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Love by Design #3
All or Nothing
You’ve met Ben Shaw. Now meet Braydon Kincaid, the devil-may-care male model who nearly stole the show in Working It by New York Times bestselling author Kendall Ryan.
As one of the world’s most sought-after male models, Braydon is no stranger to the finer pleasures in life. The last thing he wants to do is limit himself, especially when it comes to women. His best friend, Ben, might’ve settled down, but Braydon doesn’t want to waste his youth on the messy complications of commitment. He wants fun. He wants easy.
Ellie isn’t looking for a casual relationship, but her tough and sassy personality instantly attracts Braydon, who proposes a “friends with benefits” arrangement. Unable to resist the powerful pull of the charming bad boy, Ellie eventually relents, though she longs for all-consuming love.
As the two spend more time together, Ellie soon realizes that Braydon’s posing skills extend off the runway. His carefully crafted façade masks a secret hurt that he’s reluctant to share with Ellie, even as they embark on a passionate affair that sends them hurtling toward a fate neither expected. Can Ellie risk her heart while she waits for Braydon to let her in, or will she be forced to demand all or nothing?
As one of the world’s most sought-after male models, Braydon is no stranger to the finer pleasures in life. The last thing he wants to do is limit himself, especially when it comes to women. His best friend, Ben, might’ve settled down, but Braydon doesn’t want to waste his youth on the messy complications of commitment. He wants fun. He wants easy.
Ellie isn’t looking for a casual relationship, but her tough and sassy personality instantly attracts Braydon, who proposes a “friends with benefits” arrangement. Unable to resist the powerful pull of the charming bad boy, Ellie eventually relents, though she longs for all-consuming love.
As the two spend more time together, Ellie soon realizes that Braydon’s posing skills extend off the runway. His carefully crafted façade masks a secret hurt that he’s reluctant to share with Ellie, even as they embark on a passionate affair that sends them hurtling toward a fate neither expected. Can Ellie risk her heart while she waits for Braydon to let her in, or will she be forced to demand all or nothing?
272 pages, Paperback
First published September 9, 2014
149 people are currently reading
3992 people want to read
About the author
Kendall Ryan
128 books18.2k followersA New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of more than two dozen titles, Kendall Ryan has sold over 3 million books and her books have been translated into several languages in countries around the world. Her books have also appeared on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists more than three dozen times. Ryan has been featured in such publications as USA Today, Newsweek, and InTouch Magazine. She lives in Texas with her husband and two sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
September 9, 2017
4.5 I ♥ Braydon stars!
If you thought the first two books in Kendall’s Love by Design series were steamy, you haven’t seen anything yet! She knocked it out of the park with this one. And Braydon… be prepared to meet your newest book boyfriend. He’s charming, cocky, sweet, fun and has the best accessory ;)
Ellie is Emmy’s best friend. She’s sassy, fun and feisty. Just the type of girl Braydon is attracted to. Braydon is Ben’s best friend. This means the two of them are thrown together often. As much as they banter and bicker, they can’t deny the connection they have between them.
Braydon isn’t looking for a relationship. He wants Ellie. She’s fun and his type. But he wants easy and commitment free. Ellie isn’t the type to have a that type of relationship. It’s just not her. But something about Braydon makes her give him a shot.
Even though Ellie knows the outcome won’t be good, she gives in. Bray and Ellie have something beyond chemistry. It’s this bond that is stronger than just physical. Even though they don’t have a traditional relationship, what they have is much more than sex. They have friendship.
And soon, that friendship and sex turns into something much more for Ellie.
Ellie falls hard, and she can tell Braydon had feelings too… whether he will admit them or not. Will Ellie be able to take what Braydon is willing to give? Or will she tell him it’s all or nothing with her and risk having him in her life, or losing him all together?
Braydon Kincaid… Braydon has always been my favorite character in the Love by Design series. He’s spirited, charming and has this alluring personality. In this book, he was a conundrum. As carefree as Braydon appears, he’s also a bit secretive and mysterious. You get the sense he’s hiding something through out most of the story. There is always a reason why someone is that hesitant to commit to anyone.
Then there is Ellie. His little firecracker. I loved that Ellie was strong and stood her ground. Kendall has a way of writing very likable females and I love that. No one wants to read about a complete doormat or annoying leading lady. Ellie was just the girl a guy like Braydon needed and they were explosive together. More than that, they were good for each other- as friends and lovers.
All or Nothing is a sweet and sexy romance, a friends to lovers story and a tale of second chances all wrapped up in one. Two fabulous main characters, lots of steam, and a great story line. It was great catching up with Emmy and Ben. As much as I loved Ben Shaw- Braydon takes the cake! Fans of this series won’t be disappointed in Braydon and Ellie’s story!
If you thought the first two books in Kendall’s Love by Design series were steamy, you haven’t seen anything yet! She knocked it out of the park with this one. And Braydon… be prepared to meet your newest book boyfriend. He’s charming, cocky, sweet, fun and has the best accessory ;)
Ellie is Emmy’s best friend. She’s sassy, fun and feisty. Just the type of girl Braydon is attracted to. Braydon is Ben’s best friend. This means the two of them are thrown together often. As much as they banter and bicker, they can’t deny the connection they have between them.
Braydon isn’t looking for a relationship. He wants Ellie. She’s fun and his type. But he wants easy and commitment free. Ellie isn’t the type to have a that type of relationship. It’s just not her. But something about Braydon makes her give him a shot.
Even though Ellie knows the outcome won’t be good, she gives in. Bray and Ellie have something beyond chemistry. It’s this bond that is stronger than just physical. Even though they don’t have a traditional relationship, what they have is much more than sex. They have friendship.
I was quickly becoming addicted to every little thing he did. He made my heart flutter. Silly little organ. It didn’t know what was good for it.
And soon, that friendship and sex turns into something much more for Ellie.
Ellie falls hard, and she can tell Braydon had feelings too… whether he will admit them or not. Will Ellie be able to take what Braydon is willing to give? Or will she tell him it’s all or nothing with her and risk having him in her life, or losing him all together?
Braydon Kincaid… Braydon has always been my favorite character in the Love by Design series. He’s spirited, charming and has this alluring personality. In this book, he was a conundrum. As carefree as Braydon appears, he’s also a bit secretive and mysterious. You get the sense he’s hiding something through out most of the story. There is always a reason why someone is that hesitant to commit to anyone.
Then there is Ellie. His little firecracker. I loved that Ellie was strong and stood her ground. Kendall has a way of writing very likable females and I love that. No one wants to read about a complete doormat or annoying leading lady. Ellie was just the girl a guy like Braydon needed and they were explosive together. More than that, they were good for each other- as friends and lovers.
All or Nothing is a sweet and sexy romance, a friends to lovers story and a tale of second chances all wrapped up in one. Two fabulous main characters, lots of steam, and a great story line. It was great catching up with Emmy and Ben. As much as I loved Ben Shaw- Braydon takes the cake! Fans of this series won’t be disappointed in Braydon and Ellie’s story!
January 5, 2016
Brayden and Ellie find themselves in a compromising situation at Emmy and Ben’s wedding. Brayden is Ben’s best friend and a male model. Ellie is Emmy’s bestie, so the couple know each other already. That's why when they hookup at the wedding, it's harder to write it off as a one time thing. They know each other and will see each other again and again.
The story starts off quick and super hot, honestly the whole story is super hot! Brayden doesn’t want anything serious, but is interested in having a friends with benefits type relationship. Ellie wants more, but like so many women she is wiling to take what she can get.
I truly enjoyed the story, the characters and the outcome. I loved how the story had lots of steam, I actually loved that. However, Ellie really got to me. She was never happy and always wanted more. I get that, I do, but I felt she always expected more from Brayden even though he was up front with her about the type of relationship he could off her. In the end, I did enjoy how things played out. I liked when Ellie and Brayden both opened up and shared more.
I do highly recommend this one, if you are looking for a fun, sexy, heartfelt read!
I listened to the audiobook of All or Nothing and I felt the narrators did a fantastic job narrating.
The story starts off quick and super hot, honestly the whole story is super hot! Brayden doesn’t want anything serious, but is interested in having a friends with benefits type relationship. Ellie wants more, but like so many women she is wiling to take what she can get.
I truly enjoyed the story, the characters and the outcome. I loved how the story had lots of steam, I actually loved that. However, Ellie really got to me. She was never happy and always wanted more. I get that, I do, but I felt she always expected more from Brayden even though he was up front with her about the type of relationship he could off her. In the end, I did enjoy how things played out. I liked when Ellie and Brayden both opened up and shared more.
I do highly recommend this one, if you are looking for a fun, sexy, heartfelt read!
I listened to the audiobook of All or Nothing and I felt the narrators did a fantastic job narrating.
August 17, 2015
The fact that the H in this book had already had sex (threesome) with the h in the first two books was a gigantic turn-off. If I'm going to read a romance where the guy eventually falls madly in love with the girl, I'd rather he not have already slept with the girl's best friend.
I don't give two fucks if Braydon had sex with Emmy before he met Ellie, you still slept with her best friend and that is not okay in my book. Oh and Ellie was totally cool with it. Ummm no. If I'd been Ellie, I would've slapped Emme and Braydon and told them both to fuck off.
The threesome scene in the previous two books did not need to happen at all. Braydon could have still been a kinky SOB without having slept with his best friend's wife.
I don't give two fucks if Braydon had sex with Emmy before he met Ellie, you still slept with her best friend and that is not okay in my book. Oh and Ellie was totally cool with it. Ummm no. If I'd been Ellie, I would've slapped Emme and Braydon and told them both to fuck off.
The threesome scene in the previous two books did not need to happen at all. Braydon could have still been a kinky SOB without having slept with his best friend's wife.
October 24, 2016
3 stars
The first two books of this series – Working It and Craving Him - really surprised me with how much I enjoyed them, Ben and Emmy’s story completely sucked me in and fell in love with them and their story. Braydon and Ellie are the respective best friends of Ben and Emmy, and I have been so excited to get to their story - their chemistry was evident from their first meeting and I couldn’t wait to see how their story was going to unfold.
This book begins with Braydon and Ellie hooking up at Ben and Emmy’s wedding. They have a mad attraction for each other, but Braydon isn’t interested in a relationship, and though Ellie doesn’t do casual sex, she wants him too badly to turn him down.
The sex is super hot and very intense, and I really enjoyed the friendship that developed between Braydon and Ellie the more time they spent together. The teasing and banter is great, and Braydon’s blatant flirting and dirty talk is seriously hot.
But predictably, things start to fall apart when Ellie realizes that she’s falling for her sexy “fuck friend”, and he can’t give her what she wants.
Honestly, I struggled with this book. I think maybe I’m just over the whole ‘sex without strings’ storyline. It’s always the same stupid drama that comes out of it when one person wants more and either chooses to walk away, or become a stupid, spineless doormat. And that’s what happened here. Ellie had the strength to walk away, but whenever Braydon would push her, she’d cave and go back to him, then get all upset again when he would tell her that he can’t give her what she wants. And repeat, and repeat.
I didn’t have a whole of sympathy for Ellie through the whole thing. She jumped in with both feet with Braydon, knowing the risks, and when it didn’t pan out the way she wanted, she was heartbroken. But she keeps accepting him back, keeps thinking that he’s going to change and she has her heart broken over and over again.
I get that she can’t resist him, but stop moaning about the situation when she’s just as much to blame for it! And THEN, she gets in touch with one of Braydon’s ex-girlfriends to try and figure him out so that she can understand him. What? That’s obsessive craziness right there.
And Braydon knows what Ellie wants, he knows he can’t give it to her, but he persists in pursuing her, saying he’s sorry he hurt her, but that it’s all he’s capable of. They keep talking about the other giving them mixed messages, but I actually thought it was all very clear. They talked very openly about what they wanted, and that it wasn’t what they wanted and neither of them were prepared to bend yet they persisted in hooking up. There was SO much back and forth, I just got annoyed.
Of course there’s a reason why Braydon feels the way he does about relationships, and I could understand where he was coming from and why he was so hesitant to let somebody in; but I thought it was a bit extreme and got dragged out for too long. And then the Ellie-initiated resolution… seriously? So unrealistic, it left me shaking my head
They do finally sort themselves out, but it felt very rushed and I honestly wasn’t a fan of how it all came about, but I’m glad for the happy ending, and the epilogue which gave us a glimpse into theirs and Ben and Emmy’s futures.
So yeah – a real mixed bag for me. I think I was more tolerant of the story because I listened to it as an audiobook and I could occasionally zone out when Ellie started moaning. There were definitely parts of the story that I enjoyed, but there was just too much stupid behavior and back and forth for me to truly love it.
3 stars.
The first two books of this series – Working It and Craving Him - really surprised me with how much I enjoyed them, Ben and Emmy’s story completely sucked me in and fell in love with them and their story. Braydon and Ellie are the respective best friends of Ben and Emmy, and I have been so excited to get to their story - their chemistry was evident from their first meeting and I couldn’t wait to see how their story was going to unfold.
This book begins with Braydon and Ellie hooking up at Ben and Emmy’s wedding. They have a mad attraction for each other, but Braydon isn’t interested in a relationship, and though Ellie doesn’t do casual sex, she wants him too badly to turn him down.
“You feel this between us right? This…connection? We owe it to ourselves to give into this. It’s not always like this, you know? This chemistry we have. And I know you feel it too.”
The sex is super hot and very intense, and I really enjoyed the friendship that developed between Braydon and Ellie the more time they spent together. The teasing and banter is great, and Braydon’s blatant flirting and dirty talk is seriously hot.
“You’re such a firecracker. So sassy, intelligent, and confident. You don’t take any shit. But then when we’re together, you turn yourself over to me fully. When I’m buried deep inside you, you submit to me completely…It’s incredibly sexy, kitten. Trust me.”
But predictably, things start to fall apart when Ellie realizes that she’s falling for her sexy “fuck friend”, and he can’t give her what she wants.
Honestly, I struggled with this book. I think maybe I’m just over the whole ‘sex without strings’ storyline. It’s always the same stupid drama that comes out of it when one person wants more and either chooses to walk away, or become a stupid, spineless doormat. And that’s what happened here. Ellie had the strength to walk away, but whenever Braydon would push her, she’d cave and go back to him, then get all upset again when he would tell her that he can’t give her what she wants. And repeat, and repeat.
I didn’t have a whole of sympathy for Ellie through the whole thing. She jumped in with both feet with Braydon, knowing the risks, and when it didn’t pan out the way she wanted, she was heartbroken. But she keeps accepting him back, keeps thinking that he’s going to change and she has her heart broken over and over again.
Everything ignited at once. I needed him. Wanted him. Consequences be damned.
I get that she can’t resist him, but stop moaning about the situation when she’s just as much to blame for it! And THEN, she gets in touch with one of Braydon’s ex-girlfriends to try and figure him out so that she can understand him. What? That’s obsessive craziness right there.
And Braydon knows what Ellie wants, he knows he can’t give it to her, but he persists in pursuing her, saying he’s sorry he hurt her, but that it’s all he’s capable of. They keep talking about the other giving them mixed messages, but I actually thought it was all very clear. They talked very openly about what they wanted, and that it wasn’t what they wanted and neither of them were prepared to bend yet they persisted in hooking up. There was SO much back and forth, I just got annoyed.
“Don’t make me fall for you.”
Of course there’s a reason why Braydon feels the way he does about relationships, and I could understand where he was coming from and why he was so hesitant to let somebody in; but I thought it was a bit extreme and got dragged out for too long. And then the Ellie-initiated resolution… seriously? So unrealistic, it left me shaking my head
They do finally sort themselves out, but it felt very rushed and I honestly wasn’t a fan of how it all came about, but I’m glad for the happy ending, and the epilogue which gave us a glimpse into theirs and Ben and Emmy’s futures.
So yeah – a real mixed bag for me. I think I was more tolerant of the story because I listened to it as an audiobook and I could occasionally zone out when Ellie started moaning. There were definitely parts of the story that I enjoyed, but there was just too much stupid behavior and back and forth for me to truly love it.
3 stars.
December 26, 2014
This book was bad. Really bad. After a tryst at Emmy and Ben's wedding reception, Ellie and Braydon agree they want to do that more often. So they decide to have a friends-with-benefits relationship. That's sooo original. Not. It's not long before Ellie realizes she can't handle it. She wants more. Braydon doesn't. And the ridiculousness begins.
Ellie was a mess. She was a toddler. She made assumptions. She was wishy-washy. She was disloyal and then later she was indignant about it. She was whiny. And then when she finally got what she wanted she whined some more. I did not like her at all.
Braydon wasn't much better. He wasn't the one to change the rules so he wasn't the one that did anything wrong. I think he should have just let Ellie be. She couldn't handle the arrangement but she couldn't let him go either. She was well on her way to becoming another reason he doesn't do commitment. He was such a pussy. I don't know who these characters are but they're sure not the Braydon and Ellie we met in the previous two books.
The ending resolution to Braydon's past was completely dumb. There is no way that scene would play out like that in real life. No way. Uh-uh.
The plot was predictable and has been done to death. It was just lazy.
This book was, from cover to cover, l.a.m.e. lame. A complete waste of time and money. Oh lawd I can't believe I wasted an audible credit listening to this. The only reason I finished this was because it was so short and expensive. Do yourself a favor and stop after book two and create your own HEA for Ellie and Braydon in your head.
September 9, 2014
“Don’t make me fall for you…”
“I won’t bite, kitten. Unless you want it rough.”
Oh Braydon, Braydon, Braydon!
How do I love thee, let me count the ways. And show you those ways too. *snicker , snicker*
I have been waiting, ever so patiently, to read about Braydon Kincaid’s story ever since he graced us with his fine ass self in WORKING IT. I know I was supposed to fall head over heels for Ben Shaw but one hot strut from Braydon (and one UNFORGETTABLE THREESOME) and I was like “Ben who?”. Since the moment Braydon came into the picture, there was no one else for me. And apparently, for Ellie –our female lead AND Emmy’s best friend –as well. They had OUTRAGEOUS sexual chemistry and their banter was off the wall funny. These two were off their rocker!
“I could come over for a little while.”
“I don’t think that’s a good idea.”
“I thought this was what you wanted?”
“No apartment, no sex.”
“Why is that so important to you?”
“It just is. I don’t want to fall into the same pattern with you. Where you live is a huge fucking deal. Someone’s place says a lot about them. I don’t want to take the next step if you’re going to keep holding back.”
“Can’t I have just one secret?”
“Yes. Harmless secrets, like whether or not you pee in the shower—or if you’ve ever farted in the subway and blamed it on someone else.”
“You’re too much. You know that? And for the record, I don’t pee in the shower.”
“Yeah right. I thought all guys did that. It’s like a locker room thing—crossing streams and playing swords…”
In CRAVING HIM, we were left on an Ellie/Braydon cliffhanger. A hot romp in the bathroom between these two sexy kids made ME wanting more (as all of you know, I love me some hot, steamy, will-we-get caught kind of sex in bathrooms). I was counting the days/weeks/months until ALL OR NOTHING was published. I was not disappointed. Not. At. All. Braydon and Ellie’s story was EVERYTHING!
“You need something, kitten?” His voice was deep and low. Too sexy for his own good.
“I’m fine,” I squeaked out. “You good?”
“Oh, I’m fucking fantastic.”
**************************************************
“Careful there, kitten, or that dessert isn’t the only thing that’ll be in your mouth.”
I loved everything about these two characters. Braydon was not only a sexy and delectable man, but he was also sweet, patient, loving, kind, and everything you could want in a gentleman. He’s the guy that can melt the underwear right off your body from just his hot kisses alone. He’s the guy that will one minute growl and dominate you in bed and the next minute be smooth and slow and make you scream so loud the neighbors will hear you. You feel the shiver from his look, his touch, his ways. And let’s not forget that certain “male accessory” that he knows how to use ALL TOO WELL. He was everything Ellie wanted and then some. However, he was also someone that didn’t want a commitment. Or did he?
“Let me ask you something. You feel this between us, right? This…connection? We owe it to ourselves to give in to this. It’s not always like this, you know? This chemistry we have. And I know you feel it, too.”
Ellie was AMAZING! She was the whole kit and caboodle. I loved her so, so much. This is odd for me because there is always something wrong, in my opinion, with the female lead of the book. Not in this case. Ellie felt real to me. I felt her anxiety and pain because they felt very much like my own. I think sometimes, as a single woman, you kid yourself in saying “I don’t need no stinkin’ man” or “I’m A-Okay just the way things are” but in reality we are really thinking “Damnit, I want the friggin fairytale too!” I felt so close to Ellie, that there were times that I wanted to go through the pages of the book and hug her. I wanted to bust out a bottle of wine, pour us a few glasses and just vent our woes. I wanted to shake her a bit and tell her that she is fantastical and that Braydon is a fool if he doesn’t see it. You are woman! Hear you roar! Twenty bucks says that Braydon would have agreed to hear that roar…in bed..after her third orgasm. (Yup. Braydon is THAT good.)
“Shh, it’s okay,” he said, his palm cupping my cheek. “You don’t have to be tough all the time, you know?”
I nodded slowly.
“I know you can take care of yourself, but who takes care of you, Ellie?”
He rarely, if ever, called me by my actual name, and the familiarity of it passing over his lips caused a little ripple of desire to dance in my belly.
**************************************************
“You’re such a firecracker. So sassy, intelligent, and confident. You don’t take any shit. But then when we’re together, you turn yourself over to me fully. When I’m buried deep inside you, you submit to me completely…It’s incredibly sexy, kitten. Trust me.”
Overall, this book was EVERYTHING. Where Ellie was sass, Braydon was sex. Where Ellie was witty and willful, Braydon was wicked and wild. Together they were FIRECRACKER and EXPLOSIVE. They were such a great couple to see flourish throughout. I loved their banter and back and forth verbal tennis. And I loved how they fell in love and finally have their own fairy tale ending. It’s a bit sad to see this series come to an end. The little bit of Epilogue in Braydon’s POV was the icing on a male model cake.
Favorite quotes and scenes:
“I’m going to go change out of my dress.”
“Need a hand?”
“No. Sit. Stay. Good puppy…Boys are like puppies. You have to have lots of patience, plenty of discipline, house-train them…”
“Is that so? Does that mean girls are like kittens? Give them lots of snuggles and give them cream to lick up so they don’t get ornery and claw you?”
“Something like that. Be right back.”
**************************************************
My eyes zeroed in on Braydon. His expression was pure pleasure, primal and carnal. His look was so erotic, my sex muscles clenched, throbbing uncomfortably. My stupid vagina missed him. She’d gotten me into this mess in the first place. Well, no more, missy. No soup for you!
P.S. It's New York Fashion Week this week here in New York City. I think I'm going on a male model hunt for my own Braydon Kincaid and Ben Shaw. Watch out boys! I'm coming for you!
***ARC was kindly provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.***
“I won’t bite, kitten. Unless you want it rough.”
Oh Braydon, Braydon, Braydon!
How do I love thee, let me count the ways. And show you those ways too. *snicker , snicker*
I have been waiting, ever so patiently, to read about Braydon Kincaid’s story ever since he graced us with his fine ass self in WORKING IT. I know I was supposed to fall head over heels for Ben Shaw but one hot strut from Braydon (and one UNFORGETTABLE THREESOME) and I was like “Ben who?”. Since the moment Braydon came into the picture, there was no one else for me. And apparently, for Ellie –our female lead AND Emmy’s best friend –as well. They had OUTRAGEOUS sexual chemistry and their banter was off the wall funny. These two were off their rocker!
“I could come over for a little while.”
“I don’t think that’s a good idea.”
“I thought this was what you wanted?”
“No apartment, no sex.”
“Why is that so important to you?”
“It just is. I don’t want to fall into the same pattern with you. Where you live is a huge fucking deal. Someone’s place says a lot about them. I don’t want to take the next step if you’re going to keep holding back.”
“Can’t I have just one secret?”
“Yes. Harmless secrets, like whether or not you pee in the shower—or if you’ve ever farted in the subway and blamed it on someone else.”
“You’re too much. You know that? And for the record, I don’t pee in the shower.”
“Yeah right. I thought all guys did that. It’s like a locker room thing—crossing streams and playing swords…”
In CRAVING HIM, we were left on an Ellie/Braydon cliffhanger. A hot romp in the bathroom between these two sexy kids made ME wanting more (as all of you know, I love me some hot, steamy, will-we-get caught kind of sex in bathrooms). I was counting the days/weeks/months until ALL OR NOTHING was published. I was not disappointed. Not. At. All. Braydon and Ellie’s story was EVERYTHING!
“You need something, kitten?” His voice was deep and low. Too sexy for his own good.
“I’m fine,” I squeaked out. “You good?”
“Oh, I’m fucking fantastic.”
**************************************************
“Careful there, kitten, or that dessert isn’t the only thing that’ll be in your mouth.”
I loved everything about these two characters. Braydon was not only a sexy and delectable man, but he was also sweet, patient, loving, kind, and everything you could want in a gentleman. He’s the guy that can melt the underwear right off your body from just his hot kisses alone. He’s the guy that will one minute growl and dominate you in bed and the next minute be smooth and slow and make you scream so loud the neighbors will hear you. You feel the shiver from his look, his touch, his ways. And let’s not forget that certain “male accessory” that he knows how to use ALL TOO WELL. He was everything Ellie wanted and then some. However, he was also someone that didn’t want a commitment. Or did he?
“Let me ask you something. You feel this between us, right? This…connection? We owe it to ourselves to give in to this. It’s not always like this, you know? This chemistry we have. And I know you feel it, too.”
Ellie was AMAZING! She was the whole kit and caboodle. I loved her so, so much. This is odd for me because there is always something wrong, in my opinion, with the female lead of the book. Not in this case. Ellie felt real to me. I felt her anxiety and pain because they felt very much like my own. I think sometimes, as a single woman, you kid yourself in saying “I don’t need no stinkin’ man” or “I’m A-Okay just the way things are” but in reality we are really thinking “Damnit, I want the friggin fairytale too!” I felt so close to Ellie, that there were times that I wanted to go through the pages of the book and hug her. I wanted to bust out a bottle of wine, pour us a few glasses and just vent our woes. I wanted to shake her a bit and tell her that she is fantastical and that Braydon is a fool if he doesn’t see it. You are woman! Hear you roar! Twenty bucks says that Braydon would have agreed to hear that roar…in bed..after her third orgasm. (Yup. Braydon is THAT good.)
“Shh, it’s okay,” he said, his palm cupping my cheek. “You don’t have to be tough all the time, you know?”
I nodded slowly.
“I know you can take care of yourself, but who takes care of you, Ellie?”
He rarely, if ever, called me by my actual name, and the familiarity of it passing over his lips caused a little ripple of desire to dance in my belly.
**************************************************
“You’re such a firecracker. So sassy, intelligent, and confident. You don’t take any shit. But then when we’re together, you turn yourself over to me fully. When I’m buried deep inside you, you submit to me completely…It’s incredibly sexy, kitten. Trust me.”
Overall, this book was EVERYTHING. Where Ellie was sass, Braydon was sex. Where Ellie was witty and willful, Braydon was wicked and wild. Together they were FIRECRACKER and EXPLOSIVE. They were such a great couple to see flourish throughout. I loved their banter and back and forth verbal tennis. And I loved how they fell in love and finally have their own fairy tale ending. It’s a bit sad to see this series come to an end. The little bit of Epilogue in Braydon’s POV was the icing on a male model cake.
Favorite quotes and scenes:
“I’m going to go change out of my dress.”
“Need a hand?”
“No. Sit. Stay. Good puppy…Boys are like puppies. You have to have lots of patience, plenty of discipline, house-train them…”
“Is that so? Does that mean girls are like kittens? Give them lots of snuggles and give them cream to lick up so they don’t get ornery and claw you?”
“Something like that. Be right back.”
**************************************************
My eyes zeroed in on Braydon. His expression was pure pleasure, primal and carnal. His look was so erotic, my sex muscles clenched, throbbing uncomfortably. My stupid vagina missed him. She’d gotten me into this mess in the first place. Well, no more, missy. No soup for you!
P.S. It's New York Fashion Week this week here in New York City. I think I'm going on a male model hunt for my own Braydon Kincaid and Ben Shaw. Watch out boys! I'm coming for you!
***ARC was kindly provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.***
July 26, 2018
Sex, more sex,
July 15, 2015
2 stars.
After reading The Gentleman Mentor by Kendall Ryan and finding it *AMAZING*, I picked up All or Nothing expecting the same level of trashy entertainment & romance.
Alas, it was not to be. Both of the main characters were so unlikeable -- Ellie was a complete doormat & Braydon was, to be frank, a complete asshole. He treated Ellie like garbage for 90% of the novel, and Ellie just ate it up like a spineless twit. She came back to him groveling a million times when she should have stood her ground and just ended the entire thing around page 20. So frustrating. And the "HEA" (whether it was actually a proper happily ever after is questionable to me) was completely rushed, dramatic, and didn't make much sense.
I mean, come on -- I never have high expectations for these novels because they're supposed to be trashy entertainment, nothing more and nothing less. But there were entirely too many elements that rubbed me the wrong way here. And honestly, the two characters from the previous Love By Design novel -- Emmy and Ben -- were more compelling than our MCs in their cameos. What a disappointment! The only thing that really saved this for me was the writing -- it was good enough for me to finish the novel even though I had major problems with the main characters & some plot elements. I'll definitely still be reading Kendall Ryan's other novels; hopefully this one was an anomaly.
P.S. Also -- BRAYLEIGH?!! And MACE?!! I canNOT.
After reading The Gentleman Mentor by Kendall Ryan and finding it *AMAZING*, I picked up All or Nothing expecting the same level of trashy entertainment & romance.
Alas, it was not to be. Both of the main characters were so unlikeable -- Ellie was a complete doormat & Braydon was, to be frank, a complete asshole. He treated Ellie like garbage for 90% of the novel, and Ellie just ate it up like a spineless twit. She came back to him groveling a million times when she should have stood her ground and just ended the entire thing around page 20. So frustrating. And the "HEA" (whether it was actually a proper happily ever after is questionable to me) was completely rushed, dramatic, and didn't make much sense.
I mean, come on -- I never have high expectations for these novels because they're supposed to be trashy entertainment, nothing more and nothing less. But there were entirely too many elements that rubbed me the wrong way here. And honestly, the two characters from the previous Love By Design novel -- Emmy and Ben -- were more compelling than our MCs in their cameos. What a disappointment! The only thing that really saved this for me was the writing -- it was good enough for me to finish the novel even though I had major problems with the main characters & some plot elements. I'll definitely still be reading Kendall Ryan's other novels; hopefully this one was an anomaly.
P.S. Also -- BRAYLEIGH?!! And MACE?!! I canNOT.
August 22, 2014
4.5 stars
I have loved Ben's best friend and fellow male model Braydon Kincaid since we met him in Working It. In Craving Him, we saw Braydon and Ellie(Emmy's best friend) spark, fight, and also start a little bit of something something. They initially repelled like oil and water, but managed to get close enough at Ben and Emmy's wedding.
This book picks up that same night and see a little more of their time at the wedding and the full story of what occurred between them. Braydon is flirty, sexy, cocky, and knows that he wants her. She is indecisive and fighting him one minute and kissing him the next. He is anti-commitment. She is looking for true love.
He proposes a "friends with benefits" situation and she eventually decides not to deny herself the benefit of their sexual attraction. They have incredible chemistry, get along well, and are compatible in so many ways...except their stance on relationships. Their arrangement is fun, exciting, sexually satisfying, but also confusing. He can read her and understands her more than anyone. He is kind, thoughtful, and attentive. As she finds herself unable to stop herself from falling, he gives major mixed signals. He likes to talk to her, hang out with her and of course ravish her. But he is fiercely private about his personal life, personal space, and does not take her out in public. He has secrets and demons that have shaped how he lives his life, but he will not share them.
As things continue to get more complicated, he only succeeds in her confusing her more. One minute he is taking her with him on location and the next minute keeping her a dirty little secret. Ellie has always been the outspoken, independent minded, tough woman, but Braydon turns her into someone needy and weak that she does not like. There is a lot of push and pull. They take one step forward and two steps back. She has to take a stand at times and force him to see the situation for what it is. But they go back and forth about what they need, want, and what they are willing to give. Their relationship varies from sex buddies, friends, and practical strangers with them having issues being on the same page. Even though the parameters were set from the beginning, they were not easy to stick with or follow.
Braydon was such an enigma. He was always the charismatic, charming, flirty, bad boy who was also a good friend and fun to be around. He and Ellie had such a powerful connection. I liked him with Ellie when he was acting naturally and took care of her, but sometimes wanted to smack him when he would retreat and put his walls back up. And he could change from intensely interested to distant and secretive quickly. I could not blame Ellie for being totally confused, heart broken, and needing to step back from him. But eventually his secrets are revealed and we see under his guard to what haunted him and kept him from moving on.
Ellie was intelligent, controlled, and driven. She has always been fun, feisty, and a good friend and support to Emmy and Ben and even Braydon when he would let her. But Braydon had a way of stripping her down and making her vulnerable, insecure, and upset. She knew what she wanted but was not allowed to have it, and it just made her feel worse than when she had no male prospects. Sometimes she had to go into self preservation mode just because it was all too much.
Together they had real potential. But it all comes down to being able to truly open up, let the other person in, and be willing to go for all for nothing.
I loved seeing more with their best friends Ben and Emmy (Working It and Craving Him). They have come a long way since their tumultuous beginning. They also shared some of the same issues Braydon and Ellie did with the male model careers, supermodels, groupies, and distance. But Braydon's issues also ran a bit deeper and it would take time to scratch the surface to get down to his inner layers. And Ellie was not going to settle for halfway. She had seen Emmy get the full love story, and she wanted that for herself too. I enjoyed their group dynamic as well throughout the story.
It was fun, sexy, frustrating, tense, mysterious, romantic, and sweet. It was told in Ellie's point of view with an epilogue from Braydon. So Braydon's secrets were his until he finally shared them with Ellie and all of us. This engaging series has interesting, likable characters with depth and plenty of angst, drama, and secrets. I really enjoyed this installment and seeing how it all turned out with all of them. This one could easily be read as a stand-alone, but part of the fun was knowing Ben and Emmy's background and all of their shared history as well.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I have loved Ben's best friend and fellow male model Braydon Kincaid since we met him in Working It. In Craving Him, we saw Braydon and Ellie(Emmy's best friend) spark, fight, and also start a little bit of something something. They initially repelled like oil and water, but managed to get close enough at Ben and Emmy's wedding.
This book picks up that same night and see a little more of their time at the wedding and the full story of what occurred between them. Braydon is flirty, sexy, cocky, and knows that he wants her. She is indecisive and fighting him one minute and kissing him the next. He is anti-commitment. She is looking for true love.
He proposes a "friends with benefits" situation and she eventually decides not to deny herself the benefit of their sexual attraction. They have incredible chemistry, get along well, and are compatible in so many ways...except their stance on relationships. Their arrangement is fun, exciting, sexually satisfying, but also confusing. He can read her and understands her more than anyone. He is kind, thoughtful, and attentive. As she finds herself unable to stop herself from falling, he gives major mixed signals. He likes to talk to her, hang out with her and of course ravish her. But he is fiercely private about his personal life, personal space, and does not take her out in public. He has secrets and demons that have shaped how he lives his life, but he will not share them.
As things continue to get more complicated, he only succeeds in her confusing her more. One minute he is taking her with him on location and the next minute keeping her a dirty little secret. Ellie has always been the outspoken, independent minded, tough woman, but Braydon turns her into someone needy and weak that she does not like. There is a lot of push and pull. They take one step forward and two steps back. She has to take a stand at times and force him to see the situation for what it is. But they go back and forth about what they need, want, and what they are willing to give. Their relationship varies from sex buddies, friends, and practical strangers with them having issues being on the same page. Even though the parameters were set from the beginning, they were not easy to stick with or follow.
Braydon was such an enigma. He was always the charismatic, charming, flirty, bad boy who was also a good friend and fun to be around. He and Ellie had such a powerful connection. I liked him with Ellie when he was acting naturally and took care of her, but sometimes wanted to smack him when he would retreat and put his walls back up. And he could change from intensely interested to distant and secretive quickly. I could not blame Ellie for being totally confused, heart broken, and needing to step back from him. But eventually his secrets are revealed and we see under his guard to what haunted him and kept him from moving on.
Ellie was intelligent, controlled, and driven. She has always been fun, feisty, and a good friend and support to Emmy and Ben and even Braydon when he would let her. But Braydon had a way of stripping her down and making her vulnerable, insecure, and upset. She knew what she wanted but was not allowed to have it, and it just made her feel worse than when she had no male prospects. Sometimes she had to go into self preservation mode just because it was all too much.
Together they had real potential. But it all comes down to being able to truly open up, let the other person in, and be willing to go for all for nothing.
I loved seeing more with their best friends Ben and Emmy (Working It and Craving Him). They have come a long way since their tumultuous beginning. They also shared some of the same issues Braydon and Ellie did with the male model careers, supermodels, groupies, and distance. But Braydon's issues also ran a bit deeper and it would take time to scratch the surface to get down to his inner layers. And Ellie was not going to settle for halfway. She had seen Emmy get the full love story, and she wanted that for herself too. I enjoyed their group dynamic as well throughout the story.
It was fun, sexy, frustrating, tense, mysterious, romantic, and sweet. It was told in Ellie's point of view with an epilogue from Braydon. So Braydon's secrets were his until he finally shared them with Ellie and all of us. This engaging series has interesting, likable characters with depth and plenty of angst, drama, and secrets. I really enjoyed this installment and seeing how it all turned out with all of them. This one could easily be read as a stand-alone, but part of the fun was knowing Ben and Emmy's background and all of their shared history as well.
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2014
* A review copy was provided by the author/publisher via Netgalley for the Blog Tour *
Amazon Pre-Order Buy Link--->> All or Nothing: A Love by Design Novel
~~ 5 "Panty Dropping" Stars ~~
Well….What a way to finish a series!!! All or Nothing is the third and final book in the Love By Design series and it was a great way to end this journey. This was another EXCELLENT book by Kendall Ryan. Her writing never ceases to amaze me. Her books just get better and better!!! I Loved this book. It had me laughing out loud on many occasions, had me blushing, and even had me fuming at certain times. The banter between Braydon and Ellie was hysterical and I loved how all of the characters interacted with each other. This was definitely a quick read…I finished it in less then a day, but I was so anxious to read this story that I really just couldn't put it down. I am truly sad to see this series end, because I know I will miss all these characters immensely.
We met Braydon and Ellie in Working It (Book 1) and then continued with them in Craving Him (Book 2) and then finally got their full story in this book. I loved Ellie and Braydon from the very first time I met them. Their characters were funny, witty, sweet, and charming. And their chemistry was off the charts. Ellie was a great heroine…not only was she an amazing BFF for Emmy, but she was an independent woman who stood up for what she wanted and wasn't willing to take any less. Braydon…what can I say except I would drop my panties for him. He is the right mixture of Dominant, possessive, sweet and sexy!!! I was glad we finally got to know about his background and why he chose to close himself off from having a meaningful relationship. Ellie and Braydon truly were meant for each other. My only complaint is I wish that the ending wouldn't have been rushed. Things happened in the last chapter and the epilogue, that I wish would've happened a lot sooner and then could've been built upon. With me saying that…it still didn't take away my full enjoyment of this book.
I was thrilled that we got to continue the story of Ben and Emmy as well. They had a pretty significant part in this story and it was great to see where they ended up. I liked how Kendall wrapped up both couples stories in the epilogue…It truly was a great finish :)
This book could be read as a stand alone, because the storyline is separate, but I would suggest reading this series in order so that you can get the full effect of Ellie and Braydon characters and relationship. Their story truly is a journey throughout all three books.
I would 100% recommend this book and series to anyone who is a fan of Kendall Ryan and also anyone who is looking for some HOT male models and the girls who tame them. These books won't disappoint!!!!
To read more reviews go to Book Bitches Blog
Amazon Pre-Order Buy Link--->> All or Nothing: A Love by Design Novel
~~ 5 "Panty Dropping" Stars ~~
Well….What a way to finish a series!!! All or Nothing is the third and final book in the Love By Design series and it was a great way to end this journey. This was another EXCELLENT book by Kendall Ryan. Her writing never ceases to amaze me. Her books just get better and better!!! I Loved this book. It had me laughing out loud on many occasions, had me blushing, and even had me fuming at certain times. The banter between Braydon and Ellie was hysterical and I loved how all of the characters interacted with each other. This was definitely a quick read…I finished it in less then a day, but I was so anxious to read this story that I really just couldn't put it down. I am truly sad to see this series end, because I know I will miss all these characters immensely.
We met Braydon and Ellie in Working It (Book 1) and then continued with them in Craving Him (Book 2) and then finally got their full story in this book. I loved Ellie and Braydon from the very first time I met them. Their characters were funny, witty, sweet, and charming. And their chemistry was off the charts. Ellie was a great heroine…not only was she an amazing BFF for Emmy, but she was an independent woman who stood up for what she wanted and wasn't willing to take any less. Braydon…what can I say except I would drop my panties for him. He is the right mixture of Dominant, possessive, sweet and sexy!!! I was glad we finally got to know about his background and why he chose to close himself off from having a meaningful relationship. Ellie and Braydon truly were meant for each other. My only complaint is I wish that the ending wouldn't have been rushed. Things happened in the last chapter and the epilogue, that I wish would've happened a lot sooner and then could've been built upon. With me saying that…it still didn't take away my full enjoyment of this book.
I was thrilled that we got to continue the story of Ben and Emmy as well. They had a pretty significant part in this story and it was great to see where they ended up. I liked how Kendall wrapped up both couples stories in the epilogue…It truly was a great finish :)
This book could be read as a stand alone, because the storyline is separate, but I would suggest reading this series in order so that you can get the full effect of Ellie and Braydon characters and relationship. Their story truly is a journey throughout all three books.
I would 100% recommend this book and series to anyone who is a fan of Kendall Ryan and also anyone who is looking for some HOT male models and the girls who tame them. These books won't disappoint!!!!
To read more reviews go to Book Bitches Blog
March 18, 2015
I was looking forward to this book so much so that when it finally came out I was beyond excited, which now that I think about it was really weird since the last book wasn't nearly as good as the first and while the first was not necessarily good but interesting the follow-up was disheartening to say the least.
That excitement quickly faded when I started reading. In the first two books Ellie came off as strong, fierce and independent. That however, was not the Ellie I encountered in her own story. She was spineless and emotional and quite frankly pathetic. Her relationship with Braydon started out purely physical which I didn't understand since she knew that wasn't going to be enough but I get that we sometimes take what we can get. When she realized she wanted more she asked for it (that's about the only upside). After she was turned down she cried (okay), licked her wounds but then --and here's the frustrating part-- went straight back at the first text asking to "hang out=sex" where was the advice you gave to Emmy about distance and giving him time to miss you? I didn't understand how she could be so weak in that moment, yes you're falling for him and his body is Gods gift to women but have some pride!
Other than Braydon's unwillingness to commit there really wasn't much of a plot. It took me so long to finish because I couldn't stomach the inanities of the story line, who on earth would in their right mind go to someone's -- who they're only sleeping with, don't know what the relationship status is-- ex-girlfriend to get information about why he has a hard time committing? How does that make sense as a person and a writer? After asking around the responses I've gotten, "I'd get together with my ex's ex to bash him but not to dig for information if I want to be the important woman in his life."
It was slow and pointless and not worth writing --in my opinion, I could have done without Ellie's story. Actually her story should have happened behind the scenes of Emmy and Ben's second story. It would have been less annoying that way. I started it so I had to finish it and I'm glad it's done with.
I've noticed that Kendall Ryan's books have always been hit or miss with me. They are either good or really terrible, consistency is not key.
That excitement quickly faded when I started reading. In the first two books Ellie came off as strong, fierce and independent. That however, was not the Ellie I encountered in her own story. She was spineless and emotional and quite frankly pathetic. Her relationship with Braydon started out purely physical which I didn't understand since she knew that wasn't going to be enough but I get that we sometimes take what we can get. When she realized she wanted more she asked for it (that's about the only upside). After she was turned down she cried (okay), licked her wounds but then --and here's the frustrating part-- went straight back at the first text asking to "hang out=sex" where was the advice you gave to Emmy about distance and giving him time to miss you? I didn't understand how she could be so weak in that moment, yes you're falling for him and his body is Gods gift to women but have some pride!
Other than Braydon's unwillingness to commit there really wasn't much of a plot. It took me so long to finish because I couldn't stomach the inanities of the story line, who on earth would in their right mind go to someone's -- who they're only sleeping with, don't know what the relationship status is-- ex-girlfriend to get information about why he has a hard time committing? How does that make sense as a person and a writer? After asking around the responses I've gotten, "I'd get together with my ex's ex to bash him but not to dig for information if I want to be the important woman in his life."
It was slow and pointless and not worth writing --in my opinion, I could have done without Ellie's story. Actually her story should have happened behind the scenes of Emmy and Ben's second story. It would have been less annoying that way. I started it so I had to finish it and I'm glad it's done with.
I've noticed that Kendall Ryan's books have always been hit or miss with me. They are either good or really terrible, consistency is not key.
September 11, 2019
My first Ryan book. Totally disappointed. I resisted reading her books even though people who read my favourite authors also read her books.
Reason for not liking the book: dislike H resisting h and not pursuing her wholeheartedly. I do not like h not having a backbone to say NO when H put up the wall and not letting her in. I know the story line has to go this way and in the end they would be together. After all, I’m reading a romance novel. I just not fond of this type of plots personally. I’m a firm believe if H shows signs of not wanting to commit, then he’s just not that into you!! Have some self respect and walk away.
The only saving grace of the book is that Brayden is a nice guy, so he made the book tolerable.
Small spoiler: I can’t stand the 3some Braden has with his best friend and wife (also h’s best friend)!! I haven’t read their story and I’m not going to.
I’m going to try Ms. Ryan’s book one more time before putting her books on my “no” list. Hopefully have better luck next time.
Reason for not liking the book: dislike H resisting h and not pursuing her wholeheartedly. I do not like h not having a backbone to say NO when H put up the wall and not letting her in. I know the story line has to go this way and in the end they would be together. After all, I’m reading a romance novel. I just not fond of this type of plots personally. I’m a firm believe if H shows signs of not wanting to commit, then he’s just not that into you!! Have some self respect and walk away.
The only saving grace of the book is that Brayden is a nice guy, so he made the book tolerable.
Small spoiler: I can’t stand the 3some Braden has with his best friend and wife (also h’s best friend)!! I haven’t read their story and I’m not going to.
I’m going to try Ms. Ryan’s book one more time before putting her books on my “no” list. Hopefully have better luck next time.
July 22, 2015
Ya so this was ok, not great.
I'm a bit dissapointed. I loved Braydon in Emmy's story but he was a let down in this book. None of his personality came through in this book.
The chemistry was non existent and the ending was sloppy. I ended up skimming most of the book.
I'm a bit dissapointed. I loved Braydon in Emmy's story but he was a let down in this book. None of his personality came through in this book.
The chemistry was non existent and the ending was sloppy. I ended up skimming most of the book.
January 4, 2017
Rate: 5/5 stars
For a second there I thought they would never be together, so many bullshit excuses and secondary problems and still nothing. I seriously thought they wouldn't work things out. And then BAM, it was that simple to solve, bring on a baby and everything works out. I thought he'd be pissed and accuse her of getting pregnant on purpose, so he totally surprised me there with being all cute and lovely.
I seriously loved Braydon despite how all his fucked up past relationships made him be.
For a second there I thought they would never be together, so many bullshit excuses and secondary problems and still nothing. I seriously thought they wouldn't work things out. And then BAM, it was that simple to solve, bring on a baby and everything works out. I thought he'd be pissed and accuse her of getting pregnant on purpose, so he totally surprised me there with being all cute and lovely.
I seriously loved Braydon despite how all his fucked up past relationships made him be.
September 11, 2014
I was looking forward to Braydon’s story but this was disappointing. He was so much more interesting in the other Love by Design books. This was poorly written and executed. It wasn’t light & funny or even intense!
September 20, 2014
Dare I say this is my FAVORITE book of the series? Love Bray!!!
August 19, 2022
hans nickname för henne är kitten. behöver jag säga mer?
August 15, 2023
to znowu nie to ale liczby muszą się zgadzać
August 16, 2023
Cute, pretty predictable love story. Worth the read!
January 31, 2017
Braydon and Ellie. Sometimes you find a book couple so made for each other that they just make you fall in love with them, their story, their Love. This was not that couple. In all, I found the characters uninspired, immature, and weak-willed. It was okay for a read you didn't want invest too much emotion into, but not if you're looking for an inspired Love story.
I really don't know how they feel in love. I felt little real chemistry between the two, just lust and mixed signals. An incessant back and forth with little moving forward.
I really found myself hoping, praying, begging for Braydon to be, I don't know... more. I liked him in Emmy and Ben's story well enough. I wanted him to shine in this. Instead, he tarnished. Ellie was so strong and feisty in the last books, I wanted her to stay that way. No dice. It was almost like these characters were written by another author or an author who invested very little care into her characters. Maybe more story from Braydon's POV would have helped.
(spoilers below...)
Braydon was so all over the place:
I want you, but just for sex. I know you want more and I don't want to hurt you, but I won't leave you the hell alone. I'll keep pursuing you but, even though I know you're getting hurt, I won't promise you anything. Let's be friends, so I can hassle you for sex.
Honestly, he pursued her from the first moment, knew she wasn't the sex buddy type, but took every opportunity to push it there. He didn't want to be her boyfriend but, he invited her for a week vacation, while acting as if she was crazy for getting the wrong impression about his intent. Then out of nowhere really (there was very little development or description of their actual relationship, just of their sex buddy non-relationship) he's ready for a commitment, moving in, fatherhood AND marriage.
Um, no.
Ellie was a hot mess: While I could understand where she came from in initially not wanting to start anything with him (he gave off a real manwhore vibe in his pursuit of her), she was a doormat when it really came down to it. Extremely disappointed in her wishy washy ways.
She was not the smart talking, intelligent, take charge firecracker of a woman that she seemed to be in Emmy and Ben's story or even at the beginning of the book. She didn't even bother to put up a fight for her wants or needs. She caved at every opportunity, knowing Braydon made her no promises, but completely desperate from the beginning for any crumb he gave her. Submission is one thing. Ellie was a coward.
She fell in love like a classic Disney Princess, -immediately and with no real build up-, only this "Prince" was just looking to get laid. Ellie kept going on about moving on and not being like the infamous Kat, but she was pretty much the same desperate, stalking his social media, following him online, showing up at events he would be attending, juvenile girl. Maybe not as extreme but I felt, with time, and the fact that Braydon seemed to enjoy stringing her along, she could definitely live up to Kat status.
Kat's storyline fell flat. She stalked and harassed him AND his family for two years, yet one coffee discussion and she was suddenly miss mature understanding? She could have totally been left out of the story. I saw no reason for her except as an anecdote and a reason for them to have yet another flaccid fight.
Emmy was her usual immature annoying but, from her story, I expected her to be. Good friends don't tell you to hang on to a painful situation and play hard to get.
Good friends realize how this is affecting you, call the guy a dick for not seeing how great you are right away, get you sloppy drunk, and encourage you to move on. They let you know that if one day he realizes what a mistake he made in letting you go, they would be there to mock him with an "I told you so" and support you in any direction you chose.
Just because a guy is a "good guy" doesn't mean he's good for your friend. Some BFF.
The ending had little development and seemed very rushed. The first actual sex scene seemed painful, in more ways than one, and not erotic. I felt very little for Ellie and Braydon except irritation and a burning need to be done with their story. That said, I did finish the book so it wasn't abysmal. Also, really like Braydon's name and the cock ring. Cock rings are awesome.
Love, Valentine
I really don't know how they feel in love. I felt little real chemistry between the two, just lust and mixed signals. An incessant back and forth with little moving forward.
I really found myself hoping, praying, begging for Braydon to be, I don't know... more. I liked him in Emmy and Ben's story well enough. I wanted him to shine in this. Instead, he tarnished. Ellie was so strong and feisty in the last books, I wanted her to stay that way. No dice. It was almost like these characters were written by another author or an author who invested very little care into her characters. Maybe more story from Braydon's POV would have helped.
(spoilers below...)
Braydon was so all over the place:
I want you, but just for sex. I know you want more and I don't want to hurt you, but I won't leave you the hell alone. I'll keep pursuing you but, even though I know you're getting hurt, I won't promise you anything. Let's be friends, so I can hassle you for sex.
Honestly, he pursued her from the first moment, knew she wasn't the sex buddy type, but took every opportunity to push it there. He didn't want to be her boyfriend but, he invited her for a week vacation, while acting as if she was crazy for getting the wrong impression about his intent. Then out of nowhere really (there was very little development or description of their actual relationship, just of their sex buddy non-relationship) he's ready for a commitment, moving in, fatherhood AND marriage.
Um, no.
Ellie was a hot mess: While I could understand where she came from in initially not wanting to start anything with him (he gave off a real manwhore vibe in his pursuit of her), she was a doormat when it really came down to it. Extremely disappointed in her wishy washy ways.
She was not the smart talking, intelligent, take charge firecracker of a woman that she seemed to be in Emmy and Ben's story or even at the beginning of the book. She didn't even bother to put up a fight for her wants or needs. She caved at every opportunity, knowing Braydon made her no promises, but completely desperate from the beginning for any crumb he gave her. Submission is one thing. Ellie was a coward.
She fell in love like a classic Disney Princess, -immediately and with no real build up-, only this "Prince" was just looking to get laid. Ellie kept going on about moving on and not being like the infamous Kat, but she was pretty much the same desperate, stalking his social media, following him online, showing up at events he would be attending, juvenile girl. Maybe not as extreme but I felt, with time, and the fact that Braydon seemed to enjoy stringing her along, she could definitely live up to Kat status.
Kat's storyline fell flat. She stalked and harassed him AND his family for two years, yet one coffee discussion and she was suddenly miss mature understanding? She could have totally been left out of the story. I saw no reason for her except as an anecdote and a reason for them to have yet another flaccid fight.
Emmy was her usual immature annoying but, from her story, I expected her to be. Good friends don't tell you to hang on to a painful situation and play hard to get.
Good friends realize how this is affecting you, call the guy a dick for not seeing how great you are right away, get you sloppy drunk, and encourage you to move on. They let you know that if one day he realizes what a mistake he made in letting you go, they would be there to mock him with an "I told you so" and support you in any direction you chose.
Just because a guy is a "good guy" doesn't mean he's good for your friend. Some BFF.
The ending had little development and seemed very rushed. The first actual sex scene seemed painful, in more ways than one, and not erotic. I felt very little for Ellie and Braydon except irritation and a burning need to be done with their story. That said, I did finish the book so it wasn't abysmal. Also, really like Braydon's name and the cock ring. Cock rings are awesome.
Love, Valentine
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2016
‘This arrangement between us confused me. I had figured the majority of the time we’d spend together would be between the sheets. But this felt like more than sex. This was different. Comfortably ordering delivery together, chatting casually, sipping beers on my couch…It felt like more.’ ~Ellie~
Minor Spoilers Alert!!!
It was so gooooooood! Seriously, I thought it was a perfect "friends with benefits" to "something more" novel, especially for the mood I was in at the time. I'd even planned to try and reread the e-book format before writing my audiobook review. Unfortunately, work and life have been so stressful and crazy busy since I finished it 9 days ago that I just didn't get to do that.
Unabridged Audiobook Info
Narrated by: Elizabeth Louise and Josh Goodman
Length: 5 hrs and 59 mins
Release Date: 09-09-14
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Ratings
Overall: ★★★★★ | Elizabeth's Performance: ★★★★★ | Josh's Performance: ★★★★★ | Story: ★★★★★
I had so many favorite moments as these two figured out what they meant to each other. And rereading the conversation between Braydon and Ben in the epilogue from Braydon's POV just now was definitely one of them. I laughed out loud all over again. This was yet another quick and yummy read by Author Kendall Ryan, easily proving why she is fast becoming one of my favorite romance authors.
Minor Spoilers Alert!!!
It was so gooooooood! Seriously, I thought it was a perfect "friends with benefits" to "something more" novel, especially for the mood I was in at the time. I'd even planned to try and reread the e-book format before writing my audiobook review. Unfortunately, work and life have been so stressful and crazy busy since I finished it 9 days ago that I just didn't get to do that.
Unabridged Audiobook Info
Narrated by: Elizabeth Louise and Josh Goodman
Length: 5 hrs and 59 mins
Release Date: 09-09-14
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Ratings
Overall: ★★★★★ | Elizabeth's Performance: ★★★★★ | Josh's Performance: ★★★★★ | Story: ★★★★★
“How are you feeling?” he asked, his voice a low, throaty rasp in the darkness.
I swallowed the nervous tension in my throat. “Fine,” I lied. “Just tired.”
A slow smile overtook his face. “I wore you out, huh?”
I nodded. “Something like that.” He didn’t need to know the truth. Hell, I didn’t even want to face it. I was falling hard for this man. This man who’d made it abundantly clear that he and I were only about the physical. And I’d agreed. I had no one to but myself to blame for this beautiful mess I was in.
I had so many favorite moments as these two figured out what they meant to each other. And rereading the conversation between Braydon and Ben in the epilogue from Braydon's POV just now was definitely one of them. I laughed out loud all over again. This was yet another quick and yummy read by Author Kendall Ryan, easily proving why she is fast becoming one of my favorite romance authors.
September 9, 2014
Well I am going to go on the limb here and say this is MY FAVORITE book of the Love by Design series. I absolutely LOVED this book! When we are first introduced to Braydon, I was hoping he would get his own book! I mean, don't get me wrong, I love Ben, but I REALLY love Braydon.
Ellie and Braydon are friends with Emmy and Ben. When they meet at their friends wedding, HOLY CHEMISTRY!! I loved how they fell into each other. I enjoyed the story as their 'friendship' grew. It’s mingled with heavy emotions as they develop their love which added a nice depth to the story. Ellie doesn’t do casual hookups and Braydon never does relationships. The attraction between them is immediate but so is the mutual respect and the fact that they actually really like one another. They immediately agree to keep things between them as friends only. The more time they spend together, the more they start to have feelings for each other. First trust issues hinder their relationship and they must learn from it. Ellie and Braydon make big mistakes in denying themsleves how great they are together! But once they finally got on the same page... everything seems to work out.
I really enjoyed both of these characters. I loved Ellie's sarcasm and feisty character. Braydon just being the sexy guy that he is, and their playful banter and let's not forget, the "off the charts" HOT sex scenes, makes this book have all the ingredients for it to be an absolute MUST READ!!
I enjoyed this book SO MUCH. This book just proves that no other couple deserves love and happiness more than Ellie and Braydon. Their love story can be a wreck at times, but it is also powerful, emotional, and beautiful. Their story proves that some people truly belong to one another. Kendall Ryan is my FAVORITE author. I probably stalk her on Facebook at least twice a day! Thank you for letting me read the book in advance!! <3
A gifted copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review by Jodie Rae.
Ellie and Braydon are friends with Emmy and Ben. When they meet at their friends wedding, HOLY CHEMISTRY!! I loved how they fell into each other. I enjoyed the story as their 'friendship' grew. It’s mingled with heavy emotions as they develop their love which added a nice depth to the story. Ellie doesn’t do casual hookups and Braydon never does relationships. The attraction between them is immediate but so is the mutual respect and the fact that they actually really like one another. They immediately agree to keep things between them as friends only. The more time they spend together, the more they start to have feelings for each other. First trust issues hinder their relationship and they must learn from it. Ellie and Braydon make big mistakes in denying themsleves how great they are together! But once they finally got on the same page... everything seems to work out.
I really enjoyed both of these characters. I loved Ellie's sarcasm and feisty character. Braydon just being the sexy guy that he is, and their playful banter and let's not forget, the "off the charts" HOT sex scenes, makes this book have all the ingredients for it to be an absolute MUST READ!!
I enjoyed this book SO MUCH. This book just proves that no other couple deserves love and happiness more than Ellie and Braydon. Their love story can be a wreck at times, but it is also powerful, emotional, and beautiful. Their story proves that some people truly belong to one another. Kendall Ryan is my FAVORITE author. I probably stalk her on Facebook at least twice a day! Thank you for letting me read the book in advance!! <3
A gifted copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review by Jodie Rae.
December 2, 2023
No real story here, author just wanted to write more sex scenes, although not as many as previous book. I fast forwarded through them as there was nothing worth listening to.
It bugged me that this series perpetuated common female “situations” such as, “I can’t help loving him, he owns me” and “you don’t need to change your lifestyle because I got knocked up.” And, of course, the usual situation where he says “come for me” and she does on command. Ridiculous.
It bugged me that this series perpetuated common female “situations” such as, “I can’t help loving him, he owns me” and “you don’t need to change your lifestyle because I got knocked up.” And, of course, the usual situation where he says “come for me” and she does on command. Ridiculous.
August 19, 2014
LOVE Braydon!!! I have been wanting to read his story. Full review will be closer to release day. :)
September 11, 2014
It was okay. Definitely NOT worth the $7.59 I paid.
February 20, 2015
Great banter!Loved this couple!!Elllie was amazing and Bray was great!!
March 21, 2015
Epilogue was soo Cute!!! Fingers crossed for an 18 yr later Brayleigh and Mace story... :-D
January 3, 2018
I had a feeling these two would get it on, from the moment they were introduced to each other and started bantering.
This book is a bit emotional because it's the usual case of friends with benefits, having fun until someone gets hurt. I liked the flow of the story and how Ellie endured the emotional turmoil of wanting more but not really getting it.
Kendall Ryan really wrote this story beautifully. It's not that Ellie gave Braydon an ultimatum, she just told him the truth. It's really sad that most guys, at least most guys I've read about, treat sex as just a physical release while it's really emotional for women. I'm not afraid to say I'm one of those. I can separate the two (love and lust), but should I give in to lust, I know I'll only feel hollow afterwards.
I felt that Braydon's character could've been developed further, that it was a bit rushed. I guess he just didn't grovel enough for what he put Ellie through. I understand he's dealing with some issues but guys could be dense in some things that all they need is proper guidance, and that's what Ellie gave (aside from her heart and body).
This book is a bit emotional because it's the usual case of friends with benefits, having fun until someone gets hurt. I liked the flow of the story and how Ellie endured the emotional turmoil of wanting more but not really getting it.
Kendall Ryan really wrote this story beautifully. It's not that Ellie gave Braydon an ultimatum, she just told him the truth. It's really sad that most guys, at least most guys I've read about, treat sex as just a physical release while it's really emotional for women. I'm not afraid to say I'm one of those. I can separate the two (love and lust), but should I give in to lust, I know I'll only feel hollow afterwards.
I felt that Braydon's character could've been developed further, that it was a bit rushed. I guess he just didn't grovel enough for what he put Ellie through. I understand he's dealing with some issues but guys could be dense in some things that all they need is proper guidance, and that's what Ellie gave (aside from her heart and body).
March 23, 2021
*2.5
Braydon and Ellie's relationship in the previous books in the series was described as fiesty bickering which is why Braydon gave her the nickname Kitten. As it turns out all that went away in this book. It was pretty much the same overdramatic instant love from Ellie that we saw with Emmy in the previous books, and a model that didn't want a relationship and just sex.
I felt like I was reading the same story, but with different characters and instead of a crazy boss, there was a weird ex/stalker that popped up about halfway and felt like it was added to the plot cause quite frankly it was boring and needed spicing up.
I wanted so much more from this book. I liked the glimpses we saw of Ellie in Emmy and Ben's story and was excited to see that sass of hers play out in this book. I didn't care that Braydon had been in a threesome in the other book, I just wanted to see how the dynamics of his and Ellie's relationship developed. I feel like this book wasn't properly thought out and the story was rushed.
Braydon and Ellie's relationship in the previous books in the series was described as fiesty bickering which is why Braydon gave her the nickname Kitten. As it turns out all that went away in this book. It was pretty much the same overdramatic instant love from Ellie that we saw with Emmy in the previous books, and a model that didn't want a relationship and just sex.
I felt like I was reading the same story, but with different characters and instead of a crazy boss, there was a weird ex/stalker that popped up about halfway and felt like it was added to the plot cause quite frankly it was boring and needed spicing up.
I wanted so much more from this book. I liked the glimpses we saw of Ellie in Emmy and Ben's story and was excited to see that sass of hers play out in this book. I didn't care that Braydon had been in a threesome in the other book, I just wanted to see how the dynamics of his and Ellie's relationship developed. I feel like this book wasn't properly thought out and the story was rushed.
January 12, 2018
All or Nothing is jam-packed with emotion, drama, and infinite amounts of steam that is sure to have your tablet overheating... it was hot! hot! hot!!! It was fun to get a glimpse into the lives of these secondary characters from the first two installments of the series, and see how they fared at love... their relationship started off as a friends with benefits kind of thing, but quickly became something neither were looking for, but once they had it they weren't about to let go of it. Which meant lots of angst and drama, and some seriously good reading!! Really enjoyed this one, it's a friends to lovers story that should not be missed!!
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