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Foolproof Love #2
Fool Me Once
They say opposites attract, but this is just ridiculous.
Aubry Kaiser doesn’t like people—actually, that’s not right. She loathes people. With her crippling anxiety, there’s no way she can demo her favorite video game at a convention with five thousand other people. Maybe if she brings someone to act as a shield…
But the only person available is the sexy cowboy she can’t stand.
Quinn Baldwyn is in a mess of his own. He’s been dodging his wealthy family’s matchmaking attempts—and life advice—for years, but with his sister’s wedding on the horizon, he needs of a shield of his own.
He and Aubry can barely hold down a civil conversation, but in bed…fireworks. And the closer they get to Quinn’s sister’s wedding, the more he realizes that he might actually like Aubry.
Now it’s up to him to convince her she might actually like him, too.
Aubry Kaiser doesn’t like people—actually, that’s not right. She loathes people. With her crippling anxiety, there’s no way she can demo her favorite video game at a convention with five thousand other people. Maybe if she brings someone to act as a shield…
But the only person available is the sexy cowboy she can’t stand.
Quinn Baldwyn is in a mess of his own. He’s been dodging his wealthy family’s matchmaking attempts—and life advice—for years, but with his sister’s wedding on the horizon, he needs of a shield of his own.
He and Aubry can barely hold down a civil conversation, but in bed…fireworks. And the closer they get to Quinn’s sister’s wedding, the more he realizes that he might actually like Aubry.
Now it’s up to him to convince her she might actually like him, too.
189 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2016
73 people are currently reading
2015 people want to read
About the author
Katee Robert
172 books36.6k followersKatee Robert is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of spicy romance. Entertainment Weekly calls her writing “unspeakably hot.” Her books have sold over two million copies. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, children, a cat who thinks he’s a dog, and two Great Danes who think they’re lap dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 226 reviews
August 1, 2016
4 Pushing Through Your Fears Stars
* * * * It's Live!!
Katee Roberts does the classic set up for two acquaintances/sort of friends...who can't stop snapping or bickering anytime together. They need each other to assist with important events for each of them.
Quinn, a true cowboy, has his sister's wedding to attend. Unfortunately, his political/society family haven't accepted the fact that Quinn has No interest in joining the family career-wise. For 12 years he has been telling them, ranching is his path and for 12 years they have refused to listen. He loves his sister and would never make her choose...so in order to fight off the matchmaking mom....he needs a "date" who will understand this going together won't mean anything....He has no desire for any relationship and enjoys his "happy, casual time" with his women.
Aubry cannot believe the email she just received. She has been invited to an elite gaming experience. She has been gaming since she was young and it has always been her constant happy place...Because every other place was hell.... Her mother thought she was a burden...and the cutting remarks she grew up hearing has done serious esteem damage...so Aubry has anxiety attacks around large groups of people...and this once in a lifetime invite is involving massive amounts of gamers.
These two are like cats and dogs when they are together... but due to their circumstances and needs....an unholy alliance happens and they agree to go to each of the events as a support for the other.
This quick book has heart, concern and very hot sexy times. When these two get together.... watch out.... they surprise one another in how they feel and how perfectly matched they are....They just need to work on understanding how good they could be when they are out of the sack, or off the chair or not in the bathroom or truck or.... oh, you get the idea....
It has lots of references to current shows and the chemistry works. Overall a fun read.
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Katee Robert, Katee Robert...
You are making me Cray-Cray....
Taking an Anti-Social, Anxiety Prone, Master Gamer...
Putting her with a Studly Cowboy of his Own Making....
And having them both bicker and fight every single time they see each other????
Well, why the hell not...
They both need to go to an important event...
And both need a buffer of sorts....
A Deal is Struck...There is only one little problem...
They both can't keep their hands, mouths or body parts off each other...
Fool Me Once (Foolproof Love) August 1st, 2016
A gifted copy was provided by Entangled Publishing, LLC via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * It's Live!!
Katee Roberts does the classic set up for two acquaintances/sort of friends...who can't stop snapping or bickering anytime together. They need each other to assist with important events for each of them.
Quinn, a true cowboy, has his sister's wedding to attend. Unfortunately, his political/society family haven't accepted the fact that Quinn has No interest in joining the family career-wise. For 12 years he has been telling them, ranching is his path and for 12 years they have refused to listen. He loves his sister and would never make her choose...so in order to fight off the matchmaking mom....he needs a "date" who will understand this going together won't mean anything....He has no desire for any relationship and enjoys his "happy, casual time" with his women.
Aubry cannot believe the email she just received. She has been invited to an elite gaming experience. She has been gaming since she was young and it has always been her constant happy place...Because every other place was hell.... Her mother thought she was a burden...and the cutting remarks she grew up hearing has done serious esteem damage...so Aubry has anxiety attacks around large groups of people...and this once in a lifetime invite is involving massive amounts of gamers.
These two are like cats and dogs when they are together... but due to their circumstances and needs....an unholy alliance happens and they agree to go to each of the events as a support for the other.
This quick book has heart, concern and very hot sexy times. When these two get together.... watch out.... they surprise one another in how they feel and how perfectly matched they are....They just need to work on understanding how good they could be when they are out of the sack, or off the chair or not in the bathroom or truck or.... oh, you get the idea....
It has lots of references to current shows and the chemistry works. Overall a fun read.
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Katee Robert, Katee Robert...
You are making me Cray-Cray....
Taking an Anti-Social, Anxiety Prone, Master Gamer...
Putting her with a Studly Cowboy of his Own Making....
And having them both bicker and fight every single time they see each other????
Well, why the hell not...
They both need to go to an important event...
And both need a buffer of sorts....
A Deal is Struck...There is only one little problem...
They both can't keep their hands, mouths or body parts off each other...
Fool Me Once (Foolproof Love) August 1st, 2016
A gifted copy was provided by Entangled Publishing, LLC via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
August 1, 2016
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
They say opposites attracts, well in the case for Aubry Kaiser and Quinn Baldwyn they are more than just opposites but are totally wrong for each other but together they make complete sense. So can a reclusive girl who loathes people find herself falling in love with a charming and lovable cowboy?
Aubry Kaiser doesn’t have many friends. She can count on her hand how many friends she has.. One. And if you count Julie’s cats then that makes three friends in total. Aubry is not your normal heroine. She has a potty mouth that would make any sailor proud. She enjoys being by herself and of course gaming. So when she was invited to this special gamer convention, Aubry wants to go but she doesn’t want to go and deal with the crowds since it gives her major anxiety. And so when her best friend, Jules Rodriguez suggest that she goes with Quinn Baldwyn, Aubry didn’t like the idea until Quinn made her an offer that she couldn’t resist. He will go with her to this gaming convention as long as she would go with him to his sister’s wedding as his date. It should be a win win situation for both of them. Right? But here’s the thing, she hates him. She can’t stand him. But why can’t she stopped thinking about him?
Right off the opening pages, readers can sense the instant chemistry between these two. There was no denying it. They are both sexually attracted to one another but their personalities clash. She’s hot and cold and whereas Quinn is just cool and collective. As much as they know they have nothing in common, but together they make complete sense. It’s them against the world. And for Quinn, he would face every fear that Aubry has if it means protecting her from zombies, mutant alligators, vampires, wolves, cyborgs or whatnot. Although Aubry might not be your sexy vixen heroine, Aubry’s weird personality makes her unique and special. I like that she doesn’t need to fit into what society expects of her because the only place that she wants to fit in is in Quinn’s life.
Fool Me Once is a sweet and spicy love story. I say spicy because Aubry’s personality is truly one of a kind and you gotta love a woman who is comfortable in her own skin. She know’s that she’s different but she doesn’t conform to what society expects of her. As for Quinn, he is not your broody cowboy but instead he’s your lovable hero that knows when to push Aubry’s button and accepts her quirks. On paper they are completely wrong for each other but when it comes to the matters of the heart, they are a perfect match. And in this love story it’s GAME OVER for Aubry because Quinn has passed all the levels to her heart.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Katee Robert
They say opposites attracts, well in the case for Aubry Kaiser and Quinn Baldwyn they are more than just opposites but are totally wrong for each other but together they make complete sense. So can a reclusive girl who loathes people find herself falling in love with a charming and lovable cowboy?
Aubry Kaiser doesn’t have many friends. She can count on her hand how many friends she has.. One. And if you count Julie’s cats then that makes three friends in total. Aubry is not your normal heroine. She has a potty mouth that would make any sailor proud. She enjoys being by herself and of course gaming. So when she was invited to this special gamer convention, Aubry wants to go but she doesn’t want to go and deal with the crowds since it gives her major anxiety. And so when her best friend, Jules Rodriguez suggest that she goes with Quinn Baldwyn, Aubry didn’t like the idea until Quinn made her an offer that she couldn’t resist. He will go with her to this gaming convention as long as she would go with him to his sister’s wedding as his date. It should be a win win situation for both of them. Right? But here’s the thing, she hates him. She can’t stand him. But why can’t she stopped thinking about him?
Right off the opening pages, readers can sense the instant chemistry between these two. There was no denying it. They are both sexually attracted to one another but their personalities clash. She’s hot and cold and whereas Quinn is just cool and collective. As much as they know they have nothing in common, but together they make complete sense. It’s them against the world. And for Quinn, he would face every fear that Aubry has if it means protecting her from zombies, mutant alligators, vampires, wolves, cyborgs or whatnot. Although Aubry might not be your sexy vixen heroine, Aubry’s weird personality makes her unique and special. I like that she doesn’t need to fit into what society expects of her because the only place that she wants to fit in is in Quinn’s life.
Fool Me Once is a sweet and spicy love story. I say spicy because Aubry’s personality is truly one of a kind and you gotta love a woman who is comfortable in her own skin. She know’s that she’s different but she doesn’t conform to what society expects of her. As for Quinn, he is not your broody cowboy but instead he’s your lovable hero that knows when to push Aubry’s button and accepts her quirks. On paper they are completely wrong for each other but when it comes to the matters of the heart, they are a perfect match. And in this love story it’s GAME OVER for Aubry because Quinn has passed all the levels to her heart.
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Katee Robert
August 13, 2016
4 “Trusty Steed” Stars!!!
A cowboy and a female gamer walk into a bar…..Ok, it isn’t a bar, but you get the idea right? These two could not be more opposite and yet this book just worked! This book is QUICK, DIRTY, and NO DRAMA. That’s all I really need in my life.
”No panties. Naughty, peaches. Very naughty. I like it.” He leaned close enough that his chest pressed against her back. “I don’t know if we’re going to make it back to the room. Maybe after the ceremony, I’ll drag you out into the vineyard and fuck you right there in the dirt.”
My Quinn: (Yep, this is JJ Watt in a cowboy hat. Yum!)
My Aubry:
Aubry is a wealth of contradictions. She is a gamer, the best out of millions and is asked to test a new game before it is released. She has some serious social anxiety and doesn’t think she would survive the trip by herself. Her best friend arranges for her to be accompanied by Quinn on the trip. In exchange, Quinn needs a pretend-date to his sister’s wedding, which he is not all excited to attend. Aubry is the perfect date because she has perfected her resting bitch-face.
(I need this shirt, y’all! Lol!)
”You don’t want polite. You want a hot fuck in the shower, on the bed, in the cab of my truck. You want me to finger you like this, and you to get off on the fact that there isn’t a damn thing between us and anyone who walks down that hall. Hell I bet if I slid down your jeans, you’d turn around and let me fuck you right here.” She around him and she buried her face in his shoulder as she came, her moans barely muffled. “Yeah, that’s what I thought.”
I loved Aubry’s character. Despite her social anxiety, she is confident and saucy. She knows who she is and what she wants. Her anxiety doesn’t stop her or hinder her. It is an inescapable part of herself. I love how Roberts writes about social anxiety in this book. I need a Quinn of my very own to help separate me from all the people in the world, because there are a lot of people. As a sufferer of social anxiety of my own, I completely understand Aubry’s issues. I loved how Quinn knew exactly how to help Aubry through her panic attacks.
Quinn and Aubry need each other. They don’t like or understand each other, but opposites definitely attract in this book. Quinn is a wall of a man, literally. Aubry needs him to protect her from the many people that cause her anxiety so she can fulfill one of her dreams. He is her trusty steed.There is so much delicious chemistry between Quinn and Aubry. They are complete opposites, and at first, I wondered how it was going to work between a cowboy and a gamer, but I was quickly sold on these two together.
Quinn barked out a laugh. “And here I was thinking I’m growing on you.”
“Like a fungus. Or mold. Reallly, really sexy mold.”
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Find me on
A cowboy and a female gamer walk into a bar…..Ok, it isn’t a bar, but you get the idea right? These two could not be more opposite and yet this book just worked! This book is QUICK, DIRTY, and NO DRAMA. That’s all I really need in my life.
”No panties. Naughty, peaches. Very naughty. I like it.” He leaned close enough that his chest pressed against her back. “I don’t know if we’re going to make it back to the room. Maybe after the ceremony, I’ll drag you out into the vineyard and fuck you right there in the dirt.”
My Quinn: (Yep, this is JJ Watt in a cowboy hat. Yum!)
My Aubry:
Aubry is a wealth of contradictions. She is a gamer, the best out of millions and is asked to test a new game before it is released. She has some serious social anxiety and doesn’t think she would survive the trip by herself. Her best friend arranges for her to be accompanied by Quinn on the trip. In exchange, Quinn needs a pretend-date to his sister’s wedding, which he is not all excited to attend. Aubry is the perfect date because she has perfected her resting bitch-face.
(I need this shirt, y’all! Lol!)”You don’t want polite. You want a hot fuck in the shower, on the bed, in the cab of my truck. You want me to finger you like this, and you to get off on the fact that there isn’t a damn thing between us and anyone who walks down that hall. Hell I bet if I slid down your jeans, you’d turn around and let me fuck you right here.” She around him and she buried her face in his shoulder as she came, her moans barely muffled. “Yeah, that’s what I thought.”
I loved Aubry’s character. Despite her social anxiety, she is confident and saucy. She knows who she is and what she wants. Her anxiety doesn’t stop her or hinder her. It is an inescapable part of herself. I love how Roberts writes about social anxiety in this book. I need a Quinn of my very own to help separate me from all the people in the world, because there are a lot of people. As a sufferer of social anxiety of my own, I completely understand Aubry’s issues. I loved how Quinn knew exactly how to help Aubry through her panic attacks.
Quinn and Aubry need each other. They don’t like or understand each other, but opposites definitely attract in this book. Quinn is a wall of a man, literally. Aubry needs him to protect her from the many people that cause her anxiety so she can fulfill one of her dreams. He is her trusty steed.There is so much delicious chemistry between Quinn and Aubry. They are complete opposites, and at first, I wondered how it was going to work between a cowboy and a gamer, but I was quickly sold on these two together.
Quinn barked out a laugh. “And here I was thinking I’m growing on you.”
“Like a fungus. Or mold. Reallly, really sexy mold.”
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Find me on
December 1, 2016
Fool Me Once is the second installment in Katee Robert's adult contemporary romance series titled Foolproof Love. In my opinion, this story was heavy on the sex and very light in terms of characters in my opinion. It sounds like stereotypical erotica but the book doesn't quite fit in that genre either which made the reading experience a bit confusing. I enjoy Ms. Roberts as a romance author and will definitely continue to read her books. Her stories are fun and sexy which makes for a good read. This one in particular just didn't quite work for me personally; however, check it out for yourself. You might love it!
My favorite quote:
“Strip?” She blinked. “I thought this was some kind of seduction. Aren’t you going to run me a bath and slowly remove my clothes while whispering sweet nothings in my ear and then wash my hair while I bliss out?” “What the hell kind of books have you been reading?” “Fiction, obviously.”
Katee Robert's Foolproof Love series includes the following installments as of November 2016:
#1-Foolproof Love
#2-Fool Me Once
#3-A Fool For You
My favorite quote:
“Strip?” She blinked. “I thought this was some kind of seduction. Aren’t you going to run me a bath and slowly remove my clothes while whispering sweet nothings in my ear and then wash my hair while I bliss out?” “What the hell kind of books have you been reading?” “Fiction, obviously.”
Katee Robert's Foolproof Love series includes the following installments as of November 2016:
#1-Foolproof Love
#2-Fool Me Once
#3-A Fool For You
August 5, 2016
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Fool Me Once by Katee Robert
Book Two of the Foolproof Love series
Publisher: Entangled Brazen
Publication Date: August 1, 2016
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
They say opposites attract, but this is just ridiculous.
Aubry Kaiser doesn’t like people—actually, that’s not right. She loathes people. With her crippling anxiety, there’s no way she can demo her favorite video game at a convention with five thousand other people. Maybe if she brings someone to act as a shield…
But the only person available is the sexy cowboy she can’t stand.
Quinn Baldwyn is in a mess of his own. He’s been dodging his wealthy family’s matchmaking attempts—and life advice—for years, but with his sister’s wedding on the horizon, he needs of a shield of his own.
He and Aubry can barely hold down a civil conversation, but in bed…fireworks. And the closer they get to Quinn’s sister’s wedding, the more he realizes that he might actually like Aubry.
Now it’s up to him to convince her she might actually like him, too.
What I Liked:
I liked Foolproof Love, but I think I liked this book even more. They're receiving the same overall rating, but this book was even better than its predecessor. I actually didn't think I would like this book as much, because I wasn't the biggest fan of Aubry in Foolproof Love (she was okay). But I liked her a lot, in this book!
Aubry doesn't like people. She's pretty much at a constant state of grump and somewhat antisocial. She has pretty crippling social anxiety, so when she gets invited to be a beta tester for a video game series that isn't going to release for another year, she hesitates, because it's during a convention with thousands of people. But her best friend Jules suggests that Aubry take Quinn Baldwyn with her. Quinn is a tall, muscular cowboy who could physically help her at the convention. And what's more, Quinn needs someone to be his date at his sister's wedding, so he won't have to deal with his rich father's matchmaking attempts. Aubry hates Quinn... or does she? Sparks fly on the road-trip to the convention, and then the wedding. But when the pair returns, will they return to their previous non-relationship?
I liked Aubry, at least more than I did in Foolproof Love! She's a grump and rude and moody and antisocial, but I totally get her. She and Quinn have great banter going on, and I love it when it turns into something else. Aubry is focused on her video game and her design work, and so she hasn't been with anyone in years. But it's not just her hormones talking when Quinn is around her - it's Quinn all by himself, who is one of a kind.
Quinn comes from a rich family, but he left that behind. He's a cowboy working on the Rodriguez ranch, and he's not trying to return to his rich-boy lifestyle, despite his parents' attempts otherwise. Quinn is wicked and charming, and he flirts with Aubry all the time. He loves making her a little irritated, and hot and bothered. But underneath all of the flirting and the barbs, Quinn is a good guy. He isn't an arrogant guy, and he isn't a runner. He's noble and very protective, especially when he becomes aware of Aubry's social anxiety and panic.
I like Robert's treatment of Aubry's conditions, and how Quinn handles her panic attacks and her anxiety with crowds. Despite them disliking each other initially, Quinn is so gentle with her. There were several "awwww" moments in this book!
The two of them together are SUPER hot! Robert writes a different type of sexy in this book. As it would turn out, Aubry discovers that she has a small taste for exhibitionism - not in an extreme, BDSM way. But she and Quinn get caught in a compromising situation once or twice... and it makes the scenes even hotter. I was fanning myself life crazy! This might be one of Robert's hottest books.
But the romance is also pretty sweet. Aubry has some serious trust issues, and she really needed to work on that. I liked seeing the pair grow more comfortable around each other, even if it was only a week (that the road-trip lasted). They'd known each other for longer than that, before the trip, but the trip brought them closer, took them apart, and brought them closer again.
The conflict and climax of the book wasn't too dramatic, although Aubry was a bit of a diva. Given her personality and her issues, her reaction to something was... somewhat understandable? But not really, because she still acted like a crazy person, to an outsider that didn't know her. This "drama" was her fault and not Quinn's. In the end, they both fight for the relationship, which I liked seeing. Quinn had to initiate the things (grrrr), but Aubry was the one that apologized profusely. Good!
Overall, I liked this book a lot! It was funny and sweet and very, VERY hot. The sexy times were a little different from the usual, but I found that I really liked that. Super hot stuff here!
What I Did Not Like:
Nothing specifically comes to mind, but this isn't necessarily a new favorite, so it's getting four stars from me. Still very good!
Would I Recommend It:
I highly recommend this novel! If you enjoy Katee Robert's books, or Brazen novels in general, this is one to look up. There are many Brazen novels that I read that just aren't memorable... that is NOT this book. I will definitely remember this book in the future, and I will be rereading it for sure.
Rating:
4.5 stars -> rounded down to 4 stars. I didn't think Quinn and Aubry would top Adam and Jules, but they did! I'm a little hesitant about Daniel and Hope's book (because it involves an unplanned pregnancy, and I typically avoid books with those scenarios), but I trust Robert!
Fool Me Once by Katee Robert
Book Two of the Foolproof Love series
Publisher: Entangled Brazen
Publication Date: August 1, 2016
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
They say opposites attract, but this is just ridiculous.
Aubry Kaiser doesn’t like people—actually, that’s not right. She loathes people. With her crippling anxiety, there’s no way she can demo her favorite video game at a convention with five thousand other people. Maybe if she brings someone to act as a shield…
But the only person available is the sexy cowboy she can’t stand.
Quinn Baldwyn is in a mess of his own. He’s been dodging his wealthy family’s matchmaking attempts—and life advice—for years, but with his sister’s wedding on the horizon, he needs of a shield of his own.
He and Aubry can barely hold down a civil conversation, but in bed…fireworks. And the closer they get to Quinn’s sister’s wedding, the more he realizes that he might actually like Aubry.
Now it’s up to him to convince her she might actually like him, too.
What I Liked:
I liked Foolproof Love, but I think I liked this book even more. They're receiving the same overall rating, but this book was even better than its predecessor. I actually didn't think I would like this book as much, because I wasn't the biggest fan of Aubry in Foolproof Love (she was okay). But I liked her a lot, in this book!
Aubry doesn't like people. She's pretty much at a constant state of grump and somewhat antisocial. She has pretty crippling social anxiety, so when she gets invited to be a beta tester for a video game series that isn't going to release for another year, she hesitates, because it's during a convention with thousands of people. But her best friend Jules suggests that Aubry take Quinn Baldwyn with her. Quinn is a tall, muscular cowboy who could physically help her at the convention. And what's more, Quinn needs someone to be his date at his sister's wedding, so he won't have to deal with his rich father's matchmaking attempts. Aubry hates Quinn... or does she? Sparks fly on the road-trip to the convention, and then the wedding. But when the pair returns, will they return to their previous non-relationship?
I liked Aubry, at least more than I did in Foolproof Love! She's a grump and rude and moody and antisocial, but I totally get her. She and Quinn have great banter going on, and I love it when it turns into something else. Aubry is focused on her video game and her design work, and so she hasn't been with anyone in years. But it's not just her hormones talking when Quinn is around her - it's Quinn all by himself, who is one of a kind.
Quinn comes from a rich family, but he left that behind. He's a cowboy working on the Rodriguez ranch, and he's not trying to return to his rich-boy lifestyle, despite his parents' attempts otherwise. Quinn is wicked and charming, and he flirts with Aubry all the time. He loves making her a little irritated, and hot and bothered. But underneath all of the flirting and the barbs, Quinn is a good guy. He isn't an arrogant guy, and he isn't a runner. He's noble and very protective, especially when he becomes aware of Aubry's social anxiety and panic.
I like Robert's treatment of Aubry's conditions, and how Quinn handles her panic attacks and her anxiety with crowds. Despite them disliking each other initially, Quinn is so gentle with her. There were several "awwww" moments in this book!
The two of them together are SUPER hot! Robert writes a different type of sexy in this book. As it would turn out, Aubry discovers that she has a small taste for exhibitionism - not in an extreme, BDSM way. But she and Quinn get caught in a compromising situation once or twice... and it makes the scenes even hotter. I was fanning myself life crazy! This might be one of Robert's hottest books.
But the romance is also pretty sweet. Aubry has some serious trust issues, and she really needed to work on that. I liked seeing the pair grow more comfortable around each other, even if it was only a week (that the road-trip lasted). They'd known each other for longer than that, before the trip, but the trip brought them closer, took them apart, and brought them closer again.
The conflict and climax of the book wasn't too dramatic, although Aubry was a bit of a diva. Given her personality and her issues, her reaction to something was... somewhat understandable? But not really, because she still acted like a crazy person, to an outsider that didn't know her. This "drama" was her fault and not Quinn's. In the end, they both fight for the relationship, which I liked seeing. Quinn had to initiate the things (grrrr), but Aubry was the one that apologized profusely. Good!
Overall, I liked this book a lot! It was funny and sweet and very, VERY hot. The sexy times were a little different from the usual, but I found that I really liked that. Super hot stuff here!
What I Did Not Like:
Nothing specifically comes to mind, but this isn't necessarily a new favorite, so it's getting four stars from me. Still very good!
Would I Recommend It:
I highly recommend this novel! If you enjoy Katee Robert's books, or Brazen novels in general, this is one to look up. There are many Brazen novels that I read that just aren't memorable... that is NOT this book. I will definitely remember this book in the future, and I will be rereading it for sure.
Rating:
4.5 stars -> rounded down to 4 stars. I didn't think Quinn and Aubry would top Adam and Jules, but they did! I'm a little hesitant about Daniel and Hope's book (because it involves an unplanned pregnancy, and I typically avoid books with those scenarios), but I trust Robert!
July 19, 2016
A sizzling-hot read that will leave you begging for more.
This is the second KR book I have read, and I enjoyed this one as much as the first. She is definitely being added to my list of favorite authors as I really enjoy her writing style. This book had everything I love in a romantic novel - in spades. Superb writing and pacing, complex multi-layered characters, strong plot, scorching sexy times, and a total snark-fest. What is not to love?
I can see how some readers might react negatively to Aubry, as she doesn't come across as a likable character at first. But you need to peel back the layers to understand her character. I enjoyed her immensely and really appreciated how refreshingly different she was as a lead female. She snaps, barks, and spits, but it's all a defensive mechanism, one she has carefully cultivated over the years. She doesn't let people in because of her dysfunctional upbringing, and she is crippled with anxiety which means she doesn't form bonds easily.
Quinn has always pushed her buttons and though they tell each other they don't like one another, it becomes apparent that an underlying attraction has been bubbling away under the surface for the last year. Fate decides to throw them together and it doesn't take long for them to end up in bed. The chemistry between our couple was phenomenal and the journey from enemies to lovers to soulmates completely credible.
Quinn is a completely swoon-worthy male lead who is the real deal. His nurturing nature is showcased through his confident support of both Aubry and Jenny as they battle bouts of anxiety. As someone who has dealt with anxiety in the past, I appreciated how well this was written. Sympathetically with bursts of humor. It was raw and real and helped me personally connect to the material.
The witty banter between our couple was hilarious, and I found myself laughing non-stop.
My only complaint is that the last couple of chapters felt rushed, and I also wished it was longer, as I wasn't ready to say goodbye to Quinn or Aubrey. I really want to read Adam and Jules book and I can't wait until Hope and Daniel's book is released. I'm definitely hooked on this series.
All in all, this was a fantastic read and I would highly recommend it.
Thanks to Barclay PR and the publisher for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. This review will appear on my blog in August. http://myyanabookobsession.com
This is the second KR book I have read, and I enjoyed this one as much as the first. She is definitely being added to my list of favorite authors as I really enjoy her writing style. This book had everything I love in a romantic novel - in spades. Superb writing and pacing, complex multi-layered characters, strong plot, scorching sexy times, and a total snark-fest. What is not to love?
I can see how some readers might react negatively to Aubry, as she doesn't come across as a likable character at first. But you need to peel back the layers to understand her character. I enjoyed her immensely and really appreciated how refreshingly different she was as a lead female. She snaps, barks, and spits, but it's all a defensive mechanism, one she has carefully cultivated over the years. She doesn't let people in because of her dysfunctional upbringing, and she is crippled with anxiety which means she doesn't form bonds easily.
Quinn has always pushed her buttons and though they tell each other they don't like one another, it becomes apparent that an underlying attraction has been bubbling away under the surface for the last year. Fate decides to throw them together and it doesn't take long for them to end up in bed. The chemistry between our couple was phenomenal and the journey from enemies to lovers to soulmates completely credible.
Quinn is a completely swoon-worthy male lead who is the real deal. His nurturing nature is showcased through his confident support of both Aubry and Jenny as they battle bouts of anxiety. As someone who has dealt with anxiety in the past, I appreciated how well this was written. Sympathetically with bursts of humor. It was raw and real and helped me personally connect to the material.
The witty banter between our couple was hilarious, and I found myself laughing non-stop.
My only complaint is that the last couple of chapters felt rushed, and I also wished it was longer, as I wasn't ready to say goodbye to Quinn or Aubrey. I really want to read Adam and Jules book and I can't wait until Hope and Daniel's book is released. I'm definitely hooked on this series.
All in all, this was a fantastic read and I would highly recommend it.
Thanks to Barclay PR and the publisher for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. This review will appear on my blog in August. http://myyanabookobsession.com
August 4, 2016
4.5 stars
I loved Fool Me Once, the storyline was fun, sweet, amusing and heartwarming.
Aubry and Quinn entertained me from start to finish, so many feels...
Loved their banter, their passion and the way they were together.
Fool Me Once ticked all the boxes for me and I highly recommend this book and series.
Another wonderful read by author Katee Robert.
Thank you Entangled Brazen via Netgalley for the advance copy.
I loved Fool Me Once, the storyline was fun, sweet, amusing and heartwarming.
Aubry and Quinn entertained me from start to finish, so many feels...
Loved their banter, their passion and the way they were together.
Fool Me Once ticked all the boxes for me and I highly recommend this book and series.
Another wonderful read by author Katee Robert.
Thank you Entangled Brazen via Netgalley for the advance copy.
July 25, 2016
When it comes to fast romances, I get it. I have had them, enjoyed them, and even married due to one. However there are some things you have to have in a romance novel to make it click for me.
I wanted to love this book. I did. But there were some things missing that I find a bit necessary. Like depth of a character for one. I never read any other the other installments of the series, so maybe that is where I am lacking. There was a lot of assumption on the part of the reader when it came to the friends in this book. You can definitely tell it is part of a series.
However, these two lovebirds, while providing some hot, sexy scenes, they seem to lack any depth. We know he is a cowboy... but only because the author says so. No descriptions of his work, what he does, how hot he is in a delicious pair of Wranglers (damn it) ... nada.
She is a nerd and a complete opposite of him and they apparently hate each other. She hates people and that is extremely evident with the fact she has one friend and pisses everyone else off. Not sure if that is a good thing or not. We do get a bit more depth with her, but only just.
I can understand the author wanting a complete opposite attracts thing for this story, but I am missing the connection for some reason. I want more of something between these too. Yes, the sexy scenes are awesome, which is why I am giving it 3 stars, but I cannot see these two together.
While I enjoyed the read, it was just not one that I fell for or was completely all in for.
I wanted to love this book. I did. But there were some things missing that I find a bit necessary. Like depth of a character for one. I never read any other the other installments of the series, so maybe that is where I am lacking. There was a lot of assumption on the part of the reader when it came to the friends in this book. You can definitely tell it is part of a series.
However, these two lovebirds, while providing some hot, sexy scenes, they seem to lack any depth. We know he is a cowboy... but only because the author says so. No descriptions of his work, what he does, how hot he is in a delicious pair of Wranglers (damn it) ... nada.
She is a nerd and a complete opposite of him and they apparently hate each other. She hates people and that is extremely evident with the fact she has one friend and pisses everyone else off. Not sure if that is a good thing or not. We do get a bit more depth with her, but only just.
I can understand the author wanting a complete opposite attracts thing for this story, but I am missing the connection for some reason. I want more of something between these too. Yes, the sexy scenes are awesome, which is why I am giving it 3 stars, but I cannot see these two together.
While I enjoyed the read, it was just not one that I fell for or was completely all in for.
August 8, 2016
Let me start this review off by saying that this is part of a series, but is definitely a standalone. I had no idea it was part of a series when I started it, and didn’t lose anything throughout the story. That being said, I do plan to go back and read book one because I really liked this book and want to know all the stories!
“She didn’t hook up. For fuck’s sake, she didn’t even date. To break both those rules with a man she could barely stand? No. Absolutely not.”
Aubry has had a rough life. The only thing that has always helped her through it is the video game, Deathmatch. When she is invited to be a tester of the brand new game, she wants to go so badly, but her social anxiety holds her back.
Quinn is a laidback, easygoing cowboy. When he needs a date to his sister’s wedding, one with thick skin, to hold his family off from their matchmaking efforts, he doesn’t know who to subject to that torture.
“The woman had skin thicker than an armadillo and a don’t-give-two-fucks attitude that impressed him, despite himself.”
So, what happens when two people that can barely stand each other wind up in a car for hours on end together? Explosions!!! And it is hot as hell!
“He wanted his mouth between her legs. He wanted her on top of him. Fuck, he wanted her in every way he could possibly think of. It didn’t make sense.”
I adored this story! I loved that Aubry was a nerdy video-gamer. And Quinn—downright swoonworthy. I loved how he was able to help Aubry open up and be the woman she was deep down. It was sexy, funny, sassy, feisty, and delicious! I definitely will read more from this author. I will be going back to read about Adam and Jules, and can’t wait for Daniel’s story! ~ Tiffany, 4 stars
“She didn’t hook up. For fuck’s sake, she didn’t even date. To break both those rules with a man she could barely stand? No. Absolutely not.”
Aubry has had a rough life. The only thing that has always helped her through it is the video game, Deathmatch. When she is invited to be a tester of the brand new game, she wants to go so badly, but her social anxiety holds her back.
Quinn is a laidback, easygoing cowboy. When he needs a date to his sister’s wedding, one with thick skin, to hold his family off from their matchmaking efforts, he doesn’t know who to subject to that torture.
“The woman had skin thicker than an armadillo and a don’t-give-two-fucks attitude that impressed him, despite himself.”
So, what happens when two people that can barely stand each other wind up in a car for hours on end together? Explosions!!! And it is hot as hell!
“He wanted his mouth between her legs. He wanted her on top of him. Fuck, he wanted her in every way he could possibly think of. It didn’t make sense.”
I adored this story! I loved that Aubry was a nerdy video-gamer. And Quinn—downright swoonworthy. I loved how he was able to help Aubry open up and be the woman she was deep down. It was sexy, funny, sassy, feisty, and delicious! I definitely will read more from this author. I will be going back to read about Adam and Jules, and can’t wait for Daniel’s story! ~ Tiffany, 4 stars
August 1, 2016
***ARC Provided by the Publisher and NetGalley***
3.5 Stars
I liked the premise of this, a lot. In the intro Katee Robert mentions that she likes writing heroines who are annoying, who are difficult, and who keep pushing away men who clearly care about them. This describes Aubry perfectly.
When we first meet them in this book, Quinn and Aubry are well settled into the hatred of one another, trading barbs and dealing with being around one another because of their relationships to others they are close to, but wishing the other was not there.
This changes when a road trip and a family wedding show each of them that the other may be able to assist them in dealing with a situation they are reluctant to deal with alone. Fights ensue, the inevitable attraction of two people who fight passionately happens, and then we get to go along for the ride while watching Quinn and Aubry try to figure things out for themselves.
The writing, the dialog and the characters are excellent. You believe in the characters and the relationship. And, more importantly, you really feel that each of them benefits from a relationship with the other, that they are stronger together than they are apart.
I recommend this book.
***This and other reviews also featured on “I’m A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore” http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com***
3.5 Stars
I liked the premise of this, a lot. In the intro Katee Robert mentions that she likes writing heroines who are annoying, who are difficult, and who keep pushing away men who clearly care about them. This describes Aubry perfectly.
When we first meet them in this book, Quinn and Aubry are well settled into the hatred of one another, trading barbs and dealing with being around one another because of their relationships to others they are close to, but wishing the other was not there.
This changes when a road trip and a family wedding show each of them that the other may be able to assist them in dealing with a situation they are reluctant to deal with alone. Fights ensue, the inevitable attraction of two people who fight passionately happens, and then we get to go along for the ride while watching Quinn and Aubry try to figure things out for themselves.
The writing, the dialog and the characters are excellent. You believe in the characters and the relationship. And, more importantly, you really feel that each of them benefits from a relationship with the other, that they are stronger together than they are apart.
I recommend this book.
***This and other reviews also featured on “I’m A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore” http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com***
August 25, 2016
Quinn Baldwyn has to attend his sister Jenny’s wedding in two weeks. Quinn is a renegade: he refused to work in the oil family business; instead he chose a ranch. He’s the only son, and his family can’t wait for him to marry. Of course, he’ll need a date. Quinn only dates casually, and he can’t find anyone suitable to accompany him, lest a date would get ideas of matrimony. Enters Aubry Kaiser, best friend of Jules, the wife of a friend. They are highly unsuitable, they can’t stand each other. Aubry is a gamer, and she has just received an invitation to attend a closed alpha test of her favourite game: Deathmatch. It’s a dream come true as well as her worst nightmare: it’s an honour, but there will be people there! Aubry suffers from crippling societal anxiety: she finds it very difficult to be amongst crowds. Both Aubry and Quinn agree that they could help each other, if they don’t kill each other first!
What stupendous fun! I was only at Chapter 1, and I was almost slapping my thighs at the fun I knew was coming! Quinn likes to tease Aubry because she is so prickly, but he is not mean, he knows when to stop. Aubry doesn’t mind that much, she knows she has attitude problems, but what she did not expect is that Quinn knows how to deal with her anxiety, and he is very patient and caring. In spite of the fact that she is not his type, Quinn thinks Aubry is cute, and he finds her interesting in an offbeat sort of way. Aubry might not like people much, but Quinn is one sexy cowboy, and soon they realise that fighting their physical attraction is pointless. And oh the sizzling sex scenes that come with this!
I had read some reviews where reviewers didn’t like Aubry, but I did. I understood where she was coming from: she is not really disagreeable, she just has no filters and doesn’t know how to act around people, whereas Quinn is a people-person, and I thought this “opposites attract” trope worked splendidly. FOOL ME TWICE is a blast! There is hysterically funny banter, some insanely hot and sizzling scenes, and some very tender moments as well. The pace is very brisk, the writing smooth and young, and the dialogues are utterly spectacular! I’m not quite sure how Ms. Robert accomplishes this feat, but I could feel and hear the various cadences: Quinn’s speech reads slower, his is a modulated, silky drawl, while Aubry reads like she talks super quickly, frantically even, getting as many words as she can get in as quickly as possible, and all this without any obvious tricks from the author. This is simply fabulous and makes the reader truly feel part of their story. I was rooting for Quinn and Aubry like crazy! Oh, it’s not smooth sailing, but their difficulties felt normal, and there were no misunderstandings except the ones expected from Aubry and her neuroses. Character development is positively outstanding, their interactions: whether sex, banter, fights, tiffs, all felt genuine. FOOL ME ONCE is a true “opposites attract”: Aubry and Quinn are different, and it never feels manufactured; I felt close to those people, I wanted them to be together because it felt as if they were my friends, I could relate to them, especially Aubry. I have said it before: Katee Robert is a master at characterisation, and Aubry and Quinn are no exception.
I could dwell on everything that’s good in FOOL ME ONCE, but it could take a long, long time, because I cannot find any fault with this fabulous book! Extremely well done, Ms. Robert!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
What stupendous fun! I was only at Chapter 1, and I was almost slapping my thighs at the fun I knew was coming! Quinn likes to tease Aubry because she is so prickly, but he is not mean, he knows when to stop. Aubry doesn’t mind that much, she knows she has attitude problems, but what she did not expect is that Quinn knows how to deal with her anxiety, and he is very patient and caring. In spite of the fact that she is not his type, Quinn thinks Aubry is cute, and he finds her interesting in an offbeat sort of way. Aubry might not like people much, but Quinn is one sexy cowboy, and soon they realise that fighting their physical attraction is pointless. And oh the sizzling sex scenes that come with this!
I had read some reviews where reviewers didn’t like Aubry, but I did. I understood where she was coming from: she is not really disagreeable, she just has no filters and doesn’t know how to act around people, whereas Quinn is a people-person, and I thought this “opposites attract” trope worked splendidly. FOOL ME TWICE is a blast! There is hysterically funny banter, some insanely hot and sizzling scenes, and some very tender moments as well. The pace is very brisk, the writing smooth and young, and the dialogues are utterly spectacular! I’m not quite sure how Ms. Robert accomplishes this feat, but I could feel and hear the various cadences: Quinn’s speech reads slower, his is a modulated, silky drawl, while Aubry reads like she talks super quickly, frantically even, getting as many words as she can get in as quickly as possible, and all this without any obvious tricks from the author. This is simply fabulous and makes the reader truly feel part of their story. I was rooting for Quinn and Aubry like crazy! Oh, it’s not smooth sailing, but their difficulties felt normal, and there were no misunderstandings except the ones expected from Aubry and her neuroses. Character development is positively outstanding, their interactions: whether sex, banter, fights, tiffs, all felt genuine. FOOL ME ONCE is a true “opposites attract”: Aubry and Quinn are different, and it never feels manufactured; I felt close to those people, I wanted them to be together because it felt as if they were my friends, I could relate to them, especially Aubry. I have said it before: Katee Robert is a master at characterisation, and Aubry and Quinn are no exception.
I could dwell on everything that’s good in FOOL ME ONCE, but it could take a long, long time, because I cannot find any fault with this fabulous book! Extremely well done, Ms. Robert!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2016
This is the second book concerning the cowboys of Devil’s Falls and it is a great addition to the series. Take two characters who are somewhat messed up, have them react badly to each other and then help them find love . . . .
I really enjoy how this author writes about characters with strong traits that make them difficult for others to relate to but then fills in their backgrounds to make those traits totally understandable and the characters ones you end up really wanting to find their HEA. This is especially true in this delightful novel where Aubry Kaiser initially appears to be a people hating, game playing, highly anxious mess. She certainly reacts verbally aggressively to the constant jibes and taunts of the handsome cowboy, Quinn Baldwyn, mind you they can both give as good as they get!
So when a mutual friend suggests they should help each other- Quinn helping Aubry cope with the crowds and pressure of demonstrating a new incarnation of her favourite game at a convention and Aubry being his pretend girlfriend to stop his parents’ matchmaking at his sister’s wedding. On the journey to the events they discover that maybe, just maybe, there’s something special between them. Get ready for plenty of hot and steamy action as well as twist and turns as they strive to overcome their own anxieties and assumptions to learn to understand each other and let the other one in.
The interaction between the two main characters actually started in the first book, Foolproof Love, and it was brilliant seeing their initial chemistry reacting to produce romance - after a few explosions en route! It is great to follow their relationship development and to see what is happening with the other characters. I really hope the third book will bring Daniel and Hope back together after their thirteen years apart!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoy how this author writes about characters with strong traits that make them difficult for others to relate to but then fills in their backgrounds to make those traits totally understandable and the characters ones you end up really wanting to find their HEA. This is especially true in this delightful novel where Aubry Kaiser initially appears to be a people hating, game playing, highly anxious mess. She certainly reacts verbally aggressively to the constant jibes and taunts of the handsome cowboy, Quinn Baldwyn, mind you they can both give as good as they get!
So when a mutual friend suggests they should help each other- Quinn helping Aubry cope with the crowds and pressure of demonstrating a new incarnation of her favourite game at a convention and Aubry being his pretend girlfriend to stop his parents’ matchmaking at his sister’s wedding. On the journey to the events they discover that maybe, just maybe, there’s something special between them. Get ready for plenty of hot and steamy action as well as twist and turns as they strive to overcome their own anxieties and assumptions to learn to understand each other and let the other one in.
The interaction between the two main characters actually started in the first book, Foolproof Love, and it was brilliant seeing their initial chemistry reacting to produce romance - after a few explosions en route! It is great to follow their relationship development and to see what is happening with the other characters. I really hope the third book will bring Daniel and Hope back together after their thirteen years apart!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 29, 2016
Another great book from Katee Robert!
I loved this! It's a combo of my favorite, fake- to-real and enemies to lovers. Quinn and Aubry can't stand each other. They pick and prod at one another. Never mind that they both think the other looks good. They'd never tell anyone. Quinn needs a date for his sister's wedding and Aubry needs someone to go with her to DeathCon because of her anxiety. Jules (from book 1) has a brillant plan, they can go to those things together and help each other out. What starts as a horrible road trip ends up with them hot and heavy and falling in love. Are things smooth for them? You need to read and find out :)
*thanks to Barclay PR and the author for a copy of this in exchange for an honest review*
I loved this! It's a combo of my favorite, fake- to-real and enemies to lovers. Quinn and Aubry can't stand each other. They pick and prod at one another. Never mind that they both think the other looks good. They'd never tell anyone. Quinn needs a date for his sister's wedding and Aubry needs someone to go with her to DeathCon because of her anxiety. Jules (from book 1) has a brillant plan, they can go to those things together and help each other out. What starts as a horrible road trip ends up with them hot and heavy and falling in love. Are things smooth for them? You need to read and find out :)
*thanks to Barclay PR and the author for a copy of this in exchange for an honest review*
August 1, 2016
After meeting Aubry and Quinn in the first book in the series, Foolproof Love, it was obvious that they were going to be setup for romance in a classic enemies to lovers trope story and I was all ready for it!
Aubry is a bit of a recluse, a gamer girl with a sharp wit and tongue, but a fairly strong case of social anxiety disorder. She's got an invite to an exclusive opportunity to try out a new game at a con but fears she's not strong enough to deal with the attention and the public. Quinn is a cowboy with a heart of gold, the son of a wealthy businessman and a family that's never been happy with him for not going into the family business or marrying someone they chose. The only one he can stand is his sister who is getting married and he needs a date for the wedding. When Aubry and Quinn's friend Jules finds out about their respective problems she's got a solution - they can accompany each other! Aubry can be Quinn's date at the wedding and keep his family's matchmaking and business nagging away, and Quinn can be Aubry's bodyguard of sorts to help her feel safe out in public. They think she's crazy, but as far as solutions go it's the only option they've got. When their alone time means they can't ignore the hot chemistry between them anymore, they agree on a heated affair for as long as they're on the road, but back to their normal 'can't stand each other' attitude at home. But after spending time in each other's arms and realizing they might actually like each other, will they be able to put that all aside when the truth is they might both be ready for more?
I really enjoyed this story! Enemies to lovers is a favourite trope of mine and I loved Aubry's fighting spirit and constant give and take with Quinn in the first story where they were introduced, especially because Quinn is just as good at fighting back and doesn't take her insults seriously. In this story though, we see behind Aubry's facade and realize it's just a front for her anxiety issues. But, while Aubry expects Quinn to make fun of her for it, he does just the opposite, understanding what it's like due to his own sister having dealt with anxiety issues too. He's kind and caring and the exact opposite of what she expected. Stuck on the road together, she can't help but notice just how sexy and handsome he is when he isn't giving her lip, and their attraction explodes into some very steamy love scenes. For his part Quinn clearly is captivated by all facets of Aubry's character and is blown away by how accomplished she is in the world of gaming. And when he finds out she's written her own game, he challenges her to put herself out there and take a chance by submitting it. And really he wants her to take a chance on him. So with a fun road trip, social situations where they have each other's backs and a sexy romance, this story kept me engaged from beginning to end. The happy ending was just what I'd hoped for and the setup for the next story is making me anxious to continue the series! 4 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
Aubry is a bit of a recluse, a gamer girl with a sharp wit and tongue, but a fairly strong case of social anxiety disorder. She's got an invite to an exclusive opportunity to try out a new game at a con but fears she's not strong enough to deal with the attention and the public. Quinn is a cowboy with a heart of gold, the son of a wealthy businessman and a family that's never been happy with him for not going into the family business or marrying someone they chose. The only one he can stand is his sister who is getting married and he needs a date for the wedding. When Aubry and Quinn's friend Jules finds out about their respective problems she's got a solution - they can accompany each other! Aubry can be Quinn's date at the wedding and keep his family's matchmaking and business nagging away, and Quinn can be Aubry's bodyguard of sorts to help her feel safe out in public. They think she's crazy, but as far as solutions go it's the only option they've got. When their alone time means they can't ignore the hot chemistry between them anymore, they agree on a heated affair for as long as they're on the road, but back to their normal 'can't stand each other' attitude at home. But after spending time in each other's arms and realizing they might actually like each other, will they be able to put that all aside when the truth is they might both be ready for more?
I really enjoyed this story! Enemies to lovers is a favourite trope of mine and I loved Aubry's fighting spirit and constant give and take with Quinn in the first story where they were introduced, especially because Quinn is just as good at fighting back and doesn't take her insults seriously. In this story though, we see behind Aubry's facade and realize it's just a front for her anxiety issues. But, while Aubry expects Quinn to make fun of her for it, he does just the opposite, understanding what it's like due to his own sister having dealt with anxiety issues too. He's kind and caring and the exact opposite of what she expected. Stuck on the road together, she can't help but notice just how sexy and handsome he is when he isn't giving her lip, and their attraction explodes into some very steamy love scenes. For his part Quinn clearly is captivated by all facets of Aubry's character and is blown away by how accomplished she is in the world of gaming. And when he finds out she's written her own game, he challenges her to put herself out there and take a chance by submitting it. And really he wants her to take a chance on him. So with a fun road trip, social situations where they have each other's backs and a sexy romance, this story kept me engaged from beginning to end. The happy ending was just what I'd hoped for and the setup for the next story is making me anxious to continue the series! 4 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
August 2, 2016
My review cross-posted from Wit and Sin: http://witandsin.blogspot.com/2016/08...
Opposites attracting has never been as fun – or as hot – as it is in Fool Me Once . Aubry and Quinn have insanely good chemistry, which makes this enemies-to-lovers romance utterly irresistible.
I love imperfect heroines, and Aubry is wonderfully flawed in an incredibly relatable way. She’s smart, sexy, and has a good heart, but she also isn’t a people person, is snarky nine times out of ten, has a wealth of phobias, and suffers crippling anxiety. She isn’t an easy person, and I have a soft spot for characters like her, ones who are vulnerable and guarded, but have a lot to offer. The emotional walls Aubry has built around herself are a mile high and almost impenetrable, but Quinn gets under her skin.
Quinn is too hot, too confident, and pushes Aubry out of her comfort zone. He’s an outgoing cowboy to the bone, where she’s a serious gamer who doesn’t like to leave the house, and that’s only the beginning of their differences. They only tolerate each other because their best friends are in love. When he agrees to be her shield she can go to a gaming convention without having an anxiety attack in exchange for her being a human shield at his sister’s wedding where his family is sure to be a nightmare, neither is sure they’ll both make it through the week alive. But the attraction that blossoms between them is too potent for either to resist, and slowly they begin to open up to one another. It isn’t easy for them to admit they’re good together outside the bedroom, but I was rooting for them every step of the way. They challenge each other, make each other better, and man do they make the pages of Fool Me Once sizzle. But it isn’t the heat factor that makes them stand out (though that definitely doesn’t hurt). It’s the way Quinn helps Aubry through her anxiety attacks, the way she slowly lets down her guard, their banter, and the incredibly addictive writing of author Katee Robert that makes this book shine. I loved every bit of Fool Me Once , and I cannot wait to re-read Aubry and Quinn’s romance.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Opposites attracting has never been as fun – or as hot – as it is in Fool Me Once . Aubry and Quinn have insanely good chemistry, which makes this enemies-to-lovers romance utterly irresistible.
I love imperfect heroines, and Aubry is wonderfully flawed in an incredibly relatable way. She’s smart, sexy, and has a good heart, but she also isn’t a people person, is snarky nine times out of ten, has a wealth of phobias, and suffers crippling anxiety. She isn’t an easy person, and I have a soft spot for characters like her, ones who are vulnerable and guarded, but have a lot to offer. The emotional walls Aubry has built around herself are a mile high and almost impenetrable, but Quinn gets under her skin.
Quinn is too hot, too confident, and pushes Aubry out of her comfort zone. He’s an outgoing cowboy to the bone, where she’s a serious gamer who doesn’t like to leave the house, and that’s only the beginning of their differences. They only tolerate each other because their best friends are in love. When he agrees to be her shield she can go to a gaming convention without having an anxiety attack in exchange for her being a human shield at his sister’s wedding where his family is sure to be a nightmare, neither is sure they’ll both make it through the week alive. But the attraction that blossoms between them is too potent for either to resist, and slowly they begin to open up to one another. It isn’t easy for them to admit they’re good together outside the bedroom, but I was rooting for them every step of the way. They challenge each other, make each other better, and man do they make the pages of Fool Me Once sizzle. But it isn’t the heat factor that makes them stand out (though that definitely doesn’t hurt). It’s the way Quinn helps Aubry through her anxiety attacks, the way she slowly lets down her guard, their banter, and the incredibly addictive writing of author Katee Robert that makes this book shine. I loved every bit of Fool Me Once , and I cannot wait to re-read Aubry and Quinn’s romance.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
August 5, 2016
I started Fool Me Once not sure how things would work out. I had not read the synopsis but, I wanted to help out by giving the book a try. I received an early release copy in exchange for an honest review. I can honestly say there was only one thing that did not work for me with this book and that is the "big girl pants" saying that I totally dislike in all books. However, Fool Me Once is a great book. I was not aware of this series prior to receiving this book. Aubry, whose name I almost forgot after Quinn gave her a nickname that sticks with you, is a loner in a small town. She has one friend who owns a really cool cafe. She has had a hard life which has taught her to keep to herself and not trust other people. Despite having a family she does not appear to be close to them so the reader expects some horrible things to have happened to her. Quinn was raised by rich parents that he does his best to stay away from, with the exception of family dinners. Quinn and Aubry have one thing in common. They both have events coming up where they need a buffer and agree to be each other's buffer, despite how hostile they have been towards each other in the past. What ensues is a crazy, sex-filled, fall into each other.
Quinn and Aubry are very well described. The reader gets a good feel for Aubry's no nonsense, tough, smart mouth attitude. You also get a feel for what she goes through when surrounded by a crowd of people. We empathize with Aubry because we can hear her start to hyperventilate. Quinn is leading a drama free life, though he can’t help be antagonize Aubry whenever he sees her. Aubry and Quinn typically have Aubry’s and Quinn’s friends around as buffers. They are on their own for an entire week as they go from one event to another where each is being tested. They both find out that they like each other a bit more than they thought and they especially like sex with each other. When the stress levels highest, will Quinn and Aubry come out of these two events as a couple or hating each other more than they did before the trip started? The reader cannot help but hope Quinn really does not want one of the socialite girls that keep throwing themselves at him and that Aubry will let down her guard and let Quinn into her life. One great thing about Quinn is that he does not mince words too often. When he decides he has something good with Aubry he goes for it. Review can also be seen at LadyTechie’s Book Musings http://LadyTechiesBookMusings.blogspo....
Quinn and Aubry are very well described. The reader gets a good feel for Aubry's no nonsense, tough, smart mouth attitude. You also get a feel for what she goes through when surrounded by a crowd of people. We empathize with Aubry because we can hear her start to hyperventilate. Quinn is leading a drama free life, though he can’t help be antagonize Aubry whenever he sees her. Aubry and Quinn typically have Aubry’s and Quinn’s friends around as buffers. They are on their own for an entire week as they go from one event to another where each is being tested. They both find out that they like each other a bit more than they thought and they especially like sex with each other. When the stress levels highest, will Quinn and Aubry come out of these two events as a couple or hating each other more than they did before the trip started? The reader cannot help but hope Quinn really does not want one of the socialite girls that keep throwing themselves at him and that Aubry will let down her guard and let Quinn into her life. One great thing about Quinn is that he does not mince words too often. When he decides he has something good with Aubry he goes for it. Review can also be seen at LadyTechie’s Book Musings http://LadyTechiesBookMusings.blogspo....
July 24, 2016
This STEAMY romance takes the phrase 'opposites attract' to a brand new level! Aubry Kaiser is a girl after my own heart. She can't stand most people. She keeps to herself and depends on no one else. She is an independent woman to the extreme. When presented with the opportunity of a lifetime she has no choice but to turn it down, if only for the fact that her anxiety gets the best of her. Another opportunity turns up in the form of a gorgeous, wise ass cowboy who does nothing but get on her nerves every time they are next to each other. There's a catch though. Quinn Baldwyn needs Aubry's help in return. Tit for tat one might say. Finally agreeing to each other's terms, they set off on the road trip of a lifetime, where they become closer than ever, and the fact that they are so damn opposite, might be their saving grace in the end.
Find out what happens when you take a risk...just this once. It could completely fail, and you're back to square one...OR...you can have something that you've never known you needed. An arrangement turns into so much more in FOOL ME ONCE by Katee Robert. This enemies to lovers romance is just what I needed. Two people, so different, and yet their hearts beat for one another. Aubry and Quinn's story will make you laugh and it will melt your heart. Fast paced, sexy as sin, and full of witty banter, makes this Foolproof Love novel a winner in my book!
*Gifted copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Find out what happens when you take a risk...just this once. It could completely fail, and you're back to square one...OR...you can have something that you've never known you needed. An arrangement turns into so much more in FOOL ME ONCE by Katee Robert. This enemies to lovers romance is just what I needed. Two people, so different, and yet their hearts beat for one another. Aubry and Quinn's story will make you laugh and it will melt your heart. Fast paced, sexy as sin, and full of witty banter, makes this Foolproof Love novel a winner in my book!
*Gifted copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
July 16, 2016
Fool Me Once is an enemies to lovers story with snarky banter that had me snickering. It is also sweet especially the end. Has a grumpy heroine that I didn't think I'd enjoy so much but I totally did, I absolutely loved Aubry. She was such an awesome heroine flaws and all. I absolutely adored the hero too. I love a hero who's a bear of a man, who towers over the heroine and has Neanderthal like qualities. Quinn fit this bill to a T and to top it off he was sweet too *swoon* There was definitely a lot of swooning going on while it read this book.
I truly enjoyed this quick read and would definitely recommend it to not only to lovers of the enemies to lovers trope but everyone.
ARC provided by publisher through Net Galley
I truly enjoyed this quick read and would definitely recommend it to not only to lovers of the enemies to lovers trope but everyone.
ARC provided by publisher through Net Galley
August 1, 2016
Fool Me Once is a fun, opposites attract, novella. I'm a huge fan of banter in my stories and that is one of the things I love about this one. Quinn and Aubry are frenemies and when they make a mutually beneficial deal with each other that has them spending several days together, they learn that the attraction is stronger than their dislike for each other.
I loved that Aubry was geeky and had social anxiety. It's nice to read about people with real problems, not the perfect Ken and Barbie characters. The way Quinn helped her through her social anxieties was just plain sweet and makes you fall more in love with him. This was a fun, short read.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I loved that Aubry was geeky and had social anxiety. It's nice to read about people with real problems, not the perfect Ken and Barbie characters. The way Quinn helped her through her social anxieties was just plain sweet and makes you fall more in love with him. This was a fun, short read.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2016
ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley
Fool Me Once was quick, light, and sexy. Interesting characters and great banter made this an enjoyable read. It doesn't delve too deep into the characters and their issues but I honestly didn't mind. Sometimes it's nice to read a book that stays on the surface of things in between heavier books. I could tell this was in a series and while I hadn't read the first book, Foolproof Love, it wasn't too hard to put relationships and whatnot together. I'll definitely keep this series in mind when I'm looking another quick, easy read.
Fool Me Once was quick, light, and sexy. Interesting characters and great banter made this an enjoyable read. It doesn't delve too deep into the characters and their issues but I honestly didn't mind. Sometimes it's nice to read a book that stays on the surface of things in between heavier books. I could tell this was in a series and while I hadn't read the first book, Foolproof Love, it wasn't too hard to put relationships and whatnot together. I'll definitely keep this series in mind when I'm looking another quick, easy read.
August 2, 2016
A sexy sexy roadtrip!
June 19, 2021
Aubry is an antisocial web design by day, gamer by night. She is Jules' BFF from book 1. Aubry also has social anxiety around crowds and strangers. As a result her circle of friends is super small (Jules). She is also one of the best gamers in the world and qualifies to test/be the first to preview a new version of her favorite game at DeathCon. Quinn (Adam and Daniel's friend) is in need of a date to his sister's wedding. His parents are oil tycoons and want him to take over. Quinn doesn't want that life and likes being a cowboy and working with his hands. His parents throw women at him left and right and he thinks a date will prevent that. He offers to be Audrey's protector/bodyguard from the crowds and "clear a path" through them and in exchange she will be his date.
What starts as an enemies (they really haven't gotten along in the year they've really known each other; her BFF was dating, then engaged, then married his BFF Adam), turns into lovers. I thought Quinn was really good at talking Aubry down from her panic attacks. He didn't belittle or think less of her. Aubry was relatable as she also has a reason for why she does what she does. There is some angst, but is resolved quickly.
Hope is also introduced in this one. She was Daniel's girlfriend (I think) once upon a time. After a car accident that killed her brother and severely injured her, she left town to never come back. Her and Daniel's story is next.
I will be using this for the Ripped Bodice Summer Bingo bodyguard square (it's not technically a bodyguard story. However Quinn does function in this one as one, so fuck it, I'm using it since I think (to a point) the categories are open to some interpretation).
What starts as an enemies (they really haven't gotten along in the year they've really known each other; her BFF was dating, then engaged, then married his BFF Adam), turns into lovers. I thought Quinn was really good at talking Aubry down from her panic attacks. He didn't belittle or think less of her. Aubry was relatable as she also has a reason for why she does what she does. There is some angst, but is resolved quickly.
Hope is also introduced in this one. She was Daniel's girlfriend (I think) once upon a time. After a car accident that killed her brother and severely injured her, she left town to never come back. Her and Daniel's story is next.
I will be using this for the Ripped Bodice Summer Bingo bodyguard square (it's not technically a bodyguard story. However Quinn does function in this one as one, so fuck it, I'm using it since I think (to a point) the categories are open to some interpretation).
September 23, 2018
3.5 stars
I was a bit unsure of how this would be, since the heroine is a snarky, tatted, shut-in gamer but this was good. h still has her issues and didn't change yet her and the hero complimented each other.
I was a bit unsure of how this would be, since the heroine is a snarky, tatted, shut-in gamer but this was good. h still has her issues and didn't change yet her and the hero complimented each other.
April 12, 2024
READ 🎧
the enemies to lovers trope in this ATEEE!!
lordd i will be thinking about that hotel scene for a while! he had her order room service while he was servicing her!!! OOOFFF cmon Katee you neverrr disappoint with the spice
the enemies to lovers trope in this ATEEE!!
lordd i will be thinking about that hotel scene for a while! he had her order room service while he was servicing her!!! OOOFFF cmon Katee you neverrr disappoint with the spice
April 14, 2023
Quinn and Aubry cannot stand each other at the beginning of their story. But they share mutual friends so they can't help running into each other in their small town.
It's only under extreme circumstanced that these two would ever agree to work together but that's exactly want happens. Quinn needs a thick skinned date to his sister's high society wedding and Aubry needs a human shield to get her to Deathcon, a gaming convention that is a dream come true but that her crippling social anxiety would make it impossible.
The whole story takes place within a week but I loved the pacing, the writing, the well developed characters and the snarky/flirty banter between the MCs.
This is an enemies-to-lovers trope with forced proximity and the author works her magic and makes it work. There is great chemistry between Quinn and Aubry but it's balanced with great dialogue, vulnerable moments and a strong emotional connection that flows and keeps pace with the story. This was easily a book I couldn't put down and read in one day :)
What kept this one from being a full 5 stars was the rushed ending. I wanted to see some more angsty groveling! They go from blissfully happy and ready to give their relationship a real try to both of them throwing in the towel at the first sign of trouble. I loved that they both take some responsibility but I'm (almost) always on the heroine's side so I was waiting for Aubry to call Quinn out when he forgets to introduce her to Hope as his girlfriend. It felt like a big deal because they had both just admitted to having real feelings for each other and had just made their relationship official so it was understandable to me that his brush off in front of a woman who highlights all of Aubry's perceived short comings would be a problem. The fact that it's never addressed rubbed me the wrong way.
The reconciliation was adorable and the epilogue. . . I LOVED it! It was unique, it was cute and OTT when it comes to grand gestures so I was happy at the end. Still would recommend!
Favorite Moments/Quotes:
- The dinner date. Quinn being true to his word and distracting her from her phobias, getting her to talk about her dreams. I love these small moments in a romance, it adds that extra touch to the MCs story.
- The banter!
- Deathcon
-Geeky babies
* * * Library Loan * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
It's only under extreme circumstanced that these two would ever agree to work together but that's exactly want happens. Quinn needs a thick skinned date to his sister's high society wedding and Aubry needs a human shield to get her to Deathcon, a gaming convention that is a dream come true but that her crippling social anxiety would make it impossible.
The whole story takes place within a week but I loved the pacing, the writing, the well developed characters and the snarky/flirty banter between the MCs.
This is an enemies-to-lovers trope with forced proximity and the author works her magic and makes it work. There is great chemistry between Quinn and Aubry but it's balanced with great dialogue, vulnerable moments and a strong emotional connection that flows and keeps pace with the story. This was easily a book I couldn't put down and read in one day :)
What kept this one from being a full 5 stars was the rushed ending. I wanted to see some more angsty groveling! They go from blissfully happy and ready to give their relationship a real try to both of them throwing in the towel at the first sign of trouble. I loved that they both take some responsibility but I'm (almost) always on the heroine's side so I was waiting for Aubry to call Quinn out when he forgets to introduce her to Hope as his girlfriend. It felt like a big deal because they had both just admitted to having real feelings for each other and had just made their relationship official so it was understandable to me that his brush off in front of a woman who highlights all of Aubry's perceived short comings would be a problem. The fact that it's never addressed rubbed me the wrong way.
The reconciliation was adorable and the epilogue. . . I LOVED it! It was unique, it was cute and OTT when it comes to grand gestures so I was happy at the end. Still would recommend!
Favorite Moments/Quotes:
- The dinner date. Quinn being true to his word and distracting her from her phobias, getting her to talk about her dreams. I love these small moments in a romance, it adds that extra touch to the MCs story.
- The banter!
"Strip?" She blinked. "I thought this was some kind of seduction. Aren't you going to run me a bath and slowly remove my clothes while whispering sweet nothings in my ear and then wash my hair while I bliss out?"
"What the hell kind of books have you been reading?"
"Fiction, obviously." She grumbled under her breath.
- Deathcon
She actually wiggled with joy. "Oh my God, Quinn, thank you for this. Seriously, being able to see this game on the ground level of production is something I'm going to remember even when I'm ancient and have Alzheimer's and have forgotten all of my cats' names."
He stared, not sure if he wanted to kiss her or just sit back and watch her be happy and free for a little while longer.
-Geeky babies
He didn't want to stand by and watch her settle down with some geeky guy. Marry him. Have little geeky babies with him.
Quinn wanted her to have geeky babies with him.
* * * Library Loan * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
on-kindle-to-read
March 13, 20173/13/17 on sale .99.
July 20, 2016
Aubry Kaiser is kind of a recluse… she doesn’t like people and she deals with crippling anxiety on a daily basis. When an invite to demo her favorite game at a video game convention arrives she can’t contain her joy … but then real life interrupts and she realizes that she’ll have to decline the invite because there’s no way she’ll be able to go and deal with the thousands of people who will be at the convention.
Quinn Baldwyn really dislikes his family… except for his sister, and she’s pretty much the only one who can get him to leave Devil’s Falls at this point. Her upcoming wedding is bound to be a circus and with his parents throwing women at him and wondering when he’s going to return to the fold and take over the company oil business, he’s dreading it even more.
But then a crazy idea is presented… Why don’t they run interference for each other. Quinn could make sure Aubry is safe at the convention and Aubry can make sure his parents don’t harass him about his life at the wedding… totally a good idea right?
Of course Aubry can’t fly, so a 3 day road trip it is. If they can manage to tolerate each other things should go perfectly.
You guys, Aubry has more anxiety about everything than you can imagine. While I’m not sure about the onset of these things… like was it something she always has had to deal with, or did it just arise more recently… it was disheartening to see her deal with everything by hiding out in her apartment. I’m glad though, that she has some trusted friends to help her get through her bouts and to lean on when she needs them.
Quinn is a cowboy through and through, and he and Aubry are like oil and water. They argue and banter but in a total foreplay kind of way. You can tell that their banter doesn’t have any hurt or heat behind it and I think that’s what I liked the most. I enjoyed them together. I know you're like wait they dislike each other right, but remember that thin line between love and hate, well, it turns out they can't deny the attraction they have for each other and they find themselves "practicing" for the role of boyfriend/girlfriend a bit more than they expected. I really enjoyed the connection between them and this was totally a steamy and sexy read. Like … fan yourself hot.
The drama was somewhat minimal, though Aubry was kind of a loose cannon and jumped to conclusions and that irritated me somewhat, but I thought the end of this one was pretty cute.
I definitely am looking forward to Daniel & Hope’s story and hoping that maybe this series might extend beyond the 3 that are currently expected because… who’d have thunk it… I really am enjoying these cowboys!
Thank you to the publisher for an early copy in exchange for my thoughts.
Quinn Baldwyn really dislikes his family… except for his sister, and she’s pretty much the only one who can get him to leave Devil’s Falls at this point. Her upcoming wedding is bound to be a circus and with his parents throwing women at him and wondering when he’s going to return to the fold and take over the company oil business, he’s dreading it even more.
But then a crazy idea is presented… Why don’t they run interference for each other. Quinn could make sure Aubry is safe at the convention and Aubry can make sure his parents don’t harass him about his life at the wedding… totally a good idea right?
Of course Aubry can’t fly, so a 3 day road trip it is. If they can manage to tolerate each other things should go perfectly.
You guys, Aubry has more anxiety about everything than you can imagine. While I’m not sure about the onset of these things… like was it something she always has had to deal with, or did it just arise more recently… it was disheartening to see her deal with everything by hiding out in her apartment. I’m glad though, that she has some trusted friends to help her get through her bouts and to lean on when she needs them.
Quinn is a cowboy through and through, and he and Aubry are like oil and water. They argue and banter but in a total foreplay kind of way. You can tell that their banter doesn’t have any hurt or heat behind it and I think that’s what I liked the most. I enjoyed them together. I know you're like wait they dislike each other right, but remember that thin line between love and hate, well, it turns out they can't deny the attraction they have for each other and they find themselves "practicing" for the role of boyfriend/girlfriend a bit more than they expected. I really enjoyed the connection between them and this was totally a steamy and sexy read. Like … fan yourself hot.
The drama was somewhat minimal, though Aubry was kind of a loose cannon and jumped to conclusions and that irritated me somewhat, but I thought the end of this one was pretty cute.
I definitely am looking forward to Daniel & Hope’s story and hoping that maybe this series might extend beyond the 3 that are currently expected because… who’d have thunk it… I really am enjoying these cowboys!
Thank you to the publisher for an early copy in exchange for my thoughts.
July 29, 2016
Copy recevied via Netgalley for an honest review
We met Aubry and Quinn in Foolproof Love (doesn't matter if you haven't read it, but why would you want to miss out?) and now we get their story.
They say opposites attract - and you can't get any more opposite than Aubry and Quinn! They couldn't be any more wrong for each other... which makes them so right!
They say they can't stand each other, but when a mutually agreeable arrangement is made between them, things really start to heat up. Sparks fly. There is sexual tension by the bucketload.
And fighting really is foreplay.
Fool Me Once is a hot and sexy read, with a dose of the swoonworthy thrown in. There are laughs, there are fights, and then there are the sexy times... wowsers!
From the start I wanted, no I needed them to be together. Even when they were hating, there was just something between them, and they weren't hiss and snark.
I have adored all that I have read by Ms Robert so far, and can't wait so see what she brings us next.
August 13, 2016
Quinn’s and Aubry’s story is a classic enemies-to-lovers one but I was still surprised to learn that their mutual dislike for each other wasn’t a front for attraction or love in the guise of hate. And it’d taken very special circumstances for these two to get together to resolve their own deeply entrenched personal biases and issues.
As polar opposites, there’s very little to go on between them apart from lust and it’s refreshing that both the lead characters readily admit this much, to the extent where they convince themselves that what’s between them is merely surface deep. But therein lies the conflict as well and perhaps the cliché as well will be the ultimate deciding factor of their compatibility and the conscious decision to find common ground together towards the end.
But if Katee Robert explored a fair bit of Aubry’s rather insane social phobias and her anxieties, I felt as though I’d been left hanging with Quinn’s own unresolved burdens: we’re told about his beef with personal relationships but not given the exact circumstances why, to start with. I also felt that his personal struggles with his sister and his best friend’s death could have been expanded on, the details of which could have shaped him out to be a more multifaceted and sympathetic leading character to match an already complicated female lead.
The devil in the details aside, ‘Fool me Once’ is a very easy read and it’s mostly an enjoyable ride (throw in all the cowboy sex jokes here, because there’s nothing there that the story doesn’t already use) without too much angst or unnecessary drama for a story this short. Quinn and Aubry acted the way I fully expected them to, and as extreme as the latter can get at times, I mostly thought this unusual couple was memorable because of how different they were without pretending to be anything else other than what they could be.
*ARC by netgalley
(Anti-socially grateful, as always)
As polar opposites, there’s very little to go on between them apart from lust and it’s refreshing that both the lead characters readily admit this much, to the extent where they convince themselves that what’s between them is merely surface deep. But therein lies the conflict as well and perhaps the cliché as well will be the ultimate deciding factor of their compatibility and the conscious decision to find common ground together towards the end.
But if Katee Robert explored a fair bit of Aubry’s rather insane social phobias and her anxieties, I felt as though I’d been left hanging with Quinn’s own unresolved burdens: we’re told about his beef with personal relationships but not given the exact circumstances why, to start with. I also felt that his personal struggles with his sister and his best friend’s death could have been expanded on, the details of which could have shaped him out to be a more multifaceted and sympathetic leading character to match an already complicated female lead.
The devil in the details aside, ‘Fool me Once’ is a very easy read and it’s mostly an enjoyable ride (throw in all the cowboy sex jokes here, because there’s nothing there that the story doesn’t already use) without too much angst or unnecessary drama for a story this short. Quinn and Aubry acted the way I fully expected them to, and as extreme as the latter can get at times, I mostly thought this unusual couple was memorable because of how different they were without pretending to be anything else other than what they could be.
*ARC by netgalley
(Anti-socially grateful, as always)
August 4, 2016
I read a lot of books. Many are solid, well written with good stories, but few really stand out. Fool Me Once falls into the “stand out” category. I was hooked in the first few sentences and remained engrossed until the last word. The characters and story are great and the dialog was particularly entertaining.
Robert manages to create a heroine who is completely neurotic, prickly as can be and yet totally sympathetic, even likable. Quinn is amazing with Aubrey. He’s compassionate and understanding and seems to always know how best to approach any given concern Aubrey’s tortured mind creates. Quinn’s sympathetic side doesn’t equate to softness. He’s caring, he caters to Aubrey’s needs, he never makes her feel bad for her fears and he’s still strong and assertive. I found this completely lovable.
In the week they spend on the road together, they decide to give into their attraction and the sex is off the hook hot. Quinn is amazing in finding Aubrey’s fantasies and giving them to her, including using words to create a virtual voyeur for one especially steamy session. It’s ingenious to create the illusion of sex in front of a stranger without actually inviting someone in.
It wouldn’t be a good novel, or very realistic, if there wasn’t some strife and these two find plenty, both real and imagined. Between Aubrey’s many phobias and Quinn’s family, the weeks is much more involved that just a stop at DeathCon and Quinn’s sister’s wedding. Every day, every situation is rife with stressors. Quinn does so well until Aubrey’s jealousy causes her to pull back completely. Initially, he reacts badly to her overreaction and all seems lost. When help comes from an unlikely ally and confidant both must admit to themselves that they’ve fallen in love.
The epilogue is really sweet but I won’t spoil your surprise. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more from Robert.
Robert manages to create a heroine who is completely neurotic, prickly as can be and yet totally sympathetic, even likable. Quinn is amazing with Aubrey. He’s compassionate and understanding and seems to always know how best to approach any given concern Aubrey’s tortured mind creates. Quinn’s sympathetic side doesn’t equate to softness. He’s caring, he caters to Aubrey’s needs, he never makes her feel bad for her fears and he’s still strong and assertive. I found this completely lovable.
In the week they spend on the road together, they decide to give into their attraction and the sex is off the hook hot. Quinn is amazing in finding Aubrey’s fantasies and giving them to her, including using words to create a virtual voyeur for one especially steamy session. It’s ingenious to create the illusion of sex in front of a stranger without actually inviting someone in.
It wouldn’t be a good novel, or very realistic, if there wasn’t some strife and these two find plenty, both real and imagined. Between Aubrey’s many phobias and Quinn’s family, the weeks is much more involved that just a stop at DeathCon and Quinn’s sister’s wedding. Every day, every situation is rife with stressors. Quinn does so well until Aubrey’s jealousy causes her to pull back completely. Initially, he reacts badly to her overreaction and all seems lost. When help comes from an unlikely ally and confidant both must admit to themselves that they’ve fallen in love.
The epilogue is really sweet but I won’t spoil your surprise. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more from Robert.
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