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Fast Track #1
Flat-Out Sexy
Independent single mother Tamara Briggs wanted to find a new, sexy, no-strings-attached man--just not one as young as NASCAR driver Elec Monroe. But he sure does get her heart racing. And after she’s tricked into a blind date with him, Tamara gives in to her passion. Things screech to a halt, though, when he asks to meet her children. Whatever happened to wham-bam-thank-you ma’am? Suddenly Tamara has to decide how much risk she’s willing to take to experience the power of true love.
291 pages, Paperback
First published October 30, 2008
About the author
Erin McCarthy
185 books4,764 followersUSA Today and New York Times Bestselling author Erin McCarthy sold her first book in 2002 and has since written over seventy novels and novellas in teen fiction, new adult, and adult romance. Erin has a special weakness for high-heeled boots, beaches and martinis. She lives in Ohio with her family, two grumpy cats and a socially awkward dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 770 reviews
October 29, 2008
This was probably one of the best contemporary romances I've read all year, and boy was it a hot one! The hero, race car driver Elec (yes, that's his name) Monroe, is a hero any woman would fall in love with. He's thoughtful, kind, sentimental, humble, funny, and sexy as all get-out! It's no wonder the heroine, Tamara Briggs, can't resist him, although she certainly tried. But it would be like trying to resist chocolate!
Tamara, 32 yrs. old, is a recent widow with 2 children ages 9 and 7. Her deceased husband was a race car driver, who died in a racing accident 2 years ago. Tamara wouldn't mind dating again, but no more getting involved with a guy with a risky job. Her heart couldn't take it again. She's looking for a safe, not too exciting guy, with a steady 9-5 job. Well, she's dating a guy just like that, but he doesn't flip her switches--he's dull as dirt. Since there's no sexual chemistry with her current boyfriend, she decides to cut him loose. No sooner does she make that decision, then she meets a guy who flips all her switches, and then some! She literally bumps into sexy Elec at a party, spilling wine all over him. Sparks fly fast and furious, and through a quirk of fate, they share a cab ride home. But neither Tamara or Elec is ready to call it a night. They spend a wildly passionate night together, and it's not until the morning after that Tamara finds out some important facts, like his last name, his age (26!), and his occupation (race car driver!). What's a girl to do? The smart thing for Tamara would be to chalk it up as a one-night-stand--after all, Elec is not the kind of man she could see in her future--he would just be all wrong for her. First of all, he's younger than her; he's got a risky profession; her in-laws (who she's very close to) have had a falling out with his family; and she has her young children to consider. But darn, they're so good together!
Well, throughout the book, Elec constantly proves to Tamara just how good together they are. They not only have sexual chemistry, but they connect emotionally. And he gets along beautifully with her children. Elec is just wonderful for Tamara's bruised ego; and even though she's not happy about the state of her body after having two kids, Elec makes her feel like she's the sexiest, most beautiful woman on the planet. It's not long before these two are mad for each other, and soon Tamara puts all her reservations about their relationship aside. But when an accident at the race track happens, Tamara finds herself doubting her decisions. Can she risk loving and possibly losing someone with such a dangerous profession?
This book was such an easy, fast-paced read--and very hard to put down! I loved the H/H and the way they interacted. There were no fights or misunderstandings, and the heroine did have some valid concerns about the relationship, but they worked them out together as mature adults. There was lots of funny dialogue between Tamara and her friend Suzanne, that often had me laughing out loud. And the love scenes between Tamara and Elec? Five alarm fire hot--have a cold drink handy! Other than the sometimes distracting name of the hero (Elec--I felt that must be short for electric, because he certainly was!), I have no complaints with this book. I'm happy to say that this was one book that certainly lived up to it's cover--it was flat-out fabulous! Five big stars!
Tamara, 32 yrs. old, is a recent widow with 2 children ages 9 and 7. Her deceased husband was a race car driver, who died in a racing accident 2 years ago. Tamara wouldn't mind dating again, but no more getting involved with a guy with a risky job. Her heart couldn't take it again. She's looking for a safe, not too exciting guy, with a steady 9-5 job. Well, she's dating a guy just like that, but he doesn't flip her switches--he's dull as dirt. Since there's no sexual chemistry with her current boyfriend, she decides to cut him loose. No sooner does she make that decision, then she meets a guy who flips all her switches, and then some! She literally bumps into sexy Elec at a party, spilling wine all over him. Sparks fly fast and furious, and through a quirk of fate, they share a cab ride home. But neither Tamara or Elec is ready to call it a night. They spend a wildly passionate night together, and it's not until the morning after that Tamara finds out some important facts, like his last name, his age (26!), and his occupation (race car driver!). What's a girl to do? The smart thing for Tamara would be to chalk it up as a one-night-stand--after all, Elec is not the kind of man she could see in her future--he would just be all wrong for her. First of all, he's younger than her; he's got a risky profession; her in-laws (who she's very close to) have had a falling out with his family; and she has her young children to consider. But darn, they're so good together!
Well, throughout the book, Elec constantly proves to Tamara just how good together they are. They not only have sexual chemistry, but they connect emotionally. And he gets along beautifully with her children. Elec is just wonderful for Tamara's bruised ego; and even though she's not happy about the state of her body after having two kids, Elec makes her feel like she's the sexiest, most beautiful woman on the planet. It's not long before these two are mad for each other, and soon Tamara puts all her reservations about their relationship aside. But when an accident at the race track happens, Tamara finds herself doubting her decisions. Can she risk loving and possibly losing someone with such a dangerous profession?
This book was such an easy, fast-paced read--and very hard to put down! I loved the H/H and the way they interacted. There were no fights or misunderstandings, and the heroine did have some valid concerns about the relationship, but they worked them out together as mature adults. There was lots of funny dialogue between Tamara and her friend Suzanne, that often had me laughing out loud. And the love scenes between Tamara and Elec? Five alarm fire hot--have a cold drink handy! Other than the sometimes distracting name of the hero (Elec--I felt that must be short for electric, because he certainly was!), I have no complaints with this book. I'm happy to say that this was one book that certainly lived up to it's cover--it was flat-out fabulous! Five big stars!
March 26, 2018
I LOVED IT!
It seems like ages since I had planned to read this book, but for some unknown reason, I kept postponing it. And by the time I finished reading this, I was mentally kicking myself for not picking it up sooner. Oh boy, this book was soooooooo cute! The story was incredibly sweet yet mind-blowingly sexy on so many levels. I was effortlessly pulled into this story from the very start, and very pleased to completely lose myself in there until the end.
Reading Flat-Out Sexy reminded me why I love reading Erin McCarthy's books. She delivers this wonderful love story, full of sweet treats, delicious sexiness, quirky humor, endearing characters, and the perfect amount of drama. Exactly what I want. I can wholeheartedly say that I loved everything about this book! It really hit the spot for me in every way! The way Elec and Tamara’s feelings toward each other continued to grow stronger and deeper bit by bit every day made my heart swell with joy. I loved how Elec took care of Tamara and her children. It was a big YES to me.
Meet Tamara Briggs and Elec Monroe in this older woman-younger man romance story.
Tamara was a thirty-two-year-old widow with two kids. Since her race driver husband was killed in a crash during a race, she had no intention of dating anyone with a dangerous job again, especially another race car driver.
Elec was a twenty-five-year-old rookie driver. He met Tamara at the party and felt utterly drawn to her from the moment their eyes met. He’d never felt like this with anyone before. She’d occupied his thoughts since then and all he’d wanted to do was be with her.
Tamara felt an instant attraction toward Elec as well, and the chemistry between them was so obvious and too hot to resist. But there were many reasons she shouldn’t and couldn’t date this man, like the hatred between her father-in-law and Elec’s father, or their age difference, or even her responsibility to protect her kids if things didn’t work out between them. But most of all, she was afraid of getting romantically involved with a driver again. Elec understood why Tamara turned down a date with him, but since he was a resolute man, he would prove himself for her to trust him and that seeing him was definitely a risk worth taking.
I fell hard for the hero, Elec... *swoon* Yes, Elec... *swoon again* Gosh, I want this man! All of him! I love it when the hero takes the heroine seriously, tries every way to win her heart, never gives up on her, and wants the world to know that she is his woman. And Elec did everything exactly what I said. Aww…he is such a sweetheart. I love this kind of man—sexy, sweet, determined, understanding, and tender-hearted.
Elec thought that if a woman was a good mother, it said wonderful things about her as a human being. It said she was caring, compassionate, loyal, strong. All things he wanted in a woman he would give his heart to.
Tamara could be funny at times, and of course, in a cute way. She's a great mother, a loyal friend, and a lovely daughter-in-law. She’s charming, witty, and adorable. The thing I admired the most about her was that she loved her kids dearly that she put them as her first priority.
“No. The bed will dry us off. And what it doesn’t dry on you, I’ll lick dry.”
“Oh.” My. Goodness. Did that mean she was supposed to lick him in kind? Because while it sounded shocking, she thought she could get into a thorough exploration of that hard body.
Aside from this couple, there were also other interesting and colorful supporting characters that I look forward to reading more of their stories.
All in all, this was a very lovely contemporary romance story with plenty of humor and steamy moments and also a touch of drama thrown in for good measure. But most of all, it was more than enough sugar to satisfy your sweet tooth!
I couldn't be happier!
It seems like ages since I had planned to read this book, but for some unknown reason, I kept postponing it. And by the time I finished reading this, I was mentally kicking myself for not picking it up sooner. Oh boy, this book was soooooooo cute! The story was incredibly sweet yet mind-blowingly sexy on so many levels. I was effortlessly pulled into this story from the very start, and very pleased to completely lose myself in there until the end.
Reading Flat-Out Sexy reminded me why I love reading Erin McCarthy's books. She delivers this wonderful love story, full of sweet treats, delicious sexiness, quirky humor, endearing characters, and the perfect amount of drama. Exactly what I want. I can wholeheartedly say that I loved everything about this book! It really hit the spot for me in every way! The way Elec and Tamara’s feelings toward each other continued to grow stronger and deeper bit by bit every day made my heart swell with joy. I loved how Elec took care of Tamara and her children. It was a big YES to me.
Meet Tamara Briggs and Elec Monroe in this older woman-younger man romance story.
Tamara was a thirty-two-year-old widow with two kids. Since her race driver husband was killed in a crash during a race, she had no intention of dating anyone with a dangerous job again, especially another race car driver.
Elec was a twenty-five-year-old rookie driver. He met Tamara at the party and felt utterly drawn to her from the moment their eyes met. He’d never felt like this with anyone before. She’d occupied his thoughts since then and all he’d wanted to do was be with her.
Tamara felt an instant attraction toward Elec as well, and the chemistry between them was so obvious and too hot to resist. But there were many reasons she shouldn’t and couldn’t date this man, like the hatred between her father-in-law and Elec’s father, or their age difference, or even her responsibility to protect her kids if things didn’t work out between them. But most of all, she was afraid of getting romantically involved with a driver again. Elec understood why Tamara turned down a date with him, but since he was a resolute man, he would prove himself for her to trust him and that seeing him was definitely a risk worth taking.
I fell hard for the hero, Elec... *swoon* Yes, Elec... *swoon again* Gosh, I want this man! All of him! I love it when the hero takes the heroine seriously, tries every way to win her heart, never gives up on her, and wants the world to know that she is his woman. And Elec did everything exactly what I said. Aww…he is such a sweetheart. I love this kind of man—sexy, sweet, determined, understanding, and tender-hearted.
Elec thought that if a woman was a good mother, it said wonderful things about her as a human being. It said she was caring, compassionate, loyal, strong. All things he wanted in a woman he would give his heart to.
Tamara could be funny at times, and of course, in a cute way. She's a great mother, a loyal friend, and a lovely daughter-in-law. She’s charming, witty, and adorable. The thing I admired the most about her was that she loved her kids dearly that she put them as her first priority.
“No. The bed will dry us off. And what it doesn’t dry on you, I’ll lick dry.”
“Oh.” My. Goodness. Did that mean she was supposed to lick him in kind? Because while it sounded shocking, she thought she could get into a thorough exploration of that hard body.
Aside from this couple, there were also other interesting and colorful supporting characters that I look forward to reading more of their stories.
All in all, this was a very lovely contemporary romance story with plenty of humor and steamy moments and also a touch of drama thrown in for good measure. But most of all, it was more than enough sugar to satisfy your sweet tooth!
I couldn't be happier!
January 8, 2015
5+ stars - Contemporary Romance/Erotica
I LOVED this book! I picked this up after reading so many rave reviews on Amazon and Goodreads, and I was not disappointed. Erin McCarthy’s Flat-Out Sexy is one of the best contemporary romances I’ve read in a long, long while. It’s a very touching, sweet, funny, entertaining, sexy love story with lots of humor and heart and characters to care and cheer for. The hero, 26 year-old race car driver Elec Monroe, is an absolute dream that any woman would fall head-over-heels for. He’s sweet, caring, thoughtful, sentimental, charming, attentive, funny, flirtatious, a considerate lover, and just “flat-out sexy” (check out the book jacket). Tamara Briggs the 32 year-old widower with two kids who Elec falls for is a down-to-earth and realistic heroine that all women can relate to and root for. McCarthy writes great dialogue and very witty banter. There are quite a few laugh-out-loud moments, like when Tamara and her best-friend Suzanne engage in girl talk, and touching moments between Elec and Tamara’s kids. The chemistry between Elec and Tamara is intense and the sex is steamy H-O-T! I loved this book so much and hated for it to end and am looking forward to the next in the series, Hard and Fast, coming out in May’09. A VERY FUN, SWEET, ROMANTIC, AND SEXY READ! Big 5 stars!
I LOVED this book! I picked this up after reading so many rave reviews on Amazon and Goodreads, and I was not disappointed. Erin McCarthy’s Flat-Out Sexy is one of the best contemporary romances I’ve read in a long, long while. It’s a very touching, sweet, funny, entertaining, sexy love story with lots of humor and heart and characters to care and cheer for. The hero, 26 year-old race car driver Elec Monroe, is an absolute dream that any woman would fall head-over-heels for. He’s sweet, caring, thoughtful, sentimental, charming, attentive, funny, flirtatious, a considerate lover, and just “flat-out sexy” (check out the book jacket). Tamara Briggs the 32 year-old widower with two kids who Elec falls for is a down-to-earth and realistic heroine that all women can relate to and root for. McCarthy writes great dialogue and very witty banter. There are quite a few laugh-out-loud moments, like when Tamara and her best-friend Suzanne engage in girl talk, and touching moments between Elec and Tamara’s kids. The chemistry between Elec and Tamara is intense and the sex is steamy H-O-T! I loved this book so much and hated for it to end and am looking forward to the next in the series, Hard and Fast, coming out in May’09. A VERY FUN, SWEET, ROMANTIC, AND SEXY READ! Big 5 stars!
December 7, 2011
So why couldn’t she bring herself to like him? Because maybe somewhere deep inside her she still felt the need for speed. For excitement.
Uhm yes. Where do I begin?
You know those cheap books that are about the typical
My problems with this book:
1. Cheesy
2. Painfully boring
3. Not funny
4. Terrible writing style
5. Stupid stupid stupid stupid
My reactions while reading Flat-Out Sexy
*hmph*
*yawn*
*wtf*
*omg my eyes started to burn*
*where’s the toilet paper?*
Other issues:
The chick is talking about her dead husband and the dude is trying his best to see what thongs she’s wearing. Since page 24.
Screwing from chapter two. Who needs a story anyway? Pornography pays very well.
Bottom line: horrible! Two chapters are enough for me.
P.S. The cover sucks balls.
December 28, 2021
Finally rereading it! *Dancing around* I will update my review after the reread! Aww, well as soon as I get a minute to spare and a computer that works!
Hot contemporary romance. 5 stars
Elec Monroe is one of the hottest heroes of all times. I had a picture of Jude Law in my mind, but Elec was even hotter. And he is just great!
The story is about 32-year old widow Tamara Briggs who lost her husband in a race-car accident. She has two children and they are of course very important to her. However, I loved that she put herself out there anyway and I loved that she wasn't ridden with guilt over it. Everyone was very sensible and encouraging - of course her husband would have wanted her to be happy.
I loved the scenes with the kids! I loved how great Elec was with them - is there anything hotter than a guy who is great with kids? However, Tamara and Elec's relationship is not for kids (if you know what I mean...).
I may as well confess: I have a major crush on Elec. Guys don't get any better than him. This was a great book, but he definitely bumped it up to five stars.
Hot contemporary romance. 5 stars
Elec Monroe is one of the hottest heroes of all times. I had a picture of Jude Law in my mind, but Elec was even hotter. And he is just great!
The story is about 32-year old widow Tamara Briggs who lost her husband in a race-car accident. She has two children and they are of course very important to her. However, I loved that she put herself out there anyway and I loved that she wasn't ridden with guilt over it. Everyone was very sensible and encouraging - of course her husband would have wanted her to be happy.
I loved the scenes with the kids! I loved how great Elec was with them - is there anything hotter than a guy who is great with kids? However, Tamara and Elec's relationship is not for kids (if you know what I mean...).
I may as well confess: I have a major crush on Elec. Guys don't get any better than him. This was a great book, but he definitely bumped it up to five stars.
December 16, 2010
A big shout-out to whoever listed this “dish” as part of the Lisa Klepas Pot Luck Reading Challenge! THANK YOU!!!
Flat-Out Sexy is my first read by Erin McCarthy and I am so, so looking forward to the next installment of the Fast Track series. This was a fun, sexy read. A great story, nothing heavy or angsty, just a “sit back and enjoy the ride” good time! And that’s exactly what I was looking for. I’m not going to go into plot detail, because the story blurb tells you quite enough without me re-hashing it for you, but I will share my thoughts about the characters.
Elec is such a great guy. Easy going, caring, hard working…the perfect non-alpha/caveman type hero. He was patient with Tamara and respected her need for privacy and discretion when it came to their relationship. I appreciate that in him, and was glad that he didn’t just tolerate it, but truly understood it. That spoke volumes about what a thoughtful man he was. I thought that Tamara was also awesome. A young, widowed, mother of 2 kids, she did a great job caring for them and trying to provide them with the right atmosphere. I love how the relationship development took place. She didn’t just jump right into dating, nor did she suddenly thrust Elec on her kids. She respected their memory of their father and took her time easing them into the idea of having another man around. That was very real to me, and made me think of her as more than just a character written on the page, but a living, breathing, caring mother.
As for our secondary characters, there was quite a bit of angst, bitterness, animosity between Suzanne, Tamara’s best friend, and Ryder, Suzanne’s ex-husband. Clearly there are unresolved issues in that relationship and I can’t wait to read their book and find out exactly what that said issues are! Then we also have the whole Ty-Nikki-Imogen thing brewing. Nikki, while I’m certain she does have more brain cells than a grain of sand, though not many, seems like such a sweet girl. But I just get the feeling that “sweet” isn’t enough for Ty, and I’m wondering - hoping - that Imogen might have a chance at winning his heart.
Wow! I’m glad I chose this book as part of my “meal plan” and am truly excited to read more of this series.
May 21, 2022
This was a really sweet older woman (32, widow), younger man (25) age gap story. While there were some inconsistencies throughout, I enjoyed this story! His relationship with her kids was sweet and the steam was hot! Loved how he appreciated her mom-bod in such a gentle and touching way.
*It did annoy me that she kept saying she hadn't slept with anyone since her husband, but at the start she admitted that she had sex with the frumpy sweater-loafer-wearing professor.
*It did annoy me that she kept saying she hadn't slept with anyone since her husband, but at the start she admitted that she had sex with the frumpy sweater-loafer-wearing professor.
December 1, 2010
Holly Sh*t!
I know, I know, I shouldn't have said something like that, but words were made for a reason and there are moments you just HAVE to use them, well this is definitely one of them. I just can't believe how good this book was. I was expecting a great read because all my goodreads' friends loved it so much, but I never thought it would be THIS good! Contemporary romance is really surprising me more and more every new day.I was already in love with sport related books but I had no clue car races would be this exhilarating. I could not put the book down. I have read about hockey & football, but never car racing. I'm happy to share with you how much I loved this book.
And the hero in this book is the hottest thing I have ever EVER read about. REALLY, they don't come any hotter than this. Who could not feel sexy and gorgeous with a guy telling you things like that and in the way he did, **sigh**. If you're looking for a book to cheer you up, this is it and if you have not read it yet you definitely should do so RIGHT THIS SECOND. I'm starting book 2 right away! Here goes another book to my favs shelf.
I know, I know, I shouldn't have said something like that, but words were made for a reason and there are moments you just HAVE to use them, well this is definitely one of them. I just can't believe how good this book was. I was expecting a great read because all my goodreads' friends loved it so much, but I never thought it would be THIS good! Contemporary romance is really surprising me more and more every new day.I was already in love with sport related books but I had no clue car races would be this exhilarating. I could not put the book down. I have read about hockey & football, but never car racing. I'm happy to share with you how much I loved this book.
And the hero in this book is the hottest thing I have ever EVER read about. REALLY, they don't come any hotter than this. Who could not feel sexy and gorgeous with a guy telling you things like that and in the way he did, **sigh**. If you're looking for a book to cheer you up, this is it and if you have not read it yet you definitely should do so RIGHT THIS SECOND. I'm starting book 2 right away! Here goes another book to my favs shelf.
December 2, 2010
This is the discussion that took place with my husband and I about the cover of this book:
ME: " Check out the guys package on the front cover of this book!"
HUBBY " Its a cup."
ME: I dont give a sh*t if its a rat stuck down there, he looks hot!"
HUBBY: " Its a cup Sam"
ME: " Jealous much?"
HUBBY: " No comment."
So, this book was so much more than what I anticipated. Yes, it was a quick read but WHOA, what an impact it made.
Elec Monroe, was the sweetest, kindest guy that I have come across in a book for a long while. He didn't lie, cheat or make Tamara feel bad about anything. And then there was the sex! This man was sex on legs! I was looking for the ice bucket half the time.
Tamara was a little bit annoying. She was paranoid about her and Elecs age difference. When in reality, it was bugger all. 6 years in nothing. Now if we were talking 15/20 then maybe I wold have grossed out. She worried to much about what her kids thought and what everyone else thought and didn't listen to herself saying that she wanted this man.
I tend to agree with alot of the other reviews, in which I dont usually go for the dead husband with kids angle. Sort of gets in the way of everything. But these issues were worked in ti this story beautifully and I dont think it would have been the same without them.
Imogen was worked into the story well and has set me up for another fantastic story that I cant wait to get my hands on.!
ME: " Check out the guys package on the front cover of this book!"
HUBBY " Its a cup."
ME: I dont give a sh*t if its a rat stuck down there, he looks hot!"
HUBBY: " Its a cup Sam"
ME: " Jealous much?"
HUBBY: " No comment."
So, this book was so much more than what I anticipated. Yes, it was a quick read but WHOA, what an impact it made.
Elec Monroe, was the sweetest, kindest guy that I have come across in a book for a long while. He didn't lie, cheat or make Tamara feel bad about anything. And then there was the sex! This man was sex on legs! I was looking for the ice bucket half the time.
Tamara was a little bit annoying. She was paranoid about her and Elecs age difference. When in reality, it was bugger all. 6 years in nothing. Now if we were talking 15/20 then maybe I wold have grossed out. She worried to much about what her kids thought and what everyone else thought and didn't listen to herself saying that she wanted this man.
I tend to agree with alot of the other reviews, in which I dont usually go for the dead husband with kids angle. Sort of gets in the way of everything. But these issues were worked in ti this story beautifully and I dont think it would have been the same without them.
Imogen was worked into the story well and has set me up for another fantastic story that I cant wait to get my hands on.!
May 5, 2017
2.5 stars
July 7, 2010
Not going to bother writing a big long review for this, but I am so glad I broke my rules to buy and read this one. There was so much to love about it.
The relative absence of external conflict left a refreshing focus on the main characters. The conflict grew naturally out of their own understandable hang-ups. Widowed Tamara Briggs is wary of dating at all after her stock car racing husband died in a crash at Talladega, never mind dating another racer. She's also 32, with two kids and the resultant stretch marks, and as much as she's wildly attracted to Elec Monroe, she can't help but wonder what a 25 year old guy sees in her cottage cheese ass.
For his part, Elec has been avoiding commitment in his previous relationships, but McCarthy turns this trope on its head. You see, as much as he's a monogamist at heart and loves kids, he's sterile, so he's avoided the marrying type, because he doesn't want his heart broken when she leaves for a man who can give her children. Naturally, Tamara's children are an attraction for him, a ready-made family where he assumed he'd never have one at all. The commitment-focused hero breaking down the widow's reservations was a breath of fresh air.
I just had a few issues with the book, both thematically and stylistically. It's written in a rather folksy tone, and that makes sense for a book about stock car racing set in Charlotte, but there were times where it went from folksy to just inelegant. Swallowing a "bucket of spit" is a rather strange phrase to show up multiple times. I also didn't like how she couldn't leave the dead husband alone. Can't she have an HEA with Elec without having to enumerate her first husband's flaws?
In any case, I loved the book so much, I've broken more rules to buy Hard and Fast to read next. I'm weak.
The relative absence of external conflict left a refreshing focus on the main characters. The conflict grew naturally out of their own understandable hang-ups. Widowed Tamara Briggs is wary of dating at all after her stock car racing husband died in a crash at Talladega, never mind dating another racer. She's also 32, with two kids and the resultant stretch marks, and as much as she's wildly attracted to Elec Monroe, she can't help but wonder what a 25 year old guy sees in her cottage cheese ass.
For his part, Elec has been avoiding commitment in his previous relationships, but McCarthy turns this trope on its head. You see, as much as he's a monogamist at heart and loves kids, he's sterile, so he's avoided the marrying type, because he doesn't want his heart broken when she leaves for a man who can give her children. Naturally, Tamara's children are an attraction for him, a ready-made family where he assumed he'd never have one at all. The commitment-focused hero breaking down the widow's reservations was a breath of fresh air.
I just had a few issues with the book, both thematically and stylistically. It's written in a rather folksy tone, and that makes sense for a book about stock car racing set in Charlotte, but there were times where it went from folksy to just inelegant. Swallowing a "bucket of spit" is a rather strange phrase to show up multiple times. I also didn't like how she couldn't leave the dead husband alone. Can't she have an HEA with Elec without having to enumerate her first husband's flaws?
In any case, I loved the book so much, I've broken more rules to buy Hard and Fast to read next. I'm weak.
November 26, 2008
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!
Tamara Briggs is a 32 year old widower with 2 children. When she lost her husband in a tragic racecar accident she swore she would stay away from the adrenaline junkies and have nice safe relationships.
That all changed the moment she bumped into Elec...literally. They are instantly attracted to one another and despite the age difference (she's older) and her leariness to avoid being with racecar drivers...they just can't stay away from one another.
I loved how both Tamara and Elec both have insecurities (not extreme) but both work their way through them. I thought the rapport and chemistry between them was SMOKIN' HOT.
Elec is truly a hero that melted my heart and is a man I found myself cheering for. I WANTED them to be together...I wanted them to work out their differences...and they did beautifully.
There are some touching as well as a couple of laugh out loud moments in this book.
I just hated for it to end!
Tamara Briggs is a 32 year old widower with 2 children. When she lost her husband in a tragic racecar accident she swore she would stay away from the adrenaline junkies and have nice safe relationships.
That all changed the moment she bumped into Elec...literally. They are instantly attracted to one another and despite the age difference (she's older) and her leariness to avoid being with racecar drivers...they just can't stay away from one another.
I loved how both Tamara and Elec both have insecurities (not extreme) but both work their way through them. I thought the rapport and chemistry between them was SMOKIN' HOT.
Elec is truly a hero that melted my heart and is a man I found myself cheering for. I WANTED them to be together...I wanted them to work out their differences...and they did beautifully.
There are some touching as well as a couple of laugh out loud moments in this book.
I just hated for it to end!
August 25, 2010
I was not very impressed in the beginning of this book. I was actually pretty irritated that I had bought it at all. I really didn't like Tamara and her friend Suzanne at first. During the cocktail party they came off as really shallow and rude. I also disliked that Geoffrey was bagged on so much. It's not his fault that she dated him under false pretenses. When she breaks up with him he behaves like a jerk - which even Tamara says is out of character. The way it was set up seemed like the author threw in him acting like that as a way for Tamara to come out of the situation without looking like a jerk.
Before I could get over my irritation about that, the author started working on making us, the readers, think that Tamara's previous husband wasn't that great of a guy. The author actually pushed this pretty hard through the whole story. It pissed me off. She loved him, but their relationship was all about him. She loved him, but he was never home. She loved him, but he wasn't a very hands on dad. She loved him, but he made fun of her stretch marks and made her self conscious about being naked in front of anyone. It was ridiculous! It seemed like the author did everything possible to convince me that her previous relationship was not as good as the one she could get with Elec. It's not a competition! The man is dead! If the relationship was that lacking she shouldn't have stayed with him.
Why do authors always do this? I hate that, according to almost every romance book I've ever read, if my husband died I'd only be able to have a good new relationship if I diminished my old one. I didn't really love him as much as I thought! The sex wasn't really as good as I thought either! I was fine with my ignorance until new guy came along to show me just how lacking my sex life with my husband was. See? Ridiculous!
I liked the book other than those issues. The character interactions and dialogue seem to be where this author shines.
Elec was the biggest sweetie ever. I loved that he was the one slowly inching Tamara toward a relationship. He was tired of flings, he wanted commitment. He loved being with Tamara and he loved spending time with her kids. He was a bit too perfect at times, but I just ignored that.
I really sympathized with Tamara's insecurities. As someone who has had kids I know that it is hard to feel as confident in your body as you used to. I liked that she felt insecure, but also that she didn't harp on it incessantly. She slyly tried to move his hand to less squishy areas, but she never really whined to him about it and came off as fishing for compliments.
I liked that Tamara's kids didn't play hide and seek through the book. Tamara adjusted her schedule around theirs. I cannot stand when authors introduce kids as a plot device but then make it simple for them to disappear when they were inconvenient. Besides, I liked that Tamara and Elec had to plan out their time together.
I'm interested in seeing more about Ty and Imogen and Ryder and Suzanne. I'm hesitant to continue with the series though. I don't know why. Maybe I'm afraid the reunion story won't be well done? I cringe from the thought of Ryder being a player during their separation while Suzanne hasn't been. Maybe Suzanne will surprise me, maybe she's just more private.
The only other thing that bothered me was how their relationship resolved toward the end. They spent way more time on sex (a lot of sex) than on their relationship, and I wasn't ready for them to move to that level yet. I think the book would have felt more authentic if it had ended with them committed to dating and seeing where it would go.
Before I could get over my irritation about that, the author started working on making us, the readers, think that Tamara's previous husband wasn't that great of a guy. The author actually pushed this pretty hard through the whole story. It pissed me off. She loved him, but their relationship was all about him. She loved him, but he was never home. She loved him, but he wasn't a very hands on dad. She loved him, but he made fun of her stretch marks and made her self conscious about being naked in front of anyone. It was ridiculous! It seemed like the author did everything possible to convince me that her previous relationship was not as good as the one she could get with Elec. It's not a competition! The man is dead! If the relationship was that lacking she shouldn't have stayed with him.
Why do authors always do this? I hate that, according to almost every romance book I've ever read, if my husband died I'd only be able to have a good new relationship if I diminished my old one. I didn't really love him as much as I thought! The sex wasn't really as good as I thought either! I was fine with my ignorance until new guy came along to show me just how lacking my sex life with my husband was. See? Ridiculous!
I liked the book other than those issues. The character interactions and dialogue seem to be where this author shines.
Elec was the biggest sweetie ever. I loved that he was the one slowly inching Tamara toward a relationship. He was tired of flings, he wanted commitment. He loved being with Tamara and he loved spending time with her kids. He was a bit too perfect at times, but I just ignored that.
I really sympathized with Tamara's insecurities. As someone who has had kids I know that it is hard to feel as confident in your body as you used to. I liked that she felt insecure, but also that she didn't harp on it incessantly. She slyly tried to move his hand to less squishy areas, but she never really whined to him about it and came off as fishing for compliments.
I liked that Tamara's kids didn't play hide and seek through the book. Tamara adjusted her schedule around theirs. I cannot stand when authors introduce kids as a plot device but then make it simple for them to disappear when they were inconvenient. Besides, I liked that Tamara and Elec had to plan out their time together.
I'm interested in seeing more about Ty and Imogen and Ryder and Suzanne. I'm hesitant to continue with the series though. I don't know why. Maybe I'm afraid the reunion story won't be well done? I cringe from the thought of Ryder being a player during their separation while Suzanne hasn't been. Maybe Suzanne will surprise me, maybe she's just more private.
The only other thing that bothered me was how their relationship resolved toward the end. They spent way more time on sex (a lot of sex) than on their relationship, and I wasn't ready for them to move to that level yet. I think the book would have felt more authentic if it had ended with them committed to dating and seeing where it would go.
![Profile Image for Michelle [Helen Geek].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1448463806i/5557851._CR0,13,200,200_.jpg)
March 29, 2020
Re-read 00/20/2013
I do not change my original ratings for any reason, however, I will provide an update with any ratings adjustments.
Overall Rating = 4.5 Stars
Book Cover / Book Blurb / Book Title = 5 / 5 / 5 = 5 Stars
Writer’s Voice = 4 Stars
Character Development = 4 Stars
Story Appreciation = 5 Stars
Worth the Chili = 5 Stars -- [$5.99 on Amazon]
308 pages
When I read this in 2011, this was my first by this author. I loved the story. I loved the characters. I remembered them for years after. I recently bought the latest in this series and it reminded me just how fun this was to read the first time. Will it still hold its' charm for me after two years and about 400 books? A resounding yes. This really is a fun time. The H is a race car driver and the story uses this as its' core. The h is a former driver wife, now a widow. She has a few kids and a few years on Elec [LOVE this name]. Elec is probably one of the sweetest hero's you'll ever read. His integrity and charm shines through. He is what happens when the quiet, sweet boy grows up. I loved him then, I love him now.
If you've not read this series, you should. It really is good. I'm going onto the next one. We'll see if I want to reread any more, but right now, I'm excited to be revisiting some old friends.
Happy Reading!
***********************************************
Original Read: Sep2011
I really, really liked this book. B I G Sigh...
Some books you really never want to end -- this is one of those. Good characters. Well told story. My first experience with this author - highly recommended on this website, so why not. Thank you all -- so glad I tried this one.
Quote got me laughing in the first 30m of reading: Suzanne squeezed her hand again, then dropped it. "I understand. But there has to be a happy medium, sugar. Because unless that man over there is hiding a penis the size of an anaconda in his shit brown pans, you are too young, too pretty, too successful, and too much fun to settle for that."
Caught me by surprise and laughed out loud. Doesn't happen often!! Loved it. It did start off with what some would stay "smokin HOT sex" - out the gate, so was a little skeptical, but this surprised me too. Necessary to the story and tasteful. Added too, rather than detracted from, the story. Tamara was well developed. We all know a Tamara and like her. We want her to triumph in life and be the best Mom, best friend, and win at love. Elec - not sure who came up with this name, but it worked. Not the name I would have picked, but oh, well... A really good person with high powered drool. Not a mean bone...
Love this story and on to the next one. Thanks to Good Reads and my Friends for the recommendation!
Happy Reading!
I do not change my original ratings for any reason, however, I will provide an update with any ratings adjustments.
Overall Rating = 4.5 Stars
Book Cover / Book Blurb / Book Title = 5 / 5 / 5 = 5 Stars
Writer’s Voice = 4 Stars
Character Development = 4 Stars
Story Appreciation = 5 Stars
Worth the Chili = 5 Stars -- [$5.99 on Amazon]
308 pages
When I read this in 2011, this was my first by this author. I loved the story. I loved the characters. I remembered them for years after. I recently bought the latest in this series and it reminded me just how fun this was to read the first time. Will it still hold its' charm for me after two years and about 400 books? A resounding yes. This really is a fun time. The H is a race car driver and the story uses this as its' core. The h is a former driver wife, now a widow. She has a few kids and a few years on Elec [LOVE this name]. Elec is probably one of the sweetest hero's you'll ever read. His integrity and charm shines through. He is what happens when the quiet, sweet boy grows up. I loved him then, I love him now.
If you've not read this series, you should. It really is good. I'm going onto the next one. We'll see if I want to reread any more, but right now, I'm excited to be revisiting some old friends.
Happy Reading!
***********************************************
Original Read: Sep2011
I really, really liked this book. B I G Sigh...
Some books you really never want to end -- this is one of those. Good characters. Well told story. My first experience with this author - highly recommended on this website, so why not. Thank you all -- so glad I tried this one.
Quote got me laughing in the first 30m of reading: Suzanne squeezed her hand again, then dropped it. "I understand. But there has to be a happy medium, sugar. Because unless that man over there is hiding a penis the size of an anaconda in his shit brown pans, you are too young, too pretty, too successful, and too much fun to settle for that."
Caught me by surprise and laughed out loud. Doesn't happen often!! Loved it. It did start off with what some would stay "smokin HOT sex" - out the gate, so was a little skeptical, but this surprised me too. Necessary to the story and tasteful. Added too, rather than detracted from, the story. Tamara was well developed. We all know a Tamara and like her. We want her to triumph in life and be the best Mom, best friend, and win at love. Elec - not sure who came up with this name, but it worked. Not the name I would have picked, but oh, well... A really good person with high powered drool. Not a mean bone...
Love this story and on to the next one. Thanks to Good Reads and my Friends for the recommendation!
Happy Reading!
January 2, 2010
This is a hard book to say if I liked it or not because I did and I didn’t. I’d only recommend it if a reader was looking for particular themes but not because it’s a really good book. It’s generally well-written and the sex was mighty hot but it's not my kind of book. I didn't like the race car backdrop –I think I would have liked a ritzier Grand Prix Racing than NASCAR. When all was said and done it didn’t feel like anything really happened. There’s no real conflict or people with major issues that need resolving, it’s more of a "nice" contemporary story without much depth.
Basically it centers around a young widow of two who lost her first husband in a race car accident. Tamara would like to find love again but hasn’t had much luck and is really busy being a mom to make much of an effort. I don’t particularly like heroines with lots of family responsibilities and this one cried too much and too easily even if it was warranted at times. Her negative body issues got on my nerves even though I could appreciate how she felt about herself but there was just something about her that rubbed me the wrong way.
The other part of the story is about rookie race car driver Elec who’s a sweetheart of a guy, but more like how you'd want a real guy to be and not a romance novel guy (lol!). He’s too “perfect” with her kids and nice, understanding etc etc. There’s no real roughness to him. He wants a family and I’m not a fan of books that are very family oriented and this one was pretty heavy on that plus the May-December romance vibe was just too present for me to overlook it because a lot of references were made to their age difference. Elec seemed more immature to Tamara’s super mom character which he would be because he didn’t have the same life experiences as her, still something about him gave off a kid vibe at times. They fit together well enough but there was no spark for me. I liked Elec but I liked the other race car driver Ty’s character way more –he’s guy with a story ;-)
As for the steam, well that’s very well done, sometimes it lacked some “finesse”, not to say that it was crude or vulgar but some things I didn’t find particularly sexy but more borderline raunchy.
I think if you like these themes in a contemporary, you’re looking for a read that’s not going to put you through the wringer and you want something that’s hot with a simple story line then you’ll likely enjoy this one quite a bit. It’s a weak 4 stars for me and really because it’s just not my kind of story. Still glad I read it if only to see first hand what all the talk was about.
Basically it centers around a young widow of two who lost her first husband in a race car accident. Tamara would like to find love again but hasn’t had much luck and is really busy being a mom to make much of an effort. I don’t particularly like heroines with lots of family responsibilities and this one cried too much and too easily even if it was warranted at times. Her negative body issues got on my nerves even though I could appreciate how she felt about herself but there was just something about her that rubbed me the wrong way.
The other part of the story is about rookie race car driver Elec who’s a sweetheart of a guy, but more like how you'd want a real guy to be and not a romance novel guy (lol!). He’s too “perfect” with her kids and nice, understanding etc etc. There’s no real roughness to him. He wants a family and I’m not a fan of books that are very family oriented and this one was pretty heavy on that plus the May-December romance vibe was just too present for me to overlook it because a lot of references were made to their age difference. Elec seemed more immature to Tamara’s super mom character which he would be because he didn’t have the same life experiences as her, still something about him gave off a kid vibe at times. They fit together well enough but there was no spark for me. I liked Elec but I liked the other race car driver Ty’s character way more –he’s guy with a story ;-)
As for the steam, well that’s very well done, sometimes it lacked some “finesse”, not to say that it was crude or vulgar but some things I didn’t find particularly sexy but more borderline raunchy.
I think if you like these themes in a contemporary, you’re looking for a read that’s not going to put you through the wringer and you want something that’s hot with a simple story line then you’ll likely enjoy this one quite a bit. It’s a weak 4 stars for me and really because it’s just not my kind of story. Still glad I read it if only to see first hand what all the talk was about.
March 24, 2009
Wow, I'm usually an alpha girl all the way, but Elec was one of the sweetest, hottest beta heroes I've ever had the pleasure of reading. This book is so fantastic - it's for everyone, especially anyone who may have something they're self conscious about, which I'm sure every woman does.
Tamera is a 32 year old widow of a race car driver. She meets gorgeous rookie driver Elec at a party and sparks fly instantly! He's the big pursuer here, and I loved it :) He's almost 26, but very mature and a complete sexy sweetheart, but he knows how to ask for what he wants in the bedroom ;) She is so reluctant - she's self conscious about the age gape, her stretch marks, that certain area of her tummy---oh yes, and there's the possibility of falling in love with yet another man who could lose his life on the tracks leaving her a widow again. Also, Tamera's late husband's father and Elec's father are old racing enemies over a bitter feud. But love can't be denied, and Elec's gentle but persistent moves have Tamera falling head of heels. Oh, and when you read about how Elec is with her children, you will just melt!
To top it all off, the side characters rocked! Tamera's spunky best friend Susie has some chemistry and unfinished business with her ex-husband (hope they get a book, too!)...and we get a bonus preview of the next book with Imogen and Ty at the end (whom you'll meet here). This was worth every penny - a keeper no doubt! I will be purchasing the next book in this series the first day it's out, Enjoy!! :)
Tamera is a 32 year old widow of a race car driver. She meets gorgeous rookie driver Elec at a party and sparks fly instantly! He's the big pursuer here, and I loved it :) He's almost 26, but very mature and a complete sexy sweetheart, but he knows how to ask for what he wants in the bedroom ;) She is so reluctant - she's self conscious about the age gape, her stretch marks, that certain area of her tummy---oh yes, and there's the possibility of falling in love with yet another man who could lose his life on the tracks leaving her a widow again. Also, Tamera's late husband's father and Elec's father are old racing enemies over a bitter feud. But love can't be denied, and Elec's gentle but persistent moves have Tamera falling head of heels. Oh, and when you read about how Elec is with her children, you will just melt!
To top it all off, the side characters rocked! Tamera's spunky best friend Susie has some chemistry and unfinished business with her ex-husband (hope they get a book, too!)...and we get a bonus preview of the next book with Imogen and Ty at the end (whom you'll meet here). This was worth every penny - a keeper no doubt! I will be purchasing the next book in this series the first day it's out, Enjoy!! :)
November 4, 2008
This book is what I like to call hot with a capital H-O-T!! It hooks you from the very first page. Once I started it, I wasn't able to put it down until it was done. It was well worth the three trips I made to Borders waiting for it to go on sale! Hands down the best contemporary romance I have read in a very long time. I am now burning my way through all of Erin McCarthy's other books - but this one seems to be the best and the steamiest!
June 24, 2017
Another boring, slow book.
It's not that it was extremely bad or anything, it was just really really boring. And the characters were pretty "meh" as well (I can't find a better word to describe them).
Same old story, same old plot, same old characters.
It's not that it was extremely bad or anything, it was just really really boring. And the characters were pretty "meh" as well (I can't find a better word to describe them).
Same old story, same old plot, same old characters.
August 31, 2017
Quizá le falte cierta profundidad, pero se trata de una lectura ágil y divertida con una pareja protagonista que es un amor. Es imposible no enamorarse de Elec y no identificarse con los miedos e inseguridades de Tamara.
May 27, 2015
Overall rating: 4 "rookie" stars!
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with OM/OW:
Intimate Pasts:
OW/OM drama:
HEA:
My review:
This was probably my least favorite Erin McCarthy book, but by all means it was still really cute and hit the spot. This hero was unlike most that I read in that he was NOT an alpha male, but very sweet and persistent in a sweet way. I adored the way he loved the heroine and her children. That was endearing to see
So in this story, Tamara Briggs is in the dating game again 2 years after the death of a husband whom she loved dearly. But it's time for her to move on. She is settling on this dud and trying to get drunk to psych herself up to actual sex with the man, when some good sense from her friend Suz makes her realize that she shouldn't settle and she needs to break up with this guy and find someone else to alleviate her womanly needs. That's when she runs into Elec.
Elec Monroe is at another stinking fundraiser, wishing that he could just bail out without hurting anyone's feelings - when out of nowhere his reason for leaving runs into him, literally - spilling her wine all over his shirt. That was the night that would change his life forever.
Tamara felt like she was done with dating race care drivers - the fact that they were never home, the destruction it would cause her life if something would happen to ANOTHER man in her life and frankly not being put first in her man's life. Those were all things she lived with when her previous husband was alive and not that she was glad he was dead by any means, she just did not want to live that life again. But when Elec kept coming around and being so damn sweet to her, to her children, who was a girl to resist that?
I simply adored Elec. He was the sweetest guy ever. He complimented Tamara frequently and made her feel beautiful - with a body post birthing two babies. He simply told her that her imperfections from childbirth made her that much more beautiful because of the life she held in her womb. He was so damn thoughtful and there was NO DOUBT in Tamara's eyes or even mine that Elec put her first. Racing was his life, but all breaks and any chance he got, he was with Tamara. There was no question whatsoever in his devotion to her.
I really enjoyed Tamara's kids too. They were too cute ;)
What took away from the story - I hate to say - was the secondary characters. That is part of the reason why I took off stars. Ryder and Suz's relationship. I have a real problem with cheating. I just HATE IT and how Ryder flaunted his sexcapades post divorce from Suz and all the while you KNOW he loves her, just made me sick and nauseas. I could tell that both of these characters loved each other and just wouldn't communicate and it made me so upset - especially Ryder's whoring. I almost had to put the book down because it upset me that much. I am still undecided if I will read their book or not. I know that Suz also moved on sexually after they were divorced and that is the only reason I MAY read their book because I know the book itself will be safe. I think the only reason I will actually read it is IF Ryder has been somewhat celibate actually. I might have to get the sample and investigate it further LOL!!!
I think I may read Ty's book because just the fact that he cannot even say the heroine's name right makes me laugh - which I missed out on in this book. That is another reason why I took off points. It was not as funny as some of her other books. And of course the other reason is because I simply wanted more of an ending. I am a spoiled brat when it comes to endings and I WANT IT ALL LOL! ;)
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with OM/OW:
Intimate Pasts:
OW/OM drama:
HEA:
My review:
This was probably my least favorite Erin McCarthy book, but by all means it was still really cute and hit the spot. This hero was unlike most that I read in that he was NOT an alpha male, but very sweet and persistent in a sweet way. I adored the way he loved the heroine and her children. That was endearing to see
So in this story, Tamara Briggs is in the dating game again 2 years after the death of a husband whom she loved dearly. But it's time for her to move on. She is settling on this dud and trying to get drunk to psych herself up to actual sex with the man, when some good sense from her friend Suz makes her realize that she shouldn't settle and she needs to break up with this guy and find someone else to alleviate her womanly needs. That's when she runs into Elec.
Elec Monroe is at another stinking fundraiser, wishing that he could just bail out without hurting anyone's feelings - when out of nowhere his reason for leaving runs into him, literally - spilling her wine all over his shirt. That was the night that would change his life forever.
Tamara felt like she was done with dating race care drivers - the fact that they were never home, the destruction it would cause her life if something would happen to ANOTHER man in her life and frankly not being put first in her man's life. Those were all things she lived with when her previous husband was alive and not that she was glad he was dead by any means, she just did not want to live that life again. But when Elec kept coming around and being so damn sweet to her, to her children, who was a girl to resist that?
I simply adored Elec. He was the sweetest guy ever. He complimented Tamara frequently and made her feel beautiful - with a body post birthing two babies. He simply told her that her imperfections from childbirth made her that much more beautiful because of the life she held in her womb. He was so damn thoughtful and there was NO DOUBT in Tamara's eyes or even mine that Elec put her first. Racing was his life, but all breaks and any chance he got, he was with Tamara. There was no question whatsoever in his devotion to her.
I really enjoyed Tamara's kids too. They were too cute ;)
What took away from the story - I hate to say - was the secondary characters. That is part of the reason why I took off stars. Ryder and Suz's relationship. I have a real problem with cheating. I just HATE IT and how Ryder flaunted his sexcapades post divorce from Suz and all the while you KNOW he loves her, just made me sick and nauseas. I could tell that both of these characters loved each other and just wouldn't communicate and it made me so upset - especially Ryder's whoring. I almost had to put the book down because it upset me that much. I am still undecided if I will read their book or not. I know that Suz also moved on sexually after they were divorced and that is the only reason I MAY read their book because I know the book itself will be safe. I think the only reason I will actually read it is IF Ryder has been somewhat celibate actually. I might have to get the sample and investigate it further LOL!!!
I think I may read Ty's book because just the fact that he cannot even say the heroine's name right makes me laugh - which I missed out on in this book. That is another reason why I took off points. It was not as funny as some of her other books. And of course the other reason is because I simply wanted more of an ending. I am a spoiled brat when it comes to endings and I WANT IT ALL LOL! ;)
Elec took her little hand and kissed the back of it, amazed at how smooth her skin felt, and how much she looked like a mini version of Tamara. "You're as pretty as your mother."LMAO
Hunter's eyes went wide, than she gave him a grin, complete with two missing front teeth. She turned to Tamara. "Mom, he's sexy"
"He used to throw me up in the air and run around the house with me under his arm like a football. And he used to toss me onto my bed at bedtime, then tuck me in and tell me he'd crossed the finish line in first place when I was born."
April 6, 2016
I needed a quote from this book for my blog, and I somehow lost my bookmark. So I decided to flip throw the pages and find it. I ended up rereading half of the book and staying up late.
This book is as good as I remembered. If you want good erotica that has not only sexy times, but also interesting well-fleshed characters who behave like mature adults, believable romance, funny dialogues and which is low on angst and drama, I highly recommend this series.
Original review. November, 2014
I picked this book by chance. I was in a mood to read some erotica and Flat-Out Sexy caught my eye. I was surprised when I saw that the author was Erin McCarthy. I’ve read True from her True Believers series, and I had no idea she also had an adult series. So I decided to give Flat-Out Sexy a try. I was expecting light sexy mindless read, but this book was so much more.
It's an adult novel, so it has explicit sex, but the sex is only one aspect. Flat-Out Sexy is also character-driven story, with great main hero and heroine, and amazing second characters. Our heroine, Tammara Briggs is a 32 years old widow with two children. Her deceased husband was a race car driver, who died in a racing accident 2 years ago. Now Tammara is trying to juggle raising children, career and trying to start dating again. At a party she bumped into Elec. They were instantly attracted to one another which led to a night of hot sex. However in the morning Tamara discovered that Elec was younger than she was (he is 26 years old), he's also a race car driver. So she decided that it was a one-night stand. But despite the age difference and her apprehension of being with racecar driver again they just couldn't stay away from each other.
I think Tammara was portrayed very realistic. It’s really difficult not to root for her. After being married for more than decade it’s strange for her to be dating again. She has now children to care and consider. She is afraid to be in relationship with a man with a risky job again. She has insecurities about her body after giving birth to two children. And she was so real. I especially liked her relationship with her children.
Elec was such an awesome hero. It’s hard not to fell in love with him. He was caring and understanding. He didn’t push Tammara, he tried to help her. I really liked how close he was to his family. It’s little pieces like Elec asking his mother’s advice about chicken pox or his banter with his siblings. It is very obvious they were very close and they love each other. All in all Elec was a fresh air among current stream of alpha-heroes who are often just dominating jerks.
There were amazing second characters in this book. My favorites were Suzanne, Tammara’s best friend, and Ryder, race car driver and Suzanne’s ex-husband. I was thrilled when I learned that they have their own book, Hot Finish. Elec’s sister Eve and his brother Evan were another great second characters, and each of them has their own book too.
Also this book was so much fun. There were many laugh-out-loud moments, and Erin McCarthy surely knows how to write funny dialogues.
So if you’re looking for sexy romance with great characters, humor and light on angst Flat-Out Sexy is what you need.
You can find my reviews:
This book is as good as I remembered. If you want good erotica that has not only sexy times, but also interesting well-fleshed characters who behave like mature adults, believable romance, funny dialogues and which is low on angst and drama, I highly recommend this series.
Original review. November, 2014
I picked this book by chance. I was in a mood to read some erotica and Flat-Out Sexy caught my eye. I was surprised when I saw that the author was Erin McCarthy. I’ve read True from her True Believers series, and I had no idea she also had an adult series. So I decided to give Flat-Out Sexy a try. I was expecting light sexy mindless read, but this book was so much more.
It's an adult novel, so it has explicit sex, but the sex is only one aspect. Flat-Out Sexy is also character-driven story, with great main hero and heroine, and amazing second characters. Our heroine, Tammara Briggs is a 32 years old widow with two children. Her deceased husband was a race car driver, who died in a racing accident 2 years ago. Now Tammara is trying to juggle raising children, career and trying to start dating again. At a party she bumped into Elec. They were instantly attracted to one another which led to a night of hot sex. However in the morning Tamara discovered that Elec was younger than she was (he is 26 years old), he's also a race car driver. So she decided that it was a one-night stand. But despite the age difference and her apprehension of being with racecar driver again they just couldn't stay away from each other.
I think Tammara was portrayed very realistic. It’s really difficult not to root for her. After being married for more than decade it’s strange for her to be dating again. She has now children to care and consider. She is afraid to be in relationship with a man with a risky job again. She has insecurities about her body after giving birth to two children. And she was so real. I especially liked her relationship with her children.
Elec was such an awesome hero. It’s hard not to fell in love with him. He was caring and understanding. He didn’t push Tammara, he tried to help her. I really liked how close he was to his family. It’s little pieces like Elec asking his mother’s advice about chicken pox or his banter with his siblings. It is very obvious they were very close and they love each other. All in all Elec was a fresh air among current stream of alpha-heroes who are often just dominating jerks.
There were amazing second characters in this book. My favorites were Suzanne, Tammara’s best friend, and Ryder, race car driver and Suzanne’s ex-husband. I was thrilled when I learned that they have their own book, Hot Finish. Elec’s sister Eve and his brother Evan were another great second characters, and each of them has their own book too.
Also this book was so much fun. There were many laugh-out-loud moments, and Erin McCarthy surely knows how to write funny dialogues.
So if you’re looking for sexy romance with great characters, humor and light on angst Flat-Out Sexy is what you need.
You can find my reviews:
October 30, 2008
Really 4.5 stars! A very sexy and very touching story..."Flat-Out Sexy" by Erin McCarthy is a truly entertaining read with humor, emotion, and desire wrapped up in a very touching love story.
Tamara is a teacher, a mother, and a widow. She's also feeling very unsexy and it's no surprise since she can calculate to the day, the last time she had sex. And she really can't count the boring professor since she had to force herself to do it once and would rather eat nails than do it again! Then she spills her entire glass of wine on a very sexy stranger at a party and things go kinda crazy from there! After a night of very fulfilling, very crazy sex...Tamara discover that not only is her stranger younger than she is, he's also a race car driver, just like her first husband who 'left' her by smashing his car in the corner on the racetrack. She just can't face that again...right?
Elec may be a bit younger in years, but he's also a man who knows what he wants and once he sets his sights on Tamara, she really doesn't stand a chance. If he can just get past her fears, her in-laws, and her prejudices, he'll be home free. No problem...really...probably...maybe?
Two people who couldn't be more perfect for each other, but have to learn that love is no more perfect than people, and sometimes taking the chance outweighs safety. I loved the story, I loved the hero and heroine, I loved the pace of their relationship and how they handled the roadblocks and challenges unique to their situation. The cover is smoking and the heat inside is a good match too.
Tamara is a teacher, a mother, and a widow. She's also feeling very unsexy and it's no surprise since she can calculate to the day, the last time she had sex. And she really can't count the boring professor since she had to force herself to do it once and would rather eat nails than do it again! Then she spills her entire glass of wine on a very sexy stranger at a party and things go kinda crazy from there! After a night of very fulfilling, very crazy sex...Tamara discover that not only is her stranger younger than she is, he's also a race car driver, just like her first husband who 'left' her by smashing his car in the corner on the racetrack. She just can't face that again...right?
Elec may be a bit younger in years, but he's also a man who knows what he wants and once he sets his sights on Tamara, she really doesn't stand a chance. If he can just get past her fears, her in-laws, and her prejudices, he'll be home free. No problem...really...probably...maybe?
Two people who couldn't be more perfect for each other, but have to learn that love is no more perfect than people, and sometimes taking the chance outweighs safety. I loved the story, I loved the hero and heroine, I loved the pace of their relationship and how they handled the roadblocks and challenges unique to their situation. The cover is smoking and the heat inside is a good match too.
May 23, 2015
What a lovely easy and fun reading this was! -
4,5 strong Stars
I really enjoyed reading this book and want to read more books in this series. A series about these beautiful and lovable racing drivers in the South and the women they meet.
Tamara is a 34 year old widow with two children. The last thing she wants is to once again have a relationship with a racing star, after losing her beloved husband in a crash. But then she meets the a few years younger racing driver Elec during a mingling party. He has everything and Tamara must consider if she is willing to throw herself into the love to a man with such a dangerous profession once again.
For me, this story had everything a contemporary romance, without too much hard feelings and anxiety, can have. The lovestory between her and him was nice, hot and entertaining to read about. The cast in general consists of fun and friendly characters. The description of Tamara as a single mother and her children were beautiful. And it was a lot of steam and heat. Elec is the kind of man you want for a husband - goreous, caring and a perfect lover.
Recommended sincerely to anyone who likes a contemporary romances without anxiety, overly dominant alpha males, young female virgins or a following sequel. Here you get sexy men, independent women and a good, realistic and common, love story. Liberating to read.
And what a nice cover - great!
I LIKE !
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Will of course read the next book about a new couple and a new love story in the Fast Track series.
December 20, 2008
After the death of her thrill seeking race car driver husband, Tamara Briggs decided to step out of the fast lane and try something a little dependable. A little safer. So when she takes her safe and dependable new date to a weekend racecar function she's predictably bored out of her mind. She's busy thinking up ways to escape her excruciatingly dull and boring date when she knocks into the hottest thing on two legs and spills red wine down his shirt. Trust me, best damn thing she ever did. Elec Monroe happens to agree and before Tamara knows what's happening she and Elec are rolling around having a grand ol time. Looks like the weekend wasn't such a waste after all. The next morning, Tamara thinks to kiss and cuddle and say goodbye, sure that this was just a fun one night stand but he has different ideas. Tired of wasting his time with airheaded bimbos and even though she confuses him with her "yes, no, maybe so" attitude, he's not letting her get away from him that easy. He might be what she fears, another racecar driver, and he might be seven years younger than her, but he's also exactly what she needs. A lover, a friend, and great husband.
First off, let me congratulate the creators of the cover of this book. Bravo on a job well done. :P
This was such a beautiful and sweet story. It's got a lot of sex, (duh) but it was also one of the sweetest stories I've ever read and it's chock full of awwwwww worthy moments. Elec (who is a southern boy even though his name sounds like he should be Italian) is obviously God's gift to women and Tamara Briggs is the lucky woman who gets to bang his brains out in Romanceland. He's so adorable and he's completely perfect. Tamara was also a wonderful character. Brave and mature and if she wasn't one hundred percent confident in herself, at least she was willing to try and fake it. She had the loving support and friendship of a great group of characters and I can't wait to indulge in some of their stories, one of which is coming next year in early 2009. Even though Tamara is older than Elec, this isn't a Mrs. Robinson-type story. He actually teaches her a few tricks, especially making her open up and embrace the body that motherhood gave her, and he wipes away any lingering doubts she had over her perceived flaws. What was supposed to be just sex (in her mind) quickly became a full time relationship with Elec embracing her family. He never thought he would have a family of his own, so the added addition of her children was a treat for him. A welcome bonus in his love for Tamara. The two kids don't fade into the background either. They are very much in the forefront, as it should be, and while Tamara and Elec try and make time for themselves as much as they can, children have a way of demanding attention, and in the context of this story, I loved it. Whenever they were together as a family, my heart just melted, and I became a great big puddle of goo.
The humor was also a great treat for me. It was a little bit snarky, a little bit irreverent, and a whole lot adorable. This was a fabulous, simply sweet romance that I recommend for any woman. This was a beautiful little love story between a woman and two little kids, and the man that swept them off their feet. *sigh*
First off, let me congratulate the creators of the cover of this book. Bravo on a job well done. :P
This was such a beautiful and sweet story. It's got a lot of sex, (duh) but it was also one of the sweetest stories I've ever read and it's chock full of awwwwww worthy moments. Elec (who is a southern boy even though his name sounds like he should be Italian) is obviously God's gift to women and Tamara Briggs is the lucky woman who gets to bang his brains out in Romanceland. He's so adorable and he's completely perfect. Tamara was also a wonderful character. Brave and mature and if she wasn't one hundred percent confident in herself, at least she was willing to try and fake it. She had the loving support and friendship of a great group of characters and I can't wait to indulge in some of their stories, one of which is coming next year in early 2009. Even though Tamara is older than Elec, this isn't a Mrs. Robinson-type story. He actually teaches her a few tricks, especially making her open up and embrace the body that motherhood gave her, and he wipes away any lingering doubts she had over her perceived flaws. What was supposed to be just sex (in her mind) quickly became a full time relationship with Elec embracing her family. He never thought he would have a family of his own, so the added addition of her children was a treat for him. A welcome bonus in his love for Tamara. The two kids don't fade into the background either. They are very much in the forefront, as it should be, and while Tamara and Elec try and make time for themselves as much as they can, children have a way of demanding attention, and in the context of this story, I loved it. Whenever they were together as a family, my heart just melted, and I became a great big puddle of goo.
The humor was also a great treat for me. It was a little bit snarky, a little bit irreverent, and a whole lot adorable. This was a fabulous, simply sweet romance that I recommend for any woman. This was a beautiful little love story between a woman and two little kids, and the man that swept them off their feet. *sigh*
February 25, 2009
What a fun book to read! I'm glad I decided to pick it up after reading all the good reviews from my friends here at GR. Though I should have bumped it to the top of Mt TBR because it was just such a great book to read. I can't count the number of times it had me laughing out loud. There's some really great wit and humor in McCarthy's writing.
Since I know many have already review and given an extended summary of the book, I'll just skip over the obligatory longer summary and get to my thoughts.
For me, one of the best things about this book was just how easy it was to read. There's a great flow to McCarthy's writing that makes it pleasing to read...not over-flowery or long-winded or lots of $200 words, but not overly simple either. The text has an everyday feel to it, with dialogue and thoughts that your average American would actually say/think, that makes it nice for reading.
The humor was fantastic as well. I couldn't help but laugh at times because things said or done were just hilarious. I can't remember a book where I've laughed as much.
Plus the storyline is fun and sexy, and sports related, which is a bonus. And the characters are great. I loved Elec. There's a guy who'd be the perfect life-mate. Sensitive, caring, honest, talented, and hot. I just loved him. And the sex scenes were sizzling without being super explicit.
I'm giving this one 5 stars because it was such a fun, sexy, sweet book to read that I zipped through in record time. But despite that, there is one area I thought could have made the book 5+ stars. Which is that there could have been some better depth in certain areas of the story. For example, Tamara husband was killed in a racing accident, but that's all you really ever got about that. Considering how important it was to her becoming involved with another driver, I would have liked it if there'd been more about what Tamara went through. Where was she when he was killed? How did she find out? Did he die right away? Etc...those kinds of things just give a situation more emotional reality. Missing those didn't kill the story, it just took some of the emotional depth from the book. Plus there was also the thing with the feud between the Monroes and the Briggs....I don't think we ever did learn what that was all about.
So if I had to wish for one thing to have been done a little better, it would be to explore the backstory a little better. But like I said, it didn't make the story bad for me. I still loved it. I just wouldn't have minded the other stuff being included. Anyway, if you're a romance reader who likes fun, sexy, sports-related romances, then you should absolutely try this one. It's well worth the trade paperback price.
Since I know many have already review and given an extended summary of the book, I'll just skip over the obligatory longer summary and get to my thoughts.
For me, one of the best things about this book was just how easy it was to read. There's a great flow to McCarthy's writing that makes it pleasing to read...not over-flowery or long-winded or lots of $200 words, but not overly simple either. The text has an everyday feel to it, with dialogue and thoughts that your average American would actually say/think, that makes it nice for reading.
The humor was fantastic as well. I couldn't help but laugh at times because things said or done were just hilarious. I can't remember a book where I've laughed as much.
Plus the storyline is fun and sexy, and sports related, which is a bonus. And the characters are great. I loved Elec. There's a guy who'd be the perfect life-mate. Sensitive, caring, honest, talented, and hot. I just loved him. And the sex scenes were sizzling without being super explicit.
I'm giving this one 5 stars because it was such a fun, sexy, sweet book to read that I zipped through in record time. But despite that, there is one area I thought could have made the book 5+ stars. Which is that there could have been some better depth in certain areas of the story. For example, Tamara husband was killed in a racing accident, but that's all you really ever got about that. Considering how important it was to her becoming involved with another driver, I would have liked it if there'd been more about what Tamara went through. Where was she when he was killed? How did she find out? Did he die right away? Etc...those kinds of things just give a situation more emotional reality. Missing those didn't kill the story, it just took some of the emotional depth from the book. Plus there was also the thing with the feud between the Monroes and the Briggs....I don't think we ever did learn what that was all about.
So if I had to wish for one thing to have been done a little better, it would be to explore the backstory a little better. But like I said, it didn't make the story bad for me. I still loved it. I just wouldn't have minded the other stuff being included. Anyway, if you're a romance reader who likes fun, sexy, sports-related romances, then you should absolutely try this one. It's well worth the trade paperback price.
November 9, 2008
Wow! This was a wonderful, feel-good, erotic, romance with two neat characters and a whole lot of love. I'm not at all interested in the race car arena and know little-to-nothing about it, but this book was wonderful. Nice story with just the right amount of turns and twists that kept it interesting while not loosing an ounce of respect for either character.
Tamara was a 32-year old, widowed, single mom of two young children, ages 7 and 9. She was married to a professional race car driver who was killed on the track two years ago. She was moving on with her life and was a college professor (sociology), but still had friends connected to the racing arena where she encountered Elec. They are very attracted to each other ("the body wants what the body wants") and... wow! Tamara is disturbed to discover he is a race car driver (she thought he was a pit crew person). She is mortified that he is 6 years younger AND his family and her husband's had a major falling out many years ago.
The way these two overcame obstacles was so nice. There wasn't any arguing, bantering or degradation. Just a whole lot of love and tenderness. I loved how Elec got Tamara used to her body that she felt was unworthy because of the ravages of two pregnancies. Wow!
The characters and story just had me glued to this book. I can see this is the first in a new series by this author and she set up the characters (Ty and Imogen; Ryder and Suzanne) for their stories here.
The only thing I did not like was the texture of the paper that was used in the book. It's a rough, "newspapery" feel that had me grabbing the hand lotion--a lot. But, wow! what a nice cover!
A book that made me go, "Ah..." numerous times and another favorite for This Reader. ;-)
Tamara was a 32-year old, widowed, single mom of two young children, ages 7 and 9. She was married to a professional race car driver who was killed on the track two years ago. She was moving on with her life and was a college professor (sociology), but still had friends connected to the racing arena where she encountered Elec. They are very attracted to each other ("the body wants what the body wants") and... wow! Tamara is disturbed to discover he is a race car driver (she thought he was a pit crew person). She is mortified that he is 6 years younger AND his family and her husband's had a major falling out many years ago.
The way these two overcame obstacles was so nice. There wasn't any arguing, bantering or degradation. Just a whole lot of love and tenderness. I loved how Elec got Tamara used to her body that she felt was unworthy because of the ravages of two pregnancies. Wow!
The characters and story just had me glued to this book. I can see this is the first in a new series by this author and she set up the characters (Ty and Imogen; Ryder and Suzanne) for their stories here.
The only thing I did not like was the texture of the paper that was used in the book. It's a rough, "newspapery" feel that had me grabbing the hand lotion--a lot. But, wow! what a nice cover!
A book that made me go, "Ah..." numerous times and another favorite for This Reader. ;-)
September 19, 2015
This is the story of Elec and Tamara. Which I had to do a double take because after reading the prologue I thought it was a story about Imogen and Ryder. So after I got over that and realized who the story was about, I didn't really like Suzanne, Tamara's best friend. And after going through the book, I still don't like Suzanne. So I'm not looking forward to reading her book.
Now back to this story and characters. We find ourselves in the world of professional race car driving. Tamara was married to a somewhat of a legend Pete Briggs, who died during a race accident. She has 2 beautiful and sweet kids, she hasn't dated since Pete's death, she has a lot of insecurities about her age, her looks, her body, her image, her duty, responsibility, etc.
She then meets Elec Monroe, youngest son of another legend, and who's father and Pete's father used to be friends but now are enemies and the families are supposed to hate each other. He is also only 26 years old! But he is THE perfect, non-existent guy. He is sweet, and patient, and sexy, and good with the kids, and loves all of her.
Their romance is secret at first, hiding, and meeting to have sex, very hot sex. Their story is the classic contemporary romance, but it was very well written. And for some reason it was sooo fast to read!
I'm not too sure how I feel about reading the other books in the series, I might be interested in Imogen's book (next) but I'm not too sure about Suzanne's book... We'll see how I feel after book 2.
Now back to this story and characters. We find ourselves in the world of professional race car driving. Tamara was married to a somewhat of a legend Pete Briggs, who died during a race accident. She has 2 beautiful and sweet kids, she hasn't dated since Pete's death, she has a lot of insecurities about her age, her looks, her body, her image, her duty, responsibility, etc.
She then meets Elec Monroe, youngest son of another legend, and who's father and Pete's father used to be friends but now are enemies and the families are supposed to hate each other. He is also only 26 years old! But he is THE perfect, non-existent guy. He is sweet, and patient, and sexy, and good with the kids, and loves all of her.
Their romance is secret at first, hiding, and meeting to have sex, very hot sex. Their story is the classic contemporary romance, but it was very well written. And for some reason it was sooo fast to read!
I'm not too sure how I feel about reading the other books in the series, I might be interested in Imogen's book (next) but I'm not too sure about Suzanne's book... We'll see how I feel after book 2.
December 8, 2008
Love It! Love It! Love It! Elec and Tamara were smoking hot together! They couldn't seem to keep their hands off each other. Not only was this book steamy hot, it was laugh out loud funny as well. Elec is every woman's dream man; not only is he "flat-out sexy," he's caring, charming, great with her kids, attentive, and a great listener. (If only he was real and not a character in a book. LOL) Everyone has, or wish they had, a friend like Suzanne. She's absolutely hilarious. She and Ryder have an interesting dynamic that I hope will be explored further in a book of their own. I read the snippet at the back of the book which is Imogen (Emma Jean, lol) and Ty's story. From what I read it promises to be another sizzling hot read. I'm impatiently waiting to read it. I got this one from the library, but I definitely will be picking up a copy to add to me "keeper" shelf! Absolutely worth the read.
April 11, 2011
Hot - Steamy - Loved It!
My first read by this author and I loved it - Loved the story, love the sexy cover, but most of all I loved hot, sexy Elec Monroe! I mean WOW - dripping, hot, oozing sexy and along with all those fine attributes, he is tender, calm, caring and very intent! Now who wouldn't love him!?
Widowed with two young children, Tamara Briggs is so down to earth and just perfect for him.
While this story is sensual and so hot it nearly scorches the pages, there is lots of tenderness and caring. In addition there is humor making this the perfect mix and the kind of contemporary that I enjoy.
...and now I'm off to read Hard and Fast, the 2nd book in this series.
My first read by this author and I loved it - Loved the story, love the sexy cover, but most of all I loved hot, sexy Elec Monroe! I mean WOW - dripping, hot, oozing sexy and along with all those fine attributes, he is tender, calm, caring and very intent! Now who wouldn't love him!?
Widowed with two young children, Tamara Briggs is so down to earth and just perfect for him.
While this story is sensual and so hot it nearly scorches the pages, there is lots of tenderness and caring. In addition there is humor making this the perfect mix and the kind of contemporary that I enjoy.
...and now I'm off to read Hard and Fast, the 2nd book in this series.
June 8, 2012
AMAZING!!! I hadn't read anything for awhile (too busy working) until a few weeks ago. Once I got started reading again, I've been on a roll, and I totally gobbled up this story. I can't wait for the next one. Where the heck have I been? How did I miss this series?
Elec was incredibly Alpha but also so... adorable. Kind, mature, seeexxxxyyy...
And Tamara was such a great mom, so hungry for some man-time. :::sigh:::
The dialogue was fantastic, and humorous and engaging.
And did I mention sexy? Whoa yeah.
I *really* loved this book and can't wait to read about the other drivers - Ty and Ryder. Fun, fun, fun!
Elec was incredibly Alpha but also so... adorable. Kind, mature, seeexxxxyyy...
And Tamara was such a great mom, so hungry for some man-time. :::sigh:::
The dialogue was fantastic, and humorous and engaging.
And did I mention sexy? Whoa yeah.
I *really* loved this book and can't wait to read about the other drivers - Ty and Ryder. Fun, fun, fun!
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