Okay, I am a total sucker for stories where the hero and heroine end up stranded together due to weather conditions of the extreme variety. I am also one of those rare/weird individuals who prefer rainy days over sunshine. So when I got the wonderful opportunity to read Man Candy (a book where two beautiful people get trapped together due to a rain storm) before its release in exchange for my honest review...well let’s just say I nearly knocked over my Targaryan coffee mug trying to get to my laptop and download it on my Kindle.

Having just gobbled up Eye Candy and Arm Candy, I knew that I was in for one delicious treat with the third book in Jessica Lemmon’s Real Love series. No joke, the female MC knows how to whip up some yummy sounding dishes throughout the book. Said MC, Becca, doesn’t seem to have much going for her after her brother fires her in front an entire room of onlookers for being late (again). But, when she catches a glimpse of one Dax Vaughn...well she’s pretty sure that her night is bound to improve.

Dax shows up at Grand Lark Retreat looking for a quiet two weeks of camping/fishing with sunny weather and absolutely no one else in sight. Instead, the nasty weather has cost him his isolated cabin and he ends up with a key to a cabin that is far too close to neighbors. But, one look at beautiful Becca heading his way across the bar and he’s ready to ditch his do-not-disturb-attitude.

Sorry Vince (Eye Candy) and Davis (Arm Candy), I’m pretty sure that Dax has stolen your thunder. He is just so darn swoon worthy. Smart, sexy, and oh so sweet.

I suggest you settle in for the evening with a glass of wine and dive into Man Candy!

Man Candy by Jessica Lemmon is the third story in her Real Love series. I missed book 1 (Eye Candy -on my TBR!), loved book 2 (Arm Candy) and settled in for book 3 hoping it would be as good as the previous one. To my delight, it absolutely is, and has necessitated that I create my ‘Best of 2018’ folder on Goodreads – and it’s barely into the second week of January! Don’t let the title fool you: Man Candy is more than meets the eye.

Dax is looking forward to his vacation, even if the rain threatens to ruin his plans of a quiet fishing trip. Owning two bars in Columbus, Ohio doesn’t give him too much free time, and with the recent death of his father, helping his mom sort out their family affairs and an unexpected house guest his quest for a little R&R has led him to Grand Lark Retreat in Tennessee. It’s here that despite the pouring rain, things start to look a little brighter when he meets Becca.

Becca is a wanderer, following her heart’s desire across one too many states and now back in Tennessee working for her brother at his resort. The sexy ‘man candy’ at the bar attracts her eye with his rugged good looks and quiet demeanor. She’s an expert at the no strings attached fling, and he gives every indication that he’d be up for a way to pass the time, for a night at least. But then that one night leads to two. And then a few days too. Dax is only going to be in Tennessee for two weeks and while keeping things casual works at first, the longing to really get to know someone, and to have them know her, surprises Becca. Dax seems like the real deal – but is Becca willing to give love a chance to take root?

What a delightful romance! I was hooked from the start, with Becca and Dax’s sizzling chemistry soon becoming something much richer and thoroughly rewarding. There are elements of a forced proximity trope as after their first night together the continuing rainstorm leaves Becca with a limited choice of locales to hunker down. Choosing Dax’s cabin in hopes he’ll want a repeat turns out to be the best choice possible, though it also makes her a little bit terrified at how well they get along.

Dax gets high marks and top shelf space in the book boyfriend department for being firm on having full consent from Becca before they spend some sexy time together (and checking in with her more than once). He’s generous, he’s kind, he’s thoughtful, and he’s got her back from the very start. He can see that she’s been given short shrift by her brother and that with a little encouragement she will find what she’s seeking. While he wants her to ultimately choose him as part of her future, he’s ready to give her the space to make up her own mind. I might have fallen a little bit in love with him myself.

Becca is a spirited, fun and friendly woman but she has her hangups. She’s so used to being the screw up in the family that she’s surprised and not sure what to make of Dax’s support for her. When she cooks something utterly scrumptious for one of their dinners, Dax surprises her by offering to buy the recipe for his bar. Having never entertained the thought of cooking as a possible livelihood, she’s flattered, and then inspired to create more recipes. Dax gives her the confidence to try new things, with the assurance that he’ll be there to catch her if she falls – but she has to be willing to let go and trust he’ll catch her. The story moves along smoothly and though there are the inevitable ups and downs, (and a few tears) , the happy ending is thoroughly satisfying. If you’re looking for a sexy, heartwarming romance with genuine characters, this one should definitely be on your list.

This review has been posted at Bingeworthy Books (formerly Straight Shootin' Book Reviews) and feedback updated with the link. It will also be posted at sale sites during release week.

This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. The story flowed very well and was very enjoyable. This book will keep you reading long into the night and you will not want to put this book down until you finish. This was such a great read and full of surprises. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.

Dax Vaughn needs a break from his life. His father recently passed away and he has been stopping his life to take care of his mother. Now he just needs some quite time and has rented a cabin at Grand Lark Retreat in Tennessee for two weeks. On the day Dax arrives, he stops at the bar/restaurant on the property and is immediately taken by the bartender/waitress who just showed up and getting chewed out by her boss.

Becca Stone has been wandering through life aimlessly. She is not sure what she wants to do in her and has tried multiple jobs. Now she's back in her hometown, living and working for her brother, Tad. Tad is beyond irritated with his little sister and just wants her to grow up. After Tad "fires" Becca yet again at the bar, she decides she is going to check out the hot guy sitting by himself. Maybe she find a quick one-night stand.

Things escalate pretty quickly between Dax and Becca and what was suppose to be only one night is quickly turning into more. Neither of these two expected the explosion that happened when they hooked up but neither of them can deny it. Dax thinks he may have actually found someone he could have something real with.....too bad Becca is used to just running away when things get good.

It was great watching the relationship between Dax and Becca play out. It was a tough rough road, mostly for Becca but it was sure worth it in the end. Their happy ending was just perfect!

I really love this series. If you are looking for some fun, enjoyable, hot stories, give this series a try!

I was really looking forward to Dax's story and I loved it. Becca was such a breathe of fresh air and I thought her personality meshed perfectly with Dax's. There wasn't a lot of build up so I was impressed with the insta-chemistry between Dax and Becca. It continued to sizzle and get hotter as the book progressed. I hate that Dax's ex was named Courtney. I never see my name in books, nor have I read a book where the heroine was named Courtney. Whomp whomp-that's no reflection on the book though! I really did love it and all the other books in this series. Is it over? Or is Barrett next? Is he gonna be Jock Candy? Either way, I'm excited for whatever Jessica puts out next. She never disappoints and you can't go wrong with this or any of her books!

ARC provided by NetGalley.

Dax needs a time out from his life, so he decides two weeks of camping and fishing is the perfect solution. However, he finds a better distraction in Becca Stone soon after arriving at his destination. Will Dax be able to convince Becca to take a chance on him, or will they both walk away from an incredible chance at happy ever after?

What an enthralling, fast-paced, wonderful read Ms. Lemmon has delivered in this third book of her Real Love series where this story took me a little while to fully get into because I thought the heroine was capricious, but once I learnt more about the heroine's back story I found myself reading quickly determined to discover whether these two would achieve their happy ever after since neither are looking for a relationship.

As for the dialogue, it was intense due to the main characters back stories, yet there was some really good banter between the hero and heroine that had me liking their determination to not let things get too personal between them. Yet, in saying that, I liked the moment when they opened up to each other about their pasts, as it made me understand why the heroine is the way she is.

Moreover, the heroine was a fun character and I liked that she's finally starting to find her way in life, especially with the hero's encouragement. Will she take him up on the offer he makes? I also liked how resilient and courageous Becca is when it comes to handling everything her brother dishes out because she's never given her brother a reason to trust her since she's so flighty and unreliable. Yet, what I liked most of all about the heroine is that she took a chance on Dax. While the hero, I loved him from the moment he was introduced into this story. Really, he's a good guy that will do anything for those he loves and goes after what he wants in life and what he wants is Becca. I also liked his determination to win the heroine over and that he will do anything to prove to her that he's on her side, especially when it comes to dealing with her family.

Overall, Ms. Lemmon has delivered a fantastic read in this book where the chemistry between this couple was powerful; the romance was fan-your-face hot; and the ending left me completely satisfied, especially because of what the hero does to prove to the heroine that he wants her in his life. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up perfectly, as the heroine is finally following her dreams and I loved the surprise the hero had for the heroine. No way is he going to let her go when he's finally found his Ms. Right. I would recommend Man Candy by Ms. Lemmon, if you enjoy the mysterious strangers trope or books by authors Lauren Layne, Kristen Proby, Avery Flynn and Erin Nicholas.

For years Becca has traveled from place to place, searching for that special something that will fit her. A job, a location…something. She doesn’t do relationships. She’s a one night stand girl and it’s more likely she’s the heartbreaker rather than the one to get her heart broken.
Dax has had a rough few years and it’s time for a vacation. In the Tennessee wilderness he meets Becca and they embark on a one night stand that turns into a two week stand. He’s been hurt before but I was glad to see he still opened himself up to Becca despite the fact that their future was time stamped.
I enjoyed this story. The characters were real and the writing was well paced. Becca’s struggle was a bit harder to accept when it came down to accepting Dax’s proposition. I just didn’t understand her decision. The epilogue was very nice and it gives clue as to what may be the next book.
This is an honest review of an advanced copy provided by NetGalley and Random House Publishing – Loveswept.
Dual POV
No ow/om drama
No apparent triggers

This is the third book in the Real Love Series. In this book we have Dax the cranky bar owner from the previous 2 books. Dax is on a vacation that was much needed when Mother Nature strikes. He meets Becca, and the two are instantly attracted to each other. The are stranded together basically. I really liked the first 2 books but this one was hard to get into. Loved Dax though, he was super hot and adorable. Becca was flighty and immature and was hard to relate to. The two over all still had a lot of chemistry and the sexual tension was hot with witty banter. I would still recommend the book just that it was not my favorite of the series.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC from Netgalley.

I want to start off by saying that I've really enjoyed the "Candy" series! This wasn't my favorite, but that's on me and not Ms Lemmon. Personally, I'm not a fan of "scatterbrained" heroines or flighty if you rather. That's on me. But, I've enjoyed these books so much, that I dearly wanted a turn with it. I wasn't disappointed. Yes, mainly because Dax made up for my flaw. IMO, Dax was a saint. But, hey, just me.

This is an excellent read and YES, I look forward to whatever's on the horizon with Ms Lemmon. For those of you who enjoy that "free spirited" heroine, then you'll be in heaven.

What happens when a one night stands turns into more? Dax meets Becca on his vacation they hook up for one night but then mother nature has other plans for these 2. I liked this book it was cute Dax abd Becca clicked right away and really the only drama came at the end and it was really not much over all i really liked this book and I normally don't enjoy these kind of books. so if your looking for a fun book to read pick this up.
I was given and advanced copy of this book for my honest opinion and this is what i think of this book.

Becca Stone is trying to figure out what she wants to do with her life. She has chased every little whim, moved to other states, only to find herself back home. Now living with her brother's family and working for him at his lodge. Finding the handsome, rugged stranger sitting at the end of the bar immediately gains her attention.




Dax Vaughn has set out on vacation for some alone time. The last couple of months have left him little time for himself and all he wants is to lose himself for a little bit. The beautiful woman blowing into the bar where he's nursing a beer is about to change all of that.



I enjoyed the story line of this book. I loved Dax. His strength and self-assuredness were easily evident. I appreciated Becca's self-awareness and her ability to go for what she wanted. The author paints a vivid picture of the story's setting.



This is the second book I've read by this author and thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend it to a friend. I look forward to reading more by this author.

Sweetly sexy, emotionally thrilling, truly engaging romantic adventure filled with passion, fun and one of my favorites, being taped together by the weather.

Dax and Becca have a explosive connection that is white hot and thrilling to read about. I loved the banter as well as the chemistry between them. Becca is sweet, sexy, sassy and fun as a damsel in distress (completely afraid staying in one place to long). Dax is charming, strong, sexy, sweet and so alpha male in command of his world. They are both independent, strong willed and so sure of what they want out of life and each other, until one night unexpectedly turns into so much more......... Loved it!

Man Candy was another great installment in the Real Love series by Jessica Lemmon. I enjoyed the storyline, characters, and Jessica Lemmon’s writing style. I’ll admit that I didn’t fully connect with Dax and Becca, and there were some parts/aspects of the story that seemed rushed and slightly annoyed/frustrated me. I was honestly going to give this book three stars, but I was really happy with the epilogue. It was a pleasant and unexpected conclusion, and definitely made me like the book a lot more. I have read many of Jessica Lemmon’s novels before, and even though Man Candy hasn’t been my favorite from her so far, I really enjoyed Dax and Becca’s story and I’m looking forward to reading more of Ms. Lemmon’s romances!

ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I love the words that are Jessica Lemmon! She sure knows how to hook her readers. I ADORED this read and couldn't put it down. I loved the opening of this book. Becca is working for her brother, Tad, and he's all bark and no bite with her. She takes him with a grain of salt and it's amusing. Becca is working for family while she figures out what she wants to do with her life. She's not looking for a guy when Dax shows up. She can't ignore his presence. Their chemistry was palpable and stronger than anything they had ever experienced. I was lost in their journey and wanted things to work out between them. Their push/pull was delicious and Dax was quite the charmer. I loved the way he was with Becca. Man candy, indeed! He, too, is struggling with things in his past and Becca understood him. I loved getting lost in their story and think you will too!

This is a voluntary review of an advanced copy.

After reading book 2 in this series, I was really looking forward to learning more about Dax as he just seemed so remote and grumpy in book 2. In book 3, Man candy, you understand why Dax is that way as his father has died and he has a lot in his life that he is dealing with.

Becca and Dax both were not looking for love and they both have different reactions when they realize that they have fallen in love. I loved watching them as they grew closer and hoped that Becca could give Dax a chance and was so sad when she told him good bye.

Lots of fun in this book, as they were fun to read about, and really liked both of them and especially when they figured out their feelings and what a great life they could have together! What a great epilogue!! I hope there is another book in this series so we can see if Barrett gets his act together!!

I have loved every book in this series and this one is no exception -- wow, the chemistry between Becca and Dax is HOT! From the first moment they met you could tell their relationship was going to be intense. Although this is the 3rd book in this series, it can definitely be read as a standalone, but I would highly recommend reading Arm Candy and Eye Candy because this author nails it when it comes to fun, sexy romances. I loved the description of the outdoors - makes you want to go star-gazing! Everything I love in romance novels -- can't wait for the next book in this series!

Man Candy
By: Jessica Lemmon

📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚

Will fear keep Dax and Becca from seeing Forever?

These two are so like able and oh so frustrating. With instant chemistry can a one night stand turn into so much more. Can they help each other realize that the worth and confidence they see is what they should see in themselves. Will keeping feelings help or could it be why the other walk away.

Dax and Becca are easy to like and equally just as frustrating.

Authors Blurb: Dax: After spending months buried up to my eyeballs in my family’s affairs, I’m ready for a break. The kind of break where I can spend two solid weeks camping and fishing in the company of absolutely no one. Then I find myself directly in the path of a drop-dead gorgeous tornado by the name of Becca Stone. Who can resist a night with a damsel in distress? Especially when she happens to be a leggy blonde? The last thing I expect is for Becca to show up on my cabin doorstep the next night, shivering in the rain and ready for seconds.

Becca: One minute I’m admiring the rock-hard jaw of the Magic Mike lookalike who walks into my bar, and the next I’m getting fired by my own brother. Loudly. In front of everyone. Luckily Dax Vaughn is a gentleman who aims his white-hot smile at me. Oh, it’s on. Wham, bam, thank you ma’am. Then a torrential storm washes out the main road and causes a massive power outage, giving us two whole weeks to enjoy each other’s company. At which point Dax will go back home, leaving “us” in the rearview mirror. That’s the plan. Or it was . . . until I started falling for him.


I really enjoyed this book and it kept me engrossed throughout. I really loved the characters and the way they interacted with each other. This is a fun, hot, romantic must read book and I would definitely recommend this book to anyone.

This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV my personal favorite this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know your 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.

Thanks you Netgally for letting me read and review.

Man Candy makes you want to grab a burly man and spend the night under the stars. It's fun and easily sucks you in from the start. It's funny in the right places and serious when needed. 

From the moment that Becca locked her eyes on Dax at Grand Lark Retreat, it was lust at first sight. She wanted him for the night and went after it. Sparks fly and that one night turns into two amazing weeks but they both knew the time would come when he would have to leave that vacation cabin he rented. When time is up, these two have to face their feelings. 

My favorite thing about this entire story is how supportive Dax is to Becca. He understands her maybe more than she understands herself in the moment so while it might be a bit difficult for him, he swallows his needs and desires and let's her operate on her own time. As soon as he started doing that, I knew then that there was no way she would ever be able to resist him. I sure wouldn't be able to. 

Both of them have a sense of vulnerability to them but in their own way, the eventually expose it and face it head on. They are different yet so similar when it comes that to. I like that Dax took the time to show her how much she meant to him, even if it was a bit subdued because once again, he knew what she needed. 

Overall, I liked this book. I like the push and pull between the characters and though the author did a great job developing them and the story. If you are looking for a rugged type romance that gives you love, the outdoors and dreams come true, then this is the book for you.

Man Candy by Jessica Lemmon is book Three in the "Real Love" series. This is the story of Dax Vaughn and Becca Stone. I have read the previous books, but feel this can be a standalone book if you choose to do so.
Dax has plans to go off on his own for a few weeks to just take a break from the lost of his father and the stress that it played on the family. But what he ends up doing is finding something so much more. Becca ends up in Dax's path when she publicly gets fired by her brother and then later again when a story comes through. They start off looking for one night together, but after being thrown together again they end up finding more like a lifetime together.
Really have enjoyed this series!

Loved this one. Sexy, fun, lighthearted. This one doesn't pile on the angst. Just one guy looking for a little time to decompress and one woman trying to do her best and figure out her life. Sometimes though a girl just needs to have a little fun and who better to have fun with than a short timer who will be outta here in two weeks. What was suppose to be one night turns into a passionate weekend thanks to a crazy storm then the weekend turns into two fun filled weeks. That should have been the end of it but sometimes plans don't work out quite like they are suppose to.

I highly recommend this one.