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Bennett Family #5
Her Singapore Fling
In desperate need of protection, Jianne Xang-Bennett reluctantly turns to her estranged husband, martial arts expert Jacob Bennett, for help. But there are they've been separated for twelve years and cannot be in the same room together without arguing or ripping each other's clothes off—often at the same time!
But Jacob will go to extremes for those he loves, and Jianne is the only woman who can bring this honorable warrior to his knees. Can they delve beneath their red-hot desire and blazing anger to find the love that has always been hiding?
But Jacob will go to extremes for those he loves, and Jianne is the only woman who can bring this honorable warrior to his knees. Can they delve beneath their red-hot desire and blazing anger to find the love that has always been hiding?
192 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 1, 2010
16 people are currently reading
605 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Hunter
284 books421 followersAustralian born Kelly Hunter is a three time Romance Writers of America Rita finalist, a USA Today Bestselling author and loves writing to the demands of the short category romance form.
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December 18, 2021Source of book: bought for mah damn self
Relevant disclaimers: None
Please note: This review may not be reproduced or quoted, in whole or in part, without explicit consent from the author.
This was another in my run of “I’m ill so I’m going to lie here reading category romances until my eyes fall out”—and as is so easily done with category romances, it turned out to be the final book of, I think, 5? So it was mainly a roll call of other couples, some of whom have sprogged, that I am supposed to have enough context to care about. Sorry, book. I done you wrong.
In any case, this is a second-chance-at-love situation. The hero and the heroine married young, fucked it up, because she was worried about holding him back, and he couldn’t cope with her enormous wealth, and now it’s twelve years into the future and she needs his help because she’s being pursued by an evil stalker.
The hero, Jacob, is a white dude who runs a Dojo. The heroine, Jianne, is a Chinese woman who has enough English ancestry to give her “Western-tilted” eyes. And I feel gross just writing that. Plus, the book opens with the hero’s masculinity being so very, very fragile he won’t wear a lavender necktie.
The thing is, the hero and the heroine have good chemistry (although they both get over their previous set of problems incredibly quickly) and decent bants, and the “will she get murdered by her stalker” subplot gives the book plenty of momentum. I actually liked Jianne a lot, although I could have done without the hero reflecting on how mysterious she is every second line. Because Asian woman: so mysterious, right? Also Jacob is the protective-alpha type, rather than the dickhead-alpha type, and I kind of appreciate m/f romances where the hero has to come with the terms with the heroine being richer and more socially powerful than he is.
Relevant disclaimers: None
Please note: This review may not be reproduced or quoted, in whole or in part, without explicit consent from the author.
This was another in my run of “I’m ill so I’m going to lie here reading category romances until my eyes fall out”—and as is so easily done with category romances, it turned out to be the final book of, I think, 5? So it was mainly a roll call of other couples, some of whom have sprogged, that I am supposed to have enough context to care about. Sorry, book. I done you wrong.
In any case, this is a second-chance-at-love situation. The hero and the heroine married young, fucked it up, because she was worried about holding him back, and he couldn’t cope with her enormous wealth, and now it’s twelve years into the future and she needs his help because she’s being pursued by an evil stalker.
The hero, Jacob, is a white dude who runs a Dojo. The heroine, Jianne, is a Chinese woman who has enough English ancestry to give her “Western-tilted” eyes. And I feel gross just writing that. Plus, the book opens with the hero’s masculinity being so very, very fragile he won’t wear a lavender necktie.
The thing is, the hero and the heroine have good chemistry (although they both get over their previous set of problems incredibly quickly) and decent bants, and the “will she get murdered by her stalker” subplot gives the book plenty of momentum. I actually liked Jianne a lot, although I could have done without the hero reflecting on how mysterious she is every second line. Because Asian woman: so mysterious, right? Also Jacob is the protective-alpha type, rather than the dickhead-alpha type, and I kind of appreciate m/f romances where the hero has to come with the terms with the heroine being richer and more socially powerful than he is.
February 7, 2016
A married couple who are separated are reunited twelve years later. When hero Jacob finds out that heroine Jianne has a suitor/stalker who could prove to be dangerous, Jacob offers her his protection. This means Jianne would have to move in with Jacob. Will they be able to fight the feelings that each still has for the other?
This was just an okay read. My main problem with the story was that once Jianne moved in with Jacob it was as though they were never separated. It seemed like the problems they thought they had, they got over in a day. They started sleeping together and just went back to as though they never split up. Through the whole book I wondered why they spent twelve years apart since everything seemed back to okay with them so soon. The lack of conflict made the story bland and uninteresting. I felt like the story was just biding its time until something happened with the stalker.
Some things I did like--Jacob was a world class karate master and teacher, which I thought was a bit different. He owned a dojo in Singapore where he taught and also lived. I also liked the young boy Po, who was Jacob's apprentice.
This was just an okay read. My main problem with the story was that once Jianne moved in with Jacob it was as though they were never separated. It seemed like the problems they thought they had, they got over in a day. They started sleeping together and just went back to as though they never split up. Through the whole book I wondered why they spent twelve years apart since everything seemed back to okay with them so soon. The lack of conflict made the story bland and uninteresting. I felt like the story was just biding its time until something happened with the stalker.
Some things I did like--Jacob was a world class karate master and teacher, which I thought was a bit different. He owned a dojo in Singapore where he taught and also lived. I also liked the young boy Po, who was Jacob's apprentice.
February 27, 2018
This is a second chance story of an H/h who have remained married during their 12 year estrangement. 12 years is a very long time. So what awful thing kept them separated that long?
The reader doesn't find out the cause of all their problems until the end of the story.
That the H/h still loved each other was not in doubt. Both the H/h blamed themselves for the breakup. And both H/h didn't want to cause further hurt to the other so the first part of the story is the H/h doing an elaborate, longing dance around each other as the heroine reveals she has had a stalker for five years and she wants the H to publicly show that they are together again and the stalker will go away.
The setting is Singapore. The hero, an Australian, runs a dojo (school for Marital Arts). He's still close to his family but none of them live with him anymore. He does have an apprentice, a street kid named Po, who lives in the building. The heroine is Chinese, from extreme wealth. In the 12 year separation she had gotten her university degree and runs her own business. Her stalker is also a wealthy.
This is the final story in a series about the hero's family. Since I haven't read those, I might have been missing some nuances - but it seems all of those characters owe this heroine a huge apology. She was practically driven away from what I can tell.
The hero gets to show his protective alpha side because of the stalker. But he also shows he has changed in his attitude towards the heroine's money and how she tries to express herself.
The heroine hasn't changed all that much - and she didn't need to. It was the hero's hangups and his awful family that drove her away the first time.
This was such an unusual story for an HP and I liked it. But two things keep this from four or more stars. One, the H/h's story is really angsty - they are both so hurt and sad at the beginning - it was depressing. And two, all that action/intrigue/violence is lost on me. I don't enjoy it.
Give this one a read if you want something different. I'll have to hunt down the other stories in the series to give me a better sense of the minor characters.
Hero said he hadn't been "chaste" during their separation. (Whatever that means) No word on the heroine - but doubtful she ever strayed.
The reader doesn't find out the cause of all their problems until the end of the story.
That the H/h still loved each other was not in doubt. Both the H/h blamed themselves for the breakup. And both H/h didn't want to cause further hurt to the other so the first part of the story is the H/h doing an elaborate, longing dance around each other as the heroine reveals she has had a stalker for five years and she wants the H to publicly show that they are together again and the stalker will go away.
The setting is Singapore. The hero, an Australian, runs a dojo (school for Marital Arts). He's still close to his family but none of them live with him anymore. He does have an apprentice, a street kid named Po, who lives in the building. The heroine is Chinese, from extreme wealth. In the 12 year separation she had gotten her university degree and runs her own business. Her stalker is also a wealthy.
This is the final story in a series about the hero's family. Since I haven't read those, I might have been missing some nuances - but it seems all of those characters owe this heroine a huge apology. She was practically driven away from what I can tell.
The hero gets to show his protective alpha side because of the stalker. But he also shows he has changed in his attitude towards the heroine's money and how she tries to express herself.
The heroine hasn't changed all that much - and she didn't need to. It was the hero's hangups and his awful family that drove her away the first time.
This was such an unusual story for an HP and I liked it. But two things keep this from four or more stars. One, the H/h's story is really angsty - they are both so hurt and sad at the beginning - it was depressing. And two, all that action/intrigue/violence is lost on me. I don't enjoy it.
Give this one a read if you want something different. I'll have to hunt down the other stories in the series to give me a better sense of the minor characters.
Hero said he hadn't been "chaste" during their separation. (Whatever that means) No word on the heroine - but doubtful she ever strayed.
August 22, 2012
The last Bennett book about Jake, the sensei master who runs a dojo and raised his siblings after his mother died and father kind of checked out. Jake's life is simple, he has his work and now a boy Po who he is helping and then the heroine comes back into his life. They both share a complicated relationship and have been estranged for twelve years. They were young when they got married and both made mistakes, the heroine was young and unsure in a new place and had to deal with his siblings and his attention being divided with his karate, which she didn't understand. Then Jake found out she was wealthy and when she wanted to help with money he didn't let her and she felt more of a failure, so she left because he had enough burdens in his life to let him fulfil his dreams of winning titles and before they loved turned to hate and Jake could never forgive that and him failing her and putting her last always.
Now, she is back because a man won't take no for an answer and now they are older and wiser. They still have chemistry and hidden in the corners love but they have to figure out being with each other and accepting each others differences. The charade of a reconciliation soon becomes true but before they can make plans, the threat hanging over them has to go away. I loved the epilogue and seeing them in a happier place. A good end to a wonderful series.
Now, she is back because a man won't take no for an answer and now they are older and wiser. They still have chemistry and hidden in the corners love but they have to figure out being with each other and accepting each others differences. The charade of a reconciliation soon becomes true but before they can make plans, the threat hanging over them has to go away. I loved the epilogue and seeing them in a happier place. A good end to a wonderful series.
March 27, 2011
3-1/2 stars. The last book in the Bennett family series. It was okay and good to finally see what was up with Jake's failed marriage. It was good to see that what had broken them up was a real problem. They are old enough now 12 years on to deal with the problems. One of the things I disliked was that even though she was Chinese, there was not a real sense of her being of a different culture. Also although you know what happened in the past it wasn't quite pinned down like a butterfly under glass which is how I like my explanations. That is a personal thing I know so it might not bother someone else just that for me it played in as a reason for not quite being 4 stars. The writing wasn't quite as incandescent as in The Maverick's Greek Island Mistress which remains my favorite. I'm sorry to see this series end as I greatly enjoyed it.
January 13, 2011
If you've never read category romance, do yourself a favour and start with this book.
An Asian heroine, a tough martial arts hero, suspense thrown in and loads of fabulous, characteristic Hunter charm.
Her characters are rich, vibrant and emotionally complex.
Superb!
An Asian heroine, a tough martial arts hero, suspense thrown in and loads of fabulous, characteristic Hunter charm.
Her characters are rich, vibrant and emotionally complex.
Superb!
November 1, 2018
"Red-Hot Renegade" is the story of Jianne and Jacob.
The book begins a few months after the last one ended- Jacob is still teaching martial arts to his apprentices, including Po; Madeline and Luke are now married and Jianne is still in danger.
Jianne and Jacob were married 12 years ago- but though they had passion, it was not enough to sustain their relationship. Young and untried, many problems came between them, including financial differences, responsibilites and ambitions, leading Jianne to leave him.
In the years since, she is now a successful graphic designer and he is a martial arts Sensei. As an overzealous suitor takes stalking to a new level, their families suggest a pseudo-reunion to ward him away. But things are way more complicated between them than they imagined.
Initially acting cordially, both realize there are way more repressed feelings between them, and soon act on their lust. But while a lot has changed in 12 years, the core issues still remain the same. Can they finally find happiness with one another.
A fantastic conclusion to this beautiful series with a lovely second chance romance. We have the heartbreak of a young couple, and the understanding and maturity of an older one. They didn't act childishly, or behave like brats- instead they addressed the problems like adults and loved unconditionally. I enjoyed the stalker plot, the incineration was so sad and their past pain so palpable. Such wonderful hero and heroines who have a brain and so much love are SO RARE in romances. They didn't make separation and what happened then a big plot point, but what was actually important- NOW.
There is an update on all previous couples, Po and a beautiful epilogue with a HEA.
Great ending! Loved this family.
Safe
4.25/5
The book begins a few months after the last one ended- Jacob is still teaching martial arts to his apprentices, including Po; Madeline and Luke are now married and Jianne is still in danger.
Jianne and Jacob were married 12 years ago- but though they had passion, it was not enough to sustain their relationship. Young and untried, many problems came between them, including financial differences, responsibilites and ambitions, leading Jianne to leave him.
In the years since, she is now a successful graphic designer and he is a martial arts Sensei. As an overzealous suitor takes stalking to a new level, their families suggest a pseudo-reunion to ward him away. But things are way more complicated between them than they imagined.
Initially acting cordially, both realize there are way more repressed feelings between them, and soon act on their lust. But while a lot has changed in 12 years, the core issues still remain the same. Can they finally find happiness with one another.
A fantastic conclusion to this beautiful series with a lovely second chance romance. We have the heartbreak of a young couple, and the understanding and maturity of an older one. They didn't act childishly, or behave like brats- instead they addressed the problems like adults and loved unconditionally. I enjoyed the stalker plot, the incineration was so sad and their past pain so palpable. Such wonderful hero and heroines who have a brain and so much love are SO RARE in romances. They didn't make separation and what happened then a big plot point, but what was actually important- NOW.
There is an update on all previous couples, Po and a beautiful epilogue with a HEA.
Great ending! Loved this family.
Safe
4.25/5
June 18, 2013
This review can also be found on Portable pieces of thought-blog.
Last night, after finishing this book, I made a few notes on what I wanted to write in my review. This morning, I looked at those notes and couldn’t think of anything meaningful to say. This book is forgettable. Entertaining but forgettable.
There were things I liked. I liked what Hunter did with the fragile Japanese bowls to show how Jianne could be both delicate and durable that she couldn’t be broken as easily as Jake thought. I liked that the twelve year separation had obviously changed both and that they weren’t as naive they’d been when they got married. I liked how Jake mostly got over his issues with money and how Jianne learned to talk about her own needs. Everything wasn’t solved but they made enough progress for the compulsory happy ever after to be believable. I liked how she took more and more control of the situation and their relationship as the story progressed, but that he wasn’t completely pushed aside either. It was the give and take kind of relationship.
I liked the brutal fight in the dojo. That’s what tipped the scales from a three star rating to four stars for me. Without that near death experience everything Jake thought about himself would have been lip service without anything backing up his characterisation. Hunter showed a very real flaw in this unbeatable fighter.
As for things I didn’t like, the writing. It wasn’t exactly four star calibre with the clichéd descriptions of clothes and characters, but I managed to push through thanks to the story itself. The sex scenes I ended up skipping or speed-reading, so I don’t have a list of bad smut words to attach here.
It was a nice brain holiday between more serious books.
Last night, after finishing this book, I made a few notes on what I wanted to write in my review. This morning, I looked at those notes and couldn’t think of anything meaningful to say. This book is forgettable. Entertaining but forgettable.
There were things I liked. I liked what Hunter did with the fragile Japanese bowls to show how Jianne could be both delicate and durable that she couldn’t be broken as easily as Jake thought. I liked that the twelve year separation had obviously changed both and that they weren’t as naive they’d been when they got married. I liked how Jake mostly got over his issues with money and how Jianne learned to talk about her own needs. Everything wasn’t solved but they made enough progress for the compulsory happy ever after to be believable. I liked how she took more and more control of the situation and their relationship as the story progressed, but that he wasn’t completely pushed aside either. It was the give and take kind of relationship.
I liked the brutal fight in the dojo. That’s what tipped the scales from a three star rating to four stars for me. Without that near death experience everything Jake thought about himself would have been lip service without anything backing up his characterisation. Hunter showed a very real flaw in this unbeatable fighter.
As for things I didn’t like, the writing. It wasn’t exactly four star calibre with the clichéd descriptions of clothes and characters, but I managed to push through thanks to the story itself. The sex scenes I ended up skipping or speed-reading, so I don’t have a list of bad smut words to attach here.
It was a nice brain holiday between more serious books.
January 22, 2013
Li thought you might have to have read the whole Bennett family series to enjoy this, but I actually jumped from the first to this and I really enjoyed it, too. It did wet my appetite to find out more about one particular couple though (so I bought that book right away), so I expect I eventually might read all of them.
Again at the usual length of 120 ereader pages this is a story of a failed marriage reunited after heroine and hero have matured, because it was NOT a lack in their love for each other that made them break up in the first place, but personal insecurity on both sides (like the song goes "Sometimes love just ain't enough").
For me it was another look into a place I have no knowledge of, both the city of Singapore, high society or low and hard-hitting martial arts. The suspense plot was very scary and believable this time - and with no innocent bystanders truly hurt!
I wonder if Po will eventually also get a book, it would be nice to revisit the family. I loved that Jiann was a total match for Jake's passion in bed and had been from the start, because her upbringing had made getting equal consideration in the Bennet household so impossible when she was young. None of the two was to blame (another plus). Jake had more of the development, I thought.
Again at the usual length of 120 ereader pages this is a story of a failed marriage reunited after heroine and hero have matured, because it was NOT a lack in their love for each other that made them break up in the first place, but personal insecurity on both sides (like the song goes "Sometimes love just ain't enough").
For me it was another look into a place I have no knowledge of, both the city of Singapore, high society or low and hard-hitting martial arts. The suspense plot was very scary and believable this time - and with no innocent bystanders truly hurt!
I wonder if Po will eventually also get a book, it would be nice to revisit the family. I loved that Jiann was a total match for Jake's passion in bed and had been from the start, because her upbringing had made getting equal consideration in the Bennet household so impossible when she was young. None of the two was to blame (another plus). Jake had more of the development, I thought.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2020
I really enjoyed this one because of the relationship between husband and wife but I had some serious problems with a couple of the plot elements.
Jianne and Jacob are still married but have been apart for 12 years. This was a real problem for me. Twelve years and no contact yet they both love each other. How could you continue to love someone and yet do nothing to try and reconcile for 12 years? I also thought the stalker was a little absurd.
However, I put those concerns to one side, because the story was otherwise a really good read. I liked Po's character and I really loved the way the story developed with its focus on the developing and positive relationship between Jake and Jianne. This was really beautifully done and I loved the epilogue. Kelly Hunter is a really gifted writer and it's really good to find so many excellent examples of her work in her back catalogue.
Jianne and Jacob are still married but have been apart for 12 years. This was a real problem for me. Twelve years and no contact yet they both love each other. How could you continue to love someone and yet do nothing to try and reconcile for 12 years? I also thought the stalker was a little absurd.
However, I put those concerns to one side, because the story was otherwise a really good read. I liked Po's character and I really loved the way the story developed with its focus on the developing and positive relationship between Jake and Jianne. This was really beautifully done and I loved the epilogue. Kelly Hunter is a really gifted writer and it's really good to find so many excellent examples of her work in her back catalogue.
March 5, 2024
Apparently also shows up as Her Singapore Fling. Anyway, I think this might have been my third in this series and I do like Kelly Hunter's style. Jake is the eldest Bennett sibling, a martial arts world champion who runs his own dojo in Singapore. He's obviously a lethal hulk with a strong protective streak, having essentially raised his siblings. His marriage to the h, Jianne (who is of wealthy Chinese heritage) foundered 12 (!!) years earlier so this is a second chance story. They are so hot for each other and reasonably willing to communicate that the 12 year estrangement caused by her not having told him how rich she was (I should have such problems) and him being so driven/overcommmitted paterfamilias wise seems little excessive. Anyhow, now she has a stalker (it's been going on 5 years. Again, 5 years?!) and needs him to be a real husband to deter them. There's a cute Short Round style kid called Po and the other happily paired Bennett siblings feature.
September 3, 2023
Sebenarnya buku ini bagus, punya potensi buat lebih panjang. Sayangnya alasan Ji dan Jacob untuk pisah di masa lalu seperti dikesampingkan begitu saja. Tokoh Jacob ini jenis cowok red flag buat aku, tapi mungkin menantang bagi perempuan-perempuan lain: maskulin, petarung, punya harga diri tinggi apalagi soal uang yang menurut saya udah nggak seharusnya dipelihara pada zaman kesetaraan macam ini. Alasan Zhi Fu mengejar Ji yang kayaknya cantik banget ini pun lemah sekali, muncul cuma 2 kali dalam cerita dan menghilang begitu aja setelah pamit. Pluusss yang bakar dojo Jacob ini kurang jelas siapa sebenarnya. Sayang banget padahal kalau dibuat panjang dan nggak terburu-buru dikit pasti lebih asyik. Memang saya aja kali ya suka yang tipe slow burn😅
October 24, 2019
I finally figured it out. What I adore about Kelly Hunter ‘s stories is that her main characters think about how to make the relationship work for their partner and insisting they remain who they are.
Ps: this is the worst title. The main characters have been married and estranged for 12 years. Not a fling. It's also angsty.
Ps: this is the worst title. The main characters have been married and estranged for 12 years. Not a fling. It's also angsty.
September 16, 2024
Best of the lot.
Second chance story for a couple w an evil villain thrown in so the Hero needs to be a Hero and protect the heroine.
Second chance story for a couple w an evil villain thrown in so the Hero needs to be a Hero and protect the heroine.
March 18, 2012
The final Bennett book, and possibly the only one of the series that can't be read as a standalone - in a way, I'm glad I discovered Kelly Hunter so late, as I could read the whole series in one go!
Jianne and Jake's relationship was so intense, yet their story was leavened with the humour that I've come to expect in Kelly Hunter's books. I'm a sucker for marriage-in-trouble plotlines - it's the shared history and what-could-have-beens that always gets me, and this book delivered angst and romance in spades.
As with the previous book, Untameable Rogue, I liked the Singaporean setting and the freshness that it lent the story. The friendly rivalry and banter between the Bennett brothers continued to keep me entertained, and while there was a bit of a Bennett reunion, it was kept to the minimum - which had the opposite effect of me wishing more of the family had turned up!
Normally with category romances, I end up bemoaning their shorter length, but with this one, I thought Kelly Hunter packed so much story into this one and it was the perfect length for Jianne and Jake's romance.
So, an extremely enjoyable series overall, and this book ended up being one of my favourites in 2011.
Jianne and Jake's relationship was so intense, yet their story was leavened with the humour that I've come to expect in Kelly Hunter's books. I'm a sucker for marriage-in-trouble plotlines - it's the shared history and what-could-have-beens that always gets me, and this book delivered angst and romance in spades.
As with the previous book, Untameable Rogue, I liked the Singaporean setting and the freshness that it lent the story. The friendly rivalry and banter between the Bennett brothers continued to keep me entertained, and while there was a bit of a Bennett reunion, it was kept to the minimum - which had the opposite effect of me wishing more of the family had turned up!
Normally with category romances, I end up bemoaning their shorter length, but with this one, I thought Kelly Hunter packed so much story into this one and it was the perfect length for Jianne and Jake's romance.
So, an extremely enjoyable series overall, and this book ended up being one of my favourites in 2011.
February 17, 2015
I am almost certain I've read this before, but since I can't find any record of it anywhere (damn you, past Jess), I'm marking it as a new read.
My neurotic recording keeping aside, this is a really good capstone book. The heroine is Chinese, and it's set in Singapore, and is about a reunion of a failed marriage. Jake is a GREAT caretaker alpha and the entire thing is about them renegotiating a second chance, both of them being utterly aware of what made things fall apart the first time.
I really liked this entire series so much.
My neurotic recording keeping aside, this is a really good capstone book. The heroine is Chinese, and it's set in Singapore, and is about a reunion of a failed marriage. Jake is a GREAT caretaker alpha and the entire thing is about them renegotiating a second chance, both of them being utterly aware of what made things fall apart the first time.
I really liked this entire series so much.
June 7, 2018
Not my favorite of hers. She did a surprisingly decent job not making the millions of siblings (from previous books in the series) overwhelming, and the book as a whole progressed nicely, but the end was just... eh.
January 17, 2023
The Last book of the Bennett series. Well, tiada hal yg baru karena bisa di pastikan couple di buku ini akan bersatu. Selain tentu saja karena mmg itu pakemnya, kembalinya sang istri ke pelukan suaminya adalah hal yg cukup wajar. Walau mmg waktu tahunan yg memisahkan mereka dipicu oleh hal yg mgkn dianggap sepele. Namun masa muda dg sgala hal tertutupi dan tak terungkap mmg memberi alasan cukup kuat bagi sebuah keluarga utk terpecah.
Konflik ttg penguntit yg mengincar keberadaan sang Istri krn terobsesi terasa agk memaksa. Krn pada akhirnya tdk ad baju hantam, melainkan hanya adu kekuatan terselubung alias perang dingin. Dan plot twist yg terjadi terasa tiba2 ada saja begitu. Sigh. Well, still 3/*5 for this book.
Konflik ttg penguntit yg mengincar keberadaan sang Istri krn terobsesi terasa agk memaksa. Krn pada akhirnya tdk ad baju hantam, melainkan hanya adu kekuatan terselubung alias perang dingin. Dan plot twist yg terjadi terasa tiba2 ada saja begitu. Sigh. Well, still 3/*5 for this book.
January 1, 2019
My favorite Bennett
December 15, 2012
Why I read it: Previously (also?) published under the title Red Hot Renegade, it's a book I've heard from a number of blogger/Twitter friends is worth my time. Kat from Book Thingo is a big fan of this book and she even mentioned it in the recent DBSA podcast with Sarah Wendell. So I picked it (and 10 or 11 other Kelly Hunter books) up from the recent eHarlequin 50% off sale. I'm so weak.
What it's about: (from Goodreads) In desperate need of protection, Jianne Xang-Bennett reluctantly turns to her estranged husband, martial arts expert Jacob Bennett, for help. But there are problems: they've been separated for twelve years and cannot be in the same room together without arguing or ripping each other's clothes off--often at the same time.
But Jacob will go to extremes for those he loves, and Jianne is the only woman who can bring this honorable warrior to his knees. Can they delve beneath their red-hot desire and blazing anger to find the love that has always been hiding?
What worked for me (and what didn't): There so much to like about this book - so much that's unusual and well done - for one, it's set in Singapore and the sense of place is strong throughout the story. The heroine is Chinese and she is written that way. I'm no expert, but she didn't have the same Western sensibility I know - insofar as I can judge, she seemed Asian to me. The hero is an Australian martial arts expert with his own dojo in Singapore. Then there's that the heroine is super rich - way better off than our hero. Add to that, that it's a second chance at love story (they're married and have been estranged for 12 years) and really, it's made of win.
The reasons for the estrangement felt realistic, as did the changes in their lives since then (but not their fundamental attraction) which made it possible for them to successfully navigate a relationship.
The stalker plot was a little weak I thought, especially since this dude has been bothering her for FIVE years (which seems like a really long time to put up with something like that and for it to finally come to a head). But, it's main purpose was to bring our main characters together again and for that, I can only be grateful.
The story is a part of a series (I believe it's the final book but I could be wrong on that) but I don't think it's necessary to have read the previous books to understand this story. Kat assured me of the same thing in the podcast I mentioned earlier so it's not just me who thinks so. As it happens, in the sale I also picked up many (perhaps all) of the other books in the series - Wife for a Week and Untameable Rogue are two of them - and both of those books also come highly recommended.
Some of the prose in the book felt a little odd to me - for example the use of the word "for" instead of "because". It's something I see in very formal books or historicals and it felt a little out of place here. But, that is a small niggle and it didn't really impede my enjoyment of the story.
Jianne and Jake have scorching sexual chemistry and Jianne gives as good as she gets.
Gasping as he stroked long fingers down the crease of her buttocks with a sensuality that was his alone, down and down and then lifting her effortlessly so that she sat on the bench. His hands on her thighs now, pushing her skirt up and parting her legs wide as he stepped in close and dragged her against him again, and all the time his lips not leaving hers for more than a moment.
‘I thought of you,’ she confessed. ‘I thought of you, and I made do,’ she whispered as she slid her hand to his wrist and forced it down between their straining bodies. ‘Like this.’ And she surged against his hand as he took his cue and stroked her, his stroke so much bolder than her own and vastly more effective. ‘Jacob?’
‘What?’ he asked hoarsely.
‘I’m tired of making do.’
Their sexy banter was the highlight of the book for me - especially the scene about the whisk and the wooden spoon. :)
What else? If you're looking for an exotic setting with an unusual hero and heroine, this is your book. I recommend :)
Grade: B+
http://kaetrinsmusings.blogspot.com.a...
What it's about: (from Goodreads) In desperate need of protection, Jianne Xang-Bennett reluctantly turns to her estranged husband, martial arts expert Jacob Bennett, for help. But there are problems: they've been separated for twelve years and cannot be in the same room together without arguing or ripping each other's clothes off--often at the same time.
But Jacob will go to extremes for those he loves, and Jianne is the only woman who can bring this honorable warrior to his knees. Can they delve beneath their red-hot desire and blazing anger to find the love that has always been hiding?
What worked for me (and what didn't): There so much to like about this book - so much that's unusual and well done - for one, it's set in Singapore and the sense of place is strong throughout the story. The heroine is Chinese and she is written that way. I'm no expert, but she didn't have the same Western sensibility I know - insofar as I can judge, she seemed Asian to me. The hero is an Australian martial arts expert with his own dojo in Singapore. Then there's that the heroine is super rich - way better off than our hero. Add to that, that it's a second chance at love story (they're married and have been estranged for 12 years) and really, it's made of win.
The reasons for the estrangement felt realistic, as did the changes in their lives since then (but not their fundamental attraction) which made it possible for them to successfully navigate a relationship.
The stalker plot was a little weak I thought, especially since this dude has been bothering her for FIVE years (which seems like a really long time to put up with something like that and for it to finally come to a head). But, it's main purpose was to bring our main characters together again and for that, I can only be grateful.
The story is a part of a series (I believe it's the final book but I could be wrong on that) but I don't think it's necessary to have read the previous books to understand this story. Kat assured me of the same thing in the podcast I mentioned earlier so it's not just me who thinks so. As it happens, in the sale I also picked up many (perhaps all) of the other books in the series - Wife for a Week and Untameable Rogue are two of them - and both of those books also come highly recommended.
Some of the prose in the book felt a little odd to me - for example the use of the word "for" instead of "because". It's something I see in very formal books or historicals and it felt a little out of place here. But, that is a small niggle and it didn't really impede my enjoyment of the story.
Jianne and Jake have scorching sexual chemistry and Jianne gives as good as she gets.
Gasping as he stroked long fingers down the crease of her buttocks with a sensuality that was his alone, down and down and then lifting her effortlessly so that she sat on the bench. His hands on her thighs now, pushing her skirt up and parting her legs wide as he stepped in close and dragged her against him again, and all the time his lips not leaving hers for more than a moment.
‘I thought of you,’ she confessed. ‘I thought of you, and I made do,’ she whispered as she slid her hand to his wrist and forced it down between their straining bodies. ‘Like this.’ And she surged against his hand as he took his cue and stroked her, his stroke so much bolder than her own and vastly more effective. ‘Jacob?’
‘What?’ he asked hoarsely.
‘I’m tired of making do.’
Their sexy banter was the highlight of the book for me - especially the scene about the whisk and the wooden spoon. :)
What else? If you're looking for an exotic setting with an unusual hero and heroine, this is your book. I recommend :)
Grade: B+
http://kaetrinsmusings.blogspot.com.a...
May 23, 2018
I don't get the name of the story, it's not making sense.
The story is about the reunion of an estranged couple, and it's all about not stepping on each others toes. I quite liked it.
The story is about the reunion of an estranged couple, and it's all about not stepping on each others toes. I quite liked it.
March 22, 2011
This may well be the best category romance I have ever read! I LOVED Her Singapore Fling.
I don’t read a lot of category romance mostly because I find the names of the books sooooo contrived and frankly it turns me off buying these books. I will pick up the occasional category romance by one of my favorite authors like a Blaze by Jill Shalvis or Lisa Renee Jones or an Intrigue by HelenKay Dimon or a Super Romance by Sarah Mayberry but I’ve never read a Harlequin Presents Extra - and my question is WHY THE HELL NOT!!!!!! I couldn’t believe how good this book was and in fact I goggled Harlequin Presents Extra to see what the requirements were for this genre and not surprisingly - it is everything I am looking for in a great book.
I’m not sure what prompted me to purchase this book. The name reminded me of a particularly delicious fruity drink, the cover was suggestive and seductive and the back cover blurb definitely caught my attention. I devoured this book in one day. I know it’s no War and Peace but the fact that once I started Her Singapore Fling that I wanted to finish it immediately speaks volumes about just how much I enjoyed it.
Yes this book is part of a series by Kelly Hunter and although I joined in the series at the end, I don’t feel I missed any pertinent info regarding the Bennett family dynamics. The author doesn’t do a lot if any backloading of the previous siblings and I do plan to make the acquaintance of the entire Bennett family and read Hunter’s other books in the series. I can only imagine they are as good as this one was. Kelly Hunter just went on my auto-buy author list.
Jake Bennett, world class black belt champion, owner of his own Dojo, is the oldest sibling of the Bennett clan and I could tell immediately that he was all about family first and his siblings are just as loyal to him. He cared for, helped raise and is totally 1000% dedicated to his brothers, sister and his extended family including his young street-smart and wise beyond his young years apprentice Po.
Twelve years ago his family dedication and his desire to become a world class athlete contributed to the not-so-end of his marriage to his not-so ex-wife Jianne. I say not so because they never ever divorced. The fact that neither one sought out a divorce speaks to their deep abiding love for one another. Money (hers not his) and cultural differences also played a contributing factor, but the fact is that 12 years later when Jake and Jianne meet up again the sparks are still blazing bright and strong and hot.
The setting is exotic (Singapore), the story is full of sexual tension (not quite so ex‘s), suspense and danger (a very persistent stalker) and the result is an excellent and entertaining story that doesn’t drag or let up for one minute.
There are just so many good things about this book. I will be checking out more from Kelly Hunter and definitely checking out future titles from the Harlequin Presents Extra line!
I don’t read a lot of category romance mostly because I find the names of the books sooooo contrived and frankly it turns me off buying these books. I will pick up the occasional category romance by one of my favorite authors like a Blaze by Jill Shalvis or Lisa Renee Jones or an Intrigue by HelenKay Dimon or a Super Romance by Sarah Mayberry but I’ve never read a Harlequin Presents Extra - and my question is WHY THE HELL NOT!!!!!! I couldn’t believe how good this book was and in fact I goggled Harlequin Presents Extra to see what the requirements were for this genre and not surprisingly - it is everything I am looking for in a great book.
I’m not sure what prompted me to purchase this book. The name reminded me of a particularly delicious fruity drink, the cover was suggestive and seductive and the back cover blurb definitely caught my attention. I devoured this book in one day. I know it’s no War and Peace but the fact that once I started Her Singapore Fling that I wanted to finish it immediately speaks volumes about just how much I enjoyed it.
Yes this book is part of a series by Kelly Hunter and although I joined in the series at the end, I don’t feel I missed any pertinent info regarding the Bennett family dynamics. The author doesn’t do a lot if any backloading of the previous siblings and I do plan to make the acquaintance of the entire Bennett family and read Hunter’s other books in the series. I can only imagine they are as good as this one was. Kelly Hunter just went on my auto-buy author list.
Jake Bennett, world class black belt champion, owner of his own Dojo, is the oldest sibling of the Bennett clan and I could tell immediately that he was all about family first and his siblings are just as loyal to him. He cared for, helped raise and is totally 1000% dedicated to his brothers, sister and his extended family including his young street-smart and wise beyond his young years apprentice Po.
Twelve years ago his family dedication and his desire to become a world class athlete contributed to the not-so-end of his marriage to his not-so ex-wife Jianne. I say not so because they never ever divorced. The fact that neither one sought out a divorce speaks to their deep abiding love for one another. Money (hers not his) and cultural differences also played a contributing factor, but the fact is that 12 years later when Jake and Jianne meet up again the sparks are still blazing bright and strong and hot.
The setting is exotic (Singapore), the story is full of sexual tension (not quite so ex‘s), suspense and danger (a very persistent stalker) and the result is an excellent and entertaining story that doesn’t drag or let up for one minute.
There are just so many good things about this book. I will be checking out more from Kelly Hunter and definitely checking out future titles from the Harlequin Presents Extra line!
January 28, 2017
The last in the Bennett brother series. This author has a knack for taking slightly ridiculous, overblown story lines and somehow making them into emotional and memorable reads. Jake and Jianne have been separated for 12 years. Jake is a sensai, a martial arts master teaching in Singapore. Jianne is a billionaire heiress who seeks Jake’s protection when she is stalked by a multi-millionaire who won’t take no for an answer.
I really liked the way the two characters were prepared to discuss why their relationship had faltered, how each carried unnecessary guilt, and how circumstances beyond their control stacked the odds against them when they were a young couple. We don’t get pages and pages of discussion though- the author cuts through into tightly written scenes which get to the heart of things and it is very evident that they still love each other. Their physical relationship works extremely well (fans herself!) but it takes them a bit longer to work through things on a conscious level. Although the couple’s issues are still present, the author convinced me that both had matured, become more self-aware and understanding of each other and more willing to compromise and so by the end I totally believed in their HEA. I appreciated that the author didn’t try to sell the idea that either had been celibate for 12 years while they were separated. I guess the stalker plot line was an effective way to force the couple back into close proximity although it didn’t turn into a romantic suspense and the resolution wasn’t what I expected (this isn’t a complaint). I really liked the Singapore setting. All in all a really satisfying read.
This series has continued to get better book by book in my opinion. Now I need to go and read the first in the series!
I really liked the way the two characters were prepared to discuss why their relationship had faltered, how each carried unnecessary guilt, and how circumstances beyond their control stacked the odds against them when they were a young couple. We don’t get pages and pages of discussion though- the author cuts through into tightly written scenes which get to the heart of things and it is very evident that they still love each other. Their physical relationship works extremely well (fans herself!) but it takes them a bit longer to work through things on a conscious level. Although the couple’s issues are still present, the author convinced me that both had matured, become more self-aware and understanding of each other and more willing to compromise and so by the end I totally believed in their HEA. I appreciated that the author didn’t try to sell the idea that either had been celibate for 12 years while they were separated. I guess the stalker plot line was an effective way to force the couple back into close proximity although it didn’t turn into a romantic suspense and the resolution wasn’t what I expected (this isn’t a complaint). I really liked the Singapore setting. All in all a really satisfying read.
This series has continued to get better book by book in my opinion. Now I need to go and read the first in the series!
February 10, 2013
23/04/2012
Recomendo!
Legal!
Li em inglês, portanto não sei se a versão em português está integral.
Gostei muito do livrinho, fazia horas que não lia nada tão interessante. Os lançamentos estão deixando muito a desejar.
Ele faz parte de uma série, mas não achei os outros ainda, contando a história da família Bennett.
O mocinho, Jake, é o mais velho da família e é o encarregado de criar uma penca de irmãos menores, os quais sempre tem prioridade na sua vida, seguidos pelas artes marciais, ficando as necessidades e sentimentos da esposa relegados a um segundo plano.
Entre os vários problemas que eles enfrentam como as diferenças culturais (ela é chinesa e pertence a uma famíla muito rica e tradicional)e a responsabilidade de lidar com os irmãos menores e dirigir a casa e etc... Jianne não se sente amada e por isso acaba indo embora. O mocinho é muito orgulhoso e não aceita a ajuda financeira da mocinho, o que facilitaria muito na criação dos irmãos e na manutenção da casa.
Após 12 anos eles se reencontram devido a uma situação perturbadora. A mocinha está sendo perseguida e assediada por um sujeito que pretende casar com ela para consolidar a fortuna e negócios das duas famílias. Ela vem pedir proteção para o mocinho e aí começa uma série de situações tensas devido as ameaças do perseguidor e eróticas entre eles.
Quando ela se muda para a casa dele e fica provocando ele sobre o que ela teria feito durante a noite na cama dele... é muito legal!
Recomendo!
Recomendo!
Legal!
Li em inglês, portanto não sei se a versão em português está integral.
Gostei muito do livrinho, fazia horas que não lia nada tão interessante. Os lançamentos estão deixando muito a desejar.
Ele faz parte de uma série, mas não achei os outros ainda, contando a história da família Bennett.
O mocinho, Jake, é o mais velho da família e é o encarregado de criar uma penca de irmãos menores, os quais sempre tem prioridade na sua vida, seguidos pelas artes marciais, ficando as necessidades e sentimentos da esposa relegados a um segundo plano.
Entre os vários problemas que eles enfrentam como as diferenças culturais (ela é chinesa e pertence a uma famíla muito rica e tradicional)e a responsabilidade de lidar com os irmãos menores e dirigir a casa e etc... Jianne não se sente amada e por isso acaba indo embora. O mocinho é muito orgulhoso e não aceita a ajuda financeira da mocinho, o que facilitaria muito na criação dos irmãos e na manutenção da casa.
Após 12 anos eles se reencontram devido a uma situação perturbadora. A mocinha está sendo perseguida e assediada por um sujeito que pretende casar com ela para consolidar a fortuna e negócios das duas famílias. Ela vem pedir proteção para o mocinho e aí começa uma série de situações tensas devido as ameaças do perseguidor e eróticas entre eles.
Quando ela se muda para a casa dele e fica provocando ele sobre o que ela teria feito durante a noite na cama dele... é muito legal!
Recomendo!
February 10, 2013
O mocinho, Jake, é o mais velho da família e é o encarregado de criar uma penca de irmãos menores, os quais sempre tem prioridade na sua vida, seguidos pelas artes marciais, ficando as necessidades e sentimentos da esposa relegados a um segundo plano.
Entre os vários problemas que eles enfrentam como as diferenças culturais (ela é chinesa e pertence a uma famíla muito rica e tradicional)e a responsabilidade de lidar com os irmãos menores e dirigir a casa e etc... Jianne não se sente amada e por isso acaba indo embora. O mocinho é muito orgulhoso e não aceita a ajuda financeira da mocinha, o que facilitaria muito na criação dos irmãos e na manutenção da casa.
Após 12 anos eles se reencontram devido a uma situação perturbadora. A mocinha está sendo perseguida e assediada por um sujeito que pretende casar com ela para consolidar a fortuna e negócios das duas famílias. Ela vem pedir proteção para o mocinho e aí começa uma série de situações tensas devido as ameaças do perseguidor e eróticas entre eles.
Quando ela se muda para a casa dele e fica provocando ele sobre o que ela teria feito durante a noite na cama dele... é muito legal!
Recomendo!
August 14, 2013
Jianne and Jacob have a history, but truly it wasn’t filled in a lot here. Jianne comes to Jacob to help w/ a stalker that can’t seem to back off of her. Yet, again, the stalker thing wasn’t fully backed up either. Apparently it had been going on for years, but no examples or reasons were really given.
It seemed that before Jacob wanted to take care of all, but not really because Jianne doesn’t voice things or needs to him, and Jianne can pay for EVERYTHING which seems to be a problem for Jacob. They work past it though this time around. I liked the style of this one, loved the fluffiness, and the humor that was sprinkled throughout. I just wanted more background to fill in gaps for me. The setting was a nice change. The fact that Jianne could take care of financial things was AWESOME, while Jacob could take care of her and still seek out his dreams which just seemed calming in a weird sort of way, especially after the depressing story I read before.
It seemed that before Jacob wanted to take care of all, but not really because Jianne doesn’t voice things or needs to him, and Jianne can pay for EVERYTHING which seems to be a problem for Jacob. They work past it though this time around. I liked the style of this one, loved the fluffiness, and the humor that was sprinkled throughout. I just wanted more background to fill in gaps for me. The setting was a nice change. The fact that Jianne could take care of financial things was AWESOME, while Jacob could take care of her and still seek out his dreams which just seemed calming in a weird sort of way, especially after the depressing story I read before.
February 3, 2013
4 stars.
This was a pleasant surprise! The final (unless Po gets a book -- and I hope that he WILL!) Bennett sibling's story is moving, real and vivid. The characters are engaging and nearly believable, not too far into cartoon-land. The backstory is reasonable, if sad, and the current romance is quite touching. I liked it.
I was glad that Ji&Jake were trying again. Moreover, they are people - adults! - with whom I wouldn't mind spending more time. I liked them.
Very satisfying book. I'd recommend. But I definitely plan to go back the earlier stories to mine them for references to this final installment. I agree with reviewers who opine that this is not a stand-one novel.
I'm marking the book as finished, but actually, I'm re-reading and revisiting the Bennetts for at least the next week.
This was a pleasant surprise! The final (unless Po gets a book -- and I hope that he WILL!) Bennett sibling's story is moving, real and vivid. The characters are engaging and nearly believable, not too far into cartoon-land. The backstory is reasonable, if sad, and the current romance is quite touching. I liked it.
I was glad that Ji&Jake were trying again. Moreover, they are people - adults! - with whom I wouldn't mind spending more time. I liked them.
Very satisfying book. I'd recommend. But I definitely plan to go back the earlier stories to mine them for references to this final installment. I agree with reviewers who opine that this is not a stand-one novel.
I'm marking the book as finished, but actually, I'm re-reading and revisiting the Bennetts for at least the next week.
June 15, 2013
Click here for my full review at Book Thingo.
Hunter does beautiful things with this couple. Their bedroom scenes are hot and rough and tinged with desperation, and I found them utterly moving. The way Jacob and Jianne work through their guilt and find the courage to claim what they need from the relationship is so subtle it’s bordering on not enough information. I love this.
Sexy, angsty and deeply moving, this story is everything we love about category romance. Oh, and the heroine? She’s the tycoon. This one’s a keeper.
Who might enjoy it: Readers who like to read between the lines
Who might not enjoy it: Readers who need a fully fledged backstory
Hunter does beautiful things with this couple. Their bedroom scenes are hot and rough and tinged with desperation, and I found them utterly moving. The way Jacob and Jianne work through their guilt and find the courage to claim what they need from the relationship is so subtle it’s bordering on not enough information. I love this.
Sexy, angsty and deeply moving, this story is everything we love about category romance. Oh, and the heroine? She’s the tycoon. This one’s a keeper.
Who might enjoy it: Readers who like to read between the lines
Who might not enjoy it: Readers who need a fully fledged backstory
November 7, 2014
Second book I read from Bennett series. I know it's the last one, but because I read Untameable Rogue as my first book, why not read the last first then jump for the first book? Beside, I really want to read this book after read Luke's story.
The story didn't dissappoint me at all. I thought Jake is kind of cute in the previous book, and since then developing a soft spot for him :D I really curious why they separated, and satisfied when it's not some small matter like any other hlq presents stories. Usually I love when there are many hurt and angst. But without much of that, this book satisfy me enough to earn a four star. My favourite part is when Jake collapse after the fight. Make me want to nurture him until he healed :D
The story didn't dissappoint me at all. I thought Jake is kind of cute in the previous book, and since then developing a soft spot for him :D I really curious why they separated, and satisfied when it's not some small matter like any other hlq presents stories. Usually I love when there are many hurt and angst. But without much of that, this book satisfy me enough to earn a four star. My favourite part is when Jake collapse after the fight. Make me want to nurture him until he healed :D
June 13, 2012
I really enjoyed this IR novel. Jacob and Jianne were together early in their lives before they really were ready to handle the stresses that would be placed on them by their situation. Now that it is years later, they are in a position to make it work the second time around. Jianne is sweet and kind and has never stopped loving Jacob. Jacob is certainly more bitter, but he also reconizes his part to play in why their relationship failed the first time, and grows and takes steps to make sure the same thing doesn't happen this time around. It's a sweet multi-racial story with two people who you really feel are meant to be together.
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