Worked Up

Samantha Waverly, a children’s books illustrator, is in Hook, New Jersey, for an unexpected weekend. Her brother Renner is tied down and won’t be able to meet with her before Monday, a meeting Sam dreads. Meanwhile the petite Manhattanite intends to experience what nightlife there is in the small factory town. She’s barely settled in the town’s dilapidated bar, The Third Shift, when she spots Goliath, Duke Crawford, a machinery mechanic. He is so unlike the men she usually meets: huge, unrefined, but he stands up for her when she is harassed by some patrons, and her bad puns seem to amuse him! Sam doesn’t do relationships and neither does Duke, so why not enjoy a few moments of sexy entertainment! And if you think you know how WORKED UP will unfold, you will probably be wrong. Tessa Bailey demonstrates once again why she is the queen of urban romance! WORKED UP is fast-paced, the dialogues brilliantly witty, and I laughed myself silly at the wedgie episode; that one is a classic! I will not go into specific details about the romance, because the whole thing would be a spoiler. Duke and Sam are some of the most fascinating characters I have ever read, and simply getting to know them was an unforgettable experience; Tessa Bailey doesn’t do clichés! Sam and Duke’s chemistry is off the charts, the sex scenes are scorching, raw, and passionate, and their personal interactions are filled with heartwrenching moments. Duke’s decision to avoid commitments is such a breath of fresh air, and Sam’s is all too painfully understandable. The writing is seamless, beautiful and to the point, very humorous as well, and Ms. Bailey’s succinct and laser-sharp descriptions paint vibrant images of the characters and the environment. Sam’s sisters are a hoot! WORKED UP is a book to be experienced, and a phenomenal tour de force by the inimitable and ever so talented Tessa Bailey. WORKED UP is one contemporary romance that begs to be read! I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This book was absolute perfection!!! Hook, NJ is like many small towns in America. Everyone knows everyone and the livelihood of the town depends upon the factory where a lot of town residents are employed. Samantha is a Manhattan girl in town to see her brother, the owner of the factory. Samantha is an artist determined to achieve her dream of having art reach children everywhere. Her first night in town, she meets Duke at the Third Shift, the town bar. Off the bat, he’s possessive and intense. Duke is a mechanic at the factory and all he wanted to do was watch the game in peace at the Third Shift. Except Sam is there and he takes it upon himself to make sure that she doesn’t run into any trouble. Duke… WOW!! He is the perfect main character. He is a fantastic guy. He doesn’t get around. He’s there for his family and is willing to make any sacrifice necessary to make sure that his four divorced sisters are happy. Sam was hilarious!! The bad jokes, the banter. She definitely holds her own against Duke. The connection between these two was immediate. I haven't read the first two books in this series so this can definitely be read as a standalone. I’m looking forward to Renner’s story! *I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*

LOVED!!! I can't say enough good things about this book - it was wonderful! From the rich girl throw away Samantha to the gentile giant Duke, I just fell in love with the characters. One of the things I enjoy about this author's books is how real she makes the characters feel, right down to their flaws and shortcomings. In this novel, Samantha is backed into a corner by her "sort of" brother Renner. She sees no way to meet her lifelong goal without giving in to his demand.....then she wanders into a bar and sees Duke. Duke is the consummate protector and steps in to keep the barflies away, but all Samantha can see is how hot he is. One thing I really liked is how the author created a sexy leading man that doesn't meet any of the stereotypical characteristics of the usual leading man. Duke doesn't see himself as attractive or worthy, but that doesn't matter. If you enjoy sexy contemporary romance, you will love this book. This is a must read for fans of the genre. The author is on my must read authors' list.