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Wildwood #2
Wild Kisses
Newly divorced, Avery Hart returns home to Wildwood eager to take on her dream opportunity and transform her family’s dive bar into her own bakery. The contractor for hire isn’t just a master with his hands—he’s big, built, and wears a tool belt like nobody’s business. Despite being an ex-con, Trace Hutton is irresistible. Too bad he’d never go for someone as inexperienced as Avery.
Trace needs to focus on the job at hand, not daydream about smearing icing all over the sexy baker…and licking it off. This job is the key to getting his construction company back on its feet after his time in prison. Besides, no one deserves a fresh start more than Avery, and she certainly won’t get that with him.
After a delectable night of passion (and pie), Trace craves something more. But he’ll be damned if he’ll let his checkered past crush her dreams. And as Avery starts to realize how Trace fulfills more than just her physical needs, she struggles with whether to let her history decide her future, or explore the wild new possibilities of forever…
WILDWOOD SERIES
FORBIDDEN FLING
WILD KISSES
Trace needs to focus on the job at hand, not daydream about smearing icing all over the sexy baker…and licking it off. This job is the key to getting his construction company back on its feet after his time in prison. Besides, no one deserves a fresh start more than Avery, and she certainly won’t get that with him.
After a delectable night of passion (and pie), Trace craves something more. But he’ll be damned if he’ll let his checkered past crush her dreams. And as Avery starts to realize how Trace fulfills more than just her physical needs, she struggles with whether to let her history decide her future, or explore the wild new possibilities of forever…
WILDWOOD SERIES
FORBIDDEN FLING
WILD KISSES
267 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 10, 2017
89 people are currently reading
863 people want to read
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February 7, 2017
5 - "I have no doubt I'm exactly where I am supposed to be." Stars!
The second book of Skye Jordan’s Wildwood series, gives the second Hart sister her HEA, although it takes a little time and self-discovery for Avery to get there.
I won’t lie, I have been itching to read Wild Kisses from the moment I discovered that the book was going to give us more of Trace Hutton. The guy flitted through the previous book, but the author set up the intrigue about his past from the offset, and had me wanting more, and did she deliver in Wild Kisses.
"This is a really, really, really bad idea."
Both Trace and Avery are working at their second chances in life, Avery hot off a divorce which has left her with little in the way of possessions and self-confidence and nothing but dreams and aspirations of becoming her own boss one day, that dream becomes more of a reality when her sister gives her the family bar to renovate and turn into a Café & Bakery.
Sometimes it felt like she’d spent her entire life alone.
Trace having been to prison is working hard on getting his contracting business off the ground, in a town as small as Wildwood memories are long, judgement harsh, and rumours rife, so getting involved with Avery, who is also essentially his boss is not his best move, or in either of their interests, but the friendly banter between them soon morphs into sexy flirting, and off the charts chemistry.
"I think we have a problem…"
"Yeah. I guess we do."
Skye blew it out of the ball-park for me with Wild Kisses this book was sexy, Trace was sexy, the sexy when they were together was mega sexy, and I really liked the story-line that the author had running alongside all the sexy. Both the H/h have a lot going on in their lives secondary to the relationship growing between them, and both are dealing with issues in relation to self-esteem and confidence. It was great to catch up with the rest of the residents of Wildwood again as well.
I have no real idea as to when the next book in the series is due (soon hopefully), but the author gives clues that it is likely to be Trace’s brother Zane, who manages to tame Chloe Hart when she finally returns back to town from her travels, and I am looking forward to seeing exactly how he goes about it.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was a pleasure to provide the above honest review.
The second book of Skye Jordan’s Wildwood series, gives the second Hart sister her HEA, although it takes a little time and self-discovery for Avery to get there.
I won’t lie, I have been itching to read Wild Kisses from the moment I discovered that the book was going to give us more of Trace Hutton. The guy flitted through the previous book, but the author set up the intrigue about his past from the offset, and had me wanting more, and did she deliver in Wild Kisses.
"This is a really, really, really bad idea."
Both Trace and Avery are working at their second chances in life, Avery hot off a divorce which has left her with little in the way of possessions and self-confidence and nothing but dreams and aspirations of becoming her own boss one day, that dream becomes more of a reality when her sister gives her the family bar to renovate and turn into a Café & Bakery.
Sometimes it felt like she’d spent her entire life alone.
Trace having been to prison is working hard on getting his contracting business off the ground, in a town as small as Wildwood memories are long, judgement harsh, and rumours rife, so getting involved with Avery, who is also essentially his boss is not his best move, or in either of their interests, but the friendly banter between them soon morphs into sexy flirting, and off the charts chemistry.
"I think we have a problem…"
"Yeah. I guess we do."
Skye blew it out of the ball-park for me with Wild Kisses this book was sexy, Trace was sexy, the sexy when they were together was mega sexy, and I really liked the story-line that the author had running alongside all the sexy. Both the H/h have a lot going on in their lives secondary to the relationship growing between them, and both are dealing with issues in relation to self-esteem and confidence. It was great to catch up with the rest of the residents of Wildwood again as well.
I have no real idea as to when the next book in the series is due (soon hopefully), but the author gives clues that it is likely to be Trace’s brother Zane, who manages to tame Chloe Hart when she finally returns back to town from her travels, and I am looking forward to seeing exactly how he goes about it.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was a pleasure to provide the above honest review.
February 6, 2017
3.5 stars
Avery is working to move on from her failed marriage and following her dream of opening the business of the bakery (cafe) she's always wanted.
Trace is trying to recover from his past (after being in prison for a few years) and is working on reestablishing his contractor's license. He's working on the renovation of Avery's cafe.
What starts out as a no commitment no strings turns in to more than they bargained for.....
"I want no one but you. I haven't been able to think of anyone but you. I've been trying to avoid exactly this for two damned months because I have a job to do here. One that means a whole new life for you. One that means a whole new start for me. And I'm trying like hell not to fuck that up for either of us."
Avery is working to move on from her failed marriage and following her dream of opening the business of the bakery (cafe) she's always wanted.
Trace is trying to recover from his past (after being in prison for a few years) and is working on reestablishing his contractor's license. He's working on the renovation of Avery's cafe.
What starts out as a no commitment no strings turns in to more than they bargained for.....
"I want no one but you. I haven't been able to think of anyone but you. I've been trying to avoid exactly this for two damned months because I have a job to do here. One that means a whole new life for you. One that means a whole new start for me. And I'm trying like hell not to fuck that up for either of us."
February 6, 2017
4.5 Stars!
I love when a series gets better with each book. I was drawn in to this town full of people in the first book with Delaney and Ethan. At the end, we got to see a little bit of the spark between Trace and Avery when they met, so I've been looking forward to this book and it didn't disappoint.
Trace. Talk about the ideal bad boy. He's an ex-con but ultimately still a good man. It didn't hurt that the author described him just how I like em. Tall, muscular, black hair, blue eyes...Yeah, enough said. Avery's considered a good girl but she had a difficult childhood. She knows what it means to be judged unfairly. The chemistry between these two was felt right at the beginning.
My only complaint would be these two were a bit too insecure but really with their pasts, it is understandable? The author did a good job of making me curious about the last sister. Not a lot gets revealed about Chloe and I can't wait to learn her story. ARC provided by NetGalley.
I love when a series gets better with each book. I was drawn in to this town full of people in the first book with Delaney and Ethan. At the end, we got to see a little bit of the spark between Trace and Avery when they met, so I've been looking forward to this book and it didn't disappoint.
Trace. Talk about the ideal bad boy. He's an ex-con but ultimately still a good man. It didn't hurt that the author described him just how I like em. Tall, muscular, black hair, blue eyes...Yeah, enough said. Avery's considered a good girl but she had a difficult childhood. She knows what it means to be judged unfairly. The chemistry between these two was felt right at the beginning.
My only complaint would be these two were a bit too insecure but really with their pasts, it is understandable? The author did a good job of making me curious about the last sister. Not a lot gets revealed about Chloe and I can't wait to learn her story. ARC provided by NetGalley.
January 8, 2017
4 stars
Wild Kisses was a good read.
Avery and Trace were likable and relatable characters, I enjoyed watching them connect and come together.
Overall, a sweet, quick and entertaining read. I'm enjoying the Wildwood series, looking forward to the next book.
*Thank you to Montlake Romance via Netgalley for the advance copy*
Wild Kisses was a good read.
Avery and Trace were likable and relatable characters, I enjoyed watching them connect and come together.
Overall, a sweet, quick and entertaining read. I'm enjoying the Wildwood series, looking forward to the next book.
*Thank you to Montlake Romance via Netgalley for the advance copy*
February 7, 2017
ARC received from: Netgalley
Rating: 4*
Trope: Small Town
Chemistry: Low Boil
One-Sentence Summary: Two people with a boatload of issues find each other irresistible
Review: I am finding this series a lot harder to get into than Jordan's Hockey series but I am glad I stuck with this book - Trace has a heart of gold.
I am getting a little tired of Austin - he is like the baddie in a pantomime.
I am guessing the third book will be Zane/Chloe?
Read
December 6, 2016Dnf- this book was on the slow side for me and I couldn't get into it the way I thought I would. Maybe I'll go back to it another time but not right now.
January 18, 2017
4.5 Stars
My first introduction to Skye Jordan's writing was Reckless and since then she's been an auto-buy and auto-read for me and WILD KISSES reminded me why. Off the charts chemistry and a strong connection between the characters as well as an interesting cast of supporting characters make this a really great story. The super-hot attraction Avery and Trace shared, the solid friendship between them and their determination to make the very best of the second chance they had been gifted with were all highlights of this book for me.
Running off and getting married at a young age forever branded Avery Hart as impulsive and reckless and her return after seven years sans husband has made her fodder for the town gossips, but she's determined to start over and won't let the talk deter her from her plans. Her contractor is the only person that could tempt her to deviate from the path she has laid out for herself and one taste makes it very clear that one time won't satisfy her craving. Can she take the risk of wanting more, especially if she puts her goals at risk and falls short a second time?
Trace Hutton lost everything when he went to jail on a drug-related charge and even though he's been on the up and up since his release, the town of Wildwood won't let him forget that he's an ex-con and starting over is a challenge of mammoth proportions. Working for Avery at little to no cost is a way of drumming up business for himself. There are so many reasons why he has to keep his attraction to Avery under wraps, especially the damage her fledgling business could face if word of any involvement between them became public but he's no saint and lacks the willpower required to resist Avery for long when she turns up the heat between them.
Avery was fearless about going for what she wanted and even though the failure of her marriage took a hit on her self-confidence, she got back up and went at her dreams with laser focus. She was sweet and upbeat and brought much needed light to Trace's gruff and broody life. There was so much good in Trace that was buried under the weight of his past and Avery's cheery outlook was what he needed to let his guard down.
It's almost impossible to not root for these two as they work so hard to achieve their dreams in the face of skepticism, and their friendship was a great foundation for the passion between them. Having been at rock bottom before, Trace and Avery understood each other in a way others could not and were each other's greatest cheerleaders. They were better and stronger together than they were apart, something Avery understood but Trace had to accept for anything between them to work.
You really can never go wrong with anything by this author and if sizzling hot chemistry in your romances is your thing, then WILD KISSES should be on your reading list.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
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My first introduction to Skye Jordan's writing was Reckless and since then she's been an auto-buy and auto-read for me and WILD KISSES reminded me why. Off the charts chemistry and a strong connection between the characters as well as an interesting cast of supporting characters make this a really great story. The super-hot attraction Avery and Trace shared, the solid friendship between them and their determination to make the very best of the second chance they had been gifted with were all highlights of this book for me.
Running off and getting married at a young age forever branded Avery Hart as impulsive and reckless and her return after seven years sans husband has made her fodder for the town gossips, but she's determined to start over and won't let the talk deter her from her plans. Her contractor is the only person that could tempt her to deviate from the path she has laid out for herself and one taste makes it very clear that one time won't satisfy her craving. Can she take the risk of wanting more, especially if she puts her goals at risk and falls short a second time?
Trace Hutton lost everything when he went to jail on a drug-related charge and even though he's been on the up and up since his release, the town of Wildwood won't let him forget that he's an ex-con and starting over is a challenge of mammoth proportions. Working for Avery at little to no cost is a way of drumming up business for himself. There are so many reasons why he has to keep his attraction to Avery under wraps, especially the damage her fledgling business could face if word of any involvement between them became public but he's no saint and lacks the willpower required to resist Avery for long when she turns up the heat between them.
Avery was fearless about going for what she wanted and even though the failure of her marriage took a hit on her self-confidence, she got back up and went at her dreams with laser focus. She was sweet and upbeat and brought much needed light to Trace's gruff and broody life. There was so much good in Trace that was buried under the weight of his past and Avery's cheery outlook was what he needed to let his guard down.
It's almost impossible to not root for these two as they work so hard to achieve their dreams in the face of skepticism, and their friendship was a great foundation for the passion between them. Having been at rock bottom before, Trace and Avery understood each other in a way others could not and were each other's greatest cheerleaders. They were better and stronger together than they were apart, something Avery understood but Trace had to accept for anything between them to work.
You really can never go wrong with anything by this author and if sizzling hot chemistry in your romances is your thing, then WILD KISSES should be on your reading list.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
Want more? Subscribe to my Newsletter on The Sassy Bookster.
Follow me on Twitter | Tumblr | Bloglovin’.
Like my page on Facebook.
January 2, 2017
What a refreshing book! I loved the genuine people Skye Jordan created. Both main characters had flaws, made mistakes, but they were honest with each other, creating a beautiful romance to be envied. I couldn't get enough of Avery and Trace, and I was sad when the book came to an end.
Avery Hart is finally following her dreams and opening up her own bakery. After eight years of an unhappy marriage ending in divorce two months ago, she is working to build relationships in her old home town and focus on her goals. Getting involved with a smoking hot man like Trace Hutton is not in her plans, but one sexy night with him changes everything. Trace is an ex-con, with a reputation as a player and not to be trusted around innocent young women like Avery. But soon they aren't able to withstand the sparks flying between them, and Avery and Trace realize that what other people think might not matter in the face of their overwhelming feelings for each other.
Avery and Trace were perfect for each other! They both were absolute sweethearts, misunderstood in more ways than one. Avery eloped at 17, so many people think her to be irresponsible and flighty. However, she is just the opposite, and her courage and kindness is exactly what attracts Trace to her. Trace is a bad boy, having experienced jail time and sleeping with half the women in town. But there's another side to him that's sweet, caring, and selfless, which draws in Avery like a moth to a flame. He thinks he's too old for her, but the 8-year age difference is not enough to keep their passion down. I loved how Avery didn't judge Trace for his past and defended him without thought to herself. Trace isn't used to people trusting him, and his trust in Avery slowly grows as they become closer. It's simply beautiful to read about.
This was a wonderful, inspiring book! The characters were some of the best I have read about in a long while. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
Avery Hart is finally following her dreams and opening up her own bakery. After eight years of an unhappy marriage ending in divorce two months ago, she is working to build relationships in her old home town and focus on her goals. Getting involved with a smoking hot man like Trace Hutton is not in her plans, but one sexy night with him changes everything. Trace is an ex-con, with a reputation as a player and not to be trusted around innocent young women like Avery. But soon they aren't able to withstand the sparks flying between them, and Avery and Trace realize that what other people think might not matter in the face of their overwhelming feelings for each other.
Avery and Trace were perfect for each other! They both were absolute sweethearts, misunderstood in more ways than one. Avery eloped at 17, so many people think her to be irresponsible and flighty. However, she is just the opposite, and her courage and kindness is exactly what attracts Trace to her. Trace is a bad boy, having experienced jail time and sleeping with half the women in town. But there's another side to him that's sweet, caring, and selfless, which draws in Avery like a moth to a flame. He thinks he's too old for her, but the 8-year age difference is not enough to keep their passion down. I loved how Avery didn't judge Trace for his past and defended him without thought to herself. Trace isn't used to people trusting him, and his trust in Avery slowly grows as they become closer. It's simply beautiful to read about.
This was a wonderful, inspiring book! The characters were some of the best I have read about in a long while. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
February 2, 2017
Wild Kisses is the second installment in the Wildwood Series, featuring Avery and Trace.
Newly divorced, Avery returns to Wildwood when her sister offers her a chance to start fresh. While turning the bar that ruined their lives into something new, Trace is hired to complete the construction. As an ex-con, not many have been willing to give Trace a chance, but he is dead set on rebuilding his life.
A spark of chemistry ignites and these two begin an affair that leaves both of them vulnerable. With a failed marriage in her wake and a prison sentence in his; these two struggle to risk their hearts when so much is at stake.
I am a huge, HUGE, Skye Jordan fan. So much so that after finishing this, I had to dive into her other books and binge read about 6 of them back to back. I am loving this series. It’s not a just a story about these specific characters, but you get a feel for the whole town, past and present thought these books.
A hot, steamy and sweet romance that gives you best of all the worlds.
Newly divorced, Avery returns to Wildwood when her sister offers her a chance to start fresh. While turning the bar that ruined their lives into something new, Trace is hired to complete the construction. As an ex-con, not many have been willing to give Trace a chance, but he is dead set on rebuilding his life.
A spark of chemistry ignites and these two begin an affair that leaves both of them vulnerable. With a failed marriage in her wake and a prison sentence in his; these two struggle to risk their hearts when so much is at stake.
I am a huge, HUGE, Skye Jordan fan. So much so that after finishing this, I had to dive into her other books and binge read about 6 of them back to back. I am loving this series. It’s not a just a story about these specific characters, but you get a feel for the whole town, past and present thought these books.
A hot, steamy and sweet romance that gives you best of all the worlds.
December 30, 2019
4.5 sucker for romance
March 12, 2018
Trace is an ex con, that is trying to get his life back on track. Step one take on a huge remodel job. Step two finish job on time. Step three keep your hands off the sexy, sweet Owner.
Both Trace and Avery have enough bad baggage from their past to deal with on their own, but sometimes you just need a sounding board. There is no question about the heat these two share, what is in question can that be enough. Time will tell.
Both Trace and Avery have enough bad baggage from their past to deal with on their own, but sometimes you just need a sounding board. There is no question about the heat these two share, what is in question can that be enough. Time will tell.
July 25, 2017
An upbeat song from Lifehouse echoed through the unfinished space, its lyrics filled with hope and talk of fresh starts. That's what this project was about for both him and Avery—the perfect opportunity for each of them to give their lives a boost.Book Summary. Avery (25), the hometown all-around good girl, is back in town after getting divorced; she left town when she was 17 to get married to her high school sweetheart and has been an army wife for the last 8 years. She's ready to move on from her failed marriage and turn her life into a new direction, which happens to be working to open a cafe and bakery (her baking skills and sweets recipes are to die for!). Helping her get the place into tip-top shape is Trace (33), a local carpenter/contractor who is also the town bad-boy and player. Trace is an ex-con, which pretty much follows him everywhere and shadows a lot of what people think about him.
Too bad that boost didn't include a hot hookup between the good girl and the ex-con, because all he'd been able to think about for weeks was licking buttercream frosting or melted chocolate or caramel whipped cream—really, any of the mouthwatering fillings she created—off her equally delicious body.
An attraction has been building between the two of them for two months, since Avery came back to town and they started spending practically every day together on-site. They're both secretly crushing, and—of course!—both also having their own reasoning for why they don't say anything. For Avery, it's because no way could Trace, Mr. Hot Playboy, possibly be interested in little old her, with so little experience, and not the carefree sexy type he normally goes for. For Trace, the problem is that he doesn't think he's good enough for Avery, and doesn't want to complicate her life will all his drama and have his bad-boy ex-con reputation possibly hurt her new business as she works so hard to start this new chapter in her life. So oh no, whatever will they do?!?
Trace estimated Avery was about as sexually experienced now as he'd been at fifteen. And he was beginning to believe there was something seriously twisted in his head, because the more he thought about it, the more her inexperience and abstinence turned him the fuck on.Review. This is my first Skye Jordan book and will most definitely not be my last! I found both of the main characters super engaging (I'm in loooooove with Trace), the story interesting, and the chemistry was hot, hot, HOT (sizzling love scenes)! The secondary characters were good and well-rounded; the side character of Trace's dad, who is suffering from dementia, was sad, but also very sweet (and Trace's care of him makes him that much of a heartthrob hero).
I appreciated that although Avery and Trace have internal angst and back-and-forth (a bit too much at times), any misunderstandings or things-left-unsaid were cleared up surprisingly quickly every time—such a relief! Avery got a little on my nerves now and then, and I got annoyed on behalf of Trace when people were unfair and so judgy, but overall a fantastic read that I highly recommend.
She slid her hands up his chest and wound her fingers around his wrists. "I don't see the man you see when you look in the mirror, with all the flaws of the past staring back at you, Trace. I see the competent contractor who works twice as hard as anyone I've ever met, while doing twice the job, and all for next to nothing just for the possibility of getting future work from others. I see the man who constantly has his client's best interests at heart, a man who can admit when he's made a mistake and who can apologize for something that's only half his fault. I see a man twisting himself inside out to take care of his sick father and trying to make ends meet."*This review is of an ARC provided by Net Galley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review
January 13, 2017
For quite awhile I was fully engaged in this one, folks. I enjoyed watching Avery, the hardworking, recently divorced heroine, and Trace, the misunderstood/loaded down with responsibility/trying to move on from his incarcerated past hero start to click as a couple and defy the odds/rumors of everyone who felt they shouldn’t be together. I think it was around 60% though I found myself glancing down frequently to check my Kindle to see how much time was left. Honestly, I think it was the constant back and forth, indecisive, mentally arguing with themselves, reluctant to commit aspect that started to leave me feeling exhausted. Then later on in the storyline, the graphic, smexy scenes featuring very lusty language seemed to completely take over. Though we are told upfront Trace and Avery had become friends over the last two months, I couldn’t help but feel at times this was more of a physical connection than emotional romantic one, at least not until closer to the end.
Trace was our reluctant to commit hero who was apparently well known for his random hook-ups with beautiful women and forced Folsom Prison vacation. We are told Avery knew about this as some of these women would come around her cafe Trace was hired to renovate. His “I’m not good enough for her/She deserves better but can’t help myself from wanting her” inner conflict battled Avery’s “I want him but I’m not experienced/hot enough to handle him, and he’ll just end up leaving me anyway” pretty much sums up their initial thoughts about each other that became well entrenched. Well, that is until they gave into temptation. Problem solved. Right? Though they seemed perfect for each other, they still seemed intent on constantly dooming their relationship by their willingness to call it quits at any given moment and walk away chalking it up to just being a fling. My fellow romance book-loving friends, it is hard to root for a couple when they aren’t even sure they should stay together.
You see, Avery has finally averaged enough men mayhem in her life to declare her heart off limits. Trace felt unworthy of her and didn’t want his past to taint her new business/reputation within the community. Plus, the whole dang town seemed to be against them.
With lots of back and forth, inner conflict/turmoil over what they were and likely could never be, misinterpreting reactions, jumping to conclusions, and some drama from an acquaintance Trace would rather soon forget, by 70% their revolving door of uncertainty entwined with smexy time between the sheets had me mostly fastforwarding hoping to get to their HEA. However, I still can’t help but smile that things finally worked out.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: Wild Kisses, Series: Wildwood (Book 2), Author: Skye Jordan, Pages: 267, numerous VERY graphic, smexy scenes with lusty language, HEA, stand-alone, hardworking main couple, sweet heroine, misjudged good guy ex-con hero, back & forth/reluctant to commit main couple even though they want to be together, divorced heroine.
Book 1 - Forbidden Fling, 7/26/16, Pages: 315 (Delaney & Ethan)
Book 2 - Wild Kisses, 1/10/17, Pages: 267, (Avery & Trace)
(This review is based on advanced reader copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased, fair review. No compensation was provided to this reviewer, nor is there any affiliation between the reviewer/author/publisher/NetGalley.)
Trace was our reluctant to commit hero who was apparently well known for his random hook-ups with beautiful women and forced Folsom Prison vacation. We are told Avery knew about this as some of these women would come around her cafe Trace was hired to renovate. His “I’m not good enough for her/She deserves better but can’t help myself from wanting her” inner conflict battled Avery’s “I want him but I’m not experienced/hot enough to handle him, and he’ll just end up leaving me anyway” pretty much sums up their initial thoughts about each other that became well entrenched. Well, that is until they gave into temptation. Problem solved. Right? Though they seemed perfect for each other, they still seemed intent on constantly dooming their relationship by their willingness to call it quits at any given moment and walk away chalking it up to just being a fling. My fellow romance book-loving friends, it is hard to root for a couple when they aren’t even sure they should stay together.
You see, Avery has finally averaged enough men mayhem in her life to declare her heart off limits. Trace felt unworthy of her and didn’t want his past to taint her new business/reputation within the community. Plus, the whole dang town seemed to be against them.
With lots of back and forth, inner conflict/turmoil over what they were and likely could never be, misinterpreting reactions, jumping to conclusions, and some drama from an acquaintance Trace would rather soon forget, by 70% their revolving door of uncertainty entwined with smexy time between the sheets had me mostly fastforwarding hoping to get to their HEA. However, I still can’t help but smile that things finally worked out.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: Wild Kisses, Series: Wildwood (Book 2), Author: Skye Jordan, Pages: 267, numerous VERY graphic, smexy scenes with lusty language, HEA, stand-alone, hardworking main couple, sweet heroine, misjudged good guy ex-con hero, back & forth/reluctant to commit main couple even though they want to be together, divorced heroine.
Book 1 - Forbidden Fling, 7/26/16, Pages: 315 (Delaney & Ethan)
Book 2 - Wild Kisses, 1/10/17, Pages: 267, (Avery & Trace)
(This review is based on advanced reader copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased, fair review. No compensation was provided to this reviewer, nor is there any affiliation between the reviewer/author/publisher/NetGalley.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2017
Book received from NetGalley.
This was more of a 2.5 than a 3-star book for me. I think part of it was that I had not read the first book and was a bit lost at some of the things going on. I will say that it was a very hot read and the chemistry between the main characters was off the charts. I also liked the fact that the characters were doing their best to make something of themselves in a town that wasn't always forgiving of their pasts. I will likely give this another try after I read the first book, this is definitely not a standalone.
This was more of a 2.5 than a 3-star book for me. I think part of it was that I had not read the first book and was a bit lost at some of the things going on. I will say that it was a very hot read and the chemistry between the main characters was off the charts. I also liked the fact that the characters were doing their best to make something of themselves in a town that wasn't always forgiving of their pasts. I will likely give this another try after I read the first book, this is definitely not a standalone.
January 10, 2017
3.5 ~ F*cking Amazing Together ~ Stars
First things first, this book has some of the hottest love scenes I've read in a while. The off the charts chemistry between Trace and Avery is what really drives the story. Avery married her high school sweetheart and became an army wife. For the last few years she's been catering to her husband because she wanted to make things work. When they finally divorce, she heads back home and decides she needs to live for herself and not other people. Deciding to open up her own bakery has Avery in constant contact with Trace, her sexy as sin contractor and friend.
Trace has been captivated by Avery since laying eyes on her, but he's just gotten out of prison and is trying to prove to himself and everyone in town that he can make a success of himself. Remodeling the old bar into Avery's dream bakery and cafe is his chance to showcase his skills. With so much riding on Avery's grand opening, neither one is looking to start anything serious. But when Avery and Trace come together, simple and casual fly right out the window.
The outside drama towards the end did feel a bit rushed and I thought the pushing away and separation cooled the chemistry between them (thats why I lowered it to 4 stars) Up until that point, the story was hot, well paced and engaging. The push and pull came out of nowhere and dragged the storyline a bit for me, enough that I did end up skimming towards the end.
Safety: No OM/OW drama, no cheating (between the MCs, although it is hinted that h's ex cheated on her, we don't get any descriptive details.), Trace is 33 years old, Avery is 25. Neither are virgins. Ends with a HEA and a small epilogue a few months down the road.
Favorite Line:
"This is just that fucking amazing because of you and me, together."
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
First things first, this book has some of the hottest love scenes I've read in a while. The off the charts chemistry between Trace and Avery is what really drives the story. Avery married her high school sweetheart and became an army wife. For the last few years she's been catering to her husband because she wanted to make things work. When they finally divorce, she heads back home and decides she needs to live for herself and not other people. Deciding to open up her own bakery has Avery in constant contact with Trace, her sexy as sin contractor and friend.
Trace has been captivated by Avery since laying eyes on her, but he's just gotten out of prison and is trying to prove to himself and everyone in town that he can make a success of himself. Remodeling the old bar into Avery's dream bakery and cafe is his chance to showcase his skills. With so much riding on Avery's grand opening, neither one is looking to start anything serious. But when Avery and Trace come together, simple and casual fly right out the window.
The outside drama towards the end did feel a bit rushed and I thought the pushing away and separation cooled the chemistry between them (thats why I lowered it to 4 stars) Up until that point, the story was hot, well paced and engaging. The push and pull came out of nowhere and dragged the storyline a bit for me, enough that I did end up skimming towards the end.
Safety: No OM/OW drama, no cheating (between the MCs, although it is hinted that h's ex cheated on her, we don't get any descriptive details.), Trace is 33 years old, Avery is 25. Neither are virgins. Ends with a HEA and a small epilogue a few months down the road.
Favorite Line:
"This is just that fucking amazing because of you and me, together."
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
January 8, 2017
I do believe this is my favorite of Skye Jordan most recent releases.
"I'm not fearless. I'm just less afraid of being with you than I am of hating myself because I passed up the chance."
We could all take a lesson from Avery, and take more chances! And if there was a Trace Hutton in my life you can bet I'd be taking all kinds of chances on that man. Deliciously gruff, terribly misunderstood, and surprisingly tender and caring, Trace is a man I'd want by my side- through all of lifes ups and downs.
I love the journey that Wild Kisses takes us on. Avery and Trace each have a past that colors their outlooks on the future. Avery's marriage at a young age, and recent divorce, have left her not wanting any kind of permanent commitment. Trace's time in jail, his reputation as an ex-con, has left him believing he's not worthy of anything more than the one night stands he makes a habit of. But there's an attraction and connection between these 2, one that, try as they might, can't be denied. And as much as they fight it, as much as they try to keep things simple and easy, there's nothing simple and easy when it comes to how they feel about each other.
Avery and Trace, as different as they are, are so perfect together. Avery brings light and goodness into Trace's life, something he's been missing for a long time. With Avery, Trace is sweet and caring, he's protective, and wants what is best for her...even if that means fighting his attraction to her and staying away. But that's so much easier said than done, and he really stands no chance when it comes to his feelings for her. I just adore that man.
Wild Kisses is not just a touching tale of the struggles one goes through on the path to finding love, it's also a heartwarming story of families and friendships. I love the little town of Wildwood, and can't wait to visit again! I have a feeling we'll be in for quite a ride when Chloe comes to town!
January 2, 2017
***ARC Provided by the Publisher and NetGalley***
I enjoyed this book. It's the second in a series and is a standalone. The characters from the first book do appear, and there is some reference to events in the first book, but it's not necessary to have read it.
I actually liked this one better than the first, which I enjoyed, as this was less focused on the town and the events in the town and more focused on Avery and Trace. And they were fun.
I liked their relationship and the realistic portrayal of someone who has been in prison. I liked that they didn't gloss over Trace's past, that it was a part of a whole person who was also a romantic hero. But I also liked that his past wasn't really something that was dwelled on...it was allowed to be a part of a whole. This worked well for both the pacing of the story and the plot.
I thought the pacing was strong. The story moved well from point to point and there were no areas where it dragged or skipped over events to the point that I felt like I was missing something.
Trace and Avery are a compelling couple. Fun with great chemistry and an attraction they both try to deny until they can't any longer. I love that they both deluded themselves into thinking it was a one time thing when it obviously wasn't, and going along for the ride as they figured this out was enjoyable.
I recommend this book and am looking forward to the next one in the series.
I enjoyed this book. It's the second in a series and is a standalone. The characters from the first book do appear, and there is some reference to events in the first book, but it's not necessary to have read it.
I actually liked this one better than the first, which I enjoyed, as this was less focused on the town and the events in the town and more focused on Avery and Trace. And they were fun.
I liked their relationship and the realistic portrayal of someone who has been in prison. I liked that they didn't gloss over Trace's past, that it was a part of a whole person who was also a romantic hero. But I also liked that his past wasn't really something that was dwelled on...it was allowed to be a part of a whole. This worked well for both the pacing of the story and the plot.
I thought the pacing was strong. The story moved well from point to point and there were no areas where it dragged or skipped over events to the point that I felt like I was missing something.
Trace and Avery are a compelling couple. Fun with great chemistry and an attraction they both try to deny until they can't any longer. I love that they both deluded themselves into thinking it was a one time thing when it obviously wasn't, and going along for the ride as they figured this out was enjoyable.
I recommend this book and am looking forward to the next one in the series.
January 2, 2017
I LOVED IT!!!
This is yet another example of why I love Skye's writing. I'm a relatively new reader of hers, but I will absolutely read ANYTHING she writes.
I liked Avery because, unlike so many other heroines in romance novels, she didn't subscribe to the "I'll keep my thoughts to myself and not talk about them in an effort to save my relationship" philosophy. She got mad and hurt, and she told Trace. Just like what real people do. All of Skye's heroines are like that, and I love it.
Trace was beyond intense. I loved absolutely everything about him, and enjoyed reading how he changed over the time he knew Avery. The almost-final-scene was so touching, and Trace could not have been more perfect.
Needless to say, the love was scorching between these two. I can't wait to catch up with them in future books to see how they're doing!
If you love a steamy, solid, engaging contemporary romance, this is the book for you!
(I received a copy of this book in consideration of an honest review)
This is yet another example of why I love Skye's writing. I'm a relatively new reader of hers, but I will absolutely read ANYTHING she writes.
I liked Avery because, unlike so many other heroines in romance novels, she didn't subscribe to the "I'll keep my thoughts to myself and not talk about them in an effort to save my relationship" philosophy. She got mad and hurt, and she told Trace. Just like what real people do. All of Skye's heroines are like that, and I love it.
Trace was beyond intense. I loved absolutely everything about him, and enjoyed reading how he changed over the time he knew Avery. The almost-final-scene was so touching, and Trace could not have been more perfect.
Needless to say, the love was scorching between these two. I can't wait to catch up with them in future books to see how they're doing!
If you love a steamy, solid, engaging contemporary romance, this is the book for you!
(I received a copy of this book in consideration of an honest review)
January 25, 2019
Avery Hart has returned home to get a fresh start. After a marriage that ended in disaster she is planning to live her dream which includes fixing her father's bar. When she hires Trace Hutton to do the remodel though she doesn't realize that he will become the most important thing in her life. Trace has a past though and will Avery be willing to stick by his side even when the going gets tough?
Great read. The chemistry is off the charts and I liked that both had their own share of baggage. Can't wait to try more from this author.
Great read. The chemistry is off the charts and I liked that both had their own share of baggage. Can't wait to try more from this author.
March 22, 2018
Sweet easy read
Easy read. I listened on the way to work and home. Again I get caught when it was getting good and read the rest.
I liked Avery. She jumped to conclusions way too much for me. Trace was hot and he also jumped to conclusions too much. Oh well.
Easy read. Wondering if there will be a third one for the last sister.
Easy read. I listened on the way to work and home. Again I get caught when it was getting good and read the rest.
I liked Avery. She jumped to conclusions way too much for me. Trace was hot and he also jumped to conclusions too much. Oh well.
Easy read. Wondering if there will be a third one for the last sister.
December 27, 2021
Honest review
Good addition to the series and loved the characters. Emotional and healing with worries of back sliding. Can they both find a path to a future and get past their pasts?
Good addition to the series and loved the characters. Emotional and healing with worries of back sliding. Can they both find a path to a future and get past their pasts?
April 14, 2019
Awesome love story. I listened on audible and it was engaging and entertaining. I like the danger factor that came into play and loved the chemistry between the H and h. Ive read a few of Skye Jordan's books and they are always hot and full of drama and emotion.
January 12, 2017
I'm really enjoying this series - sexy, sweet, real!
I loved the first book in the series, Forbidden Fling, and this one is just as good - a moving, sexy, heart-warming romance in a small town setting.
I really like what the author is doing with this series, building a great small town community and populating with the most amazing and intriguing characters. We get the feel-good, heart-warming atmosphere of small-town romance with the added edge of really complex characters, struggling with their past trying to move forward and ultimately falling in love.
I really loved the heroine here. Avery married young her high school sweetheart but their marriage soon turned loveless and she ended back in her hometown, divorced and trying to get a fresh start. I liked the twist of her having been married, yet being very much inexperienced both sexually and romantically. She was understandably cautious with men but couldn't resist falling for Trace. I loved how determined to succeed, personally and professionally she was.
Trace was a great character as well, an ex-con, a ladies' man trying to stay away from Avery because he didn't think he was good enough for her. He had a lot of going on in his life and falling (and trying to stay away from) Avery who on top of everything was his current boss was a complication he didn't need.
They had great chemistry and the sexual attraction was there from the start but nothing happened easily for them. The conflict they had to overcome in order to be together felt very real and the way they bumbled their way into a relationship was fitting to their characters - imperfect, a little lost, a lot hesitant because of their pasts but also hopeful and willing to give love a chance. There were no magical solutions to their personal and professional troubles but hard work and concentrated effort made things work for them.
Both Avery and Trace have a lot going on in their lives when they met each other - both trying to get back on their feet, dealing with difficult family issues (though neither of them was on their own) and both reluctant to enter a relationship and yet unable to resist the attraction between them.
I enjoyed the complex, even slightly convoluted plot and feel it helped bring out all the best/worst qualities of the characters making the reader see them as real people and not just as figments of the author's imagination.
Wild Kisses is sweet and sexy, real and deeply romantic, definitely a recommended read for me.
I loved the first book in the series, Forbidden Fling, and this one is just as good - a moving, sexy, heart-warming romance in a small town setting.
I really like what the author is doing with this series, building a great small town community and populating with the most amazing and intriguing characters. We get the feel-good, heart-warming atmosphere of small-town romance with the added edge of really complex characters, struggling with their past trying to move forward and ultimately falling in love.
I really loved the heroine here. Avery married young her high school sweetheart but their marriage soon turned loveless and she ended back in her hometown, divorced and trying to get a fresh start. I liked the twist of her having been married, yet being very much inexperienced both sexually and romantically. She was understandably cautious with men but couldn't resist falling for Trace. I loved how determined to succeed, personally and professionally she was.
Trace was a great character as well, an ex-con, a ladies' man trying to stay away from Avery because he didn't think he was good enough for her. He had a lot of going on in his life and falling (and trying to stay away from) Avery who on top of everything was his current boss was a complication he didn't need.
They had great chemistry and the sexual attraction was there from the start but nothing happened easily for them. The conflict they had to overcome in order to be together felt very real and the way they bumbled their way into a relationship was fitting to their characters - imperfect, a little lost, a lot hesitant because of their pasts but also hopeful and willing to give love a chance. There were no magical solutions to their personal and professional troubles but hard work and concentrated effort made things work for them.
Both Avery and Trace have a lot going on in their lives when they met each other - both trying to get back on their feet, dealing with difficult family issues (though neither of them was on their own) and both reluctant to enter a relationship and yet unable to resist the attraction between them.
I enjoyed the complex, even slightly convoluted plot and feel it helped bring out all the best/worst qualities of the characters making the reader see them as real people and not just as figments of the author's imagination.
Wild Kisses is sweet and sexy, real and deeply romantic, definitely a recommended read for me.
December 26, 2016
Wild Kisses by Skye Jordan is a sexy, passionate, heart wrenching, yet incredibly lovely contemporary romance story. I have always enjoyed Jordan’s stories but some resonate with me more than others. I am a sucker for a bad boy who is really a good guy down deep. I am also a sucker for a heroine that doesn’t play games in her relationships and takes control of her own life. Wild Kisses had both of these which made me fall insanely in love with both Trace and Avery.
Trace is an ex-con who is also a contractor hired to renovate an old bar into a beautiful cafe and bakery for Avery. He is working hard to shed his image of being a bad boy. Avery is back in town after a failed marriage and trying to move past the lonely life she has known for so many years. These two strong characters are dynamic when together. They both have a lot of compassion for their family and friends and are incredibly driven in their business worlds as well. From the moment Tracy and Avery acted on their attraction to one another it was explosive. The chemistry was off the charts and their passion was undeniable.
Jordan is a fantastic writer developing interesting plots, deep and lovable characters and love scenes. They are written in a way that you are physically feeling what the characters feel. Your heart bursts with joy or pain. You have to catch your breath after the love making scenes (and squirm a little while reading). I don’t know anyone that can read her books and not feel what the characters are going through. When I was reading Wild Kisses, I was pulled into the story so completely that I lost track of time and where I was.
In addition to Trace and Avery, the addition of JT (an ex-con that causes quite a bit of trouble for the pair), Zane (Trace’s brother) and George (Trace’s father), really rounded out the story well. They pulled in separate plot lines that added to Trace’s character and set us up for another interesting book in the series. Jordan’s writing is so smooth and she moves from one scene or character to the next flawlessly.
Something I love about a series is that you get to know many supporting characters that re-appear in each book. Delaney and Ethan from Forbidden Fling showed up often, which was entertaining. Even a villain I wish Skye would really do something with, Austin Hayes, showed up a few times. I loved going back to the town of Wildwood to be a part of the cafe and bakery makeover and see what was going to happen to the old bar that was such a downer for the town. It filled my heart with joy.
I can’t say enough good things about Wild Kisses. I just loved this story so much. The action, the characters, everything. It is one of my absolutely favorites of Skye’s and Trace and Avery are now a favorite couple of mine. It’s a book I can see myself reading multiple times. If you are looking for a sexy, hot, contemporary romance with a fantastic plot and engaging characters, give Wild Kisses a try.
Trace is an ex-con who is also a contractor hired to renovate an old bar into a beautiful cafe and bakery for Avery. He is working hard to shed his image of being a bad boy. Avery is back in town after a failed marriage and trying to move past the lonely life she has known for so many years. These two strong characters are dynamic when together. They both have a lot of compassion for their family and friends and are incredibly driven in their business worlds as well. From the moment Tracy and Avery acted on their attraction to one another it was explosive. The chemistry was off the charts and their passion was undeniable.
Jordan is a fantastic writer developing interesting plots, deep and lovable characters and love scenes. They are written in a way that you are physically feeling what the characters feel. Your heart bursts with joy or pain. You have to catch your breath after the love making scenes (and squirm a little while reading). I don’t know anyone that can read her books and not feel what the characters are going through. When I was reading Wild Kisses, I was pulled into the story so completely that I lost track of time and where I was.
In addition to Trace and Avery, the addition of JT (an ex-con that causes quite a bit of trouble for the pair), Zane (Trace’s brother) and George (Trace’s father), really rounded out the story well. They pulled in separate plot lines that added to Trace’s character and set us up for another interesting book in the series. Jordan’s writing is so smooth and she moves from one scene or character to the next flawlessly.
Something I love about a series is that you get to know many supporting characters that re-appear in each book. Delaney and Ethan from Forbidden Fling showed up often, which was entertaining. Even a villain I wish Skye would really do something with, Austin Hayes, showed up a few times. I loved going back to the town of Wildwood to be a part of the cafe and bakery makeover and see what was going to happen to the old bar that was such a downer for the town. It filled my heart with joy.
I can’t say enough good things about Wild Kisses. I just loved this story so much. The action, the characters, everything. It is one of my absolutely favorites of Skye’s and Trace and Avery are now a favorite couple of mine. It’s a book I can see myself reading multiple times. If you are looking for a sexy, hot, contemporary romance with a fantastic plot and engaging characters, give Wild Kisses a try.
January 10, 2017
Avery Hart and Trace Fulton have both endured the fallout of bad decisions…her, in an 8 year marriage that wasn’t anything like she planned and him, adding a prison sentence to his backstory. And, even though both Avery and Trace are trying to start over and transform their lives into ones that make them feel secure and confident, those past choices continue to define how they see themselves, doing more damage than good when it comes to moving forward and taking advantage of their fresh starts.
Avery may have lost herself in her empty marriage, but she’s back in Wildwood, and she’s ready to use her newly found freedom in order to make a go as a business owner of a diner/bakery, but what she’s also interested in, regardless of how inadequate/inexperienced she feels when it comes to the opposite sex, is the “six-foot-three rock hard magnet,” Trace Hutton, who’s helping her make her pastry dreams come true.
For two months, they’ve walked the line of friendship, but in Wild Kisses, the need for more, not only in their professional lives but also their personal lives, dominates their thoughts and dictates their actions, and even though they both feel that they’re not good enough for the other for a variety of reasons, the heart/body want what they want and what Avery and Trace find in each other is the goodness in life that they BOTH deserve regardless of Trace’s self-loathing.
Avery and Trace come alive in one another’s arms, and as long as they can get out of their own ways and stop second guessing and doubting themselves then they’ll be able to reap the rewards of this new life that is open to them and dive in heart first, even though it scares the hell out of them.
Avery and Trace’s story is about reclaiming one’s life and one’s inner self and feeling “good enough” to go after the people and things s/he wants to be surrounded by. It’s about letting oneself be free to do anything and everything and taking those risks in life that make all of the difference for a well-lived one. It’s about the value of good friends and family members who go above and beyond for each other because they know everyone deserves a second chance at happiness…at love…at redemption.
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Avery may have lost herself in her empty marriage, but she’s back in Wildwood, and she’s ready to use her newly found freedom in order to make a go as a business owner of a diner/bakery, but what she’s also interested in, regardless of how inadequate/inexperienced she feels when it comes to the opposite sex, is the “six-foot-three rock hard magnet,” Trace Hutton, who’s helping her make her pastry dreams come true.
For two months, they’ve walked the line of friendship, but in Wild Kisses, the need for more, not only in their professional lives but also their personal lives, dominates their thoughts and dictates their actions, and even though they both feel that they’re not good enough for the other for a variety of reasons, the heart/body want what they want and what Avery and Trace find in each other is the goodness in life that they BOTH deserve regardless of Trace’s self-loathing.
Avery and Trace come alive in one another’s arms, and as long as they can get out of their own ways and stop second guessing and doubting themselves then they’ll be able to reap the rewards of this new life that is open to them and dive in heart first, even though it scares the hell out of them.
Avery and Trace’s story is about reclaiming one’s life and one’s inner self and feeling “good enough” to go after the people and things s/he wants to be surrounded by. It’s about letting oneself be free to do anything and everything and taking those risks in life that make all of the difference for a well-lived one. It’s about the value of good friends and family members who go above and beyond for each other because they know everyone deserves a second chance at happiness…at love…at redemption.
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
November 17, 2018
Cant put it down
Loved this story could not put it down the love and drama kept you on your toes. A girl that was divorced found love an X con. If you like a story to heat you up this is it. The love and the emotion keeps your reading to find out what happens next.
Loved this story could not put it down the love and drama kept you on your toes. A girl that was divorced found love an X con. If you like a story to heat you up this is it. The love and the emotion keeps your reading to find out what happens next.
December 30, 2016
Wild Kisses (Wildwood #2) by Skye Jordan
4 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Drug abuse, prison time, bullying, violence, dementia
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Trace is recovering from a past he's tried to forget. After going to prison for a few years, he's trying to build his own reputation while helping those around town and trying to keep his wandering father from hurting himself. Trace is burning the wick at both ends and sooner or later, he's going to burn out. There is a bright spot during his day though, and that's working with Avery. She is a breath of fresh air and one who not only doesn't judge his past, but sees past the facade he tries to portray.
Trace has a brother who is a police officer in town and between the two of them, they try to take care of their father, who is suffering from dementia. We see a very different dynamic between the brothers than what their father described. I wish that we had been more involved in their past, as I think that a lot was hinted at, but nothing was really confirmed.
Then you have Austin... He's just a bully, plain and simple. I disliked him throughout the story and don't really know what he added other than annoyance.
Avery is working very hard to put her past behind her too. Coming home with a broken marriage, she knows what she wants and sets out to make her own dreams come true. Not only is she taking on the burden of starting her own business, but she also cares deeply for the people around and she tries to help Trace's father when she learns of new therapies that might help slow his dementia. Avery perseveres even when her ex-husband's friends hint at infidelity and he decides to remarry. Avery pulls up her big girl panties and plugs on. She also doesn't let people of their small community sway her decision on how good and kind Trace is.
Both characters need to learn that sometimes, fighting is the only way through. There can be happiness at the end of the tunnel, but wading through everyone's opinions can be a heavy burden. Perhaps the twists and turns your life has taken is because you're exactly where you are supposed to be.
4 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Drug abuse, prison time, bullying, violence, dementia
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Trace is recovering from a past he's tried to forget. After going to prison for a few years, he's trying to build his own reputation while helping those around town and trying to keep his wandering father from hurting himself. Trace is burning the wick at both ends and sooner or later, he's going to burn out. There is a bright spot during his day though, and that's working with Avery. She is a breath of fresh air and one who not only doesn't judge his past, but sees past the facade he tries to portray.
Trace has a brother who is a police officer in town and between the two of them, they try to take care of their father, who is suffering from dementia. We see a very different dynamic between the brothers than what their father described. I wish that we had been more involved in their past, as I think that a lot was hinted at, but nothing was really confirmed.
Then you have Austin... He's just a bully, plain and simple. I disliked him throughout the story and don't really know what he added other than annoyance.
Avery is working very hard to put her past behind her too. Coming home with a broken marriage, she knows what she wants and sets out to make her own dreams come true. Not only is she taking on the burden of starting her own business, but she also cares deeply for the people around and she tries to help Trace's father when she learns of new therapies that might help slow his dementia. Avery perseveres even when her ex-husband's friends hint at infidelity and he decides to remarry. Avery pulls up her big girl panties and plugs on. She also doesn't let people of their small community sway her decision on how good and kind Trace is.
Both characters need to learn that sometimes, fighting is the only way through. There can be happiness at the end of the tunnel, but wading through everyone's opinions can be a heavy burden. Perhaps the twists and turns your life has taken is because you're exactly where you are supposed to be.
January 8, 2017
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the second in the series, and although it follows on from the previous book, there is enough background explanation that it could be read first.
Avery is back in her home town nursing not a broken heart but one scarred by an unhappy 8 year marriage ended in divorce. She is starting afresh opening her new bakery, just as soon as the gorgeous contractor, ex-con Trace finishes the renovations.
The chemistry between them inevitably boils over, but with so many things against them, it is not an easy romance. As Avery learns more about Trace's past, and realises how it mirrors her own, the barriers keep falling - but there is so much more at stake that just her heart at the moment. As dramas and delays start to cause additional stress, things get ever so complicated. But Ms Jordan knows how to keep things in balance, ensuring the reader gets plenty of hot and sweet with the stressful and scary!
If you like a story which acknowledges people have pasts, but still deserve a good future, and want a story which is both uplifting and sexy - then this could be for you.
This is the second in the series, and although it follows on from the previous book, there is enough background explanation that it could be read first.
Avery is back in her home town nursing not a broken heart but one scarred by an unhappy 8 year marriage ended in divorce. She is starting afresh opening her new bakery, just as soon as the gorgeous contractor, ex-con Trace finishes the renovations.
The chemistry between them inevitably boils over, but with so many things against them, it is not an easy romance. As Avery learns more about Trace's past, and realises how it mirrors her own, the barriers keep falling - but there is so much more at stake that just her heart at the moment. As dramas and delays start to cause additional stress, things get ever so complicated. But Ms Jordan knows how to keep things in balance, ensuring the reader gets plenty of hot and sweet with the stressful and scary!
If you like a story which acknowledges people have pasts, but still deserve a good future, and want a story which is both uplifting and sexy - then this could be for you.
February 9, 2017
At the beginning I was fully engaged in this one. Watching Avery, the hardworking, hopeful recently divorced heroine, and Trace, the ex-con hero begin to click as a romantic couple (they already worked together), despite the feelings of her friends and family, was captivating . By the time I got to 40% I was frequently checking to see how much time was left. The indecision and ups and downs of the relationship were wearing me down.
At the end, things worked out.
I received this book from Goodreads for an honest review.
At the end, things worked out.
I received this book from Goodreads for an honest review.
February 7, 2017
This was an enjoyable story, that really drew me in and kept me engaged and entertained throughout. With a group of characters who on the whole were extremely likable and even though I hadn't read the first book in the series, I never felt like I was missing out.
As for the story itself it was extremely easy to read, there was no real angst, plenty of hot moments, and sweet ones too. I also really liked Avery and Trace as a couple. Avery certainly is much more than the character you are first introduced too, and Trace's background was interesting in that he is very different to the ex con done good I was expecting at the outset, and as the story progressed I found myself getting more and more involved in this couple. As well as their respective families and was so happy that Trace and Avery managed to get that elusive happy ever after.
I would therefore definitely recommend this story to others and will certainly be going back and reading the first book in this series soon.
***I Received a Free ARC Via NetGalley in Exchange for an Honest Review***
As for the story itself it was extremely easy to read, there was no real angst, plenty of hot moments, and sweet ones too. I also really liked Avery and Trace as a couple. Avery certainly is much more than the character you are first introduced too, and Trace's background was interesting in that he is very different to the ex con done good I was expecting at the outset, and as the story progressed I found myself getting more and more involved in this couple. As well as their respective families and was so happy that Trace and Avery managed to get that elusive happy ever after.
I would therefore definitely recommend this story to others and will certainly be going back and reading the first book in this series soon.
***I Received a Free ARC Via NetGalley in Exchange for an Honest Review***
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