Paola's Bookshelf: Never Been Ready

Saturday, February 22, 2014

Never Been Ready by J.L Berg - Review + Giveaway

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

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

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

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

Never been ready is the second book in the Ready Series. It can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend you read When You're Ready first.

Leah is a nurse and has had a shitty childhood. Her life was turned upside down when her mother left her with an alcoholic father. She's complete selfless and strong.

"No Leah... what I went through was a soap opera compared to the shit you had to endure. What you went through was hell."

Declan is a movie star who really wanted to be a director. He's so easy going, sweet and kind. Yet, he has no desire to settle down! He had this rule of never sleeping with the same woman twice.

"Monogamy wasn't something I wanted with anyone."

"Declan James wasn't some pussy who waited around for a woman. Women waited around for me"

Declan and Leah met six months ago thanks to a mutual friend, Logan. Declan can't get Leah out of his mind after their first encounter and when he's going to finally return to Richmond, he decided to stop by and see her. But, Leah knew why he was there and she doesn't want to be his booty call.

"He's just another man... a really hot, yummy, lickable man."

"I'd never seen any other woman who equaled her."

"She was the whole fucking package."

I loved how their relationship developed and how they supported each other no matter what. They are a perfect match.

"You are my first thought when I wake up and the last as I drift off to sleep"

This is a wonderful love story that might break your heart. This book will make you laugh and cry. It definitely was a roller coaster of emotions, but I loved it as much as I loved When You're Ready. So, if you are looking for a fun, sexy and emotional book this is the one for you! J.L. Berg has done it again guys! Bravo for her!

Thanks Jennifer for another beautifully written book! And for including Logan, Clare & Maddie in this story. I can't freaking wait for Ready For You.

I love you and I truly admire you! ♥

This is the same giveaway of the release event!

US only

-1 Kindle Fire HD

-3 Print copies of Never Been Ready

a Rafflecopter giveaway

International

-5 Ebook copies of Never Been Ready

a Rafflecopter giveaway

J.L. Berg is a California native living in the South. She's married to her high school sweetheart and they have two beautiful girls that drive them batty on a daily basis. When she's not writing, you can find her with her nose stuck in a romance book, in a yoga studio or devouring anything chocolate. J.L. Berg is represented by Jill Marsal of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency, LLC.

Monday, February 10, 2014

Never Been Ready By J.L. Berg - Release Event & Giveaway

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

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

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

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

"Hotshot?"

"Yep. Cocky attitude, arrogant disposition, and sexy as fuck--it's a good nickname."

"All right, so what are your terms, Leah?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I joined her on the sofa. My thigh brushed hers, and I heard her breath falter.

"And what's that, Hotshot?"

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

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

"And second?" she asked timidly.

"Don't fucking call me Hotshot."

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