Irresistibly Yours

I’ve enjoyed titles I’ve read from Lauren Layne, so this was an opportunity too good to pass up. In the companion series to Sex, Love and Stiletto, we are delving into the world of Oxford, a men’s magazine. We’ve met Cole in the other series, and I have to say that I wasn’t a huge fan of what I had seen. He’s a freelancer with a bit of a chip on his shoulder and a history of playing fast and loose with the women in his life. But, we only had some of his advice (bad) and quick pencil sketches of the man.

Oxford wants to expand their sports section, everyone else can have their format dedicated to style and relationships, but sports will set them apart. To do this, they need an editor, and Cole, a long-time writer for the magazine, assumes the job is his. Until he discovers competition in the form of a pint-sized brunette with editing and writing skills, and the ability to be more than just the ‘color’ on a sport story. Penelope is from Chicago with a solid history, even obsession, with all things sport. A tomboy, she is the epitome of ‘one of the boys’ and Cole isn’t quite sure how to handle the competition.

These two have some wonderful interactions, in which Cole is completely redefining how he relates to women, because Penelope isn’t about to fall for his tried and trues. She’s not a game player, in fact, she has a disarming honest approach to all of her relationships, and Cole finds that intriguing and exciting. Of course, since he’s a boy, he screws up often, but Penelope is also truly kind hearted and a good friend, she never lets things get too out of hand. But their relationship is cute and sweet, and feels solidly natural, even as I wished Cole had to work a bit harder before getting what he finally realized he wanted.

You can read this as a newcomer, but you will find characters from Stiletto appearing and having some influence on this story: the two magazines are in friendly rivalry, and friendships and relationships between the two are evident and apparent throughout the stories.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

Thank you Lauren Layne! For your passion, your story telling capabilities, and for making the characters in your mind come to life in your books. Their personalities shine through. These books are page turners!!! Over the past two years, I’ve read every book in the Stiletto and Oxford series (in no particular order). They are a great stand alone read, but I can also see the value in reading them in order looking back. Outside of the two main characters, the others from the series previously are all incorporated as well. The companionship between everyone, the passion, love, joy, laughter, tears, and heart wrenching pasts that each person lay bare for their spouses pulls you in.

Not a single book has been read without having laugh out loud moments or without having to run and look for tissues. These are definitely a must read.

Couldn’t put it down!