Carly Phillips Reviews

Page Two

Added July 18, 2005

Hot Number

Author: Carly Phillips
Publisher: HQN Books
Available At: Bookstores Everywhere
Publishing Date: August 2005
Genre: Romance: Contemporary
Format: Paperback
Price: $7.99
ISBN: 0373770553
Author Email/Website: www.carlyphillips.com
Reviewer: Cyndi Witkus
Rating: 8.25 Gargoyles

Micki Jordan is publicist to the brightest stars in the sports world. She's one of the guys, unlike her sisters/copartners in their family business. Finally, when Damian Fuller once again dismisses her as "just Micki", she's declared war on her tomboy ways. She wants him, even if it's for just one night. Damian Fuller, professional ballplayer and major league playboy, knows that his team can go far this year. But ever since that one kiss he shared with Micki months ago, he can't stop thinking about her. Their worlds and lives collide when Micki has to help Damian when her uncle is out of commission.

When a set of circumstances allow them to act upon their desires, can Damian and Micki find a way to make their desire into something more or will Micki be the flavour of the month only? And can they cope when things go from bad to beyond worse?

In the romance world, you hear over and again that sports, movies, and rock stars are taboo to write about. However, Carly Phillips has done a terrific job in showing not only the inside world of sports, but also the relationships between fans and our favourite stars. The chemistry between Micki and Damian is fun to watch, especially once Micki gets her makeover. From not-so Plain Jane to Suddenly Sexy, Micki might have changed on the outside with minimal help, but her inner self hasn't made the leap to confidence in the field of men. Damian has a policy of only being involved with women who know the score and don't try to hold onto him. But he finds himself wanting to break that rule with Micki. After resisting for so long, an incident happens that changes everything for him and her. Seeing Damian find ways to accept his feelings and to do the right thing rings true and is great to see his growth as his lust for Micki turns to love.

Hot Number is a fun, sexy read. For everyone who has ever wished to turn the head of a guy, this book definitely allows you that fantasy while giving you a satisfying love story. Ms. Phillips has proven herself more than capable of delivering stories that touch your heart and your funnybone. This book breaks that taboo about not writing about famous people in the sports industry and I hope that she takes on another taboo so we can enjoy yet another Carly Phillips novel.

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Added May 11, 2004

Under the Boardwalk

Author: Carly Phillips
Publisher: Warner Books
Available At: Bookstores everywhere
Publishing Date: June 2004
Genre: Romance: Contemporary
Format: Hardcover
Price: $18.95
ISBN: 0-446-53237-1
Author Email/Website: www.carlyphillips.com
Reviewer: Robin Taylor

Ariana Costas is pleasantly settled in Vermont. Her job as a college psychology professor keeps her busy enough and she has made some friends. But her home is in New Jersey, where she left her eccentric family behind. Her twin sister, Zoe, is missing, and is presumed dead. Ariana returns to New Jersey until her sister is found; as Zoe's twin, Ariana is positive Zoe is still alive.

Quinn Donovan is working undercover at the casino where Zoe worked. She's temporarily out of the picture, and hopefully Quinn can bring his current case to a close. Quinn doesn't expect the distraction of Ariana Costas. He first meets her when she's mistaken for Zoe and is shot at. Ari is desperate and determined to find out where Zoe is and why she is missing. Quinn hires her at the casino with hopes of keeping an eye on her, while continuing on in his case. Having worked with Zoe, Quinn feels this might be the best course of action to keep Ari safe, while the details of Zoe's absence are worked out.

Neither Ari nor Quinn expected the rush of lust and the extraordinary emotional zing that hits the both of them. Quinn would rather be professional and ignore his desire for Ari, or would he? Who will give in first, and how far will they go? Is it just a physical attraction, or will emotion complete the picture?

It's not often I can read a book cover to cover in practically one sitting, stopping only briefly to sleep. Yet, Under the Boardwalk is just that type of book. There are so many elements that will keep the reader turning the pages deep into the night - sexual tension, drama, intrigue, family values, passion, deep emotion and more. The characters are amazing. Quinn is a man who didn't have a family growing up, and just loves the quirkiness of Ariana's family. Ariana ran from her family, always wishing they were more normal. For example, who elses family has a monkey that they are training to be pickpocket? The time she spends with them really opens her eyes, and this factors into making this book a heartwarming read.

Ms. Phillips always writes wonderful books, so it is no surprise that Under the Boardwalk was such a delight to read. The character growth experienced by Ariana, as well as her romance with Quinn, blended in marvelously with the continuing intrigue in this story. With excellent pacing, strong main and secondary characters, a plot that will keep you on your toes, and a very pleasing subplot, this is a book to put on your "to buy" list and to read at first chance.

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