’t lack in the steam department! I didn’t love the last sex scene between Addison and Jake. It felt like a last minute add in—one that was so out of place. I enjoyed this short and sweet romance and can’t wait to continue on with this series. 3.5/5 stars.
So when Jake Keller, former rockstar and heartthrob, walks into Seduction, looking to fill their ad for a weekend musician, Addison knows she needs to stay far away from Jake. Addison assumes he’s a bad boy just like every other musician she’s been involved with, but Jake is not the man Addison thinks he is.
5-years ago, Jake left the spotlight when his band broke up and has been working behind the scenes ever since. But he’s itching to sing again and when he sees the ad at Seduction, it seems like fate. When Jake lays eyes on Addison for the first time, he knows she’s something special. And now he just has to do anything possible to win over this pessimist’s heart.
Listen to Me by Kristen Proby is book one in the Fusion series. This was a feel-good rockstar romance with two overall likable love interests. My favorite part about this story was how integral the side characters are to the book. You can definitely tell that this series will be featuring all the same characters and that along the way, you’ll form some serious bonds with them along the way. This story lacks in drama but definitely doesn’t lack in the steam department! I didn’t love the last sex scene between Addison and Jake. It felt like a last minute add in—one that was so out of place. I enjoyed this short and sweet romance and can’t wait to continue on with this series. 3.5/5 stars.
April 11, 2016
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️4 STARS⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Listen to Me seduced me from the get go, with an empowered yet sensitive heroine, a reformed bad boy rockstar hero, and a tight group of friends and solid secondary characters. A happy place for a few hours, low angst, sexy times and hilarious banter jousts!
Addison cannot help it if life keeps throwing at her douchebags, despite being level headed at work and brilliant business woman, she’s a romantic at heart and has been mislead one time too many by her traitorous organ.
Fortunately for her, “Seduction”, the restaurant she owns with her best friends gives her a reason to stand proud and focus on better things. Like looking for the next musician to fill up the stage of her restaurant.
Jake Keller was once a famous leading singer before his band broke up 5 years ago. He hasn’t been on stage ever since, preferring the safety and anonymity of the recording studios to the limelight. But the desire to perform itches again, and he finds himself giving into the urge, one open mic night.
I really liked the heroine and the hero together. Their bantering sessions truly gave Listen to Me that little thing to make the story stands out. Both characters had obvious great chemistry and Addison doubts and reluctancy to put her heart out there again made it all even better. The resulting build up and tension promised all sorts of good times and it’s my pleasure to tell you that Kristen Proby truly delivered!
I loved Jake’s character, definitely alpha, caring and overbearing. But oh so sweet… Well, not too much, because that reformed bad boy has a nice dirty mouth attached to him! The dirty talk, sigh… There’s definitely more to him than meets the eye, guilt over a past mistake eats at him, forbidding him to look forward. Tormented hero anyone?
I loved Addison equally, so full of spunk, not the kind of woman to stand down for anything, she goes after what she wants and say she thinks. Except maybe when her heart is on the line…
All in all Listen to Me proved to be the perfect feel good story, with two lovable lead characters, a relatively low angst, (except for that tiny miscommunication part around 70%) and engaging secondary characters. I cannot wait to read more about Cami and Landon in Close To You , seems like a treat for unrequited love addicts!
I’m truly surprised by this one, as my past experience with this author’s work wasn’t a success, I couldn’t get into any of her “With Me” series, too much cheese, not enough character’s development… Even the writing style seemed different in Listen to Me , the dialogues and dual POVs truly engaging, not at all what I recall from my 3 previous reads where all felt… flat. I’m sure I’ll be definitely checking more of her books, especially the upcoming Fusion series novels!
(Arc offered by Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review)
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
Listen to Me seduced me from the get go, with an empowered yet sensitive heroine, a reformed bad boy rockstar hero, and a tight group of friends and solid secondary characters. A happy place for a few hours, low angst, sexy times and hilarious banter jousts!
Addison cannot help it if life keeps throwing at her douchebags, despite being level headed at work and brilliant business woman, she’s a romantic at heart and has been mislead one time too many by her traitorous organ.
Fortunately for her, “Seduction”, the restaurant she owns with her best friends gives her a reason to stand proud and focus on better things. Like looking for the next musician to fill up the stage of her restaurant.
Jake Keller was once a famous leading singer before his band broke up 5 years ago. He hasn’t been on stage ever since, preferring the safety and anonymity of the recording studios to the limelight. But the desire to perform itches again, and he finds himself giving into the urge, one open mic night.
I really liked the heroine and the hero together. Their bantering sessions truly gave Listen to Me that little thing to make the story stands out. Both characters had obvious great chemistry and Addison doubts and reluctancy to put her heart out there again made it all even better. The resulting build up and tension promised all sorts of good times and it’s my pleasure to tell you that Kristen Proby truly delivered!
I loved Jake’s character, definitely alpha, caring and overbearing. But oh so sweet… Well, not too much, because that reformed bad boy has a nice dirty mouth attached to him! The dirty talk, sigh… There’s definitely more to him than meets the eye, guilt over a past mistake eats at him, forbidding him to look forward. Tormented hero anyone?
I loved Addison equally, so full of spunk, not the kind of woman to stand down for anything, she goes after what she wants and say she thinks. Except maybe when her heart is on the line…
All in all Listen to Me proved to be the perfect feel good story, with two lovable lead characters, a relatively low angst, (except for that tiny miscommunication part around 70%) and engaging secondary characters. I cannot wait to read more about Cami and Landon in Close To You , seems like a treat for unrequited love addicts!
I’m truly surprised by this one, as my past experience with this author’s work wasn’t a success, I couldn’t get into any of her “With Me” series, too much cheese, not enough character’s development… Even the writing style seemed different in Listen to Me , the dialogues and dual POVs truly engaging, not at all what I recall from my 3 previous reads where all felt… flat. I’m sure I’ll be definitely checking more of her books, especially the upcoming Fusion series novels!
(Arc offered by Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review)
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
July 6, 2017
"Addie, I can’t promise you that there won’t be times I fuck up or that things won’t ever feel broken.” His voice is a shaky whisper, his mouth planted against my temple. “But I can promise you that I will never walk away from us.”
Us.
Not me. Us.
I hug him tighter as tears form at the corners of my eyes. “That’s the best promise you can make.”
I'm having writer's block for reviews, so prepare for some gifs to the rescue.
Addie owns the restaurant called Seduction with a few of her friends. Its ambiance is all about sensuality. So, of course, you need some music to make that ambiance.
In walks Jake Keller, and ex-celebrity singer. He's also hot (OMG NO WAY!) and he decides he still wants music in his life and the Seduction weekend gig is a good opportunity to pursue that goal.
And thus begins a whirlwind romance between Addie and Jake.
Wow, guys, Jake is SUCH a romantic :D
The way Jake worshiped Addie was truly adorable!
I can't tell you how refreshing it is to have a hero who doesn't have his head so far up his own ass and is a romantic soul!
I also LOVED how Jake is an actual person. Not some dumbass celebrity. He has normal feelings and expresses those feelings. He is a down-to-earth man.
This is my second Kristen Proby book, and I must say I'm quite liking her style!
I like that she focuses on actually developing the romance while still having some smut in there.
Many smutty reads are all sexsexsexsexsexsexsexsexsexiloveyousexsexsexsexsexsexsex
Anyways, I'm looking forward to getting my hands on the next one ;-)
September 9, 2017
3.5-4 stars
This was a pretty good story. I liked both Addison and Jake, even though they both had issues. Their story was enjoyable and I'm looking forward to continuing the series.
Addison is co-owner of a popular restaurant, along with her 4 BFFs. Addison grew up with parents that didn't pay her much attention and still don't (which hurts her even though she tries to ignore it). Addison hasn't had much luck with men...she tends to be into bad-boy musicians who cheat on her and then leave her. All Addison really wants is someone that will show her some love, not cheat on her and make her a priority in their life.
Jake used to be the lead for a popular band. While with the band, Jake was a man whore and started getting into some bad stuff, including drugs. After Jake's BFF, Christina, got in a serious accident (which he blamed himself for) he quit the band and decided he'd prefer to produce music and write songs for other musicians. He's been out of the band for 5 years and he's happy with his business but he's still missing something.
The restaurant the Addison and her friends own, Seduction, is doing well but they decide that they want to bring in live music on Friday and Saturday nights. Addison goes to an open mic night to try to find someone and sees Jake there but doesn't approach him. Christina is convinced that Jake needs to play music again so she convinces him to go to an open mic night just so he can play. After he performs in front of a crowd, jake realizes that he misses it, even if he still doesn't want to rejoin a band and do tours and such. Christina had seen a sign at Seduction about them looking for a musician so she suggests that he go and apply. Jake does and when he sees Addison, he's definitely interested in getting to know her better. Unfortunately, when Jake first shows up, Addison is just breaking up with her latest cheating boyfriend so she's not exactly receptive to Jake, no matter how strong the attraction is between them.
Jake starts singing at the restaurant 2 nights a week but it takes a while for him to get Addison to give him the time of day. Once they do finally come together, it takes some effort for Jake to get Addison to fully trust him and let him in past her walls. Once she does, they find that their blooming relationship isn't perfect (they both still make mistakes) but is still great and something they both want to continue. Unfortunately, Jake has some personal issues as well and when they hit, he has a huge bout of relationship dumbassedness and he ends up causing much drama and pain for them both. Things look bad for a while and Addison certainly makes Jake work for it but they eventually work things out and end the story starting a HEA together.
This was a pretty enjoyable story. I liked Addison for the most part but she tended to blame Jake for the sins of other men which annoyed me at times. Jake was a good hero. He did have that bout of relationship dumbassedness but he got past it and then was willing to do the work to make up for his idiocy so I liked him. My main complaint is that I wasn't thrilled with how long the drama between them was drawn out but overall, I liked the story and plan to read the next book in the series. I'd recommend this book. :)
* note - I listened to the audio version of this book. It had 2 narrators, a female for the chapters from Addison's PoV and a male for the chapters from Jake's PoV. I thought both narrators did a very good job.
This was a pretty good story. I liked both Addison and Jake, even though they both had issues. Their story was enjoyable and I'm looking forward to continuing the series.
Addison is co-owner of a popular restaurant, along with her 4 BFFs. Addison grew up with parents that didn't pay her much attention and still don't (which hurts her even though she tries to ignore it). Addison hasn't had much luck with men...she tends to be into bad-boy musicians who cheat on her and then leave her. All Addison really wants is someone that will show her some love, not cheat on her and make her a priority in their life.
Jake used to be the lead for a popular band. While with the band, Jake was a man whore and started getting into some bad stuff, including drugs. After Jake's BFF, Christina, got in a serious accident (which he blamed himself for) he quit the band and decided he'd prefer to produce music and write songs for other musicians. He's been out of the band for 5 years and he's happy with his business but he's still missing something.
The restaurant the Addison and her friends own, Seduction, is doing well but they decide that they want to bring in live music on Friday and Saturday nights. Addison goes to an open mic night to try to find someone and sees Jake there but doesn't approach him. Christina is convinced that Jake needs to play music again so she convinces him to go to an open mic night just so he can play. After he performs in front of a crowd, jake realizes that he misses it, even if he still doesn't want to rejoin a band and do tours and such. Christina had seen a sign at Seduction about them looking for a musician so she suggests that he go and apply. Jake does and when he sees Addison, he's definitely interested in getting to know her better. Unfortunately, when Jake first shows up, Addison is just breaking up with her latest cheating boyfriend so she's not exactly receptive to Jake, no matter how strong the attraction is between them.
Jake starts singing at the restaurant 2 nights a week but it takes a while for him to get Addison to give him the time of day. Once they do finally come together, it takes some effort for Jake to get Addison to fully trust him and let him in past her walls. Once she does, they find that their blooming relationship isn't perfect (they both still make mistakes) but is still great and something they both want to continue. Unfortunately, Jake has some personal issues as well and when they hit, he has a huge bout of relationship dumbassedness and he ends up causing much drama and pain for them both. Things look bad for a while and Addison certainly makes Jake work for it but they eventually work things out and end the story starting a HEA together.
This was a pretty enjoyable story. I liked Addison for the most part but she tended to blame Jake for the sins of other men which annoyed me at times. Jake was a good hero. He did have that bout of relationship dumbassedness but he got past it and then was willing to do the work to make up for his idiocy so I liked him. My main complaint is that I wasn't thrilled with how long the drama between them was drawn out but overall, I liked the story and plan to read the next book in the series. I'd recommend this book. :)
* note - I listened to the audio version of this book. It had 2 narrators, a female for the chapters from Addison's PoV and a male for the chapters from Jake's PoV. I thought both narrators did a very good job.
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