Member Reviews
I just loved Jackson and Bianca. Jackson is moody, arrogant and could be a giant jerk. There is so much more to him. Bianca was so funny. She had some of the funniest sayings. There was moments I laughed out loud and moments that made me cry. This book has all the feels.
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review by NetGalley.
Loved it from the start!! This is jt's first foray into romantic comedy and she did a fantastic job! Loved the giggles and lol moments between Jax and Bianca!
Bianca and Jackson are so good together. Excellent overall writing. Thanks!
4++ slowly- burning stars.
I really like this author's characters a lot. I read a lot of books and sometimes experience that similar vibe (feeling) when reading about the MC's. But in Bianca and Jackson's case, they both came across as original and unique characters even within the parameters of her being super-sassy and him being the dark, tortured, broody type.
Needless to say I loved.....loved these character's and the direction this story took.
It was a fabulous, easy to get interested (sucked into) type of read. I read it in one sitting and now can't wait for book two in this "Slow Burn" series .
J.T. Geissinger you just officially reached one-click status for me. I have read one other book by this author and also enjoyed mainly for her characters and writing style.
5 stars are simply not enough for this amazing book! I don’t even know where to start. This book is by far one of my favourite reads of 2017!
Bianca was such a strong, independent woman and Jackson was a growly, bearded broken man who turned out to be the biggest surprise of the book. I love the way the story developed and the way the slow burn made the chemistry between Bianca and Jax so intense. JT Geissinger sure knows how to tell an amazing story!
I can’t fault this book except to say that I want more! I am honoured to have been able to read an ARC.
<i>The man gave the term <b>resting bitch face</b> a whole new meaning. He looked like his face had caught on fire and someone had tried to put it out with a fork.</i>
Do you love BEAUTY AND THE BEAST retellings? Need I even say more at this point? Probably not. But I will. This isn't your standard homage but there's enough similarities to tickle your fancy and enough differences to delight you. In addition we have a hate-to-love slowburn <b>and</b> a fake-marriage trope. Throw in some New Orleans flavour (like, a lot) and a cheeky, quirky, memorable cast of characters, and BURN FOR YOU is a winner for me. And, well, hopefully you.
"<i>Miss Hardwick. You. Are being. <b>Unreasonable.</b></i>"
"<b>And you, Mr. Boudreaux, are the reason the gene pool needs a lifeguard.</b>"
This is my first read by Geissinger but I'm no stranger to seeing her in my feed. She's an author I've meant to try for a while and I loved having the ARC as an excuse to finally get around to doing so. That being said I had no idea what to expect as far as quality of writing but am pleased to report this was not only well done but was also fucking hilarious. I could not stop laughing. I also cried once or twice so, I mean, it's all not silly shenanigans.
"<i>I think sometimes it's easier for a man to be the worst version of himself than to let the world keep breaking his heart.</i>"
As the series implies, this is a slow burn. For a moment I thought we were nearing MZ levels of slow but thankfully it wasn't quite that bad. (by which I mean good. but this was also good. arg, you know what I mean). And it was worth the wait. Between the outlandish Southern-isms and the cracklin' hate-snark banter, the back and forth between the moody bourbon-royalty-beast and the fiery belle-chef was as delicious as the food woven throughout the story.
"<i>That kiss was hotter than the sidewalk in July.</i>"
"<b>Your metaphors need work.</b>"
"<i>Excuse me. Hotter than a billy goat with a blowtorch.</i>"
"<b>That doesn't even make sense. And comparing a lady's kiss to anything to do with a goat is just bad manners.</b>"
While Jackson's darker more mellow moments swung him from highs (welll, bit of a stretch to call them a high) to lows as a result of his past, Bianca had more present-day fires to put out. It was a good balance not only for the story but worked to complement their (respectively) stubborn and relentless natures.
<i>If he was trying to get me to feel sorry for him.. it was working a little.</i>
It wasn't all perfect moments of hilarity or sparks, though. Sometimes I did find the dialogue a little reliant on !'s and some reactions felt a little overblown or drama-llama-ish. But every time a little bit of it irked me, I would be distracted by something wonderful or the characters would simmer back down. It was definitely not a consistent thing and really I think that's the only thing I have to complain about or make note of to explain why this isn't a perfect ten (or, rather, five).
<i>Dear Lord. I was sexually attracted to my fake fiancé.</i>
Book one in Geissinger's <i>Slow Burn</i> series was a hell of a good time (seriously, I lost track of my lol moments), it made me feel all of the things, cleverly strung together all different elements and tropes without feeling tropey, was packed full of heat when said heat finally kicked in, and.. I just had fun reading it. Truly. If you want something fresh and flavourful, pick this one up. It's delicious -- and this is one order you definitely won't be sending back to the kitchen unfinished.
4.25 "whatever conversation you're having with yourself, I've love to join in. it looks fascinating" stars
4.5 Hearts
Burn for You is the first book in the Slow Burn series. I read J.T’s Wicked Games series and loved it so a I was excited that she was starting a new one. The synopsis is kickass so I will try to make this short and sweet.
He needs a wife. She needs to pay for her mama’s medical bills. It’s only a contract. It can’t be more than that. He isn’t looking for love and she doesn’t have time for it. It’s just a piece of paper exchanged for money. That’s it. Well...until feelings develop and walls fall apart. Let the slow burn begin.
Jackson knew she was different from the moment they met. She didn’t take his shit. She didn’t want his money. She didn’t want anything from him. Nothing. It was him that was offering. It has never been that way. She intrigued him so when his inheritance is in jeopardy and his really only option was to marry someone by his thirty fifth birthday, she was the only one he wanted to be his wife. He just had to get her to say yes within one month. He could go in slow but once you meet him, you know that’s not him. He is blunt, snarly, and doesn’t care what other people think. He can’t even trust that. Most people fear him because of who he is. That is until her. Bianca Hardwick. The sassy, badass chef that isn’t afraid to say what’s on her mind. He has met his match.
Bianca should walk away like she did the first night she met him but she couldn’t. Not only because of what he could give her but because she just knew there was more to him. He was a puzzle that she wanted to solve. But she wouldn’t chase him. Nope. He would have to go to her. He walks around like he is in control but can not and will not let him control her. And it turns out...that’s one of the very reasons why he wants her. She thought he knew what he wanted but she had no idea...
I loved this story! Both characters are fighters. And I don’t mean the fights between them even though that is both sexy as sin, fun, and frustrating. Sometimes all at once. I mean they are strong. They both have pasts to overcome. Him even more. I enjoyed watching his walls fall, and seeing all the sides of him as they do.
Overall...it’s a great start to a new series! It’s a sexy, fun, heartbreaking, and beautiful read. I loved their banter, their chemistry, and watching their feeling grow. I am very excited about the next book. If I remember correctly, a Rugby player will be there and I am a rugger’s wife.
P.S. Ok, that wasn’t short.
Quotes:
“Looks like that boy hasn’t eaten in a year!”
I sourly harrumphed. “Only the souls of all who’ve displeased him.”
“Oh please, Jackson, you’re so highfalutin, you think your shit tastes like sherbet.”
“Whatever conversation you’re having with yourself, I’d love to join in. It looks fascinating.”
There are a lot of the books out there that has the same garner: marrying a billionaire under the contract because the both parties have benefited from it. And I must say that this one is one of my favorite from this genre. The story is something else because this billionaire is not some cocky self-centered womanizer but is a loner introvert person in the world and from time to time this loner goes out and his target is a restaurant whose owner is Bianca. So their interesting interaction starts. They are both very develop characters. Jackson The beast is so much more than we see at first sight and what is behind the cruel mask sees also Bianca. Desperate times made us do a desperate thing and that's why their charade begins. Both Jackson and Biank are great persons, and they have some powerful chemistry between that explode and explodes big. A heartbreaking emotional story that I really enjoyed. Recommended
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for Netgelly
A reluctant hero. A spunky heroine. And a gorgeous library. Sound familiar?
Steamy, grouchy Jackson Boudreaux needs a caterer for a charity function. Who better to ask than the sassy restauranteur that he just insulted?
<blockquote><b>"'You. Are being. Unreasonable.' Boy, did he like punctuate his words with a hammer! A laugh escaped me. 'And you, Mr Boudreaux, are the reason the gene pool needs a lifeguard. Have yourself a nice evening.'"</b></blockquote>
There's plenty of cute banter to go with the steadily building relationship. I think anyone that loves Beauty and the Beast will enjoy growly Jackson and Bianca - who gives as good as she gets.
The concerns I had with the book are twofold - the storyline involving characters other than the hero and heroine. There was a lot going on there - and some of it felt jerky. Second, the explanation for then hero's issues (which are a HUGE part of his charm) fell a little flat. Everything near the end of the book seemed a bit rushed - more than the characters deserved. I still loved this book - it was an easy afternoon read. A confectionary distraction from the daily grind.
<blockquote><b>"'Be careful what you wish for, sweetheart,' I murmured, my heart singing. 'If you think I'm a beast, you haven't seen this beard when it really gets going.'"</b></blockquote>
I love the dynamics of Jackson and Bianca's relationship. They way they interact is priceless and I couldn't stop reading this book once I started. They both have issues in their past that have made them distrustful of romance but when they finally commit it's magic. Red hot sweet magic.
OMG what an incredible story!!!!
You have "the beast" an incredibly arrogant man who believes he is better than everyone and is entitled to everything. He believes that rules don't apply to him and that just because he has more money than anyone could know what to do with, that people should give him what he wants.
He meets his match though with Bianca; she's the one person who isn't afraid to tell him how it is even if it could cost her everything. An odd friendship of sorts develops through their continued banter. The friendship eventually has Jackson proposing an arrangement of sorts to Bianca, one that could help them both out of a very sticky situation. Out of desperation Bianca realizes she has to accept Jackson's offer if she has any hope of her life remaining unchanged.
This book will have you laughing, crying and wanting to kill Jackson (many times). You won't stop reading the book because you'll be dying to see how two people who incredibly different are going to make this crazy proposal work.
My only complaint was that I felt the book needed an epilogue to give us a little more closure with these two characters. However if they make an appearance in a future book in this series we may get the closure I wanted.
I'm really growing to love this author's work more and more with every release. I only discovered her earlier this year, but I've quickly become a fan who gets excited when I see a new book coming out.
Burn For You held my attention from start to finish. In fact, I wish it hadn't have ended because I still want to be lost in the world the author has created here. I honestly can't express how much I enjoyed this. The characters were brilliant, the chemistry was scorching, and the romance was one I rooted for. I loved the constant bickering or quick witted remarks. The characters bounced of each other with their hate, but it was clear to everyone but them that Jackson and Bianca were perfect for each other. Bianca wasn't afraid to stand up and say what she thought to Jackson despite his anger, and I loved her for it. The dynamic between the two of them just worked.
As for the story, I liked the difference in the fake fiance trope. There was a lot going on in this book and I think it all came together to create a great read. I still would have liked more though because I'm greedy like that.
Overall, this was a highly enjoyable read that held my attention from the first page to the last. I couldn't put it down and would definitely recommend it.
ARC received for review
4.25 stars ...It (and I) needs an epilogue!!!!!!!!!!!
Great story..tale as old time..
This book hit so many emotions. I laughed and I cried. Jackson aka the "Beast" has a library. He was so damaged yet he was able to open up to loving and being loved. Bianca gives better than she gets.
I can't wait to try some of the recipes Ms. Geissinger graciously included at the end of each chapter.
One more thing...cover art people...please read the book. He has no beard, and she doesn't have cafe au lait color skin...
I love the way this author tells a story. Her stories do tend to be unique as well. Big plus for me on that one. Since I read dis much all of the books just been right into one. The same clique.
Always a fan of Ms Geissinger, this book does not disappoint. We have a flawed and hardened man with a soft, squishy centre and honourable heart that is struggling to find love. Bianca was just the right girl for him :) I got kicked out of bed for laughing too much and keeping hubby awake, and I very happily spent the night on the couch soaking up this story. It was fast and fun, surprisingly deep with all the vulnerabilities, insecurities, loss, and redemption. Tied up well, a very happily-ever-after :)
Burn for You is book 1 in the Slow Burn series. Jackson and Bianca are both have issues which brings a very emotion journey at times. I enjoyed the storyline and characters and will read more of this series.
I have never read a book by J.T. Geissinger that I did not love, and this one is no exception. I love Jax, the rude Beast billionaire and Bianca, the feisty chef. Love the ups and downs they ho through to come together. The side characters (Ray ford and Eeny) were halarious. One of the best books I have read in a while!
Burn for you is the story of Bianca Hardwick a New Orleans chef and restaurant owner and Jackson Boudreaux heir to a billion dollar bourbon dynasty.
Jackson is known as 'the beast' due to his rude obnoxious behaviour and fearsome temper. Bianca a plain talking take no crap type of woman does not take kindly to his rudeness, demands and nuclear temper when he comes into her restaurant demanding a table. She puts him firmly in his place something that no one seems to have ever done before.
Jackson has many issues which cause this behaviour and despite his outward appearance inside he is a man of many complications and heartache.
Bring in an arranged marriage, humour, heartbreak and tears and you have a great entertaining story.
I felt the writing style was different to this authors usual style, probably because it was set in 'the good ole south' with all it's particular idiosyncrasies.
Towards the end (about 90%) I started having palpitations that there was not going to be enough time for a happy ending, I should have had more faith,there is and it's wonderful. A really good read exactly what I expect from this wonderful storyteller.
My thanks to net galley and publisher for opportunity to review this book.
Loved the story. Bianca a down to earth women has a run in with an arrogant man. Jackson is just angry at everyone. His father puts him to the test, he must marry right away.
Three and a half stars.
JT Geissinger is an author whose name I recognise and yet, apparently, this is the first book of hers I have read.
Bianca Hardwick is a chef with her own restaurant in the heart of New Orleans. Her mother's restaurant was wiped out by Hurricane Catrina and they are struggling to make ends meet. One night Jackson “The Beast” Boudreaux storms into the restaurant threatening law suits and untold punishments because Bianca's new menu showcases Boudreaux bourbon. Jackson terrorises the staff, is obnoxious, rude and snarly and Bianca lets him know it. Shortly after eating every single dish on the menu Jackson returns to offer (well actually demand) Bianca the job of chef to a banquet he is throwing in two weeks for 300 people at his house. Ordinarily Bianca would tell him where to shove his offer but her mother is ill and she desperately needs the money. Can I just pause at this point and say how glad I am to be British? It is inconceivable to me that someone in a first world country could die just because they can't afford medical care. That a hospital would refuse to give life-saving treatment if you can't pay. Mind-boggling. Sorry, I digress.
Bianca comes to suspect that under the bushy beard and the scowl Jackson is actually not that bad (he has his reasons), so when his father gives him the ultimatum of getting married, joining the family business or losing his trust fund she agrees to marry him - but only to fund her mother's medical treatment.
This book hit so many of my favourite tropes it was unreal. A variation of Beauty and the Beast, marriage of convenience, grumpy hero, estranged family. But it's also funny. Bianca has a lexicon all of her own, her outbursts when irritated are hysterical. I am always wary about books set in New Orleans but there was none of the Cajun drawl (thank goodness). The chapters are also interspersed with Bianca's recipes for those who like that sort of thing.
Overall, this was a quirky retelling of Beauty and the Beast which made me laugh. I'll look out for more books by JT Geissinger in the future.