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Off Guard #1
Acting Lessons
An aspiring actress navigates the gig of a lifetime...and an illicit desire she never saw coming in the first book of a brand-new series from Katie Ruggle writing as Katie Allen.
It's an offer she can't refuse. Two weeks of work for enough cash to quit her day job and focus on auditions is a dream come true for struggling actress Topher. All she has to do is play girlfriend to a wealthy friend, helping him secure his trust fund. Then she meets her friend's sinfully handsome, firmly off-limits uncle, and all bets are off.
Not only is Uncle James surprisingly younger than imagined, he's charismatic and hot as hell. And there's something about the wounded veteran's hungry stare that has her thinking the feeling is mutual.
Topher's determined to ignore Uncle Sexy, but the forbidden temptation is too much to handle, especially after James flashes his dominant side. But surrendering to temptation is easier said than done when the plot thickens. Even if Topher can manage to fool everyone involved, she's not sure she can fool her own heart—or the man she's definitely not supposed to be falling for.
This book is approximately 79,000 words
Carina Press acknowledges the editorial services of Deborah Nemeth
One-click with confidence. This title is part of the Carina Press Romance Promise: all the romance you’re looking for with an HEA/HFN. It’s a promise!
It's an offer she can't refuse. Two weeks of work for enough cash to quit her day job and focus on auditions is a dream come true for struggling actress Topher. All she has to do is play girlfriend to a wealthy friend, helping him secure his trust fund. Then she meets her friend's sinfully handsome, firmly off-limits uncle, and all bets are off.
Not only is Uncle James surprisingly younger than imagined, he's charismatic and hot as hell. And there's something about the wounded veteran's hungry stare that has her thinking the feeling is mutual.
Topher's determined to ignore Uncle Sexy, but the forbidden temptation is too much to handle, especially after James flashes his dominant side. But surrendering to temptation is easier said than done when the plot thickens. Even if Topher can manage to fool everyone involved, she's not sure she can fool her own heart—or the man she's definitely not supposed to be falling for.
This book is approximately 79,000 words
Carina Press acknowledges the editorial services of Deborah Nemeth
One-click with confidence. This title is part of the Carina Press Romance Promise: all the romance you’re looking for with an HEA/HFN. It’s a promise!
243 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 6, 2017
34 people are currently reading
293 people want to read
About the author
Katie Allen
27 books278 followersKatie Allen is the fabulously filthy-minded alter-ego of romantic-suspense author Katie Ruggle. She lived in an off-grid, solar- and wind-powered house in the Rocky Mountains until her family lured her back to Minnesota. When she’s not writing, Katie rides horses, trains her three dogs, cross-country skis (badly), and travels to warm places where she can scuba dive. A graduate of the police academy, Katie is a self-professed forensics nerd. A fan of anything that makes her feel like a badass, she has trained in Krav Maga, boxing, and gymnastics. You can connect with Katie at http://katieruggle.com/, https://www.facebook.com/katieruggleb..., or on Twitter @KatieRuggle
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
May 10, 2021
4 Little Faker Stars ⭐
If you're a fan of romantic comedies or daddy kink, you need this book in your life. A LOL romance between a scarred hero and a kooky heroine; look past the cover because I couldn't contain myself. Acting Lessons was hysterical and hot.
Topher is an aspiring actress who presently works as a barista. When her customer Danny hires her as his fake girlfriend, it will be the most momentous gig to date.
"I don't understand the attraction. She's one hit to the head away from being... special."
The scheme is to be the worst girlfriend imaginable so that Danny's family will accept his real girlfriend who they despise. Except it doesn't go to plan and her character as bimbo Tophie is a massive hit with Uncle Jamie and Mama Julia. What's not to adore?
"I'm sure they're not real fur. I don't know any animal that comes in that shade of candy cane pink."
Topher gasped..."You don't think.." Topher whimpered. "They won't have made my boots out of a Muppet, would they?"
But when Danny's real girlfriend turns up, Tophie is forced to switch it up to cover his ass. So she ends up becoming Uncle Jamie's fake girlfriend instead. At this point their family gathering has turned into a National Lampoon's special full of obnoxious guests and catastrophes.
Yet with all the ridiculous drama unfolding, Jamie and Tophie are actually falling for each other. Especially since Jamie saw through her ditziness from the beginning and has been enjoying every moment of her scam. They're sexual dynamic is a bonus.
She liked it when he took care of her, no matter how perverted and inappropriate her rational brain told her it was. In fact, she didn't just like it, she craved it.
This author did a fantastic job of combining humour and kink. Who would have thought?
If you're a fan of romantic comedies or daddy kink, you need this book in your life. A LOL romance between a scarred hero and a kooky heroine; look past the cover because I couldn't contain myself. Acting Lessons was hysterical and hot.
Topher is an aspiring actress who presently works as a barista. When her customer Danny hires her as his fake girlfriend, it will be the most momentous gig to date.
"I don't understand the attraction. She's one hit to the head away from being... special."
The scheme is to be the worst girlfriend imaginable so that Danny's family will accept his real girlfriend who they despise. Except it doesn't go to plan and her character as bimbo Tophie is a massive hit with Uncle Jamie and Mama Julia. What's not to adore?
"I'm sure they're not real fur. I don't know any animal that comes in that shade of candy cane pink."
Topher gasped..."You don't think.." Topher whimpered. "They won't have made my boots out of a Muppet, would they?"
But when Danny's real girlfriend turns up, Tophie is forced to switch it up to cover his ass. So she ends up becoming Uncle Jamie's fake girlfriend instead. At this point their family gathering has turned into a National Lampoon's special full of obnoxious guests and catastrophes.
Yet with all the ridiculous drama unfolding, Jamie and Tophie are actually falling for each other. Especially since Jamie saw through her ditziness from the beginning and has been enjoying every moment of her scam. They're sexual dynamic is a bonus.
She liked it when he took care of her, no matter how perverted and inappropriate her rational brain told her it was. In fact, she didn't just like it, she craved it.
This author did a fantastic job of combining humour and kink. Who would have thought?
July 9, 2021
My craziest 4 STARS
This was such a farce! There is nothing better than a smart person playing a bimbo... it was hilarious and ridiculous at the same time. I was laughing so many times and I really really loved it. Even though the story wasn't without flaws...
BUT Topher and Jamie were a great couple, I loved their characters. I even liked how they found out that their kinks align... and let's just stop here for a moment because I would like to say, I normally struggle with DD/lg kink. I read it from time to time, but it's not my "thing". Nevertheless, I liked how it developed here and I didn't find it shocking in my opinion.
As I said, this book isn't perfect, the romance was insta and progressed a little bit too fast, but I just rolled with it, because the comedy part of the story was amazing with great sense of humor.
This was such a farce! There is nothing better than a smart person playing a bimbo... it was hilarious and ridiculous at the same time. I was laughing so many times and I really really loved it. Even though the story wasn't without flaws...
BUT Topher and Jamie were a great couple, I loved their characters. I even liked how they found out that their kinks align... and let's just stop here for a moment because I would like to say, I normally struggle with DD/lg kink. I read it from time to time, but it's not my "thing". Nevertheless, I liked how it developed here and I didn't find it shocking in my opinion.
As I said, this book isn't perfect, the romance was insta and progressed a little bit too fast, but I just rolled with it, because the comedy part of the story was amazing with great sense of humor.
July 16, 2019
4 STARS!
I'm not sure if weaving a daddy kink/age play romance in between the pages of a farce about a fake relationship is genius or folly.
LOL, seems most people found it to be folly. (Overall rating of 3.65, anyone?) But it's completely the publisher's fault . . . age play is NOT something that you can spring on an unsuspecting reader. I have no idea why there's no warning in the blurb.
Anyways . . . the farce aspect of the story was HILARIOUS! Danny hires Topher to be the most annoying fake girlfriend she can be, so his family will see his real girlfriend in a more flattering light. What a riot Topher was! This is her meeting Danny's mother, Julia.
The daddy kink/age play aspect of the story between Topher and Jamie (Danny's uncle) was actually pretty hard-core, which was surprising in a book that's not meant to be taken seriously at all. But I rolled with it . . . mostly, lol. The author did a reasonably good job of easing the characters and the reader into it.
Since humor is such a subjective thing, I recommend downloading the sample first if you're thinking of giving this one a go. And of course if you're offended by daddy kink, you'll want to give this one a wide berth. Happy reading!
PS: Thanks, Isabella! <3
She wasn't above using the unfortunate circumstances to cop a feel of the hot uncle.I had so much fun! But I've gotta say this one contains the weirdest mix of tropes - EVER.
I'm not sure if weaving a daddy kink/age play romance in between the pages of a farce about a fake relationship is genius or folly.
LOL, seems most people found it to be folly. (Overall rating of 3.65, anyone?) But it's completely the publisher's fault . . . age play is NOT something that you can spring on an unsuspecting reader. I have no idea why there's no warning in the blurb.
Anyways . . . the farce aspect of the story was HILARIOUS! Danny hires Topher to be the most annoying fake girlfriend she can be, so his family will see his real girlfriend in a more flattering light. What a riot Topher was! This is her meeting Danny's mother, Julia.
"My, those are quite the boots."I swear, the things that came out of Topher's mouth had me rolling on the floor laughing.
"Aren't they fabulous?" Topher looked down fondly at the knee-high pink suede monstrosities [...]. "I love the fur accents - aren't they wonderful? I don't think it's real fur, though," she assured Julia solemnly.
[...]"They are . . . very nice." Julia's voice was choked. Clearing her throat, she spoke again. "I'm sure they're not real fur. I don't know any animal that comes in that shade of cotton-candy pink."
Topher gasped, stopping in her tracks, her abrupt halt yanking a surprised Julia off balance. "You don't think . . ." Topher whimpered. "They wouldn't have made my boots out of a . . . Muppet, would they?"
The daddy kink/age play aspect of the story between Topher and Jamie (Danny's uncle) was actually pretty hard-core, which was surprising in a book that's not meant to be taken seriously at all. But I rolled with it . . . mostly, lol. The author did a reasonably good job of easing the characters and the reader into it.
Since humor is such a subjective thing, I recommend downloading the sample first if you're thinking of giving this one a go. And of course if you're offended by daddy kink, you'll want to give this one a wide berth. Happy reading!
PS: Thanks, Isabella! <3
September 4, 2020
***RE READ***
Knocked off a star because I needed an epilogue personally. But this was definitely a cozy daddy story that filled my soul with joy. Loved it.
Knocked off a star because I needed an epilogue personally. But this was definitely a cozy daddy story that filled my soul with joy. Loved it.
November 22, 2017
3 Stars - 3 Flames
I am VERY torn about this book. Where I thought that the story line was creative, funny and intriguing, once the relationship between Topher and "uncle" Jamie became sensual, I had to fight the urge to throw up in my mouth.
Topher is an aspiring actress, working as a barista while trying to make it big. One of her regular customers propositions her with a paid acting gig that seemed to good to be true, pretending to be the customers crazy girlfriend. Too bad the entire acting gig went to hell in a basket the moment Topher met the uncle she's supposed to be lying to.
Jamie is the younger than expected uncle. His nephew is the customer who hired Topher. He's hated his nephews mobster girlfriend, threatening to cut him off financially if he didn't end things with her. So when his new girlfriend shows up for the holidays, he's a little happy, but also curious. That is, until everything changes in a heartbeat, forcing him to "act" as Topher's boyfriend. How did things get so messed up so quickly?
Like I stated before, this story line was super cute and creative. The "acting" starts to become convoluted at one point though. I wasn't expecting the "acting" to carry over in to the bedroom, especially after the truth was revealed and things seemed to be on the up and up. Although the bedroom scenes were actually a little bit of a turn off for me, I continued reading because I needed to see this one to the end. Mainly because despite the aloof persona by Topher, some of her comebacks and witty responses were to really funny.
All in all, I could have done without some of the bedroom manner, but in the end, it was a cute HEA. And then to find out that this isn't a standalone? Hmmmmm, I wonder. Hopefully "Daddy" won't be too present in the next one.
*I received this from the Jeep Diva in exchange for my honest opinion.
I am VERY torn about this book. Where I thought that the story line was creative, funny and intriguing, once the relationship between Topher and "uncle" Jamie became sensual, I had to fight the urge to throw up in my mouth.
Topher is an aspiring actress, working as a barista while trying to make it big. One of her regular customers propositions her with a paid acting gig that seemed to good to be true, pretending to be the customers crazy girlfriend. Too bad the entire acting gig went to hell in a basket the moment Topher met the uncle she's supposed to be lying to.
Jamie is the younger than expected uncle. His nephew is the customer who hired Topher. He's hated his nephews mobster girlfriend, threatening to cut him off financially if he didn't end things with her. So when his new girlfriend shows up for the holidays, he's a little happy, but also curious. That is, until everything changes in a heartbeat, forcing him to "act" as Topher's boyfriend. How did things get so messed up so quickly?
Like I stated before, this story line was super cute and creative. The "acting" starts to become convoluted at one point though. I wasn't expecting the "acting" to carry over in to the bedroom, especially after the truth was revealed and things seemed to be on the up and up. Although the bedroom scenes were actually a little bit of a turn off for me, I continued reading because I needed to see this one to the end. Mainly because despite the aloof persona by Topher, some of her comebacks and witty responses were to really funny.
All in all, I could have done without some of the bedroom manner, but in the end, it was a cute HEA. And then to find out that this isn't a standalone? Hmmmmm, I wonder. Hopefully "Daddy" won't be too present in the next one.
*I received this from the Jeep Diva in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 9, 2023
I should think this goes without saying, but I obviously expected to like this book when I picked it up. I mean, that's why I picked up, right? What I didn't expect is that Topher's off-the-wall observations would have me laughing out loud as she took her normal personality and dialed it up to a factor of ten. Ditzy Topher was strangely endearing. She was a blunt, motor-mouthed, insanely upbeat hurricane who gave (almost) everyone around her a reason to smile.
The smiles started with Jamie. Although he was treated to Ditzy Topher first, he caught enough glimpses of the other her to figure out she wasn't as air-headed as she was pretending to be. Watching him unbend in the face of her unflaggingly optimistic spirit was fun. Topher made him laugh. She made him burn. She brought out the bossy side in him without even trying. Let me just say Topher REALLY LIKED that bossy side, so this was a win for everyone.
There's a little age play (nothing to shocking in my opinion, but I routinely read about aliens getting down and dirty in pretty creative ways on distant planets, so your mileage may vary) and plenty of steam between the sheets. Or in the bathroom. Or the study. These two don't limit themselves much.
Anyway. Fun and sexy with a small side of intrigue as the various guests who show up at the house reveal their reasons for being there. You know, that makes it sound way more mysterious than it really is. There are just a whole bunch of folks and they all have weird reasons for being there. Mostly of the non-sinister variety, too! Bottom line: I liked it A LOT and will definitely grab the next in the series.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
The smiles started with Jamie. Although he was treated to Ditzy Topher first, he caught enough glimpses of the other her to figure out she wasn't as air-headed as she was pretending to be. Watching him unbend in the face of her unflaggingly optimistic spirit was fun. Topher made him laugh. She made him burn. She brought out the bossy side in him without even trying. Let me just say Topher REALLY LIKED that bossy side, so this was a win for everyone.
There's a little age play (nothing to shocking in my opinion, but I routinely read about aliens getting down and dirty in pretty creative ways on distant planets, so your mileage may vary) and plenty of steam between the sheets. Or in the bathroom. Or the study. These two don't limit themselves much.
Anyway. Fun and sexy with a small side of intrigue as the various guests who show up at the house reveal their reasons for being there. You know, that makes it sound way more mysterious than it really is. There are just a whole bunch of folks and they all have weird reasons for being there. Mostly of the non-sinister variety, too! Bottom line: I liked it A LOT and will definitely grab the next in the series.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
November 29, 2017
So. I started reading this book and was thinking, "This book is awesome! It is freaking hilarious. I love it!" Then I hit the 41% mark. And Topher started calling James "Daddy". Wtf? WHY?!?!
Let me just say I read a lot, over 200 books a year. I will read pretty much anything. Kink? Sure! Menage? Love it! BDSM, step siblings, huge age difference, sex clubs, dark and gritty, taboo, etc etc? Bring it on baby!
But "Daddy"? Maybe if I had been reading some self published, poorly edited book that I would have placed in the "smut" category I would have expected it. But this? Came outta nowhere. How the hell do you "accidentally" call your lover "daddy"? And Jamie is only 8 or 9 years older than her so it's even weirder. Everyone has their likes and dislikes, their secret kinks and fantasies. But how, please someone tell me how, reading these sentences in a book could EVER be a turn on. "Daddy, stop. Your thing is too big. It's hurting me. Daddy!" "Dad-dy. Don't put your thing in my bottom".
I am seriously throwing up in my mouth right now.
I debated on how to rate this book because if I removed every instance of the word "daddy" from the book I actually liked it. It was really funny and had me cracking up. I would have probably given it a solid four stars, deducting one for Topher's continuing immature behavior and that ending. Ending? What ending? I think someone misplaced the last chapter of the damn book. But still, I probably would have gone with four stars. With the "daddy" crap thrown in? Nope. I'm down to one star. I thought I could pick the middle and go with a three but after reading the sentences I just typed again? Gross. No. Just no.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Let me just say I read a lot, over 200 books a year. I will read pretty much anything. Kink? Sure! Menage? Love it! BDSM, step siblings, huge age difference, sex clubs, dark and gritty, taboo, etc etc? Bring it on baby!
But "Daddy"? Maybe if I had been reading some self published, poorly edited book that I would have placed in the "smut" category I would have expected it. But this? Came outta nowhere. How the hell do you "accidentally" call your lover "daddy"? And Jamie is only 8 or 9 years older than her so it's even weirder. Everyone has their likes and dislikes, their secret kinks and fantasies. But how, please someone tell me how, reading these sentences in a book could EVER be a turn on. "Daddy, stop. Your thing is too big. It's hurting me. Daddy!" "Dad-dy. Don't put your thing in my bottom".
I am seriously throwing up in my mouth right now.
I debated on how to rate this book because if I removed every instance of the word "daddy" from the book I actually liked it. It was really funny and had me cracking up. I would have probably given it a solid four stars, deducting one for Topher's continuing immature behavior and that ending. Ending? What ending? I think someone misplaced the last chapter of the damn book. But still, I probably would have gone with four stars. With the "daddy" crap thrown in? Nope. I'm down to one star. I thought I could pick the middle and go with a three but after reading the sentences I just typed again? Gross. No. Just no.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
July 28, 2018
DNF at 80%
This had alot of pros and cons but I decided to stop because there were too many outside forces were interrupting the H and h's romance. Which was a real shame because the first 25% I was totally hooked and really loving it! At that point there were only 4 characters in the story, but as more time goes on you got 8, 10, then 12 other people in the story who are there for no reason at all. In one room you had Hero and his family, heroine, ex girlfriend of H, a mafia boss and his pose/family, heroines parents, and the guy theyre trying to set her up with. It was really distracting and made me start to skim.
On top of that, I knew absolutely nothing about the H's character. All you knew for most of the story was the fact that he had an eye patch from the military and he was rich. I need character development!
This got three stars because the hero and heroine were discovering Dd/lg for the first time together and I LOVED THAT SO MUCH. You didnt get an H who was already *very* familiar with that brand of kink so he was new to that level of intimacy just as much as the heroine was. It made it really romantic if you're into that type of thing.
Safety:
I didnt finish it but it was shaping up to be a very safe book.
Slight OW drama- hero doesn't give the OW any attention but he did used to date her.
This had alot of pros and cons but I decided to stop because there were too many outside forces were interrupting the H and h's romance. Which was a real shame because the first 25% I was totally hooked and really loving it! At that point there were only 4 characters in the story, but as more time goes on you got 8, 10, then 12 other people in the story who are there for no reason at all. In one room you had Hero and his family, heroine, ex girlfriend of H, a mafia boss and his pose/family, heroines parents, and the guy theyre trying to set her up with. It was really distracting and made me start to skim.
On top of that, I knew absolutely nothing about the H's character. All you knew for most of the story was the fact that he had an eye patch from the military and he was rich. I need character development!
This got three stars because the hero and heroine were discovering Dd/lg for the first time together and I LOVED THAT SO MUCH. You didnt get an H who was already *very* familiar with that brand of kink so he was new to that level of intimacy just as much as the heroine was. It made it really romantic if you're into that type of thing.
Safety:
I didnt finish it but it was shaping up to be a very safe book.
Slight OW drama- hero doesn't give the OW any attention but he did used to date her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2017
Clearly I'm the odd one out; I didn't care for this book at all.
First...I felt deceived that the blurb mentioned nothing about age play. Yes it says that Jaime has a dominant side but that leaves the door wide open to what that means. Before you say anything, I've read other books with age play in them without an issue. I just felt that this should be in the blurb or at least hinted at.
Second, Topher was annoying and incredibly immature. She wants to be taken seriously but even when the "bimbo act" (her words) isn't needed, she's still incredibly immature. Honestly, it felt like she was a teenager rather than a 23 year old woman living on her own, working multiple jobs and trying to get an acting career going.
Third, I liked Jaime's character but I felt he needed more of a backstory.
Fourth, Dan...what was his deal? Where are his parents? Why was his include in charge of his funds? So many unanswered questions.
Fifth, very little closure. It needed an epilogue.
First...I felt deceived that the blurb mentioned nothing about age play. Yes it says that Jaime has a dominant side but that leaves the door wide open to what that means. Before you say anything, I've read other books with age play in them without an issue. I just felt that this should be in the blurb or at least hinted at.
Second, Topher was annoying and incredibly immature. She wants to be taken seriously but even when the "bimbo act" (her words) isn't needed, she's still incredibly immature. Honestly, it felt like she was a teenager rather than a 23 year old woman living on her own, working multiple jobs and trying to get an acting career going.
Third, I liked Jaime's character but I felt he needed more of a backstory.
Fourth, Dan...what was his deal? Where are his parents? Why was his include in charge of his funds? So many unanswered questions.
Fifth, very little closure. It needed an epilogue.
November 11, 2020
This has been sitting on my kindle for at least a year and I’m finally getting around to reading it. I think I saw this on a Goodreads list that this had a daddy/babygirl relationship in it and that’s what made me finally read it. I know, I know, but that’s what I like. Anyhow, I’m torn on my feelings for this book.
It started off strong and then it started to drag. Topher (weird name btw) was equal parts annoying and hilarious to me. She was supposed to fake being a bad girlfriend by being ditzy and super energetic, but even after she didn’t have to act like that anymore she still did. This makes me wonder if it was really an act and did the reader or James get to know the real her.
You could tell that the author was trying to make the book have humor to it, but it did seem to go a bit overboard and even cringy at times. Besides the humor, there was so much going on here. It seemed like everyone that they knew came over for Christmas. We had jealous ex-girlfriends, mean girls, and terrible parents. You could honestly get whiplash by the number of people or drama that they brought with them.
As far as the romance, it has its cute moments. I really liked Jamie. Just because he was disabled (he had one eye, and had mass amounts of scar tissue from war), that didn’t make him any less dominant or a good guy. I liked the way he cared for Topher and thought they actually balanced each other out. Which leads me to the Daddy/babygirl relationship. I’m an avid reader of this type of relationship so I was excited to read a full length novel about it. However, I found it just okay and it was only brought up for sex value rather than an actual lifestyle. So that was disappointing.
As you can see, my feelings are all over the place on this one. While Acting Lessons didn’t wow me, book two does sound promising so I might pick that one up soon.
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It started off strong and then it started to drag. Topher (weird name btw) was equal parts annoying and hilarious to me. She was supposed to fake being a bad girlfriend by being ditzy and super energetic, but even after she didn’t have to act like that anymore she still did. This makes me wonder if it was really an act and did the reader or James get to know the real her.
You could tell that the author was trying to make the book have humor to it, but it did seem to go a bit overboard and even cringy at times. Besides the humor, there was so much going on here. It seemed like everyone that they knew came over for Christmas. We had jealous ex-girlfriends, mean girls, and terrible parents. You could honestly get whiplash by the number of people or drama that they brought with them.
As far as the romance, it has its cute moments. I really liked Jamie. Just because he was disabled (he had one eye, and had mass amounts of scar tissue from war), that didn’t make him any less dominant or a good guy. I liked the way he cared for Topher and thought they actually balanced each other out. Which leads me to the Daddy/babygirl relationship. I’m an avid reader of this type of relationship so I was excited to read a full length novel about it. However, I found it just okay and it was only brought up for sex value rather than an actual lifestyle. So that was disappointing.
As you can see, my feelings are all over the place on this one. While Acting Lessons didn’t wow me, book two does sound promising so I might pick that one up soon.
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November 7, 2017DNF at 47%
Good lord, I don't know where to start. There was a lot of potential and then it just got manic/crazy. The premise, pretend girlfriend, I tolerated because the female MC was hilarious. As in, I was laughing out loud.
I began to enjoy the relationship that she and Uncle James were cultivating and there was a bit of kink that I was cool with. But at some point, it just went off the rails. Too much silliness and the pace of the physical relationship was too fast, considering the kink. And then I just couldn't read any farther.
:(
Good lord, I don't know where to start. There was a lot of potential and then it just got manic/crazy. The premise, pretend girlfriend, I tolerated because the female MC was hilarious. As in, I was laughing out loud.
I began to enjoy the relationship that she and Uncle James were cultivating and there was a bit of kink that I was cool with. But at some point, it just went off the rails. Too much silliness and the pace of the physical relationship was too fast, considering the kink. And then I just couldn't read any farther.
:(
April 8, 2022
4.5 ⭐
This was absolutely hilarious....a beyond LOL romantic fiction with some serious 🌶️.
A quirky heroine with a stupid name takes a job to be a pretend gf and from that moment, nothing goes as planned and everything goes right!
I struggled a bit with the writing style and I often had to flip back to figure out who was speaking, but that is my only real complaint.
I had never heard of this author and have no idea who recommended this, but I'll be checking out more and thank you to that person!
This was absolutely hilarious....a beyond LOL romantic fiction with some serious 🌶️.
A quirky heroine with a stupid name takes a job to be a pretend gf and from that moment, nothing goes as planned and everything goes right!
I struggled a bit with the writing style and I often had to flip back to figure out who was speaking, but that is my only real complaint.
I had never heard of this author and have no idea who recommended this, but I'll be checking out more and thank you to that person!
February 23, 2021
Loved this!! A very slight Ddlg relationship here. Not much action overall, but super light and funny with a super cute romance. Love Katie Ruggle!!!!
January 21, 2018
Acting Lessons starts off interesting. I was completely curious to see how the book played out from when I read the first chapter.
Afterwards, the book got weird. The bubbly, ditsy personality that Topher took on is amusing at first, but got old really quick. I felt like I was trying to read a young adult book or teen read based on her acting.
The plot of unwanted guest for Christmas seems like it would be very interesting. It is for awhile.
Once Topher starts calling James "Daddy," I couldn't take it anymore. I was just done with the book. That kink just grosses me out.
Overall, the book starts out interesting, but it's just not for me.
Afterwards, the book got weird. The bubbly, ditsy personality that Topher took on is amusing at first, but got old really quick. I felt like I was trying to read a young adult book or teen read based on her acting.
The plot of unwanted guest for Christmas seems like it would be very interesting. It is for awhile.
Once Topher starts calling James "Daddy," I couldn't take it anymore. I was just done with the book. That kink just grosses me out.
Overall, the book starts out interesting, but it's just not for me.
October 31, 2017
Acting Lessons (Off Guard #1) by Katie Allen
4 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Attempted murder, "Daddy" relationship
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
So this is a very involved story with a lot going on, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. You start out with Danny desperately needing a fake girlfriend who is worse than his current girlfriend, Barb. Danny knows that Topher (Coco) is an aspiring actress and thinks that he's come up with a fool proof plan... Pay Topher to be hated by his family. Easy - Peasy. Well, what follows is a series of unfortunate yet hilarious events, some serious events and major drama.
I loved the relationship between Topher and Julia. They were both sarcastic, hilarious and they each had a great sense of humor. When they have to spend the day with women who are vapid, annoying and just too hoity-toity, it brings out the snarkiness, which is awesome.
Danny is really just an immature boy who is learning how life works. He wants to have his uncle's approval and his mom's, but his idea of what love is...well, it's underdeveloped. However, I did like how his relationship with Topher was before he dragged her in to his mess.
Then you have Uncle Jamie... He is serious, but forgiving, sexy and sometimes a little over the top. He takes Topher's acting with a grain of salt and brings out the sexiness with her and himself. It seems that at first, he takes himself very serious, but Topher is able to break through that veneer and he is able to relax more with her. She and Jamie are a great couple who find that their kinks align. They have great chemistry and I love that you get to see their relationship outside of Topher's acting.
The secondary characters are important, if not annoying and the big twist in the book is somewhat predictable but still made the story enjoyable. I think that without all of the drama, this story would not have been as hilarious.
I can't wait to see what's next.
4 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Attempted murder, "Daddy" relationship
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
So this is a very involved story with a lot going on, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. You start out with Danny desperately needing a fake girlfriend who is worse than his current girlfriend, Barb. Danny knows that Topher (Coco) is an aspiring actress and thinks that he's come up with a fool proof plan... Pay Topher to be hated by his family. Easy - Peasy. Well, what follows is a series of unfortunate yet hilarious events, some serious events and major drama.
I loved the relationship between Topher and Julia. They were both sarcastic, hilarious and they each had a great sense of humor. When they have to spend the day with women who are vapid, annoying and just too hoity-toity, it brings out the snarkiness, which is awesome.
Danny is really just an immature boy who is learning how life works. He wants to have his uncle's approval and his mom's, but his idea of what love is...well, it's underdeveloped. However, I did like how his relationship with Topher was before he dragged her in to his mess.
Then you have Uncle Jamie... He is serious, but forgiving, sexy and sometimes a little over the top. He takes Topher's acting with a grain of salt and brings out the sexiness with her and himself. It seems that at first, he takes himself very serious, but Topher is able to break through that veneer and he is able to relax more with her. She and Jamie are a great couple who find that their kinks align. They have great chemistry and I love that you get to see their relationship outside of Topher's acting.
The secondary characters are important, if not annoying and the big twist in the book is somewhat predictable but still made the story enjoyable. I think that without all of the drama, this story would not have been as hilarious.
I can't wait to see what's next.
November 5, 2017
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads, so here is my review.
While coming from a family with money, Topher didn't want to work for her step-father, so she had to go it on her own. And that meant paying her own way. And being an actress is what she has always wanted to do. So when her friend Danny wanted her to be his pretend girlfriend, he was going to pay her to act as one, she agreed. But things begin to fall apart after they arrived at his uncle's house. Such as his real girlfriend and her family showing up. So she has to pretend to Uncle James girlfriend. And James ex-girlfriend shows up. and then Topher's parents showing up. It is so fun getting inside Topher's head as she has to keep telling herself that she has to keep pretending to be a ditzy girl so the others will believe her.
While James is trying to understand why his nephew has brought the ditzy girl home, she is beginning to grow on him. He has never smiled so much. And then they drop the bomb, Danny's real girlfriend is coming. Now James has to pretend that Topher is his girlfriend. As they spend time together, James begins to see the girl under all that ditziness and he is liking it too. So he wants to see if a real relationship just might be something they both will enjoy and maybe continue.
This story was fun and had me laughing most of the time. I really enjoyed it. And I am looking forward to the next one in the series.
While coming from a family with money, Topher didn't want to work for her step-father, so she had to go it on her own. And that meant paying her own way. And being an actress is what she has always wanted to do. So when her friend Danny wanted her to be his pretend girlfriend, he was going to pay her to act as one, she agreed. But things begin to fall apart after they arrived at his uncle's house. Such as his real girlfriend and her family showing up. So she has to pretend to Uncle James girlfriend. And James ex-girlfriend shows up. and then Topher's parents showing up. It is so fun getting inside Topher's head as she has to keep telling herself that she has to keep pretending to be a ditzy girl so the others will believe her.
While James is trying to understand why his nephew has brought the ditzy girl home, she is beginning to grow on him. He has never smiled so much. And then they drop the bomb, Danny's real girlfriend is coming. Now James has to pretend that Topher is his girlfriend. As they spend time together, James begins to see the girl under all that ditziness and he is liking it too. So he wants to see if a real relationship just might be something they both will enjoy and maybe continue.
This story was fun and had me laughing most of the time. I really enjoyed it. And I am looking forward to the next one in the series.
August 1, 2019
In a half star world I'd give it a 4.5 rating because there were faults in my opinion, but so near perfect!
Okay, I wish i'd gone public with my kinkbooks when I get recommendations like this!
It starts with a ridiculous situation that only gets more and more ridiculous, that paired with the main character's humour made this a very funny enjoyable read.
The romance is between Topher, the main character, and James, the hot uncle of her fake boyfriend,
I absolutely loved the instant connection between them and they just let themselves fall into it and they're not stressing much about the future or what people think. It gave us readers more soft moments and I really appreciated that.
Topher as part of the deal has to act annoying and creates this 'bimbo' version of herself called "Tophie". She's dumb, misunderstands things, creates annoying nicknames for everybody, acts over-enthusiastic and well, a bit childlike. Tophie is amazed at how well she slips into the roll and how great is is to pretend not to understand insults and subtly insult others with niceties. It's a personality that you might think makes the main character unlikable, but it really, really doesn't! The author does such a good job writing that personality; Because the longer she acts this way, the more it's just her, being happy. She drops some things like the costume aspect and stops lying about interests, but a lot remains. It isn't something that's explicitly stated, and something I wish had been acknowledged, but it's hinted that Tophie was like this when she was younger, but her step-dad and mum told her she's being annoying and learnt to suppress herself to please them.
Her becoming this version of herself flows effortlessly into a Dom Daddy/little girl relationship with James. I really enjoyed seeing all of the cute looking after parts of a DD/lg, it's my favourite part of the kink and this had bucketfuls of it! From hairbrusing to just hours of lapsitting... oh it made me gooey!
James is a great romantic interest, I just wish we saw more of what he's like outside of his relationship with Tophie. He's described as being heavily scarred on one side of his face and body and he's missing an eye. There's only one thing said about it and that it happened in war. I would have liked some getting to know you talk like "why did you join the army?" or "What can you see now?". I did like that there wasn't a huge thing about how he feels ugly, he's got self-confidence but reveals one vulnerable moment about it and then he shakes it off. That's one of the things I really liked about this character. A lot of daddy kink books have the dom-daddy as being a bit 2d and samey. He wasn't arrogant, but he had confidence. He showed his vulnerabilities and didn't feel emasculated to be called "jaimie-bear" and all sorts of sugary endearments in front of everybody. He was stern for fun and not controlling. But like I said, I do wish his past and other 'deeper' character traits were shown.
Their relationship was great to read. They're both playful and fun but don't avoid the serious discussions that have to be had. We see them establish a safe word, and boundaries for their DD/lg kink and well as other sexual interests. Tophie completely lets herself be free around him, stops pretending to be dumb or like people she doesn't. They're honest as well. I love that when it comes to their dynamic in public, they're like well we won't pretend things we're not, we'll just keep some things private and if they work it out,they work it out. It was a really positive and refreshing thing to read.
Whilst I loved the romance plot and appreciated the lack of angst and stakes there, I do feel the rest of the story should have made up for that and it didn't. What was there, wasn't very strong because neither of the main characters cared that much about life outside of their new relationship. So when there was a 'climax' it came out of nowhere and there just wasn't a build up for it to matter to me or the character, so it didn't feel like a climax. That, and the matter of the book mostly taking place over 3 days, then skipping only 3 days to the last scene made it feel like there was going to be a sequel with more stakes.
The last sentence of the book is So mind goes ah okay, there are going to be a few issues and kinks to iron out in the next book, that makes sense about this book then. Only I look it up and there isn't a sequel to this story. And then got disappointed and pouty myself.
Here are some things I wish, maybe, could have been explored to give the book a bit more stakes/depth.
♥ More personal revelations about Tophie and her parents. She stands up to them about their bullying, some conflict with them.
♥ Tophie named herself after her step-dad who obviously doesn't care for her. Perhaps a thing could be made about her legally changing her first and last name that make her feel happy and independent of step-dad.
♥ Another family member of Jamie's who disapproves of age difference/blatant dynamic/'dumb girlfriend'
♥ What are we going to do in the future talk
♥ talk about the war
♥ talk about his injuries specifically
♥ talk about his work.
♥ introduction of an actual friend of James
♥ Some actual threats from Tiny
♥ money disparity discussions between Jamie and Tophie
♥ we know Tophie has no DD\lg history, but does Jamie?
♥ An ex pops up and stays for half of the book and we know nothing about her or her and James' relationship
These are all cheesy and not thought out,but there were things missing from this book for me to enjoy fully. It left me wanting something like one of these, but despite that, the relationship was so good it I just know it has become one of my go to re-reads now.
Okay, I wish i'd gone public with my kinkbooks when I get recommendations like this!
It starts with a ridiculous situation that only gets more and more ridiculous, that paired with the main character's humour made this a very funny enjoyable read.
The romance is between Topher, the main character, and James, the hot uncle of her fake boyfriend,
I absolutely loved the instant connection between them and they just let themselves fall into it and they're not stressing much about the future or what people think. It gave us readers more soft moments and I really appreciated that.
Topher as part of the deal has to act annoying and creates this 'bimbo' version of herself called "Tophie". She's dumb, misunderstands things, creates annoying nicknames for everybody, acts over-enthusiastic and well, a bit childlike. Tophie is amazed at how well she slips into the roll and how great is is to pretend not to understand insults and subtly insult others with niceties. It's a personality that you might think makes the main character unlikable, but it really, really doesn't! The author does such a good job writing that personality; Because the longer she acts this way, the more it's just her, being happy. She drops some things like the costume aspect and stops lying about interests, but a lot remains. It isn't something that's explicitly stated, and something I wish had been acknowledged, but it's hinted that Tophie was like this when she was younger, but her step-dad and mum told her she's being annoying and learnt to suppress herself to please them.
Her becoming this version of herself flows effortlessly into a Dom Daddy/little girl relationship with James. I really enjoyed seeing all of the cute looking after parts of a DD/lg, it's my favourite part of the kink and this had bucketfuls of it! From hairbrusing to just hours of lapsitting... oh it made me gooey!
James is a great romantic interest, I just wish we saw more of what he's like outside of his relationship with Tophie. He's described as being heavily scarred on one side of his face and body and he's missing an eye. There's only one thing said about it and that it happened in war. I would have liked some getting to know you talk like "why did you join the army?" or "What can you see now?". I did like that there wasn't a huge thing about how he feels ugly, he's got self-confidence but reveals one vulnerable moment about it and then he shakes it off. That's one of the things I really liked about this character. A lot of daddy kink books have the dom-daddy as being a bit 2d and samey. He wasn't arrogant, but he had confidence. He showed his vulnerabilities and didn't feel emasculated to be called "jaimie-bear" and all sorts of sugary endearments in front of everybody. He was stern for fun and not controlling. But like I said, I do wish his past and other 'deeper' character traits were shown.
Their relationship was great to read. They're both playful and fun but don't avoid the serious discussions that have to be had. We see them establish a safe word, and boundaries for their DD/lg kink and well as other sexual interests. Tophie completely lets herself be free around him, stops pretending to be dumb or like people she doesn't. They're honest as well. I love that when it comes to their dynamic in public, they're like well we won't pretend things we're not, we'll just keep some things private and if they work it out,they work it out. It was a really positive and refreshing thing to read.
Whilst I loved the romance plot and appreciated the lack of angst and stakes there, I do feel the rest of the story should have made up for that and it didn't. What was there, wasn't very strong because neither of the main characters cared that much about life outside of their new relationship. So when there was a 'climax' it came out of nowhere and there just wasn't a build up for it to matter to me or the character, so it didn't feel like a climax. That, and the matter of the book mostly taking place over 3 days, then skipping only 3 days to the last scene made it feel like there was going to be a sequel with more stakes.
The last sentence of the book is So mind goes ah okay, there are going to be a few issues and kinks to iron out in the next book, that makes sense about this book then. Only I look it up and there isn't a sequel to this story. And then got disappointed and pouty myself.
Here are some things I wish, maybe, could have been explored to give the book a bit more stakes/depth.
♥ More personal revelations about Tophie and her parents. She stands up to them about their bullying, some conflict with them.
♥ Tophie named herself after her step-dad who obviously doesn't care for her. Perhaps a thing could be made about her legally changing her first and last name that make her feel happy and independent of step-dad.
♥ Another family member of Jamie's who disapproves of age difference/blatant dynamic/'dumb girlfriend'
♥ What are we going to do in the future talk
♥ talk about the war
♥ talk about his injuries specifically
♥ talk about his work.
♥ introduction of an actual friend of James
♥ Some actual threats from Tiny
♥ money disparity discussions between Jamie and Tophie
♥ we know Tophie has no DD\lg history, but does Jamie?
♥ An ex pops up and stays for half of the book and we know nothing about her or her and James' relationship
These are all cheesy and not thought out,but there were things missing from this book for me to enjoy fully. It left me wanting something like one of these, but despite that, the relationship was so good it I just know it has become one of my go to re-reads now.
September 21, 2021
I actually would’ve liked this book more but then it started going over the top. At first, Topher’s act was kind of funny, but as more and more people began showing up at the house, it became too nonsensical and her act went from charming to cringe. I loved James’s character though. Based on the first 2/3, this would’ve been closer to 4 stars, but the last 1/3 was ridiculous and hard to read at times.
September 29, 2017
Topher was funny. Not sure Jamie's injuries had anything to do with plot but overall he seemed like he needed Topher in his life.
ARC Netgalley
ARC Netgalley
February 9, 2024
What. The. Fuck?!? This book was a steaming pile of (weird) garbage.
June 26, 2020
okay so this book was actually kind of funny. the h said the craziest thing. I have to admit i didn't see much difference (some) in her dialogue when she dropped the dumb bimbo girlfriend act and her normal dialogue though. I think there should have been more of a difference.
And unlike from some of the other reviews I read, I could totally see the whole "daddy" thing coming. It very much seemed like thats what it was leading up to. And if written well I can go with that. I don't really think it was introduced properly though. A girl that has never supposedly thought or behaved in that sexual manner previously, certainly wouldn't have just let it pop out accidentally or in the manner it did. Would have made more sense if he had introduced that since he had led her that way for everything else.
I rated this a 3. If the story would have continued on in the second half of the book as it did in the first half i would have rated it higher. But it seemed to lose something, and even James seemed to soften which isn't necessarily bad, but he was pretty controlling right off the back in a pretty hot way so that would have been nice. And also i deducted stars for the ending.
That was seriously the most abrupt unfinished ending I have ever read. I almost thought this was a two book deal because of the way it ended and would be continued. (maybe it is and i just missed it?) Also I don't think it very plausible so many people just invited themselves over for christmas that way. Although I loved the chefs responses. But Tophers parents inviting that Charlie guy? Cmon. Seriously? Too much. But very fun read, and I laughed out loud many times. So If you are looking for something not too serious, thats more comical then sensical by the end and you dont have probs with daddy word play, that at least by my own opinion was not always used at appropriate times (I have no experience to say this, this is just by own personal feel on how it should be--I could be way off) then i would recommend this. Cuz it is enjoyable.
And unlike from some of the other reviews I read, I could totally see the whole "daddy" thing coming. It very much seemed like thats what it was leading up to. And if written well I can go with that. I don't really think it was introduced properly though. A girl that has never supposedly thought or behaved in that sexual manner previously, certainly wouldn't have just let it pop out accidentally or in the manner it did. Would have made more sense if he had introduced that since he had led her that way for everything else.
I rated this a 3. If the story would have continued on in the second half of the book as it did in the first half i would have rated it higher. But it seemed to lose something, and even James seemed to soften which isn't necessarily bad, but he was pretty controlling right off the back in a pretty hot way so that would have been nice. And also i deducted stars for the ending.
That was seriously the most abrupt unfinished ending I have ever read. I almost thought this was a two book deal because of the way it ended and would be continued. (maybe it is and i just missed it?) Also I don't think it very plausible so many people just invited themselves over for christmas that way. Although I loved the chefs responses. But Tophers parents inviting that Charlie guy? Cmon. Seriously? Too much. But very fun read, and I laughed out loud many times. So If you are looking for something not too serious, thats more comical then sensical by the end and you dont have probs with daddy word play, that at least by my own opinion was not always used at appropriate times (I have no experience to say this, this is just by own personal feel on how it should be--I could be way off) then i would recommend this. Cuz it is enjoyable.
November 17, 2017
Topher/Coco was from a rich family but she didn’t want to work for her stepfather. So with this decision Topher was on her own and had to support herself without help from her family. Topher is a struggling actress she has always wanted to be an actress.Topher is a barista to pay her bills until she can get a breaking into acting. Danny is one of Topher’s customers when she is a barista. Danny needs a fake girlfriend who is worse than his real girlfriend Barbara. So Danny offers to pay Topher to act as his fake girlfriend to be hated by his family. So Topher is to be Danny’s new annoying girlfriend through the Christmas holidays. Then Barb will be more acceptable. Also Danny’s uncle Jamie won’t cut him off financially. Danny’s uncle jamie is serious but he is also forgiving , sexy, and sometimes over the top. Topher agrees to act as Danny girlfriend. But then Danny’s real girlfriend shows up with her family. So now Topher had to act like she was Jamie’s girlfriend Jamie looks at Topher’s acting with a grain of salt. There is a hot chemistry between Jamie and Topher. So Topher has to keep acting like a bimbo not like herself but Jamie sees through her as time goes on. Topher breaks through Jamie’s veneer and he can relax with her. Then Jamie’s ex girlfriend shows up as well as Topher’s parents.
I enjoyed this book a lot. This made me laugh at times and that is always good. I liked there was also some drama in this book. I also liked Topher was a good addition to Jamie’s life. I also like that though kinky they manage to work things out together I really liked Jamie and Topher together I also enjoyed the unique ending. I would have liked a little less hardcore sex. But this did not stop me from reading and finishing this book. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I recommend.
I enjoyed this book a lot. This made me laugh at times and that is always good. I liked there was also some drama in this book. I also liked Topher was a good addition to Jamie’s life. I also like that though kinky they manage to work things out together I really liked Jamie and Topher together I also enjoyed the unique ending. I would have liked a little less hardcore sex. But this did not stop me from reading and finishing this book. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I recommend.
October 15, 2017
This book intrigued me from the blurb as it is a spin on the fake girlfriend trope. So what happens when the fake girlfriend is wildly attracted to someone she is supposed to be fooling? In this story it means things get very hot, very fast.
Topher is a struggling actress/ barista who is offered a job by her customer to pretend to be his new and very annoying girlfriend for the family Christmas holidays. The aim is to make his actual girlfriend seem more acceptable by comparison, preventing his uncle from cutting him off financially. The problem is that even when Topher goes into full bimbo mode she is still charming and fun, so the family loves her. Also rich Uncle James ends up being hot Uncle James and the chemistry between him and Topher amps up when circustances require her to pretend to be his girlfriend instead.
This story was light and fun. While the Daddy kink, d/s element to the story was a bit cringeworthy for me, it was pretty mild. Also the hero didn't spend the entire book scowling and being commanding but instead was having fun and laughing and seemed as caught up in the unusual sexual dynamic that arose as Topher, so it made the d/s thing tolerable. I particularly like the ending and its complete lack of an epilogue. It allowed the story to have a strong finish that hinted at the possibilities for the future without spelling them all out and tying all the loose ends up in neat little bows. In all, I really enjoyed this book and I will be reading more from this author.
Topher is a struggling actress/ barista who is offered a job by her customer to pretend to be his new and very annoying girlfriend for the family Christmas holidays. The aim is to make his actual girlfriend seem more acceptable by comparison, preventing his uncle from cutting him off financially. The problem is that even when Topher goes into full bimbo mode she is still charming and fun, so the family loves her. Also rich Uncle James ends up being hot Uncle James and the chemistry between him and Topher amps up when circustances require her to pretend to be his girlfriend instead.
This story was light and fun. While the Daddy kink, d/s element to the story was a bit cringeworthy for me, it was pretty mild. Also the hero didn't spend the entire book scowling and being commanding but instead was having fun and laughing and seemed as caught up in the unusual sexual dynamic that arose as Topher, so it made the d/s thing tolerable. I particularly like the ending and its complete lack of an epilogue. It allowed the story to have a strong finish that hinted at the possibilities for the future without spelling them all out and tying all the loose ends up in neat little bows. In all, I really enjoyed this book and I will be reading more from this author.
August 16, 2022
It was an overwhelming book. Was it fun? Yep, Was it hot? Kind of, Was it cute? Kind of.
My main problem was that I just finished the second one and that one is lighter and fluffy while this is just so much. For example in the second book there is the main couple and then two side characters that appear here and there but in this one there was a moment where Topher interacts with + 12 side characters, +12!!!!!!
Anyhow.
The story was interesting, full of twists and turns here and there, the other +12 side characters were mostly rich snob people but like 2 of those were fun and characters that I will love to be friends with, those two being the sister of Uncle Jamie and the cook.
I wasn't so into the daddy/little girl kink because it's just not my jam, I'm a different kind of kinky person so reading it didn't do much to me and it kind of pulled me out of the story but in general it didn't bother me that much.
As I said there were +12 characters in a moment of the book but she was acting so good and it was fun to read their interactions together so again it didn't bother me that much.
But after reading so much craziness I was out, I honestly can say that I need to go and meditate or do something to kill off this excess of energy after reading such a crazy book.
It was a fun read but honestly coming after such a slow and fluffy read was quite the shock. If this one didn't convince you, try the next one, which is more slow paced and fun to read . It will make you crave some sweets and some cute romance.
My main problem was that I just finished the second one and that one is lighter and fluffy while this is just so much. For example in the second book there is the main couple and then two side characters that appear here and there but in this one there was a moment where Topher interacts with + 12 side characters, +12!!!!!!
Anyhow.
The story was interesting, full of twists and turns here and there, the other +12 side characters were mostly rich snob people but like 2 of those were fun and characters that I will love to be friends with, those two being the sister of Uncle Jamie and the cook.
I wasn't so into the daddy/little girl kink because it's just not my jam, I'm a different kind of kinky person so reading it didn't do much to me and it kind of pulled me out of the story but in general it didn't bother me that much.
As I said there were +12 characters in a moment of the book but she was acting so good and it was fun to read their interactions together so again it didn't bother me that much.
But after reading so much craziness I was out, I honestly can say that I need to go and meditate or do something to kill off this excess of energy after reading such a crazy book.
It was a fun read but honestly coming after such a slow and fluffy read was quite the shock. If this one didn't convince you, try the next one, which is more slow paced and fun to read . It will make you crave some sweets and some cute romance.
February 22, 2021
This book started as a funny and sexy romp, but quickly became cartoonish and over the top, when all the extra unneeded people started showing up in lieu of the author actually giving a background to the heroine. There were too few details about the hero, we only know he is a businessman (no idea what kind of business), he was in Afghanistan where he got hurt and that he is 31. That's literally all the info on him.
I was unpleasantly surprised by inclusion of kink. I consider myself a seasoned erotic reader and usually I like it when books are sexually adventurous. However, this kink in particular is a no go for me. I'd have been fine if there was just a suggestion of it, but it was fully developed, to the point that I was afraid he was going to put on her , since . I so wish I looked at reviews before reading this. Reviews are such a double edged sword for me - reading them in advance can help avoid books that are not for me, but knowing too much about the book can also spoil it for me. Sigh.
Gotta go read something good now to cleanse my reading palate.
I was unpleasantly surprised by inclusion of kink. I consider myself a seasoned erotic reader and usually I like it when books are sexually adventurous. However, this kink in particular is a no go for me. I'd have been fine if there was just a suggestion of it, but it was fully developed, to the point that I was afraid he was going to put on her , since . I so wish I looked at reviews before reading this. Reviews are such a double edged sword for me - reading them in advance can help avoid books that are not for me, but knowing too much about the book can also spoil it for me. Sigh.
Gotta go read something good now to cleanse my reading palate.
August 3, 2019
This book was a joy to read. My first by this author, it was full of snark and wit and charm. While the situation and some of the characters were a bit over the top, the rest of it more than made up for it.
I was honestly surprised that this was a Daddy/little girl story. (I knew I would be getting a taboo story, just not that it would be this particular taboo.) The details of the D/lg dynamic were great, and I could connect with Topher's conflicting emotions as she began to discover that side of herself. Jamie was just hot, and I loved the way that Topher was able to see past the physical and get him to open up.
I have a few questions that just niggle at my writer's brain (Where is Danny's dad? What's the age difference between Jamie and Julia? Why did James break up with his ex?) I think some of these questions could have added another layer of depth to the story, but it was totally fine without. We got enough from Topher's POV, her childhood and her awful-ish parents, to connect with her and relate to her desire to be looked after. (I'm just greedy and like more, you know?)
Anyhow, it was a quick and fun read. Looking forward to the next in the series, and to discovering more from this author (under whatever name).
I was honestly surprised that this was a Daddy/little girl story. (I knew I would be getting a taboo story, just not that it would be this particular taboo.) The details of the D/lg dynamic were great, and I could connect with Topher's conflicting emotions as she began to discover that side of herself. Jamie was just hot, and I loved the way that Topher was able to see past the physical and get him to open up.
I have a few questions that just niggle at my writer's brain (Where is Danny's dad? What's the age difference between Jamie and Julia? Why did James break up with his ex?) I think some of these questions could have added another layer of depth to the story, but it was totally fine without. We got enough from Topher's POV, her childhood and her awful-ish parents, to connect with her and relate to her desire to be looked after. (I'm just greedy and like more, you know?)
Anyhow, it was a quick and fun read. Looking forward to the next in the series, and to discovering more from this author (under whatever name).
November 2, 2017
"Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
This is not the usual wounded hero romance but I’ve enjoyed its nervous energy. Yet I’m a bit undecided about it. I guess I was expecting something more substantial, mostly about the hero, until the end, and was a bit disappointed because it never happened.
There’s a lot of hardcore sex mixed with kissing, cuddling, humor and laughter; sexiness and tenderness were well balanced enough to keep me interested.
The Tophie character was a bit tiresome.
As for the hero, he had so much potential! I would have liked to know more about his motivations. The humor around his disfiguring injuries is refreshing but the take on the wounded hero, albeit different, is lacking, for example, in displaying the impact of being blind in one eye on daily life.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Carina Press, and NetGalley for providing a free copy
This is not the usual wounded hero romance but I’ve enjoyed its nervous energy. Yet I’m a bit undecided about it. I guess I was expecting something more substantial, mostly about the hero, until the end, and was a bit disappointed because it never happened.
There’s a lot of hardcore sex mixed with kissing, cuddling, humor and laughter; sexiness and tenderness were well balanced enough to keep me interested.
The Tophie character was a bit tiresome.
As for the hero, he had so much potential! I would have liked to know more about his motivations. The humor around his disfiguring injuries is refreshing but the take on the wounded hero, albeit different, is lacking, for example, in displaying the impact of being blind in one eye on daily life.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Carina Press, and NetGalley for providing a free copy
January 11, 2020
This crazy book is filled with awful rich people. Like you want to wheel the guillotine out into the square for these awful rich people. The heroine grew up rich, but was cutoff because she wants to be an actress. So she accepts a job from some random rich dude who’s a customer at her coffee shop to go home for Christmas as his fake girlfriend. We don’t get much of a sense of who she really is before she starts acting like a total ditz to try and put off her fake-boyfriend’s family. These are the best, most hilarious scenes in the novel.
Eventually more awful rich people show up, and she has to be her fake-boyfriend’s uncle’s fake-girlfriend (got that?) to trick them for reasons. She and the uncle actually hook up, but it’s not totally clear how much is her acting like a ditz and her actual personality. While the sex was hot and kinky (DD/lg) the romance didn’t really work.
The writing was good enough I’d read more from this author.
Eventually more awful rich people show up, and she has to be her fake-boyfriend’s uncle’s fake-girlfriend (got that?) to trick them for reasons. She and the uncle actually hook up, but it’s not totally clear how much is her acting like a ditz and her actual personality. While the sex was hot and kinky (DD/lg) the romance didn’t really work.
The writing was good enough I’d read more from this author.
October 5, 2017
I don't remember when did I laugh so much by reading a book. This one was so funny on. Topher is one of a kind character first I didn't know what to think of her when does she act when is she normal. Because what everything she said and done hilariously. James is a character we don't see much of the background we don't see his POF so it is very little reviled of him and of his past. We do see that he holds love toward Thoper in a way he cares about her. The story is intertwined with so many unpredictable events and a lot of improvising from Thoper sied. Ther are also very dirty hot scenes in the book and a few things I didn't quite understand but goes definitely in some psychiatric evaluation of the situation.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for Netgelly
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for Netgelly
November 16, 2023
2.5✯
°Non virgin heroine
°Experienced hero
°Only heroine's POV 👎🏻
°Insta attraction
°No OM drama
°2 OW caused a bit of drama (one of them an ex-gf) he was not interested in them
°They never said 'I love you' 👎🏻👎🏻
°They always used protection
°Low angst
°The H seemed to have an active sex life since he had lube and condoms in his nightstand
°No separation
°She's 22, he's 31
°The h was very immature and melodramatic, she was supposed to act like a bimbo but there was absolutely no difference between the ditzy persona she created and her real personality
°Very mild dd/lg
°Likeable alpha hero
°No cheating or scenes with OP
°Abrupt ending/no epilogue/HFN 👎🏻👎🏻👎🏻
°Non virgin heroine
°Experienced hero
°Only heroine's POV 👎🏻
°Insta attraction
°No OM drama
°2 OW caused a bit of drama (one of them an ex-gf) he was not interested in them
°They never said 'I love you' 👎🏻👎🏻
°They always used protection
°Low angst
°The H seemed to have an active sex life since he had lube and condoms in his nightstand
°No separation
°She's 22, he's 31
°The h was very immature and melodramatic, she was supposed to act like a bimbo but there was absolutely no difference between the ditzy persona she created and her real personality
°Very mild dd/lg
°Likeable alpha hero
°No cheating or scenes with OP
°Abrupt ending/no epilogue/HFN 👎🏻👎🏻👎🏻
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