Sheltered and cosseted, Sonnet Mendoza abided by her papi’s wishes her whole life: no boys, studies first and always. Now an ER nurse in a busy Chicago hospital, medical school is so close Sonnet can taste it—just like her father always wanted. Just like she can taste all the things she wants, like Griffith Parker, the man of her dreams and her new housemate.
Working “graves” in a large hospital as a security guard while attending the police academy during the day doesn’t leave ex-Marine Griffith Parker any personal time, but after meeting the beautiful Sonnet Mendoza business as usual is anything but. Sassy, smart…and interested in him, too? Except, she’s made an art of keeping her distance, and she's been clear that her plans don't include him. But the heart wants what the heart wants. His wants Sonnet. He’ll put it on the line to win her.
Roxanne D. Howard is a U.S. Army veteran, and a Columbia College alumni. She loves to read poetry, classical literature, and Stephen King. Roxanne resides in the western U.S., and when she's not writing, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband, children, and furry companions. Roxanne loves to hear from her readers, and encourages you to contact her via her website and social media.
Sonnet Coupled ensnared me from the first page and held me captive til the last word. Sonnet Mendoza has dedicated all her energy - her studies, her life - to becoming the best she can be. Now a nurse in a busy ER, Sonnet feels she might be on her way to honouring her now dead, Argentinian father's wishes, especially as her dream to be accepted into medical school is tantalising close.
Griffith Parker - an ex-marine, attends the police academy during the day and works as a security guard at the hospital on the graveyard shift - the same shift to which Sonnet is assigned. There is no doubt he is an imposing figure but Sonnet's first impression is that he is a self-absorbed, bed 'em and leave 'em type, and anyway - what does she care, she has no time for dating.
First impressions, however, can be deceiving and after Griff rescues Sonnet from a terrifying attack, their relationship takes an unexpected turn. To cover increasing costs, Sonnet has been looking for a housemate and, although had previously declined Griff's offer - unwilling to share a house with a man - the assault left her feeling vulnerable and there is no doubt Griff would scare away anyone with malicious intent. Against her better judgement, she still cannot afford any distractions, Sonnet agrees to him moving in. Griff is clearly attracted to Sonnet and while her head continues to insist this is madness, her body has other ideas and soon she can no longer fight what is patently obvious.
Unfortunately, even as their connection deepens into something far more enduring, the niggle at the back of Sonnet's head refuses to shut up and, she is plagued by the belief she might have to choose between Griff and her medical career, fearing her dream might slip through her fingers. That, and the fact Griff's line of work places him at high risk, might prove one step too far.
Howard's characters are wonderfully portrayed. Sonnet is spirited, driven and disciplined; Griff is focused, strong and protective - they are the prefect foil for each other. Their friends, and the occasional enemy, are just as well drawn - genuine people with their own idiosyncrasies, but who (the friends at least) want the best for each other. This story flows effortlessly without being rushed, cleverly balanced between Sonnet and Griff's relatively quiet home life and the chaos of the ER. There is just the right amount of romance and heat, and by the time I was a couple of chapters in, I had everything crossed for Sonnet to accept her dream might not end in quite the way she anticipated, but she would be the happier for it. Nope no spoilers, you'll just have to read it - it's so worth it!
An easy 5 stars!
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of this novel and this review is my honest opinion.
Sonnet Coupled is an endearing story of an ambitious young woman. Sonnet is a nurse, the daughter of Argentinian immigrants, living alone after her father's death. She receives an amazing offer-a great life opportunity that can change her future. She must be strong, determined and face tough moments but she is ready for the challenge. What she is not ready is for love-much less if love is in the body of a hunky security guard. She is prejudiced and despises him but her body has another agenda. An unexpected event throws her through a loop and changes her mind. Will the daughter of immigrants become the weak link? Will she disappoint her father's memory and leave her career behind? Sonnet Coupled has hot scenes and a beautiful message. We can relate with the strong young woman the author built and admire her determination. The young nurse is focused and her life is worth reading and enjoying. The book is well written. The character's mind is easy to understand as she struggles to keep focused and deal with the perks of sudden and disturbing situations.
This is an all consuming read ladies. It took you on a journey of love, lost, ambition, self worth, goals, and so much more. I fell in love with the relationship between Sonnet and Griff. I felt like I was watching a movie the book flowed so very well. Even the secondary characters was written in the story very well. And once the sex scenes began it just kept the story reaching greater heights. And that sneaky author Roxanne gave you a twist and turn towards the end that had me cursing up a storm but was redeemed at the very end. Get this book ladies you will not be disappointed. Happy Reading!
Be sure you have time for this book, meaning ... if you start it you will so not wanna put it down. so don't go and start it right before sleep or you will not be sleeping that night. Such a great read, My 1st book read, written by Roxanne. Such a great writing style, just an awesome plot, love these well developed well thought out characters, wow wee so glad to have found her books ... I am hooked. a fan for sure. you might need to google a few lines, if you are not versed in the language of Spanish. I will be reading more from Roxanne very very soon. Must read, LOVED IT!! ( :
WOW!! What else can I say? This book is full of HOT, amazing chemistry between two people full of determination and self doubt. Both not looking for anything but to further their careers, when their paths cross they can't avoid the pull between them. A lot of fun and laughter, a little stress and worry, Sonnet and Griffith not only determined to finish their careers, also fight to protect their hearts and save their relationship.
A romance story that shares similarities to my own including my chosen profession in relation to Sonnet's, the female lead. Neither party is actively seeking romance and try, as futile as it may seem, to remain acquaintances but soon find their mutual attraction for one another too much to resist! This story is HOT, HOT, HOT! The passion that Sonnet & Griffith display for one another will have you believing in fated love. The characters, plot, & storyline are all well developed! I didn't want their story to end! Kudos to the author for a job well done! ;)
This book offers a well written storyline and the characters are so well developed that they just hooked me right into their story and kept me totally captivated throughout the whole story! Once I started reading this book I had a hard time putting it down until I was finished reading it! This was the first book that I have read from Roxanne D. Howard and it definitely will not be the last!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
I made the mistake of starting this book right before bed, and then couldn't put it down even though my phone alarm told me it was time to go to sleep. The main characters are sexy, strong, and funny, and the supporting cast are well-drawn and fun. The action (all kinds of action!) just keeps coming. I enjoyed every minute of Sonnet Coupled, and I'm looking forward to reading more by Ms. Howard!
Absolutely loved this book! Sonnet is a nurse focused on trying to get into med school. Griffith is a security officer working at the hospital but trying to get into the police academy. Can they make it work? I thoroughly enjoyed their story - it was steamy and loving with some danger added to the mix. Loved Sonnet's friends at the hospital as well - they were a fun, lively bunch. I would recommend this book and I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of it.
Sonnet Mendoza an ER nurse is looking for a housemate to cover costs. Griffith Parker is a security guard at the same hospital Sonnet works at. Griff rescues Sonnet from an attack one night and she feels vulnerable. She accepts Griff as a housemate thinking that having him there will help her feel safe. Will Sonnet and Griff's relationship turn into something more than just roommates. Sonnet Coupled by Roxanne Howard is my first book by this author and I really enjoyed reading it. This is a well written story with well developed characters and plenty of emotion. I really enjoyed the main characters. Griff instantly had a connection with Sonnet and she cautiously grew to love him. I loved their journey from start to end and I look forward to reading more books by this author. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Where to start on this amazingly written book that I refused to put down. This book follows Sonnet Mendoza, a nurse trying to become a neuro surgeon, and her life after a tragedy that changes her world. One day while at work, she notices a new security guard who she can't take her eyes off of and can't help the tightening her her lower belly. No one has ever affected her in this way, as she is focused and determined to become a doctor, and she doesn't know why she is feeling this way towards him. The new security guard, Griffith Parker, introduces himself to Sonnet and she can't seem to focus past his yummy muscular body but is grateful that he's going to work the graveyard shift so he won't distract her. Fate gives Sonnet a hand that she never expected and she's so happy that she has this opportunity to get a residency at John Hopkins hospital. The only thing is, she'll have to work graveyard shift at the ER where the new delicious security guard is posted. Sonnet does her best to not let Griffith Parker get under her skin as he looks like he's a conceited man with all his muscles who doesn't care about anyone. One night after her shift, something tragic happens to Sonnet and Griffith shows up and saves her making Sonnet think twice about who Griffith really is. Her dad always said do not judge someone by looking at them, it's what's inside of them that counts. As Sonnet soon learns, Griffith is more than meets the eye and he has her tempted to break her own rules just by existing. Will Sonnet give in to her desires or will she stay focused and take the necessary steps in becoming a doctor, her childhood dream? This book flows nicely and is easy to follow, even though they're a few Spanish words. I started this book and it trapped me right from the beginning, hooking me that I did not want to put it down. I was crying, laughing and full of love and emotions, in which I didn't want the story to end. It does have a few sexy scenes which was written so deliciously, that I felt like I was there! What will Sonnet do? Will she be able to make it in the ER? Will she follow her dreams or will she get scared and back out? Pick up your copy today and read this awesome book by Roxanne D. Howard. Great job and I can't wait to read more of your books.
Okay... I'll be the first to admit I adore Roxanne D. Howard. She's one of the first people I met when my first book got signed with Loose Id, LLC, and we became quick friends. She'll always hold a special place in my heart.
Why am I saying all this? Because I'm SO darn PROUD of her. Roxanne, babe, I LOVED THIS BOOK!
Sonnet Mendoza is a nurse who has always wanted to be a doctor. When the opportunity for a scholarship to medical school at Johns Hopkins presents itself, she's out of this world excited and determined. This is what she's been working so hard for.
In order to get the experience she needs, she has to work graveyards in the ER, where she meets the security guard, Griffith Parker. He's gorgeous and built, and Sonnet is positive nobody could love him as much as he does. But, of course, first impressions aren't always as they seem.
I definitely recommend picking up this book. It's packed full of heart, humor, and deliciously sexy moments. Everything a person could want! <3
Sonnet had dedicated herself to becoming the best she could be. She is now an ER nurse but wants to get into medical school and be a surgeon. She feel she is at last honoring her dead father’s wishes. She is close to being accepted into medical school. Griff is an ex Marine attending the Police Academy during the day and working as a security guard at the hospital during the graveyard shift. Sonnet is also assigned to this shift. Sonnet believes griff is a one night stand type of guy and very self absorbed. It doesn’t matter as Sonnet doesn’t date. Both Griff and Sonnet are determined to get better careers. No one has affected Sonnet like griff does but she is determined to fo;;ow her career path with no distractions. Sonnet gets an opportunity for a scholarship at John Hopkins Hospital. Griff has been posted in the ER where Sonnet works. Sonnet lives in the house that her dad left her but she wants a roommate.Sonnet has no family left and talks to her grandmother's picture. Griff approaches her about the ad but she’s unsure about a male roommate. Especially griff she bet no one could love griff as much as he loved himself. The Sonnet is attacked in the hospital parking ;lot and griff prevented it from being a lot worse and rescued her. Sonnet may have to rethink her thoughts on Griff. Griff and Sonnet become friends and roommates. Griff is too a big distraction but her heart and body don’t agree. I loved this book. It did have some hot scenes in it. I loved Sonnets determination especially since she had promised her dead dad. This was very well written in my opinion I didn’t want to put this book down. I loved griff and Sonnet together. This caught my attention from the start and held it until the end. I loved the plot and pace. I also loved Sonnet’s friends at the hospital. At times I chuckled and other times choked up while reading this book. I loved that Griff wouldn’t give up on Sonnet. I loved the twist toward the end. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I highly recommend this book.
Sonnet Mendoza has been doing everything possible to achieve her dream and all that hard work brings her one step closer she receives an unexpected opportunity. The one thing she didn't plan on was meeting a man that could change everything.
Griffith Parker is a man of duty, so attending the police academy after getting honorably discharged from the military. His goal is simple until he meets a woman that calls to him like none before.
Their connection grows the more they get to know each other. A passion like theirs can only be fought for so long until it combusts.
But when their careers threaten to take them in different directions, will they find a way to stay together or will they walk away from each other to achieve their dreams?
Sonnet Coupled is a witty, saucy, entertaining read that captivates the reader from page one until the delightful conclusion.
Sonnet is a kind, generous person and that shows in everything she does. She appreciates the little things and doesn't take things for granted. Even though she's lived a largely sheltered life she isn't afraid to try new things even if it takes it out of her comfort zone. I really love her spirit.
Griff is a man's man and sexy as all get out. A man that will do whatever it takes to protect the people he cares about is heartwarming. His dedication to his job is honorable. And he's a man that knows what he wants to doesn't stop until he gets it.
I loved Sonnet Coupled a lot more than I expected. The storyline is engaging and charming, the hero tempting and upstanding, the heroine alluring and respectable, and the romance intense and all consuming.
I would highly recommend Sonnet Coupled to any looking for a read that will take them on an emotional journey and leave you with a smile.
Loved this book. The characters were so well written that you felt their fear, happiness and hope. I became so invested in the story that I didn’t put it down. In the end you’re rooting so hard for Griffith, a man that any woman would be lucky to have, and Sonnet a beautiful, intelligent, kind ER nurse. The secondary characters are also well written and bring lots of life to this amazing story. I highly recommend this read.
This story was hot!! The story had a character that was very sheltered and it made for a story that was sweet and hot. Griffith was so strong and while he had some problems of his own the story would not have been the same with out them.
Smoking hot! I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review, and I wasn't disappointed! The sex scenes steal the show, but the heart of this novel are two people who grow as they open up and learn about each other. Tender, funny, and erotic, this love story excites and delights.
This is the 3rd book I have read by Roxanne D. Howard. What I noticed, and what I like, about this author is that she takes her time to build the relationship between the couples. Sonnet and Griff had depth; but I wish she would have taken the time to explore Griff's past a little bit more, because I think it would have added to the story. Other than that this was a good story. I finished it in one day, and that had to do with the fact that I couldn't put it down. This is the kind of story that makes me wish Harlequin was still making romance movies. I would love to see this on screen or in audiobook format. Sonnet Coupled is one of those popcorn, hot chocolate, hot tea, rainy day type of books. It's the type of book that makes you put the do not disturb sign on your door, because you are not going to want anyone to bother until you finish the book.
Sonnet Mendoza is a young nurse who has survived the loss of her beloved father, and Abuela, and is now on her own in the world. She's living in the house her father left her, thankfully that's been paid off, but she's realizing that she wants a roommate. When Griffith Parker, one of the security officers at the hospital where she works, initially approaches her about her ad, she's unsure. She doesn't think she wants a male roommate at first. But, after she survives an attack in the hospital parking lot that Griffith prevented from being much worse, she realizes that not only would a male roommate be a big comfort, but that Griffith in particular is a comforting presence. An arousing, distracting presence, too, given just how much she's attracted to the kind, gorgeous man.
When Griffith moves in and the two become friends, then more, Sonnet tries to ignore the niggling in the back of her mind that tells her he's too big of a distraction from the goal she has in her life - to attend medical school at Johns Hopkins. But, her body and her heart can't help themselves, and soon enough, the two are falling, deeply. Will Sonnet allow herself the love Griffith brings to her life? Or will she close herself off and single-mindedly pursue her goal of medical school? She can't possibly have both, can she? Medical school. And Griffith, too?
I surprised myself with just how much I ended up loving Sonnet Coupled. I wasn't prepared for how beautiful and heartfelt, not to mention steamy, it would be. I fell in love with these two, especially Griffith. He's the kind of hero I wish all writers would give us: super protective, kind, strong, and so darn sexy it hurts. And the way he wholeheartedly fell in love with Sonnet? Beautiful, just beautiful. This story is the perfect kind of romance - deeply layered, strong, sizzling chemistry, both physically and emotionally, with amazing, realistic characters. I am definitely looking forward to more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I honestly don’t want to say that this is a cute book because in some ways it is but, in other ways, the message is deeper than that. Sure, sure it’s your typical boy meets girl. Girl grew up sheltered with a promise to her dad that there would be no boys. Girl is within a stone’s throw of going to medical school but then she meets the boy. Boy makes her question everything that she grew up knowing and believing. I know, we’ve already read the book and reviewed it. But let me tell you why this one is so different from the pack.
Sonnet is just a bad *ss. No, really she is. Having no family left in her life and relying solely on talking to her grandmother’s picture, you could almost feel sorry for her but I never did. I realized early on in the story that no matter happens she was going to medical school. Too bad, the heart never got the message. Poor Griffith. Yeah, he’s the reason that her heart never got the memo. I loved him from the start. In fact, their dialogue at the beginning of the book cracked me up. She gave it to him good but he never backed down. And that’s what I loved about Griffith. He never backed down, never gave up on Sonnet.
I realize that this book is labeled erotic and honestly, I thought it was just spicy as hell. Sure, the “words” are used but Ms. Howard wrote those scenes with such emotion and depth that for me, it didn’t read like a true erotic romance. Let me tell that the scenes are hot as hell but it truly shows the emotional depth of the couple has the grow towards love. But be forewarned, their romance is a very slow burn in the beginning. Ms. Howard takes her time with them. Let’s them become friends first before they come together. Kisses here and there. Teasing moments but when they do come together, prepare yourself. Just letting you know…
Overall, I love Sonnet and Griffith. They had me at their first meeting until the big “black” moment and then the absolute twist in the last two chapters. Hell, I was holding my breath as everyone else at the hospital was, too. That was some damn good writing and I honestly read it twice. There is definitely a message in the book that I think everyone needs to listen to. I finally listened to my heart when I was 37 and I never looked back.
This book is the first I have read from this author and OMG i want more!
Sonnet Coupled is a beautifully written romance story with plenty of heat and just the right amount of suspense and action to help keep the reader intrigued. This story concentrates on the characters of Sonnet Mendoza and Griffith Parker. Sonnet is a nurse with dreams of going to medical school and becoming a surgeon. Her life is thrown a curve ball when one day after work she is attacked. It puts her life into perspective and makes her more determined than ever to fight for her future. Griffith is a security guard at the hospital where Sonnet works. He is a hard working and strong man. His path in life crosses with that of Sonnet and from that moment on his life changes forever. He too has strong ambitions for the future. Underneath his strong exterior lies a vulnerable and fragile individual who longs to be loved and wants to belong. Has he found this in Sonnet? Will their future together be happy and easy or full of challenges?
I cannot get enough of this book! I cried when it finished. The supporting characters were fantastic and helped to compliment an already truly amazing story.
I highly recommend this book! I cannot sing it's praises enough. Please bring us more of Sonnet and Griffith.
One of the best books I have read in this genre. Sonnet Coupled stole my heart with every word written!
This book is the first I have read from this author and OMG i want more!
Sonnet Coupled is a beautifully written romance story with plenty of heat and just the right amount of suspense and action to help keep the reader intrigued. This story concentrates on the characters of Sonnet Mendoza and Griffith Parker. Sonnet is a nurse with dreams of going to medical school and becoming a surgeon. Her life is thrown a curve ball when one day after work she is attacked. It puts her life into perspective and makes her more determined than ever to fight for her future. Griffith is a security guard at the hospital where Sonnet works. He is a hard working and strong man. His path in life crosses with that of Sonnet and from that moment on his life changes forever. He too has strong ambitions for the future. Underneath his strong exterior lies a vulnerable and fragile individual who longs to be loved and wants to belong. Has he found this in Sonnet? Will their future together be happy and easy or full of challenges?
I cannot get enough of this book! I cried when it finished. The supporting characters were fantastic and helped to compliment an already truly amazing story.
I highly recommend this book! I cannot sing it's praises enough. Please bring us more of Sonnet and Griffith.
One of the best books I have read in this genre. Sonnet Coupled stole my heart with every word written!
This book is one of the best that I have read in a long time the emotional build these two characters is extraordinary you are drawn in from the first page and the book just never lets you go
Sonnet is about to attend medical school just as her father always wished Griffith works as a security guard at the hospital while attending police academy after getting a discharge from the military . Both have a life to full to really have time for anything else but the draw between them isn't going to let go Will they have a chance at a hEA or will they go their separate ways to fulfill their career choices You will need to read to see
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a super read that will have you reading late into the night. You cannot help but love both Sonnet and Griffith they were such great characters. These two meet when Sonnet needs a roommate after the passing of her dad. She is a smart hardworking nurse who is on her own for the first time in her life. Griffin is an ex-marine who works as a security guard while pursuing his dream of becoming a police officer. These two were just great they were perfect for each other if only he can get her to act on her feelings. I really enjoyed this book it was a super read.
I've read several books written by Roxanne Howard; she has done a great job at writing a good book; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of books her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
She has done everything her father had expected of her and she was so close to becoming a doctor. She has no time for men but she has caught the eye of the one she shares with. He has had no time for a personal life but when he sees her he wants her. See if he will get her
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a new author for me and I LOVED her!! I would definitely recommend this book. The strength and vulnerability of the characters were amazing and had me cheering and crying with them. I love a book that calls on my emotions and honestly not many do that for me. This book was the exception.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Loved this book. Only wish it was longer. I didn’t want it to end. Characters and storylines were exciting and kept me a glued to the pages. Read in one sitting because it was that good. Don’t wait, read this book now
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I gotta say, this book was everything and nothing like I expected. I could not put it down once I started it and did not want it to end when I got there.
An emotionally charged story-line that grabs you right from the start, keeping you engrossed throughout.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is HOT, HOT, HOT!!! So much detailed sex! There is also a really good story line to all this sex. It's the type of book that I didn't want to put down. Sonnet and Griffith have amazing chemistry and you can tell right from the beginning that they belong together.