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Five Wishes #1-2
Going Down and Man Candy
Book 1: Going Down:
Marion MacAlister wants to nail her audition, not get nailed. Truly. Honestly. All right... maybe she does want to get nailed, but that's just because her hottie landlord and local diner owner Mack Ryan is confusing her. Can friends become lovers? Especially friends who might not even be friends in the first place?
Book 2: Man Candy:
Raine Harper is in love with Wade Gates. But Wade likes women who are model thin, and Raine is model thin plus a whole lot of pounds. Desperate to make him love her, she trains just a little too hard and passes out in the arms of superstar movie star Dirk Adams. Dirk thinks Raine’s junk in the trunk is perfect and proposes to make Wade jealous by becoming her pretend boyfriend. Pretend soon seems very real. Is Dirk a great actor, or is something really developing between Raine and the movie star?
Marion MacAlister wants to nail her audition, not get nailed. Truly. Honestly. All right... maybe she does want to get nailed, but that's just because her hottie landlord and local diner owner Mack Ryan is confusing her. Can friends become lovers? Especially friends who might not even be friends in the first place?
Book 2: Man Candy:
Raine Harper is in love with Wade Gates. But Wade likes women who are model thin, and Raine is model thin plus a whole lot of pounds. Desperate to make him love her, she trains just a little too hard and passes out in the arms of superstar movie star Dirk Adams. Dirk thinks Raine’s junk in the trunk is perfect and proposes to make Wade jealous by becoming her pretend boyfriend. Pretend soon seems very real. Is Dirk a great actor, or is something really developing between Raine and the movie star?
148 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 15, 2017
1,808 people are currently reading
979 people want to read
About the author
Elise Sax
77Ìýbooks906ÌýfollowersElise Sax worked as a journalist for fifteen years, mostly in Paris, France. She took a detour from journalism and became a private investigator before trying her hand at writing fiction. She lives in Southern California with her two sons. An Affair to Dismember is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
October 10, 2018
I have a new author to stalk! I absolutely loved these two short stories. It's full of silly humor, great banter and adorable characters.
Book 1 is Marion and Mack's story. They've been neighbors for 2 years and have been dancing around their mutual attraction until they both get stuck in an elevator where Mack finally makes a move.
Book 2 is Raine and Dirk's story. Raine has been desperately trying to get Wade Gates attention since middle school. Instead she gets the attention of a famous actor who has women swooning and men admitting to their man crushes.
The hilarity that follows each of these pairs as they fumble through their attraction was highly entertaining. Add in great side characters in Raine's book and I am hooked! I'm looking forward to more from this author.
I also listened to the audiobook and love the narrator. She has the perfect voice for these short romantic comedy books.
Book 1 is Marion and Mack's story. They've been neighbors for 2 years and have been dancing around their mutual attraction until they both get stuck in an elevator where Mack finally makes a move.
Book 2 is Raine and Dirk's story. Raine has been desperately trying to get Wade Gates attention since middle school. Instead she gets the attention of a famous actor who has women swooning and men admitting to their man crushes.
The hilarity that follows each of these pairs as they fumble through their attraction was highly entertaining. Add in great side characters in Raine's book and I am hooked! I'm looking forward to more from this author.
I also listened to the audiobook and love the narrator. She has the perfect voice for these short romantic comedy books.
July 20, 2017
It was cute at times, but also pretty immature. While it had adults in it, they all acted like children in a sitcom.
Also, this quote:
""You have a hot p***y. Like fire."" (I censored).
....Well then....
2.5 quick read (+some skimming) stars.
It would be 3.5 if the characters were more developed since they were 96% of the plot.
Also, this quote:
""You have a hot p***y. Like fire."" (I censored).
....Well then....
2.5 quick read (+some skimming) stars.
It would be 3.5 if the characters were more developed since they were 96% of the plot.
December 8, 2017
DNF 60%
I. Just. Can't. Made it to 60% to count for my challenge. Gah. It was like pulling teeth!
I. Just. Can't. Made it to 60% to count for my challenge. Gah. It was like pulling teeth!
May 28, 2018
Going Down
I absolutely LOVED this quick, spicy, cute as heck novella!!! Marion was so dramatic and quirky. I loved everything about her. She was completely adorable. Mack has been her “not really friend� land lord and diner operator that feeds her for two years. They have a snarky little relationship that borders on the edge of intense attraction that Marion has been trying to avoid. Now, her day just got derailed and Mack is there to help steer it in his direction.
There were so many laugh out loud moments that anyone around would’ve thought I’d lost my mind. This is my first by this author and holy heck…I definitely need more!
Heroine POV
Safe (view spoiler)
Triggers (view spoiler)
Man Candy
I loved Raine! She was so quirky and cute and when she was in a pickle she reacted in the most delightful ways. She’s been in love with a boy from school all her life but he doesn’t even know her name. When the handsome actor Dirk Adams steps in to play the pretend boyfriend, all kinds of chaos ensues.
Raine’s family was a riot and I loved how the jumped Dirk. There were so many fun scenes here but I don’t want to spoil them for you. You definitely need to read this one to enjoy all the humor that I’m learning is a true talent of this author.
Heroine POV
Safe (view spoiler)
Triggers (view spoiler)
I absolutely LOVED this quick, spicy, cute as heck novella!!! Marion was so dramatic and quirky. I loved everything about her. She was completely adorable. Mack has been her “not really friend� land lord and diner operator that feeds her for two years. They have a snarky little relationship that borders on the edge of intense attraction that Marion has been trying to avoid. Now, her day just got derailed and Mack is there to help steer it in his direction.
There were so many laugh out loud moments that anyone around would’ve thought I’d lost my mind. This is my first by this author and holy heck…I definitely need more!
Heroine POV
Safe (view spoiler)
Triggers (view spoiler)
Man Candy
I loved Raine! She was so quirky and cute and when she was in a pickle she reacted in the most delightful ways. She’s been in love with a boy from school all her life but he doesn’t even know her name. When the handsome actor Dirk Adams steps in to play the pretend boyfriend, all kinds of chaos ensues.
Raine’s family was a riot and I loved how the jumped Dirk. There were so many fun scenes here but I don’t want to spoil them for you. You definitely need to read this one to enjoy all the humor that I’m learning is a true talent of this author.
Heroine POV
Safe (view spoiler)
Triggers (view spoiler)
February 3, 2018
I received a copy from Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This was an okay read. This book has two novellas. I thought Going Down and Man Candy were both good story. They both could have been longer In my opinion. I thought the characters were good, but could have been more developed. The endings for both stories were sweet. I thought the stories had really good potential, just needed a bit more work. Overall, an alright read.
This was an okay read. This book has two novellas. I thought Going Down and Man Candy were both good story. They both could have been longer In my opinion. I thought the characters were good, but could have been more developed. The endings for both stories were sweet. I thought the stories had really good potential, just needed a bit more work. Overall, an alright read.
February 24, 2019
I liked the humour and the tension/dialogues. I have a nice time but they weren't novellas as it should have been.
The two stories have two parts:
1. when I met a girl and a guy and fed a little my romantic needs
2. sex scenes.
I can buy the love in "Going Down" (there was a time for growing before), but in "Man Candy" it could have been infatuation at most.
So, because of the wit, I will try more by Elise Sax, although I could live without such vivid sex scenes ;-)
The two stories have two parts:
1. when I met a girl and a guy and fed a little my romantic needs
2. sex scenes.
I can buy the love in "Going Down" (there was a time for growing before), but in "Man Candy" it could have been infatuation at most.
So, because of the wit, I will try more by Elise Sax, although I could live without such vivid sex scenes ;-)
Want to read
September 17, 2017FREE on Amazon today (9/17/2017)!
July 29, 2017
I think I finally found my new favorite author who could make me cackle out loud, cry hard and roll on the floor dying with laughing spasms. I had the impression that the author Elise Sax is actually a comedienne, and she had me laughing like there's no tomorrow with this book.
The first story, Going Down was downright hilarious, Marion McAlister was a walking disaster. She wished upon Esperanza's wishing well to nail her acting audition but ended up getting stuck inside the elevator, with Mack Ryan, her landlord, food provider, best friend all rolled into one.
Book 2, Man Candy was fun fun fun!! Can't imagine getting naked in front of a man actually, what more in front of a movie star? But Raine Harper wasn't interested with Dirk Adams. Her mind and heart was all out for Wade Gates, and she had been training nonstop to become the model thin woman Wade usually went after. Dirk Adams would just have to back down... Or not.
These two short stories are simply fantastic! I enjoyed every moment of it. I read them both in one sitting and I believe In have never laughed as hard before. Marion was a hoot while Mack Ryan was a darling! Raine Harper was amusing while Dirk Adams was a sweetheart. Two perfect matches in wishing well haven!
I loved that these were short endearing stories, Elise Sax easily relieved my stress and added laugh lines to my face, but I'm not complaining. I can't wait to read the other knee-slapping stories soon!
The first story, Going Down was downright hilarious, Marion McAlister was a walking disaster. She wished upon Esperanza's wishing well to nail her acting audition but ended up getting stuck inside the elevator, with Mack Ryan, her landlord, food provider, best friend all rolled into one.
Book 2, Man Candy was fun fun fun!! Can't imagine getting naked in front of a man actually, what more in front of a movie star? But Raine Harper wasn't interested with Dirk Adams. Her mind and heart was all out for Wade Gates, and she had been training nonstop to become the model thin woman Wade usually went after. Dirk Adams would just have to back down... Or not.
These two short stories are simply fantastic! I enjoyed every moment of it. I read them both in one sitting and I believe In have never laughed as hard before. Marion was a hoot while Mack Ryan was a darling! Raine Harper was amusing while Dirk Adams was a sweetheart. Two perfect matches in wishing well haven!
I loved that these were short endearing stories, Elise Sax easily relieved my stress and added laugh lines to my face, but I'm not complaining. I can't wait to read the other knee-slapping stories soon!
January 28, 2019
The premise of these stories was actually quite good. I liked the second story better than the first one. The hero and heroine in each story had great chemistry. I liked all of the characters instantly.
My biggest problem is the stories were too short. The first story needed more chapters at the beginning. The story was moving at a decent pace until the elevator scene. Once they got stuck in the elevator things progressed way too quickly for me. I needed more background information on both characters. I wanted to see him quietly longing for her before they pounced on each other. I wanted to see more of her daily life and struggle to become an actress.
The second story needed a few more chapters at the end. I wanted to see a little conflict on their road to a happily ever after. What happens when Dirk goes back to work? How do his family and friends receive her? Tell me more about her quirky family. That family is a series all on their own. Things were solved too easily and then the story ended. Dirk fighting the bear? Totally unbelievable.
My biggest problem is the stories were too short. The first story needed more chapters at the beginning. The story was moving at a decent pace until the elevator scene. Once they got stuck in the elevator things progressed way too quickly for me. I needed more background information on both characters. I wanted to see him quietly longing for her before they pounced on each other. I wanted to see more of her daily life and struggle to become an actress.
The second story needed a few more chapters at the end. I wanted to see a little conflict on their road to a happily ever after. What happens when Dirk goes back to work? How do his family and friends receive her? Tell me more about her quirky family. That family is a series all on their own. Things were solved too easily and then the story ended. Dirk fighting the bear? Totally unbelievable.
August 13, 2017
Going Down: Can friends become lovers? Marion MacAlister wants to nail her audition but she may want to get nailed by Mack Ryan.
This book was hilarious and I loved every minute of it. The characters a well-developed and the story was very relatable. Loved it.
Man Candy: Raine Harper is in love with Wade Gates. However, Wade likes women who are thin likes models which Raine was far from. When she overworks herself to catch Wade's eye, she passed out in the arms of superstar Dirk Adams. Dirk agrees to help Raine by pretending to be her boyfriend.
This book was just as hilarious and I enjoyed this one as well. Great books Loved them.
This book was hilarious and I loved every minute of it. The characters a well-developed and the story was very relatable. Loved it.
Man Candy: Raine Harper is in love with Wade Gates. However, Wade likes women who are thin likes models which Raine was far from. When she overworks herself to catch Wade's eye, she passed out in the arms of superstar Dirk Adams. Dirk agrees to help Raine by pretending to be her boyfriend.
This book was just as hilarious and I enjoyed this one as well. Great books Loved them.
July 14, 2017
4.5 Stars Funs, sexy read.
Going Down � Mack and Marion have watched each other for two years now it time for the watching to stop and the fun to begin!!
Man Candy � Raine wishes the man she loves love her back. When the last person she expected walks into her life she will soon learn that sometimes wishes do come true but are just not where you expect!!
Going Down � Mack and Marion have watched each other for two years now it time for the watching to stop and the fun to begin!!
Man Candy � Raine wishes the man she loves love her back. When the last person she expected walks into her life she will soon learn that sometimes wishes do come true but are just not where you expect!!
August 22, 2017
"Sax with everything"
I thoroughly enjoyed 'An Affair To Dismember', and I see no reason to change my opinions with this one. The story lines that precede the one-on-one action are well-written, funny, and SO true to life it hurts. Both stories follow a similar pattern, but why complain? It's supposed to be hot and escapist. It does exactly what it says on the tin. Enjoy.
I thoroughly enjoyed 'An Affair To Dismember', and I see no reason to change my opinions with this one. The story lines that precede the one-on-one action are well-written, funny, and SO true to life it hurts. Both stories follow a similar pattern, but why complain? It's supposed to be hot and escapist. It does exactly what it says on the tin. Enjoy.
December 2, 2017
I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
I have to say these books were ok.
Unfortunately the characters in both stories lacked depth and appeared childish in the extreme.
Easy to read and put down.
I have to say these books were ok.
Unfortunately the characters in both stories lacked depth and appeared childish in the extreme.
Easy to read and put down.
July 9, 2017
Loved these stories! Two laugh out loud romances that I couldn't put down. Sweet, sexy, and makes me want more. I'm off to read the rest!
*ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
*ARC provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
July 28, 2017
The heroines are air-heads, constantly babbling about random stuff in a lame attempt to be funny.
July 18, 2017
4 1/2 Star review.....
Going Down and Man Candy are two fabulous stories that start of the Five Wishes series. They make the reader laugh out load, smile continuously and simple put, they make you feel good!
I loved each and every character, the easy to follow plots, and the effortless ebb and flow of the authors dialogue. I’ll definitely be reading more by Ms Sax.
Going Down and Man Candy are two fabulous stories that start of the Five Wishes series. They make the reader laugh out load, smile continuously and simple put, they make you feel good!
I loved each and every character, the easy to follow plots, and the effortless ebb and flow of the authors dialogue. I’ll definitely be reading more by Ms Sax.
Read
May 24, 2023Loved it! Super fun. Made me laugh out loud!
July 10, 2017
Both of these stories were filled with swoon worthy heroes, fun and feisty heroines, laughter and sexy times. I can always rely on Ms. Sax to give a laughter filled story with a guaranteed HEA.
July 25, 2017
In the first book, GOING DOWN, Marion MacAlister has one thing on her mind... her next audition. When she runs into sexy landlord, Mack, who just also happens to own the diner she loves to eat at, Marion is easily distracted from her goals. And when Mack lets her know he's interested... well, what's a girl to do, but go after what she really wants.
In book two, MAN CANDY, we meet the lovable best friend of Marion, Raine Harper. Raine has been in love with a classmate since she was young. She's convinced she is overweight and sets out to make some drastic changes, which leads to Raine literally and figuratively collapsing at the feet of gorgeous movie star, Wade Gates. Wade comes to Raine's rescue in more ways than one, and it doesn't take long before she realizes that Wade is the type of man she really wants, but can someone like Raine get him?!
I must admit that I wasn't a huge fan of GOING DOWN. I felt that Marion was perhaps a little too shallow. Other than that, I did enjoy the overall premise of the story. And I loved Mack! The second novella, MAN CANDY, is a lot more to my taste. I related more to Raine. The minute she runs into Wade, sparks fly. Their story is so much fun! I definitely look forward to reading more by author Elise Sax. I give this anthology a 3.5 out of 5 stars!
In book two, MAN CANDY, we meet the lovable best friend of Marion, Raine Harper. Raine has been in love with a classmate since she was young. She's convinced she is overweight and sets out to make some drastic changes, which leads to Raine literally and figuratively collapsing at the feet of gorgeous movie star, Wade Gates. Wade comes to Raine's rescue in more ways than one, and it doesn't take long before she realizes that Wade is the type of man she really wants, but can someone like Raine get him?!
I must admit that I wasn't a huge fan of GOING DOWN. I felt that Marion was perhaps a little too shallow. Other than that, I did enjoy the overall premise of the story. And I loved Mack! The second novella, MAN CANDY, is a lot more to my taste. I related more to Raine. The minute she runs into Wade, sparks fly. Their story is so much fun! I definitely look forward to reading more by author Elise Sax. I give this anthology a 3.5 out of 5 stars!
September 19, 2017
These two stories are called "books", but each one is really a novella at average 60 pages each. "Going Down" is really, really terrible. Marion is a complete idiot, self-centered and clueless. Mick deserves much better, especially if he can find someone a bit taller. [tangent: Every time I read a book where there is a significant height difference between the h/h, I find myself distracted by thoughts of how the mechanics of the sexxing works. Because someone is going to be uncomfortable.]
"Man Candy" is better, and gets both the stars in this review. I think I'd read a full-length story about Raine and Dirk. I like them both, and they have more depth that I would have expected in a novella. Her family is ridiculous and I was cracking up over the names and characterizations of them.
"Man Candy" is better, and gets both the stars in this review. I think I'd read a full-length story about Raine and Dirk. I like them both, and they have more depth that I would have expected in a novella. Her family is ridiculous and I was cracking up over the names and characterizations of them.
December 4, 2018
WTF did I just read.
I have a habit of obsessively reading anything and I never thought it could be this bad.
The entire book had NO story just weirdness.
The first book - Going down was still ok (one star is for that) but it was absurd. They were fighting one line and in the next making out. Two people who have fight-hate relationship out of no where start loving each other and want to get married in just 20 pages.
The second book - Man candy was EPIC FAIL!
The man fought with the bear. I won't even say abyielse. A human fought with a bear by giving it a bear hug.
Unbelievable
I have a habit of obsessively reading anything and I never thought it could be this bad.
The entire book had NO story just weirdness.
The first book - Going down was still ok (one star is for that) but it was absurd. They were fighting one line and in the next making out. Two people who have fight-hate relationship out of no where start loving each other and want to get married in just 20 pages.
The second book - Man candy was EPIC FAIL!
The man fought with the bear. I won't even say abyielse. A human fought with a bear by giving it a bear hug.
Unbelievable
August 17, 2017
Okay
The stories were good for both books, however, Marion in Going Down was totally obnoxious and too argumentative, don't know why Elise could not have made a better female character for Matt. Elaine in Man Candy was better and I feel this was the better book.
The stories were good for both books, however, Marion in Going Down was totally obnoxious and too argumentative, don't know why Elise could not have made a better female character for Matt. Elaine in Man Candy was better and I feel this was the better book.
August 29, 2017
Not my style
Ms. Sax has some fun ideas for stories but it be becomes all about sex, very vivid sex. Just not what I expected from this book.
Ms. Sax has some fun ideas for stories but it be becomes all about sex, very vivid sex. Just not what I expected from this book.
October 16, 2017
Going Down
Marion has been trying to make it as an actress, but hasn't been having a lot of luck with her auditions. She does have a stable factor in her life though and goes to Mack's diner every day. He takes care of her and makes sure that she eats properly. Mack is also a very good looking man and Marion has been secretly in love with him ever since she met him two years ago. Will Marion be brave enough to confess how she truly feels?
Mack owns the local diner and is also Marion's landlord. He doesn't lack confidence, but somehow he never dared to tell Marion about the fact that he's attracted to her. Mack can't get her out if his head. He wants to be with Marion and only needs to find out if she feels the same way about him. What will they do when fate puts them together with no room to escape?
Going Down is a fun and lighthearted love story. I loved Elise Sax's over-the-top characters. The story is hilarious and I liked the chemistry between Marion and Mack from the start. The Wish Upon A Stud series evolves around a wishing well and I loved that idea. Haven't we all thrown in a coin once upon a time? I've made wishes throughout my entire life and I believe that with the right amount of hard work and a little bit of good luck you can make a lot of your wishes come true and I definitely enjoy reading books about this theme. Elise Sax is a new author for me and I liked the idea behind her story and her sense of humor a lot.
Man Candy
Raine has been in love with Wade ever since kindergarten. Raine works in the family business and is in charge of the food. Wade is a successful lawyer who works at a big firm. Wade never had eyes for Raine, but she keeps wishing the day he'll finally notice her will come. Raine has curves and she's terribly insecure about her body. When Raine is going out for a run she suddenly isn't feeling well. Luckily a man spots her before she faints and brings her to his cabin. The man turns out to be Dirk Adams, who is a famous movie star. Raine is starstruck, but Dirk is kind to her and even comes up with a phenomenal plan to make Wade fall in love with Raine. Will Wade see what he's been missing now that another man is interested in Raine?
Dirk is used to the spotlights and the screaming fans, but sometimes he needs a break. That's why he booked a small cottage away from all the madness that comes with being famous. He knows how to take care of himself and can hold his own in the kitchen. Dirk is an honest man and I loved it that he's far from shallow. He loves Raine just the way she is and that's exactly how love should be. Dirk thinks that Raine will get her wish due to his plan. What will happen when Dirk changes his mind and wants to keep Raine for himself?
Man Candy is a sweet romantic story with a powerful message. It tells us that it's okay to be who you are with or without a few extra pounds. Man Candy is the second book in the Wish Upon A Stud series and I love it that every story can be read as a standalone and that there are no open endings. Elise Sax doesn't leave you hanging with a cliffhanger, but she does make you curious to read the next book in the series. All of the books in this series are novellas, so they're perfect for when you don't have a lot of time and want to read a complete story. They're based on wishes, which is a wonderful theme. I really look forward to finding out more about the other wishes in this series.
Marion has been trying to make it as an actress, but hasn't been having a lot of luck with her auditions. She does have a stable factor in her life though and goes to Mack's diner every day. He takes care of her and makes sure that she eats properly. Mack is also a very good looking man and Marion has been secretly in love with him ever since she met him two years ago. Will Marion be brave enough to confess how she truly feels?
Mack owns the local diner and is also Marion's landlord. He doesn't lack confidence, but somehow he never dared to tell Marion about the fact that he's attracted to her. Mack can't get her out if his head. He wants to be with Marion and only needs to find out if she feels the same way about him. What will they do when fate puts them together with no room to escape?
Going Down is a fun and lighthearted love story. I loved Elise Sax's over-the-top characters. The story is hilarious and I liked the chemistry between Marion and Mack from the start. The Wish Upon A Stud series evolves around a wishing well and I loved that idea. Haven't we all thrown in a coin once upon a time? I've made wishes throughout my entire life and I believe that with the right amount of hard work and a little bit of good luck you can make a lot of your wishes come true and I definitely enjoy reading books about this theme. Elise Sax is a new author for me and I liked the idea behind her story and her sense of humor a lot.
Man Candy
Raine has been in love with Wade ever since kindergarten. Raine works in the family business and is in charge of the food. Wade is a successful lawyer who works at a big firm. Wade never had eyes for Raine, but she keeps wishing the day he'll finally notice her will come. Raine has curves and she's terribly insecure about her body. When Raine is going out for a run she suddenly isn't feeling well. Luckily a man spots her before she faints and brings her to his cabin. The man turns out to be Dirk Adams, who is a famous movie star. Raine is starstruck, but Dirk is kind to her and even comes up with a phenomenal plan to make Wade fall in love with Raine. Will Wade see what he's been missing now that another man is interested in Raine?
Dirk is used to the spotlights and the screaming fans, but sometimes he needs a break. That's why he booked a small cottage away from all the madness that comes with being famous. He knows how to take care of himself and can hold his own in the kitchen. Dirk is an honest man and I loved it that he's far from shallow. He loves Raine just the way she is and that's exactly how love should be. Dirk thinks that Raine will get her wish due to his plan. What will happen when Dirk changes his mind and wants to keep Raine for himself?
Man Candy is a sweet romantic story with a powerful message. It tells us that it's okay to be who you are with or without a few extra pounds. Man Candy is the second book in the Wish Upon A Stud series and I love it that every story can be read as a standalone and that there are no open endings. Elise Sax doesn't leave you hanging with a cliffhanger, but she does make you curious to read the next book in the series. All of the books in this series are novellas, so they're perfect for when you don't have a lot of time and want to read a complete story. They're based on wishes, which is a wonderful theme. I really look forward to finding out more about the other wishes in this series.
July 20, 2017
Going Down and Man Candy by Elise Sax are two novellas in her Five Wishes series. In Going Down, we are introduced to Marion. She is an aspiring actress with not much to lose. She’s behind in her rent and has no idea how she’s going to make it. Using her lucky silver dollar she makes a wish at a fountain, which has a history of being a lucky wishing well, and wishes to ace the audition that she will be going to. Things do not go as planned for her by a long shot. Marion has a serious attraction to Mack, the owner of the diner she frequents, her next door neighbor and her landlord. She’s been interested in him for two years but has never taken that step. But, when they are both trying to head to their respective destinations, the elevator in the building breaks down with them in. The chemistry is off the charts between them and things only get steamier.
In Man Candy, a minor character we meet in Going Down, a woman named Raine makes a reappearance. Raine is desperate to lose 40 pounds to impress Wade, a man she’s been crushing off since they were kids. The problem is, Wade, likes women who are model-thin and sweet Raine does not fit that description at all. He’s showing up in five days and she’s desperate to lose the weight. The down side is that she’s going about it the wrong way and seems intent on harming herself by trying to exercise layered up. While jogging on the beachside she crosses paths with a famous movie star, Dirk Adams. When she passes out from dehydration and overheating he takes her back to where he is staying and helps her recover. He offers to help her out with her problem, of going unnoticed by the man she desires, but what neither of them plans on happening is exactly what ends up happening.
These are the first stories that I have ever read by Elise Sax and I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed them. The story line moves at a good pace and there are several unexpected moments that made me laugh and giggle. Each of the female main characters makes a wish at the fountain, but they really don’t end up getting what it is that they wish for. Marion is resisting her attraction to Mack and in Man Candy; Raine is practically oblivious to Dirk’s attraction to her. Things go wrong in both stories for both women and it happens in such humorous ways.
There really isn’t anything that I didn’t like about this book. These are quick short reads but you get the entire story with each one. The story moves quickly so buckle up, settle in and be prepared for lots of fun coming at you fast.
This was a very fun read and one that I had a hard time putting down. I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. If you’re looking for a fun book with some fun steamy romance and some steamy but not too graphic sex then I say pick this book up. You’ll definitely enjoy this fun romantic romp.
In Man Candy, a minor character we meet in Going Down, a woman named Raine makes a reappearance. Raine is desperate to lose 40 pounds to impress Wade, a man she’s been crushing off since they were kids. The problem is, Wade, likes women who are model-thin and sweet Raine does not fit that description at all. He’s showing up in five days and she’s desperate to lose the weight. The down side is that she’s going about it the wrong way and seems intent on harming herself by trying to exercise layered up. While jogging on the beachside she crosses paths with a famous movie star, Dirk Adams. When she passes out from dehydration and overheating he takes her back to where he is staying and helps her recover. He offers to help her out with her problem, of going unnoticed by the man she desires, but what neither of them plans on happening is exactly what ends up happening.
These are the first stories that I have ever read by Elise Sax and I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed them. The story line moves at a good pace and there are several unexpected moments that made me laugh and giggle. Each of the female main characters makes a wish at the fountain, but they really don’t end up getting what it is that they wish for. Marion is resisting her attraction to Mack and in Man Candy; Raine is practically oblivious to Dirk’s attraction to her. Things go wrong in both stories for both women and it happens in such humorous ways.
There really isn’t anything that I didn’t like about this book. These are quick short reads but you get the entire story with each one. The story moves quickly so buckle up, settle in and be prepared for lots of fun coming at you fast.
This was a very fun read and one that I had a hard time putting down. I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. If you’re looking for a fun book with some fun steamy romance and some steamy but not too graphic sex then I say pick this book up. You’ll definitely enjoy this fun romantic romp.
April 3, 2019
Oh. My. Goodness. I'm sorry, but these were SO BAD. I have no idea why I even finished, but I did. 🤦 That's on me.
Why were they bad? (All my reasons take into account that these are short stories)
1) everything in these stories was thrown at the reader with a "just go with it" attitude. Nothing made sense, or was explained, (or if it was explained, had to actually be believable), or was anywhere inside the realm of reality. Yes, I know this is fluffy romance. I totally dig fluffy romance. This was ludicrous.
2) The characters - oh my gosh! So ridiculously one-dimensional and unbelievable. And insane
3) The sex scenes - just too ick for me. And kind of out-of-the-blue ick. I didn't see it coming.
4) Plot/Story - felt entirely secondary to, well, anything. Like, "I need a plot to throw these people together and get them in bed, so how about THIS crazy crap". Again, nothing made any sort of sense or had any basis in any sort of reality.
Many people have highly reviewed these short stories and this author, so - different strokes for different folks, but I will not be revisiting Ms. Sax's work.
Why were they bad? (All my reasons take into account that these are short stories)
1) everything in these stories was thrown at the reader with a "just go with it" attitude. Nothing made sense, or was explained, (or if it was explained, had to actually be believable), or was anywhere inside the realm of reality. Yes, I know this is fluffy romance. I totally dig fluffy romance. This was ludicrous.
2) The characters - oh my gosh! So ridiculously one-dimensional and unbelievable. And insane
3) The sex scenes - just too ick for me. And kind of out-of-the-blue ick. I didn't see it coming.
4) Plot/Story - felt entirely secondary to, well, anything. Like, "I need a plot to throw these people together and get them in bed, so how about THIS crazy crap". Again, nothing made any sort of sense or had any basis in any sort of reality.
Many people have highly reviewed these short stories and this author, so - different strokes for different folks, but I will not be revisiting Ms. Sax's work.
September 8, 2021
Going Down and Man Candy (Five Wishes #1-2) was a great read by Elise Sax. This box set consists of; Going Down, and Man Candy. Going Down (Five Wishes #1) was a good read by Elise Sax. Marion MacAlister wants to do well at her audition. But her hottie landlord and local diner owner, Mack Ryan, is confusing her. They both wonder if friends can become lovers, especially since they aren’t really even friends. Man Candy (Five Wishes #2) was a good read by Elise Sax.Raine Harper is in love with Wade Gates. Wade likes women who are model thin which leads Raine to train a little too hard. She ends up passing out in the arms of movie star Dirk Adams. Dirk likes Raine the way she is and proposes to become her pretend boyfriend to make Wade jealous. I absolutely loved reading this book and cant wait to read more by the author.
October 10, 2021
I didn't realize this series was a collection of novellas, I prefer stories with more depth.
Going down gets an OK rating. I laughed once, but this friends to lovers story was just a rehash of the trope. Nothing new or interesting and the heroine was one of those loser types, can't keep a job, can't manage money, etc. 1 stars
Man Candy had me laughing a few times. Again, it was hardly a new story line about making an object of Raine's affection jealous by using another man, but I did like it. 2 stars
Both stories have heroines with weight issues and handle them poorly, another thing I don't like. The sex scenes were more graphic than I expected in a book with such a cutsey cover. Didn't affect my rating, just an FYI if that's not your thing.
I both received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review and "bought" the book when it was offered for free.
Going down gets an OK rating. I laughed once, but this friends to lovers story was just a rehash of the trope. Nothing new or interesting and the heroine was one of those loser types, can't keep a job, can't manage money, etc. 1 stars
Man Candy had me laughing a few times. Again, it was hardly a new story line about making an object of Raine's affection jealous by using another man, but I did like it. 2 stars
Both stories have heroines with weight issues and handle them poorly, another thing I don't like. The sex scenes were more graphic than I expected in a book with such a cutsey cover. Didn't affect my rating, just an FYI if that's not your thing.
I both received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review and "bought" the book when it was offered for free.
July 8, 2017
This book comprises the first two novellas in the Five Wishes series.
I liked the characters and plot points that carried through from Going Down into Man Candy. I always enjoy books that build upon previous ones in the series and these did a great job of that so far.
Being novellas, the story moves along at a pretty fast clip, and there are some points I wish could have been developed more. Mostly, though, this is because I wanted to read more about their relationships and also about Raine's hilarious family.
Both stories contained a lot of humor and romance, and are perfect if you want a quick sweet story to read. I am looking forward to reading the other three books in the series!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the characters and plot points that carried through from Going Down into Man Candy. I always enjoy books that build upon previous ones in the series and these did a great job of that so far.
Being novellas, the story moves along at a pretty fast clip, and there are some points I wish could have been developed more. Mostly, though, this is because I wanted to read more about their relationships and also about Raine's hilarious family.
Both stories contained a lot of humor and romance, and are perfect if you want a quick sweet story to read. I am looking forward to reading the other three books in the series!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2018
Really more like 2.5 Stars for Going Down &
2 Stars for Man Candy.
I liked the ending to Going Down, the suggestion they won the lottery and you get to assume what else happens from there.
The rest of the story was just okay. I got easily annoyed with her wishy-washy-ness. Pick an emotion and stick with it for longer than two seconds. The "intimate" scenes start with her jumping on him, literally. No chemistry for me. I think it's supposed to be funny, but that just didn't come across for me. The only redeeming moment was the ending.
Man Candy had a lot more potential for humor, but I was too distracted by the lady hating herself and obsessing over some other guy. Again, no chemistry for me. Maybe the story was just too short to believe her flip.
2 Stars for Man Candy.
I liked the ending to Going Down, the suggestion they won the lottery and you get to assume what else happens from there.
The rest of the story was just okay. I got easily annoyed with her wishy-washy-ness. Pick an emotion and stick with it for longer than two seconds. The "intimate" scenes start with her jumping on him, literally. No chemistry for me. I think it's supposed to be funny, but that just didn't come across for me. The only redeeming moment was the ending.
Man Candy had a lot more potential for humor, but I was too distracted by the lady hating herself and obsessing over some other guy. Again, no chemistry for me. Maybe the story was just too short to believe her flip.
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