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Between the Sheets #4
Reading Between the Lines
When you fall for Mr. Darcy, life is never going to be simple…
Tess Barker is having a rough time. She enjoys giving tours of the Northland of New Zealand, but her endometriosis makes the long days a challenge, and now she’s gone and insulted one of her best friends by mistake. She’s secretly liked Finn Brennan – the gorgeous Mr. Darcy lookalike – for years, but he’s never made a move on her, and now not only has she hurt his feelings, but they’re both interviewing for the same job – #awkward.
Finn likes his position in the Education Department at Waitangi, but recent events have made him restless, and he’s ready for a change. The move to Exhibitions Director at a museum in Christchurch might be just what he’s looking for, but he’s up against the younger, dynamic, beautiful Tess. When she apologizes for upsetting him, a kiss is a natural way to prove there’s no hard feelings.
They agree to work together on their presentations for the interview and to let the best man – or woman – win. Time spent together soon reveals a sizzling attraction that turns into deep passion. Things come to a head on their return to the bay, when Finn realizes he can’t escape his past troubles if he stays. But it’s only when Tess falls ill that he has to make the ultimate decision to fight or fly.
Tess Barker is having a rough time. She enjoys giving tours of the Northland of New Zealand, but her endometriosis makes the long days a challenge, and now she’s gone and insulted one of her best friends by mistake. She’s secretly liked Finn Brennan – the gorgeous Mr. Darcy lookalike – for years, but he’s never made a move on her, and now not only has she hurt his feelings, but they’re both interviewing for the same job – #awkward.
Finn likes his position in the Education Department at Waitangi, but recent events have made him restless, and he’s ready for a change. The move to Exhibitions Director at a museum in Christchurch might be just what he’s looking for, but he’s up against the younger, dynamic, beautiful Tess. When she apologizes for upsetting him, a kiss is a natural way to prove there’s no hard feelings.
They agree to work together on their presentations for the interview and to let the best man – or woman – win. Time spent together soon reveals a sizzling attraction that turns into deep passion. Things come to a head on their return to the bay, when Finn realizes he can’t escape his past troubles if he stays. But it’s only when Tess falls ill that he has to make the ultimate decision to fight or fly.
195 pages, ebook
Published April 18, 2019
170 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Serenity Woods
165 books905 followersUSA Today bestselling author Serenity Woods writes sizzling New Zealand billionaire romances. Alternatively called “The Goddess of Witty Banter” and “The Queen of Happy Endings” by Amazon reviewers, she likes to describe her heroes as ‘nice guys doing naughty things,’ so if you like your men hot, rich, funny, and respectful out of the bedroom but wicked between the sheets, you've come to the right place!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
April 14, 2019
Reading Between the Lines by Serenity Woods
Between the Sheets #4
I do love returning to this series! I enjoy seeing what the friends who meet together in the Between the Sheets Pub are up to and how they are doing. In this book Finn is going to end up with his partner and what a treat reading their story was for me. Finn and Tess have been eyeing one another since they met but it has never been the right time for them to get together since one or the other always seemed to be in a relationship. When the story begins they are both free but don’t think there is much chance still as they find they are both going to try for the same job in Christchurch. There is the preparation for the interview, the trip, the socializing with friends, the communication that reveals a few intimate secrets that the two will need to deal with and a medical situation that flares up and needs to be handled. I loved Finn’s caring and tenderness and Tess’s openness and willingness to put herself out there. AND I have to add...there were some very naughty parrots that spoke the greatest lines at the very best of times :) I am now eager to find out why Josie won’t take Beck back and hope that is the next book up in this series.
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Between the Sheets #4
I do love returning to this series! I enjoy seeing what the friends who meet together in the Between the Sheets Pub are up to and how they are doing. In this book Finn is going to end up with his partner and what a treat reading their story was for me. Finn and Tess have been eyeing one another since they met but it has never been the right time for them to get together since one or the other always seemed to be in a relationship. When the story begins they are both free but don’t think there is much chance still as they find they are both going to try for the same job in Christchurch. There is the preparation for the interview, the trip, the socializing with friends, the communication that reveals a few intimate secrets that the two will need to deal with and a medical situation that flares up and needs to be handled. I loved Finn’s caring and tenderness and Tess’s openness and willingness to put herself out there. AND I have to add...there were some very naughty parrots that spoke the greatest lines at the very best of times :) I am now eager to find out why Josie won’t take Beck back and hope that is the next book up in this series.
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
April 20, 2019
Reading Between the Lines is book 4 in the Between the Sheets Series and it’s a Series I love visiting because this author has a real knack of making you feel like you are part of this group of friends who meet up at the Between the Sheets local pub. Tess and Finn have been admiring each other from a distance both afraid that crossing that line could ruin the friendship they share. But when they both go for the same job in Christchurch they decide to help each other with the preparation for the presentations and they even fly down together the night before their interviews are scheduled. Being together away from the safe boundaries of home has Tess and Finn opening up to each other, sharing some very intimate secrets and yes crossing that invisible line but will a night of passion ruin the closeness these two share or will it make their friendship and love stronger, guess you need to read the book to find that out....... This is a beautifully written love story but it’s not just about love it’s about friendships and a very intimate medical condition that a lot of authors would shy away from, not Serenity Woods she handled this condition with love and compassion. Oh did I forget to mention a couple of parrots who have learn’t some very naughty words snd who also add just the right amount humour into this wonderful story. Looking forward to more from the guys at the Between the Sheets pub.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
April 12, 2019
I enjoy all of Serenity’s stories, and this one is no exception. Finn is a quiet, serious man, at the edge of the group of friends that this series is about. He broke up with his girlfriend Emma after his sister Ciara died, and the highlight of his week is going fishing with Beck, owner of the bar the friends congregate in, on a Saturday afternoon. He has been attracted to Tess since they first met, but the timing was wrong then, they were both in relationships; and since his sister died he has not wanted to commit to anyone. When the story begins he has been accused of a serious crime - he was quickly exonerated, but the rumour mill means everyone knows about it (although not necessarily that it was him) and he has decided that he has to leave the Bay of Islands.
When the group of friends next meet someone brings up the crime story, and Tess, who is having an argument with he half-brother and is angry joins in the conversation, saying that there is no smoke without fire. Finn immediately leaves, assuming everyone will think the same. Beck is really angry, Finn has confided in him, and he explains to the group what happened. Tess is mortified, and immediately leaves to find Finn and apologise. And so their relationship begins. Tess has serious problems of her own, particularly with her health, which has made her wary of getting involved with anyone, but Finn and she get on well. After she has apologised, and they are chatting she hears some pretty ribald language, and discovers he is looking after a couple of parrots for a friend, and has been teaching them some Shakespearean oaths, it is highly amusing when what they say is appropriate to the human conversation!
A museum job has come up on South Island, which they discover both of them have applied for, and have interviews offered. Over the next few days they work together at their presentations, each wanting the job but also wanting the other to do well. They travel to Christchurch together, and their relationship begins. They are very honest with each other, telling the other things they haven't spoken about to anyone else. Of course in the way of all romance it all falls apart when they get back home! Their issues are soon sorted out in dramatic fashion, and they are at last able to settle down together.
A lovely story.
When the group of friends next meet someone brings up the crime story, and Tess, who is having an argument with he half-brother and is angry joins in the conversation, saying that there is no smoke without fire. Finn immediately leaves, assuming everyone will think the same. Beck is really angry, Finn has confided in him, and he explains to the group what happened. Tess is mortified, and immediately leaves to find Finn and apologise. And so their relationship begins. Tess has serious problems of her own, particularly with her health, which has made her wary of getting involved with anyone, but Finn and she get on well. After she has apologised, and they are chatting she hears some pretty ribald language, and discovers he is looking after a couple of parrots for a friend, and has been teaching them some Shakespearean oaths, it is highly amusing when what they say is appropriate to the human conversation!
A museum job has come up on South Island, which they discover both of them have applied for, and have interviews offered. Over the next few days they work together at their presentations, each wanting the job but also wanting the other to do well. They travel to Christchurch together, and their relationship begins. They are very honest with each other, telling the other things they haven't spoken about to anyone else. Of course in the way of all romance it all falls apart when they get back home! Their issues are soon sorted out in dramatic fashion, and they are at last able to settle down together.
A lovely story.
April 26, 2019
Two Wounded Souls and a Chance of Hope
Tess Barker loves history and Jane Austin’s Mr. Darcy. With a degree in history but not a love of teaching in a classroom, Tess leads tours of tourists around the Northland introducing them to the history of Aotearoa. While she loves what she does, she is thinking it is time to move on and try working in a different environment. She is afraid to commit to a relationship or even go see the doctor. She has also managed to offend a good friend who she is secretly in love with. In other words, her Mr. Darcy.
Finn is another person who happens to love history just as much as Tess does. He works at the Waitangi iTreaty Grounds n the museum in the Education Department. He sets up exhibits and teaches as a part of his job. For those not familiar with Waitangi and its importance to the history of En Zed, it is the treaty between Britain and the Maori chieftains which created the nation of New Zealand as a part of the Commonwealth.
Finn has recently had some issues and is ready to leave the area and teaching but he doesn’t want to leave working in a museum.
There is a position opening up at a museum in Christchurch and both Finn and Tess apply for it. It would be a great chance for both of them and they decide to work together and help each other compete for the same job. They are both doing their own presentations but are helping the other one prefect their presentation which is a part of the job application. Working together does help spark the attraction between the two of them.
When they are both in Christchurch to present, the sparks do flare up into a full fledged flame. But can they overcome their issues? In true Serenity Woods fashion, there are still some bumps and hurdles along the way.
Although this is the fourth book in this series, it can be read as a stand alone. This series is a fantastic series and once you read one, you will be hooked.
I did receive an advance reader copy of this book in exchange for a fair and unbiased review. Not that I don’t order her books and read them anyway. Her writing is that good.
Tess Barker loves history and Jane Austin’s Mr. Darcy. With a degree in history but not a love of teaching in a classroom, Tess leads tours of tourists around the Northland introducing them to the history of Aotearoa. While she loves what she does, she is thinking it is time to move on and try working in a different environment. She is afraid to commit to a relationship or even go see the doctor. She has also managed to offend a good friend who she is secretly in love with. In other words, her Mr. Darcy.
Finn is another person who happens to love history just as much as Tess does. He works at the Waitangi iTreaty Grounds n the museum in the Education Department. He sets up exhibits and teaches as a part of his job. For those not familiar with Waitangi and its importance to the history of En Zed, it is the treaty between Britain and the Maori chieftains which created the nation of New Zealand as a part of the Commonwealth.
Finn has recently had some issues and is ready to leave the area and teaching but he doesn’t want to leave working in a museum.
There is a position opening up at a museum in Christchurch and both Finn and Tess apply for it. It would be a great chance for both of them and they decide to work together and help each other compete for the same job. They are both doing their own presentations but are helping the other one prefect their presentation which is a part of the job application. Working together does help spark the attraction between the two of them.
When they are both in Christchurch to present, the sparks do flare up into a full fledged flame. But can they overcome their issues? In true Serenity Woods fashion, there are still some bumps and hurdles along the way.
Although this is the fourth book in this series, it can be read as a stand alone. This series is a fantastic series and once you read one, you will be hooked.
I did receive an advance reader copy of this book in exchange for a fair and unbiased review. Not that I don’t order her books and read them anyway. Her writing is that good.
April 21, 2019
A Unique, Beautiful Masterpiece
5 stars
Wow! I was captivated from the first page to the last. No romance novel before this could have had the same combination of delicate problems that this couple has to deal with: the death of a sister, an untrue sexual abuse accusation, and endometriosis. I love Tess and Finn so much! They are such a wonderful couple. Their love scenes were beautifully tender and perfectly written. I can’t express how wonderfully Tess and Finn's relationship developed. I am so glad that Serenity Woods added this exquisite novel to the “Between the Sheets” series. I adore this entire series about a circle of friends in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand.
Finn is a really nice, introverted historian, 32 years old. He had been hit hard by his sister’s untimely death six months ago in the army, and he has been questioning his life. Then, he is totally innocent when a high school girl that he turned down lied and accused him of sexual abuse. Thankfully, Finn was cleared of all wrongdoing, but the incident haunts him. Tess, 26 and a historian as well, is one of Finn's large circle of friends. The two have been secretly attracted to each other for years. Tess has been quietly battling endometriosis, a painful condition in which the tissue from inside the uterus grows on the exterior of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. Her mother has it as well, and the woman has been putting a lot of emotional baggage on Tess about it. Then, Tess's father left her mom, and Tess is afraid that her mom's medical problem had something to do with it. Tess is afraid that another boyfriend of hers will leave her because she sometimes has pain during sex. Tess and Finn start up a relationship while they are competing for the same job across the country from their little town. Do they want the same things in life?
This romance is wonderful! I highly recommend it to all contemporary romance readers. I think this is one of the best contemporary romances ever written.
5 stars
Wow! I was captivated from the first page to the last. No romance novel before this could have had the same combination of delicate problems that this couple has to deal with: the death of a sister, an untrue sexual abuse accusation, and endometriosis. I love Tess and Finn so much! They are such a wonderful couple. Their love scenes were beautifully tender and perfectly written. I can’t express how wonderfully Tess and Finn's relationship developed. I am so glad that Serenity Woods added this exquisite novel to the “Between the Sheets” series. I adore this entire series about a circle of friends in the Bay of Islands, New Zealand.
Finn is a really nice, introverted historian, 32 years old. He had been hit hard by his sister’s untimely death six months ago in the army, and he has been questioning his life. Then, he is totally innocent when a high school girl that he turned down lied and accused him of sexual abuse. Thankfully, Finn was cleared of all wrongdoing, but the incident haunts him. Tess, 26 and a historian as well, is one of Finn's large circle of friends. The two have been secretly attracted to each other for years. Tess has been quietly battling endometriosis, a painful condition in which the tissue from inside the uterus grows on the exterior of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. Her mother has it as well, and the woman has been putting a lot of emotional baggage on Tess about it. Then, Tess's father left her mom, and Tess is afraid that her mom's medical problem had something to do with it. Tess is afraid that another boyfriend of hers will leave her because she sometimes has pain during sex. Tess and Finn start up a relationship while they are competing for the same job across the country from their little town. Do they want the same things in life?
This romance is wonderful! I highly recommend it to all contemporary romance readers. I think this is one of the best contemporary romances ever written.
April 16, 2019
Reading Between the Lines continues the Between the Sheets series.
Finn has been out of sorts ever since his sister, Ciara, died. A recent breakup and issues at work have further zapped his confidence and excitement about life. Tess isn't challenged at her job and is dealing with the fallout from her parents splitting up. On top of these recent events, Tess's endometriosis is causing more trouble than usual. Apart from the physical pain and discomfort, she has to deal with her mother's emotionally abusive opinions about Tess's condition.
While most of their friend group is happily pairing up and making plans for the future, Finn and Tess both feel stagnate. When they find out they've applied for the same job in Christchurch, they put friendship first and agree to help each other with the presentation and interview prep. Spending all that time together pushes their feelings to the forefront and they are left to determine if getting involved with one another is wise, especially when one of them may end up being selected for the position.
I really liked Finn as a character. He's had a lot on his plate, but doesn't let that turn him into a jerk. I was so impressed when he and Tess got together physically. So many romance novels are about the passion and more physically intense side of things. Since Tess needs something more gentle, Finn absolutely provides. The best part was that I didn't feel like this different take on sex was any less intimate or emotionally intense.
I was frustrated with Tess and how she treated (but really didn't treat) her endometriosis. Given the severity of symptoms, I don't know how she could do nothing. She was only relying on what her mother had told her and putting more weight behind her mother's opinions, than the debilitating pain she was experiencing. Getting advice is all well and good, except when it doesn't work for you.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book.
Finn has been out of sorts ever since his sister, Ciara, died. A recent breakup and issues at work have further zapped his confidence and excitement about life. Tess isn't challenged at her job and is dealing with the fallout from her parents splitting up. On top of these recent events, Tess's endometriosis is causing more trouble than usual. Apart from the physical pain and discomfort, she has to deal with her mother's emotionally abusive opinions about Tess's condition.
While most of their friend group is happily pairing up and making plans for the future, Finn and Tess both feel stagnate. When they find out they've applied for the same job in Christchurch, they put friendship first and agree to help each other with the presentation and interview prep. Spending all that time together pushes their feelings to the forefront and they are left to determine if getting involved with one another is wise, especially when one of them may end up being selected for the position.
I really liked Finn as a character. He's had a lot on his plate, but doesn't let that turn him into a jerk. I was so impressed when he and Tess got together physically. So many romance novels are about the passion and more physically intense side of things. Since Tess needs something more gentle, Finn absolutely provides. The best part was that I didn't feel like this different take on sex was any less intimate or emotionally intense.
I was frustrated with Tess and how she treated (but really didn't treat) her endometriosis. Given the severity of symptoms, I don't know how she could do nothing. She was only relying on what her mother had told her and putting more weight behind her mother's opinions, than the debilitating pain she was experiencing. Getting advice is all well and good, except when it doesn't work for you.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book.
April 8, 2019
What I so enjoy about Serenity Woods’ books is that she combines a real sense of place with her books. Each one opens up a bit of New Zealand to the reader. I’ll probably never be able to travel there, but I love spending a couple of hours feeling almost as if I were there. This story involves two historians who have jobs in northern New Zealand. Finn works at a local history museum and Tess leads tours to historic sites in their area of the country. As in her other novels, these are two good people. Their friends are a nice group of people also. The difficulties they face seem to come naturally out of who they are instead of feeling like contrived plot points. Tess has a medical problem that worries her and has made it difficult for her to form a relationship. However, Finn is kind and gentle and she discovers that she can enjoy lovemaking, especially with such a gentle and hunky lover.
Their other difficulty is that Finn wants to leave their community. They have unknowingly both applied for the same job in the south of the country at a history museum down there. While in a lesser author’s hands, this plot point would lead to competition and bad feeling, it just helps them bond closer together as they help each other make their job presentations while discussing their love of history together.
It all wraps up rather suddenly, but still in a satisfying manner. They get their HEA and the reader gets a very pleasant and romantic fictional trip to New Zealand.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from the author; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
Their other difficulty is that Finn wants to leave their community. They have unknowingly both applied for the same job in the south of the country at a history museum down there. While in a lesser author’s hands, this plot point would lead to competition and bad feeling, it just helps them bond closer together as they help each other make their job presentations while discussing their love of history together.
It all wraps up rather suddenly, but still in a satisfying manner. They get their HEA and the reader gets a very pleasant and romantic fictional trip to New Zealand.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from the author; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
April 10, 2019
Serenity Woods is not afraid to take on life's real problems and Reading Between the Lines is another great example of the depth and feeling that she puts into her books. This books also resonates with Serenity's love of history and archaeology, and of beautiful New Zealand. In this story we meet Tess and Finn who have been friends for a long time and share a love for history, but the timing was never right to start a relationship. Both of them have secrets and problems that drive a wedge into a relationship and Finn is starting to get a bit jaded by life. Tess struggles with endometriosis which is a condition that causes pain and fatigue and interferes with her sex life. Life in Serenity's stories can be just as complicated and difficult as real life!
Reading Between the Lines is a stand alone book but you will not want to miss the other great stories in the series or the background tales of the characters you meet in Reading. They are all full of compassion, as well a passion, and all of her books are, as the down-under folks say, "Hot As".
Tess compares Finn to Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice and I love the comparison of the old-fashioned, shy and serious Finn to the romantic legend. I also enjoyed the parrots that Finn taught to use Shakespearean swear words, at all the right times. So hilarious. This is a very romantic and emotional story that will leave you with a warm glow (and some melted parts as well).
Reading Between the Lines is a stand alone book but you will not want to miss the other great stories in the series or the background tales of the characters you meet in Reading. They are all full of compassion, as well a passion, and all of her books are, as the down-under folks say, "Hot As".
Tess compares Finn to Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice and I love the comparison of the old-fashioned, shy and serious Finn to the romantic legend. I also enjoyed the parrots that Finn taught to use Shakespearean swear words, at all the right times. So hilarious. This is a very romantic and emotional story that will leave you with a warm glow (and some melted parts as well).
April 21, 2019
Reading Between the Lines is exactly the book that the faithful readers of this series were expecting. It is the story of the relationship between Tess and Finn. Both protagonists have introverted personalities and good reasons to be wary of a love affair. Tess suffers from a severe case of endometriosis and is facing very difficult choices on the way forward. Ms. Woods describes with compassion the psychological and physical implications of Tess's condition making the reader reflect on a little known disease. Finn is dealing with the disbelief and worry caused by a false harassment accusation. A man of strict principles, he believes that his reputation is irrevocably damaged and decides to move on the other side of New Zealand. Tess and Finn are old friends, seeing in their developing bond a way to support each other while transitioning to a new phase in their life.
Ms. Woods's love for archeology is evident throughout the story, giving life to vibrant and passionate descriptions of Finn and Tess shared interest.
Finally, Reading Between the Lines is also a graphic, explicit novel. The suggestive content, however, is mitigated by the sweet and vibrant emotional connection between the two protagonists.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. Opinions and comments are solely my own
Ms. Woods's love for archeology is evident throughout the story, giving life to vibrant and passionate descriptions of Finn and Tess shared interest.
Finally, Reading Between the Lines is also a graphic, explicit novel. The suggestive content, however, is mitigated by the sweet and vibrant emotional connection between the two protagonists.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. Opinions and comments are solely my own
April 15, 2019
With each book, you feel as though you are right there in New Zealand. The descriptions of Christchurch tug at your heart as much as they confirm the strength of the people who live there trying to rebuild.
I like that the main characters don't live some fantasy life. They have real problems. Their friends have problems. This is not to say everyone is miserable. It's more to emphasis they have regular lives trying to keep all the balls in the air.
Finn and Tess are good people. I loved how Finn helped Tess with her issue. He was kind, patient, and loving. Even if he didn't realize at the time he was being loving. Tess brought out the fun side of Finn.
I was shocked when Tess said she hadn't looked into her issue because of her mother. I was equally shocked when her mother said the things she said to Tess. I still feel like Tess was old enough to ignore her mother and handle the situation.
Once again, Serenity Woods weaves this romantic, sensual tale about regular people with regular problems. They may have their own families, or they make families out of friendships.
I am still eagerly awaiting Beck and Josie's book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I like that the main characters don't live some fantasy life. They have real problems. Their friends have problems. This is not to say everyone is miserable. It's more to emphasis they have regular lives trying to keep all the balls in the air.
Finn and Tess are good people. I loved how Finn helped Tess with her issue. He was kind, patient, and loving. Even if he didn't realize at the time he was being loving. Tess brought out the fun side of Finn.
I was shocked when Tess said she hadn't looked into her issue because of her mother. I was equally shocked when her mother said the things she said to Tess. I still feel like Tess was old enough to ignore her mother and handle the situation.
Once again, Serenity Woods weaves this romantic, sensual tale about regular people with regular problems. They may have their own families, or they make families out of friendships.
I am still eagerly awaiting Beck and Josie's book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
April 19, 2019
Reading Between the Lines, Between the Sheets, Book 4, focuses on a group of friends that the author has written about before. Finn has been in a funk ever since his sister, Ciara, was killed in Afghanistan. Broken up with longtime girlfriend, he has been reluctant to date, even though he is attracted to Tess. Tess, meanwhile, is dealing with trauma in her own life, a severe case of endometriosis, and the lack of a relationship. Turns out they have applied for the same job at a Christchurch museum, as old friends they discuss their presentations and Tess’s struggles with her condition. Enough spoilers! Suffice it to say these two are highly attracted to each other and they are going to Christchurch together. If anything happens will what happens in Christchurch stay in Christchurch? Will Tess’s condition get in the way of a possible relationship? Does Serenity Woods write fabulously sexy and at the same time super sweet books? As usual in a Serenity Wood’s book, readers also learn more about New Zealand...always a plus! I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book. Highly recommend.
April 20, 2019
I love my visits back to New Zealand and no one does a better job of transporting me there then Serenity Woods. Reading Between the Lines (Between the Sheets, #4) is my latest read by her. I haven’t read the first three books in the series yet but that did not hinder my enjoyment of this story. The Shakespeare and Jane Austen references were exceptionally wonderful.
Besides the strong sense of place that the story has, I always appreciate the friendship among the characters in her books. The relationship between Tess Barker and Finn Brennan felt so natural with the normal ups and downs as a relationship changes. Then these characters have true problems that is handled with thoughtfulness and a gentle hand. These are problems everyday people may have but we don’t often read about characters in stories having. I especially loved how the job competition did not ruin the friendship. Again often in stories it is used to be a source of major conflict. This is much better.
4.5 Stars
The publisher/author gave me a complimentary ARC of the book which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Besides the strong sense of place that the story has, I always appreciate the friendship among the characters in her books. The relationship between Tess Barker and Finn Brennan felt so natural with the normal ups and downs as a relationship changes. Then these characters have true problems that is handled with thoughtfulness and a gentle hand. These are problems everyday people may have but we don’t often read about characters in stories having. I especially loved how the job competition did not ruin the friendship. Again often in stories it is used to be a source of major conflict. This is much better.
4.5 Stars
The publisher/author gave me a complimentary ARC of the book which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 10, 2019
I have yet to read the others in this series, but I love this author and was totally wowed by this story: "Reading Between the Lines" by Serenity Woods. I received an ARC of this story and am gratefully volunteering to write a review. I have never read a book that tackled some of the issues in this story and the novelty was attractive enough, but the sensitivity and candor with which the issues were handled was superb. It was also an incredibly clean copy for an ARC and I totally appreciate that as well, as a reader.
I just loved these characters. Their personal growth arcs as well as the realistic pace and emotional stutter/start of their relationship were totally relatable and engaging. There isn't a lot of action in the story. It is mostly about the inner journey - about grappling with life and how we react to our environments and the circumstances we are presented with which are not of our creation. I can't praise Serenity enough for her sensitivity, guts, and talent in producing this story.
I just loved these characters. Their personal growth arcs as well as the realistic pace and emotional stutter/start of their relationship were totally relatable and engaging. There isn't a lot of action in the story. It is mostly about the inner journey - about grappling with life and how we react to our environments and the circumstances we are presented with which are not of our creation. I can't praise Serenity enough for her sensitivity, guts, and talent in producing this story.
April 29, 2019
Reading Between The Lines is another superb story by the talented Serenity Woods. Finn and Tess have so much in common and are perfect for each other. Even though they have been part of the same circle of friends for years and have harbored feelings for each other, they never let the other know they wanted more from their friendship. Once they do, the relationship takes off fast and furious. I love the fact they were both willing to sacrifice for the other. Finn is a dream of a man. Gentle, compassionate, intelligent, moral, ethical, passionate, and so much more. Tess is an all-around good woman. I do wish she had taken her health problems seriously and been seeing a doctor regularly instead of letting her mother scare her into hiding her head in the sand.
This was a very well-written story with likable characters that kept me entertained from page 1. It was nice catching up with old friends at Between The Sheets. I urge you to read this book and all books by this terrific author.
This was a very well-written story with likable characters that kept me entertained from page 1. It was nice catching up with old friends at Between The Sheets. I urge you to read this book and all books by this terrific author.
April 18, 2019
I have read all of Serenity Woods’ books, and they just keep getting better and better. Tess and Finn have been friends for a while. They have been attracted to each other but haven’t acted on it. Both Tess and Finn have problems in their lives. They finally get together, while interviewing for the same job but will their personal problems get in the way of their new romance?
I love how Serenity tells a story about people with real issues, along with great friendships while also giving us history of New Zealand, and descriptions of the country, that make the reader feel as if they are there.
This is such an emotional, heartfelt book, with plenty of romance. I highly recommend it, along with the other books in this series.
I was given a free ARC of the book, but my opinion is strictly my own.
I love how Serenity tells a story about people with real issues, along with great friendships while also giving us history of New Zealand, and descriptions of the country, that make the reader feel as if they are there.
This is such an emotional, heartfelt book, with plenty of romance. I highly recommend it, along with the other books in this series.
I was given a free ARC of the book, but my opinion is strictly my own.
April 21, 2019
This is a story of unusual circumstances that has kept Tess away from men and love. Finn is a quiet scholar type that is a big part of the Kiwi group of friends they share, but no one really knows him well. Unknowingly they each admire one another but neither have acted on their feelings.
When a trip to Christchurch has them both going at the same time, they realize they have feelings for each other, but that's only half the battle. Tess is holding a secret she seldom shares and it's a big one.
Finn is a sexy hunk and a jewel of a man. How he reacts to Tess when he learns of her secret is nothing short of a knight in shining armor, a very smoking hot knight.
Serenity has taken a very complicated subject matter and made it into a very beautiful story. For those of us who know, thank you Serenity.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
When a trip to Christchurch has them both going at the same time, they realize they have feelings for each other, but that's only half the battle. Tess is holding a secret she seldom shares and it's a big one.
Finn is a sexy hunk and a jewel of a man. How he reacts to Tess when he learns of her secret is nothing short of a knight in shining armor, a very smoking hot knight.
Serenity has taken a very complicated subject matter and made it into a very beautiful story. For those of us who know, thank you Serenity.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
April 23, 2019
Finn and Tess have known each other for quite a while. However, they never knew that they each had an attraction to one another. They are both in the same line of work, so they always have great conversations that their other friends find uninteresting. So, when they finally realize that there are sparks and that they both would like to see where the relationship would take them, Tess has to explain her medical condition and hopes that it does not push Finn away. Finn, however, is the perfect gentleman and takes care of her and makes sure that anything they do, does not hurt her. They are both up for an interview with the same museum and although they both would be ok if the other got the job, they aren't sure what the future would hold for them should one get it. It was a great story with very heartwarming characters. I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book.
April 23, 2019
I loved Tess and Finn’s story! The group of friends that meet at the bar are a special group of long time friends, it was nice to finally see these two get together. This author treated Tess’s special condition with kit gloves, although it was a bit much in parts, as well as her mother’s predicament, could have done with less of the harping on both fronts, but loved how the author created Finn’s character with love and compassion when it came to lovemaking. The way she writes her love scenes is something to behold, loved the compassion between these two, loved the chemistry and what they had in common. As usual, the surrounding scenery the book is set in is something you want to hop a plane to see for yourself, truly something magical about it all. Enjoyed this book much more than the previous installment, would highly recommend it.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
June 3, 2025
Finn and Tess share a deep connection and are perfect for each other. Despite being part of the same friend group for years and harbouring feelings for one another, they never revealed their desire for more than friendship. Once they finally do, their relationship accelerates rapidly. I appreciate how both are willing to make sacrifices for each other. Finn is an incredible man—gentle, compassionate, intelligent, moral, ethical, passionate, and so much more. Tess is a genuinely good woman, though she had health problems, the same as her mother and previous boyfriends didn't understand her pain until Finn.
This story is beautifully written, featuring likeable characters that kept me engaged from the very first page. It was nice to reconnect with familiar faces at Between The Sheets. I highly recommend this book, as well as all works by this talented author.
This story is beautifully written, featuring likeable characters that kept me engaged from the very first page. It was nice to reconnect with familiar faces at Between The Sheets. I highly recommend this book, as well as all works by this talented author.
April 15, 2019
Another great read from Serenity Woods
The first time I read Serenity Woods was the first book in this series A Secret Between Friends and I was absolutely hooked. I feel like I know Tess And Finn as with all Serenity Woods books, the people you meet come along in another book. I love this as you really get to know personalities and a real sense of a group of friends and the beautiful settings in New Zealand. Hard and touchy life subjects are dealt with in a sensitive and caring way and romance is built up to a sizzle! This book deals with several touchy subjects such as endometriosis for Tess while Finn is also caught up with emotional problems that make him question his own sense of worth. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to what Serenity Woods will bring next.
The first time I read Serenity Woods was the first book in this series A Secret Between Friends and I was absolutely hooked. I feel like I know Tess And Finn as with all Serenity Woods books, the people you meet come along in another book. I love this as you really get to know personalities and a real sense of a group of friends and the beautiful settings in New Zealand. Hard and touchy life subjects are dealt with in a sensitive and caring way and romance is built up to a sizzle! This book deals with several touchy subjects such as endometriosis for Tess while Finn is also caught up with emotional problems that make him question his own sense of worth. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to what Serenity Woods will bring next.
April 14, 2019
A good story. I loved Tess and Finn. They've had an attraction for each other for quite some time, but the timing had been off, until now. But since they're also both interviewing for the same job it starts to look like they're going to have to work some things out before they can be a couple. Especially since Tess has pain from endometriosis, making an intimate relationship difficult. This is where I especially love Finn, he was understanding and wanted to make sure that Tess wasn't in pain. He was so caring and loving with her. I adore the references to Mr. Darcy, and he lives up to it. The parrots are hilarious, they gave me a good giggle.
April 13, 2019
Tess and Finn are going through some stuff!!!! Their friendship and long denied chemistry can’t be denied when they are spending more time together. I love how Tess and Finn are so supportive of each other, even though they are going for the same job!! What makes this story special is how understanding and respectful of each other they are. Finn is so worthy of Tess’ love and Tess is so deserving of an understanding, gentle lover and partner. Beautiful story! I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this story.
April 20, 2019
Loving Hand
Finn meets Tess through his friend, her brother years ago. As they get to know each other they realize they have so much in common. Neither realizes they both applied for the same job and as they find out they are surprised. Their budding relationship is strong but Tess faces real emotional and health choices. With Finn by her side can they weather it together? Or will the stress be to much?
Heart Warming inspiring as two people who are so good together navigate many challenges to be together.
Finn meets Tess through his friend, her brother years ago. As they get to know each other they realize they have so much in common. Neither realizes they both applied for the same job and as they find out they are surprised. Their budding relationship is strong but Tess faces real emotional and health choices. With Finn by her side can they weather it together? Or will the stress be to much?
Heart Warming inspiring as two people who are so good together navigate many challenges to be together.
April 20, 2019
Serenity has created a series of books about a group of friends living in the beautiful Bay of Islands in New Zealand. Each of the characters in the books has to deal with a heart-rending life situation before they can love themselves and find love. You’ll love these characters. Each of them either finds a hot guy or is one and Between the Sheets, well make sure you have a cold glass of water or your own hot partner on hand. You’ll need it.
May 2, 2019
3.5 stars
Both the main characters have a crisis of identity and are looking for other options in life. They find out that they both applied for the same job. Whilst working on their presentations together they move forward with their attraction to one another.
They have honesty and trust in the relationship which allows them to move forward with the lives they perceive for themselves. And not one dictated by conformity.
Both the main characters have a crisis of identity and are looking for other options in life. They find out that they both applied for the same job. Whilst working on their presentations together they move forward with their attraction to one another.
They have honesty and trust in the relationship which allows them to move forward with the lives they perceive for themselves. And not one dictated by conformity.
April 9, 2019
A Perfect Match.
Tess and Finn have been within the same group of friends for years but it is only when they travel to Christchurch, to interview for the same job, that they get together. Tess and Finn are great individuals and made for each other. I highly recommend this story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Tess and Finn have been within the same group of friends for years but it is only when they travel to Christchurch, to interview for the same job, that they get together. Tess and Finn are great individuals and made for each other. I highly recommend this story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 3, 2021
4.5 stars - Nice
Serenity Woods is definitely not afraid to put her characters through the ringer. In Reading Between the Lines the heroine has endometriosis. She’s in a constant and progressive pain. The hero’s suffering in a different way. He’s been falsely accused and his reputation is suffering. In one another they find friendship, acceptance, and love. It’s a great read.
Serenity Woods is definitely not afraid to put her characters through the ringer. In Reading Between the Lines the heroine has endometriosis. She’s in a constant and progressive pain. The hero’s suffering in a different way. He’s been falsely accused and his reputation is suffering. In one another they find friendship, acceptance, and love. It’s a great read.
May 1, 2019
A nice story about friends who happen to interview the same job. Their secret crush for each other turns more but each has something serious to make them hesitate getting too serious with each other.
July 12, 2019
I love Serenity Woods' books! It's not a requirement to read the whole series as each of her books could be considered a standalone but it's always fun to keep up with old friends. I get so invested in the characters from her books that it seems like we are close. I started read the newest Between the Sheets Book [#5 - Between You, Me, and the Bedpost] and couldn't remember what happened to Finn & Tess so I had to go back and search through my Kindle for their story. I'm so happy to get to know these two and see what makes them tick. It was a different kind of love story but it seemed really "real" and believable.
April 19, 2019
I love how Serenity's characters come across as real, and vulnerable without being trite. She is the queen of the happy ever after that doesn't leave a sickly sweet feeling in the mouth.
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