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Kelly Brothers #1
The Sweetest Seduction
Lia Mantovani has created one of the hottest restaurants on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, but all that could disappear if she loses her lease with Kelly Properties. Having had her dreams ripped away from her before, she’ll do everything in her power to keep her restaurant. Her fate hangs on the whims of the frustratingly handsome Adam Kelly.
Adam has spent years trying to convince world famous chef Amadeus Schlittler to open a restaurant in Chicago, but he wants the prime location held by Lia. Business has always come first...until sparks fly when Adam meets her. When things get hot outside the kitchen, though, they’re both in danger of getting burned.
198 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 26, 2013
191 people are currently reading
2442 people want to read
About the author
Crista McHugh
68 books932 followersCrista McHugh is a NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY BESTSELLING author of fantasy and romance with heroines who are smart, sexy, and anything but ordinary.
She also writes fantasy with less kissing and a lot more action as C. A. McHugh.
She currently lives in the Tesla-filled suburbs of Seattle with her husband and two children, maintaining her alter ego of mild-mannered physician on the weekends.
She also writes fantasy with less kissing and a lot more action as C. A. McHugh.
She currently lives in the Tesla-filled suburbs of Seattle with her husband and two children, maintaining her alter ego of mild-mannered physician on the weekends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 214 reviews
March 5, 2015
*ACR copy provided by author in exchange for honest review *
4.5 Molto buno Italiano stars !! ;)
Omg! Wow ! I have never been more thoroughly surprised by a book this year ! Truly ! I did not expect to add to add another favorite into my 2013 reading shelf ! But I'm totally glad I did !
Sweet seduction by Crista McHugh revolves around two passionate workaholics, Adam and Lia discovering what it's like to be in love while breaking there all time golden rule of .. Never ever...ever..ever...mix business with pleasure ;) no matter how tasty the consequences may be ! LOL
La Arietta,is a high class Italian restaurant situated at chicago's finest lactation...and owned none other by Cheif Lia.Beautiful successful and ambitious,this young woman's been living the culinary dream with only one problem to all this....her restaurants now gotten itself an expired date.
:
Out there in the real world..it's the battle of the chiefs...Amadeus schillitter , a snobbish elite in culinary world wants to open his new Chicago restaurant right at magnificent miles..n for tht Lia 's restaurants got to go...
And just when..things couldn't get worse, she just had to find out tht her sexy blind date,Adam is the one renting her out...
so will she be able to keep her mind over matter ?
:
My thoughts:
Ok..like I said..I did not expect this book to be tht good..after reading the initial few chapters and their set up meeting..I've got to say I hardly felt any chemistry from these two,n tht got me super worried..
N besides the characters my main concern was on the plot..lol for once i actually thought I had the whole thing figured out ....the storyline seemed so obvious at the begganing...everything was going so expectantly , tht all the way through the first half of the book I saw myself giving this book a simple ok 3 star and that's it ...lol n now look at me here I am ready to beg for book 2 ! It was tht good !
recommendation: if ur a fan of this grene ??well don't miss out Christa's fabulous treat ! I can't say much without giving all the plots suprises away...so I'm going to just settle for saying tht this book was a fantastic sweet chic lite read with the right amount of erotica and angsty mixed to it...even if u find the plot going slow..give it a chance to pick up..LOL Because by the end I can gaurentee,you'll be waiting to read the next installment the Kelly brothers ! Yep..I've got book 2 AND 3 marked on my TBR ;)
4.5 Molto buno Italiano stars !! ;)
Omg! Wow ! I have never been more thoroughly surprised by a book this year ! Truly ! I did not expect to add to add another favorite into my 2013 reading shelf ! But I'm totally glad I did !
Sweet seduction by Crista McHugh revolves around two passionate workaholics, Adam and Lia discovering what it's like to be in love while breaking there all time golden rule of .. Never ever...ever..ever...mix business with pleasure ;) no matter how tasty the consequences may be ! LOL
La Arietta,is a high class Italian restaurant situated at chicago's finest lactation...and owned none other by Cheif Lia.Beautiful successful and ambitious,this young woman's been living the culinary dream with only one problem to all this....her restaurants now gotten itself an expired date.
:
Out there in the real world..it's the battle of the chiefs...Amadeus schillitter , a snobbish elite in culinary world wants to open his new Chicago restaurant right at magnificent miles..n for tht Lia 's restaurants got to go...
And just when..things couldn't get worse, she just had to find out tht her sexy blind date,Adam is the one renting her out...
so will she be able to keep her mind over matter ?
:
My thoughts:
Ok..like I said..I did not expect this book to be tht good..after reading the initial few chapters and their set up meeting..I've got to say I hardly felt any chemistry from these two,n tht got me super worried..
N besides the characters my main concern was on the plot..lol for once i actually thought I had the whole thing figured out ....the storyline seemed so obvious at the begganing...everything was going so expectantly , tht all the way through the first half of the book I saw myself giving this book a simple ok 3 star and that's it ...lol n now look at me here I am ready to beg for book 2 ! It was tht good !
recommendation: if ur a fan of this grene ??well don't miss out Christa's fabulous treat ! I can't say much without giving all the plots suprises away...so I'm going to just settle for saying tht this book was a fantastic sweet chic lite read with the right amount of erotica and angsty mixed to it...even if u find the plot going slow..give it a chance to pick up..LOL Because by the end I can gaurentee,you'll be waiting to read the next installment the Kelly brothers ! Yep..I've got book 2 AND 3 marked on my TBR ;)
July 4, 2014
3.5 - "Go and catch a falling star" ... Stars!
Its not secret that I am a huge sucker for a series, especially if it's based around a family, and each sibling gets their own book whilst story for the whole family develops concurrently. Crista McHugh is my new Author-crush for this week, having just read The Sweetest Seduction, I am in all sorts of happy raptures. Seven Brothers.... YES 7!!!!
Adam, Ben, Caleb, Dan, Ethan, Frank & Gideon, I am going to be all over you guys like a cheap suit!
Adam and Lia get their story in book one. I loved it, the easy writing, the likeable characters and the lack of excessive drama make this a book you can immerse yourself in and enjoy. The story isn't a new one, but I didn't care, it grabbed me and kept me reading until the end.
I love that we have the addition of an ornery Match-making Mother, and a 'mad as a box of frogs' dog, it rounds out the family and gives us recurring characters that will add fun and laughter to the books as the series progresses!
Straight onto book 2!
Its not secret that I am a huge sucker for a series, especially if it's based around a family, and each sibling gets their own book whilst story for the whole family develops concurrently. Crista McHugh is my new Author-crush for this week, having just read The Sweetest Seduction, I am in all sorts of happy raptures. Seven Brothers.... YES 7!!!!
Adam, Ben, Caleb, Dan, Ethan, Frank & Gideon, I am going to be all over you guys like a cheap suit!
Adam and Lia get their story in book one. I loved it, the easy writing, the likeable characters and the lack of excessive drama make this a book you can immerse yourself in and enjoy. The story isn't a new one, but I didn't care, it grabbed me and kept me reading until the end.
I love that we have the addition of an ornery Match-making Mother, and a 'mad as a box of frogs' dog, it rounds out the family and gives us recurring characters that will add fun and laughter to the books as the series progresses!
Straight onto book 2!
January 3, 2014
The Sweetest Seduction by Crista McHugh is the first book in the Kelly brothers contemporary romance series. I was provided a copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Lia's mother put Lia's services as a chef up for auction and now Lia has to cook dinner for her mother's well off friend and her sons. If she didn't know better, she would suspect her mother was matchmaking. Once Lia meets Mrs. Kelly she relaxes and decides to make the best of the situation.
Then a few of Maureen's boys begin to arrive. Adam is a well off business man and works entirely too hard and too much for a social life. But, when he meets Lia and taste her incredible dishes, the two suddenly remember they have hormones. Before the night was over they would respond to those dormant feelings, but just manage to escape making a huge blunder. As it turns out that's a good thing. Adam finds out he owns the lease on Lia's restaurant and he is about to evict her for a more well known and high maintenance client.
Adam delivers the news to Lia but just can't throw her to the wolves. He tells her he will try to convince his client to take a look at some other possible locations, giving Lia at least a small amount of hope. In the meantime, she and Adam decide they should silence those raging hormones.
The set up is sticky. Adam has the chance to put people before business and to grab the chance to have a life outside of work. Lia was hurt once before and it is really important to her to maintain her independence. Adam will find that Lia drives a hard bargain and he will have to make a few hard choices when he is threatened with a lawsuit.
The story here is a good one. Lia is at Adam's mercy, and she will not allow him to destroy everything she has worked for, but she also doesn't try to use his attraction to her to sway his decisions.
I only had one problem with the story and that was too many sex scenes in such a short book. I know it's a matter of personal taste when it comes to that particular topic, but for me personally, after one or two love scenes I start skipping over them, so I can get back to the story.
I do plan on reading the second book in this series soon, however, since I really liked the plot in this one. Overall this one gets an B-
Lia's mother put Lia's services as a chef up for auction and now Lia has to cook dinner for her mother's well off friend and her sons. If she didn't know better, she would suspect her mother was matchmaking. Once Lia meets Mrs. Kelly she relaxes and decides to make the best of the situation.
Then a few of Maureen's boys begin to arrive. Adam is a well off business man and works entirely too hard and too much for a social life. But, when he meets Lia and taste her incredible dishes, the two suddenly remember they have hormones. Before the night was over they would respond to those dormant feelings, but just manage to escape making a huge blunder. As it turns out that's a good thing. Adam finds out he owns the lease on Lia's restaurant and he is about to evict her for a more well known and high maintenance client.
Adam delivers the news to Lia but just can't throw her to the wolves. He tells her he will try to convince his client to take a look at some other possible locations, giving Lia at least a small amount of hope. In the meantime, she and Adam decide they should silence those raging hormones.
The set up is sticky. Adam has the chance to put people before business and to grab the chance to have a life outside of work. Lia was hurt once before and it is really important to her to maintain her independence. Adam will find that Lia drives a hard bargain and he will have to make a few hard choices when he is threatened with a lawsuit.
The story here is a good one. Lia is at Adam's mercy, and she will not allow him to destroy everything she has worked for, but she also doesn't try to use his attraction to her to sway his decisions.
I only had one problem with the story and that was too many sex scenes in such a short book. I know it's a matter of personal taste when it comes to that particular topic, but for me personally, after one or two love scenes I start skipping over them, so I can get back to the story.
I do plan on reading the second book in this series soon, however, since I really liked the plot in this one. Overall this one gets an B-
December 9, 2013
Sweetest Seduction is the first book in The Kelly Brothers series by Crista McHugh. This story is about Adam, the eldest Kelly brother. He is a sexy, successful businessman who is too busy running the family's company to find time for love. Well his mother is wanting grandchildren and she partners up with her friend to set up at least one of her 6 sons.
Lia is an up and coming chef who is finally starting to make a name for herself. Like Adam, Lia's mom is wanting hoping her daughter would take some time away from work to find love. Unfortunately Lia has already experienced heartbreak once in her past and she is wanting to take care of herself and is doing so with a passion for her cooking.
The connection between Lia and Adam is rather instantaneous and moves at a quicker pace then I would have expected from an intimacy aspect. Troubles brew for the couple as Adam has to make some tough decisions. He is the landlord for Lia's restaurant and her lease is due to expire, and Adam has already made plans for the place. Unfortunately, he didn't know it was Lia's place.
Despite their issues, the chemistry of the couple cannot be denied and feelings develop. McHugh does a great job with the intimate scenes, and let me say they are scorching hot. Trust me, you will love Adam's visits to Lia's workplace. I just can't decide which scene is my favorite.
This book was a great quick read and I found the relationship to be sweet. I normally like a little more angst with the climax, but you still get enough drama to make the ending enjoyable. Unfortunately the story ends too quickly and you get very little after the HEA. I am hoping to get more of Lia and Adam in the upcoming stories. And in case you missed it earlier, I did mention there were 6 sons, all equally hot and successful so you know there will be more to come. As a fan of Bella Andre, I found this to be similar to her Sullivan's Series so if you have been a fan of those I am sure you will enjoy McHugh's new series.
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Lia is an up and coming chef who is finally starting to make a name for herself. Like Adam, Lia's mom is wanting hoping her daughter would take some time away from work to find love. Unfortunately Lia has already experienced heartbreak once in her past and she is wanting to take care of herself and is doing so with a passion for her cooking.
The connection between Lia and Adam is rather instantaneous and moves at a quicker pace then I would have expected from an intimacy aspect. Troubles brew for the couple as Adam has to make some tough decisions. He is the landlord for Lia's restaurant and her lease is due to expire, and Adam has already made plans for the place. Unfortunately, he didn't know it was Lia's place.
Despite their issues, the chemistry of the couple cannot be denied and feelings develop. McHugh does a great job with the intimate scenes, and let me say they are scorching hot. Trust me, you will love Adam's visits to Lia's workplace. I just can't decide which scene is my favorite.
This book was a great quick read and I found the relationship to be sweet. I normally like a little more angst with the climax, but you still get enough drama to make the ending enjoyable. Unfortunately the story ends too quickly and you get very little after the HEA. I am hoping to get more of Lia and Adam in the upcoming stories. And in case you missed it earlier, I did mention there were 6 sons, all equally hot and successful so you know there will be more to come. As a fan of Bella Andre, I found this to be similar to her Sullivan's Series so if you have been a fan of those I am sure you will enjoy McHugh's new series.
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2014
Originally published at Reading Reality
The Sweetest Seduction is a much spicier romance than its title suggests. However, this delicious concoction mixing a culinary romance with the start of a family romance series is definitely a tasty treat.
The story starts with two matchmaking mamas who want their hard-working children to discover the kind of happiness that they each found with the late husbands. The two women from different points in the economic spectrum have bonded over widowhood and bridge strategy, but they both want the best for their grown up children.
Emilia Mantovani has a soon-to-be celebrity chef for a daughter. Lia owns La Arrieta, the latest “great restaurant” in Chicago, a city of fantastic restaurants. Lia has poured her life and her life savings into making the restaurant a success, and it’s working. But she has no life.
Maureen Kelly has seven sons, all handsome and successful, with names from Adam to Gideon. (If this sounds a bit like the classic Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, it’s intentional). Adam is a workaholic, spending his days as the property manager for the family business, a job he inherited when his father died.
The mamas pretend that Mrs. Kelly won a home cooked dinner by Chef Lia, and gets Lia out to Lake Geneva to cook it at the family weekend home. Mrs. Kelly then dragoons as many of her sons as possible home in hopes that Lia will strike sparks with one of them.
Adam, Lia, and the Kelly’s Great Pyrenees dog, Jasper, are practically incandescent. And that’s where things start to go both terribly right, and horribly wrong, at the same time.
All of Adam’s attempts to get Lia alone are interrupted by someone or something, from the dog to the sheriff. He couldn’t have worse luck if he tried. Or so he thinks.
In the morning he discovers that not only is he her landlord, but that he is planning to evict her at the end of her sublease to make way for an egotistical has-been celebrity chef. He is so busy pursuing the bottom line that he hasn’t done any basic research to find the treasure right in front of him.
And he keeps on screwing things up until it is almost too late. It takes one more push from those meddling mothers to save the day.
Escape Rating B: I was introduced to Crista McHugh through her fantasy romance series, and I was curious to see what her contemporary romance would be like. The Sweetest Seduction certainly has the same kind of high-tension heated romance, but the reasons for the stress in Adam and Lia’s relationship naturally come from a different source!
But there’s still lots of heat, and not all of it is in the kitchen (but some of it is, and not all of that is from the stovetop!)
The setup for the series is charming and also familiar. Readers who enjoy Bella Andre’s Sullivans series are going to eat the Kelly Brothers up with a spoon. The Sweetest Seduction is a terrific start; the brothers we meet are terrific guys, but several seem to either be unattached or in relationships that are floundering or are with women that Mama Kelly knows isn’t right for her son. And having met Mama Kelly and seen her work her magic with Adam, readers will be willing to bet that she’s right about brothers Brian through Gideon.
Although the series focuses on the Kelly Brothers, this story is about Lia’s dreams. Lia and Adam mix business with pleasure, and the result is nearly disastrous. He has too much power over her future, and she’s been in that position before. The meltdown that resulted is what led her to becoming a chef in the first place. But when she mistakes Adam’s offers to help with an attempt to take over, she goes into full “fight or flight” mode and triggers the final crisis.
Still, it’s easy to understand where she’s coming from. While the logical side of me thinks they should have straightened out the sublease before they hopped in the sack; if they had, there wouldn’t be such a delicious story about the mess they nearly made of things.
I hope canine Jasper comes back in the future stories. He is an absolutely adorable, and awesomely HUGE, comic relief!
The Sweetest Seduction is a much spicier romance than its title suggests. However, this delicious concoction mixing a culinary romance with the start of a family romance series is definitely a tasty treat.
The story starts with two matchmaking mamas who want their hard-working children to discover the kind of happiness that they each found with the late husbands. The two women from different points in the economic spectrum have bonded over widowhood and bridge strategy, but they both want the best for their grown up children.
Emilia Mantovani has a soon-to-be celebrity chef for a daughter. Lia owns La Arrieta, the latest “great restaurant” in Chicago, a city of fantastic restaurants. Lia has poured her life and her life savings into making the restaurant a success, and it’s working. But she has no life.
Maureen Kelly has seven sons, all handsome and successful, with names from Adam to Gideon. (If this sounds a bit like the classic Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, it’s intentional). Adam is a workaholic, spending his days as the property manager for the family business, a job he inherited when his father died.
The mamas pretend that Mrs. Kelly won a home cooked dinner by Chef Lia, and gets Lia out to Lake Geneva to cook it at the family weekend home. Mrs. Kelly then dragoons as many of her sons as possible home in hopes that Lia will strike sparks with one of them.
Adam, Lia, and the Kelly’s Great Pyrenees dog, Jasper, are practically incandescent. And that’s where things start to go both terribly right, and horribly wrong, at the same time.
All of Adam’s attempts to get Lia alone are interrupted by someone or something, from the dog to the sheriff. He couldn’t have worse luck if he tried. Or so he thinks.
In the morning he discovers that not only is he her landlord, but that he is planning to evict her at the end of her sublease to make way for an egotistical has-been celebrity chef. He is so busy pursuing the bottom line that he hasn’t done any basic research to find the treasure right in front of him.
And he keeps on screwing things up until it is almost too late. It takes one more push from those meddling mothers to save the day.
Escape Rating B: I was introduced to Crista McHugh through her fantasy romance series, and I was curious to see what her contemporary romance would be like. The Sweetest Seduction certainly has the same kind of high-tension heated romance, but the reasons for the stress in Adam and Lia’s relationship naturally come from a different source!
But there’s still lots of heat, and not all of it is in the kitchen (but some of it is, and not all of that is from the stovetop!)
The setup for the series is charming and also familiar. Readers who enjoy Bella Andre’s Sullivans series are going to eat the Kelly Brothers up with a spoon. The Sweetest Seduction is a terrific start; the brothers we meet are terrific guys, but several seem to either be unattached or in relationships that are floundering or are with women that Mama Kelly knows isn’t right for her son. And having met Mama Kelly and seen her work her magic with Adam, readers will be willing to bet that she’s right about brothers Brian through Gideon.
Although the series focuses on the Kelly Brothers, this story is about Lia’s dreams. Lia and Adam mix business with pleasure, and the result is nearly disastrous. He has too much power over her future, and she’s been in that position before. The meltdown that resulted is what led her to becoming a chef in the first place. But when she mistakes Adam’s offers to help with an attempt to take over, she goes into full “fight or flight” mode and triggers the final crisis.
Still, it’s easy to understand where she’s coming from. While the logical side of me thinks they should have straightened out the sublease before they hopped in the sack; if they had, there wouldn’t be such a delicious story about the mess they nearly made of things.
I hope canine Jasper comes back in the future stories. He is an absolutely adorable, and awesomely HUGE, comic relief!
December 14, 2013
This was a bit too cliche for my taste, but McHugh's writing style had me devouring the novel in one sitting despite my occasional eye rolling (insta-love! ugh). Really enjoyed the food writing *whispers*and the smut
The plot was so cliche - so so so cliche. The typical romance novel. Meddling friends/mothers, hard working MCs who are not interested in a relationship - add insta-lust and bam!!! BIG insta-love. Throw in some drama, choices are made and then all is well. The End.
Sounds familiar? Yep, it could be any contemporary novel out there. And to be fair, I guess that's how this genre works. But this is still me and I still have an aversion against insta-lust-love, top that with my slightly odd relationship with the genre. I harbor kinda insta-hate or insta-love relationship with the genre. So unless the plot is super-unique it wouldn't wow me. But The Sweetest Seduction is beyond cliche, I could tell you were this is going from the get go, and it went from romance A to Z without any surprises.
The end felt rather rushed as well.
The reason why I keep on going back to the genre is often linked to character building and prose.
Well I love McHugh's writing style and I wasn't disappointed this time around. I have only read her PNR so far, so this was my first time reading a contemporary by her. And I enjoyed it, I read this in one go. McHugh managed to keep me riveted despite quite a bit of eye-rolling and huffing over the novel. I think speaks for her writing skills and I am always going to be tempted to read more of her work.
The food writing was delectable. The flavors mouth-watering. I love food, know the restaurant business and McHugh either know both of these things out of experience- or she did her research really really well.
The smut? Hmmmmm! yep, it was yummy as well. As I said the girl can write!
The novel is written from Adam & Lia's POV in third person. I love alternating POVs, especially when it comes to contemporary romance. In this case I got to say their voices were to similar. I had to be really careful not to mix them up.
As far as character building goes. I really enjoyed it. I think this is what definitely saved this from cliche romance disaster.
Lia is an interesting female lead. Strong and passionate.
Adam is strong as well, with high principals but also really ruthless. Quite alpha.
I enjoyed getting to know the MCs slowly and see the two MC slowly evolve. It was nice to see how they both discover that the world isn't just black & white and that there is always space for compromise. While I hated the insta-love thing, I really appreciated that they considered their relationship, that they try to get to know each other.
While the mothers, besties and villains were rather cliche. I am quite intrigued by the brothers.
And yep, I will read the next one. Simply because I love McHugh's writing and I guess sometimes a cliche romance is still very enjoyable.
The plot was so cliche - so so so cliche. The typical romance novel. Meddling friends/mothers, hard working MCs who are not interested in a relationship - add insta-lust and bam!!! BIG insta-love. Throw in some drama, choices are made and then all is well. The End.
Sounds familiar? Yep, it could be any contemporary novel out there. And to be fair, I guess that's how this genre works. But this is still me and I still have an aversion against insta-lust-love, top that with my slightly odd relationship with the genre. I harbor kinda insta-hate or insta-love relationship with the genre. So unless the plot is super-unique it wouldn't wow me. But The Sweetest Seduction is beyond cliche, I could tell you were this is going from the get go, and it went from romance A to Z without any surprises.
The end felt rather rushed as well.
The reason why I keep on going back to the genre is often linked to character building and prose.
Well I love McHugh's writing style and I wasn't disappointed this time around. I have only read her PNR so far, so this was my first time reading a contemporary by her. And I enjoyed it, I read this in one go. McHugh managed to keep me riveted despite quite a bit of eye-rolling and huffing over the novel. I think speaks for her writing skills and I am always going to be tempted to read more of her work.
The food writing was delectable. The flavors mouth-watering. I love food, know the restaurant business and McHugh either know both of these things out of experience- or she did her research really really well.
The smut? Hmmmmm! yep, it was yummy as well. As I said the girl can write!
The novel is written from Adam & Lia's POV in third person. I love alternating POVs, especially when it comes to contemporary romance. In this case I got to say their voices were to similar. I had to be really careful not to mix them up.
As far as character building goes. I really enjoyed it. I think this is what definitely saved this from cliche romance disaster.
Lia is an interesting female lead. Strong and passionate.
Adam is strong as well, with high principals but also really ruthless. Quite alpha.
I enjoyed getting to know the MCs slowly and see the two MC slowly evolve. It was nice to see how they both discover that the world isn't just black & white and that there is always space for compromise. While I hated the insta-love thing, I really appreciated that they considered their relationship, that they try to get to know each other.
While the mothers, besties and villains were rather cliche. I am quite intrigued by the brothers.
And yep, I will read the next one. Simply because I love McHugh's writing and I guess sometimes a cliche romance is still very enjoyable.
August 24, 2016
Posted at Book Hoarder Reviews
As many of my readers know, I don’t usually read a lot of romance books. Back when I was a teen I tried to get my hands on every book I could find. Then I grew up and realized that I will probably never have a love like the people in romance books do. Then I read this book and happy to read a romance based in the real world. The only thing I didn’t like about this book was all of the sex. It’s just my personal taste, but I like a little more story and less grinding. I’m also not a huge fan of the insta-lust/love.
I loved Lia and Adam as the main characters. I felt a lot of what Lia was going through. No, I’ve never had my job threatened, but her frustration was something I am very familiar with. She was strong and knew what she wanted from her life. Adam was a bit cut throat, but I guess you don’t get where you are from letting people walk all over you. The battling pov’s were interesting and I always enjoy reading the story from different perspectives.
I really enjoyed this book and I’m inclined to read the next one. With so many hot brothers there is plenty to go around. I would recommend this to anyone who love a good steamy romance.
**I received a copy of this book to review as a part of Bewitching Book Tours .**
As many of my readers know, I don’t usually read a lot of romance books. Back when I was a teen I tried to get my hands on every book I could find. Then I grew up and realized that I will probably never have a love like the people in romance books do. Then I read this book and happy to read a romance based in the real world. The only thing I didn’t like about this book was all of the sex. It’s just my personal taste, but I like a little more story and less grinding. I’m also not a huge fan of the insta-lust/love.
I loved Lia and Adam as the main characters. I felt a lot of what Lia was going through. No, I’ve never had my job threatened, but her frustration was something I am very familiar with. She was strong and knew what she wanted from her life. Adam was a bit cut throat, but I guess you don’t get where you are from letting people walk all over you. The battling pov’s were interesting and I always enjoy reading the story from different perspectives.
I really enjoyed this book and I’m inclined to read the next one. With so many hot brothers there is plenty to go around. I would recommend this to anyone who love a good steamy romance.
**I received a copy of this book to review as a part of Bewitching Book Tours .**
January 22, 2014
Received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
I am so excited that I've found another series to fall in love with.
Perfect set-up: numerous sexy rich brothers who are all high-achievers with interesting careers and an interfering Mum.
This was a fantastic start to the series. Whilst Adam/Lia caught my attention in their own right, what I thought the author did fabulously was give you sneak peeks of some of the other brothers who will all get their own book. They weren't all rolled out during a family gathering whether they become lost in an onslaught of names and 'defining' characteristics. Instead they appear naturally here and there and given enough of a mention to get you invested in them as characters but not so much it distracts from the fact that this is very much Adam's story.
From the minute Adam and Lia are thrown together by their manipulative mothers (and loveable dog Jasper) they are attracted to each other. The difficulty comes when they try and keep business and pleasure separate. *Spoiler alert* After a fire and a trip to Italy, yes they do achieve their HEA!
I am going to start on the second book in the series ASAP and hope that the rest of the series will be forthcoming!
I am so excited that I've found another series to fall in love with.
Perfect set-up: numerous sexy rich brothers who are all high-achievers with interesting careers and an interfering Mum.
This was a fantastic start to the series. Whilst Adam/Lia caught my attention in their own right, what I thought the author did fabulously was give you sneak peeks of some of the other brothers who will all get their own book. They weren't all rolled out during a family gathering whether they become lost in an onslaught of names and 'defining' characteristics. Instead they appear naturally here and there and given enough of a mention to get you invested in them as characters but not so much it distracts from the fact that this is very much Adam's story.
From the minute Adam and Lia are thrown together by their manipulative mothers (and loveable dog Jasper) they are attracted to each other. The difficulty comes when they try and keep business and pleasure separate. *Spoiler alert* After a fire and a trip to Italy, yes they do achieve their HEA!
I am going to start on the second book in the series ASAP and hope that the rest of the series will be forthcoming!
May 29, 2014
The Sweetest Seduction is for people who...
...like it when two characters feel an instant attraction...
...which morphs into anger and a swinging bat to the face...
...and then becomes dirty sex in a variety of places and positions.
...don't mind when a character is willing to put aside animosity for angry, balls to the wall sex.
I liked this one. It was fast and furious and there was a lot of talk of food. I almost needed a snack halfway through. And the sex? Smokin'. Good times, man. Good times.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
...like it when two characters feel an instant attraction...
...which morphs into anger and a swinging bat to the face...
...and then becomes dirty sex in a variety of places and positions.
...don't mind when a character is willing to put aside animosity for angry, balls to the wall sex.
I liked this one. It was fast and furious and there was a lot of talk of food. I almost needed a snack halfway through. And the sex? Smokin'. Good times, man. Good times.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
December 21, 2013
I received a free copy from the author for a fair and honest review.
I absolutely love book series that include the whole family. This is one of those series. However, I wished the brothers had been included more. Love reading about close relationships between siblings
This is a very sweet love story without the relationship drama. Loved the sex scenes but wished there had been even more getting to know each other time.
I absolutely love book series that include the whole family. This is one of those series. However, I wished the brothers had been included more. Love reading about close relationships between siblings
This is a very sweet love story without the relationship drama. Loved the sex scenes but wished there had been even more getting to know each other time.
December 28, 2015
Heroine was very annoying and the plot was a nonsense.
February 5, 2014
Very sweet romance.
A business man with no time for love. A restaurant owner with a new business also has no time for love. But when you find the right person.....sigh!
A business man with no time for love. A restaurant owner with a new business also has no time for love. But when you find the right person.....sigh!
September 10, 2016
cute contemporary romacne - not too much angst, but enough to make it a decent read
June 1, 2017
So many things I liked about THE SWEETEST SEDUCTION by Crista McHugh. The meddling mothers, the sibling reading and loyalty, I'd easy relationship with her co-workers, but most of all the head-over-heels love that almost instantly ignited between Lia and Adam and takes them both by surprise. This is a sweet love story about two people too busy living their lived to even date, but their Mom's are tired of waiting for grandbabies and take matters into their own hands. What follows is a few misunderstandings, humor, and steamy, heated can't keep my hands off you scenes. All in all a fun read. I definitely want to see what Mrs. Kelly has planned for her other sons! 4.5 stars
I listened to the audiobook version and have to say the narration was excellent. One of the best I've heard. Therese Plummer has an amazing range of "voices". Each character had a clearly defined personality, cadence, accent and tone. She took a good book and made it great.
I listened to the audiobook version and have to say the narration was excellent. One of the best I've heard. Therese Plummer has an amazing range of "voices". Each character had a clearly defined personality, cadence, accent and tone. She took a good book and made it great.
May 18, 2018
Livro fofo, um pouco de Bella Andre com uma mistura dos livros de banca.
January 26, 2014
“Have you ever felt that way about something, been caught totally by surprise and never realized how deep you were into it until it totally consumed you?”—Lia
Lia’s dreams are finally within her reach. Her restaurant is wildly popular, and she’s getting great reviews. And best of all, she meets the handsome and successful Adam who happens to be as attracted to her as she is to him. Everything is looking up—way up! Well, except for the fact that Adam happens to be the owner of the building her restaurant is in and is planning on giving her space to a world famous chef when her lease runs out in a month. She’s about to lose everything, but if both Adam and Lia fight for each other, then both of them might actually have more than their dreams…
“Until he settled the restaurant problem, they didn’t stand a chance.”—Adam’s thoughts
Oooh, what a tough one! There’s nothing worse than possibly meeting the person of your dreams and then find out you’re the one about to destroy their dreams! I couldn’t help but feel bad for the timing for our two workaholic leads. They finally decide to live a little and have some fun with each other and then discover that professionally, they’re very entwined. It’s a really hard dilemma for Adam, because it’s not just his choice whether to renew Lia’s lease or not since he has to deal with a temperamental diva chef and a board of investors. Poor Lia is literally at the mercy of whatever the owner decides! I was totally rooting for these two throughout the book even though I couldn’t help but feel that if I was in Lia’s shoes, I would be soooo furious that I wouldn’t have given Adam a chance.
I liked the characters and felt like we got to know them and sympathize what they’re going through. There are some fun matchmaking mommas in the background and a set of siblings popping throughout. Each of those brothers will get a book of their own in the series so it was fun getting introduced to them. The author has set each of the brothers well with enough backstory that I can’t help but be interested in what she has in store for them!
I love that Lia is so passionate about cooking, and I couldn’t help but wish I could try some of the yummy sounding dishes she came up with! Speaking of passion, the sparks fly off the page with lust-at-first sight for Adam and Lia so I’d call it medium-high heat. It seemed that they had so many barriers standing between them that even the sexual chemistry wouldn’t have been enough. I wish there was a bit more to them that just the instant attraction at the start, but I liked how the author also points this out as our leads wonder if there could be something more than just chemistry.
Although the first in a series, this doesn’t end in a cliffhanger and has a lovely ending, even though I don’t agree with Lia’s actions. It made me adore Adam all the more and almost makes up for him trying to push Lia out to make way for his world famous chef—almost! Overall, this was a 3.5 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a NetGalley copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
Lia’s dreams are finally within her reach. Her restaurant is wildly popular, and she’s getting great reviews. And best of all, she meets the handsome and successful Adam who happens to be as attracted to her as she is to him. Everything is looking up—way up! Well, except for the fact that Adam happens to be the owner of the building her restaurant is in and is planning on giving her space to a world famous chef when her lease runs out in a month. She’s about to lose everything, but if both Adam and Lia fight for each other, then both of them might actually have more than their dreams…
“Until he settled the restaurant problem, they didn’t stand a chance.”—Adam’s thoughts
Oooh, what a tough one! There’s nothing worse than possibly meeting the person of your dreams and then find out you’re the one about to destroy their dreams! I couldn’t help but feel bad for the timing for our two workaholic leads. They finally decide to live a little and have some fun with each other and then discover that professionally, they’re very entwined. It’s a really hard dilemma for Adam, because it’s not just his choice whether to renew Lia’s lease or not since he has to deal with a temperamental diva chef and a board of investors. Poor Lia is literally at the mercy of whatever the owner decides! I was totally rooting for these two throughout the book even though I couldn’t help but feel that if I was in Lia’s shoes, I would be soooo furious that I wouldn’t have given Adam a chance.
I liked the characters and felt like we got to know them and sympathize what they’re going through. There are some fun matchmaking mommas in the background and a set of siblings popping throughout. Each of those brothers will get a book of their own in the series so it was fun getting introduced to them. The author has set each of the brothers well with enough backstory that I can’t help but be interested in what she has in store for them!
I love that Lia is so passionate about cooking, and I couldn’t help but wish I could try some of the yummy sounding dishes she came up with! Speaking of passion, the sparks fly off the page with lust-at-first sight for Adam and Lia so I’d call it medium-high heat. It seemed that they had so many barriers standing between them that even the sexual chemistry wouldn’t have been enough. I wish there was a bit more to them that just the instant attraction at the start, but I liked how the author also points this out as our leads wonder if there could be something more than just chemistry.
Although the first in a series, this doesn’t end in a cliffhanger and has a lovely ending, even though I don’t agree with Lia’s actions. It made me adore Adam all the more and almost makes up for him trying to push Lia out to make way for his world famous chef—almost! Overall, this was a 3.5 out of 5 for me!
(Originally posted on my blog; I received a NetGalley copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.)
January 26, 2014
"A sexy, modern twist on Seven Brides for Seven Brothers"
Adam, Benjamin, Caleb, Daniel, Ethan, Frank, and Gideon. While the Kelly boys may not dance or sing as well as the Pontipee brothers (Benjamin does lifts...), the first installment indicates that their love lives will be just as good.
Crista McHugh's "Kelly Brothers" series follows the professional and personal lives of seven high society, successful, deadly attractive, brothers from Chicago. The first installment, "The Sweetest Seduction", follows the love story of Adam, the eldest Ponti-uh Kelly brother, and his love interest Lia.
Adam and Lia are your stereotypical "workaholics" - focused on success, rarely making time for dating, and reaping the rewards of their hard-work by working some more. Their mothers' scheme (serious LOL scheming) to get them together; arranging for Mrs. Kelly (aka mama Kelly) to win a dinner cooked by Lia, the owner and executive chef of Chicago's hottest new restaurant. The mothers invite several of the Kelly boys to the dinner - hoping spark will fly somewhere. When Adam and Lia meet, sparks, fireworks, rockets, and C-4 fly.
First, the author does a great job of updating and adapting the film to a book, but you don't have to be a fan of the film to enjoy this book. If you're familiar with the movie, you appreciate the little nuances; but, if you're not - no worries. Just enjoy the fun.
Second, the tone of the book and the relationship of the characters was quickly, and thoroughly, established. I spent the first chapter mostly laughing, giggling, and smiling at the "first encounters"; getting to know mama Kelly and a few of the boys. One thing that can be distracting when reading romance series is that so many characters (who will eventually headline their own books) are introduced at the beginning of the series, that I start ignoring them. Not a problem here. The book is about Adam and Lia, and that's who you spend time with and get to know.
Third, although Lia had a few moments where I wanted to slap her and say "ovary-up", in the context of the character's history it made sense.
Fourth, well-written sex scenes; but, not so many that I wanted to skip over them from boredom.
One gripe: The stereotypically effeminate maitre'd. I've been fortunate enough to have several good friends of the LGBTQ community, and the popular portrayal of the effeminate, finger-snapping, sex-obsessed, GBF (Gay Best Friend) is a frequent topic of conversation. As a result, I'm more aware of it than most. McHugh does a good job of portraying her homosexual character. I only cringed once!
Quick Review: Fun, enjoyable read. 1 brother/1 bride down and (I assume) 6 more to go. I'll definitely be reading them.
Oh, right. Disclaimer: I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for writing an honest review. I read a book, and judged it. Scandal!
Adam, Benjamin, Caleb, Daniel, Ethan, Frank, and Gideon. While the Kelly boys may not dance or sing as well as the Pontipee brothers (Benjamin does lifts...), the first installment indicates that their love lives will be just as good.
Crista McHugh's "Kelly Brothers" series follows the professional and personal lives of seven high society, successful, deadly attractive, brothers from Chicago. The first installment, "The Sweetest Seduction", follows the love story of Adam, the eldest Ponti-uh Kelly brother, and his love interest Lia.
Adam and Lia are your stereotypical "workaholics" - focused on success, rarely making time for dating, and reaping the rewards of their hard-work by working some more. Their mothers' scheme (serious LOL scheming) to get them together; arranging for Mrs. Kelly (aka mama Kelly) to win a dinner cooked by Lia, the owner and executive chef of Chicago's hottest new restaurant. The mothers invite several of the Kelly boys to the dinner - hoping spark will fly somewhere. When Adam and Lia meet, sparks, fireworks, rockets, and C-4 fly.
First, the author does a great job of updating and adapting the film to a book, but you don't have to be a fan of the film to enjoy this book. If you're familiar with the movie, you appreciate the little nuances; but, if you're not - no worries. Just enjoy the fun.
Second, the tone of the book and the relationship of the characters was quickly, and thoroughly, established. I spent the first chapter mostly laughing, giggling, and smiling at the "first encounters"; getting to know mama Kelly and a few of the boys. One thing that can be distracting when reading romance series is that so many characters (who will eventually headline their own books) are introduced at the beginning of the series, that I start ignoring them. Not a problem here. The book is about Adam and Lia, and that's who you spend time with and get to know.
Third, although Lia had a few moments where I wanted to slap her and say "ovary-up", in the context of the character's history it made sense.
Fourth, well-written sex scenes; but, not so many that I wanted to skip over them from boredom.
One gripe: The stereotypically effeminate maitre'd. I've been fortunate enough to have several good friends of the LGBTQ community, and the popular portrayal of the effeminate, finger-snapping, sex-obsessed, GBF (Gay Best Friend) is a frequent topic of conversation. As a result, I'm more aware of it than most. McHugh does a good job of portraying her homosexual character. I only cringed once!
Quick Review: Fun, enjoyable read. 1 brother/1 bride down and (I assume) 6 more to go. I'll definitely be reading them.
Oh, right. Disclaimer: I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for writing an honest review. I read a book, and judged it. Scandal!
February 4, 2014
The Sweetest Seduction is the first book in The Kelly Brothers series. I downloaded this book as I was taking part in the Breakaway Hearts blog tour.
The story is about Lia and Adam. Both characters are similar in that they are ambitious, passionate and the have mothers who meddle. Lia is a chef, owning her own restaurant in a prolific spot on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. Her space is let to her by Kelly properties, owned and managed by Adam Kelly. Adam is used to getting what he wants but has no time for a woman in his life until he meets Lia. Lia puts him in a tail spin and he finds himself growing more attached to her, without realising his business plans impact on hers.
The story is told from both characters points of view which was good here because it’s quite a short story and having both POV’s allows you to get more of a feeling for the overall story. Both Adam and Lia are well developed characters with both similarities and differences. While Adam feels a familial obligation to run the family business and be the head of the family, Lia is finally spreading her wings and taking a chance on her dreams – her restaurant.
The story is filled with heat and passion as sparks instantly fly between the two characters. Lia is quick to assume that Adam is like every other rich guy out there but actually he’s a lot more down to earth and ready to fall in love than either of them realise.
It’s a little predictable but often with romance novels that is the case. It’s the getting from the start to the finish that is the important part and the story is fast paced and has some hints at some other story lines – such as the political side of Adam running is business – which could have been developed further. There were also a few issues with the editing but they were easy to overlook.
All in all it’s a good start to a new romance series, looking forward to reading the next.
The story is about Lia and Adam. Both characters are similar in that they are ambitious, passionate and the have mothers who meddle. Lia is a chef, owning her own restaurant in a prolific spot on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. Her space is let to her by Kelly properties, owned and managed by Adam Kelly. Adam is used to getting what he wants but has no time for a woman in his life until he meets Lia. Lia puts him in a tail spin and he finds himself growing more attached to her, without realising his business plans impact on hers.
The story is told from both characters points of view which was good here because it’s quite a short story and having both POV’s allows you to get more of a feeling for the overall story. Both Adam and Lia are well developed characters with both similarities and differences. While Adam feels a familial obligation to run the family business and be the head of the family, Lia is finally spreading her wings and taking a chance on her dreams – her restaurant.
The story is filled with heat and passion as sparks instantly fly between the two characters. Lia is quick to assume that Adam is like every other rich guy out there but actually he’s a lot more down to earth and ready to fall in love than either of them realise.
It’s a little predictable but often with romance novels that is the case. It’s the getting from the start to the finish that is the important part and the story is fast paced and has some hints at some other story lines – such as the political side of Adam running is business – which could have been developed further. There were also a few issues with the editing but they were easy to overlook.
All in all it’s a good start to a new romance series, looking forward to reading the next.
February 2, 2014
Adam Kelly
Lia Mantovani
This is the first book in Crista McHugh's Kelly Brother's series.
It is a complete story on its own, but also an opening book for what will be a great series.
I have already read book two, and although it has parts relating to this book, can be read
as a stand alone, without any issues.
Book one is about Adam Kelly finally finding his HEA with Lia Mantovani.
Adams mother is the main instigator in this story, and wants nothing more than to have a house full of grandchildren! So, her aim in life now, is to matchmake for her seven sons, it's only fair that Adam, being the eldest should be up first.
Adam runs the family realty business whilst Lia is a chef, running her very popular, and therefore busy restaurant. Aside from Maureen introducing the couple to each other at a dinner she organises, along with Lia's mom, fate has a lot to do with bringing the couple together. The two have an instant and unexpected connection, and things move along very fast.
This is a great read, very quick and enjoyable, and I'm looking forward to continuing the tale of
the Kelly brother's lives and loves.
Thanks again to Crisat McHugh for a great entertaining series!
Lia Mantovani
This is the first book in Crista McHugh's Kelly Brother's series.
It is a complete story on its own, but also an opening book for what will be a great series.
I have already read book two, and although it has parts relating to this book, can be read
as a stand alone, without any issues.
Book one is about Adam Kelly finally finding his HEA with Lia Mantovani.
Adams mother is the main instigator in this story, and wants nothing more than to have a house full of grandchildren! So, her aim in life now, is to matchmake for her seven sons, it's only fair that Adam, being the eldest should be up first.
Adam runs the family realty business whilst Lia is a chef, running her very popular, and therefore busy restaurant. Aside from Maureen introducing the couple to each other at a dinner she organises, along with Lia's mom, fate has a lot to do with bringing the couple together. The two have an instant and unexpected connection, and things move along very fast.
This is a great read, very quick and enjoyable, and I'm looking forward to continuing the tale of
the Kelly brother's lives and loves.
Thanks again to Crisat McHugh for a great entertaining series!
August 24, 2014
Short review since I don't feel good so bear with me :)
----
A sweet, sexy romance story :). You could feel the sparks leaping off the page between Adam and Lia.
T
Their mothers were very amusing, you could tell it was a set-up on at least the one parent's part... made me glad that was never pushed in my direction haha.
Lia is a strong/compassionate woman, I could see us being friends and me stalking her restaurant for that wonderful food, it was making my mouth water just reading about it.
Sex scenes weren't explicit, just sensual and romantic (at times), Miss Hughes knows how to write them well :).
The conflict was done well in the book, specially when you wanna kick a certain character behind ;-)
At one point in the book, I wanted to wrap Lia in a hug when something happened with her restaurant and another point wanted to smack her and shake her like her mother probably did.
Jasper was back! Love that dog :) hehe
The ending was great, I love how she didn't rush anything and it glided on its own to a conclusion that fit the story.
Would recommend, a short but very enjoyable read... loved meeting Adam and Lia :)
----
A sweet, sexy romance story :). You could feel the sparks leaping off the page between Adam and Lia.
T
Their mothers were very amusing, you could tell it was a set-up on at least the one parent's part... made me glad that was never pushed in my direction haha.
Lia is a strong/compassionate woman, I could see us being friends and me stalking her restaurant for that wonderful food, it was making my mouth water just reading about it.
Sex scenes weren't explicit, just sensual and romantic (at times), Miss Hughes knows how to write them well :).
The conflict was done well in the book, specially when you wanna kick a certain character behind ;-)
At one point in the book, I wanted to wrap Lia in a hug when something happened with her restaurant and another point wanted to smack her and shake her like her mother probably did.
Jasper was back! Love that dog :) hehe
The ending was great, I love how she didn't rush anything and it glided on its own to a conclusion that fit the story.
Would recommend, a short but very enjoyable read... loved meeting Adam and Lia :)
February 22, 2014
The Sweetest Seduction was a nice quick read. I think the story itself was about 130 pages on my NOOK, so if you're looking for something great to read that won't take days or weeks to read, then this is a great choice. I'm a fan of Crista McHugh's fantasy novels, so I figured I would give her contemporary romance books a try. It plays out like a typical romance. Guy and girl meet and there is an almost immediate physical attraction. After the initial meeting they have a bit of a rocky start, but work through things little by little, and it ends with a happy for now. I'm sure there will be references to Lia and Adam in the remainder of the series. The story line takes place over about a month, so it isn't one of those "we meet and fall in love in one day" type of romances. It was a great start to the series and I look forward to getting to know the rest of the Kelly brothers and seeing what romantic endeavors are in store for them.
December 15, 2013
I received a copy from the author in exchange for my honest review, so here it is. This is a great story. Lia is a chef in Chicago and is a workaholic. With her mom sitting beside her, they travel to her moms friend's cabin by the lake. Apparently her mothers friend won an auction to have Lia cook for them and her mom starts talking about all the sons of the friend. Lia knows what her mom is trying to do, she wants grandkids and keeps trying to set Lia up with a good man. Adam Kelly is a workaholic too, he is a property manager for his fathers company. He doesn't have time to date. When he walks into his mothers cabin, when he sees Lia, he is spellbound. There is electricity sparking between them. Lia and Adam see to drawn to each other. The story will have you glued just to see what happens next. This is the first for me by Crista McHugh and I can't wait for book 2.
December 7, 2013
A nice romantic story. It left a nice warn feeling inside. I am such a romantic at heart and this met all my needs in romantic fiction
March 2, 2016
I loved this first installment in The Kelly Brothers series. The story is very light, sweet and funny. I cannot wait to read about the other 6 Kelly brothers.
February 7, 2019
First let me say that I really enjoyed the writing and would absolutely read this author again. I don't even mind when a plot puts mcs opposed to each other especially when, like this author does, they don't let themselves become angry or bitter about it. However because the plot was what it was I thought the characters let things unfold in a rather naive way. He tells her he's gonna do his best to get home boy to go somewhere else and she acts like it's a done deal that everything is perfect and falls into bed with him. Then they proceed to mostly just have sex with two dates in between, completely ignoring the obstacles between them. They literally never even talk about it. They were an alright couple but I just couldn't connect with them emotionally, partially because they never discuss these serious issues but also because the relationship is really rather surface with little emotional development shown to us.
December 23, 2013
Originally Reviewed For: Tea and Book
I Must admit, after falling in love with Crista McHugh's fantasy worlds.. I was a bit leary to check out her contemporary stuff.. but I am one to follow an author, no matter if she does decide to upset the applecart along the way (still waiting for Julie Garwood to go back to her historicals). Usually (yes Julie writes a brilliant contemporary series) the author remains a steadfast favorite no matter the Genre. I am thrilled to say that Ms. McHugh stands true. A gifted writer is a gifted writer..
With The Sweetest Seduction, Ms McHugh starts her series about the brothers Kelly.. Adam, Ben, Caleb, Daniel, (E name I can't remember and am madly searching for in the book) and Frank. Sound familiar? Yeah I was captured by the Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (easily one of my favorite movies) reference I can only hope this series has as much madness and mayhem as the movie did. But for now we start with Adam, the professional, the businessman, the organized and efficient one. Not insanity here *grins*
Lia Mantovani did all the right things, met all the right people and had what was promising to be all the right life.. that is until her ratbastard of a fiance bundled her up in the suburbs so he could boink his way through the city. Smart girl that she was she totally bailed. Left the country and spent time with her family in Italy, where she discovered her true passion and gift, cooking. Now Lia has spent the last year creating one of the hottest restaurants on Chicago's Magnificent Mile. It seems life is perfect, well except for the fact that her mother "auctioned" her services off at a charity auction and now Lia knows she is being set up. But she knows she can handle anything.. except with the Kelly Brothers around there is always more than just one anything! And one look at Adam Kelly and Lia was lost.
Well used to his mother's machinations, Adam Kelly was sure he could weather the storm. That is until he found Lia Mantovani in his mother's kitchen. One look and he was lost.. then he tasted her cooking. Adam is enthralled. An immediate chemistry and maybe a promise of something more, that is until he discovers that Lia is the tenant he is going to evict in order to bring a famous chef and his restaurant to Chicago. Now he has to figure out what is the best choice without getting lost in his emotions.
A truly fun book.. Lia and Adam smolder..and I totally loved it. I loved the fact that Adam has to choose which would be the best business choice and Lia has enough integrity to understand. Business is business. But of course there are times emotions get in the way. How can they not? This is a book about people after all. What I liked especially about this book was Ms McHugh's talent of getting to the heart of her characters. She offers a difficult choice and then lets her characters work their way out of it.
I enjoyed this book, while not as dark and devious as her Fantasy work (and it shouldn't be) Sweetest has a *grins* sweet feel to it, it has a powerful well of story line with wonderful secondary characters and sweet promise for what is to come.
I am totally looking forward to Ben's book.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of The Sweetest Seduction, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on January 6, 2014
I Must admit, after falling in love with Crista McHugh's fantasy worlds.. I was a bit leary to check out her contemporary stuff.. but I am one to follow an author, no matter if she does decide to upset the applecart along the way (still waiting for Julie Garwood to go back to her historicals). Usually (yes Julie writes a brilliant contemporary series) the author remains a steadfast favorite no matter the Genre. I am thrilled to say that Ms. McHugh stands true. A gifted writer is a gifted writer..
With The Sweetest Seduction, Ms McHugh starts her series about the brothers Kelly.. Adam, Ben, Caleb, Daniel, (E name I can't remember and am madly searching for in the book) and Frank. Sound familiar? Yeah I was captured by the Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (easily one of my favorite movies) reference I can only hope this series has as much madness and mayhem as the movie did. But for now we start with Adam, the professional, the businessman, the organized and efficient one. Not insanity here *grins*
Lia Mantovani did all the right things, met all the right people and had what was promising to be all the right life.. that is until her ratbastard of a fiance bundled her up in the suburbs so he could boink his way through the city. Smart girl that she was she totally bailed. Left the country and spent time with her family in Italy, where she discovered her true passion and gift, cooking. Now Lia has spent the last year creating one of the hottest restaurants on Chicago's Magnificent Mile. It seems life is perfect, well except for the fact that her mother "auctioned" her services off at a charity auction and now Lia knows she is being set up. But she knows she can handle anything.. except with the Kelly Brothers around there is always more than just one anything! And one look at Adam Kelly and Lia was lost.
Well used to his mother's machinations, Adam Kelly was sure he could weather the storm. That is until he found Lia Mantovani in his mother's kitchen. One look and he was lost.. then he tasted her cooking. Adam is enthralled. An immediate chemistry and maybe a promise of something more, that is until he discovers that Lia is the tenant he is going to evict in order to bring a famous chef and his restaurant to Chicago. Now he has to figure out what is the best choice without getting lost in his emotions.
A truly fun book.. Lia and Adam smolder..and I totally loved it. I loved the fact that Adam has to choose which would be the best business choice and Lia has enough integrity to understand. Business is business. But of course there are times emotions get in the way. How can they not? This is a book about people after all. What I liked especially about this book was Ms McHugh's talent of getting to the heart of her characters. She offers a difficult choice and then lets her characters work their way out of it.
I enjoyed this book, while not as dark and devious as her Fantasy work (and it shouldn't be) Sweetest has a *grins* sweet feel to it, it has a powerful well of story line with wonderful secondary characters and sweet promise for what is to come.
I am totally looking forward to Ben's book.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of The Sweetest Seduction, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on January 6, 2014
November 13, 2020
Lia Mantovani has poured every ounce of her heart into her restaurant, and it seems Chicago is giving her the success she's always dreamed of. But while spending her life in the kitchen may make her happy, it doesn't give her much opportunity for dating. Not that she's all that interested in relationships since the last one nearly made her forget who she is. Determined never to become entirely dependent on a man again, she's caught off guard by the instant chemistry she feels with the son of one of her mother's bridge club friends. But surely she can have a little fun without derailing her career, right?
Adam Kelly isn't expecting his mother to play matchmaker, but he's not all that surprised when she does. He just doesn't expect to be so immediately intrigued by the clearly talented woman at the stove in his mother's kitchen. But he's even more surprised when he discovers that his next big business deal depends on evicting the lovely chef and her restaurant from his building. He knows better than to mix business with pleasure, but even with the glaring conflict of interest, he just can't help himself.
While the characters are entirely likeable, it felt like some of their development was sacrificed in exchange for the chemistry and bedroom scenes. This would have been a huge issue if there had been any heavy angst or a situation where one acted abominably, but since aside from the requisite conflict, things were kept fairly light, it didn't ruin the story. Still, two strong and fiery characters with such an intense attraction could have been so much more if we'd been given more insight into them as individuals half as much as we saw them in the bedroom.
The Sweetest Seduction is more about the seduction than the sweet, with enough sex to toe the erotica line, but the story itself is light enough that it remains a fun and surprisingly quick read. Lia, an Italian American living in Chicago is refreshingly lacks the cliched character traits one might expect, though her heritage shines through in her love of cooking and kitchen. Likewise, Adam as the incredibly successful and handsome business man could easily have been a self-involved jerk, but aside from the initial eviction revelation, he's flirty and genuinely good, wonderfully breaking what seems to have become the standard for rich leading men.
Their love story, despite its quick development, is easily believable, I'm sure in part because they both seem so open to the possibility and willing to take the chance. Add to that the focus on their relationship, without the usual overdone and often unnecessary drama so many other authors employ, and you've got yourself an extremely enjoyable read that will leave you smiling and reaching for the next Kelly brother's story.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Adam Kelly isn't expecting his mother to play matchmaker, but he's not all that surprised when she does. He just doesn't expect to be so immediately intrigued by the clearly talented woman at the stove in his mother's kitchen. But he's even more surprised when he discovers that his next big business deal depends on evicting the lovely chef and her restaurant from his building. He knows better than to mix business with pleasure, but even with the glaring conflict of interest, he just can't help himself.
While the characters are entirely likeable, it felt like some of their development was sacrificed in exchange for the chemistry and bedroom scenes. This would have been a huge issue if there had been any heavy angst or a situation where one acted abominably, but since aside from the requisite conflict, things were kept fairly light, it didn't ruin the story. Still, two strong and fiery characters with such an intense attraction could have been so much more if we'd been given more insight into them as individuals half as much as we saw them in the bedroom.
The Sweetest Seduction is more about the seduction than the sweet, with enough sex to toe the erotica line, but the story itself is light enough that it remains a fun and surprisingly quick read. Lia, an Italian American living in Chicago is refreshingly lacks the cliched character traits one might expect, though her heritage shines through in her love of cooking and kitchen. Likewise, Adam as the incredibly successful and handsome business man could easily have been a self-involved jerk, but aside from the initial eviction revelation, he's flirty and genuinely good, wonderfully breaking what seems to have become the standard for rich leading men.
Their love story, despite its quick development, is easily believable, I'm sure in part because they both seem so open to the possibility and willing to take the chance. Add to that the focus on their relationship, without the usual overdone and often unnecessary drama so many other authors employ, and you've got yourself an extremely enjoyable read that will leave you smiling and reaching for the next Kelly brother's story.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 17, 2014
3 1/2 stars!! review also posted @ Girl meets Books
What worked for me?
This book was a great and fast read. I finished this one in less than a day and while it was a shorter read compared to other full-length novels, I found the story engaging. Lia and Adam are characters with depth and I was really looking forward to their journey towards their HEA.
The basic conflict in the story revolves around the lease of Lia’s restaurant, which she wants to renew so she could continue and expand her growing business and increasingly famous restaurant but Adam holds the power to give her that lease and has difficulty doing so because he initially planned for a starred- and world-renowned chef to set up a restaurant in one of his company’s properties. But I really liked that beyond this surface conflict, the underlying conflicts are the ones they have with themselves as they try to reconcile their current lives with the growing feelings they have for one another.
Adam has never had to mix business with pleasure. Not until Lia entered his life. And now he’s finding out the things that he’s willing to sacrifice in order to keep the one person he finds himself falling for. Lia, on the other hand, has been burned before by a cheating fiance who expected nothing from her except to be a docile housewife. But she recovered from that heartbreak and vowed to herself that she will never be dependent on a man again and will never let anyone decide her life for her. With all these personal backgrounds, I just loved watching them fall for each other and discover that not everything they thought they knew in life was true and that finding your other half, the one that keeps you grounded and who you can be with even in the quiet moments is a gift and a chance worth risking everything for.
What did not work for me?
My minor caveat in this book was the seemingly fast pace of Lia and Adam falling for each other. I know it might partly be because of the shorter length of the book but other than that, I was still satisfied with how the author handled the romance. I was still sold on how they came to be together and I’m convinced their relationship will stick no matter what happens.
My over-all take on it?
Adam’s and Lia’s story was a very satisfying read and I truly believe their love story will endure. This was a great start for the Kelly Brothers series because we also got glimpses of the rest of the Kelly men. This is my third Crista McHugh novel and while my favorite is still the second book in the series, this series starter was equally enjoyable.
What worked for me?
This book was a great and fast read. I finished this one in less than a day and while it was a shorter read compared to other full-length novels, I found the story engaging. Lia and Adam are characters with depth and I was really looking forward to their journey towards their HEA.
The basic conflict in the story revolves around the lease of Lia’s restaurant, which she wants to renew so she could continue and expand her growing business and increasingly famous restaurant but Adam holds the power to give her that lease and has difficulty doing so because he initially planned for a starred- and world-renowned chef to set up a restaurant in one of his company’s properties. But I really liked that beyond this surface conflict, the underlying conflicts are the ones they have with themselves as they try to reconcile their current lives with the growing feelings they have for one another.
Adam has never had to mix business with pleasure. Not until Lia entered his life. And now he’s finding out the things that he’s willing to sacrifice in order to keep the one person he finds himself falling for. Lia, on the other hand, has been burned before by a cheating fiance who expected nothing from her except to be a docile housewife. But she recovered from that heartbreak and vowed to herself that she will never be dependent on a man again and will never let anyone decide her life for her. With all these personal backgrounds, I just loved watching them fall for each other and discover that not everything they thought they knew in life was true and that finding your other half, the one that keeps you grounded and who you can be with even in the quiet moments is a gift and a chance worth risking everything for.
What did not work for me?
My minor caveat in this book was the seemingly fast pace of Lia and Adam falling for each other. I know it might partly be because of the shorter length of the book but other than that, I was still satisfied with how the author handled the romance. I was still sold on how they came to be together and I’m convinced their relationship will stick no matter what happens.
My over-all take on it?
Adam’s and Lia’s story was a very satisfying read and I truly believe their love story will endure. This was a great start for the Kelly Brothers series because we also got glimpses of the rest of the Kelly men. This is my third Crista McHugh novel and while my favorite is still the second book in the series, this series starter was equally enjoyable.
January 23, 2014
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book 1 in the Kelly Brothers series.
This book is so sweet. The characters are endearing and the story is just plain sweet. If you like a feel-good romance with a sprinkling of 'smut' then you'll enjoy this story. I feel like I have a cavity developing with the sweetness of this story.
The gist: Lia is a chef. Adam owns the building that houses her restaurant. Their mothers are friends and arrange to set them up. The chemistry between them from the moment they meet is off the charts. Adam has been courting a big name chef to open a restaurant in one of his buildings. Lia's restaurant is the ideal location for this restaurant and her lease is almost up. Once he realizes she's the owner of the restaurant he is wanting to usurp, he decides to fight for her to keep her restaurant in his building.
Okay, so I so badly wanted to give this book 4 stars instead of three, but the simple fact that it needed a simple proofreading stopped me. The errors caused me to pause and reread sentences in order for them to make sense and I find that extremely annoying. Other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed the book!
Lia was burned by a man in the past, so she's guarded when it comes to her feelings for Adam. She is an independent woman and she doesn't just want to sit on a shelf as a housewife, so she's avoided dating since her engagement ended. She's a no nonsense woman, which I ALWAYS love in my heroines.
Adam is handsome and rich. Who doesn't love that kind of hero, huh? On top of that, he's very sweet. He's a somewhat ruthless business man, so when his feelings for Lia tangle with his desire to open a highly successful restaurant with a famous chef, he finds himself in quite the pickle.
I also appreciate that there was conflict for them that didn't involve a crazy ex or some physical threat. Conflict is always great and while I love a good psycho bent on hurting the hero or heroine, it's refreshing to have a story that's just simple and sweet.
This is the first in a series. Adam is one of seven brothers and each one of them will have their own book and their own romance with a happy ending. (I am assuming anyway...) I can't wait to read about the rest of the Kelly boys!
This book is so sweet. The characters are endearing and the story is just plain sweet. If you like a feel-good romance with a sprinkling of 'smut' then you'll enjoy this story. I feel like I have a cavity developing with the sweetness of this story.
The gist: Lia is a chef. Adam owns the building that houses her restaurant. Their mothers are friends and arrange to set them up. The chemistry between them from the moment they meet is off the charts. Adam has been courting a big name chef to open a restaurant in one of his buildings. Lia's restaurant is the ideal location for this restaurant and her lease is almost up. Once he realizes she's the owner of the restaurant he is wanting to usurp, he decides to fight for her to keep her restaurant in his building.
Okay, so I so badly wanted to give this book 4 stars instead of three, but the simple fact that it needed a simple proofreading stopped me. The errors caused me to pause and reread sentences in order for them to make sense and I find that extremely annoying. Other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed the book!
Lia was burned by a man in the past, so she's guarded when it comes to her feelings for Adam. She is an independent woman and she doesn't just want to sit on a shelf as a housewife, so she's avoided dating since her engagement ended. She's a no nonsense woman, which I ALWAYS love in my heroines.
Adam is handsome and rich. Who doesn't love that kind of hero, huh? On top of that, he's very sweet. He's a somewhat ruthless business man, so when his feelings for Lia tangle with his desire to open a highly successful restaurant with a famous chef, he finds himself in quite the pickle.
I also appreciate that there was conflict for them that didn't involve a crazy ex or some physical threat. Conflict is always great and while I love a good psycho bent on hurting the hero or heroine, it's refreshing to have a story that's just simple and sweet.
This is the first in a series. Adam is one of seven brothers and each one of them will have their own book and their own romance with a happy ending. (I am assuming anyway...) I can't wait to read about the rest of the Kelly boys!
January 11, 2014
The Sweetest Seduction by Crista McHugh
This is a 4 ½ for me
Lia is a new chef in Chicago who is taking the town by storm. She rarely leaves her restaurant but her mother's friend did have the winning bid at the charity auction; so Lia was off to cook a magnificent meal in a spectacular lakeside location. Adam runs the family real estate business he really has no time to date much to his mother’s dismay. She has seven sons, all still single and not a hope of a grandchild in sight. Adam and Lia share a spark, but their drive to succeed may end this relationship before it starts.
I love to cook and I jumped at the chance to read a book about a chef. Lia’s recipe ideas made my mouth water, but the book was far from a cookbook; ingredients, methods and entrees were dealt with in the same manner as a firearm in a romantic suspense novel. Cooking is what rescued Lia during a difficult time in her life, it is what healed the pain and challenges her each day. Adam is the oldest of seven brothers and took over his father’s business after his death. We see more of him as a big brother ready to offer advice and help when needed than a business man. His approach to dating Lia was refreshing. Each date was more about spending time together than flash; no whisking her off to dinner in Paris or renting out a whole restaurant. I myself would have loved to go on any of their dates
This was a quick read for me, but an enjoyable one. I could put it down when my eyes started to close one Friday evening, but promptly picked it back up when I woke Saturday morning. No heart wrenching suspense, no deep secret that pulled them apart; just a warm rather believable story about two successful people who without meddling mother’s may have never found each other. Yes they have challenges, but I never doubted an HEA would be there at the end.
As I said Adam is one of seven bachelor brothers. All of them introduced in some manner in this book; all with interesting and diverse career choices; they coupled with a few interesting characters from Lia’s restaurant I can see many books in this series to come. I actually have an ARC of book 2 and I plan on starting it once this review is complete.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review.
This is a 4 ½ for me
Lia is a new chef in Chicago who is taking the town by storm. She rarely leaves her restaurant but her mother's friend did have the winning bid at the charity auction; so Lia was off to cook a magnificent meal in a spectacular lakeside location. Adam runs the family real estate business he really has no time to date much to his mother’s dismay. She has seven sons, all still single and not a hope of a grandchild in sight. Adam and Lia share a spark, but their drive to succeed may end this relationship before it starts.
I love to cook and I jumped at the chance to read a book about a chef. Lia’s recipe ideas made my mouth water, but the book was far from a cookbook; ingredients, methods and entrees were dealt with in the same manner as a firearm in a romantic suspense novel. Cooking is what rescued Lia during a difficult time in her life, it is what healed the pain and challenges her each day. Adam is the oldest of seven brothers and took over his father’s business after his death. We see more of him as a big brother ready to offer advice and help when needed than a business man. His approach to dating Lia was refreshing. Each date was more about spending time together than flash; no whisking her off to dinner in Paris or renting out a whole restaurant. I myself would have loved to go on any of their dates
This was a quick read for me, but an enjoyable one. I could put it down when my eyes started to close one Friday evening, but promptly picked it back up when I woke Saturday morning. No heart wrenching suspense, no deep secret that pulled them apart; just a warm rather believable story about two successful people who without meddling mother’s may have never found each other. Yes they have challenges, but I never doubted an HEA would be there at the end.
As I said Adam is one of seven bachelor brothers. All of them introduced in some manner in this book; all with interesting and diverse career choices; they coupled with a few interesting characters from Lia’s restaurant I can see many books in this series to come. I actually have an ARC of book 2 and I plan on starting it once this review is complete.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest review.
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