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Negligee Behavior
When lingerie heiress Brandy Summer gets cold feet and runs out on her Vegas wedding, she has nowhere to turn - so she hijacks a hunky biker waiting for a red light and begs him for help. What she doesn’t know is that her instincts are right: the groom has a hidden agenda. He needs her money to pay off his gambling debts and she� s his ticket to the good life.
Marco Vargas isn� t sure what he’s getting himself into when he rescues Brandy, but figures he� ll do the chivalrous thing. He offers her a job in his bar and the chance to sort out her feelings. But it seems that keeping Brandy hidden is easier than keeping his hands off her; and what will happen when Brandy discovers that Marco has secrets of his own?
80,000 words
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2011
18 people are currently reading
1,084 people want to read
About the author
Shelli Stevens
71Ìýbooks733ÌýfollowersShelli is a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author who read her first romance novel when she snatched it off her mother’s bookshelf at the age of eleven. She is a true pluviophile (lover of rain) who currently lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and two daughters. She loves Disney, taking sunset pics (follow her on Instagram), baking, nature walking, and spontaneously bursting into song. She’s written various genres of romance, but is most known for her contemporary series such as The McLaughlins, The Bro Code, Marshall Ranch, and A is for Alpha.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
February 13, 2016
4.5 stars
Long overdue review and I apologize for that! Let it not reflect on the book, as I loved it and have just been reading faster than I review. This will be short though (it will! finally! just all of you watch!!):
{ Loved Brandy }
She was funny, authentic, friendly, intelligent. No TSTL or TATL moments. Her "transformation" didn't really feel like a transformation, so much as a coming into her own and gaining confidence. Sometimes these makeovers can be ridiculous, over-the-top, and be a mouse-becomes-slut situation. Not the case here, which I loved.
{ Loved Marco }
So, so sexy and such a surprising sweetheart! I loved his back story and that there was way more than meets the eye to him. He's rough around the edges, but very sweet. From the beginning, he's not a bad-ass: he wears leather, drives a motorcycle, and co-owns a bar, but he is relatively nice to Brandy from the get-go - though NOT in love with or very attracted to her (more about that below). I also loved his possessiveness when he realizes that he DOES have feelings for her ... though that actually kicks in before the realization, making it that much more delicious.
{ Loved their relationship }
Marco is good-looking, so there are times when Brandy finds herself attracted to him. And while at the beginning I feared this would be an instant lust situation (even though the heroine is supposed to be somewhat plump and frumpily dressed) with Marco looking at Brandy's mouth etc., this did not end up being the case. When it starts, they are strangers, and they act like that (though both being nice), and as they get to know one another they become friends and the attraction between them builds. I loved the slow and steady pace of it.
{ Loved the chemistry }
Sizzling, delicious, hot hot hot!! Enough said. (Note: it's not erotica, though I've seen that some people have classified it as such).
{ Loved the supporting characters, dialogue, overall story arc }
No additional comments.
{ LOVED IT! }
{ Criticism }
Would have liked to know more about Marco's history earlier on and have it be integrated earlier into his relationship with Brandy and their "discovering one another" stage. Definitely wanted his relationship with his father further developed; all seemed very mysterious and when we find out the cause of the rift, it frankly didn't make sense and seemed way overblown, like some big misunderstanding that could have been solved with a five-minute sit-down. Also think the relationship and dynamic between Brandy and her parents could / should have been further explored.
{ Bottom Line }
I really enjoyed this book and it will definitely be a reread for me in the future. It was sweet, funny, smartly written, and sizzling - what's not to like? This is the first I've heard of this author and when I finished the book I was interested in browsing through her other work. I noticed that it all seems to be erotica so I want to make a point of saying that this appears to be her venture into more mainstream romance, as it's not erotica (or romantica) - just straight-up good old-fashioned (hot!) contemporary romance. Definitely recommend. Enjoy!!
{ Recommendations }
Based on plot or character similarities:
* by Jennifer Crusie (5+ stars)
* by Kathy Love (5 stars)
* by Susan Andersen (5 stars)
* by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (5 stars)
* by Laura Kaye (4.5 stars)
* by Toni Blake (4.5 stars)
* by Toni Blake (4.5 stars)
* by Nora Roberts (4.5 stars)
* by Jennifer Crusie (4.5 stars)
* by Kathy Love (4.5 stars)
* by Nora Roberts (4.5 stars)
* by Rachel Gibson (4.5 stars)
* by Jennifer Crusie (4 stars)
* by Julie Ortolon (4 stars)
P.S. Okay, so not exactly "short," rather relatively average length for the normal sane reader, however since we all know I'm neither, I will claim that I did (somewhat) follow through on my "short" promise.
This review is of an advance reading copy provided by Carina Press through NetGalley.
Long overdue review and I apologize for that! Let it not reflect on the book, as I loved it and have just been reading faster than I review. This will be short though (it will! finally! just all of you watch!!):
{ Loved Brandy }
She was funny, authentic, friendly, intelligent. No TSTL or TATL moments. Her "transformation" didn't really feel like a transformation, so much as a coming into her own and gaining confidence. Sometimes these makeovers can be ridiculous, over-the-top, and be a mouse-becomes-slut situation. Not the case here, which I loved.
{ Loved Marco }
So, so sexy and such a surprising sweetheart! I loved his back story and that there was way more than meets the eye to him. He's rough around the edges, but very sweet. From the beginning, he's not a bad-ass: he wears leather, drives a motorcycle, and co-owns a bar, but he is relatively nice to Brandy from the get-go - though NOT in love with or very attracted to her (more about that below). I also loved his possessiveness when he realizes that he DOES have feelings for her ... though that actually kicks in before the realization, making it that much more delicious.
{ Loved their relationship }
Marco is good-looking, so there are times when Brandy finds herself attracted to him. And while at the beginning I feared this would be an instant lust situation (even though the heroine is supposed to be somewhat plump and frumpily dressed) with Marco looking at Brandy's mouth etc., this did not end up being the case. When it starts, they are strangers, and they act like that (though both being nice), and as they get to know one another they become friends and the attraction between them builds. I loved the slow and steady pace of it.
{ Loved the chemistry }
Sizzling, delicious, hot hot hot!! Enough said. (Note: it's not erotica, though I've seen that some people have classified it as such).
{ Loved the supporting characters, dialogue, overall story arc }
No additional comments.
{ LOVED IT! }
{ Criticism }
Would have liked to know more about Marco's history earlier on and have it be integrated earlier into his relationship with Brandy and their "discovering one another" stage. Definitely wanted his relationship with his father further developed; all seemed very mysterious and when we find out the cause of the rift, it frankly didn't make sense and seemed way overblown, like some big misunderstanding that could have been solved with a five-minute sit-down. Also think the relationship and dynamic between Brandy and her parents could / should have been further explored.
{ Bottom Line }
I really enjoyed this book and it will definitely be a reread for me in the future. It was sweet, funny, smartly written, and sizzling - what's not to like? This is the first I've heard of this author and when I finished the book I was interested in browsing through her other work. I noticed that it all seems to be erotica so I want to make a point of saying that this appears to be her venture into more mainstream romance, as it's not erotica (or romantica) - just straight-up good old-fashioned (hot!) contemporary romance. Definitely recommend. Enjoy!!
{ Recommendations }
Based on plot or character similarities:
* by Jennifer Crusie (5+ stars)
* by Kathy Love (5 stars)
* by Susan Andersen (5 stars)
* by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (5 stars)
* by Laura Kaye (4.5 stars)
* by Toni Blake (4.5 stars)
* by Toni Blake (4.5 stars)
* by Nora Roberts (4.5 stars)
* by Jennifer Crusie (4.5 stars)
* by Kathy Love (4.5 stars)
* by Nora Roberts (4.5 stars)
* by Rachel Gibson (4.5 stars)
* by Jennifer Crusie (4 stars)
* by Julie Ortolon (4 stars)
P.S. Okay, so not exactly "short," rather relatively average length for the normal sane reader, however since we all know I'm neither, I will claim that I did (somewhat) follow through on my "short" promise.
This review is of an advance reading copy provided by Carina Press through NetGalley.
May 4, 2011
4.5 stars
This book has proven to be a great surprise. I admit that I didn't expect such a hilarious book when I picked it up, since I'm mostly drawn to more angsty and dark ones. However, despite this not being my usual cup of tea, I was thoroughly charmed by it. It was fun, it was sexy, it was sweet, it was fast-paced, it was engrossing. I just couldn't put it down once it started!
Brandy is having second thoughts about marrying her boyfriend and runs away leaving him standing at the altar. Just outside the Vegas' chapel she meets a man in a Harley and before she can think twice, she jumps on his motorcycle and away they go! Marco Vargas is the exact opposite from the plain, prim and so very proper Lingerie Heiress Brandy Summers: he's a sexy bartender with a couple of tattoos, long hair and dark olive skin that covers a body hot as hell. Soon Brandy finds herself attracted to him -and who wouldn't?- but the real surprise is that the attraction is not one sided. Marco finds himself lusting after the not exactly skinny, frizzy haired and badly dressed woman he's saved, once he discovers the sexy lingerie she hides beneath her styless clothes. And when he agrees to take her to his house for a few days until she decides what to do with her former fiance, it becomes only a matter of time when those two will have sex together.
I really, really liked this book; the first half was so hilarious I was laughing all the time while my kids stared at me confused. In the second half, the funny quotes were reduced but the chemistry between those two, had me fanning myself:) Well, Brandy and Marco make one hot couple, I'll tell you that! But they were also persons I could care for and like. Brandy starts as a shy, prim woman who's spent her entire life comparing herself to the skinny models that advertize her family's lingerie business and finds herself lacking. When it becomes obvious that such a sexy man like Marco wants her without even knowing who she is, it does wonders to her self-esteem and with a little help from a friendly barmaid, she gets a new look guaranteed to attract not only Marco but every man who happens to set eyes on her, much to Marco's dismay. Marco on the other hand, is a strong, sexy man who knows finally what he wants from life but Brandy is so clearly out of his world. Surely she won't stay with him for more than a couple of weeks, so he decides to hide his feelings for her as well as his past.
It was this fact, Marco's hiding facts that were sure to come and bite him in the ass, that had me rating this book with less than 5 stars. And let's face it, it wasn't as if he was a drug dealer! It just felt kind of weird to me that he felt so embarassed of what he once was. This of course, lead to some misunderstandings in the end, that could so easily be avoided it actually made me angry, but that was only for 10-20 pages and then Marco was such a hottie I eventually forgave him everything.
All in all, a lovely, fun, entertaining, sexy and witty contemporary romance that I highly recommend to all romance fans out there.
*I received this book as an ARC from Netgalley*
This book has proven to be a great surprise. I admit that I didn't expect such a hilarious book when I picked it up, since I'm mostly drawn to more angsty and dark ones. However, despite this not being my usual cup of tea, I was thoroughly charmed by it. It was fun, it was sexy, it was sweet, it was fast-paced, it was engrossing. I just couldn't put it down once it started!
Brandy is having second thoughts about marrying her boyfriend and runs away leaving him standing at the altar. Just outside the Vegas' chapel she meets a man in a Harley and before she can think twice, she jumps on his motorcycle and away they go! Marco Vargas is the exact opposite from the plain, prim and so very proper Lingerie Heiress Brandy Summers: he's a sexy bartender with a couple of tattoos, long hair and dark olive skin that covers a body hot as hell. Soon Brandy finds herself attracted to him -and who wouldn't?- but the real surprise is that the attraction is not one sided. Marco finds himself lusting after the not exactly skinny, frizzy haired and badly dressed woman he's saved, once he discovers the sexy lingerie she hides beneath her styless clothes. And when he agrees to take her to his house for a few days until she decides what to do with her former fiance, it becomes only a matter of time when those two will have sex together.
I really, really liked this book; the first half was so hilarious I was laughing all the time while my kids stared at me confused. In the second half, the funny quotes were reduced but the chemistry between those two, had me fanning myself:) Well, Brandy and Marco make one hot couple, I'll tell you that! But they were also persons I could care for and like. Brandy starts as a shy, prim woman who's spent her entire life comparing herself to the skinny models that advertize her family's lingerie business and finds herself lacking. When it becomes obvious that such a sexy man like Marco wants her without even knowing who she is, it does wonders to her self-esteem and with a little help from a friendly barmaid, she gets a new look guaranteed to attract not only Marco but every man who happens to set eyes on her, much to Marco's dismay. Marco on the other hand, is a strong, sexy man who knows finally what he wants from life but Brandy is so clearly out of his world. Surely she won't stay with him for more than a couple of weeks, so he decides to hide his feelings for her as well as his past.
It was this fact, Marco's hiding facts that were sure to come and bite him in the ass, that had me rating this book with less than 5 stars. And let's face it, it wasn't as if he was a drug dealer! It just felt kind of weird to me that he felt so embarassed of what he once was. This of course, lead to some misunderstandings in the end, that could so easily be avoided it actually made me angry, but that was only for 10-20 pages and then Marco was such a hottie I eventually forgave him everything.
All in all, a lovely, fun, entertaining, sexy and witty contemporary romance that I highly recommend to all romance fans out there.
*I received this book as an ARC from Netgalley*
May 1, 2011
5 Stars Contemporary Romance
Yowza! What a fantastic piece of romance this turned out to be from one of my favorite contemporary romance authors. Negligee Behavior which is to come out on the 23rd of this month pets and strokes all the right places with the right balance of quirky humor, romance and red-hot passion of the body hair singeing variety and I loved every single moment of Marco and Brandy's journey to happily ever after.
29 year old Marco Vargas co-owns a bar with his friend Sebastian and likes his life the way it is. He definitely never thought that 30 year old Brandy Summers would hijack his motorbike in her crazy wedding attire one hot afternoon in her attempt to get away from her boyfriend Gordon who is hellbent on getting hitched and turn his life completely around.
A feeling of being suffocated and doubts that she should not feel are all that plagues Brandy as she stands beside her boyfriend Gordon in his impulsive attempt to say their I-do's in a rat-infested Elvis chapel in Vegas. A high school choir teacher by profession, Brandy is the sole heiress to the exclusive lingerie chain Sugar and Spice, the fastest growing lingerie chain in North America. Having grown up surrounded by picture-perfect models all her life, Brandy suffers from self-esteem issues and hides behind a facade of frumpy clothing through which Marco sees the beautiful and desirable woman inside even if its the last thing that he wants to see.
Brandy is as taken aback by the heady desire that takes a hold of her whenever she is around Marco who does so much more than just rescue her when shit hits the fan, as is Marco by the possessiveness that streaks right through him when it comes to Brandy. And when Brandy pulls all the stops and gets a sensational makeover with the help of the mouthy and smart-ass bartender Valerie, there is no stopping the tidal wave of desire that explodes between them.
However, both Brandy and Marco have secrets of their own which they keep from one another for their own reasons, not wanting to do anything that would shatter the fragile bond that forms between them as the days pass by. With enough humor in the right places that had me laughing out loud several times earning me the are-you-going-crazy? looks from my husband, I thoroughly enjoyed this delectable contemporary romance which was fun, sweet and heady all at the same time!
I loved the vivid characters that were brought to life right from the very start, rendering each of them to be a vital part of the story. Some of my favorite characters include Valerie the bartender, Sebastian, co-owner of the bar and Brandy's mother whose spunky nature was a real surprise. Marco is such a dreamy and sensationally sexy hero that I found myself sighing each and every single time he calls Brandy "princess" and my heart just sped its beat up a notch whenever his primal instincts came out to play.
Brandy is such an endearing heroine who earned my wholehearted approval right from the very start with her quirky comebacks and sensitive nature at the core. The way she grows and blossoms as the story progresses along was one of the best parts of the story. And as I have been telling Ms. Stevens on Twitter, anyone who reads Negligee Behavior would definitely want to read the story of Sebastian and Marco's younger sister Elena. There is this vibe between them that definitely has the makings of another breathtaking romance which I am definitely looking forward to! *hint, hint*
This one definitely makes it to my "favorites" list of contemporary romances for 2011 and I recommend it to everyone who loves a good contemporary romance with a sexy as sin hero and a heroine who you would most definitely relate to and delivers so much fun that you would wish the story to never ever end.
Original Review posted at:
Yowza! What a fantastic piece of romance this turned out to be from one of my favorite contemporary romance authors. Negligee Behavior which is to come out on the 23rd of this month pets and strokes all the right places with the right balance of quirky humor, romance and red-hot passion of the body hair singeing variety and I loved every single moment of Marco and Brandy's journey to happily ever after.
29 year old Marco Vargas co-owns a bar with his friend Sebastian and likes his life the way it is. He definitely never thought that 30 year old Brandy Summers would hijack his motorbike in her crazy wedding attire one hot afternoon in her attempt to get away from her boyfriend Gordon who is hellbent on getting hitched and turn his life completely around.
A feeling of being suffocated and doubts that she should not feel are all that plagues Brandy as she stands beside her boyfriend Gordon in his impulsive attempt to say their I-do's in a rat-infested Elvis chapel in Vegas. A high school choir teacher by profession, Brandy is the sole heiress to the exclusive lingerie chain Sugar and Spice, the fastest growing lingerie chain in North America. Having grown up surrounded by picture-perfect models all her life, Brandy suffers from self-esteem issues and hides behind a facade of frumpy clothing through which Marco sees the beautiful and desirable woman inside even if its the last thing that he wants to see.
Brandy is as taken aback by the heady desire that takes a hold of her whenever she is around Marco who does so much more than just rescue her when shit hits the fan, as is Marco by the possessiveness that streaks right through him when it comes to Brandy. And when Brandy pulls all the stops and gets a sensational makeover with the help of the mouthy and smart-ass bartender Valerie, there is no stopping the tidal wave of desire that explodes between them.
However, both Brandy and Marco have secrets of their own which they keep from one another for their own reasons, not wanting to do anything that would shatter the fragile bond that forms between them as the days pass by. With enough humor in the right places that had me laughing out loud several times earning me the are-you-going-crazy? looks from my husband, I thoroughly enjoyed this delectable contemporary romance which was fun, sweet and heady all at the same time!
I loved the vivid characters that were brought to life right from the very start, rendering each of them to be a vital part of the story. Some of my favorite characters include Valerie the bartender, Sebastian, co-owner of the bar and Brandy's mother whose spunky nature was a real surprise. Marco is such a dreamy and sensationally sexy hero that I found myself sighing each and every single time he calls Brandy "princess" and my heart just sped its beat up a notch whenever his primal instincts came out to play.
Brandy is such an endearing heroine who earned my wholehearted approval right from the very start with her quirky comebacks and sensitive nature at the core. The way she grows and blossoms as the story progresses along was one of the best parts of the story. And as I have been telling Ms. Stevens on Twitter, anyone who reads Negligee Behavior would definitely want to read the story of Sebastian and Marco's younger sister Elena. There is this vibe between them that definitely has the makings of another breathtaking romance which I am definitely looking forward to! *hint, hint*
This one definitely makes it to my "favorites" list of contemporary romances for 2011 and I recommend it to everyone who loves a good contemporary romance with a sexy as sin hero and a heroine who you would most definitely relate to and delivers so much fun that you would wish the story to never ever end.
Original Review posted at:
June 15, 2011
Rating: 4.5
Quick Take: This book is pure fun, with a great deal of heart and spice. I’d call it chick-lit with a kick. ^_^
Review:
This book just felt so damn good to read. It’s got a vaguely fairy tale vibe to it, insofar as the story involves a chronically frumpy lady who, through a series of unexpected events, blossoms into herself and finds love. Protagonist Brandy Summers is sweet, charming and magnetic, even as she doubts herself and her own attractiveness. I actually bought into the progressive change in her behavior and appearance.
The romance in this tale is at once precious, pure, and steamin�! There was a good balance therein, with both the lighter and saucier elements being alluring. I’m not sure whether it was more fun to watch Brandy and Marco antagonize each other, or flirt. Their scenes together, in any capacity, were certainly a treat.
The plot moves along nicely. The major dilemmas are not over- or underdone, though I did find some of the segments involving the antagonist to be a little bit unnecessary. Every few chapters a scene would pop up, showing how steamin� mad and delusional he is regarding the heroine. It didn’t do much to instill a sense of immediate concern for Brandy; the element was probably included to keep the reader from forgetting about him…and maybe to display his quick decent into crazy-town. Either way, I found it to be the weakest element of the story, perhaps even a bit unnecessary.
I quite enjoyed the tone of the book, which was funny but not slapstick or gimmicky. I found myself chuckling out loud many times. One scene involving a depilatory topical in special no-no places was particularly amusing. ^_^ The setting of Las Vegas, Nevada fits quite well with the notion of the characters reinventing themselves and having a little fun.
I can definitely see myself reading this book again and getting almost as much enjoyment as the first go-round. I definitely recommend it to fans of charmingly humorous contemporary romance; particularly to those readers who don’t mind a sprinkling of frothy chick-lit fun.
Quick Take: This book is pure fun, with a great deal of heart and spice. I’d call it chick-lit with a kick. ^_^
Review:
This book just felt so damn good to read. It’s got a vaguely fairy tale vibe to it, insofar as the story involves a chronically frumpy lady who, through a series of unexpected events, blossoms into herself and finds love. Protagonist Brandy Summers is sweet, charming and magnetic, even as she doubts herself and her own attractiveness. I actually bought into the progressive change in her behavior and appearance.
The romance in this tale is at once precious, pure, and steamin�! There was a good balance therein, with both the lighter and saucier elements being alluring. I’m not sure whether it was more fun to watch Brandy and Marco antagonize each other, or flirt. Their scenes together, in any capacity, were certainly a treat.
The plot moves along nicely. The major dilemmas are not over- or underdone, though I did find some of the segments involving the antagonist to be a little bit unnecessary. Every few chapters a scene would pop up, showing how steamin� mad and delusional he is regarding the heroine. It didn’t do much to instill a sense of immediate concern for Brandy; the element was probably included to keep the reader from forgetting about him…and maybe to display his quick decent into crazy-town. Either way, I found it to be the weakest element of the story, perhaps even a bit unnecessary.
I quite enjoyed the tone of the book, which was funny but not slapstick or gimmicky. I found myself chuckling out loud many times. One scene involving a depilatory topical in special no-no places was particularly amusing. ^_^ The setting of Las Vegas, Nevada fits quite well with the notion of the characters reinventing themselves and having a little fun.
I can definitely see myself reading this book again and getting almost as much enjoyment as the first go-round. I definitely recommend it to fans of charmingly humorous contemporary romance; particularly to those readers who don’t mind a sprinkling of frothy chick-lit fun.
May 31, 2011
When lingerie heiress Brandy Summers ends up at the altar in Vegas with her boyfriend Gordon, she get cold feet and runs out of the chapel. While Marko Vargas is sitting at an intersection red light a crazed chick jumps on his bike and tells him to go.
Brandy ends up staying with Marco to avoid the spotlight and he feels that he can’t just dump her anywhere. She soon ends up bartending for him at Dante’s, a bar Marco owns.
Going into this book I wasn’t expecting much so it was to my surprise that I ended up really enjoying it. I loved Brandy she is totally not the clichéd heiress type and spent a life time trying not to be. She’s not your normal spiffed up heroine either she lacking big time in the style department. While Marco is the typical alpha hero I loved him just as much, super hot, sexy, and at times totally sweet too.
I also really liked the secondary characters too, Sebastian and Val. I hope they both get their own story as I feel it would be a joy to read.
4½ Stars!
I received this ARC copy via netgalley , and this has no impact over my rating.
May 13, 2011
This was a lovely, sweet read, provided to me by netgalley. The writing is good, the characters are nice people, but I just felt like there was something missing for me.
What I liked about this one
- The old heiress-meets-a-bit-of-rough plot is twisted a little bit, with the hero keeping his own dark secrets. So the description of the biker bit is a tad misleading, maybe.
- The heiress represents more the type of person I actually imagine heiresses generally are (i.e. relatively normal-looking, normal-behaving people). I really appreciated this. There's nothing worse than picking up a contemporary romance with heiress/businesswoman/lawyer as heroine, to find that she doesn't represent anything approaching reality.
- I kinda liked that the heroine started out dressed like a grandma, and then actually goes a bit to the other extreme, dressing a bit more like a tramp. I don't know - it's more like people actually do when they taste freedom and over-indulge.
- Some of the writing is really quite funny - that horrible rash you get from eyebrow waxing, and trying to do a sexy dance only to half-knock your boyfriends teeth out - these are the realities of romance for normal people...
- The hot underwear - frankly there isn't enough sexy underwear in romance IMO, and not the icky, sleezy, PVC-type stuff either. As someone totally addicted to gorgeous undies myself, I liked that the heroine wore some really serious stuff, not just $5.99 packs-of-five white cotton from Target.
What I didn't like so much
- We never really find out what the heroine has against her parents or their success. I mean, she clearly loves the freebies, but her attitude strikes me as rather ambivalent, and so I couldn't understand why she wouldn't want to let her parents know that, at least, she was OK, even if she didn't want to let them where she was.
- I had the same problem with the hero's estrangement from his family. I mean, to not speak with your family for two years is a pretty big thing, but they seemed to resolve it so quickly (after a quickie trips to the shops no less), and with so little discussion.. well, it all felt a bit like we'd been cheated. The secrets the hero and heroine kept from each other are a huge part of the plot, but were wrapped up far too easily.
So, 3 stars, I liked it. Nice sweet, romance.
What I liked about this one
- The old heiress-meets-a-bit-of-rough plot is twisted a little bit, with the hero keeping his own dark secrets. So the description of the biker bit is a tad misleading, maybe.
- The heiress represents more the type of person I actually imagine heiresses generally are (i.e. relatively normal-looking, normal-behaving people). I really appreciated this. There's nothing worse than picking up a contemporary romance with heiress/businesswoman/lawyer as heroine, to find that she doesn't represent anything approaching reality.
- I kinda liked that the heroine started out dressed like a grandma, and then actually goes a bit to the other extreme, dressing a bit more like a tramp. I don't know - it's more like people actually do when they taste freedom and over-indulge.
- Some of the writing is really quite funny - that horrible rash you get from eyebrow waxing, and trying to do a sexy dance only to half-knock your boyfriends teeth out - these are the realities of romance for normal people...
- The hot underwear - frankly there isn't enough sexy underwear in romance IMO, and not the icky, sleezy, PVC-type stuff either. As someone totally addicted to gorgeous undies myself, I liked that the heroine wore some really serious stuff, not just $5.99 packs-of-five white cotton from Target.
What I didn't like so much
- We never really find out what the heroine has against her parents or their success. I mean, she clearly loves the freebies, but her attitude strikes me as rather ambivalent, and so I couldn't understand why she wouldn't want to let her parents know that, at least, she was OK, even if she didn't want to let them where she was.
- I had the same problem with the hero's estrangement from his family. I mean, to not speak with your family for two years is a pretty big thing, but they seemed to resolve it so quickly (after a quickie trips to the shops no less), and with so little discussion.. well, it all felt a bit like we'd been cheated. The secrets the hero and heroine kept from each other are a huge part of the plot, but were wrapped up far too easily.
So, 3 stars, I liked it. Nice sweet, romance.
May 20, 2011
Review originally posted here:
Publisher: Carina Press
Publish Date: May 23rd
How I got this book: NetGalley
I really loved this newest Carina Press release by Stevens. It reminded me so much of the fabulous Kowalski Series books by Carina’s great Shannon Stacey. It was fun, light, engaging, and sexy.
Brandy is the heiress to the fastest growing lingerie line in the states, but unlike most heiresses, she doesn’t like the spotlight, the paparazzi, or anything other than teaching high school choir. When she makes the first real impulsive decision to marry her boyfriend in Vegas, she freaks and runs out on her own wedding, onto the back of Marco’s bike.
Marco left his high powered life to run a bar in Vegas, and when Brandy hops onto the back of his bike in a horrible wedding dress, he is thrown for a crazy loop. Never one to leave a damsel in distress, Marco gives her a job at his bar, a place to sleep, and a chance to think her life through. When the two start heating up left and right, will they both be able to overcome their pasts to have a shot at a future?
Stevens does an amazing job of showcasing two incredible main characters. I absolutely loved that Brandy was this shy and quiet and reserved teacher who didn’t let the fame and money of her parents rule her life. Watching her journey from the shy school teacher to the confident and sexy bar waitress was so great, believable and fun. Some of the plot line regarding Brandy’s ex boyfriend Gordon wasn’t my favorite part of the story, but I did enjoy the way it all wrapped up so nicely in the end.
Marco was also such a great character. Although he was incredibly conflicted with his career prior to owning the bar, and living with the guilt and stress of his past decisions, he is still this really Alpha type man. He knew what he wanted, wasn’t afraid to go after it, but still chivalrous with Prince Charming like qualities. Watching his relationship with his other employees and little sister just reinforced his awesomeness.
I also enjoyed watching their relationship progress. They didn’t jump into the sack right away, nor did their love affair come out of thin air. Instead, there was this slow and smoldering build up of sexual tension that led to some super hot love scenes. Even their insecurities about each other and their relationship felt real.
The secondary characters, mainly Sebastian (Marco’s co-owner of the bar) and Val (the other waitress) were so great. They were both well developed characters, and added so much to the story. I hope that Stevens continues to write books in her world, I would love to know more about these friends.
All in all, I think that Stevens might have become one of my favorite contemporary romance authors. This read was fun, fast paced, light hearted, sexy and a great summer read to add to any romance lovers TBR pile!
I give Negligee Behavior a B+
Publisher: Carina Press
Publish Date: May 23rd
How I got this book: NetGalley
I really loved this newest Carina Press release by Stevens. It reminded me so much of the fabulous Kowalski Series books by Carina’s great Shannon Stacey. It was fun, light, engaging, and sexy.
Brandy is the heiress to the fastest growing lingerie line in the states, but unlike most heiresses, she doesn’t like the spotlight, the paparazzi, or anything other than teaching high school choir. When she makes the first real impulsive decision to marry her boyfriend in Vegas, she freaks and runs out on her own wedding, onto the back of Marco’s bike.
Marco left his high powered life to run a bar in Vegas, and when Brandy hops onto the back of his bike in a horrible wedding dress, he is thrown for a crazy loop. Never one to leave a damsel in distress, Marco gives her a job at his bar, a place to sleep, and a chance to think her life through. When the two start heating up left and right, will they both be able to overcome their pasts to have a shot at a future?
Stevens does an amazing job of showcasing two incredible main characters. I absolutely loved that Brandy was this shy and quiet and reserved teacher who didn’t let the fame and money of her parents rule her life. Watching her journey from the shy school teacher to the confident and sexy bar waitress was so great, believable and fun. Some of the plot line regarding Brandy’s ex boyfriend Gordon wasn’t my favorite part of the story, but I did enjoy the way it all wrapped up so nicely in the end.
Marco was also such a great character. Although he was incredibly conflicted with his career prior to owning the bar, and living with the guilt and stress of his past decisions, he is still this really Alpha type man. He knew what he wanted, wasn’t afraid to go after it, but still chivalrous with Prince Charming like qualities. Watching his relationship with his other employees and little sister just reinforced his awesomeness.
I also enjoyed watching their relationship progress. They didn’t jump into the sack right away, nor did their love affair come out of thin air. Instead, there was this slow and smoldering build up of sexual tension that led to some super hot love scenes. Even their insecurities about each other and their relationship felt real.
The secondary characters, mainly Sebastian (Marco’s co-owner of the bar) and Val (the other waitress) were so great. They were both well developed characters, and added so much to the story. I hope that Stevens continues to write books in her world, I would love to know more about these friends.
All in all, I think that Stevens might have become one of my favorite contemporary romance authors. This read was fun, fast paced, light hearted, sexy and a great summer read to add to any romance lovers TBR pile!
I give Negligee Behavior a B+
July 5, 2011
As Brandy Summers stands at the alter for a quickie wedding, every instinct in her is telling her to run. Sprinting as fast as she can she finds herself on the back of a motorcycle with a handsome hunk she is telling to make a run for it.
Marco Varga is not sure what part of his brain shorted out when the bride to be hijacks his motorcycle, but he decides to cart her off to safety, and than a drink, dinner, and some how ends up falling for the quirky woman who he has yet to realize is a lingerie heiress.
I wasn't sure about this one, but I like Shelli Stevens a lot. THis was hilarious, romantic, and better than chocolate. Well maybe not better but a close second. Brandy is just finding herself and her road is rocky, but Marco is there to help pick up some of the slack. A winner.
Marco Varga is not sure what part of his brain shorted out when the bride to be hijacks his motorcycle, but he decides to cart her off to safety, and than a drink, dinner, and some how ends up falling for the quirky woman who he has yet to realize is a lingerie heiress.
I wasn't sure about this one, but I like Shelli Stevens a lot. THis was hilarious, romantic, and better than chocolate. Well maybe not better but a close second. Brandy is just finding herself and her road is rocky, but Marco is there to help pick up some of the slack. A winner.
Shelved as 'not-interested-anymore'
August 21, 2018I read somewhere that this book isn't one of those insta lust romance where the Hero immediately fell for her tits. So I was excited to read this one but it was a huge LIE. To say I'm pissed that I wasted my time on this is an understatement.
June 17, 2011
Brandy Summers heir to the Sugar and Spice Lingerie company owned by her parents doesn’t want to be labelled like “those other famous heiresses� so she kinda takes it to the extreme and goes in the complete opposite direction. The private school choir teacher doesn’t like to bring any attention to herself including staying out of the limelight and downplaying her physical attributes.
I know Brandy’s got a bit of a self-esteem problem, but I sure didn’t get how she dated her reality show, dentist boyfriend Gordon for a year and yet let herself get bamboozled into agreeing to marry a man she obviously didn’t love after spending three hours in Vegas with him. Yet here she is in a cheesy Las Vegas Wedding chapel, having a quickie ceremony, in a second-hand dress with “more ruffles than a bag of chips� performed by a greasy Elvis impersonator.
Before the “I Do’s� are dun dun dun, she exits stage left and hops on the back of a hot, tattooed motorcycle Mr. Took some balls for Brandy to hang on for dear life and vanish with this stranger into the night on his crotch rocket but the ride of her life is just getting started.
Maaarco Poooolo...oops I mean Vargas is not quite sure what to make of the brazen hussy who hi-jacked him and his bike and before he even knows what’s hit him, she’s living in his house, sleeping in his bed and working as a waitress at the bar he co-owns with Sebastian the Brit (loved him!).
I enjoyed the time Brandy with Marco, Sebastian and Val in the bar setting. Loved Val and how she worked her magic to transform Brandy from an innocent little choir teacher to a va-va-va-voom barmaid. She made Brandy ditch...errr burn her puffy cat shirt and trade in her floor length skirt for a tank top and short leather mini. You could just see Brandy’s confidence grow and blossom both mentally and physically the more time she spent with her new friends...and the best part was they had no idea who she really was.
I can understand why Brandy wanted to keep her true identity a secret. It was important for people to like and respect her for who she was and not who her parents were or how much they were worth. Marco the macho man wasn’t too happy about Brandy keeping secrets about her true identity but Pot? Meet Kettle because Marco was keeping a few secrets of his own about his past. Turns out the bad-ass bar owner was a relatively new persona for Marco. I’m glad we got to see Marco interact and mend fences with his younger sister and dad.
I really did not enjoy the evil fiancé, skeezie Gordon *twirls his Snidely Whiplash moustache* and his dastardly plan to marry the lingerie heiress, gain control of her money (or her parents money) to get himself out of hot water with his bookies. This dude was so out of touch with reality because no way, no how was Brandy ever gonna make another trip down the isle with him.
Did I mention the smooth talkin� Brit Sebastian? Well I really liked him and I an so glad Ms. Stevens is giving him his own story and his own HEA. Can’t wait mate!
Light and fun. Great summer time read.
I know Brandy’s got a bit of a self-esteem problem, but I sure didn’t get how she dated her reality show, dentist boyfriend Gordon for a year and yet let herself get bamboozled into agreeing to marry a man she obviously didn’t love after spending three hours in Vegas with him. Yet here she is in a cheesy Las Vegas Wedding chapel, having a quickie ceremony, in a second-hand dress with “more ruffles than a bag of chips� performed by a greasy Elvis impersonator.
Before the “I Do’s� are dun dun dun, she exits stage left and hops on the back of a hot, tattooed motorcycle Mr. Took some balls for Brandy to hang on for dear life and vanish with this stranger into the night on his crotch rocket but the ride of her life is just getting started.
Maaarco Poooolo...oops I mean Vargas is not quite sure what to make of the brazen hussy who hi-jacked him and his bike and before he even knows what’s hit him, she’s living in his house, sleeping in his bed and working as a waitress at the bar he co-owns with Sebastian the Brit (loved him!).
I enjoyed the time Brandy with Marco, Sebastian and Val in the bar setting. Loved Val and how she worked her magic to transform Brandy from an innocent little choir teacher to a va-va-va-voom barmaid. She made Brandy ditch...errr burn her puffy cat shirt and trade in her floor length skirt for a tank top and short leather mini. You could just see Brandy’s confidence grow and blossom both mentally and physically the more time she spent with her new friends...and the best part was they had no idea who she really was.
I can understand why Brandy wanted to keep her true identity a secret. It was important for people to like and respect her for who she was and not who her parents were or how much they were worth. Marco the macho man wasn’t too happy about Brandy keeping secrets about her true identity but Pot? Meet Kettle because Marco was keeping a few secrets of his own about his past. Turns out the bad-ass bar owner was a relatively new persona for Marco. I’m glad we got to see Marco interact and mend fences with his younger sister and dad.
I really did not enjoy the evil fiancé, skeezie Gordon *twirls his Snidely Whiplash moustache* and his dastardly plan to marry the lingerie heiress, gain control of her money (or her parents money) to get himself out of hot water with his bookies. This dude was so out of touch with reality because no way, no how was Brandy ever gonna make another trip down the isle with him.
Did I mention the smooth talkin� Brit Sebastian? Well I really liked him and I an so glad Ms. Stevens is giving him his own story and his own HEA. Can’t wait mate!
Light and fun. Great summer time read.
July 14, 2011
I loved the premise of this book. Not only does Brandy run out on her wedding, but she jumps on the back of a motorcycle and is whisked away into a new world. A quick make-over and a new job and suddenly sparks fly and they fall in love. I could almost call it a classic! Throw in some great humor and steamy sex and you have the perfect contemporary romance.
Brandy turned out to be one of my favorite characters. She's strong enough to know what she wants but she also has moments of weakness when she's unsure of herself and to me, that makes her very relatable. She's also very funny (I was laughing through much of the book) and had a slight ugly-duckling syndrome due to her attempts to separate herself from the family business. But of course, a make-over is inevitable and the siren that lives within her comes blazing forward. That's when the heat really kicks up!
Marco was a great hero. He had his moments where he was a complete jerk, but those moments moved the story along and were short-lived. His attraction to Brandy is almost instant, happening well before her make-over. This was a key element for me because I'm not a fan of the hero falling in love with the heroine only after he realizes she looks hot. And of course, I loved his reaction to her make-over (it's not what you might expect) and the follow-up scene (it's exactly what you might expect).
I loved the side characters, too. Brandy's mother, Marco's sister, his business partner, their employee. They were all fun characters, well written and important elements in the story-line. I would like to read more about them in future novels, but I'm not sure if the author is planning more books for them.
Of course, there's a reason Brandy ran out on her wedding and it wasn't just cold feet. And although the story centers around this event, Marco isn't without his secrets, either. The suspense isn't a large element in the story, but it's well written, weaved throughout the story, and everything comes to a head at just the right moment. It definitely kept the story moving along at a good pace and kept me interested.
You can read my full review here:
Brandy turned out to be one of my favorite characters. She's strong enough to know what she wants but she also has moments of weakness when she's unsure of herself and to me, that makes her very relatable. She's also very funny (I was laughing through much of the book) and had a slight ugly-duckling syndrome due to her attempts to separate herself from the family business. But of course, a make-over is inevitable and the siren that lives within her comes blazing forward. That's when the heat really kicks up!
Marco was a great hero. He had his moments where he was a complete jerk, but those moments moved the story along and were short-lived. His attraction to Brandy is almost instant, happening well before her make-over. This was a key element for me because I'm not a fan of the hero falling in love with the heroine only after he realizes she looks hot. And of course, I loved his reaction to her make-over (it's not what you might expect) and the follow-up scene (it's exactly what you might expect).
I loved the side characters, too. Brandy's mother, Marco's sister, his business partner, their employee. They were all fun characters, well written and important elements in the story-line. I would like to read more about them in future novels, but I'm not sure if the author is planning more books for them.
Of course, there's a reason Brandy ran out on her wedding and it wasn't just cold feet. And although the story centers around this event, Marco isn't without his secrets, either. The suspense isn't a large element in the story, but it's well written, weaved throughout the story, and everything comes to a head at just the right moment. It definitely kept the story moving along at a good pace and kept me interested.
You can read my full review here:
July 2, 2011
Negligee behavior was a quick entertaining read. Brandy is the heiress of her family's huge lingerie line. But she is possibly the farthest from that image being a school choir teacher and wearing t-shirt with cats on them. She is in Vegas with her boyfriend when suddenly he wants to get married and right away! She agrees but she ends up running out on the wedding for a variety of different reasons. To escape her would be groom she highjacks a motorcycle with the driver still on it. Marco was just waiting at a red light when all of a sudden a big puffy cloud jumps on the back of his bike. He reluctantly agrees to take her away and with that one simple act these two are bonded.
Brandy is lost and doesn't know what she wants to do, she likes Marco but believes that he could never be attracted to her. Marco is short staffed at his bar and Brandy gets the job. Brandy is hiding he she is towards Marco and her new friends, she doesn't want to be judged for what her parents have done, but she knows she will eventually have to tell Marco. Marco is also hiding a past that he isn't proud of and he avoids questions that will lead to him revealing that. He already can't resist her and when Brandy starts making some changes Marco might have to make some changes about his future with her too. But both of them are unaware that Brandy's ex-fiancee is still looking for her, and he needs to find her and will do anything to get her down the aisle.
I really enjoyed this book it was a lot of fun. I liked how Brandy grew confidence with herself throughout the book and Marco was a big part of that. Brandy was a great character who had a lot of layers. We slowly start to see the reasons for why she dresses and acted the way she did and they aren't because that is her natural style. Marco was also great, he was strong and funny and you could see that he cared for Brandy a lot even when he didn't know how much. His past was sad and you could definitely tell how that would taint his future, but with Brandy's help he was able to heal some old wounds. For such a short book this story was very well rounded. I will definitely read more by this author!
Brandy is lost and doesn't know what she wants to do, she likes Marco but believes that he could never be attracted to her. Marco is short staffed at his bar and Brandy gets the job. Brandy is hiding he she is towards Marco and her new friends, she doesn't want to be judged for what her parents have done, but she knows she will eventually have to tell Marco. Marco is also hiding a past that he isn't proud of and he avoids questions that will lead to him revealing that. He already can't resist her and when Brandy starts making some changes Marco might have to make some changes about his future with her too. But both of them are unaware that Brandy's ex-fiancee is still looking for her, and he needs to find her and will do anything to get her down the aisle.
I really enjoyed this book it was a lot of fun. I liked how Brandy grew confidence with herself throughout the book and Marco was a big part of that. Brandy was a great character who had a lot of layers. We slowly start to see the reasons for why she dresses and acted the way she did and they aren't because that is her natural style. Marco was also great, he was strong and funny and you could see that he cared for Brandy a lot even when he didn't know how much. His past was sad and you could definitely tell how that would taint his future, but with Brandy's help he was able to heal some old wounds. For such a short book this story was very well rounded. I will definitely read more by this author!
April 23, 2011
This book was provided to me by NetGalley
Brandy is the not-so-stick-thin heiress to one of America's largest lingerie chains. She's involved in a lukewarm relationship with her reality t.v show dentist boyfriend, Gordon and tried to lead a somewhat normal life by teaching high school choir. Brandy has no idea that her boyfriend has quite the gambling problem and finds herself in an awkward situation when he insists they marry at a dive chapel in Sin City. Suddenly things start to click, Brandy flees the chapel and hops on the back of a motorcycle with hottie Marco Vargas.
Marco owns a local bar in the city and is seeking refuge from a past that he'd like to leave behind. He's content in his life with not too much excitement. When Brandy hops on the back of his bike, his life immediately picks up the pace.
I enjoyed this story for the most part. I LOVED Marco's character and I thought the author did a fantastic job creating him and the tension between he and Brandy. Their sex scenes were steamy and I found myself really wanting a HEA for them and truly caring about them as a couple. There were some moments in this story that were pretty big in the "cheese factor" and a lot of it was predictable. Also, at times, I thought there was just too much dialog that really didn't add anything to the story, this definitely had me skimming through some parts.
Overall this was enjoyable, but mostly because I liked the character of Marco!! Three stars!
Brandy is the not-so-stick-thin heiress to one of America's largest lingerie chains. She's involved in a lukewarm relationship with her reality t.v show dentist boyfriend, Gordon and tried to lead a somewhat normal life by teaching high school choir. Brandy has no idea that her boyfriend has quite the gambling problem and finds herself in an awkward situation when he insists they marry at a dive chapel in Sin City. Suddenly things start to click, Brandy flees the chapel and hops on the back of a motorcycle with hottie Marco Vargas.
Marco owns a local bar in the city and is seeking refuge from a past that he'd like to leave behind. He's content in his life with not too much excitement. When Brandy hops on the back of his bike, his life immediately picks up the pace.
I enjoyed this story for the most part. I LOVED Marco's character and I thought the author did a fantastic job creating him and the tension between he and Brandy. Their sex scenes were steamy and I found myself really wanting a HEA for them and truly caring about them as a couple. There were some moments in this story that were pretty big in the "cheese factor" and a lot of it was predictable. Also, at times, I thought there was just too much dialog that really didn't add anything to the story, this definitely had me skimming through some parts.
Overall this was enjoyable, but mostly because I liked the character of Marco!! Three stars!
May 5, 2011
How many of you ladies married that safe, boring man and sometimes just look at him as he is watching television and think, "what if...?"
What if you had walked out of your own wedding and jumped on the back of some sexy bad boy's motorcycle and rode away with him?
For the full review and some funny quotes, please click on the link:
What if you had walked out of your own wedding and jumped on the back of some sexy bad boy's motorcycle and rode away with him?
For the full review and some funny quotes, please click on the link:
August 6, 2023
A Delightfully Steamy and Actually Funny(!) Rom-Com
I absolutely adore romantic comedies, but far too often, those billed as such have little humor � or cannot sustain the humor for long. This book had me smiling and chuckling from the very first pages. I love the heroine's reaction to her circumstances when she finds herself in a seedy Las Vegas wedding chapel after having agreed to a spur-of-the-moment proposal by her long-term boyfriend. But she knows something is off and becomes the runaway bride promised in the subtitle of this book. Thankfully, the chuckles keep coming throughout the book, but this does have a bit more of a serious edge as the book goes on. The hero, a hottie Latino protector type, has a secret, and there's certainly something darker in the jilted bridegroom’s past and present. Here’s my favorite quote from the book, as the heroine compares her new ex (Gordon) to the hero (Marco): “But Marco? He was like a decadent chocolate truffle. Something sinful, but oh so worth it. She’d never looked at Gordon that way. Then again Gordon wasn’t really the type to inspire such sinful thoughts. He was more like the granola bar you ate to help you stay regular.� If you enjoy rom-coms that actually have more than a touch of humor while having something a bit more sinister at play in the background, you will probably enjoy this delightful novel as much as I did.
I received a free digital copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
I absolutely adore romantic comedies, but far too often, those billed as such have little humor � or cannot sustain the humor for long. This book had me smiling and chuckling from the very first pages. I love the heroine's reaction to her circumstances when she finds herself in a seedy Las Vegas wedding chapel after having agreed to a spur-of-the-moment proposal by her long-term boyfriend. But she knows something is off and becomes the runaway bride promised in the subtitle of this book. Thankfully, the chuckles keep coming throughout the book, but this does have a bit more of a serious edge as the book goes on. The hero, a hottie Latino protector type, has a secret, and there's certainly something darker in the jilted bridegroom’s past and present. Here’s my favorite quote from the book, as the heroine compares her new ex (Gordon) to the hero (Marco): “But Marco? He was like a decadent chocolate truffle. Something sinful, but oh so worth it. She’d never looked at Gordon that way. Then again Gordon wasn’t really the type to inspire such sinful thoughts. He was more like the granola bar you ate to help you stay regular.� If you enjoy rom-coms that actually have more than a touch of humor while having something a bit more sinister at play in the background, you will probably enjoy this delightful novel as much as I did.
I received a free digital copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
April 2, 2023
Oh I loved Marco and Brandy' book!
Brandy is the runaway bride and jumps onto the nearest motorcycle to get away.
Marco is surprised to have a bride in a big wedding dress on his bike.
Marco has no idea what to do with bride but learns she had nowhere to go, so he takes her home.
Marco takes Brandy to work at his bar and finds she is smart and sexy. Brandy has some great ideas to help the bar.
Brandy is hiding things but realizes walking out on Gordon was the smartest thing.
Brandy makes some changes and becomes a beautiful women.
Marco comes to Brandy rescue when she is kidnapped by her ex, but Marco will do everything to find Brandy.
Brandy is the runaway bride and jumps onto the nearest motorcycle to get away.
Marco is surprised to have a bride in a big wedding dress on his bike.
Marco has no idea what to do with bride but learns she had nowhere to go, so he takes her home.
Marco takes Brandy to work at his bar and finds she is smart and sexy. Brandy has some great ideas to help the bar.
Brandy is hiding things but realizes walking out on Gordon was the smartest thing.
Brandy makes some changes and becomes a beautiful women.
Marco comes to Brandy rescue when she is kidnapped by her ex, but Marco will do everything to find Brandy.
April 3, 2023
Brandy Summers leaps on the back of Marco Vargas� motorcycle to escape a spur-of-the-moment wedding she wasn’t sure she wanted. Marco isn’t sure what to make of the intriguing music teacher whose conservative outfits and awkward innocence entice him more than he wants to admit. And Brandy has quite the urge to take a walk on the wilder side.
Shelli Stevens’s Negligee Behavior is an entertaining and delicious read. Marco and Brandy’s chemistry is undeniable, and their friends and family are well written and hilarious.
A terrific low angst contemporary with a hint of suspense.
Shelli Stevens’s Negligee Behavior is an entertaining and delicious read. Marco and Brandy’s chemistry is undeniable, and their friends and family are well written and hilarious.
A terrific low angst contemporary with a hint of suspense.
July 28, 2023
This was such a fun, enjoyable romance read. Full of laughs and chemistry between our main characters were fabulous. This is Brandy and Marco's journey...well written with a smooth and easy to follow storyline that is captivating from start to finish. A great balance of romance and humor. I can't wait for more!
I received a free copy of this book via BookSprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via BookSprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 5, 2019
Cute Story
The story had a similar theme but the author did a great job pulling you into the characters personalities and the twists that the couple had to encounter. The Audible narration helped in vision the characters better as I read along with the narration.
Great book to read in an afternoon.
The story had a similar theme but the author did a great job pulling you into the characters personalities and the twists that the couple had to encounter. The Audible narration helped in vision the characters better as I read along with the narration.
Great book to read in an afternoon.
March 27, 2023
Shelli Stevens can be counted on for great stories! I always find myself loving her characters and the only problem is that the books come to an end when you are enjoying the story so much you aren’t ready to be done! The perfect amount of steam and heat intermixed with wit and humor! Definitely on my favorite authors list and she never disappoints! Highly recommend!
August 19, 2023
Marco and Brandy have such a fun interesting meet cute. I love their story. A no frills choir teacher and a bartender connecting instantly. I love Sebastian and Val and Elena. Brandy's parents are great. Gordon is a jerk. I love the chemistry, the banter, the heat and the suspense.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 16, 2023
Negligee Behavior by Shelli Stevens was such a fun romance. Brandy and Marco were the complete opposites but in the end they were perfect for each other. Funny dialogue. Some hot sexiness. Great side characters. Just a fabulous romance. A very HFN ending. Kudos!
August 7, 2023
Shelli Stevens has created characters that are as endearing as they are entertaining. The story line was engaging and kept me reading in one sitting. I look forward to my next adventure with this author.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2023
It was a nice and funny romance full of amusing as well as more profound moments. It really drew me in and kept me super entertained.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2025
Progress
I have read every book that Shellie Stevens has written. This is a cute book and I thought back to some of her earlier work, which was riveting and just hooked you from page one and this book did not do it but it’s a work in progress.
I have read every book that Shellie Stevens has written. This is a cute book and I thought back to some of her earlier work, which was riveting and just hooked you from page one and this book did not do it but it’s a work in progress.
December 8, 2017
Negligee Behavior review
Negligee Behavior is a sweet and funny romantic comedy written by author Shelli Stevens. It's a different take on the runaway bride theme.
Negligee Behavior is a sweet and funny romantic comedy written by author Shelli Stevens. It's a different take on the runaway bride theme.
July 28, 2022
3.8 stars
May 11, 2023
Love this author so much! Her quick wit keeps me interested and invested the whole way through! Read it!
April 22, 2025
Vegas love
Everyone loves a good love story. This was a quick and easy read. Always routing for the couple to make it.
Everyone loves a good love story. This was a quick and easy read. Always routing for the couple to make it.
January 29, 2012
I reviewed this for TwoLips Reviews - rated 4.5 Lips
An impromptu proposal from her boyfriend Gordon leads Lingerie Heiress, Brandy Summers, to The Hunk-A-Hunk-A Burning Love Chapel in Vegas. Realizing she’s not in love, Brandy makes a run for it and hijacks the first transportation she can find—a hunky biker waiting for a red light. Good thing too—Brandy’s instincts are right and Gordon’s only after her money—he needs to pay off his bookie and she’s his ticket to the good life.
When Marco Vargas rescues Brandy, he doesn’t know what he’s getting into; he just wants to do the right thing. Then he finds himself offering her a job in his bar and a roof over her head while she sorts out her problems. Hiding Brandy is easier than keeping his hands off her; what will he do when she finds out he has secrets of his own?
Negligee Behavior by Shelli Stevens is a fun, super hot romance about an “ugly duckling� that discovers her inner swan. The characters are loveable and the dialogue is sharp, funny, and occasionally snarky. The “villain� is slimy and just right for this story—some of his scenes are downright hilarious.
Like a lot of young women, Brandy Summers has spent her life comparing herself to the models she sees on runways and magazines. But things are worse for her because she’s the “Lingerie Heiress�; her parents own Sugar and Spice, the country’s most successful lingerie chain. So Brandy became a choir teacher. Accompanying her boyfriend on his “business� trip to Vegas and accepting his impromptu proposal wasn’t what she had planned but knowing she’ll turn thirty in a week has Brandy panicking about being alone in the future. Facing the fake Elvis preacher though throws her into a full panic attack and making a run for it; Brandy realizes she can’t marry a man she’s not even attracted to. She wasn’t planning on falling for the biker who came to her rescue.
Marco Vargas is a former lawyer turned bar owner. Doing the right thing is in his blood. Picking up a strange woman fleeing in a wedding dress was not what he had planned for the day but he just couldn’t say no. Marco doesn’t know what it is about her but he just can’t stop himself from helping this damsel in distress, after driving her around Vegas and watching her get drunk, he takes her home and offers her a job in his bar. He never planned on falling for a choir teacher or on having to come face to face with the secrets of his past.
The scenes between Brandy and Marco are fantastic; they have great verbal and physical chemistry. The sexual tension between them is off the charts hot! Brandy’s insecurity is addressed is challenged in several scenes and I liked how Ms. Stevens developed her character and self assurance throughout the book. I also liked how Marco was forced to face his past and make peace with the decisions he’d made. An interesting aspect of the book is how both Brandy and Marco have self dialogue—their unspoken dialogue, which was quite amusing and occasionally snarky.
The secondary characters in the story were a lot of fun. I especially liked Sebastian, Marco’s partner, who’s going through a hard divorce but has a yummy British accent and is easy on the eyes. Another great secondary character is Val, the waitress in Marco and Sebastian’s bar, who’s feisty, outspoken, sexy, and incredibly self- assured. She becomes Brandy’s best friend and “wardrobe� mentor throughout the story. The “villain� of the story is Gordon, Brandy’s boyfriend who soon becomes her ex. He’s a somewhat larger than life character whose desperation for money pretty much drives him insane; his inner dialogue is funny and quite snarky. We also get to meet Marco’s family, his father and sister, Elena, who I hope we get to see in a story of her own.
The end of the story is a wild ride with a kidnapping, a shoot-out, and several arrests. When the dust finally settles, all of the secrets have been revealed. Will Brandy go back to being a choir teacher or will she finally embrace her destiny as the “Lingerie Heiress� with Marco at her side? You’ll have to read Negligee Behavior to find out.
An impromptu proposal from her boyfriend Gordon leads Lingerie Heiress, Brandy Summers, to The Hunk-A-Hunk-A Burning Love Chapel in Vegas. Realizing she’s not in love, Brandy makes a run for it and hijacks the first transportation she can find—a hunky biker waiting for a red light. Good thing too—Brandy’s instincts are right and Gordon’s only after her money—he needs to pay off his bookie and she’s his ticket to the good life.
When Marco Vargas rescues Brandy, he doesn’t know what he’s getting into; he just wants to do the right thing. Then he finds himself offering her a job in his bar and a roof over her head while she sorts out her problems. Hiding Brandy is easier than keeping his hands off her; what will he do when she finds out he has secrets of his own?
Negligee Behavior by Shelli Stevens is a fun, super hot romance about an “ugly duckling� that discovers her inner swan. The characters are loveable and the dialogue is sharp, funny, and occasionally snarky. The “villain� is slimy and just right for this story—some of his scenes are downright hilarious.
Like a lot of young women, Brandy Summers has spent her life comparing herself to the models she sees on runways and magazines. But things are worse for her because she’s the “Lingerie Heiress�; her parents own Sugar and Spice, the country’s most successful lingerie chain. So Brandy became a choir teacher. Accompanying her boyfriend on his “business� trip to Vegas and accepting his impromptu proposal wasn’t what she had planned but knowing she’ll turn thirty in a week has Brandy panicking about being alone in the future. Facing the fake Elvis preacher though throws her into a full panic attack and making a run for it; Brandy realizes she can’t marry a man she’s not even attracted to. She wasn’t planning on falling for the biker who came to her rescue.
Marco Vargas is a former lawyer turned bar owner. Doing the right thing is in his blood. Picking up a strange woman fleeing in a wedding dress was not what he had planned for the day but he just couldn’t say no. Marco doesn’t know what it is about her but he just can’t stop himself from helping this damsel in distress, after driving her around Vegas and watching her get drunk, he takes her home and offers her a job in his bar. He never planned on falling for a choir teacher or on having to come face to face with the secrets of his past.
The scenes between Brandy and Marco are fantastic; they have great verbal and physical chemistry. The sexual tension between them is off the charts hot! Brandy’s insecurity is addressed is challenged in several scenes and I liked how Ms. Stevens developed her character and self assurance throughout the book. I also liked how Marco was forced to face his past and make peace with the decisions he’d made. An interesting aspect of the book is how both Brandy and Marco have self dialogue—their unspoken dialogue, which was quite amusing and occasionally snarky.
The secondary characters in the story were a lot of fun. I especially liked Sebastian, Marco’s partner, who’s going through a hard divorce but has a yummy British accent and is easy on the eyes. Another great secondary character is Val, the waitress in Marco and Sebastian’s bar, who’s feisty, outspoken, sexy, and incredibly self- assured. She becomes Brandy’s best friend and “wardrobe� mentor throughout the story. The “villain� of the story is Gordon, Brandy’s boyfriend who soon becomes her ex. He’s a somewhat larger than life character whose desperation for money pretty much drives him insane; his inner dialogue is funny and quite snarky. We also get to meet Marco’s family, his father and sister, Elena, who I hope we get to see in a story of her own.
The end of the story is a wild ride with a kidnapping, a shoot-out, and several arrests. When the dust finally settles, all of the secrets have been revealed. Will Brandy go back to being a choir teacher or will she finally embrace her destiny as the “Lingerie Heiress� with Marco at her side? You’ll have to read Negligee Behavior to find out.
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