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Girl Band #2
Stud in the Stacks
When it comes to women, I know what they want. And all day long, I give it to them. Dark, broody, and sexy? You got it. Need to laugh? I’m your guy. Desperate for something to put you in the mood? You’ve come to the right place, kitten.
Every morning when my library opens, there’s a line around the block, the ladies flocking to me in need of their next book boyfriend. I’m that dude. The one who knows his way around the romance section. And if you think that hasn’t gotten me plenty of action over the years, you’d be wrong.
But I've made a few miscalculations, and now my reputation has my job in danger. If I can’t prove to my boss that I’m more than a playboy who recommends romance in the hopes of getting some hanky panky in the stacks, I can kiss my job goodbye.
Every morning when my library opens, there’s a line around the block, the ladies flocking to me in need of their next book boyfriend. I’m that dude. The one who knows his way around the romance section. And if you think that hasn’t gotten me plenty of action over the years, you’d be wrong.
But I've made a few miscalculations, and now my reputation has my job in danger. If I can’t prove to my boss that I’m more than a playboy who recommends romance in the hopes of getting some hanky panky in the stacks, I can kiss my job goodbye.
Paperback
First published January 5, 2018
3,275 people are currently reading
2,852 people want to read
About the author
Pippa Grant
65 books10.3k followersPippa Grant wanted to write books, so she did.
Before she became a USA Today and #1 Amazon bestselling romantic comedy author, she was a young military spouse who got into writing as self-therapy. That happened around the time she discovered reading romance novels, and the two eventually merged into a career. Today, she has more than 30 knee-slapping Pippa Grant titles and nine published under the name Jamie Farrell.
When she’s not writing romantic comedies, she’s fumbling through being a mom, wife, and mountain woman, and sometimes tries to find hobbies. Her crowning achievement? Having impeccable timing for telling stories that will make people snort beverages out of their noses. Consider yourself warned.
Before she became a USA Today and #1 Amazon bestselling romantic comedy author, she was a young military spouse who got into writing as self-therapy. That happened around the time she discovered reading romance novels, and the two eventually merged into a career. Today, she has more than 30 knee-slapping Pippa Grant titles and nine published under the name Jamie Farrell.
When she’s not writing romantic comedies, she’s fumbling through being a mom, wife, and mountain woman, and sometimes tries to find hobbies. Her crowning achievement? Having impeccable timing for telling stories that will make people snort beverages out of their noses. Consider yourself warned.
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June 14, 2018
Stud in the Stacks is by Pippa Grant. This is my second book by Pippa, the first being Mister McHottie. I have to admit right up front here that I am just in love with this book. I mean, it’s about a hot male librarian that knows practically every romance novel ever written! How could I not fall in love?!
Knox Moretti loves his job as a librarian. And, Knox loves romance novels. He lives for romance novels. Knox also has a very popular blog where he is known as Mr. Romance. By reading so much romance, it helps Knox to understand women, to know what they want and need. And yes, Knox might occasionally use that knowledge to help himself out. But he has no interest in being in a long term relationship or marriage. As a result, he might have a bit of a reputation. But Knox’s main goal in life is to make sure that every woman that comes into his library walks back out with the perfect book.
The library is having a fund raiser for literacy with the main event being a super hero themed bachelor auction. Knox dug out his old Tarzan loin cloth and agreed to do the auction.
We first met Parker Elliot in Mister McHottie as Ambrosia’s friend and band mate in their girl band. She is now in upper management as VP of marketing at Crunchy’s Organic Food Store and she is determined to make Chase, her boss, proud of her. So she works long hours. Parker was one of those kids that had a rough time in school, the dorky, awkward kid that was always a target for the bullies. As a result, she has vowed never to marry or have children. But now it’s time for her high school reunion. She would never choose to go but her boss wants her to attend to make a connection with a potential client, a man that Parker has a history with. She doesn’t want to go without a date. As soon as she saw the picture of Knox in his loin cloth, she knew he was the perfect fake fiance. All she has to do is win him at the auction.
“Kids, marriage, my job, her workaholic tendencies – it all flies out the window. I am not letting this woman go. Not anytime soon anyway.”
So begins Parker and Knox’s story. These two had that instant chemistry. Although finding any alone time to explore that chemistry was a bit of a challenge between Knox’s Nanna and Parker’s four very over protective brothers. Knox sees immediately that Parker struggles with her self confidence and he is determined to build her up. He wants her to see herself the say he sees her, as a beautiful, smart, sexy woman.
They both felt their own opinions changing as their relationship grew closer. I loved watching their hearts open up to each other. They were perfect together.
“She’s mine. She might not know it yet, but she’s mine.”
One thing this book will make you do a lot is smile! There are so many hilarious moments. Between their crazy siblings, Ambrosia’s crazy hockey playing brothers, Knox’s Nanna, Taco Tuesday, Unicorn poop, the list goes on. But, there are also so many sweet moments, and sexy moments. As I said, there is some crazy chemistry going on here. And this book will also have you looking up bunches of other books as Knox convinces Parker and also her crazy brothers to read romance novels.
While both Knox and Parker’s jobs are on the line, they are also forced to take a new look at themselves and everything they thought they believed. This is such an amazing book. I’m getting all the tummy twirls just by telling you about it. I’m definitely in love with this author and can’t wait to read more of her books.
“This woman?
Mine.
Because I’m hers.
Heart, body, and soul.
She’s it. I’m done.”
Knox Moretti loves his job as a librarian. And, Knox loves romance novels. He lives for romance novels. Knox also has a very popular blog where he is known as Mr. Romance. By reading so much romance, it helps Knox to understand women, to know what they want and need. And yes, Knox might occasionally use that knowledge to help himself out. But he has no interest in being in a long term relationship or marriage. As a result, he might have a bit of a reputation. But Knox’s main goal in life is to make sure that every woman that comes into his library walks back out with the perfect book.
The library is having a fund raiser for literacy with the main event being a super hero themed bachelor auction. Knox dug out his old Tarzan loin cloth and agreed to do the auction.
We first met Parker Elliot in Mister McHottie as Ambrosia’s friend and band mate in their girl band. She is now in upper management as VP of marketing at Crunchy’s Organic Food Store and she is determined to make Chase, her boss, proud of her. So she works long hours. Parker was one of those kids that had a rough time in school, the dorky, awkward kid that was always a target for the bullies. As a result, she has vowed never to marry or have children. But now it’s time for her high school reunion. She would never choose to go but her boss wants her to attend to make a connection with a potential client, a man that Parker has a history with. She doesn’t want to go without a date. As soon as she saw the picture of Knox in his loin cloth, she knew he was the perfect fake fiance. All she has to do is win him at the auction.
“Kids, marriage, my job, her workaholic tendencies – it all flies out the window. I am not letting this woman go. Not anytime soon anyway.”
So begins Parker and Knox’s story. These two had that instant chemistry. Although finding any alone time to explore that chemistry was a bit of a challenge between Knox’s Nanna and Parker’s four very over protective brothers. Knox sees immediately that Parker struggles with her self confidence and he is determined to build her up. He wants her to see herself the say he sees her, as a beautiful, smart, sexy woman.
They both felt their own opinions changing as their relationship grew closer. I loved watching their hearts open up to each other. They were perfect together.
“She’s mine. She might not know it yet, but she’s mine.”
One thing this book will make you do a lot is smile! There are so many hilarious moments. Between their crazy siblings, Ambrosia’s crazy hockey playing brothers, Knox’s Nanna, Taco Tuesday, Unicorn poop, the list goes on. But, there are also so many sweet moments, and sexy moments. As I said, there is some crazy chemistry going on here. And this book will also have you looking up bunches of other books as Knox convinces Parker and also her crazy brothers to read romance novels.
While both Knox and Parker’s jobs are on the line, they are also forced to take a new look at themselves and everything they thought they believed. This is such an amazing book. I’m getting all the tummy twirls just by telling you about it. I’m definitely in love with this author and can’t wait to read more of her books.
“This woman?
Mine.
Because I’m hers.
Heart, body, and soul.
She’s it. I’m done.”
January 10, 2018
Who knew that the second book I would read in this new year would be another 5-star read??? Pippa Grant, where the bloody heck have you been all my life? This book was ridonkulous fun of epic proportions!! It was sexy, romantic, funny, charming, and a good time was had by all.
The Plot
Parker Elliot attends a bachelor auction to bid with the $50,000 she bribed from her boss. Long story. Just as long as the story behind why she’s at the bachelor auction to begin with. She needs a date and not just any date. She needs a man to be her fake fiance and where better to find one than at a place where men are offering themselves for sums of money? She thought her prayers were answered when she found out that one of the bachelors would be going as Tarzan, which fit in right with her great love of all things safari.
Knox Moretti, also known as Mr. Romance, a librarian and popular romance blogger, rocks his Tarzan loincloth like no one’s business. He immediately feels a connection with the beautiful woman who bids $50,000 for his attention, but she’s immediately outbid by a stunning woman, who wins his auction with her $100,000 offer. Luckily (or not) Parker is relentless and she pursues him and awkwardly requests his help. And then that’s when all the magic happens!
The Characters
It was impossible not to adore both Knox and Parker, individually and together. Their banter, their hilarity, their warmth, their chemistry, their absolute everything. I had nothing to complain about where Knox was concerned. He was an immensely satisfying character to get to know and read about. Charismatic, family-oriented, compassionate, passionate, understanding, sexy, gorgeous, fun-loving, funny… do I really need to go on? As for Parker, I liked her for the most part. And I mean for about 90% of her personality and characteristics. The only thing that really gave me pause was her insecurities and her immaturity. She’s my age and if I didn’t know that, I wouldn’t have suspected it at all. Her indecision, awkwardness, and hangups regarding high school were a bit much. Granted, I’ve never been bullied, so rather than jumping to judgment, I chose to sympathize. I got that it sucked. Bullying is no joke and I actually used to fight bullies on behalf of the bullied growing up. It was my thing. I wish she had someone like me in her corner back in the day ;
Knox and Parker together were incredible. I loved her misfires of auto-correct. I loved their connection. I love how they bonded over their history and how Knox showed Parker how truly remarkable she was. I do think there was more give on Knox’s part than get, but it was understandable considering Parker was like a fish out of water. Everything with Knox was new and he debunked every myth she ever believed.
“She can never, ever want another man, because she’s mine… Because I’m hers. Heart, body and soul. She’s it, I’m done.”
Recommendation
BUY THIS BOOK!! I guarantee you’ll laugh your ass off just as much as I did. I happened to take a chance on this author for the first time and I’m kicking myself for not doing it sooner. All of the side characters had me in stitches and you better believe I’ll be going back to read everything!! Honestly, my 5-stars should be enough to convince you to one-click this book ASAP!!
Expected Release Date: January 5, 2018
Genre: Romantic Comedy
POV: Dual - 1st person
Heat: 4 out of 5
Type: Standalone
The Plot
Parker Elliot attends a bachelor auction to bid with the $50,000 she bribed from her boss. Long story. Just as long as the story behind why she’s at the bachelor auction to begin with. She needs a date and not just any date. She needs a man to be her fake fiance and where better to find one than at a place where men are offering themselves for sums of money? She thought her prayers were answered when she found out that one of the bachelors would be going as Tarzan, which fit in right with her great love of all things safari.
Knox Moretti, also known as Mr. Romance, a librarian and popular romance blogger, rocks his Tarzan loincloth like no one’s business. He immediately feels a connection with the beautiful woman who bids $50,000 for his attention, but she’s immediately outbid by a stunning woman, who wins his auction with her $100,000 offer. Luckily (or not) Parker is relentless and she pursues him and awkwardly requests his help. And then that’s when all the magic happens!
The Characters
It was impossible not to adore both Knox and Parker, individually and together. Their banter, their hilarity, their warmth, their chemistry, their absolute everything. I had nothing to complain about where Knox was concerned. He was an immensely satisfying character to get to know and read about. Charismatic, family-oriented, compassionate, passionate, understanding, sexy, gorgeous, fun-loving, funny… do I really need to go on? As for Parker, I liked her for the most part. And I mean for about 90% of her personality and characteristics. The only thing that really gave me pause was her insecurities and her immaturity. She’s my age and if I didn’t know that, I wouldn’t have suspected it at all. Her indecision, awkwardness, and hangups regarding high school were a bit much. Granted, I’ve never been bullied, so rather than jumping to judgment, I chose to sympathize. I got that it sucked. Bullying is no joke and I actually used to fight bullies on behalf of the bullied growing up. It was my thing. I wish she had someone like me in her corner back in the day ;
Knox and Parker together were incredible. I loved her misfires of auto-correct. I loved their connection. I love how they bonded over their history and how Knox showed Parker how truly remarkable she was. I do think there was more give on Knox’s part than get, but it was understandable considering Parker was like a fish out of water. Everything with Knox was new and he debunked every myth she ever believed.
“She can never, ever want another man, because she’s mine… Because I’m hers. Heart, body and soul. She’s it, I’m done.”
Recommendation
BUY THIS BOOK!! I guarantee you’ll laugh your ass off just as much as I did. I happened to take a chance on this author for the first time and I’m kicking myself for not doing it sooner. All of the side characters had me in stitches and you better believe I’ll be going back to read everything!! Honestly, my 5-stars should be enough to convince you to one-click this book ASAP!!
Expected Release Date: January 5, 2018
Genre: Romantic Comedy
POV: Dual - 1st person
Heat: 4 out of 5
Type: Standalone
December 27, 2017
NOTE: This coming year I have set a challenge for myself of reading one book a week that takes me out of my comfort zone. A book that may include one (or more) tropes (scenarios) that I avoid like the plague. Cheating. Older women/younger man. OW drama. Just to name a few. Nothing is off limits. I am taking a HUGE step out of the box I usually live in and charting a course into the unknown (HaHa). My reviews for these books will differ from my usual as I will focus more on whether the author wowed me despite it having content I avoid. That said, I will go into each book with an open mind and an open heart and who knows, maybe I will discover a new favorite author on the way!
So honesty first. I had NO idea when I signed up for this one it involved an older woman/younger man plot. Had I known I would never have signed up. I wish authors would make a note in their blurbs when a book contains a trope that isn't the "norm". Just a quick **this is an older woman/younger man story** would go a long way in helping readers avoid things they have no interest in reading. This would be especially helpful for ARC readers since we don't have the benefit of reading reviews before we sign up for a book. OK, public service announcement over onto the review...
~THIS BOOK INCLUDED THE FOLLOWING TROPES (SCENARIOS) I USUALLY AVOID~ (don't click if you don't want the book spoiled!!) ~WRITING - PLOT - PACE~
I found this one to be very well written. It was perfectly paced. The plot was engaging and kept me turning the pages. It was SUPER hilarious as well. That said, I think this book would have worked better had less time passed. Twenty years seemed a bit long for a grown intelligent woman to have bully hangups from high school. I also think it would have worked better had the heroine been the same age as the hero. Obviously, the whole "babysitting" angle wouldn't have worked, but it would have made the heroines behaviors less eye rolling and head scratching.
~HERO~
The hero of this book was PERFECT. He was sweet. He was sexy. He was funny. He was smart. He was kind. He reads romance novels. He lives with his Nana. He wasn't a manwhore. He was just a totally lovable and endearing hero. I wish romance books had more heroes like Knox. He carried this book to a 3.5-star rating that is for sure.
~HEROINE~
I didn't hate Parker TOO much. That said, she acted a bit bipolar at times. One minute she was a babbling idiot and the next she was a straight up bitch. The fact that she was eight years older than our hero would usually have me not finish a book lickidy split but Parker acted WAY less mature than our hero. That made it easier for me to pretend they were at least the same age (lol). Although I didn't find her overly annoying, I did find her insecurity a bit confusing. The woman is thirty-eight years old but is still hung up on things that happened two decades ago? Not to mention her reasons for not wanting kids?? Let us just say she came off a bit mentally challenged at times and leave it at that.
~SIDE CHARACTERS~
There was a nice cast of secondary characters. I assume some from previous books. I loved Parker's friends and Knox's Nana. I also really want Parker's brothers to get books of their own.
~HEAT LEVEL~
Low to medium. No sexual intercourse until 60% in but there was good sexual chemistry and the sex scenes were suitably hot.
~ANGST LEVEL~
Low. I didn't find this very angsty and there was no OW/OM drama.
~IN THE END~
I enjoyed this one overall. Like I mentioned above the hero and humor carried this book to a 3.5-Star rating. The age difference didn't overly bother me as it wasn't talked up a lot and the heroine acted younger most of the time which made it easier to pretend she wasn't eight years older. Unfortunately, the heroine of this one was also a pretty big disappointment. She came across like an immature idiot half the time and an over the top bitch the rest of the time. Still, I enjoyed it enough I will give this author another chance to WOW me. So this one ended up being a bit of a mixed bag.
January 4, 2018
Librarian Knox Moretti has a love for reading. That extends to romance novels and playing hero in his real life. Parker Elliot is in need of a hot date for her high school reunion. When she sets her sights on Knox, she doesn’t realize they’ve met before. But then neither does he.
This story started out really cute. I thought I might never watch The Lion King the same way again. But that’s okay, because the new imagery is much….hotter. Knox was likable from the start. His narration was light-hearted and witty and despite the suggestion of a cocky womanizer from the blurb, he’s really quite the catch.
On that note, the blurb is a little misleading (and I’m referring to the complete one that came with the cover reveal, not the cut off one on GR). I was pleasantly surprised that Knox was an all round good guy, but on the downside, Parker wasn’t what I expected.
This was the biggest issue I struggled with—Parker. See there’s the perception she has of herself and the one Knox has of her. Knox is more than intrigued about her and that doesn’t waiver when he remembers her from the past. But Parker is incredibly awkward and insecure in her POV. I get that we don’t always see ourselves the same way others see us, but with Parker it was hard to reconcile the two selves, and eventually how she saw herself is what won out as my take on her character.
“…I’m awkward as a sheltered teenager.”
I’ll admit, even from the start I enjoyed Knox’s chapters more than Parker’s. But then I thought maybe Parker just had layers that needed to evolve and be revealed and then she’d be a more likable character. But after a while, it was hard not to see Parker as a dorky, clumsy, insecure, annoying, weak twit who had no finesse and left lousy impressions.
Yep, I’m not going to mince words; I closed the book still not liking her! Her clumsy and awkwardness was over the top, and despite her insistence in the beginning that she had changed since high school, she continued to prove that she not only hadn’t but that it was more pathetic as an adult.
I was constantly distracted by her age after it’s established that she’s older than Knox who early on confirms he’s thirty. Parker never seemed very mature. This is a woman with two (yes 2) master’s degrees and fifteen years working experience and yet she worries that she’s not cut out for her recent job promotion. How insecure is that? When she and Knox are caught making out by his mother and grandmother they behave even more oddly for a 30 year old man and woman “pushing forty.” [Spoiler alert: It’s later finally confirmed she’s 38.]
In addition, her reasons for not wanting kids pointed strongly at her need for therapy. Don’t take that the wrong way, I’m not saying a woman who doesn’t want kids needs therapy; I’m saying her reasons for not wanting them suggested she had bigger issues. In other words if you think your life is too big of a mess and you’re almost forty, maybe it’s time you get your life together and get to the root of your troubles. And Knox, being the gem of this book that he was, even acknowledged this more than once.
“Because for a fling, we’re perfect. Long-term, though, we’d have issues.”
YES!
Knox secures his place as a book boyfriend. He’s an intelligent, good-hearted, easy going, down-to-earth, good looking man who didn’t take himself or life too seriously. (And I totally agree with him on Titanic.)
Sadly though Knox’s very valid intuitions that they weren’t compatible all got swept aside in the name of romance. I was so disappointed in Knox because he deserved better. His one downfall was that he tosses aside all his rational concerns every time they have an intimate encounter, and for a while I was convinced it was his sex brain not his heart or his head making the decisions. Because all the things Knox starts to think doesn’t matter really does matter. It’s easy to brush aside incompatibilities when you’re falling in love. I guess he was a true romantic because he convinced himself they were meant for a happily ever after even when (IMO) she wasn’t the one.
This is a scenario where opposites didn’t make a good match. From Knox being great with kids and Parker never wanting to have them to Knox enjoying his blog for fun and Parker forcing a business out of it, I couldn’t have been more convinced that Knox could have done so much better than Parker. Not only that, but Parker’s life was set up to suit Parker and she was set in her ways. Parker wanted a no strings man, but with all the benefits of a relationship. Nothing that transpired convinced me that she would realistically change or compromise or that they would make it in the long haul.
I do give kudos for the story avoiding the clichéd OW drama with Lila. She was a pleasant turn of events. There are also some nice messages regarding the value in reading romance. Told via Knox and Parker’s alternating first person POV, I adored Knox but wish this Tarzan would have kept looking for his Jane.
“Parker Elliot. I don’t get it.”
Safety Recap:
*I volunteered to review this ARC. All reviews written by Book-Bosomed Book Blog are honest opinions. In the interest of providing unbiased book reviews and to avoid misleading other readers, it is the blog’s policy not to withhold or delay any reviews no matter the star rating. To the best of my knowledge, this title was presented to the blog without any conditions or stipulations.
This story started out really cute. I thought I might never watch The Lion King the same way again. But that’s okay, because the new imagery is much….hotter. Knox was likable from the start. His narration was light-hearted and witty and despite the suggestion of a cocky womanizer from the blurb, he’s really quite the catch.
On that note, the blurb is a little misleading (and I’m referring to the complete one that came with the cover reveal, not the cut off one on GR). I was pleasantly surprised that Knox was an all round good guy, but on the downside, Parker wasn’t what I expected.
This was the biggest issue I struggled with—Parker. See there’s the perception she has of herself and the one Knox has of her. Knox is more than intrigued about her and that doesn’t waiver when he remembers her from the past. But Parker is incredibly awkward and insecure in her POV. I get that we don’t always see ourselves the same way others see us, but with Parker it was hard to reconcile the two selves, and eventually how she saw herself is what won out as my take on her character.
“…I’m awkward as a sheltered teenager.”
I’ll admit, even from the start I enjoyed Knox’s chapters more than Parker’s. But then I thought maybe Parker just had layers that needed to evolve and be revealed and then she’d be a more likable character. But after a while, it was hard not to see Parker as a dorky, clumsy, insecure, annoying, weak twit who had no finesse and left lousy impressions.
Yep, I’m not going to mince words; I closed the book still not liking her! Her clumsy and awkwardness was over the top, and despite her insistence in the beginning that she had changed since high school, she continued to prove that she not only hadn’t but that it was more pathetic as an adult.
I was constantly distracted by her age after it’s established that she’s older than Knox who early on confirms he’s thirty. Parker never seemed very mature. This is a woman with two (yes 2) master’s degrees and fifteen years working experience and yet she worries that she’s not cut out for her recent job promotion. How insecure is that? When she and Knox are caught making out by his mother and grandmother they behave even more oddly for a 30 year old man and woman “pushing forty.” [Spoiler alert: It’s later finally confirmed she’s 38.]
In addition, her reasons for not wanting kids pointed strongly at her need for therapy. Don’t take that the wrong way, I’m not saying a woman who doesn’t want kids needs therapy; I’m saying her reasons for not wanting them suggested she had bigger issues. In other words if you think your life is too big of a mess and you’re almost forty, maybe it’s time you get your life together and get to the root of your troubles. And Knox, being the gem of this book that he was, even acknowledged this more than once.
“Because for a fling, we’re perfect. Long-term, though, we’d have issues.”
YES!
Knox secures his place as a book boyfriend. He’s an intelligent, good-hearted, easy going, down-to-earth, good looking man who didn’t take himself or life too seriously. (And I totally agree with him on Titanic.)
Sadly though Knox’s very valid intuitions that they weren’t compatible all got swept aside in the name of romance. I was so disappointed in Knox because he deserved better. His one downfall was that he tosses aside all his rational concerns every time they have an intimate encounter, and for a while I was convinced it was his sex brain not his heart or his head making the decisions. Because all the things Knox starts to think doesn’t matter really does matter. It’s easy to brush aside incompatibilities when you’re falling in love. I guess he was a true romantic because he convinced himself they were meant for a happily ever after even when (IMO) she wasn’t the one.
This is a scenario where opposites didn’t make a good match. From Knox being great with kids and Parker never wanting to have them to Knox enjoying his blog for fun and Parker forcing a business out of it, I couldn’t have been more convinced that Knox could have done so much better than Parker. Not only that, but Parker’s life was set up to suit Parker and she was set in her ways. Parker wanted a no strings man, but with all the benefits of a relationship. Nothing that transpired convinced me that she would realistically change or compromise or that they would make it in the long haul.
I do give kudos for the story avoiding the clichéd OW drama with Lila. She was a pleasant turn of events. There are also some nice messages regarding the value in reading romance. Told via Knox and Parker’s alternating first person POV, I adored Knox but wish this Tarzan would have kept looking for his Jane.
“Parker Elliot. I don’t get it.”
Safety Recap:
*I volunteered to review this ARC. All reviews written by Book-Bosomed Book Blog are honest opinions. In the interest of providing unbiased book reviews and to avoid misleading other readers, it is the blog’s policy not to withhold or delay any reviews no matter the star rating. To the best of my knowledge, this title was presented to the blog without any conditions or stipulations.
March 22, 2021
2 too much self-condemnation by the h stars
Parker Elliott has recently been promoted to VP at Crunch Foods (like a smaller version of Whole Foods), and she has been tasked with securing the Pickle Hops company by the CEO. The problem? That CEO is her ex-husband (short-lived, ill-advised, quickly annulled young nerds mistake kind of thing that she hasn't told anyone about), and the best place to approach him is at the upcoming high school reunion that the reclusive now billionaire is rumored to be attending. But that means Parker will have to go to the reunion... and high school was a personal hell for her that she would much rather not revisit. In order to boost her confidence, she asks her boss for money to "buy a man" at the upcoming
Knox Moretti is Mr. Romance.... for real. He spends his days as a librarian recommending romance novels to any and all patrons, and in his free time, he writes a blog called Mr. Romance. But on this particular evening, he is wearing a loincloth that leaves very little to the imagination as Tarzan at a bachelor auction to support literacy. And when he is bid on by 2 ladies at amounts that far surpass any other of the men "for sale," he knows there must be a catch.
When Parker doesn't win the man she bid on, she decides to approach him on her own to see if he would go with her to the reunion from hell if she still donates the amount her boss gave her to the cause he is supporting. Little does she know, Tarzan is actually a guy she once babysat! The mortification! But she's still drawn to Knox, and not just because the man knows how to fill a loincloth. He is a kind, ego-boosting man who is genuine in all that he does, even if he loves romance novels more than any woman she knows.
So this reunion thing with Knox is just a one-time event.... no strings attached. And afterwards, she will just be able to go on like she has before, right? But what will happen when Parker and Knox feel more than just a physical connection (though that is nothing to scoff at!)? Will they give it a shot even though they are opposites in so many ways? And if they do, can a relationship between two very different people work?
What I liked:
--- Knox was a great beta hero for sure - definitely swoon-worthy if a little corny at times
--- Pippa Grant always does a great job incorporating humor, usually in the inner dialogue of her h's, and there are always some awkward but funny moments that stand out
--- The premise was a good one, and it had a lot of potential
What I didn't like as much:
--- Unfortunately, much of the fun and steamy goodness usually found in Grant's books was overshadowed by the h's nonstop "I'm fat, unattractive, blah, blah" self-doubt... I get that is something that happens with a lot of women, but this woman was 38 years old, and for her to not have embraced herself by then (much less believe somehow that the "man made orgasm" is a myth) is just plain sad. And way overdone in this story.
Overall, it was a promising story line with some good parts, but it was constantly overshadowed by the h's insecurities.
Plot --- 2/5
Main Charac2ters --- 3/5 (Knox = 4.5; Parker = 1.5)
Supporting Cast --- 4/5
Steam Level* --- 3/5
Violence --- nothing graphic
Language --- some
POV --- Dual
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
Parker Elliott has recently been promoted to VP at Crunch Foods (like a smaller version of Whole Foods), and she has been tasked with securing the Pickle Hops company by the CEO. The problem? That CEO is her ex-husband (short-lived, ill-advised, quickly annulled young nerds mistake kind of thing that she hasn't told anyone about), and the best place to approach him is at the upcoming high school reunion that the reclusive now billionaire is rumored to be attending. But that means Parker will have to go to the reunion... and high school was a personal hell for her that she would much rather not revisit. In order to boost her confidence, she asks her boss for money to "buy a man" at the upcoming
Knox Moretti is Mr. Romance.... for real. He spends his days as a librarian recommending romance novels to any and all patrons, and in his free time, he writes a blog called Mr. Romance. But on this particular evening, he is wearing a loincloth that leaves very little to the imagination as Tarzan at a bachelor auction to support literacy. And when he is bid on by 2 ladies at amounts that far surpass any other of the men "for sale," he knows there must be a catch.
When Parker doesn't win the man she bid on, she decides to approach him on her own to see if he would go with her to the reunion from hell if she still donates the amount her boss gave her to the cause he is supporting. Little does she know, Tarzan is actually a guy she once babysat! The mortification! But she's still drawn to Knox, and not just because the man knows how to fill a loincloth. He is a kind, ego-boosting man who is genuine in all that he does, even if he loves romance novels more than any woman she knows.
So this reunion thing with Knox is just a one-time event.... no strings attached. And afterwards, she will just be able to go on like she has before, right? But what will happen when Parker and Knox feel more than just a physical connection (though that is nothing to scoff at!)? Will they give it a shot even though they are opposites in so many ways? And if they do, can a relationship between two very different people work?
What I liked:
--- Knox was a great beta hero for sure - definitely swoon-worthy if a little corny at times
--- Pippa Grant always does a great job incorporating humor, usually in the inner dialogue of her h's, and there are always some awkward but funny moments that stand out
--- The premise was a good one, and it had a lot of potential
What I didn't like as much:
--- Unfortunately, much of the fun and steamy goodness usually found in Grant's books was overshadowed by the h's nonstop "I'm fat, unattractive, blah, blah" self-doubt... I get that is something that happens with a lot of women, but this woman was 38 years old, and for her to not have embraced herself by then (much less believe somehow that the "man made orgasm" is a myth) is just plain sad. And way overdone in this story.
Overall, it was a promising story line with some good parts, but it was constantly overshadowed by the h's insecurities.
Plot --- 2/5
Main Charac2ters --- 3/5 (Knox = 4.5; Parker = 1.5)
Supporting Cast --- 4/5
Steam Level* --- 3/5
Violence --- nothing graphic
Language --- some
POV --- Dual
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
October 6, 2021
This was cute, but also SUPER cringe-y and the humor got so annoying by the end. :( Honestly, I wish I could give the first 50% 4 stars and the last 50% 2 stars. I also had a LOT of issues with the heroine's brothers and their super gross, endless toxic masculinity displays.
January 5, 2018
4 An Homage to Romance Readers Everywhere Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free It's Live!!!
This was a Hoot! From the first tease of the Blurb to actual reading of the tale. Pippa Grant took her love of all things Romance and spread it over these pages. She gave virtual hugs to authors and appreciation to readers who love them. With ever nod to the Romance industry... a face palming smile erupted.
This book has characters from Mister McHottie and in this entry we are given Parker Elliot's and Knox Moretti's story....and it is a doozy.
You have a woman who was tortured and mentally scarred from her high school experience. Think Square Pegs...Think kids that never fit in...smart capable ones but are just this side of awkward...And are perfect fodder for all the bullies in the world.
These high school years of pain leave deep insecurities and sometimes no accomplishments can erase the loathing and self doubt those experiences cause. Couple that with mistakes young people make in romantic situations and you have the perfect recipe for a skewed vision of how life and romance is...Parker Elliot is this woman... she may have 2 masters degrees and 15 years in branding, marketing and business...but sees herself as a loser magnet.
Knox Moretti never had the experiences Parker had. He and his brother Troy did suffer the loss of their dad and the impact of him working all the time left a mark on Knox. He vowed never to work so hard as to lose himself. He became immersed in reading and romance was something that stuck. His mother was a librarian and when it was time for Knox to figure out what he wanted, he took the same path.
All those years of reading romance paid off... for Knox is not only the librarian who is loved by the community... he has created a blog devoted to matching readers with the right Romance genre and books. He is known as Mr. Romance and loves turning folks onto a much maligned form of reading. He has developed such a following that he was asked to participate in an auction for Literacy and no one could ever say no to that... so we are meeting Knox decked out in a Tarzan Loin Cloth...
Yes, that is correct...and he fills it out very nicely, indeed.
As the auction is happening, different heroes are being presented... the most recent being Batman ho raked in $5000. Knox knows of this Batman fella and he is an ass...The goal is to bring in a higher bid than that...it is for Literacy, after all...and maybe his ego too...
Parker Elliot is a woman on a mission. She found out about this auction and it was like an answer to her prayers. She had just been instructed by her boss to get a certain account for their company. With Parker only being promoted recently to VP, she felt her career was on the line...and to make everything oh, so much worse... the account she needed to get was owned and operated by the biggest mistake she ever made during her high school life. Now she needed to somehow get him to hear her pitch for acquiring his company. No one knew of her past with this guy and she aimed to keep it that way. She just needed to have a fake fiance to go with her to this reunion... and Tarzan was going to be her man....
Knox is brought up on stage and he begins to strut his stuff...and bam right away the bidding goes to $1000, $1500... then Parker goes $2000... and whoa... the numbers go higher and higher. It looks like Parker is going to get her wish... but at the last minute another out bids her.
Nooooo, this cannot be happening...Parker is besides herself. This strong in business woman, capable of holding her own through all sorts of seminars about organic foods, shooting down marketing campaigns that would not work...This woman who knows all of these things is shattered...Because the idea of not having this man go with her to her reunion is just to hard to deal with...
Parker decides the throw a hail Mary and approaches Knox and the winner of the auction as they leave the event. She starts to tell Knox about her situation and how she would give the money to Literacy if he would consider going with her to her reunion. She thrusts the program with her number on it and asks for him to call her.
Parker can barely remember what exactly she said because when nervous like this, she sometimes babbles...
Knox is not his usual self at work. He is enjoying his time with the readers and continues to assist with suggestions and answers but his mind keeps drifting back to the woman named Parker. She was something else and he was taken by her need and story...It was right out of all the Romance books he reads and talks about. He decides to text her. She calls him back...excited and shocked. They arrange to meet over coffee to talk about what she proposed.
There is so much with this story, I cannot go into a lot of detail without giving things away. I will say one of the main thing I loved was Knox...he is Book Boyfriend material if ever there was one. He just was this guy who was warm, charming, funny and sweet. Oh, and sexy as hell. Yeah... he was all that and a bag of chips...
Parker was a little more complicated. Her life path split her in two... on one level she had all the ability to handle any work situation. She had girlfriends and even played in a rock band...Yet she saw herself when it came to relationships with men as less than...She had certain notions in her head about how her life had to be... and it caused her to push others away.
I also loved all of the Romance mentioned. There was real discussion about how literary reviewers turn their noses up to the Genre and discount the importance of it to the Publishing world. It also highlights the relevance it has on people's lives. How a book containing real life themes can show their readers they too can overcome tragedies or how just reading about something can take their pain away. All of it has merit and needs to be give the respect it deserves.
This book has wonderful humor, current references to every media, amazing sexy times and even a cell phone that has a mind of its own when texting...There is much to enjoy in this tale and be prepared to have a grin on your face for most of it.
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Be still my Heart...
Are you telling me there is a Man...
A Lover of Romance Novels...
And he is a "FUNCTIONING" Man....
Yes, I know there are Men who Read and Write Romance...
But to have one out there...
It definitely would be as great as a...
Stud in the Stacks-January 5, 2018
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * Spoiler Free It's Live!!!
This was a Hoot! From the first tease of the Blurb to actual reading of the tale. Pippa Grant took her love of all things Romance and spread it over these pages. She gave virtual hugs to authors and appreciation to readers who love them. With ever nod to the Romance industry... a face palming smile erupted.
This book has characters from Mister McHottie and in this entry we are given Parker Elliot's and Knox Moretti's story....and it is a doozy.
You have a woman who was tortured and mentally scarred from her high school experience. Think Square Pegs...Think kids that never fit in...smart capable ones but are just this side of awkward...And are perfect fodder for all the bullies in the world.
These high school years of pain leave deep insecurities and sometimes no accomplishments can erase the loathing and self doubt those experiences cause. Couple that with mistakes young people make in romantic situations and you have the perfect recipe for a skewed vision of how life and romance is...Parker Elliot is this woman... she may have 2 masters degrees and 15 years in branding, marketing and business...but sees herself as a loser magnet.
Knox Moretti never had the experiences Parker had. He and his brother Troy did suffer the loss of their dad and the impact of him working all the time left a mark on Knox. He vowed never to work so hard as to lose himself. He became immersed in reading and romance was something that stuck. His mother was a librarian and when it was time for Knox to figure out what he wanted, he took the same path.
All those years of reading romance paid off... for Knox is not only the librarian who is loved by the community... he has created a blog devoted to matching readers with the right Romance genre and books. He is known as Mr. Romance and loves turning folks onto a much maligned form of reading. He has developed such a following that he was asked to participate in an auction for Literacy and no one could ever say no to that... so we are meeting Knox decked out in a Tarzan Loin Cloth...
Yes, that is correct...and he fills it out very nicely, indeed.
As the auction is happening, different heroes are being presented... the most recent being Batman ho raked in $5000. Knox knows of this Batman fella and he is an ass...The goal is to bring in a higher bid than that...it is for Literacy, after all...and maybe his ego too...
Parker Elliot is a woman on a mission. She found out about this auction and it was like an answer to her prayers. She had just been instructed by her boss to get a certain account for their company. With Parker only being promoted recently to VP, she felt her career was on the line...and to make everything oh, so much worse... the account she needed to get was owned and operated by the biggest mistake she ever made during her high school life. Now she needed to somehow get him to hear her pitch for acquiring his company. No one knew of her past with this guy and she aimed to keep it that way. She just needed to have a fake fiance to go with her to this reunion... and Tarzan was going to be her man....
Knox is brought up on stage and he begins to strut his stuff...and bam right away the bidding goes to $1000, $1500... then Parker goes $2000... and whoa... the numbers go higher and higher. It looks like Parker is going to get her wish... but at the last minute another out bids her.
Nooooo, this cannot be happening...Parker is besides herself. This strong in business woman, capable of holding her own through all sorts of seminars about organic foods, shooting down marketing campaigns that would not work...This woman who knows all of these things is shattered...Because the idea of not having this man go with her to her reunion is just to hard to deal with...
Parker decides the throw a hail Mary and approaches Knox and the winner of the auction as they leave the event. She starts to tell Knox about her situation and how she would give the money to Literacy if he would consider going with her to her reunion. She thrusts the program with her number on it and asks for him to call her.
Parker can barely remember what exactly she said because when nervous like this, she sometimes babbles...
Knox is not his usual self at work. He is enjoying his time with the readers and continues to assist with suggestions and answers but his mind keeps drifting back to the woman named Parker. She was something else and he was taken by her need and story...It was right out of all the Romance books he reads and talks about. He decides to text her. She calls him back...excited and shocked. They arrange to meet over coffee to talk about what she proposed.
There is so much with this story, I cannot go into a lot of detail without giving things away. I will say one of the main thing I loved was Knox...he is Book Boyfriend material if ever there was one. He just was this guy who was warm, charming, funny and sweet. Oh, and sexy as hell. Yeah... he was all that and a bag of chips...
Parker was a little more complicated. Her life path split her in two... on one level she had all the ability to handle any work situation. She had girlfriends and even played in a rock band...Yet she saw herself when it came to relationships with men as less than...She had certain notions in her head about how her life had to be... and it caused her to push others away.
I also loved all of the Romance mentioned. There was real discussion about how literary reviewers turn their noses up to the Genre and discount the importance of it to the Publishing world. It also highlights the relevance it has on people's lives. How a book containing real life themes can show their readers they too can overcome tragedies or how just reading about something can take their pain away. All of it has merit and needs to be give the respect it deserves.
This book has wonderful humor, current references to every media, amazing sexy times and even a cell phone that has a mind of its own when texting...There is much to enjoy in this tale and be prepared to have a grin on your face for most of it.
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Be still my Heart...
Are you telling me there is a Man...
A Lover of Romance Novels...
And he is a "FUNCTIONING" Man....
Yes, I know there are Men who Read and Write Romance...
But to have one out there...
It definitely would be as great as a...
Stud in the Stacks-January 5, 2018
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
June 14, 2024
Great guy with a hero complex!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 🖤💙❤️💖
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌍🌎
Character development: 😄😮🙂🥰
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Dual Narration
The heroine: Parker - she was a recovering dork looking for a fake fiancé. She had eloped with a guy from her high school when she was seventeen and divorced him quickly after things went downhill fast. He wasn’t great with women to say the least. She wants to go to her high school reunion and be fabulous, but that wasn’t reality. She had to go to her reunion because her boss wanted her to finesse her ex-husband who is now famous for his successful brewery. She just got a new job as vice president of marketing at the nation’s largest organic grocery.
The Hero: Knox - he is a former stripper and now he is a Librarian, one whom many women love to get book recommendations from. Romance book recommendations, and extra benefits at times. He also has a popular blog called Mr. Romance. He has a bad reputation with his boss, who has had about enough of Knox and his antics, especially after Knox hooked up with his daughter. Joining the bachelor auction for the literacy foundation as Tarzan and getting a huge bid that seemed less like bachelor auction money and more like gigolo money, didn’t help his bosses’ opinion despite the money he raised.
The Story: Parker was outbid on Tarzan at the bachelor auction, so she lingered after it was over in order to try to hire him to be her fake fiancé at her reunion. Parker embarrasses herself by being a big loser in front of Knox and the woman who won the auction, but she is able to tell Knox what she needs him for and offers a big donation to the charity in exchange. She slips him her phone number and tells him to give it some thought.
This audiobook was told in dual points of view via dual narration and was narrated by Joe Arden and Karen White. Joe Arden is one of my favorites. His voice isn’t quite as deep as I usually like, but he is very comfortable and such a great narrator. He always does an awesome job. Karen White isn’t a narrator I like very much. She sounds quite a bit older than the characters and she sounded way too anxious. Even though it fit the character, it got on my nerves.
I liked the story and I have really liked Pippa Grant’s books in the past even other books in this series. Though I really didn’t like the female narrator, it bothered me enough to really affect my overall enjoyment of this one. Though I did love the Knox character, he lives with his grandma, who he really loves.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 🖤💙❤️💖
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌍🌎
Character development: 😄😮🙂🥰
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Dual Narration
The heroine: Parker - she was a recovering dork looking for a fake fiancé. She had eloped with a guy from her high school when she was seventeen and divorced him quickly after things went downhill fast. He wasn’t great with women to say the least. She wants to go to her high school reunion and be fabulous, but that wasn’t reality. She had to go to her reunion because her boss wanted her to finesse her ex-husband who is now famous for his successful brewery. She just got a new job as vice president of marketing at the nation’s largest organic grocery.
The Hero: Knox - he is a former stripper and now he is a Librarian, one whom many women love to get book recommendations from. Romance book recommendations, and extra benefits at times. He also has a popular blog called Mr. Romance. He has a bad reputation with his boss, who has had about enough of Knox and his antics, especially after Knox hooked up with his daughter. Joining the bachelor auction for the literacy foundation as Tarzan and getting a huge bid that seemed less like bachelor auction money and more like gigolo money, didn’t help his bosses’ opinion despite the money he raised.
The Story: Parker was outbid on Tarzan at the bachelor auction, so she lingered after it was over in order to try to hire him to be her fake fiancé at her reunion. Parker embarrasses herself by being a big loser in front of Knox and the woman who won the auction, but she is able to tell Knox what she needs him for and offers a big donation to the charity in exchange. She slips him her phone number and tells him to give it some thought.
This audiobook was told in dual points of view via dual narration and was narrated by Joe Arden and Karen White. Joe Arden is one of my favorites. His voice isn’t quite as deep as I usually like, but he is very comfortable and such a great narrator. He always does an awesome job. Karen White isn’t a narrator I like very much. She sounds quite a bit older than the characters and she sounded way too anxious. Even though it fit the character, it got on my nerves.
I liked the story and I have really liked Pippa Grant’s books in the past even other books in this series. Though I really didn’t like the female narrator, it bothered me enough to really affect my overall enjoyment of this one. Though I did love the Knox character, he lives with his grandma, who he really loves.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
October 24, 2024
4.5 stars on my reread
Oh Mr. Romance (Knox), why can’t you be real?!
2020 review:
I love Pippa Grant books. Although this is only my second book by her, she’s definitely one of my top favorite authors.
Parker’s high school reunion is coming up and she needs a date. Scratch that, she needs a fake fiancé in order to prove to everyone that her life is amazing AND to show her ex- husband that she was able to happily move on from their annulment. But, she also has to get her ex-hubby to sell his company to Chase, her boss, and she’s the only one that can maybe try to convince him.
Enter Knox, AKA Mr. Romance. Oh Knox. Can I just say- 😋 or more like use an emoji to describe him cause he’s so yummy. I mean, this man loves reading romance novels 🥰swooooon! Parker sees he is going to auction himself at a charity event where all the proceeds go towards literacy and decides she needs to bet on him. She needs him to play the part of her fiancé; she’s been reading his Mr. Romance blog for years. He works at a library so OF COURSE he’s going to use his previous stripping skills and dress up as Tarzan (using a teeny, tiny loin cloth 😅 that thankfully leaves little to the imagination). She goes to the auction, ready to win him, but loses to another woman. But don’t worry, she chases after him and makes such an impression on him that he ends up calling her the following week.
Once they meet, the chemistry is instant. I mean 🔥although Parker is insecure, he makes her feel sexy and beautiful. Oh and I have to admit, I can’t recall a book I’ve read where the h babysat the H, which was something new for me- and I loved it! Yes, many would feel cringy but who cares?! It’s been decades and they’re both grown adults 🙄I was laughing at so many scenes and memories between them. Omg and the damn autocorrect on her phone. I mean I was 💀😂😂😂. I’m luckily reading at home where my hubby and daughter expect me to randomly get pissed or almost pee laughing. I was laughing out loud so many times!
I also found myself searching up all the books Knox recommended. Thank you Pippa for that! I added so many to my TBR list and bought a couple. I can’t wait to read them. Again, something I’ve never encountered in a book. Knox’s knowledge of romance books and tropes and how things end made me smile so many times lol really, because, he’s right.
The only sad thing is that I wish he were real!! I looooved this book. Thank you Pippa Grant for allowing me to escape from life for a few hours.
2024 review
While I still enjoyed so much and laughed a lot, it bothered me that Parker, at 38, had never had an O with a man 🙄🤦🏻♀️. Sigh. Whyyyyyy?!?!? 😒. So of course the only time she has ever Od is when Knox (30) who’s pretty experienced and younger 😐. At least he wasn’t a manwhore, but still 😒 lol
Thank goodness he doesn’t have sex with the woman that won him at the auction 😅
I loved how 🔥 it got 😮💨 though
I also loved the books Knox recommended 🤣. I’m proud to say I’ve read most of them 🤡
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating/sharing
-not really owd*: although another woman wins the H at the auction, nothing happens and no drama is caused. But the h does feel sad she didn’t win him.
-not really omd*: the h wants to have a fake date to her reunion because of her ex 😬 but it doesn’t necessarily cause the H to feel
-HEA/epilogue/weeks later
Oh Mr. Romance (Knox), why can’t you be real?!
2020 review:
I love Pippa Grant books. Although this is only my second book by her, she’s definitely one of my top favorite authors.
Parker’s high school reunion is coming up and she needs a date. Scratch that, she needs a fake fiancé in order to prove to everyone that her life is amazing AND to show her ex- husband that she was able to happily move on from their annulment. But, she also has to get her ex-hubby to sell his company to Chase, her boss, and she’s the only one that can maybe try to convince him.
Enter Knox, AKA Mr. Romance. Oh Knox. Can I just say- 😋 or more like use an emoji to describe him cause he’s so yummy. I mean, this man loves reading romance novels 🥰swooooon! Parker sees he is going to auction himself at a charity event where all the proceeds go towards literacy and decides she needs to bet on him. She needs him to play the part of her fiancé; she’s been reading his Mr. Romance blog for years. He works at a library so OF COURSE he’s going to use his previous stripping skills and dress up as Tarzan (using a teeny, tiny loin cloth 😅 that thankfully leaves little to the imagination). She goes to the auction, ready to win him, but loses to another woman. But don’t worry, she chases after him and makes such an impression on him that he ends up calling her the following week.
Once they meet, the chemistry is instant. I mean 🔥although Parker is insecure, he makes her feel sexy and beautiful. Oh and I have to admit, I can’t recall a book I’ve read where the h babysat the H, which was something new for me- and I loved it! Yes, many would feel cringy but who cares?! It’s been decades and they’re both grown adults 🙄I was laughing at so many scenes and memories between them. Omg and the damn autocorrect on her phone. I mean I was 💀😂😂😂. I’m luckily reading at home where my hubby and daughter expect me to randomly get pissed or almost pee laughing. I was laughing out loud so many times!
I also found myself searching up all the books Knox recommended. Thank you Pippa for that! I added so many to my TBR list and bought a couple. I can’t wait to read them. Again, something I’ve never encountered in a book. Knox’s knowledge of romance books and tropes and how things end made me smile so many times lol really, because, he’s right.
The only sad thing is that I wish he were real!! I looooved this book. Thank you Pippa Grant for allowing me to escape from life for a few hours.
2024 review
While I still enjoyed so much and laughed a lot, it bothered me that Parker, at 38, had never had an O with a man 🙄🤦🏻♀️. Sigh. Whyyyyyy?!?!? 😒. So of course the only time she has ever Od is when Knox (30) who’s pretty experienced and younger 😐. At least he wasn’t a manwhore, but still 😒 lol
Thank goodness he doesn’t have sex with the woman that won him at the auction 😅
I loved how 🔥 it got 😮💨 though
I also loved the books Knox recommended 🤣. I’m proud to say I’ve read most of them 🤡
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating/sharing
-not really owd*: although another woman wins the H at the auction, nothing happens and no drama is caused. But the h does feel sad she didn’t win him.
-not really omd*: the h wants to have a fake date to her reunion because of her ex 😬 but it doesn’t necessarily cause the H to feel
-HEA/epilogue/weeks later
March 9, 2019
so this wasn't for me ..... the heroine is pushing 40 and these are her inner musings ...
Copy provided for blog tour review
Copy provided for blog tour review
December 29, 2017
Knox Moretti can be the king of MY jungle, any day!
Wait, wait…..this one’s better….
Move over Parker, there’s only room for ME on Knox’s “vine”!
Oh, and there’s this one….*snort*
I’ll gladly help Knox hide his anaconda, ‘cause his loincloth sure isn’t doing the job!
Okay, okay….enough of my terrible jokes. But seriously….you know what’s absolutely NOT terrible? THIS BOOK!!!! Holy freaking moly I LOVED this book so hard. Like, HARD hard, ya know what I’m saying? *wink*
I’m a sucker for romcoms…the funnier and dirtier, the better! But Stud in the Stacks took better and blew it right out of the park! Over-the-top hilarious (and I do mean pee-your-pants funny) with an unbelievably sexy man that oozes charm and irresistibility, that no woman in her right mind can resist. Throw in a quirky and totally likable female with an unusual proposition, and you’ve got the makings of a clever, entertaining, uproarious, somewhat crazy, and whimsical romance!
Not even half way through this book, and I was already hooked on the author. Her writing is wickedly fantastic, enrapturing my complete attention from the get-go! It made me seek out her other books, to find that Stud in the Stacks is only her SECOND published book! Say WHHAAATTT?!?! I know, I’m just as shocked as you. But I needed more, and I wasn’t even finished with THIS book yet. So I signed up for the author’s newsletter, joined her reader group, and…yeah, well I’ll just say it ended there. *smirk* Stalking isn’t a bad word. Right??
Anyway, back to this review….
By the time I finished, I already categorized this book as one of my top ten reads of 2017! It’s THAT good! No, not just good, but GREAT! Superb, outstanding, blue ribbon for best-in-show type incredible! So if you’re looking for a lively, gut-busting, and utterly romantic love story, READ THIS BOOK! I’m telling ya, you won’t be disappointed….with Knox, or his loincloth!
5+ Stars!
*ARC provided for a voluntary honest review.* ~Kelly
Wait, wait…..this one’s better….
Move over Parker, there’s only room for ME on Knox’s “vine”!
Oh, and there’s this one….*snort*
I’ll gladly help Knox hide his anaconda, ‘cause his loincloth sure isn’t doing the job!
Okay, okay….enough of my terrible jokes. But seriously….you know what’s absolutely NOT terrible? THIS BOOK!!!! Holy freaking moly I LOVED this book so hard. Like, HARD hard, ya know what I’m saying? *wink*
I’m a sucker for romcoms…the funnier and dirtier, the better! But Stud in the Stacks took better and blew it right out of the park! Over-the-top hilarious (and I do mean pee-your-pants funny) with an unbelievably sexy man that oozes charm and irresistibility, that no woman in her right mind can resist. Throw in a quirky and totally likable female with an unusual proposition, and you’ve got the makings of a clever, entertaining, uproarious, somewhat crazy, and whimsical romance!
Not even half way through this book, and I was already hooked on the author. Her writing is wickedly fantastic, enrapturing my complete attention from the get-go! It made me seek out her other books, to find that Stud in the Stacks is only her SECOND published book! Say WHHAAATTT?!?! I know, I’m just as shocked as you. But I needed more, and I wasn’t even finished with THIS book yet. So I signed up for the author’s newsletter, joined her reader group, and…yeah, well I’ll just say it ended there. *smirk* Stalking isn’t a bad word. Right??
Anyway, back to this review….
By the time I finished, I already categorized this book as one of my top ten reads of 2017! It’s THAT good! No, not just good, but GREAT! Superb, outstanding, blue ribbon for best-in-show type incredible! So if you’re looking for a lively, gut-busting, and utterly romantic love story, READ THIS BOOK! I’m telling ya, you won’t be disappointed….with Knox, or his loincloth!
5+ Stars!
*ARC provided for a voluntary honest review.* ~Kelly
January 5, 2018
3.5 Mr Romance Stars
This was a fun and sexy ROM-COM with a charming, romantic hero who just happens to love reading romance books.
Knox is a librarian who is a also known as Mr Romance. He is a book blogger with a love for romance books. If I'm going to be honest, I'm not really swooning over a hero who is a romance novel enthusiast. Am I being sexist? Probably but it's just my preference. In any case once I looked past that I did really get to love Knox because he was seriously sexy and endearingly romantic.
The heroine Parker had tons of self esteem issues. She had a hard time in high school and despite the fact that she has outgrown her awkward phase and is successful in her career, she is nervous about going to her high school reunion. Knox is some serious eye candy and he is well known and loved as Mr. Romance. So while she doesn't actually think he would be interested in her, she proposes that Knox pretend to be her fake fiancee and escort her to the reunion to impress her old classmates.
Parker's inner dialogue was hilarious! Both her thoughts and speech were running like a mile a minute. She was so socially awkward at times but in a fun, quirky way. Some jokes fell a little flat for me but there were definitely some funny feel good moments.
Knox really helped Parker gain confidence and learn to own her beauty. The chemistry between these two was scorching. I loved that there was some build up and anticipation between these two. It made the steamy scenes that much hotter.
I loved all the romance book references in this book. Romance book lovers will get a kick out of seeing some popular favorites mentioned. I also loved how Knox defended romance book lovers after a journalist made an ignorant condescending remark about romance novels. This was me while reading this part
Overall this was fun and super sexy! Some of the comedy aspect of this book did not necessarily work for me but I would still recommend this book.
3.5 Stars
Contemporary Romantic Comedy
Heat Level: HOT
POV: Dual
HEA
COME FIND ME!
This was a fun and sexy ROM-COM with a charming, romantic hero who just happens to love reading romance books.
Knox is a librarian who is a also known as Mr Romance. He is a book blogger with a love for romance books. If I'm going to be honest, I'm not really swooning over a hero who is a romance novel enthusiast. Am I being sexist? Probably but it's just my preference. In any case once I looked past that I did really get to love Knox because he was seriously sexy and endearingly romantic.
The heroine Parker had tons of self esteem issues. She had a hard time in high school and despite the fact that she has outgrown her awkward phase and is successful in her career, she is nervous about going to her high school reunion. Knox is some serious eye candy and he is well known and loved as Mr. Romance. So while she doesn't actually think he would be interested in her, she proposes that Knox pretend to be her fake fiancee and escort her to the reunion to impress her old classmates.
"You're still like a chocolate cupcake while I'm that weird lemon-white chocolate cookie people always pick last because it's weird."
Parker's inner dialogue was hilarious! Both her thoughts and speech were running like a mile a minute. She was so socially awkward at times but in a fun, quirky way. Some jokes fell a little flat for me but there were definitely some funny feel good moments.
Knox really helped Parker gain confidence and learn to own her beauty. The chemistry between these two was scorching. I loved that there was some build up and anticipation between these two. It made the steamy scenes that much hotter.
I loved all the romance book references in this book. Romance book lovers will get a kick out of seeing some popular favorites mentioned. I also loved how Knox defended romance book lovers after a journalist made an ignorant condescending remark about romance novels. This was me while reading this part
Overall this was fun and super sexy! Some of the comedy aspect of this book did not necessarily work for me but I would still recommend this book.
3.5 Stars
Contemporary Romantic Comedy
Heat Level: HOT
POV: Dual
HEA
COME FIND ME!
January 7, 2018
I laughed and laughed and laughed…
Parker and Knox – all the characters in this laugh out loud romantic comedy – had me laughing uncontrollably. Their conversations were refreshingly honest even as they were filled with innuendoes, one-liners and punch lines. With a high school reunion at the center, I wondered occasionally if I had actually dropped into the hallowed (ha ha) halls of my alma mater. Not in a juvenile way but in a way that spoke volumes about how much Parker and her friends knew, and cared, about each other. And then, enter Knox…
“He’s Knox M., librarian by day, romance novel enthusiast and author of the popular Mr. Romance blog by night.”
He was sexy and completely charming, add in the love and support for his grandma, and he was the hunky, nerdy hero book enthusiasts yearn for. And like any good librarian, he made my TBR grow with his suggestions, I was adding titles and authors like a book-starved addict…
“He smells like books and jungle heat.”
I loved the chemistry that Knox had with Parker. Her struggles were real and her inner monologues hilarious. While her character was a bit here and there for me, she was part of a whole package that completely worked for me. A hilarious phone that was obsessed with auto-correcting added more than one chuckle to this fun-a-licious romp. At the end of the day, it’s all about life’s foibles, humans being good, bad, and sexy as well as our real need and yearning for heroes and heroines.
Now, I am even more convinced they are hiding out in the book stacks!
“I get off on being someone’s hero. And I’m going to hero the shit out of saving Parker.”
The ending was funny, satisfying and fed any quiet romantic notions I may still have about white knights while showing how kick-butt womanpower can be!
~Diane, 4.5 “ducking phone” stars!
Parker and Knox – all the characters in this laugh out loud romantic comedy – had me laughing uncontrollably. Their conversations were refreshingly honest even as they were filled with innuendoes, one-liners and punch lines. With a high school reunion at the center, I wondered occasionally if I had actually dropped into the hallowed (ha ha) halls of my alma mater. Not in a juvenile way but in a way that spoke volumes about how much Parker and her friends knew, and cared, about each other. And then, enter Knox…
“He’s Knox M., librarian by day, romance novel enthusiast and author of the popular Mr. Romance blog by night.”
He was sexy and completely charming, add in the love and support for his grandma, and he was the hunky, nerdy hero book enthusiasts yearn for. And like any good librarian, he made my TBR grow with his suggestions, I was adding titles and authors like a book-starved addict…
“He smells like books and jungle heat.”
I loved the chemistry that Knox had with Parker. Her struggles were real and her inner monologues hilarious. While her character was a bit here and there for me, she was part of a whole package that completely worked for me. A hilarious phone that was obsessed with auto-correcting added more than one chuckle to this fun-a-licious romp. At the end of the day, it’s all about life’s foibles, humans being good, bad, and sexy as well as our real need and yearning for heroes and heroines.
Now, I am even more convinced they are hiding out in the book stacks!
“I get off on being someone’s hero. And I’m going to hero the shit out of saving Parker.”
The ending was funny, satisfying and fed any quiet romantic notions I may still have about white knights while showing how kick-butt womanpower can be!
~Diane, 4.5 “ducking phone” stars!
January 16, 2018
4.5 stars.
Loved this one even more than the first book.
Parker and Knox's story was just so much sweeter and endearing while still containing all the same funny and sexy elements that had me enthralled with Sia and Chase's story.
Less screwball comedy but still super hilarious.
Sign me up for this authors next release please!!!
It is also available on KU.
Loved this one even more than the first book.
Parker and Knox's story was just so much sweeter and endearing while still containing all the same funny and sexy elements that had me enthralled with Sia and Chase's story.
Less screwball comedy but still super hilarious.
Sign me up for this authors next release please!!!
It is also available on KU.
August 31, 2021
This is second in a series and characters from the first play a large role. So you probably want to read in order. Also, this one introduces Lila in Liar, Liar, Hearts on Fire so reading this before that one might be fun, too. Wish I had known that before...
So this one is better than the first. Or, at least, the couple felt better together throughout and I was really engaged with them getting to know one another. I really liked having Knox as the romance-loving librarian. He's every hot-librarian fantasy turned male and made live and it was pretty awesome. I'm not so enamored of his playboy default or that it has no real foundation. His sole excuse is something about he's not that old yet and isn't ready to settle. So immature, really. Which is a bit strange because it turns out that Parker babysat him back in the day so she's a good few years older and that usually needs to have some maturity in the guy to feel workable.
Only instead, we have Parker made less mature so they're more-or-less on an even level. And she's in her late thirties having never grasped that your children aren't doomed to live the life you did (probably because that wouldn't be torturous enough for the universe to prank parents with). So she's not so much immature as she hasn't processed core realities despite living a decade or so past the point she should have.
Anyway, we have some decent banter. And I liked them both, for all their motivations were generic and unexamined. And if you follow me at all, you're probably expecting that those are negative motivations* only they aren't, really. I mean, Parker has positive goals. She wants to build a future that leaves her free to pursue her career unfettered and to get all the promotions that people with a work-life balance miss out on. And Knox wants to play because he likes women and doesn't want to be unable to pick up someone who interests him. They're dumb. But not negative. If you get the distinction. It's subtle, but I think you can see how it works because the plot isn't ever bogged down like it would be with a true negative motivation.
Anyway, this was cruising near four stars for some of the emotional growth we get for both protagonists. I liked seeing Knox come out of his essentially hedonistic tailspin. And I liked even more seeing Parker gain confidence and conviction in both herself and in her career. There are some great moments.
So it's with sadness that I ran into the dark moment that came out of nowhere and denied the strength of their relationship and the growth that had taken place to that point. And why is it that it's never .
Anyway, three stars and I wish there weren't shoved-in dark moments. It feels like it was an author-on-autopilot moment. Which would be a shame.
A note about Steamy: There are a half-dozen or so explicit sex scenes putting this in the high end of my steam tolerance. They got boring after a bit, frankly. I get it. They like doing each other. And they have magic naughty bits. Good for them. Move on.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back (or, if that link doesn't work, here's a cache of the original) and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
So this one is better than the first. Or, at least, the couple felt better together throughout and I was really engaged with them getting to know one another. I really liked having Knox as the romance-loving librarian. He's every hot-librarian fantasy turned male and made live and it was pretty awesome. I'm not so enamored of his playboy default or that it has no real foundation. His sole excuse is something about he's not that old yet and isn't ready to settle. So immature, really. Which is a bit strange because it turns out that Parker babysat him back in the day so she's a good few years older and that usually needs to have some maturity in the guy to feel workable.
Only instead, we have Parker made less mature so they're more-or-less on an even level. And she's in her late thirties having never grasped that your children aren't doomed to live the life you did (probably because that wouldn't be torturous enough for the universe to prank parents with). So she's not so much immature as she hasn't processed core realities despite living a decade or so past the point she should have.
Anyway, we have some decent banter. And I liked them both, for all their motivations were generic and unexamined. And if you follow me at all, you're probably expecting that those are negative motivations* only they aren't, really. I mean, Parker has positive goals. She wants to build a future that leaves her free to pursue her career unfettered and to get all the promotions that people with a work-life balance miss out on. And Knox wants to play because he likes women and doesn't want to be unable to pick up someone who interests him. They're dumb. But not negative. If you get the distinction. It's subtle, but I think you can see how it works because the plot isn't ever bogged down like it would be with a true negative motivation.
Anyway, this was cruising near four stars for some of the emotional growth we get for both protagonists. I liked seeing Knox come out of his essentially hedonistic tailspin. And I liked even more seeing Parker gain confidence and conviction in both herself and in her career. There are some great moments.
So it's with sadness that I ran into the dark moment that came out of nowhere and denied the strength of their relationship and the growth that had taken place to that point. And why is it that it's never .
Anyway, three stars and I wish there weren't shoved-in dark moments. It feels like it was an author-on-autopilot moment. Which would be a shame.
A note about Steamy: There are a half-dozen or so explicit sex scenes putting this in the high end of my steam tolerance. They got boring after a bit, frankly. I get it. They like doing each other. And they have magic naughty bits. Good for them. Move on.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back (or, if that link doesn't work, here's a cache of the original) and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
January 15, 2019
I loved the story and plot but the heroine was just too... much for me. She’s an almost 40 year old career oriented professional who doesn’t want marriage or kids. Ok... but she’s also shy, awkward, clumsy and the guitarist in a cover band. The things she says and thinks we’re just too over the top for me. She was constantly wet, her nipples reached out (bad mental image) and tried to grab and her pussy was just a little too vocal for me. I think she would have been better toned down a bit. But as a whole it’s a fun lighthearted read I think most will enjoy.
February 14, 2020
⭐️ [3.75/5 Stars] ⭐️
February 6, 2018
Desperate times call for desperate measures. And boy is Parker Elliot desperate. She has recently been promoted to Vice President of Marketing for Crunchy and her boss has asked her to get a new account. Unfortunately, her new account target is her ex-husband. And she has to go to her high school reunion to corner him...I mean, talk to him. Oh, did I mention Parker’s high school nickname was Pimple Popper Parker? Yeah, not the best of times. So, she goes out and tries to win a bachelor at a bachelor auction. That bachelor is Knox. You wouldn’t blame her since he’s auctioning himself off in a loincloth. Knox is hot, loves romance novels and is more than happy to help Parker out and along the way, yep you guessed it, romance happens.
The Good. Ms. Grant just keeps bringing the fun in. I was hooked by the first book in this series, so much so that I didn’t want to leave this ‘verse. This has a different trope (older woman/younger man) and plot device (fake engagement), but the funny and the quirky are still in full force. Parker is pretty insecure and the hell that was high school really makes her issues believable.
You can Stuart Smalley all you want, saying it and believing it are two different things. Parker needs to believe it and it was a pleasure to see her finally come into her own. Knox is great and his love of romance novels, something that is stereotypically confined to heroines, is a refreshing change. I love that Ms. Grant threw in some real romance novel titles throughout and Knox’s defense of the romance novel reader was a great touch. So much yes to his blog post. The chemistry is strong, the Firsts are great, the romance builds naturally, the ending was heartfelt and all in all, I closed my kindle with a smile.
The Bad. As we all know, humor is subjective. The humor really worked for me in Mister McHottie (book one). Here, the humor was a tad more raunchy, and certain key phrases made me a little cringey. Not all of it, and I laughed more often than not, but it was there. Plus, Parker’s insecurity can, on occasion, be a bit trying. Her overall journey is strong, but insecure heroines have that negative inner monologue that can be exhausting, so that’s not my favorite. Still, quibbles that I can certainly move past and the overall tale made it easy to overlook this.
Everything in Between. Supporting characters have been strong in this series, and I loved Knox’s grandmother, seeing Parker’s BFFs (who were featured in the first book, so it’s old home week), Parker’s brothers - all of them entertained me and made this story come alive in the best way.
4.25 stars
I really enjoyed this. When the world is crazy and real life is nuts, I love funny, sexy romances and Stud in the Stacks fit the bill. Parker and Knox were a sweet May-September kind of romance that I happily recommend. I need Zeus’ story soon, Ms. Grant, please and thank you.
For more reviews, visit
The Good. Ms. Grant just keeps bringing the fun in. I was hooked by the first book in this series, so much so that I didn’t want to leave this ‘verse. This has a different trope (older woman/younger man) and plot device (fake engagement), but the funny and the quirky are still in full force. Parker is pretty insecure and the hell that was high school really makes her issues believable.
You can Stuart Smalley all you want, saying it and believing it are two different things. Parker needs to believe it and it was a pleasure to see her finally come into her own. Knox is great and his love of romance novels, something that is stereotypically confined to heroines, is a refreshing change. I love that Ms. Grant threw in some real romance novel titles throughout and Knox’s defense of the romance novel reader was a great touch. So much yes to his blog post. The chemistry is strong, the Firsts are great, the romance builds naturally, the ending was heartfelt and all in all, I closed my kindle with a smile.
The Bad. As we all know, humor is subjective. The humor really worked for me in Mister McHottie (book one). Here, the humor was a tad more raunchy, and certain key phrases made me a little cringey. Not all of it, and I laughed more often than not, but it was there. Plus, Parker’s insecurity can, on occasion, be a bit trying. Her overall journey is strong, but insecure heroines have that negative inner monologue that can be exhausting, so that’s not my favorite. Still, quibbles that I can certainly move past and the overall tale made it easy to overlook this.
Everything in Between. Supporting characters have been strong in this series, and I loved Knox’s grandmother, seeing Parker’s BFFs (who were featured in the first book, so it’s old home week), Parker’s brothers - all of them entertained me and made this story come alive in the best way.
4.25 stars
I really enjoyed this. When the world is crazy and real life is nuts, I love funny, sexy romances and Stud in the Stacks fit the bill. Parker and Knox were a sweet May-September kind of romance that I happily recommend. I need Zeus’ story soon, Ms. Grant, please and thank you.
For more reviews, visit
July 11, 2018
Reread 7/11/18 bc I missed Knox.
First person, Dual-POV, HAE. Standalone.
This pussy?
Mine.
These breasts?
Mine.
This woman?
Mine.
Because I'm hers. Heart, body, and soul. She's it. I'm done.
Well, well, well. Another 2018 fave, already?! Not questioning things. I enjoyed this immensely. Full of humor, steam, and love.
Parker has a situation: No date for her high school reunion, and she's determined to show all those bullies of yesteryear that she's a successful, take-charge woman who's thriving in love. As soon as she sees the man in a loin cloth atop the stage at a date auction, she is sure he's her best shot at doing just that. Except she loses the bid, but she still manages to slip her number to him afterward. Now the ball's in his court.
Knox is the internet's favorite male lover of romance novels. His reviews are followed by masses of both men and women, and his position at the help desk of the local library allows him to make in-person recommendations. His whole life is his love for romance, and he's damn good at giving people what they want.
Librarians do it in the stacks.
When Knox is presented with the opportunity to take a lovely girl to her reunion, he chocks saying 'yes' up to his hero complex. But the more he gets to know her, the more he adores her. There's no way they're stopping once the deal is done.
There is not, nor will there ever be, another man who can appreciate Parker for the beautiful, half-mess, half-goddess, all-perfect woman that she is.
Parker may be one of my favorite heroines EVER. She's fucking hilarious - when she's not completely tearing herself apart due to insecurities.
And if I ran the world, sexy jungle studmuffins would fall madly, desperately in love with book-smart but sexually-insecure world rulers, and they'd prostrate themselves at my feet and beg for a chance to be the one to prove to me that their thick, hard, throbbing loins held the magic elixer of transcendent orgasms.
And OH LORD, Knox was a gift. I never realized just how much I needed a sexy librarian hero until I read Knox. A lover of books? Supportive and loving? Dirty mind and mouth? Gimme. gimme. gimme.
If you're looking for a quick, sweet, hot read definitely give this a shot.
'Til next time cuties ;)
First person, Dual-POV, HAE. Standalone.
This pussy?
Mine.
These breasts?
Mine.
This woman?
Mine.
Because I'm hers. Heart, body, and soul. She's it. I'm done.
Well, well, well. Another 2018 fave, already?! Not questioning things. I enjoyed this immensely. Full of humor, steam, and love.
Parker has a situation: No date for her high school reunion, and she's determined to show all those bullies of yesteryear that she's a successful, take-charge woman who's thriving in love. As soon as she sees the man in a loin cloth atop the stage at a date auction, she is sure he's her best shot at doing just that. Except she loses the bid, but she still manages to slip her number to him afterward. Now the ball's in his court.
Knox is the internet's favorite male lover of romance novels. His reviews are followed by masses of both men and women, and his position at the help desk of the local library allows him to make in-person recommendations. His whole life is his love for romance, and he's damn good at giving people what they want.
Librarians do it in the stacks.
When Knox is presented with the opportunity to take a lovely girl to her reunion, he chocks saying 'yes' up to his hero complex. But the more he gets to know her, the more he adores her. There's no way they're stopping once the deal is done.
There is not, nor will there ever be, another man who can appreciate Parker for the beautiful, half-mess, half-goddess, all-perfect woman that she is.
Parker may be one of my favorite heroines EVER. She's fucking hilarious - when she's not completely tearing herself apart due to insecurities.
And if I ran the world, sexy jungle studmuffins would fall madly, desperately in love with book-smart but sexually-insecure world rulers, and they'd prostrate themselves at my feet and beg for a chance to be the one to prove to me that their thick, hard, throbbing loins held the magic elixer of transcendent orgasms.
And OH LORD, Knox was a gift. I never realized just how much I needed a sexy librarian hero until I read Knox. A lover of books? Supportive and loving? Dirty mind and mouth? Gimme. gimme. gimme.
If you're looking for a quick, sweet, hot read definitely give this a shot.
'Til next time cuties ;)
November 9, 2023
"Stud in the Stacks" by Pippa Grant was an absolute delight, and experiencing it as an audiobook was an even more fantastic journey. This book had me hooked from the very beginning. I have to say, this is a solid 5-star romance audiobook. 💫📚 #StudInTheStacks #AudiobookMagic
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From the moment I started listening to Knox and Parker's story, I was swept off my feet. Knox is the hot librarian who knows every romance novel ever written and even runs a popular blog as Mr. Romance. His character is not only drool-worthy but also incredibly endearing. Parker, with her guitar skills and a heart of gold, is a protagonist you can't help but root for. 😍🎸 #KnoxAndParker #SwoonWorthy
What really stood out to me in this story were the relationships, not only between Knox and Parker but also the dynamics with their friends and family. I adored Parker's protective brothers and her group of friends. These relationships added depth and authenticity to the story, making it even more engaging. 👫👭👬 #FriendshipGoals #FamilyLove
The instant chemistry between Knox and Parker was electric, and I loved how the author added humor to their challenges in finding alone time, thanks to Knox's Nanna and Parker's overprotective brothers. It made for some hilarious and heartfelt moments, creating a perfect balance between sweet and sexy. 🔥😂 #ChemistryOnFire #FunnyAndSweet
But what truly made this audiobook shine was the way Knox saw Parker. His determination to boost her self-confidence and help her see her true beauty, intelligence, and sexiness was touching. It added a beautiful layer of emotional depth to their relationship, making it all the more meaningful. The transformation both Knox and Parker undergo, as they reevaluate their beliefs and perspectives, is truly heartwarming. 💖🌟 #HeartwarmingRomance
"Stud in the Stacks" is a book that will have you smiling from ear to ear. The humor, from Taco Tuesday to unicorn-themed shenanigans, was utterly delightful. The book seamlessly weaves between funny, sweet, and steamy moments, with a heartwarming journey of self-discovery leaving you thoroughly entertained throughout. 😁🦄🌮 #SmilesAndRomance
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From the moment I started listening to Knox and Parker's story, I was swept off my feet. Knox is the hot librarian who knows every romance novel ever written and even runs a popular blog as Mr. Romance. His character is not only drool-worthy but also incredibly endearing. Parker, with her guitar skills and a heart of gold, is a protagonist you can't help but root for. 😍🎸 #KnoxAndParker #SwoonWorthy
What really stood out to me in this story were the relationships, not only between Knox and Parker but also the dynamics with their friends and family. I adored Parker's protective brothers and her group of friends. These relationships added depth and authenticity to the story, making it even more engaging. 👫👭👬 #FriendshipGoals #FamilyLove
The instant chemistry between Knox and Parker was electric, and I loved how the author added humor to their challenges in finding alone time, thanks to Knox's Nanna and Parker's overprotective brothers. It made for some hilarious and heartfelt moments, creating a perfect balance between sweet and sexy. 🔥😂 #ChemistryOnFire #FunnyAndSweet
But what truly made this audiobook shine was the way Knox saw Parker. His determination to boost her self-confidence and help her see her true beauty, intelligence, and sexiness was touching. It added a beautiful layer of emotional depth to their relationship, making it all the more meaningful. The transformation both Knox and Parker undergo, as they reevaluate their beliefs and perspectives, is truly heartwarming. 💖🌟 #HeartwarmingRomance
"Stud in the Stacks" is a book that will have you smiling from ear to ear. The humor, from Taco Tuesday to unicorn-themed shenanigans, was utterly delightful. The book seamlessly weaves between funny, sweet, and steamy moments, with a heartwarming journey of self-discovery leaving you thoroughly entertained throughout. 😁🦄🌮 #SmilesAndRomance
December 20, 2018
This was better than I expected, actually I considered skipping this one altogether, but I'm a sucker for reading books in their suggested order. This isn't really part of any series, but characters from the previous book make an appearance, and it just bugs me if that happens and I didn't get a reference or a joke or whatever. And the author listed this as the next book, so here I am.
Anyway, this is better than I thought it'd be. I didn't know how I'd feel about Knox, but he was great. He was funny and sweet. Not obnoxious about his romance addiction. Parker started off shaky but I liked her development, she actually seemed way different from the previous book, but she was still funny and I ended up really liking her too. And Nana, can't forget her, you don't see her much but she might've been the best.
This one wasn't as "ridiculous funny" as Mister McHottie, but it still cracked me up. It seemed like more of a "story" too, if that makes any sense. I'm definitely planning on going straight to the next one.
Anyway, this is better than I thought it'd be. I didn't know how I'd feel about Knox, but he was great. He was funny and sweet. Not obnoxious about his romance addiction. Parker started off shaky but I liked her development, she actually seemed way different from the previous book, but she was still funny and I ended up really liking her too. And Nana, can't forget her, you don't see her much but she might've been the best.
This one wasn't as "ridiculous funny" as Mister McHottie, but it still cracked me up. It seemed like more of a "story" too, if that makes any sense. I'm definitely planning on going straight to the next one.
November 27, 2019
these characters are older than I thought they are!!
hmmmm...
2,5 stars
hmmmm...
2,5 stars
August 21, 2020
DNF at 18%. Breaking the fourth wall is not working for me. Piling up on the heroine’s humiliation is also not working for me. That she doesn't read totally turns me off.
Not for me.
Not for me.
February 3, 2018
4.25 stars
Desperate times call for desperate measures. And boy is Parker Elliot desperate. She has recently been promoted to Vice President of Marketing for Crunchy and her boss has asked her to get a new account. Unfortunately, her new account target is her ex-husband. And she has to go to her high school reunion to corner him...I mean, talk to him. Oh, did I mention Parker’s high school nickname was Pimple Popper Parker? Yeah, not the best of times. So, she goes out and tries to win a bachelor at a bachelor auction. That bachelor is Knox. You wouldn’t blame her since he’s auctioning himself off in a loincloth. Knox is hot, loves romance novels and is more than happy to help Parker out and along the way, yep you guessed it, romance happens.
The Good. Ms. Grant just keeps bringing the fun in. I was hooked by the first book in this series, so much so that I didn’t want to leave this ‘verse. This has a different trope (older woman/younger man) and plot device (fake engagement), but the funny and the quirky are still in full force. Parker is pretty insecure and the hell that was high school really makes her issues believable.
You can Stuart Smalley it all you want, saying it and believing it are two different things. Parker needs to believe it and it was a pleasure to see her finally come into her own. Knox is great and his love of romance novels, something that is stereotypically confined to heroines, is a refreshing change. I love that Ms. Grant threw in some real romance novel titles throughout and Knox’s defense of the romance novel reader was a great touch. So much yes to his blog post. The chemistry is strong, the Firsts are great, the romance builds naturally, the ending was heartfelt and all in all, I closed my kindle with a smile.
The Bad. As we all know, humor is subjective. The humor really worked for me in Mister McHottie (book one). Here, the humor was a tad more raunchy, and certain key phrases made me a little cringey. Not all of it, and I laughed more often than not, but it was there. Plus, Parker’s insecurity can, on occasion, be a bit trying. Her overall journey is strong, but insecure heroines have that negative inner monologue that can be exhausting, so that’s not my favorite. Still, quibbles that I can certainly move past and the overall tale made it easy to overlook this.
Everything in Between. Supporting characters have been strong in this series, and I loved Knox’s grandmother, seeing Parker’s BFFs (who were featured in the first book, so it’s old home week), Parker’s brothers - all of them entertained me and made this story come alive in the best way.
4.25 stars
I really enjoyed this. When the world is crazy and real life is nuts, I love funny, sexy romances and Stud in the Stacks fit the bill. Parker and Knox were a sweet May-September kind of romance that I happily recommend. I need Zeus’ story soon, Ms. Grant, please and thank you.
For more reviews, visit
Desperate times call for desperate measures. And boy is Parker Elliot desperate. She has recently been promoted to Vice President of Marketing for Crunchy and her boss has asked her to get a new account. Unfortunately, her new account target is her ex-husband. And she has to go to her high school reunion to corner him...I mean, talk to him. Oh, did I mention Parker’s high school nickname was Pimple Popper Parker? Yeah, not the best of times. So, she goes out and tries to win a bachelor at a bachelor auction. That bachelor is Knox. You wouldn’t blame her since he’s auctioning himself off in a loincloth. Knox is hot, loves romance novels and is more than happy to help Parker out and along the way, yep you guessed it, romance happens.
The Good. Ms. Grant just keeps bringing the fun in. I was hooked by the first book in this series, so much so that I didn’t want to leave this ‘verse. This has a different trope (older woman/younger man) and plot device (fake engagement), but the funny and the quirky are still in full force. Parker is pretty insecure and the hell that was high school really makes her issues believable.
You can Stuart Smalley it all you want, saying it and believing it are two different things. Parker needs to believe it and it was a pleasure to see her finally come into her own. Knox is great and his love of romance novels, something that is stereotypically confined to heroines, is a refreshing change. I love that Ms. Grant threw in some real romance novel titles throughout and Knox’s defense of the romance novel reader was a great touch. So much yes to his blog post. The chemistry is strong, the Firsts are great, the romance builds naturally, the ending was heartfelt and all in all, I closed my kindle with a smile.
The Bad. As we all know, humor is subjective. The humor really worked for me in Mister McHottie (book one). Here, the humor was a tad more raunchy, and certain key phrases made me a little cringey. Not all of it, and I laughed more often than not, but it was there. Plus, Parker’s insecurity can, on occasion, be a bit trying. Her overall journey is strong, but insecure heroines have that negative inner monologue that can be exhausting, so that’s not my favorite. Still, quibbles that I can certainly move past and the overall tale made it easy to overlook this.
Everything in Between. Supporting characters have been strong in this series, and I loved Knox’s grandmother, seeing Parker’s BFFs (who were featured in the first book, so it’s old home week), Parker’s brothers - all of them entertained me and made this story come alive in the best way.
4.25 stars
I really enjoyed this. When the world is crazy and real life is nuts, I love funny, sexy romances and Stud in the Stacks fit the bill. Parker and Knox were a sweet May-September kind of romance that I happily recommend. I need Zeus’ story soon, Ms. Grant, please and thank you.
For more reviews, visit
September 3, 2020
Oh my God. Can I give this book 50 stars? Please? Because never have I read a greater love song to the genre of romance than this book. Hearing Knox Moreti, in all his tattooed, eight-pack goodness, stand up and say all the things we lovers of the genre say whenever some douchecanoe at the New York Times or [insert proper, stuffed shirt, "I think I'm better than you", intellectual publication--God knows there are plenty] disparages the books we love (always without having legitimately READ THE GENRE) is basically the sexiest thing ever. I basically want to have this man's literary babies. Is Pippa Grant playing her audience? You bet your sweet ass. And I will happily offer myself up as Johnny's violin as she plays the devil back to hell because this was the best book I've read in YEARS. Now I want to know when she's going to open up the Knox Moreti School of Husband Training?
January 31, 2018
Another cute and sexy one from this author. I think I liked Mister McHottie more, but this one was still super fun and over the top silly - but not too over the top. It made me snort-laugh a lot.
I can't wait for book three out in Feb!!! Loving this author's voice
I can't wait for book three out in Feb!!! Loving this author's voice
April 20, 2021
So funny! Glad I tried this. I'm going to check out the other books in this series.
November 15, 2018
Parker & Knox first meet at a bachelor auction, he's the one strutting on stage in a loincloth. She bids & loses. Ouch, he was a little disappointed too. The winner gets one date & all the proceeds are donated to charities. Desperate for a date to her high school reunion, Parker waits for Knox outside the venue, digs deep for some courage to ask the question & then shoves a piece of paper with her number into his chest & quickly scurries off.
Knox, a gorgeous guy, works as a librarian & lover of romance books. His blog is well known as are his book reviews & woman flock to his particular library for the latest selections. He's a single guy, lives with his grandmother & has no desire for a serious relationship until he meets Parker. This guy is so nice, has a talent for wit & inuendo, everyone is crazy about him.
Parker, a workaholic, terribly insecure & scarred from high school, mid-thirties & I just want her to get over it already! She's dated losers ONLY, has taken their word for her shortcomings & can't see the wonderful person reflecting back at her from a mirror.
This is why I love Knox. He is determined to shatter all her negative thoughts, get her to believe in herself & finally, leave the bullies from high school far behind.
This was a fun book with very sexy banter (sometimes her lines & inner dialogues were a bit over the top). But Knox, he made the story for me. This is a stand-alone with a HEA.
Knox, a gorgeous guy, works as a librarian & lover of romance books. His blog is well known as are his book reviews & woman flock to his particular library for the latest selections. He's a single guy, lives with his grandmother & has no desire for a serious relationship until he meets Parker. This guy is so nice, has a talent for wit & inuendo, everyone is crazy about him.
Parker, a workaholic, terribly insecure & scarred from high school, mid-thirties & I just want her to get over it already! She's dated losers ONLY, has taken their word for her shortcomings & can't see the wonderful person reflecting back at her from a mirror.
This is why I love Knox. He is determined to shatter all her negative thoughts, get her to believe in herself & finally, leave the bullies from high school far behind.
This was a fun book with very sexy banter (sometimes her lines & inner dialogues were a bit over the top). But Knox, he made the story for me. This is a stand-alone with a HEA.
October 7, 2020
Pippa Grant is one of the best romance authors out there, and I love pretty much everything she puts out. This wasn't my favorite by her, but it's really hard to top some of the other books she's written. I really liked the meta aspect of this one with the romance novels. And I was so excited to see some of Pippa Grant's recommendations!
I am super excited to read more Pippa Grant, and I need to catch up on everything she's written so far. And I want her to write more books right now. I can't resist her books. Her characters are always super quirky and the plotlines are always crazy, but I absolutely love it.
And I'm out.
I am super excited to read more Pippa Grant, and I need to catch up on everything she's written so far. And I want her to write more books right now. I can't resist her books. Her characters are always super quirky and the plotlines are always crazy, but I absolutely love it.
And I'm out.
June 3, 2019
This book made me laugh out loud 😝
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