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Cade Brothers #1
La Tentation de Levi (Les frères Cade t. 1)
Cade men are known for two things: arrogance and competitiveness. I grew up in one of the wealthiest, most dysfunctional families in Lake Tahoe, and all I wanted was to get the hell out. I thought I’d succeeded. Until an accident burned up my firefighter ambitions. Then Dad died and left me in charge of the family resort.
If it were only my inheritance on the line, I’d walk and never look back, but I’ve always taken care of my four younger brothers.
Now I’ve got financially uptight advisors telling me what to do, and I need someone I can trust working at my side. The perfect candidate walks through the door in her pencil skirt, fitted white blouse, and that mass of wavy blond hair she tries to contain.
The only problem? She’s my cheating ex’s younger sister.
Hell no. The last thing I need is another Wright female in my life.
But Emily’s good at the job, and she seems trustworthy. I should ignore the desire I have for her. But after all I’ve lost, I’m tempted by what I can’t have and ready to stoke the flame that smolders between us. As long as this Wright sister doesn’t betray me the way the last one did.
Then again, I always liked playing with fire.
If it were only my inheritance on the line, I’d walk and never look back, but I’ve always taken care of my four younger brothers.
Now I’ve got financially uptight advisors telling me what to do, and I need someone I can trust working at my side. The perfect candidate walks through the door in her pencil skirt, fitted white blouse, and that mass of wavy blond hair she tries to contain.
The only problem? She’s my cheating ex’s younger sister.
Hell no. The last thing I need is another Wright female in my life.
But Emily’s good at the job, and she seems trustworthy. I should ignore the desire I have for her. But after all I’ve lost, I’m tempted by what I can’t have and ready to stoke the flame that smolders between us. As long as this Wright sister doesn’t betray me the way the last one did.
Then again, I always liked playing with fire.
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278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 9, 2017
2019 people are currently reading
2395 people want to read
About the author
Jules Barnard
27 books1,219 followersJules Barnard is a USA Today bestselling author of romantic comedy and romantic fantasy. Her rom-com series include the All’s Fair, Never Date, and Cade Brothers series. She also writes romantic fantasy under J. Barnard in the Halven Rising series Library Journal calls ''...an exciting new fantasy adventure.'' Whether she’s writing about sexy men in Lake Tahoe or a Fae world embedded in a college campus, Jules spins addictive stories filled with heart and humor.
When Jules isn’t in her sweatpants writing and rewarding herself with chocolate, she spends her time with her husband and two children in their small hometown in the Pacific Northwest. She credits herself with the ability to read while running on the treadmill or burning dinner.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 312 reviews
December 31, 2019
The actual writing was okay - but the story was boring, unbelievable and had no real tension or substance. The only real point of interest - the embezzling/betrayal was never really tackled and resolved off the page. Which only left us with the romance, and what a limp wimpy plot line that was - the moment he sees her he thinks jailbait (um..okay?). then she seems to fall in love with his ass. He lusts after her bared muscular back. They never talk.... almost never. So how they ever fall in love is beyond me. Levi spends all the time brooding, and talking to his manwhore brothers - and their conversations were just nonsensical. These are adult men, right? Why the hell do they blame all their problems on their dead dad and the women in their lives? Grow up.
No woman should want to be with these damaged childish males who act out - using sex and women like tissues to avoid maturing or facing their issues.
And Lisa, okay, she wants a fireman (who doesn't) but Levi is hardly kind to her, and there is no actual layers to him or connection with him that ever convinced me she was truly in love. And the scene where she spends 3 days sobbing her heart out and eating Oreos - only for a fire to happen and Levi, conveniently to race to the rescue - I kind of threw up in my mouth a little at the triteness.
The characters lacked depth, layers and believability. No one talks like these people. The plot line needed... well, an actual plot line, with tension, and a satisfying resolution. The romance needed points of connection b/w the leads and communication - lots and lots of communication.
No woman should want to be with these damaged childish males who act out - using sex and women like tissues to avoid maturing or facing their issues.
And Lisa, okay, she wants a fireman (who doesn't) but Levi is hardly kind to her, and there is no actual layers to him or connection with him that ever convinced me she was truly in love. And the scene where she spends 3 days sobbing her heart out and eating Oreos - only for a fire to happen and Levi, conveniently to race to the rescue - I kind of threw up in my mouth a little at the triteness.
The characters lacked depth, layers and believability. No one talks like these people. The plot line needed... well, an actual plot line, with tension, and a satisfying resolution. The romance needed points of connection b/w the leads and communication - lots and lots of communication.
May 23, 2018
This story was cute and sweet, if not a touch frustrating. I really enjoyed all of the family dynamics going on between Levi and his brothers, and also Emily and her sister. There were layers that I found interesting and I can see good things happening in future books in the series. I did feel like the conflict was sort of over done, though, and that spoiled a bit of my fun. Just a bit.
Levi was a good brooding alpha, which I always enjoy. Emily was sweet, but resilient and I found that she seemed more mature than the standard age-gap trope heroine.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book, via Hidden Gems Books, in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.
Levi was a good brooding alpha, which I always enjoy. Emily was sweet, but resilient and I found that she seemed more mature than the standard age-gap trope heroine.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book, via Hidden Gems Books, in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.
June 6, 2017
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: https://bookbriefs.net**
Tempting Levi is the first book in the new adult contemporary romance, Cade Brothers series by author Jules Barnard. I have read, and really enjoyed, the first couple of books in Jules' series, which used to be called the Blue series, and is now called the Men of Lake Tahoe series. I really enjoyed the books I read from the series, and I have been meaning to finish it. Now that I have read, and enjoyed Tempting Levi as well, maybe that will be the motivation I need to pick up the next book in the Men of Lake Tahoe series.
Tempting Levi is told in dual narrative between our main character Levi, and Emily. Before I dive into what I liked about the characters, let me set up the series for you, because I really love the setup. Levi and his brothers have inherited their father's luxury resort. His father left Levi in charge of it all, and the other brothers play various different roles in the company. His father also made arrangements for Emily to help the business, and Levi, out for one year. I love that this is a series that follows a family, but I also really love that the dad is doing his own kind of meddling, even from beyond the grave. That takes some serious planning, and we all know I love planning. (he-he- my attempt at an estate planning joke.)
The kicker is that Emily is Levi's ex-girlfriend's younger half-sister. The only ex- girlfriend that Levi was totally in love with. I have to say, this is a storyline I haven't seen done much before. I have seen it done with the male character, but not the female. So that was interesting for me. I also really, really loved Emily. In my opinion, there is no comparison between her and her sister. Emily is clearly better! Emily has always had a crush on Levi, so watching them interact as adults was so much fun for me. Emily is a savvy businesswoman, and a super hard-worker. I admired the heck out of her, and I know Levi did as well.
Bottom line: Jules Barnard writes romances, and characters, that you want to read about. I loved getting to know Levi and Emily. The romance had me smiling, and turning pages faster and faster. I could not get enough of these two. Even though Levi resisted from the start, it was clear he was drawn to Emily, which is my favorite kind of romance to read about. Jules writes stories that take on a life of their own, which is what I love about her books. I loved Tempting Levi and I can't wait to get my hands on the next book in the Cade Brothers series! This was a great read.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Tempting Levi is the first book in the new adult contemporary romance, Cade Brothers series by author Jules Barnard. I have read, and really enjoyed, the first couple of books in Jules' series, which used to be called the Blue series, and is now called the Men of Lake Tahoe series. I really enjoyed the books I read from the series, and I have been meaning to finish it. Now that I have read, and enjoyed Tempting Levi as well, maybe that will be the motivation I need to pick up the next book in the Men of Lake Tahoe series.
Tempting Levi is told in dual narrative between our main character Levi, and Emily. Before I dive into what I liked about the characters, let me set up the series for you, because I really love the setup. Levi and his brothers have inherited their father's luxury resort. His father left Levi in charge of it all, and the other brothers play various different roles in the company. His father also made arrangements for Emily to help the business, and Levi, out for one year. I love that this is a series that follows a family, but I also really love that the dad is doing his own kind of meddling, even from beyond the grave. That takes some serious planning, and we all know I love planning. (he-he- my attempt at an estate planning joke.)
The kicker is that Emily is Levi's ex-girlfriend's younger half-sister. The only ex- girlfriend that Levi was totally in love with. I have to say, this is a storyline I haven't seen done much before. I have seen it done with the male character, but not the female. So that was interesting for me. I also really, really loved Emily. In my opinion, there is no comparison between her and her sister. Emily is clearly better! Emily has always had a crush on Levi, so watching them interact as adults was so much fun for me. Emily is a savvy businesswoman, and a super hard-worker. I admired the heck out of her, and I know Levi did as well.
Bottom line: Jules Barnard writes romances, and characters, that you want to read about. I loved getting to know Levi and Emily. The romance had me smiling, and turning pages faster and faster. I could not get enough of these two. Even though Levi resisted from the start, it was clear he was drawn to Emily, which is my favorite kind of romance to read about. Jules writes stories that take on a life of their own, which is what I love about her books. I loved Tempting Levi and I can't wait to get my hands on the next book in the Cade Brothers series! This was a great read.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
June 5, 2017
I can't wait for more books in this series!
This is the first book I've read by Jules, and it for sure won't be my last! This was a solid and steamy contemporary romance with a large cast of characters I can't wait to learn more about!
Emily and Levi were in a tough spot; they knew they had feelings for each other, but thy let the stigma of Emily being "the ex's little sister" stop them from pursing each other. They worked in close proximity, so you can imagine the tension that was built up having to restrain themselves!
I really liked Levi. He suffered loss in his personal and professional lives and then his father died and dropped a high-end resort on him. It was interesting to read how he coped with all of the above and incorporated them all into his current life.
Emily also experienced some rough stuff in her life, but it helped to form her assertiveness. I liked when she unleashed said assertiveness when it came to Levi. Nope, no pushover here!
I FLEW through this book, not wanting to put it down! I'm looking forward to reading more about these here Cade boys!
(I received a copy of this book in consideration of an honest review)
This is the first book I've read by Jules, and it for sure won't be my last! This was a solid and steamy contemporary romance with a large cast of characters I can't wait to learn more about!
Emily and Levi were in a tough spot; they knew they had feelings for each other, but thy let the stigma of Emily being "the ex's little sister" stop them from pursing each other. They worked in close proximity, so you can imagine the tension that was built up having to restrain themselves!
I really liked Levi. He suffered loss in his personal and professional lives and then his father died and dropped a high-end resort on him. It was interesting to read how he coped with all of the above and incorporated them all into his current life.
Emily also experienced some rough stuff in her life, but it helped to form her assertiveness. I liked when she unleashed said assertiveness when it came to Levi. Nope, no pushover here!
I FLEW through this book, not wanting to put it down! I'm looking forward to reading more about these here Cade boys!
(I received a copy of this book in consideration of an honest review)
May 23, 2017
Levi is one possessive man, "placing a hand on her shoulder, he stopped her from entering the car. “Hell no. No naked spa day with a bunch of horny businessmen.” Levi likes to give his girl options, "he blinked innocently . “Of course. But I wouldn’t mind if you went topless at work too. It would make my day so much brighter. Though only topless in my office. No need for the vultures at Club Tahoe to get a look at what I have.” I really liked this book, Levi was one stubborn man.
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September 10, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon US today (9/10/2019)! 🎁
January 3, 2023
Ugh apparently 2023 isn't gonna be my year for books either...let the rant commence
Wanna know what really ticks me off?
When the H catches his little brother screwing his girlfriend of 3 years and everybody under the sun is telling him to let it go because it's been years and he(brother) was 18.
Wanna what ticks me off even more?
When the ex was the h's older sister and she advocates for the brother that cheated and her sister. Even though the brother doesn't really feel that bad and the sister did it because she wanted out of the relationship....because she couldn't dump him like a normal person.
Wanna know what ticks me off EVEN MORE?!
Is when the h tells the H he needs to make amends with the cheater brother because he was 18 and made a mistake, oh and he loved her sister( they are not together) so he didn't do it to hurt the H he was just in love.....riggggghhhhtttt because that makes everything just a ok... where is the fricken loyalty people!
The only positive was it was free
1 I wanna reach through my kindle and throat punch this bitch of an h stars
Wanna know what really ticks me off?
When the H catches his little brother screwing his girlfriend of 3 years and everybody under the sun is telling him to let it go because it's been years and he(brother) was 18.
Wanna what ticks me off even more?
When the ex was the h's older sister and she advocates for the brother that cheated and her sister. Even though the brother doesn't really feel that bad and the sister did it because she wanted out of the relationship....because she couldn't dump him like a normal person.
Wanna know what ticks me off EVEN MORE?!
Is when the h tells the H he needs to make amends with the cheater brother because he was 18 and made a mistake, oh and he loved her sister( they are not together) so he didn't do it to hurt the H he was just in love.....riggggghhhhtttt because that makes everything just a ok... where is the fricken loyalty people!
The only positive was it was free
1 I wanna reach through my kindle and throat punch this bitch of an h stars
August 1, 2017
Levi Cade is still reeling over the betrayal of his brother and his girlfriend sleeping together. Even though it's a been a few years, and Lisa Wright is long gone, the episode still haunts him and he is a long way from forgiving.
But when his father suddenly passes and Levi finds himself the new CEO of Club Tahoe, he's suddenly overwhelmed with revamping a quickly failing hotel. It's a good thing his father planned well in advance and prepared for this moment by hiring Levi an assistant upon his death.
Emily Wright is a cleaver, business oriented graduate from Harvard. She is exactly what Club Tahoe needs to survive, but she is Lisa Wrights sister!
And she's smoking hot...
Now Levi has to keep his head in the game and not get distracted by his ex's little sisters beauty. He knows he needs to stay away, but can he do it?
Similar to Adam Cades story, Levi too, happened to forget all about Emily Wright until he reunited with her. Maybe it's the altitude up in the mountains, but all of these people continuously seem to get that mysterious case of temporary amnesia. They bring that saying, "Out of sight, out of mind" to a whole new level.
Anyhow, the book started off strong, there was a ton of pent up sexual frustration, but when the two finally hooked up, the scene fell flat. If I was Emily, I'd be super disappointed with Levi Cade and his performance. Luckily, Emily is more forgiving, especially after he bailed after the hookup. From there, the book just got more cliche than I could take. It was complete with the whole commitment phobia until a near death experience threatens to separate the pair, then finally the love interest realizes they could have lost their one true love and how stupid they were for pulling away and now they are ready to commit 100% to the relationship and everyone lives happily ever after, blah blah blah. Nice, but maybe I've just read too many romances and I'm ready for something with more of a twist.
Overall, it was a cute read and I enjoyed it, but I just felt like more conflict and suspense was lacking.
But when his father suddenly passes and Levi finds himself the new CEO of Club Tahoe, he's suddenly overwhelmed with revamping a quickly failing hotel. It's a good thing his father planned well in advance and prepared for this moment by hiring Levi an assistant upon his death.
Emily Wright is a cleaver, business oriented graduate from Harvard. She is exactly what Club Tahoe needs to survive, but she is Lisa Wrights sister!
And she's smoking hot...
Now Levi has to keep his head in the game and not get distracted by his ex's little sisters beauty. He knows he needs to stay away, but can he do it?
Similar to Adam Cades story, Levi too, happened to forget all about Emily Wright until he reunited with her. Maybe it's the altitude up in the mountains, but all of these people continuously seem to get that mysterious case of temporary amnesia. They bring that saying, "Out of sight, out of mind" to a whole new level.
Anyhow, the book started off strong, there was a ton of pent up sexual frustration, but when the two finally hooked up, the scene fell flat. If I was Emily, I'd be super disappointed with Levi Cade and his performance. Luckily, Emily is more forgiving, especially after he bailed after the hookup. From there, the book just got more cliche than I could take. It was complete with the whole commitment phobia until a near death experience threatens to separate the pair, then finally the love interest realizes they could have lost their one true love and how stupid they were for pulling away and now they are ready to commit 100% to the relationship and everyone lives happily ever after, blah blah blah. Nice, but maybe I've just read too many romances and I'm ready for something with more of a twist.
Overall, it was a cute read and I enjoyed it, but I just felt like more conflict and suspense was lacking.
July 1, 2017
3.5 stars
September 15, 2021
Roll 3 of Becca's Bookoplathon: Opulent - Read a book with opulent vibes such as: a book with foiling on the cover; a book set in a palace/royal court or with royalty as main characters; a book with rich main characters
I had a hard time trying to figure out what to do for this one but then I remembered I got a billionaire romance ebook box set for free a while back and Tempting Levi happened to be the one that sounded the most interesting and the one with a heroine that wouldn't make me want to die.
Listen I understand the cover for this book is not good, but the book itself is actually pretty good (though the last 4 chapters kinda lost me). The brooding ex-firefighter reluctantly turned businessman that is Levi was great. Emily was a strong heroine with which after reading all those synopses I now know that's pretty rare for a billionaire romance. She's basically a manager (title not included) and is the only reason Levi even has a company. I wasn't so sure about the past aspect of their relationship, with Emily's half-sister previously dating Levi until she cheated on him with his brother, and so were Emily and Levi, rightfully. All of their reluctance to their future relationship made sense and, minus those last 4 chapters, nothing felt over the top, overdramatic, or unrealistic. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it was a pretty fast read, but I can't find any reason to give it above 3 stars.
Nothing special but still fun.
I had a hard time trying to figure out what to do for this one but then I remembered I got a billionaire romance ebook box set for free a while back and Tempting Levi happened to be the one that sounded the most interesting and the one with a heroine that wouldn't make me want to die.
Listen I understand the cover for this book is not good, but the book itself is actually pretty good (though the last 4 chapters kinda lost me). The brooding ex-firefighter reluctantly turned businessman that is Levi was great. Emily was a strong heroine with which after reading all those synopses I now know that's pretty rare for a billionaire romance. She's basically a manager (title not included) and is the only reason Levi even has a company. I wasn't so sure about the past aspect of their relationship, with Emily's half-sister previously dating Levi until she cheated on him with his brother, and so were Emily and Levi, rightfully. All of their reluctance to their future relationship made sense and, minus those last 4 chapters, nothing felt over the top, overdramatic, or unrealistic. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it was a pretty fast read, but I can't find any reason to give it above 3 stars.
Nothing special but still fun.
July 14, 2017
This first installment in the new Cade Brothers series, a spinoff of the Blue series, is worthy of it’s heritage. We meet Lisa’s ex-boyfriend Levi, brother of Adam, and Lisa’s half-sister, Emily. After the death of their father, Levi is put in charge of Blue Casino’s rival, Club Tahoe, with the help of recent MBA graduate, Emily. There’s a lot of baggage between the brothers and a reluctance on the part of both Emily and Levi to go where exes should never go, but that only adds a layer of forbidden love to this romance. Part sweet romance with just enough heat, part comedy, this book delivers another Jules Barnard treat.
Plot
The push and pull of Levi and Emily’s budding romance is the heart of the story, but there are solid subplots involving Levi’s relationships with his brothers and various business interests of the resort. All of it plays well together and help drives conflict. There’s also a quasi mystery to be solved, making this a fun, fast page-turning romance.
Characters
Levi and Emily are both complex, although Levi more so. Emily doesn’t have anywhere near as much baggage, which works out fairly well, because Levi has enough for the both of them. I loved reconnecting with some of my favorite characters from the Blue series as well. At times, both Levi and Emily came across as a little more angsty than I would think adults their age would be, but it wasn’t to the point of being distracting. Plus, I love my romance with a little angst.
What I Enjoyed About TEMPTING LEVI
1. Grace. What’s not to love about a giant, elderly rescue dog?
2. Boy Drama. There’s so much drama between the Cade brothers, it was refreshing to have that kind of conflict between boys for a change.
3. Levi. I love how he really needed to do the right thing, even when it wasn’t what he wanted.
4. Emily. She’s smart and funny. Maybe a little too straight-laced for me, but she was perfect for Levi.
5. Lisa. She’s the best sister.
Bottom Line
A solid new adult romance with a swoony alpha male and an equally alpha female.
Plot
The push and pull of Levi and Emily’s budding romance is the heart of the story, but there are solid subplots involving Levi’s relationships with his brothers and various business interests of the resort. All of it plays well together and help drives conflict. There’s also a quasi mystery to be solved, making this a fun, fast page-turning romance.
Characters
Levi and Emily are both complex, although Levi more so. Emily doesn’t have anywhere near as much baggage, which works out fairly well, because Levi has enough for the both of them. I loved reconnecting with some of my favorite characters from the Blue series as well. At times, both Levi and Emily came across as a little more angsty than I would think adults their age would be, but it wasn’t to the point of being distracting. Plus, I love my romance with a little angst.
What I Enjoyed About TEMPTING LEVI
1. Grace. What’s not to love about a giant, elderly rescue dog?
2. Boy Drama. There’s so much drama between the Cade brothers, it was refreshing to have that kind of conflict between boys for a change.
3. Levi. I love how he really needed to do the right thing, even when it wasn’t what he wanted.
4. Emily. She’s smart and funny. Maybe a little too straight-laced for me, but she was perfect for Levi.
5. Lisa. She’s the best sister.
Bottom Line
A solid new adult romance with a swoony alpha male and an equally alpha female.
June 10, 2017
☆☆☆☆
~Lynzi
Firefighter turn CEO. Can't get hotter than that!!
Levi is the eldest of 5 boys. So his whole life has been about taking care of everyone he loves. Especially when he mother dies. He takes on an even greater role, to be the best big brother he can be. He likes plans. He likes order. And that's how he wants to keep his younger brothers, except they don't like that idea. But when their dad passes away, Levi really has to step up. Becoming the new CEO of the family business. Except, he doesn't know anything about running a bussiness, much less Club Tahoe. Having had so many of his life plans go disarray, he struggles to find happiness and purpose.
As a favor to her mentor and the only father figure she ever had, Emily takes on the role of helping the Cade brothers to run the resort. Emily is where she is today, with the life and accomplishments she has, because of Ethan Cade. So of course she is gonna do what she can to help his kids. The fact that she has a silly crush on Levi, has absolutely nothing to do with it. A crush she shouldn't have, because Levi is her sisters ex. Which was a relationship that ended on not so good turns, for not so good reasons. She knows working with the hard mad he has become, will make her feelings disappear. Or so she thought.
Emily and Levi had chemistry from the get go. Levi was just to focused on everything else to see that. He's used to saving everyone, he doesn't know what it's like to have someone save him, until Emily. She saves him when he didn't even know himself, that he needed saving. She pulled out her velvet hammer and chiseled away his granite.
~Lynzi
Firefighter turn CEO. Can't get hotter than that!!
Levi is the eldest of 5 boys. So his whole life has been about taking care of everyone he loves. Especially when he mother dies. He takes on an even greater role, to be the best big brother he can be. He likes plans. He likes order. And that's how he wants to keep his younger brothers, except they don't like that idea. But when their dad passes away, Levi really has to step up. Becoming the new CEO of the family business. Except, he doesn't know anything about running a bussiness, much less Club Tahoe. Having had so many of his life plans go disarray, he struggles to find happiness and purpose.
As a favor to her mentor and the only father figure she ever had, Emily takes on the role of helping the Cade brothers to run the resort. Emily is where she is today, with the life and accomplishments she has, because of Ethan Cade. So of course she is gonna do what she can to help his kids. The fact that she has a silly crush on Levi, has absolutely nothing to do with it. A crush she shouldn't have, because Levi is her sisters ex. Which was a relationship that ended on not so good turns, for not so good reasons. She knows working with the hard mad he has become, will make her feelings disappear. Or so she thought.
Emily and Levi had chemistry from the get go. Levi was just to focused on everything else to see that. He's used to saving everyone, he doesn't know what it's like to have someone save him, until Emily. She saves him when he didn't even know himself, that he needed saving. She pulled out her velvet hammer and chiseled away his granite.
June 2, 2017
4.5 star Review of Tempting Levi (Cade Brothers #1)
Another new author to me and one I will be looking into further.
Levi is in untenable position, pushed into running his family's luxury resort. He never planned to return home, let alone run the family business and keep his brothers in check, but circumstances change.
When the woman hired to help him turns out to be Emily Wright, his ex's sister, he finds himself faced with a dilemma. Complications arise when he finds himself insanely attracted to Emily. Can he trust her not to burn him like her sister did? Does he take a risk and get involved? Or will the fact that she is his assistant be to much of a complication?
The chemistry between Levi and Emily sizzles and they complement each other well.
Although this a spin off from another series that I haven't read I had no issues following the story.
I will certainly be looking at her other books and I look forward to reading more in the series.
Another new author to me and one I will be looking into further.
Levi is in untenable position, pushed into running his family's luxury resort. He never planned to return home, let alone run the family business and keep his brothers in check, but circumstances change.
When the woman hired to help him turns out to be Emily Wright, his ex's sister, he finds himself faced with a dilemma. Complications arise when he finds himself insanely attracted to Emily. Can he trust her not to burn him like her sister did? Does he take a risk and get involved? Or will the fact that she is his assistant be to much of a complication?
The chemistry between Levi and Emily sizzles and they complement each other well.
Although this a spin off from another series that I haven't read I had no issues following the story.
I will certainly be looking at her other books and I look forward to reading more in the series.
June 7, 2017
4 Stars
This book has laughs, steam, forgiveness, healing, and second chances.
This is Emily and Levi's story. When Levi’s dad died he left him in charge of the family’s luxury resort. But Levi was a firefighter. After an accident, he is home to take care of family business. He’s go all these people telling him what to do and all he really needs is someone who can work beside him and guide him. The only requirement is that he can trust that person. When Emily his ex’s little sister shows up he is not sure he can trust her. After all her sister was not trust worthy. But Emily is great at the job. The chemistry is off the charts but should he resist? Or will having her with him on a personal level be more than he bargained for?
I connected with the characters and look forward to the next in this series.
I recommend this book.
This book has laughs, steam, forgiveness, healing, and second chances.
This is Emily and Levi's story. When Levi’s dad died he left him in charge of the family’s luxury resort. But Levi was a firefighter. After an accident, he is home to take care of family business. He’s go all these people telling him what to do and all he really needs is someone who can work beside him and guide him. The only requirement is that he can trust that person. When Emily his ex’s little sister shows up he is not sure he can trust her. After all her sister was not trust worthy. But Emily is great at the job. The chemistry is off the charts but should he resist? Or will having her with him on a personal level be more than he bargained for?
I connected with the characters and look forward to the next in this series.
I recommend this book.
July 30, 2018
3.5* sometimes you just need an easy read that's light on your soul.
This is good for daytime reading and relaxing with a cup of tea.
I've read the blue series and this is different venturing into new territory away from the Casino and into the driving range.
This series follows the Cade brothers who are either high strung, moody, cocky or unassuming, but one thing is for sure under all that bravado all it will take is for the love of a good woman to turn the bad boys good.
This is good for daytime reading and relaxing with a cup of tea.
I've read the blue series and this is different venturing into new territory away from the Casino and into the driving range.
This series follows the Cade brothers who are either high strung, moody, cocky or unassuming, but one thing is for sure under all that bravado all it will take is for the love of a good woman to turn the bad boys good.
July 8, 2020
DNF chapter 21.
There is too much blowing hot and cold from the Hero. I am exhausted just reading about how he kisses the heroine, and then ignored her, and make-out with her, and retreat again. It is tiring just reading about it
I lost my patience with that rude hero at Chapter 21.
There is too much blowing hot and cold from the Hero. I am exhausted just reading about how he kisses the heroine, and then ignored her, and make-out with her, and retreat again. It is tiring just reading about it
I lost my patience with that rude hero at Chapter 21.
June 4, 2017
This story was steamy hot and amazing love the characters. A new to me author but love the way the story was written and can't wait to read Wes story.
June 6, 2020
So-so. Not really into too stubborn a hero.
May 3, 2018
Levi Cade has been entrusted by his deceased father to take care of their family's luxury resort. Levi's not sure if he's up to the job, nor is he sure he wants the job, but as the responsible, eldest brother, he knows he has to do it. When he finds out the woman who was hired to be his assistant is his ex's little sister, though, he's really sure it's not a good idea because Emily's sister is not only his ex, but she was the only woman he'd ever loved. Loved until she cheated on him with his brother Hunter...
Emily had a crush on her elder sister's boyfriend when she was younger, but now that she's older, and has been hired as his assistant, she no longer has to worry about a pesky crush, right? Or wrong as she soon finds out, because Levi is even hotter now, and soon the two are steaming up the sheets. And yet, Levi can't, won't, offer her anything but fun, and he takes forever to get his head out of his ass and even admit that he's attracted to her. After all, she's his ex's sister and that makes it wrong. Or so he thinks. Sigh!
The push and pull was a bit annoying at times and I wanted to shake Levi for being so hot and cold with poor Emily. I adored Emily, though, and not just because she and my beloved niece share a name (albeit spelled differently). Emily is sweet and smart and the perfect match for Levi. If only Levi had realized that a lot sooner. Thankfully he finally withdrew his head from his ass and realized how amazing the two of them were together.
I really liked Tempting Levi. It's sexy and engaging and Levi and Emily are great characters with depth. I'm excited to read Wes' story next, (Daring Wes). And hopefully all the Cade brothers will be getting their own stories.
I received an ARC via Hidden Gems Books for an honest review.
Emily had a crush on her elder sister's boyfriend when she was younger, but now that she's older, and has been hired as his assistant, she no longer has to worry about a pesky crush, right? Or wrong as she soon finds out, because Levi is even hotter now, and soon the two are steaming up the sheets. And yet, Levi can't, won't, offer her anything but fun, and he takes forever to get his head out of his ass and even admit that he's attracted to her. After all, she's his ex's sister and that makes it wrong. Or so he thinks. Sigh!
The push and pull was a bit annoying at times and I wanted to shake Levi for being so hot and cold with poor Emily. I adored Emily, though, and not just because she and my beloved niece share a name (albeit spelled differently). Emily is sweet and smart and the perfect match for Levi. If only Levi had realized that a lot sooner. Thankfully he finally withdrew his head from his ass and realized how amazing the two of them were together.
I really liked Tempting Levi. It's sexy and engaging and Levi and Emily are great characters with depth. I'm excited to read Wes' story next, (Daring Wes). And hopefully all the Cade brothers will be getting their own stories.
I received an ARC via Hidden Gems Books for an honest review.
did-not-finish
February 3, 2024DNF at 3%.
The heroine walks into the room and the "hero" talks about her, calling her "jailbait". In a professional setting. She was hired to be his executive assistant. She's 26 years old, with a business degree and fluent in Korean. And he decides to call her jailbait, not only once, but multiple times. Oh, and "girl".
It's so disrespectful. I just can't. I tried to keep listening to this audiobook and then he just keeps calling her these names. Out loud. At her job. To others. And I just couldn't anymore. There's nothing he could do that would make me okay with him being the male love interest. Not only is he disrespecting her professionally, but calling someone "jailbait" makes the person using that name sound like a total creep. He's basically saying, "this person looks underage but I would still have sex with them... which would be illegal so I might go to jail, but they're so attractive, I don't care".
Why do authors put this word in ANY male "hero's" mouth? It's SO GROSS!!!!
I received the audiobook for free from the author... and I will not be reading this author again.
The heroine walks into the room and the "hero" talks about her, calling her "jailbait". In a professional setting. She was hired to be his executive assistant. She's 26 years old, with a business degree and fluent in Korean. And he decides to call her jailbait, not only once, but multiple times. Oh, and "girl".
It's so disrespectful. I just can't. I tried to keep listening to this audiobook and then he just keeps calling her these names. Out loud. At her job. To others. And I just couldn't anymore. There's nothing he could do that would make me okay with him being the male love interest. Not only is he disrespecting her professionally, but calling someone "jailbait" makes the person using that name sound like a total creep. He's basically saying, "this person looks underage but I would still have sex with them... which would be illegal so I might go to jail, but they're so attractive, I don't care".
Why do authors put this word in ANY male "hero's" mouth? It's SO GROSS!!!!
I received the audiobook for free from the author... and I will not be reading this author again.
August 15, 2025
It's bad.Listened at 2.5 speed to see if there was some 🌶 to save it. NOPE
Awful siblings. Zero loyalty jailbait comments.
Who needs enemies with family like this?
Emily is a good character, but her skank sister should not be happy in this book.
Hunter is like the worst man ever, a total whore and then everyone tells Levi he should forgive him for sleeping with his GF. That's crap. Then he kisses Emily while she fights him off in front of Levi. Ridiculous
SUPER SLOW BURN
Won't be reading anymore of these, and I didn't even realize there was a whole other series that leads into.
Would recommend not wasting your time
Doesn't even have good spice scenes to make it worth the awful characters
Lisa's BF should cheat on her and leave her heartbroken
Hunt needs to get herpes and quit sleeping with anything that walks
Adam works for a rival resort. What a scumbag!! He's just letting clients be stolen away from his family business.
Where is the damn loyalty in this family!!
Wes is apparently a washed-up golfer who sleeps around also.
Bran seems like the only other bro besides Levi to be a worthwhile human
Awful siblings. Zero loyalty jailbait comments.
Who needs enemies with family like this?
Emily is a good character, but her skank sister should not be happy in this book.
Hunter is like the worst man ever, a total whore and then everyone tells Levi he should forgive him for sleeping with his GF. That's crap. Then he kisses Emily while she fights him off in front of Levi. Ridiculous
SUPER SLOW BURN
Won't be reading anymore of these, and I didn't even realize there was a whole other series that leads into.
Would recommend not wasting your time
Doesn't even have good spice scenes to make it worth the awful characters
Lisa's BF should cheat on her and leave her heartbroken
Hunt needs to get herpes and quit sleeping with anything that walks
Adam works for a rival resort. What a scumbag!! He's just letting clients be stolen away from his family business.
Where is the damn loyalty in this family!!
Wes is apparently a washed-up golfer who sleeps around also.
Bran seems like the only other bro besides Levi to be a worthwhile human
June 20, 2025
Type of read: Commuter/Daily Read
What made me pick it up: Stuff your earbuds day find.
Overall rating: 'Tempting Levi' is a cute, light-hearted, forbidden love romance. Is it the best writing I've ever read? No. Did it make me smile and giggle? Yes. Did it make me root for the FMC and MMC? Yes. Is it making me consider looking for the other books in the series? Kinda. It's a good beach or airplane read, and overall, I'm not mad at it. I do think it'd be like four chapters shorter if Barnard took out all the repetition of why they shouldn't be together, but I wasn't expecting the plot twist (I mean, I was, but not with who it was) and I can forgive the repetition because it was just a cute read overall.
Reader's Note: 'Tempting Levi' includes themes of sexual content, death of a parent, infidelity, and age gap romance.
What made me pick it up: Stuff your earbuds day find.
Overall rating: 'Tempting Levi' is a cute, light-hearted, forbidden love romance. Is it the best writing I've ever read? No. Did it make me smile and giggle? Yes. Did it make me root for the FMC and MMC? Yes. Is it making me consider looking for the other books in the series? Kinda. It's a good beach or airplane read, and overall, I'm not mad at it. I do think it'd be like four chapters shorter if Barnard took out all the repetition of why they shouldn't be together, but I wasn't expecting the plot twist (I mean, I was, but not with who it was) and I can forgive the repetition because it was just a cute read overall.
Reader's Note: 'Tempting Levi' includes themes of sexual content, death of a parent, infidelity, and age gap romance.
May 3, 2018
Levi knows how to be a loner, but will never admit to being lonely. With a less than ideal family life and a non existent personal one, he's all business. Even if the business is not his first choice. Barnard is at her best, when she explores people who are at their worst. Levi needs to be loved. Emily wants to be accepted. When the man who always has a plan, needs a favor from the woman with a lot to prove, SPARKS FLY. There's only one thing that stands in the way of what they both want. His pride and her doubts. Tempting Levi is all heart, with a bit of wild child to balance out the drama.
May 1, 2024
The book was not terrible, but was a disappointment. I felt no connection to Levi or Emily, and there just wasn't a lot of chemistry or pull. Emily was ok--smart, motivated, a nice person, but kind of annoying how she basically kept trying to convince him he was in love with her. And Levi is mostly a jerk, as are his brothers (and Emily's sister for that matter). Anyway, not my favorite, but still good writing and some fun moments.
to-read-own
March 27, 2020In Girl Meets Billionaire box set
January 26, 2020
This is such a sweet and fun story. I really enjoyed meeting all of the Cade brothers and I can’t wait to read the rest of this series.
September 9, 2017
Enjoyable series starter
I had already read all of Jules Barnard's novels in the Blue/Men of Lake Tahoe series, so I was happy to see that she started a new off-shoot series with the Cade brothers. As always, Jules Barnard did not disappoint! Tempting Levi was an enjoyable read with interesting characters that kept me involved throughout. I always enjoy Ms. Barnard's style of writing and the character's perspectives. Having read the Epilogue to Tempting Levi, I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I had already read all of Jules Barnard's novels in the Blue/Men of Lake Tahoe series, so I was happy to see that she started a new off-shoot series with the Cade brothers. As always, Jules Barnard did not disappoint! Tempting Levi was an enjoyable read with interesting characters that kept me involved throughout. I always enjoy Ms. Barnard's style of writing and the character's perspectives. Having read the Epilogue to Tempting Levi, I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
May 25, 2025
2.5 ⭐️ - Even Zachary Webber couldn’t save this one…
Picked this up as an audiobook from a “Stuff Your Earbuds” event and if I’m honest: Zachary Webber as one of the narrators is THE reason I chose to snag this particular book - I might happily listen to that guy growl his way through a phone book - but even his narration failed to breathe life into this lackluster romance.
- An unpleasant MMC who used his “tragic backstory” (not that tragic) as an excuse to be a dick to everyone whose only only redeeming qualities seem to be a sweet old dog and his nice ass (as the FMC repeatedly tells us). His hot and cold treatment of the FMC fails to build tension, but just seemed to make him even more unappealing
- A multilingual, apparently attractive, slender/athletically built FMC with a Harvard business degree who has the self confidence of a slug. While I realize that women of all walks of life and body types can suffer from a poor self image, the FMC’s continued intrusive self criticism and “but he’d never want a girl like me” thoughts had her being emotionally railroaded by the MMC multiple times.
Overall, I just didn’t feel the romantic connection building so their first kiss felt like it came flying out of left field and the rest of the *love story* felt much the same
Picked this up as an audiobook from a “Stuff Your Earbuds” event and if I’m honest: Zachary Webber as one of the narrators is THE reason I chose to snag this particular book - I might happily listen to that guy growl his way through a phone book - but even his narration failed to breathe life into this lackluster romance.
- An unpleasant MMC who used his “tragic backstory” (not that tragic) as an excuse to be a dick to everyone whose only only redeeming qualities seem to be a sweet old dog and his nice ass (as the FMC repeatedly tells us). His hot and cold treatment of the FMC fails to build tension, but just seemed to make him even more unappealing
- A multilingual, apparently attractive, slender/athletically built FMC with a Harvard business degree who has the self confidence of a slug. While I realize that women of all walks of life and body types can suffer from a poor self image, the FMC’s continued intrusive self criticism and “but he’d never want a girl like me” thoughts had her being emotionally railroaded by the MMC multiple times.
Overall, I just didn’t feel the romantic connection building so their first kiss felt like it came flying out of left field and the rest of the *love story* felt much the same
July 16, 2020
Entertaining but would not recommend because of language and innuendo
December 30, 2024
I recently finished Tempting Levi by Jules Barnard, and while I found it entertaining, it didn’t quite hit the mark for me. The forbidden romance aspect between Levi and Emily was engaging, and the setup—Levi grappling with a career-ending injury, his father’s death, and the weight of running a family resort—added a lot of potential for emotional depth. Emily, with her work ethic and determination to prove herself, was a relatable and likable character. Their chemistry was undeniable, and I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow despite the complications.
However, I felt the story leaned too heavily on predictable tropes, and there were moments where the characters’ decisions didn’t feel entirely authentic. Levi’s internal struggle about being involved with Emily, given her connection to his ex, had a lot of promise but could have been explored further. The pacing was also uneven—some sections dragged on while others felt rushed, particularly as the relationship shifted from tension to resolution.
While the romance itself was sweet, I wanted more complexity in their emotional growth and the family drama subplot. It felt like some threads weren’t fully developed, which left the story feeling slightly incomplete.
That said, it’s a light and easy read, and fans of contemporary romance will likely appreciate the heartwarming love story and relatable characters. It’s a solid pick for a casual read, but it didn’t leave a lasting impression on me. I enjoyed it but wasn’t blown away, which is why I’d rate it three stars.
However, I felt the story leaned too heavily on predictable tropes, and there were moments where the characters’ decisions didn’t feel entirely authentic. Levi’s internal struggle about being involved with Emily, given her connection to his ex, had a lot of promise but could have been explored further. The pacing was also uneven—some sections dragged on while others felt rushed, particularly as the relationship shifted from tension to resolution.
While the romance itself was sweet, I wanted more complexity in their emotional growth and the family drama subplot. It felt like some threads weren’t fully developed, which left the story feeling slightly incomplete.
That said, it’s a light and easy read, and fans of contemporary romance will likely appreciate the heartwarming love story and relatable characters. It’s a solid pick for a casual read, but it didn’t leave a lasting impression on me. I enjoyed it but wasn’t blown away, which is why I’d rate it three stars.
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