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The Legal Briefs #3.5
Sidebarred
There was a time when Jake Becker had it all together. He was controlled, driven, ruthless—in and out of the courtroom.
Then, six irresistible orphans and their heartbreakingly beautiful aunt crashed into his perfectly ordered life. They changed everything. They changed him. Now he’s a husband, an upstanding member of society, a father figure—a family man. And he’s pretty damn good at it.
Sure, he has to referee sibling smackdowns, re-learn algebra, ensure his clients stay out of jail, and keep his wife happy—but it finally feels like he’s got it together again....
So, of course something has to screw it all up. It’s huge. Life-changing. Kind of terrifying.
And it will be the most amazing, perfect thing he’ll ever do.
Then, six irresistible orphans and their heartbreakingly beautiful aunt crashed into his perfectly ordered life. They changed everything. They changed him. Now he’s a husband, an upstanding member of society, a father figure—a family man. And he’s pretty damn good at it.
Sure, he has to referee sibling smackdowns, re-learn algebra, ensure his clients stay out of jail, and keep his wife happy—but it finally feels like he’s got it together again....
So, of course something has to screw it all up. It’s huge. Life-changing. Kind of terrifying.
And it will be the most amazing, perfect thing he’ll ever do.
101 pages, ebook
First published April 24, 2016
About the author
Emma Chase
54 books18.5k followersEmma Chase is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of romance filled with humor, heat and heart. Her books have been published in over 20 languages and the film adaptation of Tangled, Emma's iconic enemies-to-lovers rom-com, was recently released by Passionflix.
Emma lives happily-ever-after in New Jersey with her husband, two children, and two adorable, misbehaving dogs.
Emma lives happily-ever-after in New Jersey with her husband, two children, and two adorable, misbehaving dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,347 reviews
May 3, 2016
There's a little bit of a story behind Sidebarred. The main idea for this novella - and for its epilogue actually - came to me soon after I finished Jake & Chelsea's full length book, Sustained. But then I started writing Appealed, became all wrapped up in Brent & Kennedy's sexy bickering, and as it often happens, the idea got moved to the backburner. Until I finished Appealed. And the idea for this little novella came back to the front burner - in all its detailed, sweet, heartwarming, glory.
But...I was really happy with how Appealed ended. I loved - and love - Appealed's epilogue. It's exactly how I'd always envisioned wrapping up the series and I was hesitant to mess with that ending. These characters, however, had other ideas.
I kept thinking about the scenes in this story - if you've already read it, you'll know exactly the ones I mean - the ones that made me smile, made me teary-eyed, and made me literally laugh out loud (usually while I was in the car, stopped at a light, which probably looked pretty crazy to the person next to me...but I digress). It got to the point that I was so entertained by imagining how those moments would go - I knew all of you would love reading about them too.
And so, here we are. Sidebarred was written and like the dedication says - this one's for you dear readers. Thank you for reading and for adoring all the Legal Briefs characters as much as I do.
New project news is coming soon - I absolutely cannot wait to show you what I have in store for you next! xoxo - Emma
But...I was really happy with how Appealed ended. I loved - and love - Appealed's epilogue. It's exactly how I'd always envisioned wrapping up the series and I was hesitant to mess with that ending. These characters, however, had other ideas.
I kept thinking about the scenes in this story - if you've already read it, you'll know exactly the ones I mean - the ones that made me smile, made me teary-eyed, and made me literally laugh out loud (usually while I was in the car, stopped at a light, which probably looked pretty crazy to the person next to me...but I digress). It got to the point that I was so entertained by imagining how those moments would go - I knew all of you would love reading about them too.
And so, here we are. Sidebarred was written and like the dedication says - this one's for you dear readers. Thank you for reading and for adoring all the Legal Briefs characters as much as I do.
New project news is coming soon - I absolutely cannot wait to show you what I have in store for you next! xoxo - Emma
September 10, 2020
warning: if you’re a broke college student like me, this book is dangerous because this makes you wanna have a c h i l d
but if you’re also like me and don’t listen to any warnings whatsoever, then read this book because it is ADORABLE !!!
listen, im an adult but i’d gladly be adopted into the Becker family idc 😌
also, reading about these cute af fictional kids ✨ cured 2020 for me ✨
➵ Sustained: 3.75 stars
y'all have to read Sustained first before reading this novella btw!
but if you’re also like me and don’t listen to any warnings whatsoever, then read this book because it is ADORABLE !!!
listen, im an adult but i’d gladly be adopted into the Becker family idc 😌
also, reading about these cute af fictional kids ✨ cured 2020 for me ✨
➵ Sustained: 3.75 stars
y'all have to read Sustained first before reading this novella btw!
August 15, 2016
5 Happily Ever After Stars!
I am sure gonna miss this series!
Wow. If there's a happiest of all happiest ending, I think this is the one. Emma Chase closed the series beautifully by giving us a glimpse of the lives of all the characters in this series years and years after their HEA.
This series has really grown on me. I seriously loved all the characters, especially Jake and the McQuaid kids. In this novella, there were newly introduced characters who made such a great addition to the gang and I loved it. I enjoyed all the joyous moments, all the crazy shenanigans and some family dramas and most especially, the scenes where Jake and the adorable kids interact. I also loved the fact that the author showed the lives of Brent, Kennedy, Stanton, and Sophia. And omg, THAT EPILOGUE. I cried and I'm not even kidding. It was one of the most beautiful epilogues I've read so far.
Not going to say much, of course, because it's going to be a spoiler.
So if you want to read a happy series that also provides some sexiness and drama, DO YOURSELF A FAVOR and go read this series. I highly recommend this to everyone who enjoys Adult Romance and romantic comedy books. I swear this is not just a series that offers fun but it has delightful storylines and emotional depth. Wonderful job, Emma Chase! Thank you for writing this unforgettable series. :)
April 28, 2016
Now this is how you write follow-up novella people!
Jake Becker... he was even hotter, sexier, more swoony, more heart melting.... I could go on and on and on...
"Because she’s more than my wife—more than the owner of the pussy that has me so very whipped. She’s my love, my home, the solace to my soul, the keeper of my heart, the center of my entire fucking world. The only reason I really believe in my own goodness is because I see it reflected in her eyes. "
Chelsea and the kids didn't disappoint either. Their good kind of crazy house made me smile so big while reading. And I had happy tears stinging my eyes when I got to the end. Well deserved HEA for all of them.
ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 15, 2023
🎧 2nd Read, July 2021 ― 5 Stars
This has been the audiobook that I fell asleep to at night for the past week cuz otherwise my mind would wander to places I’d rather not be and I wouldn’t get any sleep. So, thank you.
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🎧 1st Read, June 2020 ― 5 Stars
#FamilyGoals
Jake(y) ―
Stupid grins, joyful tears, and pure unadulterated happiness. This is what happily ever after looks like!
My review of Sustained.
This has been the audiobook that I fell asleep to at night for the past week cuz otherwise my mind would wander to places I’d rather not be and I wouldn’t get any sleep. So, thank you.
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
🎧 1st Read, June 2020 ― 5 Stars
#FamilyGoals
Jake(y) ―
Stupid grins, joyful tears, and pure unadulterated happiness. This is what happily ever after looks like!
My review of Sustained.
December 13, 2018
Yup, this was really cute. Absolutely should be read if you've already read Sustained, consider this an extended epilogue of sorts.
February 10, 2019
I'm so happy I got the chance to read this novella featuring my second favorite hero of all times (the first being Drew Evans). Pure awesomeness!
*happy dance*
*happy dance*
May 18, 2016
4,5 Life Turner Stars
In this novella we get to see more of Jake and Chelsea’s life after the end of Sustained. And as Sustained was definitely my favorite book in the series, I jumped on this one soon as I had the chance.
Life with six kids in various degrees of ages isn’t easy, Jake and Chelsea know that better than anyone, but after two years of marriage they know how to deal with it and they finally have everything under control. Until an unexpected surprise comes and everything starts to get chaos again.
I loved to get to see more of this couple and the awesome kids again, Emma Chase did an amazing job with Jake in the original book and she definitely didn’t disappoint now. If you’re a fan of the series, you definitely had to read this novella.
Rating: 4,5 Stars.
Steam: Hot.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
In this novella we get to see more of Jake and Chelsea’s life after the end of Sustained. And as Sustained was definitely my favorite book in the series, I jumped on this one soon as I had the chance.
Life with six kids in various degrees of ages isn’t easy, Jake and Chelsea know that better than anyone, but after two years of marriage they know how to deal with it and they finally have everything under control. Until an unexpected surprise comes and everything starts to get chaos again.
I loved to get to see more of this couple and the awesome kids again, Emma Chase did an amazing job with Jake in the original book and she definitely didn’t disappoint now. If you’re a fan of the series, you definitely had to read this novella.
Rating: 4,5 Stars.
Steam: Hot.
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
May 3, 2016
Story Rating ~ 5 Stars!
Hero Rating ~ 5 Stars!
Heroine Rating ~ 5 Stars!
Romance Rating ~ 5 Stars!
Heat Level ~ 3.5 Stars
Ending ~ 5 Stars!
Overall Rating ~ 5 I LOVED EVERY MOMENT STARS!
What an AMAZING read! This one had me grinning from ear to ear most of the way through. Sidebarred was a short read but it packed so many wonderful things into it.
I loved getting another glimpse into Chelsea and Jake’s life, along with all the kids. I felt so much love this family had for each other.
I really enjoyed Sustained but I have to say that I LOVED Sidebarred even more.
I highly recommend Sidebarred to everyone who has read and loved Sustained. You REALLY should NOT miss out on this one.
Hero Rating ~ 5 Stars!
Heroine Rating ~ 5 Stars!
Romance Rating ~ 5 Stars!
Heat Level ~ 3.5 Stars
Ending ~ 5 Stars!
Overall Rating ~ 5 I LOVED EVERY MOMENT STARS!
What an AMAZING read! This one had me grinning from ear to ear most of the way through. Sidebarred was a short read but it packed so many wonderful things into it.
I loved getting another glimpse into Chelsea and Jake’s life, along with all the kids. I felt so much love this family had for each other.
I really enjoyed Sustained but I have to say that I LOVED Sidebarred even more.
I highly recommend Sidebarred to everyone who has read and loved Sustained. You REALLY should NOT miss out on this one.
April 27, 2016
I loved Jake and Chelsea in their book, Sustained. I still loved them in this one. OMFG, that epilogue. I shed a little tear but it was a tear of happiness.
Chelsea is still so sweet and sexy.
Jake, as usual, talks out of his ass sometimes but I adore him.
And the kids ... Cannot even imagine a house with six kids.
Chelsea is still so sweet and sexy.
Jake, as usual, talks out of his ass sometimes but I adore him.
And the kids ... Cannot even imagine a house with six kids.
“She’s my love, my home, the solace to my soul, the keeper of my heart, the center of my entire fucking world. The only reason I really believe in my own goodness is because I see it reflected in her eyes.”
“I didn’t plan on you, Chelsea. Or them. and for as long as I live, you will be the best thing that ever happened to me.”
“Making love sweetly has its place; long hours of endless foreplay are great, too. Hell, I can even get into the romance stuff – candles and rose petals and warm baths. But hard, fast fucking should never, ever, be underestimated – ‘cause it’s awesome.”
April 25, 2016
Emma Chase, thank you so much for this wonderful journey... As always it was amazing, because you're amazing. :)
December 12, 2019
My five-star reads are as rare as rain in the Sahara, so you bet this was an absolute delight! Hint: it's got kids!
April 18, 2016
Emma Chase has a talent for writing some of the funniest scenes I've ever read. I'm talking, tears in my eyes-unladylike guffaws of laughter... Ok, gut-busting cackles!
To fans of the series, it's an absolute must. Not only do we catch up with Chelsea, Jake and the adorably-hilarious kids, but the whole gang is along for the ride too.
SIDEBARRED is the cherry on the cake to an already sweet & delicious series. And although I love every novel, I can't deny Jake Becker makes my heart beat the fastest. I don't know how she does it but, I'll be damned if Emma didn't make me fall even harder for him.
As always the epilogue is a real gem and I treasure the huge kick I get from reading them. If you haven't read the series yet, I'd recommend you rectify that soon. Otherwise you'd be doing yourself an injustice.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review for Relentless Romance*
November 23, 2016
*This review contains minor spoilers from Sustained. If you haven’t read it yet (seriously what the hell are you waiting for?), you may want to avoid the last few paragraphs*
I just want to start this review by saying this novella made me so deliriously, ridiculously happy. That is the only way I can really describe what it was like to be able to read more on Chelsea and Jake. They feel like a couple I know and who I want nothing but the best for. And yes, I am aware how completely crazy I sound but that is how attached I have become to this couple, and to this series.
This has been such a feel good, hysterical, romantic, all around awesome series. And for those who haven’t read about Chelsea and Jake yet (their book, Sustained, can also be read as a standalone) their life can be compared to Cheaper By The Dozen – but with a really hot dad (Jake) who you want to bang and a sweet amazing mom/aunt (Chelsea) you would want as your BFF.
I don’t want to say much on the plot, given the blurb is a little vague, and you’ll want to save the sweet surprise for when you read this. So I’ll just talk more about my favorite couple from this series. Jake is still the strong, sexy, take charge man he was in Sustained. Still just as protective of Chelsea and the kids as ever. But what I like most about Jake? When he gets all Tarzan angry. JEEZUS. I know that sounds odd, and out of all the traits I could have picked, I picked that one. But when this man sees red, I swoon.
My voice is low, deadly. “You fuck with my wife, you fuck with me. And in case you haven’t realized it yet, I’ll spell it out for you: you do NOT want to fuck with ME.”
And when he talks about Chelsea? My god.
"I’m not good with flowery, romantic kind of words. But she makes me wish I was. Because she’s more than my wife- more than the owner of the pussy that has me so very whipped. She’s my love, my home, the solace to my soul, the keeper of my heart, the center of my entire fucking world. The only reason I believe in my own goodness is because I see it reflected in her eyes.”
This novella had me cracking up, tearing up, and was just pure perfection. I loved reading more on those hysterical McQuaid kids and seeing what Stanton, Sophia, Brent and Kennedy have been up to. I could read about this couple and the others from this series and never tire of them.
Sidebarred it out April 24th! | http://amzn.to/1XDCwNm
*An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review*
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April 26, 2016
I don’t think I have made my love for this series a secret, but in case you didn’t know I LOVE IT! It’s one of my favorite series ever. It’s fun, flirty, sexy and completely swoon worthy. I adore all these characters, but if I had to pick a couple to get a little extra it would be Jake and Chelsea.
So Jake and Chelsea, you know the ones I am talking about. The young sister who became the legal guardian to her six siblings and the awesome guy who fell in love with them all. Awwww, I swear, I just love it!
This novella continues their story and the story of the other characters. We see how everyone is doing and how Jake and Chelsea navigate extending their already large family. I didn’t think I could love them more, but I do.
Novellas always feel like a disappoint to me, because I am greedy and always want more, but not this one! I loved it! I love how it was fun and sexy, just like this series, but I also love how Emma brought so much emotion and heart it had me tearing up. This series is epic and I couldn’t recommend it more! Legit read it!!!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Teasers created by me with stock images purchased from depositphotos.
So Jake and Chelsea, you know the ones I am talking about. The young sister who became the legal guardian to her six siblings and the awesome guy who fell in love with them all. Awwww, I swear, I just love it!
This novella continues their story and the story of the other characters. We see how everyone is doing and how Jake and Chelsea navigate extending their already large family. I didn’t think I could love them more, but I do.
Novellas always feel like a disappoint to me, because I am greedy and always want more, but not this one! I loved it! I love how it was fun and sexy, just like this series, but I also love how Emma brought so much emotion and heart it had me tearing up. This series is epic and I couldn’t recommend it more! Legit read it!!!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Teasers created by me with stock images purchased from depositphotos.
July 29, 2017
BEST. NOVELLA. EVER. I couldn't ask for more and this series is beautifully wrapped up with Jake Becker, Chelsea McQuaid and my favorite McQuaid kids. I'm going to miss all of them and their own funny shits.
I'M CRYING IT'S OVER.
I'M CRYING IT'S OVER.
April 24, 2016
”Our normal is pretty awesome.”
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Emma Chase gifts fans even more of Jake and Chelsea with this great little novella. It was wonderful to catch up with my favorite couple of this series and the six children they are raising together. As with Sustained, this is written in the all-male POV of sexy, lovable Jake Becker. Emma Chase is truly talented in writing from his vantage point.
”Sometimes I look around and wonder, how the hell did I get here? How is this my life? It all changed so fast. But then I stop wondering. Because how this life became mine doesn’t really fucking matter. I’m just crazy-happy that it is.”
Jake catches us up on how things are going for them two years after he and Chelsea have tied the knot. The rest of the characters from the prior books are in this story as well and of course the great group of kids that they are raising together. The story is a mix of steamy romance, witty humor and heartwarming love between this couple and their children. You can practically feel Jake's love oozing off the pages for his family. Please give their full novel Sustained a try and then top it off with this newly released novella!
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
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Emma Chase gifts fans even more of Jake and Chelsea with this great little novella. It was wonderful to catch up with my favorite couple of this series and the six children they are raising together. As with Sustained, this is written in the all-male POV of sexy, lovable Jake Becker. Emma Chase is truly talented in writing from his vantage point.
”Sometimes I look around and wonder, how the hell did I get here? How is this my life? It all changed so fast. But then I stop wondering. Because how this life became mine doesn’t really fucking matter. I’m just crazy-happy that it is.”
Jake catches us up on how things are going for them two years after he and Chelsea have tied the knot. The rest of the characters from the prior books are in this story as well and of course the great group of kids that they are raising together. The story is a mix of steamy romance, witty humor and heartwarming love between this couple and their children. You can practically feel Jake's love oozing off the pages for his family. Please give their full novel Sustained a try and then top it off with this newly released novella!
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
October 8, 2020
Cuteness overload.
If you loved the second book in the series and want to know more about this crazy lovely family, this book is a MUST. You will freaking ADORE it, I promise you!!
If you loved the second book in the series and want to know more about this crazy lovely family, this book is a MUST. You will freaking ADORE it, I promise you!!
April 25, 2016
*****FIVE STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
She’s my love, my home, the solace to my soul, the keeper of my heart, the center of my entire fucking world.
I absolutely positively LOVED this one so much! To me, this was way better than SUSTAINED. In that book, I wasn’t too crazy about Chelsea. I didn’t think she was worthy enough to end up with Jake. Well, I am happy to say I really loved her in this book and thought these two were perfect together. But they weren’t the only ones who made this story amazing for me. Every single one of their six children stole a piece of my heart. I laughed. I cried. I even fanned myself quite a few times, cuz, I mean, JAKE BECKER!!! Need I say more??!!
I know I am in the minority here when I say that Stanton is my favorite book boyfriend in this series, but Jake definitely has me debating on whether I should reconsider my decision. I fell pretty hard for him this time around.
Jake and Chelsea have been married for two years and have a wonderful life with their six nieces and nephews, who have truly become their children. The couple decides that they want to add a new member to their family, and so they get right on with the baby making process. MAMA MIA!!! I’m not kidding when I say you are going to have a hard time keeping your panties dry while reading this one ladies!!
Emma Chase is one of my top favorite authors and she seriously delivered another KICK-ASS story for her readers. This woman knows how to create characters that steal your heart and stories that grab a hold of you and won’t let go. If you haven’t read The Legal Briefs series yet, you need to add it to your reading line-up ASAP!
SIDEBARRED is due out this Sunday.
http://amzn.to/1pr9Lro
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
She’s my love, my home, the solace to my soul, the keeper of my heart, the center of my entire fucking world.
I absolutely positively LOVED this one so much! To me, this was way better than SUSTAINED. In that book, I wasn’t too crazy about Chelsea. I didn’t think she was worthy enough to end up with Jake. Well, I am happy to say I really loved her in this book and thought these two were perfect together. But they weren’t the only ones who made this story amazing for me. Every single one of their six children stole a piece of my heart. I laughed. I cried. I even fanned myself quite a few times, cuz, I mean, JAKE BECKER!!! Need I say more??!!
I know I am in the minority here when I say that Stanton is my favorite book boyfriend in this series, but Jake definitely has me debating on whether I should reconsider my decision. I fell pretty hard for him this time around.
Jake and Chelsea have been married for two years and have a wonderful life with their six nieces and nephews, who have truly become their children. The couple decides that they want to add a new member to their family, and so they get right on with the baby making process. MAMA MIA!!! I’m not kidding when I say you are going to have a hard time keeping your panties dry while reading this one ladies!!
Emma Chase is one of my top favorite authors and she seriously delivered another KICK-ASS story for her readers. This woman knows how to create characters that steal your heart and stories that grab a hold of you and won’t let go. If you haven’t read The Legal Briefs series yet, you need to add it to your reading line-up ASAP!
SIDEBARRED is due out this Sunday.
http://amzn.to/1pr9Lro
April 28, 2016
5 'Perfection' Stars
It's true, for me, this book was absolutely PERFECT!!! From the characters to the writing style, amazing MCs and secondary characters, it have it all!!! We pass through moments of happiness, joy and humor, sad and emotional, and most of all LOVE, so much love.... I truly felt Jake's love and devotion to Chelsea, and their huge family! Like I said, PERFECTION...
It's true, for me, this book was absolutely PERFECT!!! From the characters to the writing style, amazing MCs and secondary characters, it have it all!!! We pass through moments of happiness, joy and humor, sad and emotional, and most of all LOVE, so much love.... I truly felt Jake's love and devotion to Chelsea, and their huge family! Like I said, PERFECTION...
April 18, 2016
5 stars!
Sustained was my favorite book in Emma Chase’s Legal Briefs series. When I heard we were getting a novella with more Jake, Chelsea and the kids (plus the rest of the gang) I jumped with excitement. This novella did not disappoint. I loved getting more of my favorite characters and savored every word of their story. It’s a quick read with a lot of heart and one all fans of this series should pick up as soon as it’s available.
Jake Becker has it all. A great job, great friends, a wife he loves more than anything and 6 kids that fell in his lap when he met Chelsea. It’s been 2 years since they’ve been married and he wouldn’t change a thing. Jake loves his hectic and wild life. I’m sure we all wonder from time to time what happens after the end of the book. I love when authors give us glimpses into that! Once again, this story is completely is Jake’s POV which is the best thing ever. Chase does the greatest job with the male POV. I adored the direction this story took and it was great to see the gang growing up.
Sidebarred is very much an extended epilogue of Sustained and kind of the entire Legal Briefs series. You will want to read the other books first, or at the very least, Sustained. I rarely give novella’s 5 stars but there was not one thing I didn’t completely love and adore about this story. It was perfection. Sweet, sexy, funny, the entire package! I recommend to all fans of this series. Read it as soon as you can get your hands on it!!!
Sustained was my favorite book in Emma Chase’s Legal Briefs series. When I heard we were getting a novella with more Jake, Chelsea and the kids (plus the rest of the gang) I jumped with excitement. This novella did not disappoint. I loved getting more of my favorite characters and savored every word of their story. It’s a quick read with a lot of heart and one all fans of this series should pick up as soon as it’s available.
We’ve been married for about two years and there hasn’t been a single morning when I didn’t wake with a smile tugging at my lips. Not one fucking time. Because she’s beside me.
Jake Becker has it all. A great job, great friends, a wife he loves more than anything and 6 kids that fell in his lap when he met Chelsea. It’s been 2 years since they’ve been married and he wouldn’t change a thing. Jake loves his hectic and wild life. I’m sure we all wonder from time to time what happens after the end of the book. I love when authors give us glimpses into that! Once again, this story is completely is Jake’s POV which is the best thing ever. Chase does the greatest job with the male POV. I adored the direction this story took and it was great to see the gang growing up.
Sidebarred is very much an extended epilogue of Sustained and kind of the entire Legal Briefs series. You will want to read the other books first, or at the very least, Sustained. I rarely give novella’s 5 stars but there was not one thing I didn’t completely love and adore about this story. It was perfection. Sweet, sexy, funny, the entire package! I recommend to all fans of this series. Read it as soon as you can get your hands on it!!!
April 25, 2016
AWWWW!!!!! This was SO SWEET!! All the heart-warming feels you can imagine packed into one gorgeous novella. It was swoony, hilarious, adorable, and even hot!!! It had all thing things so many of us romance readers love: family, babies, parenting, and a massive epilogue with every single detail you could ever wish for... I LOVED IT!!!
➜ http://amzn.to/1NJQB6q
Be sure to read SUSTAINED first.
➜ http://amzn.to/1NJQB6q
Be sure to read SUSTAINED first.
January 23, 2018
Narrator: After Katerina was miraculously declared innocent (as it turned out, the jury consisted of hardcore fangirls who understood her struggles all too well) she continued her life and everything was great. Until it was not.
Judge: Oh no, not you again!
Me: With all due respect your Honor, your face is not the most pleasant sight for me either!
Judge: What did you do this time? Sacrificed babies to Lucifer? Stole a dragon? Stalked an author? Harassed an actor?
Me: None of the above. But the dragon theft is a sweet idea, do you know where I can find one?
Prosecutor: Lord give me strength to survive this challenge. Here we are again, Ma'am. We'll keep this as short as possible. And legal. Where were you Thursday afternoon at 6 pm?
Me: I was using the train to go to college.
Prosecutor: At least you weren't decorating chairs with the imprint of your butt. Do you know Ms. Reality?
Me: The name sounds familiar but I can't recall where I've heard it before.
Prosecutor: Of course you don't. Well you should, since you assaulted her and sent her to the hospital with severe head injuries!
Me: It's not what it looks like.
Prosecutor: Oh really? Was that also the deed of a nefarious author who turned you into a puppet? Or a vampire using compulsion? Oh wait I've got this, it was the talking lion from Narnia, wasn't it?
Me: His name is Aslan and no it wasn't him. What I meant is, it was self-defense.
Prosecutor: *spits* But she didn't even touch you! Be calm, be calm, you can't go to jail because of her!
Me: She insulted me in the most vulgar and abominable way!
Prosecutor: What did she say?
Me: She asked me what is wrong with me!
Prosecutor: I keep asking myself the same question. Would you care to explain why and how it happened?
Me: Well, here's the deal. I was sitting peacefully, not bothering anyone, reading Sidebarred and grinning like a lunatic on drugs because of my dirty/sexy Jake and-
Prosecutor: Wait, the Jake? The "witty, delicious, smartass and wicked in bed" defense attorney that "melted your heart along with your panties"? Who fell in love with Chelsea and her six nieces and nephews? THIS Jake?
Me: I see you remember our last encounter. *smirks knowingly* Yes, this Jake, my favorite attorney! As I was saying, I was reading this novella about him and his loud family that was about to welcome a new member and after all the giggling and the swooning and the generous dose of hilarity came the epilogue and it was so sweet that I started crying happy tears. In the train. With people staring.
Prosecutor: That's it? What does it have to do with Ms. Reality?
Me: She saw me crying, asked what is wrong with me and then started yelling at me, claiming that I will die alone with my 72 cats and everyone will call me Cat-erina! I had to protect myself, this vicious attack was threatening to destroy my daydreaming!
Prosecutor: *in a resigned tone* You do realize that she was right, don't you?
Me: Still, it was painful. Do I know it? Sure. Do I accept it? Hell no! One day while I'm lawyering I'm going to meet someone like Jake, who will consume my every thought and make me feel warm and fuzzy, just like him!
Prosecutor: ...
Narrator: And this is pretty much how things went on for the rest of the trial. Now it is your turn, dear readers, to determine whether Ms. Reality and the poor Prosecutor are right andCat-erina Katerina needs professional help, or if Katerina's quest to find her knight in tarnished armor isn't as hopeless as it looks and maybe,someday, she'll find what she's looking for?
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
P.S. If you want to find out what happened when I was accused of murder, you can read it here!
Judge: Oh no, not you again!
Me: With all due respect your Honor, your face is not the most pleasant sight for me either!
Judge: What did you do this time? Sacrificed babies to Lucifer? Stole a dragon? Stalked an author? Harassed an actor?
Me: None of the above. But the dragon theft is a sweet idea, do you know where I can find one?
Prosecutor: Lord give me strength to survive this challenge. Here we are again, Ma'am. We'll keep this as short as possible. And legal. Where were you Thursday afternoon at 6 pm?
Me: I was using the train to go to college.
Prosecutor: At least you weren't decorating chairs with the imprint of your butt. Do you know Ms. Reality?
Me: The name sounds familiar but I can't recall where I've heard it before.
Prosecutor: Of course you don't. Well you should, since you assaulted her and sent her to the hospital with severe head injuries!
Me: It's not what it looks like.
Prosecutor: Oh really? Was that also the deed of a nefarious author who turned you into a puppet? Or a vampire using compulsion? Oh wait I've got this, it was the talking lion from Narnia, wasn't it?
Me: His name is Aslan and no it wasn't him. What I meant is, it was self-defense.
Prosecutor: *spits* But she didn't even touch you! Be calm, be calm, you can't go to jail because of her!
Me: She insulted me in the most vulgar and abominable way!
Prosecutor: What did she say?
Me: She asked me what is wrong with me!
Prosecutor: I keep asking myself the same question. Would you care to explain why and how it happened?
Me: Well, here's the deal. I was sitting peacefully, not bothering anyone, reading Sidebarred and grinning like a lunatic on drugs because of my dirty/sexy Jake and-
Prosecutor: Wait, the Jake? The "witty, delicious, smartass and wicked in bed" defense attorney that "melted your heart along with your panties"? Who fell in love with Chelsea and her six nieces and nephews? THIS Jake?
Me: I see you remember our last encounter. *smirks knowingly* Yes, this Jake, my favorite attorney! As I was saying, I was reading this novella about him and his loud family that was about to welcome a new member and after all the giggling and the swooning and the generous dose of hilarity came the epilogue and it was so sweet that I started crying happy tears. In the train. With people staring.
Prosecutor: That's it? What does it have to do with Ms. Reality?
Me: She saw me crying, asked what is wrong with me and then started yelling at me, claiming that I will die alone with my 72 cats and everyone will call me Cat-erina! I had to protect myself, this vicious attack was threatening to destroy my daydreaming!
Prosecutor: *in a resigned tone* You do realize that she was right, don't you?
Me: Still, it was painful. Do I know it? Sure. Do I accept it? Hell no! One day while I'm lawyering I'm going to meet someone like Jake, who will consume my every thought and make me feel warm and fuzzy, just like him!
Prosecutor: ...
Narrator: And this is pretty much how things went on for the rest of the trial. Now it is your turn, dear readers, to determine whether Ms. Reality and the poor Prosecutor are right and
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
P.S. If you want to find out what happened when I was accused of murder, you can read it here!
April 27, 2016
5 PERFECTION Stars!
Ok, so after just finishing reading Sustained and seeing all of the wonderful reviews about this book, I had to read it even though I haven't read Appealed yet. This book was the BEST! I loved having more Jake and Chelsea time along with seeing where all of the kids were up to.
Jake and Chelsea have been married for two years now. They have a routine that best suites their family, but with six kids getting alone time can be challenging, so when they do find that time they make the best of it.
“There’s something primal about giving into this base need—being rough and dirty and fast. There’s something so intimate and comfortable and fucking honest about just wanting to come, and come hard, with the person you love.”
I still love seeing Jake with these kids and how he reacts to things. He may not have ever thought that this would have been his life, but it is now and he's such a natural at it. And he's okay with it too.
“There will never be anything sexier than watching you—with your muscles and tattoos—braiding a six-year-old’s hair.”
I shrug. “My braids are awesome.”
This was an excellent follow up to SUSTAINED. Chase, as always, gives us more of that male POV that we all love and crave and she does it so effortlessly. You can't help but to swoon over the characters and cheer them on through the good times and the bad. I loved every second of this book, especially that Epilogue. She had me shedding a few happy tears there.
Ok, so after just finishing reading Sustained and seeing all of the wonderful reviews about this book, I had to read it even though I haven't read Appealed yet. This book was the BEST! I loved having more Jake and Chelsea time along with seeing where all of the kids were up to.
Jake and Chelsea have been married for two years now. They have a routine that best suites their family, but with six kids getting alone time can be challenging, so when they do find that time they make the best of it.
“There’s something primal about giving into this base need—being rough and dirty and fast. There’s something so intimate and comfortable and fucking honest about just wanting to come, and come hard, with the person you love.”
I still love seeing Jake with these kids and how he reacts to things. He may not have ever thought that this would have been his life, but it is now and he's such a natural at it. And he's okay with it too.
“There will never be anything sexier than watching you—with your muscles and tattoos—braiding a six-year-old’s hair.”
I shrug. “My braids are awesome.”
This was an excellent follow up to SUSTAINED. Chase, as always, gives us more of that male POV that we all love and crave and she does it so effortlessly. You can't help but to swoon over the characters and cheer them on through the good times and the bad. I loved every second of this book, especially that Epilogue. She had me shedding a few happy tears there.
March 11, 2018
Aaaaaaay amé esta mini novella o epílogo largo, no sé porque no lo leí antes si esta familia es tan GENIAL!!.
Jack y Chlesea es mi pareja favorita de esta trilogía y su libro es el mejor.
A mí me encanta saber el después de Y fueron felices… como la están llevando y todas esas cositas.
Jack es lo máximo y que él narre la historia lo hace todavía más divertido, ese hombre grandote e intimidante es un dulce y como papá es todavía más cute, me encantaron los consejos sobre sexualidad a Riley o cuando le hacía trenzas a Reagan.
Hubo partes que fueron muy divertidas como cuando les dicen que van a tener un bebé y todas sus reacciones y ocurrencias de cómo lo engendraron me sacaron unas risotadas.
Y epílogo de muchos años después para cerrar con broche de oro la trilogía fue encantador, por cierto ojalá Emma Chase escriba la historia sobre el hijo de Jack Robert y la hija de Brent porque se vislumbra que es Friends to lovers y ya saben cómo me pongo con esas historias
Jack y Chlesea es mi pareja favorita de esta trilogía y su libro es el mejor.
A mí me encanta saber el después de Y fueron felices… como la están llevando y todas esas cositas.
Jack es lo máximo y que él narre la historia lo hace todavía más divertido, ese hombre grandote e intimidante es un dulce y como papá es todavía más cute, me encantaron los consejos sobre sexualidad a Riley o cuando le hacía trenzas a Reagan.
Hubo partes que fueron muy divertidas como cuando les dicen que van a tener un bebé y todas sus reacciones y ocurrencias de cómo lo engendraron me sacaron unas risotadas.
Y epílogo de muchos años después para cerrar con broche de oro la trilogía fue encantador, por cierto ojalá Emma Chase escriba la historia sobre el hijo de Jack Robert y la hija de Brent porque se vislumbra que es Friends to lovers y ya saben cómo me pongo con esas historias
May 2, 2016
God I still luv Jake I m delighted I got more of him
This short story was brilliant I luvd getting more of the crazy gang of Chelsea an Jake them kids r just so funny an seein them again was great
Chelsea an Jake r just as hot as ever Jake is still super strong an sexy an Chelsea is still strong an overlook things in to make sure things r in order but I did luv that Jake took a much stronger parenting role in this the way he is with the kids is so sweet
I enjoyed this so much it was a great way to finish this series an getting more of Stanton Sofia Brent an Kennedy just makes this better brilliant series xxx
This short story was brilliant I luvd getting more of the crazy gang of Chelsea an Jake them kids r just so funny an seein them again was great
Chelsea an Jake r just as hot as ever Jake is still super strong an sexy an Chelsea is still strong an overlook things in to make sure things r in order but I did luv that Jake took a much stronger parenting role in this the way he is with the kids is so sweet
I enjoyed this so much it was a great way to finish this series an getting more of Stanton Sofia Brent an Kennedy just makes this better brilliant series xxx
October 14, 2020
Cuteness overload.
Family Goals.
My heart melted.
Family Goals.
My heart melted.
April 2, 2020
Novella in which we see all the couples from the series and what they've been up to.
It's mostly focused on Jake, Chelsea and the kids but does mention what happened tot the others as well.
We also get a 17 years time jump just before it ends and we find out about how the kids turned out.
It was lovely.
It's mostly focused on Jake, Chelsea and the kids but does mention what happened tot the others as well.
We also get a 17 years time jump just before it ends and we find out about how the kids turned out.
It was lovely.
April 26, 2016
"5 Crazy Family stars"
I kiss her lips gently because she's so fucking pretty.
Because she makes me so stupidly happy.
I love you Jake and your crazy family.You just proved to me once again why I'm so freaking crazy about you.Emma Chase WHAT THE HELL did you write again, making us crave these guys and their ridiculous situations they create wherever they go. Emma, I just.....
This was a lovely short story about Jake and Chelsea's family with their 6 crazy kids creating chaos everywhere...and in the process of adding a new addition in the madness that kept them in their toes! Of course we see the other characters too and the epilogue was a bittersweet closure for this series, I really ENJOYED everything about it though!
I just couldn't resist to write a dialogue where the kids were involved...
I loved this scene...those kids My God!
"Jake and I are having a baby."
"Are you, like, adopting?"-Raymond
"No, honey, I'm pregnant."
"Congratulations guys, that's awesome."-Riley
"I really wanted another dog."-Regan
"Did you guys go to the doctor's to get pregnant?
Like Jackie Barbacoa's two mom's?'-Rosaleen
"No..."
"Then how did this happen?"-Rory
"The old-fashioned way."
"I'm gonna puke."-Rory
"What's the old-fashioned way?"-Regan
"Wow."-Rosaleen
"No, I'm seriously gonna puke."-Rory
"What's old-fashioned mean?"-Regan
"I'm not gonna be the littlest anymore?
I get to be the boss of someone?"-Ronan
"That's right."-Jake
"Yes!I'm gonna be a boss, I'm gonna be a boss..."-Ronan
"Huhhh, huhhh..."
"Somebody tell me the old-fashioned way!"-Regan
"It's when the man and the woman fell in love and the man
puts his penis in the woman's vagina and nine months later
a baby comes out of it."- Rosaleen
"You put your penis in Mommy's vagina?Why would you do that?"-Regan
"...I'm gonna be a boss..."-Ronan
"We'll talk about that when you're older."-Jake
"Huhhh, huhhh..."
"And now the baby is gonna craw out of you?"-Regan
"Not exactly."-Chelsea
"You're so immature Regan."-Rosaleen
"Shut up Rosaleen."-Regan
"Huhhh, huhhh,"
"How big is your vagina, Mommy?"-Ronan
"Not that big."-Jake
"You're crazy.You guys are all crazy."-Chelsea
"I think that went well."-Jake
In this book Jake was a living, breathing badass family man ready to protect his family and not afraid (anymore) to confess his love for his Chelsea...
Because she's more than my wife-more than the owner of the pussy that has me so very whipped. She's my love, my home, the solace to my soul, the keeper of my heart, the center of my entire fucking world. The reason I really believe in my own goodness is because I see it reflected in her eyes.
You still got it Jake, making us swoon over you...
Enjoy!xxx
I kiss her lips gently because she's so fucking pretty.
Because she makes me so stupidly happy.
I love you Jake and your crazy family.You just proved to me once again why I'm so freaking crazy about you.Emma Chase WHAT THE HELL did you write again, making us crave these guys and their ridiculous situations they create wherever they go. Emma, I just.....
This was a lovely short story about Jake and Chelsea's family with their 6 crazy kids creating chaos everywhere...and in the process of adding a new addition in the madness that kept them in their toes! Of course we see the other characters too and the epilogue was a bittersweet closure for this series, I really ENJOYED everything about it though!
I just couldn't resist to write a dialogue where the kids were involved...
I loved this scene...those kids My God!
"Jake and I are having a baby."
"Are you, like, adopting?"-Raymond
"No, honey, I'm pregnant."
"Congratulations guys, that's awesome."-Riley
"I really wanted another dog."-Regan
"Did you guys go to the doctor's to get pregnant?
Like Jackie Barbacoa's two mom's?'-Rosaleen
"No..."
"Then how did this happen?"-Rory
"The old-fashioned way."
"I'm gonna puke."-Rory
"What's the old-fashioned way?"-Regan
"Wow."-Rosaleen
"No, I'm seriously gonna puke."-Rory
"What's old-fashioned mean?"-Regan
"I'm not gonna be the littlest anymore?
I get to be the boss of someone?"-Ronan
"That's right."-Jake
"Yes!I'm gonna be a boss, I'm gonna be a boss..."-Ronan
"Huhhh, huhhh..."
"Somebody tell me the old-fashioned way!"-Regan
"It's when the man and the woman fell in love and the man
puts his penis in the woman's vagina and nine months later
a baby comes out of it."- Rosaleen
"You put your penis in Mommy's vagina?Why would you do that?"-Regan
"...I'm gonna be a boss..."-Ronan
"We'll talk about that when you're older."-Jake
"Huhhh, huhhh..."
"And now the baby is gonna craw out of you?"-Regan
"Not exactly."-Chelsea
"You're so immature Regan."-Rosaleen
"Shut up Rosaleen."-Regan
"Huhhh, huhhh,"
"How big is your vagina, Mommy?"-Ronan
"Not that big."-Jake
"You're crazy.You guys are all crazy."-Chelsea
"I think that went well."-Jake
In this book Jake was a living, breathing badass family man ready to protect his family and not afraid (anymore) to confess his love for his Chelsea...
Because she's more than my wife-more than the owner of the pussy that has me so very whipped. She's my love, my home, the solace to my soul, the keeper of my heart, the center of my entire fucking world. The reason I really believe in my own goodness is because I see it reflected in her eyes.
You still got it Jake, making us swoon over you...
Enjoy!xxx
July 15, 2020
This novella/epilogue was everything i needed and more!
Let me start by saying that Jack, Chelsea and the kids are literally just the cutest, i can’t get enough of them.
Rosaleen and jack and their little runs together 🥺
The way Ronan and Regan call Jack daddy and Chelsea mommy 😍
When Jack hugged Raymond and let him cry on his shoulders until he felt better.
‘’You know, Jake, my dad was a really great dad.”
I smile. “I know. I can tell by how you guys are turning out.”
Raymond thinks for a moment, choosing his words. “You’re pretty great at the dad stuff, too.’’
Awwwwwn 🥺
Oh and the awkward but hilarious sex talk between Jake and Riley 😂
“I open the nightstand drawer and pull out the box of condoms inside it. “So, this is always going to be in here. For you to use. No questions asked. Me or your aunt will replace the box as needed—again, no questions asked, Riley.”
Trust me—those are answers I do not want to hear.
“Just to be clear, this isn’t us saying we’re okay with you having sex. This is us being realistic and wanting you to protect yourself . . . if and when you do.”
I put the condoms back in the drawer and lean against the wall, crossing my arms again, as Riley watches me.
“Some guys may try and give you a hard time about using condoms. And as a guy, I’m telling you straight up—screw them.”
The echo of my own words penetrates.
“I mean, don’t! Don’t screw them. Ever.”
Shit, I’m bad at this.
A quick, awkward chuckle pops out of Riley’s mouth.”
Poor jake 😂😂
Oh and then when they decided to announce their pregnancy to the kids, i had the biggest smile on my face🥺
Jack is officially the most romantic and supportive book husband!
“I would pick you.”
“What do you mean?”
Finally, I look up at her, and I know my face is clouded with guilt. “In that scenario that always plays out on TV shows, when the doctors tell the father he has to choose between the life of the baby or the life of the mother . . . I would pick you.”
Her head tilts to the side and her voice is so soft. “I would want you to pick the baby.”
“I know. I know that.” I stare into her eyes. “But I would still pick you.”
Is that as fucked-up as it feels? I raise the glass to my lips, draining it empty, trying to wash the feeling away.
And my whispered words slice the stillness of the moment. “All of this only works if you’re here. It begins with you, it ends . . .”
I’m not good with flowery, romantic kinds of words. But she makes me wish I was.
Because she’s more than my wife—more than the owner of the pussy that has me so very whipped. She’s my love, my home, the solace to my soul, the keeper of my heart, the center of my entire fucking world. The only reason I really believe in my own goodness is because I see it reflected in her eyes.”
My heart 😍😍😍
I can’t even explain all the feels running through me when reading this book!
All i’m gonna say is that Sidebarred is a short but sweet epilogue for Sustained, if you enjoyed reading Sustained, then i can guarantee that you will LOVE Sidebarred. It was absolute perfection.
Thanks Mina and Lu, I loved it! 💕
Let me start by saying that Jack, Chelsea and the kids are literally just the cutest, i can’t get enough of them.
Rosaleen and jack and their little runs together 🥺
The way Ronan and Regan call Jack daddy and Chelsea mommy 😍
When Jack hugged Raymond and let him cry on his shoulders until he felt better.
‘’You know, Jake, my dad was a really great dad.”
I smile. “I know. I can tell by how you guys are turning out.”
Raymond thinks for a moment, choosing his words. “You’re pretty great at the dad stuff, too.’’
Awwwwwn 🥺
Oh and the awkward but hilarious sex talk between Jake and Riley 😂
“I open the nightstand drawer and pull out the box of condoms inside it. “So, this is always going to be in here. For you to use. No questions asked. Me or your aunt will replace the box as needed—again, no questions asked, Riley.”
Trust me—those are answers I do not want to hear.
“Just to be clear, this isn’t us saying we’re okay with you having sex. This is us being realistic and wanting you to protect yourself . . . if and when you do.”
I put the condoms back in the drawer and lean against the wall, crossing my arms again, as Riley watches me.
“Some guys may try and give you a hard time about using condoms. And as a guy, I’m telling you straight up—screw them.”
The echo of my own words penetrates.
“I mean, don’t! Don’t screw them. Ever.”
Shit, I’m bad at this.
A quick, awkward chuckle pops out of Riley’s mouth.”
Poor jake 😂😂
Oh and then when they decided to announce their pregnancy to the kids, i had the biggest smile on my face🥺
Jack is officially the most romantic and supportive book husband!
“I would pick you.”
“What do you mean?”
Finally, I look up at her, and I know my face is clouded with guilt. “In that scenario that always plays out on TV shows, when the doctors tell the father he has to choose between the life of the baby or the life of the mother . . . I would pick you.”
Her head tilts to the side and her voice is so soft. “I would want you to pick the baby.”
“I know. I know that.” I stare into her eyes. “But I would still pick you.”
Is that as fucked-up as it feels? I raise the glass to my lips, draining it empty, trying to wash the feeling away.
And my whispered words slice the stillness of the moment. “All of this only works if you’re here. It begins with you, it ends . . .”
I’m not good with flowery, romantic kinds of words. But she makes me wish I was.
Because she’s more than my wife—more than the owner of the pussy that has me so very whipped. She’s my love, my home, the solace to my soul, the keeper of my heart, the center of my entire fucking world. The only reason I really believe in my own goodness is because I see it reflected in her eyes.”
My heart 😍😍😍
I can’t even explain all the feels running through me when reading this book!
All i’m gonna say is that Sidebarred is a short but sweet epilogue for Sustained, if you enjoyed reading Sustained, then i can guarantee that you will LOVE Sidebarred. It was absolute perfection.
Thanks Mina and Lu, I loved it! 💕
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