by Samantha Garman
ARC Review
Released: June 4, 2014
My rating: 4.5 of 5 ⭐️
Working two jobs already, Shay Mahone has just started her third job, intended to finance the renovations required to finalize the yoga studio she and her roommate are hoping to open in the near future. No time or inclination for dating, let alone a relationship, she swiftly sidesteps any and all attempts at setups orchestrated by Charlie, who is afraid that one bad experience will cause his bestie, Shay to let her life pass her by. But instead, bumping into a gorgeous and famous drummer of a popular rockband while working a charity event, stops Shay dead in her tracks.
Typical bad-boy rocker and ladies' man, Brodie Davidson is immediately intrigued by the distinctly unimpressed Shay. Not accustomed to outright rejection, he finds himself more and more attracted as opposed to turned off by the feisty and independent woman. Never one for complicated or lengthy entanglements, Brodie can't help but pursue Shay with everything in his arsenal, but none of his usual plays seem to work on her. It isn't until he reveals a more genuine side of himself that he finally sees a response. Although their mutual chemistry was evident from the start.
For both Shay and Brodie to be swept into something so unexpected and outside of their comfort zone, gives them a sense of freedom neither have experienced before. And as they start exploring each other, they have an opportunity to learn themselves again in a new way. It isn't until the reality of Brodie's life in the spotlight touches their relationship that the intensity and seriousness of their connection is truly tested. Is what they have real enough to survive the intense scrutiny?
******
Very refreshing and unexpected!!! Insightful, introspective and genuine and a pleasure to read.
Not a story with an extreme arc, but instead a steady development and growth, with distinct learning curves for the main characters, both about the other and themselves. Strong characters to begin with, who already had a set pattern and path in life and needed to find a way to make their relationship work without one or both of them losing their way. Something that we see all too often in romance stories; the sacrifices that apparently are deemed to be necessary in order to achieve love. This story feels very different in that there is equal respect for the life the other has built, regardless of fame and fortune.
Brodie is a distinct Alpha male, however, one with a healthy respect for boundaries.......most of the time. As most men, he has some issues with sharing of himself, but just like a good woman, Shay won't let him get away with that. Just as Brodie won't let Shay get away with hiding and running scared of putting herself out there. She was hurt and although not a wallflower by any means, simply doesn't seem to have the energy right now to take that leap of faith without a good shove. She has a good head on her shoulders and although taking on someone with Brodie's extensive history is not easy, she recognizes his genuine efforts to prove his changed ways.
Great dialogue between the two mains, as well as great interaction with Shay's best friend Charlie, who is a strong third character in this book. He brings in a touch of lighthearted humour that breezes through the story like a fresh wind.
The heat level is most definitely up there and although not over the top, it is quite delicious!
Great writing with a fantastic flow and mature feel. This is my first book by Samantha Garman and I am happy to say I've found another writer to keep a close eye on!
✨A rousing, potent and straight-forward seduction!✨
**Copy provided in return for an honest review**
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