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Fated #1

Within Reach

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Andrew
I had it all.
The easy, quiet life.
Money that made itself and a family I saw when I wanted.
I never expected that one night would change all of that…

Jess
I wasn’t looking for love, but when he stumbled through that doorway I knew there was something special about him.
A spark. A connection. Something that not even I could deny…

Will fate finally allow them their happy ever after?
Or does it have other things in store?

Kindle Edition

Published February 8, 2021

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H.L. Packer

20 books224 followers

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5 stars
16 (41%)
4 stars
16 (41%)
3 stars
6 (15%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
1 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Profile Image for Lindsey Powell.
Author 30 books507 followers
January 26, 2021
Well... god damn, Heather, this is one steamy ride!

Starting off hot and heavy, it gives us an insight into just how sexy this book is.
I absolutely loved being thrust into the moment with these two.
The back and forth, the push and pull, and the overwhelming sexual tension that exudes from the main characters.
GAH! I loved all of it!

This is a fantastic start to the Fated books. BRAVO!

Five glorious stars for Within Reach and it’s cheeky alpha 😏
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.4k reviews150 followers
February 11, 2021
Andrew isn't about relationships while Jess isn't looking for one but she's not ruling one out either. The moment they met the sparks were flying so they hooked up but it was only supposed to be one night, however the chemistry is so potent that the best laid plans. That undeniable chemistry makes it impossible to stay away from each other that does make things complicated. I'm not going to lie, these two are hot as hell together, however, Andrew made it impossible to like him from time to time so I wasn't a fan. I was a fan of the independent, sassy Jess, who was all that and a bag of chips. Now that I've gone over what these two were to me, I have to say that I was surprised in the best ways with the twists that came out of nowhere, making for some exciting action as well. I do feel like not all my questions were answered, but that could be just me. Anyway, that's all from me, now it's your turn! HIGHLY RECOMMEND! 
Profile Image for Booklover Judy Lynn.
1,204 reviews18 followers
February 4, 2021
3.5 STARS
The story of Andrew and Jess begins with an instant attraction and what was supposed to be a one-night stand. Things get complicated when they cannot stay away from each other. There is a ton of heat in this book, starting very early on. Andrew is a dominant alpha male in the bedroom and really in life. Underneath, he does have some vulnerabilities that he mostly hides. It was good to see him open his feelings to Jessica. Jessica is a tough woman who can keep up with Andrew. I love her friendships with her girls. I love her snark and independence. Andrew’s family has some complicated dysfunctional dynamics, while we learn very little about Jessica’s family at all. I believe this is partially because the Barrett family dynamics have a big influence on some of the other story arcs within the book. It also sets up the next book in the series.
This story is not the story I expected. After reading “Home,” I expected a story more in line with romantic comedy. That is definitely not this book. There are gritty, dark undertones to the story. There are subplots of dirty business and mafia type action. There is dominant/submission play. There are times that Andrew is not easy to like. The situation he finds himself in with his family was frustrating to me. The story kept me guessing as to how it would work out. Ultimately the story ends with a solid set up for the next book in the series. I get the impression that though the next book is about a different couple, that some of the troubles that plagued Jess and Andrew might continue to be a problem later. I tend to prefer books with story lines that are a little lighter. However, I would say that this book is well-written and the characters, especially Andrew, are well developed. This book is written in first person from a dual POV.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance review copy of the book.
Profile Image for Soly's Books.
329 reviews5 followers
February 11, 2021
J'ai découvert un peu la série "Fated" par hasard parce que la novella 0.5 "Home" se situait à Noël et comme j'avais bien aimé, quand j'avais vu que le tome 1 sortait, en lisant le résumé, je me suis laissée convaincre... mais j'avoue avoir été surprise ! Après un début difficile où j'ai failli laisser tomber (pas mon truc les mecs dominants) je me suis prise au jeu et ensuite, je l'ai lu dans la journée : cette fois, nous découvrons l'histoire d'une des amies de l'héroïne précédente (Cassidy) Jessica donc et de l'ami du héros précédent (Devon) Andrew : tous deux s'étaient croisés lors d'une soirée mais ça en était resté là MAIS ils se retrouvent à la même soirée de la Saint Sylvestre, ils sont seuls tous les deux et ce qui devait être un simple baiser de bonne année à minuit va se transformer en nuit torride et bien plus après... Mais Andrew n'est pas ce qu'il parait (non, non, ce n'est pas un criminel ^^ ) et lorsque son histoire avec la jeune avocate va apparaître dans les journaux, on se dit que rien ne sera plus comme avant : mais est-ce que tous deux sont prêts à vivre une histoire ? (tous deux ont eu une mauvaise expérience qui les a marqués et en plus, Jessica est une spécialiste du divorce) mais les parents d'Andrew qui souhaite que leur fils prenne sa place dans les affaires familiales pourraient bien changer la donne... Est-ce qu'ils sont prêts à se laisser une chance et surtout supporter la pression médiatique? Andrew qui voulait vivre comme n'importe qui va-t-il accepter de diriger l'empire de son père et si oui, quelles en seront les conséquences? Jessica va-t-elle accepter ce monde qui n'est pas le sien et qui est fait d'hypocrisie sachant que l'ex d'Andrew voudrait le récupérer? et bien vous le aurez en lisant cette nouvelle histoire passionnante.

Chronique complète : https://solysbooks.blogspot.com/2021/...
Profile Image for Ana-Mariya  Chankova.
162 reviews12 followers
February 7, 2021
I really enjoyed Andrew and Jess's story!

Andrew was this alpha-male who had to have what he wanted and wasn't shy about it. Despite his macho persona, there was some softness to him. I love the relationship he has with his sister and how his upbringing doesn't affect that. He is not spoilt and know what is hard-work. His affection to Jess is amazing. He treated her like a princess.

Jess - boy, oh boy, I just loved her!! She is this firecracker of a woman. Despite that, however, there is this very shy and intimidated woman, especially when thrown into Andrew's world. I liked seeing her vulnerable.

Their relationship was definitely interesting. They both weren't looking for anything serious, yet both were instantly drawn to each other. Their chemistry was HOT!!

I definitely recommend it and it was a good read.

Looking forward to Sophie's book next!

P.S I was provided with an ARC in return for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Adina Grey.
Author 25 books215 followers
January 27, 2021
Jess and Andrew, oh wow!!!
We can also perceive their attraction as readers.
Jess goes to celebrate New Year's Eve in her favorite Bar/club, and it is there that she meets or instead sees Andrew.
Something immediately clicks between them, so much so that at the stroke of midnight, the two kisses. And what a kiss! Powerful enough not only to set Jess on fire, but it also stirs Andrew.
The two spend a night of pure lust, passion, and sex. Andrew is passionate and dominated, and to Jess attracts even more. They both think it's a one-night stand, but neither has dealt with jealousy.
Twists, steaming moments, a little suspense make the book pleasant to read and fluent.
Reading this book is like watching a movie. And I highly recommend it, just, don't start it in the evening or you'll end up with a sleepless night, you won't be able to put it down.
Profile Image for Joyffree.
3,038 reviews51 followers
February 17, 2021
Holy lemonade on a hot summer's day!!

This is the first in the series but I am going to suggest reading the prequel - The only reason I make that suggestion is that this is a fast-paced story that starts with Andrew dominating behind the scenes (if you get my drift) and it continues this fever pitch throughout the storyline. In the prequel, you meet some of the characters and get an idea of who(?) they are - which I believe might assist greatly in preventing the reader from attempting to erase certain characters (*cough* Andrew) from the pages when they are being a horse's back end.
Back to the story LOL -

Jess and Andrew hook up on New year's eve.
One night (as Andrew does not do seconds) to indulge without restraints (okay a rope or two).
And indulge they do.

Andrew is a bit of a stick up his backside kind of guy or that is how he comes across. Everything his way and everyone bowing to his demands. Until a firecracker of a woman gives him a run for his money. Jess calls to all of Andrew's instincts. She is a mature, intelligent woman who responds to him both emotionally and physically in a way Andrew has never encountered.
She is real
She is his
She will soon know that too

This was a hot as hades romance that is littered with suspense, betrayal, and some heart-stopping "OMG" moments. From the opening scene to the closing (that sets up the next in the series) the reader is kept on the edge (as is Jess)

This plays a bit in the darker end of the romance pool - actually more a bit grey(?) IMO
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
15.1k reviews150 followers
February 7, 2021
This is the 1st in a new series and what a journey Andrew and Jess are on. Andrew is a dominating alpha, while Jess lives her life to the fullest, and when these two meets in a bar and end up having a 1-night stand. There is an instant connection between them, and the push and pull between them is entertaining, and Andrew does a great job in hiding his vulnerability. Jess is the light to his darkness. This is a well written flawless read which is raw, gritty, intense, and with twists, family dynamics, suspense, witty and sarky banter, which all leads to a steamy and all-consuming tale. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I recommend.
337 reviews1 follower
February 10, 2021
Wow, I thought the novella was amazing. This one is my favourite, it is hot and steamy and very addictive with a great story line behind it. Heather definitely has a way with words.

Andrew and Jessica are both certainly from different backgrounds, and Andrew's is very prominent in this book but is good to read. I love the Alpha dominant male and the confident sassy female.

I don't want to give all of the story away because it is better to experience first hand. Can one night become more or will it end there?

This story is incredible, I love the dual point of view and how it leads onto the next story, can't wait for the next book.

Highly recommend this series and the author.
577 reviews12 followers
January 11, 2021
Is Andrew a bit cocky ? , hell yes he is , but do I love him ?, omg yes I do .
Jess is a brilliant character, she lives life to the full , and she loves every second of it .

Neither Andrew , or Jess , are looking for a relationship, but neither can deny the pull they have to each other .

Andrews life changes when he is brought into the family business, a business he never wanted to go into .
Jess is his light , in a life that just seems dark around him at the moment, but will his darkness extinguish her light ?

This is such a great read. I loved every second of it .
Profile Image for United Indie Book Blog.
4,358 reviews79 followers
February 9, 2021
Steamy! I've volunteered to review this book for United Indie Book Blog. This is the next book in the Fated series. This is Jess and Andrew's story. Andrew is a dominating alpha. Jess lives life to the fullest. What started off as a one-night stand. It gets complicated when they can't stay away from each other. There's an instant connection between them. This is a well written story that is raw, gritty, intense, and has some twists. I highly recommend it. I can't wait to read more from this author. You will also love this story. Keep up the good work.

REVIEW BY CHANTELLE
Profile Image for Chantelle Bouffanie.
1,174 reviews7 followers
February 10, 2021
Steamy! I've volunteered to review this book for United Indie Book Blog. This is the next book in the Fated series. This is Jess and Andrew's story. Andrew is a dominating alpha. Jess lives life to the fullest. What started off as a one-night stand. It gets complicated when they can't stay away from each other. There's an instant connection between them. This is a well written story that is raw, gritty, intense, and has some twists. I highly recommend it. I can't wait to read more from this author. You will also love this story. Keep up the good work.
Profile Image for Christine Woinich.
2,230 reviews16 followers
February 10, 2021
Jess and Andrew had chemistry but neither wanted a commitment. Their hearts had other plans. Jess let her past almost keep her from giving into her heart. I loved how she trusted Andrew when circumstances had her questioning their relationship. Andrew was thrown into a situation he never planned on, but I enjoyed how he turned things around for a more positive outlook. With all the danger and publicity surrounding them, this couple proved they were stronger together.

I received a copy of this story through Enticing Journey Book Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.
10 reviews
June 9, 2021
A great read !

This book was amazing. The lead characters weave and interact seamlessly and the book develops an engaging narrative. I couldn't put it down. I read it in one setting. If you like romance with fire and grit - give this book a read. I can't wait to read the rest of the series. I love my romance and this does not disappoint. I'm looking forward to seeing how the characters develop in the next books. Deserves the 5 stars.
Profile Image for Nikki.
1,421 reviews15 followers
December 21, 2021
After meeting Jess and Andrew in book 1 I was interested in seeing what happens in their story so I was excited to jump In.
What I wasn't expecting was some steamy scenes and the intense chemistry between them both!
Full of bumps in the road its definitely not plain sailing for them and it keeps you flipping the pages to see whats next for them.
Bought book 3 to see who's story is next.
*Read as part of KU*
Profile Image for Owella.
438 reviews7 followers
February 14, 2023
Wow what a start to a book. It starts with a bang. Literally! There is spice from the get go! I have loved finding out these characters stories as I have read the series out of order (started with La Famiglia all the way to the end and now have gone back to the beginning). Reading out of order hasn't spoiled it in any way.

So this book is about Jess and Andrew. They have so much chemistry there are sparks are flying everywhere. These two are made for each other ❤️ A brilliant book that I found hard to put down! I can't wait to read the next book in the series ❤️
Profile Image for Yvonne Nelson.
1,129 reviews1 follower
March 13, 2021
Ok

This is one of the hardest reviews I've had to write recently. I was so looking forward to this book and while I enjoyed it i just found something missing for me to completely click with the story. That said I would still recommend to others as this is just my opinion
Profile Image for Karja26.
1,032 reviews
July 4, 2021
Good read, had a lot going which I didn’t expect at all. Did skip a few pages as I felt the middle dragged a bit, but that’s just me.
Currently reading book 2 so interested to see how that pans out.
Profile Image for Lindsey Kramer.
743 reviews17 followers
February 10, 2021
This book was definitely worth the read. I was hooked from the very first page. I can’t wait for book two!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews

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