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Carpino #1
Overflow
There’s nothing like getting caught in the middle of an FBI raid to change your life…
That’s what happens to Gabrielle Carpino. Just when she forced herself to move on with life after tragedy touched her family, she finds herself thrown into a tailspin so swift, she can’t find her bearings.
Being cuffed and patted down by Special Agent Jude Ortiz is enough to wake anyone up. With his dark chocolate eyes and commanding ways, Gabby can't resist. And between battling criminals, flooded basements, fantasy football drafts, and her crazy Italian family, Jude also finds himself unable to resist her charms.
That doesn’t mean he isn’t wrestling feelings he hasn't allowed in years. Nightmares that are his reality have paralyzed him from living a full life. Yet, he can’t help himself when it comes to her and Jude moves in to watch over Gabby.
But just when life seems to be settling down, demons surface from the past. Horrific ones that carry a vengeance so evil, no one saw them coming.
That’s what happens to Gabrielle Carpino. Just when she forced herself to move on with life after tragedy touched her family, she finds herself thrown into a tailspin so swift, she can’t find her bearings.
Being cuffed and patted down by Special Agent Jude Ortiz is enough to wake anyone up. With his dark chocolate eyes and commanding ways, Gabby can't resist. And between battling criminals, flooded basements, fantasy football drafts, and her crazy Italian family, Jude also finds himself unable to resist her charms.
That doesn’t mean he isn’t wrestling feelings he hasn't allowed in years. Nightmares that are his reality have paralyzed him from living a full life. Yet, he can’t help himself when it comes to her and Jude moves in to watch over Gabby.
But just when life seems to be settling down, demons surface from the past. Horrific ones that carry a vengeance so evil, no one saw them coming.
310 pages, ebook
First published August 3, 2014
4005 people are currently reading
8535 people want to read
About the author
Brynne Asher
28 books4,014 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Brynne Asher. Writer of romance. Lover of caffeine and cocktails.
Brynne lives in the Midwest with her husband, three children, and her perfect dog. When she isn't creating pretend people and drama, she's running her kids around and doing laundry. Brynne thrives on skincare and online shopping while being fabulous in her favorite ratty pajamas.
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Brynne lives in the Midwest with her husband, three children, and her perfect dog. When she isn't creating pretend people and drama, she's running her kids around and doing laundry. Brynne thrives on skincare and online shopping while being fabulous in her favorite ratty pajamas.
Sign up for Brynne's newsletter, it's a spam-free zone: http://eepurl.com/gFVMUP
Follow Brynne on the Freakybook: https://www.facebook.com/brynneashera...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 788 reviews
April 14, 2021
3rd read audiobook review: This book has stood the test of time for me. Jude and Gabby are still one of my favorite couples. I really enjoyed the audiobook version this time around. I’m sure I’ll re-read this many times to come.
2nd Read: This was just as good the second time. Man do I love Jude!
1st Read: I loved this book! I'm thrilled when I find a book with my type of Hero and Jude was pretty darn perfect in my eyes. He's the strong silent type as well as dominant, bossy and protective.
I loved that the author paired him with Gabby. She was very girly, but not in an annoying way and she had a tendency to ramble. The way Jude handled Gabby was entertaining and showed off his sweet side.
The story line was so entertaining that I just devoured this book. It also had some really great side characters and an epilogue that will just melt your heart. I'm very happy to see there are more standalone books to the series. I really liked every character we met in Overflow and can't wait to see some of them get their own book.
2nd Read: This was just as good the second time. Man do I love Jude!
1st Read: I loved this book! I'm thrilled when I find a book with my type of Hero and Jude was pretty darn perfect in my eyes. He's the strong silent type as well as dominant, bossy and protective.
I loved that the author paired him with Gabby. She was very girly, but not in an annoying way and she had a tendency to ramble. The way Jude handled Gabby was entertaining and showed off his sweet side.
The story line was so entertaining that I just devoured this book. It also had some really great side characters and an epilogue that will just melt your heart. I'm very happy to see there are more standalone books to the series. I really liked every character we met in Overflow and can't wait to see some of them get their own book.
September 4, 2019
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Copy received by author in exchange for an honest review
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont Romance
Series : - 1st in the series
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - yes
Rating - 4 stars
★Review★
I have to be honest, I am not a huge fan of books written in present tense, I tend to find them awkward and clunky to read.
But in saying that, I soon got dragged into the story and stopped noticing it so much.
I really liked the main characters and the supporting cast was great fun, although I gave up trying to keep track of who was a son/daughter of who, who was an aunt, which one was a cousin etc....apart form Tony, since I fell in love with him.
Yes, it was insta lust/love, but seems hard to find a romance book lately that is not.
Certain things could have been improved upon, for example, I completely forgot about the prologue and what that could have had to do with the story, until near the end when it made sense. I was never quite sure just exactly WHY the bad guys at the beginning would have fixated on our heroine to such a point, and it did get overly descriptive at times, with regards to home furnishings etc, for example we get a 2 page description of a ruddy laundry room in a home we never visit again. And the hero's past just hitting us out of the blue, bearing in mind this is dual POV, so we have been inside the head of the hero.
But, I still found it a hugely enjoyable story, with characters I really liked, and I truly enjoyed it. I believe this is the first published book by this author and she has huge potential to become very good. Yes, I had some niggles and issues with the book, but she can write an engaging story with characters I enjoyed, which is half the battle for getting me to want to read an author again. Indeed, I am starting book 2, since it is Tony, and well, that is all I need to say.
This book is also available on KU.
Copy received by author in exchange for an honest review
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont Romance
Series : - 1st in the series
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - yes
Rating - 4 stars
★Review★
I have to be honest, I am not a huge fan of books written in present tense, I tend to find them awkward and clunky to read.
But in saying that, I soon got dragged into the story and stopped noticing it so much.
I really liked the main characters and the supporting cast was great fun, although I gave up trying to keep track of who was a son/daughter of who, who was an aunt, which one was a cousin etc....apart form Tony, since I fell in love with him.
Yes, it was insta lust/love, but seems hard to find a romance book lately that is not.
Certain things could have been improved upon, for example, I completely forgot about the prologue and what that could have had to do with the story, until near the end when it made sense. I was never quite sure just exactly WHY the bad guys at the beginning would have fixated on our heroine to such a point, and it did get overly descriptive at times, with regards to home furnishings etc, for example we get a 2 page description of a ruddy laundry room in a home we never visit again. And the hero's past just hitting us out of the blue, bearing in mind this is dual POV, so we have been inside the head of the hero.
But, I still found it a hugely enjoyable story, with characters I really liked, and I truly enjoyed it. I believe this is the first published book by this author and she has huge potential to become very good. Yes, I had some niggles and issues with the book, but she can write an engaging story with characters I enjoyed, which is half the battle for getting me to want to read an author again. Indeed, I am starting book 2, since it is Tony, and well, that is all I need to say.
This book is also available on KU.
August 29, 2016
4.25+ RATING- I saw some chatter on GR about this book having a Kristen Ashley feel to it and had to give it a shot! Glad I did! I definitely get the KA feel and inspiration but think the book stands on its own as a great, guilty pleasure read and a solid debut! The writing was good, the steamy parts sexy, the characters likable. Sexy ass Jude is going on my best boyfriend list! He is my favorite type of hero, alpha and bossy but kind as well. Did I mention sexy? Umm. Yeah.
I thought there was a good mix of romance with some suspense thrown in. I love a hero that has to protect his woman and Jude was all about that.
The book wasn't perfect. Between the 60-80% mark it dragged a bit for me. The heroine although likable had just a pinch of annoying to her. Still...I'm on vacation right now and this was a great read to enjoy on a lazy day. Even though I borrowed the copy I read, I went ahead and purchased a copy so I had my own.
For readers that can enjoy the likeness to KA without feeling like the authors own voice isn't strong enough, this is an easy book to like and recommend. It's hard to believe this is the authors debut novel. I look forward to the next book in the series and am excited to see this authors writing develop.
NOTE: This books is currently available to borrow through Amazon's Kindle Unlimited Program.
To see other books available to borrow through Kindle Unlimited or SCRIBD, check out the Subscription Addiction group
https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
I thought there was a good mix of romance with some suspense thrown in. I love a hero that has to protect his woman and Jude was all about that.
The book wasn't perfect. Between the 60-80% mark it dragged a bit for me. The heroine although likable had just a pinch of annoying to her. Still...I'm on vacation right now and this was a great read to enjoy on a lazy day. Even though I borrowed the copy I read, I went ahead and purchased a copy so I had my own.
For readers that can enjoy the likeness to KA without feeling like the authors own voice isn't strong enough, this is an easy book to like and recommend. It's hard to believe this is the authors debut novel. I look forward to the next book in the series and am excited to see this authors writing develop.
NOTE: This books is currently available to borrow through Amazon's Kindle Unlimited Program.
To see other books available to borrow through Kindle Unlimited or SCRIBD, check out the Subscription Addiction group
https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
May 29, 2018
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was alright. I get that the h was a decorator, but my gosh I don't need to read paragraph after paragraph of decor descriptions!! That kind of ruined the story for me. It also was a lot going on. The drama kept on coming! I felt like it was part of why they connected so quickly, but I also felt like it was a little OTT at times too. I've read the other 2 books in the series, and I think I've liked the 3rd book the best so far. I wouldn't say this was bad or anything, but I didn't really love it either.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Gabby and Jude's story. Gabby finds herself in the middle of a FBI raid ata a friend's house, and Jude is one of the head agents. Jude finds out that Gabby is in danger, and gets an immediate protective instinct and barges in and implants himself into her life. There is a good bit of crazy family stuff, some suspenseful moments, some sexy times, and some sweet moments...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Gabby and Jude's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Okay. They actual storyline? I felt like it flowed well. BUT there were a lot of times that I skimmed past the excessive decor descriptions.
Instalove:Kind of. They move really fast. No words or even thoughts of love until later, but I still felt like it moved pretty fast.
H rating: 3.5 stars. Jude. I liked him, but I didn't like how he took so long to communicate with the h.
h rating: 4 stars. Gabby. I liked her. I appreciated her loyalty and sweet nature.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull:Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Not really. Once they're together, they stay together.
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had good closure with a really cute epilogue and a HEA ending.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: This was alright. I get that the h was a decorator, but my gosh I don't need to read paragraph after paragraph of decor descriptions!! That kind of ruined the story for me. It also was a lot going on. The drama kept on coming! I felt like it was part of why they connected so quickly, but I also felt like it was a little OTT at times too. I've read the other 2 books in the series, and I think I've liked the 3rd book the best so far. I wouldn't say this was bad or anything, but I didn't really love it either.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Gabby and Jude's story. Gabby finds herself in the middle of a FBI raid ata a friend's house, and Jude is one of the head agents. Jude finds out that Gabby is in danger, and gets an immediate protective instinct and barges in and implants himself into her life. There is a good bit of crazy family stuff, some suspenseful moments, some sexy times, and some sweet moments...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Gabby and Jude's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Okay. They actual storyline? I felt like it flowed well. BUT there were a lot of times that I skimmed past the excessive decor descriptions.
Instalove:Kind of. They move really fast. No words or even thoughts of love until later, but I still felt like it moved pretty fast.
H rating: 3.5 stars. Jude. I liked him, but I didn't like how he took so long to communicate with the h.
h rating: 4 stars. Gabby. I liked her. I appreciated her loyalty and sweet nature.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull:Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Not really. Once they're together, they stay together.
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had good closure with a really cute epilogue and a HEA ending.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
July 9, 2020
Made me want to eat a salad...
It's been a wee while since I read Overflow, so it felt like I was reading/listening for the first time. I'm a fan of Brynne Asher but it was obvious that this was her first story. The character development, descriptions and dialogue were a little bit cookie-cutter, and maybe even 'tried and tested' by other authors.
The narrators do a fantastic job of bringing the characters to life, and they were very easy to listen to. I could tell when the characters changed and both could do a very convincing male and female voice. I would be happy to listen to more stories performed by them, individually or together.
While I really enjoyed Overflow, I know that Brynne Asher has improved 100 fold. I look forward to more of her stories coming to audio in the future.
*****************************************
Loved the characters...
I found this story almost perfect for me. My only niggle was that I thought it was way too descriptive in the first quarter of the book. The home renovations and decorations were described a little too thoroughly.
Loved all the characters and Gabby's extended family were so loving and supportive. A great connection between Jude and Gabby that didn't feel forced or OTT. Lots of sexy times with a hot and bossy Jude knowing what he wants and Gabby learning to trust in the feelings that were developing between them.
Lots of action that kept me interested, but I did think there were a few too many dramas come up in such a short time.
Really enjoyed this book and I will definitely be reading more from this author.
It's been a wee while since I read Overflow, so it felt like I was reading/listening for the first time. I'm a fan of Brynne Asher but it was obvious that this was her first story. The character development, descriptions and dialogue were a little bit cookie-cutter, and maybe even 'tried and tested' by other authors.
The narrators do a fantastic job of bringing the characters to life, and they were very easy to listen to. I could tell when the characters changed and both could do a very convincing male and female voice. I would be happy to listen to more stories performed by them, individually or together.
While I really enjoyed Overflow, I know that Brynne Asher has improved 100 fold. I look forward to more of her stories coming to audio in the future.
*****************************************
Loved the characters...
I found this story almost perfect for me. My only niggle was that I thought it was way too descriptive in the first quarter of the book. The home renovations and decorations were described a little too thoroughly.
Loved all the characters and Gabby's extended family were so loving and supportive. A great connection between Jude and Gabby that didn't feel forced or OTT. Lots of sexy times with a hot and bossy Jude knowing what he wants and Gabby learning to trust in the feelings that were developing between them.
Lots of action that kept me interested, but I did think there were a few too many dramas come up in such a short time.
Really enjoyed this book and I will definitely be reading more from this author.
August 26, 2018
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Re-read 8/24/2018
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Re-read 8/24/2018
January 10, 2020
I loved Jude and how gone he was over Gabby, this was shaping up to be a favorite book...and then it was ruined. I knew going in he'd lost his wife, but it's not mentioned to us or the heroine until over halfway through, and that because she overhears it AND that her boyfriend became a manwhore after losing his wife nine years before, so you can't help but calculate how many women he's been with since. *puking noises* Yeah, what a way to mourn (honor the love you had with) your dead wife and the babies she was carrying, by sticking your junk into ANY woman that's breathing. *puking noises again* So disappointed. Oh, and the fact he was married and is a widower, and was a manwhore (changing women like dirty socks) was information Gabby learns when his drunk brother-in-law (deceased wife's brother) shows up at Jude's cabin where H/h went on a getaway for her birthday, so she's stranded there after discovering all this because of how remote it is). I do like that it's flat out said Jude had never taken a woman there except for Gabby (he purchased it a few years after his wife died). And, of course, Gabby has been celibate almost four years and Jude is only the second man she's been with. *ugh*
November 28, 2021
3.75 stars
i just know this is the best one in the series. at least, as far as im concerned.
not sure why i found Jude & Gabbys first scene together (during the FBI raid in chapter 2, when she was being cuffed and patted down) to be so enthralling and memorable, but i did. guess im just a perv like that lol. in reality, if i were in Gabbys shoes, i wouldve most likely been appalled and highly uncomfortable. not to mention, scared.
in any case, for a moment in time i was overflowed with dopamine cause of this book.
i just know this is the best one in the series. at least, as far as im concerned.
not sure why i found Jude & Gabbys first scene together (during the FBI raid in chapter 2, when she was being cuffed and patted down) to be so enthralling and memorable, but i did. guess im just a perv like that lol. in reality, if i were in Gabbys shoes, i wouldve most likely been appalled and highly uncomfortable. not to mention, scared.
in any case, for a moment in time i was overflowed with dopamine cause of this book.
July 4, 2020
This is my first read by Miss Asher. I have to say it took me by surprise. There is suspense thrown into romance. And I do love bossy alpha male, thanks to Jude. He is... bossy. Sexy bossy.
The characters develop well to support the story. The banters are surprisingly alive and sexy. I do not like Gabby too much though. In some part of the story, she becomes very childish and immature. I want to bitch slap her about her reaction when Jude's past reveals.
Overall, I enjoy this book very much.
4 stars
The characters develop well to support the story. The banters are surprisingly alive and sexy. I do not like Gabby too much though. In some part of the story, she becomes very childish and immature. I want to bitch slap her about her reaction when Jude's past reveals.
Overall, I enjoy this book very much.
4 stars
April 1, 2019
Awesome first book to this series!!!
I read this book because there were many reviews of how similar Ms. Asher's writing is to Kristen Ashley, but I think it is more 'KA lite' with a twist of her own flair. If I did base all my reviews off KA books all my other book reviews probably wouldn't make it past 3 stars, but this book had enough of that sexy alpha male, romance, suspense and tragedy that really kept my attention throughout the entire book.
I'm super excited to continue the series with Tony and Leigh. I got a preview of their story at the end of this book and I will immediately pickup that book and start reading it right after I finish writing this review. Another reason why I love this series is because the entire series is out in Kindle Unlimited!
I read this book because there were many reviews of how similar Ms. Asher's writing is to Kristen Ashley, but I think it is more 'KA lite' with a twist of her own flair. If I did base all my reviews off KA books all my other book reviews probably wouldn't make it past 3 stars, but this book had enough of that sexy alpha male, romance, suspense and tragedy that really kept my attention throughout the entire book.
I'm super excited to continue the series with Tony and Leigh. I got a preview of their story at the end of this book and I will immediately pickup that book and start reading it right after I finish writing this review. Another reason why I love this series is because the entire series is out in Kindle Unlimited!
June 9, 2017
I've been wanting to read this for some time but due to the fact it had one of the things I usually avoid at all costs, I'd been putting it off. I decided to step out of my comfort zone a bit and give it a try.
I loved both mc's. Jude was that hot, possessive and bossy hero I love. And Gabby was the sweet heroine I like who, well, gabbed too much. I thought they were great together.
This would have been a 5 star read for me but, even though I knew it would come out , I hated it was so late in the book. It really stopped me dead in my tracks. I hate the way Gabby found out and Jude wasn't the one to tell her and I hate the way it made her feel. My heart just broke. By this time I had already established them as a couple but it really threw me for a loop and made me disconnect. And the fact that he just made me cringe. Now it has been 9 years and he is not still grieving, but it just interrupted my connection with them. I do feel he truly loves Gabby with all his heart though. And this is all just a me thing and doesn't bother most people. Again, I feel it would have been better to come out earlier so I could reestablish my connection.
I absolutely loved the epilogue 5 years out. I have already read book 2 before this one but I think I need to do a reread. I remember I loved Tony.
I loved both mc's. Jude was that hot, possessive and bossy hero I love. And Gabby was the sweet heroine I like who, well, gabbed too much. I thought they were great together.
This would have been a 5 star read for me but, even though I knew it would come out , I hated it was so late in the book. It really stopped me dead in my tracks. I hate the way Gabby found out and Jude wasn't the one to tell her and I hate the way it made her feel. My heart just broke. By this time I had already established them as a couple but it really threw me for a loop and made me disconnect. And the fact that he just made me cringe. Now it has been 9 years and he is not still grieving, but it just interrupted my connection with them. I do feel he truly loves Gabby with all his heart though. And this is all just a me thing and doesn't bother most people. Again, I feel it would have been better to come out earlier so I could reestablish my connection.
I absolutely loved the epilogue 5 years out. I have already read book 2 before this one but I think I need to do a reread. I remember I loved Tony.
July 12, 2015
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I'm so happy I went in blind on this. Sometimes the most beautiful gifts are the unexpected ones. I may have passed on this if I had known a few things but in all honesty I'm so very glad I didn't. I loved the writing style, the witty humorous banter and the sweetest sexy romance I've read in a while.
Jude Ortiz has really captured my heart and proven to me that sometimes things just fall into place how they should and beauty can be found after pain. I was totally lost in this amazing read for hours and had moments of sheer happiness to times of extreme sadness to full on joy all over again. This author broke a mold for me, she busted past some boundaries and proved real love can't be denied. I am just in happy bliss. I feel like I've made friends. So yea now I'm diving right into Tonys book.
Thank you Brynne for such a beautiful story. You've definitely got a fan lady.
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I'm so happy I went in blind on this. Sometimes the most beautiful gifts are the unexpected ones. I may have passed on this if I had known a few things but in all honesty I'm so very glad I didn't. I loved the writing style, the witty humorous banter and the sweetest sexy romance I've read in a while.
Jude Ortiz has really captured my heart and proven to me that sometimes things just fall into place how they should and beauty can be found after pain. I was totally lost in this amazing read for hours and had moments of sheer happiness to times of extreme sadness to full on joy all over again. This author broke a mold for me, she busted past some boundaries and proved real love can't be denied. I am just in happy bliss. I feel like I've made friends. So yea now I'm diving right into Tonys book.
Thank you Brynne for such a beautiful story. You've definitely got a fan lady.
September 10, 2023
6.23.20
Now available in audio!! 🎧 Audible link: https://www.audible.com/pd/Overflow-A...
4 Fun Stars!
Gabrielle Carpino, an interior decorator is innocently dropping off a thank you gift to her friend and client upon completion of a remodel when the FBI raids the house, and Gabby is handcuffed in the shuffle for questioning. Gabby immediately calls her cousin Tony Carpino (a lawyer), and that’s when we get to know snarky, stubborn, fun, gun toting Gabby. FBI Special Agent Jude Ortiz, who pats her down is treating her….differently. He knows she has nothing to do with his case but he can’t seem to help himself from baiting her.
Next thing you know, Jude shows at Gabby’s house when she’s in the middle of a household emergency, he immediately takes over, Tony shows and gives and hand, Jude and Tony do some man bonding, and next thing you know Jude is ensconced in Gabby’s crazy extended family. Gabby and Jude, immediately hit it off which turns out to be a good thing since her life is now being threatened, and it’s up to Jude to keep her safe.
All-in-all this was a fast-paced fun read with a great H&h, a cute spoiled doggie, and a big crazy loving protective Italian family. Looking forward to the rest of the series!!
Reread on: 9/09/2023
Now available in audio!! 🎧 Audible link: https://www.audible.com/pd/Overflow-A...
4 Fun Stars!
Gabrielle Carpino, an interior decorator is innocently dropping off a thank you gift to her friend and client upon completion of a remodel when the FBI raids the house, and Gabby is handcuffed in the shuffle for questioning. Gabby immediately calls her cousin Tony Carpino (a lawyer), and that’s when we get to know snarky, stubborn, fun, gun toting Gabby. FBI Special Agent Jude Ortiz, who pats her down is treating her….differently. He knows she has nothing to do with his case but he can’t seem to help himself from baiting her.
Next thing you know, Jude shows at Gabby’s house when she’s in the middle of a household emergency, he immediately takes over, Tony shows and gives and hand, Jude and Tony do some man bonding, and next thing you know Jude is ensconced in Gabby’s crazy extended family. Gabby and Jude, immediately hit it off which turns out to be a good thing since her life is now being threatened, and it’s up to Jude to keep her safe.
All-in-all this was a fast-paced fun read with a great H&h, a cute spoiled doggie, and a big crazy loving protective Italian family. Looking forward to the rest of the series!!
Reread on: 9/09/2023
January 1, 2018
Decorator Gabby Carpino and FBI Special Agent Jude Ortiz are introduced in a meet-cute worthy of a Stephanie Plum novel
. From the beginning he breaks rules, skips steps to both protect, and get closer this adorable heroine that comes attached with a large Italian family.
The Good:
1. Fans of the Kristen Ashley formula of supergirly heroines, and the alphas that love them should like this.
2. The Carpino family members add instead of distract from the story.
3. Jude is a very sweet, caring alpha male that still maintains a little edge.
4. Those into super sweet heroines will like Gabby.
The Bad:
1. I'm more predisposed to criminal themed romances, than law enforcement. This might not be a good book-fit for me, but might rock your world. Take my opinion with a grain of salt.
2. This started off great, but lost me with the out of nowhere, unnecessary plot device ending. It reminded me of
in that respect.
Final Thoughts:
So many of my book friends loved this, and I could see why. Most of them are bigger Kristen Ashley fans than me. I have appreciated, but also picked those apart too. I think your place in that fandom, will determine if this book will work, or not for you too.
. From the beginning he breaks rules, skips steps to both protect, and get closer this adorable heroine that comes attached with a large Italian family.The Good:
1. Fans of the Kristen Ashley formula of supergirly heroines, and the alphas that love them should like this.
2. The Carpino family members add instead of distract from the story.
3. Jude is a very sweet, caring alpha male that still maintains a little edge.
4. Those into super sweet heroines will like Gabby.
The Bad:
1. I'm more predisposed to criminal themed romances, than law enforcement. This might not be a good book-fit for me, but might rock your world. Take my opinion with a grain of salt.
2. This started off great, but lost me with the out of nowhere, unnecessary plot device ending. It reminded me of
in that respect.Final Thoughts:
So many of my book friends loved this, and I could see why. Most of them are bigger Kristen Ashley fans than me. I have appreciated, but also picked those apart too. I think your place in that fandom, will determine if this book will work, or not for you too.
May 5, 2025
RELECTURE : cette relecture presque 10 ans après me confirme que j'adore cette série =D
Mais la comparaison avec Kristen Ashley n'est plus vraie : les Brynne Asher sont meilleures pour moi !
RE-READ : This re-read, almost 10 years later, confirms that I love this series =D
But the comparison with Kristen Ashley is no longer true : the Brynne Asher series are better in my opinion !
A nice and funny little romance very well written amid multiple plots (some sad, some scary x))
Reading this book (especially when I read that Jude was from Denver !! There must be something in the water there ><) I felt like reading a Kristen Ashley's book, maybe a tad less awesome x)
I LOVED the Carpino family, from Tony to Paige but also Gabby and co and I'm so looking forward to read the next book about Tony and Gaby's friend who was beaten by her husband !!
Mais la comparaison avec Kristen Ashley n'est plus vraie : les Brynne Asher sont meilleures pour moi !
RE-READ : This re-read, almost 10 years later, confirms that I love this series =D
But the comparison with Kristen Ashley is no longer true : the Brynne Asher series are better in my opinion !
A nice and funny little romance very well written amid multiple plots (some sad, some scary x))
Reading this book (especially when I read that Jude was from Denver !! There must be something in the water there ><) I felt like reading a Kristen Ashley's book, maybe a tad less awesome x)
I LOVED the Carpino family, from Tony to Paige but also Gabby and co and I'm so looking forward to read the next book about Tony and Gaby's friend who was beaten by her husband !!
August 11, 2015
4 stars of goodness...
Like another reviewer, I'm glad I didn't know certain aspects of this book before I started reading because knowing me, I would have passed on it and missed out on a really good book.
I enjoyed Overflow a lot. Yes it was a bit descriptive at times but that was easily overlooked by the wonderful way the author told the story. And what a story! I was gripped from the get-go. I loved all the secondary characters and can not wait to dive into Beautiful Life, the next book in the series.
Like another reviewer, I'm glad I didn't know certain aspects of this book before I started reading because knowing me, I would have passed on it and missed out on a really good book.
I enjoyed Overflow a lot. Yes it was a bit descriptive at times but that was easily overlooked by the wonderful way the author told the story. And what a story! I was gripped from the get-go. I loved all the secondary characters and can not wait to dive into Beautiful Life, the next book in the series.
February 9, 2017
When I first picked this up and read the sample I noticed some similarities with another author so in all honesty I put the book down and thought PANTS, this cannot be happening.
So in my mind I had decided to not bother and knowing that I am a bit of an oddball I decided to try again. I have done this with a lot of books and one where I gave it a low rating and I felt really bad so I read it again and ate crow and loved it. Giving it a solid 3.5 stars.
So in the second time in trying I really got into this book. See? Oddball. Ha it’s great to be me. I think. Anyhoo, moving on swiftly. Now there are certain vibes that the book gives out that could technically be associated with another author but the more you get into the book the stretch becomes further with the vibes that the book gives off.
I wasn’t actually going to write a review but then the author sent me a friend request and I felt guilty. Catholics and their guilt. So here goes.
Gabby Carpino has a big and meddlesome family. She is also an accountant/interior designer while at her client’s house she gets got in a raid and is patted down by Mr. January through December calendar model Jude Ortiz. Gabby gets drawn into the unwanted craziness.
Mr. January through December calendar model Jude Ortiz shouldn’t pat a female down but with this specific specimen it cannot be helped. There are funny situations as well as sad situations and I loved the huge family that Gabby has.
Well written with good development throughout the book of both the main characters as well as the secondary characters.
I was a bit confused at times with the flow of the book where it was hard to tell if there was an information catch up or not. It was a dual POV but also then I was confused who was talking at the beginning. The alarm bells where ringing because I knew that Jude had a secret but I didn’t like the way that Gabby found out about it.
I was wondering what the Prologue had to do with the book and I felt that the second plot twist related to the book and I think that personally there could have been more clues leading to that rather than knocking you down and saying “Here I am”
So in my mind I had decided to not bother and knowing that I am a bit of an oddball I decided to try again. I have done this with a lot of books and one where I gave it a low rating and I felt really bad so I read it again and ate crow and loved it. Giving it a solid 3.5 stars.
So in the second time in trying I really got into this book. See? Oddball. Ha it’s great to be me. I think. Anyhoo, moving on swiftly. Now there are certain vibes that the book gives out that could technically be associated with another author but the more you get into the book the stretch becomes further with the vibes that the book gives off.
I wasn’t actually going to write a review but then the author sent me a friend request and I felt guilty. Catholics and their guilt. So here goes.
Gabby Carpino has a big and meddlesome family. She is also an accountant/interior designer while at her client’s house she gets got in a raid and is patted down by Mr. January through December calendar model Jude Ortiz. Gabby gets drawn into the unwanted craziness.
Mr. January through December calendar model Jude Ortiz shouldn’t pat a female down but with this specific specimen it cannot be helped. There are funny situations as well as sad situations and I loved the huge family that Gabby has.
Well written with good development throughout the book of both the main characters as well as the secondary characters.
I was a bit confused at times with the flow of the book where it was hard to tell if there was an information catch up or not. It was a dual POV but also then I was confused who was talking at the beginning. The alarm bells where ringing because I knew that Jude had a secret but I didn’t like the way that Gabby found out about it.
I was wondering what the Prologue had to do with the book and I felt that the second plot twist related to the book and I think that personally there could have been more clues leading to that rather than knocking you down and saying “Here I am”
December 21, 2016
I read this one a long time ago but I didn't mark it read.
The heroine Gabby(Gabrielle) meets the hero Jude when he busts her friend's husband and her friend for some illegal misdeeds. They feel the connection and the Jude wants to pursue a relationship while Gabby is scared to due to a previously bad relationship. There is also the added story of her being caught up in a case he is working on.
I will say this isn't a bad book but for me there was little too much going on so it felt bogged down. The other problem is that while I have enjoyed a few KA books this had something that I usually have a problem with in book by KA. The heroine. This book like KA was told most in the heroine's pov and the heroine had moments where I wanted to shake her. The hero had some moments but I really liked him.
I personally can have issue with sassy/feisty heroines because they can sometimes come across as immature, bitchy or have tstl moments. I can relate to some stuff but some can be blown out of proportion. So this kept me from fully enjoying it. I think the heroine did remind me of KA type of heroine and many of them(except for Lexi, Faye,Tessa, and Anya which are my favorites and even they had moments)were ones I kept having more issues with than not.
So for this it is completely a personal issue and not a book issue. I do think you like KA type of books and want a good story with a author that has their own unique was of writing I think you may like it.
The heroine Gabby(Gabrielle) meets the hero Jude when he busts her friend's husband and her friend for some illegal misdeeds. They feel the connection and the Jude wants to pursue a relationship while Gabby is scared to due to a previously bad relationship. There is also the added story of her being caught up in a case he is working on.
I will say this isn't a bad book but for me there was little too much going on so it felt bogged down. The other problem is that while I have enjoyed a few KA books this had something that I usually have a problem with in book by KA. The heroine. This book like KA was told most in the heroine's pov and the heroine had moments where I wanted to shake her. The hero had some moments but I really liked him.
I personally can have issue with sassy/feisty heroines because they can sometimes come across as immature, bitchy or have tstl moments. I can relate to some stuff but some can be blown out of proportion. So this kept me from fully enjoying it. I think the heroine did remind me of KA type of heroine and many of them(except for Lexi, Faye,Tessa, and Anya which are my favorites and even they had moments)were ones I kept having more issues with than not.
So for this it is completely a personal issue and not a book issue. I do think you like KA type of books and want a good story with a author that has their own unique was of writing I think you may like it.
January 2, 2015
Gabi meets Jude while she’s visiting her friend/client, whose home is being raided by the FBI. Sparks fly while he frisks her(!) and then, romance.
The Good, The Bad and Everything In Between
-Kindle Unlimited book: love being able to take advantage of this program and try out new authors.
-comfort read: it’s a bit formulaic, but I like this particular formula. Hot alpha male meets spunky yet emotionally fragile heroine and they save each other...while a bunch of stuff happens.
-Have you read Kristen Ashley? Because Ms. Asher has: Speaking of formulas, it’s very Kristen Ashley-like. Similar vibe to the story, the characters, and the fascination with clothes/decorating.
-A whole lot going on: It seemed that a whole bunch of different plot points were thrown together. There was the vague threat from the past, loser ex for her, secrets from life before H/h met for him, threats from villain who (of course) wanted heroine, and barring that, would kill her. You know, the usual. I would have liked for the story to have been streamlined into one cohesive threat, and kept the focus on the relationship.
-Forgot about the first chapter and then suddenly it was in my face: the last big threat felt as if it came out of nowhere, since it was part of the prologue and then didn’t factor into the story at all, until the very end.
The Bottom Line
Did not reinvent the wheel, but it was a good inbetween book for me. It wasn't perfect, but I would read more in this series.
The Good, The Bad and Everything In Between
-Kindle Unlimited book: love being able to take advantage of this program and try out new authors.
-comfort read: it’s a bit formulaic, but I like this particular formula. Hot alpha male meets spunky yet emotionally fragile heroine and they save each other...while a bunch of stuff happens.
-Have you read Kristen Ashley? Because Ms. Asher has: Speaking of formulas, it’s very Kristen Ashley-like. Similar vibe to the story, the characters, and the fascination with clothes/decorating.
-A whole lot going on: It seemed that a whole bunch of different plot points were thrown together. There was the vague threat from the past, loser ex for her, secrets from life before H/h met for him, threats from villain who (of course) wanted heroine, and barring that, would kill her. You know, the usual. I would have liked for the story to have been streamlined into one cohesive threat, and kept the focus on the relationship.
-Forgot about the first chapter and then suddenly it was in my face: the last big threat felt as if it came out of nowhere, since it was part of the prologue and then didn’t factor into the story at all, until the very end.
The Bottom Line
Did not reinvent the wheel, but it was a good inbetween book for me. It wasn't perfect, but I would read more in this series.
November 7, 2014
I borrowed this through KU after seeing it recommended on the KA group and am so glad I did. It's just like vintage KA, perfect :)
THE GOOD
I really enjoyed it, loved both characters and story with a little suspense.
Jude is a hot, bossy alpha without taking it to extremes (the beat his chest and being an arsehole type that he so wasn't). He is just plain yummy. Gabby is how a heroine should be written, strong, balanced, loving, considerate and understanding. No silly TSTL moments here thank goodness.
I knew there was going to be a humdinger of a plot-line thrown in somewhere and there was but it was not over dramatised, instead was handled really well.
Loved the side characters and got a nice lead in to Tony's story and a fab epilogue.
THE NOT SO GOOD
Very little actually except for the over-use of exclamation marks that started to irritate me. Please Ms Asher, tone them down in the next book. You manage to get your story across really well and don't need to rely on them. Another little thing was the over descriptive home improvement sections, I skimmed through that at the beginning of the book, and once that was out of the way it was full steam ahead to a really enjoyable read.
All in all a brilliant little gem from a debut author.
THE GOOD
I really enjoyed it, loved both characters and story with a little suspense.
Jude is a hot, bossy alpha without taking it to extremes (the beat his chest and being an arsehole type that he so wasn't). He is just plain yummy. Gabby is how a heroine should be written, strong, balanced, loving, considerate and understanding. No silly TSTL moments here thank goodness.
I knew there was going to be a humdinger of a plot-line thrown in somewhere and there was but it was not over dramatised, instead was handled really well.
Loved the side characters and got a nice lead in to Tony's story and a fab epilogue.
THE NOT SO GOOD
Very little actually except for the over-use of exclamation marks that started to irritate me. Please Ms Asher, tone them down in the next book. You manage to get your story across really well and don't need to rely on them. Another little thing was the over descriptive home improvement sections, I skimmed through that at the beginning of the book, and once that was out of the way it was full steam ahead to a really enjoyable read.
All in all a brilliant little gem from a debut author.
November 9, 2014
This book had a nice KA vibe, without being a complete rip off.
The heroine meets the Hero, whilst she is seeing a client ( she's a decorator ),and there is a police raid on the house. The Hero is a FBI agent present , and he basically never leaves.
Even though dramatic events unfold in the story, it is relatively low angst, which sometimes is a relief. I liked that the Hero just calmly inserted himself into her life , knew what he wanted and consistently worked towards that. No self doubt, or irritating " I'm not good enough ".
The Heroine was likable, if a tiny bit ditsy, but not TSTL. Your frame of mind always colours what you are reading. So, for example, I had a completely sh*tty and stressful week at work, and found myself resenting the heroine's decorating job, that was so flexible, it sounded like she just shopped for a living. ( not bitter at all )
The Hero was a super lovely Alpha.
The last tiny niggling question, When did it become compulsory, to be kidnapped to cement your relationship ? Should I be worried that I haven't been ?
Having said that , I enjoyed the book a lot, and it was really good for a first time author. I definitely would read the next book, about her cousin Tony.
The heroine meets the Hero, whilst she is seeing a client ( she's a decorator ),and there is a police raid on the house. The Hero is a FBI agent present , and he basically never leaves.
Even though dramatic events unfold in the story, it is relatively low angst, which sometimes is a relief. I liked that the Hero just calmly inserted himself into her life , knew what he wanted and consistently worked towards that. No self doubt, or irritating " I'm not good enough ".
The Heroine was likable, if a tiny bit ditsy, but not TSTL. Your frame of mind always colours what you are reading. So, for example, I had a completely sh*tty and stressful week at work, and found myself resenting the heroine's decorating job, that was so flexible, it sounded like she just shopped for a living. ( not bitter at all )
The Hero was a super lovely Alpha.
The last tiny niggling question, When did it become compulsory, to be kidnapped to cement your relationship ? Should I be worried that I haven't been ?
Having said that , I enjoyed the book a lot, and it was really good for a first time author. I definitely would read the next book, about her cousin Tony.
January 13, 2016
I think this book did have potential, but a few things kept me from really enjoying this book. Here is my breakdown:
~2.5 stars~
The pros:
* It was offered as a kindleulimited
* The hero was devoted to the heroine throughout
* No cliffhanger and a good epilogue
The cons:
* It had a horrible insta-love feel to it - I really wish the relationship between the hero and heroine had been more developed - it just felt way to instantaneous and never really genuine.
* The heroine annoyed the shit out of me - Everything about her character
* I get the bossy alpha male thing and usually like that quality in my characters, but with this book it felt forced and ridiculous
* The plot was very far-fetched and unrealistic - it was one thing after another and constantly shaking my head thinking "you have got to be kidding me"
* I tired of the abundance of details on things that had no relevance (mostly this occurred when the heroine was shopping or decorating)
* Too many repetitive terms - I swear the hero referred to her heroine as "sugar" every couple of pages.
Overall, the story was ok but pretty ridiculous. The characters were vague and I never felt a real connection to them. I won't be personally continuing this series.
~2.5 stars~
The pros:
* It was offered as a kindleulimited
* The hero was devoted to the heroine throughout
* No cliffhanger and a good epilogue
The cons:
* It had a horrible insta-love feel to it - I really wish the relationship between the hero and heroine had been more developed - it just felt way to instantaneous and never really genuine.
* The heroine annoyed the shit out of me - Everything about her character
* I get the bossy alpha male thing and usually like that quality in my characters, but with this book it felt forced and ridiculous
* The plot was very far-fetched and unrealistic - it was one thing after another and constantly shaking my head thinking "you have got to be kidding me"
* I tired of the abundance of details on things that had no relevance (mostly this occurred when the heroine was shopping or decorating)
* Too many repetitive terms - I swear the hero referred to her heroine as "sugar" every couple of pages.
Overall, the story was ok but pretty ridiculous. The characters were vague and I never felt a real connection to them. I won't be personally continuing this series.
January 23, 2023
3 stars. I loved Brynne Asher’s “Killers” series, but this is just nowhere near as good. While her writing in general is always good, the storyline was mediocre, and I really didn’t like the MCs. The hero here is way too pushy for me - something I didn’t mind during the Killers series. She either toned her alpha heroes down some, or I just liked those books more so I wasn’t as bothered. The heroine was ok, but I didn’t feel like she had much of a backbone when it came to the hero. Even if she didn’t want something, she still allowed him his way after he “persuaded” her for all of a minute. The two together just seemed to have an extremely unhealthy relationship - and while I can mostly let the hero’s kind of Alpha behavior slide in books, this one took it to uncomfortable levels.
Also, there’s the issue of the double standard for what is acceptable for men vs women. The heroine had one bad relationship, for a total of one year, four years prior. No other sexual partners. She’s in her late 20’s and supposedly beautiful and a catch. 🙄🙄 Meanwhile, the hero was married to the love of his life and widowed young when she died from an ectopic pregnancy. He ofc became a major manwhore after. So yet again, here’s another author writing with the idea that women need to remain virginal or nearly virginal to be desirable. And men can sleep with whoever, whenever they want. And if you think that’s a stretch, let me just say that the next two books do not stray far from this one.
Good epilogue though, and the heroine didn’t seem to be second best, basically he just loved them both without comparison.
Safe; no virgins, heroine celibate for 4 years, hero became a manwhore after he was widowed 9 years prior, no scenes with om/ow, no cheating, some mild OM drama from heroine’s ex (this felt sooo out of place and awkward) and some mild drama regarding the hero’s first wife, but it was over fairly quickly, no OW drama otherwise.
Also, there’s the issue of the double standard for what is acceptable for men vs women. The heroine had one bad relationship, for a total of one year, four years prior. No other sexual partners. She’s in her late 20’s and supposedly beautiful and a catch. 🙄🙄 Meanwhile, the hero was married to the love of his life and widowed young when she died from an ectopic pregnancy. He ofc became a major manwhore after. So yet again, here’s another author writing with the idea that women need to remain virginal or nearly virginal to be desirable. And men can sleep with whoever, whenever they want. And if you think that’s a stretch, let me just say that the next two books do not stray far from this one.
Good epilogue though, and the heroine didn’t seem to be second best, basically he just loved them both without comparison.
Safe; no virgins, heroine celibate for 4 years, hero became a manwhore after he was widowed 9 years prior, no scenes with om/ow, no cheating, some mild OM drama from heroine’s ex (this felt sooo out of place and awkward) and some mild drama regarding the hero’s first wife, but it was over fairly quickly, no OW drama otherwise.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2015
Great read! I look forward to reading about the other family members.
November 10, 2020
3.5 Stars
Entertaining enough, but it did take me awhile to finish. Some things definitely could have been cut out to make it less draggy. It also took a turn to the more angstier side which I wasn't really expecting. Wasn't bad, but when the bombshell secret came out, I was a bit thrown off because although the hero did act a bit weird at times, I felt like that specific secret was just so out of the blue, and I can't say I am a fan of those type of pasts. Luckily, the hero was all for the heroine, but I definitely just needed a bit more clarity such as with what ever happened with the hero and his brother-in-law? It was also hard for me to get behind the heroine being celibate after one relationship, and then the hero being a widower turned manwhore before the heroine. I wish the heroine had moved on from her previous relationship from years before so it can be a bit more equal between them. At least there was no OW drama though, that would have probably ruined the book for me to actually see people he had been with right before the heroine instead of just some talk.
Besides that, there were times the writing didn't flow too well, such as when they would be doing something in present time, but then the next several pages will all of a sudden be what they did earlier that day, and it happened so often it annoyed and confused me at times. Some of the things they would also say were just a bit too cheesy for me to really get behind.
Other than all that, the book wasn't too bad, and I am looking forward to the next in the series. After reading all of the author's more previous works, I can tell her writing has definitely gotten better, so I would probably recommend those books more over this series so far, but if you want to follow the timeline, start with this series.
Entertaining enough, but it did take me awhile to finish. Some things definitely could have been cut out to make it less draggy. It also took a turn to the more angstier side which I wasn't really expecting. Wasn't bad, but when the bombshell secret came out, I was a bit thrown off because although the hero did act a bit weird at times, I felt like that specific secret was just so out of the blue, and I can't say I am a fan of those type of pasts. Luckily, the hero was all for the heroine, but I definitely just needed a bit more clarity such as with what ever happened with the hero and his brother-in-law? It was also hard for me to get behind the heroine being celibate after one relationship, and then the hero being a widower turned manwhore before the heroine. I wish the heroine had moved on from her previous relationship from years before so it can be a bit more equal between them. At least there was no OW drama though, that would have probably ruined the book for me to actually see people he had been with right before the heroine instead of just some talk.
Besides that, there were times the writing didn't flow too well, such as when they would be doing something in present time, but then the next several pages will all of a sudden be what they did earlier that day, and it happened so often it annoyed and confused me at times. Some of the things they would also say were just a bit too cheesy for me to really get behind.
Other than all that, the book wasn't too bad, and I am looking forward to the next in the series. After reading all of the author's more previous works, I can tell her writing has definitely gotten better, so I would probably recommend those books more over this series so far, but if you want to follow the timeline, start with this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2014
4-4.5 stars! This was a really enjoyable read.
It's true what they say, this has a KA vibe and I liked it a lot. It feels KA inspired but the author still managed to keep her own voice and individuality. It's quite a good debut novel and I'm glad I went for it.
Gabby and Jude met under unusual circumstances. He felt her up, patted her down and cuffed her when she was caught up in a raid at a friend's house. Her, being the house decorator and him, an ubër alpha FBI agent. And from then on, he never left her side (so to speak).
I enjoyed Gabby and her silly and funny ways. Enjoyed her huge and loud family. Loved her relationship with them especially with Pop and Tony, her cousin. I loved Jude. He was the ultimate alpha. All bossy, protective, tough, commanding yet kind and sweet. Their story was fast paced, suspenseful, intriguing and HOT. And SWEET. It had a bit of drama but just enough to keep it interesting. I loved the epilogue! It, totally, had me. (I'm a sucker for great epilogues that give me a warm gooey feeling, leaving me with a happy and contented smile.)
I can't wait to read Tony's story next and more from the Carpinos. Can't wait to read more from Ms. Asher.
It's true what they say, this has a KA vibe and I liked it a lot. It feels KA inspired but the author still managed to keep her own voice and individuality. It's quite a good debut novel and I'm glad I went for it.
Gabby and Jude met under unusual circumstances. He felt her up, patted her down and cuffed her when she was caught up in a raid at a friend's house. Her, being the house decorator and him, an ubër alpha FBI agent. And from then on, he never left her side (so to speak).
I enjoyed Gabby and her silly and funny ways. Enjoyed her huge and loud family. Loved her relationship with them especially with Pop and Tony, her cousin. I loved Jude. He was the ultimate alpha. All bossy, protective, tough, commanding yet kind and sweet. Their story was fast paced, suspenseful, intriguing and HOT. And SWEET. It had a bit of drama but just enough to keep it interesting. I loved the epilogue! It, totally, had me. (I'm a sucker for great epilogues that give me a warm gooey feeling, leaving me with a happy and contented smile.)
I can't wait to read Tony's story next and more from the Carpinos. Can't wait to read more from Ms. Asher.
October 2, 2015
3.5 'supermarket own brand Kristen Ashley vibe' about it stars.
The narrative, the warm humour, the kookie yet cute female lead along with a over-protective alpha who needs to rescue his woman from various dramatic situations were all present and really well written. Some of the time, I could've happily convinced myself I was reading an undiscovered Rock Chick or mountain man book. It wasn't quite the same, this was its own story, but the vibe I got from reading this was good enough for me.
The characters of the rest of the cast of zany, nosy family were cute and funny and made this a good old enjoyable romp of a read. The chemistry was particularly good, building up to see pretty good smut, although after the first couple of times, the smut was skipped over, which was a bit of a shame imho.
This is the first in a series and a complete story. The whole series is available on KU so I'm looking forward to reading the rest. Recommended if you're looking for a KA-alike.
The narrative, the warm humour, the kookie yet cute female lead along with a over-protective alpha who needs to rescue his woman from various dramatic situations were all present and really well written. Some of the time, I could've happily convinced myself I was reading an undiscovered Rock Chick or mountain man book. It wasn't quite the same, this was its own story, but the vibe I got from reading this was good enough for me.
The characters of the rest of the cast of zany, nosy family were cute and funny and made this a good old enjoyable romp of a read. The chemistry was particularly good, building up to see pretty good smut, although after the first couple of times, the smut was skipped over, which was a bit of a shame imho.
This is the first in a series and a complete story. The whole series is available on KU so I'm looking forward to reading the rest. Recommended if you're looking for a KA-alike.
July 13, 2025
2nd read
This book right here.....this is why I read!!!! I cannot believe I had not heard of this author before, because she writes perfectly, and this story after being in a bit of a book slump restored my faith in the written word.
I cannot recommend this book enough....The hero Jude was all types of Bossy Alpha. The heroine, was sassy, smart mouthed, kick ass and fantastic. Everything about this book including all the characters in the Carpino family that we met are so enjoyable to read.....
I cannot wait to delve into the next book and Brynne Asher you know have a fan for LIFE!!!! :)
P.S. Are you sure you not related to Kristen Ashey? You could be her writing twin!!! :)
This book right here.....this is why I read!!!! I cannot believe I had not heard of this author before, because she writes perfectly, and this story after being in a bit of a book slump restored my faith in the written word.
I cannot recommend this book enough....The hero Jude was all types of Bossy Alpha. The heroine, was sassy, smart mouthed, kick ass and fantastic. Everything about this book including all the characters in the Carpino family that we met are so enjoyable to read.....
I cannot wait to delve into the next book and Brynne Asher you know have a fan for LIFE!!!! :)
P.S. Are you sure you not related to Kristen Ashey? You could be her writing twin!!! :)
October 9, 2018
I don’t like giving up on two books in a row but I woke up this morning thinking you know what? Life’s too short to force myself to read something I don’t like. So there. I gave up around the 30% mark.
There are LOTS of fillers in here with endless descriptions of... well, of everything, most of which added absolutely nothing to the story (I don’t care about the laundry room so much that I want to spend 10 minutes of my time reading about what type of cabinets were chosen and why...).
I also wasn’t very fond of the writing and vocabulary, it felt very basic... amateur-ish. 🤷🏻♀️ Although I guess (hope?) that could be due to the fact that the story is told from a first-person perspective (alternating between the hero’s and heroine’s POVs)... I haven’t read anything else from this author so I can’t say for sure but both are weak enough to be distracting.
Another thing that grated on my nerves was Jude’s unprofessionalism and disrespect for his job’s rules (patting down a woman - instead of requesting a female agent to do it, as should be done - because he couldn’t resist since she’s so hot... 🙄 and then fraternizing with said woman - and her attorney! - despite thinking she’s implicated in some crime...). For an FBI agent I’m pretty sure these things wouldn’t fly, so it felt off.
Oh and what’s with the overuse of the exclamation point?! 🤯
There are a bunch of little things that make no sense, like the background check conducted on Gabby that didn’t say whether she was married or divorced (surely the FBI would have easy access to that info?), that didn’t mention her parents’ car accident (it had to have been in the news...), etc.
Last but not least: “This is what I was about to do, but instead am drug into Tony’s shrine and for the umpteenth time[...]” 😱 noooo... it’s DRAGGED! You can’t be drug 🤦🏻♀️ From there I just couldn’t muster the motivation to keep reading. I tried but nope. Not working for me.
There are LOTS of fillers in here with endless descriptions of... well, of everything, most of which added absolutely nothing to the story (I don’t care about the laundry room so much that I want to spend 10 minutes of my time reading about what type of cabinets were chosen and why...).
I also wasn’t very fond of the writing and vocabulary, it felt very basic... amateur-ish. 🤷🏻♀️ Although I guess (hope?) that could be due to the fact that the story is told from a first-person perspective (alternating between the hero’s and heroine’s POVs)... I haven’t read anything else from this author so I can’t say for sure but both are weak enough to be distracting.
Another thing that grated on my nerves was Jude’s unprofessionalism and disrespect for his job’s rules (patting down a woman - instead of requesting a female agent to do it, as should be done - because he couldn’t resist since she’s so hot... 🙄 and then fraternizing with said woman - and her attorney! - despite thinking she’s implicated in some crime...). For an FBI agent I’m pretty sure these things wouldn’t fly, so it felt off.
Oh and what’s with the overuse of the exclamation point?! 🤯
There are a bunch of little things that make no sense, like the background check conducted on Gabby that didn’t say whether she was married or divorced (surely the FBI would have easy access to that info?), that didn’t mention her parents’ car accident (it had to have been in the news...), etc.
Last but not least: “This is what I was about to do, but instead am drug into Tony’s shrine and for the umpteenth time[...]” 😱 noooo... it’s DRAGGED! You can’t be drug 🤦🏻♀️ From there I just couldn’t muster the motivation to keep reading. I tried but nope. Not working for me.
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