Review by Turning The Pages - see the entire review here - 4 stars.
What happens when your best friend becomes the object of your heart's desire? Would you be willing to risk the friendship to become something so much more? When Cara and Ethan suddenly realize that the feelings they had for eachother have blossomed, it becomes an internal battle of whether they will take that next step or not.
This is my fourth Sally Clements novel and, as always, I fell instantly in love with her characters. Even though Ethan has become a 'big shot' in Hollywood, it still appears that he held onto his roots. Staying close to family and friends would be a hard thing to do, especially as he is across the world, but he masters it with ease. Every scene between Ethan and Cara left a smile on my face as they seemed to have such a respect for one another.
While at times I found myself frustrated with the underlying love story, I also understood that the jump from friends to lovers can't be an easy thing to do. Even though you go into it saying that it won't change things, it just isn't possible. Weighing whether the risks are worth the rewards had me wondering what would happen with each turn of the page.
Sally Clements ability to tackle the romantic aspect of a story with just enough heat and the right amount of spice, leaves you craving more. As with her other novels, I found The Morning After to be a wonderful read.
Overall, if you are looking for a steamy, romantic novel to curl up with, this is one that will not disappoint!
Review by Cocktails and Books - see the entire review here and at Amazon. 24 Feb 2012 - 4 STARS
This was one of those books that when you read the blurb you think "I'll give it a try" and hope for the best. I'm glad I tried it.
Ethan and Cara have been best friends forever. They've seen each other through thick and thin. And while the Atlantic Ocean separates them most of the time, they are still there for each. So when Ethan spies Cara's boyfriend being overly friendly with a woman in a local bar in Ireland, he takes it upon himself to punch said boyfriend and make sure the boyfriend knew he was going to be an ex very soon. Ethan is then on a mission to find Cara to make sure she knew that the man who proposed to her was out cheating on her. When he finds her, she's stuck in a Winnie-the-Pooh costume in nothing but her underwear. As he helps her out, a photog snaps a couple of shots of them in a compromising position. It's one of those photos that changes everything for Ethan and Cara.
The change from best friends to lovers played out exactly like I'd imagine the scenario playing out. They both have these feelings they aren't sure the other one is feeling as well. They both decide to throw caution to the wind and move the relationship forward. And finally they both realize they feel much more than friendship for the other but can't read how the other is feeling and are scared to find out what they feel isn't reciprocated. And while there wasn't any surprise to how the story evolved, the characters were very down to earth and likeable that you hoped the path to get to their HEA was an easy one.
Marrying Cade Reviews:
Review from Mom in Love with Fiction - see the original here, or on Amazon. 24 Feb 2012. 4 STAR
Sweet and satisfying, Marrying Cade is an enjoyable romance between childhood friends. Often, romance novels pair two characters who bump into each other and immediately fall in love. Not true for Cade and Melo. They grew up together and know each other intimately.
Brought back together by Melo’s sister’s wedding, Cade is drawn to “the siren Melo had become.” He doesn’t realize she’s been carrying a torch for him for years. The heat between them escalates only to be sidelined by wedding activities and business deals. Unfortunately, Melo is dealing with an ailing father who has made poor business decisions. Little does she know that Cade’s involved as well.
The story moves at an easy pace, gradually building Melo and Cade into a believable couple with rooting value. Melo is no damsel in distress, ultimately working out her family’s business issues without Cade having to swoop in to save her. He’s willing to, but she stands on her own. It made me appreciate the characters individually, which only added to their dynamic as a couple.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romantic heat mixed with a believable relationship. Cade manages to be both the White Knight and a man who respects a confident, strong woman like Melo. It’s sexy, and what’s a romance novel without a good amount of sexy?
Rating: 4 solid stars
Review from Kimberley Steffen - Original on Amazon.com - 22 July 2011 - 4 STARS
Lots of Romance!
This is a great summer read! There is a wedding and lots of romance! The main character Melo has been in love with Cade all her life and she meets him again after a decade without seeing him. She has always dreamed of marrying him, will she get her wish? Read it and find out!
Melo has her plate full in the beginning of the story trying to get her sisters wedding perfect and then finding out that her dad's vineyard is in jeopardy, she must sort out the mess even though she had nothing to do with getting it where it is. She always wanted to work for him too.
This is a great quick read! Enjoy!
From Madeline Ash - on Amazon.com - 22 July 2011 - 5 STARS
If only I was the one Marrying Cade...
Marrying Cade by Sally Clements is a well-paced tale about secret desires, taking chances, and living for the moment.
Our heroine, Melo Bellucci, is a true darling. She's beautiful yet humble, and sacrifices herself for those she loves. This selflessness does not make her a pushover, for she still knows what she wants and isn't afraid to stand up and take it. These traits shape her into a well-rounded heroine, believable and completely loveable. So often do I read romance novels for the hero, but I have to say that Melo held my heart from page one with her patience and loyalty.
Set on Isola dei Fiori, the romantic setting makes for an exotic escapism. Throw in a glamorous three-day wedding with all the trimmings, no expenses spared, and the location couldn't have been more dazzling.
Sally's writing style is simple yet evocative, weaving a steamy attraction into a genuinely sweet romance. Moments of subtle humour, surprising emotion (I genuinely misted over at one point) and sexual tension all come together smoothly in this happily ever after.
From Maria Waddell - To Read, perchance to Dream - July 21, 2011 - 4 STARS
Great Author!
I honestly don't read romance novels much anymore, but Sally Clements' writing is always enjoyable. Her book are fun and easy to read. It's just like you come home from a long day at work and slip into something comfortable - a Sally Clements novel!
In Marrying Cade, you're off to a gorgeous island with cool breezes and sizzling heat between Melo and Cade. Melo is a strong, nurturing female character, with whom most women can relate today. Cade is that sexy, carefree bachelor women long to tame. The connection between the two will draw you in and keep you reading. (Flipping the pages also helps cool you off from the steamy romance developing between the two!) All the characters are unique and individual, so its a pleasure to get to know all of them.
This romance is an entertaining read. Give it a try!
From Marsha Moore - on the Amazon.com page - July 14, 2011 - 5 STARS
Fantastic Read!
I've been meaning to read a novel by Sally Clements for awhile, and I'm so glad I finally got the time! Clements has the ability to transport the reader, and every time I opened the book, I felt like I was on the lush Italian island where the novel is set. And when it comes to the hero, Cade... well, I really didn't want to close the book on him! With romance, beautiful scenery and a great plot, 'Marrying Cade' is one not to miss.
From M.E.T. on Amazon.co.uk page - 14 July, 2011 - 5 STARS
Exciting!
Just finished "Marrying Cade" by Sally Clements. Didn't want the book to finish.It's taking place in a beautiful island in Italy. In itself, so exotic... Then enters Cade. And you want to keep reading. If you've been a braidesmaid, you might have dreamt of falling in love with the groom's best man. Perfect match. I'm now waiting for Sally's next book, for a new escape and a new unique hero!
Buy Marrying Cade from Amazon.com here - And Amazon.co.uk here.
Catch Me A Catch Reviews:
Review from The Romance Studio read the original here.- 30 July 2010
Jack Miller, billionaire advertising agency owner, is stranded in Durna, Ireland during their yearly matchmaking festival. Jaded by things in his past, he's not ready for the kind of attraction he feels for stand-in matchmaker, Anne Devine. Very different plans for their future seem guaranteed to spoil the instant attraction between them. His future is in New York City, hers destined to be in Dublin if she wins a chocolatier competition.
Sally Clements pens a unique romance with all the flavors of Ireland. It's almost like the wee people have their hands in the lives of the people in Durna. This is the kind of small town many of might wish we could live in. Excellent characters inhabit the pages with Anne's parents and the townspeople. Dialogue and situations are often funny and based in a kind of reality easy to relate to.
The fledgling relationship between Jack and Anne hits every pitfall possible. Jack, the billionaire man-about-town seems to get himself into a lot of hot water. The author weaves this with some edge of our seat wondering and guessing about what can be done to make it better. We seem to be drawn into their emotions as the ups and downs hit them.
This tale moves quickly with a lot of smiles on the pages. I found myself relating more to the individuals than I sometimes do in novels. Most readers have probably experiences similar situations as the match-seekers or the couple. I truly enjoyed this author's way of building a story and hope to read more in the future.
Overall rating: 5 hearts
Sensuality rating: Very sensual
Reviewer: Dee Dailey
July 30, 2010
*****
Review from Seriously Reviewed: See the original review here.
Review: What a cute story :)
Ms Clements really painted The Emerald Isle for me. I got a great taste of the flavor and an eye-full of the mystical view. The characters were real-to-life and popped off the pages. The plot was believable and interesting. Without a doubt an adorable read that was very hard for me to put down. 17.5 score.
Rating: Spicy contemporary.
August 21, 2010.
*****
Review from Happily Ever After Reviews: See the original review here.
Lena’s Review
You've heard of online love sites, but none compare to being in the annual Durna Matchmaking Festival. Everyone from places far away come to the festival hoping to be matched to their soul mate. This year, though, it is up to Annie Devine to find the matches. Her father, Bull, is the matchmaker, but she doesn’t want to disappoint her father. Her main goal right now is not finding love for people but to win the Artisan chocolatier contest. This is the main thing she has been working hard all her life to accomplish. She doesn’t need a man like Jack Miller to distract her or making her rethink her goals. Her heart is not into the festival and the people don’t take her seriously, which for some reason hurts her more. Jack somehow has made people trust her, something that Annie knows will be gone once he’s gone. What started as a game has escalated to a love she has never known before in her life. Can she continue on the charade knowing that she has really fallen in love with her matched?
Jack Miller had no plan of finding love, but somehow he landed on the week of the biggest matchmaking festival. He never knew something like that went on or heard of a town called Durna. Somehow what started as a charade in helping Ms. Annie Devine has grown to something he is scared of happening. His assistant says he has a type, meaning blonde and bossy, something that is so opposite from Annie. She is beautiful, smart and ambitious, something that has been missing in his life. She denies the attraction but her passionate kisses say something else to him. He wasn’t looking for love but something about Durna speaks to him like no other town has done before. Can he just walk away from Annie? Can he pull her away from accomplishing her dreams?
It is a small town but one that has magic in the air. It is a magic that everyone comes for a whole week to find that special someone in their lives. The Durna Matchmaking Festival is the biggest, even of the season for Durna and one that Annie Devine hates. I loved that she has a legacy to fulfill but she has her own dreams she wants to finish. Now Jack Miller is a man who has many questions that are not answered and he’s searching for something. I loved Annie the most in the book for here is a woman who has a legacy of matchmaking, but she wants to find her own love. Together these two were great and definitely not your usual story line. I applaud Sally for making a magical story come to life.
4 tea cups.
Buy now suggestion
August 21, 2010
*****
Review from Long & Short Reviews. See the full review here.Catch Me a Catch by Sally Clements
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full Length (191 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rated: 4.5 books
Review by Snapdragon
She had the perfect life - and all she wanted was to escape it. Artisan chocolatier and reluctant matchmaker Annie Devine wants to survive the annual Durna Matchmaking Festival without messing up. She's useless at relationships, and the whole village know it. They've known ever since the day she was left at the altar in her wedding dress. When Jack Miller, charismatic head of Miller Advertising is forced to make an emergency stop on his transatlantic crossing, she mistakes him for a love-lorn bachelor, and sparks fly. Jack's in Ireland to discover his roots, while Annie's desperate to escape hers. Annie longs to win the coveted Chocolate Oscar competition, and claim the ultimate prize, her own shop in Dublin. But with the deadline for Jack's return to New York looming, is she making the right choice?
Immediate, heart-stopping action marks the start of Catch Me a Catch, by Sally Clements. Her fast-paced prose drops us into the center of storm and the struggles of sailor Jack Miller. He's just coincidentally sailing right into an Irish matchmaking festival, although fate has more in store for him than finding an easy match.
Annie Devine has sort of inherited this matchmaking gig, and she's determined to do a good job at it. Jack is plainly a challenge to her. Their initial conversation is hysterical -- partly because we suspect they aren't quite on the same page from the start! Clements shows a remarkably light touch with believable and sometimes cross-purposed dialogue, throughout.
In fact, each of our characters are more complex than they appear. This will be no straightforward, predictable romance. And all sorts of things from their lives keep butting in to complicate matters. Who knew that making the world's best almond praline truffle could pose such a conundrum? Although, certainly more important matters put Annie and Jack at loggerheads, as well. Is it alarming or merely stereotypical that they each reach for booze to cope with emotions? I'm not sure, but it cropped up often enough to be distracting.
Clever and subtle use of words and names (loved the pub named "The Maiden's Arms," Or even just Annie's own: the 'Devine' girl of his dreams, and similar) is fun and interesting, especially at the start. Now and again, action or a challenge seems to be resolved unconvincingly fast, but this indeed is a small complaint. Overall there was a nicely balanced blend of emotion, action and sizzling interaction. Annie's sense of being watched - indeed by the whole quaint community, adds so much to the charming Irish village backdrop.
The be there in-the-moment style of this dramatic narrative will grab your attention and keep it, cover-to-cover.
It's great to see this super story matched with such a perfect cover: Delightful, slightly whimsical, relates to story, and quirky enough to be eye catching. Kudos to the cover designer, too. This one belongs in the must-read pile!
Review from The Romance Reviews
CATCH ME A CATCH is an excellent contemporary romance that follows Annie, who by tradition has to be a matchmaker for the annual Durna matchmaking festival and Jack who is forced to stop in Durna when his boat is struck by lightening. As Jack helps Annie out with the festival, they struggle to deny their chemistry.
The plot of CATCH ME A CATCH is interesting, and while similar plots have been done many times before, there are some major differences in CATCH ME A CATCH that makes it seem fresh and stand out from the many novels in its genre.
The main characters are rather likable, even though they do have some moments when they can be rather irritating, but there isn't any stand out secondary characters, as there are quite a few different characters mentioned but they are mainly in the distance, which means the readers can't get to know and like them. The relationship between the main characters was developed well, as it doesn't seem too rushed and all the complications with their relationship seemed realistic.
Fans of contemporary romances should definitely give CATCH ME A CATCH a read, as with a great plot and likable main characters, it can't be classed as anything but an excellent contemporary romance.
Reviewer: Danielle G
Four star review.
Bound to Love Reviews:
Review from Rebecca Brown, read the original here.
I’ve just finished reading this romance which is released today (see links below) from Embrace Books’ Red Velvet line, which they describe as “sexy, sophisticated romance”; I have to say, that sums up Sally’s book perfectly.
The two protagonists are well drawn. Jake very much appeals to me, being tall, dark, gorgeous and combining assertiveness with a sweet vulnerability. Tempest is the aptly-named heroine who does not sit around waiting for a rescue but does her own fair share of rescuing others. I read this through in a couple of sittings, cheering Tempest and Jake on through non-stop adventure and passion. Bound to Love is a real page-turner which will not disappoint any modern romance reader! A four star review.
Embrace Books are a new imprint of Salt Publishing, and I've been really impressed with what I've seen so far. If Sally's book is indicative of their titles, I for one will be a big fan. I really love their covers too, not your usual romance covers, and Sally's is a great example.
If you want a thrilling and romantic read for Valentine's day, I do recommend Bound to Love.
Review from Karamina - posted on Amazon.
I love a simple girly romance as much as everyone, but Bound to Love was something more. It had me gripped from the beginning. I won't give it away, but I meant to have a quick read and ended up having one of those can't-put-it-down-oops-I-forgot-to-put-dinner-on moments. My children have been ignored for the last two days whilst I've been reading. Looking forward to more from Sally Clements and Embrace Books!
A five star review.
Review from The Romance Studio, read the original here.
Tempest MacKenzie is one happy girl. She just got a contract that will help get her out of debt and make her reputation as a jewelry designer. So what's she doing jumping into the fray when someone tries to abduct a total stranger? She ends up kidnapped along with Jake Forrester who doesn't know it yet but he's in the middle of a plot to take over his company. The two seem to live life with opposing goals. So when does that ever stop lust from guiding two people in a new direction?
Sally Clements pens another excellent tale. Tempest seems to live up to her name when there's trouble brewing. She's not the kind of girl to sit back and let life happen around her. Both she and Jake have been affected by the death of a parent. He's decided it's not worth taking chances. He takes every precaution he can and still ends up in the middle of a mess. Tempest's father probably would have lived through a mugging if even one person would have stopped to help him. Armed with her gift for precognition she does everything she can to stop trouble before it happens or jump in where others may fear to tread.
Strong heroines like this are a favorite kind of read for me. Great character building and a plot that keeps us on edge throughout helps make this an exceptional suspense. Dialogue helps build it and steamy romance sizzles in a good way. This makes two books in a row from this gifted author that I've adored. Hope to read many more in the future.
Overall rating: 5 hearts.
Sensuality rating: Very sensual
Reviewer: Dee Dailey
March 10, 2011
Review from Manic Readers see the review on their site here.
MR Review
Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewer: Patrizia Murray
Review:
Lots of questions here, right from page one. How does someone set about to rob the British Museum? There must be enough security there to warn off even the most determined thief. How does an unknown jewelry designer nab a job making replicas of priceless Egyptian artifacts and why only two bracelets? Why not more? Why does a seemingly mild-mannered jewelry designer jump into a kidnapping situation to help someone she doesn’t know, instead of merely taking down the license number of the kidnap vehicle?
All becomes clear as this fast moving robbery, kidnapping and ransom plot speeds along. Tempest is the designer, who manages to help Jake solve his security problems at the museum, and along the way, falls in love with him and his family. We are treated to a tour of the Louvre in Paris, a trip to Tuscany, along with the English countryside and London.
The plot has several interesting twists and turns, and the romance evolves along with the danger. However, Jake is the proverbial bachelor, only sticking with Tempest until the danger is over, or so he thinks. When his former partner and now arch enemy tries to kill Tempest, Jake finally understands what she means to him. But how can he change his entire life for this woman? First they must capture the bad guy then sort out their love lives.
Bound to Love is a fast-paced mystery that keeps you up half the night to find out how it ends. I love a good mystery, although the security aspects of the museums seemed a little lax if the priceless gold is that easily taken. Where would anyone actually be able to sell such articles? Nevertheless, a lovely European tour, stopping in the best hotels, I could feel the warm Tuscan sun shining on me through the author’s words.
From Geeky Girl Reviews...
WOW!! What a awesome book. I couldn't put it down and ended up reading it all in one sitting.If you love Romantic Suspense novel then I suggest you try this one, I promise you will not regret it.
If you would like to purchase this book you can find it at amazon.com.
I give this 5 out of 5
From Elsie Loves Fiction...
Bound to Enjoy
Bound to Love, Sally Clements.
Oh la-la. What a steamy, dreamy, thrill ride. A romance, rated on the 'softer' side (meaning the details of the encounters between the main characters are juicy but not overly detailed ie erotica. Yes, I need to clarify--not everyone reads according to how many roses or hot peppers or whatever ratings the publisher uses). Well, it sure got my juices flowing. It. Was. Hot.
Here's the synopsis via Amazon.com:
Jake Forrester, a controlled, self-reliant security expert scarred by his father's murder, is pursuing his goal of an independent life, relying on himself and logic, until he's forced to accept the help of an impulsive, spirited goldsmith who follows her instincts, wherever they may lead. When Tempest MacKenzie witnesses a gorgeous stranger being bundled into a van, she tries to help him, but becomes tangled in a complex web of intrigue. Tempest finds stubborn Jake attractive, compelling and infuriating, his logic the complete antithesis of her reliance on her instincts. And Jake is fascinated and attracted to the feisty redhead. As they spend time together trying to thwart a heist at the British Museum, the attraction between them flares out of control. The thief has a grudge against Jake, and danger stalks their every move. Will Jake learn to trust Tempest's intuition, before it's too late?
Sounds like your typical romance, right? I wouldn't know, I think the last romance novel I read was in the early nineties and all memories of the event have been erased. So here's my break down of the book:
A. The cover: Yum. A++. The cover artist deserves a standing ovation. I've always felt I was supposed to be a red head of the Copper family, so maybe I'm a bit overzealous in my love; but really...look at it! It screams "good book here!"
B. The Plot/Story: B I enjoyed it. It was fun. It was hot. It made me want to build a fire with my husband or jet of to Paris.There was a turn or two that wasn't over the top obvious to me, which earns the book bonus points. I hate knowing every twist and turn from page one. I did find the beginning (which is supposed to be the big draw you in part) a little too cheesy. Jake & Tempest feel a connection that is so overpowering. I would have like a little more conflict working towards the intensity as opposed to instant attraction followed by questioning. It was very well written. Kudos Ms. Clements, very nice work!
C. Overall Grade: A Caveat: if you are a romance reader, this will be a solid A or an A+. If you are a bits and pieces sampler it will be in the A- to B- range due to the fact that as a romance book, you will find some of the facets to be a little bit out there. I add the second rating only for those that aren't romance readers & are considering a cross over. A summer fling, a juicy dip on the European side...whatever you'd call it.
The thrill of the heist/kidnapping/craziness rates in the B range...romance in the A range. Make sense?
Overall a great little read. I would recommend you give it a whirl. Currently the book is selling for $3.99 for the Kindle Version on Amazon. Worth the chump change, for sure. Pick it up!
New Ratings System (big news)
I'm dropping stars as a ratings system. Maybe it's because as a writer I'm drawn to letters. Maybe it's because I'm a free spirit and I don't want to be penned in by a 'ratings system' that leaves no room for free will. Maybe it's because having to stick stars on my blog creates another tool bar that detracts from the reviews...maybe all three. At any rate I'm now going with letter ratings.
A=Awesome
B= A good solid read
C= Okay, nothing super special
D= pretty big flaws in story & technique/ and or not really enjoyable
F= a waste of time & money.
A Cozy Reader's Corner Reviews. 3.5 out of 5.
Review:
Characters: The personality traits of the two main characters in this novel were pretty important for the story and I feel the traits were well developed. Tempest always follows her instincts and Jake is all about being logical. The characters are typically not attracted to the other's personality type so that is part of the struggle in the development of their relationship. Also, both main characters are influenced greatly by deaths in their past which enhances their understanding of one another throughout the story. Also, I feel like the author did a great job voicing the characters' honest thoughts about the situation throughout the story by including commentary from their inside thoughts.
Storyline: The storyline was creative, yet somewhat predictable. I kept waiting for an unexpected event to occur, something to put a spin on the story, but never encountered quite what I was hoping for. Nevertheless the story kept my attention and it didn't take me long to read the book. Also, while the two main characters get together quite frequently, it is left mostly up to the reader's imagination. So if you are in the mood for steamy sex scenes this may not be the book for you.
Style of writing: I enjoyed this author's style of writing. You are able to read from more than one point of view which really allows for a sense of what the two main characters are thinking. The author seemed very experienced and was able to add good detail to help create images of the setting and characters.
Pace: Overall the pace was good. There was never a dull moment in the story, but it never felt rushed.
Setting: The story took place in multiple parts of the country, however, mainly in the UK. The author took advantage of different locations to move the story along and used France as a place where Jake and Tempest really started to fall for one another - very romantic. I always enjoy reading stories set outside of the United States and this author provided great detail in describing cities that I really have no knowledge of.
Overall opinion: I found the characters to be unique and the plot interesting, but it felt anticlimactic at times. I would recommend this to someone else to read if they enjoy a tame romance with a little bit of suspense.
3.5 out of 5
