Review: Great Read!
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 05 23, 2014
WHAT IT TAKES is the first book in the Rocky Creek series, and I think Kathryn Ascher has a hit on her hands with her debut novel. Not only are the characters very likeable and engaging, they have a special appeal that makes you want to get to know them.Patrick Lyons is pretty much the perfect man; sexy, romantic, determined - a famous actor and he loves kids. Kelsey Morgan is a damaged fledgling actress, terrified to love again. She has heard about Patrick’s legendary “love ‘em and leave ‘em” reputation with his leading ladies, and she does not intend to join those ranks. Kelsey has her heart shielded like a prison. It has been broken once, and it won’t happen again - ever. Patrick has this uncanny ability to tease her, making her feel safe in the shelter of his arms. He doesn’t try to push her. He doesn’t want to mess this up. Kelsey is different. She is special. How does he get her to understand this and trust him? This is new to him - and important. He wants to get it right. He coaxes her slowly, with true feelings. Is it a lethal seduction that will end in Kelsey’s complete surrender, or will she be able to resist his charms? There are two scenes that made my heart beat a little faster. While the sex scenes between Kelsey and Patrick were steamy and sensual, they were not overdone. She made me want more. I love that Patrick is an Alpha male, but is not afraid to show his vulnerability. Whew! A perfect combination for a book boyfriend!Grayson and Veronica, fellow actors, steal every scene they are in. I LOVE that they are a major part of the story. They are fun. You just want to be friends with them…hang out and get to know them better - maybe in a future book?Patrick and Kelsey's love story, and chemistry alone earn FIVE stars. BUT...WHAT IT TAKES is so much more than just a H/h falling in love. Ms. Ascher does a beautiful job of taking us on a journey of overcoming social issues, such as abandonment, alcoholism and abuse. There is more than one story here – which amps up the angst and drama, keeping those pages turning! Ms. Ascher’s voice works really well for contemporary romance. I think she could become one of my “go to” authors. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series.ARC provided by NetGalley.