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Sweet Southern Trouble
An ambitious Southern belle
Marabelle Fairchild knows she's a gal who can get things done. Feeling unappreciated at the exclusive private school where she's a kindergarten aide and varsity tennis coach, Marabelle determines to score with the next big fundraiser. What she doesn't expect? A smokin' hot football coach to throw her off her game...
A reclusive NFL bachelor...
NFL coach Nick Frasier is Raleigh's most eligible bachelor, but he wants to focus on his career...not his playboy status. He doesn't need a smart-mouthed, pint-sized kindergarten teacher pestering him. So he cuts Marabelle a deal—in exchange for Nick sponsoring a bachelor auction starring him and his gorgeous celebrity pals, Marabelle will pose as his fiancée to ward off unwanted advances.
What could possibly go wrong?
Marabelle Fairchild knows she's a gal who can get things done. Feeling unappreciated at the exclusive private school where she's a kindergarten aide and varsity tennis coach, Marabelle determines to score with the next big fundraiser. What she doesn't expect? A smokin' hot football coach to throw her off her game...
A reclusive NFL bachelor...
NFL coach Nick Frasier is Raleigh's most eligible bachelor, but he wants to focus on his career...not his playboy status. He doesn't need a smart-mouthed, pint-sized kindergarten teacher pestering him. So he cuts Marabelle a deal—in exchange for Nick sponsoring a bachelor auction starring him and his gorgeous celebrity pals, Marabelle will pose as his fiancée to ward off unwanted advances.
What could possibly go wrong?
416 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published May 2, 2017
19 people are currently reading
495 people want to read
About the author
Michele Summers
4 books194 followersROMANCE DESIGNED TO MELT YOUR HEART!
SWEET SOUTHERN TROUBLE is coming May 2nd. Read all about Marabelle, a pint-size kindergarten teacher, and how she wrangles a bunch of big, tough professional football players to help with her auction. Nick, NFL head coach, doesn't know what hit him when he crosses paths with this tiny tornado! Can't wait for you to read about their funny banter and sweet budding romance.
Let me know if you enjoy this one as much as I enjoyed writing it.
All four books can be purchased from your favorite retailer. Happy reading!
Would love to hear from you. Drop me a line at michelesummers1112@gmail.com or join my newsletter to get the latest news, updates, or sneak peeks. You can sign up on my website: www.michelesummers.com
SWEET SOUTHERN TROUBLE is coming May 2nd. Read all about Marabelle, a pint-size kindergarten teacher, and how she wrangles a bunch of big, tough professional football players to help with her auction. Nick, NFL head coach, doesn't know what hit him when he crosses paths with this tiny tornado! Can't wait for you to read about their funny banter and sweet budding romance.
Let me know if you enjoy this one as much as I enjoyed writing it.
All four books can be purchased from your favorite retailer. Happy reading!
Would love to hear from you. Drop me a line at michelesummers1112@gmail.com or join my newsletter to get the latest news, updates, or sneak peeks. You can sign up on my website: www.michelesummers.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
April 22, 2017
I am a huge fan of the fake relationship premise and love anything set in the south, so I was all over this book {even though I really don't like the cover.} Sadly, I was pretty disappointed.
I liked Marabelle for the most part. She's feisty and speaks her mind and can hold her own. The situation with her family is a little weird, but I could overlook that. Nick...well, I wanted to like him. His inner monologue is kinda horrible. In the beginning he belittles Marabelle's profession, asks if she's gay because she says he's not her type, and only calls her Tinker Bell within minutes of meeting her.
I would love to say that things evened out, but they didn't. There were some good scenes and some good banter, but it was sort of a car crash I couldn't look away from. There was a lot of push and pull, a lot of drama, and a lot of crying. At times it felt like there were extra plot lines thrown in for fun. Not to mention all of the extra {and random} POVs.
Overall, there was something that kept me reading, but I'm not sure what it was. By the reviews already up, I'm in the minority, so it's pretty clear this just wasn't for me. I won't be continuing the series.
**Huge thanks to Sourcebooks and NetGalley for providing the arc free of charge**
I liked Marabelle for the most part. She's feisty and speaks her mind and can hold her own. The situation with her family is a little weird, but I could overlook that. Nick...well, I wanted to like him. His inner monologue is kinda horrible. In the beginning he belittles Marabelle's profession, asks if she's gay because she says he's not her type, and only calls her Tinker Bell within minutes of meeting her.
I would love to say that things evened out, but they didn't. There were some good scenes and some good banter, but it was sort of a car crash I couldn't look away from. There was a lot of push and pull, a lot of drama, and a lot of crying. At times it felt like there were extra plot lines thrown in for fun. Not to mention all of the extra {and random} POVs.
Overall, there was something that kept me reading, but I'm not sure what it was. By the reviews already up, I'm in the minority, so it's pretty clear this just wasn't for me. I won't be continuing the series.
**Huge thanks to Sourcebooks and NetGalley for providing the arc free of charge**
May 2, 2017
Sweet Southern Trouble" by Michele Summers is the story of Nick and Marabelle. This is my first book by Ms. Summers and I hope to read more of her stories! This was a fun, hot hard and hard to put down story! Nick is a former NFL star and now coaches a NFL Team. Nick is used to women throwing themselves at him and people being taken with him. Nick was a hot male character that I so enjoyed his interactions with Marabelle. So Marabelle is somewhat a surprise to him. Marabelle is a Kindergartner assist teacher. A few school mishaps that have happen to her have put her on the not so popular list at school with the other teachers. But they have lined her up to talk Nick into helping them with their fundraiser and bachelor auction. If Marabelle can get Nick to help out this can possible set her up with a more permanent job there at the school. Completely enjoyed this book! *A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection*
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May 4, 2017
**ARC Provided by the Author and NetGalley***
This one took a while for me to get into, as I was not the biggest fan of Nick. His inner dialog makes him come across as a jerk, and the things he thinks about Marabelle, and the things he thinks she has done, make him seem like someone who is not really a hero of a romance novel.
Marabelle and Nick were interesting together, and I mostly believed their relationship and their attraction. Although, a lot of this was from the idea that the things Nick said to her and the things he was thinking are very different.
Once I got past this, I was mostly able to enjoy the story. The writing was strong overall and the characters, after about the 25% mark were relateable and likeable.
I do recommend this title, with the caveat that it is a book that improves as you get farther into the story. By the end, I did like Nick, even though I was not 100% sold on him, I do believe he honestly loves her, and that is really what matters.
This one took a while for me to get into, as I was not the biggest fan of Nick. His inner dialog makes him come across as a jerk, and the things he thinks about Marabelle, and the things he thinks she has done, make him seem like someone who is not really a hero of a romance novel.
Marabelle and Nick were interesting together, and I mostly believed their relationship and their attraction. Although, a lot of this was from the idea that the things Nick said to her and the things he was thinking are very different.
Once I got past this, I was mostly able to enjoy the story. The writing was strong overall and the characters, after about the 25% mark were relateable and likeable.
I do recommend this title, with the caveat that it is a book that improves as you get farther into the story. By the end, I did like Nick, even though I was not 100% sold on him, I do believe he honestly loves her, and that is really what matters.
January 26, 2018
Not sure how I found this book, but I'm so glad I did! Sweet Southern Trouble is the story of Marabelle Fairchild, a petite young kindergarten assistant who has been tasked with throwing the school's biggest fundraiser. She's been asked to lure Nick Frasier, former NFL quarterback and current football coach for a charity bachelor auction.
Nick is a bit of a ladies man, and has gotten himself into a bit of trouble with his team. He is NOT cool with the idea of being an auction bachelor, but needs a break from the ladies, so he makes a deal with Marabelle - pretend to be his fiancée and he'll use his celebrity connections to get lots of bachelors for her auction.
Marabelle grew up in a rich family with an overbearing mother. Her mother always made her feel unloved, and she has some massive insecurities. Marabelle ends up at Nick's house and some of his team members are there. Marabelle cooks for them, and they are instantly in love with her (and her amazingly good food). She starts to spend time with Beau, the team's quarterback, and they become very good friends. Nick, of course, is infuriated by this. As it turns out, he's fallen head over heels for his "Tinker Bell".
I really loved this story. The characters (with the exception of Nick's ex) were great, and I loved the small town setting. I wish the book would have been told in the first person - it would have been a 5 star book then. There were a few times I wanted to smack Marabelle upside her head and tell her to wake up! But she was great, and I loved Nick.
This was a good read and I would highly recommend!
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May 14, 2017
I finished the book but I think the best thing about it was the hot man on the cover. LOL. Things I didn't like:
(1) while Nick and Marabelle (the MC's) are on a mini-break, he agrees to be the date of Ginger (his ex-gf) to this ball where he knows Marabelle will be at. But that's not the thing that's bad --- he, while waiting for Ginger to get ready for the said ball, realizes that Marabelle is The One and he needs to get her back YET he still goes to the ball with Ginger. THEN somehow at the ball, even if Marabelle sees Nick and Ginger together, Marabelle and Nick magically work out all their issues at the ball then live HEA.
(2) Beau, a QB on Nick's team has become a close friend of Marabelle's. In the book, he somehow decides to seduce Ginger (the ex-gf of Nick) as a way to find information that will help Marabelle. And they have 2 hook-ups in the book! Why in the world are these scenes even necessary? And to be honest, the whole idea of Beau doing this in the first place all in the name of being Marabelle's friend and helping out his coach (like some weirdo-Cupid-savior-man) is kinda creepy.
(3) Marabelle herself is at times kickass and sassy and feisty. Then at other times she's a doormat. UGH.
Deleting the book from my Kindle.
(1) while Nick and Marabelle (the MC's) are on a mini-break, he agrees to be the date of Ginger (his ex-gf) to this ball where he knows Marabelle will be at. But that's not the thing that's bad --- he, while waiting for Ginger to get ready for the said ball, realizes that Marabelle is The One and he needs to get her back YET he still goes to the ball with Ginger. THEN somehow at the ball, even if Marabelle sees Nick and Ginger together, Marabelle and Nick magically work out all their issues at the ball then live HEA.
(2) Beau, a QB on Nick's team has become a close friend of Marabelle's. In the book, he somehow decides to seduce Ginger (the ex-gf of Nick) as a way to find information that will help Marabelle. And they have 2 hook-ups in the book! Why in the world are these scenes even necessary? And to be honest, the whole idea of Beau doing this in the first place all in the name of being Marabelle's friend and helping out his coach (like some weirdo-Cupid-savior-man) is kinda creepy.
(3) Marabelle herself is at times kickass and sassy and feisty. Then at other times she's a doormat. UGH.
Deleting the book from my Kindle.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2017
Loved this fourth installment of the series! I love a friends to lovers trope--and Sweet Southern Trouble was SO much fun. Nick and Marabelle started off like oil and water, but they definitely heated up! Loved how the players became involved--loved that Nick and his inner caveman were tamed. I didn't love how Marabelle allowed herself to be railroaded, but I did love how Nick and the players rallied around her once the truth came out. It was a great, quick summer read and I can't wait to see what Ms. Summers has next up her sleeve.
May 1, 2019
My hearts soaring!! Michele Summers has done it again!! Sweet Southern Trouble is her best book, yet.
Funny, spicy, and super-sexy-hot.
Marabelle needs Nick's help getting her celebrity charity auction set up without a hitch, in order to save her school teaching career.
Nick needs Marabelle's sweet, next-door-neighbor girl disposition to help save his spiraling wild NFL career, due to bad press he's garnered over failed relationships and dumped divas, in which social media has exposed.
A plan is devised, what could go wrong, a "fake engagement", it would end both of their problems or does it just escalate them?
What these two get is udder chaos matched with explosive heat. An unforgettable ending that had me believing in fate and true love.
The best summer book I've read, absolutely hilariously sexy-hot!!!!! Michele Summers is one of the best contemporary authors of our time, her characters truly become embedded in your heart and soul.
Funny, spicy, and super-sexy-hot.
Marabelle needs Nick's help getting her celebrity charity auction set up without a hitch, in order to save her school teaching career.
Nick needs Marabelle's sweet, next-door-neighbor girl disposition to help save his spiraling wild NFL career, due to bad press he's garnered over failed relationships and dumped divas, in which social media has exposed.
A plan is devised, what could go wrong, a "fake engagement", it would end both of their problems or does it just escalate them?
What these two get is udder chaos matched with explosive heat. An unforgettable ending that had me believing in fate and true love.
The best summer book I've read, absolutely hilariously sexy-hot!!!!! Michele Summers is one of the best contemporary authors of our time, her characters truly become embedded in your heart and soul.
April 27, 2017
3.5 Fake relationship stars
Fake relationships can be so much fun, and by the end of this one I was totally on board with Marabelle and Nick. There was great banter between the characters – they both held their own with each other and could both bring the snark and sass.
Marabelle is a real firecracker – she may be small, but she’s grown up having to stand up for herself and, after walking away from her inheritance, paying her way and fighting for everything she has. When she signs on to becoming Nick’s fake fiancé, she’s takes her job of scaring off all the women who are constantly coming on to him seriously…even if it means getting physical doing it…
Nick is a bit of an arrogant jerk, but he uses that as a shield to keep people away. He’s tired of the player life he’s been leading and the mandate from the team’s general manager about “walking the straight line of respectability” doesn’t seem far off from what he’s been thinking about…he’s not the marrying type, but a fake fiancé seems just the ticket to satisfy his GM and step back from the some of the crazy his personal life seems to bring. Of course Marabelle brings her own sort of crazy to his world, but it’s the type that makes him start thinking about more.
Nick and Marabelle certainly brought some heat – even if it took a bit for them to finally get down to business. I loved the fact that Marabelle was quite inexperienced and thought that she sucked at sex - and I loved that Nick was determined to prove otherwise. And I totally loved that once Nick had committed to the “fake” relationship, he was committed to being on Marabelle’s team, whether that was acting as a buffer when she visits home or making the fundraiser she oversees a success. There was a bit at the end where I really wanted to smack Nick a time or two, but ultimately he does come through.
There were some other great characters in the book – ones that had you either loving or hating them. From Nick’s ex-girlfriend and Marabelle’s mother (hate!) to Nick’s player’s Beau and Ty and Marabelle’s BFF Paula (love!), they all had a part in creating a nice backdrop to Nick and Marabelle’s story. The subplot of the bachelor auction and some subterfuge when it came to Marabelle’s job also added to the story.
This one got off to a slow start for me – I think that had to do with Nick’s arrogance and Marabelle’s insecurities. But once the story got going I was almost done with the book before realizing that I was totally wrapped up in Nick and Marabelle’s story. Things did get a bit angsty at the end, but watching Nick and Marabelle come to terms with what they want and what they thought they wanted was worth the read.
And even though it doesn’t have to do with the story, I do want to mention that I really don’t like the cover to this book. Don’t get me wrong, the cover is hot, but after reading this one it just doesn’t seem to fit the story. It may be just me…
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy from the publisher via NetGalley of this book.
Fake relationships can be so much fun, and by the end of this one I was totally on board with Marabelle and Nick. There was great banter between the characters – they both held their own with each other and could both bring the snark and sass.
Marabelle is a real firecracker – she may be small, but she’s grown up having to stand up for herself and, after walking away from her inheritance, paying her way and fighting for everything she has. When she signs on to becoming Nick’s fake fiancé, she’s takes her job of scaring off all the women who are constantly coming on to him seriously…even if it means getting physical doing it…
Nick is a bit of an arrogant jerk, but he uses that as a shield to keep people away. He’s tired of the player life he’s been leading and the mandate from the team’s general manager about “walking the straight line of respectability” doesn’t seem far off from what he’s been thinking about…he’s not the marrying type, but a fake fiancé seems just the ticket to satisfy his GM and step back from the some of the crazy his personal life seems to bring. Of course Marabelle brings her own sort of crazy to his world, but it’s the type that makes him start thinking about more.
Nick and Marabelle certainly brought some heat – even if it took a bit for them to finally get down to business. I loved the fact that Marabelle was quite inexperienced and thought that she sucked at sex - and I loved that Nick was determined to prove otherwise. And I totally loved that once Nick had committed to the “fake” relationship, he was committed to being on Marabelle’s team, whether that was acting as a buffer when she visits home or making the fundraiser she oversees a success. There was a bit at the end where I really wanted to smack Nick a time or two, but ultimately he does come through.
There were some other great characters in the book – ones that had you either loving or hating them. From Nick’s ex-girlfriend and Marabelle’s mother (hate!) to Nick’s player’s Beau and Ty and Marabelle’s BFF Paula (love!), they all had a part in creating a nice backdrop to Nick and Marabelle’s story. The subplot of the bachelor auction and some subterfuge when it came to Marabelle’s job also added to the story.
This one got off to a slow start for me – I think that had to do with Nick’s arrogance and Marabelle’s insecurities. But once the story got going I was almost done with the book before realizing that I was totally wrapped up in Nick and Marabelle’s story. Things did get a bit angsty at the end, but watching Nick and Marabelle come to terms with what they want and what they thought they wanted was worth the read.
And even though it doesn’t have to do with the story, I do want to mention that I really don’t like the cover to this book. Don’t get me wrong, the cover is hot, but after reading this one it just doesn’t seem to fit the story. It may be just me…
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy from the publisher via NetGalley of this book.
did-not-finish
May 5, 2020DNF at around 40%.
Not getting into this at all. The heroine is the typical pretty girl who doesn't realize she's pretty even though (in this case) an entire sports team is basically telling her so. She's cool in that she's a good cook, and her antics to get bachelors for the school auction are amusing, but otherwise, isn't really interesting me.
The hero is a hot alpha male, but a tad too possessive and jealous for my taste. TBH, I'm also not sure what kind of personality he has beyond being hot (women fall all over him, to the point he gets the heroine as a fake gf to keep them away) and bossy (he's a coach and he keeps talking about how his players obey him or else).
Not a bad romance. Cutesy and will appeal to some readers. But not for me.
Not getting into this at all. The heroine is the typical pretty girl who doesn't realize she's pretty even though (in this case) an entire sports team is basically telling her so. She's cool in that she's a good cook, and her antics to get bachelors for the school auction are amusing, but otherwise, isn't really interesting me.
The hero is a hot alpha male, but a tad too possessive and jealous for my taste. TBH, I'm also not sure what kind of personality he has beyond being hot (women fall all over him, to the point he gets the heroine as a fake gf to keep them away) and bossy (he's a coach and he keeps talking about how his players obey him or else).
Not a bad romance. Cutesy and will appeal to some readers. But not for me.
April 3, 2017
Publication Date: May 2nd, 2017
Genre: Romance
Add To Goodreads: https://goo.gl/3Eq9Z
Synopsis: An ambitious Southern belle
Marabelle Fairchild knows she's a gal who can get things done. Feeling unappreciated at the exclusive private school where she's a kindergarten aide and varsity tennis coach, Marabelle determines to score with the next big fundraiser. What she doesn't expect? A smokin' hot football coach to throw her off her game...
A reclusive NFL bachelor...
NFL coach Nick Frasier is Raleigh's most eligible bachelor, but he wants to focus on his career...not his playboy status. He doesn't need a smart-mouthed, pint-sized kindergarten teacher pestering him. So he cuts Marabelle a deal—in exchange for Nick sponsoring a bachelor auction starring him and his gorgeous celebrity pals, Marabelle will pose as his fiancée to ward off unwanted advances.
What could possibly go wrong?
Title: Sweet Southern Trouble by Michele Summers
Buy Links
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2nxwBNi
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2nCi8At
IBooks: https://goo.gl/LrTlwL
Nook: https://goo.gl/8eQ6jg
An ambitious Southern belle
Marabelle Fairchild knows she's a gal who can get things done. Feeling unappreciated at the exclusive private school where she's a kindergarten aide and varsity tennis coach, Marabelle determines to score with the next big fundraiser. What she doesn't expect? A smokin' hot football coach to throw her off her game...
A reclusive NFL bachelor...
NFL coach Nick Frasier is Raleigh's most eligible bachelor, but he wants to focus on his career...not his playboy status. He doesn't need a smart-mouthed, pint-sized kindergarten teacher pestering him. So he cuts Marabelle a deal—in exchange for Nick sponsoring a bachelor auction starring him and his gorgeous celebrity pals, Marabelle will pose as his fiancée to ward off unwanted advances.
What could possibly go wrong?
What I loved about this book was just about everything. Marabelle was about the quirkiest little character I've ever read in a really long time. It was a refreshing change from other books. I loved "Q" or Beau and I really hope he gets his own book because in my mind I just could eat him up. Yummy. Nick was a little curmudgeon and it took a while to warm up to him but once I did, I thought he was the bee's knees. Seriously, if I was around all these guys - I would probably need a bib for my drool. NO LIE!!! I hated Nick's ex-girlfriend. Can we go here for a minute? Haven't we all met the mean girl? The one that we secretly want to run down with our car but don't because that would be illegal!! Just shake your head (It's for your own good.) Or the one's who give the backhanded insults or compliments that make you want to give them an Ex-Lax brownie...I might have done that - Don't judge...you want to. So, anyway back to the book....Marabelle is a force to be reckoned with because she doesn't take any crap and by that I mean, she literally will fight for her "fake" man who is turning out to not be so fake. I have to say by the last 10 percent - I almost wanted to douse Nick in some ether and set him on fire....FIIIRE!!! But, he redeemed himself and the giant misunderstanding was fixed because it would be a total suck if it wasn't.
My only complaint was the formatting on this book which wasn't so much a distraction that I wouldn't read it. I'm kind of hoping that someone takes a look at it before it goes to ebook because I think it might be a turnoff for some. I think it's formatted for paperback.
Otherwise, I think it's an awesome romance with some funny, oftentimes hilarious moments and Michele did a great job of capturing the woes of being a short girl to a T. Pick this up for a weekend of beach, sun and reading!!!
I was given a copy of this ARC from the publisher on NetGalley for an honest review. All of the above comments are my express opinions and no one else's.
Genre: Romance
Add To Goodreads: https://goo.gl/3Eq9Z
Synopsis: An ambitious Southern belle
Marabelle Fairchild knows she's a gal who can get things done. Feeling unappreciated at the exclusive private school where she's a kindergarten aide and varsity tennis coach, Marabelle determines to score with the next big fundraiser. What she doesn't expect? A smokin' hot football coach to throw her off her game...
A reclusive NFL bachelor...
NFL coach Nick Frasier is Raleigh's most eligible bachelor, but he wants to focus on his career...not his playboy status. He doesn't need a smart-mouthed, pint-sized kindergarten teacher pestering him. So he cuts Marabelle a deal—in exchange for Nick sponsoring a bachelor auction starring him and his gorgeous celebrity pals, Marabelle will pose as his fiancée to ward off unwanted advances.
What could possibly go wrong?
Title: Sweet Southern Trouble by Michele Summers
Buy Links
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2nxwBNi
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2nCi8At
IBooks: https://goo.gl/LrTlwL
Nook: https://goo.gl/8eQ6jg
An ambitious Southern belle
Marabelle Fairchild knows she's a gal who can get things done. Feeling unappreciated at the exclusive private school where she's a kindergarten aide and varsity tennis coach, Marabelle determines to score with the next big fundraiser. What she doesn't expect? A smokin' hot football coach to throw her off her game...
A reclusive NFL bachelor...
NFL coach Nick Frasier is Raleigh's most eligible bachelor, but he wants to focus on his career...not his playboy status. He doesn't need a smart-mouthed, pint-sized kindergarten teacher pestering him. So he cuts Marabelle a deal—in exchange for Nick sponsoring a bachelor auction starring him and his gorgeous celebrity pals, Marabelle will pose as his fiancée to ward off unwanted advances.
What could possibly go wrong?
What I loved about this book was just about everything. Marabelle was about the quirkiest little character I've ever read in a really long time. It was a refreshing change from other books. I loved "Q" or Beau and I really hope he gets his own book because in my mind I just could eat him up. Yummy. Nick was a little curmudgeon and it took a while to warm up to him but once I did, I thought he was the bee's knees. Seriously, if I was around all these guys - I would probably need a bib for my drool. NO LIE!!! I hated Nick's ex-girlfriend. Can we go here for a minute? Haven't we all met the mean girl? The one that we secretly want to run down with our car but don't because that would be illegal!! Just shake your head (It's for your own good.) Or the one's who give the backhanded insults or compliments that make you want to give them an Ex-Lax brownie...I might have done that - Don't judge...you want to. So, anyway back to the book....Marabelle is a force to be reckoned with because she doesn't take any crap and by that I mean, she literally will fight for her "fake" man who is turning out to not be so fake. I have to say by the last 10 percent - I almost wanted to douse Nick in some ether and set him on fire....FIIIRE!!! But, he redeemed himself and the giant misunderstanding was fixed because it would be a total suck if it wasn't.
My only complaint was the formatting on this book which wasn't so much a distraction that I wouldn't read it. I'm kind of hoping that someone takes a look at it before it goes to ebook because I think it might be a turnoff for some. I think it's formatted for paperback.
Otherwise, I think it's an awesome romance with some funny, oftentimes hilarious moments and Michele did a great job of capturing the woes of being a short girl to a T. Pick this up for a weekend of beach, sun and reading!!!
I was given a copy of this ARC from the publisher on NetGalley for an honest review. All of the above comments are my express opinions and no one else's.
April 2, 2017
All Marabelle Fairchild needs to do is convince Nick Frasier and his celebrity pals to be a part of the bachelor auction she's putting together for a fundraiser. Sounds easy enough, except she gets more than she bargained for when he asks her to be his fake fiancée in exchange for giving her what she wants from him. However, when their relationship starts becoming more real than fake, will Marabelle take a chance on Nick or will her fear of happy ever after have her running scared?
This is the first book I've read by Ms. Summers, and I've got to say I've been missing out on some fantastic reading, if all this author's other books are like this one. In the way, it encompasses such riveting main and secondary characters that will leave a reader wanting more of them; well-written dialogue which is the perfect balance of amusing and intense; and a fast-paced plot that will hook you from the beginning and have you so wrapped up in what the hero and heroine are going through that you'll be at the end of the book before you know it. The way this story started had me feeling sorry for the heroine and her having to deal with the women on the committee that are asking her to do -- what seems -- the impossible. Will she be able to secure Nick's co-operation?
The dialogue was intense due to the main characters back stories, especially that of the heroine. Her mother is a tad over-the-top and a touch snobbish the way she expects Marabelle to do what she wants at the drop of a hat. Why is Marabelle so afraid to show her mother the woman she shows to everyone else? Why does she give in so easily to what her mother wants her to do and wear? She can't possibly be that scared of her mother's reactions, could she? However, in saying that, I liked how the hero helped her deal with her mother by showing the heroine that she's perfect in every way. Really, Nick is the Triple 'D' threat - delicious, delightful and downright dangerous to a woman's heart because of all that he does for the heroine's self-esteem. The way he boosts her up, so she doesn't take whatever her mother says too much to heart.
All the characters within this book were very entertaining. There were those that I loved and those that I loved to hate, especially the woman that Marabelle is trying to do her best to keep from getting her hooks into Nick. Can she get a clue that Nick isn't interested? Then there's the guys that Nick coaches with the way they treat Marabelle like their own personal chef and like she's one of their own. I liked how they're not afraid to offer her advice when they feel she's about to make the wrong choices and that they're willing to risk her wrath. What are friends for, if not to make sure you're happy forever instead of just a moment in time?
As for Marabelle, she's one of the best heroines I've read lately. She's strong, brave, independent, and I liked that she wasn't afraid to speak her mind. Certainly, Nick needed to be challenged by her smart mouth, her ability to keep him on her toes and have his life shaken up a bit. Moreover, I could understand why she was so adamant about keeping her and Nick's relationship casual, because she doesn't want any relationship she has to turn out like the one her parents have. Yet, it was palpable that she and Nick were different than her parents. Can she realize that before it's too late?
Overall, Ms. Summers has penned an enthralling read with a hot romance that illustrates how this couple bring out the best in each other and that they shouldn't let anything keep them apart. The way this story ended was perfect, because Marabelle is very possessive of Nick and isn't about to let anything or anyone come between them. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up nicely, because of their talk about their favorite things. Who knew Marabelle could find more ways to annoy her mother? I would highly recommend Sweet Southern Trouble by Michele Summers, especially if you enjoy the fake relationship trope or books by authors Lori Wilde or Jill Shalvis.
This is the first book I've read by Ms. Summers, and I've got to say I've been missing out on some fantastic reading, if all this author's other books are like this one. In the way, it encompasses such riveting main and secondary characters that will leave a reader wanting more of them; well-written dialogue which is the perfect balance of amusing and intense; and a fast-paced plot that will hook you from the beginning and have you so wrapped up in what the hero and heroine are going through that you'll be at the end of the book before you know it. The way this story started had me feeling sorry for the heroine and her having to deal with the women on the committee that are asking her to do -- what seems -- the impossible. Will she be able to secure Nick's co-operation?
The dialogue was intense due to the main characters back stories, especially that of the heroine. Her mother is a tad over-the-top and a touch snobbish the way she expects Marabelle to do what she wants at the drop of a hat. Why is Marabelle so afraid to show her mother the woman she shows to everyone else? Why does she give in so easily to what her mother wants her to do and wear? She can't possibly be that scared of her mother's reactions, could she? However, in saying that, I liked how the hero helped her deal with her mother by showing the heroine that she's perfect in every way. Really, Nick is the Triple 'D' threat - delicious, delightful and downright dangerous to a woman's heart because of all that he does for the heroine's self-esteem. The way he boosts her up, so she doesn't take whatever her mother says too much to heart.
All the characters within this book were very entertaining. There were those that I loved and those that I loved to hate, especially the woman that Marabelle is trying to do her best to keep from getting her hooks into Nick. Can she get a clue that Nick isn't interested? Then there's the guys that Nick coaches with the way they treat Marabelle like their own personal chef and like she's one of their own. I liked how they're not afraid to offer her advice when they feel she's about to make the wrong choices and that they're willing to risk her wrath. What are friends for, if not to make sure you're happy forever instead of just a moment in time?
As for Marabelle, she's one of the best heroines I've read lately. She's strong, brave, independent, and I liked that she wasn't afraid to speak her mind. Certainly, Nick needed to be challenged by her smart mouth, her ability to keep him on her toes and have his life shaken up a bit. Moreover, I could understand why she was so adamant about keeping her and Nick's relationship casual, because she doesn't want any relationship she has to turn out like the one her parents have. Yet, it was palpable that she and Nick were different than her parents. Can she realize that before it's too late?
Overall, Ms. Summers has penned an enthralling read with a hot romance that illustrates how this couple bring out the best in each other and that they shouldn't let anything keep them apart. The way this story ended was perfect, because Marabelle is very possessive of Nick and isn't about to let anything or anyone come between them. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up nicely, because of their talk about their favorite things. Who knew Marabelle could find more ways to annoy her mother? I would highly recommend Sweet Southern Trouble by Michele Summers, especially if you enjoy the fake relationship trope or books by authors Lori Wilde or Jill Shalvis.
April 19, 2017
ARC Review: Sweet Southern Trouble by Michele Summers
Nick and Marabelle are magically delicious. She's the sugar, he's the spice. Put them together and they make for the hottest of vices. Sweet Southern Trouble is an organic blend of humor, heart and smart writing. Ms. Summers has a lock on temperature rising, incredibly entertaining down home southern charm. When it comes to romance author, characters and story delivers a one, two punch to the heart.
Nick and Marabelle are magically delicious. She's the sugar, he's the spice. Put them together and they make for the hottest of vices. Sweet Southern Trouble is an organic blend of humor, heart and smart writing. Ms. Summers has a lock on temperature rising, incredibly entertaining down home southern charm. When it comes to romance author, characters and story delivers a one, two punch to the heart.
April 18, 2017
Awesome read! Full review to follow.
March 23, 2017
Oh My Gosh!!!!! This was an AMAZING read.
Marabelle Fairchild has been doing everything she can in order to prove that she does not need her inheritance in order to survive. She wants to show her mother that she can survive, no scratch that thrive, without her mother always medaling and dictating what she wears or whom she marries. Now as a elementary school teacher and a tennis coach she thinks everything is falling into place. Until the coveted full time teaching position is dangled in front of her like a carrot to a horse. The catch to potentially getting the position is to get one of her students uncles to participate in the auction. To bad he is a famous ex football player turned coach who is trying to stay out of the limelight.
Nick Frasier has been duped and used by numerous women so this 5 foot nothing teacher who wants to use him is nothing new. But her attitude and how she handles him is. And the way he cant seem to get away from her is new as well, especially since she doesn't want to have sex with him. But when some woman start to bad mouth her he will do anything to get them to stop. Even if it means pretending to be engaged to her. After all its a win-win. He is suppose to clean up and present a stable image and she needs his help with the fundraiser. As long as they both know the score. They are only together as long as it is beneficial and just until the fundraiser is over. That should be simple since neither of them legitimately wants the other.
They may be able to ignore a little chemistry. But the chemistry between them is an inferno that will burn them to a crisp.
I absolutely loved this story. They made the characters fight, a lot, which was amazing because they stuck to their opinions and talked it out until they came to a compromise. It was not a quick oh yeah I completely agree. Which to me made this story so much better.
I loved Marabelle she was an amazing women who has managed to survive such a horrible childhood and still manage to come out on the other side as an amazingly sweet women who still manages to be snarky, just like someone else I know ;).
This was an addictive read that you will not want to pass up on. I am really hoping that there will be future books about the other players on the team because those would be amazing as well.
~A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection.
Marabelle Fairchild has been doing everything she can in order to prove that she does not need her inheritance in order to survive. She wants to show her mother that she can survive, no scratch that thrive, without her mother always medaling and dictating what she wears or whom she marries. Now as a elementary school teacher and a tennis coach she thinks everything is falling into place. Until the coveted full time teaching position is dangled in front of her like a carrot to a horse. The catch to potentially getting the position is to get one of her students uncles to participate in the auction. To bad he is a famous ex football player turned coach who is trying to stay out of the limelight.
Nick Frasier has been duped and used by numerous women so this 5 foot nothing teacher who wants to use him is nothing new. But her attitude and how she handles him is. And the way he cant seem to get away from her is new as well, especially since she doesn't want to have sex with him. But when some woman start to bad mouth her he will do anything to get them to stop. Even if it means pretending to be engaged to her. After all its a win-win. He is suppose to clean up and present a stable image and she needs his help with the fundraiser. As long as they both know the score. They are only together as long as it is beneficial and just until the fundraiser is over. That should be simple since neither of them legitimately wants the other.
They may be able to ignore a little chemistry. But the chemistry between them is an inferno that will burn them to a crisp.
I absolutely loved this story. They made the characters fight, a lot, which was amazing because they stuck to their opinions and talked it out until they came to a compromise. It was not a quick oh yeah I completely agree. Which to me made this story so much better.
I loved Marabelle she was an amazing women who has managed to survive such a horrible childhood and still manage to come out on the other side as an amazingly sweet women who still manages to be snarky, just like someone else I know ;).
This was an addictive read that you will not want to pass up on. I am really hoping that there will be future books about the other players on the team because those would be amazing as well.
~A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection.
May 18, 2017
This was an interesting book about a woman who is working at a private school as a teacher and a tennis coach. She is really forced into heading the event for the year raising money since she is not full- time, and the fact the most eligible bachelor in town and former pro quarterback has a nephew in her kindergarten class. Taking the task by the horns she plows through and when he says no at first she stays driven and gets him to agree to sign footwear since he is the head football coach of the pro team in town. He does call her tinker bell when they first met but when she grabs him he can’t believe how her body feels because she wears baggy clothes and does not really care about appearance. From there he begins to see just how much of a spit fire she is when she shows up at his house un announce because she felt he was backing out of there meeting. This is when things change because some of the players from the team are there and they take a liking to her. When he does meet her for the meeting at a restaurant upset with the way two women are talking about her in front of her he announces that they are engaged. The story takes a turn and the more you get into it he becomes jealous when he finds his players hanging out at her house for a home cooked meal and watching TV. Morgan and Nick each have their own issues and problems they must work them out if they want to actually have a relationship and not a fake relationship. They must not only work between themselves but also others around them. They discover more about each other when he shows up in Atlanta to help her at her parents and after one other set back you are hoping that they can get together. I just have to say reading some of the other reviews people mentioned that they did not liked Nick all that much, but I found it much worse what the other women said about Morgan behind her back and getting her fired, at least he said Tinkerbell to her face and if you know the character "TINKERBELL"could be like that, and if she did not like it she would have said something. Far worse backstabbing than what some people thought what his character did. OK I found this to be a great story with many different characters and for what it is a story, a very well written book. I got this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 5 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
May 9, 2017
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: https://bookbriefs.net**
Sweet Southern Trouble is an adult sports romance by author Michele Summers. This is the first book I have had the pleasure of reading by Mrs. Summers, but it certainly will not be the last. I loved Sweet Southern Trouble. It was the kind of book that allowed me to totally escape from the real world. I was very absorbed in this book late into the night and even in the morning before I drove to work. I just had to finish it! And I certainly cannot say that about all books I read. It doesn't look like Sweet Southern Trouble is going to be a series, but I really really wish it would be. I got to know Q and so many of the other football players well enough. I want them to have their own stories! Please, make that happen!
Sweet Southern Trouble is a standalone romance novel told in dual narrative between Marabelle and Nick. Marabelle is like a force of nature. I loved watching her tenacity and pure spirited-ness knock Nick off balance more times than I can count. I loved that Nick was so enamored with her feisty nature. I loved how well rounded Marabelle was too. She is a great cook and a fierce tennis player. I loved that we got to explore so many different sides of Marabelle. She was a really interesting (in a great way!) character.
And Nick. Oh Nick. He is as loyal as they come. Even throughout the whole fake charade fiasco they had going on, Nick was as awesome as can be to Marabelle, or Tinker Bell as he called her. I loved seeing what a great guy he was. By the time I finished this book, I had a major crush on Nick. I want him all for myself.
Bottom line: Sweet Southern Trouble was a funny, heartwarming, and really well done standalone romance novel. I loved getting to know all of the characters, I was totally rooting for the main characters, and the secondary characters were a hoot and a half. I want all of the guys on the football team to get their own story. I just love them! if you are looking for a great romance, check out Sweet Southern Trouble.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Sweet Southern Trouble is an adult sports romance by author Michele Summers. This is the first book I have had the pleasure of reading by Mrs. Summers, but it certainly will not be the last. I loved Sweet Southern Trouble. It was the kind of book that allowed me to totally escape from the real world. I was very absorbed in this book late into the night and even in the morning before I drove to work. I just had to finish it! And I certainly cannot say that about all books I read. It doesn't look like Sweet Southern Trouble is going to be a series, but I really really wish it would be. I got to know Q and so many of the other football players well enough. I want them to have their own stories! Please, make that happen!
Sweet Southern Trouble is a standalone romance novel told in dual narrative between Marabelle and Nick. Marabelle is like a force of nature. I loved watching her tenacity and pure spirited-ness knock Nick off balance more times than I can count. I loved that Nick was so enamored with her feisty nature. I loved how well rounded Marabelle was too. She is a great cook and a fierce tennis player. I loved that we got to explore so many different sides of Marabelle. She was a really interesting (in a great way!) character.
And Nick. Oh Nick. He is as loyal as they come. Even throughout the whole fake charade fiasco they had going on, Nick was as awesome as can be to Marabelle, or Tinker Bell as he called her. I loved seeing what a great guy he was. By the time I finished this book, I had a major crush on Nick. I want him all for myself.
Bottom line: Sweet Southern Trouble was a funny, heartwarming, and really well done standalone romance novel. I loved getting to know all of the characters, I was totally rooting for the main characters, and the secondary characters were a hoot and a half. I want all of the guys on the football team to get their own story. I just love them! if you are looking for a great romance, check out Sweet Southern Trouble.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
February 16, 2017
A truly enjoyably heartwarming romance in which hilarity abounds. There is a depth and dynamic to Nick and Marabelle's relationship that I have seldom seen from other authors. Sure their banter was witty, the dialog fast paced and sharp, but there was an under layer to the draw these two had for each other that was breathtaking; Ms Summers has created two very memorable characters in Nick and Marabell. The secondary characters played an important role in the story's success as well, quirky though a few may have been, the football players, Beau in particular added many more elements of the interactions that created the difference in this author's writing.
Part of the appeal between Nick and Marabell was the ease and hilarity of their banter. The quips they fired at each other were rapidly delivered and laid a great foundation for the playfulness of their relationship. Their nicknames for each other were unique and bled personality into each of the characters:
Nick: Tinkerbell, Tink, Thumbelina, and Fairy-girl...each when used underscored his deep affection for her and his awareness of her fierce and fiery nature. Is there anything sexier than a southern drawl saying darlin' or baby girl?!
Marabell: Coach Crackpot, Hottie, Glorious, Crazy, Charming, Neanderthal, to name a few...but said in their context brought so much more snarky depth and proof of the sharp mind she had.
The sexual tension between Nick and Marabell ebbed and flowed, with so many near misses, that you could feel both their frustrations each time before they finally came together. When he whispered to her, “Open for me, honey,”...all I thought was FINALLY!! This author definitely knows how to get her readers emotionally invested in the characters.
Finally, there are not many books I can say this about, but I could and would enjoy read this story over and over again to relish the smart, wry dialog and banter...and best of all, because the chemistry between Nick and Marabell was off the charts hot and sexy!
This book was provided by the Publisher and Netgalley, I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
Part of the appeal between Nick and Marabell was the ease and hilarity of their banter. The quips they fired at each other were rapidly delivered and laid a great foundation for the playfulness of their relationship. Their nicknames for each other were unique and bled personality into each of the characters:
Nick: Tinkerbell, Tink, Thumbelina, and Fairy-girl...each when used underscored his deep affection for her and his awareness of her fierce and fiery nature. Is there anything sexier than a southern drawl saying darlin' or baby girl?!
Marabell: Coach Crackpot, Hottie, Glorious, Crazy, Charming, Neanderthal, to name a few...but said in their context brought so much more snarky depth and proof of the sharp mind she had.
The sexual tension between Nick and Marabell ebbed and flowed, with so many near misses, that you could feel both their frustrations each time before they finally came together. When he whispered to her, “Open for me, honey,”...all I thought was FINALLY!! This author definitely knows how to get her readers emotionally invested in the characters.
Finally, there are not many books I can say this about, but I could and would enjoy read this story over and over again to relish the smart, wry dialog and banter...and best of all, because the chemistry between Nick and Marabell was off the charts hot and sexy!
This book was provided by the Publisher and Netgalley, I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
February 14, 2017
Nick seems to hear only what he wants to hear at times, "she bent to straighten a cup of crayons on one of the small desks when Coach Frasier entered her space. “You think I’m sexy?” he said in his smoky voice." There were times Nick turned into a bossy man, "Nick smoothed her dress down, patting her bottom. “We’re going inside, straight to my bed. Now.” I fell in love with the characters from page one, I loved Nick and his football players especially Beau I hope that man gets a book of his own.
June 22, 2017
Sweet Southern Trouble by Michele Summers
Source: Netgalley
My Rating: 5/5 stars
My Review:
The title of this one really does tell the whole story!! If there is trouble to be found, Marabelle Fairchild is not only going to find it, she’s going to dive into it with her eyes wide open and her mouth, that has no edit button, open and going a mile a minute.
There is very little that goes through Marabelle’s mind that doesn’t come out her mouth and in her latest episode of verbal diarrhea, she’s gotten herself into one hell of a mess. In order to secure her future at the ultra-posh private school she works for, Marabelle has landed herself in the middle of organizing the school’s yearly fundraiser. She’s been tasked with enlisting the help – OK, the hotness – and financial backing of the Carolina Cherokees, the local pro football team. Everyone assumes Marabelle is going to fail and there are some on the committee who are actively working against Marabelle. Turns out, when you have a mind and a mouth that often run free, you make a few enemies.
Nick Frasier is an ex-pro football player turned pro coach and uncle to a rambunctious kindergartner. That rambunctious kindergartner is part of the reason Nick has been called to Marabelle’s classroom and currently being all but accosted by the feistiest woman he has ever met. On top of telling him his nephew is tiny turd, Marabelle has asked him for help with the school fundraiser. Aside from being blindsided by her request, Nick is pretty much blown away by Marabelle and in the beginning, that blown away is not in a good way. Marabelle is like a tiny tornado with no off switch and determination like Nick has never seen. In fact, once Marabelle has an idea, she’s fairly relentless and isn’t long before she’s introduced herself to a group of Nick’s players and begun wooing them to her cause. It sure doesn’t hurt that Marabelle cooks for the boys 😊
What Marabelle doesn’t know about Nick is that he needs her as much as she needs him. Nick has a great deal of pressure on him from the Cherokee’s management to settle down and improve his public persona. The best way to do that is to strike a deal with Marabelle, the one woman he could never, ever actually fall for. If Marabelle agrees to be his fake fiancé, Nick and the boys will help her pull off the best fundraiser the school has ever seen! As you would expect with such an arrangement, all kinds of shenanigans ensue including a raucous meeting of the parents, a vicious tennis tournament, a heinous ex-girlfriend with nefarious plans, and more than a few words left unspoken.
The Bottom Line: I absolutely fell in love with this read. It has everything a romantic comedy should have: a crazy-awesome girl, a hot southern gentleman, a ridiculous fake engagement, meddling yet well-intentioned friends, and some harpies working against the happy couple. This is a funny, hot mess kind of read populated with a cast of crazies that I just devoured. There are certainly some naughty bits in this read, but they are appropriate to the overall sweet nature of this read. In all, Sweet Southern Trouble is a pretty perfect read and I am sincerely hoping Michele Summers will give the rest of the men on the Carolina Cherokees team their own book and their own HEA!
Source: Netgalley
My Rating: 5/5 stars
My Review:
The title of this one really does tell the whole story!! If there is trouble to be found, Marabelle Fairchild is not only going to find it, she’s going to dive into it with her eyes wide open and her mouth, that has no edit button, open and going a mile a minute.
There is very little that goes through Marabelle’s mind that doesn’t come out her mouth and in her latest episode of verbal diarrhea, she’s gotten herself into one hell of a mess. In order to secure her future at the ultra-posh private school she works for, Marabelle has landed herself in the middle of organizing the school’s yearly fundraiser. She’s been tasked with enlisting the help – OK, the hotness – and financial backing of the Carolina Cherokees, the local pro football team. Everyone assumes Marabelle is going to fail and there are some on the committee who are actively working against Marabelle. Turns out, when you have a mind and a mouth that often run free, you make a few enemies.
Nick Frasier is an ex-pro football player turned pro coach and uncle to a rambunctious kindergartner. That rambunctious kindergartner is part of the reason Nick has been called to Marabelle’s classroom and currently being all but accosted by the feistiest woman he has ever met. On top of telling him his nephew is tiny turd, Marabelle has asked him for help with the school fundraiser. Aside from being blindsided by her request, Nick is pretty much blown away by Marabelle and in the beginning, that blown away is not in a good way. Marabelle is like a tiny tornado with no off switch and determination like Nick has never seen. In fact, once Marabelle has an idea, she’s fairly relentless and isn’t long before she’s introduced herself to a group of Nick’s players and begun wooing them to her cause. It sure doesn’t hurt that Marabelle cooks for the boys 😊
What Marabelle doesn’t know about Nick is that he needs her as much as she needs him. Nick has a great deal of pressure on him from the Cherokee’s management to settle down and improve his public persona. The best way to do that is to strike a deal with Marabelle, the one woman he could never, ever actually fall for. If Marabelle agrees to be his fake fiancé, Nick and the boys will help her pull off the best fundraiser the school has ever seen! As you would expect with such an arrangement, all kinds of shenanigans ensue including a raucous meeting of the parents, a vicious tennis tournament, a heinous ex-girlfriend with nefarious plans, and more than a few words left unspoken.
The Bottom Line: I absolutely fell in love with this read. It has everything a romantic comedy should have: a crazy-awesome girl, a hot southern gentleman, a ridiculous fake engagement, meddling yet well-intentioned friends, and some harpies working against the happy couple. This is a funny, hot mess kind of read populated with a cast of crazies that I just devoured. There are certainly some naughty bits in this read, but they are appropriate to the overall sweet nature of this read. In all, Sweet Southern Trouble is a pretty perfect read and I am sincerely hoping Michele Summers will give the rest of the men on the Carolina Cherokees team their own book and their own HEA!
May 26, 2017
Another day, another contemporary romance read that’s too adorable for its own good. For whatever reason, I’ve only been reading good books lately, and my last four reads were all five star reads. It’s great and all, except I’m living in fear of the day the streak ends and I’m going to be stuck reading something awful (although in all honesty it’ll probably be three stars or something instead). But anyways, let’s talk about the book.
Sweet Southern Trouble is the love story of a debutante turned kindergarten teacher – mostly to piss off her mother – and a former NFL football player turned NFL coach. Marabelle is diminutive, feisty, and has zero sense of style (or at least that’s what everyone thinks and possibly what she wants them to think…it’s confusing) and Nick has a huge ego, is scary good-looking, and has come to the conclusion that relationships are not for him, especially after dealing with the money/status-hungry women he’s dated before. Nick gets Marabelle to be his pretend fiancée in return for getting his fellow celebs to play part in a live auction her school wants to host. It’s a neat set-up, but we all know nothing goes the way it’s supposed to when it comes to fake relationships. Or any relationship.
This book had me hooked from the very start. Nick first meets Marabelle as she’s bent over with her butt in the air looking for a class guinea pig, and a little after that, she jumps him, refusing to let him leave the classroom – he was looking for his nephew, Brandon – until he agrees to meet with her to talk about the live auction which she absolutely needs so that she can go from being a teacher’s assistant and barely paying the bills to an actual teacher. Marabelle is the very definition of unexpected, and I can guarantee that it makes for a hilarious book.
Marabelle deals with a lot of self-worths/self-esteem issues, and while it was a bit repetitive at times, I don’t think that it’s unrealistic. As much as I adore confident, I am worth everything and you can get your butt out of here if you don’t think so too women, I also think that those who are a little more unsure about putting themselves out there and being seen are also real, and worth reading about. Of course, that doesn’t mean that they’re not worth it – it just means that they have to come to realize it, preferably before entering a relationship.
Nick – he was something. I’m not really a sports person – I go to the University of Michigan, and yet, have never went to a football game in my life – but Nick very much resembled a cowboy. I was so on board with it. While it was annoying at times that his chivalry extended toward other women as well, even backstabbing, bitchy ones, he really did care about Marabelle, though he definitely could have chosen some better ways to deal with her self-esteem holdups. Other than that, he was perfect.
Also, I used to be really good about being patient about misunderstandings in romance novels. Heck, I used to love them. I don’t know if they’ve just gotten stupider over the years or I’m getting over them in my ripe, wise age of 19 years, but man, I can see right through everything. It’s still entertaining most of the time, but sometimes I wanted to shake Marabelle until she couldn’t see straight – or until she could see straight, because she wasn’t doing too well on her own.
Overall though, this was such a fun book, and actually kept me entertained and invested, unlike a good amount of contemporary romances out there recently. I never once hesitated to flip the page, and I never got so annoyed with Marabelle that I didn’t want her to get her happily ever after. Oh, and Nick actually did have some serious ego problems that at one point did put his and Marabelle’s relationship in danger, but it’s fine, no one’s perfect. I had a great time reading this romance, and I gave it five stars (★★★★★).
Sweet Southern Trouble is the love story of a debutante turned kindergarten teacher – mostly to piss off her mother – and a former NFL football player turned NFL coach. Marabelle is diminutive, feisty, and has zero sense of style (or at least that’s what everyone thinks and possibly what she wants them to think…it’s confusing) and Nick has a huge ego, is scary good-looking, and has come to the conclusion that relationships are not for him, especially after dealing with the money/status-hungry women he’s dated before. Nick gets Marabelle to be his pretend fiancée in return for getting his fellow celebs to play part in a live auction her school wants to host. It’s a neat set-up, but we all know nothing goes the way it’s supposed to when it comes to fake relationships. Or any relationship.
This book had me hooked from the very start. Nick first meets Marabelle as she’s bent over with her butt in the air looking for a class guinea pig, and a little after that, she jumps him, refusing to let him leave the classroom – he was looking for his nephew, Brandon – until he agrees to meet with her to talk about the live auction which she absolutely needs so that she can go from being a teacher’s assistant and barely paying the bills to an actual teacher. Marabelle is the very definition of unexpected, and I can guarantee that it makes for a hilarious book.
Marabelle deals with a lot of self-worths/self-esteem issues, and while it was a bit repetitive at times, I don’t think that it’s unrealistic. As much as I adore confident, I am worth everything and you can get your butt out of here if you don’t think so too women, I also think that those who are a little more unsure about putting themselves out there and being seen are also real, and worth reading about. Of course, that doesn’t mean that they’re not worth it – it just means that they have to come to realize it, preferably before entering a relationship.
Nick – he was something. I’m not really a sports person – I go to the University of Michigan, and yet, have never went to a football game in my life – but Nick very much resembled a cowboy. I was so on board with it. While it was annoying at times that his chivalry extended toward other women as well, even backstabbing, bitchy ones, he really did care about Marabelle, though he definitely could have chosen some better ways to deal with her self-esteem holdups. Other than that, he was perfect.
Also, I used to be really good about being patient about misunderstandings in romance novels. Heck, I used to love them. I don’t know if they’ve just gotten stupider over the years or I’m getting over them in my ripe, wise age of 19 years, but man, I can see right through everything. It’s still entertaining most of the time, but sometimes I wanted to shake Marabelle until she couldn’t see straight – or until she could see straight, because she wasn’t doing too well on her own.
Overall though, this was such a fun book, and actually kept me entertained and invested, unlike a good amount of contemporary romances out there recently. I never once hesitated to flip the page, and I never got so annoyed with Marabelle that I didn’t want her to get her happily ever after. Oh, and Nick actually did have some serious ego problems that at one point did put his and Marabelle’s relationship in danger, but it’s fine, no one’s perfect. I had a great time reading this romance, and I gave it five stars (★★★★★).
May 19, 2017
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Sweet Southern Trouble got off to a slow and questionable start with me. It’s difficult when I’m not liking the couple from the start to stick with the story and give them a chance to grow on me. But I’ve learned over the years that is exactly what needs to be done with some books, and some characters. I’m glad that was the attitude I took with this story as Marabelle and Nick do indeed come into their own personalities, and they have quite an endearing story to tell.
The fake relationship story line can work for me with the right people. I want that spark of something to be there that holds out hope for more than the fake down the road. At first Nick comes off as – well, a jerk, an entitled jerk. That is what held me back from liking him as the story began. Marabelle is, let’s call her unique. She’s a spitfire, determined young woman with a lot hidden behind that outer shell. I want to say she grows on you as her past, her present are made known to us. Each has an agenda, each needs something from the other and along the way they’re going to figure out that fake isn’t going to work for them. It’s got to be the real deal or nothing at all.
I enjoyed Sweet Southern Trouble, even though it took some determined reading to get to that point. I believe there are some readers who will stop just short of finding the fun and enjoyment of this couple, and that is honestly a shame. For those readers are going to miss out on a good story, and the realization that not everything has to smack you in the face from the start. Sometimes some slow buildups deliver the best stories.
Would I recommend this one? Yes. Yet I’d also say to give it a chance to touch your reading emotions. Not everything is known at the beginning, and sometimes first impressions have to be re-evaluated. So give Sweet Southern Trouble a chance to work it’s Southern charm on you. It’s well worth the time.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Sweet Southern Trouble got off to a slow and questionable start with me. It’s difficult when I’m not liking the couple from the start to stick with the story and give them a chance to grow on me. But I’ve learned over the years that is exactly what needs to be done with some books, and some characters. I’m glad that was the attitude I took with this story as Marabelle and Nick do indeed come into their own personalities, and they have quite an endearing story to tell.
The fake relationship story line can work for me with the right people. I want that spark of something to be there that holds out hope for more than the fake down the road. At first Nick comes off as – well, a jerk, an entitled jerk. That is what held me back from liking him as the story began. Marabelle is, let’s call her unique. She’s a spitfire, determined young woman with a lot hidden behind that outer shell. I want to say she grows on you as her past, her present are made known to us. Each has an agenda, each needs something from the other and along the way they’re going to figure out that fake isn’t going to work for them. It’s got to be the real deal or nothing at all.
I enjoyed Sweet Southern Trouble, even though it took some determined reading to get to that point. I believe there are some readers who will stop just short of finding the fun and enjoyment of this couple, and that is honestly a shame. For those readers are going to miss out on a good story, and the realization that not everything has to smack you in the face from the start. Sometimes some slow buildups deliver the best stories.
Would I recommend this one? Yes. Yet I’d also say to give it a chance to touch your reading emotions. Not everything is known at the beginning, and sometimes first impressions have to be re-evaluated. So give Sweet Southern Trouble a chance to work it’s Southern charm on you. It’s well worth the time.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
December 21, 2018
I was NOT provided a copy to review and am a reader who just found the book on amazon. I loved it! I kept putting off reading it, thinking it would be the Same Old sports romance i had read 1000 times.(it seems they're all blending together these day) but it wasn't. It was refreshingly different. It did take a little while to love the characters. At first, I thought that I was not going to like either of them, but they settled down and really grew on me! Maybe it's because I could relate to the heroine's background of not measuring to what her mother said a perfect daughter should be (as I think a lot of women can.) Heroine's insecurities and relationship issues got a bit annoying after a while but It was also relateable and a new twist on the usual ultra beautiful , confident heroine. The hero was defintely not perfect. He had some caveman mentality and frequently missed out on doing/ saying the right thing, even though we knew his heart was in the right place, but somehow that made him perfectly imperfect, real and not the usual over-confident, smooth player that we usually get in these stories. Yes, all the characters did things that annoyed me at times, but I thought the story was great over all. Some of their scenes and inner dialogues actually made me laugh out loud. I would even like to read a sequel if she wrote a follow up or about the other players. Another bonus: they're older. Heroine is 30, hero is 38.
June 5, 2017
Having never read Michele Summers’ books before I wasn't sure what to expect so was pleased to find that ‘Sweet Southern Trouble’ was an easy and enjoyable read. This 4 star read was a fun and easy book to get lost in.
Sometimes when you pick up a book it just connects with you and the mood you are in and that is exactly what I found with this book. Although the story was at times predictable it was an easy, light hearted read for me that I relished reading while relaxing in the garden on a Saturday afternoon. Filled with fun, humour and great characters all round, not just the main couple this book left me wanting more.
The interactions and banter between Nick and Marabelle let you see how compatible these two are. Marabelle is a bit socially awkward and tends to blurt out the obvious and not everyone accepts that but she not only wins the heart of Nick but also the heart of his NFL team players. Beau in particular is a story I wouldn't mind reading.
As I have said this was a light hearted romance that gives you a few hours reading to get lost in.
I was provided with a copy of this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Sometimes when you pick up a book it just connects with you and the mood you are in and that is exactly what I found with this book. Although the story was at times predictable it was an easy, light hearted read for me that I relished reading while relaxing in the garden on a Saturday afternoon. Filled with fun, humour and great characters all round, not just the main couple this book left me wanting more.
The interactions and banter between Nick and Marabelle let you see how compatible these two are. Marabelle is a bit socially awkward and tends to blurt out the obvious and not everyone accepts that but she not only wins the heart of Nick but also the heart of his NFL team players. Beau in particular is a story I wouldn't mind reading.
As I have said this was a light hearted romance that gives you a few hours reading to get lost in.
I was provided with a copy of this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2018
"5 out of 5 stars!! Under the pretense of getting Nick (Nicholas), the head coach of the North Carolina Cherokees, to allow her access to Nick’s team for her school's planned bachelor auction Marabelle (Tinker Bell/Mary-bell/Thumbelina) agrees to the ruse of being his fiancée. However, every time Nick and Marabelle are together, sparks fly and they quickly find that their relationship is progressing rapidly and into something VERY real. That is if Marabelle can get over her own securities, Nick can get over his past, and if someone from Nick's recent "past" doesn't get in their way....
Wow!! Out of the three novels I've read in Ms. Summers' Harmony Homecomings Series (which have been Books 2, 3, & 4) THIS one is by far my favorite!!! Especially since though it was written from multiple viewpoints (even those other than Nick and Marabelle) the main focus is always about Nick and Marabelle so I never got distracted. YAY! Also, even though I am not a fan of wishy-washy characters, which Marabelle definitely is, the plotline moved on so quickly that I never had time to get annoyed with her because of it, which made me enjoy Marabelle as a character more. Double YAY!!
This is one..."
Read more of this review and FOUR TEASERS here: https://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2018/01/idolizing-in-harmony-homecomings-series.html
Wow!! Out of the three novels I've read in Ms. Summers' Harmony Homecomings Series (which have been Books 2, 3, & 4) THIS one is by far my favorite!!! Especially since though it was written from multiple viewpoints (even those other than Nick and Marabelle) the main focus is always about Nick and Marabelle so I never got distracted. YAY! Also, even though I am not a fan of wishy-washy characters, which Marabelle definitely is, the plotline moved on so quickly that I never had time to get annoyed with her because of it, which made me enjoy Marabelle as a character more. Double YAY!!
This is one..."
Read more of this review and FOUR TEASERS here: https://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2018/01/idolizing-in-harmony-homecomings-series.html
June 3, 2017
3.5 stars
I enjoyed this story, it was a light and fun read. Nick, aka Prince Charming, and Marabelle, aka Tinker Bell, are vibrant characters, their antics were hilarious.
Marabelle Fairchild is an assistant elementary school teacher who has been assigned the difficult task of convincing wealthy and famous Nick Frasier to participate with his friends in a bachelor auction. A former NFL star, Nick comes off as a cocky jerk, at first, entitled and rude. I admit that it took me some time to like him. He seems hung up on appearances at first, but he grew on me as the story unfolded. I loved Marabelle’s tenacity, she tends to bulldoze anything in her path, she has guts and a red hot temper. She is a quirky character, and her feistiness captivates Nick. His high profile job of NFL head coach is very demanding, their flirtation and bantering is a welcome distraction in his hectic life, and made for a few laugh-out-loud funny scenes. Nick and Marabelle are an unlikely pairing and yet a perfect match.
Overall, Sweet Southern Charm is a fun, witty and entertaining story, with no unnecessary drama and lots of engaging supporting characters.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley.
I enjoyed this story, it was a light and fun read. Nick, aka Prince Charming, and Marabelle, aka Tinker Bell, are vibrant characters, their antics were hilarious.
Marabelle Fairchild is an assistant elementary school teacher who has been assigned the difficult task of convincing wealthy and famous Nick Frasier to participate with his friends in a bachelor auction. A former NFL star, Nick comes off as a cocky jerk, at first, entitled and rude. I admit that it took me some time to like him. He seems hung up on appearances at first, but he grew on me as the story unfolded. I loved Marabelle’s tenacity, she tends to bulldoze anything in her path, she has guts and a red hot temper. She is a quirky character, and her feistiness captivates Nick. His high profile job of NFL head coach is very demanding, their flirtation and bantering is a welcome distraction in his hectic life, and made for a few laugh-out-loud funny scenes. Nick and Marabelle are an unlikely pairing and yet a perfect match.
Overall, Sweet Southern Charm is a fun, witty and entertaining story, with no unnecessary drama and lots of engaging supporting characters.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley.
June 18, 2017
I received this book from Net Galley for an honest review and I really enjoyed it. This book had me giggling so much. I truly loved the character of Marabelle she was a riot to read. Her explosive personality & take now prisoners when she wanted something was hilarious. She was a great foil to strong, serious Coach Nick. This book moved at different speeds throughout the book but it always moved forward. I'm still seeing the favourite phrase of Marabelle (holy Roger Federer) in my head, it was hugely funny every time she said it. Nick's strength & determination not to get involved with crazy Marabelle was great but it didn't matter how hard he fought, there were too many people trying to get the opposite result. Definitely recommend.
July 8, 2017
Overall I enjoyed the book. Marabelle had me laughing from the beginning till the end. She is someone I wanted to be friends with just so I could have someone loyal and entertaining on my side. Coach Nick I also enjoyed because he was alpha male throughout the book, but was sweet and caring. Together they complimented each other and made for more laughs. The only con of the book for me and why I didn't give it 5 stars because after a while Marabelle's insecurities started getting old and frustrating to hear about.
Again, I very much enjoyed the book. I even enjoyed the supporting characters.
Again, I very much enjoyed the book. I even enjoyed the supporting characters.
April 16, 2018
THIS BOOK WAS ADORABLE!!! Absolutely loved the plot line and it was so different how it involved an NFL coach instead of a player. I wish it involved the game, but it was off season. I loved the dynamic between Nick and Marabelle. The drama and the relationship between all the characters was amazing!! Definitely read if you are looking for a slow burn romance :)
May 2, 2017
Michele Summer’s Sweet Southern Trouble is an entertaining book with a heartfelt love story punctuated with lots of laughs and sizzling chemistry. Kindergarten teacher Marabelle Fairchild is being strong armed into heading up her school’s fundraiser, and she needs NFL coach Nick Frasier’s help. From the moment they meet in her classroom, sparks fly.
Nick doesn't want to help Marabelle, but she is hard to deny. She is utterly unique - unlike any woman he has ever met. He finds himself agreeing, and he discovers he wants to get to know this quirky woman. They end up agreeing to pretend to be engaged and madness ensues.
Marabelle is such an endearing character; she is funny and adorably awkward. She baffles Nick, and I loved their dynamic. Neither was looking for a relationship, but neither can deny that there is something special between them. Nick is such a hunk and a sweetheart. I really enjoyed this sweet and sexy read.
ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley, but this review was voluntarily and honestly written.
Nick doesn't want to help Marabelle, but she is hard to deny. She is utterly unique - unlike any woman he has ever met. He finds himself agreeing, and he discovers he wants to get to know this quirky woman. They end up agreeing to pretend to be engaged and madness ensues.
Marabelle is such an endearing character; she is funny and adorably awkward. She baffles Nick, and I loved their dynamic. Neither was looking for a relationship, but neither can deny that there is something special between them. Nick is such a hunk and a sweetheart. I really enjoyed this sweet and sexy read.
ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley, but this review was voluntarily and honestly written.
May 8, 2017
Received an ARC for my fair review for netgalley. I loved this book, Marabelle was great. I did enjoy Nick as her love interest, but I absolutely loved his team, Beau was awesome, Tyler was good and Rocker. Then we have the others Elizabeth, her friend and her sister. What a fun cast of characters, they all added spice to the story. I truly had fun reading this, and I hated the villain, Ginger, which shows you how good the writing is, when you hate the person you are supposed to hate.. Reading you will not be disappointed.
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