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Cherry Tree Harbor #2
Hideaway Heart
All I wanted was a break–two weeks off from being Pixie Hart, country music sensation, and fourteen days of peace, privacy, and solitude as plain old Kelly Jo Sullivan.
But thanks to some overzealous paparazzi, my family refuses to let me go anywhere alone, and I’m stuck sharing this tiny cabin with a tall, dark, and bearded stranger.
And guess what? There’s only one bed.
Well, he can couch it.
Xander Buckley might be hotter than a stolen blow torch, and I get that he’s a former Navy SEAL and all, but the man gives new meaning to the words overbearing, overprotective, bossy alpha male. I can’t even post a photo on social media without him warning me it’s not safe, or take a morning jog without him following behind.
But he’s made it clear that what he says goes, and if I don’t like it, I can kiss my vacation goodbye.
Instead, I end up kissing him.
I don’t even know how it happened–one minute we were at each other’s throats, the next we were at each other’s mercy. What’s even more shocking is how good we are together. He understands my need for freedom, and I understand his need for control.
But emotional trust doesn’t come easily to me. And we’re on two completely different paths.
Without question, I’d put my life in his hands.
Just don’t ask me to give him my heart.
But thanks to some overzealous paparazzi, my family refuses to let me go anywhere alone, and I’m stuck sharing this tiny cabin with a tall, dark, and bearded stranger.
And guess what? There’s only one bed.
Well, he can couch it.
Xander Buckley might be hotter than a stolen blow torch, and I get that he’s a former Navy SEAL and all, but the man gives new meaning to the words overbearing, overprotective, bossy alpha male. I can’t even post a photo on social media without him warning me it’s not safe, or take a morning jog without him following behind.
But he’s made it clear that what he says goes, and if I don’t like it, I can kiss my vacation goodbye.
Instead, I end up kissing him.
I don’t even know how it happened–one minute we were at each other’s throats, the next we were at each other’s mercy. What’s even more shocking is how good we are together. He understands my need for freedom, and I understand his need for control.
But emotional trust doesn’t come easily to me. And we’re on two completely different paths.
Without question, I’d put my life in his hands.
Just don’t ask me to give him my heart.
412 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2023
About the author
Melanie Harlow
70 books18.9k followersUSA Today bestselling author of sweet and sexy romance. Lover of cocktails, high heels, and history with the naughty bits left in. Michigan girl. INTJ. Always seeking ginspiration...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,757 reviews
August 11, 2023
Idk what it was about this book but it just didn’t work for me:( I wasn’t really meshing with the characters or the plot line
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August 12, 2023DNF at 25%
I just can’t, this isn’t holding my attention. Plus, I don’t like the FMC. I’ve been cringing since the end of chapter 3 when FMC wanted MMC to get on his knees for some pasta, after they had just met. Just no.
Bodyguard/former Navy Seal
Famous/country singer
Forced proximity
One bed trope
Small town
Insta-love 🤮
Kelly Jo/ Pixie Hart the FMC, was rude to Xander immediately upon arrival. He was there to protect her and keep her safe, as a favor to her brother. Her brother saved Xanders life. I know she didn’t want protection, but that doesn’t excuse her behavior. Not only did she at first tell him he had to stay outside, he couldn’t even use the bathroom but she try to get him to beg on his knees for dinner, after she found out he was hungry. Gross! I just hated the rudeness of it. She also didn’t listen and left without him, he was her bodyguard. How can he protect her if she is running off.
Kelly also supposedly had trust issues but she was instantly into Xander, after she told him she was on a no trust ban. It just felt very fake and too sudden. I expected a relationship to blossom but this just felt too fast. How can you not trust anyone and then instantly trust Xander, who was sent to protect you on vacation? Trust so much, your instantly into him? It just didn’t make sense.
I loved the first book of the series so much, I’m actually really sad that this was a no so fast for me. I was hoping to hear from Austin, Veronica and the twins.
I just can’t, this isn’t holding my attention. Plus, I don’t like the FMC. I’ve been cringing since the end of chapter 3 when FMC wanted MMC to get on his knees for some pasta, after they had just met. Just no.
Bodyguard/former Navy Seal
Famous/country singer
Forced proximity
One bed trope
Small town
Insta-love 🤮
Kelly Jo/ Pixie Hart the FMC, was rude to Xander immediately upon arrival. He was there to protect her and keep her safe, as a favor to her brother. Her brother saved Xanders life. I know she didn’t want protection, but that doesn’t excuse her behavior. Not only did she at first tell him he had to stay outside, he couldn’t even use the bathroom but she try to get him to beg on his knees for dinner, after she found out he was hungry. Gross! I just hated the rudeness of it. She also didn’t listen and left without him, he was her bodyguard. How can he protect her if she is running off.
Kelly also supposedly had trust issues but she was instantly into Xander, after she told him she was on a no trust ban. It just felt very fake and too sudden. I expected a relationship to blossom but this just felt too fast. How can you not trust anyone and then instantly trust Xander, who was sent to protect you on vacation? Trust so much, your instantly into him? It just didn’t make sense.
I loved the first book of the series so much, I’m actually really sad that this was a no so fast for me. I was hoping to hear from Austin, Veronica and the twins.
August 8, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
''My safe place''
Safety warnings:
- No cheating
- No OW drama
- Slight OM drama
- Dub con (role play)
- Mention of loss of loved ones
- Toxic parental relationship
- Attempted s*xual assault
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
Melanie oh Melanie this series is going to be continuously amazing, isn't it? We already have an idea on whose book is next and what that storyline will be, and I also have an idea for the 4th one as well. It's all going to include every trope I enjoy!
This book is about Xander (who we met in book 1 and is one of Austin's brothers) but we had not yet met his FMC and Kelly Jo Sullivan really surprised me by how down to earth she was despite the fact she was a massive celebrity for almost a decade. She had flaws but it was more about bad decisions and toxic relationships she either witnessed or suffered from.
Xander is asked by his one of NAVY marine buddies (who also saved his life years ago) to guard his sister for the next two weeks as she is going to be near Cherry Harbor and is renting a cabin off the grid. He fears for her life after a few incidents and her fame being what it is, he just wants to protect his younger sister and only trusts Xander to do so.
Despite the fact Kelly does NOT want to have anybody with her during her two weeks, and we get hilarious moments between Xander and her when they first meet, these two are stuck together as he refuses to leave her alone after he made a promise. They have great banter and the scene where they meet shows off what we are to expect from them.
I loved the way the POVs worked, there were multiple one sentence chapters from Xander's POV whenever Kelly's ended in a question about something concerning him. It was just a fun addition for me, and I genuinely laughed a few times.
They end up bonding pretty quickly and eventually realizing even quicker how much they each found the other attractive. He wanted to keep away because this was a job, he was doing but he couldn't stop wanting her and she was HORNY for him haha. Their chemistry, the sex and the way they thought of each other was everything for me.
OM drama: Sadly Kelly has an ex-boyfriend (famous country singer who is 40) who is just toxic, they had a thing on and off for three years, but Kelly finally ended it almost 6 months ago. He won't stop trying to control her and be with her. This issue will come back at the end.
It seems like Kelly is being followed by paparazzi throughout the two weeks, but they cannot see who it is and where they could be, finally though he is revealed and it’s all just odd. Xander investigates but it doesn't get the information about WHO and HOW this ONE paparazzi was getting information about Kelly from. Their pictures are being splashed all over the internet and despite how much Kelly is used to it, Xander is not, and he is annoyed but also worried about her safety.
This is NOT a slow burn; they have sex and it's so good haha there is two sex scenes that have dub con done by roleplaying from both of them.
During the two weeks they spend all their time together, she meets his family and slowly these two, despite the end coming fall in love with each other. Xander has a bar he is just about to finish building and opening while Kelly needs to go back to Nashville and still be a celebrity where Xander wants no part of it.
Xander, being the amazing guy, joins her in Nashville right after their time in the cabin to make sure she has a proper guard (team) and her house is secure which prompts them to have more time together.
I'm glad this book does NOT have a third act breakup, there was a moment where they were going to say goodbye but thankfully instead, we got a confession scene. I truly appreciated how they both put their fears and insecurities aside and decided to make it work between the two.
Toxic parental relationship: Did you think it would be about Xander's family? nope. Kelly has a father who has been in and out of her life since she was a child. He also has a toxic relationship with her mom, he comes whenever he wants and goes off soon after. He keeps requesting money from Kelly throughout the book, he talks to her ex-bf constantly and tries to get her to sign a new deal for more money despite how many times she tries to see that she wants different things. Though thankfully at the end she tells him how she feels, and he once again leaves but her mother sees how toxic it is and finally decides to not let him back next time.
We find out that Kelly's ex is the reason for the paparazzi showing up at the cabin and was taking pictures amongst other things that happened in the past.
Attempted s*xual assault: Kelly's ex-boyfriend (I refuse to say his name and it's not worth it) tries to r*pe her but thankfully she is able to fight him off (after Xander taught her a few moves during their time at the cabin). He is found and he is arrested.
At the end we got an amazing epilogue, and we got to see Xander's proposal, and I loved it....it was so special, and I couldn't picture it any other way. We also get to see how Xander wants to have 5 kids (sons mostly), but we see 10 years later they have 4 daughters and Kelly reveals she is pregnant once again!
I cannot wait for the next book! Xander's brother who is in real estate is trying to purchase a place for a client and believes it'll be easy but sadly he finds out the girl he had a ONS with just shortly before is the granddaughter and will not sell lol DRAMA.
To finish this review, I will say I was not bored, I read this in one sitting, and I appreciated the drama we had and the drama we did not have. Loved the characters and cemented Melanie as one of my favorites! I can always count on her for a sweet story with great characters and plot.
''My safe place''
Safety warnings:
- No cheating
- No OW drama
- Slight OM drama
- Dub con (role play)
- Mention of loss of loved ones
- Toxic parental relationship
- Attempted s*xual assault
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
Melanie oh Melanie this series is going to be continuously amazing, isn't it? We already have an idea on whose book is next and what that storyline will be, and I also have an idea for the 4th one as well. It's all going to include every trope I enjoy!
This book is about Xander (who we met in book 1 and is one of Austin's brothers) but we had not yet met his FMC and Kelly Jo Sullivan really surprised me by how down to earth she was despite the fact she was a massive celebrity for almost a decade. She had flaws but it was more about bad decisions and toxic relationships she either witnessed or suffered from.
Xander is asked by his one of NAVY marine buddies (who also saved his life years ago) to guard his sister for the next two weeks as she is going to be near Cherry Harbor and is renting a cabin off the grid. He fears for her life after a few incidents and her fame being what it is, he just wants to protect his younger sister and only trusts Xander to do so.
Despite the fact Kelly does NOT want to have anybody with her during her two weeks, and we get hilarious moments between Xander and her when they first meet, these two are stuck together as he refuses to leave her alone after he made a promise. They have great banter and the scene where they meet shows off what we are to expect from them.
I loved the way the POVs worked, there were multiple one sentence chapters from Xander's POV whenever Kelly's ended in a question about something concerning him. It was just a fun addition for me, and I genuinely laughed a few times.
They end up bonding pretty quickly and eventually realizing even quicker how much they each found the other attractive. He wanted to keep away because this was a job, he was doing but he couldn't stop wanting her and she was HORNY for him haha. Their chemistry, the sex and the way they thought of each other was everything for me.
OM drama: Sadly Kelly has an ex-boyfriend (famous country singer who is 40) who is just toxic, they had a thing on and off for three years, but Kelly finally ended it almost 6 months ago. He won't stop trying to control her and be with her. This issue will come back at the end.
It seems like Kelly is being followed by paparazzi throughout the two weeks, but they cannot see who it is and where they could be, finally though he is revealed and it’s all just odd. Xander investigates but it doesn't get the information about WHO and HOW this ONE paparazzi was getting information about Kelly from. Their pictures are being splashed all over the internet and despite how much Kelly is used to it, Xander is not, and he is annoyed but also worried about her safety.
This is NOT a slow burn; they have sex and it's so good haha there is two sex scenes that have dub con done by roleplaying from both of them.
During the two weeks they spend all their time together, she meets his family and slowly these two, despite the end coming fall in love with each other. Xander has a bar he is just about to finish building and opening while Kelly needs to go back to Nashville and still be a celebrity where Xander wants no part of it.
Xander, being the amazing guy, joins her in Nashville right after their time in the cabin to make sure she has a proper guard (team) and her house is secure which prompts them to have more time together.
I'm glad this book does NOT have a third act breakup, there was a moment where they were going to say goodbye but thankfully instead, we got a confession scene. I truly appreciated how they both put their fears and insecurities aside and decided to make it work between the two.
Toxic parental relationship: Did you think it would be about Xander's family? nope. Kelly has a father who has been in and out of her life since she was a child. He also has a toxic relationship with her mom, he comes whenever he wants and goes off soon after. He keeps requesting money from Kelly throughout the book, he talks to her ex-bf constantly and tries to get her to sign a new deal for more money despite how many times she tries to see that she wants different things. Though thankfully at the end she tells him how she feels, and he once again leaves but her mother sees how toxic it is and finally decides to not let him back next time.
We find out that Kelly's ex is the reason for the paparazzi showing up at the cabin and was taking pictures amongst other things that happened in the past.
Attempted s*xual assault: Kelly's ex-boyfriend (I refuse to say his name and it's not worth it) tries to r*pe her but thankfully she is able to fight him off (after Xander taught her a few moves during their time at the cabin). He is found and he is arrested.
At the end we got an amazing epilogue, and we got to see Xander's proposal, and I loved it....it was so special, and I couldn't picture it any other way. We also get to see how Xander wants to have 5 kids (sons mostly), but we see 10 years later they have 4 daughters and Kelly reveals she is pregnant once again!
I cannot wait for the next book! Xander's brother who is in real estate is trying to purchase a place for a client and believes it'll be easy but sadly he finds out the girl he had a ONS with just shortly before is the granddaughter and will not sell lol DRAMA.
To finish this review, I will say I was not bored, I read this in one sitting, and I appreciated the drama we had and the drama we did not have. Loved the characters and cemented Melanie as one of my favorites! I can always count on her for a sweet story with great characters and plot.
August 8, 2023
I loved this one! I swear, every time I read celebrity romance, I think to myself that it’s far from my favorite trope, but I’ve been loving every single one I read!!! Xander, Austin’s funny and competitive younger brother from Runaway Love, has been tasked with cashing in a favor for his Navy friend who saved his life in combat. The task: bodyguard his famous little sister while she takes a reclusive two week vacation. Also, she’s not thrilled about it, so good luck. What could go wrong?
Kelly Jo, aka Pixie Hart, is country’s sweetheart, and she is ready for a break. She is basically a Yes Woman, bosses around in a male dominated industry, and she can’t even claim her own name. So when she realizes that Xander isn’t leaving her side after she demands that he vacates his post, she’s less than pleased. Xander, for his part, couldn’t care less. His friend saved his life, and he will guard his sister with his own.
As the days pass, the two become closer, because hello this is a romance, so of course they do! Xander chases down paparazzi, teaches Kelly to defend herself, and tries to save his own heart in the process. Kelly doesn’t even try to not fall in love with Xander, but they’re stuck on how to make it work. Her life is in Nashville, his in Tennessee. Anywho, I loved these two. I see so much of myself in Kelly Jo, she’s one of my new favorite FMCs, and Xander is just a freaking treat. Favorite of the series so far!
Kelly Jo, aka Pixie Hart, is country’s sweetheart, and she is ready for a break. She is basically a Yes Woman, bosses around in a male dominated industry, and she can’t even claim her own name. So when she realizes that Xander isn’t leaving her side after she demands that he vacates his post, she’s less than pleased. Xander, for his part, couldn’t care less. His friend saved his life, and he will guard his sister with his own.
As the days pass, the two become closer, because hello this is a romance, so of course they do! Xander chases down paparazzi, teaches Kelly to defend herself, and tries to save his own heart in the process. Kelly doesn’t even try to not fall in love with Xander, but they’re stuck on how to make it work. Her life is in Nashville, his in Tennessee. Anywho, I loved these two. I see so much of myself in Kelly Jo, she’s one of my new favorite FMCs, and Xander is just a freaking treat. Favorite of the series so far!
August 31, 2023
I think I've outgrown this author and that kinda makes me kinda sad.
Melanie Harlow's writing is great but her plots are just not for me. I find her books to be formulaic and redundant as hell. Harlow LOVES to write stories about two people who decide upon a casual fling and then catch feelings. There are always commitment issues, unprotected sex and a last chapter feelings reveal. Frankly, I'm just not into her formula.
I want a real story, with character growth and relationship development. In Hideaway Heart, the MCs dislike one another one minute and then are bumpin' boots the next and there is no real explanation as to why other than blind lust and that's not a good enough reason for me (anymore).
I hope Harlow switches gears and writes a story with a little less sex and more substance.
*P.S. Also, this story is supposed to be about a celebrity hiding out at a cabin while on vacation. Her goal is to stay incognito. For someone who wants to stay out of the public eye, she sure does frequent restaurants and bbqs. 🤦♀️
Melanie Harlow's writing is great but her plots are just not for me. I find her books to be formulaic and redundant as hell. Harlow LOVES to write stories about two people who decide upon a casual fling and then catch feelings. There are always commitment issues, unprotected sex and a last chapter feelings reveal. Frankly, I'm just not into her formula.
I want a real story, with character growth and relationship development. In Hideaway Heart, the MCs dislike one another one minute and then are bumpin' boots the next and there is no real explanation as to why other than blind lust and that's not a good enough reason for me (anymore).
I hope Harlow switches gears and writes a story with a little less sex and more substance.
*P.S. Also, this story is supposed to be about a celebrity hiding out at a cabin while on vacation. Her goal is to stay incognito. For someone who wants to stay out of the public eye, she sure does frequent restaurants and bbqs. 🤦♀️
Read
November 20, 2023✮ ✮ 𝗔𝗩𝗔𝗜𝗟𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘 𝗡𝗢𝗪 ✮ ✮
𝑀𝑒𝑒𝑡 𝑋𝑎𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑟 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐾𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝑖𝑛 𝐻𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑎𝑤𝑎𝑦 𝐻𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑡!
✓ Bodyguard x Celebrity
✓ Former Navy SEAL
✓ Forced Proximity
✓ Only One Bed
✓ Friend’s Little Sister
✓ Strangers To Lovers
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗛𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆! 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗶𝗻 𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗹𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱!
Kindle Unlimited/Amazon → https://harlow.pub/HideawayHeart-amazon
Alt Male Paperback → https://harlow.pub/HideawayHeart-altm...
Paperback → https://harlow.pub/HideawayHeart-pb
🎧 Audio → https://harlow.pub/HideawayHeart-audible (𝑛𝑎𝑟𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑏𝑦 𝑃𝑎𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑘 𝑍𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑟 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐴𝑚𝑎𝑛𝑑𝑎 𝑆𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔)
𝑀𝑒𝑒𝑡 𝑋𝑎𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑟 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐾𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝑖𝑛 𝐻𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑎𝑤𝑎𝑦 𝐻𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑡!
✓ Bodyguard x Celebrity
✓ Former Navy SEAL
✓ Forced Proximity
✓ Only One Bed
✓ Friend’s Little Sister
✓ Strangers To Lovers
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗼𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗛𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆! 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗶𝗻 𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗹𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱!
Kindle Unlimited/Amazon → https://harlow.pub/HideawayHeart-amazon
Alt Male Paperback → https://harlow.pub/HideawayHeart-altm...
Paperback → https://harlow.pub/HideawayHeart-pb
🎧 Audio → https://harlow.pub/HideawayHeart-audible (𝑛𝑎𝑟𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑏𝑦 𝑃𝑎𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑘 𝑍𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑒𝑟 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐴𝑚𝑎𝑛𝑑𝑎 𝑆𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑏𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔)
August 8, 2023
this was SUCH a fun book. i've said it once i'll say it again, forced proximity is gunna do it for me every. single. time. this book had tension and witty banter that made it even better.
kelly is a country music star who just needs a vacation, xander is the temporary bodyguard hired to look after her during the trip. she doesn't want him there. he doesn't wanna be there. now they're stuck together and there's only one bed. don’t you just hate it when that happens!!!
i loved their whole dynamic! kelly was so relatable and witty, xander was broody and protective and they totally brought out the best in each other. really loved seeing them communicate about what they both wanted from each other. it was a very welcome detour from where i thought this was going in the 3rd act! highly recommend! perfect for your end of summer TBR
kelly is a country music star who just needs a vacation, xander is the temporary bodyguard hired to look after her during the trip. she doesn't want him there. he doesn't wanna be there. now they're stuck together and there's only one bed. don’t you just hate it when that happens!!!
i loved their whole dynamic! kelly was so relatable and witty, xander was broody and protective and they totally brought out the best in each other. really loved seeing them communicate about what they both wanted from each other. it was a very welcome detour from where i thought this was going in the 3rd act! highly recommend! perfect for your end of summer TBR
August 13, 2023
I’m sorry but this wasn’t good. It felt weak and lazy. There was no connection between the characters, it had a very basic and predictable plot, and a lot of the dialog felt off and cringy.
Xander and Kelly’s interactions felt awkward. They were interacting like they would with someone they’ve known for a while, not a complete stranger. It took insta lust to a whole new meaning. Also a singer who is tired of singing shallow songs and just wants to sing her own material? Yeah, never heard that one before. Oh also have to add the horrible ex who is still after her of course. The beginning was really hard to get through and the rest (although it did smooth out about halfway through) still wasn’t good. Overall this wasn’t this author’s best work and the whole book just felt like it was rushed together with a cheap plot.
Xander and Kelly’s interactions felt awkward. They were interacting like they would with someone they’ve known for a while, not a complete stranger. It took insta lust to a whole new meaning. Also a singer who is tired of singing shallow songs and just wants to sing her own material? Yeah, never heard that one before. Oh also have to add the horrible ex who is still after her of course. The beginning was really hard to get through and the rest (although it did smooth out about halfway through) still wasn’t good. Overall this wasn’t this author’s best work and the whole book just felt like it was rushed together with a cheap plot.
July 31, 2023
I DEVOURED THIS!!!
✨celebrity x bodyguard
✨forced proximity
✨small town
✨brothers best friend
✨opposites attract
I loved this right from the start. The banter and the Kelly being annoyed by Xander was hilarious. This is such a fun read!!
5 ⭐️
3 🌶️
✨celebrity x bodyguard
✨forced proximity
✨small town
✨brothers best friend
✨opposites attract
I loved this right from the start. The banter and the Kelly being annoyed by Xander was hilarious. This is such a fun read!!
5 ⭐️
3 🌶️
September 20, 2023
Melanie Harlow 4+4
August 9, 2023
3.5 ⭐
This is an okay read. Usually I'm fine with insta-lust/ insta-love, however, this one didn't work for me. I just felt like they both gave me a whiplash, one minute they were arguing about being in forced proximity then in a flash they were jumping each other's bones. They were supposed to stay together for two weeks and on the second day of living together they already had sex. Idk, maybe I'm just trying to find a connection between them and I'm a little disappointed that they went straight ahead to being intimate without really building their relationship.
This book is way spicier than the first one, I'll give Xander (31) and Kelly (29) that. Even though I can't feel that chemistry and emotional connection, I won't deny that the steamy scenes were hoooot! They both know what they were doing and I'm happy to read that it's not always Xander who takes the lead in those scenes. They were equal in every way possible and Xander had no problem giving up control, which made me like him even more. If relinquishing his control would make Kelly safe and happy he would do it in a heartbeat without any second thought.
I honestly, struggled the first 40% of the book because the tension and chemistry were nowhere to be found. All of their scenes were driven by lust and again maybe there's just something wrong with me that I can't accept that their relationship foundation is their hormones and horniness. But the second part of the book eventually got better, they actually talk about things that really mattered to them and have been just open and honest with each other. I would say that every time they talk, this makes me swoon a little bit.
Like I said, there are so many steamy scenes but I'm just really happy when they would talk and find a solution to their problems. The chemistry definitely showed in the second part of the book, but I don't think it's enough for me to rate this higher than 3 ⭐ Also, I didn't appreciate that once they agreed to a truce Kelly continually flirted and seduced Xander. There's nothing wrong with women going after what they want, but her attempts at times seem so desperate and idk why this just didn't work for me. And Xander is a wishy washy character, he would say things he didn't mean and would push her away to protect her, but would eventually give in to his desires.
Overall, this is an okay read but it didn't work for me and I still prefer the first book.
Book information:
- no cheating / owd / 3rd act breakup
- H (ex-SEAL, celibate for 1 year)
- h (popstar, celibate for 6 months or maybe more but she broke up with her ex six months ago)
- Parent abandonment
- Stalking
- Older brother's friend
- Attempted SA
- Bodyguard / celebrity romance
This is an okay read. Usually I'm fine with insta-lust/ insta-love, however, this one didn't work for me. I just felt like they both gave me a whiplash, one minute they were arguing about being in forced proximity then in a flash they were jumping each other's bones. They were supposed to stay together for two weeks and on the second day of living together they already had sex. Idk, maybe I'm just trying to find a connection between them and I'm a little disappointed that they went straight ahead to being intimate without really building their relationship.
This book is way spicier than the first one, I'll give Xander (31) and Kelly (29) that. Even though I can't feel that chemistry and emotional connection, I won't deny that the steamy scenes were hoooot! They both know what they were doing and I'm happy to read that it's not always Xander who takes the lead in those scenes. They were equal in every way possible and Xander had no problem giving up control, which made me like him even more. If relinquishing his control would make Kelly safe and happy he would do it in a heartbeat without any second thought.
I honestly, struggled the first 40% of the book because the tension and chemistry were nowhere to be found. All of their scenes were driven by lust and again maybe there's just something wrong with me that I can't accept that their relationship foundation is their hormones and horniness. But the second part of the book eventually got better, they actually talk about things that really mattered to them and have been just open and honest with each other. I would say that every time they talk, this makes me swoon a little bit.
Like I said, there are so many steamy scenes but I'm just really happy when they would talk and find a solution to their problems. The chemistry definitely showed in the second part of the book, but I don't think it's enough for me to rate this higher than 3 ⭐ Also, I didn't appreciate that once they agreed to a truce Kelly continually flirted and seduced Xander. There's nothing wrong with women going after what they want, but her attempts at times seem so desperate and idk why this just didn't work for me. And Xander is a wishy washy character, he would say things he didn't mean and would push her away to protect her, but would eventually give in to his desires.
Overall, this is an okay read but it didn't work for me and I still prefer the first book.
Book information:
- no cheating / owd / 3rd act breakup
- H (ex-SEAL, celibate for 1 year)
- h (popstar, celibate for 6 months or maybe more but she broke up with her ex six months ago)
- Parent abandonment
- Stalking
- Older brother's friend
- Attempted SA
- Bodyguard / celebrity romance
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2023
4.25⭐️!! I REALLY enjoyed this one!! A romance between the spit fire country music star and the broody cocky bodyguard where they’re forced to spend 2 weeks in a cabin together alone 😏😏
No third act breakup
One bed trope
Annoyances to lovers
Sexual tension 🤌🏻
Caretaking
all the swoon heat and heart!!
Forced proximity
Kelly & Xander were everything! I really enjoyed their relationship and the communication they had and all the sweet and tender moments we got. There’s a bit of suspense/mystery that kept me wanting to read more. I LOVED the forced proximity and all the cameos from the other books and the found family aspects🥹
Definitely recommend!
She also at one point makes him beg and it was chefs kiss
Thanks Melanie for the ARC🫶🏼🫶🏼
No third act breakup
One bed trope
Annoyances to lovers
Sexual tension 🤌🏻
Caretaking
all the swoon heat and heart!!
Forced proximity
Kelly & Xander were everything! I really enjoyed their relationship and the communication they had and all the sweet and tender moments we got. There’s a bit of suspense/mystery that kept me wanting to read more. I LOVED the forced proximity and all the cameos from the other books and the found family aspects🥹
Definitely recommend!
She also at one point makes him beg and it was chefs kiss
Thanks Melanie for the ARC🫶🏼🫶🏼
September 18, 2023
3.5 stars
August 8, 2023
Pretty boring for a celebrity x bodyguard romance. There was no build-up, no tension, just instalove with poor execution. They already did stuff by the 50% mark which promptly made me lose interest in this book.
Also, the celebrity in question has no care for her wellbeing whatsoever. You'd think, as a popular country singer, she'd be more careful about going into public spaces because she had her fair share of mobs and other dangers... but nope. Kelly here took pictures with locals, went to a bar, gave autographs, etc and was always caught on camera by paparazzi. And it's stupid because she literally went on this vacation to just be herself and not the famous person she actually is.
Overall, a huge letdown. The author's works are always a (slight) hit or (huge) miss for me and this definitely falls into the latter category.
Also, the celebrity in question has no care for her wellbeing whatsoever. You'd think, as a popular country singer, she'd be more careful about going into public spaces because she had her fair share of mobs and other dangers... but nope. Kelly here took pictures with locals, went to a bar, gave autographs, etc and was always caught on camera by paparazzi. And it's stupid because she literally went on this vacation to just be herself and not the famous person she actually is.
Overall, a huge letdown. The author's works are always a (slight) hit or (huge) miss for me and this definitely falls into the latter category.
August 7, 2023
your honor i love them.
August 4, 2023
HOT DAMN THIS BOOK WAS SO FREAKING GOOOOOOD!!!!!!!!! I finished it in less than 24 hours & lemme tell you something… THIS IS PROBS MY FAVE Melanie Harlow novel YET!
I knew this series would just keep getting better & better! And Melanie BROUGHT it with this bodyguard x country music star romance 🫶 and the spice…lord have mercy I wasn’t ready! The tension had me gaspinggggg & dripping heh
I was so happy to be back in cherry tree harbor! It’s one of my fave settings & I love the Buckleys so dang much! Seeing Austin & Veronica again had me all emotional :’)))) & the twins!!!
I wish I could read this book again for the first time bc the feelings I experienced don’t happen that often while I’m reading. When it does I just wanna bottle it up & never let go!! The protectiveness of Xander >>> the way he lets Kelly feel like she has control of her life >>> and teaches her self defense!!! Swoon! I was so proud of my girl for standing up for herself in so many different situations. She was a baddy & I instantly loved her. ESPECIALLY IN THE END SCENE (Ifykyk).
100/10 recommend.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes:
Forced proximity
Only one bed
Opposites attract
Friends younger sister
Bodyguard x celebrity
Small town romance
I knew this series would just keep getting better & better! And Melanie BROUGHT it with this bodyguard x country music star romance 🫶 and the spice…lord have mercy I wasn’t ready! The tension had me gaspinggggg & dripping heh
I was so happy to be back in cherry tree harbor! It’s one of my fave settings & I love the Buckleys so dang much! Seeing Austin & Veronica again had me all emotional :’)))) & the twins!!!
I wish I could read this book again for the first time bc the feelings I experienced don’t happen that often while I’m reading. When it does I just wanna bottle it up & never let go!! The protectiveness of Xander >>> the way he lets Kelly feel like she has control of her life >>> and teaches her self defense!!! Swoon! I was so proud of my girl for standing up for herself in so many different situations. She was a baddy & I instantly loved her. ESPECIALLY IN THE END SCENE (Ifykyk).
100/10 recommend.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes:
Forced proximity
Only one bed
Opposites attract
Friends younger sister
Bodyguard x celebrity
Small town romance
July 28, 2023
**alpha/arc read**
XANDER AND KELLY ARE EVERYTHING.
Kelly is a country music star and all she wants is to getaway, and be respected. Xander is a charming, funny guy who has to be her bodyguard for 2 weeks. Xander easily makes people love him… expect her.
It’s such a cute annoyances to lovers, one bed trope book!
I felt their connection and the tension throughout the book.
Melanie delivered on this one. Spice was spicing, romance was romancing AND there’s light suspense?! SAY LESS!
5/5 ⭐️
3/5
Two things. One GET THE BONUS SCENE at the end of the book! It’s adorable. Two Melanie has linked to her website a content warning for one of the chapters! It has a kink that won’t be for everyone- read it!
XANDER AND KELLY ARE EVERYTHING.
Kelly is a country music star and all she wants is to getaway, and be respected. Xander is a charming, funny guy who has to be her bodyguard for 2 weeks. Xander easily makes people love him… expect her.
It’s such a cute annoyances to lovers, one bed trope book!
I felt their connection and the tension throughout the book.
Melanie delivered on this one. Spice was spicing, romance was romancing AND there’s light suspense?! SAY LESS!
5/5 ⭐️
3/5
Two things. One GET THE BONUS SCENE at the end of the book! It’s adorable. Two Melanie has linked to her website a content warning for one of the chapters! It has a kink that won’t be for everyone- read it!
Shelved as 'dnf'
August 11, 2023DNF at 37%. This was just too insta-lust for my liking. They were already kissing after only two days of meeting each other. This is just a personal preference but I like more of a build up or more of a slow burn. It just wasn’t working for me. Being that this was a bodyguard romance and a relationship between them would be “forbidden,” I would have liked more tension. I feel like they only had a physical connection and I just wanted more.
I can tolerate insta-lust/love sometimes if I can still feel like they had MORE than just physical attraction, but that was not the vibes I was getting from their romance.
I also couldn’t stand the heroine. She annoyed me so much 😒. She was rude and her decisions made no sense to me.
I can tolerate insta-lust/love sometimes if I can still feel like they had MORE than just physical attraction, but that was not the vibes I was getting from their romance.
I also couldn’t stand the heroine. She annoyed me so much 😒. She was rude and her decisions made no sense to me.
November 26, 2023
A Protective Security Guard and Forced Proximity? Yaaaasss
Oh Lawd. I just love Melanie Harlow’s books… and she always gives me all the feels with her epilogues/extended epilogues 🥹🫶.
Xander’s (31) friend, Sully, asks him to watch over his baby sister Kelly (29), a famous singer/songwriter for two weeks. Xander will do anything for his friend since years before, Sully saved his life. Even though he’s in the midst of opening his restaurant, he can’t let his friend down 😬. So off to find her he goes.
Kelly wants to enjoy the next two weeks out of the limelight and just relax in the cabin she rented out, maybe write some songs or just focus on her mental health. She even goes ahead and fires the security guard her brother hired through voice message 🤣. She just wants to be alone. She’s in the middle of showering when a song comes to mind; so when she runs to write it down on paper, she encounters the fired man himself… and he can’t help but look at her nakedness 🤣.
She might not want him around, but he’s not going anywhere. Even if it means that he’ll stay outside…
And he’s NOT gonna cave to the tension he’s feeling when he’s around Kelly.
Nope nope nope
😈😈😈🤣🤣🤣
What I liked/loved:
—the tension 👀. Uffff. These two want each other 👀. They can’t help but laugh and connect; they even RUN together too (the couple who runs together stays together). And when the forced proximity becomes too much… and the weather causes them to be in the same bed… 😈 welp, let’s just say, I was blushing 😮💨
—the 🔥. I mean 🤷🏻♀️ it was 🥵. Their first kiss happens at about 27%, and by 41% it’s on🔥💦 and this one had some kiiiiiinks too 👀. It was absolutely scrumptious 🥵. I love that it’s been a while for both of them and they have this intense physical connection and haven’t done these things with other couples, plus we get
—primal play 😈 (almost CNC 🥵). I love it my books 😉. Get some exercise and 🔥 in at the same time 🤷🏻♀️
—marking 🫠 because she’s MINEMINEMINE 💅
—the edging and calling of baby 🫠. Oh Xander, you evil man 😈
—the banter 🤣. I giggled sooo many times! I had a smile on my face while reading
—the one-line Xander chapters 🤣. I FLOOOOOVED these 🤣. Bahahahaha
—competition with vibrators 🤣. Poor Xander 💀. Good thing he knows what to do 😉
—how protective he is 🫶. Xander’s training and suspicions help make sure Kelly’s safe, and I luuuurved it ❤️
—the sweet stuff and their vulnerabilities ❤️. I love how we see them get close. Yes, they have a physical connection, but it’s more than that for them 🫶
—teaching her self-defense 👀. Not me looking up moves while reading 🤣.
—the OMD 👀. Kelly’s cheating ex keeps trying to get back with her. Good thing Xander’s around 💅
— the side characters 👀. I always love seeing previous book characters, but in this one, we also get to see Zach from Temp, another book I loved lol.
—different kinds of kisses 🫠
—Kelly’s mental health importance 🫶. The pressure to stay relevant is a lot, but Kelly is deciding to do things that SHE wants to do, and doesn’t care about pleasing others 🤷🏻♀️, and that includes people she shares blood with
—the epilogues 😭🥰❤️❤️❤️ gaaaahhhh!!! Xander was right 🤣💅💅💅💅 and also 🫶❤️🥰🥹
What I wanted more of:
—um… length? lol
—ohhhh! I know lol. For us to find out what happened to Duke 😑 and her dad 😑
Overall, I loooooved this! 🥰❤️
⚠️ safety squad ⚠️
-no cheating*/sharing/owd
-omd ish: the h has an ex that keep trying to get back with her. He basically cheated on her
-daddy abandonment issues
-attempted SĄ by the h’s ex (she fights him off 💅)
-CNC/biting/edging/primal play (chasing)/anal play/dub con role play 😈/face sitting/toys
-condoms/then none/she’s on birth control/it’s been a while for both
-HEA/epilogue/one year later/extended epilogue on MH’s website 😭 (10 years later)
Oh Lawd. I just love Melanie Harlow’s books… and she always gives me all the feels with her epilogues/extended epilogues 🥹🫶.
Xander’s (31) friend, Sully, asks him to watch over his baby sister Kelly (29), a famous singer/songwriter for two weeks. Xander will do anything for his friend since years before, Sully saved his life. Even though he’s in the midst of opening his restaurant, he can’t let his friend down 😬. So off to find her he goes.
Kelly wants to enjoy the next two weeks out of the limelight and just relax in the cabin she rented out, maybe write some songs or just focus on her mental health. She even goes ahead and fires the security guard her brother hired through voice message 🤣. She just wants to be alone. She’s in the middle of showering when a song comes to mind; so when she runs to write it down on paper, she encounters the fired man himself… and he can’t help but look at her nakedness 🤣.
She might not want him around, but he’s not going anywhere. Even if it means that he’ll stay outside…
And he’s NOT gonna cave to the tension he’s feeling when he’s around Kelly.
Nope nope nope
😈😈😈🤣🤣🤣
What I liked/loved:
—the tension 👀. Uffff. These two want each other 👀. They can’t help but laugh and connect; they even RUN together too (the couple who runs together stays together). And when the forced proximity becomes too much… and the weather causes them to be in the same bed… 😈 welp, let’s just say, I was blushing 😮💨
—the 🔥. I mean 🤷🏻♀️ it was 🥵. Their first kiss happens at about 27%, and by 41% it’s on🔥💦 and this one had some kiiiiiinks too 👀. It was absolutely scrumptious 🥵. I love that it’s been a while for both of them and they have this intense physical connection and haven’t done these things with other couples, plus we get
—primal play 😈 (almost CNC 🥵). I love it my books 😉. Get some exercise and 🔥 in at the same time 🤷🏻♀️
—marking 🫠 because she’s MINEMINEMINE 💅
—the edging and calling of baby 🫠. Oh Xander, you evil man 😈
—the banter 🤣. I giggled sooo many times! I had a smile on my face while reading
—the one-line Xander chapters 🤣. I FLOOOOOVED these 🤣. Bahahahaha
—competition with vibrators 🤣. Poor Xander 💀. Good thing he knows what to do 😉
—how protective he is 🫶. Xander’s training and suspicions help make sure Kelly’s safe, and I luuuurved it ❤️
—the sweet stuff and their vulnerabilities ❤️. I love how we see them get close. Yes, they have a physical connection, but it’s more than that for them 🫶
—teaching her self-defense 👀. Not me looking up moves while reading 🤣.
—the OMD 👀. Kelly’s cheating ex keeps trying to get back with her. Good thing Xander’s around 💅
— the side characters 👀. I always love seeing previous book characters, but in this one, we also get to see Zach from Temp, another book I loved lol.
—different kinds of kisses 🫠
—Kelly’s mental health importance 🫶. The pressure to stay relevant is a lot, but Kelly is deciding to do things that SHE wants to do, and doesn’t care about pleasing others 🤷🏻♀️, and that includes people she shares blood with
—the epilogues 😭🥰❤️❤️❤️ gaaaahhhh!!! Xander was right 🤣💅💅💅💅 and also 🫶❤️🥰🥹
What I wanted more of:
—um… length? lol
—ohhhh! I know lol. For us to find out what happened to Duke 😑 and her dad 😑
Overall, I loooooved this! 🥰❤️
⚠️ safety squad ⚠️
-no cheating*/sharing/owd
-omd ish: the h has an ex that keep trying to get back with her. He basically cheated on her
-daddy abandonment issues
-attempted SĄ by the h’s ex (she fights him off 💅)
-CNC/biting/edging/primal play (chasing)/anal play/dub con role play 😈/face sitting/toys
-condoms/then none/she’s on birth control/it’s been a while for both
-HEA/epilogue/one year later/extended epilogue on MH’s website 😭 (10 years later)
August 14, 2023
Loved it! Another winner from one of my favorite authors!
Be sure to read the extended epilogue at the author's website--- it'll put a smile on your face.😊
Be sure to read the extended epilogue at the author's website--- it'll put a smile on your face.😊
August 7, 2023
Book two in the Cherry Tree Harbor series and somehow the author outdoes herself with every new book release. Tropes include forced proximity, celebrity/bodyguard, opposites attract and only one bed. That’s all I needed to know before I added this to my TBR but getting Xander’s book after loving him in Runaway Love really sealed the deal for me. Give me a man in a romance who is a little cocky and flirty about it and I’m 🫠 His chemistry with Kelly was sizzling and their banter was top notch, so many scenes between these two made me cackle. This also had a super cozy feel as they hid out during Kelly’s vacation and created their own safe haven with each other and it was just too cute. Loved everything about this one and can’t wait for the next book.
Shelved as 'dnf'
January 16, 2024Enemies to lovers my ass!!! She was mad abt him being her bodyguard for like three pages and then all of a sudden she’s visiting his family and shacked up in bed w him. Goodbye
July 27, 2023
Gahh!!! Did Melanie Harlow deliver a delicious man cover and an amazing bodyguard romance all in one? Did I devour it in one sitting and was left needing more? YES, YES and YES!!! Ladies and gentlemen we have a winner!!! I absolutely ADORED Hideaway Heart . I am so obsessed with Xander and Kelly and their sizzling and undeniable chemistry it isn't even funny! This story had the three Harlow trademarks this author is always known for: Heat, Humor and Heart! Xander and Kelly were 5 Star Perfection!!
There is so much I loved about this story! Xander and Kelly had banter for days. I loved their connection and how their chemistry sizzled right off the page. Kelly was as headstrong as she was sassy and took no prisoners when dealing with a bodyguard she didn’t want in the first place. I loved how she held her own and was no damsel in distress. Likewise, her perfect counterpart was Xander, the Grump to her Sunshine and the protective alpha bodyguard that gave me alllll the swoons. I truly loved this story and can't wait for more! 5 stars! ~Ratula
There is so much I loved about this story! Xander and Kelly had banter for days. I loved their connection and how their chemistry sizzled right off the page. Kelly was as headstrong as she was sassy and took no prisoners when dealing with a bodyguard she didn’t want in the first place. I loved how she held her own and was no damsel in distress. Likewise, her perfect counterpart was Xander, the Grump to her Sunshine and the protective alpha bodyguard that gave me alllll the swoons. I truly loved this story and can't wait for more! 5 stars! ~Ratula
August 22, 2023
If something will make you happy, I think you should go after it.
Hideaway Heart was a super sweet and steamy bodyguard romance. Kelly is a country music star who wants to escape the pressures of her job and the spying eyes in Nashville, so she rents a secluded cabin to try to get that escape. Enter Xander, at the request of his Navy friend that saved his life and Kelly’s brother, to act as Kelly’s bodyguard during her vacation since there’s been some betrayal in her circle as of late. Of course Xander watching her every move isn’t Kelly’s idea of a relaxing retreat on her own, so they bump heads at first, but there’s an attraction between them so we all know how that goes.
I truly enjoyed their story and while it’s very much Xander being protective and Kelly being protected, I love that Xander being protective of her leads to her protecting/fighting for herself and what she wants in life. These two definitely get steamy, but there is some fun tension between them at the start.
Highly recommend to anyone who enjoys bodyguard romances or just romance that quickly moves from “we can’t stand each other” to “I think I want to kiss your face,” to, “I think I might be in love with you.”
Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT8FPBaJT/
IG - https://www.instagram.com/p/CwOhxGKLl...
Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT8FPCWaC/
Hideaway Heart was a super sweet and steamy bodyguard romance. Kelly is a country music star who wants to escape the pressures of her job and the spying eyes in Nashville, so she rents a secluded cabin to try to get that escape. Enter Xander, at the request of his Navy friend that saved his life and Kelly’s brother, to act as Kelly’s bodyguard during her vacation since there’s been some betrayal in her circle as of late. Of course Xander watching her every move isn’t Kelly’s idea of a relaxing retreat on her own, so they bump heads at first, but there’s an attraction between them so we all know how that goes.
I truly enjoyed their story and while it’s very much Xander being protective and Kelly being protected, I love that Xander being protective of her leads to her protecting/fighting for herself and what she wants in life. These two definitely get steamy, but there is some fun tension between them at the start.
Highly recommend to anyone who enjoys bodyguard romances or just romance that quickly moves from “we can’t stand each other” to “I think I want to kiss your face,” to, “I think I might be in love with you.”
Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT8FPBaJT/
IG - https://www.instagram.com/p/CwOhxGKLl...
Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZT8FPCWaC/
August 12, 2023
Me gusta mucho Melnaie Harlow es un must read para mí, sus historias son ligeritas, sin tanto drama y un poquito spicy.
Están ambientadas en pueblos pequeños pero pintorescos.
Este es el segundo libro de su nueva serie y tiene todos los elementos antes mencionados, pero sinceramente creo que tiene mejores libros, no es que este libro sea malo pero todavía no está al nivel que nos tiene acostumbrados Melanie, eso sí es mucho mejor que el primer libro.
Esta es la historia de Xander un Ex SEAL y Kelly cantante famosa de música country y es la hermana pequeña del amigo de Xander y él le pide de favor que sea su guardaespaldas por dos semanas mientras ella está de vacaciones en una cabaña cerca del pueblo donde vive Xander porque ha tenido problemas de acosadores y su último equipo de seguridad estaba vendiendo información.
Al principio Kelly no acepta y se porta grosera con Xander, pero cambia de opinión y acepta a regañadientes.
La atracción tampoco se puede ocultar y ellos sucumben rápidamente. El problema es que se enamoran pero tienen vidas diferentes en partes diferentes y ninguno quiere una relación a distancia.
Los dos son muy buenos protagonistas, tenían mucha química, eran buena pareja, tuvieron buenas escenas spicy, pero hasta ahí.
El final fue muy bonito y sobre todo el epilogo extendido.
PD: saben que me he dado cuenta? Que Melanie hace que sus protagonistas hagan declaraciones de infarto de esas baja bragas y últimamente no las hemos tenido.
Están ambientadas en pueblos pequeños pero pintorescos.
Este es el segundo libro de su nueva serie y tiene todos los elementos antes mencionados, pero sinceramente creo que tiene mejores libros, no es que este libro sea malo pero todavía no está al nivel que nos tiene acostumbrados Melanie, eso sí es mucho mejor que el primer libro.
Esta es la historia de Xander un Ex SEAL y Kelly cantante famosa de música country y es la hermana pequeña del amigo de Xander y él le pide de favor que sea su guardaespaldas por dos semanas mientras ella está de vacaciones en una cabaña cerca del pueblo donde vive Xander porque ha tenido problemas de acosadores y su último equipo de seguridad estaba vendiendo información.
Al principio Kelly no acepta y se porta grosera con Xander, pero cambia de opinión y acepta a regañadientes.
La atracción tampoco se puede ocultar y ellos sucumben rápidamente. El problema es que se enamoran pero tienen vidas diferentes en partes diferentes y ninguno quiere una relación a distancia.
Los dos son muy buenos protagonistas, tenían mucha química, eran buena pareja, tuvieron buenas escenas spicy, pero hasta ahí.
El final fue muy bonito y sobre todo el epilogo extendido.
PD: saben que me he dado cuenta? Que Melanie hace que sus protagonistas hagan declaraciones de infarto de esas baja bragas y últimamente no las hemos tenido.
August 15, 2023
This is what I'm talking about!!!
Book 1 in this series wasn't a home run for me. But hot DAMN! This one was a great time. It was the perfect amount of sexy and sweet.
I loved how the bodyguard Trope played out here. Oftentimes the client cam be so stubborn and just plain RUDE to a bodyguard who is would take a bullet for them. And that's sometimes hard to see. But here, after a curfuffl at the start, these two have a great banter and fun relationship.
I enjoyed it from start to finish and loved how there was no 3rd act breakup to spoil the fun.
I highly recommend and I can't wait for book 3!
5 stars
3.5 on the spice scale
Book 1 in this series wasn't a home run for me. But hot DAMN! This one was a great time. It was the perfect amount of sexy and sweet.
I loved how the bodyguard Trope played out here. Oftentimes the client cam be so stubborn and just plain RUDE to a bodyguard who is would take a bullet for them. And that's sometimes hard to see. But here, after a curfuffl at the start, these two have a great banter and fun relationship.
I enjoyed it from start to finish and loved how there was no 3rd act breakup to spoil the fun.
I highly recommend and I can't wait for book 3!
5 stars
3.5 on the spice scale
August 13, 2023
I hate to say it, but I think MH has lost the magic that made her books so special. She used to be a one click, go to author that I would stay up late on release day just to binge, but these last two books have just been *ok.* not near the level of work that we're used to from her, and even though Xander is 10000x better than Austin (not that he had to try that hard for that) but I just didn't feel anything for these characters.
I mean Xander made a promise to his war buddy who saved his life to bodyguard his celebrity little sister, but he was literally the worst bodyguard ever. And there was no mention of that friend ever again once these two got together either.
As for Kelly, she's a famous singer who's taking a break from her fancy life -- her ex won't quit bothering her, her dad is only interested in the money she can loan him, and she doesn't have any real friends ,plus she's tired of not being able to write her own songs. All that is all well and good, but I just didn't connect with her at all either. These two were written in such a way that it was so surface level -- Kelly mentions a bunch of times all the emotional turmoil her ex put her through, but *we* really don't know what happened. We don't know why her dad is always in and out of her life (bad childhood notwithstanding). Then the attempted rape scene came out of left field, and then was just over so quickly. Idk, there was SO much potential here, but it just fell so flat.
Maybe it was just me, but I couldn't get into this at all. The characters didn't really intruige me, there was more told versus shown again, the sex scenes weren't all that spicy at all, and it seemed like there was just too much going on at once, yet not enough.
This was a miss for me, but I am still holding out hope for a certain couple, and I so hope those two will be winners for me.
I mean Xander made a promise to his war buddy who saved his life to bodyguard his celebrity little sister, but he was literally the worst bodyguard ever. And there was no mention of that friend ever again once these two got together either.
As for Kelly, she's a famous singer who's taking a break from her fancy life -- her ex won't quit bothering her, her dad is only interested in the money she can loan him, and she doesn't have any real friends ,plus she's tired of not being able to write her own songs. All that is all well and good, but I just didn't connect with her at all either. These two were written in such a way that it was so surface level -- Kelly mentions a bunch of times all the emotional turmoil her ex put her through, but *we* really don't know what happened. We don't know why her dad is always in and out of her life (bad childhood notwithstanding). Then the attempted rape scene came out of left field, and then was just over so quickly. Idk, there was SO much potential here, but it just fell so flat.
Maybe it was just me, but I couldn't get into this at all. The characters didn't really intruige me, there was more told versus shown again, the sex scenes weren't all that spicy at all, and it seemed like there was just too much going on at once, yet not enough.
This was a miss for me, but I am still holding out hope for a certain couple, and I so hope those two will be winners for me.
November 8, 2023
This was an easy ready and I enjoyed the chemistry amongst Kelly and Xander.
If you do not like insta lust this isn’t for you. I’m going to read runaway love soon just to see Austin and Veronica love story.
*I read the bonus and omggg how cute the kidss🥺*
If you do not like insta lust this isn’t for you. I’m going to read runaway love soon just to see Austin and Veronica love story.
*I read the bonus and omggg how cute the kidss🥺*
August 12, 2023
Juro que intento darle la oportunidad a los libros de Melanie pero es que SON TODOS IGUALES. La dinámica entre los protagonistas es la misma y tiene una mania por escribir que el prota masculino ve a la prota desnuda en los primeros capítulos osea ¿¿POR??. Creo que debería aceptar que sus libros no son para mí.
August 8, 2023
5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
Kelly Jo Sullivan is in desperate need of a break, and is craving some time to herself. Professionally she's known as famous country music star Pixie Hart. She lives in Nashville where her every move is captured by the paparazzi. She's thrilled to finally get a two week vacation from being a celebrity. She can escape the pressures of her career and live like a normal person. Peace and quiet is exactly what she needs, but her family worries about her being alone at a secluded location, and decides to interfere with all her plans. Suddenly she finds herself sharing a one bedroom cabin in the middle of nowhere with a gorgeous stranger. She doesn't want an overprotective, bossy former Navy SEAL watching her twenty four seven, but Xander Buckley takes his job as her personal bodyguard very seriously. She's frustrated she's stuck with him for fourteen days, and they clash at every turn. Then somewhere along the way things shift between them as they spend so much time together. Soon he seems to understand her better than anyone. As lines get blurred will they realize they share a strong connection that could turn into something real?
Hideaway Heart by Melanie Harlow is the second book in the Cherry Tree Harbor series. I adored the first book in this series, and was so excited to get Xander's story. I loved it so much! It's a steamy, standalone, opposites attract, small town, bodyguard/celebrity, best friend's little sister, strangers to lovers romance full of hilarious banter and explosive chemistry. This series is fantastic, and I can't wait to get more of the Buckley siblings! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/Hideaway-Heart...
(ARC provided by author)
Kelly Jo Sullivan is in desperate need of a break, and is craving some time to herself. Professionally she's known as famous country music star Pixie Hart. She lives in Nashville where her every move is captured by the paparazzi. She's thrilled to finally get a two week vacation from being a celebrity. She can escape the pressures of her career and live like a normal person. Peace and quiet is exactly what she needs, but her family worries about her being alone at a secluded location, and decides to interfere with all her plans. Suddenly she finds herself sharing a one bedroom cabin in the middle of nowhere with a gorgeous stranger. She doesn't want an overprotective, bossy former Navy SEAL watching her twenty four seven, but Xander Buckley takes his job as her personal bodyguard very seriously. She's frustrated she's stuck with him for fourteen days, and they clash at every turn. Then somewhere along the way things shift between them as they spend so much time together. Soon he seems to understand her better than anyone. As lines get blurred will they realize they share a strong connection that could turn into something real?
Hideaway Heart by Melanie Harlow is the second book in the Cherry Tree Harbor series. I adored the first book in this series, and was so excited to get Xander's story. I loved it so much! It's a steamy, standalone, opposites attract, small town, bodyguard/celebrity, best friend's little sister, strangers to lovers romance full of hilarious banter and explosive chemistry. This series is fantastic, and I can't wait to get more of the Buckley siblings! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/Hideaway-Heart...
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