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Gentlemen Prefer Nerds
Listening length: 9 hours, 8 minutes
Self-professed nerd Maddie Maloney is an expert on jewels. Jewel thieves are another matter entirely! So when a mysterious Englishman warns her that a thief known as The Chameleon is after the rare pink diamond on display in her aunt's shop, she tells herself it's just a joke. Even if she can't get Mr. Tall, Dark and Handsome out of her mind...
Self-professed nerd Maddie Maloney is an expert on jewels. Jewel thieves are another matter entirely! So when a mysterious Englishman warns her that a thief known as The Chameleon is after the rare pink diamond on display in her aunt's shop, she tells herself it's just a joke. Even if she can't get Mr. Tall, Dark and Handsome out of her mind...
But Fabian Montgomery doesn't give up easily. He's everywhere she goes, convinced the thief will strike. And when the diamond does go missing - and Maddie is suspected of stealing it - he whisks her away from the police and together they pursue The Chameleon.
Fabian plunges her into a glamorous world far from her humble workshop and transforms geeky Maddie into a sophisticated siren capable of espionage. Her mission: to seduce The Chameleon and steal back the diamond.
But Fabian isn't telling her everything - like who he works for, and why he's so interested in The Chameleon...
9 pages, Audible Audio
First published January 1, 2012
2 people are currently reading
207 people want to read
About the author
Joan Kilby
66 books102 followersJoan Kilby is the award-winning author of thirty contemporary romance novels. Originally from Canada, Joan studied to be a marine biologist and worked for many years in the field of environmental biology. In mid-life she returned to her first love--writing--and never looked back. These days Joan lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband and three children. She loves to cook and grows her own herbs, fruit and vegetables. Other interests include hiking, yoga and travel. She once spent six months sailing the South Pacific on a fifty-five foot sailboat built and skippered by her father. Joan belongs to Toastmasters International and is an accomplished speaker--teaching romance writing and giving talks to community organizations. When she’s not working on her latest book she can often be found in a sidewalk café, sipping a latte and indulging in her favorite occupation--people watching.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
March 8, 2012
{This review was originally published on Clear Eyes, Full Shelves.}
I should've listened to my instincts that a book titled, Gentlemen Prefer Nerds wouldn't work for me.
However, I was compelled to hit the "request" button on Net Galley when I saw that,
1) It was published by Carina Press, the massively cool e-publisher that's doing a lot of creative things both in what they're publishing and their marketing and DRM-free books;
2) It promised a heist/caper sort of scenario and I am a giant sucker for heists and/or capers; and
3) It's set in Australia.
Unfortunately, those positives didn't cancel out the numerous problems I had with the premise and characters in this novel.
The basic plot of Gentlemen Prefer Nerds is that nerdy (more on that later) girl gemologist Maddie Maloney is charged with caring for a pricey diamond known as The Rose (she also discovered the diamond in a mine in Western Australia). As part of her effort to find a nice man, she ends up being conned by a jewel thief known as The Chameleon into allowing him access to the stone, which is then--shocker!--stolen. Maddie is, obviously, suspected for the crime and winds up hooking up with a mysterious English dude who promises to help her recover the diamond and helps her escape from the police while they pursue the thief.
Okay, so the premise is pretty silly--but I'm often okay with silly premises!
However, in the case of this novel, the silly premise wasn't the problem--it was the two main characters.
I never bought Maddie Maloney as a nerd (which kind of wrecks the entire premise of the book). Yes, she wears glasses. Yes, we're told she's smart and well-educated. But, all of her nerdiness seems to be wrapped up in the fact that she's a terrible dresser and wears glasses and is clumsy and awkward.
I am completely nerdy. I got great grades all through school, have a graduate degree and I wear glasses. With that said, I am also a decent dresser (the early descriptions of Maddie make her sound like a bag lady, not a nerd girl) and know how to not act like a complete nitwit in public. To me, Kilby's portrayal of Maddie as nerdy felt like a stereotype and far, far removed from reality.
Fabian (that name!) is an over-the-top, English soon-to-be Lord (yes, a Lord... ugh) who created a phoney 007-type ruse to convince Maddie (and her family) that he's legit. He orchestrates Maddie's transformation from poorly dressed nerd girl to sexpot (including having her hair dyed red--because everyone knows redheads are more alluring than brunettes*). Anyway, Maddie thinks he's a hottie, but I found him to be essentially a know-it-all control freak. Granted, he can leap into a helicopter while holding a squirming cat, but that's pretty much the most appealing of Fabian's qualities.
As you'd expect, Fabian discovers that inner beauty is important and that clothes don't make the girl, but I never really believed it him when he made statements like this about Maddie,
(Also, who talks like that?)
As far as Fabian's weirdness about Maddie's (supposed) nerdiness goes, I have a message from the great John Green:
[image error]
[image error]
[image error]
Ultimately I just didn't buy it--there just wasn't enough fun, chemistry or tension to motivate me to suspend my disbelief and enjoy Maddie and Fabian's quest to find the lost diamond. Fabian seemed like a shallow clotheshorse who was far too preoccupied with women's fashion. And, I never really bought his sincere interest in Maddie--I just couldn't get to the point where I believed that he'd actually transformed from using Maddie to caring about her. And, the "nerd" stereotype didn't work for me--I had really hoped this would be more nuanced, positive portrayal of nerd girls.
I feel badly giving Gentlemen Prefer Nerds a "No, Thank You" rating, because I think there is an audience for it.
Folks who are looking for a light, PG-13ish romance (though there is a condomless--arg!--short sex scene in the novel) that has a fun caper feel should really enjoy this book. The gemology aspects of this novel were quite fascinating (and seemed well-researched) and I did enjoy the witty tone present in the early chapters of the novel, but ultimately it simply fell flat.
Verdict: No, Thank You (but that doesn't mean you won't enjoy it)
*Sarcasm folks, sarcasm.
Note: Carina Press provided me with a review copy of this book via Net Galley. I did not receive compensation or any sort of "goodies" in exchange for this review.
(Awesome animated John Green gif via Epic John Green Quotes.)
I should've listened to my instincts that a book titled, Gentlemen Prefer Nerds wouldn't work for me.
However, I was compelled to hit the "request" button on Net Galley when I saw that,
1) It was published by Carina Press, the massively cool e-publisher that's doing a lot of creative things both in what they're publishing and their marketing and DRM-free books;
2) It promised a heist/caper sort of scenario and I am a giant sucker for heists and/or capers; and
3) It's set in Australia.
Unfortunately, those positives didn't cancel out the numerous problems I had with the premise and characters in this novel.
The basic plot of Gentlemen Prefer Nerds is that nerdy (more on that later) girl gemologist Maddie Maloney is charged with caring for a pricey diamond known as The Rose (she also discovered the diamond in a mine in Western Australia). As part of her effort to find a nice man, she ends up being conned by a jewel thief known as The Chameleon into allowing him access to the stone, which is then--shocker!--stolen. Maddie is, obviously, suspected for the crime and winds up hooking up with a mysterious English dude who promises to help her recover the diamond and helps her escape from the police while they pursue the thief.
Okay, so the premise is pretty silly--but I'm often okay with silly premises!
However, in the case of this novel, the silly premise wasn't the problem--it was the two main characters.
I never bought Maddie Maloney as a nerd (which kind of wrecks the entire premise of the book). Yes, she wears glasses. Yes, we're told she's smart and well-educated. But, all of her nerdiness seems to be wrapped up in the fact that she's a terrible dresser and wears glasses and is clumsy and awkward.
Grace picked a speck of lint off Maddie’s pink sleeve. “Where did you get this awful jacket? Look at those wide lapels!” “It was Mum’s. I love it. It goes perfectly with my outfit.” She smoothed the hem on the patterned sweater vest she wore beneath the jacket and over a flowered dress.
I am completely nerdy. I got great grades all through school, have a graduate degree and I wear glasses. With that said, I am also a decent dresser (the early descriptions of Maddie make her sound like a bag lady, not a nerd girl) and know how to not act like a complete nitwit in public. To me, Kilby's portrayal of Maddie as nerdy felt like a stereotype and far, far removed from reality.
Fabian (that name!) is an over-the-top, English soon-to-be Lord (yes, a Lord... ugh) who created a phoney 007-type ruse to convince Maddie (and her family) that he's legit. He orchestrates Maddie's transformation from poorly dressed nerd girl to sexpot (including having her hair dyed red--because everyone knows redheads are more alluring than brunettes*). Anyway, Maddie thinks he's a hottie, but I found him to be essentially a know-it-all control freak. Granted, he can leap into a helicopter while holding a squirming cat, but that's pretty much the most appealing of Fabian's qualities.
As you'd expect, Fabian discovers that inner beauty is important and that clothes don't make the girl, but I never really believed it him when he made statements like this about Maddie,
“She has enormous self-confidence, intelligence and a generous spirit,” Fabian went on. “Inner beauty is far more important than superficialities.”
(Also, who talks like that?)
As far as Fabian's weirdness about Maddie's (supposed) nerdiness goes, I have a message from the great John Green:
[image error]
[image error]
[image error]
Ultimately I just didn't buy it--there just wasn't enough fun, chemistry or tension to motivate me to suspend my disbelief and enjoy Maddie and Fabian's quest to find the lost diamond. Fabian seemed like a shallow clotheshorse who was far too preoccupied with women's fashion. And, I never really bought his sincere interest in Maddie--I just couldn't get to the point where I believed that he'd actually transformed from using Maddie to caring about her. And, the "nerd" stereotype didn't work for me--I had really hoped this would be more nuanced, positive portrayal of nerd girls.
I feel badly giving Gentlemen Prefer Nerds a "No, Thank You" rating, because I think there is an audience for it.
Folks who are looking for a light, PG-13ish romance (though there is a condomless--arg!--short sex scene in the novel) that has a fun caper feel should really enjoy this book. The gemology aspects of this novel were quite fascinating (and seemed well-researched) and I did enjoy the witty tone present in the early chapters of the novel, but ultimately it simply fell flat.
Verdict: No, Thank You (but that doesn't mean you won't enjoy it)
*Sarcasm folks, sarcasm.
Note: Carina Press provided me with a review copy of this book via Net Galley. I did not receive compensation or any sort of "goodies" in exchange for this review.
(Awesome animated John Green gif via Epic John Green Quotes.)
October 25, 2012
Full disclosure: Joan Kilby is my lovely writing friend, and I had the pleasure of reading this book a couple of times before it made its way to Carina Press. The fact that every time I read it I found it delightful, funny, charming and romantic is one of the many reasons I wanted to write a review. A belated review, because it only just occurred to me that while I had been pimping this book on Twitter and whatnot when it first came out, I stupidly didn't review it here. Not sure where my brain was at! So without further ado:
Gentlemen Prefer Nerds is a romp, pure and simple. It's almost impossible to read it without feeling as though you're watching a Cary Grant movie. There's a mysterious jewel thief, an ingenue (but a more modern, prickly, feisty one than Cary might have been used to), and, of course, a handsome stranger who lands in the middle of the heroine's life and turns it upside down. The story takes us from inner city Melbourne all the way north to the sunny realms of Queensland. There's a rooftop helicopter getaway, a make-over, some petty thievery and break and enter-y... Maddy, our heroine, is pushed way out of her comfort zone, and Fabian, our hero, finds himself unexpectedly charmed by a woman who doesn't exactly spring to mind when the word "Sophisticated" is mentioned. I loved the banter between these two, the sexual tension and the sheer fun of this book. As I said, a romp, and Joan's writing always has a lovely light touch, while still being able to reach into your chest at times and grab a hold of your heart strings. I highly recommend this book for those times when you're looking for some Romancing The Stone escapism and entertainment.
Gentlemen Prefer Nerds is a romp, pure and simple. It's almost impossible to read it without feeling as though you're watching a Cary Grant movie. There's a mysterious jewel thief, an ingenue (but a more modern, prickly, feisty one than Cary might have been used to), and, of course, a handsome stranger who lands in the middle of the heroine's life and turns it upside down. The story takes us from inner city Melbourne all the way north to the sunny realms of Queensland. There's a rooftop helicopter getaway, a make-over, some petty thievery and break and enter-y... Maddy, our heroine, is pushed way out of her comfort zone, and Fabian, our hero, finds himself unexpectedly charmed by a woman who doesn't exactly spring to mind when the word "Sophisticated" is mentioned. I loved the banter between these two, the sexual tension and the sheer fun of this book. As I said, a romp, and Joan's writing always has a lovely light touch, while still being able to reach into your chest at times and grab a hold of your heart strings. I highly recommend this book for those times when you're looking for some Romancing The Stone escapism and entertainment.
January 2, 2013
I accidentally requested this book about a year ago from NetGalley because from the title, I thought it was going to be a cute, fun read. But after I read the summary, I realized it just didn't seem as appealing. Well, I decided to give it a try and was left really disappointed.
First of all, Maddie was hardly what I would consider a nerd. Sure, she's a smart gemologist who hadn't really cared too much about appearances, but she wasn't going around acting geeky or being socially awkward. And the title made it seem like once Maddie had a makeover, guys were falling at her feet instead of her receiving a slight boost in confidence. And I wasn't as sold with Fabian as I had expected - and the last scene was a horrible way to end the story, in my opinion.
Overall, this book was just okay. It started off really slow, and even though it became a little more interesting once the story picked up, there was just too much about it that I did not like.
The story was a bit methodic, attempting a James Bond type of feeling, but it wasn't nearly as exciting. And I felt there were too many things thrown in there that too conveniently set up the story - i.e. Maddie's father being a thief, Connor being an computer whiz hacker, who Fabian really is, etc.
I was pretty frustrated with Maddie for being suspicious of the wrong things and not taking the extra precaution for the obvious. It's not about being naiive; it's about being just plain dumb. And it wasn't hard to guess who the culprit was and what his relation was.
The thing I didn't understand is that there were too many insignificant characters thrown into the story - for what reasons, I have no idea. Connor may have had a tiny contribution, but what about Liam? Why did Kim need to be in the book, and who the hell is Liz? What's the point of throwing in Shirley and Pixie? Most of all, I still don't really understand very much about the mysterious C - I mean I know who she is to Fabian, but her professional role doesn't make total sense. And giving her a real name at the end was kind of pointless.
Like I said, the book was just okay. It was entertaining enough though it does not nearly compare on the scale of action-packed spy/jewelry thief/mystery. There were just too many things that I didn't like about it in order for me to give it a higher rating.
First of all, Maddie was hardly what I would consider a nerd. Sure, she's a smart gemologist who hadn't really cared too much about appearances, but she wasn't going around acting geeky or being socially awkward. And the title made it seem like once Maddie had a makeover, guys were falling at her feet instead of her receiving a slight boost in confidence. And I wasn't as sold with Fabian as I had expected - and the last scene was a horrible way to end the story, in my opinion.
Overall, this book was just okay. It started off really slow, and even though it became a little more interesting once the story picked up, there was just too much about it that I did not like.
The story was a bit methodic, attempting a James Bond type of feeling, but it wasn't nearly as exciting. And I felt there were too many things thrown in there that too conveniently set up the story - i.e. Maddie's father being a thief, Connor being an computer whiz hacker, who Fabian really is, etc.
I was pretty frustrated with Maddie for being suspicious of the wrong things and not taking the extra precaution for the obvious. It's not about being naiive; it's about being just plain dumb. And it wasn't hard to guess who the culprit was and what his relation was.
The thing I didn't understand is that there were too many insignificant characters thrown into the story - for what reasons, I have no idea. Connor may have had a tiny contribution, but what about Liam? Why did Kim need to be in the book, and who the hell is Liz? What's the point of throwing in Shirley and Pixie? Most of all, I still don't really understand very much about the mysterious C - I mean I know who she is to Fabian, but her professional role doesn't make total sense. And giving her a real name at the end was kind of pointless.
Like I said, the book was just okay. It was entertaining enough though it does not nearly compare on the scale of action-packed spy/jewelry thief/mystery. There were just too many things that I didn't like about it in order for me to give it a higher rating.
March 21, 2012
This was a nice little caper story, involving a huge diamond, a rather sexy, posh hero and a geeky heroine, provided by netgalley.
I quite like caper-style stories, as long as the plot is good, and this one was. I also liked that not all the loose ends were tied neatly together, and a lot is left open, which gave it a nice feeling. I really liked both the hero and heroine and the setting in Melbourne was a wonderful refreshing change for me. There were two things which bugged me a bit, though (hence the 3 stars).
First off, we never really understand why the heroine needs to be the sexy hot tottie glamour tart to lure the baddie. Honestly, I never got that bit, and it seemed gratuitous and slightly pointless (even if a bit fun). Secondly, and this is a personal pet peeve, why, oh why, did the Geek have to be a Gorgeous Geek and not a Normal Geek? Why make her the sort of woman who just has to remove her glasses to be magically transformed into a Goddess rather than a Geek? That was a let-down, really. She was spunky, smart and fun, and the hero couldn't have done it without her, whether or not she was dressed up like a Thanksgiving Turkey?
Now, having said that, I really enjoyed how this one was written (yes, I did laugh out loud, and even snorted in a couple of places, which is probably the ultimate test), and I loved both the hero, the heroine and the setting. It ended up being a really enjoyable read for me, although it is very light on the steam/sexiness factor.
3 stars. I liked it.
I quite like caper-style stories, as long as the plot is good, and this one was. I also liked that not all the loose ends were tied neatly together, and a lot is left open, which gave it a nice feeling. I really liked both the hero and heroine and the setting in Melbourne was a wonderful refreshing change for me. There were two things which bugged me a bit, though (hence the 3 stars).
First off, we never really understand why the heroine needs to be the sexy hot tottie glamour tart to lure the baddie. Honestly, I never got that bit, and it seemed gratuitous and slightly pointless (even if a bit fun). Secondly, and this is a personal pet peeve, why, oh why, did the Geek have to be a Gorgeous Geek and not a Normal Geek? Why make her the sort of woman who just has to remove her glasses to be magically transformed into a Goddess rather than a Geek? That was a let-down, really. She was spunky, smart and fun, and the hero couldn't have done it without her, whether or not she was dressed up like a Thanksgiving Turkey?
Now, having said that, I really enjoyed how this one was written (yes, I did laugh out loud, and even snorted in a couple of places, which is probably the ultimate test), and I loved both the hero, the heroine and the setting. It ended up being a really enjoyable read for me, although it is very light on the steam/sexiness factor.
3 stars. I liked it.
February 14, 2016
I had high hopes for this book. Unfortunately, Joan Kilby and I have different ideas as to what a nerd really is.
Rest of the review coming soon.
Merged review:
I had high hopes for Gentlemen Prefer Nerds but it didn't turn out the way I had hoped. But apparently, Joan Kilby and I have different ideas of what a nerd is. The plot was very simplistic and the chemistry between the characters was questionable at best.
Rest of the review coming soon.
Merged review:
I had high hopes for Gentlemen Prefer Nerds but it didn't turn out the way I had hoped. But apparently, Joan Kilby and I have different ideas of what a nerd is. The plot was very simplistic and the chemistry between the characters was questionable at best.
February 22, 2012
Not only the title sounds like an hommage to 1950s crime copers, the story has a very old fashioned (in the best sense of the word) theme and feeling about it. Themes like jewel thieves, simple girl meets high society life, yachts, masquerades and the pacing stirr images of old movies with Cary Grant and/or Grace Kelly.
Two men enter the life of geeky Maddie Mahoney, a gemologist and mineralogist, who is working at the jeweler shop of her aunt, who is about to display The Rose, a huge pink diamond: Dr. Hauzenegger, a renowned gemologist, who is just as crazy about gems as she is herself and Fabian, a stylish, handsome and seemingly rich stranger, who warns her about “The Chameleon”, who is supposedly about to steal The Rose. Who can she trust? Her guts and upbringing tell her to distrust “the suit” and believe the nerdy professor.. Soon the diamond is indeed stolen and Maddie finds herself on the run from the police and on the mission to hunt down the jewel thief.
Maddie is a wonderful character, smart but insecure and clearly nerdy. I love her daydreaming moments when she sees herself as heroine clashing with the reality, but also the moments when she sees through the agenda of people around her, which she doesn't always do. She is couraged, but having spent most of her time in labs and bent over microscopes, posing as a rich, sophisticated woman is a bit of a challenge. Fabian is great as well, most of the novel it is unclear what is on his agenda, which I enjoyed a lot.
The story is told in what seemed to be a charmingly old fashioned way, reminding me of old movies with Gary Grant. The chemistry between Fabian and Maddie is sizzling, dispite or because of their differences. I like their banter and jokes and their evident attraction to each other.
Some parts of the story seemed a bit unlikely or illogical to me and sometimes the reasoning behind actions seemed a little off, contructed to keep the story moving.
To be honest I had been waiting for more “juicy” bits throughout the story as the atmosphere was loaded with sexual tension between Maddie and Fabian, and the kisses they share were descibed really nicely, leaving me hoping for more, but when things finally get further between them it is a bit like a post scriptum, not really part of the story.
I enjoyed the novel a lot. Lovable characters and a fast and interesting story combined with a light and funny way of writing.
Two men enter the life of geeky Maddie Mahoney, a gemologist and mineralogist, who is working at the jeweler shop of her aunt, who is about to display The Rose, a huge pink diamond: Dr. Hauzenegger, a renowned gemologist, who is just as crazy about gems as she is herself and Fabian, a stylish, handsome and seemingly rich stranger, who warns her about “The Chameleon”, who is supposedly about to steal The Rose. Who can she trust? Her guts and upbringing tell her to distrust “the suit” and believe the nerdy professor.. Soon the diamond is indeed stolen and Maddie finds herself on the run from the police and on the mission to hunt down the jewel thief.
Maddie is a wonderful character, smart but insecure and clearly nerdy. I love her daydreaming moments when she sees herself as heroine clashing with the reality, but also the moments when she sees through the agenda of people around her, which she doesn't always do. She is couraged, but having spent most of her time in labs and bent over microscopes, posing as a rich, sophisticated woman is a bit of a challenge. Fabian is great as well, most of the novel it is unclear what is on his agenda, which I enjoyed a lot.
The story is told in what seemed to be a charmingly old fashioned way, reminding me of old movies with Gary Grant. The chemistry between Fabian and Maddie is sizzling, dispite or because of their differences. I like their banter and jokes and their evident attraction to each other.
Some parts of the story seemed a bit unlikely or illogical to me and sometimes the reasoning behind actions seemed a little off, contructed to keep the story moving.
To be honest I had been waiting for more “juicy” bits throughout the story as the atmosphere was loaded with sexual tension between Maddie and Fabian, and the kisses they share were descibed really nicely, leaving me hoping for more, but when things finally get further between them it is a bit like a post scriptum, not really part of the story.
I enjoyed the novel a lot. Lovable characters and a fast and interesting story combined with a light and funny way of writing.
March 6, 2012
Reviewed at http://www.mandikayereads.com/archive...
I gotta be honest: I am a closet fan of romance novels. I started reading them way back in middle school (the torrid ones with the heaving bosoms on the covers), and while I don’t often read them now, I can certainly appreciate a good one. I’m a hopeless romantic as a direct result of my younger self’s obsession with them!
Gentlemen Prefer Nerds is my first non-YA review on the blog, and as such – I’m a little disappointed that I could only give it a 3. But the story just didn’t live up to my expectations. It tried a little too hard to be everything to everybody.
It was cute. It was fun. And I certainly enjoyed reading it. But…
Oh yes, there’s a but.
Maddie was too nerdy and then miraculously turned into the sex kitten she needed to be when necessary? Okay, so she was still a little clumsy – but it was just a little too neat and tidy for my tastes.
And making Fabian a faux 007 just took the cliches right over the top.
And to further add to the cliches was the writing itself.
"He wasn’t given to lurid descriptors but one word popped into his mind – she was luscious – with all of the life-giving, taste-tempting, juice sweetness of a perfectly ripe mango."
I actually burst out laughing when I read that. Then I read it again. Then I bookmarked it on my Nook. Then I laughed again.
And really, these things aren’t bad. The book was good! I enjoyed it! But they do prevent it from being great. And it is possible to write some really great romance (see: Diana Gabaldon).
Bottom line: if you want to read a light and fluffy book about a nerd and a Bond-esque Englishman… this is the one to read.
I gotta be honest: I am a closet fan of romance novels. I started reading them way back in middle school (the torrid ones with the heaving bosoms on the covers), and while I don’t often read them now, I can certainly appreciate a good one. I’m a hopeless romantic as a direct result of my younger self’s obsession with them!
Gentlemen Prefer Nerds is my first non-YA review on the blog, and as such – I’m a little disappointed that I could only give it a 3. But the story just didn’t live up to my expectations. It tried a little too hard to be everything to everybody.
It was cute. It was fun. And I certainly enjoyed reading it. But…
Oh yes, there’s a but.
Maddie was too nerdy and then miraculously turned into the sex kitten she needed to be when necessary? Okay, so she was still a little clumsy – but it was just a little too neat and tidy for my tastes.
And making Fabian a faux 007 just took the cliches right over the top.
And to further add to the cliches was the writing itself.
"He wasn’t given to lurid descriptors but one word popped into his mind – she was luscious – with all of the life-giving, taste-tempting, juice sweetness of a perfectly ripe mango."
I actually burst out laughing when I read that. Then I read it again. Then I bookmarked it on my Nook. Then I laughed again.
And really, these things aren’t bad. The book was good! I enjoyed it! But they do prevent it from being great. And it is possible to write some really great romance (see: Diana Gabaldon).
Bottom line: if you want to read a light and fluffy book about a nerd and a Bond-esque Englishman… this is the one to read.
October 16, 2012
Accused of stealing the very diamond she discovered, Maddie finds herself drawn into a world of mystery, intrigue and a sexy British Lord who she can’t keep out of her mind. Can she get the diamond back and clear her name before it disappears completely?
The Chameleon snags the diamond right from under her nose, leaving a synthetic in it’s place. She’s thrown head first into the role of the “thief”! With some help, she manages to get clear of the police and investigators and on the trail of the real thief!
I think what drew me initially to this book was the title. How could I resist a book about a ‘nerd’ who gets the hot guy? Being a nerd myself, it greatly appealed! The great thing about this book is not only was the title fun and attention catching, but the story was pretty darn good too! I was draw into the story and had to find out whether Maddie would succeed and what would happen with her and Fabian!
Will I recommend this book? Yes! It was a quick fun read, that would appeal to most romance readers. This is the type of title to pick up to read at the beach or curl up with on a rainy day! Would I read more by this author? Most definitely! I enjoyed Joan’s style of writing and how well the story flowed. I’m going to keep an eye out for her in the future!
The Chameleon snags the diamond right from under her nose, leaving a synthetic in it’s place. She’s thrown head first into the role of the “thief”! With some help, she manages to get clear of the police and investigators and on the trail of the real thief!
I think what drew me initially to this book was the title. How could I resist a book about a ‘nerd’ who gets the hot guy? Being a nerd myself, it greatly appealed! The great thing about this book is not only was the title fun and attention catching, but the story was pretty darn good too! I was draw into the story and had to find out whether Maddie would succeed and what would happen with her and Fabian!
Will I recommend this book? Yes! It was a quick fun read, that would appeal to most romance readers. This is the type of title to pick up to read at the beach or curl up with on a rainy day! Would I read more by this author? Most definitely! I enjoyed Joan’s style of writing and how well the story flowed. I’m going to keep an eye out for her in the future!
April 17, 2012
I just didn't get this book. The title is horrible - doesn't fit the book at all. I guess it was a romance, but there were so few moments of it actually in the book, I wouldn't really classify it as such. I felt like the author was right on the brink of developing chemistry enough to be interesting, but didn't quite get there. I wouldn't call Maddie (the heroine) a true nerd. She may have a PhD in gemology, but that's where her intelligence seems to end. She continually makes ridiculously stupid decisions (like trying to bring a cat onto a running helicopter without a crate!). Our hero isn't much better. His motivations are unclear throughout most of the book and once revealed only become more confusing. The ending (with a somewhat awkward sex-scene) felt like an afterthought instead of a true ending. Maybe it is going to have a sequel, but I doubt I'll be interested enough to read it.
2.5/5
I received an e-copy of this through netgalley for review purposes.
2.5/5
I received an e-copy of this through netgalley for review purposes.
February 27, 2012
I had to read this book just because the title really grabbed my attention as well as the bright fun eye catching cover. I was pleasantly surprised because I normally don't like any kind of mystery novels but Gentleman Prefer Nerds was a fun fast easy read that many would enjoy. The main character Maddie is realistic and believable. I loved that the story also had a little romance thrown in as any girl can easily get sucked into that. Great read overall.
March 5, 2019
2.5 🌟 - A 'rom-com crime caper' which fails to deliver on all counts! Lacklustre humour, a failure to ground the plot even remotely in reality and awkward characters with fizzling chemistry you fail to ultimately care about underwhelms on all sides.
Where do I start, to begin with the whole concept of 'Gentlemen prefer nerds' is a bit of a gimmicky token that doesn't match the content of the plot, other than the female protagonist being a gifted gemologist, there's not really much about this story that reflects her nerdiness. A lot is made of her lack of confidence and sexual inexperience, which is a lazy tack on to the nerd trope.
Plot synopsis - Hidden in spoilers for those who don't want anything given away before reading themselves.
My thoughts on the plot
On paper the synopsis, is a little overly fanciful, but with a tight plot execution and great characterisation could have worked. However, at times the plot meandered and I found myself not paying much attention. There were clunky plot points that didn't fit the character profiles shoehorned in to drive the plot forward to it's inevitable conclusion.
Character archetypes and development
What really downgraded this from just a 3 star 'meh' review was the character profiles and development. They just couldn't help me suspend my disbelief. There was too much of an impassable gulf between where they began and ended up over the course of the novel. For example, The distance travelled emotionally was just too much for these plot points to be believable both for the character and the plot itself.
Added to this you had clumsily executed, overly simplistic and stereotypical archetype roles for the two main protagonists. Maddie is at the top of her field, gifted, highly intelligent, but exceptionally naive, trusting/mistrusting (depending upon who she's dealing with), a good girl to the core, fairly inflexible in her morals and sexually inexperienced nerd. Fabian is the stereotypical stick up his arse, plum in his mouth British Lord-in-waiting. He's pompous, self-assured, entitled, of flexible morals, mistrustful, secretive, sexy and strong, expecting everyone to fall in with his needs and wants. He's also an
Central protagonists chemistry or lack there of
The final nail in the coffin though is that the expected chemistry which should have developed in this enemies to partners to lovers story never really heats up and when it finally does come about it fizzles rather than fizzes. As a final insult we're served up, a low fat, low carb dessert payout of an ending that sets the scene for a possible sequel, but just leaves you with the feeling you never really got the sugar and fat intake you were promised from a quality to dessert and not sure you'll be dining at that restaurant again or indeed buying any sequel!
A less than stellar narration, particularly of male characters and Fabian in particular
I listened to this on audible audio and though I didn't have a problem per se with the narrator's voice her characterisation of Fabian was too effeminate and plumy to make him a likeable rake and let's not talk about Maddie's father's terrible Irish accent. With this in mind if you do chose this book I'd advise you to avoid listening to the audio and read it instead.
Where do I start, to begin with the whole concept of 'Gentlemen prefer nerds' is a bit of a gimmicky token that doesn't match the content of the plot, other than the female protagonist being a gifted gemologist, there's not really much about this story that reflects her nerdiness. A lot is made of her lack of confidence and sexual inexperience, which is a lazy tack on to the nerd trope.
Plot synopsis - Hidden in spoilers for those who don't want anything given away before reading themselves.
My thoughts on the plot
On paper the synopsis, is a little overly fanciful, but with a tight plot execution and great characterisation could have worked. However, at times the plot meandered and I found myself not paying much attention. There were clunky plot points that didn't fit the character profiles shoehorned in to drive the plot forward to it's inevitable conclusion.
Character archetypes and development
What really downgraded this from just a 3 star 'meh' review was the character profiles and development. They just couldn't help me suspend my disbelief. There was too much of an impassable gulf between where they began and ended up over the course of the novel. For example, The distance travelled emotionally was just too much for these plot points to be believable both for the character and the plot itself.
Added to this you had clumsily executed, overly simplistic and stereotypical archetype roles for the two main protagonists. Maddie is at the top of her field, gifted, highly intelligent, but exceptionally naive, trusting/mistrusting (depending upon who she's dealing with), a good girl to the core, fairly inflexible in her morals and sexually inexperienced nerd. Fabian is the stereotypical stick up his arse, plum in his mouth British Lord-in-waiting. He's pompous, self-assured, entitled, of flexible morals, mistrustful, secretive, sexy and strong, expecting everyone to fall in with his needs and wants. He's also an
Central protagonists chemistry or lack there of
The final nail in the coffin though is that the expected chemistry which should have developed in this enemies to partners to lovers story never really heats up and when it finally does come about it fizzles rather than fizzes. As a final insult we're served up, a low fat, low carb dessert payout of an ending that sets the scene for a possible sequel, but just leaves you with the feeling you never really got the sugar and fat intake you were promised from a quality to dessert and not sure you'll be dining at that restaurant again or indeed buying any sequel!
A less than stellar narration, particularly of male characters and Fabian in particular
I listened to this on audible audio and though I didn't have a problem per se with the narrator's voice her characterisation of Fabian was too effeminate and plumy to make him a likeable rake and let's not talk about Maddie's father's terrible Irish accent. With this in mind if you do chose this book I'd advise you to avoid listening to the audio and read it instead.
Read
April 7, 2012If you enjoy capers, you'll have a ball reading Joan Kilby's rollicking fun Gentlemen Prefer Nerds.
From London to Melbourne to Hamilton Island, you'll smile at the antics of nerdy Maddie as she matches wits with the oh-so-sexy Fabian.
Fun!
From London to Melbourne to Hamilton Island, you'll smile at the antics of nerdy Maddie as she matches wits with the oh-so-sexy Fabian.
Fun!
January 7, 2021
Publisher: Carina Press
Publication Date: March 12, 2012
ISBN: 9781426893377
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Blurb:
Self-professed nerd Maddie Maloney is an expert on jewels. Jewel thieves are another matter entirely! So when a mysterious Englishman warns her that a thief known as The Chameleon is after the rare pink diamond on display in her aunt's shop, she tells herself it's just a joke. Even if she can't get Mr. Tall, Dark and Handsome out of her mind...
But Fabian Montgomery doesn't give up easily. He's everywhere she goes, convinced the thief will strike. And when the diamond does go missing-and Maddie is suspected of stealing it-he whisks her away from the police and together they pursue The Chameleon.
Fabian plunges her into a glamorous world far from her humble workshop and transforms geeky Maddie into a sophisticated siren capable of espionage. Her mission: to seduce The Chameleon and steal back the diamond.
But Fabian isn't telling her everything-like who he works for, and why he's so interested in The Chameleon...
My Take:
Gentlemen Prefer Nerds, a cute catchy title that is obviously a play on the Marilyn Monroe film, Gentle Prefer Blondes, and this story has diamonds to boot, though if you ask me, the Rose diamond is far greater than anything I could want from Harry Winston or ever Cartier. Grin.
The story was cute and fun and the pacing was awesome. Maddie, a self-proclaimed nerd, is a well-respected Gemologist who discovered a large and extremely rare pink diamond. Soon after obtaining it and getting it ready for display at her aunt’s jewelry store, a mysterious man warns her that the diamond is in danger of being stolen from right under Maddie’s nose. Convinced the man is doing nothing other than trying to startle her, she dismisses him. That is until the diamond does indeed get stolen from right under her nose and discovers she is the main suspect. She’s thrust into a whirlwind escape and an adventure with the mysterious man as the two of them try to recover the stolen diamond and clear her name.
Even though Maddie considers herself a nerd, and while she is definitely book smart in this story, I personally at least, wouldn’t classify her as a nerd per say. She’s definitely a rule follower and definitely smart, but not a nerd, except when it comes to gems and her style of dress. I particularly enjoyed watching Maddie come out of her shell and grow as a person in this story, she was sort of a late bloomer in life, who even after blooming, doesn’t mind reverting back to her old self, but keeps hints of her new self regardless and knows what she is now capable of
Also, the sexual tension between Maddie and Fabian (the mysterious man) was a little on the flat side for me, especially given that at the beginning of the story it seems Fabian is still hung up on somebody else. Even toward the end when he realizes he’s in love with Maddie, I still felt like he wasn’t completely over this other woman and that he simply thrust his feelings for said woman aside. It could just be me who feels this way and, after all, a review is simply an opinion, but that is how it came across for me.
The main thing I disliked about this entire story was the ending. Sure they get their HEA/HFN, but I didn’t feel as though it was really going to happen for them. I like to have a sense of closure when I’m finished and to me, it felt as though the story was cut off before I got that closure, so unless the author has plans for a sequel or something of the sort which gives good reason for the cut off, I was rather disappointed with the ending, especially considering how much I enjoyed the rest of the story.
For me, this story was good, and I believe it could have been great had I really believed the romance between Maddie and Fabian, but even though it didn’t cross over into my great reads column I still enjoyed it. Quirky characters, I particularly liked Maddie’s father, a fun, light tone that is very different from much of the darker toned books out there of late. Thanks to this book I’ve discovered a new author, who’s writing I very much enjoyed and I look forward to reading some of her backlist, maybe one of those will be shelved in my Great Reads column.
My Rating:
3.5/5 “Pink†Lattes
All My Best,
Kayla
Publication Date: March 12, 2012
ISBN: 9781426893377
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Blurb:
Self-professed nerd Maddie Maloney is an expert on jewels. Jewel thieves are another matter entirely! So when a mysterious Englishman warns her that a thief known as The Chameleon is after the rare pink diamond on display in her aunt's shop, she tells herself it's just a joke. Even if she can't get Mr. Tall, Dark and Handsome out of her mind...
But Fabian Montgomery doesn't give up easily. He's everywhere she goes, convinced the thief will strike. And when the diamond does go missing-and Maddie is suspected of stealing it-he whisks her away from the police and together they pursue The Chameleon.
Fabian plunges her into a glamorous world far from her humble workshop and transforms geeky Maddie into a sophisticated siren capable of espionage. Her mission: to seduce The Chameleon and steal back the diamond.
But Fabian isn't telling her everything-like who he works for, and why he's so interested in The Chameleon...
My Take:
Gentlemen Prefer Nerds, a cute catchy title that is obviously a play on the Marilyn Monroe film, Gentle Prefer Blondes, and this story has diamonds to boot, though if you ask me, the Rose diamond is far greater than anything I could want from Harry Winston or ever Cartier. Grin.
The story was cute and fun and the pacing was awesome. Maddie, a self-proclaimed nerd, is a well-respected Gemologist who discovered a large and extremely rare pink diamond. Soon after obtaining it and getting it ready for display at her aunt’s jewelry store, a mysterious man warns her that the diamond is in danger of being stolen from right under Maddie’s nose. Convinced the man is doing nothing other than trying to startle her, she dismisses him. That is until the diamond does indeed get stolen from right under her nose and discovers she is the main suspect. She’s thrust into a whirlwind escape and an adventure with the mysterious man as the two of them try to recover the stolen diamond and clear her name.
Even though Maddie considers herself a nerd, and while she is definitely book smart in this story, I personally at least, wouldn’t classify her as a nerd per say. She’s definitely a rule follower and definitely smart, but not a nerd, except when it comes to gems and her style of dress. I particularly enjoyed watching Maddie come out of her shell and grow as a person in this story, she was sort of a late bloomer in life, who even after blooming, doesn’t mind reverting back to her old self, but keeps hints of her new self regardless and knows what she is now capable of
Also, the sexual tension between Maddie and Fabian (the mysterious man) was a little on the flat side for me, especially given that at the beginning of the story it seems Fabian is still hung up on somebody else. Even toward the end when he realizes he’s in love with Maddie, I still felt like he wasn’t completely over this other woman and that he simply thrust his feelings for said woman aside. It could just be me who feels this way and, after all, a review is simply an opinion, but that is how it came across for me.
The main thing I disliked about this entire story was the ending. Sure they get their HEA/HFN, but I didn’t feel as though it was really going to happen for them. I like to have a sense of closure when I’m finished and to me, it felt as though the story was cut off before I got that closure, so unless the author has plans for a sequel or something of the sort which gives good reason for the cut off, I was rather disappointed with the ending, especially considering how much I enjoyed the rest of the story.
For me, this story was good, and I believe it could have been great had I really believed the romance between Maddie and Fabian, but even though it didn’t cross over into my great reads column I still enjoyed it. Quirky characters, I particularly liked Maddie’s father, a fun, light tone that is very different from much of the darker toned books out there of late. Thanks to this book I’ve discovered a new author, who’s writing I very much enjoyed and I look forward to reading some of her backlist, maybe one of those will be shelved in my Great Reads column.
My Rating:
3.5/5 “Pink†Lattes
All My Best,
Kayla
March 16, 2012
“Gentlemen prefer nerds” è capitato per caso nelle letture da fare, la copertina come sempre ha giocato un ruolo fondamentale per farmelo scegliere così come la trama carina e intrigante che è riuscita a vincere le mie resistenze.
Maddie Maloney è una esperta di gemme preziose e mentre conduce la sua PhD lavora nella gioielleria della zia. Maddie ha scoperto un diamante rosa molto raro e prezioso e lo stanno per esporre proprio nella gioielleria. Alcuni giorni prima dell’esposizione Fabien Montgomery, un inglese super affascinante, la sorprende alle spalle rivelandole che un famoso ladro di gioielli The Chameleon vuole rubare il diamante, ma lei non ci crede. Quando il furto diventa realtà e lei viene accusata Fabien la trascina in una caccia all’uomo che la trasformerà da una timida nerd a una spia super affascinante. Riusciranno Maddie e Fabien a catturare il ladro?
Il fascino nel libro sta nell’assoluta perfezione nel mescolamento tra azione e romance che si sviluppa tra i due protagonisti. Ok la trama appare scontata, i due all’inizio si odiano, non si possono vedere e poi cadono uno nelle braccia dell’altro. Fabien è alto, super hot, muscoloso, si muove come un’ombra, riesce a memorizzare codici di sicurezza in un batter di ciglia e riesce ad aprire qualsiasi serratura. Ha un’aria di superiorità che gli deriva dall’eredità della sua famiglia, anche se riusciamo a capire chi è solo nel mezzo della storia e gira sempre con un completo elegante e firmato e riesce a correre, a salire su un elicottero, a salvare Maddie in più di un’occasione con quel dannato completo addosso. Come diavolo fa? Ma i misteri e i segreti che nasconde dentro di sé lo rendono affascinante e irresistibile come solo un badass lo può essere. In realtà Fabien è affettuoso e compassionevole e con un unico obiettivo in testa portare a termine il suo lavoro.
Maddie è una di quelle protagoniste che ti fa impazzire per la sua ingenuità che sfiora il ridicolo, una di quelle che vorresti prendere a calci per metterle un po’ di sale in zucca e farla svegliare ma che ti disarma con una battuta o come riesca a tirare fuori la grinta quando serve. Il resto della sua famiglia svolge un lavoro particolare che lei disprezza ma ci tiene ai suoi fratelli e soprattutto a suo padre e quindi lo difende anche a costo di mentire. Affezionatissima al suo gatto, incapace di rinunciare ai suoi vestiti strampalati è la classica ragazza meravigliosa che si nasconde dietro un paio di occhiali e magliette improponibili a cui basta una gita ad una spa, dei vestiti nuovi per trasformarsi nella femme fatale che spezza cuori in giro per il resort, anche quello di Fabien. E si è il classico makeover, ma diamine chi rimane indifferente alla sindrome da Cenerentola? Maddie poi è spassosissima perché incapace di rendersi conto di nulla e che continua a dar addosso a quel poveretto di Fabien anche quando è chiaro che lui è partito per la tangente.
Anche i dettagli che ci rivela circa i gioielli, l’analisi molecolare e spettroscopica invece di annoiare aggiungono fascino ad una storia fatta di spionaggio e corse contro il tempo dove la salvezza corrisponde a trovare il ladro.
L’ambientazione è quella dell’Australia, la terra dei canguri a Melbourne prima e poi in un isoletta del nord dove Fabien e Maddie inseguono il ladro tra mille insidie e peripezie. Il cambio di prospettiva nei due punti di vista, anche se portati avanti in terza persona, è assolutamente affascinate e ben riuscito perché scioglie la tensione che si sviluppa nella pagine di Maddie e ci da una vista fondamentale nella psiche di Fabien, nonché ci rivela dettagli che altrimenti sarebbero stati persi.
Ma ciò che ho davvero apprezzato è la sorpresa dello sviluppo della trama e il colpo di scena che non mi sarei mai aspettata. Non ci avevo capito niente e un libro che mi sorprende e che non riesco ad anticipare è un libro che non posso non apprezzare.
Il particolare da non dimenticare? Quanto può essere divertente crash un ricevimento di matrimonio?
Consiglio sicuramente la lettura di “Gentlemen prefer nerds”, in uscita a marzo, sia per titolo che rispetta in pieno le sue promesse che la trama affascinate, piena di party, corse disperate, azione e per non dimenticare la romance che non guasta mai.
Buona lettura guys!
Io intanto ringrazio Netgalley e Carina Press per avermi concesso l’opportunità di leggere questo ARC in anteprima in cambio della mia onesta opinione.
Maddie Maloney è una esperta di gemme preziose e mentre conduce la sua PhD lavora nella gioielleria della zia. Maddie ha scoperto un diamante rosa molto raro e prezioso e lo stanno per esporre proprio nella gioielleria. Alcuni giorni prima dell’esposizione Fabien Montgomery, un inglese super affascinante, la sorprende alle spalle rivelandole che un famoso ladro di gioielli The Chameleon vuole rubare il diamante, ma lei non ci crede. Quando il furto diventa realtà e lei viene accusata Fabien la trascina in una caccia all’uomo che la trasformerà da una timida nerd a una spia super affascinante. Riusciranno Maddie e Fabien a catturare il ladro?
Il fascino nel libro sta nell’assoluta perfezione nel mescolamento tra azione e romance che si sviluppa tra i due protagonisti. Ok la trama appare scontata, i due all’inizio si odiano, non si possono vedere e poi cadono uno nelle braccia dell’altro. Fabien è alto, super hot, muscoloso, si muove come un’ombra, riesce a memorizzare codici di sicurezza in un batter di ciglia e riesce ad aprire qualsiasi serratura. Ha un’aria di superiorità che gli deriva dall’eredità della sua famiglia, anche se riusciamo a capire chi è solo nel mezzo della storia e gira sempre con un completo elegante e firmato e riesce a correre, a salire su un elicottero, a salvare Maddie in più di un’occasione con quel dannato completo addosso. Come diavolo fa? Ma i misteri e i segreti che nasconde dentro di sé lo rendono affascinante e irresistibile come solo un badass lo può essere. In realtà Fabien è affettuoso e compassionevole e con un unico obiettivo in testa portare a termine il suo lavoro.
Maddie è una di quelle protagoniste che ti fa impazzire per la sua ingenuità che sfiora il ridicolo, una di quelle che vorresti prendere a calci per metterle un po’ di sale in zucca e farla svegliare ma che ti disarma con una battuta o come riesca a tirare fuori la grinta quando serve. Il resto della sua famiglia svolge un lavoro particolare che lei disprezza ma ci tiene ai suoi fratelli e soprattutto a suo padre e quindi lo difende anche a costo di mentire. Affezionatissima al suo gatto, incapace di rinunciare ai suoi vestiti strampalati è la classica ragazza meravigliosa che si nasconde dietro un paio di occhiali e magliette improponibili a cui basta una gita ad una spa, dei vestiti nuovi per trasformarsi nella femme fatale che spezza cuori in giro per il resort, anche quello di Fabien. E si è il classico makeover, ma diamine chi rimane indifferente alla sindrome da Cenerentola? Maddie poi è spassosissima perché incapace di rendersi conto di nulla e che continua a dar addosso a quel poveretto di Fabien anche quando è chiaro che lui è partito per la tangente.
Anche i dettagli che ci rivela circa i gioielli, l’analisi molecolare e spettroscopica invece di annoiare aggiungono fascino ad una storia fatta di spionaggio e corse contro il tempo dove la salvezza corrisponde a trovare il ladro.
L’ambientazione è quella dell’Australia, la terra dei canguri a Melbourne prima e poi in un isoletta del nord dove Fabien e Maddie inseguono il ladro tra mille insidie e peripezie. Il cambio di prospettiva nei due punti di vista, anche se portati avanti in terza persona, è assolutamente affascinate e ben riuscito perché scioglie la tensione che si sviluppa nella pagine di Maddie e ci da una vista fondamentale nella psiche di Fabien, nonché ci rivela dettagli che altrimenti sarebbero stati persi.
Ma ciò che ho davvero apprezzato è la sorpresa dello sviluppo della trama e il colpo di scena che non mi sarei mai aspettata. Non ci avevo capito niente e un libro che mi sorprende e che non riesco ad anticipare è un libro che non posso non apprezzare.
Il particolare da non dimenticare? Quanto può essere divertente crash un ricevimento di matrimonio?
Consiglio sicuramente la lettura di “Gentlemen prefer nerds”, in uscita a marzo, sia per titolo che rispetta in pieno le sue promesse che la trama affascinate, piena di party, corse disperate, azione e per non dimenticare la romance che non guasta mai.
Buona lettura guys!
Io intanto ringrazio Netgalley e Carina Press per avermi concesso l’opportunità di leggere questo ARC in anteprima in cambio della mia onesta opinione.
December 26, 2014
(This review was originally posted at my blog, That Artsy Reader Girl)
I love mysteries with a touch of suspense, and I could tell immediately from the description that I would enjoy this book. What surprised me the most, though, was the comedic element the author threw in. This book was so funny, in addition to being suspenseful and romantic. I had a lot of fun reading this, and am excited to share with you my favorite elements of the book!
1. I love this title! I'm a total nerd, so I was immediately drawn in by the hilarious title, attractive gentleman, and the bright yellow.
2. The book surprised me by taking place in Australia! I've never read a book that took place there, so I really enjoyed all the descriptions of the scenery. Part of the books takes place in a resort town by the beach during the weekend of a sailboat gala. I loved reading about all the boats and the people. It sounded so quaint and romantic. I just loved it.
3. Maddie, a self-proclaimed nerd with a PhD in gemology (I believe? Or is it mineralogy?), is such a fun character. She really is the stereotypical nerd, with the eclectic non-sense of fashion and the gem smarts. Her nerdliness is interrupted by Fabian, an extremely attractive and mysterious Englishman who whisks her away to retrieve the stolen diamond, save her from jail, and protect her aunt's reputation. Right at the beginning as they are running from the police, all she can think about is her sweet cat, and what will happen to it while she's away. A girl after my own heart. Fabian turns her into a sexy glamazon, and she's totally against it. She fights him every step of the way. He sends her to a day spa, and her account of the happenings there had me laughing out loud. She got burned in the sauna, almost drowned in the mineral pool, etc. The daunting task of seducing The Chameleon lies ahead of her, and she goes on and on about how impossible that will be. She even has to practice her seduction skills! Her spunk and quick wit created a really fun contrast to the serious businessman, Fabian.
4. I love it when the geeky girl nabs the attractive James Bond type. Fabian is totally the sexy, mysterious foreigner with a carefully concealed past and a lot of baggage. I love how he feels this need to put on a hardened facade, when in reality he's laughing at Maddie and falling for her on the inside.You can tell he cares, but wishes he didn't. She tugs at his heartstrings, and I think it's so sweet to watch the inner turmoil he goes through as she pushes him outside his comfort zone.
5. The romance is a slow burn, and a minimal part of the story. It really was hate at first sight with these two. Fabian is a major inconvenience to Maddie, following her around, bothering her, making her do things she doesn't want to do. Maddie is Fabian's pain in the butt, but he needs an experienced and knowledgeable gemologist on his side in order to find and identify the diamond. As time pushes on, they begin to tolerate one another more and more, but it takes a while. No insta-love here! The romance was believable and sweet.
6. The suspense really grabs you. Fabian and Maddie are really good at getting into trouble. Running from the police... seeking out The Chameleon... intense sailboat rides... guns blazing... deserted islands... concealed identities. Luck is not on their side. This book is a major page-turner.
7. It's the perfect blend of comedy, romance, and suspense. Plus it's heartwarming. You'd think with all the stuff going on, you might not get a true sense of what makes the characters who they are. But you do! There are some tender moments with Maddie's family and with Fabian's family was well. And Maddie's cat adds a lot, too. Maybe I'm just a softy for cats. I dunno. But I loved that amidst all the suspense and deception, we were given a sense of the moral fabric these characters possess. The emotion is there, and I liked that. It made the characters more relatable.
All in all, this book is fun and exciting, and I really enjoyed it. I would recommend it to anyone who loves a good romcom with some mystery mixed in. I'm definitely going to go and check out some more of Joan Kilby's books. She's got a ton of them!
I love mysteries with a touch of suspense, and I could tell immediately from the description that I would enjoy this book. What surprised me the most, though, was the comedic element the author threw in. This book was so funny, in addition to being suspenseful and romantic. I had a lot of fun reading this, and am excited to share with you my favorite elements of the book!
1. I love this title! I'm a total nerd, so I was immediately drawn in by the hilarious title, attractive gentleman, and the bright yellow.
2. The book surprised me by taking place in Australia! I've never read a book that took place there, so I really enjoyed all the descriptions of the scenery. Part of the books takes place in a resort town by the beach during the weekend of a sailboat gala. I loved reading about all the boats and the people. It sounded so quaint and romantic. I just loved it.
3. Maddie, a self-proclaimed nerd with a PhD in gemology (I believe? Or is it mineralogy?), is such a fun character. She really is the stereotypical nerd, with the eclectic non-sense of fashion and the gem smarts. Her nerdliness is interrupted by Fabian, an extremely attractive and mysterious Englishman who whisks her away to retrieve the stolen diamond, save her from jail, and protect her aunt's reputation. Right at the beginning as they are running from the police, all she can think about is her sweet cat, and what will happen to it while she's away. A girl after my own heart. Fabian turns her into a sexy glamazon, and she's totally against it. She fights him every step of the way. He sends her to a day spa, and her account of the happenings there had me laughing out loud. She got burned in the sauna, almost drowned in the mineral pool, etc. The daunting task of seducing The Chameleon lies ahead of her, and she goes on and on about how impossible that will be. She even has to practice her seduction skills! Her spunk and quick wit created a really fun contrast to the serious businessman, Fabian.
4. I love it when the geeky girl nabs the attractive James Bond type. Fabian is totally the sexy, mysterious foreigner with a carefully concealed past and a lot of baggage. I love how he feels this need to put on a hardened facade, when in reality he's laughing at Maddie and falling for her on the inside.You can tell he cares, but wishes he didn't. She tugs at his heartstrings, and I think it's so sweet to watch the inner turmoil he goes through as she pushes him outside his comfort zone.
5. The romance is a slow burn, and a minimal part of the story. It really was hate at first sight with these two. Fabian is a major inconvenience to Maddie, following her around, bothering her, making her do things she doesn't want to do. Maddie is Fabian's pain in the butt, but he needs an experienced and knowledgeable gemologist on his side in order to find and identify the diamond. As time pushes on, they begin to tolerate one another more and more, but it takes a while. No insta-love here! The romance was believable and sweet.
6. The suspense really grabs you. Fabian and Maddie are really good at getting into trouble. Running from the police... seeking out The Chameleon... intense sailboat rides... guns blazing... deserted islands... concealed identities. Luck is not on their side. This book is a major page-turner.
7. It's the perfect blend of comedy, romance, and suspense. Plus it's heartwarming. You'd think with all the stuff going on, you might not get a true sense of what makes the characters who they are. But you do! There are some tender moments with Maddie's family and with Fabian's family was well. And Maddie's cat adds a lot, too. Maybe I'm just a softy for cats. I dunno. But I loved that amidst all the suspense and deception, we were given a sense of the moral fabric these characters possess. The emotion is there, and I liked that. It made the characters more relatable.
All in all, this book is fun and exciting, and I really enjoyed it. I would recommend it to anyone who loves a good romcom with some mystery mixed in. I'm definitely going to go and check out some more of Joan Kilby's books. She's got a ton of them!
April 11, 2012
You can also read this review at Reflections on Reading Romance
I’m a big fan of nerds, so when I saw the title to Joan Kilby’s book, I immediately snatched it up. Gentlemen Prefer Nerds features a mild, unassuming woman who becomes entangled in a jewelry heist, thanks to a sexy secret agent. I’m more than a little nerdy myself, so I was rooting for the gemologist heroine, Maddie, to get her man while living the high life of the spy in Australia. While Gentlemen Prefer Nerds is a fun romp, the romance fell a bit flat, but the hijinks poor Maddie finds herself in make for more than a few laughs, and I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Maddie Maloney is a gemologist working for her aunt’s jewelry store while finishing her PhD. Her aunt is auctioning off the famous Rose Diamond, and Maddie is conducting research on the unusual pink diamond before the auction takes place. While Maddie’s at the store studying the gem, a man mysteriously approaches her and warns Maddie that a notorious jewel thief, the Chameleon, has plans to steal the Rose Diamond.
Maddie discounts the strange man’s warnings, and when the Rose Diamond is stolen right from under her nose, the police believe that she orchestrated the heist! Fabian Montgomery, snooty British Lord, is the man who warned Maddie, and he comes to her rescue, only to inform her that he expects her help in retrieving the gem. Maddie has to be transformed into a femme fatale and attract the attention of the Chameleon so they can recover the gem. Unfortunately, Maddie considers herself all too ordinary, is the world’s worst liar, and is fighting an attraction to Fabian. Can she step out of her ordinary life and return the Rose Diamond to its proper owner?
Maddie is an adorable heroine, clumsy and very much your girl-next-door. At times I really liked her, but other times she came across as so naïve as to be TSTL. She’s a highly intelligent woman seeking an advanced degree, yet some of her actions seem ridiculously dumb. Why on Earth would she allow her date to view the Rose Diamond while the store is closed? It just seems like asking for trouble! Granted, the date in question was posing as someone more trustworthy, but in this situation Maddie’s common sense seems to be lacking, and unfortunately that was the case throughout the book.
Despite her somewhat questionable actions, I found Maddie to be likeable, and I could easily see why Fabian (an unfortunate choice of name, IMO) would fall for her, but I couldn’t really understand the attraction on Maddie’s part for him. She’s charming and sweet natured; Fabian’s just good-looking and snooty. They don’t really have any moments where Fabian confides in her, and Fabian persists in hiding the truth about the Chameleon while insulting her appearance and attire. I just never really understood why she would feel anything more than lust for him.
That said, this was a fun book to read, and Maddie’s family was a hoot, while the Australian setting was a nice surprise. The action was non-stop and over the top, and watching poor Maddie try to fit into a world of high intrigue made for a lot of laughs. The romance might have been a little flat, but the ending hinted at the possibility of more Maddie and Fabian in the future, and I’m intrigued enough to check out the second book in the series.
I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher through NetGalley.
I’m a big fan of nerds, so when I saw the title to Joan Kilby’s book, I immediately snatched it up. Gentlemen Prefer Nerds features a mild, unassuming woman who becomes entangled in a jewelry heist, thanks to a sexy secret agent. I’m more than a little nerdy myself, so I was rooting for the gemologist heroine, Maddie, to get her man while living the high life of the spy in Australia. While Gentlemen Prefer Nerds is a fun romp, the romance fell a bit flat, but the hijinks poor Maddie finds herself in make for more than a few laughs, and I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Maddie Maloney is a gemologist working for her aunt’s jewelry store while finishing her PhD. Her aunt is auctioning off the famous Rose Diamond, and Maddie is conducting research on the unusual pink diamond before the auction takes place. While Maddie’s at the store studying the gem, a man mysteriously approaches her and warns Maddie that a notorious jewel thief, the Chameleon, has plans to steal the Rose Diamond.
Maddie discounts the strange man’s warnings, and when the Rose Diamond is stolen right from under her nose, the police believe that she orchestrated the heist! Fabian Montgomery, snooty British Lord, is the man who warned Maddie, and he comes to her rescue, only to inform her that he expects her help in retrieving the gem. Maddie has to be transformed into a femme fatale and attract the attention of the Chameleon so they can recover the gem. Unfortunately, Maddie considers herself all too ordinary, is the world’s worst liar, and is fighting an attraction to Fabian. Can she step out of her ordinary life and return the Rose Diamond to its proper owner?
Maddie is an adorable heroine, clumsy and very much your girl-next-door. At times I really liked her, but other times she came across as so naïve as to be TSTL. She’s a highly intelligent woman seeking an advanced degree, yet some of her actions seem ridiculously dumb. Why on Earth would she allow her date to view the Rose Diamond while the store is closed? It just seems like asking for trouble! Granted, the date in question was posing as someone more trustworthy, but in this situation Maddie’s common sense seems to be lacking, and unfortunately that was the case throughout the book.
Despite her somewhat questionable actions, I found Maddie to be likeable, and I could easily see why Fabian (an unfortunate choice of name, IMO) would fall for her, but I couldn’t really understand the attraction on Maddie’s part for him. She’s charming and sweet natured; Fabian’s just good-looking and snooty. They don’t really have any moments where Fabian confides in her, and Fabian persists in hiding the truth about the Chameleon while insulting her appearance and attire. I just never really understood why she would feel anything more than lust for him.
That said, this was a fun book to read, and Maddie’s family was a hoot, while the Australian setting was a nice surprise. The action was non-stop and over the top, and watching poor Maddie try to fit into a world of high intrigue made for a lot of laughs. The romance might have been a little flat, but the ending hinted at the possibility of more Maddie and Fabian in the future, and I’m intrigued enough to check out the second book in the series.
I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher through NetGalley.
March 28, 2012
Titolo: Gentlemen prefer nerds
Autore:
Inedito in Italia
Trama: studiosa di gemme australiana lavora in una gioielleria presa di mira da uno strano ladro e un ancora più strano inglese cerca di metterla in guardia.
La mia opinione: carino! Mi è piaciuto. E’ molto semplice a tratti banale, ma mi è piaciuto l’ho letto tutto d’uno fiato. Ha diverse pecche non si può negare, ma la sua freschezza e semplicità lo salvano dal tedio o dalle complicazioni inutili che magari non mi fanno apprezzare libri scritti meglio di questo. Io sono fatta così. Se non mi può dare spessore mi accontento di lievità da un libro e se sa darmela mi basta.
La trama è semplice. Abbiamo una studiosa che non sa vestirsi o comportarsi con gli uomini che viene presa di mira da un ladro di gioielli trasformista che al momento si fa passare per un professore universitario specializzato in gemme e la sta corteggiando. Un bell’inglese, che scopriremo poi essere di nobili origini e pure invischiato con i servizi segreti di Sua Maestà e che sta dando la caccia per motivi personali a quello strano ladro, cerca di metterla in guardia ma lei, seppur attratta per ripicca non si fida e il rubino che custodiva in negozio viene rubato e lei poverina pure accusata di averlo rubato!
L’inglese la fa scappare dalla polizia, e il padre di lei che è guarda caso un ladro li aiuta a sfuggire dal Paese e i due si mettono all’inseguimento del ladro mentre la polizia li insegue a sua volta……
L’inglese sa molte cose sul ladro e lo trovano che se la spassa in una località per nababbi. Però non chiamano la polizia. L’inglese non vuole farlo arrestare, lei ci sta anche perché ha un forte debole per l’inglese e perché ha un forte odio per il ladro che l’ha presa in giro e così pianificano per riprendersi il rubino. Il piano è semplice lei si truccherà e vestirà da bomba sexy lo sedurrà e riprenderà il gioiello. Lei non ne è molto convinta però si sottopone controvoglia alla trasformazione che riesce talmente bene che l’inglese che già era attratto da lei ora non riesce a tenere le mani a posto. Lei che soffre di mal di mare o dia il mare poiché sua madre è morta annegata si ritrova a dover sedurre il ladro proprio su una barca, il piano è uno sfacelo il ladro riconosce sia lei che l’inglese e li butta a mare ma almeno il rubino è recuperato.
Va a sfacelo anche il rapporto tra lei e l’inglese poiché è saltato fuori che il ladro non è latri che suo fratello per questo non lo vuole fare arrestare nemmeno ora che quello ha cercato di ucciderlo. L’amore trionferà alla fine o no? Non ve lo dico.
Nonostante la semplicità, come potete vedere vi ho praticamente raccontato tutto il libro, il ritmo è buono l’attrazione tra i personaggi funziona alla grande, sono tutti tridimensionali persino quelli secondari tipo la famiglia di lei e quella di lui…..poi il rapporto amoroso è raccontato bene e lui non è che s’innamora così a caso subito, ha alle spalle una storia con la sua superiore una donna più anziana da lui che raggiunta una certa età ha rotto la relazione per lasciarlo libero di farsi una famiglia, una donna seria ed intellettuale perciò questa sua predilezione spiega l’attrazione verso la protagonista femminile seria e studiosa pure lei….Insomma dietro l’apparente semplicità c’è lo sforzo di dare profondità al testo e lo apprezzo. Peccato per il finale un po’ in sospeso, chissà se significa ci sarà un seguito?
Autore:
Inedito in Italia
Trama: studiosa di gemme australiana lavora in una gioielleria presa di mira da uno strano ladro e un ancora più strano inglese cerca di metterla in guardia.
La mia opinione: carino! Mi è piaciuto. E’ molto semplice a tratti banale, ma mi è piaciuto l’ho letto tutto d’uno fiato. Ha diverse pecche non si può negare, ma la sua freschezza e semplicità lo salvano dal tedio o dalle complicazioni inutili che magari non mi fanno apprezzare libri scritti meglio di questo. Io sono fatta così. Se non mi può dare spessore mi accontento di lievità da un libro e se sa darmela mi basta.
La trama è semplice. Abbiamo una studiosa che non sa vestirsi o comportarsi con gli uomini che viene presa di mira da un ladro di gioielli trasformista che al momento si fa passare per un professore universitario specializzato in gemme e la sta corteggiando. Un bell’inglese, che scopriremo poi essere di nobili origini e pure invischiato con i servizi segreti di Sua Maestà e che sta dando la caccia per motivi personali a quello strano ladro, cerca di metterla in guardia ma lei, seppur attratta per ripicca non si fida e il rubino che custodiva in negozio viene rubato e lei poverina pure accusata di averlo rubato!
L’inglese la fa scappare dalla polizia, e il padre di lei che è guarda caso un ladro li aiuta a sfuggire dal Paese e i due si mettono all’inseguimento del ladro mentre la polizia li insegue a sua volta……
L’inglese sa molte cose sul ladro e lo trovano che se la spassa in una località per nababbi. Però non chiamano la polizia. L’inglese non vuole farlo arrestare, lei ci sta anche perché ha un forte debole per l’inglese e perché ha un forte odio per il ladro che l’ha presa in giro e così pianificano per riprendersi il rubino. Il piano è semplice lei si truccherà e vestirà da bomba sexy lo sedurrà e riprenderà il gioiello. Lei non ne è molto convinta però si sottopone controvoglia alla trasformazione che riesce talmente bene che l’inglese che già era attratto da lei ora non riesce a tenere le mani a posto. Lei che soffre di mal di mare o dia il mare poiché sua madre è morta annegata si ritrova a dover sedurre il ladro proprio su una barca, il piano è uno sfacelo il ladro riconosce sia lei che l’inglese e li butta a mare ma almeno il rubino è recuperato.
Va a sfacelo anche il rapporto tra lei e l’inglese poiché è saltato fuori che il ladro non è latri che suo fratello per questo non lo vuole fare arrestare nemmeno ora che quello ha cercato di ucciderlo. L’amore trionferà alla fine o no? Non ve lo dico.
Nonostante la semplicità, come potete vedere vi ho praticamente raccontato tutto il libro, il ritmo è buono l’attrazione tra i personaggi funziona alla grande, sono tutti tridimensionali persino quelli secondari tipo la famiglia di lei e quella di lui…..poi il rapporto amoroso è raccontato bene e lui non è che s’innamora così a caso subito, ha alle spalle una storia con la sua superiore una donna più anziana da lui che raggiunta una certa età ha rotto la relazione per lasciarlo libero di farsi una famiglia, una donna seria ed intellettuale perciò questa sua predilezione spiega l’attrazione verso la protagonista femminile seria e studiosa pure lei….Insomma dietro l’apparente semplicità c’è lo sforzo di dare profondità al testo e lo apprezzo. Peccato per il finale un po’ in sospeso, chissà se significa ci sarà un seguito?
September 19, 2012
I loved that Gentlemen Prefer Nerds is a light read the romance between Maddie and Fabian was sweet, awkward and this book’s saving grace. Maddie’s an unassuming gemologist that gets entangled in a jewelry heist. Which she becomes suspect number one, so in order to prove her innocence and save her aunt’s shop, she follows the spy that warned her about the robbery. To find “the chameleon” the actual robber to get “The Rose” back. I was rooting for Maddie, to get “the rose” back and her man and by man I mean Fabian. Though some of the hijinks poor Maddie gets herself into makes for more than a few laughs, in the process what start out as a simple beneficial arrangement for both parties. Begins to turn into something more as attractions develop and lead to real feelings they both have to deal with wether either of them wants to admit it or not.
But for me what turned me off was the introduction of the chameleon I didn’t find his character interesting at all more cookies cutter. With his introduction he blows apart Maddie’s life in one night, and if this wasn’t written fiction with writer Kilby controlling the outcome. Maddie would be sitting in a jail cell wondering how did this happen to me. That’s how good of a job he did of framing her. So I didn’t buy this whole escape from the cops and prove my innocence bit, because she’s a scientist except for some knowledge of the law due to her father’s constant inclination for breaking the law she was out of her depth even with Fabian’s help.
And the “pretty ugly “girl routine classic reminded me of the movie She’s All That you know where you take off the glasses and let down the hair of the frumpy tomboy, underneath is a swan waiting to be discovered, cliched—though some are tried and true because they work but it made the story predictable. Ultimately I just didn’t buy it—a gemologist running from the cops to prove her innocence there just wasn’t enough structure in the story to make it plausible. For me to turn off my common sense and suspend any disbelief that Maddie and Fabian could outwit a master jewel thief and get the diamond (the Rose) back, ahh…not so much.
Not that I didn’t try it was just too glaring. But having said that as I read the book and I enjoyed it while I was reading it. I was too busy trying to get to the next chapter to find out what happened next to really pay attention to the glitches of the story. It wasn’t until I had to put my thoughts into words that I began to see the things I didn’t think worked in the story and what did. The writing was itself was sound refreshingly funny at times, the setting was unexpected I would never thought of Australia as a local. The characters were fully formed except maybe Maddie so for these reasons I gave Gentlemen Prefer Nerds a three and a half stars.
http://sonythebooklover.com/2012/09/g...
But for me what turned me off was the introduction of the chameleon I didn’t find his character interesting at all more cookies cutter. With his introduction he blows apart Maddie’s life in one night, and if this wasn’t written fiction with writer Kilby controlling the outcome. Maddie would be sitting in a jail cell wondering how did this happen to me. That’s how good of a job he did of framing her. So I didn’t buy this whole escape from the cops and prove my innocence bit, because she’s a scientist except for some knowledge of the law due to her father’s constant inclination for breaking the law she was out of her depth even with Fabian’s help.
And the “pretty ugly “girl routine classic reminded me of the movie She’s All That you know where you take off the glasses and let down the hair of the frumpy tomboy, underneath is a swan waiting to be discovered, cliched—though some are tried and true because they work but it made the story predictable. Ultimately I just didn’t buy it—a gemologist running from the cops to prove her innocence there just wasn’t enough structure in the story to make it plausible. For me to turn off my common sense and suspend any disbelief that Maddie and Fabian could outwit a master jewel thief and get the diamond (the Rose) back, ahh…not so much.
Not that I didn’t try it was just too glaring. But having said that as I read the book and I enjoyed it while I was reading it. I was too busy trying to get to the next chapter to find out what happened next to really pay attention to the glitches of the story. It wasn’t until I had to put my thoughts into words that I began to see the things I didn’t think worked in the story and what did. The writing was itself was sound refreshingly funny at times, the setting was unexpected I would never thought of Australia as a local. The characters were fully formed except maybe Maddie so for these reasons I gave Gentlemen Prefer Nerds a three and a half stars.
http://sonythebooklover.com/2012/09/g...
March 13, 2012
Review from my blog: The Word Fiend
Rating: 8
Review:
I knew I had to read this book the second I saw the title. I loved the idea of a nerd as the heroine in a romance novel and the play on the famous Marilyn Monroe movie is a nice touch. Gentlemen Prefer Nerds lived up to the promise of its title and I was thoroughly charmed by this light-hearted adventure into the world of jewel thieves and cons.
The bright blue and yellow used for Gentlemen Prefer Nerds' cover compliment each other nicely and serve to effectively draw the readers attention. If I was browsing in my local bookshop I would definitely stop to pick it up. The male model has a taunting half-smile on his face, as if he knows more than he's letting on and is a perfect fit for how I pictured Fabian. The female model isn't quite how I imagined Maddie, but with her glasses, hair pulled back into a sensible ponytail and shy stance she does capture some of Maddie's nerd-factor. The pink heart-shaped diamond glittering next to the title is the valuable gem that puts the whole story in motion. This is a fun and effective cover and I must compliment the design team at Carina Press.
Gentlemen Prefer Nerds was a delight to read. Joan Kilby writes well, bringing her characters to immediate life on the pages. The story progresses at an entertaining pace with action and drama interspersed with humour to keep the story in balance. One great example of this humour is when, during a dramatic helicopter escape from the police, Maddie stops and stubbornly refuses to abandon her cat, forcing Fabian to perform an impressive feline rescue. Kilby skilfully uses these moments to give us a better understanding of the characters' histories and personalities.
Maddie is a fabulous heroine. Brilliant and passionate about jewels she lives a rather boring life where she lives vicariously through her books – picturing herself as the daring heroine who saves the day. It was interesting to see how she reacts when she is forced into new and dangerous situations in real life. Maddie really blossoms in the book. Fabian is a mystery when we first meet him, but we slowly learn more about the gorgeous Englishman as the story unfolds. I liked the respect he has for Maddie and her abilities and the quiet strength coiled in him. The chemistry between Maddie and Fabian sizzles through the pages of Gentlemen Prefer Nerds. In fact my only problem with the book was that when they finally made love it wasn't the exciting event that all of the chemistry and tension had been building towards. It felt like a bit of a let down.
Gentlemen Prefer Nerds is a fun, entertaining read that will have you glued to the pages. Definitely worth reading.
Rating: 8
Review:
I knew I had to read this book the second I saw the title. I loved the idea of a nerd as the heroine in a romance novel and the play on the famous Marilyn Monroe movie is a nice touch. Gentlemen Prefer Nerds lived up to the promise of its title and I was thoroughly charmed by this light-hearted adventure into the world of jewel thieves and cons.
The bright blue and yellow used for Gentlemen Prefer Nerds' cover compliment each other nicely and serve to effectively draw the readers attention. If I was browsing in my local bookshop I would definitely stop to pick it up. The male model has a taunting half-smile on his face, as if he knows more than he's letting on and is a perfect fit for how I pictured Fabian. The female model isn't quite how I imagined Maddie, but with her glasses, hair pulled back into a sensible ponytail and shy stance she does capture some of Maddie's nerd-factor. The pink heart-shaped diamond glittering next to the title is the valuable gem that puts the whole story in motion. This is a fun and effective cover and I must compliment the design team at Carina Press.
Gentlemen Prefer Nerds was a delight to read. Joan Kilby writes well, bringing her characters to immediate life on the pages. The story progresses at an entertaining pace with action and drama interspersed with humour to keep the story in balance. One great example of this humour is when, during a dramatic helicopter escape from the police, Maddie stops and stubbornly refuses to abandon her cat, forcing Fabian to perform an impressive feline rescue. Kilby skilfully uses these moments to give us a better understanding of the characters' histories and personalities.
Maddie is a fabulous heroine. Brilliant and passionate about jewels she lives a rather boring life where she lives vicariously through her books – picturing herself as the daring heroine who saves the day. It was interesting to see how she reacts when she is forced into new and dangerous situations in real life. Maddie really blossoms in the book. Fabian is a mystery when we first meet him, but we slowly learn more about the gorgeous Englishman as the story unfolds. I liked the respect he has for Maddie and her abilities and the quiet strength coiled in him. The chemistry between Maddie and Fabian sizzles through the pages of Gentlemen Prefer Nerds. In fact my only problem with the book was that when they finally made love it wasn't the exciting event that all of the chemistry and tension had been building towards. It felt like a bit of a let down.
Gentlemen Prefer Nerds is a fun, entertaining read that will have you glued to the pages. Definitely worth reading.
March 23, 2012
http://theprettygoodgatsby.wordpress....
After my disaster of a first experience with chick-lit I was a little hesitant to make another attempt. However, Gentlemen Prefer Nerds sounded like a book that would be right up my alley. Maddie is a gemologist and works at her aunt's jewelry store. While working on her PhD Maddie happened to discover a whopping 28 carat pink diamond and it set the gem world on fire.
The Rose (named after Maddie - Rose being her middle name) is first unveiled to the world at the jewelry store since Maddie was the one to find it then it's to be sent to a sultan who was more than happy to pay the hefty $20 million to add it to her personal collection. Unfortunately, there are others who also wish to own the diamond who aren't willing to pay such a large sum. Or any sum at all, for that matter.
While working at the store one day, Maddie is surprised when a complete stranger manages to break in and tell her the Chameleon has his eye on the diamond and will be around at some point to steal it. No big deal.
Naturally Maddie doesn't believe a word of it. However, on the day of the unveiling, the real diamond has been replaced with a near identical replica and Maddie is the number one suspect.
Gentlemen Prefer Nerds reads a LOT like a cozy mystery (and you know I'm all about cozies!). There wasn't any point in the story where I was bored or felt the pace had slowed. This is a short, fun novel that can easily be read in an afternoon.
I'm normally not a big fan of dual narratives, but I enjoyed it in this book. I knew Fabian wasn't being entirely true with Maddie and I wanted to know what was really going on. The "big reveal" had me eye-rolling a bit unfortunately.
The author definitely took the time to do her research and it shows. There are multiple points throughout the novel where Maddie starts spouting gem jargon, but not once did I feel overwhelmed.
Keep in mind: this is a makeover book and yes, there's the token 'getting-rid-of-the-glasses' moment (just once I'd like to see the girl keep her glasses! GLASSES ARE COOL, GUYS!).
The end felt a bit rushed, but overall Gentlemen Prefer Nerds was fun and a lovely little summer read.
After my disaster of a first experience with chick-lit I was a little hesitant to make another attempt. However, Gentlemen Prefer Nerds sounded like a book that would be right up my alley. Maddie is a gemologist and works at her aunt's jewelry store. While working on her PhD Maddie happened to discover a whopping 28 carat pink diamond and it set the gem world on fire.
The Rose (named after Maddie - Rose being her middle name) is first unveiled to the world at the jewelry store since Maddie was the one to find it then it's to be sent to a sultan who was more than happy to pay the hefty $20 million to add it to her personal collection. Unfortunately, there are others who also wish to own the diamond who aren't willing to pay such a large sum. Or any sum at all, for that matter.
While working at the store one day, Maddie is surprised when a complete stranger manages to break in and tell her the Chameleon has his eye on the diamond and will be around at some point to steal it. No big deal.
Naturally Maddie doesn't believe a word of it. However, on the day of the unveiling, the real diamond has been replaced with a near identical replica and Maddie is the number one suspect.
Gentlemen Prefer Nerds reads a LOT like a cozy mystery (and you know I'm all about cozies!). There wasn't any point in the story where I was bored or felt the pace had slowed. This is a short, fun novel that can easily be read in an afternoon.
I'm normally not a big fan of dual narratives, but I enjoyed it in this book. I knew Fabian wasn't being entirely true with Maddie and I wanted to know what was really going on. The "big reveal" had me eye-rolling a bit unfortunately.
The author definitely took the time to do her research and it shows. There are multiple points throughout the novel where Maddie starts spouting gem jargon, but not once did I feel overwhelmed.
Keep in mind: this is a makeover book and yes, there's the token 'getting-rid-of-the-glasses' moment (just once I'd like to see the girl keep her glasses! GLASSES ARE COOL, GUYS!).
The end felt a bit rushed, but overall Gentlemen Prefer Nerds was fun and a lovely little summer read.
March 16, 2012
Posted at Oh My Books!
I was really excited when I got this book from NetGalley, I liked the title and I was wondering how that sexy man from the cover fell in love with a nerd.
Maddie Maloney is an expert on jewels and she was the one who discovered the Rose, a heart shaped and pink diamond. The Rose it's going to be on display at her aunt's shop, but a few days before she's warned by sexy Fabian Montgomery that someone is trying to steal it.
Fabian Montgomery has his own reasons to stop the thief, but when the diamond is stolen, he's going to get it back, even if he has to use Maddie.
Gentlemen Prefer Nerds was a fun book. Maddie wasn't really my type of protagonist, she was very intelligent but too clumsy, and transform herself from being a total nerd to a sex kitten. I think I liked her more as a nerd. Fabian is easy to like, he looks perfect and you can imagine him as a James Bond, but I didn't like his 'past love' always there, kind of ruining the picture.
It was light story, fun and with lots of action, but in my opinion, there was something missing, specially in Maddie's and Fabian's relationship.
I was really excited when I got this book from NetGalley, I liked the title and I was wondering how that sexy man from the cover fell in love with a nerd.
Maddie Maloney is an expert on jewels and she was the one who discovered the Rose, a heart shaped and pink diamond. The Rose it's going to be on display at her aunt's shop, but a few days before she's warned by sexy Fabian Montgomery that someone is trying to steal it.
Fabian Montgomery has his own reasons to stop the thief, but when the diamond is stolen, he's going to get it back, even if he has to use Maddie.
Gentlemen Prefer Nerds was a fun book. Maddie wasn't really my type of protagonist, she was very intelligent but too clumsy, and transform herself from being a total nerd to a sex kitten. I think I liked her more as a nerd. Fabian is easy to like, he looks perfect and you can imagine him as a James Bond, but I didn't like his 'past love' always there, kind of ruining the picture.
It was light story, fun and with lots of action, but in my opinion, there was something missing, specially in Maddie's and Fabian's relationship.
March 21, 2012
***3.5 out of 5 stars***
I really enjoyed Gentlemen Prefer Nerds a great deal. Maddie Maloney cracked me up. She admits to being a nerd and has no problems with her status as one. She is really much stronger than she gives herself credit for, and proved she was quite capable of being sexy when she wants to be as well.
Fabian Montgomery was a cross between James Bond and Remington Steele (why yes I’m showing my age with that reference, but Pierce Brosnan played both). He kept secrets from Maddie, but still needed her help in finding both The Chameleon and the stolen diamond, named The Rose.
There was really great chemistry between Fabian and Maddie from the very first. It only got stronger the longer they were with one another. You could tell they were falling hard for one another early on, even if neither seemed willing to admit it first.
I was lucky enough to get a copy of Gentlemen Prefer Nerds from NetGalley. The actual release date from Carina Press was March 12, so my post is going up a little after the release. You can purchase Gentlemen Prefer Nerds from your favorite online e-book retailer.
I really enjoyed Gentlemen Prefer Nerds a great deal. Maddie Maloney cracked me up. She admits to being a nerd and has no problems with her status as one. She is really much stronger than she gives herself credit for, and proved she was quite capable of being sexy when she wants to be as well.
Fabian Montgomery was a cross between James Bond and Remington Steele (why yes I’m showing my age with that reference, but Pierce Brosnan played both). He kept secrets from Maddie, but still needed her help in finding both The Chameleon and the stolen diamond, named The Rose.
There was really great chemistry between Fabian and Maddie from the very first. It only got stronger the longer they were with one another. You could tell they were falling hard for one another early on, even if neither seemed willing to admit it first.
I was lucky enough to get a copy of Gentlemen Prefer Nerds from NetGalley. The actual release date from Carina Press was March 12, so my post is going up a little after the release. You can purchase Gentlemen Prefer Nerds from your favorite online e-book retailer.
February 19, 2012
This is the first book by Joan Kilby I've read, and it was a pleasant surprise. It's a romantic caper that left me wanting more. While the original mystery was solved, the person responsible is still at large and the connection between Maddie Maloney and Fabian Montgomery is still shaky. Not to mention the rest of the Maloney family was very entertaining; Al, Connor, and Liam make up the rest of the Maloney family, since Faith, Maddie's mom passed away when she was just a child.
The intrigue is quite well written. I found the start of Fabian and Maddie's attraction/courtship a little awkward. Plus the reasoning that Maddie was willing to listen and follow Fabian's directions and instructions when she didn't have the first clue as to who he was and his motivations behind "helping" her. But once the duo was on the chase, the book picked up and it no longer felt awkward.
I am hoping there will be a sequel or this is the start of a series. I for one would like to see where Ms.Kilby takes this.
The intrigue is quite well written. I found the start of Fabian and Maddie's attraction/courtship a little awkward. Plus the reasoning that Maddie was willing to listen and follow Fabian's directions and instructions when she didn't have the first clue as to who he was and his motivations behind "helping" her. But once the duo was on the chase, the book picked up and it no longer felt awkward.
I am hoping there will be a sequel or this is the start of a series. I for one would like to see where Ms.Kilby takes this.
April 23, 2012
While browsing netgalley.com the cover of Gentlemen Prefer Nerds popped out at me. I am usually not much into "chick lit" but the description was appealing and I was in the mood for something quick, light and funny.
I was very taken by the Australian setting, as I don't think I have ever read anything set there before now. The writing was good, but I found that the characters and their motivations were not as well developed as I might wish, with the exception of Maddie.The attraction between Maddie and and Fabian just seemed to happen without much explanation and didn't seem credible to me. The book itself veered from adventure to romance to farce too quickly.
There were quite a few laughs however, and I did enjoy much of the book. I'd like to see more character development especially for Fabian. I think there is potential for a series here. I certainly would be willing to to give the projected second book a try as there was quite a cliff-hanger at the end of Gentlemen Prefer Nerds. Thanks to netgalley.com and Carina Press for the advance copy.
I was very taken by the Australian setting, as I don't think I have ever read anything set there before now. The writing was good, but I found that the characters and their motivations were not as well developed as I might wish, with the exception of Maddie.The attraction between Maddie and and Fabian just seemed to happen without much explanation and didn't seem credible to me. The book itself veered from adventure to romance to farce too quickly.
There were quite a few laughs however, and I did enjoy much of the book. I'd like to see more character development especially for Fabian. I think there is potential for a series here. I certainly would be willing to to give the projected second book a try as there was quite a cliff-hanger at the end of Gentlemen Prefer Nerds. Thanks to netgalley.com and Carina Press for the advance copy.
February 26, 2012
Reviewed at: Library of Lights
Review date: 27 Feb 2012
Review link: http://mykindaland.com/?p=399
Initially, I thought this book is going to be plain fluff or a chic-lit or a romantic comedy, but I was really wrong. It's not a chic-lit or just a plain fluff. It's better. It's a contemporary romance with loads of thrill.
What's not to love in this book? I have no idea. I, for one love how the story started, and I love how the heroine changed from just a normal, average Jane to a bombshell who thrive on action.
I love the mystery, but by the end of the book, I wished that there's more. I wish the author did not leave the relationship between the hero and the heroine hanging, but as I suppose the author is making an opening for the next story.
An enjoyable read. I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars. I received an ARC of this book from Carina Press via Netgalley.
Review date: 27 Feb 2012
Review link: http://mykindaland.com/?p=399
Initially, I thought this book is going to be plain fluff or a chic-lit or a romantic comedy, but I was really wrong. It's not a chic-lit or just a plain fluff. It's better. It's a contemporary romance with loads of thrill.
What's not to love in this book? I have no idea. I, for one love how the story started, and I love how the heroine changed from just a normal, average Jane to a bombshell who thrive on action.
I love the mystery, but by the end of the book, I wished that there's more. I wish the author did not leave the relationship between the hero and the heroine hanging, but as I suppose the author is making an opening for the next story.
An enjoyable read. I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars. I received an ARC of this book from Carina Press via Netgalley.
February 24, 2012
Twist and turns, jewels, romance and running from the law, really what is not to love in this story. The set up for the tale in Gentlemen Prefer Nerds is a cute one. We can all benefit from a little bit of passion, high drama and catching the bad guy once and for all!
But I found parts of the story to be a little bit hard to read. I was intrigued by the mystery, and the relationship between Maddie and her father, whom she calls by first name. But the romantic side of this book was a little flat for my tastes. There were some great parts in here like the descriptions of things that happen to Maddie as she and Fabian hunt for the Diamond, I just wish I had a little more to consider in their romance.
But I found parts of the story to be a little bit hard to read. I was intrigued by the mystery, and the relationship between Maddie and her father, whom she calls by first name. But the romantic side of this book was a little flat for my tastes. There were some great parts in here like the descriptions of things that happen to Maddie as she and Fabian hunt for the Diamond, I just wish I had a little more to consider in their romance.
April 10, 2012
Of course Gentlemen Prefer Nerds, isn't that what many romantic comedies are based on? Maddie Mahoney is a gem expert who has found a pink diamond nicknamed 'The Rose' which is the talk of the gem world. With all that talk the jewel thief can't be far behind.
In struts Fabian - playboy, bad boy or secret agent? When 'The Rose' is stolen, he whisks Maddie away in an attempt to regain the jewel and her reputation. Filled with light romance, family dynamics, humor and action this is a fun caper-romance and should be read as such.
This review is based on a digital galley provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
In struts Fabian - playboy, bad boy or secret agent? When 'The Rose' is stolen, he whisks Maddie away in an attempt to regain the jewel and her reputation. Filled with light romance, family dynamics, humor and action this is a fun caper-romance and should be read as such.
This review is based on a digital galley provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
October 17, 2012
To be honest I am not really sure what I thought about this book. It was alright, but not one of my favorites.
What does irk me is the lack of an ending. To me this was like a Nicholas Sparks movie where you get a hint of what happened but not a full story. I truely despise those "talk about it" endings. I want a concrete this is how they lived happily ever after ending.
Other than that it was an ok read. Not sure I have ever read a book set in Australia before so that was something new and different. I just did not connect to either of the main characters in the novel and never really cared one way or the other about them.
What does irk me is the lack of an ending. To me this was like a Nicholas Sparks movie where you get a hint of what happened but not a full story. I truely despise those "talk about it" endings. I want a concrete this is how they lived happily ever after ending.
Other than that it was an ok read. Not sure I have ever read a book set in Australia before so that was something new and different. I just did not connect to either of the main characters in the novel and never really cared one way or the other about them.
July 22, 2012
Ho richiesto di leggere questo libro perchè ero rimasta colpita dal titolo. Ammetto però che l’ho letto temendo che fosse un po’ la classica storia della nerd che dopo un rapido makeover diventa favolosa e cattura il cuore del belloccio di turno.
Eh sì, sebbene qualche stereotipo tipico sia presente, la storia e i personaggi non sono poi così scontati…
Recensione completa sul blog
Eh sì, sebbene qualche stereotipo tipico sia presente, la storia e i personaggi non sono poi così scontati…
Recensione completa sul blog
April 9, 2012
This was a fun, rollicking read, but there were a few too many little things that didn't quite add up for me to give it 4 stars. This is a 3 1/2 star for me. I certainly enjoyed it: a good holiday read.
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