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Cole Brothers #1
Unravel You
It’s the wedding of the summer…
College graduate Valentina de Cordoba never expected to fall for the handsome and intimidating Derek Cole when she accepted his offer to rent his property.
From cottage to mansion, this single mom is certain she doesn't deserve him or the fairytale unfolding. But Derek gets what he wants... and he wants her.
He’s “the one” for her, but before she says I do, she has to survive a month long trip to his family’s estate in Atlanta. Gaining approval from four brothers and an over-protective mother might just be her hardest test yet.
For hot billionaire Derek Cole, this homecoming is a chance to mend the damage he caused when he walked away from the family business.
When the past comes knocking, their love and trust for each other will be tested.
Note: This is a steamy romance with explicit sensual scenes, happily ever after, no cheating, and no cliffhanger.
College graduate Valentina de Cordoba never expected to fall for the handsome and intimidating Derek Cole when she accepted his offer to rent his property.
From cottage to mansion, this single mom is certain she doesn't deserve him or the fairytale unfolding. But Derek gets what he wants... and he wants her.
He’s “the one” for her, but before she says I do, she has to survive a month long trip to his family’s estate in Atlanta. Gaining approval from four brothers and an over-protective mother might just be her hardest test yet.
For hot billionaire Derek Cole, this homecoming is a chance to mend the damage he caused when he walked away from the family business.
When the past comes knocking, their love and trust for each other will be tested.
Note: This is a steamy romance with explicit sensual scenes, happily ever after, no cheating, and no cliffhanger.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 18, 2019
240 people are currently reading
1246 people want to read
About the author
Diana A. Hicks
164 books789 followersDiana A. Hicks is an award-winning author of contemporary romance that's sometimes dark, sometimes suspenseful, but always steamy. Her upcoming release, Empire of Ache & Ruin coming May 6, 2025!
When Diana is not writing, she enjoys hot yoga, kickboxing, traveling, and indulging in the simple joys of life like wine and chocolate. She lives in Atlanta and loves spending time with her two children and husband. Connect with Diana on social media to stay up to date on her latest releases.
Available now:
The Crime Society Series
Lost Raven (FREE)
King of Beasts, Book 1
Queen of Beasts, Book 2
Wolf's Lair (FREE)
Big Bad Wolf, Book 1
Big Bad Red, Book 2
Once Upon a Christmas (FREE)
Dark Beauty (FREE)
Wings of Ruin, Book 1
Wings of Silence, Book 2
Wicked Seduction, Book 1
Wicked Temptation, Book 2
Heartless Vow (FREE)
Steal My Heart Series
Entangle You
Unravel You
Ignite You
Release You
Cole Brothers Series
Unleash You
Defy You
Provoke You
Escape You
Escape My Love (FREE)
Cocky Hero Club
Irresistible Bastard
Follow her on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dianahicksauthor
Follow her on Amazon: amazon.com/author/dianahicksauthor
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Join her reader group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Diana...
Follow her on Twitter: @diana_hicks
When Diana is not writing, she enjoys hot yoga, kickboxing, traveling, and indulging in the simple joys of life like wine and chocolate. She lives in Atlanta and loves spending time with her two children and husband. Connect with Diana on social media to stay up to date on her latest releases.
Available now:
The Crime Society Series
Lost Raven (FREE)
King of Beasts, Book 1
Queen of Beasts, Book 2
Wolf's Lair (FREE)
Big Bad Wolf, Book 1
Big Bad Red, Book 2
Once Upon a Christmas (FREE)
Dark Beauty (FREE)
Wings of Ruin, Book 1
Wings of Silence, Book 2
Wicked Seduction, Book 1
Wicked Temptation, Book 2
Heartless Vow (FREE)
Steal My Heart Series
Entangle You
Unravel You
Ignite You
Release You
Cole Brothers Series
Unleash You
Defy You
Provoke You
Escape You
Escape My Love (FREE)
Cocky Hero Club
Irresistible Bastard
Follow her on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dianahicksauthor
Follow her on Amazon: amazon.com/author/dianahicksauthor
Follow her on BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/diana...
Follow her blog: https://dianahicksbooks.com/
Like her Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/DianaHicksAu...
Join her reader group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Diana...
Follow her on Twitter: @diana_hicks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
November 27, 2019
Full Review on my blog!
3.5/5 stars
Unravel You is a steamy, heart-wrenching romance with a very interesting plot-line.
I know this is meant to be a standalone but I don't feel as if it was one. I REALLY wish I had read Love over Lattes , the prequel novel, which is about the start of Valentina and Derek's romance, before jumping into this. I felt a huge chunk of the build up with Valentina and Derek's relationship was missing. I really feel like some more backstory would have helped the story because there were times I felt a bit out of touch with what was happening with some of the characters but I guess in the end it wasn't completely necessary.
However, I did enjoy Derek and Valentina's story. Valentina is starting a new life with Derek who seems to be the man of her dreams. They get engaged pretty quickly from the sound of it, and things only get more complicated when they take a trip to Atalanta to meet Derek's family.
We see the story of them once they've fallen in love, seeing their love grow, their engagement, some drama, etc. Basically the continuation of their story. Which I'll be honest, seemed to drag on a little, but these two had crazy great chemistry and shared a connection that totally made up for it.
I loved all the characters and their interactions, they felt real and believable. I especially loved Derek's brothers!🙊 Although, we don't get to really know any of them in this book. I'm REALLY looking forward to diving into the other books in this series!
Besides not getting a FULL picture of Derek and Valentina's relationship, I really did enjoy this first book in the series. I definitely recommend it! I also recommend reading Love Over Lattes first. A few things will make more sense. Speaking of, I'm off to buy that one, I'm really looking forward to getting to know these two better.
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3.5/5 stars
Unravel You is a steamy, heart-wrenching romance with a very interesting plot-line.
I know this is meant to be a standalone but I don't feel as if it was one. I REALLY wish I had read Love over Lattes , the prequel novel, which is about the start of Valentina and Derek's romance, before jumping into this. I felt a huge chunk of the build up with Valentina and Derek's relationship was missing. I really feel like some more backstory would have helped the story because there were times I felt a bit out of touch with what was happening with some of the characters but I guess in the end it wasn't completely necessary.
However, I did enjoy Derek and Valentina's story. Valentina is starting a new life with Derek who seems to be the man of her dreams. They get engaged pretty quickly from the sound of it, and things only get more complicated when they take a trip to Atalanta to meet Derek's family.
We see the story of them once they've fallen in love, seeing their love grow, their engagement, some drama, etc. Basically the continuation of their story. Which I'll be honest, seemed to drag on a little, but these two had crazy great chemistry and shared a connection that totally made up for it.
I loved all the characters and their interactions, they felt real and believable. I especially loved Derek's brothers!🙊 Although, we don't get to really know any of them in this book. I'm REALLY looking forward to diving into the other books in this series!
Besides not getting a FULL picture of Derek and Valentina's relationship, I really did enjoy this first book in the series. I definitely recommend it! I also recommend reading Love Over Lattes first. A few things will make more sense. Speaking of, I'm off to buy that one, I'm really looking forward to getting to know these two better.
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November 16, 2019
Unravel You (Cole Brothers #1) by: Diana Hicks
Will they or won't they becomes should they or shouldn't they. Is there love enough to survive the hot mess that is heading their way? Derek and Valentina seem lost in a fairytale that neither is sure will come true. She found her Prince. He has his Cinderella. Yet life seems destined to throw a monkey wrench in their plans. Unravel You teases the heart with humor, seduces the senses and takes a real world look at the starry eyed fantasy we hold in our hearts of love. Hicks turns fantasy romance into realistic chaos. I loved every minute of it.
Will they or won't they becomes should they or shouldn't they. Is there love enough to survive the hot mess that is heading their way? Derek and Valentina seem lost in a fairytale that neither is sure will come true. She found her Prince. He has his Cinderella. Yet life seems destined to throw a monkey wrench in their plans. Unravel You teases the heart with humor, seduces the senses and takes a real world look at the starry eyed fantasy we hold in our hearts of love. Hicks turns fantasy romance into realistic chaos. I loved every minute of it.
November 17, 2019
This was the first book from this author that I have read. I liked this story however I was a little lost since this was the continuation of Valentina and Cole’s story. I really enjoyed the characters and the story once I got over the issue that I have missed some of their story. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 23, 2019
Valentina and Derek are in love and engaged. But Derek's hiding things from her and it's not boding well for the future of their upcoming marriage. Especially when his past comes back to bite him (and her) in the ass!
Will Valentina leave him when she finds out what he's been hiding from her? Or will she realize just how strong their love is?
This is a continuation of Derek and Valentina's story, which I appreciated because it gave them time as a couple, rather than the lead-up to a relationship. This conclusion is suspenseful and more than a little emotional. It's a great way to end their story.
ARC via IndieSage PR for an honest review.
Review/Blog Tour: Live Through Books Blog.
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December 1, 2019
5 cranky stars
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
Derek's first wife Bridget embezzled their company to fund her gambling habits. It was not a marriage of love but convenience.
Needless to say this marriage didn't last long due to this and other things. Derek had moved on building the company backup until he met Valentina who also worked with them.
Valentina had a 6 year old boy, Max, who meant the world to her. Derek and Valentina fell deeply in love.
The first half of this book was a real feel good book. A romance to beat all romances. Then the second half upped the ante and we had their pasts clashing together in a very well written drama.
A recommended read.
Thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
Derek's first wife Bridget embezzled their company to fund her gambling habits. It was not a marriage of love but convenience.
Needless to say this marriage didn't last long due to this and other things. Derek had moved on building the company backup until he met Valentina who also worked with them.
Valentina had a 6 year old boy, Max, who meant the world to her. Derek and Valentina fell deeply in love.
The first half of this book was a real feel good book. A romance to beat all romances. Then the second half upped the ante and we had their pasts clashing together in a very well written drama.
A recommended read.
December 3, 2019
I believe you need to have read the first part of their story...
Let me just say that I felt cheated and a bit lost or confused. I wanted to know the whole story. I wanted to have it all right in front of me. I want to read LOVE OVER LATTES. Watching Valentina and Derek go through the hurdles of mending family conflict, meeting the parents, the siblings, and being in a new city was already enough for them to deal with along with preparing for a wedding.
I jumped right in to this read without any preliminary work. I did not read the blurb completely and missed one vital clue. This was a follow-up to a previous story with the same two characters. From what I gather it was a good read.
Unravel You was a real world look at what happens after you feel like you found your HEA. Life becomes a reality that we all have to live in at some point in time. This was the story after the beginning was fairytale.
Let me just say that I felt cheated and a bit lost or confused. I wanted to know the whole story. I wanted to have it all right in front of me. I want to read LOVE OVER LATTES. Watching Valentina and Derek go through the hurdles of mending family conflict, meeting the parents, the siblings, and being in a new city was already enough for them to deal with along with preparing for a wedding.
I jumped right in to this read without any preliminary work. I did not read the blurb completely and missed one vital clue. This was a follow-up to a previous story with the same two characters. From what I gather it was a good read.
Unravel You was a real world look at what happens after you feel like you found your HEA. Life becomes a reality that we all have to live in at some point in time. This was the story after the beginning was fairytale.
November 18, 2019
Derek’s last relationship did not end well so it left him with trust issues but from the first time he met Valentina he knew that she was the woman for him even if they hadn’t been together long. He is taking her home to introduce her to the family but not everyone is happy they are together.
Meeting your in-laws is never easy but between Valentina’s frazzled nerves and the less than welcome reception things are about to get complicated.
Valentina is feisty and fiery which is a perfect challenge to Derek’s protective side. Humor, heart and heat all combine into an intriguing storyline.
Meeting your in-laws is never easy but between Valentina’s frazzled nerves and the less than welcome reception things are about to get complicated.
Valentina is feisty and fiery which is a perfect challenge to Derek’s protective side. Humor, heart and heat all combine into an intriguing storyline.
November 29, 2019
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
Valentina and Cole are engaged though things are still a little bumpy. She has issues of not being good enough for him and his issues are a whole entirely different thing. Add in two ex's that feel owed something they are not and you get one explosive yet steamy happily ever after for these two. Full of surprises that wrap up this chapter of the Cole brothers very well. Makes for a fun read for fans of romance. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
Valentina and Cole are engaged though things are still a little bumpy. She has issues of not being good enough for him and his issues are a whole entirely different thing. Add in two ex's that feel owed something they are not and you get one explosive yet steamy happily ever after for these two. Full of surprises that wrap up this chapter of the Cole brothers very well. Makes for a fun read for fans of romance. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
November 25, 2019
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 4.0
~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Great Book
This book was tablet melting hot and definitely worth the read! I was hooked and I couldn’t put it down!
~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Great Book
This book was tablet melting hot and definitely worth the read! I was hooked and I couldn’t put it down!
March 5, 2024
This is the second book in the duet. Valentina and Derek are getting married and they are planning to spend time with his family.
Because of how wealthy they are, Valentina feels out of place, its hard to be around them, because she feels like she doesn’t belong, especially his mother who makes no secret of wanting him home and Valentina not being good enough.
Theirs is a whirlwind romance and whilst they want to be together, they are struggling to find even footing. Derek has gone back to spending all of his time working and almost living separate lives.
They are facing obstacles through the whole book and things come to a head. Derek realises that his life is better with Val and they both move forward. They have both grown as characters and I really enjoyed that we got to experience all of this with them.
I like that we got the next chapter in Val's and Derek's romance, although, I think there may have been some side stories about other characters between these two books as there were references that didn’t quite make sense. I will be definitely looking into those!
Overall a really enjoyable duet, definitely recommend!
Because of how wealthy they are, Valentina feels out of place, its hard to be around them, because she feels like she doesn’t belong, especially his mother who makes no secret of wanting him home and Valentina not being good enough.
Theirs is a whirlwind romance and whilst they want to be together, they are struggling to find even footing. Derek has gone back to spending all of his time working and almost living separate lives.
They are facing obstacles through the whole book and things come to a head. Derek realises that his life is better with Val and they both move forward. They have both grown as characters and I really enjoyed that we got to experience all of this with them.
I like that we got the next chapter in Val's and Derek's romance, although, I think there may have been some side stories about other characters between these two books as there were references that didn’t quite make sense. I will be definitely looking into those!
Overall a really enjoyable duet, definitely recommend!
February 24, 2025
Good Book
I loved Derek & Valentina but I have to give credit to Max he was such an adorable kid.
I didn’t get all my questions from book one answered though, it never mentioned the board and how they had allowed Bridget to embezzle funds and make contracts they couldn’t complete. That is what a board is for and Derek makes no mention of them but does mention the bad contracts she made that he will lose money on.
The rest of their relationship was lush and I loved them together and I have to say how dumb she was from the letter left by Alex.
Knowing him the way she did she would have told Derek and not just left as she did.
That’s why I didn’t give 5 stars, the rest of the story is so lovely.
This is the last book about these two but it seems his brothers are getting books and Wesley is next with Annabelle.
I loved Derek & Valentina but I have to give credit to Max he was such an adorable kid.
I didn’t get all my questions from book one answered though, it never mentioned the board and how they had allowed Bridget to embezzle funds and make contracts they couldn’t complete. That is what a board is for and Derek makes no mention of them but does mention the bad contracts she made that he will lose money on.
The rest of their relationship was lush and I loved them together and I have to say how dumb she was from the letter left by Alex.
Knowing him the way she did she would have told Derek and not just left as she did.
That’s why I didn’t give 5 stars, the rest of the story is so lovely.
This is the last book about these two but it seems his brothers are getting books and Wesley is next with Annabelle.
January 25, 2023
this book had me so confused, i actually had to go to previous reviews to figure out what was going on. turns out there’s a prequel novel that gives you a lot more information on this couple than this book, and so I spent the majority of this book confused as to why it started out in the middle of a relationship. I really wish I had of read the prequel novel first and I kind of wish that it had been a little bit more clear considering this was the first book in the series but aside from that, the characters were solid, I liked the development and their interactions. it was a cute little smutty novel that i think a lot of people would like. I would recommend but do read the prequel first. it would be helpful.
June 3, 2023
I’m going to start and say that it is a standalone however I highly recommend reading the others first so you understand parts. I started this book stopped and went back and reread others. It helped me more.
With this being said after getting a few pages in I started to really love the story.
We’ve all been there before when you date someone and sometimes feels like your dating the family. 😂😂
Valentina and Derek were amazing but could one family trip ruin everything they’ve built so far?
Will the past stay buried in the past?
What Derek wants Derek gets 🥰😳
With this being said after getting a few pages in I started to really love the story.
We’ve all been there before when you date someone and sometimes feels like your dating the family. 😂😂
Valentina and Derek were amazing but could one family trip ruin everything they’ve built so far?
Will the past stay buried in the past?
What Derek wants Derek gets 🥰😳
January 12, 2025
The second part of Derek Cole and Valentina. Derek Cole is a billionaire who met Valentina and now they are engaged. She has one child. They are from different worlds and have not known each other long. He wants her to meet his family and she is dreading this. She overheard his call to his mom and it was not good. Is she up for another challenge? She loves him so much but taking on his family may be too much. Her instincts to run is coming at full blast. Will this be the end or just the beginning? Let’s hope it is the latter! Get ready!
May 27, 2023
This one was definitely a solid 3 ⭐️. The first half of the book felt like we were just reviewing some of the things that happened in the previous book , and it just was kind of the same old same old. However, the second half got much more exciting and kept me turning the pages. I’m glad I read this one to see how the relationship progressed between Derek and Valentina, but I also know that I don’t need to move on to the rest of the books in the series.
June 4, 2023
Diana has done it again with this book!!! You definitely have to read Entangled You first to really understand everything in this book. The roller coaster ride you get taken on in this book will honestly have you really reading faster then you want to find out what is going to happen next. The truths that are delivered are beyond what anyone expects and the trust between these two is tested. Great read!!
May 25, 2023
I know this series can all be read as standalones but I think the other one should be read first as it holds the beginning of their story. I loved their dynamic and the back and forth it is what you would expect. I love the character growth from the beginning to the end. The past always has a way of coming back but I like how they dealt with theirs and moved on and I absolutely loved the ending of the story.
May 30, 2023
This was the perfect ending to Derek and Valentina's story! I was 100% satisfied with the ending and how everything came together! They had a lot of ups and downs definitely some hurtles to battle through but together their love concord all in this beautiful story! I absolutely loved and would recommend this book
June 8, 2023
This is such a beautiful and heart wrenching read. I love Derek and Valentina. They will definitely have you going back and forth with ‘Will they or won’t they.’ The love between them was so pure and I was just obsessed. The chemistry was just so beautiful.
I loved Derek’s brothers so much. I can’t wait to read more in this series. Overall an excellent read.
I loved Derek’s brothers so much. I can’t wait to read more in this series. Overall an excellent read.
October 30, 2025
I read Entangle You and this book Unravel You, part two of the duet in one day. I could not go to sleep until I knew how this story would conclude and how the author would twist my emotions to get to the end. Both Valentina and Derek have so much baggage to unpack, and his family doesn't help matters. Book 1 was my favorite of the duet.
March 7, 2023
Ms. Hicks always engages me for hours with her stories.
A grumpy billionaire…I know I was all in!
The characters were well done and Ms. Hicks enticed me with the secondary characters as well!
I was definitely hopeful that Val and Derek would find their way to a "real" HEA despite the obstacles!
A grumpy billionaire…I know I was all in!
The characters were well done and Ms. Hicks enticed me with the secondary characters as well!
I was definitely hopeful that Val and Derek would find their way to a "real" HEA despite the obstacles!
June 1, 2023
This was a great cute steamy story. It’s a standalone but continues the story of Derek and Valentina from Love over Lattes. I loved the dynamic between Valentina and her son Max. I would recommend this cute story for a quick read.
August 8, 2020
Brilliant
Brilliant absolutely loved this book couldn't put it down superb well written and a great cast of characters loved it
Brilliant absolutely loved this book couldn't put it down superb well written and a great cast of characters loved it
October 25, 2023
Really enjoying this series! Love Derek Cole and Valentina… wonderful characters, some entertaining drama, and of course a love story!
Read
February 28, 2025DNF. I hate miscommunication tropes.
November 24, 2019
I absolutely fell into this book right away. I'll admit that, while I was originally drawn to it because of that cover, I meshed with the characters right away. The only thing I will say is, that even though this is a standalone, I really wish I had read Love Over Lattes first because it tells the story of how Valentina and Derek met and fell in love. There were a few spots in this book where you could tell that things would have made a bit more sense if I had the background provided in the prequel. Unravel You is just the story of what happens once they fall in love and get engaged, not how they get there. Still a beautiful love story, just not the beginning.
I loved Annabelle right away. She was one of my favorite characters throughout the book - a genuinely good person. And Lilly, Derek's mom, was nice (once you got past her bitchy beginning). The lengths some mothers will go to just to pick their son's future wife! Wow!
The character interactions in this book were great. None of them really seemed too far-fetched. You have the crazy ex-wife, Bridget, who has a gambling problem and just needs money (or maybe she still loves Derek and wants him to dump Valentina?). Then you have Alex, the sociopath ex-boyfriend who gets off on making Valentina feel worthless and hurting her. The two of them (Alex and Bridget) are definitely a pair. I liked how everything went down with them because, again, it didn't seem like it was too far-fetched or unrealistic. The author clearly did her research and wrote a believable story. It also wasn't rushed, so you didn't feel like this big drama was about to happen, you blinked and it was over.
Lastly, I loved Derek's brothers, though you don't get to really know any of them in this book. I'm really looking forward to diving into the other books in this series, just to see more of his brothers. I am very intrigued, to say the least :)
There was a point about halfway through this book when everything seemed to wrap-up really well. I almost thought the book was over (except my Kindle kept nagging that I was only 50% of the way through). But then a new plot started and we were off again. Once I got to the end of the story, it all felt like one book but at the time, it felt really broken into two. I did like how it all ended up, with the two plot arcs.
Even though this book is mostly meant to be a romance, I would have liked to see more of Max. He's such a sweet little boy, though he did seem a bit mature for his age. An old soul, perhaps. But I would have liked to see him involved more.
Another big plus in this book was, although Valentina is clearly afraid of Alex in the beginning (nightmares and all), she doesn't play the damsel in distress throughout the entire book. So many female leads fall into that trap, almost naturally, but when Max (her son)'s life is in jeopardy, she step up to the plate and does what needs to be done to keep him safe. No hesitation. She's a strong mom and I give her props for that one.
All in all, great book! I definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a steamy, heart-jerking romance with a great plot-line. I do, however, recommend reading Love Over Lattes first. A few things will make more sense. And I am definitely looking forward to reading about the next Cole brother ;)
I loved Annabelle right away. She was one of my favorite characters throughout the book - a genuinely good person. And Lilly, Derek's mom, was nice (once you got past her bitchy beginning). The lengths some mothers will go to just to pick their son's future wife! Wow!
The character interactions in this book were great. None of them really seemed too far-fetched. You have the crazy ex-wife, Bridget, who has a gambling problem and just needs money (or maybe she still loves Derek and wants him to dump Valentina?). Then you have Alex, the sociopath ex-boyfriend who gets off on making Valentina feel worthless and hurting her. The two of them (Alex and Bridget) are definitely a pair. I liked how everything went down with them because, again, it didn't seem like it was too far-fetched or unrealistic. The author clearly did her research and wrote a believable story. It also wasn't rushed, so you didn't feel like this big drama was about to happen, you blinked and it was over.
Lastly, I loved Derek's brothers, though you don't get to really know any of them in this book. I'm really looking forward to diving into the other books in this series, just to see more of his brothers. I am very intrigued, to say the least :)
There was a point about halfway through this book when everything seemed to wrap-up really well. I almost thought the book was over (except my Kindle kept nagging that I was only 50% of the way through). But then a new plot started and we were off again. Once I got to the end of the story, it all felt like one book but at the time, it felt really broken into two. I did like how it all ended up, with the two plot arcs.
Even though this book is mostly meant to be a romance, I would have liked to see more of Max. He's such a sweet little boy, though he did seem a bit mature for his age. An old soul, perhaps. But I would have liked to see him involved more.
Another big plus in this book was, although Valentina is clearly afraid of Alex in the beginning (nightmares and all), she doesn't play the damsel in distress throughout the entire book. So many female leads fall into that trap, almost naturally, but when Max (her son)'s life is in jeopardy, she step up to the plate and does what needs to be done to keep him safe. No hesitation. She's a strong mom and I give her props for that one.
All in all, great book! I definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a steamy, heart-jerking romance with a great plot-line. I do, however, recommend reading Love Over Lattes first. A few things will make more sense. And I am definitely looking forward to reading about the next Cole brother ;)
November 26, 2019
Before I read this book, I went back and read Love Over Lattes (which is not needed to read this one, but you get to meet Derek and Valentina). It was the first book I had read from this author and I am not disappointed. Not one single bit - and I am glad I signed up for this because it has introduced me to stories I never knew I needed in my life. My emotions were all over the place with this one; but I loved every single second of it!
Derek loves Valentina - but he also loves his job. He wants to make her happy; give her and Max everything they have ever dreamed of; but he has secrets of his own. Sometimes his need to give them what he feels they deserve has him coming off as controlling sometimes; but I can see the good in what he is doing and where he is trying to go with it. He has this insane tendency to keep things to himself a lot and more often than not, that seems to get him into some unwanted trouble.
Valentina is a dedicated mother - as well as determined to make something of her life. She went back and completed school after having Max and made sure she was making something of herself to give him a good life. She's trying her best to fit into the billionaire world of the man she loves, but goodness is it proving to be a bit complicated for her. She is passionate, strong, fierce, determined and she has no problems showing those she loves just how much she cares for them. She doesn't shy away from issues; she faces things head on.
Watching the two of them struggle through things life is throwing their way and watching them juggle all of the new and try and blend it with both of their past is really a joy in itself. We know of their past and even though most of us met them once they were already engaged, we get to see them work their way to happily every after together. I loved that this was not a one hit wonder book. I was about halfway through this novel when it seemed as though everything was kind of coming together and then HHEELLOO - a whole new something to try and keep our love birds apart and we were back off to the races with the story.
The secondary characters were simply amazing. It's rare that I read a story that takes some shine away from the two main characters - but boy are you in for a treat when you meet these brothers. Lilly, Derek's mom is a treat as well. It took her a bit to grow on me; because she came off kind of.. bitchy-like in the beginning; but she did come around; bless her. I without a doubt love the way the story line around Alex was written. As someone who has lived through a menacing man (or should I say boy) such as that; I think it was written to a point where connecting with Valentina comes naturally and nothing about it felt forced.
One thing I wish this book did have was some more involving Max. Maybe that is just the mother in me, but I always find it a joy when the kids are as prominent as the main characters; but at the same time it did not take away anything from this novel at all! This was a solid read; with plenty of tear jerk moments; heart string pulling, laughter and enjoyment. Overall it was well written, flowed beautifully and I cannot wait to get my hands on the stories of the brothers.
Derek loves Valentina - but he also loves his job. He wants to make her happy; give her and Max everything they have ever dreamed of; but he has secrets of his own. Sometimes his need to give them what he feels they deserve has him coming off as controlling sometimes; but I can see the good in what he is doing and where he is trying to go with it. He has this insane tendency to keep things to himself a lot and more often than not, that seems to get him into some unwanted trouble.
Valentina is a dedicated mother - as well as determined to make something of her life. She went back and completed school after having Max and made sure she was making something of herself to give him a good life. She's trying her best to fit into the billionaire world of the man she loves, but goodness is it proving to be a bit complicated for her. She is passionate, strong, fierce, determined and she has no problems showing those she loves just how much she cares for them. She doesn't shy away from issues; she faces things head on.
Watching the two of them struggle through things life is throwing their way and watching them juggle all of the new and try and blend it with both of their past is really a joy in itself. We know of their past and even though most of us met them once they were already engaged, we get to see them work their way to happily every after together. I loved that this was not a one hit wonder book. I was about halfway through this novel when it seemed as though everything was kind of coming together and then HHEELLOO - a whole new something to try and keep our love birds apart and we were back off to the races with the story.
The secondary characters were simply amazing. It's rare that I read a story that takes some shine away from the two main characters - but boy are you in for a treat when you meet these brothers. Lilly, Derek's mom is a treat as well. It took her a bit to grow on me; because she came off kind of.. bitchy-like in the beginning; but she did come around; bless her. I without a doubt love the way the story line around Alex was written. As someone who has lived through a menacing man (or should I say boy) such as that; I think it was written to a point where connecting with Valentina comes naturally and nothing about it felt forced.
One thing I wish this book did have was some more involving Max. Maybe that is just the mother in me, but I always find it a joy when the kids are as prominent as the main characters; but at the same time it did not take away anything from this novel at all! This was a solid read; with plenty of tear jerk moments; heart string pulling, laughter and enjoyment. Overall it was well written, flowed beautifully and I cannot wait to get my hands on the stories of the brothers.
April 11, 2023
Book 2 in the Stolen Hearts duet continues where book 1 left off and the chemistry between Derek and Valentina remains as hot and strong as ever in this billionaire, age gap, romance.
Derek wants the full family feeling but needs to fix his relationship with his mother and brothers first. Things are not easy for Valentina when Derek's mother goes out of her way to let everyone know that she would rather he marry the sweet girl next door, rather than Valentina. Throw in Derek's controlling nature and his inability to share certain information and misunderstandings are bound to happen, especially when crazy ex's try to come between them. These two were meant to be together but can they overcome all the obstacles in order to reach their HEA?
Like book 1, I read this in one sitting, it was full of so many emotions, plot twists, unexpected scenes, friendships being made, intrigue, mystery, suspense, humour and anxiety, it really is a fantastic read. Added bonus, I have just realised that there are books surrounding the rest of the Cole brothers, I cannot wait to dive into the 'Steal my Heart' series and 'Cole Twins' duet.
Derek wants the full family feeling but needs to fix his relationship with his mother and brothers first. Things are not easy for Valentina when Derek's mother goes out of her way to let everyone know that she would rather he marry the sweet girl next door, rather than Valentina. Throw in Derek's controlling nature and his inability to share certain information and misunderstandings are bound to happen, especially when crazy ex's try to come between them. These two were meant to be together but can they overcome all the obstacles in order to reach their HEA?
Like book 1, I read this in one sitting, it was full of so many emotions, plot twists, unexpected scenes, friendships being made, intrigue, mystery, suspense, humour and anxiety, it really is a fantastic read. Added bonus, I have just realised that there are books surrounding the rest of the Cole brothers, I cannot wait to dive into the 'Steal my Heart' series and 'Cole Twins' duet.
December 20, 2019
Rosela LeBlanc owns a restaurant and hotel that means the world to her as it has been passed to her from her grandma. Unfortunately for Ela she is also a recovering alcoholic and her step-father, Andre Benoit currently has control of the properities in LB industries as she has never wanted to run the company.
Matt Cole is applying for a job as the Head of Security at LB Industries and is hired by Jennifer to keep an eye in Ela. Jennifer wants Matt to relocate Ela for the next 30 days when she discovers that her dad is planning on selling the hotel, The Baroness.
When Ela wants to claim the hotel for herself, Matt needs to do whatever it takes to keep Ela safe and to try and keep it professional when he begins developing feelings for her.
Can Matt keep Ela safe when things start happening and when things get tough will he stay with her it through it all or will ghosts from his own past make him leave?
This was such a great follow-up to Unravel You and we got glimpses of what was going on in the first book but this made everything super clear and had me hooked!
I thought Ela was such a great character as it was clear that she had made a lot of mistakes in the past but once she knew what she needed to do she worked hard at figuring out what was going on. She found the strength she needed to get through everything but also knew she couldn’t go about it alone.
I really liked Matt up until a certain moment that he screwed up big time but other than that one teeny (not so teeny) mistake I really did like him. He was humorous and realized that someone really seemed to be after Ela and he needed to know why.
I kind of thought I might know who was behind it all and why right from the beginning but there were definitely aspects that I didn’t guess. I wasn’t surprised at all with how far Andre was willing to go and I am glad that Matt took the threat seriously.
There was a certain huge moment in the book and I was freaking out for the safety of Ela. I was so mad at Matt at this point especially when he knew everything that was going on with Andre and why he never believed Ela. I was so mad and worried!! I was so proud of Ela for doing what she needed to!
I loved Old Ben and everything that he did for Ela and how he really came through for Ela when he was able to!!
The end was so good and I was so happy for how everything went and I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
By Rebecca
Matt Cole is applying for a job as the Head of Security at LB Industries and is hired by Jennifer to keep an eye in Ela. Jennifer wants Matt to relocate Ela for the next 30 days when she discovers that her dad is planning on selling the hotel, The Baroness.
When Ela wants to claim the hotel for herself, Matt needs to do whatever it takes to keep Ela safe and to try and keep it professional when he begins developing feelings for her.
Can Matt keep Ela safe when things start happening and when things get tough will he stay with her it through it all or will ghosts from his own past make him leave?
This was such a great follow-up to Unravel You and we got glimpses of what was going on in the first book but this made everything super clear and had me hooked!
I thought Ela was such a great character as it was clear that she had made a lot of mistakes in the past but once she knew what she needed to do she worked hard at figuring out what was going on. She found the strength she needed to get through everything but also knew she couldn’t go about it alone.
I really liked Matt up until a certain moment that he screwed up big time but other than that one teeny (not so teeny) mistake I really did like him. He was humorous and realized that someone really seemed to be after Ela and he needed to know why.
I kind of thought I might know who was behind it all and why right from the beginning but there were definitely aspects that I didn’t guess. I wasn’t surprised at all with how far Andre was willing to go and I am glad that Matt took the threat seriously.
There was a certain huge moment in the book and I was freaking out for the safety of Ela. I was so mad at Matt at this point especially when he knew everything that was going on with Andre and why he never believed Ela. I was so mad and worried!! I was so proud of Ela for doing what she needed to!
I loved Old Ben and everything that he did for Ela and how he really came through for Ela when he was able to!!
The end was so good and I was so happy for how everything went and I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
By Rebecca
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