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Cedar Tree #1
Slim to None
Since moving to beautiful Cedar Tree, Colorado, Emma Young, mother of one adult daughter, has worked from home doing some online bookkeeping and baking for her best friend's diner to supplement her disability pension. Life has been pretty good, that is until she received a strange phone call that starts an alarming chain of events.
Investigator Gus Flemming is hot on the trail of a bail skip with organized crime connections that bring him to Cedar Tree. Once there, the focus of his investigation lands squarely on the gently rounded shoulders of a vivacious red haired Emma, whose physical limitations have done nothing to dampen her zest for life.
When it becomes clear that Emma is at risk, Gus does't hesitate to step in and protect her. Call it a job with some very hot benefits......
**Due to content of a sexually explicit nature, this book is recommended for a mature audience only.**
Investigator Gus Flemming is hot on the trail of a bail skip with organized crime connections that bring him to Cedar Tree. Once there, the focus of his investigation lands squarely on the gently rounded shoulders of a vivacious red haired Emma, whose physical limitations have done nothing to dampen her zest for life.
When it becomes clear that Emma is at risk, Gus does't hesitate to step in and protect her. Call it a job with some very hot benefits......
**Due to content of a sexually explicit nature, this book is recommended for a mature audience only.**
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 26, 2014
900 people are currently reading
1307 people want to read
About the author
Freya Barker
77 books1,898 followersUSA Today bestselling author Freya Barker loves writing about ordinary people with extraordinary stories.
Driven to make her books about 'real' people; she creates characters who are perhaps less than perfect, each struggling to find their own slice of happy, but just as deserving of romance, thrills and chills in their lives.
Recipient of the ReadFREE.ly 2019 Best Book We've Read All Year Award for "Covering Ollie, the 2015 RomCon “Reader’s Choice” Award for Best First Book, “Slim To None”, and Finalist for the 2017 Kindle Book Award with “From Dust”, Freya continues to add to her rapidly growing collection of published novels as she spins story after story with an endless supply of bruised and dented characters, vying for attention!
Driven to make her books about 'real' people; she creates characters who are perhaps less than perfect, each struggling to find their own slice of happy, but just as deserving of romance, thrills and chills in their lives.
Recipient of the ReadFREE.ly 2019 Best Book We've Read All Year Award for "Covering Ollie, the 2015 RomCon “Reader’s Choice” Award for Best First Book, “Slim To None”, and Finalist for the 2017 Kindle Book Award with “From Dust”, Freya continues to add to her rapidly growing collection of published novels as she spins story after story with an endless supply of bruised and dented characters, vying for attention!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 246 reviews
June 15, 2020
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★Book Basics★
Genre : - Contemporary Romance
Series : - Book 1 in the series
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 3.5 stars
★Review★
Whilst I enjoyed this book, I did have some issues that stopped me loving it.
What I DID like, the older characters, with some health issues. I liked both the hero and the heroine. And I liked their connection and the pacing of their relationship.
However, certain things for me were left unanswered, such as the heroines history, did her husband leave her due to health issues etc? For some other reason?
Also, the book relied rather heavily on some pretty big coincidences to get the story going. Such as the original phone call, then him fancying her when he does not know who she is, the Deputy and Brother etc.
And 3 times, 3 TIMES, the heroine was knocked unconscious and everything "faded to black". Then it happened to her friend twice too!
But, as I say, I did enjoy it, and was intrigued enough by the character that is to be the hero in the next book to at some point get that. Just not right away.
Free 07/10/15
Amazon UK Link - Slim To None (Cedar Tree Series Book 1)
Amazon US Link - https://amzn.com/B00N33P5HE
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Contemporary Romance
Series : - Book 1 in the series
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 3.5 stars
★Review★
Whilst I enjoyed this book, I did have some issues that stopped me loving it.
What I DID like, the older characters, with some health issues. I liked both the hero and the heroine. And I liked their connection and the pacing of their relationship.
However, certain things for me were left unanswered, such as the heroines history, did her husband leave her due to health issues etc? For some other reason?
Also, the book relied rather heavily on some pretty big coincidences to get the story going. Such as the original phone call, then him fancying her when he does not know who she is, the Deputy and Brother etc.
And 3 times, 3 TIMES, the heroine was knocked unconscious and everything "faded to black". Then it happened to her friend twice too!
But, as I say, I did enjoy it, and was intrigued enough by the character that is to be the hero in the next book to at some point get that. Just not right away.
Free 07/10/15
Amazon UK Link - Slim To None (Cedar Tree Series Book 1)
Amazon US Link - https://amzn.com/B00N33P5HE
January 5, 2016
3.25-3.50 RATING-I feel like I've been saying this a lot lately. Maybe it's because I've been reading a lot of debuts and books from newer indie writers...I liked this story, but didn't love it. There was a lot of potential but it fell short a bit of my expectations. It wasn't bad but could have used some polishing and had some editing issues. Room for improvement but still enjoyable.
I did like that the heroine was older (47) and disabled (used a walker). Parts of the writing, mainly the hero, reminded me a bit of a Kristen Ashley character. I was intriqued enough to download a sample of the second book which focuses on Arlene. I didn't love Arlene in Slim To None. While the loud mouth, caring, best friend is a common character to read, sometimes I find them grating, and Arlene was. Still, the tatted up hottie featured in book two almost lured me in. Unfortunately, I noticed two spelling errors in the downloaded sample which was a bit of a turn off. I'm not a big stickler for things like that but repeated errors just makes for a sloppy read. Since I was already on the fence about reading it, I decided to put this to the side for now. I may come back to this one, especially if I can borrow or get through Kindle Unlimited (not eligible at this time).
Overall, I think both the series and author have potential, just need a bit more development. Readers that like older heroines and like alpha, protective hero's, should enjoy this one if they can overlook some imperfections.
Note: At the time this review was posted, this book was available to borrow through Amazon's Kindle Unlimited program.
To see other books available to borrow through Kindle Unlimited or SCRIBD, check out the Subscription Addiction group
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March 5, 2020
Audiobook: Narrators - Tanya Eby and Noel Harrison
I really enjoyed this narration. Both of these narrators did an excellent job and I soon found myself immersed in the story which was enriched by their performances. Mr. Harrison’s voice is very deep and I had to adjust to it a bit by slowing the speed down, but once I did I was goner for his portrayal of Gus.
Wow! Talk about a sizzling read with mature characters! I loved everything about this couple.
Emma is disabled but fiercely independent. When a wrong number shakes up her life she suddenly goes from adjusting to life in a new place to adjusting to the fact that Gus appears to truly be attracted to her. She was more than capable of taking care of herself but wasn’t so bullheaded as to not recognize that there were times she needed to yield to him.
I love a strong, take charge hero. Especially when he recognizes that he has to use a lighter hand, and that was Gus. He was deliciously alpha and extremely protective. When the conflict between this couple arises, my heart ached for what he was going through. What’s not to love about a hero who is strong but vulnerable?
This has several plot layers and going through them kept me invested the whole time. With plenty of steam, lots of good friends, and enough drama to keep the story moving and the questions coming, I had a hard time stopping this when life got in the way.
Dual POV
Sae
Triggers
I really enjoyed this narration. Both of these narrators did an excellent job and I soon found myself immersed in the story which was enriched by their performances. Mr. Harrison’s voice is very deep and I had to adjust to it a bit by slowing the speed down, but once I did I was goner for his portrayal of Gus.
Wow! Talk about a sizzling read with mature characters! I loved everything about this couple.
Emma is disabled but fiercely independent. When a wrong number shakes up her life she suddenly goes from adjusting to life in a new place to adjusting to the fact that Gus appears to truly be attracted to her. She was more than capable of taking care of herself but wasn’t so bullheaded as to not recognize that there were times she needed to yield to him.
I love a strong, take charge hero. Especially when he recognizes that he has to use a lighter hand, and that was Gus. He was deliciously alpha and extremely protective. When the conflict between this couple arises, my heart ached for what he was going through. What’s not to love about a hero who is strong but vulnerable?
This has several plot layers and going through them kept me invested the whole time. With plenty of steam, lots of good friends, and enough drama to keep the story moving and the questions coming, I had a hard time stopping this when life got in the way.
Dual POV
Sae
Triggers
January 2, 2015
Sizzling Pages Romance Reviews
Nichole's Sizzling Reviews
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So glad to have discovered this series and this author. I adore finding books with characters aged 40 plus. Strong heroine and alpha as hell hero. Gus stole my heart right away. Never seeing Emma as anything but a whole and sexy but fierce strong woman. The sizzling banter between these two quickly and intensely captivated my attention and I didn't want to put it down. So much suspense that never took away from on beautiful love story. This totally hooked me for the entire series.
100% Safe Zone Approved.
Loyal Perfect Alpha Hero
Nichole's Sizzling Reviews
Sizzling Pages @ Facebook
Sizling Pages on TSU
Twitter:@Sizzlingpages
Email: sizzlingpages@gmail.com
So glad to have discovered this series and this author. I adore finding books with characters aged 40 plus. Strong heroine and alpha as hell hero. Gus stole my heart right away. Never seeing Emma as anything but a whole and sexy but fierce strong woman. The sizzling banter between these two quickly and intensely captivated my attention and I didn't want to put it down. So much suspense that never took away from on beautiful love story. This totally hooked me for the entire series.
100% Safe Zone Approved.
Loyal Perfect Alpha Hero
June 7, 2020
I think this might be the first book I have read with a heroine that has a disability. Not only that, but we also have a couple in their late 40's. I applaud this author for taking a road less traveled in her writing. It's refreshing to read a non-traditional romance.
Emma was a pretty sassy heroine. She has some insecurities from her disability that did get in her way at times but you also saw her actively work to move beyond it.
Gus is the type of protective alpha I enjoy to read. I liked how he was instantly attracted to Emma and didn't even flinch at her health issues. He wasn't with out his own battles however. He also was a bit clueless a couple of times. It made him more realistic.
Overall, this was an enjoyable romantic suspense read.
Emma was a pretty sassy heroine. She has some insecurities from her disability that did get in her way at times but you also saw her actively work to move beyond it.
Gus is the type of protective alpha I enjoy to read. I liked how he was instantly attracted to Emma and didn't even flinch at her health issues. He wasn't with out his own battles however. He also was a bit clueless a couple of times. It made him more realistic.
Overall, this was an enjoyable romantic suspense read.
December 13, 2015
Favorite Quotes:
“Finally! You get some action, and it has had to be from a stranger on the phone? I’m dying here…”
“Hells bells, if I didn’t know any better, I’d swear you were trying to give each other an endoscopy by tongue.”
“If I could, I would stop time, - right here in this moment.”
“He never had known this kind of feeling before, but he was sure this had to be it. A moment in time where everything could stop, just as it was and never change, and it would be absolute perfection. This was it. Happiness. Who’d have thought?”
My Review:
I have a new favorite author, Freya Barker is the bomb! This is my first time perusing her work and I am hooked and rejoicing in the knowledge that I have 5 more of her books already loaded on my beloved kindle. I adored the characters in this book – they were delightful to read with their free flowing expletives and naughty banter, something not usually seen written for ladies in their forties. These gals were feisty, fun, witty, and more than surviving under duress. Being on the other side of 40… um – okay 50… reading books about 20 year olds becomes more than a bit tiresome. So I absolutely reveled in this story and gobbled up Ms. Barker’s crisp, descriptive, and humorous writing style. The writing was engrossing yet comfortable, easy to follow, intriguing, and sizzling with sensuality. I was entertained from the first to the last page. More!
“Finally! You get some action, and it has had to be from a stranger on the phone? I’m dying here…”
“Hells bells, if I didn’t know any better, I’d swear you were trying to give each other an endoscopy by tongue.”
“If I could, I would stop time, - right here in this moment.”
“He never had known this kind of feeling before, but he was sure this had to be it. A moment in time where everything could stop, just as it was and never change, and it would be absolute perfection. This was it. Happiness. Who’d have thought?”
My Review:
I have a new favorite author, Freya Barker is the bomb! This is my first time perusing her work and I am hooked and rejoicing in the knowledge that I have 5 more of her books already loaded on my beloved kindle. I adored the characters in this book – they were delightful to read with their free flowing expletives and naughty banter, something not usually seen written for ladies in their forties. These gals were feisty, fun, witty, and more than surviving under duress. Being on the other side of 40… um – okay 50… reading books about 20 year olds becomes more than a bit tiresome. So I absolutely reveled in this story and gobbled up Ms. Barker’s crisp, descriptive, and humorous writing style. The writing was engrossing yet comfortable, easy to follow, intriguing, and sizzling with sensuality. I was entertained from the first to the last page. More!
September 5, 2014
Loved this book! Don't want to give anything away....because you MUST read, but I will say this: For a debut novel, Freya hit this one out of the park! Normally when I hear disabled heroine, I think helpless and needy. Freya writes Emma so brilliantly that you hardly know she has a disability at all. She is strong and empowered and I simply love her! Then there's Gus. Holy hades upside down, THERE'S GUS. Hot, yummy, delicious Gus....Not to mention a little mystery and suspense! Well done Freya Barker! Can't wait for more!!!!!
March 12, 2015
Overall rating: 4.5 "Peaches" stars!
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Intimacy with om/ow:
HEA:
My review:
Let me just say this - by no means was the timing of how long it took me to read this book related to how much I liked or didn't like it. Real life sometimes gets in the way of my reading, and it totally did in this case :).
Gus and Emma were too cute in this story. Sometimes it's nice to read a romance between two people over 40 because you don't have to deal with the angsty issues that the younger generation books contain. There is no other woman drama, no man whore drama - nothing like that at all. Gus is a grown man and KNOWS what he wants when he sees it and goes after it. Emma is an older woman as well, also with a disability. I LOVED how Gus reacted to the site of her and how he took care of her without a second thought. Basically what I loved is just that - her disability was more in her mind then his.
"Love you, Peach. I do. Never expected it, but you make it so fucking easy. I never stood a chance."
I also appreciated that there was no hatefulness in this book at all - not from the hero and not from the heroine. This author will most definitely be a go-to author for me if her next book was as good as this one was for me :)
Triggers:
Cheating:
Love triangle:
Sex with om/ow:
Intimacy with om/ow:
HEA:
My review:
Let me just say this - by no means was the timing of how long it took me to read this book related to how much I liked or didn't like it. Real life sometimes gets in the way of my reading, and it totally did in this case :).
Gus and Emma were too cute in this story. Sometimes it's nice to read a romance between two people over 40 because you don't have to deal with the angsty issues that the younger generation books contain. There is no other woman drama, no man whore drama - nothing like that at all. Gus is a grown man and KNOWS what he wants when he sees it and goes after it. Emma is an older woman as well, also with a disability. I LOVED how Gus reacted to the site of her and how he took care of her without a second thought. Basically what I loved is just that - her disability was more in her mind then his.
"Love you, Peach. I do. Never expected it, but you make it so fucking easy. I never stood a chance."
I also appreciated that there was no hatefulness in this book at all - not from the hero and not from the heroine. This author will most definitely be a go-to author for me if her next book was as good as this one was for me :)
November 3, 2014
Freya Barker is sensational. She delivers a wonderful and refreshing story of love. This is an amazing cast of characters that you will fall in love with. I adore Emma and her kickass attitude. She is a strong, feisty woman with a heart of gold. She shows us that no matter what life throws at us, we can handle it with good friends and family.
She finds the courage to embrace happiness with Gus. Gus is an amazing character. He is what a real man should be.
Slim to None is a brilliant, funny, laugh until you cry, feel good book. I highly recommend it to everyone
She finds the courage to embrace happiness with Gus. Gus is an amazing character. He is what a real man should be.
Slim to None is a brilliant, funny, laugh until you cry, feel good book. I highly recommend it to everyone
March 15, 2016
I was intrigued by this one for many reason, but the biggest was because the couple weren't young, but firmly in their 40's. As I read I liked that Emma had a bit of a disability, wanted to know more about that. However at 20% I'm giving this book up. Part of it was I didn't care for the voice that the author had and didn't buy into the romance between the couple. In the end this one wasn't for me.
March 12, 2019
When I first started reading this, I was shaking my head with the whole 'wrong number' bit, as the h didn't recognize the H's voice upon meeting him later...???
It also had a ton of editing issues - mainly run-on sentences and missing words - but 'Slim to None' was actually pretty good, story-wise. With me being in the upper echelons of 'middle age', it was nice to read about a couple in their late 40's.
Emma was a hoot at times, and sexy-ass Gus was too. I liked their interactions together, and there were a few interesting twists. The book could have benefitted from 1 - 2 fewer sex scenes, though.
A weak 3 stars.
It also had a ton of editing issues - mainly run-on sentences and missing words - but 'Slim to None' was actually pretty good, story-wise. With me being in the upper echelons of 'middle age', it was nice to read about a couple in their late 40's.
Emma was a hoot at times, and sexy-ass Gus was too. I liked their interactions together, and there were a few interesting twists. The book could have benefitted from 1 - 2 fewer sex scenes, though.
A weak 3 stars.
March 23, 2015
What a great debut book!! I love a strong heroine and a strong hero. Both bring so much to the table. There's a mystery to solve and love to find, can't ask for more. I enjoyed every moment and the twist blew me away, honestly didn't see it coming! I'm not done with you yet, Freya Barker!! Looking forward to the next book!
June 7, 2015
I liked the story and the characters, but I do not feel like I really got to know them and something was just missing. I barely know anything about their backgrounds...like what happened to her daughter's father? The action was ok, but unbelievable and he pulled a majorly stupid move in introducing the h to his current "friend with benefits". What a MORON!
November 4, 2014
This is such an inspiring book that will slowly work into your heart and emotions. Was very refreshing to have two lead characters who weren't twenty and still hot and sexy. Loved the storyline and characters and how the book flowed effortlessly.
Can't wait for Book 2. Great job Freya.
Can't wait for Book 2. Great job Freya.
August 3, 2014
Loved it, Emma is a feisty woman, and doesn't give up. Great job by Freya Barker.
October 25, 2021
The couple: Gus and Emma
Romance genre: romantic suspense
Series: Cedar Tree
Length: 268 pages
Plot: Gus is a PI who is working with a task force to catch a guy who is supposed to be an informant for the mob. He is proving squirrely so they are attempting to contact the accountant who worked on some of the connected accounts. That accountant is Emma. The first time Gus spots her in the diner, he is intrigued - enchanted, even. But while Emma can admit that Gus is attractive, she doesn't believe they're in the same league. What could he possibly see in her? Gus has his work cut out for him, and all while working his case which is continuing to involve both of them in more and more intensive ways. In the end, Emma needs Gus in more than one way, and Gus will have to bring his A-game.
Commentary: The mistaken dirty phone call was an unusual way to have our main characters meet. But they were so perfect for each other once they got out of their own ways. Emma especially was so prickly, and while I imagine there was a good reason, it made me wonder a little bit about her background. We never learned anything about her ex (I assume - she didn't mention she was a widow). Was he around when she started to become disabled? Was he a jerk? Was she responding to someone specific treating her like she couldn't take care of herself, or was it just society in general?
And honestly, I don't think I've ever read a book where the hero gets a little backdoor play from the heroine. That was surprising - Gus was definitely surprised, but in the best possible way (I think he might have fallen in love at that moment lol).
Next book in the series: Hundred To One
Romance genre: romantic suspense
Series: Cedar Tree
Length: 268 pages
Plot: Gus is a PI who is working with a task force to catch a guy who is supposed to be an informant for the mob. He is proving squirrely so they are attempting to contact the accountant who worked on some of the connected accounts. That accountant is Emma. The first time Gus spots her in the diner, he is intrigued - enchanted, even. But while Emma can admit that Gus is attractive, she doesn't believe they're in the same league. What could he possibly see in her? Gus has his work cut out for him, and all while working his case which is continuing to involve both of them in more and more intensive ways. In the end, Emma needs Gus in more than one way, and Gus will have to bring his A-game.
Commentary: The mistaken dirty phone call was an unusual way to have our main characters meet. But they were so perfect for each other once they got out of their own ways. Emma especially was so prickly, and while I imagine there was a good reason, it made me wonder a little bit about her background. We never learned anything about her ex (I assume - she didn't mention she was a widow). Was he around when she started to become disabled? Was he a jerk? Was she responding to someone specific treating her like she couldn't take care of herself, or was it just society in general?
And honestly, I don't think I've ever read a book where the hero gets a little backdoor play from the heroine. That was surprising - Gus was definitely surprised, but in the best possible way (I think he might have fallen in love at that moment lol).
Next book in the series: Hundred To One
December 10, 2019
SLIM TO NONE was a really good book for a freebie and I'm glad I took a chance on this new to me author.
The main characters are in their late forties, I loved this and there aren't enough of these types of books. Emma bakes cakes for her local diner and also does book keeping online, when she gets a visit from Gus investigating a case and trying to track down some criminal activity that has lead him to Emma who is all part of the puzzle her world is turned upside down.
I liked Emma she is a strong independent woman with a disability who has started her new life in this small town following her divorce but I suppose things happen for a reason because the moment Emma and Gus meet their is sizzling hot chemistry.
Gus was especially hot, bossy, sexy and all kinds of in control, I loved his character as the hero. Gus comes to Emma's rescue more than once when she is in danger from a dangerous criminal who wants all her files and any evidence of their connection and accounts wiped away and is also willing to wipe Emma away in the process.
Slim to None is a good detective type of plot, full of hotness, twists and turns, contains likeable and interesting characters and I also found myself intrigued by secondary characters too, so I would definitely read more in this series.
I listened to this book in audio and it was difficult to tell at times with so much dialogue but it did sound like third person pov which I don't like in a book to read, so I would have to read a sample first or listen to another in audio.
The only thing that annoyed me was the characters many references to being old, feeling old *cough *cough woman in her forties here and I don't feel old? I even checked to see if the author was young due to these references pretty much painting someone n their forties as being close to death in your late forties but she isn't, which left me confused.
This book is free and I highly recommend one clicking and downloading the audio book.
The main characters are in their late forties, I loved this and there aren't enough of these types of books. Emma bakes cakes for her local diner and also does book keeping online, when she gets a visit from Gus investigating a case and trying to track down some criminal activity that has lead him to Emma who is all part of the puzzle her world is turned upside down.
I liked Emma she is a strong independent woman with a disability who has started her new life in this small town following her divorce but I suppose things happen for a reason because the moment Emma and Gus meet their is sizzling hot chemistry.
Gus was especially hot, bossy, sexy and all kinds of in control, I loved his character as the hero. Gus comes to Emma's rescue more than once when she is in danger from a dangerous criminal who wants all her files and any evidence of their connection and accounts wiped away and is also willing to wipe Emma away in the process.
Slim to None is a good detective type of plot, full of hotness, twists and turns, contains likeable and interesting characters and I also found myself intrigued by secondary characters too, so I would definitely read more in this series.
I listened to this book in audio and it was difficult to tell at times with so much dialogue but it did sound like third person pov which I don't like in a book to read, so I would have to read a sample first or listen to another in audio.
The only thing that annoyed me was the characters many references to being old, feeling old *cough *cough woman in her forties here and I don't feel old? I even checked to see if the author was young due to these references pretty much painting someone n their forties as being close to death in your late forties but she isn't, which left me confused.
This book is free and I highly recommend one clicking and downloading the audio book.
August 12, 2022
Review to come……
August 11, 2014
Reviewed under Helen Stothard.
I've just finished this book as a beta read and I loved it. Not only is the heroine a decent age, she's stubborn, independent and disabled, not that she lets this get in the way.
It starts off with a hot phone call that left me wishing my phone would ring with a wrong number. No such luck.
It's a suspense filled story with interesting twists, and as someone who's done online bookkeeping I found it a believable plot line as well. I'm just grateful I never had clients like that.
Gus is a great character, he's carrying a burden on his shoulders that isn't his.
Arlene and Emma's friendship is great, it's full of banter and witticisms and feels real.
Emma is a great character, her body may be broken but her spirit sure as hell isn't.
It was a refreshing change not to read about young vibrant college girls, but about a female lead who isn't perfect, isn't happy in her own body, but yet still hasn't given up on life. I enjoyed reading about how awkward she felt in certain situations, it felt genuine.
Very enjoyable read with an interesting plot line that kept me turning the page.
I've just finished this book as a beta read and I loved it. Not only is the heroine a decent age, she's stubborn, independent and disabled, not that she lets this get in the way.
It starts off with a hot phone call that left me wishing my phone would ring with a wrong number. No such luck.
It's a suspense filled story with interesting twists, and as someone who's done online bookkeeping I found it a believable plot line as well. I'm just grateful I never had clients like that.
Gus is a great character, he's carrying a burden on his shoulders that isn't his.
Arlene and Emma's friendship is great, it's full of banter and witticisms and feels real.
Emma is a great character, her body may be broken but her spirit sure as hell isn't.
It was a refreshing change not to read about young vibrant college girls, but about a female lead who isn't perfect, isn't happy in her own body, but yet still hasn't given up on life. I enjoyed reading about how awkward she felt in certain situations, it felt genuine.
Very enjoyable read with an interesting plot line that kept me turning the page.
December 31, 2018
4.5 STARS
Slim to None is an intriguing, sexy, fast paced suspenseful story.
Emma is a real woman with real life issues. Like many women, she is not feeling like she is up to par as a result of her disabilities and her current stage in life. That being said she decided to put herself first and moved to her dream spot to be with a soul friend leaving her daughter Kara behind to live her own life. Emma does not take instructions well and can be a little feisty.
Without knowing it Emma finds herself in the thick of things and that is where she meets Gus. Handsome, strong, sexy, protective, take charge Gus. Emma and Gus have a fast connection but Emma is reluctant to put herself out there. Gus does not come solely he brings a team full of wonderful people who are completely enveloped in the story.
With many twists and turns throughout the book it causes that, one more chapter reading. Before you know it you have finished and are in love with all the characters.
This is a well written descriptive book. Great Job Freya! I look forward to seeing what might happen next in Cedar Tree.
Slim to None is an intriguing, sexy, fast paced suspenseful story.
Emma is a real woman with real life issues. Like many women, she is not feeling like she is up to par as a result of her disabilities and her current stage in life. That being said she decided to put herself first and moved to her dream spot to be with a soul friend leaving her daughter Kara behind to live her own life. Emma does not take instructions well and can be a little feisty.
Without knowing it Emma finds herself in the thick of things and that is where she meets Gus. Handsome, strong, sexy, protective, take charge Gus. Emma and Gus have a fast connection but Emma is reluctant to put herself out there. Gus does not come solely he brings a team full of wonderful people who are completely enveloped in the story.
With many twists and turns throughout the book it causes that, one more chapter reading. Before you know it you have finished and are in love with all the characters.
This is a well written descriptive book. Great Job Freya! I look forward to seeing what might happen next in Cedar Tree.
March 27, 2022
DNF. I thought about just x-ing this out and putting it back on the shelf. But I did read part of it and feel like I need to review it.
Recently I read a review by a GR friend who said she was reading MM romances almost exclusively because so many contemporary MF romances are light on plot and heavy on insta-lust. This is the perfect example of such a book. As far as I read (and at some point I just had to delete it and walk away), this felt like it had about 15% plot and 85% insta-lust.
There are good parts - and they're the reason I picked it up in the first place. I love that the heroine is both disabled and in her late 40s. But they're just not enough to make this worth reading. For example, the book starts out with the heroine getting a phone call from an unknown man who asks her personal questions and gets off while doing it. Is this supposed to be hot? Because in my world, this is an obscene phone call. And the book just continues from there. The H & h seem to spend all their brain power channeling 14-year-old boys. There's very little character development and very little plot. And that's not what I want from a romance!
Recently I read a review by a GR friend who said she was reading MM romances almost exclusively because so many contemporary MF romances are light on plot and heavy on insta-lust. This is the perfect example of such a book. As far as I read (and at some point I just had to delete it and walk away), this felt like it had about 15% plot and 85% insta-lust.
There are good parts - and they're the reason I picked it up in the first place. I love that the heroine is both disabled and in her late 40s. But they're just not enough to make this worth reading. For example, the book starts out with the heroine getting a phone call from an unknown man who asks her personal questions and gets off while doing it. Is this supposed to be hot? Because in my world, this is an obscene phone call. And the book just continues from there. The H & h seem to spend all their brain power channeling 14-year-old boys. There's very little character development and very little plot. And that's not what I want from a romance!
October 20, 2016
To be honest, I was a bit turned off to learn that the characters were older than your average romance novel cast but once I got a page in, I was totally hooked. It was a breath of fresh air to read about people who know what they want and can communicate like adults. Let’s just skip the angst and the relationship nail biting and tell it like it is. Freya Barker creates these wonderful real world characters that you want to befriend and know more about. Emma’s strength is empowering and her snarky friendship with Arlene is hilarious. But most of all, I love Gus. He has more grit than the biggest alpha male and a heart of freaking gold. I can’t wait to jump into the next book in the Cedar Tree series.
March 22, 2015
*ARR (Advance Reader Review) - copy provided as a gift in exchange for an honest review...
Wow - I wasn't expecting that!
The hot girl isn't toothpick slim and Baywatch hot but don't get me wrong...she is hot!
The guy isn't right and he doesn't run a business but he is smokin!
They don't meet on the street and jump into bondage sex after 2 words....but there is sex lol
This story is amazing! Realistic (well kind of hahaha), dramatic and exciting. I can't wait to finish this series!
Read the rest of my review on my blog: http://wp.me/p54hW9-1sp
Wow - I wasn't expecting that!
The hot girl isn't toothpick slim and Baywatch hot but don't get me wrong...she is hot!
The guy isn't right and he doesn't run a business but he is smokin!
They don't meet on the street and jump into bondage sex after 2 words....but there is sex lol
This story is amazing! Realistic (well kind of hahaha), dramatic and exciting. I can't wait to finish this series!
Read the rest of my review on my blog: http://wp.me/p54hW9-1sp
April 11, 2016
This was a pretty good read. I liked that is had a Kristen Ashley feel to it and I like an older H/h. The steamy parts were really well done.
My only dislikes were the switch from POV's didn't flow very well and it was a bit corny in parts. I really didn't care for Gus referring to Emma as "ripe" but thankfully that died down a bit.
I am interested in the other characters so I will continue on to book two. :)
My only dislikes were the switch from POV's didn't flow very well and it was a bit corny in parts. I really didn't care for Gus referring to Emma as "ripe" but thankfully that died down a bit.
I am interested in the other characters so I will continue on to book two. :)
November 18, 2014
I loved this book! It has believable characters and a smoothly flowing story. I loved that the characters were not perfect. Characters had flaws and imperfections that were shown and celebrated. I can't wait for the next book!
November 13, 2016
Something different and I loved it!
Gus and Emma are not what I expected. I love these two together. Emma, strong, feisty, and not a woe is me person. Gus, strong, attentive, and gentle, which makes him very sexy. Thank you for something different Freya!
Gus and Emma are not what I expected. I love these two together. Emma, strong, feisty, and not a woe is me person. Gus, strong, attentive, and gentle, which makes him very sexy. Thank you for something different Freya!
May 14, 2015
I really enjoyed this book.
April 18, 2020
I've been uber picky recently about my books. This series is awesome. The stories are great. The writing is very good. The books are LONG so there is no rushing through the story. The narration is spot on. I thought I wasn’t a fan of Tanya Eby but she killed it reading these books. Noel Harrison also did a fantastic job bringing these characters to life. Did I have a favorite book in the series… nope, they were all great.
July 30, 2015
Where the fuck do I start this review???
Because wow. Just. Fucking. WOW.
The Cedar Tree series which I have just read back to back is outstanding. Freya Barker is just crazy ass talented and I’m totally fucking overexcited with my discovery and wanting the world to know, this means in my usual fashion the profanity when excited goes into overdrive, leaving me swearing like a sailor with tourettes, however as her writing is so flawless and overwhelmingly real – whilst also being hot as fuck (see I told you, profanity and excitement go hand in hand!) – I also want to wax lyrical and eloquent.
So where does that leave me?
A motherfucker of a poem?
Possibly.
Because I want to shout, put it on billboards, skywrite it and advertise far and wide, share with the world albeit in a colourful fashion that Freya Barker has a gift, writes real, heart-warming and emotional, funny, hot books with characters whose banter, friendships and stories will have you rooting for them, getting serious feels for them, purchasing new batteries for toys because oh boy did I mention HOT as FUCK, and all while effortlessly throwing in suspense, intrigue, fabulous funny sarcasm and humour. She dares to go where few authors will risk, writing older characters with health issues, disabilities, the reality and the fantasy seamlessly intertwined and breathtakingly beautiful. I remember when I finished my first Kristen Ashley immediately downloading the rest of the series, devouring them one after the other while the family took care of themselves because I was on a mission, déjà vu for Freya Barker. I have no clue why she is not more well-known or why this series, especially Slim to None, is not a huge bestseller because for me they were a special read, the author an awesome discovery and I had a real ‘oh my fucking god’ moment when I finished the fourth book Clean Lines because, apart from KA, not many have written a series where I literally could not choose my favourite, where every single book boyfriend was ‘The One’ and every single heroine I wanted to be or wanted as a bestie, all abso-fucking-lutely fabulous, the fantasy escape we read romance for but so bloody real. And yeah I’m gushing, I’m also stalking and pimping her crazy talented ass out, much as my blog partner-in-crime has done for some time, because she needs that one tiny little touch of luck to put these books where they belong…
……………………………………
So let’s start with Slim to None, with my gorgeous Gus and sassy Emma whose start is the amazingly steamy “porn” phone call (I say “porn” firmly tongue in cheek by the way, check out the one star “porm” review!!) which personally I thought was hilarious, hot and worked for me!
“Sure thing. We’ve only known each other for what? Three, four days?” Forcing out a chuckle, she finished. “Just fun and games, right?” She could feel his growl behind her. “Fuck no, woman.” He bit out. “You know it, and I know it. We’ll sort it, but now is not the time. You’re exhausted and I have a team to set up. So, when I say ‘sort it’, I mean I’ll have myself up in your face, and under your skin and into your body so deep, you won’t be able to doubt my intentions.”
Oh Lordy I’m having a flush just reading that quote! Gus is all man, alpha male written with a vulnerability, warmth and humour that you will fall into a puddle at his feet, worshipping at the dream that is Gus. Emma is so strong and sassy, refusing to let life get her down, choosing to live and enjoy even with health limitations, without giving spoilers let’s just say the thoughtfulness shown by Gus for making Emma comfortable while still being sexually adventurous was all kinds of hot I wasn’t expecting. The chemistry between these two when it does explode is so well done that it’s seamless, the physical and emotional so well intertwined with sassy humour and banter that you almost miss, through the sheer panty melting hot scenes, the friendship and emotional attachment that is developing between them. This introduction to the Cedar Tree series is totally addictive because while being captivated by Gus and Emma, their intimacy and relationship and the friendships of the secondary cast all merges together to create a world I didn’t want to end.
The overwhelming factor for me that makes all of these such an enjoyable read is the amazing banter between all the characters, primary and secondary. The affection, humour and love shines through, the teasing, flirting, arguing, dirty sexy talk and insults flung around through these books make them a pleasure to experience. Like every family, whether blood or choice, they will frustrate and exasperate you – you will be rooting for them while screaming at them!
Kindle and the indie writing world gave me Kristen Ashley and Madeline Sheehan, I now add Freya Barker to the “I don’t need the cover or blurb because it’s an automatic one click on the strength of the author alone” list. There is no better compliment I can give to Ms Barker other than Thank You, you have created characters that will remain in my heart and memories for a long time to come, an outstanding series.
And oh yeah, dibs on Clint. Just saying!!!!!
~ R xx
Because wow. Just. Fucking. WOW.
The Cedar Tree series which I have just read back to back is outstanding. Freya Barker is just crazy ass talented and I’m totally fucking overexcited with my discovery and wanting the world to know, this means in my usual fashion the profanity when excited goes into overdrive, leaving me swearing like a sailor with tourettes, however as her writing is so flawless and overwhelmingly real – whilst also being hot as fuck (see I told you, profanity and excitement go hand in hand!) – I also want to wax lyrical and eloquent.
So where does that leave me?
A motherfucker of a poem?
Possibly.
Because I want to shout, put it on billboards, skywrite it and advertise far and wide, share with the world albeit in a colourful fashion that Freya Barker has a gift, writes real, heart-warming and emotional, funny, hot books with characters whose banter, friendships and stories will have you rooting for them, getting serious feels for them, purchasing new batteries for toys because oh boy did I mention HOT as FUCK, and all while effortlessly throwing in suspense, intrigue, fabulous funny sarcasm and humour. She dares to go where few authors will risk, writing older characters with health issues, disabilities, the reality and the fantasy seamlessly intertwined and breathtakingly beautiful. I remember when I finished my first Kristen Ashley immediately downloading the rest of the series, devouring them one after the other while the family took care of themselves because I was on a mission, déjà vu for Freya Barker. I have no clue why she is not more well-known or why this series, especially Slim to None, is not a huge bestseller because for me they were a special read, the author an awesome discovery and I had a real ‘oh my fucking god’ moment when I finished the fourth book Clean Lines because, apart from KA, not many have written a series where I literally could not choose my favourite, where every single book boyfriend was ‘The One’ and every single heroine I wanted to be or wanted as a bestie, all abso-fucking-lutely fabulous, the fantasy escape we read romance for but so bloody real. And yeah I’m gushing, I’m also stalking and pimping her crazy talented ass out, much as my blog partner-in-crime has done for some time, because she needs that one tiny little touch of luck to put these books where they belong…
……………………………………
So let’s start with Slim to None, with my gorgeous Gus and sassy Emma whose start is the amazingly steamy “porn” phone call (I say “porn” firmly tongue in cheek by the way, check out the one star “porm” review!!) which personally I thought was hilarious, hot and worked for me!
“Sure thing. We’ve only known each other for what? Three, four days?” Forcing out a chuckle, she finished. “Just fun and games, right?” She could feel his growl behind her. “Fuck no, woman.” He bit out. “You know it, and I know it. We’ll sort it, but now is not the time. You’re exhausted and I have a team to set up. So, when I say ‘sort it’, I mean I’ll have myself up in your face, and under your skin and into your body so deep, you won’t be able to doubt my intentions.”
Oh Lordy I’m having a flush just reading that quote! Gus is all man, alpha male written with a vulnerability, warmth and humour that you will fall into a puddle at his feet, worshipping at the dream that is Gus. Emma is so strong and sassy, refusing to let life get her down, choosing to live and enjoy even with health limitations, without giving spoilers let’s just say the thoughtfulness shown by Gus for making Emma comfortable while still being sexually adventurous was all kinds of hot I wasn’t expecting. The chemistry between these two when it does explode is so well done that it’s seamless, the physical and emotional so well intertwined with sassy humour and banter that you almost miss, through the sheer panty melting hot scenes, the friendship and emotional attachment that is developing between them. This introduction to the Cedar Tree series is totally addictive because while being captivated by Gus and Emma, their intimacy and relationship and the friendships of the secondary cast all merges together to create a world I didn’t want to end.
The overwhelming factor for me that makes all of these such an enjoyable read is the amazing banter between all the characters, primary and secondary. The affection, humour and love shines through, the teasing, flirting, arguing, dirty sexy talk and insults flung around through these books make them a pleasure to experience. Like every family, whether blood or choice, they will frustrate and exasperate you – you will be rooting for them while screaming at them!
Kindle and the indie writing world gave me Kristen Ashley and Madeline Sheehan, I now add Freya Barker to the “I don’t need the cover or blurb because it’s an automatic one click on the strength of the author alone” list. There is no better compliment I can give to Ms Barker other than Thank You, you have created characters that will remain in my heart and memories for a long time to come, an outstanding series.
And oh yeah, dibs on Clint. Just saying!!!!!
~ R xx
December 9, 2023
I liked this one. Emma didn't let her limitations define her life, she knew who she was and didn't let anyone forget that. Gus was so into her, loved it, and he was there for her in any way he could. I loved them together, they complemented each other nicely
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