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Shacking Up #2
Hooking Up
Amalie Whitfield is the picture of a blushing bride during her wedding reception ― but for all the wrong reasons. Instead of proclaiming his undying love, her husband can be heard, by Amalie and their guests, getting off with someone else. She has every reason to freak out, and in a moment of insanity, she throws herself at the first hot-blooded male she sees. But he’s not interested in becoming her revenge screw.
Mortified and desperate to escape the post-wedding drama, Amalie decides to go on her honeymoon alone, only to find the man who rejected her also heading to the same tiny island for work. But this time he isn’t holding back. She should know better than to sleep with someone she knows, but she can’t seem to resist him. They might agree that what happens on the island should stay on the island, but neither one can deny that their attraction is more than just physical.
Filled with hilariously scandalous situations and enough sexual chemistry to power an airplane from New York City to the South Pacific, Hooking Up is the next standalone, laugh-out-loud romantic comedy from Helena Hunting, the New York Times bestselling author of the Pucked series and Shacking Up.
Mortified and desperate to escape the post-wedding drama, Amalie decides to go on her honeymoon alone, only to find the man who rejected her also heading to the same tiny island for work. But this time he isn’t holding back. She should know better than to sleep with someone she knows, but she can’t seem to resist him. They might agree that what happens on the island should stay on the island, but neither one can deny that their attraction is more than just physical.
Filled with hilariously scandalous situations and enough sexual chemistry to power an airplane from New York City to the South Pacific, Hooking Up is the next standalone, laugh-out-loud romantic comedy from Helena Hunting, the New York Times bestselling author of the Pucked series and Shacking Up.
444 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2017
About the author
Helena Hunting
62 books24.1k followersHelena Hunting is the author of The USA Today and NYT bestselling PUCKED Series. She lives on the outskirts of Toronto with her incredibly tolerant family and two moderately intolerant cats. She writes everything from romantic sports comedy to new adult angst.
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June 4, 2017
Full summary coming soon!
October 27, 2017
4.25 stars!!!
Hooking Up is one of those books that kept a smile on my face. I loved Lexington and Amie! Their story wasn’t all laughs, though. It had parts that were emotional, and it was a bit of a forbidden love story as well.
If you’ve read Shacking Up, you know the back story of Amalie. She is Ruby’s best friend. Lexington is Bane’s older brother. The book starts out at Amie’s wedding… and she’s not marrying Lex. This wedding… gah! It made me mortified for poor Amie. Armstrong is the biggest tool. Seriously, there is nothing redeemable about this guy. Then there is Lexington Sigh. Lex is an amazing man.
I’m getting ahead of myself, though. Lex and Amie have had a connection from the moment they met, but it never went anywhere. Now, after the wedding from hell, they are coincidently at the same place at the same time. Their connection is there and stronger than ever. It’s supposed to be a short term thing. A ‘What happens in Bora Bora stays in Bora Bora’ thing… but, these two have undeniable chemistry and can’t seem to stay away from each other.
Between Lex and Amie, I couldn’t tell you which character I loved more. And that is a good problem to have! I thought they were both amazing and I really felt that they belonged together. They were so compatible and their chemistry was off the charts.
Hooking Up is a funny, sweet, sexy and all around entertaining read. Helena Hunting always does an amazing job of making her books entertaining. I love that about her and always look forward to reading her stories because of it! This is one I recommend if you’re looking for a fun, forbidden love story!
Hooking Up is one of those books that kept a smile on my face. I loved Lexington and Amie! Their story wasn’t all laughs, though. It had parts that were emotional, and it was a bit of a forbidden love story as well.
If you’ve read Shacking Up, you know the back story of Amalie. She is Ruby’s best friend. Lexington is Bane’s older brother. The book starts out at Amie’s wedding… and she’s not marrying Lex. This wedding… gah! It made me mortified for poor Amie. Armstrong is the biggest tool. Seriously, there is nothing redeemable about this guy. Then there is Lexington Sigh. Lex is an amazing man.
I’m getting ahead of myself, though. Lex and Amie have had a connection from the moment they met, but it never went anywhere. Now, after the wedding from hell, they are coincidently at the same place at the same time. Their connection is there and stronger than ever. It’s supposed to be a short term thing. A ‘What happens in Bora Bora stays in Bora Bora’ thing… but, these two have undeniable chemistry and can’t seem to stay away from each other.
“I assure you, there’s nothing nice about the things I want to do to you, the ways I want to have you.”
Between Lex and Amie, I couldn’t tell you which character I loved more. And that is a good problem to have! I thought they were both amazing and I really felt that they belonged together. They were so compatible and their chemistry was off the charts.
Hooking Up is a funny, sweet, sexy and all around entertaining read. Helena Hunting always does an amazing job of making her books entertaining. I love that about her and always look forward to reading her stories because of it! This is one I recommend if you’re looking for a fun, forbidden love story!
“You make everything so . . .”
“Everything so what?”
“Real. Perfect. Endless.”
November 7, 2017
➳Forbidden and sexily delicious. That’s what Helena Hunting has to provide in this compelling and forbidden love story…
➳After reading Shacking Up , it was no news that Amelie would be getting her own story. At first, it indeed was a mystery who would become her one true love. It was also known from the start that it would not have been Armstrong out of all people since his actions definitely provided an insight to the true person he is and how much of a hatred I have towards him. After reading Eye Candy the reveal of Lexington being added to the picture became a heart throbbing "YES” from me. Lexington, not only being the younger brother of Bancroft, but also being somewhat in relation with Amie, shows aspects to being a gentlemen that no one else has portrayed with a mixture of authority, and an ooze of sex that makes you crave for more;
➳Helena is known for her comedic scenes, and this love story is no exception. Her quirky attributes are demonstrated here and there. From Lexington having blue bacon stripped socks, to Amie bringing a carry-on bag filled with sex toys of every kind, Helena Hunting never misses to bring a smile to my face and a laugh that provides such a tender happiness whenever I read any of her books.
➳To make this review spoiler free, I will provide with enough information so the story is understandable. From what we have gotten of the previous books that follow up with this story, Amelie is in transit to getting married to Armstrong. Actions take a turn of events and Armstrong becomes the ultimate character in which I had shown the most hatred for. He is an excellent example of men out there who have no dignity towards women and just simply are arrogant a**holes. As Amie tries to move on from such a horrific event of her life, her actions of anger take her to a position in which Lexington has to endure. Though Lex is not against it, he knows the smart thing to do is to let her down and comfort her in a way that connects them in an emotional level. Yes, the attraction towards each other is there, and yes, the forbidden thoughts of having each other in a more carnal way is also present. However, Lex and Amie soon come to a realization that being out in the public in regards to their “relationship” is a bad idea due to the position Amie is in with Armstrong. But their care and compassion towards each other will never go away;
➳This gif basically describes them as “couple goals”…
➳Though Amelie and Lexington learn to object their obstacles once back home, they also learn how much their presence has become something ideal and necessary towards each other’s lives. Helena has provided— yet again— another love story that will have you salivating for more and much more. She is not only the master at keeping great balance of fun and seriousness in a story, but she also provides an insight to her mindset and her idealistic world that I can forever and eternally adore. Though I will say, a certain character was mentioned towards three-fourths of the story that I am really interested in. Do I suspect another story for the mysterious brother that has gone away to boarding school since he was little? If so, then I sure as hell am in!
➳Overall, this was a love story that compels you to read more of Helena’s books. Her writing is impeccable in a way that you really cannot identify a single mistake, but instead get a sense of adoration towards her characters and her fictional worlds. I highly recommend this book for anyone who believes in second chances and in forbidden— but really sexy— love affairs that have you craving for more. This book is indeed a standalone, but it is also highly advised that Shacking Up be read first, and then Eye Candy be read after reading Shacking Up , that way you have a better understanding towards where Amie and Lex come from and also know more about Ruby and Bancroft— the couple from Shacking Up .
➳Order Links:
Amazon US ♕ Amazon CA Amazon UK ♕ Amazon AUS ♕ iBooks ♕ B&N ♕ Kobo GooglePlay
➳ARC kindly provided by publisher at SMP, in exchange for an honest review...
➳Follow Me On:
Blog ♕ Instagram ♕ Facebook ♕ Twitter
➳After reading Shacking Up , it was no news that Amelie would be getting her own story. At first, it indeed was a mystery who would become her one true love. It was also known from the start that it would not have been Armstrong out of all people since his actions definitely provided an insight to the true person he is and how much of a hatred I have towards him. After reading Eye Candy the reveal of Lexington being added to the picture became a heart throbbing "YES” from me. Lexington, not only being the younger brother of Bancroft, but also being somewhat in relation with Amie, shows aspects to being a gentlemen that no one else has portrayed with a mixture of authority, and an ooze of sex that makes you crave for more;
“He’s such an interesting paradox. The intense sexuality he oozes seems to be balanced with this fun side I’m getting to know better. I like that he doesn’t take himself too seriously…”
➳Helena is known for her comedic scenes, and this love story is no exception. Her quirky attributes are demonstrated here and there. From Lexington having blue bacon stripped socks, to Amie bringing a carry-on bag filled with sex toys of every kind, Helena Hunting never misses to bring a smile to my face and a laugh that provides such a tender happiness whenever I read any of her books.
➳To make this review spoiler free, I will provide with enough information so the story is understandable. From what we have gotten of the previous books that follow up with this story, Amelie is in transit to getting married to Armstrong. Actions take a turn of events and Armstrong becomes the ultimate character in which I had shown the most hatred for. He is an excellent example of men out there who have no dignity towards women and just simply are arrogant a**holes. As Amie tries to move on from such a horrific event of her life, her actions of anger take her to a position in which Lexington has to endure. Though Lex is not against it, he knows the smart thing to do is to let her down and comfort her in a way that connects them in an emotional level. Yes, the attraction towards each other is there, and yes, the forbidden thoughts of having each other in a more carnal way is also present. However, Lex and Amie soon come to a realization that being out in the public in regards to their “relationship” is a bad idea due to the position Amie is in with Armstrong. But their care and compassion towards each other will never go away;
“I’m not supposed to have her beyond this even if I want her. And I do. I can still taste her. I can still smell her. I can still feel her even though she’s gone. Again…”
➳This gif basically describes them as “couple goals”…
➳Though Amelie and Lexington learn to object their obstacles once back home, they also learn how much their presence has become something ideal and necessary towards each other’s lives. Helena has provided— yet again— another love story that will have you salivating for more and much more. She is not only the master at keeping great balance of fun and seriousness in a story, but she also provides an insight to her mindset and her idealistic world that I can forever and eternally adore. Though I will say, a certain character was mentioned towards three-fourths of the story that I am really interested in. Do I suspect another story for the mysterious brother that has gone away to boarding school since he was little? If so, then I sure as hell am in!
➳Overall, this was a love story that compels you to read more of Helena’s books. Her writing is impeccable in a way that you really cannot identify a single mistake, but instead get a sense of adoration towards her characters and her fictional worlds. I highly recommend this book for anyone who believes in second chances and in forbidden— but really sexy— love affairs that have you craving for more. This book is indeed a standalone, but it is also highly advised that Shacking Up be read first, and then Eye Candy be read after reading Shacking Up , that way you have a better understanding towards where Amie and Lex come from and also know more about Ruby and Bancroft— the couple from Shacking Up .
➳Order Links:
Amazon US ♕ Amazon CA Amazon UK ♕ Amazon AUS ♕ iBooks ♕ B&N ♕ Kobo GooglePlay
➳ARC kindly provided by publisher at SMP, in exchange for an honest review...
➳Follow Me On:
Blog ♕ Instagram ♕ Facebook ♕ Twitter
November 4, 2017
*****FIVE STARS******
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
There’s no vengeance in this. This isn’t a game for me and it never has been. I just wanted her. I want her. She’s going to take a huge piece of me with her, a part that isn’t just fueled by lust and desire, but something bigger. A connection I’m not sure exists more than once in a lifetime.
Helena Hunting is one of those authors that I put up high on a pedestal. She’s an automatic must read for me. I have absolutely loved this series from the start. Although you could probably read each book as a standalone, I would highly recommend that you read them all. We met Amalie and Lexington in Shacking Up and could tell there was something there between them even though Amalie was engaged to Lex’s cousin, Armstrong. But it’s in ”Getting Down” that we find out a secret regarding Lex and Amalie’s past. To say that I have been beyond anxious to finally get their story is quite the understatement. I was dying for the real Amie to resurface and for her to get the chance at true love that she so rightly deserved!
The beginning of the story has Amie facing one of the most humiliating circumstances of her life. After only having been married for a few short hours, her husband has literally been caught with his pants down with another woman at their wedding reception. Feeling lost and betrayed and desperate to numb the pain, she attacks Lex when she fortuitously discovers him hiding out in her bridal suite. Ever the gentleman, Lex resists Amie’s advances, even though it’s the very last thing he wants to do. Lex has had a thing for Amie since they met at a party when they were both single at the time. He set his sights first on her but then Armstrong swooped in and stole her from him. The cousins have a very long history of rivalry that has caused quite a lot of tension for the family.
A couple weeks later, Ruby convinces Amie to go on her honeymoon trip to Bora Bora that is fully paid for, in order to get away from the drama in New York City. Her cheating husband is being less than cooperative with her request for an annulment. The last person she expected to see at the airport was Lex. It seems that fate is finally stepping in and trying to right the mistakes of the past. While Lex and Amie wind up being alone together in one of the most beautiful and romantic settings imaginable, they’ll find it impossible to fight the primal attraction that has always existed between them.
The two decide to enjoy each other for as long as they can while away from the pressures and painful realities that await them back in New York, agreeing that once they leave the beautiful island, their romantic affair will come to an end. This will prove to be a difficult challenge for the two as they’ll each come to realize that it was never really all about the sex and that true feelings have emerged.
Can Lex and Amie defeat all of the seemingly insurmountable odds against them? Is Amie ready to give love another try or could she be making yet another bad decision with Lex, and is Lex truly in love with Amie or is it a case of besting his cousin?
Here are my overall ratings on the book:
Heroes: 5
Heroine: 5
Plot: 5
Angst: 4
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5
HOOKING UP releases on November 7th! Make sure you one-click!
Amazon US➜ http://amzn.to/2A4Tn6Q
Amazon UK➜ http://amzn.to/2jD6kRb
iBooks➜ http://apple.co/2pG28PL
Nook➜ http://bit.ly/2rMAFi7
Kobo➜ http://bit.ly/2qzOvBM
Google Play➜ http://bit.ly/2hcrzIM
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
There’s no vengeance in this. This isn’t a game for me and it never has been. I just wanted her. I want her. She’s going to take a huge piece of me with her, a part that isn’t just fueled by lust and desire, but something bigger. A connection I’m not sure exists more than once in a lifetime.
Helena Hunting is one of those authors that I put up high on a pedestal. She’s an automatic must read for me. I have absolutely loved this series from the start. Although you could probably read each book as a standalone, I would highly recommend that you read them all. We met Amalie and Lexington in Shacking Up and could tell there was something there between them even though Amalie was engaged to Lex’s cousin, Armstrong. But it’s in ”Getting Down” that we find out a secret regarding Lex and Amalie’s past. To say that I have been beyond anxious to finally get their story is quite the understatement. I was dying for the real Amie to resurface and for her to get the chance at true love that she so rightly deserved!
The beginning of the story has Amie facing one of the most humiliating circumstances of her life. After only having been married for a few short hours, her husband has literally been caught with his pants down with another woman at their wedding reception. Feeling lost and betrayed and desperate to numb the pain, she attacks Lex when she fortuitously discovers him hiding out in her bridal suite. Ever the gentleman, Lex resists Amie’s advances, even though it’s the very last thing he wants to do. Lex has had a thing for Amie since they met at a party when they were both single at the time. He set his sights first on her but then Armstrong swooped in and stole her from him. The cousins have a very long history of rivalry that has caused quite a lot of tension for the family.
A couple weeks later, Ruby convinces Amie to go on her honeymoon trip to Bora Bora that is fully paid for, in order to get away from the drama in New York City. Her cheating husband is being less than cooperative with her request for an annulment. The last person she expected to see at the airport was Lex. It seems that fate is finally stepping in and trying to right the mistakes of the past. While Lex and Amie wind up being alone together in one of the most beautiful and romantic settings imaginable, they’ll find it impossible to fight the primal attraction that has always existed between them.
The two decide to enjoy each other for as long as they can while away from the pressures and painful realities that await them back in New York, agreeing that once they leave the beautiful island, their romantic affair will come to an end. This will prove to be a difficult challenge for the two as they’ll each come to realize that it was never really all about the sex and that true feelings have emerged.
Can Lex and Amie defeat all of the seemingly insurmountable odds against them? Is Amie ready to give love another try or could she be making yet another bad decision with Lex, and is Lex truly in love with Amie or is it a case of besting his cousin?
Here are my overall ratings on the book:
Heroes: 5
Heroine: 5
Plot: 5
Angst: 4
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5
HOOKING UP releases on November 7th! Make sure you one-click!
Amazon US➜ http://amzn.to/2A4Tn6Q
Amazon UK➜ http://amzn.to/2jD6kRb
iBooks➜ http://apple.co/2pG28PL
Nook➜ http://bit.ly/2rMAFi7
Kobo➜ http://bit.ly/2qzOvBM
Google Play➜ http://bit.ly/2hcrzIM
November 9, 2017
3.5 stars!
Review at Of Pens and Pages.
What happens in Bora Bora doesn’t always stay in Bora Bora. Hooking Up by Helena Hunting is a hilarious romance packed with heat, a little bit of drama, and heaps and heaps of sexual tension.
A wedding is supposed to be one of the bride’s most unforgettable events, but Amalie Whitfield’s wedding is unforgettable for all the wrong reasons. While she’s waiting for her husband at their reception, he’s busy getting his knob polished. To make things worse, the whole reception area can hear it because his moans and grunts are being blasted all over the room.
To top it all off, when she jumps the first man she sees, which was coincidentally her best friend’s boyfriend’s brother and her husband’s cousin Lexington Mills, she gets rejected. Everything is a mess and Ruby suggests she take a break from it all, to go on that honeymoon without her cheating SOB husband. So she does.
She flies to Bora Bora, only to bump into the same guy she jumped after her wedding day. Lexington knows he shouldn’t flirt with Amie, much less sleep with her, but he feels a connection with her, a connection he felt back when he met her on the same day Armstrong swept her off her feet. Apparently, Amie feels the same way because soon enough they give in to the pull and have the time of their life in Bora Bora.
While they know what they have is more than sex, they can’t act on it just yet because Amie is still technically married. Armstrong refuses to sign the annulment papers and is being difficult as always, and they know things would be worse if people find out about their holiday affair.
Lex is ready to go all the way but something is holding back Amie. She’s been burned before and is afraid to get burned again.
It’s so interesting to see this Amie from the Amie in Shacking Up. Armstrong did a number on her because he repressed her wild and fun nature. Now that she doesn’t care what her d*ckhead future ex-husband thinks, she can go back to being the wild Anarchy Amie her best friend Ruby knew her. I do think she needs to be more careful with her liquor. Girl gets out of hand when she’s had one too many glasses. I love that Ms. Hunting’s heroines, Amie included, are so confident in their sexuality and are not afraid to explore it.
I want a guy who wears cute socks like Lex. I want a guy who’s caring and considerate and cocky like Lex. I want Lex in my life. That man knows how to use his mouth and hands, and he knows how to use his heart, too. He adores his mother, thinks about others’ feelings before his own, and once he’s in, he’s all in. He reminds me a lot of Mr. Darcy, my numero uno.
His relationship with his cousin Armstrong reminds me so much of Mr. Darcy and Wickham’s relationship in Pride and Prejudice, and now that I think about it, Armstrong’s a lot like Wickham, too. They grew up together almost like brothers, but competitiveness, spite and just a difference in attitude ended their relationship. While the one who looks like a bad boy actually has a heart of gold, the other only has the appearance of goodness.
I enjoyed this book but I have to say not as much as Shacking Up. While I don’t blush away from steamy scenes—I love it!—I think this one had a tad too much. It came to a point that I skimmed over some scenes already, hot as they were. And they were definitely hot. I wanted to see more connection between Lex and Amie outside the bedroom or wherever they choose to do the nasty, so that’s why I slashed a half star in my rating.
Other than that, Hooking Up was a very enjoyable read. It’s got Ms. Hunting’s signature hilarious and raunchy banter, confident heroines and the most swoon-worthy heroes.
Oh, and on the last note, someone needs to neuter Armstrong and keep him in a crate. Seriously. I wanted to join in on the d*ck kicking and punching.
Tropes: Forbidden Romance
POV: First Person, Dual POV
Standalone: Yes
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
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Review at Of Pens and Pages.
What happens in Bora Bora doesn’t always stay in Bora Bora. Hooking Up by Helena Hunting is a hilarious romance packed with heat, a little bit of drama, and heaps and heaps of sexual tension.
A wedding is supposed to be one of the bride’s most unforgettable events, but Amalie Whitfield’s wedding is unforgettable for all the wrong reasons. While she’s waiting for her husband at their reception, he’s busy getting his knob polished. To make things worse, the whole reception area can hear it because his moans and grunts are being blasted all over the room.
To top it all off, when she jumps the first man she sees, which was coincidentally her best friend’s boyfriend’s brother and her husband’s cousin Lexington Mills, she gets rejected. Everything is a mess and Ruby suggests she take a break from it all, to go on that honeymoon without her cheating SOB husband. So she does.
She flies to Bora Bora, only to bump into the same guy she jumped after her wedding day. Lexington knows he shouldn’t flirt with Amie, much less sleep with her, but he feels a connection with her, a connection he felt back when he met her on the same day Armstrong swept her off her feet. Apparently, Amie feels the same way because soon enough they give in to the pull and have the time of their life in Bora Bora.
While they know what they have is more than sex, they can’t act on it just yet because Amie is still technically married. Armstrong refuses to sign the annulment papers and is being difficult as always, and they know things would be worse if people find out about their holiday affair.
Lex is ready to go all the way but something is holding back Amie. She’s been burned before and is afraid to get burned again.
It’s so interesting to see this Amie from the Amie in Shacking Up. Armstrong did a number on her because he repressed her wild and fun nature. Now that she doesn’t care what her d*ckhead future ex-husband thinks, she can go back to being the wild Anarchy Amie her best friend Ruby knew her. I do think she needs to be more careful with her liquor. Girl gets out of hand when she’s had one too many glasses. I love that Ms. Hunting’s heroines, Amie included, are so confident in their sexuality and are not afraid to explore it.
I want a guy who wears cute socks like Lex. I want a guy who’s caring and considerate and cocky like Lex. I want Lex in my life. That man knows how to use his mouth and hands, and he knows how to use his heart, too. He adores his mother, thinks about others’ feelings before his own, and once he’s in, he’s all in. He reminds me a lot of Mr. Darcy, my numero uno.
His relationship with his cousin Armstrong reminds me so much of Mr. Darcy and Wickham’s relationship in Pride and Prejudice, and now that I think about it, Armstrong’s a lot like Wickham, too. They grew up together almost like brothers, but competitiveness, spite and just a difference in attitude ended their relationship. While the one who looks like a bad boy actually has a heart of gold, the other only has the appearance of goodness.
I enjoyed this book but I have to say not as much as Shacking Up. While I don’t blush away from steamy scenes—I love it!—I think this one had a tad too much. It came to a point that I skimmed over some scenes already, hot as they were. And they were definitely hot. I wanted to see more connection between Lex and Amie outside the bedroom or wherever they choose to do the nasty, so that’s why I slashed a half star in my rating.
Other than that, Hooking Up was a very enjoyable read. It’s got Ms. Hunting’s signature hilarious and raunchy banter, confident heroines and the most swoon-worthy heroes.
Oh, and on the last note, someone needs to neuter Armstrong and keep him in a crate. Seriously. I wanted to join in on the d*ck kicking and punching.
Tropes: Forbidden Romance
POV: First Person, Dual POV
Standalone: Yes
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
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November 5, 2017
We first meet Amalie in the first book in this series Shacking Up and you hope to all get out that she is going to get rid of the dumb butt that she is engaged too.
She does in a way. After he gives old Brittany Whore-ton's oral skills a go. At his and Amalie's wedding.
I knew he was a big old dirt bag.
Amalie is humiliated. And she tries to jump on Mr. Hottie (It said in my email approving the ARC copy to not release the name of her hookup but I think that cat's out of the bag) He reluctantly pushes Amie off him since she is waving around the hedge clippers that she used to cut off her wedding dress. Amie's best friend Ruby talks her into going ahead and taking her honeymoon by herself. It will give her time for some of the talk to die down about old cheater boy and skank.
On the plane Mr. Hottie is there..and when she gets to honeymoon destination she decides that heck with it..she has been through it and she deserves to just hook up with someone and not care.
Mr. Hottie fills that position.
Helena Hunting does a fantabulous job with making her leading men come to life in my little twisted mind so I'm all in for this.
I came three times. During sex. That's like being told unicorns are real. And then actually seeing one.
I think I'm a total dirty pirate hooker.
I'm not going to ramble on because I'll end up spilling all the beans. But have the electric company on alert that your usage will go up if you read these.
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review.
She does in a way. After he gives old Brittany Whore-ton's oral skills a go. At his and Amalie's wedding.
I knew he was a big old dirt bag.
Amalie is humiliated. And she tries to jump on Mr. Hottie (It said in my email approving the ARC copy to not release the name of her hookup but I think that cat's out of the bag) He reluctantly pushes Amie off him since she is waving around the hedge clippers that she used to cut off her wedding dress. Amie's best friend Ruby talks her into going ahead and taking her honeymoon by herself. It will give her time for some of the talk to die down about old cheater boy and skank.
On the plane Mr. Hottie is there..and when she gets to honeymoon destination she decides that heck with it..she has been through it and she deserves to just hook up with someone and not care.
Mr. Hottie fills that position.
Helena Hunting does a fantabulous job with making her leading men come to life in my little twisted mind so I'm all in for this.
I came three times. During sex. That's like being told unicorns are real. And then actually seeing one.
I think I'm a total dirty pirate hooker.
I'm not going to ramble on because I'll end up spilling all the beans. But have the electric company on alert that your usage will go up if you read these.
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review.
November 5, 2017
We all remember Amie from SHACKING UP
She's Ruby's best friend and she's engaged to Armstrong - the idiot cousin of Bane and Lex.
Nobody can stand the guy and Amie is not so sure of him herself, but she's still hoping that it will all work out once they're married.
But it's not.
She ends up running away from her own wedding reception!
Then there's Lex. The guy who asked her out first, that same night Armstrong asked her. But Armstrong was the safer choice. Also, as history proves, Amie's not the best at choosing boyfriends!
And then once the wedding exploded, she literally threw herself at Lex for some revenge sex - but good guy that he is - he declined the offer.
But only because he wants more. He's always wanted more with Amie.
But she now thinks he rejected her because she might have acted a tiny bit crazy on her wedding day.
Off to paradise we go ...
... alone on her honeymoon to forget about the wedding and everything else for a while.
But of course she's not alone - only it's not Armstrong on the plane with her - it's Lex - he needs to check on some of his family's hotels in Bora Bora....
WHAT WILL HAPPEN WITH AMIE & LEX?
WILL THERE BE A HAPPILY EVER AFTER?
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT! ☺
══════════════════════════
ADORABLE!
Poor Amie! We all knew that her stupid fiancé wasn't going to be her happily ever after.
But we know that Lex will be.
But right now, we're the only ones who know!! ☺☺
He's just perfect for her.
Of course it takes a while for them to get there. Poor guy has to fight for his happy end!
But the reader has an amazing time watching them!!!
We have so many funny ...
... and sexy and adorable moments!
But also some very serious and moving and frustrating moments. Armstrong (that idiot) is not giving up that easily!!!
I just loved this book! There's really nothing more I could say!
READ IT!
HOOKING UP was the most adorable Romantic Dramedy!!!! Funny, sweet, sexy! I just LOVED it! Run to your nearest amazon for your own Lex - this one is MINE!!!!
the only thing that didn't work for me - the cover. It's kinda hot, even though the guy is not my kind of guy - BUT - the guy is also not Lex. Helena always says how his brother - the pro rugby guy - is the muscley brother - so for me, this guy on the cover, is waaaay too muscley and not in a good way for my tastes!!!!
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November 30, 2017
➦So, this is the first series by Helena Hunting that I've picked up.
➦Ok, but you don't know me! You don't know my struggles!
➦I am glad I finally got to reading these books. They are hilarious and sexy. This book will transport you to a tropical island along with the heroine, who ends up going on her honeymoon alone. It's sad. And the wedding drama that happened to her was like something out a book.
➦So what happens when, on said island, she meets a certain someone she has previously humiliated herself in front of? As in, like... "My husband is a cheating bastard, can I please ride your dick now to get my revenge?"
➦If you enjoy "what happens in..." kind of stories with whole lot of humorous drama and likable characters then pick this one up. I loved this hero to bits. Don't even know how I fell in love with him so quick, it just happened! Might have been the abs.
November 7, 2017
5 AMAZING stars
Such a fantastic and entertaining story.I loved every minute of Hooking Up , it was fun,sweet,super hot and the romance was incredible.The characters were fantastic.
Lexington is a swoon worthy hero, he is sexy,sweet and he likes Amie so much.Amie is one of my favorite heroines.Together they were perfect, seriously these two were so perfect for each other.They have some really hot and passionate moments together.They make me swoon all the time ,they are the cutest.
I find the storyline refreshing and maybe this is the reason why I loved it so much.It was a long time since I fell hard for a book.Hooking Up goes to my favorite books for 2017!! I highly recommend it to everyone!
Such a fantastic and entertaining story.I loved every minute of Hooking Up , it was fun,sweet,super hot and the romance was incredible.The characters were fantastic.
Lexington is a swoon worthy hero, he is sexy,sweet and he likes Amie so much.Amie is one of my favorite heroines.Together they were perfect, seriously these two were so perfect for each other.They have some really hot and passionate moments together.They make me swoon all the time ,they are the cutest.
I find the storyline refreshing and maybe this is the reason why I loved it so much.It was a long time since I fell hard for a book.Hooking Up goes to my favorite books for 2017!! I highly recommend it to everyone!
October 24, 2017
4 What Happens in Bora Bora Stars
“I assure you, there’s nothing nice about the things I want to do to you, the ways I want to have you.”
“Oh. Well, that’s good to know.” The wide eyes and innocent stare morph into the same wild look I caught a glimpse of in her bridal suite. “Because I’m pretty sick and fucking tired of nice, polite sex.”
Recovering wild child Amarie Whitfield has a history of making questionable choices when it comes to the men she dates. Thank gawd she’s finally found a stable, low drama man to spend the rest of her life with. So what if the sex is boring and she has to pretend to be a virgin every time she wants to get some action? At least she’s not causing her family anymore headaches.
What she didn’t count on was her husband of a few hours getting blown by a debutante at their wedding reception. Or that the entire party would have a front row, mike’d up seat to her new husband’s inability to keep his pants zipped.
Upon retreating to her bridal suite with the intention of getting the hell out of dodge, Amie discovers Mr. Sexy, the man that has her thinking “what if?” every time they’re together, taking his own break from the wedding festivities. Seeing her chance for some sweet revenge sex, Amie makes a not so subtle move on Mr. Sexy, only to be rebuffed by the hottie because of that whole “rebound” thing, making Amie’s wedding day humiliation complete.
When Amie decides to enjoy her honeymoon, sans cheating asshole, she never expected to run into Mr. Sexy traveling to the same destination for business. Or that the chemistry between them would ignite so quickly. Luckily for Amie, what happens in Bora Bora stays in Bora Bora. Right?
“We’ll just keep it between us,” I whisper as he bites the tip of my pinkie. “You’ll be my favorite secret.”
Full disclosure, I seriously stalked NetGalley with the hopes of getting this ARC. After reading Helena Hunting’s offering in the Eye Candy Halloween anthology, I had to know how Amie’s relationship with her dickless wonder of a fiancé turned out. I was not disappointed. I would’ve liked a little more of an ass kicking when it came to Armstrong, but given the fact Amie just wanted to get away from him as quickly as possible without bringing any more attention to her family, I felt she did a decent job of letting him know what was up and not backing down.
Now, on to Mr. Sexy. The publisher has asked that we not reveal the name of Amie’s new man and I’m not going to be the one to renege on that hence the name Mr. Sexy for the sake of this review. I will say if you’ve read either of the two stories preceding this one, you already know who Amie’s sweet hunk of man is. And damn, is their chemistry hot. Like, scorch yourself, freaking on fire HAWT!
Yes to Amie finally finding a man who’s not intimidated by her toys.
Sexy also brings his own baggage to the story when it comes to Amie’s scumbag ex, and I felt like his relationship with Armstrong was the more compelling one. I wouldn’t have minded a little more page time given to that but it still added some much appreciated depth to the story.
This is one of those times where my NetGalley stalker status totally paid off. I’m so glad I got to experience Amalie finally coming into her own and bringing a little “Anarchy Amie” back into her life. The fact she got to do it with a wonderful man who she also happened to have tremendously awesome sexy times with was just the big, fat layer of icing on the cake.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
“I assure you, there’s nothing nice about the things I want to do to you, the ways I want to have you.”
“Oh. Well, that’s good to know.” The wide eyes and innocent stare morph into the same wild look I caught a glimpse of in her bridal suite. “Because I’m pretty sick and fucking tired of nice, polite sex.”
Recovering wild child Amarie Whitfield has a history of making questionable choices when it comes to the men she dates. Thank gawd she’s finally found a stable, low drama man to spend the rest of her life with. So what if the sex is boring and she has to pretend to be a virgin every time she wants to get some action? At least she’s not causing her family anymore headaches.
What she didn’t count on was her husband of a few hours getting blown by a debutante at their wedding reception. Or that the entire party would have a front row, mike’d up seat to her new husband’s inability to keep his pants zipped.
Upon retreating to her bridal suite with the intention of getting the hell out of dodge, Amie discovers Mr. Sexy, the man that has her thinking “what if?” every time they’re together, taking his own break from the wedding festivities. Seeing her chance for some sweet revenge sex, Amie makes a not so subtle move on Mr. Sexy, only to be rebuffed by the hottie because of that whole “rebound” thing, making Amie’s wedding day humiliation complete.
When Amie decides to enjoy her honeymoon, sans cheating asshole, she never expected to run into Mr. Sexy traveling to the same destination for business. Or that the chemistry between them would ignite so quickly. Luckily for Amie, what happens in Bora Bora stays in Bora Bora. Right?
“We’ll just keep it between us,” I whisper as he bites the tip of my pinkie. “You’ll be my favorite secret.”
Full disclosure, I seriously stalked NetGalley with the hopes of getting this ARC. After reading Helena Hunting’s offering in the Eye Candy Halloween anthology, I had to know how Amie’s relationship with her dickless wonder of a fiancé turned out. I was not disappointed. I would’ve liked a little more of an ass kicking when it came to Armstrong, but given the fact Amie just wanted to get away from him as quickly as possible without bringing any more attention to her family, I felt she did a decent job of letting him know what was up and not backing down.
Now, on to Mr. Sexy. The publisher has asked that we not reveal the name of Amie’s new man and I’m not going to be the one to renege on that hence the name Mr. Sexy for the sake of this review. I will say if you’ve read either of the two stories preceding this one, you already know who Amie’s sweet hunk of man is. And damn, is their chemistry hot. Like, scorch yourself, freaking on fire HAWT!
Yes to Amie finally finding a man who’s not intimidated by her toys.
Sexy also brings his own baggage to the story when it comes to Amie’s scumbag ex, and I felt like his relationship with Armstrong was the more compelling one. I wouldn’t have minded a little more page time given to that but it still added some much appreciated depth to the story.
This is one of those times where my NetGalley stalker status totally paid off. I’m so glad I got to experience Amalie finally coming into her own and bringing a little “Anarchy Amie” back into her life. The fact she got to do it with a wonderful man who she also happened to have tremendously awesome sexy times with was just the big, fat layer of icing on the cake.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
August 28, 2021
Married to the wrong guy!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Romance: 🖤💜🤎💚💛
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📙📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌎🌏🌍🌍🌍
Character development: 😍😕🙃☺️😘
The heroine: Amalie (a.k.a. Ami) - on her wedding day, at the reception, her new husband Armstrong is heard over the PA system in the reception hall cheating on her with one of the guests. Ami runs off on the to Bora Bora, bringing along her husbands passport so he won’t be able to follow her.
The Hero(es): Lexington (a.k.a. Lex) - cousin to Ami’s new husband Armstrong. His date to the wedding is the one that was caught with Armstrong, while Lex was hiding from her inane chatter in the bridal suite and getting drunk because the girl he really wanted was the bride.
The story: In her utter despair and embarrassment after hearing Armstrong getting busy on the PA system, Ami runs to the bridal suite at the reception hall to get out of the $15,000.00 wedding gown that she never wanted, but Armstrong talked her into getting. She sees Lex and asks him to help her get some revenge, which he turns down. Only to end up sitting next to him on her flight to Bora Bora.
I just love Helena Hunting’s sense of humor! This book was funny, steamy, romantic, crazy and an all around enjoyable book. As for the narration, both Jacob Morgan and Muffy Newtown were perfect for the parts of Lex and Ami. I loved that this book was told in Dual POV and the narrators were perfect for the blend of humor, angst and scorching heat.
Both characters were incredibly likable and the supporting characters were great. Armstrong was both funny and crazy. Bane and Ruby from Shacking Up were heavily featured in this book as well. I loved the exotic location of Bora Bora in addition to New York. I can’t wait to read more of this series. I haven’t yet read Bane and Ruby’s story but I plan to read that and the rest of the series.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Romance: 🖤💜🤎💚💛
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📙📕📗📘📙
World building: 🌎🌏🌍🌍🌍
Character development: 😍😕🙃☺️😘
The heroine: Amalie (a.k.a. Ami) - on her wedding day, at the reception, her new husband Armstrong is heard over the PA system in the reception hall cheating on her with one of the guests. Ami runs off on the to Bora Bora, bringing along her husbands passport so he won’t be able to follow her.
The Hero(es): Lexington (a.k.a. Lex) - cousin to Ami’s new husband Armstrong. His date to the wedding is the one that was caught with Armstrong, while Lex was hiding from her inane chatter in the bridal suite and getting drunk because the girl he really wanted was the bride.
The story: In her utter despair and embarrassment after hearing Armstrong getting busy on the PA system, Ami runs to the bridal suite at the reception hall to get out of the $15,000.00 wedding gown that she never wanted, but Armstrong talked her into getting. She sees Lex and asks him to help her get some revenge, which he turns down. Only to end up sitting next to him on her flight to Bora Bora.
I just love Helena Hunting’s sense of humor! This book was funny, steamy, romantic, crazy and an all around enjoyable book. As for the narration, both Jacob Morgan and Muffy Newtown were perfect for the parts of Lex and Ami. I loved that this book was told in Dual POV and the narrators were perfect for the blend of humor, angst and scorching heat.
Both characters were incredibly likable and the supporting characters were great. Armstrong was both funny and crazy. Bane and Ruby from Shacking Up were heavily featured in this book as well. I loved the exotic location of Bora Bora in addition to New York. I can’t wait to read more of this series. I haven’t yet read Bane and Ruby’s story but I plan to read that and the rest of the series.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
June 18, 2018
4.5 STARS
It's official: I'm obsessed with Helena Hunting's words. This series has become my go-to when I need a sexy and feel good romance that's full of laughs and sizzle. It just never disappoints and I will never get enough of it. Admittedly I did things a little backwards by reading I Flipping Love You before this book, but since these are all interconnecting standalones, I never felt like I lost anything in the story by doing that.
Hooking Up was a totally addicting read full of laughs and sizzle. The premise of the story was a delicious page turner. I was riveted to the pages from beginning to end with a goofy smile on my face the entire time. I simply couldn't get enough of these characters.
What could be the worst thing to happen on your wedding day? For Amalie Whitfield, it's hearing your brand new husband getting a bj from someone that's not you over the reception loud speakers. Talk about your embarrassing disaster. So what's a girl to do? Cut herself out of her dress with shears and proposition her soon to be ex-husband's incredibly hot cousin in the bridal room, of course. What? A girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. Besides, she did Lex before her groom. It just happened to be that he looked like the epitome of bad boy and too good looking to be good for her. She's not exactly known for her great choice in men. Her current predicament is a prime example. In an embarrassed and devastated fog, she decides to go on her honeymoon alone to recover...only for Lex to end up on the same tropical island to work a deal for his family's hotel business. Suffice it to say, steamy moment ensue.
Can I just tell you all of the ways I adored Lex? God, this man was utter perfection. He's sweet with a side of dirty talker, tatted, muscled, and totally gone for Amelie. They know that all the odds are stacked against them, but a tropical temporary fling can't hurt, right? Until feelings get involved. And then things get a whole lot more complicated.
Amelie was a great heroine. I loved her sass and how she took no sh*t from her cheating "husband". As for Armstrong, the douche? I have never wanted a character to be killed off more than I did him. I swear I spent half the book hoping he'd be hit by a bus. Talk about your king of douchebags. This man took the cake. I absolutely hated him.
The romance was fantastic! I loved Amelie and Lex together. I loved their chemistry, in and out of bed. I loved their banter and watching them fall hard for each other.
If you're looking for a lighthearted, feel good romance that's full of steam and humor, this series is an absolute must read. Hooking Up was another amazing addition to this addicting series, and I'm already itching for my next fix.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
He’s sweaty, I’m sweaty, we’re both glistening from the exertion. I glance down, checking out his abs as they ripple. His body is unreal. He should never wear clothes again. Ever.
“Hungry?” He’s grinning.
“That was my vagina asking for more orgasms. We need to know how long it’s going to be before ‘Oh God’ can provide more of those.”
It's official: I'm obsessed with Helena Hunting's words. This series has become my go-to when I need a sexy and feel good romance that's full of laughs and sizzle. It just never disappoints and I will never get enough of it. Admittedly I did things a little backwards by reading I Flipping Love You before this book, but since these are all interconnecting standalones, I never felt like I lost anything in the story by doing that.
Hooking Up was a totally addicting read full of laughs and sizzle. The premise of the story was a delicious page turner. I was riveted to the pages from beginning to end with a goofy smile on my face the entire time. I simply couldn't get enough of these characters.
What could be the worst thing to happen on your wedding day? For Amalie Whitfield, it's hearing your brand new husband getting a bj from someone that's not you over the reception loud speakers. Talk about your embarrassing disaster. So what's a girl to do? Cut herself out of her dress with shears and proposition her soon to be ex-husband's incredibly hot cousin in the bridal room, of course. What? A girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. Besides, she did Lex before her groom. It just happened to be that he looked like the epitome of bad boy and too good looking to be good for her. She's not exactly known for her great choice in men. Her current predicament is a prime example. In an embarrassed and devastated fog, she decides to go on her honeymoon alone to recover...only for Lex to end up on the same tropical island to work a deal for his family's hotel business. Suffice it to say, steamy moment ensue.
Can I just tell you all of the ways I adored Lex? God, this man was utter perfection. He's sweet with a side of dirty talker, tatted, muscled, and totally gone for Amelie. They know that all the odds are stacked against them, but a tropical temporary fling can't hurt, right? Until feelings get involved. And then things get a whole lot more complicated.
Amelie was a great heroine. I loved her sass and how she took no sh*t from her cheating "husband". As for Armstrong, the douche? I have never wanted a character to be killed off more than I did him. I swear I spent half the book hoping he'd be hit by a bus. Talk about your king of douchebags. This man took the cake. I absolutely hated him.
The romance was fantastic! I loved Amelie and Lex together. I loved their chemistry, in and out of bed. I loved their banter and watching them fall hard for each other.
If you're looking for a lighthearted, feel good romance that's full of steam and humor, this series is an absolute must read. Hooking Up was another amazing addition to this addicting series, and I'm already itching for my next fix.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
December 6, 2017
4 Stars
Overall Opinion: This was a cute, hot read! I LOVED the H! He was definitely my cuppa 😉. I also thought that the overall storyline was enjoyable and while I've read similar type storylines, it didn't feel like it was the same old story. I laughed out loud, I swooned a little, and I thought it was hot...but I wanted more!! I'm greedy like that. I understood that the h was hesitant, but I really wanted to see them with a HEA that righted all her past wrongs!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Amie and Lex's story. Amie is publicly humiliated at her wedding reception when her new husband is caught with his pants down, so she runs away to her honeymoon to get away and let things settle before facing reality. Lex is on the same island for business, and they end up thrown together and can't deny the attraction that they've denied for years is stronger than ever. They start up a hot affair that was supposed to end when the honeymoon did, but when they return to the real world they realize that there was something more there than just a hook up. There is ex/family drama and some hot sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Amie and Lex's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well. I did, however, want more at the end of them as an outed couple.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H rating: 5 stars. Lex. I loved him! He was patient, understanding, sweet, and super hot!
h rating: 4 stars. Amie. I liked her. I appreciated how she wouldn't even consider taking back her husband after what he did, and I felt bad for her situation.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Not IMO
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had okay closure, but I wanted more! I wanted more time with them as an actual outed couple, and I wanted them to have a HEA!! I would call this a HFN ending.
How I got it: I paid the $3.99 on amazon for it.
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: This was a cute, hot read! I LOVED the H! He was definitely my cuppa 😉. I also thought that the overall storyline was enjoyable and while I've read similar type storylines, it didn't feel like it was the same old story. I laughed out loud, I swooned a little, and I thought it was hot...but I wanted more!! I'm greedy like that. I understood that the h was hesitant, but I really wanted to see them with a HEA that righted all her past wrongs!
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Amie and Lex's story. Amie is publicly humiliated at her wedding reception when her new husband is caught with his pants down, so she runs away to her honeymoon to get away and let things settle before facing reality. Lex is on the same island for business, and they end up thrown together and can't deny the attraction that they've denied for years is stronger than ever. They start up a hot affair that was supposed to end when the honeymoon did, but when they return to the real world they realize that there was something more there than just a hook up. There is ex/family drama and some hot sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Amie and Lex's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well. I did, however, want more at the end of them as an outed couple.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H rating: 5 stars. Lex. I loved him! He was patient, understanding, sweet, and super hot!
h rating: 4 stars. Amie. I liked her. I appreciated how she wouldn't even consider taking back her husband after what he did, and I felt bad for her situation.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: Not IMO
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had okay closure, but I wanted more! I wanted more time with them as an actual outed couple, and I wanted them to have a HEA!! I would call this a HFN ending.
How I got it: I paid the $3.99 on amazon for it.
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers
August 15, 2018
Find all of my reviews at: http://52bookminimum.blogspot.com/
I posted the review for the first in this series yesterday while confessing that I read them out of order because #2 was on NetGalley and I had to beg the porny librarian to buy this one for me. The premise here is that Amalie is getting ready to marry . . . . some dude. I can’t remember his name so we’ll just call him Dick Punch since that’s what he needs. Anyway, it’s their wedding day and thanks to a pretty good church PA system, all of the guests get to enjoy the soothing sounds of Dick Punch receiving a blowie from the local whore. I know I know, girls aren’t allowed to call other girls whores and I promise that . . . .
But all bets are off when someone’s got my fiancé’s wang in their mouth.
Completely humiliated, Amalie doesn’t know how she’ll face everyone. That’s when it’s great to have a best friend to helphide the body step in and take care of things. Enter Ruby who convinces Amalie to cash in Dick Punch’s plane ticket, use his credit cards and take . . . .
This next part probably doesn’t matter anymore because I’m sure the cat is out of the bag at this point, but the author requested the love interest not be named, so I’m following orders. I will say, though, now that I’ve read both books that this is the only available dude from book one, so . . . . .
But whatever. Anyway, Amalie and . . . .
(Ha! Get it? He Who Must Not Be Named? I’m hilarious.)
End up on the same flight going to the same destination and he makes her an offer she can’t refuse . . . .
Except, ya know, they aren’t in Nevada, but instead they’re . . . . .
If you’re looking for lots of the sexuals, this one has waaaaaaay more than Shacking Up. Unfortunately I didn’t like it as much and it’s all Amalie’s fault . . . .
He Who Shall Not Be Named was definitely splooshable, but she kept killing my ladyboner by being the kind of girl who is the reason why the rest of us can’t have nice things: She was a wimp, she was going to marry a Dick Punch she didn’t really know and who was barfable before he ever got a BJ at their nuptials, and she was a phony to boot and pretended to be all vanilla but then brought a suitcase full of sex toys on their honeymoon to show Dick Punch the “real her” or some such noise. Really? Why not let your freak flag fly and own who you are in the sack? Also, an entire freaking suitcase????
That seems excessive.
Anyway, this gets 3 Stars which still isn’t bad for me. Ya’ll will probably be able to ignore Amalie, focus on He Who Shall Not Be Named and surprise your husband with a selection from your giant trunk of sex appliances after you finish reading this one.
ARC provided by NetGalley about 152 years ago in exchange for an honest review. Thanks NetGalley!
I posted the review for the first in this series yesterday while confessing that I read them out of order because #2 was on NetGalley and I had to beg the porny librarian to buy this one for me. The premise here is that Amalie is getting ready to marry . . . . some dude. I can’t remember his name so we’ll just call him Dick Punch since that’s what he needs. Anyway, it’s their wedding day and thanks to a pretty good church PA system, all of the guests get to enjoy the soothing sounds of Dick Punch receiving a blowie from the local whore. I know I know, girls aren’t allowed to call other girls whores and I promise that . . . .
But all bets are off when someone’s got my fiancé’s wang in their mouth.
Completely humiliated, Amalie doesn’t know how she’ll face everyone. That’s when it’s great to have a best friend to help
This next part probably doesn’t matter anymore because I’m sure the cat is out of the bag at this point, but the author requested the love interest not be named, so I’m following orders. I will say, though, now that I’ve read both books that this is the only available dude from book one, so . . . . .
But whatever. Anyway, Amalie and . . . .
(Ha! Get it? He Who Must Not Be Named? I’m hilarious.)
End up on the same flight going to the same destination and he makes her an offer she can’t refuse . . . .
Except, ya know, they aren’t in Nevada, but instead they’re . . . . .
If you’re looking for lots of the sexuals, this one has waaaaaaay more than Shacking Up. Unfortunately I didn’t like it as much and it’s all Amalie’s fault . . . .
He Who Shall Not Be Named was definitely splooshable, but she kept killing my ladyboner by being the kind of girl who is the reason why the rest of us can’t have nice things: She was a wimp, she was going to marry a Dick Punch she didn’t really know and who was barfable before he ever got a BJ at their nuptials, and she was a phony to boot and pretended to be all vanilla but then brought a suitcase full of sex toys on their honeymoon to show Dick Punch the “real her” or some such noise. Really? Why not let your freak flag fly and own who you are in the sack? Also, an entire freaking suitcase????
That seems excessive.
Anyway, this gets 3 Stars which still isn’t bad for me. Ya’ll will probably be able to ignore Amalie, focus on He Who Shall Not Be Named and surprise your husband with a selection from your giant trunk of sex appliances after you finish reading this one.
ARC provided by NetGalley about 152 years ago in exchange for an honest review. Thanks NetGalley!
April 27, 2023
In this second book in Helena Hunting’s Shacking UP series, Amily, the best friend from the previous book with the douchy fiancé, is at her wedding reception when her husband of only minutes is caught cheating in a very public and humiliating way. Amily escapes to get away from his manipulations, and winds up spending time with Lexington, brother of Bane, from the previous book. They were cute together, and this was a fun, light read. Plus, Armstrong, the soon-to-be-ex-husband was over the top ridiculous it was hilarious.
October 24, 2017
When I requested this book, I had no idea that it was part of a series. Now this book can be read as a stand alone, but both MC's are introduced in "Shacking Up" . Since the heroine, Amalie, plays a very big part in that book, I did something I normally don't do. I stopped reading this book and started "Shaking Up" first.
I have to be honest and say that, reading the first book, made me enjoy "Hooking Up" more.
It also made me hate Amelie's husband Armstrong, that much more !! Which is quite the accomplishment...since this book opens with Armstrong and Amelie's wedding, where all the guests get to hear her new husband, getting off in the bathroom....with someone else...
Amelie is mortified of course, and she fleeds the scene....right into the arms of a sexy someone she knows.... Revenge sex seems like a great idea to Amelie...the man is sexy after all and she has all this hurt and rage she needs to get rid of.
Too bad the man in question refuses to go down that road with her. Well... not yet anyways ;)
Because when the two of them meet up again, on what was supposed to be Amie's honeymoon, all bets are off :P
But what happens, when something that was supposed to be a hook-up...a rebound... turns into something so much more.
I really enjoyed this one, especially after reading book 1. I just couldn't for the life of me, figure out what Amie was doing, with a douche like Armstrong.
Thankfully I got a bit more insight into Amie's way of thinking and I was very glad to ee her returning to her old self a bit more.
As you have probably noticed... I haven't really said much about the hero. Reason for this, is that I was asked to keep his name a secret. Though there are plenty of reviews already posted, that do have his name included. I will just keep my end of the deal and say that I really liked the man ;)
All in all, this was a funny, sweet, sexy and at times a bit emotional read. I am very curious what this author has in store for us next ;)
My reviews are posted on DirtyBooksObsession
April 1, 2018
5 YUMMY Stars!
Hooking up is a standalone, but the characters from Shacking Up is featured in this book too. You don’t have to read Shacking Up prior to reading Hooking Up. But in all honesty, the books should be related in a series (but I’m sure the publisher will get more money this way).
Shacking Up – Ruby and Bancroft
Eye Candy (Novella) – Bane and Ruby’s Halloween gala (this was mentioned a few times in Hooking up, I will have to go back and read about this event)
Hooking Up – Amalie (Ruby’s Best friend) and Lexington (Bancroft’s older brother)
I Flipping Love You – Rian and Pierce (Ruby’s older brother, who is a lawyer in Hooking Up)
This is my second Helena Hunting book and although this book isn’t labeled within the series, I will be reading all the related books, including the novella (and I’m not really fond of novellas).
Hooking Up is my favorite in the“series” so far. I loved the book from page one. I had a smile on my face the ENTIRE time and I read the book in one sitting. I couldn’t get enough of Amie and Lex.
Amie is embarrassed at her wedding. Totally normal right? Everyone at the wedding just heard Amie’s husband getting off and not by Amie. Meaning she was just cheated on and EVERYONE heard. So funny and sad at the same time.
Amie is in state and throws herself at Lex, who happens to have had a crush on her forever.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE the premise of the book. I’m totally into jilted brides. So when Lex and Amie show up on the honeymoon together, I’m all for the wild ride.
Helena Hunting knows how to write a good book. I gobbled this baby up like CANDY. It was yummy, intriguing and I couldn’t get enough.
I love Amie, I found her endearing, funny and I love her take-charge personality. I love how open she is about sex, yet I love how emotional she was because of the whole cheating thing. I liked her slightly complicated personality. It just did it for me.
I love Lexington too. I loved how he has always had a thing for Amie and I love how Amie was kind of the girl that got away. I also love it when a Hero chases after the Heroine, although I should say they both chased each other. I also love a beach settings in books.
I love a lot of things about the book. I think it had the PERFECT mixture of chemistry, tension and STEAM! I know these books are New Adult books, but I’ve seen a lot of covers with abs and with no steam. Gah, it drives me nuts, BUT NOT HOOKING UP. There’s plenty of steam to keep you happy.
Overall, I love this“series” and each book is gets better and better.
An ARC was provided
AMAZON | REVIEW
Eye Candy #1.5 http://amzn.to/2g5gGrZ
Hooking Up #2 http://amzn.to/2yUKP0K
I Flipping Love You #3
Shacking Up – Ruby and Bancroft
Eye Candy (Novella) – Bane and Ruby’s Halloween gala (this was mentioned a few times in Hooking up, I will have to go back and read about this event)
Hooking Up – Amalie (Ruby’s Best friend) and Lexington (Bancroft’s older brother)
I Flipping Love You – Rian and Pierce (Ruby’s older brother, who is a lawyer in Hooking Up)
Hooking up is a standalone, but the characters from Shacking Up is featured in this book too. You don’t have to read Shacking Up prior to reading Hooking Up. But in all honesty, the books should be related in a series (but I’m sure the publisher will get more money this way).
Shacking Up – Ruby and Bancroft
Eye Candy (Novella) – Bane and Ruby’s Halloween gala (this was mentioned a few times in Hooking up, I will have to go back and read about this event)
Hooking Up – Amalie (Ruby’s Best friend) and Lexington (Bancroft’s older brother)
I Flipping Love You – Rian and Pierce (Ruby’s older brother, who is a lawyer in Hooking Up)
This is my second Helena Hunting book and although this book isn’t labeled within the series, I will be reading all the related books, including the novella (and I’m not really fond of novellas).
Hooking Up is my favorite in the
Amie is embarrassed at her wedding. Totally normal right? Everyone at the wedding just heard Amie’s husband getting off and not by Amie. Meaning she was just cheated on and EVERYONE heard. So funny and sad at the same time.
Amie is in state and throws herself at Lex, who happens to have had a crush on her forever.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE the premise of the book. I’m totally into jilted brides. So when Lex and Amie show up on the honeymoon together, I’m all for the wild ride.
Helena Hunting knows how to write a good book. I gobbled this baby up like CANDY. It was yummy, intriguing and I couldn’t get enough.
I love Amie, I found her endearing, funny and I love her take-charge personality. I love how open she is about sex, yet I love how emotional she was because of the whole cheating thing. I liked her slightly complicated personality. It just did it for me.
I love Lexington too. I loved how he has always had a thing for Amie and I love how Amie was kind of the girl that got away. I also love it when a Hero chases after the Heroine, although I should say they both chased each other. I also love a beach settings in books.
I love a lot of things about the book. I think it had the PERFECT mixture of chemistry, tension and STEAM! I know these books are New Adult books, but I’ve seen a lot of covers with abs and with no steam. Gah, it drives me nuts, BUT NOT HOOKING UP. There’s plenty of steam to keep you happy.
Overall, I love this
An ARC was provided
AMAZON | REVIEWEye Candy #1.5 http://amzn.to/2g5gGrZ
Hooking Up #2 http://amzn.to/2yUKP0K
I Flipping Love You #3
Shacking Up – Ruby and Bancroft
Eye Candy (Novella) – Bane and Ruby’s Halloween gala (this was mentioned a few times in Hooking up, I will have to go back and read about this event)
Hooking Up – Amalie (Ruby’s Best friend) and Lexington (Bancroft’s older brother)
I Flipping Love You – Rian and Pierce (Ruby’s older brother, who is a lawyer in Hooking Up)
November 7, 2017
5 Stars!
Amalie Whitfield is engaged to Armstrong Moorehead. He’s the son of the CEO of Moorehead Media, the company she works for. She works in their magazine branch and does marketing campaigns. She lives in New York & after a few bad boyfriend choices thinks she’s finally found the perfect guy. That is until she hears her new husband at her wedding reception getting it on with someone else. She’s shattered & her heart is broken. She needs to get out of town & decides to go on her honeymoon alone. Some time alone is just what she needs. Then she runs into Lexington Mills. Lexington is Armstrong’s cousin & the man she made a complete fool of herself in front of. She was drunk & distraught at her wedding after her life imploded, & she threw herself at Lex only to be rejected. She feels completely humiliated after trying to force herself on him. Then there’s the fact he’s kind of become her hero the way he’s always coming to her rescue lately.
Lexington Mills works with his father & his brother Bane at the Mill’s Hotels. He’s to keep the Mill’s empire running when his Dad retires. His Dad sends him out of the country on hotel business to look in on a resort of theirs that isn’t performing well. On his way to the islands he crosses paths with Amalie Whitfield, the only woman he’s wanted for the past year, but couldn’t have. She was marrying his jerk of a cousin, & he missed his chance, but now that Armstrong screwed up, maybe he can have another chance.
Amie & Lex are both on the island for about three weeks. Amie was so wrapped up in the idea of the perfect love, instead of finding something real & lasting. She decides to have some fun & let her rebellious side out. She needs a temporary distraction & decides she can’t resist Lex anymore. He’s gorgeous and now she wants him desperately. They decide to live in the moment & enjoy one another while on the island. Things between them are intense & out of control. Amie can be herself with Lex & soon he becomes her one constant. Can they have something real when they get back home, or will they end things when they leave the island?
-I’m attracted to Lex and have been from the moment I met him.
-I want this chemistry even though I’m afraid of it.
-I want this man so badly.
-All it takes from this man is a touch to melt me from the inside.
Lex isn’t sure he can leave his feelings behind when he returns home. He doesn’t want to just be Amie’s escape. He wants something long term with her. He’s found a once in a lifetime connection with Amie & he’s not sure she’s ready for everything he wants to give her, but she totally owns his heart!
Omg, Lexington Mills is delish!!! This man lived up to all my expectations! Swoon, swoon, swoon!!! This book was amazing! Laugh out loud funny & absolutely fantastic!
Amalie Whitfield is engaged to Armstrong Moorehead. He’s the son of the CEO of Moorehead Media, the company she works for. She works in their magazine branch and does marketing campaigns. She lives in New York & after a few bad boyfriend choices thinks she’s finally found the perfect guy. That is until she hears her new husband at her wedding reception getting it on with someone else. She’s shattered & her heart is broken. She needs to get out of town & decides to go on her honeymoon alone. Some time alone is just what she needs. Then she runs into Lexington Mills. Lexington is Armstrong’s cousin & the man she made a complete fool of herself in front of. She was drunk & distraught at her wedding after her life imploded, & she threw herself at Lex only to be rejected. She feels completely humiliated after trying to force herself on him. Then there’s the fact he’s kind of become her hero the way he’s always coming to her rescue lately.
Lexington Mills works with his father & his brother Bane at the Mill’s Hotels. He’s to keep the Mill’s empire running when his Dad retires. His Dad sends him out of the country on hotel business to look in on a resort of theirs that isn’t performing well. On his way to the islands he crosses paths with Amalie Whitfield, the only woman he’s wanted for the past year, but couldn’t have. She was marrying his jerk of a cousin, & he missed his chance, but now that Armstrong screwed up, maybe he can have another chance.
Amie & Lex are both on the island for about three weeks. Amie was so wrapped up in the idea of the perfect love, instead of finding something real & lasting. She decides to have some fun & let her rebellious side out. She needs a temporary distraction & decides she can’t resist Lex anymore. He’s gorgeous and now she wants him desperately. They decide to live in the moment & enjoy one another while on the island. Things between them are intense & out of control. Amie can be herself with Lex & soon he becomes her one constant. Can they have something real when they get back home, or will they end things when they leave the island?
-I’m attracted to Lex and have been from the moment I met him.
-I want this chemistry even though I’m afraid of it.
-I want this man so badly.
-All it takes from this man is a touch to melt me from the inside.
Lex isn’t sure he can leave his feelings behind when he returns home. He doesn’t want to just be Amie’s escape. He wants something long term with her. He’s found a once in a lifetime connection with Amie & he’s not sure she’s ready for everything he wants to give her, but she totally owns his heart!
Omg, Lexington Mills is delish!!! This man lived up to all my expectations! Swoon, swoon, swoon!!! This book was amazing! Laugh out loud funny & absolutely fantastic!
November 22, 2017
4 ★'s
“Like you’re my forever.”
I was really hoping that this book was going to be Lexington and Amalie's and I was so happy that it came to fruition! I was especially hopeful for all the angst it might have.
Unfortunately, it wasn't angsty enough for me. I know I sound like a broken record but how can you go wrong when the WHOLE wedding party hears the groom getting a blow job at his reception over the speaker system...and not from his wife? Seems like a win-win.
Then, Amalie (Amie) tries to have sex with Lexington but of course, that doesn't work out. It didn't help that Bane and Ruby barge in on them. One of the problems is that Bane/Lexington (who are brothers) and the groom are cousins so it's a little bitty taboo-ish.
Amie starts annulment proceedings and with the urging of Ruby, takes off for her honeymoon by herself. Naturally, Lexington is also headed to the same place to handle some of his family's hotels.
I think the problem was that things happened very quickly for Lexington(Lex) and Amie. Lex has wanted her for a long time so it's hard to blame him especially with him trying to hold things off. Amie's been denied so her needs are mighty. (I think she went a little overboard with her suitcase though.)
They decide whatever they have has to stay on the island...and they're both pretty miserable but go on with their lives. Fortunately, things are moving on for Bane and Ruby and that causes Lex and Amie to be thrown together frequently.
I really enjoyed Lex but I think the only problem I had was his (dumb) competition with Armstrong (cousin/groom). Again, the whole non-communication thing really mucks everything up!
Sadly, I didn't really care for Amie. She came off as a spoiled brat. What in the world was she doing with Armstrong? It was baffling and totally unrealistic IMO.
There's a lot of drama at the end as well but I liked how Lex and Amie got themselves together.
Hopefully, the next book will be either Griffin or Lincoln...either one will do. Just please not with the Whore-ton! ;)
“Like you’re my forever.”
I was really hoping that this book was going to be Lexington and Amalie's and I was so happy that it came to fruition! I was especially hopeful for all the angst it might have.
Unfortunately, it wasn't angsty enough for me. I know I sound like a broken record but how can you go wrong when the WHOLE wedding party hears the groom getting a blow job at his reception over the speaker system...and not from his wife? Seems like a win-win.
Then, Amalie (Amie) tries to have sex with Lexington but of course, that doesn't work out. It didn't help that Bane and Ruby barge in on them. One of the problems is that Bane/Lexington (who are brothers) and the groom are cousins so it's a little bitty taboo-ish.
Amie starts annulment proceedings and with the urging of Ruby, takes off for her honeymoon by herself. Naturally, Lexington is also headed to the same place to handle some of his family's hotels.
I think the problem was that things happened very quickly for Lexington(Lex) and Amie. Lex has wanted her for a long time so it's hard to blame him especially with him trying to hold things off. Amie's been denied so her needs are mighty. (I think she went a little overboard with her suitcase though.)
They decide whatever they have has to stay on the island...and they're both pretty miserable but go on with their lives. Fortunately, things are moving on for Bane and Ruby and that causes Lex and Amie to be thrown together frequently.
I really enjoyed Lex but I think the only problem I had was his (dumb) competition with Armstrong (cousin/groom). Again, the whole non-communication thing really mucks everything up!
Sadly, I didn't really care for Amie. She came off as a spoiled brat. What in the world was she doing with Armstrong? It was baffling and totally unrealistic IMO.
There's a lot of drama at the end as well but I liked how Lex and Amie got themselves together.
Hopefully, the next book will be either Griffin or Lincoln...either one will do. Just please not with the Whore-ton! ;)
November 23, 2017
I've been in a serious book-slump lately. And this book didn't help at all...
November 5, 2017
I’m pretty sure Hooking Up was written for me. It certainly seems that way. If I made a checklist of everything I love in a romantic comedy, this book would have every single box checked, plus a couple of write-ins. It’s a DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) book that hooked me from the prologue to the epilogue. I devoured it in one day.
I rooted for Amalie every step of the way as formerly-feisty “Anarchy Amie” sheds her Stepford Wife persona and finally gets her groove back. Armstrong, her soon-to-be ex-husband, is a total douchemus maximus. The man does not have one redeemable quality, which makes him the perfect smarmy foil to totally dreamy Lexington.
Lex and Amie sitting in a tree k-i-s-s-i-n-g. Except Amie is interested in doing a lot more than kissing him. Who could blame her? Lex is the total swoony package. Time out to sigh over Lex. *sigh* Unfortunately for her, he is determined to be a gentleman and not take advantage of her vulnerability—despite his naughty desires. Let’s face it, though. Lex doesn’t stand a chance against Amie who is funny, sexy, uninhibited, and determined to get some action (if you know what I mean). When you add in the romantic Bora Bora setting and fierce mutual attraction, you’ve got the perfect powder keg for sinful sexy times.
Cheers to Helena Hunting for creating such a seductive, sweet, and wickedly funny treat. I gave a standing ovation to one of the most hilarious smack-down speeches in fictional history.
Hooking Up was the perfect cure for the angst fog I was in. I loved this rom-com like crazy.
Recommended for fans of:
Sexy romantic comedies
Reformed bad boys
Champagne
Douche canoes
I rooted for Amalie every step of the way as formerly-feisty “Anarchy Amie” sheds her Stepford Wife persona and finally gets her groove back. Armstrong, her soon-to-be ex-husband, is a total douchemus maximus. The man does not have one redeemable quality, which makes him the perfect smarmy foil to totally dreamy Lexington.
Lex and Amie sitting in a tree k-i-s-s-i-n-g. Except Amie is interested in doing a lot more than kissing him. Who could blame her? Lex is the total swoony package. Time out to sigh over Lex. *sigh* Unfortunately for her, he is determined to be a gentleman and not take advantage of her vulnerability—despite his naughty desires. Let’s face it, though. Lex doesn’t stand a chance against Amie who is funny, sexy, uninhibited, and determined to get some action (if you know what I mean). When you add in the romantic Bora Bora setting and fierce mutual attraction, you’ve got the perfect powder keg for sinful sexy times.
Cheers to Helena Hunting for creating such a seductive, sweet, and wickedly funny treat. I gave a standing ovation to one of the most hilarious smack-down speeches in fictional history.
Hooking Up was the perfect cure for the angst fog I was in. I loved this rom-com like crazy.
Recommended for fans of:
Sexy romantic comedies
Reformed bad boys
Champagne
Douche canoes
**ARC received in exchange for an honest review.**
June 11, 2023
Hooking Up is very entertaining. I do like the story. As usual, Miss Hunting combined romance and comedy perfectly. I like the banter, the plot and the characters.
Although the ending is abrupt, I still managed to smile as the HEA reached. Both characters are so cute evenr with serious emotional baggage.
4 stars
Although the ending is abrupt, I still managed to smile as the HEA reached. Both characters are so cute evenr with serious emotional baggage.
4 stars
April 7, 2019
Sexy Lexy takes Hooking Up to another level...
As the mother of two boys, I felt like the boys in Hooking Up missed the lecture on...Use Your Words, Not Your Hands. My boys, thank goodness, are more about rough-housing than fists flying and I'm hoping this will never change. Sure, there are lots of screaming matches and doors slammed but I'd rather that than bruises and busted lips. I'd have to say, though, that a few of those acts of aggression in Hooking Up were well deserved. Armstrong was a douchewaffle of epic proportions.
WHAT SANE AND DECENT BLOKE CHEATS AT HIS OWN BLOODY WEDDING?
...and that therein lies the problem. Everyone who knows Armstrong knows he's far from sane and completely indecent. That is, everyone except his new wife, Amalie.
It's amazing what you can convince yourself into believing when the image before you looks right. Armstrong is clean-cut, well-spoken, from a good family, and holds a respected place in his family's business. Amalie is trying to make better choices in her relationships, so what she sees is, what she thinks, a better choice. Unfortunately, she missed some glaringly obvious red flags and is now paying the consequences. If only she'd gone with her gut instinct and waited for the hot guy to deliver her drink.
Lex took one look at Amalie and decided that he definitely wanted to know her better. One minute things were looking good, the next, his dodgy cousin had stepped in and stolen his girl. Months later, and when the wedding turns into a shemozzle, Lex is warned away because of Amalie's fragile emotions. But, wouldn't you believe it, Amalie falls practically in his lap and gives him the opportunity to win back his girl.
I enjoyed reading Hooking Up but admit to a decent dose of frustration when it came to Amalie's character. Sexy Lexy is the full package. He's thoughtful, sweet and caring while also extremely sexy and HOT!! I just felt that Amalie made things a lot harder than they needed to be at times and I wasn't sure why Lex put up with it all. Sure, she's been hurt but her ups and downs, highs and lows, ins and outs were a wee bit frustrating.
Hooking Up was a very sexy read and there's even a wee bit of kinky in this one. It wasn't OTT or cringe-worthy, more about finding your pleasure with a few kinky toys.
I highly recommend giving Hooking Up a try for Lex alone. With that cover model in mind and the man we get to know, he's almost bloody perfect. Amalie does come good but she's a bit of hard work and a twit. Lex for the win!!!
As the mother of two boys, I felt like the boys in Hooking Up missed the lecture on...Use Your Words, Not Your Hands. My boys, thank goodness, are more about rough-housing than fists flying and I'm hoping this will never change. Sure, there are lots of screaming matches and doors slammed but I'd rather that than bruises and busted lips. I'd have to say, though, that a few of those acts of aggression in Hooking Up were well deserved. Armstrong was a douchewaffle of epic proportions.
WHAT SANE AND DECENT BLOKE CHEATS AT HIS OWN BLOODY WEDDING?
...and that therein lies the problem. Everyone who knows Armstrong knows he's far from sane and completely indecent. That is, everyone except his new wife, Amalie.
It's amazing what you can convince yourself into believing when the image before you looks right. Armstrong is clean-cut, well-spoken, from a good family, and holds a respected place in his family's business. Amalie is trying to make better choices in her relationships, so what she sees is, what she thinks, a better choice. Unfortunately, she missed some glaringly obvious red flags and is now paying the consequences. If only she'd gone with her gut instinct and waited for the hot guy to deliver her drink.
Lex took one look at Amalie and decided that he definitely wanted to know her better. One minute things were looking good, the next, his dodgy cousin had stepped in and stolen his girl. Months later, and when the wedding turns into a shemozzle, Lex is warned away because of Amalie's fragile emotions. But, wouldn't you believe it, Amalie falls practically in his lap and gives him the opportunity to win back his girl.
I enjoyed reading Hooking Up but admit to a decent dose of frustration when it came to Amalie's character. Sexy Lexy is the full package. He's thoughtful, sweet and caring while also extremely sexy and HOT!! I just felt that Amalie made things a lot harder than they needed to be at times and I wasn't sure why Lex put up with it all. Sure, she's been hurt but her ups and downs, highs and lows, ins and outs were a wee bit frustrating.
Hooking Up was a very sexy read and there's even a wee bit of kinky in this one. It wasn't OTT or cringe-worthy, more about finding your pleasure with a few kinky toys.
I highly recommend giving Hooking Up a try for Lex alone. With that cover model in mind and the man we get to know, he's almost bloody perfect. Amalie does come good but she's a bit of hard work and a twit. Lex for the win!!!
November 7, 2017
Not having read the first book, I’m guessing that the implications of Amalie and her secret hook-up are much larger than I think, though ‘Hooking Up’ does clearly work as a standalone.
Having said that, I had the inkling that the book wasn’t for me at all—an inkling that grew like an ominous thundercloud by the time I got to the part where the shenanigans started a few minutes post-wedding.
Cheating and a tit-for-tat vibe in the story are what push the narrative along: out of spite, Armstrong swopped into get the girl (one which the mystery man sees first), then quite publicly cheated on her in a cringeworthy manner during the wedding reception. The brokenhearted Amalie in turn, went on her honeymoon alone, hooked up with the man who quite literally saw her first while her divorce hadn’t gone through (though it’s pretty much expected that the marriage is over by then). That personally is a trigger for me, so I was struggling with this early on, which clearly places me in the minority as I kept wondering if Amalie/mystery man’s actions were justified nonetheless, especially since this merely took place a few days after the disastrous wedding and not after the dust properly settled.
I also found it hard to sympathise with the jilted woman, whose choice in bad boyfriends (and husband) merely reinforced her lack of judgement and her inability to rein everything in. And unlike our mystery man who seemed stalwart in his desire for her, Amalie merely stayed a whiny, flaky protagonist who spent most of the story vacillating between her regrets and her own abysmal history in ‘love’ which she projected onto mystery man.
I couldn’t finish the story after all—it’s an issue I typically have with characters and issues like cheating. The ease of reading just didn’t surpass how much I disliked the characters in the book save for the mystery man of the story and was actually happy to put Amalie and her antics far behind me.
*ARC by Netgalley
Having said that, I had the inkling that the book wasn’t for me at all—an inkling that grew like an ominous thundercloud by the time I got to the part where the shenanigans started a few minutes post-wedding.
Cheating and a tit-for-tat vibe in the story are what push the narrative along: out of spite, Armstrong swopped into get the girl (one which the mystery man sees first), then quite publicly cheated on her in a cringeworthy manner during the wedding reception. The brokenhearted Amalie in turn, went on her honeymoon alone, hooked up with the man who quite literally saw her first while her divorce hadn’t gone through (though it’s pretty much expected that the marriage is over by then). That personally is a trigger for me, so I was struggling with this early on, which clearly places me in the minority as I kept wondering if Amalie/mystery man’s actions were justified nonetheless, especially since this merely took place a few days after the disastrous wedding and not after the dust properly settled.
I also found it hard to sympathise with the jilted woman, whose choice in bad boyfriends (and husband) merely reinforced her lack of judgement and her inability to rein everything in. And unlike our mystery man who seemed stalwart in his desire for her, Amalie merely stayed a whiny, flaky protagonist who spent most of the story vacillating between her regrets and her own abysmal history in ‘love’ which she projected onto mystery man.
I couldn’t finish the story after all—it’s an issue I typically have with characters and issues like cheating. The ease of reading just didn’t surpass how much I disliked the characters in the book save for the mystery man of the story and was actually happy to put Amalie and her antics far behind me.
*ARC by Netgalley
November 3, 2017
I requested this book not realising it was part of a series and while it does work as a standalone I noticed a friend had started it then broken off and gone back and read the previous book Shacking Up first and I enjoyed this more for reading that first.
It’s a complete mystery what the beautiful and natural Amalie was doing with Armstrong, the fact that she married him is beyond comprehension but marry him she did and then just as it’s time for the speeches the groom can be heard getting a blow job and it’s not from her.
Amie is beyond mortified but luckily Ruby steps up and gets her out of there.
With her life in tatters Amie decides to go on her honeymoon alone, to get away until the chaos dies down but it turns out her honeymoon is way hotter than it would have been with Armstrong.
This is an entertaining cute romance my review is short because we were asked not to reveal the identity of the hottie hookup so I don’t want to say more and risk inadvertently giving anything away.
I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press.
December 1, 2017
I’ve only read the short novella Getting Down prior to reading Hooking Up and wow did Helena Hunting deliver and surprise me. I had to so much fun with Lexington and Amie. Their chemistry and connection was off the charts. Lex wooed and made me swoon numerous times with his loving and flirty personality. Amie could finally let herself loose and be Anarchy Amie in Lex’s company after Armstrong had held her down for too long.
There were many incredible, hot and laugh out loud moments in Hooking Up. I thoroughly enjoyed Lexington and Amie’s friendship and how they slowly fell in love.
Why I haven’t read a Helena Hunting book sooner is my mistake and I’m definitely going to remedy that now.
4 BadAssDirtySexyLexyStars
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC via Netgalley
There were many incredible, hot and laugh out loud moments in Hooking Up. I thoroughly enjoyed Lexington and Amie’s friendship and how they slowly fell in love.
Why I haven’t read a Helena Hunting book sooner is my mistake and I’m definitely going to remedy that now.
4 BadAssDirtySexyLexyStars
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC via Netgalley
November 16, 2017
Hooking Up by Helena Hunting
Narrated by Jacob Morgan & Muffy Newtown
Romantic Comedy, Can stand alone but is related.
4.5 Stars
I have been so excited to read Hooking Up after reading Shacking Up and then the short story in the Eye Candy Anthology. I liked Amie and couldn’t stand her fiancee, so I couldn’t wait for her story! Please note: I read about 40% of the ARC, then the audiobook released and I switched to audio, that’s why this review is for both.
Amalie has been putting up with her uptight fiancee, Armstrong, for a while, thinking he is the safe one, the businessman her family approves of. He has been “molding her” to be the society wife he strove for, but that’s just not the true “Anarchy Amie”, and she was losing bits of herself to this douchenozzle.
Luckily (yes, embarrassing, but still lucky) her husband was caught getting a BJ at his own wedding reception, in fact, it was broadcast over the sound system! And it was NOT Amie who was doing the blowing! So what does she do? Tries to get back at him with his gorgeous cousin and biggest rival. But because he is a gentleman, he rejects her.
But when she goes on her Honeymoon alone, guess who is there on business? The same guy! The guy who saw Amie first but Armstrong (the douche) warned Amie away from him and moved in himself. There was always that pull between them that couldn’t be denied.
“She’s my sun and I’m her moon, connected by an invisible thread, bound but free.”
3 weeks in Bora Bora with Mr. Hot and totally forbidden sounds like the perfect cure to get over your new husband cheating at the wedding and realizing he’s the biggest dick on the planet.
“I assure you, there’s nothing nice about the things I want to do to you, the ways I want to have you.”
“Oh. Well, that’s good to know.” The wide eyes and innocent stare morph into the same wild look I caught a glimpse of in her bridal suite. “Because I’m pretty sick and fucking tired of nice, polite sex.”
Because of family connections and society gossip, they both know that what happens in Bora Bora has to stay there, even if they both want more.
“I’m not supposed to have her beyond this even if I want her. And I do. I can still taste her. I can still smell her. I can still feel her even though she’s gone. Again…”
After reading the story in Eye Candy, you really question why Amie was with Armstrong to begin with, and I’m very glad that Hooking Up addressed that a bit more. But once she was with the new guy (name withheld), there was no denying, these two were perfect together.
Likes:
•The airport security scene.
•I really loved both main characters.
•I liked his playful, funny side, and his socks.
•He’s just such a GOOD guy despite the little bit of bad boy.
•There were some laugh out loud moments.
•Visiting with the couple from Shacking Up.
Dislikes:
•I don’t feel the cover goes with the book. He’s hot, but it just doesn’t fit in my mind.
•They talked about the fact that they talked about stuff, but never showed it, but yet there was a LOT of sex. I would have liked to see a bit of the sex traded out for more of an emotional connection.
The Narration:
Switching halfway through the book, I expected it to be strange, but it was seamless. In fact, I enjoyed the book even more via audible. The narrators are fabulous.
The Down & Dirty:
I loved Hooking Up! Helena Hunting delivers another fantastic romantic comedy that kept me smiling the whole time. I never lost interest at any time, it had great pacing, a villain you love to hate, a forbidden romance, hot times and kept a smile on my face. I can’t ask for much more!
Rating: 4.5 Stars, 4.5 Heat, 5 Narration
Purchase Hooking Up by Helena Hunting
December 3, 2019
4.5 Released from Pretending Stars
* * * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
Why do we pretend to be something we are not...Sometimes we don't even know we are doing it after a while. We can see a life, something we think we want and will be the "Right Choice". Then before we know it, we are locked into something we never actually wanted. Too many concessions are made, too many suppression of not listening to your inner voice telling you this is a mistake.
This is exactly what happened to Amalie Whitfield. She had always been know as the mess up to her family. She would do all the outside the box things with her best friend Ruby. Amalie tried all sorts of careers and her family had been supportive, financing her education. But when Amalie has a change of heart again, she knows they have sacrificed enough.
Somehow she becomes the object of attention and interest with a man she would normally not be on his radar. He is in a position to help her deal with a challenge she is having...Before she realizes all of this attention is getting out of hand with this man and his family, she finds herself engaged and about to be married.
We are at the wedding reception, the deed has been done. Amalie is feeling a bit ill and taking a break from all of the minute events her Now Husband Armstrong has scheduled. As her childhood bestie, Ruby is trying to settle Amalie down...
A curious loud screech happens from the sound system...
The next thing that happens is the broadcasting of Armstrong receiving a very enthusiastic and loud "servicing" from another woman at the party. Yes, in stereo and surround sound, Amalie and all of the other Blue Bloods are hearing all the nasty taunting out of Armstrong's mouth and then his "Happy Ending".
Amalie is stunned, shocked and furious. Ruby gets her to the bride's room and goes for the car so Amalie can getaway. Still in shock, drinking champagne out of the bottle and realizing how embarrassed and humiliated she is, Amalie attempts to get out of her huge, poofy, not even her choice, wedding dress.
Lexington is so lost. Here he is stuck having to take a woman he had no desire to be with to this wedding. He has been so depressed with all of the things that had been going on this last year. Lexington met Amalie when she had just started working at the company. He saw her, walked over and felt she was someone very unique and special. He was interested and wanted to pursue her but was cut off by Armstrong, his cousin. Their past history has not been good since the teenage years.
Once Armstrong wooed Amalie and she became the girlfriend, Lexington had to hide his feelings for her. This was why he was moping about and hiding out in the bathroom of the bride's room. He had drunk a few, was away from his date who kept trying to grab his package and was just miserable.
When he decided to step out of the bathroom, there in the middle of the room was Amalie trying to get out of that dress which had a life of its own.
Shock and accusations fly out of Amalie's mouth and then she is on Lexington... begging him to take her...As much as Lexington wants Amalie, he is a gentleman, sort of...
People rush in, things are not what they look like and somehow Lexington gets tagged as a bad guy.
In order to get the heat off Lexington, his father sends him to see all of the Hotel properties that have not been doing well lately. By sending him to Bora Bora in a couple of days, it will get Lex away from the scandal.
Amalie has gotten herself together as best as she can. She changed her airline/spa honeymoon reservation so that Armstrong couldn't manipulate her. She is in line waiting to go through security when something happens to have her pulled for questioning and inspection. What happens next is something which shouldn't happen to anyone...Luckily, Lexington sees her, steps in and with quick thinking... saves the day.
Lex and Amalie go to the preferred airline lounge, sit and talk and then both are surprised they are on the same flight to Bora Bora. As they fly, Lex fights his feeling yet knows they are there for Amalie.
Oh, this book...So much goes on and we get to enjoy every single thing. There is insight and growth with these people. Both know each should be with each other. The chemistry is off the charts. Hunting does provide the conflicts and we have to hold our breathes while Lex and Amalie figure things out.
This is a series and I happened to have read it out of order. It wasn't an issue, however, if you have the time...do read all of the books... they are so well done.
Shacking Up (Shacking Up, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Hooking Up (Shacking Up #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I Flipping Love You (Shacking Up, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Making Up (Shacking Up #4)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Handle With Care (Shacking Up, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
Why do we pretend to be something we are not...Sometimes we don't even know we are doing it after a while. We can see a life, something we think we want and will be the "Right Choice". Then before we know it, we are locked into something we never actually wanted. Too many concessions are made, too many suppression of not listening to your inner voice telling you this is a mistake.
This is exactly what happened to Amalie Whitfield. She had always been know as the mess up to her family. She would do all the outside the box things with her best friend Ruby. Amalie tried all sorts of careers and her family had been supportive, financing her education. But when Amalie has a change of heart again, she knows they have sacrificed enough.
Somehow she becomes the object of attention and interest with a man she would normally not be on his radar. He is in a position to help her deal with a challenge she is having...Before she realizes all of this attention is getting out of hand with this man and his family, she finds herself engaged and about to be married.
We are at the wedding reception, the deed has been done. Amalie is feeling a bit ill and taking a break from all of the minute events her Now Husband Armstrong has scheduled. As her childhood bestie, Ruby is trying to settle Amalie down...
A curious loud screech happens from the sound system...
The next thing that happens is the broadcasting of Armstrong receiving a very enthusiastic and loud "servicing" from another woman at the party. Yes, in stereo and surround sound, Amalie and all of the other Blue Bloods are hearing all the nasty taunting out of Armstrong's mouth and then his "Happy Ending".
Amalie is stunned, shocked and furious. Ruby gets her to the bride's room and goes for the car so Amalie can getaway. Still in shock, drinking champagne out of the bottle and realizing how embarrassed and humiliated she is, Amalie attempts to get out of her huge, poofy, not even her choice, wedding dress.
Lexington is so lost. Here he is stuck having to take a woman he had no desire to be with to this wedding. He has been so depressed with all of the things that had been going on this last year. Lexington met Amalie when she had just started working at the company. He saw her, walked over and felt she was someone very unique and special. He was interested and wanted to pursue her but was cut off by Armstrong, his cousin. Their past history has not been good since the teenage years.
Once Armstrong wooed Amalie and she became the girlfriend, Lexington had to hide his feelings for her. This was why he was moping about and hiding out in the bathroom of the bride's room. He had drunk a few, was away from his date who kept trying to grab his package and was just miserable.
When he decided to step out of the bathroom, there in the middle of the room was Amalie trying to get out of that dress which had a life of its own.
Shock and accusations fly out of Amalie's mouth and then she is on Lexington... begging him to take her...As much as Lexington wants Amalie, he is a gentleman, sort of...
People rush in, things are not what they look like and somehow Lexington gets tagged as a bad guy.
In order to get the heat off Lexington, his father sends him to see all of the Hotel properties that have not been doing well lately. By sending him to Bora Bora in a couple of days, it will get Lex away from the scandal.
Amalie has gotten herself together as best as she can. She changed her airline/spa honeymoon reservation so that Armstrong couldn't manipulate her. She is in line waiting to go through security when something happens to have her pulled for questioning and inspection. What happens next is something which shouldn't happen to anyone...Luckily, Lexington sees her, steps in and with quick thinking... saves the day.
Lex and Amalie go to the preferred airline lounge, sit and talk and then both are surprised they are on the same flight to Bora Bora. As they fly, Lex fights his feeling yet knows they are there for Amalie.
Oh, this book...So much goes on and we get to enjoy every single thing. There is insight and growth with these people. Both know each should be with each other. The chemistry is off the charts. Hunting does provide the conflicts and we have to hold our breathes while Lex and Amalie figure things out.
This is a series and I happened to have read it out of order. It wasn't an issue, however, if you have the time...do read all of the books... they are so well done.
Shacking Up (Shacking Up, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Hooking Up (Shacking Up #2) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I Flipping Love You (Shacking Up, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Making Up (Shacking Up #4) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Handle With Care (Shacking Up, #5)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
November 7, 2017
Maybe it’s because I believe that no wedding ever goes off without a hitch (Lord knows mine didn’t) or maybe I just have a sick sense of humor or maybe it is both, but I love a romance where something big happens at a wedding and in the case of Hooking Up, author Helena Hunting delivers a big blow out (and yes that is a hint) that has lasting repercussions for many. Here’s the thing, I know there will be a lot of people who will rant about this book because the heroine gets involved with someone else while she is technically still married, but to them I say her “husband” (and I do use that in the loosest since of the word) was a douchecanoe (and that is now an official word in the dictionary and everything) and she deserved her happiness. I loved every hilarious, entertaining, sexy, wonderful moment in this book, but I also loved the tender and sweet ones because a life together is never easy especially when you fall for your husband’s cousin on what was supposed to be your honeymoon.
Amalie (Amie) has a history of hooking up with the wrong kind of men, but she never expected the worst of them to be the man she married just minutes before. When he won’t leave her alone she does the only thing she knows to do, head out on her honeymoon by herself and find someone to make her forget her lying, cheating soon to be ex-husband. She just doesn’t expect it to be her soon to be ex-husband’s cousin and the brother of her best friend’s boyfriend.
After his date to his cousin’s wedding causes a sandal big enough to break up the marriage, Lexington agrees with his father’s plan of getting him out of the country to work on some revamping ideas for some of their resorts who are underperforming. He never expected to see Amalie being detained at the security check point or to find out they are on the same plane headed for paradise. Knowing she needs time to process everything that’s happened, Lex refuses to barge into her life even though he’s wanted her since before she was with his cousin, but when he finds her trolling the bar looking for someone to help her forget all bets are off.
These two had some history which made them getting together that much sweeter. Before Amie got engaged, Lex and Amie had met and while Lex respected her decision for dating and marrying his cousin he didn’t like it mainly because he knew his cousin was not a nice guy, but also because from the start he felt something for Amie. Lex showed a lot of restraint over and over in this story, first by only laying one punch on his cousin when he wanted to pummel him and two for not taking advantage of Amie even when he wanted her so much. I enjoyed their flirting and teasing banter, I loved that even when they agreed they were only an island fling they both knew it was much more, and most of all I appreciated the respect and trust they had for one another something that was hard for Amie given the circumstances. There were a lot of funny moments in this book, many that made me laugh out loud, but it wasn’t all fun, these two faced an uphill battle given she was married to his cousin, a cousin he had a long and not so pleasant history with, but the moments they were together no matter what they were doing it was so easy to feel the love between them.
Helena Hunting never disappoints in the laughs department but she also manages to write stories that are not only swoon worthy, but ones I could easily see being made into a movie. Hooking Up was the perfect blend of fun, sun, sexiness, and sweetness.
May 25, 2020
Heck yeah! Finally a romance book I could get into :-) I don't know what it was about Lexington, but his character totally did it for me. This story is definitely steamier than the ones I typically enjoy, but once again, something about this one worked for me. I totally enjoyed this read.
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