Review: Never been Ready

Never Been Ready

Leah Morgan was done with men.  After barely surviving a horrendous childhood, and a boyfriend who bailed when things got rough, Leah had given up on love.  Then she met him, Hollywood’s new golden boy who suddenly had eyes only for her.  She tried to convince herself that one night couldn’t hurt, but after six months, the memories of his
mesmerizing gaze and searing touch still invaded her every thought.

Declan James had just one rule when it came to women.  Keep it simple, and never linger.  That all changed the moment he met Leah.  Even across  a crowded bar, he could tell she was different. Sweet, with just the right amount of sass, she made him break his golden rule and now he couldn’t walk away.

When casual becomes anything but, and emotions run deep, will Leah and Declan fight their fears, or let old insecurities tear them apart?  When  Declan’s past comes roaring back in a way neither of them could have expected, will they stand united or be torn apart by the challenges that  lie ahead?

It was only supposed to be one night, but only forever will do.  

Author Bio

J.L. Berg is a California native living in the South.  She’s married to her high school sweetheart and they have two beautiful girls that drive them batty on a daily basis.  When she’s not writing, you will most likely find her curled up with her iPad reading, in a yoga studio or devouring anything chocolate.

Book Trailer



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55-xeRZkmL8

Teaser

"So, when exactly do I get my striptease?" I asked.

"Well, that's up to you, Hotshot."

"Hotshot?"

"Yep. Cocky attitude, arrogant disposition, and sexy as fuck--it's a good nickname."
"All right, so what are your terms, Leah?"

I fought back the urge to touch her. Stuffing my hands into my pockets, I paced the room in a vain attempt at keeping myself from just saying, Fuck it, and pinning her against the wall before she could lay down any terms or requirements. Because whatever she was about to say, I was going to agree. She didn't know it, but she had my balls in her perfect little hands, and I was at her fucking mercy. I both hated and wanted her at the same time. She made me feel out of control and weak with need. I couldn't stop the pursuit, and I couldn't walk away.

"I will not be an easy fuck whenever you get too lazy to find a new bimbo for the evening. I will not allow you in my bed, wondering where you've been and what kind of sloppy seconds I'm getting," she declared.

Then, she said the one thing I never wanted to hear.

"I want to be exclusive with you--for however long we decide to do this. I don't care about labels or dates. You don't have to take me out to dinner, bring me flowers, or buy me anniversary presents. The only thing I ask is that, for the time we are together, you are mine."

"Yes," I answered immediately, surprising us both.

"Yes? That's it? No counteroffer? No freak-out or temper tantrum, Declan?"

"No, Leah, no temper tantrum. Just one request."

I joined her on the sofa. My thigh brushed hers, and I heard her breath falter.
"And what's that, Hotshot?"

"Make it two," I amended. "First, the same rules apply to you. While we're together, for however long, you're mine, Leah," I purred against her ear.

Her eyes widened, and her breath became ragged, giving me a quick sense of satisfaction because I'd broken through her calm and collected exterior.

"And second?" she asked timidly.

"Don't fucking call me Hotshot."

She visibly relaxed and snorted out a laugh before saying, "So not happening, Hotshot."


Review Rating: 4 LIGHTNING BOLTS

Review: I've been eagerly awaiting this book after discovering When You're Ready last year, which went on to be one of my top picks of 2013.  I fell in love with those characters, the story....and wanted more. Well, I got more! And I'm so happy to have been back with familiar, wonderful faces.

This time around, we get Leah and Declan's story. Leah is Clare's best friend. (Clare is the heroine from the first book)  I absolutely adore Leah. She's blunt....and boy do I meant blunt, but she's sweet, caring and she gives with all of her heart. She has a hidden pain from her past that she doesn't let on to many people about at all. Her friendship with Clare reminds me of me and my best friends- the honesty, the way they pick on each other but when it comes down to it, they have each other's backs.  Leah and Declan have had a hands on relationship the past few months- meaning they have their hands on each other but they leave their hearts out of it.

Or do they?

Declan....He can be such a pain in the butt. He can be crude. But there really is a softer side to him when he decides to show someone he cares. I loved finding that side out as his heart gives into what it wants- falling for Leah.

The story didn't pull me in immediately as the first one did. This one had a slower build, but when that pull happened, BOOM! I couldn't stop!  There were plenty of emotions, HOT love scenes and a few surprises I didn't see coming. It was great to have updates with Clare and Logan, oh and of course Maddie.  There's even some foreshadowing of things to come and I can't wait!