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Breakfast in Bed #1
Keeping It Hot
The New York Times bestselling author of Wishing for Us delivers a new novel about finding love and adventure with the sexy businessman next door....
Zoe Hart owns the coffee shop in one of the hottest upscale resorts in Florida, run by her childhood best friend, Dylan Jackson. Even though Dylan is a workaholic, he still finds time to enjoy the beautiful women who pass through his hotel—all of them except Zoe. She has been in love with Dylan for years without him noticing. But with her thirtieth birthday fast approaching, she realizes she can't keep pining away for a man who doesn't show the merest sign of romantic interest in her.
When Zoe launches her plan to shed her tomboy image in Dylan's eyes, she's thrilled once he starts to notice her in a whole new way. But she’ll have to face the risk that seducing her best friend might come with lasting changes to their longtime friendship...
Zoe Hart owns the coffee shop in one of the hottest upscale resorts in Florida, run by her childhood best friend, Dylan Jackson. Even though Dylan is a workaholic, he still finds time to enjoy the beautiful women who pass through his hotel—all of them except Zoe. She has been in love with Dylan for years without him noticing. But with her thirtieth birthday fast approaching, she realizes she can't keep pining away for a man who doesn't show the merest sign of romantic interest in her.
When Zoe launches her plan to shed her tomboy image in Dylan's eyes, she's thrilled once he starts to notice her in a whole new way. But she’ll have to face the risk that seducing her best friend might come with lasting changes to their longtime friendship...
301 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 4, 2017
105 people are currently reading
1072 people want to read
About the author
Sydney Landon
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Danvers series reading order:
Weekends Required
Not Planning on You
Fall For Me
Fighting For You
No Denying You (12/15/2014)
Always Loving You (2/15/2015)
Betting on You (standalone novella)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
July 10, 2020
3 stars
Keeping It Hot was a sweet, sexy, and charming friends to lovers romance! I was desperately in need of a light and fun story, and Sydney Landon delivered with this book.
Zoe Hart has been best friends with Dylan Jackson since they were kids. And Zoe has has a crush on him for as long as she can remember. But she’s been placed firmly in the friend-zone. Dylan just doesn’t see her that way… But she has a plan to change all that. With her other best friend Dana’s help, Zoe gets a bit of make-over to catch Dylan’s attention.
Dylan Jackson is the owner of a resort and a busy guy. No matter how busy he is though, he always makes time for Zoe. Zoe is one of those friends that is always there for him no matter what. She’s pretty much one of the guys and the most dependable friend he has. One night when meeting Zoe for dinner, Dylan can’t believe his eyes. What is this Zoe is wearing? Is this his best friend? When did she become so attractive? It’s safe to say that his attention has been caught.
Dylan and Zoe were both lovable characters, and Zoe’s friend Dana was a hoot! She had me laughing out loud in almost every scene she was in! I liked Dylan’s brother as well. I felt a little spark between him and Dana and hoping maybe they’ll get a book down the line.
Zoe and Dylan’s story was low on angst and drama, and had loads of laughs. It was an all around light and sweet story. A nice summer read!
Keeping It Hot was a sweet, sexy, and charming friends to lovers romance! I was desperately in need of a light and fun story, and Sydney Landon delivered with this book.
Zoe Hart has been best friends with Dylan Jackson since they were kids. And Zoe has has a crush on him for as long as she can remember. But she’s been placed firmly in the friend-zone. Dylan just doesn’t see her that way… But she has a plan to change all that. With her other best friend Dana’s help, Zoe gets a bit of make-over to catch Dylan’s attention.
Dylan Jackson is the owner of a resort and a busy guy. No matter how busy he is though, he always makes time for Zoe. Zoe is one of those friends that is always there for him no matter what. She’s pretty much one of the guys and the most dependable friend he has. One night when meeting Zoe for dinner, Dylan can’t believe his eyes. What is this Zoe is wearing? Is this his best friend? When did she become so attractive? It’s safe to say that his attention has been caught.
Dylan and Zoe were both lovable characters, and Zoe’s friend Dana was a hoot! She had me laughing out loud in almost every scene she was in! I liked Dylan’s brother as well. I felt a little spark between him and Dana and hoping maybe they’ll get a book down the line.
Zoe and Dylan’s story was low on angst and drama, and had loads of laughs. It was an all around light and sweet story. A nice summer read!
March 12, 2018
Review available at Under the Pages.
July 27, 2017
***3 STARS***
Let me put this book into a movie for you, yeah?
Keeping It Hot, starring Zoe and Dylan, two best friends who may or may not be the sexiest couple ever. Zoe – has loved Dylan for as long as she can remember. Dylan, being a guy aka stupid, is too blind to see this beautiful and sexy who’s been in life forever. It’s not just Dylan who acts a bit stupid because Zoe does too, more on that later.
Dylan is rich, handsome, and a playboy. He owns one of hottest hotels in Florida, has women practically putting their pussy’s on a plate and offering up for free.
Zoe is a sweet, beautiful woman with a heart of gold. She owns a cute little coffee shop inside of Dylan’s hotel.
Zoe has the cutest, pint size employee/friend ever, Dana. I just fell in love with her. Dana is the type of friend every girl needs. She’s down for whatever and lets you know when you look fat. She’s perfect.
How’s my casting? I hope it’s okay to allow you to see the movie in your head.
But Zoe has a secret too. Don’t worry it’s not going to spoil anything about the book by letting you know that. . .she’s a virgin. A 29 year old virgin to be exact.
Crazy, right? I don’t know about you lot, but I damn sure won’t be standing around for no man to wise up to how wonderful I am. I lost my V-card in my teenage years. Do people normally wait that long? I couldn’t even imagine going that long without discovering the beauty of a good sex session. But that’s beside the point, this isn’t a story about me. Let’s get back to Zoe and Dylan. . .
In all fairness, Zoe wasn’t without confidence. Even though she lusted after Dylan for like, ever, she still knew her self-worth and I loved that about her. Her hidden strength was also her hidden beauty.
I love a woman who doesn’t put a man above herself. That’s my kind of chick.
So here’s the question of the day. . .Does Dylan finally live up to Zoe’s idea of him as a lover or does he fall flat? I guess you’re going to have to read the book to find out.
You may wonder why I gave this book 3 STARS if I enjoyed it so much and it’s a simple answer really. As fun as the book was to read, there wasn’t much complexity, it was simple. Not that simple is bad, sometimes a girl just needs a simple read. I just know there are better books out there which makes it hard for me to give this book a higher ratings to make it seem like it’s on par with my other 4 STAR reads.
Stalk all things messy. . .
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Let me put this book into a movie for you, yeah?
Keeping It Hot, starring Zoe and Dylan, two best friends who may or may not be the sexiest couple ever. Zoe – has loved Dylan for as long as she can remember. Dylan, being a guy aka stupid, is too blind to see this beautiful and sexy who’s been in life forever. It’s not just Dylan who acts a bit stupid because Zoe does too, more on that later.
Dylan is rich, handsome, and a playboy. He owns one of hottest hotels in Florida, has women practically putting their pussy’s on a plate and offering up for free.
Zoe is a sweet, beautiful woman with a heart of gold. She owns a cute little coffee shop inside of Dylan’s hotel.
Zoe has the cutest, pint size employee/friend ever, Dana. I just fell in love with her. Dana is the type of friend every girl needs. She’s down for whatever and lets you know when you look fat. She’s perfect.
How’s my casting? I hope it’s okay to allow you to see the movie in your head.
But Zoe has a secret too. Don’t worry it’s not going to spoil anything about the book by letting you know that. . .she’s a virgin. A 29 year old virgin to be exact.
I’m twenty-nine, still carrying around my V-card, and I’ve been friend zoned by the man I’ve secretly lusted after for years. – Zoe
Crazy, right? I don’t know about you lot, but I damn sure won’t be standing around for no man to wise up to how wonderful I am. I lost my V-card in my teenage years. Do people normally wait that long? I couldn’t even imagine going that long without discovering the beauty of a good sex session. But that’s beside the point, this isn’t a story about me. Let’s get back to Zoe and Dylan. . .
In all fairness, Zoe wasn’t without confidence. Even though she lusted after Dylan for like, ever, she still knew her self-worth and I loved that about her. Her hidden strength was also her hidden beauty.
You never waited around for a man to make you a priority. To do that set a precedent for something I wasn’t will to do, not even for Dylan. – Zoe
I love a woman who doesn’t put a man above herself. That’s my kind of chick.
So here’s the question of the day. . .Does Dylan finally live up to Zoe’s idea of him as a lover or does he fall flat? I guess you’re going to have to read the book to find out.
You may wonder why I gave this book 3 STARS if I enjoyed it so much and it’s a simple answer really. As fun as the book was to read, there wasn’t much complexity, it was simple. Not that simple is bad, sometimes a girl just needs a simple read. I just know there are better books out there which makes it hard for me to give this book a higher ratings to make it seem like it’s on par with my other 4 STAR reads.
Stalk all things messy. . .
Blog www.prettymessreading.com
Instagram www.instagram.com/prettymessreading/
Facebook www.facebook.com/prettymessreading/
Twitter www.twitter.com/prettymessread
July 29, 2017
2.5 stars!
I really, really wanted to like this book. I really did. Friends-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes, and the blurb for this book got me really excited.
Unfortunately, there are too many issues that really stuck out to me. I tried ignoring and justifying them but the more I did the more they reared their ugly heads.
Don't get wrong, the writing was good. It was well-paced and had some really cool moments. But those moments were far in between. The rest just annoyed the crap out of me.
One of the biggest flaws of the book is the hero Dylan. He's one of the shallowest heroes I've ever read. An overgrown frat boy who took the heroine for granted and only noticed her when she started changing her appearance.
I've read books where the heroine had a transformation before and ended up loving them. It's a tricky trope to get right and the ones that did it successfully had managed to establish the hero as someone who sees the value of the heroine despite her appearance.
That wasn't the case in this book. The hero just didn't see the heroine as a woman worthy of his interest. That galled me.
It didn't help that the heroine was in love with the hero all her life and lived her life to cater to him. And her transformation was the same thing. It was all for him. There was nothing about it that was for herself. I have nothing against the whole idea of doing everything to get the guy. But come on, she already has the guy but the guy unfortunately is an idiot who only decided to pursue the heroine because he can see how amazing her tits actually are. *roll eyes*
Zoe was okay. She's a successful business woman but it's almost like she had to dumb herself down to accommodate the hero. I didn't get why she's in love with the guy when he's dismissive of her value.
Aside from the awful hero, this book runs on cliche after cliche, from the bestie to the bad guy villain to the meddling family member...it's just too much.
ARC provided by the publisher
I really, really wanted to like this book. I really did. Friends-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes, and the blurb for this book got me really excited.
Unfortunately, there are too many issues that really stuck out to me. I tried ignoring and justifying them but the more I did the more they reared their ugly heads.
Don't get wrong, the writing was good. It was well-paced and had some really cool moments. But those moments were far in between. The rest just annoyed the crap out of me.
One of the biggest flaws of the book is the hero Dylan. He's one of the shallowest heroes I've ever read. An overgrown frat boy who took the heroine for granted and only noticed her when she started changing her appearance.
I've read books where the heroine had a transformation before and ended up loving them. It's a tricky trope to get right and the ones that did it successfully had managed to establish the hero as someone who sees the value of the heroine despite her appearance.
That wasn't the case in this book. The hero just didn't see the heroine as a woman worthy of his interest. That galled me.
It didn't help that the heroine was in love with the hero all her life and lived her life to cater to him. And her transformation was the same thing. It was all for him. There was nothing about it that was for herself. I have nothing against the whole idea of doing everything to get the guy. But come on, she already has the guy but the guy unfortunately is an idiot who only decided to pursue the heroine because he can see how amazing her tits actually are. *roll eyes*
Zoe was okay. She's a successful business woman but it's almost like she had to dumb herself down to accommodate the hero. I didn't get why she's in love with the guy when he's dismissive of her value.
Aside from the awful hero, this book runs on cliche after cliche, from the bestie to the bad guy villain to the meddling family member...it's just too much.
ARC provided by the publisher
July 5, 2017
I love friends-to-lovers trope as much as the next person but this one just made me so irritated. Let me explain.
I honestly stay away from Ugly Fuckling turned Cinderella type of story but since this is by Sydney Landon, I thought I'd give it a shot. My issue with this book was the Hero. He's a total dick.
He took the heroine for granted for so long and it took for her to grow her tits for him to actually see that? Like okay? Shallow much? Like I'm so uncomfortable with him noticing her for--quite literally-- her tits.
It'd be fine if he treated well before that but he was such a jerk and the heroine's too much of a doormat to see that.
Anyways, this is just an unpopular opinion, so don't count this book out on my account.
I honestly stay away from Ugly Fuckling turned Cinderella type of story but since this is by Sydney Landon, I thought I'd give it a shot. My issue with this book was the Hero. He's a total dick.
He took the heroine for granted for so long and it took for her to grow her tits for him to actually see that? Like okay? Shallow much? Like I'm so uncomfortable with him noticing her for--quite literally-- her tits.
It'd be fine if he treated well before that but he was such a jerk and the heroine's too much of a doormat to see that.
Anyways, this is just an unpopular opinion, so don't count this book out on my account.
July 4, 2017
I have come to the conclusion that one of the hardest reviews to write is about a book that you totally loved. I want to tell you the whole story, I want nothing more than to spoil the whole book. I couldn’t stop reading it, I loved Keeping It Hot, I want more from Sydney Landon.
Zoe was a riot in her attempts to get Dylan to notice her as more than “one of the guys”. The one man that she truly wants, has been beside her through thick and thin, has no idea that she’s still a virgin. What happens when he finds out that she is on a quest to lose it before she turn’s thirty is hysterical. She may not be comfortable with “all” the attention she is getting from the opposite sex but she knows that she finally has Dylan’s attention.
What the hell is up with Zoe? That’s all that keeps going through Dylan’s mind. She is turning his world upside down and he has no idea how to handle it. OMG, she’s sexy, beautiful and catching the eye of every man that walks into the coffee shop! He can’t handle it. Then she tells me she’s a virgin and is looking for the guy to lose it to? Nope, not happening, no one gets Zoe but me. Whoa, what am I thinking? This is my buddy, my best friend, the woman who knows everything about me. How have I never noticed how hot she is? Yep, this is what we put up with throughout the whole story. Dylan freaking out and Zoe loving every minute of it. It. Was. Wonderful.
I loved every aspect of this story. The way it was written. The way it was told. The way Zoe turned from the caterpillar into the beautiful butterfly. The way Dylan finally noticed what has been standing in front of him his whole life. I just had a wonderful time reading Keeping It Hot. Sydney Landon really brought the characters alive and brought us a light, fun story. I was totally lost in the story and cannot wait to see just where she is going to bring the rest of this series.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
July 4, 2017
4.5 Stars
I really fell for this story. It was a darling best friend to lover romance that had the sparks flying. The author did a wonderful job with this cute romcom type romance.
Dylan was an absolute doll and so oblivious to his best friend, Zoe. To him she was just one of the guys until she started shedding her outer layer. Then the humor of the story started to shine. His reactions were so funny!
The story is sweet, sexy, and Dylan is so so hot. My one issue is that a 29 yr old virgin is a bit of a stretch, but the writing and story overall made this so enjoyable!.
With good supporting characters that will become a part of the series, this is one not to miss. I will definitely be reading more by this author!
I really fell for this story. It was a darling best friend to lover romance that had the sparks flying. The author did a wonderful job with this cute romcom type romance.
Dylan was an absolute doll and so oblivious to his best friend, Zoe. To him she was just one of the guys until she started shedding her outer layer. Then the humor of the story started to shine. His reactions were so funny!
The story is sweet, sexy, and Dylan is so so hot. My one issue is that a 29 yr old virgin is a bit of a stretch, but the writing and story overall made this so enjoyable!.
With good supporting characters that will become a part of the series, this is one not to miss. I will definitely be reading more by this author!
December 27, 2017
Keeping it Hot had a really strong open. I love these types of friends-to-lovers stories with hijinks and romance and smutty bits. So, obviously, I really liked Keeping it Hot and I wanted to know what was going to happen so much. But, when I got to the half way point I just lost interest and momentum and it stayed that way for months until I could muster up any effort to finish the darn thing.
Now the problem I was having wasn’t with the content or writing style or anything like that. Overall, the plot was well paced and there were some fun jokes in there. Keeping it Hot definitely had its moments and its own certain charm about it. I just couldn’t suspend my disbelief while reading. Don’t get me wrong… I’m quite good at suspending disbelief and just going with the flow of the story. You can’t read as many vampire novels as I do and not have the ability to suspend disbelief. In the case of Keeping it Hot I couldn’t get into the belief that these characters were completely feasible as real (albeit fictional) people. There cannot be any possible way that a person as naïve as Zoe could be real. It’s a level of naïve that even science couldn’t possibly find a way to accurately measure. I can only take so much of this until I just start to really not care about the character anymore. Something just felt so fictional about an already fictional character that I couldn’t get immersed into her story. I didn’t hate Zoe; I was more indifferent to her than anything else.
The other issue I had is really more of a personal pet peeve. It’s the whole “I never noticed this amazing girl I’m friends with because she didn’t dress well or wear makeup but once she has a makeover I realize she has boobs and I want her desperately!” trope. Simply put: It’s shallow. If a man can’t figure out if a woman is amazing and attractive just because she’s wearing khakis then he’s a special kind of stupid. Like, really, all she had to do was remove her ponytail and you figured out she was hot? Ugh…
I don’t want to be a Debbie Downer about Keeping it Hot because it wasn’t terrible. Really, it wasn’t! Like I mentioned before the friends-to-lovers concept and the writing style worked great. My main issue was with the characters. So, while this wasn’t the best book I’ve ever read, it was far from the worst. Overall, it was about average. However, Sydney Landon is one of those authors that I always read so I already know I’m still going to pick up the next book in the series when it comes out.
Now the problem I was having wasn’t with the content or writing style or anything like that. Overall, the plot was well paced and there were some fun jokes in there. Keeping it Hot definitely had its moments and its own certain charm about it. I just couldn’t suspend my disbelief while reading. Don’t get me wrong… I’m quite good at suspending disbelief and just going with the flow of the story. You can’t read as many vampire novels as I do and not have the ability to suspend disbelief. In the case of Keeping it Hot I couldn’t get into the belief that these characters were completely feasible as real (albeit fictional) people. There cannot be any possible way that a person as naïve as Zoe could be real. It’s a level of naïve that even science couldn’t possibly find a way to accurately measure. I can only take so much of this until I just start to really not care about the character anymore. Something just felt so fictional about an already fictional character that I couldn’t get immersed into her story. I didn’t hate Zoe; I was more indifferent to her than anything else.
The other issue I had is really more of a personal pet peeve. It’s the whole “I never noticed this amazing girl I’m friends with because she didn’t dress well or wear makeup but once she has a makeover I realize she has boobs and I want her desperately!” trope. Simply put: It’s shallow. If a man can’t figure out if a woman is amazing and attractive just because she’s wearing khakis then he’s a special kind of stupid. Like, really, all she had to do was remove her ponytail and you figured out she was hot? Ugh…
I don’t want to be a Debbie Downer about Keeping it Hot because it wasn’t terrible. Really, it wasn’t! Like I mentioned before the friends-to-lovers concept and the writing style worked great. My main issue was with the characters. So, while this wasn’t the best book I’ve ever read, it was far from the worst. Overall, it was about average. However, Sydney Landon is one of those authors that I always read so I already know I’m still going to pick up the next book in the series when it comes out.
July 16, 2017
At first I wondered whether I would like Dylan. Nothing against him, it's just was he blind? But as the book progresses, nope he was not blind. Let me start from the beginning.
Zoe, omg, really girl, khaki shirts and a polo shirt, and you wonder why he does see you as one of the boys. I also do not get how anyone could wear a polo shirt in Florida, since here, well if it is above freezing it is summer. But still in her clueless state she is a 29 year old virgin who works too much. I did not have a prob with her being 29 and a virgin. If she wanted to save herself then good for you. Though her not even getting to second base was a bit far fetched.
Dylan also worked too much. And he liked the ladies. But he is a good guy, and I liked how he appreciated his friendship with her. Also he had noticed that she was a woman, and he had thought about it, but the fugly clothes helps hide the fact she might be a hottie.
The book is about her wanting to give it a go, so she turns up the heat, dresses in a few showier pieces and makes him notice her. But the question is can their friendship survive it? And can they be more?
I enjoyed it.
Narrator Nicol Zanzarella
I actually did have a problem here, she had a drawl or something and I just get annoyed really quickly. I had the narration on 1.8p speed to make it better and that did make it better. That way I could enjoy the narration. I guess on slower speeds it was just one of those the voice did not click things.
Zoe, omg, really girl, khaki shirts and a polo shirt, and you wonder why he does see you as one of the boys. I also do not get how anyone could wear a polo shirt in Florida, since here, well if it is above freezing it is summer. But still in her clueless state she is a 29 year old virgin who works too much. I did not have a prob with her being 29 and a virgin. If she wanted to save herself then good for you. Though her not even getting to second base was a bit far fetched.
Dylan also worked too much. And he liked the ladies. But he is a good guy, and I liked how he appreciated his friendship with her. Also he had noticed that she was a woman, and he had thought about it, but the fugly clothes helps hide the fact she might be a hottie.
The book is about her wanting to give it a go, so she turns up the heat, dresses in a few showier pieces and makes him notice her. But the question is can their friendship survive it? And can they be more?
I enjoyed it.
Narrator Nicol Zanzarella
I actually did have a problem here, she had a drawl or something and I just get annoyed really quickly. I had the narration on 1.8p speed to make it better and that did make it better. That way I could enjoy the narration. I guess on slower speeds it was just one of those the voice did not click things.
July 6, 2017
4.5 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this quick, fun distraction (I'm saying that a lot lately with these one day reads). But this one is THE quintessential beach read!! So glad I bought it after seeing Caffeinated Book Reviewer's review!!
RTC...
I thoroughly enjoyed this quick, fun distraction (I'm saying that a lot lately with these one day reads). But this one is THE quintessential beach read!! So glad I bought it after seeing Caffeinated Book Reviewer's review!!
RTC...
March 28, 2017
* A review copy was provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review *
~ 5 More Than Friends Stars ~
I absolutely love a Syndney Landon book.
I know when I pick up a book by her that I will get swept away in the story and fall in love with characters. She has never disappointed me. I always know that I will end up with a huge smile on my face after reading one of her stories.
Keeping It Hot was no different. This is a Friends to lovers story told in Dual POV in the third person. It was a fun and entertaining read without a lot of excess drama. There was just enough to keep the reader interested and turning the pages. Her books always flow perfectly and the pace is always spot on. She always gives the story and characters enough depth that you don't feel like you are missing something but also doesn't way it down with too much information.
In this book we follow Dylan and Zoe. (We met Dylan and his family briefly in Betting On You.) This is completely a standalone so you don't have to read that book first. I was just mentioning it so if Dylan Jackson and his Resort, The Oceanix, sounded familiar you'd know why. Zoe and Dylan have been Best Friends since they were kids, but Zoe has been secretly in love with Dylan for years and wants more. As she is approaching 30 years old, she realizes she needs to do something about it. She enlists her friend Dana to help and they work to make Dylan finally see Zoe as more than a friend. Will Dylan finally look at Zoe as the woman she is and not just as a friend?? Can these two cross that line and still get their HEA?? Read this book to find out.
I enjoyed meeting Dana (Zoe’s friend) and Ash (Dylan’s brother) in this book. I have a feeling there might be something there between these two….or at least I am hoping. I look forward to reading more books in this series. I also loved the banter between Dana and Dylan…..they had me laughing on more than one occasion. I loved how Dana had Zoe’s back and was also able to talk her friend off the ledge when needed.
This is definitely a book for anyone who is a fan of the friends to lovers stories. If you haven’t read anything by Sydney Landon yet, then this book is the perfect introduction to her writing. And if you are already a fan of her work, you don’t want to miss this first book in her newest series.
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~ 5 More Than Friends Stars ~
I absolutely love a Syndney Landon book.
I know when I pick up a book by her that I will get swept away in the story and fall in love with characters. She has never disappointed me. I always know that I will end up with a huge smile on my face after reading one of her stories.
Keeping It Hot was no different. This is a Friends to lovers story told in Dual POV in the third person. It was a fun and entertaining read without a lot of excess drama. There was just enough to keep the reader interested and turning the pages. Her books always flow perfectly and the pace is always spot on. She always gives the story and characters enough depth that you don't feel like you are missing something but also doesn't way it down with too much information.
In this book we follow Dylan and Zoe. (We met Dylan and his family briefly in Betting On You.) This is completely a standalone so you don't have to read that book first. I was just mentioning it so if Dylan Jackson and his Resort, The Oceanix, sounded familiar you'd know why. Zoe and Dylan have been Best Friends since they were kids, but Zoe has been secretly in love with Dylan for years and wants more. As she is approaching 30 years old, she realizes she needs to do something about it. She enlists her friend Dana to help and they work to make Dylan finally see Zoe as more than a friend. Will Dylan finally look at Zoe as the woman she is and not just as a friend?? Can these two cross that line and still get their HEA?? Read this book to find out.
I enjoyed meeting Dana (Zoe’s friend) and Ash (Dylan’s brother) in this book. I have a feeling there might be something there between these two….or at least I am hoping. I look forward to reading more books in this series. I also loved the banter between Dana and Dylan…..they had me laughing on more than one occasion. I loved how Dana had Zoe’s back and was also able to talk her friend off the ledge when needed.
This is definitely a book for anyone who is a fan of the friends to lovers stories. If you haven’t read anything by Sydney Landon yet, then this book is the perfect introduction to her writing. And if you are already a fan of her work, you don’t want to miss this first book in her newest series.
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July 3, 2017
This was my first read by Landon who reminds me a bit of Jill Shalvis and Lauren Blakely. Told in dual perspectives, Landon immediately pulled me in their story. Zoe owns a coffee shop, so of course, I immediately loved her. Zoe is that best friend who is gorgeous but wears unflattering clothes. She goes to work in khakis and a golf shirt matching what other hotel employees wear. When she spends time with her BFF Dylan she wears sweat pants and t-shirts. Zoe isn't real confident about herself, despite her business success. So as she approaches her thirty birthday she decides things need to change. With encouragement from her friend and employee Dana, she has a complete makeover. Bye-bye pony-tail and seven-day packs of cotton underwear.
The set-up was perfect and I enjoyed being inside Dylan's head as he takes in Zoe for the first time. Landon did a fantastic job of allowing the reader to experience all the reactions and thoughts. I love how cool Zoe played it, even if she was only following advice. I laughed and smiled as the storyline moved towards the inevitable.
The romance delivered the perfect blend of sweet and heat. From conversations, foreplay and tangled sheets, Landon scorched my kindle and had me swooning for Dylan. Both characters felt genuine and it was clear these two know and care for each other. The drama was kept to a minimum due to level headed Zoe and a suspense thread.
Secondary characters really rounded out this tale and added humor, snark, and meddling. Asher, one of Dylan's siblings has me quite curious and Dana is off the charts hilarious from her love life to snark. Just wait until you meet Zoe's mom. I laughed so hard I had tears. I loved all the one-liner zings, teasing, and banter that developed between all of the characters. It flowed wonderfully and endeared me to them.
As for the Breakfast in Bed series, Landon has me excited. We get a little hint of another possible romance and I can hardly wait. KEEPING IT HOT left me smiling with its unrushed and satisfying ending. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
The set-up was perfect and I enjoyed being inside Dylan's head as he takes in Zoe for the first time. Landon did a fantastic job of allowing the reader to experience all the reactions and thoughts. I love how cool Zoe played it, even if she was only following advice. I laughed and smiled as the storyline moved towards the inevitable.
The romance delivered the perfect blend of sweet and heat. From conversations, foreplay and tangled sheets, Landon scorched my kindle and had me swooning for Dylan. Both characters felt genuine and it was clear these two know and care for each other. The drama was kept to a minimum due to level headed Zoe and a suspense thread.
Secondary characters really rounded out this tale and added humor, snark, and meddling. Asher, one of Dylan's siblings has me quite curious and Dana is off the charts hilarious from her love life to snark. Just wait until you meet Zoe's mom. I laughed so hard I had tears. I loved all the one-liner zings, teasing, and banter that developed between all of the characters. It flowed wonderfully and endeared me to them.
As for the Breakfast in Bed series, Landon has me excited. We get a little hint of another possible romance and I can hardly wait. KEEPING IT HOT left me smiling with its unrushed and satisfying ending. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
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July 22, 2017
2.5 stars
It was a bit meh for me. I liked some elements of this story but alot of it was pretty familiar and the characters weren’t that strong. Jealousy and possessiveness can be fun, if there’s something more to the romance. Zoe and Dylan’s relationship felt unbalanced from the start (she was ALL into him and he was oblivious to her) and never quite clicked all the way for me. Perhaps because she never felt like a priority to him. But it’s cute and there some decent story developments and some good banter (mostly with secondary characters) that gave this fairly standard virgin trope-based romance a bit of oomph at the end. If you’re into virgins/friends to lovers/duckling into (kinda) swan stories, you may enjoy this more than I did.
**ARC provided by publisher via netgalley for review**
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September 7, 2017
Three and a half stars: A fun friends to lovers romance, but I wanted more tension in buildup in the relationship.
Zoe is sick and tired of her best friend, Dylan, overlooking her. She wants him to finally see her as a beautiful woman and not one of the guys. With the help of her friend, Dana, Zoe hatches a plan to transform from a plain, khaki wearing working girl to a knock out, all in hopes of finally landing the man she has been pining after her whole life. However, there is always the chance that she could ruin a good thing. Will taking their relationship from friends to lovers change everything?
What I Liked:
*I can’t resist the tried and true friends to lovers romance. Keeping It Hot features a funny romance that heats up when two long time best friends realize they have more than platonic feelings for one another. Granted, Zoe has always had romantic feelings for Dylan, but Dylan has had his head stuck in a hole. Only when Zoe transforms and other guys start paying attention, does he realize what he has. If you like a good friends to lovers romance without drama or angst, this is one to check out.
*I liked that the romance was simple and straightforward without miscommunication and stumbles that usually occur. Yes, there are a couple of small conflicts, but nothing over the top or ridiculous. I enjoyed the maturity and the simplicity of this romance.
*The romance itself is great. I liked that it grew from a long time friendship, so the trust and camaraderie were already in place. It felt natural and right. I also liked the heat and the passion.
*I loved that the story is told with dual view points. You get both Zoe and Dylan’s points of view. I always enjoy getting into both parties’ heads.
*I also enjoyed some of the secondary characters. Zoe's mom is a hoot. I laughed at the way she poked fun at her daughter when she encountered Zoe after a heated session in her office at work. She took it all in stride and made several funny jokes at Zoe’s expense, but they were all in good fun. Dana is the show stealer. She is Zoe’s best gal pal, and she is determined to make sure that Dylan finally see Zoe. *I liked her sass and her straight shooting way of dealing with things. I especially enjoyed the wicked banter between her and Dylan. Finally, Ash, Dylan’s brother was an interesting addition. I liked how he stepped in and took care of his brother. His is supportive and funny. There were some interesting sparks between Ash and Dana, and I will be waiting to see if the next book features them.
*The book wraps up neatly with a nice epilogue a few months down the road. No unanswered questions or lingering story lines.
And The Not So Much:
*I enjoyed the romance overall, but I wanted a bit more of the buildup and tension between Zoe and Dylan. I was completely enjoying the whole transformation of Zoe and liking seeing how jealous Dylan became. Then something happens when Zoe leaks an important piece of information about herself. After that, the relationship zooms quickly into a full blown romance. I was expecting more tension and heat and buildup. I thought it moved past that part far too quickly, which is my personal preference.
*After Zoe and Dylan are together, things got boring. Nothing really happens, and the events that do happen are far too predictable.
Keeping it Hot is a pleasant fun romance with the well worn but proven friends to lovers romance. I liked that the romance was simple and easy without unnecessary drama and angst. My only complaint was I wanted more in the buildup, but that is a personal preference. This is a easy read, perfect when you want something on the lighter side.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Zoe is sick and tired of her best friend, Dylan, overlooking her. She wants him to finally see her as a beautiful woman and not one of the guys. With the help of her friend, Dana, Zoe hatches a plan to transform from a plain, khaki wearing working girl to a knock out, all in hopes of finally landing the man she has been pining after her whole life. However, there is always the chance that she could ruin a good thing. Will taking their relationship from friends to lovers change everything?
What I Liked:
*I can’t resist the tried and true friends to lovers romance. Keeping It Hot features a funny romance that heats up when two long time best friends realize they have more than platonic feelings for one another. Granted, Zoe has always had romantic feelings for Dylan, but Dylan has had his head stuck in a hole. Only when Zoe transforms and other guys start paying attention, does he realize what he has. If you like a good friends to lovers romance without drama or angst, this is one to check out.
*I liked that the romance was simple and straightforward without miscommunication and stumbles that usually occur. Yes, there are a couple of small conflicts, but nothing over the top or ridiculous. I enjoyed the maturity and the simplicity of this romance.
*The romance itself is great. I liked that it grew from a long time friendship, so the trust and camaraderie were already in place. It felt natural and right. I also liked the heat and the passion.
*I loved that the story is told with dual view points. You get both Zoe and Dylan’s points of view. I always enjoy getting into both parties’ heads.
*I also enjoyed some of the secondary characters. Zoe's mom is a hoot. I laughed at the way she poked fun at her daughter when she encountered Zoe after a heated session in her office at work. She took it all in stride and made several funny jokes at Zoe’s expense, but they were all in good fun. Dana is the show stealer. She is Zoe’s best gal pal, and she is determined to make sure that Dylan finally see Zoe. *I liked her sass and her straight shooting way of dealing with things. I especially enjoyed the wicked banter between her and Dylan. Finally, Ash, Dylan’s brother was an interesting addition. I liked how he stepped in and took care of his brother. His is supportive and funny. There were some interesting sparks between Ash and Dana, and I will be waiting to see if the next book features them.
*The book wraps up neatly with a nice epilogue a few months down the road. No unanswered questions or lingering story lines.
And The Not So Much:
*I enjoyed the romance overall, but I wanted a bit more of the buildup and tension between Zoe and Dylan. I was completely enjoying the whole transformation of Zoe and liking seeing how jealous Dylan became. Then something happens when Zoe leaks an important piece of information about herself. After that, the relationship zooms quickly into a full blown romance. I was expecting more tension and heat and buildup. I thought it moved past that part far too quickly, which is my personal preference.
*After Zoe and Dylan are together, things got boring. Nothing really happens, and the events that do happen are far too predictable.
Keeping it Hot is a pleasant fun romance with the well worn but proven friends to lovers romance. I liked that the romance was simple and easy without unnecessary drama and angst. My only complaint was I wanted more in the buildup, but that is a personal preference. This is a easy read, perfect when you want something on the lighter side.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
March 26, 2017
I guess you could say when it came to Zoe, Dylan was protective of her...“Who was looking at her?” He snapped, then winced when she gave him a triumphant look. Dang, I walked right into that one. Time for some damage control. “Meaning I hope no one was bothering her. Some of the guests can be overly friendly, but she can handle herself.” There are times I don't think Dylan hides his excitement well, “vabe, if you don’t stop talking about it, I’m going to come in my pants. I’d be thrilled to receive your first blow job, so by all means, lead the way. You’re running the show.” I loved this book, zoe had so much patience when it came to Dylan, the man was just clueless at times.
no-thanks-but-no
July 5, 2017I really thankful to the author for writing this clear blurb!
I mean it! No sarcasm!
Doormat + manho.
Saved my time and low rating.
I respect honesty!
I mean it! No sarcasm!
Doormat + manho.
Saved my time and low rating.
I respect honesty!
March 29, 2018
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
I really love when we do our joint reviews. It's always fun to see what your fellow Book Club Thursday blogger thought about the book. Just like a book club! Ha!
This time we a read Keeping it Hot by Sydney Landon. I picked this one, it's been on my list for almost a year and knew this was the perfect time for me to read it so I suggested it for our joint review, or at least one of them.
Sydney Landon is a new author for me. This is the first time I read her. I didn't check out the reviews for the book before I picked it because I never like to read reviews before I read a book. Sometimes they change my thoughts on a book. So I went in blind other then the blurb.
I both love that and fear it. You really never know what you're going to get.
So as I was saying this is a new author for me. From the blurb I could tell it was going to be a fun book to read and it turned out to be true. I enjoyed Keeping it Hot. I can't say I loved it but I felt it was a solid 3.5 stars. I enjoyed the friends to lovers theme of the book. I would have to say that this was the first book where that was the trope and the characters truly felt like that.
I really believed these two are friends. It's one of the things I really enjoyed. Their friendship was very strong and I think that's why they worked as a couple. Other then having sex they acted before as a couple and didn't even know it.
It was fun reading about how they fooled themselves about what they wanted. Well, maybe more so for Dylan then Zoe. She knew she wanted him, Dylan on the other hand wanted nothing to changed but still wanted everything from Zoe.
Men!
Now as much as I enjoyed this story and times it kinda seem like they were teenagers instead of adults. Mostly Zoe in that. Plus the humor kept wanting to head to the silly side of things. Yes the author pulls it back in time but there were times when I thought to myself "what!"
If you're looking for something fun to read, nothing heavy then this is your story. I will be reading Dana's story because I just can't help myself. I just need to see how she handles her own relationship.
Follow me on:
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I really love when we do our joint reviews. It's always fun to see what your fellow Book Club Thursday blogger thought about the book. Just like a book club! Ha!
This time we a read Keeping it Hot by Sydney Landon. I picked this one, it's been on my list for almost a year and knew this was the perfect time for me to read it so I suggested it for our joint review, or at least one of them.
Sydney Landon is a new author for me. This is the first time I read her. I didn't check out the reviews for the book before I picked it because I never like to read reviews before I read a book. Sometimes they change my thoughts on a book. So I went in blind other then the blurb.
I both love that and fear it. You really never know what you're going to get.
So as I was saying this is a new author for me. From the blurb I could tell it was going to be a fun book to read and it turned out to be true. I enjoyed Keeping it Hot. I can't say I loved it but I felt it was a solid 3.5 stars. I enjoyed the friends to lovers theme of the book. I would have to say that this was the first book where that was the trope and the characters truly felt like that.
I really believed these two are friends. It's one of the things I really enjoyed. Their friendship was very strong and I think that's why they worked as a couple. Other then having sex they acted before as a couple and didn't even know it.
It was fun reading about how they fooled themselves about what they wanted. Well, maybe more so for Dylan then Zoe. She knew she wanted him, Dylan on the other hand wanted nothing to changed but still wanted everything from Zoe.
Men!
Now as much as I enjoyed this story and times it kinda seem like they were teenagers instead of adults. Mostly Zoe in that. Plus the humor kept wanting to head to the silly side of things. Yes the author pulls it back in time but there were times when I thought to myself "what!"
If you're looking for something fun to read, nothing heavy then this is your story. I will be reading Dana's story because I just can't help myself. I just need to see how she handles her own relationship.
Follow me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
https://twitter.com/Romancingreader
July 6, 2017
Friend, lover n husband & wife.
It's not easy but I seen in real. My grade school friends did it now sharing a happy n big lovely family.
I always jealous what they shared but I knew it wasn't easy especially when both of them were long distance. She moved to Vancouver in junior n his was in Sydney, somehow they did it n now sharing their happy life in Hong Kong.
D & Z knew each other for a long long time but until she was 29 n move her step towards him. It may not work if Z not in good looking n having a killing body, believe me, if she is ugly, i m sure D never be hers. Dana was right about men, n love her wild mind so much.
It's not easy but I seen in real. My grade school friends did it now sharing a happy n big lovely family.
I always jealous what they shared but I knew it wasn't easy especially when both of them were long distance. She moved to Vancouver in junior n his was in Sydney, somehow they did it n now sharing their happy life in Hong Kong.
D & Z knew each other for a long long time but until she was 29 n move her step towards him. It may not work if Z not in good looking n having a killing body, believe me, if she is ugly, i m sure D never be hers. Dana was right about men, n love her wild mind so much.
July 5, 2017
I'm always amazed that such a great guy would have a best friend who was so skeazy. Zoe's friend Dana was risque but not skeazy. Otherwise, fantastic story. Asher seems interesting.....
June 29, 2017
Meh. Quick easy read, but nothing spectacular.
June 30, 2017
3.5/5
Keeping It Hot is the first in a spin-off series from Sydney Landon's Danvers series with some familiar faces getting their own stories.
Zoe own the coffee shop located in the Danvers building so we get to see the familiar characters we know and love in fleeting cameo appearances adding connection to the new series. Zoe is a wonderful character, career-driven, a loyal friend and eternally optimistic but the one thing that evades her positivity is her romantic aspirations. The thing, or rather the person holding Zoe back from having an intimate relationship is her best friend, Dylan; and the fact taht Zoe has been in love with him for as long as she can remember. Unfortunately, her tomboy persona and style have entrenched firmly within the friend zone. With 30 fast approaching Zoe decides it's time to take action once and for all, either she will alter her relationship with Dylan or she will be able to move forward with her life without regret of what could have been. Enlisting the help of her friend and employee, Dana, Zoe alters her image to something a little more feminine.
Dylan is a workaholic, and has always insisted he doesn't have time for relationships because he can't make the time to give them the attention they require. While Dylan loves Zoe in his own way, her androgynous appearance has allowed him to place her safely within a box so he doesn't think about her sexuality. Zoe's makeover throws Dylan for a loop as he can't help but notice just how amazing Zoe really is. Revelations add to Dylan's desire and caveman possessiveness of Zoe.
It is obvious Dylan and Zoe belong together, they have a deep understanding that comes from their years of friendship, however, the road to happiness is never without it's hurdles. the biggest challenge for Dylan and Zoe is Dylan's inability to delegate, business always come first.
I loved watching Zoe's confidence grow with her image transformation, embracing her femininity as opposed to suppressing it. Her boast in self-esteem also makes Zoe realise that she deserves to be a priority in someone's life rather than coming in second best.
Ultimately, Dylan has to be able to compromise in order to hold onto the once in a lifetime relationship with Zoe or risk losing her altogether.
I really liked how the peripheral character provided a brilliant support system for Zoe and Dylan including taking control when required. The path has been set for the next book in the series and I am keeping my fingers crossed to see if I am right in my assumptions as to who will be in the spotlight.
Keeping It Hot is the first in a spin-off series from Sydney Landon's Danvers series with some familiar faces getting their own stories.
Zoe own the coffee shop located in the Danvers building so we get to see the familiar characters we know and love in fleeting cameo appearances adding connection to the new series. Zoe is a wonderful character, career-driven, a loyal friend and eternally optimistic but the one thing that evades her positivity is her romantic aspirations. The thing, or rather the person holding Zoe back from having an intimate relationship is her best friend, Dylan; and the fact taht Zoe has been in love with him for as long as she can remember. Unfortunately, her tomboy persona and style have entrenched firmly within the friend zone. With 30 fast approaching Zoe decides it's time to take action once and for all, either she will alter her relationship with Dylan or she will be able to move forward with her life without regret of what could have been. Enlisting the help of her friend and employee, Dana, Zoe alters her image to something a little more feminine.
Dylan is a workaholic, and has always insisted he doesn't have time for relationships because he can't make the time to give them the attention they require. While Dylan loves Zoe in his own way, her androgynous appearance has allowed him to place her safely within a box so he doesn't think about her sexuality. Zoe's makeover throws Dylan for a loop as he can't help but notice just how amazing Zoe really is. Revelations add to Dylan's desire and caveman possessiveness of Zoe.
It is obvious Dylan and Zoe belong together, they have a deep understanding that comes from their years of friendship, however, the road to happiness is never without it's hurdles. the biggest challenge for Dylan and Zoe is Dylan's inability to delegate, business always come first.
I loved watching Zoe's confidence grow with her image transformation, embracing her femininity as opposed to suppressing it. Her boast in self-esteem also makes Zoe realise that she deserves to be a priority in someone's life rather than coming in second best.
Ultimately, Dylan has to be able to compromise in order to hold onto the once in a lifetime relationship with Zoe or risk losing her altogether.
I really liked how the peripheral character provided a brilliant support system for Zoe and Dylan including taking control when required. The path has been set for the next book in the series and I am keeping my fingers crossed to see if I am right in my assumptions as to who will be in the spotlight.
July 14, 2017
Zoe Hart and Dylan Jackson have been friends since middle school, they spend time together, and have always been there for each other, but as Zoe is about to turn 30 she puts a plan into action to make Dylan notice her, because she wants more than just his friendship.
With the help of her friend Dana, Zoe changes her appearance and begins to tease and entice Dylan who has only ever viewed Zoe as his best friend. When he sees her at the coffee shop she owns in his hotel he's caught off guard by her change in appearance and begins to see Zoe as a desirable woman and not just as his best friend.
Can two best friends make a relationship happen? With work and family and friends getting in the way?
I liked this book, but didn't love it. I enjoyed the characters and their witty banter. Three middle of the road stars 👍🏽
With the help of her friend Dana, Zoe changes her appearance and begins to tease and entice Dylan who has only ever viewed Zoe as his best friend. When he sees her at the coffee shop she owns in his hotel he's caught off guard by her change in appearance and begins to see Zoe as a desirable woman and not just as his best friend.
Can two best friends make a relationship happen? With work and family and friends getting in the way?
I liked this book, but didn't love it. I enjoyed the characters and their witty banter. Three middle of the road stars 👍🏽
December 24, 2017
Keeping It Hot is a quick romance about BFF's becoming more. I enjoyed almost every element of Keeping It Hot. The characters, yes. The dialogue, yes. The set up, almost. The biggest issue I had with the story is the fact the leading lady, Zoe is 29 and still a virgin. 29! I can see 21 maybe even 25 (after all I recently listened to another romance between BFFs where the female was 25 or 26 and a virgin). But almost 30?! I found it unbelievable.
I'm no stranger to Landon's writing but this is my first time listening to Nicol Zanzarella narration work. I enjoyed her portrayal of all the characters and story. She had the right voice and timing to deliver Landon's words. I will listen to the next book in the series when it releases in January 2018.
I'm no stranger to Landon's writing but this is my first time listening to Nicol Zanzarella narration work. I enjoyed her portrayal of all the characters and story. She had the right voice and timing to deliver Landon's words. I will listen to the next book in the series when it releases in January 2018.
August 2, 2017
It's hard for me to believe a woman wrote this.
July 5, 2017
About the book: Release Date July 4, 2017
Zoe Hart owns the coffee shop in one of the hottest upscale resorts in Florida, run by her childhood best friend, Dylan Jackson. Even though Dylan is a workaholic, he still finds time to enjoy the beautiful women who pass through his hotel all of them except Zoe. She has been in love with Dylan for years without him noticing. But with her thirtieth birthday fast approaching, she realizes she can't keep pining away for a man who doesn't show the merest sign of romantic interest in her.
When Zoe launches her plan to shed her tomboy image in Dylan's eyes, she's thrilled once he starts to notice her in a whole new way. But she’ll have to face the risk that seducing her best friend might come with lasting changes to their longtime friendship..."
•••••••••••
REVIEW: KEEPING IT HOT is the first installment in Sydney Landon’s contemporary, adult BREAKFAST IN BED erotic, romance series. This is thirty four year old Florida resort owner Dylan Jackson, and twenty nine year old coffee shop owner Zoe Hart’s story line. The BREAKFAST IN BED SERIES is a spin off from the author’s DANVER’S series but you do not have to have read the previous series to understand or follow KEEPING IT HOT.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Zoe and Dylan) KEEPING IT HOT focuses on the friends to lovers relationship between coffee shop owner Zoe Hart, and ‘Oceanix’ Resort, Florida owner Dylan Jackson. For most of their life Zoe and Dylan have been best friends but for Zoe their friendship has long passed the ‘best buddies’ stage to a woman who has fallen in love with a man who considers her one of the guys. Desperate to make Dylan see her as more than just ‘friends’ our heroine enlists her co-worker Dana Anders to bring her from frumpy to wow. Enter Dylan Jackson, the man who has no clue that his best friend has been in love with him for a number of years. What ensues is the building romantic relationship between Dylan and Zoe, and the potential fall out when Dylan’s workaholic lifestyle leaves little time for the woman he loves.
Zoe has never considered herself ‘one of the boys’ but actions speak louder than words as our heroine begins to understand that her relationship with Dylan Jackson may remain in the friends zone if she doesn’t up the stakes, anytime soon. Dylan has never looked at Zoe as anything more than his best friend and confidant but seeing Zoe in a different light has Dylan throwing caution to the wind when a drunken Zoe reveals a secret she has kept for far too long.
The relationship between Zoe and Dylan is one of friends to lovers; a relationship that comes to fruition when Dylan offers Zoe one night of passion, no strings attached realizing that neither one will come away the same when all was said and done. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic, and intense.
We are introduced to Dylan’s brother Asher Jackson; his friend and buddy Josh; his PA Lisa Merck, Zoe’s bestie and co-worker Dana Anders, as well as Zoe’s mother Vivian and her significant other Marcus There is definite palpable sexual energy between Asher and Dana-their story is next in ROOM FOR TWO(February 2018). I am looking forward to any potential story line for all of Dylan’s brothers: Rhett at the Miami Oceanix, Luke in St. Croix Oceanix, and Asher in the Charleston Oceanix. The back and forth banter, and sexual innuendos is great especially between Zoe and Dana, as well as Dylan and his brother Ash.
KEEPING IT HOT is a fun and sexy read; a lighthearted and heartwarming story of $ex, romance and love between best friends who finally discovered what it is each has been missing all of their lives. The premise is energetic and engaging; the romance is passionate, inspiring and provocative; the characters are realistic and playful. KEEPING IT HOT is my first Sydney Landon book but it will not be my last.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
Zoe Hart owns the coffee shop in one of the hottest upscale resorts in Florida, run by her childhood best friend, Dylan Jackson. Even though Dylan is a workaholic, he still finds time to enjoy the beautiful women who pass through his hotel all of them except Zoe. She has been in love with Dylan for years without him noticing. But with her thirtieth birthday fast approaching, she realizes she can't keep pining away for a man who doesn't show the merest sign of romantic interest in her.
When Zoe launches her plan to shed her tomboy image in Dylan's eyes, she's thrilled once he starts to notice her in a whole new way. But she’ll have to face the risk that seducing her best friend might come with lasting changes to their longtime friendship..."
•••••••••••
REVIEW: KEEPING IT HOT is the first installment in Sydney Landon’s contemporary, adult BREAKFAST IN BED erotic, romance series. This is thirty four year old Florida resort owner Dylan Jackson, and twenty nine year old coffee shop owner Zoe Hart’s story line. The BREAKFAST IN BED SERIES is a spin off from the author’s DANVER’S series but you do not have to have read the previous series to understand or follow KEEPING IT HOT.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Zoe and Dylan) KEEPING IT HOT focuses on the friends to lovers relationship between coffee shop owner Zoe Hart, and ‘Oceanix’ Resort, Florida owner Dylan Jackson. For most of their life Zoe and Dylan have been best friends but for Zoe their friendship has long passed the ‘best buddies’ stage to a woman who has fallen in love with a man who considers her one of the guys. Desperate to make Dylan see her as more than just ‘friends’ our heroine enlists her co-worker Dana Anders to bring her from frumpy to wow. Enter Dylan Jackson, the man who has no clue that his best friend has been in love with him for a number of years. What ensues is the building romantic relationship between Dylan and Zoe, and the potential fall out when Dylan’s workaholic lifestyle leaves little time for the woman he loves.
Zoe has never considered herself ‘one of the boys’ but actions speak louder than words as our heroine begins to understand that her relationship with Dylan Jackson may remain in the friends zone if she doesn’t up the stakes, anytime soon. Dylan has never looked at Zoe as anything more than his best friend and confidant but seeing Zoe in a different light has Dylan throwing caution to the wind when a drunken Zoe reveals a secret she has kept for far too long.
The relationship between Zoe and Dylan is one of friends to lovers; a relationship that comes to fruition when Dylan offers Zoe one night of passion, no strings attached realizing that neither one will come away the same when all was said and done. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic, and intense.
We are introduced to Dylan’s brother Asher Jackson; his friend and buddy Josh; his PA Lisa Merck, Zoe’s bestie and co-worker Dana Anders, as well as Zoe’s mother Vivian and her significant other Marcus There is definite palpable sexual energy between Asher and Dana-their story is next in ROOM FOR TWO(February 2018). I am looking forward to any potential story line for all of Dylan’s brothers: Rhett at the Miami Oceanix, Luke in St. Croix Oceanix, and Asher in the Charleston Oceanix. The back and forth banter, and sexual innuendos is great especially between Zoe and Dana, as well as Dylan and his brother Ash.
KEEPING IT HOT is a fun and sexy read; a lighthearted and heartwarming story of $ex, romance and love between best friends who finally discovered what it is each has been missing all of their lives. The premise is energetic and engaging; the romance is passionate, inspiring and provocative; the characters are realistic and playful. KEEPING IT HOT is my first Sydney Landon book but it will not be my last.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
July 2, 2017
Sydney Landon kicks off a new series with Keeping it Hot and it’s a laugh out loud fun contemporary read that will have you glued to the pages and ready for more.
I’m a huge fan of this author and I was not going to pass up the opportunity to read a new book from her. That said I kind of accidentally read the whole book in one sitting. Whoops, sorry, so not sorry. It was so damn good I have zero regrets doing it. I absolutely loved it.
If you have read the Danvers series (if not, why haven’t you?!?!, it’s awesome), you will be familiar with the Jacksons. The uber hot brothers who own and run a series of hotels. Well this time out we get Dylan’s story and believe me, you will want to read it.
I admit that the friends to lover’s trope is one of my favourites. So imagine my excitement when this pops up. Oh this story was so much fun to read. Watching Dylan literally sweat it out over his best friend was a hoot. Seeing them not only cross the line but obliterate it….priceless.
Dylan and Zoe are so good together it’s ridiculous. Seriously, they are the epitome of perfect for each other. If only it didn’t take them so long to realise it. But I guess when you have been friends for so long, it’s hard to change gears into more. But when a determined Zoe decides it’s time to get her man’s attention, well change is good don’t they say?
I adored Zoe and especially her drive to finally go after the man she’s been in love with forever. Seeing her change into the real Zoe and gain confidence only made me love her more. Plus her eagerness to learn new things sexually had me cheering her on. Okay and maybe cringing on her behalf after a lunch turned into more. (and maybe laughing at her expense too as she deals with the fallout)
It’s a no brainer that I would love Dylan, he’s a Jackson (did I mention they are all UBER HOT?), loyal, hard-working and about to have his well-ordered life turned upside down by his best friend and it’s so unbelievably fun to see it happen. Seeing him realise that his bestie is actually a desirable woman and one he wants desperately, was to use it again, priceless.
Add in some seriously alpha moves by Dylan, a caustic but hilarious friend (every woman needs a friend like Dana) a playboy brother who actually gives sound relationship advice and helps with the big HEA grovel (so adorable) and the kind of bone deep need every woman wants from her significant other and you have an excellent way to kick off a new series, one that every contemporary romance reader needs to read in my opinion. I can’t wait for the next book.
I’m a huge fan of this author and I was not going to pass up the opportunity to read a new book from her. That said I kind of accidentally read the whole book in one sitting. Whoops, sorry, so not sorry. It was so damn good I have zero regrets doing it. I absolutely loved it.
If you have read the Danvers series (if not, why haven’t you?!?!, it’s awesome), you will be familiar with the Jacksons. The uber hot brothers who own and run a series of hotels. Well this time out we get Dylan’s story and believe me, you will want to read it.
I admit that the friends to lover’s trope is one of my favourites. So imagine my excitement when this pops up. Oh this story was so much fun to read. Watching Dylan literally sweat it out over his best friend was a hoot. Seeing them not only cross the line but obliterate it….priceless.
Dylan and Zoe are so good together it’s ridiculous. Seriously, they are the epitome of perfect for each other. If only it didn’t take them so long to realise it. But I guess when you have been friends for so long, it’s hard to change gears into more. But when a determined Zoe decides it’s time to get her man’s attention, well change is good don’t they say?
I adored Zoe and especially her drive to finally go after the man she’s been in love with forever. Seeing her change into the real Zoe and gain confidence only made me love her more. Plus her eagerness to learn new things sexually had me cheering her on. Okay and maybe cringing on her behalf after a lunch turned into more. (and maybe laughing at her expense too as she deals with the fallout)
It’s a no brainer that I would love Dylan, he’s a Jackson (did I mention they are all UBER HOT?), loyal, hard-working and about to have his well-ordered life turned upside down by his best friend and it’s so unbelievably fun to see it happen. Seeing him realise that his bestie is actually a desirable woman and one he wants desperately, was to use it again, priceless.
Add in some seriously alpha moves by Dylan, a caustic but hilarious friend (every woman needs a friend like Dana) a playboy brother who actually gives sound relationship advice and helps with the big HEA grovel (so adorable) and the kind of bone deep need every woman wants from her significant other and you have an excellent way to kick off a new series, one that every contemporary romance reader needs to read in my opinion. I can’t wait for the next book.
July 3, 2017
Had he wasted years when he’d had the perfect one for him by his side all along?
Not so long ago, I read a book by Sydney Landon that happened to be book nine in a series. I liked it, a lot, but admittedly, I felt slightly overwhelmed by a backstory I wasn't familiar with. So, when I saw Keeping It Hot was book one, I knew I had to get my hands on it…
Y'all, I am SO glad I did. It was what I hoped it would be—what I expected after having enjoyed the way Ms. Landon wrote Wishing For Us—and it left me giddy at the thought of getting in on this series on the ground floor, so to speak.
Dylan and Zoe have been best friends for years, and the way the author moves them effortlessly from that relationship to lovers was delightful. Though I took a little umbrage at the fact it took a makeover to make Zoe beautiful in Dylan’s eyes, I loved their chemistry. His reactions and uncertainty. The way it made him see her consciously, and realize what he'd been missing. But most of all, I loved Zoe, and her friendship with Dana. Their interactions were both heartfelt—friends helping friends, no matter what—and hilarious, and absolutely the highlight of this book.
Having said that, though, there were so many other things to recommend this book. Dylan has brothers, so oof, there's more of that deliciousness to come, and there's so much simplicity, angst-free joy in this book that it is incredibly easy to read. And though I maybe wished for the ending to be a little slower, I closed this book having loved it—and loving that this is just book one of (I hope) many.
All was fair in love and war and this might be a little of both before it was over with.
~ 4.5 Khaki STARS ~
Not so long ago, I read a book by Sydney Landon that happened to be book nine in a series. I liked it, a lot, but admittedly, I felt slightly overwhelmed by a backstory I wasn't familiar with. So, when I saw Keeping It Hot was book one, I knew I had to get my hands on it…
Y'all, I am SO glad I did. It was what I hoped it would be—what I expected after having enjoyed the way Ms. Landon wrote Wishing For Us—and it left me giddy at the thought of getting in on this series on the ground floor, so to speak.
Dylan and Zoe have been best friends for years, and the way the author moves them effortlessly from that relationship to lovers was delightful. Though I took a little umbrage at the fact it took a makeover to make Zoe beautiful in Dylan’s eyes, I loved their chemistry. His reactions and uncertainty. The way it made him see her consciously, and realize what he'd been missing. But most of all, I loved Zoe, and her friendship with Dana. Their interactions were both heartfelt—friends helping friends, no matter what—and hilarious, and absolutely the highlight of this book.
Having said that, though, there were so many other things to recommend this book. Dylan has brothers, so oof, there's more of that deliciousness to come, and there's so much simplicity, angst-free joy in this book that it is incredibly easy to read. And though I maybe wished for the ending to be a little slower, I closed this book having loved it—and loving that this is just book one of (I hope) many.
All was fair in love and war and this might be a little of both before it was over with.
~ 4.5 Khaki STARS ~
March 29, 2018
I'd like to start off by saying that I like Ms Landon's style of writing.
It's engaging and easy to read - more conversational and girl-friendish if that makes sense.
I really liked Zoe and her friend Dana.
What I could not stomach, and that's putting it mildy, was Dylan. What a douche canoe! Perhaps some of his behavior was reality but still! Again - HATED HIM!
What really cliched it for me was when he wanted to physically harm Dana. It sounded like a true threat and a not joke. And the other side plot was just ridiculous!
Again, I really liked Zoe and the author's writing so despite loathing Dylan, I would give Ms Landon another chance.
It's engaging and easy to read - more conversational and girl-friendish if that makes sense.
I really liked Zoe and her friend Dana.
What I could not stomach, and that's putting it mildy, was Dylan. What a douche canoe! Perhaps some of his behavior was reality but still! Again - HATED HIM!
What really cliched it for me was when he wanted to physically harm Dana. It sounded like a true threat and a not joke. And the other side plot was just ridiculous!
Again, I really liked Zoe and the author's writing so despite loathing Dylan, I would give Ms Landon another chance.
July 10, 2017
Another Amazing Series Begins
Sydney Landon never fails to wow! Her amazing Danvers Series has spun off into the first, of what I hope will be many, in the Breakfast in Bed Series. The Jackson family and the Oceanix resorts first peeked my interest in the Danvers novella, Betting on You. Now, the Jackson family is taking the spotlight in this new series. Set at the Oceanix Resort in Pensacola FL, Keeping it Hot features Dylan Jackson and his best friend Zoe Hart. Zoe has long loved Dylan as more than a best friend. Could Dylan see her that way? I felt a friendship with Zoe before the end of the first chapter. I enjoyed seeing the course her life took in a few short months and far too few wonderful chapters. I loved watching Dylan show his true colors, in some good and some bad ways. I'm looking forward to seeing which Jackson, at which Oceanix Ms. Landon introduces us too next. As with all of the works by Sydney Landon (The Danvers Series and the Lucian and Lia Series) this earns a well deserved 5 stars and my sincere thanks!
Sydney Landon never fails to wow! Her amazing Danvers Series has spun off into the first, of what I hope will be many, in the Breakfast in Bed Series. The Jackson family and the Oceanix resorts first peeked my interest in the Danvers novella, Betting on You. Now, the Jackson family is taking the spotlight in this new series. Set at the Oceanix Resort in Pensacola FL, Keeping it Hot features Dylan Jackson and his best friend Zoe Hart. Zoe has long loved Dylan as more than a best friend. Could Dylan see her that way? I felt a friendship with Zoe before the end of the first chapter. I enjoyed seeing the course her life took in a few short months and far too few wonderful chapters. I loved watching Dylan show his true colors, in some good and some bad ways. I'm looking forward to seeing which Jackson, at which Oceanix Ms. Landon introduces us too next. As with all of the works by Sydney Landon (The Danvers Series and the Lucian and Lia Series) this earns a well deserved 5 stars and my sincere thanks!
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