Abby Niles

The Sutherlands are like most any other family except they are wealthy. More money, more problems. Within this family lies mistrust, estrangement and turbulance but what I found encouraging is despite all the chaos when the chips were down they united to help their own. That's the definition of family. I can honestly say these characters are unlike any other but the authors all brought something to the table to make this anthology a magnificent find. I received an ARC of The Sutherlands in exchange for an honest review.… (mehr)

I absolutely adored Brody. Absolutely. Adored. He's amazingly loyal--to his best friend Ryan, and to his other best friend, Ryan's wife Scarlett. Unfortunately, his feelings for Scarlett have long stretched beyond the friendship zone, so he's quietly removed himself from her presence for the past year or so...which is part of the reason why he missed the fact that Ryan and Scarlett's marriage isn't just on the rocks; it has imploded.

So when Brody encounters a drunk and flirting Scarlett down in the Bahamas, he steps in to save her from herself and from the handsy guy she almost leaves the bar with. And when he calls Ryan--at 2 AM--and hears another woman's voice in the background? Suddenly Scarlett's--and Ryan's--actions are cast in a whole new light. And Scarlett has her champion back.

Brody starts out giving Scarlett some much-needed get-her-groove-back assistance, which when they're both back stateside turns into friends-with-major-benefits action, because Scarlett is clear on one thing: no more relationships. Except it's blindingly clear to everyone that a relationship is exactly what they both need and want, so they (thank goodness!) give in.

All serious deliciousness. There's geeky fandom fun! Cuddling on the couch while watching movies! White Persian kittens named Princess! Seriously hot sexytimes!

Except...

The relationship black moment is coming, thanks to an untruth that Scarlett tells, prompted by some over-the top "advice" given to her by one of Brody's (many) sisters. That's where the story goes a bit off the rails for a little while--there was major drama involved, and it felt heavy handed and more than a little over the top at times--it didn't seem to jive with the first part of the book at all. Fortunately they did manage to get beyond it (albeit in a somewhat clumsy and overhanded manner) and went on to a super adorable ending, but in between? Some definite head-shaking moments.

But still...Brody. :)

Knocked Out By Love is fifth in the series but would absolutely work as a standalone. It does set up who (I hope) will be the hero and heroine of the next book--Brody's cousin Blake and Scarlett's BFF Delaney--and I can't wait to see what's in store for those two!

Rating: 4 stars / B

I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.… (mehr)