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Line of Duty #4

Asking for Trouble

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A sexy category romance from Entangled's Brazen imprint...

The fighting was just foreplay...

Brent Mason and Hayden Winstead can't stand each other. She plans exclusive parties for her rich familys charities. He's a rough and tumble cop who rigs explosives for a living. Could two people be any less suited for conversation? They think not and prefer to keep it that way.

Unfortunately, their two best friends are deeply, disgustingly in love. Forced together, the mutual attraction simmering beneath the surface of Brent and Hayden's non-relationship grows with every argument until it explodes into a scintillating night of mind-blowing sex. And it wont be the last, as far as Brent's concerned.

Hayden has a secret, though. Her father's company is relying on a merger to save them from financial ruin, and only Hayden's marriage to the CEOs wealthy son can secure the deal. If she's to protect her family, she'll have to forget Brent. And he has no intention of being forgotten.

250 pages, ebook

First published November 25, 2013

About the author

Tessa Bailey

91 books59.5k followers
New York Times Bestselling author Tessa Bailey can solve all problems except for her own, so she focuses those efforts on stubborn, fictional blue collar men and loyal, lovable heroines. She lives on Long Island avoiding the sun and social interactions, then wonders why no one has called. Dubbed the “Michelangelo of dirty talk,” by Entertainment Weekly, Tessa writes with spice, spirit, swoon and a guaranteed happily ever after. Catch her on TikTok at @authortessabailey or check out tessabailey.com for a complete list of books.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 876 reviews
May 25, 2017
4 There is a thin line between love and hate Stars

*Spoilers*

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“Something tells me a man like you can’t hold out long enough to make it past the entryway. Just wham-bam, let me get back to playing Grand Theft Auto, ma’am.” “I prefer Halo,”


Ok so rating this one was hard for me. It wasn't a bad read it just didn't do it for me like most of the other books in this series. The problems I have with this book is I couldn't figure out if I liked the heroine or not! I also really, really, really (I am going to throw one more Really in here?) Really didn't like the whole "force to marry a pushy ass I don't like to save the family's money" thing!!!!! That being said I loved the hero, and of course the dirty talk, so I will give this book 4 stars instead of the 3.5 stars I was thinking about giving.

“You need a good tongue-fucking, duchess.”


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What this book is about


Brent Mason and Hayden Winstead are not friends, in fact they can't stand each other. He thinks she is just some stuck up rich bitch, and she thinks he is a rude meathead. They are always around each other because their best friends are in love and getting married. So Brent and Hayden fight all the time. Under all those rude comments, and jabs is lust that they are both fighting. Anger turns into a wild night of passion, but can they just walk away like it never happened, or do they fight to be together despite their dislike of each other?


“What exactly is your idea of showing me, duchess?” He smirked. “Silk sheets, candlelight…the gentle strains of Kenny G. I’d love to see how the other half fucks.”

Brent:

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Brent truly saved this book for me. He is a great character. Hard working and loyal. He works two jobs to help his family. He is sweet, and kind of a goofball. Of course he is a skilled dirty talker. I loved that he was willing to give up control in the bedroom at times to Hayden, but still a kinky bad boy! He let his male pride blind him at times and he was mouthy, but I found him sexy.

“Look at you. You’re already scared. Afraid of a little pleasure, duchess? Worried you might actually like my middle-class mouth on you?”


“You made this fucking sound, Hayden. The first time you spread your legs to take my cock. I hear it everywhere I go. This goddamn…moan? Sob? I don’t know. All I know is if I don’t fuck that sound out of you again soon, I’m going to completely lose my mind.”


“Hayden Winstead! Don’t you dare! Don’t you dare marry someone else. We will fix this, do you understand me? If it means I have to work ten jobs. Your family will be fine. You don’t have to do this. Please, please don’t do this.” He banged his head against the door, grateful for the pain somewhere besides his heart. “I know I’m an asshole but I’m working on it. I’m sorry for what I said. So sorry. Hurting you…it might be the worst thing I’ve ever done, but I don’t deserve this. You don’t deserve this. If you marry him, Hayden, I won’t recover. I only got to spend one night holding you, but it was enough to know I have to hold you every single night.”


Hayden:

“It’s going to be over that fast, huh? Don’t worry, champ. It’s a very common problem among men. Happens to the best of them.”

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Hmm I have mixed feelings about Hayden, One minute I thought she was funny, sassy, and outgoing. Then the next minute I would think she was fighting dirty when it came to Brent, snobby, and a borderline bitch. I hated that she even for a second thought about marrying another man and I don't care what the reasons are it was a point against her in my book!


“Oh, fuck off, Florence.” She yelled as he reached the living room. “Don’t let the door hit you on your well-spanked ass on the way out.”


“Brent, take me somewhere private. Where I can wrap my legs around all that muscle. Somewhere you can take off my teeny, tiny panties and fuck me hard.”


“I want you to leave your socks on my floor.” A breath shuddered out. “Not on Beth or Betsy or Becky’s floor. I want you to teach me how to grill. That’s something you do, right? In parking lots before sporting events or…or something?” She shook her head, knowing she rambled. “I want to…I want to be the one who worries about you. When you’re at work. I want to zone out while you talk about baseball.”


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“You listen best when I’m buried in that sweet pussy. Get on your stomach. I’m about to clear up any misunderstandings.”


Well the sex in this book was hott, and so was the grade A dirty talk, but Hayden and Brent as a couple were just alright. I wasn't really drawn into their relationship, because they walked around almost the whole book butt hurt over wounded pride, differences in classes, and stupid misunderstandings. Instead of clearing the air and talking about it like adults they just tore into each other with insults. Which wouldn't have kept me from investing in them as a couple on it's own, but add that to the fact that Hayden was thinking about marrying another man for money and I am just like whatevs! So while this book was a good read, and the hero rocked my world, this book is not as good as some of the others in the series, but not the worst either. I am on to the last book. Below my favorite moment from this book:


“Who gets the deepest, Hayden?” “Brent,” she moaned. Two quick thrusts. “Who gets fucking hot when his naughty little bad girl makes him work hard for it? Makes him wait?” Oh God, that nearly sent her hurtling over the edge. Her muscles clenched, her thighs shook. Any minute now. “Brent!” “Who tongued your pussy for an hour straight last night?” “Brent,” she sobbed. “Brent.” He let go of her hair and buried his face in her neck, voice dropping considerably. “Who do you belong to?” His name sat right on the tip of her tongue. Her instincts told her to scream it. When she didn’t answer right away, she felt him tense on top of her. Her silence was hurting him. Hating his pain, loving the sense of rightness her heart’s answer made her feel, she threw caution to the wind and followed her instincts. “Brent.”

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Profile Image for • Lisa •.
561 reviews1,576 followers
November 27, 2013
4 EXPLOSIVE STARS.

description

To say I was a little excited to receive this book to read would be a gross understatement. Tessa Bailey hit the nail right on the Brazen quality head when she started this series and the books have continued on to be the best in quickie romance heaven. Flirty, sexy and outright romantically filthy this series hasn't yet failed to hit my enjoyment buttons and I doubt fans of this series will be disappointed with Brent and Hayden's story. Here are my 'Asking for trouble' thoughts delivered with a huge smile ...

description

What's it all about?
Ever since their respective best friends fell helplessly in love Hayden Winstead and Brent Mason have been forced to spend way too much time than is necessary with each other, especially when they can't stand each others differences. He works for the NYPD emergency service unit rigging explosives and she is a socialite princess spending her days organising charity functions. So when a passionate opposites attraction blows up between the two will they take the time to discover they might just make the perfect pair or will they continue to live in heated hatred of each other? With family secrets and a lifetime of differences standing in the way will they be able to overcome everything to find the ending they both deserve?

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What did I love?
This story was heated all the way from beginning to end and it definitely is a contender for sexiest book of the brazen romances. Tessa Bailey is a must click author for a flirty, sexier than most quick fix, and like her other books this has all the entertainment, drama and smut to leave most lovers of this genre with a smile on their face. The characters were adorably addictive and the storyline had just the right amount of drama to keep things flowing. I am a huge fan of a romance story where there is quick wit and undeniable attraction between two characters who dislike each other and this book definitely delivered just that. The sexual Chemistry and initial 'I hate you so much I want to rip your clothes off' was amusing as well as blush worthy. Brent Mason was a character that I fell for almost instantly his cheeky charm and winning one liners made for one very addictive reading, from page one right up until the end his charisma and personality completely won me over and he is a hero I won't be forgetting about anytime soon. Hayden Winstead was yet another likeable Tessa Bailey heroine, a society princess who has more depth than expected I loved her feisty, sassy wit and hoped that I'd get the big romance that I'm always eager for in a story like this. All in all I ate this story up, it had all the components of a seductive, flirtatious story that combined together made one gorgeous and entertaining read.

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Why not five?
As much as this book ticked my quickie fix boxes it didn't fall into the five star category, don't get me wrong there isn't anything to pick apart with this book but I doubt I'll re read and there wasn't that epic feel about it.

Final thoughts ...
Without a doubt Tessa Bailey knows how to write the best kind of book escape. If you have yet to dive into her world of fabulous characters you are in for a treat. If easy going and off the charts sexy is your cuppa, then do not delay go grab this series, sit back and prepare to fall in love. Enjoy readers, kisses.

*ARC generously provided by entangled publishing in exchange for an honest review.*
Profile Image for Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾.
2,178 reviews13.4k followers
November 27, 2013
4.5 Deliciously Dirty Talking Stars

“If you have any doubt about my ability to fuck the ever-loving sarcasm right out of you, I’ll be more than happy to clear it up.”

No one, and I mean no one can write a dirty talker quite like Tessa Bailey. The woman is the queen of dirty talk and I bow down to her awesomeness. It's not secret that I have been a huge fan of this series from the very first book, Protecting What's His, and I swear the series just keeps getting better and better.

I didn't think anyone could replace my beloved playboy Daniel, but Brent gave him a run for his money. Nothing like a rough and tumble explosives expert with a sense of humor and dirty mouth to make my pervy little heart go all pitter patter.

I knew from the very first chapter that I would love this book. Nothing I love more than the 'enemies to lovers' trope. And when it came to Brent and Hayden, you could just feel the sexual tension behind every insult. It was absolutely delicious!

For Hayden and Brent, it was hate at first sight. While they may have to tolerate each other since their best friends are dating, it doesn't mean they have to like it. But beneath the barbs and insults that they're constantly throwing at each other, there's a strong undercurrent of something else: lust.

(In case you're wondering, YES, Brent reminded me of Ryan Reynolds. It's the dirty blonde hair, green eyes, sexy with a splash of dirty humor that sealed this particular delicious image for me)

I knew I would love Brent when we first met him in Officer Off Limits. He's crude, funny, always has a snarky comment, and did I also mention sexy as hell? The man is 6 foot 5 of complete and utter deliciousness. But beneath all the crude jokes, there's a fantastic man. He works 2 jobs in order to help support his family. So is it any wonder that rick girl Hayden seems to hit his every nerve?

Hayden is not quite the spoiled little rich girl that Brent sees her as. It's just that that Brent manages to hit all her buttons, and she can't help but lash out with the only means she has. Right?
But what happens when a dare between two people that are supposed to hate each other, goes a little bit too far?

While Brent never minced his words, I loved that Hayden gave as good as she got. She really gave the poor guy a run for his money. I swear, you could feel the sexual tension beneath all their bickering.
Aw, what’s wrong, Brent? Jealous? After all, if ever there was someone who deserved to have a jackass named after him, it’s you.”
“Yeah? And what would they name it? How about…Spanky?”
“How about Oversized Dickhead?”
He shrugged. “Didn’t hear you complaining about
my oversized—”
She shot to her feet, jostling the table. “Can I speak with you in private?”
“You need it right now?” He feigned exasperation.“We’re in the middle of dinner, woman. You’re insatiable.”



As much as I enjoyed Hayden's character, at times I did get irritated with the way she seemed to hit below the belt with her insults. I understood the why's of it, but it did still grate with me a bit. I felt that there were times that she should have been going after Bret and smoothing things over, not the other way around.

But Brent, my delicious dirty talking Brent, he just made the book for me. I was a highlight whore every time the man opened his mouth. I highlighted everything he said. The man was the Midas of dirty talk. Everything that came out of his mouth was pure gold.
Spread your thighs wide for me. I’m gonna fuck you until my next thrust is the only thing keeping you sane.

"I’m going to cram your tight pussy full over and over again,” he growled. “I’m going to fuck you until your ears ring. I’m going to bite you hard. Mark you. Ruin you.”


I know, right? Might I suggest keeping some ice on hand, and maybe a fan while you're reading this? My ovaries were doing a pervy little happy dance throughout the entire book.
Jesus, baby.” He groaned loudly, shifted. “Been a while?”
Yes. “No. It’s just you…you’re…”
Brent sat up, putting his face right in front of hers.He bit her bottom lip and tugged. “I’m what?”
When she tried to kiss him, he dodged her mouth. “Say it. What am I?”
“Huge,” she whispered.
“That’s right.” His hands slipped up her back and gripped her shoulders. “And you’re going to take it.”



This series has become a guilty pleasure of mine. Whenever I'm in the mood for a super steamy romance with a sassy heroine,a sinfully sexy hero, lots of dirty talk, and a light but engaging plot, I know I can never go wrong with these books. They always hit JUST the right spot.
Now I am sitting on pins and needles in pervy anticipation of the broodingly quiet Matt to get his book. I can already tell it's going to be a good one.

Now that is all the gushing you'll be getting from this girl. Go make your ovaries happy and read this book. And I thank you.
Profile Image for Jamie.
1,022 reviews968 followers
November 26, 2013
5 Scorching Panty Melting Stars! LOVED IT!!

IT'S LIVE!!
http://www.amazon.com/Asking-Trouble-...

Tessa Bailey is an "auto buy" for me...ever since the first book in this series, Protecting What's His, I've been hooked! As much as I've loved each book, this one is my favorite so far and the main reason is

Brent...

He's an explosives expert with the NYPD...he's got the swagger and attitude that go with such a job. He's best buds with Daniel from the previous book in this series. Daniel recently came off the market after falling in love with Story.. who just happens to be Hayden's bestie



Hayden...

Sweet snarky Hayden.. on the outside she appears to be the spoiled rich girl but those closest to her know the truth. She's got a big heart and sometimes a bigger mouth. Her and Daniel rub each other the wrong way BIG TIME.



Brent and Hayden are thrown together a lot now that Daniel and Story are hooked up and they are constantly needling each other..

Hayden’s glass clunked down on the table. “Could you try just a pinch harder to be less of a spectacular asshole? He’s worried enough. You don’t need to make it worse with your douche-bag sorcery.” “I’m making it worse? Why don’t you sew his name into his underwear and send him off to summer camp?” He tilted his head. “Not all of us had nannies growing up. Some of us can take care of ourselves.” “There’s a time and a place for insults. Learn the difference, dickhead.” Brent leaned across the table, his jaw tight. “I don’t need lessons on how to talk to my friend.” “Disagree. I think you need lessons on quite a few things.”

But underneath all these little heated exchanges there's a whole other level of sizzle going on. They both try to deny it but eventually the barbs turn into flirting and the flirting gets hot fast...

“How… exactly…would you make me like it, duchess?”
Her voice dropped to a seductive purr. “It would be so much more fun to show you.”



Well..before long, of course, the mouths close and the legs open! Wow! TB sure knows how to write some serious sexy times and her alpha's NEVER fail to get the juices flowing...


“Let’s end this game now.” He shoved two big fingers inside her, crooked and rotated them until she cried out. “You need my cock here. Twice a day.” He kissed her hard, thrusting his tongue deep. “I’m a big man, Hayden, and I fuck twice as long, and twice as hard. You’ll get used to it. And then you won’t be able to stand in the same room as me without wanting a ride.”



They are falling for each other but neither wants to completely admit it. They are both realizing that there is more to the other than either of them ever knew. As they dance around each other and get closer we get a couple of misunderstangings and a little family obligation thrown in that give this sexy story just the right amount of drama to add a little more depth to a light, fun, and steamy read.

I highly recommend this book and this whole series! Each book is a stand alone and you don't have to read the books in order. There are characters in each book though that cross over and show up, so I think reading the whole series is really worth it in my opinion...

If you've not yet read a Tessa Bailey book, YOU ARE TOTALLY MISSING OUT!!!!! Get on it, you won't be disappointed. But turn the fan on and be ready for some serious steam and a whole lot of fun!

ARC provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Alba and Her Secrets..♥.
883 reviews1,155 followers
November 12, 2016
4.5 'Beaches' Stars!

It's been quite some time since I read my last Brazen book and if you don't know it.. Tessa Bailey is kind of the queen of the hottest Brazen stories and dirty talking heroes. She definitely did not disappoint with Asking for Trouble.

I love this series so much I don't know exactly why I waited this much to read this novel. Yesterday I was in the mood for something dirty and this came to my mind.. It was a great decision! Loved the story, loved Brent (he is SO dirty, yum!) and loved the couple and their friends!

If you haven't checked out this series, I highly recommend it! Who does not love hot dirty talkers and sassy heroines, right? ;)
Profile Image for Wendy'sThoughts.
2,669 reviews3,277 followers
August 7, 2020
4 Hot, Smoldering, Steamy, Whispering Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free
Assumption… we live every day making them… we learn this practice while we are young; from parents, teachers, and from our life experience. We see people and think in a moment we know all about them like a product that has been marketed to us.

We make unwritten contacts with lovers… implying I’ll be this way and you’ll be that way and we will be good with this….

But then there are times when we make these assumptions and it turns out we were very, very wrong…


The person we met really wasn’t that cocky guy… shallow and just marking time… he had responsibilities and concerns for others. He didn’t want white-collar and was fulfilled with his blue-collar life, yet that didn’t mean he didn’t have an education or an ability to mix with all types of situations. He was a surprise.

And she… she may have come across as a china doll all fragile, cared for without a worry in her life. She may have represented all that he looked down on. Wasteful people taking up space with no focus or desire to be involved in anything more than going to event after event… but he would be wrong… as he could never have known she never felt as if she belonged either… and that was all of her life with these people...

So they assume and think they know who exactly who they are dealing with. That is the premise of Asking for Trouble, Tessa Bailey’s new installment of In the Line of Duty series.

We meet Hayden, beautiful socialite and her sparring partner Brent, EM services Explosion Expert. They are thrown together due to their best friends becoming a couple. They both have assumed neither one has anything to offer each other and it becomes a contest of sorts to see who can say the most uncomfortable comment to each other.

There is a huge problem with this though….

They both are attracted to each other and will not own up to it.
Brent… plays up his dislike for everything chi chi… not understanding that Hayden is not “the nose stuck up in the air” gal he thinks she is.

She thinks and comments endlessly how he is crass and has no manners etc., yet Brent is working 2 jobs to assist his sister in law and younger sister. He takes his responsibilities seriously and is proud to be a second-generation cop.

Now Tessa Bailey is high on my list for sexy hot books and one of the things she excels in is sexy talk…

I am talking …dirty whispering-in-the ear,- telling-you-about-all-of-the things-that-are-going-to-be-done-to-you talk.
Yup… that, kinda talk.


And she comes through with flying colors using Brent as her vehicle. He says all the right things to Hayden to stir her up and she responds in kind. It is only a matter of time until these two get together and go Kaboom.

Now there needs to be some meat and potatoes story to hold our attention and it goes back to that assumption thing. Because it seems Dad has lost funds and we are not talking a little amount, we are talking the Mega kind. And Mommy Dearest- yup she really is a b*tch seems to have read too many historical romance books because she has come up with an arranged marriage for Hayden with a dud of a guy who has the megabucks Dad needs. So in essence, she is selling off her daughter to keep the lifestyle she has.

This leaves Hayden in a difficult situation. Everyone thinks her life is just shoe shopping and parties but she really has depth and wants so much more in her life. The question is will she stand up, realize Brent is more than she assumed, and take her life into her own hands.

I enjoyed the read. It was fast, snappy, and had some terrific moments. It wasn’t my favorite In the Line of Duty stories but it certainly did not disappoint.

We have another one coming and I believe quiet brooding Matt is next up. I will be right there waiting for him… because if I know Tessa Bailey like I think I do, Matt may not have said much in this book cause he is saving up all that sexy talk for his own.

Protecting What's His (Line of Duty, #1) by Tessa Bailey Protecting What's His (Line of Duty, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Protecting What's Theirs (Line of Duty, #1.5) by Tessa Bailey Protecting What's Theirs (Line of Duty, #1.5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
His Risk to Take (Line of Duty, #2) by Tessa Bailey His Risk to Take (Line of Duty #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Officer off Limits (Line of Duty, #3) by Tessa Bailey Officer off Limits (Line of Duty #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Asking for Trouble (Line of Duty, #4) by Tessa Bailey Asking for Trouble (Line of Duty, #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Staking His Claim (Line of Duty, #5) by Tessa Bailey Staking His Claim (Line of Duty, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...


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Profile Image for Jen .
807 reviews610 followers
December 1, 2013
4.5 DAAAAMN THAT’S HOT! Stars

I could start this review off by saying what a fine piece of literature Asking for Trouble is. How it hits all the right notes and manages to be both sexy and heartfelt at the same time. And how I really believed by the end of the story that it felt like I knew both Hayden and Brent so well, not just as individuals but as the kickass couple they eventually came to be.

Yeah, I could say that and it would be true for the most part. But I’m not going to. What I am going to exclaim in my own loud and overzealous way is that this book is FUCKING HOT!!! If I had a list of big, hot dirty talking book men (why don’t I have a list of big, hot dirty talking book men?) Brent would be ranked pretty damn high.

”You going to uncross those sexy thighs long enough to find out what I can do between them?”

“You’re testing my patience here, duchess,” he growled. “If you have any doubt about my ability to fuck the ever-loving sarcasm right out of you, I’ll be more than happy to clear it up.”

“Fuck me with your mouth, baby. I’ll do anything for it. Let me inside your sexy mouth.”

“Later tonight, when I’m alone in my bed, stroking one out and thinking of the way you came like a freight train on my mouth, I’m going to make very good use of these.”

“I’m a big man, Hayden, and I fuck twice as long, and twice as hard. You’ll get used to it. And then you won’t be able to stand in the same room as me without wanting a ride.”


Works for me! Well done, Tessa Bailey. I couldn’t have said it better myself.
Profile Image for *J* Too Many Books Too Little Time.
1,921 reviews3,718 followers
June 5, 2014
4--Wind Beneath My Wings--Stars!!!

Well that was...



Damn delicious!

I love a good enemies to lovers story. The whole love/hate thing.

This one hovered right on the cusp of taking it too far. Both Hayden and Brent's internal musings of how they weren't compatible and could never work could've been annoying. But it wasn't.

Brent and his dirty mouth more than made up for it...

“Fuck me with your mouth, baby. I’ll do anything for it. Let me inside your sexy mouth.”

“I’m a big man, Hayden, and I fuck twice as long, and twice as hard. You’ll get used to it. And then you won’t be able to stand in the same room as me without wanting a ride."

"I’m going to cram your tight pussy full over and over again,” he growled. “I’m going to fuck you until your ears ring. I’m going to bite you hard. Mark you. Ruin you.”



Both Brent and Hayden come from two different worlds. They both make judgements about each other without getting to know each other but they have off the charts sexual chemistry.



They have this whole power play thing going on. Each one wanting to be in charge and in control.



It was so hot! I enjoyed Brent and Hayden's bickering back and forth. It made me laugh.

“Oh, fuck off, Florence.” She yelled as he reached the living room. “Don’t let the door hit you on your well-spanked ass on the way out.”



Hayden and Brent have to decide if what they share is more than just sex. If they can look past their differences and give being together a shot.

Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It was a quick, fun and sexy read.
Profile Image for Duchess Nicole.
1,270 reviews1,546 followers
February 10, 2014

My intention going into this series was to have a few books lined up to break up my more intense reads whenever I needed a break. Turns out, I've nom nom nommed this series like a preggo woman noms ice cream. Four books in four days so far, and I'm moving straight on to the next. They're fun, they're fairly light, they are sex on a stick...every single one of these guys is better than the last. No exception for Brent...and did I say that Derek, Troy, and Daniel were wonderful dirty talkers? Well...they've got nothing on Brent!

Nothing.


A few examples:

************************************
"Would you like me to tell you what I did last night when I got home?"
"No." She shivered. "Yes."
Brent chuckled quietly, but it came out sounding pained. "I took off my clothes and lay down on my stomach in bed. Then I wrapped your silk panties around my hand and fucked them."


************************************
"You made this fucking sound, Hayden. The first time you spread your legs to take my cock. I hear it everywhere I go. This goddamn...moan? Sob? I don't know..."

************************************
"Brent gathered her hair in his fist and pulled her head back. When he spoke, his voice sounded raw and severe. "I'm going to ask you some questions now. The answer to all of them is my name. You follow me?"
(...)
"Who gets the deepest, Hayden?"
(...)
"Who gets fucking hot when his naughty little bad girl makes him work hard for it? Makes him wait?"
(...)
"Who tongues your pussy for an hour straight last night?"
(...)
"Who do you belong to?"
************************************




Brent seems to be the wild guy in this bunch of bad boys...he's loud, he's exuberant and opinionated...especially when it comes to Hayden. He sees her as an uppity, priveleged, spoiled rich girl. She sees him as a trash talking, foul mouthed jerk. They spar, they banter, and come on...if they didn't see this outcome schootching forward toward them, they must have been blind. Sexual tension, can you please show yourself?

So one night, their banter turns into more than banter. It's a battle of wills, and neither is willing to step back from this particular fight. Once a tiny little niggling of sexual attraction is hinted at, it's game on! In a lovely little scene that ends up with Brent (yes, BRENT) handcuffed and on his knees, these two bring a whole new meaning to butting heads and bumping uglies.


A relationship forced upon them initially by their friends engagement and eventually because they can't keep their hands off each other quickly turns into something more. Hayden may be a rich girl, but she's full of heart and determination. Brent may be a middle class, loudmouthed, opinionated sex god, but he's also supporting his sister in college and helping his deployed brother's wife and daughters. These are good people who finally stopped to take a minute to really see one another. Now they need to figure out if they can get along outside of the bedroom.

I'm officially hooked on Tessa Bailey. Gorgeous covers, light and slightly implausible but highly addictive stories...perfect escape for those who need to get away for a few hours.
Profile Image for Catarina.
896 reviews2,229 followers
February 25, 2014
4 Troubled Stars

These books bring us the clash of opposite worlds. Hayden is a rich girl, used to having the best life can give her. Brent is a cop juggling two jobs and struggling to support his nephews and sister.
They come from completely different upbringings and despite their awful sexual tension, they don’t get along very well.
And one night changes it all.
When finally their physical attraction wins and they end up together… and repeating it, they start to finally know more about each other and liking each other even more. And even realizing they’re more alike than they thought.
That’s it, until one guy that wants Hayden at all costs, uses very clever means to have her and jeopardize everything.

description

Well, what can I say? Another great book in an equally great series. And that’s it.

description

Rating: 4 Stars.
Storyline: Predictable but very enjoyable and nice to read.
Writing Style: Third person. Dual POV. Completely engaging writing.
Character Development: Both of them were good and Brent was awesome. Hayden annoyed me in some moments but I still liked her. It was nice to see some of the previous main characters.
Steam: Oh,so hot!
HEA:
Profile Image for S.
388 reviews91 followers
May 3, 2015
description

What happened? Tessa Bailey is my fav author. I've rated the first three as solid 5 stars. But for some unknown reason, this book didn't work for me.

The good:
1. Loved the writing - I really was inside the story
2. The chemistry - it was really hot
3. The evil mother
4. Daniel and Story from book 3

The bad:
1. The enemy-to-lover - I'm ususally a fan of this troupe but they were mean to each other. It's a fine line between teasing and annoying each other to actually insult each other. To me, it was crossed.
2. The heroine - She was to dominant for my taste which made this the least hot book in this series
3. Too little dirty talk

The verdict:
I still love Tessa Bailey and I just hope that the next one will be more like the first three. More suspense and more dominant dirty-talking hero.
Profile Image for Mo.
1,389 reviews2 followers
August 6, 2016
3.5 stars

This book was WAY too short. I see that I paid $3.75 for it and it took me just over an hour or two to read. I have paid around $5.57 for the BDB books and they keep me entertained for days…. So I am a little bit peeved about the value for money.


Loved the other books in the series, think they all got solid 4 or 5 stars maybe.


This one fell a bit flat for me. It started off great but did not really reach the peaks I was expecting.

Derek is still my favourite I think.



Ah, well, off to find my next great read.
Profile Image for Olga therebelreader.
890 reviews760 followers
November 29, 2017
Well-written erotica, guaranteed to get you turning the pages quickly before they catch fire!
This book has excellent writing that pulls you into the story, a plotline and pacing that keeps you turning the pages as fast as you can, and characterizations that bring strong emotional reactions, of all kinds.
I'm a bit of a sucker for the enemy to lover trope. Brent and Hayden make for a hot pairing…how much I loved those scenes with the handcuffs!
There is a nice bit of angst thrown in to keep the story rolling and some good secondary characters who add to the mix.
The author’s writing is fluent and alive. I enjoyed every line. I highly recommend this to everyone! (>>>Adults only)


In short:
Hero 5/5 | Heroine 5/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 4/5 | Writing Style 5/5 | Steam 5/5 | Romance 5/5 | Angst-Suspense 4/5 | Darkness 0/5 | Humor 4/5 | Secondary Characters 4/5 | Drama-Conflict 4/5 | Mystery 0/5 | Twists 4/5 | Pacing Steady | Action 3/5
November 27, 2013
4.5 stars

This is DEF my fav book by Tessa Bailey!

I loved loved loved Brent!!! Cannot wait for more books by this author!

**********************************************

ONE MONTH!!!!!!!!!! Whoop whoop! So excited. I love Tessa!



Profile Image for Anja.
548 reviews100 followers
July 13, 2015





“I’m going to kill you,”
she whispered.

He sat up once more, wrapped her hair around his fist and growled.
“Fuck me, instead.”




HOLY MOLY! This series is almost too hot to handle**phew**
Tessa Bailey...you're the queen of "HAWTNESS".


Profile Image for Vintage.
2,605 reviews589 followers
January 24, 2018
Just checked the series, and it has the highest rating. Oh well.

Fun characters, but something did not connect for me as much as some of the others. However, if you like the rest of the series then READ it.

It's still Matt for me.

Re-read>
Hoo boy. I had forgotten just how... scintillating (can't think of a better word right now) this was. Get your ice water handy, take a drink, then throw it on yourself.

Brent is a good guy, but still Matt...
Profile Image for Ang C.
741 reviews112 followers
May 4, 2015
For more reviews please visit
http://angelas-sizzling-pages.blogspo...
http://www.sizzlingpages.com
description
Arc provided by author in exchange for an honest review

Brent Mason is tall, dark, handsome, witty, sarcastic, sexy, and a proud member of New York’s finest. He also wears a size 15 shoe - and you know what they say about a man’s shoe size ;)

description

Hayden Winstead is a spoiled little rich girl. She appears to be nothing more than a shallow, self-centered woman. That is the girl Brent sees at first. But perception is not reality when it comes to Hayden.

They come from two different worlds and their contempt for one another is no secret. But opposites certainly do attract and the sexual tension is so thick, you can cut it with a knife. They fight, they clash, and when they finally get together - these two are smoldering HOT!

Brent is both funny and seductive. A sexy man with such a dirty mouth. He is clearly attracted to Hayden, but his preconceived opinions were totally off. There were times I wanted to scream - wanted Brent to stop being a jerk and open his eyes to see Hayden for what she truly was - a loving and honorable woman.



description
“I’m a big man, Hayden, and I fuck twice as long, and twice as hard. You’ll get used to it. And then you won’t be able to stand in the same room as me without wanting a ride."


description

Hayden was far from the shallow, self-centered girl all believed her to be. She was loving, loyal and carried the weight of the world on her shoulders. Torn between her family obligations and her heart, she was ready and all to willing to sacrifice herself for her parents. It took some time for Brent to tear down his walls and see Hayden for the beautiful woman that lived beneath the hard shell. Once he opened his eyes and followed his heart, Brent realizes how easy it is to fall in love with Hayden.

description


In “Asking for Trouble”, Tessa Bailey once again told a tale filled hilarious dialogue, wonderfully adorable characters and melt-your-panties sexy scenes. Her quick read stories never disappoint. I am definitely looking forward to further books from this author.


Profile Image for DKristin.
494 reviews225 followers
July 20, 2016
Good Hot Stuff! Solid 3.5 stars. You can always count on Tessa Bailey to bring you some serious hot, alpha, dirty talking, heat. This book was no different. I really enjoyed Brent and Hayden's banter and their back and forth, and nicknames for one another. I did feel like it dragged on for a little too long with them being at odds. There were some seriously sweet and hilarious moments that I loved as well and it was nice to see some of the characters from her previous books too.
Profile Image for Mirjana **DTR - Down to Read**.
1,448 reviews790 followers
July 12, 2017

***3 Stars***

The queen of dirty talk did not disappoint! This was an enemies to lovers, sexy good time.

I loved Brent's blue collar, hard working, protective personality and his size 15 big socked feet. And Hayden, while privileged and rolling in the bucks, was endearing and full of heart.

At first, neither tried really hard to look beyond the surface, and that created some fun and flirty banter....which naturally translated to some explosive chemistry between the sheets.

However, though I'm a fan of the enemies to lovers trope, I found that there were one too many times where Brent and Hayden crossed the line into just downright mean and cruel comments to each other. There's a fine line between a good jab and cutting someone down at the knees...and the times where that line was crossed just took me out of the story.
Profile Image for Mandi.
2,319 reviews727 followers
November 26, 2013
“I’m going to kill you,” she whispered.

He sat up once more, wrapped her hair around his fist and growled. “Fuck me instead.”

Dare I say Tessa Bailey is the Queen of the Dirty Talking Hero? Yes, yes I dare! I really enjoyed this one. Brent Mason is an explosive expert (*good shivers*) or as he says “blower-up of shit” and Hayden Winstead is a heiress who plans parties for charities. Their best friends are in love so they are forced to hang out a lot – and they kind of hate each other. But they also kind of lust after each other. This book not only has dirty, dirty sex but great banter. So onto the dirty quotes – please note that they are explicit.

Top Ten Reasons to read this book:

10. Did I mention they hate each other?

“So tell me,” he started, his voice taking on a deeper tone. “Assuming we didn’t make it to your professionally decorated bedroom, how far would we make it?”

She doused a flare of annoyance. He never let her forget her status, not for a second. Or that she’d done so little to earn it. “Something tells me a man like you can’t hold out long enough to make it past the entryway. Just wham-bam, let me get back to playing Grand Theft Auto, ma’am.”

“I prefer Halo,” Brent said in a tight voice. “And let’s be honest. The real reason you don’t want me in your bed is because I’ll sully your lily-white sheets.”

9. With all of their hate-banter, we know they can talk the talk, but can they walk the walk?

“You’re testing my patience here, duchess,” he growled. “If you have any doubt about my ability to fuck the ever-loving sarcasm right out of you, I’ll be more than happy to clear it up.”

Hayden sucked in a breath. Until now, they’d been dancing around any talk of the main event, but he’d just put it in black-and-white terms. Was she willing to let it get that far? This wouldn’t be the kind of one night stand you walked away from unscathed.

8. Yep. They are going to do it.

Involuntarily, her attention dropped to his arousal, heavy and insistent between them.

Brent kept his gaze on her face as he worked himself against her. “I’ll let you ride it, duchess. And I’m going to keep your tongue busy in my mouth the whole time.”

7. Hayden decides to torture Brent a bit, and handcuffs his hands behind his back…

“Seeing your breasts is not the worst form of punishment.”

“It will be,” she said huskily, undoing the front hook of her bra. “Because seeing them is all you get. And, Brent?” She kissed him fast and hard. “I’ve got a fabulous pair. So that’s really going to suck for you.”

6. But before we can get to the good stuff…knock knock…

“I don’t give a good goddamn who is on the other side of that door. I’m in pain, woman. Fix it.”

The hand still resting on his thigh tightened as if to soothe. She moved in toward him, gaze fixed on his mouth.Yes, yes, yes. Please. Just a little closer.

“Hayden?”

She froze. “Oh, freaking shitballs, it’s my mother.” Handcuffed and with a hard-on to cut steel, Brent almost, almost, started to cry. .

A page later..

Tentatively, she walked toward the door, pulling her skirt back down to her knees as she went.

Unmanly tears threatened once more as he watched her beautifully shaped ass disappear from view. I’ll never forget you, ass. Don’t forget to write.



5. No comment needed.

“And Hayden?” He dangled her ripped panties in the air. “Later tonight, when I’m alone in my bed, stroking one out and thinking of the way you came like a freight train on my mouth, I’m going to make very good use of these.”

4. Brent always makes sure Hayden knows what is planned. He is so considerate.

Once he had her resting on top of his erection, he gripped her ass and slid her up and down, so she could experience every inch of it against her core. “Baby, I’m going to fuck you tonight. You know that, don’t you?”

3. Brent has high self esteem in his crotch area.

“No. It’s just you…you’re…”

Brent sat up, putting his face right in front of hers. He bit her bottom lip and tugged. “I’m what?” When she tried to kiss him, he dodged her mouth.

“Say it. What am I?”

“Huge,” she whispered.

“That’s right.” His hands slipped up her back and gripped her shoulders. “And you’re going to take it.”

2. And just in case you still have doubts about Brent’s self esteem…

He kissed her hard, thrusting his tongue deep. “I’m a big man, Hayden, and I fuck twice as long, and twice as hard. You’ll get used to it. And then you won’t be able to stand in the same room as me without wanting a ride.

1. Brent gives Hayden a quiz, but he tells her the answer. Kind of cheating but whatever Brent.

“I’m going to ask you some questions now. The answer to all of them is my name. You following me?”

She made a breathy sound of agreement, but apparently unsatisfied with her answer, he tugged on his fistful of her hair. “Yes. Yes!”

He filled her completely and held his hips still.

“Who gets the deepest, Hayden?”

“Brent,” she moaned.

Two quick thrusts. “Who gets fucking hot when his naughty little bad girl makes him work hard for it? Makes him wait?”

Oh God, that nearly sent her hurtling over the edge. Her muscles clenched, her thighs shook. Any minute now. “Brent!”



He asks more questions…but we all know the answer, right? *grins*

I enjoyed this one a lot. It released yesterday. Go read it and then you can sit around your Thanksgiving table and share quotes. Or maybe not. *wink*
August 10, 2016
Photobucket Pictures, Images and Photos

Yep, that was me...complete book binge.

Photobucket Pictures, Images and Photos

One thing is for sure- Tessa Bailey can write a seriously hot love story. The sexual tension in this one was off the charts! Add a dirty talker! Ovary combustion!

Photobucket Pictures, Images and Photos

  
    If he winks at me one more time, I'm going to introduce his nuts to my size seven stiletto.
  


Brent and Hayden pretty much hate each other. They're constantly together by default as each of them are best friends with Daniel and Story. So when they get together, it's a forced foursome. The banter between these two is off the charts constant. She's supposedly a spoiled rich kid and he's the blue collar man-whore. Constant banter... Until one day Hayden tries to up the ante and challenges Brent to a flirtatious duel. Neither back down, refusing to look weak...sexual tension builds...and builds...clothes go flying...BAM!

Photobucket Pictures, Images and Photos

Photobucket Pictures, Images and Photos

What the biggest turn-on for these two? Fighting! They fight hard and no better way to release the tension than with their bodies. But this is just a one-time thing, right? Hayden is nothing like the chicks he dates, not that he has time to date working two jobs to support his family. She's too high maintenance and uptight but his body disagrees. Ditto for Hayden. The guy is a serious douche. Some of the sexual innuendoes he lays on her? Really? Gah. He's a bomb detonator for the NYPD, not exactly a clean cut stuffy job. But what that guy can do with his tongue? Minis rock,hard body? Shivers!

  
    "Oh, I get it. You only date guys in 
certain zip codes."
"Speaking of zip codes, shouldn't you be
getting back to yours?
Or is the zoo already closed for the night?"


I seriously could've highlighted this entire book! They captured me from the very beginning and I didn't let go until I read the entire book in a sitting. Those two, when they channel their sexual energy together, it's combustible! Gah. And did I mention he calls her "duchess?" Swoon!

Can the uptight, insanely polished debutante make it work with the rough and tough cop from Queens? Come along for their ride! I promise you'll have fun!
Profile Image for Jo.
957 reviews229 followers
August 23, 2017

I love the hate/love trope in romance but unfortunately I really struggled with this one.

Hayden Winstead and Brent Mason really don’t like each other. And the reason why is because both are very judgmental people with huge chips on their shoulders (especially Brent) and it made it impossible for them to see the other clearly. Brent assumed Hayden was a spoiled and selfish princess because she comes from money and Hayden assumed Brent was lazy and self-centered, although none of this was true but they were just too blind to see it at first.

“Look at you. You’re already scared. Afraid of a little pleasure, duchess? Worried you might actually like my middle-class mouth on you?”

^^Words like these made it very hard for me to get into their romance, especially in the first half. One of my pet peeves is prejudice and this book had an abundance of it. Luckily things did get better as the story progressed so the book wasn’t a complete loss for me.

“Your testing my patience here, duchess," he growled. "If you have any doubt about my ability to fuck the ever-loving sarcasm right out of you, I'll be more than happy to clear it up.”

I love the way this author writes her dirty-talking heroes and I definitely liked the sexy and dirty things Brent said to Hayden. I also liked the dominance play between them, both taking turns having the upper hand. And I really liked seeing them eventually come to realise just how wrong their assumptions about each other was and falling in love.

Tessa Bailey is one of my favorite authors. I love her sexy romances with all it’s hot dirty-talk and although I didn’t love this book, I still love the way she writes.

Profile Image for ❤️Emma Book Lover ❤️.
499 reviews295 followers
August 7, 2020
4 stars



I ve always thought innocent fights and banter are the best foreplay for an explosive encounter.
Brent and Hayden are bickering and challenging eachother for a while now and their best friends are get married so they have to spend some time together. what possible can happen?



Brent is the explosives expert, or as he referred to himself “blower-up of shit.” of the group. He is the one with the dirty jokes and irritable personality some times, but underneath that jokster exterior is a responsible and caring man. He loves giving up control at times and loves even more being the one in control, so basically is the perfect match for Hyden who wants something new: to completely dominate Brent.



Hayden is the socialite,organizing charity functions and dinner parties for Manhattan’s elite, a little stuck up in Brent opinion, that until he gets to know the real Hayden.

This two had so much chemistry going on, so much passion, and in real Tessa Bailey style the were HOT HOT HOT with dirty talking included.

I love this series. The Heroes are possessive and oh so swoon worthy and the heroines not to bad themselves.
Profile Image for Precious ✨.
585 reviews103 followers
September 3, 2020
"I'm going to ask you some questions now. The answer to all of them is my name."



description

That's it. That's the review.

Oh and Brent is hilarious. Like screaming and cackling in public hilarious. & he's a gush ball to overcome the caveman tendencies. All his "Hayden's" too, I love a good teddy bear. Hayden's pretty cool herself.

Since I feel weird just leaving like this. Brief run down,

Enemies-to-lovers
Rich Girl/Poor Boy
Marriage of Convenience ultimatum
Chemistry. Chemistry. Chemistry.
Sharp jabs, defensive positions.
Two dominants.

Okay bye y'all.
Profile Image for Snow.
2,264 reviews710 followers
January 29, 2019

Ahem...the heat is on!

Literally...it's on...

Enemies to lovers...like big time

She's rich...

He's a cop, an explosive expert, and a mechanic...

She's an uptown girl...

And he's a backsteet guy...

And their best friends are in a relationship which puts them on the spot...a lot

When their verbal bickering and banter crosses the line it all bursts into the carnal heat and passion one can hardly describe....

But sometimes the passion and lust can be enough to open the gates of something more....but their differencies, pride and the lack of communication can really be a set back....

And in a nick of time, will the right decision be to swallow the pride and go after the right feeling....

what does your gut say, huh?!

*wink wink*

This was a light, humorous, steamy romance with just a little bit stretched out ploy in the plot as a pushing point but if you overlook it, who knows, it could be a 5 star read for you 😉

Profile Image for Court.
418 reviews51 followers
June 2, 2018
Re-read 6/1/2018

Dual-POV, HAE.

Once again, start to finish I was hooked on this story. Said it before, but one more time doesn't hurt: Tessa Bailey writes damn. good. smut.

Asking for Trouble is the story of Brent and Hayden. On paper, they're very different from one another, physically not so much. He's the rough and tumble, bomb expert (impressive, still). And she's the Upper East Side duchess who her family relies on to uphold their name. If she just wasn't so bored with the trivial nuances of the white-collar world.

This is, at its bones, an enemies-to-lovers book. Which, if you've followed me long enough, you'll realize is my complete and utter undoing.

I appreciate that with any of Bailey's stories within this series, the point is made early in the book, and the action comes soon after. You're never waiting long to get to the good bits, and not just sexually speaking. There's a lot of heart in these books.

I enjoyed every second of this one. Brent is a hilarious, take-no-shit (especially from Hayden) type of character. And Hayden is strong-willed and *jazz fingers* dominant as well. They go head to head for the upper hand in the bedroom and it was ELECTRIC.

Bonus tip: you can read these as standalones, though the characters mentioned in passing are featured in the other novels.

Till next time cuties ;)!
Profile Image for Heather .
450 reviews148 followers
November 25, 2013

He growled low in his throat. "If you pretend even for a second that you're not staying in my room tonight, there's going to be trouble in Atlantic City."


"Oooh. I like trouble."


Tessa Bailey, you did it again. You delivered a fast paced, sexy talking, steamy sex fest worthy of a standing ovation. I loved it. Of course, I love all of your books, but this one was HOT!


Hayden is a prim and proper socialite. She is friends with Story and her boyfriend and she finds herself at Quincy's frequently hanging out with the rag tag gang of cops that come along with her best friend. One of those men is her Kryptonite.


Brent is an explosives expert, he likes to blow things up. Brent is prepared for the big explosion, until it shows up in the form of a petite woman with a smart mouth and a chip on her shoulder. Brent has met his match in Hayden. She gets under his skin and they argue back and forth until Hayden throws down the gauntlet.


"Your testing my patience here, duchess," he growled. "If you have any doubt about my ability to fuck the ever-loving sarcasm right out of you, I'll be more than happy to clear it up."



Hayden decides to call Brent's bluff. She sees him as a meat-headed cop who thinks he is too good for her. He sees her as an upper crust debutante who thinks she is too good for him. When they come together, they can't deny how they make each other feel.



Hayden explores a side of herself that she never thought possible. She just needs to get him out of her system and then she can go back to being herself again. When she sees what he can do to her, she realizes she may be in over her head. She sees another side of Brent that he has kept hidden. The smart, loyal and devoted man that makes her stand up and take notice.


Hayden's ovaries stood up and delivered a thundering ovation.


But Brent wasn't the only one hiding his true self. Hayden is more than she seems too. He begins to see who she really is and he wants to know more. She is an amazing woman and he finds her incredibly sexy.


He just can't get over Hayden and her tights. He always suspected she was a wild one under all her prim and proper layers. Now that he has had a glimpse of what she is hiding, he wants more. He finds himself wanting....endlessly.


Hayden's mother steps in and tells her that her family needs her. There is trouble brewing and that last thing Hayden needs to be doing is slumming around with some cop and Hayden's mother is the first to let her know how disappointed she is. Agh, that women is infuriating.


Now Hayden has to decide what she is going to do. Family loyalty v.s. exploring this "relationship" with Brent. She doesn't know what to do.


Brent senses the change in Hayden. He knows something is wrong. He knows the only way to get to Hayden, is to get her back where she belongs; with him, in his bed, in his life.


Hayden felt ready to snap. She felt out of control. She needed something. Unfortunately, she had a feeling that something was the six-foot-five hormone-whisperer walking beside her, whistling the Happy Days theme song.


This book builds to a fever pitch and it ends....well, you'll have to read it to see. But it will make you swoon!


Tessa, you are my hero! The chemistry between Brent and Hayden is smoking hot. The dirty talk is dirtier than ever. And the handcuffs...oh the handcuffs. *sigh*. I need some handcuffs. Sorry, I got distracted, this happens when reading something this freaking hot!


My only complaint, I wish it was longer! This one was flawless. I want Tessa Bailey to teach a class on dirty talking alpha manliness. She could really help improve the lives of so many women. I would totally sign my husband up.


5 stars! Can't wait for the next one!!


red_star_5_of_5-bb0a37528bbb2ff1f4b732afff2bb968


***A copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. ***

Profile Image for Maida.
1,065 reviews
April 26, 2014
There are so many things wrong with this novel. Where should I begin?

1) I don't think that this novel is as well-written as the other novels in the series.

2) The author overplays the themes of social class & socio-economic standing by having the hero (a member of the middle class) perpetually malign the heroine (a girl who was born into "old money"). AND I'M NOT REFERRING TO JUST ONE INSULT... I'M TALKING ABOUT A BARRAGE OF INSULTS THAT SPAN NEARLY THE ENTIRE BOOK...

When I want to read about "class wars" or socio-economic issues that divide this country, then I opt for the "New York Times" or Paul Krugman.... I'll also turn to works of fiction by authors, such as John Steinbeck, Raymond Carver & Philip Roth. These writers have authored novels that properly explore the complexities of our social structure & depict the weaknesses of our economic system. These authors have paid deference to the less fortunate & have made valid arguments in favor of folks in the lower & middle classes.

Despite the class tension that permeates nearly every page of this novel, author Tessa Bailey fails to make one substantial argument in favor of the "lower & middle classes." Instead, she resorts to name-calling & frivolous insults (i.e., the hero disparagingly referring to the heroine as "duchess" & saying that she has nothing better to do than to "go to shoe sales"). By portraying the hero as a judgmental jerk, the author cheapens his efforts & the efforts of people like him— people who are forced to work more than one job to make ends meet.... If an author seeks to bring "class warfare" into the storyline, then he/she should bring constructive ideas & criticisms to the table. Or better yet, stick to writing fluffy Erotica & leave issues of "class warfare" to authors who have the knowledge & know-how to properly address these concerns.

*1/5 stars*
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