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The English Brothers #4
Seduced by Stratton
Seduced by Stratton is the fourth of six books about the Philadelphia-based, wildly-handsome English brothers who are all on the look-out for love.
Stratton English knew what his brothers said about him:
I don’t think he’s ever had a girlfriend. (Barrett)
I don’t think he’s ever had sex. (Alex)
He always friend-zones himself. (Fitz)
He’s just not smooth around women. (Weston)
It often occurred to Stratton to set them straight and tell Barrett that he’d had a couple of girlfriends in college, though they didn’t last very long. While he was at it, he’d tell reformed lothario, Alex, that while he’d had sex, he wasn’t in the habit of sleeping around. Smiling affectionately as he thought of his favorite brother, Fitz, he’d have to agree that he had a problem with being friend-zoned, and while Weston was right in general, being incredibly awkward around women wasn’t the primary reason Stratton was single.
The simple fact was this…
…his heart was already taken.
___________________
*All books in The English Brothers series are approximately 50,000 words/200-pages long. The RWA classifies this length as "Short Contemporary Romance."
Stratton English knew what his brothers said about him:
I don’t think he’s ever had a girlfriend. (Barrett)
I don’t think he’s ever had sex. (Alex)
He always friend-zones himself. (Fitz)
He’s just not smooth around women. (Weston)
It often occurred to Stratton to set them straight and tell Barrett that he’d had a couple of girlfriends in college, though they didn’t last very long. While he was at it, he’d tell reformed lothario, Alex, that while he’d had sex, he wasn’t in the habit of sleeping around. Smiling affectionately as he thought of his favorite brother, Fitz, he’d have to agree that he had a problem with being friend-zoned, and while Weston was right in general, being incredibly awkward around women wasn’t the primary reason Stratton was single.
The simple fact was this…
…his heart was already taken.
___________________
*All books in The English Brothers series are approximately 50,000 words/200-pages long. The RWA classifies this length as "Short Contemporary Romance."
232 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 4, 2014
155 people are currently reading
1036 people want to read
About the author
Katy Regnery
117 books4,273 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Katy Regnery has a heart for smart romance featuring strong women and decent men. Almost exclusively self-published, Katy claims authorship of over 60 titles, including three RITA® finalists. Translated into French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, and Turkish, Katy has sold over 1.8 million books worldwide.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
February 7, 2015
Step One: Meet Stratton English
Step Two: Die of Swoons
He's not the intense, brooding, alpha-male type...
He's the quiet, studious, socially awkward type.
His brothers say he's perpetually "friend-zoned" by the women he goes after.
They've never seen him with a girlfriend, but that doesn't mean Stratton lacks romantic entanglements. As a matter of fact, he gave his heart to his neighbor two years ago. Not that she um... knows that...
Stratton's neighbor Amy Colson is dating the biggest cheating ass in all of Philadelphia. Etienne Rousseau's despicable behavior toward women is legendary - in fact, he deflowered the English Brothers' cousin Kate when she was a teenager and bragged about his conquest to the entire school. Etienne received quite a beat-down from Alex English back in high school for that particular bit of disrespect - 10ish years later, and it's Stratton who wants to take his fists to that obnoxious French prick.
Etienne hasn't changed much. Everyone but Amy knows that he's unfaithful. She runs to Stratton each and every time her boyfriend breaks her heart and Strat consoles her with ice-cream, rom-coms, and his unspoken devotion.
But Amy always goes back to Etienne...
For two whole years they've been doing this dance...
Stratton English
A fate would have it, knows an expert... Sort of...
Valeria Campanile
Somehow Stratton gets drafted to put his business genius to good use by saving the dance school. While working together to sort through Val's aunt's finances, Stratton discovers she has the expertise to help him win Amy. And once he successfully streamlines the dance school's finances she'll owe Stratton a favor.
The new plan: Convince Valeria to help him win Amy's affections.
The Problem: He's wildly attracted to the curvy Italian, and she seems to reciprocate.
Stratton can't let himself fall for Valeria, no mater how perfect she seems to be for him. He has a responsibility to his Amy... Not that she knows that she's his yet...
Valeria can't figure out why Stratton is sending so many mixed signals. Yes, he's hopelessly awkward, but he can't hide the desire in his eyes when he looks at her...
This book contains HIGH levels of gorgeous Romance.
Beautiful love letters and grand gestures.
Two people with no brain-to-mouth filter.
Plus all the warmth, laughter, and love I've come to expect from Katy Regnery!
4.5 Stars and ALL the swoons!
Check out my other reviews in the English Brothers series!
1 - Breaking Up with Barrett - Read my Review here.
2 - Falling for Fitz - Read my Review here.
3 - Anyone but Alex - Read my Review here.
4 - Seduced by Stratton - You're reading it.
5 - Wild About Weston - Read my Review here.
6 - Kiss Me Kate - Read my Review here.
***The author provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review***
Step Two: Die of Swoons
Somewhere along the way Stratton had confused helping someone with loving them. All boiled down? It meant that Stratton English, who was attracted to Valeria, despite his best intentions, and who seemed to genuinely like her, wasn't actually unavailable. He was available. He just didn't know it.I've fallen in love with the fourth oldest English Brother.
He's not the intense, brooding, alpha-male type...
He's the quiet, studious, socially awkward type.
His brothers say he's perpetually "friend-zoned" by the women he goes after.
They've never seen him with a girlfriend, but that doesn't mean Stratton lacks romantic entanglements. As a matter of fact, he gave his heart to his neighbor two years ago. Not that she um... knows that...
Stratton's neighbor Amy Colson is dating the biggest cheating ass in all of Philadelphia. Etienne Rousseau's despicable behavior toward women is legendary - in fact, he deflowered the English Brothers' cousin Kate when she was a teenager and bragged about his conquest to the entire school. Etienne received quite a beat-down from Alex English back in high school for that particular bit of disrespect - 10ish years later, and it's Stratton who wants to take his fists to that obnoxious French prick.
Etienne hasn't changed much. Everyone but Amy knows that he's unfaithful. She runs to Stratton each and every time her boyfriend breaks her heart and Strat consoles her with ice-cream, rom-coms, and his unspoken devotion.
But Amy always goes back to Etienne...
For two whole years they've been doing this dance...
Stratton English
What he needed was a professional. A master of seduction. Someone well-versed on courting rituals with heaps of knowledge.Stratton has a plan. He's going to seduce Amy away from Etienne. It's a noble quest, and it sounds good in theory, but Strat is terrible when it comes to talking to the fairer sex. Hundreds of self-help books on his Kindle are not boosting his confidence and he's too embarrassed to ask his brothers for advice.
A fate would have it, knows an expert... Sort of...
Valeria Campanile
What a joke. A woman who studies courting rituals can't seem to find herself courted.Val is getting her PhD in Early American Courting Rituals. She's the roommate of Emily who is now engaged to Barrett, the oldest English Brother. Valeria is working her way through college by teaching classes at her aunt's dance school.
Somehow Stratton gets drafted to put his business genius to good use by saving the dance school. While working together to sort through Val's aunt's finances, Stratton discovers she has the expertise to help him win Amy. And once he successfully streamlines the dance school's finances she'll owe Stratton a favor.
The new plan: Convince Valeria to help him win Amy's affections.
The Problem: He's wildly attracted to the curvy Italian, and she seems to reciprocate.
Stratton can't let himself fall for Valeria, no mater how perfect she seems to be for him. He has a responsibility to his Amy... Not that she knows that she's his yet...
Valeria can't figure out why Stratton is sending so many mixed signals. Yes, he's hopelessly awkward, but he can't hide the desire in his eyes when he looks at her...
This book contains HIGH levels of gorgeous Romance.
Beautiful love letters and grand gestures.
Two people with no brain-to-mouth filter.
Plus all the warmth, laughter, and love I've come to expect from Katy Regnery!
4.5 Stars and ALL the swoons!
Check out my other reviews in the English Brothers series!
1 - Breaking Up with Barrett - Read my Review here.
2 - Falling for Fitz - Read my Review here.
3 - Anyone but Alex - Read my Review here.
4 - Seduced by Stratton - You're reading it.
5 - Wild About Weston - Read my Review here.
6 - Kiss Me Kate - Read my Review here.
***The author provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review***
May 5, 2016
Another great book about the English brothers. In this installment we are following Stratton and Val. This one is a bit more complicated though, as Stratton thinks he is in love with his neighbor Amy; and yet Val is who makes his heart race, and butterflies flutter in his six pack!!! I feel the need to state though, this is not a love triangle book. Even though it may sound like it; but as the story unfolds readers will know what I mean!
Stratton is my favorite of the English brothers, even with his shyness and his awkwardness around women. In fact, that just makes me love him even more! Val is a feisty, curvy,passionate, Italian woman, and I quite liked her. She gives as good as she gets and I think this couple is definitely meant for one another.
The next book will be about the last brother...His name is Weston and to be honest; I am very curious about him. We haven't been given much info on him so I have no idea what to expect from his book!
Once again, a super series that I have fallen in love with. I am so glad to have come across Katy Regnery's Blueberry Lane series!! I have been devouring these books and will be very sad once it all end!!
Stratton is my favorite of the English brothers, even with his shyness and his awkwardness around women. In fact, that just makes me love him even more! Val is a feisty, curvy,passionate, Italian woman, and I quite liked her. She gives as good as she gets and I think this couple is definitely meant for one another.
The next book will be about the last brother...His name is Weston and to be honest; I am very curious about him. We haven't been given much info on him so I have no idea what to expect from his book!
Once again, a super series that I have fallen in love with. I am so glad to have come across Katy Regnery's Blueberry Lane series!! I have been devouring these books and will be very sad once it all end!!
October 23, 2014
Here's the truth...There's a little awkward in all of us. I don't care how smart or beautiful or talented or liked you are - somewhere inside of you, there's a little bit of awkward. Nobody's perfect. That's the truth.
What I love - SO MUCH - about Stratton and Val, is that they're not perfect. He's hot and blurts out uncomfortable observations. She's voluptuous, and so smart, she's liable to intimate nine out of ten guys.
The great thing about love? Finding the one in ten.
Finding the Stratton for your Val.
Finding the imperfect that makes your imperfections...well, perfect. ;)
Happy reading.
Happy everything.
xo
What I love - SO MUCH - about Stratton and Val, is that they're not perfect. He's hot and blurts out uncomfortable observations. She's voluptuous, and so smart, she's liable to intimate nine out of ten guys.
The great thing about love? Finding the one in ten.
Finding the Stratton for your Val.
Finding the imperfect that makes your imperfections...well, perfect. ;)
Happy reading.
Happy everything.
xo
October 23, 2014
Best English Brother yet! (It's the glasses... ;) )
November 2, 2018
Cute start at 10%, but cry me a river...Snort.
PLOT:
Stratton thinks he's in love with Amy, but can't get his act together to woo her. He's socially awkward, very. Combine that but she's with his arch nemesis, a creep that had sex with his teen cousin and then blabbed at school the next day. Stratton has something of a white knight fixation. It doesn't help that Amy cries on his shoulder ad nauseum.
Valeria is an Italian-American girl from a loving but clueless family that think she's needs to settle down and have nice Italian-American babies instead of pursuing her Ph.D in early American courtship. If I were her family I would be more concerned about her job prospects because that is one esoteric concentration.
Stratton and Valeria meet and have an instant connection which Stratton tries to ignore as he must be in love with Amy. They meet again when he helps her solve her aunt's dance studio's financial problems. Valeria puts herself out there but gets shot down by Stratton's guilt although they both acknowledge the attraction between them.
Valeria starts to date a more appropriate boy from the neighborhood who wants to place V in the same SAHM role her family does.
Epiphanies abound and we have true love.
CONCERNS: I would rate this between a 2 and a 3 as it seemed to lose its way. Too much instal-love/lust. They have a three week conflict and then are IN love. However, they are two very nice characters with the potential for more charm.
PLOT:
Stratton thinks he's in love with Amy, but can't get his act together to woo her. He's socially awkward, very. Combine that but she's with his arch nemesis, a creep that had sex with his teen cousin and then blabbed at school the next day. Stratton has something of a white knight fixation. It doesn't help that Amy cries on his shoulder ad nauseum.
Valeria is an Italian-American girl from a loving but clueless family that think she's needs to settle down and have nice Italian-American babies instead of pursuing her Ph.D in early American courtship. If I were her family I would be more concerned about her job prospects because that is one esoteric concentration.
Stratton and Valeria meet and have an instant connection which Stratton tries to ignore as he must be in love with Amy. They meet again when he helps her solve her aunt's dance studio's financial problems. Valeria puts herself out there but gets shot down by Stratton's guilt although they both acknowledge the attraction between them.
Valeria starts to date a more appropriate boy from the neighborhood who wants to place V in the same SAHM role her family does.
Epiphanies abound and we have true love.
CONCERNS: I would rate this between a 2 and a 3 as it seemed to lose its way. Too much instal-love/lust. They have a three week conflict and then are IN love. However, they are two very nice characters with the potential for more charm.
September 1, 2020
Četvrta knjiga serijala je o Strattonu,nespretnom,nedruštvenom bratu i Valeriji Campanile, Emilinoj cimerki i BFF (heroina prve knjige).
Malo je reči da me je Stratton dovodio do ludila svojom nespretnošću,činjenicom da se on uvek nekako osećao da mora sve da spasi i popravi, ali kad je konačno shvatio da se potpuno zaljubio...nemam reči, on je tako prokleto romantičan, zasad najviše romantičan muškarac od sve braće. Teško mi je bilo da ostanem imuna na njegove čari.
Malo je reči da me je Stratton dovodio do ludila svojom nespretnošću,činjenicom da se on uvek nekako osećao da mora sve da spasi i popravi, ali kad je konačno shvatio da se potpuno zaljubio...nemam reči, on je tako prokleto romantičan, zasad najviše romantičan muškarac od sve braće. Teško mi je bilo da ostanem imuna na njegove čari.
October 23, 2014
Seduced by Stratton by Katy Regnery is the fourth book in the English brother’s series. Stratton – to me – along with being socially awkward was my favorite brother so far. His heart was so good and had so many deep and wonderful feelings, but he got into trouble almost every time he spoke with Val. My heart broke each and every time he said something stupid. I am so proud of him with his growth but cringed every time his awkwardness reared its head.
I think that Katy has a special touch when she writes. I feel like I can climb in the page and be there with characters. (Well- not all the time – that would be creepy.) Loved the book. Loved the letters. Loved Stratton. Love Katy Regnery’s books.
Are you sure there aren’t any uncles out there in the English family for me?
I think that Katy has a special touch when she writes. I feel like I can climb in the page and be there with characters. (Well- not all the time – that would be creepy.) Loved the book. Loved the letters. Loved Stratton. Love Katy Regnery’s books.
Are you sure there aren’t any uncles out there in the English family for me?
October 22, 2014
OMG!!! Katy has outdone herself with the latest English Brothers book! Stratton and Val's story pulled me in and never let go!!!!!! Stratton is HOT HOT HOT and just a little quirky but so lovable.....Val is beautiful inside and out but carries an insecurity that leaves her vulnerable...... Don't want to leave spoilers so please just BUY THIS BOOK!!!!! You won't regret it!!!!!!!
January 2, 2015
The fourth book of the English Brothers series is all about Stratton, the socially awkward brother and Valeria Campanile, the BFF of Emily (the heroine in the first book).
The Good, The Bad and Everything In Between
-I need a (awkward) hero: I’ve always adored a shy, socially awkward romantic hero and Stratton certainly fits the bill. He tries hard, but his has a stupendous talent for sticking his foot in his mouth, time and time again. He’s sweet and at times clueless, but when he steps up, he steps up big time….if only….well, I’ll address this in a separate point.
-I love Valeria: Valeria knows she has it going on, and considering the times Stratton screws up, she has to. She’s aware of her worth and she wants a man who will love her because of what makes her special, not in spite of it. She’s a great heroine who’s completely sympathetic and rootable. She was fantastic and one of the biggest factors in my rating.
-The writing: I have to give props to Ms. Regnery, since each book has had at least one moment in it that surprises me and takes what could be a very standard plot point and turns it on its head. Here, Valeria is very aware of Stratton being the biggest obstacle to ….well, Stratton and when the story could have devolved into a very negative insecure space for Valeria, it doesn’t. Loved that. Also, I just have to say that there were some good giggle moments in this as well. I may have actually snorted when Danny called Strat a breakfast tea.
-It’s a page turner: I read this in one night, almost in one sitting.
-Deeply romantic: Valeria’s special interest in love letters (her PhD is in early American courtship rituals) gave a very, very old timey, romantic feel to this whole tale. Valeria and Stratton’s connection through quotes from movies and love letters was a special touch that I loved. It reminded me a little of the movie Roxanne, in that it’s the words that showed their connection, and the feelings expressed via letters that showed me how they felt towards each other.
-epic grovel: Stratton screws up, but when he finally decides to fight for Valeria, he really goes all out. Considering how awkward Stratton is, some of the best moments are when he opens up and embraces his feelings for Valeria. Absolutely, the best scenes for me are after Stratton realizes how badly he screws up and makes it up to Valeria.
-Why Stratton is my #2 brother: This point is completely a personal preference of mine and I will admit that straight up. I love my heroes to be completely focused on the heroine to the exclusion of all else, so Stratton's misguided "love" for Amy made a bit sad at first. Now, I completely understood Stratton’s screwups, and every time he messed up then apologized, well, I cringed but I was still loving it. And then From that moment, I still liked Stratton, but the spell was broken and I lost that lovin’ feeling, I have to admit.
-Just a little more sex, pretty please?: The tension builds and the angst, and I kept turning the page hoping for more kisses and more touching...just more. When they did come together, it was so sweet and meaningful, so I did enjoy it. I wanted more.
The Bottom Line (3.75 stars)
This is another good entry in a very sweet, romantic series. It was a close thing, and I do like Stratton alot, but Barrett’s still my fave.
The Good, The Bad and Everything In Between
-I need a (awkward) hero: I’ve always adored a shy, socially awkward romantic hero and Stratton certainly fits the bill. He tries hard, but his has a stupendous talent for sticking his foot in his mouth, time and time again. He’s sweet and at times clueless, but when he steps up, he steps up big time….if only….well, I’ll address this in a separate point.
-I love Valeria: Valeria knows she has it going on, and considering the times Stratton screws up, she has to. She’s aware of her worth and she wants a man who will love her because of what makes her special, not in spite of it. She’s a great heroine who’s completely sympathetic and rootable. She was fantastic and one of the biggest factors in my rating.
-The writing: I have to give props to Ms. Regnery, since each book has had at least one moment in it that surprises me and takes what could be a very standard plot point and turns it on its head. Here, Valeria is very aware of Stratton being the biggest obstacle to ….well, Stratton and when the story could have devolved into a very negative insecure space for Valeria, it doesn’t. Loved that. Also, I just have to say that there were some good giggle moments in this as well. I may have actually snorted when Danny called Strat a breakfast tea.
-It’s a page turner: I read this in one night, almost in one sitting.
-Deeply romantic: Valeria’s special interest in love letters (her PhD is in early American courtship rituals) gave a very, very old timey, romantic feel to this whole tale. Valeria and Stratton’s connection through quotes from movies and love letters was a special touch that I loved. It reminded me a little of the movie Roxanne, in that it’s the words that showed their connection, and the feelings expressed via letters that showed me how they felt towards each other.
-epic grovel: Stratton screws up, but when he finally decides to fight for Valeria, he really goes all out. Considering how awkward Stratton is, some of the best moments are when he opens up and embraces his feelings for Valeria. Absolutely, the best scenes for me are after Stratton realizes how badly he screws up and makes it up to Valeria.
-Why Stratton is my #2 brother: This point is completely a personal preference of mine and I will admit that straight up. I love my heroes to be completely focused on the heroine to the exclusion of all else, so Stratton's misguided "love" for Amy made a bit sad at first. Now, I completely understood Stratton’s screwups, and every time he messed up then apologized, well, I cringed but I was still loving it. And then From that moment, I still liked Stratton, but the spell was broken and I lost that lovin’ feeling, I have to admit.
-Just a little more sex, pretty please?: The tension builds and the angst, and I kept turning the page hoping for more kisses and more touching...just more. When they did come together, it was so sweet and meaningful, so I did enjoy it. I wanted more.
The Bottom Line (3.75 stars)
This is another good entry in a very sweet, romantic series. It was a close thing, and I do like Stratton alot, but Barrett’s still my fave.
October 27, 2014
Stratton English is in love. An all-consuming, can’t stop thinking about her, want to see her all the time love.
The object of his affection? Amy Colson, the all American blonde bombshell living next door and dating a sworn English brother enemy. Stratton has been infatuated with Amy since the day they both moved in to the same building and he can’t imagine feeling so strongly about anyone or anything else in his life. In fact, he’ll do anything to get Amy away from her slime-ball of a boyfriend.
Enter Valeria Campanile. Val is everything Stratton isn’t – “wild and exotic, crazy exciting” – and she’s managed to surprise Stratton with her sexy curves and vibrant Italian nature. He’s only met her once and he knows another meeting would ruin him, and his loyalty to Amy.
When Alex asks Stratton to meet with Val to review the finances of her aunt’s struggling dance studio, Stratton knows he needs to keep things professional, but one look at Val in her dance outfit sends him in a tailspin. Val quickly realizes Stratton’s heart belongs to someone else and, try as she might, even an Italian stallion named Joe can’t make her forget how drawn to Stratton she is.
Stratton and Val begin a dance of their own navigating the tricky waters of first loves, broken hearts, unspoken vows and the power of hope.
The latest installment of the English brother’s series takes a different path than the others. Stratton and Val did not grow up together so we get to see their story play out in real time with lots of ups and downs along the way. This also means that while the chemistry between the two is hot from the start, it is a bit more “tame” on the bedroom side than other the English brothers who’ve come before.
Speaking of chemistry, if there’s one thing Katy Regnery is good at it is making a book sizzle from page one. Probably my most favorite thing about reading her books is that I don’t have to wait until Chapter 7 for the story to really take off (Usually by Chapter 7 I’ve fallen down the ‘Regnery Rabbit Hole’ and messaged her 100 times to tell her how much I love her writing). Her books start off quick and continue the perfect pace through the end of the story all while managing to leave me wanting a 45 page epilogue in the process. (She’s THAT good!)
Character development is also a strength in Katy’s books. She writes the character of Val so remarkably that I had a genuine physical response to her tribulations throughout the story – I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I swore – which is pretty much in line with every other character that Katy’s ever written. She always manages to make me feel “all the feels” no matter the story line.
In my opinion, this is the most romantic of the series so far. Between the reading of love letters and the amazing lines written by Regnery “I barely dared to dream that someone as astonishing as you could fall in love with me” you’ll find yourself swooning through each chapter and cheering for love page after page.
While this book could be read as a standalone, it is nice to have the frame of reference for the other characters who drift in and out, especially Alex who’s love advice made me tear up, as well as know some background on Val and how she fits in with the ever growing English brothers clan.
I don’t know how she does it, but Katy manages to make each English Brother’s book better than the last. Hang on tight as you start this read because you’ll soon find yourself wanting to be Seduced by Stratton.
The object of his affection? Amy Colson, the all American blonde bombshell living next door and dating a sworn English brother enemy. Stratton has been infatuated with Amy since the day they both moved in to the same building and he can’t imagine feeling so strongly about anyone or anything else in his life. In fact, he’ll do anything to get Amy away from her slime-ball of a boyfriend.
Enter Valeria Campanile. Val is everything Stratton isn’t – “wild and exotic, crazy exciting” – and she’s managed to surprise Stratton with her sexy curves and vibrant Italian nature. He’s only met her once and he knows another meeting would ruin him, and his loyalty to Amy.
When Alex asks Stratton to meet with Val to review the finances of her aunt’s struggling dance studio, Stratton knows he needs to keep things professional, but one look at Val in her dance outfit sends him in a tailspin. Val quickly realizes Stratton’s heart belongs to someone else and, try as she might, even an Italian stallion named Joe can’t make her forget how drawn to Stratton she is.
Stratton and Val begin a dance of their own navigating the tricky waters of first loves, broken hearts, unspoken vows and the power of hope.
The latest installment of the English brother’s series takes a different path than the others. Stratton and Val did not grow up together so we get to see their story play out in real time with lots of ups and downs along the way. This also means that while the chemistry between the two is hot from the start, it is a bit more “tame” on the bedroom side than other the English brothers who’ve come before.
Speaking of chemistry, if there’s one thing Katy Regnery is good at it is making a book sizzle from page one. Probably my most favorite thing about reading her books is that I don’t have to wait until Chapter 7 for the story to really take off (Usually by Chapter 7 I’ve fallen down the ‘Regnery Rabbit Hole’ and messaged her 100 times to tell her how much I love her writing). Her books start off quick and continue the perfect pace through the end of the story all while managing to leave me wanting a 45 page epilogue in the process. (She’s THAT good!)
Character development is also a strength in Katy’s books. She writes the character of Val so remarkably that I had a genuine physical response to her tribulations throughout the story – I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I swore – which is pretty much in line with every other character that Katy’s ever written. She always manages to make me feel “all the feels” no matter the story line.
In my opinion, this is the most romantic of the series so far. Between the reading of love letters and the amazing lines written by Regnery “I barely dared to dream that someone as astonishing as you could fall in love with me” you’ll find yourself swooning through each chapter and cheering for love page after page.
While this book could be read as a standalone, it is nice to have the frame of reference for the other characters who drift in and out, especially Alex who’s love advice made me tear up, as well as know some background on Val and how she fits in with the ever growing English brothers clan.
I don’t know how she does it, but Katy manages to make each English Brother’s book better than the last. Hang on tight as you start this read because you’ll soon find yourself wanting to be Seduced by Stratton.
November 5, 2014
I stumbled across this series with pure luck and well I have a soft spot for brothers and lapped this series up. There were always glimpses of Stratton here and there and he does come across as socially ackward but that is what makes him so adorable. I don't usually go for the whole rich, prestigous family thing in books but the English Brothers for all their craziness are down to earth.
Ms. Regnery states that there is a bit of ackward in all of us and I think that some of us can hide it better than others. Recognizing feelings at any stage is also difficult especially your own and when it is a first time experience.
So Stratton English knew what his brothers said about him.
"I don't think he's ever had a girlfriend." (Barrett) Not true
"I don't think that he's ever had sex." (Alex) Not true
"He always friend-zones himself." (Fritz) Unfortunately true
"He's just not smooth around women." (Weston) Unfortunately true
Stratton's simple fact was that his heart was already taken or was it really?
A couple of months ago while the girls were out for Girl's Night and the guys as usually crashed the party, Stratton tags along and meets Valeria, Emily's roommate. They hit it off but as Stratton is socially ackward ne puts his foot in his mouth and not for the last time either.
Valeria is the complete opposite of the English Brothers. She grew up without the luxury of money and wants more in life then getting married and having babies. She also has the hots for Stratton in a big way.
Stratton is very hot and cold but they work it out in the end and his idea with the flowers and the letters just beautiful. The brothers have also been trying to set them up together and well when Barrett finds out he is shell shocked which was hilarious.
Two things I felt that hadn't been wrapped up in the book. That Valeria spoke to her family and cleared it up. Maybe that they went for dinner agian and it went well. I also know that they were at the beginning of their relationship but with Joe after two weeks they spoke about kids why not with Stratton. So that is why I only gave it 4.5 stars.
Ms. Regnery states that there is a bit of ackward in all of us and I think that some of us can hide it better than others. Recognizing feelings at any stage is also difficult especially your own and when it is a first time experience.
So Stratton English knew what his brothers said about him.
"I don't think he's ever had a girlfriend." (Barrett) Not true
"I don't think that he's ever had sex." (Alex) Not true
"He always friend-zones himself." (Fritz) Unfortunately true
"He's just not smooth around women." (Weston) Unfortunately true
Stratton's simple fact was that his heart was already taken or was it really?
A couple of months ago while the girls were out for Girl's Night and the guys as usually crashed the party, Stratton tags along and meets Valeria, Emily's roommate. They hit it off but as Stratton is socially ackward ne puts his foot in his mouth and not for the last time either.
Valeria is the complete opposite of the English Brothers. She grew up without the luxury of money and wants more in life then getting married and having babies. She also has the hots for Stratton in a big way.
Stratton is very hot and cold but they work it out in the end and his idea with the flowers and the letters just beautiful. The brothers have also been trying to set them up together and well when Barrett finds out he is shell shocked which was hilarious.
Two things I felt that hadn't been wrapped up in the book. That Valeria spoke to her family and cleared it up. Maybe that they went for dinner agian and it went well. I also know that they were at the beginning of their relationship but with Joe after two weeks they spoke about kids why not with Stratton. So that is why I only gave it 4.5 stars.
March 17, 2017
That proposal is one of the cutest and sweetest I've read.
March 31, 2015
In this delightful fourth installment of the English brothers series (all easily read as standalones), we are treated to the romance between Stratton and Valeria. Stratton firmly believes that his heart belongs to Amy, his neighbor who is engaged in an on again /off again relationship with a man Stratton despises. Having decided that he will 'save' Amy from this relationship, when he meets Valeria (roommate to his soon to be sister-in-law) at a party he is uncomfortably struck with the knowledge that he feels attracted to her and vice versa, but doesn't pursue this despite an open invitation from Val. Reluctantly agreeing to help her and her aunt with the finances of their dance business at the behest of his brother, he finds that the attraction hasn't died but instead has gotten stronger. Torn between two women, will Stratton make the right choice?
I loved this story! This whole series has been stellar. What I'm really enjoying about it is how unique the plots and the characters are in each book. To date, the four brothers have been very different in character and temperament and the women they engage with equally so. In this particular book we have the least alpha male of the group, nervous, awkward Stratton. He is very shy around women, and for 2 years has bided his time, waiting for Amy to see him and somehow ending up as her consoler but never her lover. Meeting Val, something inside him is different and he is able to converse with her without feeling nervous and awkward, enjoying her company. Yet when he realizes that he is also physically attracted to her, he is torn by his perceived loyalty to Amy that prevents him from pursuing this attraction. Val on the other hand knows she is attracted to Stratton and makes no bones about it, which I really liked in the context of this story. She puts her feelings on the line and leaves it up to Stratton to deal with them and her, resulting in some heartwarming and heartrending scenes between them. The sexual tension between them is evident from the start and their eventual love scenes are steamy and emotional, conveying the sweetness and awkwardness of their romance.
Overall, I found this story to be an excellent addition to the series with engaging characters, an interesting plot, putting a smile on my face and the occasional tear in my eye as Valeria and Stratton find their happy ever after. 5 stars!
I loved this story! This whole series has been stellar. What I'm really enjoying about it is how unique the plots and the characters are in each book. To date, the four brothers have been very different in character and temperament and the women they engage with equally so. In this particular book we have the least alpha male of the group, nervous, awkward Stratton. He is very shy around women, and for 2 years has bided his time, waiting for Amy to see him and somehow ending up as her consoler but never her lover. Meeting Val, something inside him is different and he is able to converse with her without feeling nervous and awkward, enjoying her company. Yet when he realizes that he is also physically attracted to her, he is torn by his perceived loyalty to Amy that prevents him from pursuing this attraction. Val on the other hand knows she is attracted to Stratton and makes no bones about it, which I really liked in the context of this story. She puts her feelings on the line and leaves it up to Stratton to deal with them and her, resulting in some heartwarming and heartrending scenes between them. The sexual tension between them is evident from the start and their eventual love scenes are steamy and emotional, conveying the sweetness and awkwardness of their romance.
Overall, I found this story to be an excellent addition to the series with engaging characters, an interesting plot, putting a smile on my face and the occasional tear in my eye as Valeria and Stratton find their happy ever after. 5 stars!
November 4, 2014
Thanks to Katy for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I swear every time I read another English brother's book I say he's my favorite, but I had a feeling when I would read a teaser for Strattons story that he would be my most favorite. I wasn't disappointed. He was by far my most favorite one ever!!
Stratton has read so many self help books, he's looking for help on how to win the girl of his dreams. Amy lives across the hall, he met her the day that he moved in to the apartment building. What he didn't expect was the guy she was dating to be a rival that he knows is a awful person. So now he's in love with her and needs to steal her away to save her from the douche bag. The sad thing is nothing is working, he's stuck in the friend zone. He's her go to for support when the douche messes up. When he met Valeria he was attracted to her but he couldn't do anything about it because of Amy. The more time he spends with Valeria the more confused he is. He loves Amy right? He couldn't possibly abandon her and go to Valeria. Right?
When Valeria met Stratton at a girls night a little while ago she was in lust. I mean who wouldn't be those English brothers are hot!! So when she meets with Stratton to talk about how to save her Aunt's dance studio she can tell that he's attracted to her but he's holding back something. Her studies are about dating rituals so she knows the signs and he wants her; that he doesn't have a girlfriend but still he holds back. Valeria has enough self worth though that she doesn't stand for his hot and cold moods.
Oh I wanted to smack them both at one time or another. Stratton and his need to fix and save was as endearing as it was frustrating. I wanted to hug up Valeria and hide her away when Stratton would say or do something that would hurt her. In the end though this was the best one yet. I felt like I was watching this instead of reading it. The author's writing pulls you in and keeps a hold on you. I couldn't read it fast enough but at the same time I wanted to slow down time so that it would last longer. If you've not read any of the English brothers I want to know why!? Its so so good, you have to, you'll regret it if you don't! I am now impatiently waiting for Weston's story. *looks at the calendar*
I swear every time I read another English brother's book I say he's my favorite, but I had a feeling when I would read a teaser for Strattons story that he would be my most favorite. I wasn't disappointed. He was by far my most favorite one ever!!
Stratton has read so many self help books, he's looking for help on how to win the girl of his dreams. Amy lives across the hall, he met her the day that he moved in to the apartment building. What he didn't expect was the guy she was dating to be a rival that he knows is a awful person. So now he's in love with her and needs to steal her away to save her from the douche bag. The sad thing is nothing is working, he's stuck in the friend zone. He's her go to for support when the douche messes up. When he met Valeria he was attracted to her but he couldn't do anything about it because of Amy. The more time he spends with Valeria the more confused he is. He loves Amy right? He couldn't possibly abandon her and go to Valeria. Right?
When Valeria met Stratton at a girls night a little while ago she was in lust. I mean who wouldn't be those English brothers are hot!! So when she meets with Stratton to talk about how to save her Aunt's dance studio she can tell that he's attracted to her but he's holding back something. Her studies are about dating rituals so she knows the signs and he wants her; that he doesn't have a girlfriend but still he holds back. Valeria has enough self worth though that she doesn't stand for his hot and cold moods.
Oh I wanted to smack them both at one time or another. Stratton and his need to fix and save was as endearing as it was frustrating. I wanted to hug up Valeria and hide her away when Stratton would say or do something that would hurt her. In the end though this was the best one yet. I felt like I was watching this instead of reading it. The author's writing pulls you in and keeps a hold on you. I couldn't read it fast enough but at the same time I wanted to slow down time so that it would last longer. If you've not read any of the English brothers I want to know why!? Its so so good, you have to, you'll regret it if you don't! I am now impatiently waiting for Weston's story. *looks at the calendar*
November 19, 2014
I received this as an ARC.. Omg.. This book was so good. Y'all know that Stratton is the awkward , says stuff that is not always social expectable, or is kind of nerdy...But never the less he is HOT!! Just like I like my men.
He may be one of my Favorite English Brothers so far. I love his quirky, lovable , smart character. He will make you swoon like you have never swooned before... I really want to re read this just to experience Stratton all over.
Now Val, she is amazing, she is smart, fun, witty and lovable. She probably one of my favorite Heroines. She is smart , strong and doesn't take crap from no one.. She knows she is a Catch:). Love her so much.
This is a knock out book, fabulous romance. The chemistry between these two is off the charts. Katy out did herself on this one.. These books keep getting better and better. I love the English Brothers.... But Stratton may be my favorite!!!!!
He may be one of my Favorite English Brothers so far. I love his quirky, lovable , smart character. He will make you swoon like you have never swooned before... I really want to re read this just to experience Stratton all over.
Now Val, she is amazing, she is smart, fun, witty and lovable. She probably one of my favorite Heroines. She is smart , strong and doesn't take crap from no one.. She knows she is a Catch:). Love her so much.
This is a knock out book, fabulous romance. The chemistry between these two is off the charts. Katy out did herself on this one.. These books keep getting better and better. I love the English Brothers.... But Stratton may be my favorite!!!!!
October 23, 2014
These English Brother's just keep getting better and better. This is the story of Stratton, who I believe is very insecure with girls and quirky in his behavior, but I have fallen in love with. He thinks he has the right girl in life but does the girl have the same feelings as him. I do't want to give away too much in my review, but this is a must read. I will leave you with two of my favorite quotes, "Don't settle for good enough when you both want something exceptional." and "Don't ever come near me again Stratton English. You're in love with me? Well, I'm in hate with you!"
I highly recommend reading this book along with the rest of the English Brother books!
I received an ARC from the author for an honest review.
I highly recommend reading this book along with the rest of the English Brother books!
I received an ARC from the author for an honest review.
August 5, 2017
I was only supposed to read one book from this series this month, but after the rousing success of the third book in the series, I couldn't walk away from Blueberry Lane and immediately started this one on the heels of Alex's book!
I loved Stratton overall, he was just this adorably dorky character that I could totally relate to! Valeria was very forgiving of Stratton's nature, and I loved her desire to break the mold of a big Italian family member. I especially enjoyed her chosen major/career field!
I had a hard time putting this one down, and have even gotten to the point where I want to read another one from this series! I highly recommend!
I loved Stratton overall, he was just this adorably dorky character that I could totally relate to! Valeria was very forgiving of Stratton's nature, and I loved her desire to break the mold of a big Italian family member. I especially enjoyed her chosen major/career field!
I had a hard time putting this one down, and have even gotten to the point where I want to read another one from this series! I highly recommend!
May 26, 2016
Oh MY! This one was PERFECT! I KNEW I'm totally going to fall for Stratton and I was SO right. I guess the confident, alpha type is what usually attracts others in a hero, but for me, someone like Stratton is much more real, much more interesting to see evolve. How someone shy, insecure in a way, awkward and yet gorgeous and talented finds his HEA with someone who understand him and doesn't expect him to change, on the contrary - appreciates who he is even when he says and does things that might make other people, mostly women, cringe :)
As I was making my series page, adding all the brothers and their women, I didn't know who Stratton will end up with, yeah I wanted it to be Val who speaks her mind and doesn't seem to shy about anything - the exact opposite to the closed off Stratton who rather stay at home and read then be awkward in a social gathering. Yet I read somewhere that he is in love with someone else and have been for a while.. I guess in a way I got mixed up in Startton's love life much like him hehe See, Stratton have been in love with his neighbour Amy for two years and he is desperate to find a way to show her how much HE is right for her and not the douche bag she is seeing, the same guy who hurt his cousin Kate years and years ago and haven't shown anything but his worst since then. Then Val appears in his life when she needs help figuring out what to do with her Aunt's financial problems over her dancing school, Alex was suppose to do that but now that he is gone, it's all up to Stratton who realizes from the first step that it's NOT going to go smoothly for him. He met Val once before and he liked her, maybe too much which felt very threatening for him considering he won't be unfaithful to his precious Amy (even if she doesn't even know he is into her).
Basically their minds is so much alike it's not wonder that with every encounter Startton gets more and more confused and Val realizes she is falling for a man who isn't even available even if she isn't sure exactly how. It was fun seeing how she interprets things with her knowledge of courting (That's basically what she is doing her PhD on..). The love letters she reads (to herself and out loud to Stratton) made this even more special. I loved how Stratton reacted to the whole thing. It was made so much sense to the way their relationship was building. Also I loved that Val expected Stratton to be HIMSELF so when he was all about grand gestures and asked for help from his family and friends what made the impact on her was only him in the most basic and honest way.
There is something about Stratton for sure. I loved him from the first sentence I've read about him in the first installment in the series and so I totally got Val. She was great, I loved how she speaks her mind and yet she can be so reserved concerning her feelings and a bit insecure about her different looks. I loved how she saw Stratton, how she got him, accepted his foolishness and Stratton was so perfect for Val as well, he respected her and got her in a way no one in her family or close friends did, he celebrated what was special about her, which made her so happy. He was genuinely interested in her, in everything in her life, her studies, the future she wanted for herself even in dancing. He also tried so hard to do the right thing that the second he realized he did wrong he tried to correct, she loved that about him because she realized it was him trying to be attentive to her. I'm not sure he behaved this way towards others, I think it was another thing he did for her exclusively. I mean, in so many social situations he would just decide he rather not attend.. but with her, he tried, he really did, even when it was so hard for him.
I think right now, he is my absolute favorite book boyfriend :) I see him as utterly perfect. I also loved that unlike his brothers who did huge gestures with their wealth (which was a bit high handed at times), he was different, and Val saw that as well. Basically he is this sweet guy who is very protective and loving to the people close to him, who wants to fix the world around him, a guy who feels mostly uncomfortable around people and yet has this HUGE heart that would give with no condition for the people he holds dear. ~sigh~ Frankly, I don't think I could and would have asked for more in a guy. It's not just Val who was seduced by Startton, I was as well :)
More Reviews HERE
As I was making my series page, adding all the brothers and their women, I didn't know who Stratton will end up with, yeah I wanted it to be Val who speaks her mind and doesn't seem to shy about anything - the exact opposite to the closed off Stratton who rather stay at home and read then be awkward in a social gathering. Yet I read somewhere that he is in love with someone else and have been for a while.. I guess in a way I got mixed up in Startton's love life much like him hehe See, Stratton have been in love with his neighbour Amy for two years and he is desperate to find a way to show her how much HE is right for her and not the douche bag she is seeing, the same guy who hurt his cousin Kate years and years ago and haven't shown anything but his worst since then. Then Val appears in his life when she needs help figuring out what to do with her Aunt's financial problems over her dancing school, Alex was suppose to do that but now that he is gone, it's all up to Stratton who realizes from the first step that it's NOT going to go smoothly for him. He met Val once before and he liked her, maybe too much which felt very threatening for him considering he won't be unfaithful to his precious Amy (even if she doesn't even know he is into her).
Basically their minds is so much alike it's not wonder that with every encounter Startton gets more and more confused and Val realizes she is falling for a man who isn't even available even if she isn't sure exactly how. It was fun seeing how she interprets things with her knowledge of courting (That's basically what she is doing her PhD on..). The love letters she reads (to herself and out loud to Stratton) made this even more special. I loved how Stratton reacted to the whole thing. It was made so much sense to the way their relationship was building. Also I loved that Val expected Stratton to be HIMSELF so when he was all about grand gestures and asked for help from his family and friends what made the impact on her was only him in the most basic and honest way.
There is something about Stratton for sure. I loved him from the first sentence I've read about him in the first installment in the series and so I totally got Val. She was great, I loved how she speaks her mind and yet she can be so reserved concerning her feelings and a bit insecure about her different looks. I loved how she saw Stratton, how she got him, accepted his foolishness and Stratton was so perfect for Val as well, he respected her and got her in a way no one in her family or close friends did, he celebrated what was special about her, which made her so happy. He was genuinely interested in her, in everything in her life, her studies, the future she wanted for herself even in dancing. He also tried so hard to do the right thing that the second he realized he did wrong he tried to correct, she loved that about him because she realized it was him trying to be attentive to her. I'm not sure he behaved this way towards others, I think it was another thing he did for her exclusively. I mean, in so many social situations he would just decide he rather not attend.. but with her, he tried, he really did, even when it was so hard for him.
I think right now, he is my absolute favorite book boyfriend :) I see him as utterly perfect. I also loved that unlike his brothers who did huge gestures with their wealth (which was a bit high handed at times), he was different, and Val saw that as well. Basically he is this sweet guy who is very protective and loving to the people close to him, who wants to fix the world around him, a guy who feels mostly uncomfortable around people and yet has this HUGE heart that would give with no condition for the people he holds dear. ~sigh~ Frankly, I don't think I could and would have asked for more in a guy. It's not just Val who was seduced by Startton, I was as well :)
More Reviews HERE
November 4, 2014
☆☆☆☆☆ 5 Sweetest Stratton Stars ☆☆☆☆☆
Another great story about an English Brother.
Stratton is the CEO of the English Brother Company, a role he took over when his brother Alex moved to Europe with his girlfriend Jessie. Stratton is a little geeky, but that’s only because he is really smart. He is naive, because he has gone on so long not having a girlfriend around..so when it comes to women he is standoffish and awkward. He is also adorable and sweet, mixed with a very sexy hunk of a guy. He is straight forward with how he feels or what he thinks, he has no filter that sometimes comes out jerky. He also a fixer, he think he has to save or fix everyone and everything. But when you take time to get to know a man like Stratton, it is all worth it. He is very intelligent, honest and very loyal to the people he loves and you can’t help but love the man.
For the pass two years of his life he has been stuck and in love with his neighbor and friend Amy. Amy is dating a guy that Stratton’s cousin used to date and a real douche bag. For years he had been stuck in a friend zone with Amy, while thinking of ways to pull Amy away from her cheating lying boyfriend. Stratton had everything figured out, until the day he had to meet up with Valerie about her dance studio.
From the moment Valerie walked into the room Stratton couldn’t pull his eyes away from her. Friendly and flirty banter went back and forth, but Stratton tried his hardest to keep everything professional, but he was unsuccessful. After realizing that he needed a woman to help him figure out Amy, he decided the best thing to do is get to know Valerie and hang out with her as friends. As Friends? He was mistaken. Every time he was around Valerie the sexual tension was at all time high and he couldn’t deny the attraction they had for each other. Everytime Valerie came on to him , he would blurt out hurtful things he didn’t mean just to make her step back. Then he would apologize and do something really sweet and it would start all over again. Stratton was hot and cold with Valerie and one day she had enough of it all and after feeling like a second choice, it was over for her. So she decided to tell him to leave her alone and never contact her ever again.
Stratton was confused about his feelings for Val and Amy, so he decided to call his brother and cousin Kate for advice.
Will Stratton figure out who he is actually in love with?
Or will his fixer co-depended issue gets in the way of him finding his real love?
Read and find out.
I love reading about Stratton he is so innocent compared to his brothers, and I just love that. Once he figured out how he really felt and who he loves, he was nothing but sweet and considerate to that person. I think Stratton just stole my heart, he had become my top favorite English Brother. I’m a sucker for a strong guy, who is a real softy at heart.
As for Valerie, I loved how confident she was and a go getter kind of a woman. When she wanted something, she will do everything in her power to make it happen.
I cannot wait to read about Weston. =)
Thx for sharing your book with me Katy, another awesome book added to my growing favorite list.
Another great story about an English Brother.
Stratton is the CEO of the English Brother Company, a role he took over when his brother Alex moved to Europe with his girlfriend Jessie. Stratton is a little geeky, but that’s only because he is really smart. He is naive, because he has gone on so long not having a girlfriend around..so when it comes to women he is standoffish and awkward. He is also adorable and sweet, mixed with a very sexy hunk of a guy. He is straight forward with how he feels or what he thinks, he has no filter that sometimes comes out jerky. He also a fixer, he think he has to save or fix everyone and everything. But when you take time to get to know a man like Stratton, it is all worth it. He is very intelligent, honest and very loyal to the people he loves and you can’t help but love the man.
For the pass two years of his life he has been stuck and in love with his neighbor and friend Amy. Amy is dating a guy that Stratton’s cousin used to date and a real douche bag. For years he had been stuck in a friend zone with Amy, while thinking of ways to pull Amy away from her cheating lying boyfriend. Stratton had everything figured out, until the day he had to meet up with Valerie about her dance studio.
From the moment Valerie walked into the room Stratton couldn’t pull his eyes away from her. Friendly and flirty banter went back and forth, but Stratton tried his hardest to keep everything professional, but he was unsuccessful. After realizing that he needed a woman to help him figure out Amy, he decided the best thing to do is get to know Valerie and hang out with her as friends. As Friends? He was mistaken. Every time he was around Valerie the sexual tension was at all time high and he couldn’t deny the attraction they had for each other. Everytime Valerie came on to him , he would blurt out hurtful things he didn’t mean just to make her step back. Then he would apologize and do something really sweet and it would start all over again. Stratton was hot and cold with Valerie and one day she had enough of it all and after feeling like a second choice, it was over for her. So she decided to tell him to leave her alone and never contact her ever again.
Stratton was confused about his feelings for Val and Amy, so he decided to call his brother and cousin Kate for advice.
Will Stratton figure out who he is actually in love with?
Or will his fixer co-depended issue gets in the way of him finding his real love?
Read and find out.
I love reading about Stratton he is so innocent compared to his brothers, and I just love that. Once he figured out how he really felt and who he loves, he was nothing but sweet and considerate to that person. I think Stratton just stole my heart, he had become my top favorite English Brother. I’m a sucker for a strong guy, who is a real softy at heart.
As for Valerie, I loved how confident she was and a go getter kind of a woman. When she wanted something, she will do everything in her power to make it happen.
I cannot wait to read about Weston. =)
Thx for sharing your book with me Katy, another awesome book added to my growing favorite list.
November 4, 2014
I have been waiting for this book since the moment I finished Breaking Up With Barrett, when we first met Stratton and Val, as they first meet each other. Stratton had that whole mysterious thing going on, and you know how us females can't get enough of the mysterious thing, so I was immediately intrigued and ready to get his story ASAP.
Even as much as I have been anticipating reading this, when it landed in my hands I was a bit hesitant to start it. I just knew that this would be a book that I would be sad to finish, simply because I didn't want it to end.
I was completely and totally right.
I feel like I need more of Stratton and Val already.
Stratton was everything I'd hoped for, and so much more. Sure, he is a bit awkward and has a tendency to say the wrong things at the wrong time but he's also brilliant and gorgeous and you just know that when he finally gives heart to someone, he'll give it 100%. Even when it's not really his heart that's led him there.
Admittedly, I was frustrated with his sure and utter lack of awareness about his actual feelings for Amy and for Val, but I also admired that he felt that need to be loyal and follow through on the promises he made to himself.
I absolutely loved Val! Yes, she had her own insecurites and doubts to wade through but she was strong when she needed to be strong and never let herself be pushed around or taken advantage of. She might not have believed that anyone else could see her worth, but she knew that she was absolutely worth more than just 'settling' for anyone who didn't love her for everything that she was. At the same time, she knew when to let up and accept a mistake for what it was, a mistake.
I actually found that I was so in love with Strat because he was so awkward, not despite it and I think the same thing can be said about why Val loved him, but what really brought the story together were the love letters that Val introduced.
They. Were. Everything.
The letters helped bring the story full circle and, honestly, they make me want to go research more just like them and share them with my husband. Unfortunately, I don't think my husband would take as much of an interest as Strat did. (Minus points for real-life husbands!)
Seriously, I cannot even begin to express my feelings for this story, for this whole series really. Katy writes the best...THE BEST...heroes. I know that the big thing right now in books are the broken/alpha/billionaire/biker/manwhore /badboys who are maybe a little too rough, or a little too crass and don't get me wrong, I love those guys but let's be honest, would I ever really put up with some of their BS in real life? This is why I love Katy's books. Sure, the men might be broken and/or rich, and maybe even a little alpha when it counts, but they are so much more realistic. These are the men I would hope to find in real life, the men I want my daughter to fall in love with (when she's older, definitely when she's older). The romantics, the intellects, the family men, the men that put what's right before what feels good. These are the stories I want my children to live when it's time.
Now, I will find myself impatiently waiting for the next story in The English Brothers series, Wild About Weston, and also dreading it because it just means we are one book closer to the end of the series (Katy is writing books for the cousins too). On the bright-side, Katy is a writing machine and I know they'll be plenty more wonderfully romantic & beautiful stories to come.
*I received an ARC from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review
Even as much as I have been anticipating reading this, when it landed in my hands I was a bit hesitant to start it. I just knew that this would be a book that I would be sad to finish, simply because I didn't want it to end.
I was completely and totally right.
I feel like I need more of Stratton and Val already.
Stratton was everything I'd hoped for, and so much more. Sure, he is a bit awkward and has a tendency to say the wrong things at the wrong time but he's also brilliant and gorgeous and you just know that when he finally gives heart to someone, he'll give it 100%. Even when it's not really his heart that's led him there.
Admittedly, I was frustrated with his sure and utter lack of awareness about his actual feelings for Amy and for Val, but I also admired that he felt that need to be loyal and follow through on the promises he made to himself.
I absolutely loved Val! Yes, she had her own insecurites and doubts to wade through but she was strong when she needed to be strong and never let herself be pushed around or taken advantage of. She might not have believed that anyone else could see her worth, but she knew that she was absolutely worth more than just 'settling' for anyone who didn't love her for everything that she was. At the same time, she knew when to let up and accept a mistake for what it was, a mistake.
I actually found that I was so in love with Strat because he was so awkward, not despite it and I think the same thing can be said about why Val loved him, but what really brought the story together were the love letters that Val introduced.
They. Were. Everything.
The letters helped bring the story full circle and, honestly, they make me want to go research more just like them and share them with my husband. Unfortunately, I don't think my husband would take as much of an interest as Strat did. (Minus points for real-life husbands!)
Seriously, I cannot even begin to express my feelings for this story, for this whole series really. Katy writes the best...THE BEST...heroes. I know that the big thing right now in books are the broken/alpha/billionaire/biker/manwhore /badboys who are maybe a little too rough, or a little too crass and don't get me wrong, I love those guys but let's be honest, would I ever really put up with some of their BS in real life? This is why I love Katy's books. Sure, the men might be broken and/or rich, and maybe even a little alpha when it counts, but they are so much more realistic. These are the men I would hope to find in real life, the men I want my daughter to fall in love with (when she's older, definitely when she's older). The romantics, the intellects, the family men, the men that put what's right before what feels good. These are the stories I want my children to live when it's time.
Now, I will find myself impatiently waiting for the next story in The English Brothers series, Wild About Weston, and also dreading it because it just means we are one book closer to the end of the series (Katy is writing books for the cousins too). On the bright-side, Katy is a writing machine and I know they'll be plenty more wonderfully romantic & beautiful stories to come.
*I received an ARC from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review
October 29, 2014
Seduced by Stratton is book 4 in Katy Regnery’s The English Brothers series and is, in my opinion, delightfully charming and the sweetest in the series. The vulnerability and awkwardness of both Stratton and Valeria makes them an absolutely perfect match in every way.
Valeria is a graduate student hoping to attain her Ph.D. in the study of courtship rituals. But despite her field of research, Valeria’s own love life has never soared to the levels of which she studies. That is until she meets Stratton, the brother of her best friend’s fiancée. She feels an immediate connection with him and senses that Stratton feels the same with her. However, Valeria is confused as despite the signs of attraction towards her that Stratton continues to display, he remains adamant that they are simply friends. Though Valeria has always hoped for a love in her life that can reach inside and deeply touch her heart, her relationships in the past have never come close. But the chemistry she feels with Stratton is too much to overlook, and she must decide whether they have a real chance to be together or if she should ignore the pull she feels towards him.
Stratton has always felt awkward and tongue-tied whenever he was around women – that is until he met Valeria. The first night they meet, he felt an immediate comfort and ease with her which he has never before experienced. But Stratton has fancied himself “in love” with his neighbor, despite the fact that that relationship has never been anything more than friendship. But as he begins to sense the intensity of attraction towards Valeria, he starts to feel confused unbelieving that his heart could be so fickle. And when a misunderstanding between them hurts Valeria deeply, Stratton is ultimately left with the decision of whether what he perceives should simply be friendship goes profoundly deeper than he ever imagined he would find.
The deep emotional connection we feel which emanates between Stratton and Valeria through Ms. Regnery’s superb writing is outstanding. Though they both exhibit the same awkward tendencies with the opposite sex, it seems to vanish between them as their relationship (and friendship) develops and their banter back and forth adds a very entertaining and engaging element to their story.
Although I must admit Alex is still my favorite English brother, I love Stratton, and he has unquestionably moved into second place in my eyes. The stories of The English Brothers are a fantastic series and one of my favorites. If you haven’t yet given in to the impulse to give one of Ms. Regnery’s novels a try, this series would definitely be an excellent place to start. And if you have, you already know what an exceptional story-teller she is. This entire series categorically is deserving of a 5-star rating. Although each of these novels can be read as a standalone, I would recommend starting at the beginning as you will be quickly drawn into the English family and experience the sense of comfort and “coming home” as you take an effortless and delightful journey through each of their lives as their hearts find love.
Valeria is a graduate student hoping to attain her Ph.D. in the study of courtship rituals. But despite her field of research, Valeria’s own love life has never soared to the levels of which she studies. That is until she meets Stratton, the brother of her best friend’s fiancée. She feels an immediate connection with him and senses that Stratton feels the same with her. However, Valeria is confused as despite the signs of attraction towards her that Stratton continues to display, he remains adamant that they are simply friends. Though Valeria has always hoped for a love in her life that can reach inside and deeply touch her heart, her relationships in the past have never come close. But the chemistry she feels with Stratton is too much to overlook, and she must decide whether they have a real chance to be together or if she should ignore the pull she feels towards him.
Stratton has always felt awkward and tongue-tied whenever he was around women – that is until he met Valeria. The first night they meet, he felt an immediate comfort and ease with her which he has never before experienced. But Stratton has fancied himself “in love” with his neighbor, despite the fact that that relationship has never been anything more than friendship. But as he begins to sense the intensity of attraction towards Valeria, he starts to feel confused unbelieving that his heart could be so fickle. And when a misunderstanding between them hurts Valeria deeply, Stratton is ultimately left with the decision of whether what he perceives should simply be friendship goes profoundly deeper than he ever imagined he would find.
The deep emotional connection we feel which emanates between Stratton and Valeria through Ms. Regnery’s superb writing is outstanding. Though they both exhibit the same awkward tendencies with the opposite sex, it seems to vanish between them as their relationship (and friendship) develops and their banter back and forth adds a very entertaining and engaging element to their story.
Although I must admit Alex is still my favorite English brother, I love Stratton, and he has unquestionably moved into second place in my eyes. The stories of The English Brothers are a fantastic series and one of my favorites. If you haven’t yet given in to the impulse to give one of Ms. Regnery’s novels a try, this series would definitely be an excellent place to start. And if you have, you already know what an exceptional story-teller she is. This entire series categorically is deserving of a 5-star rating. Although each of these novels can be read as a standalone, I would recommend starting at the beginning as you will be quickly drawn into the English family and experience the sense of comfort and “coming home” as you take an effortless and delightful journey through each of their lives as their hearts find love.
November 1, 2014
Seduced by Stratton is book 4 of The English Brothers series and it is another hit for Katy Regnery!
Stratton English isn’t your typical book boyfriend. He is handsome and smart but he is awkward when interacting with other people, especially women. His nervousness often leads to him blurting out the first thing that comes to his mind but he doesn’t mean it in a malicious way. I really loved that the author took a chance by creating a character that wasn’t a smooth player. It was a nice change to meet a guy who wanted to get the girl but had no clue of how to do it. I loved that he turned to self-help books which was a humorous and realistic touch.
Valeria (Val) Campanile has been one of my favorite characters ever since the first book of this series. Val is smart, funny, and honest. She is sexy with curves and confident. But secretly she feels alone. Val is the first person in her family to go to college. She has always had their support but they have never understood her. Val is earning her PhD and is studying Courtship Rituals, so romance is always on her mind due to her school work. Val is longing for her true love, that special someone to accept her and love her.
The moment Stratton and Val meet there is chemistry but Stratton is secretly in “love” with his neighbor Amy so he keeps his distance from Val. Since Val is the best friend of his future sister-in-law there is no way to avoid each other. There were times Stratton blurted out stupid things and Val’s feelings were hurt. But by seeing Stratton struggle with his feelings for Val and Amy I couldn’t help but fall in love with him. With Amy he has always been in the “friend zone” but with Val it is an exciting relationship. Out of all the characters Ms. Regnery has introduced us to I think Stratton and Val are each other’s true soul mate. They both have loving families but are misunderstood. Val accepts his awkwardness and Stratton opens up to her, like he has never done before. Stratton loves her intelligence and passion for her studies. He accepts it and encourages it, unlike her family and friends who tolerate it. Val and Stratton are meant to be together!! But will Stratton realize it before it’s too late? You have to read the book to find out!!
What I love about The English Brothers series is that the brothers aren't the typical characters you find in other romance series. The brothers are rich, successful and gorgeous. But they aren't the arrogant,“alpha” males that are currently popular in the romance genre. The English brothers are loving and loyal to each other and to their family and friends. And if you take away the boardroom setting and mansions you are left with characters that are realistic and lovable. The romance between these couples are built on communication and not costly gifts. The English Brothers series is heartwarming and sexy, a must read for all romance fans!! I can’t wait to read more from this series and author!!
Stratton English isn’t your typical book boyfriend. He is handsome and smart but he is awkward when interacting with other people, especially women. His nervousness often leads to him blurting out the first thing that comes to his mind but he doesn’t mean it in a malicious way. I really loved that the author took a chance by creating a character that wasn’t a smooth player. It was a nice change to meet a guy who wanted to get the girl but had no clue of how to do it. I loved that he turned to self-help books which was a humorous and realistic touch.
Valeria (Val) Campanile has been one of my favorite characters ever since the first book of this series. Val is smart, funny, and honest. She is sexy with curves and confident. But secretly she feels alone. Val is the first person in her family to go to college. She has always had their support but they have never understood her. Val is earning her PhD and is studying Courtship Rituals, so romance is always on her mind due to her school work. Val is longing for her true love, that special someone to accept her and love her.
The moment Stratton and Val meet there is chemistry but Stratton is secretly in “love” with his neighbor Amy so he keeps his distance from Val. Since Val is the best friend of his future sister-in-law there is no way to avoid each other. There were times Stratton blurted out stupid things and Val’s feelings were hurt. But by seeing Stratton struggle with his feelings for Val and Amy I couldn’t help but fall in love with him. With Amy he has always been in the “friend zone” but with Val it is an exciting relationship. Out of all the characters Ms. Regnery has introduced us to I think Stratton and Val are each other’s true soul mate. They both have loving families but are misunderstood. Val accepts his awkwardness and Stratton opens up to her, like he has never done before. Stratton loves her intelligence and passion for her studies. He accepts it and encourages it, unlike her family and friends who tolerate it. Val and Stratton are meant to be together!! But will Stratton realize it before it’s too late? You have to read the book to find out!!
What I love about The English Brothers series is that the brothers aren't the typical characters you find in other romance series. The brothers are rich, successful and gorgeous. But they aren't the arrogant,“alpha” males that are currently popular in the romance genre. The English brothers are loving and loyal to each other and to their family and friends. And if you take away the boardroom setting and mansions you are left with characters that are realistic and lovable. The romance between these couples are built on communication and not costly gifts. The English Brothers series is heartwarming and sexy, a must read for all romance fans!! I can’t wait to read more from this series and author!!
November 1, 2014
*I received an ARC of this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review*
“For all intents and purposes, he’d just been out on a blind date with a girl he wished he didn’t like and was grudgingly, but wildly, attracted to, and damn, she’d just kissed him goodnight!”
Stratton is quiet one of his brothers. They think he’s forever in the friend-zone when it comes to women and has probably never even had sex. Of course, they’d be wrong. He’s the “fixer”. He falls for women who in some way or fashion need something fixed and they never feel for him the way he does for them. Case in point…Amy or as I like to call her ‘The Obstacle’.
“I’m sorry, Val. I’m an *ss.”
Val is sweet, funny, and gorgeously curvy. She’s not the tall, slender, blonde type like her friends, but that’s never hindered her self-esteem. She likes who she is…until Stratton has her constantly second guessing herself. She knows he’s attracted to her, but he won’t act on it, and she won’t stop until she knows why and exactly how to change it. She wants him, she knows he wants her, and she’ll do whatever she can to get him.
“To us, and to the boys who like us for who we are!”
But even the best laid plans don’t always work and she may just have to settle for second best.
“So you know what really sucks, Stratton? There’s another woman sitting in front of you…and you can’t see her and she” -her voice broke and she shrugged, looking down at the bag she clasped in her arms- “she really likes you.”
“I do see her,” said Stratton softly. “And I like her too.”
Valeria looked at him and swallowed, willing the hot tears in her eyes not to fall. “Just not enough.”
Stratton is awkward and cutely sincere. Val is full of life and love and radiates it. As one they just make sense. Seduced by Stratton will pull you in and have you cheering for Team Val. The English Brothers series is sweetly romantic and a must read.
My Favorite Moment: The black Calla Lilies and the notes. Now that’s getting seduced in true Stratton fashion.
My Favorite Quote: “Damn, it’s hot when you do that.” … “Go all relationship-PhD on us. It’s sexy as hell, Val.”
“For all intents and purposes, he’d just been out on a blind date with a girl he wished he didn’t like and was grudgingly, but wildly, attracted to, and damn, she’d just kissed him goodnight!”
Stratton is quiet one of his brothers. They think he’s forever in the friend-zone when it comes to women and has probably never even had sex. Of course, they’d be wrong. He’s the “fixer”. He falls for women who in some way or fashion need something fixed and they never feel for him the way he does for them. Case in point…Amy or as I like to call her ‘The Obstacle’.
“I’m sorry, Val. I’m an *ss.”
Val is sweet, funny, and gorgeously curvy. She’s not the tall, slender, blonde type like her friends, but that’s never hindered her self-esteem. She likes who she is…until Stratton has her constantly second guessing herself. She knows he’s attracted to her, but he won’t act on it, and she won’t stop until she knows why and exactly how to change it. She wants him, she knows he wants her, and she’ll do whatever she can to get him.
“To us, and to the boys who like us for who we are!”
But even the best laid plans don’t always work and she may just have to settle for second best.
“So you know what really sucks, Stratton? There’s another woman sitting in front of you…and you can’t see her and she” -her voice broke and she shrugged, looking down at the bag she clasped in her arms- “she really likes you.”
“I do see her,” said Stratton softly. “And I like her too.”
Valeria looked at him and swallowed, willing the hot tears in her eyes not to fall. “Just not enough.”
Stratton is awkward and cutely sincere. Val is full of life and love and radiates it. As one they just make sense. Seduced by Stratton will pull you in and have you cheering for Team Val. The English Brothers series is sweetly romantic and a must read.
My Favorite Moment: The black Calla Lilies and the notes. Now that’s getting seduced in true Stratton fashion.
My Favorite Quote: “Damn, it’s hot when you do that.” … “Go all relationship-PhD on us. It’s sexy as hell, Val.”
October 31, 2014
One of the things I loved about Katy Regnery's writing is the way she writes characters that, even if I can't personally relate to them, the way they think, the way they speak, the way they come across instantly pulls me into their psyche and their life. In every story, whether its a playboy or a virgin, a starlet or an ugly ducking, confident or shy, damaged or optimistic - I have been able to walk in all their steps. Stratton's story is no different.
I was so excited to finally get to Stratton's story. There is such a prevalence of reads about 'players' out there, and while they can be entertaining, my personal preferences lie within the funny and the smart, the nerdy and the awkward. Basically, I like a guy who's a little different. Stratton fit my expectations to a 'T'. I loved learning about him in all his socially awkward glory. Did he frustrate me at times? Definitely. But that is part of what is so endearing about him. But have no worries - he's still a sexy, manly, genuine English brother through and through.
Valeria is a true trooper. I loved her combination of vulnerability and determination. She is intelligent and talented, beautiful and sexy, and yet despite all these qualities, she has yet to find someone to really appreciate who she is. Watching the relationship between her and Stratton develop had all the elements of anxiety and hope, excitement and cringe-worthy moments, and the beautiful realization of love. I really admired how Valeria handled it all. It was such a fascinating and unique situation (which I won't spoil), and I was impressed by how it all came together.
Stratton and Valeria are such a lovely couple. Despite my anxiety, or maybe because of it, I loved their story. This entire series holds such heart-warming romance, and I love that we continue to get snippets about the other couples as well. Katy has become one of my go-to authors when I need that romantic fix. And Stratton may have just stolen the place as my #1 English brother.
I was so excited to finally get to Stratton's story. There is such a prevalence of reads about 'players' out there, and while they can be entertaining, my personal preferences lie within the funny and the smart, the nerdy and the awkward. Basically, I like a guy who's a little different. Stratton fit my expectations to a 'T'. I loved learning about him in all his socially awkward glory. Did he frustrate me at times? Definitely. But that is part of what is so endearing about him. But have no worries - he's still a sexy, manly, genuine English brother through and through.
Valeria is a true trooper. I loved her combination of vulnerability and determination. She is intelligent and talented, beautiful and sexy, and yet despite all these qualities, she has yet to find someone to really appreciate who she is. Watching the relationship between her and Stratton develop had all the elements of anxiety and hope, excitement and cringe-worthy moments, and the beautiful realization of love. I really admired how Valeria handled it all. It was such a fascinating and unique situation (which I won't spoil), and I was impressed by how it all came together.
Stratton and Valeria are such a lovely couple. Despite my anxiety, or maybe because of it, I loved their story. This entire series holds such heart-warming romance, and I love that we continue to get snippets about the other couples as well. Katy has become one of my go-to authors when I need that romantic fix. And Stratton may have just stolen the place as my #1 English brother.
May 16, 2015
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, let me cut to the chase and say that I really loved this book. Hands down, it's my favorite English Brothers story. I know I'm going to love Weston's story, but Stratton will always be my favorite. Seriously, five stars isn't enough for this book.
Stratton is awkward. Some people would say that awkwardness is a negative trait and that most romantic heroes need to be suave and sophisticated at least ninety five percent of the time. I disagree. In fact, Stratton's awkwardness is what made me love him.
When I first started reading The English Brothers, I enjoyed them very much, but often found myself thinking that if given the chance, I could never date one of them because I wasn't glamorous or sophisticated enough to fit into their world. That's exactly how Val feels. Awkward.
Katy has created yet another heroine that I can relate to. I'm a little rounder than some girls. I have messy hair. I know what it's like to be twenty seven years old (I'm almost twenty nine now, lol) and see people younger than you fall in love and wonder if that will ever happen to you. I know what it's like to want someone who you feel is out of your league and feel as though you have to settle for someone mediocre.
The funny thing is, the person who you might think is out of your league could also feel the same way about you, but they're afraid to tell you because they're also awkward. People shouldn't be afraid to admit their insecurities to one another. I think that part of the reason they exist in the first place is because people feel the need to act perfect all the time.
Anyways, bottom line. Val's awkward. Stratton's awkward. They're adorable. They're adorably awkward. See them be adorably awkward together.
First of all, let me cut to the chase and say that I really loved this book. Hands down, it's my favorite English Brothers story. I know I'm going to love Weston's story, but Stratton will always be my favorite. Seriously, five stars isn't enough for this book.
Stratton is awkward. Some people would say that awkwardness is a negative trait and that most romantic heroes need to be suave and sophisticated at least ninety five percent of the time. I disagree. In fact, Stratton's awkwardness is what made me love him.
When I first started reading The English Brothers, I enjoyed them very much, but often found myself thinking that if given the chance, I could never date one of them because I wasn't glamorous or sophisticated enough to fit into their world. That's exactly how Val feels. Awkward.
Katy has created yet another heroine that I can relate to. I'm a little rounder than some girls. I have messy hair. I know what it's like to be twenty seven years old (I'm almost twenty nine now, lol) and see people younger than you fall in love and wonder if that will ever happen to you. I know what it's like to want someone who you feel is out of your league and feel as though you have to settle for someone mediocre.
The funny thing is, the person who you might think is out of your league could also feel the same way about you, but they're afraid to tell you because they're also awkward. People shouldn't be afraid to admit their insecurities to one another. I think that part of the reason they exist in the first place is because people feel the need to act perfect all the time.
Anyways, bottom line. Val's awkward. Stratton's awkward. They're adorable. They're adorably awkward. See them be adorably awkward together.
November 2, 2014
To be honest I am a HUGE Katy Regenry fan and I have loved every book of hers I have read. I won this ARC in a contest and I think it was very different from any of the other English brother books. Stratton is sort of the black sheep. He is brilliant and his family and brothers respect him in business but personally they think he is shy, and doesn't have much interest in women. Unlike his brothers he is the sensitive and quiet hero and he HATES Etienne a man who lived near the English brothers and went to school with them. Etienne comes into his life when he meets, Amy his neighbor who has been dating Etienne for years and Stratton wants to save her because he didn't save his cousin Kate from Etienne.
To some degree Stratton has not understood this about himself and he thinks he is in love with Amy when he meets Val, Emily's roommate who I LOVE. Stratton tells Val he is taken and so they start a friendship that was beautiful to read and even though Stratton doesn't think he is available, he falls very deeply in love with Val and vice versa.
Stratton is loyal, loveable and very quiet, so much so no one but Val know who he is inside and I loved that he only had sex when he was in love. He is a deep one and Val is deep as well. She is brilliant and because of this it seperates her from the community she grew up in and her family. However, with Stratton she has found someone who appreciates who and what she is.
This is a story of two misfits finding love, even when they think the possibility is not there. Katy Regenry writes some really beautiful stories and this story which I think was tamer than her other books was a great story and very touching and beautiful.
To some degree Stratton has not understood this about himself and he thinks he is in love with Amy when he meets Val, Emily's roommate who I LOVE. Stratton tells Val he is taken and so they start a friendship that was beautiful to read and even though Stratton doesn't think he is available, he falls very deeply in love with Val and vice versa.
Stratton is loyal, loveable and very quiet, so much so no one but Val know who he is inside and I loved that he only had sex when he was in love. He is a deep one and Val is deep as well. She is brilliant and because of this it seperates her from the community she grew up in and her family. However, with Stratton she has found someone who appreciates who and what she is.
This is a story of two misfits finding love, even when they think the possibility is not there. Katy Regenry writes some really beautiful stories and this story which I think was tamer than her other books was a great story and very touching and beautiful.
October 31, 2014
I have been seduced...again...by Katy Regnery's English Brothers' series. I have loved each book, and couple, but Stratton and Val are definitely my favorites. I loved Val's strength and unwillingness to settle for less than she deserved, and Stratton stole my heart with his surprisingly sweet awkwardness. Who would think that someone with his looks and life could be so shy and awkward with women? When I read a book I look for it to make me happy...make me sad...make me angry....bring out emotions from every part of the scale. Seduced by Stratton did that. Frustration with him for holding out for Amy when he had Val right there. Sympathy for him when he would say something so incredibly stupid. (Ok, I have to admit to giggling and shaking my head at some of those things.) Happiness when he finally gets it, and hope for both of them that he won't screw it up saying something stupid. I rarely highlight in a book, but found myself highlighting Alex's advice to Stratton. It is so incredibly simple, and so incredibly right on. They are "The Shining and pizza, the foxtrot in old jeans, kisses in the snow, love letters and black Calla lilies". Alex's advice allowed him to get it. To me, "getting it" is what makes a love story the story of who the couple really is.
Every book that I love leaves me wanting to know more of their story and wishing that I could live their story...If only! *sigh*
Every book that I love leaves me wanting to know more of their story and wishing that I could live their story...If only! *sigh*
October 31, 2014
5 SEDUCED STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Do not, I repeat DO NOT let Stratton seduce you!!
He may be wealthy, well-bred, tall and sexy with the body of a god, wildly handsome, sweet, endearing, romantic and smart as a whip, but when Stratton English loves a woman, truly loves a woman, he does the absolute unthinkable… he seduces her. He goes after her and doesn't stop until he makes her his. He finds ways to be around her, be near her. He sends her love letters and her favorite flowers. He dances with her, listens to her, talks to her, understands her and helps to resolve her problems. He kisses her with passion, touches her with love and cherishes her. He actually has the nerve to tell her he loves her, and then truly loves her for who she is!
I mean, if you want to read a book about a guy who learns to overcome his socially awkward self and become the man his woman needs then I guess you could read this book.
My review of Breaking up with Barrett: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
My review of Falling for Fitz: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
My review of Anyone but Alex: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Do not, I repeat DO NOT let Stratton seduce you!!
He may be wealthy, well-bred, tall and sexy with the body of a god, wildly handsome, sweet, endearing, romantic and smart as a whip, but when Stratton English loves a woman, truly loves a woman, he does the absolute unthinkable… he seduces her. He goes after her and doesn't stop until he makes her his. He finds ways to be around her, be near her. He sends her love letters and her favorite flowers. He dances with her, listens to her, talks to her, understands her and helps to resolve her problems. He kisses her with passion, touches her with love and cherishes her. He actually has the nerve to tell her he loves her, and then truly loves her for who she is!
I mean, if you want to read a book about a guy who learns to overcome his socially awkward self and become the man his woman needs then I guess you could read this book.
My review of Breaking up with Barrett: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
My review of Falling for Fitz: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
My review of Anyone but Alex: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
November 3, 2014
Finally Stratton's story!! Out of all the English brothers I found Stratton to be the most intriguing. His social awkwardness made him relatable and that he wore glasses and was always reading his Kindle..sigh...just made him...sexy. Stratton and Valeria were two people who were considered oddities within their social circles. Stratton because he had no filter and a near non-existent dating life. Val because she wanted a higher education rather than a quiet life that included marriage and babies. These things that were considered odd to others, made them fit perfectly. One little thing was standing in their way, Stratton's "love" for his neighbor Amy. Stratton is a smart guy but when it comes to love and relationships, he isn't the smartest knife in the drawer. Thank God for Val, her extensive knowledge of Early American Courtship practices. She inadvertently guides him through the love letters she reads to him about people being open and honest with their feelings no matter the consequences. It isn't until he starts being himself does he truly start to understand his feelings and what his heart truly wants and how to get it.
Their story had me banging my head against the wall and then jumping for joy. The story developed in a nice even pace making it more believable
and relatable. I was so glad to finally read his story and get to know Stratton.
Their story had me banging my head against the wall and then jumping for joy. The story developed in a nice even pace making it more believable
and relatable. I was so glad to finally read his story and get to know Stratton.
October 31, 2014
Stratton and Val are two complete originals and I think that's the main reason this book stands out from the rest. He's socially awkward and doesn't always come across the way he means to while Italian beauty Val is a bit of a misfit. She's too intelligent for comfort of the men she dates and her own family doesn't understand the need she feels to make the most of herself. As you can probably guess, there's sizzling chemistry between the two of them from the moment they first meet...
They have a rocky start to their relationship and the back-and-forth might irritate readers who don't appreciate drama but be patient and stick with it. Believe me, it's well worth your while! They offer each other the gift of unconditional acceptance and a love neither of them had come close to experiencing before.
Oh my gosh, I can't tell you how much I loved the addition of antique love letters! The story is already deeply romantic but they gave it a timeless feel.
What else can I say? Katy is arguably one of the best writers in contemporary romance but she's managed to outdo even herself with 'Stratton'. It's compelling, deep, and incredibly beautiful.
They have a rocky start to their relationship and the back-and-forth might irritate readers who don't appreciate drama but be patient and stick with it. Believe me, it's well worth your while! They offer each other the gift of unconditional acceptance and a love neither of them had come close to experiencing before.
Oh my gosh, I can't tell you how much I loved the addition of antique love letters! The story is already deeply romantic but they gave it a timeless feel.
What else can I say? Katy is arguably one of the best writers in contemporary romance but she's managed to outdo even herself with 'Stratton'. It's compelling, deep, and incredibly beautiful.
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