Status
Available
Call number
Series
Genres
Collections
Publication
Brilliance Audio (2012), Edition: Unabridged Audiobook, 8 CDs, 9 hrs 30 mins
Description
Fiction. Romance. HTML:Can a summer fling turn into love that lasts a lifetime? Former underwear model turned entrepreneur Clay Stryker has loved, tragically lost and vowed that he'll never risk his heart again. After making his fortune, the youngest of the rugged Stryker brothers returns to Fool's Gold, California, to put down roots on a ranch of his own. But he's frustrated to discover that even in his hometown, people see him only for his world-famous...assets. Firefighter Chantal (Charlie) Dixon grew up an ugly duckling beside her delicately beautiful mother, a feeling reinforced long ago by a man who left soul-deep scars. Now she has good friends, a solid job and the itch to start a family�??yet she can't move toward the future while she's haunted by painful memories. Clay finds an unexpected ally, and unexpected temptation, in tomboyish Charlie, the only person who sees beyond his dazzling good looks to the real man beneath. But when Charlie comes to him with an indecent proposal, will they be able to overcome their pasts and find a love that lasts beyond one incredible summ… (more)
User reviews
LibraryThing member Readsalot81
This book pushed a number of buttons and not in a good way.
- Horrible, selfish, bitchy mother. Check
- Model gorgeous hero paired with the not so lovely heroine. Check
-Dealing with the trauma (ie : rape) came off contrived and with no setbacks or qualms about intimacy (after a couple of "close
While reading this, the reactions varied from "Oh please" "WTF?" and SERIOUSLY? *headdesk* I've purchased books from this author and have been MORE than happy with the other books.. but this one. NO. Just NO. AWFUL.
- Horrible, selfish, bitchy mother. Check
- Model gorgeous hero paired with the not so lovely heroine. Check
-Dealing with the trauma (ie : rape) came off contrived and with no setbacks or qualms about intimacy (after a couple of "close
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encounters" - the heroine- YAY I'm ready to hop in the sack) except to rail at her mother for not believing her about the rape. (WHICH in itself.. TONS OF different ways to demonstrate how horrid the mother is..but yet this is brought up multiple times within the story)While reading this, the reactions varied from "Oh please" "WTF?" and SERIOUSLY? *headdesk* I've purchased books from this author and have been MORE than happy with the other books.. but this one. NO. Just NO. AWFUL.
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LibraryThing member paideiamom
First, I owe Ms. Mallery my apologies for jumping to conclusions. I have read all of the Fool's Gold books and I have enjoyed most of them. When Charlie was first introduced with two other women, I went, "Uh, oh, methinks the next three-book arc is a-comin'," and I was right. The second thought I
Smug in my guessing right on the arc, I was afraid I was seeing signs of the "softening." Charlie was giving clues to her back story, a negligent/careless/self-centered mother was mentioned, she was a prettied up bridesmaid, the softening was beginning, or so I thought. I was just getting a little leary of what I saw as clues to "let's get her some makeup, grow her hair a bit, put her in a cute little dress and call her a girl."
But it didn't happen. What we got was a Charlie that was true to herself and her persona as shown in the previous stories, even this arc of three. I was not happy with the first two books of the arc, but I am glad I read them to get to this one.
Well, as you can see, I was emotionally invested in Charlie being Charlie. At first I was so thrilled with this, I wasn't really paying attention to the rest of the story and my willing suspension of disbelief was in full-contact mode. I was there, I was in the story. I was even impressed that Charlie's mother was not softened. Yep, the definition of a negligent, uncaring, clueless mother was our Dominique. And I loved that, too.
But then certain plot elements dealing with the male part of the couple-to-be, Clay, started to creep into my consciousness. Really, Clay, you have a modeling/butt double career and you had time to work out, go to NYU and get a degree and NOT tell your family as well as do an apprenticeship in Vermont that no one knew about? My family is not what you would call close but I can guarantee that if one of us was graduating from NYU a parental unit had better be informed or there would be murder and mayhem. I get that he is a grown man, paying his own way (and conveniently married to his 14-years-older wife), but even grown men inform their family they are going to college.
There were a number (at least three, the bones, the poisoned seed, the fact his estranged-from-everybody-but-Clay sister had her leg conveniently broken on national TV while they were all watching together) of components thrown out that seemed to be sequel bait, and that is not even counting the Dante-based sequel bait. But I love sequel bait on a series I am enjoying, and Fool's Gold has been enjoyable as a whole.
There were a number of issues, including the above-mentioned sequel bait, that seemed to be prettily-boxed-and-tied-up-with-a-bow plot devices. But that's okay, you have to get to the end somehow. I think if I had read this book in one sitting and not had time to think on certain elements, none of this would have bothered me.
Other issues included a rushed ending;, the lack of mea culpas required of Clay, although that probably goes with Charlie's no nonsense personality, too; the heretofore unintroduced members of the community, setting them up for the next installments, that got a bit annoying.
All in all, if I had a half a star to give, this would be a 3.5. But since I did enjoy that Charlie and Dominique were left with their previously shown personalities for better or worse, I give it a 4.
BUT one big caveat, I do think that if one has a rape trigger or a more-than-shallow experience with therapy, a large portion of willing suspension of disbelief might be taken up and some books/Kindles may be thrown against the wall. While it makes sense to me that Charlie has dealt with her issues the best she can on her own, I don't know that self-prescribing sex with a trusted acquaintance will sit well with those who have had personal involvement with such matters. Not being a particular sticking point with me, I let it go.
Show More
had was "Please don't soften Charlie." Smug in my guessing right on the arc, I was afraid I was seeing signs of the "softening." Charlie was giving clues to her back story, a negligent/careless/self-centered mother was mentioned, she was a prettied up bridesmaid, the softening was beginning, or so I thought. I was just getting a little leary of what I saw as clues to "let's get her some makeup, grow her hair a bit, put her in a cute little dress and call her a girl."
But it didn't happen. What we got was a Charlie that was true to herself and her persona as shown in the previous stories, even this arc of three. I was not happy with the first two books of the arc, but I am glad I read them to get to this one.
Well, as you can see, I was emotionally invested in Charlie being Charlie. At first I was so thrilled with this, I wasn't really paying attention to the rest of the story and my willing suspension of disbelief was in full-contact mode. I was there, I was in the story. I was even impressed that Charlie's mother was not softened. Yep, the definition of a negligent, uncaring, clueless mother was our Dominique. And I loved that, too.
But then certain plot elements dealing with the male part of the couple-to-be, Clay, started to creep into my consciousness. Really, Clay, you have a modeling/butt double career and you had time to work out, go to NYU and get a degree and NOT tell your family as well as do an apprenticeship in Vermont that no one knew about? My family is not what you would call close but I can guarantee that if one of us was graduating from NYU a parental unit had better be informed or there would be murder and mayhem. I get that he is a grown man, paying his own way (and conveniently married to his 14-years-older wife), but even grown men inform their family they are going to college.
There were a number (at least three, the bones, the poisoned seed, the fact his estranged-from-everybody-but-Clay sister had her leg conveniently broken on national TV while they were all watching together) of components thrown out that seemed to be sequel bait, and that is not even counting the Dante-based sequel bait. But I love sequel bait on a series I am enjoying, and Fool's Gold has been enjoyable as a whole.
There were a number of issues, including the above-mentioned sequel bait, that seemed to be prettily-boxed-and-tied-up-with-a-bow plot devices. But that's okay, you have to get to the end somehow. I think if I had read this book in one sitting and not had time to think on certain elements, none of this would have bothered me.
Other issues included a rushed ending;, the lack of mea culpas required of Clay, although that probably goes with Charlie's no nonsense personality, too; the heretofore unintroduced members of the community, setting them up for the next installments, that got a bit annoying.
All in all, if I had a half a star to give, this would be a 3.5. But since I did enjoy that Charlie and Dominique were left with their previously shown personalities for better or worse, I give it a 4.
BUT one big caveat, I do think that if one has a rape trigger or a more-than-shallow experience with therapy, a large portion of willing suspension of disbelief might be taken up and some books/Kindles may be thrown against the wall. While it makes sense to me that Charlie has dealt with her issues the best she can on her own, I don't know that self-prescribing sex with a trusted acquaintance will sit well with those who have had personal involvement with such matters. Not being a particular sticking point with me, I let it go.
Show Less
LibraryThing member EllenAvondale
First, I owe Ms. Mallery my apologies for jumping to conclusions. I have read all of the Fool's Gold books and I have enjoyed most of them. When Charlie was first introduced with two other women, I went, "Uh, oh, methinks the next three-book arc is a-comin'," and I was right. The second thought I
Smug in my guessing right on the arc, I was afraid I was seeing signs of the "softening." Charlie was giving clues to her back story, a negligent/careless/self-centered mother was mentioned, she was a prettied up bridesmaid, the softening was beginning, or so I thought. I was just getting a little leary of what I saw as clues to "let's get her some makeup, grow her hair a bit, put her in a cute little dress and call her a girl."
But it didn't happen. What we got was a Charlie that was true to herself and her persona as shown in the previous stories, even this arc of three. I was not happy with the first two books of the arc, but I am glad I read them to get to this one.
Well, as you can see, I was emotionally invested in Charlie being Charlie. At first I was so thrilled with this, I wasn't really paying attention to the rest of the story and my willing suspension of disbelief was in full-contact mode. I was there, I was in the story. I was even impressed that Charlie's mother was not softened. Yep, the definition of a negligent, uncaring, clueless mother was our Dominique. And I loved that, too.
But then certain plot elements dealing with the male part of the couple-to-be, Clay, started to creep into my consciousness. Really, Clay, you have a modeling/butt double career and you had time to work out, go to NYU and get a degree and NOT tell your family as well as do an apprenticeship in Vermont that no one knew about? My family is not what you would call close but I can guarantee that if one of us was graduating from NYU a parental unit had better be informed or there would be murder and mayhem. I get that he is a grown man, paying his own way (and conveniently married to his 14-years-older wife), but even grown men inform their family they are going to college.
There were a number (at least three, the bones, the poisoned seed, the fact his estranged-from-everybody-but-Clay sister had her leg conveniently broken on national TV while they were all watching together) of components thrown out that seemed to be sequel bait, and that is not even counting the Dante-based sequel bait. But I love sequel bait on a series I am enjoying, and Fool's Gold has been enjoyable as a whole.
There were a number of issues, including the above-mentioned sequel bait, that seemed to be prettily-boxed-and-tied-up-with-a-bow plot devices. But that's okay, you have to get to the end somehow. I think if I had read this book in one sitting and not had time to think on certain elements, none of this would have bothered me.
Other issues included a rushed ending;, the lack of mea culpas required of Clay, although that probably goes with Charlie's no nonsense personality, too; the heretofore unintroduced members of the community, setting them up for the next installments, that got a bit annoying.
All in all, if I had a half a star to give, this would be a 3.5. But since I did enjoy that Charlie and Dominique were left with their previously shown personalities for better or worse, I give it a 4.
BUT one big caveat, I do think that if one has a rape trigger or a more-than-shallow experience with therapy, a large portion of willing suspension of disbelief might be taken up and some books/Kindles may be thrown against the wall. While it makes sense to me that Charlie has dealt with her issues the best she can on her own, I don't know that self-prescribing sex with a trusted acquaintance will sit well with those who have had personal involvement with such matters. Not being a particular sticking point with me, I let it go.
Show More
had was "Please don't soften Charlie." Smug in my guessing right on the arc, I was afraid I was seeing signs of the "softening." Charlie was giving clues to her back story, a negligent/careless/self-centered mother was mentioned, she was a prettied up bridesmaid, the softening was beginning, or so I thought. I was just getting a little leary of what I saw as clues to "let's get her some makeup, grow her hair a bit, put her in a cute little dress and call her a girl."
But it didn't happen. What we got was a Charlie that was true to herself and her persona as shown in the previous stories, even this arc of three. I was not happy with the first two books of the arc, but I am glad I read them to get to this one.
Well, as you can see, I was emotionally invested in Charlie being Charlie. At first I was so thrilled with this, I wasn't really paying attention to the rest of the story and my willing suspension of disbelief was in full-contact mode. I was there, I was in the story. I was even impressed that Charlie's mother was not softened. Yep, the definition of a negligent, uncaring, clueless mother was our Dominique. And I loved that, too.
But then certain plot elements dealing with the male part of the couple-to-be, Clay, started to creep into my consciousness. Really, Clay, you have a modeling/butt double career and you had time to work out, go to NYU and get a degree and NOT tell your family as well as do an apprenticeship in Vermont that no one knew about? My family is not what you would call close but I can guarantee that if one of us was graduating from NYU a parental unit had better be informed or there would be murder and mayhem. I get that he is a grown man, paying his own way (and conveniently married to his 14-years-older wife), but even grown men inform their family they are going to college.
There were a number (at least three, the bones, the poisoned seed, the fact his estranged-from-everybody-but-Clay sister had her leg conveniently broken on national TV while they were all watching together) of components thrown out that seemed to be sequel bait, and that is not even counting the Dante-based sequel bait. But I love sequel bait on a series I am enjoying, and Fool's Gold has been enjoyable as a whole.
There were a number of issues, including the above-mentioned sequel bait, that seemed to be prettily-boxed-and-tied-up-with-a-bow plot devices. But that's okay, you have to get to the end somehow. I think if I had read this book in one sitting and not had time to think on certain elements, none of this would have bothered me.
Other issues included a rushed ending;, the lack of mea culpas required of Clay, although that probably goes with Charlie's no nonsense personality, too; the heretofore unintroduced members of the community, setting them up for the next installments, that got a bit annoying.
All in all, if I had a half a star to give, this would be a 3.5. But since I did enjoy that Charlie and Dominique were left with their previously shown personalities for better or worse, I give it a 4.
BUT one big caveat, I do think that if one has a rape trigger or a more-than-shallow experience with therapy, a large portion of willing suspension of disbelief might be taken up and some books/Kindles may be thrown against the wall. While it makes sense to me that Charlie has dealt with her issues the best she can on her own, I don't know that self-prescribing sex with a trusted acquaintance will sit well with those who have had personal involvement with such matters. Not being a particular sticking point with me, I let it go.
Show Less
LibraryThing member nancynova
reading the series backwards! This is #9 and deals with Charlie, a date rape victum scared of any relationship with men, making a pact with former male model, Clay Stryker, to help her recover from her fears. But nreither expects to fall in love with one another.
LibraryThing member Books007
Charlie is struggling to over come something from her past and Clay is just the man to help. Clay has already found love once (only to lose it too soon) and is not sure if he is ready to risk that loss again.
Hot...Hot...Hot!!! Loved this book! It's a must read for fans of this series. (Although the
Hot...Hot...Hot!!! Loved this book! It's a must read for fans of this series. (Although the
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cover picture definitely does not match Clay - or at least the one I envisioned.) Show Less
LibraryThing member thehistorychic
Listened for Review
Overall Rating 4.50
Character Rating 4.50
Story Rating 4.50
Audio Rating 3.75 (not part of the overall rating)
First thought when finished: All Summer Long is going down as one of my favorite in the Fool's Gold series. I really connected with Charlie and Clay!
What I thought of Story:
What I thought of the Characters: You can pretty much guess that I love Charlie and Clay. I was a little worried that Clay wouldn't be good enough for Charlie but in the end, he won me over. I was a little mad at him during the last 1/4 of the book but he made me smile in the end.
What I thought of the Audio: I thought All Summer Long was a pretty good audiobook. The voices for the men were a little too feminine for me but overall the pacing, narration, and voices for the women characters was spot on.
Final Thoughts: Fans of the Fool's Gold series will not want to miss All Summer Long.
Overall Rating 4.50
Character Rating 4.50
Story Rating 4.50
Audio Rating 3.75 (not part of the overall rating)
First thought when finished: All Summer Long is going down as one of my favorite in the Fool's Gold series. I really connected with Charlie and Clay!
What I thought of Story:
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All Summer Long is the story that I have been waiting for and is probably my favorite in the Fool's Gold series. I adored pretty much everything about it from beginning to end. Everyone has their favorite couples and this one is mine!What I thought of the Characters: You can pretty much guess that I love Charlie and Clay. I was a little worried that Clay wouldn't be good enough for Charlie but in the end, he won me over. I was a little mad at him during the last 1/4 of the book but he made me smile in the end.
What I thought of the Audio: I thought All Summer Long was a pretty good audiobook. The voices for the men were a little too feminine for me but overall the pacing, narration, and voices for the women characters was spot on.
Final Thoughts: Fans of the Fool's Gold series will not want to miss All Summer Long.
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LibraryThing member beckymmoe
I really enjoyed Charlie and Clay's story. They are great characters and clearly bring out the best in each other. However, Charlie's "solution" to her problem was realllllly far-fetched; though I have to admit that it was ultimately handled well and of course seemed way more fun than traditional
(Side note--is it just me, or do the cover models for this series seem completely random? They never appear to match what the characters should really look like, IMO. Not that they're not pretty, but still....)
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therapy. The story definitely hinged on it as a plot point, so I was more than willing to suspend belief this time in the name of fiction. Two things bothered me just a bit, though. One is that the treatment of Clay by many of the women of the town was just over-the-top inappropriate. I realize that Mallery was trying to make a point, but shouldn't a town that prides itself on its strong female presence and history be a bit more sensitive to blatant gender discrimination? Secondly, the ending/resolution seemed a bit rushed. The rest of the story was well-paced and developed, but the end had more of a slap-it-on-ending feel to it. Ultimately, though, I really liked this book. This trilogy of stories has definitely been the strongest of the series so far, and I am really looking forward to Dante and Evie's story.(Side note--is it just me, or do the cover models for this series seem completely random? They never appear to match what the characters should really look like, IMO. Not that they're not pretty, but still....)
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LibraryThing member thehistorychic
Listened for Review
Overall Rating 4.50
Character Rating 4.50
Story Rating 4.50
Audio Rating 3.75 (not part of the overall rating)
First thought when finished: All Summer Long is going down as one of my favorite in the Fool's Gold series. I really connected with Charlie and Clay!
What I thought of Story:
What I thought of the Characters: You can pretty much guess that I love Charlie and Clay. I was a little worried that Clay wouldn't be good enough for Charlie but in the end, he won me over. I was a little mad at him during the last 1/4 of the book but he made me smile in the end.
What I thought of the Audio: I thought All Summer Long was a pretty good audiobook. The voices for the men were a little too feminine for me but overall the pacing, narration, and voices for the women characters was spot on.
Final Thoughts: Fans of the Fool's Gold series will not want to miss All Summer Long.
Overall Rating 4.50
Character Rating 4.50
Story Rating 4.50
Audio Rating 3.75 (not part of the overall rating)
First thought when finished: All Summer Long is going down as one of my favorite in the Fool's Gold series. I really connected with Charlie and Clay!
What I thought of Story:
Show More
All Summer Long is the story that I have been waiting for and is probably my favorite in the Fool's Gold series. I adored pretty much everything about it from beginning to end. Everyone has their favorite couples and this one is mine!What I thought of the Characters: You can pretty much guess that I love Charlie and Clay. I was a little worried that Clay wouldn't be good enough for Charlie but in the end, he won me over. I was a little mad at him during the last 1/4 of the book but he made me smile in the end.
What I thought of the Audio: I thought All Summer Long was a pretty good audiobook. The voices for the men were a little too feminine for me but overall the pacing, narration, and voices for the women characters was spot on.
Final Thoughts: Fans of the Fool's Gold series will not want to miss All Summer Long.
Show Less
LibraryThing member Ellen1213
First, I owe Ms. Mallery my apologies for jumping to conclusions. I have read all of the Fool's Gold books and I have enjoyed most of them. When Charlie was first introduced with two other women, I went, "Uh, oh, methinks the next three-book arc is a-comin'," and I was right. The second thought I
Smug in my guessing right on the arc, I was afraid I was seeing signs of the "softening." Charlie was giving clues to her back story, a negligent/careless/self-centered mother was mentioned, she was a prettied up bridesmaid, the softening was beginning, or so I thought. I was just getting a little leary of what I saw as clues to "let's get her some makeup, grow her hair a bit, put her in a cute little dress and call her a girl."
But it didn't happen. What we got was a Charlie that was true to herself and her persona as shown in the previous stories, even this arc of three. I was not happy with the first two books of the arc, but I am glad I read them to get to this one.
Well, as you can see, I was emotionally invested in Charlie being Charlie. At first I was so thrilled with this, I wasn't really paying attention to the rest of the story and my willing suspension of disbelief was in full-contact mode. I was there, I was in the story. I was even impressed that Charlie's mother was not softened. Yep, the definition of a negligent, uncaring, clueless mother was our Dominique. And I loved that, too.
But then certain plot elements dealing with the male part of the couple-to-be, Clay, started to creep into my consciousness. Really, Clay, you have a modeling/butt double career and you had time to work out, go to NYU and get a degree and NOT tell your family as well as do an apprenticeship in Vermont that no one knew about? My family is not what you would call close but I can guarantee that if one of us was graduating from NYU a parental unit had better be informed or there would be murder and mayhem. I get that he is a grown man, paying his own way (and conveniently married to his 14-years-older wife), but even grown men inform their family they are going to college.
There were a number (at least three, the bones, the poisoned seed, the fact his estranged-from-everybody-but-Clay sister had her leg conveniently broken on national TV while they were all watching together) of components thrown out that seemed to be sequel bait, and that is not even counting the Dante-based sequel bait. But I love sequel bait on a series I am enjoying, and Fool's Gold has been enjoyable as a whole.
There were a number of issues, including the above-mentioned sequel bait, that seemed to be prettily-boxed-and-tied-up-with-a-bow plot devices. But that's okay, you have to get to the end somehow. I think if I had read this book in one sitting and not had time to think on certain elements, none of this would have bothered me.
Other issues included a rushed ending;, the lack of mea culpas required of Clay, although that probably goes with Charlie's no nonsense personality, too; the heretofore unintroduced members of the community, setting them up for the next installments, that got a bit annoying.
All in all, if I had a half a star to give, this would be a 3.5. But since I did enjoy that Charlie and Dominique were left with their previously shown personalities for better or worse, I give it a 4.
BUT one big caveat, I do think that if one has a rape trigger or a more-than-shallow experience with therapy, a large portion of willing suspension of disbelief might be taken up and some books/Kindles may be thrown against the wall. While it makes sense to me that Charlie has dealt with her issues the best she can on her own, I don't know that self-prescribing sex with a trusted acquaintance will sit well with those who have had personal involvement with such matters. Not being a particular sticking point with me, I let it go.
Show More
had was "Please don't soften Charlie." Smug in my guessing right on the arc, I was afraid I was seeing signs of the "softening." Charlie was giving clues to her back story, a negligent/careless/self-centered mother was mentioned, she was a prettied up bridesmaid, the softening was beginning, or so I thought. I was just getting a little leary of what I saw as clues to "let's get her some makeup, grow her hair a bit, put her in a cute little dress and call her a girl."
But it didn't happen. What we got was a Charlie that was true to herself and her persona as shown in the previous stories, even this arc of three. I was not happy with the first two books of the arc, but I am glad I read them to get to this one.
Well, as you can see, I was emotionally invested in Charlie being Charlie. At first I was so thrilled with this, I wasn't really paying attention to the rest of the story and my willing suspension of disbelief was in full-contact mode. I was there, I was in the story. I was even impressed that Charlie's mother was not softened. Yep, the definition of a negligent, uncaring, clueless mother was our Dominique. And I loved that, too.
But then certain plot elements dealing with the male part of the couple-to-be, Clay, started to creep into my consciousness. Really, Clay, you have a modeling/butt double career and you had time to work out, go to NYU and get a degree and NOT tell your family as well as do an apprenticeship in Vermont that no one knew about? My family is not what you would call close but I can guarantee that if one of us was graduating from NYU a parental unit had better be informed or there would be murder and mayhem. I get that he is a grown man, paying his own way (and conveniently married to his 14-years-older wife), but even grown men inform their family they are going to college.
There were a number (at least three, the bones, the poisoned seed, the fact his estranged-from-everybody-but-Clay sister had her leg conveniently broken on national TV while they were all watching together) of components thrown out that seemed to be sequel bait, and that is not even counting the Dante-based sequel bait. But I love sequel bait on a series I am enjoying, and Fool's Gold has been enjoyable as a whole.
There were a number of issues, including the above-mentioned sequel bait, that seemed to be prettily-boxed-and-tied-up-with-a-bow plot devices. But that's okay, you have to get to the end somehow. I think if I had read this book in one sitting and not had time to think on certain elements, none of this would have bothered me.
Other issues included a rushed ending;, the lack of mea culpas required of Clay, although that probably goes with Charlie's no nonsense personality, too; the heretofore unintroduced members of the community, setting them up for the next installments, that got a bit annoying.
All in all, if I had a half a star to give, this would be a 3.5. But since I did enjoy that Charlie and Dominique were left with their previously shown personalities for better or worse, I give it a 4.
BUT one big caveat, I do think that if one has a rape trigger or a more-than-shallow experience with therapy, a large portion of willing suspension of disbelief might be taken up and some books/Kindles may be thrown against the wall. While it makes sense to me that Charlie has dealt with her issues the best she can on her own, I don't know that self-prescribing sex with a trusted acquaintance will sit well with those who have had personal involvement with such matters. Not being a particular sticking point with me, I let it go.
Show Less
LibraryThing member jbarr5
All Summer Long A Fool’s Gold Romance by Susan Mallery
ISBN: 9780373776948
Clay Stryker, model movie butt double was just trying to help the firewoman get the cat out of the tree.
Charlie is the towns firewoman and has a handle on things.
The Stryker family wants to go into business where families
Clay was still considering joining the family to do just that.
Love the fact that you can read this as a standalone book and it summarizes on what's happened in the past so you're not totally lost.
Charlie has her horse stabled at Rafe's ranch, where Clay is staying so they run into one another often and go riding together. That gives them a lot of time to talk and get to know one another better.
Charlie has had a bad shake when it comes to men and that was explained in another Fool's Gold book. She's attempting to get over the fear by showing interest in Clay.
She opens up to Clay hoping he can help with her problems. She wonders if he will ever answer her after a few days have gone by.
There are a lot of things I've left unsaid as I think it's best you read about them yourselves first hand with a smile on your face as it was on mine.
Her famous mother coming back into he life just complicates things.
Like Clay's approach, nice and slow to fix her problems.
Steamy hot sex and you won't be disappointed in the storyline.
Learning about fires and how to fight them, the training they go through is very thorough.
Love the travel adventure, just right!
ISBN: 9780373776948
Clay Stryker, model movie butt double was just trying to help the firewoman get the cat out of the tree.
Charlie is the towns firewoman and has a handle on things.
The Stryker family wants to go into business where families
Show More
come to stay at their houses and work on the farm to see/feel how things are done in that environment with no deadlines, called haycations with some modern conveniences.Clay was still considering joining the family to do just that.
Love the fact that you can read this as a standalone book and it summarizes on what's happened in the past so you're not totally lost.
Charlie has her horse stabled at Rafe's ranch, where Clay is staying so they run into one another often and go riding together. That gives them a lot of time to talk and get to know one another better.
Charlie has had a bad shake when it comes to men and that was explained in another Fool's Gold book. She's attempting to get over the fear by showing interest in Clay.
She opens up to Clay hoping he can help with her problems. She wonders if he will ever answer her after a few days have gone by.
There are a lot of things I've left unsaid as I think it's best you read about them yourselves first hand with a smile on your face as it was on mine.
Her famous mother coming back into he life just complicates things.
Like Clay's approach, nice and slow to fix her problems.
Steamy hot sex and you won't be disappointed in the storyline.
Learning about fires and how to fight them, the training they go through is very thorough.
Love the travel adventure, just right!
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LibraryThing member RtB
Posted on Romancing the Book's blog
Reviewed by Ashleigh
Review Copy Provided by Netgalley
Charlie Dixon wasn’t looking for love, and yet love is just what is coming around for a lot of people these days. Watching her two best friends fall under the spell of cupid has Charlie contemplating whether
Clay Stryker is determined to change himself. After coming back home from being a successful underwear/butt model, he has lost just about all respect from his brothers and more importantly his mother. It will be an up hill battle to prove that he is the same guy underneath all the hype that he always was. One thing that Clay wasn’t anticipating is Charlie. She is bristly as a cactus and yet he can’t seem to stay away from her. The more that she pushes him away the more he wants her. But Clay isn’t going to have an easy ride with her, because when Charlie decides that he is the man for her there is no stopping her. They will have to work together to overcome the past and embark on a future together, in another installment of Susan Mallery’s Fool’s Gold series.
I have been a big fan of Susan Mallery since back before she was cool to other readers. Getting to watch her characters unfold again in the Fool’s Gold series is a pleasure each time, and one that is easily shared. Her works are great easy reads and something that just about anyone can enjoy. So far the Fool’s Gold series is my favorite, just because the heroes are hot and loving in the same measures. If you are looking for a great series of books, about hot men, the women they love and quirky little town than this is a great series to add to your collection!
Reviewed by Ashleigh
Review Copy Provided by Netgalley
Charlie Dixon wasn’t looking for love, and yet love is just what is coming around for a lot of people these days. Watching her two best friends fall under the spell of cupid has Charlie contemplating whether
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it is something she really wants or not. Old trust issues from some bad family and even worse memories from college make her a hard person to get to, but that is just what Clay Stryker is determined to do. Will Charlie be able to deal with her past baggage in order to take the hand of an amazing man? Or will her fear from the past and of the unknown future continue to push him away until he can’t hold on anymore?Clay Stryker is determined to change himself. After coming back home from being a successful underwear/butt model, he has lost just about all respect from his brothers and more importantly his mother. It will be an up hill battle to prove that he is the same guy underneath all the hype that he always was. One thing that Clay wasn’t anticipating is Charlie. She is bristly as a cactus and yet he can’t seem to stay away from her. The more that she pushes him away the more he wants her. But Clay isn’t going to have an easy ride with her, because when Charlie decides that he is the man for her there is no stopping her. They will have to work together to overcome the past and embark on a future together, in another installment of Susan Mallery’s Fool’s Gold series.
I have been a big fan of Susan Mallery since back before she was cool to other readers. Getting to watch her characters unfold again in the Fool’s Gold series is a pleasure each time, and one that is easily shared. Her works are great easy reads and something that just about anyone can enjoy. So far the Fool’s Gold series is my favorite, just because the heroes are hot and loving in the same measures. If you are looking for a great series of books, about hot men, the women they love and quirky little town than this is a great series to add to your collection!
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LibraryThing member jnut1
Another Fool's Gold novel.
This is the story of Charlie and Clay - a butt model! Yes I said a Butt Model!!!! And Charlie's mom - the famous ballerina.
This also introducing the sister we have only read about - any bet one of the next books will deal with her?
This is the story of Charlie and Clay - a butt model! Yes I said a Butt Model!!!! And Charlie's mom - the famous ballerina.
This also introducing the sister we have only read about - any bet one of the next books will deal with her?
LibraryThing member Courtney_Chance
OMG!
Charlie and Clay. I loved this book. I felt so great the whole time.
it was Emotional heavily emotional, yet still light and a great read.
I love everything leading up to their ending. I like how they didnt deny themselves eachother the whole book. I think I liked their friendship most of all
I also loved meeting Charlies mom. Boy was she a riot.
This book will not dissapoint
Charlie and Clay. I loved this book. I felt so great the whole time.
it was Emotional heavily emotional, yet still light and a great read.
I love everything leading up to their ending. I like how they didnt deny themselves eachother the whole book. I think I liked their friendship most of all
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:)I also loved meeting Charlies mom. Boy was she a riot.
This book will not dissapoint
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LibraryThing member Conkie
A very likeable book by Ms. Mallery.
A better than average read by Ms. Eby.
A better than average read by Ms. Eby.
LibraryThing member mlake
This book took me a day to read. I was entertained and mostly satisfied with the ending.
LibraryThing member mullgirl
I just love all three "summer" books. The brothers are all so different and interesting (and hot, let's face it). And Fool's Gold sounds lovely. I read these three basically back to back and wasn't sick of them at all... but... I haven't wanted to read any of the other fools gold books. I think
I read this book last--and again with the prior abuse or rape that somehow draws characters together (and she got over way too simplistically btw). So that's this books flaw.
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it's because several of the characters you meet in the summer books met their honeys in prior books--so it feels so "done" already. I'm sure when I'm bored and looking for something to read, I'll crack the rest of the series open.I read this book last--and again with the prior abuse or rape that somehow draws characters together (and she got over way too simplistically btw). So that's this books flaw.
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LibraryThing member KANwrites
Love this series!
LibraryThing member karenvg3
I loved this book. I had been waiting for Charlie's story and it was amazing. I'm just sad it's over. I would definitely recommend this one.
LibraryThing member PNRList
Still not really a huge contemporary romance fan, but I really liked Charlie. This ALMOST got shelved under angst but it really isn't quite that significant. It was a little too sweet for me, really, but not bad.
LibraryThing member kmartin802
Firefighter Charlie Dixon is watching all of her friends falling love and having babies. She wants to have a baby too. But a rape when she was a freshman in college has left unhealed trauma. She hasn't had a relationship with a man since then.
Clay Stryker has come home to Fool's Gold after a
People in town have trouble seeing past Clay's past and accepting him for himself despite his physical attractiveness. Charlie is the exception and the two become friends.
When Charlie is looking for a man to help her get over her intimacy issues, she asks Clay to help her. Since Clay is still a heartbroken widower who hasn't gotten over the death of his wife Diane, he agrees never thinking that he could fall in love with Charlie. After all, he fell in love with Diane at first sight.
As the two get to know each other and get Charlie used to the idea of intimacy, they fall in love. But it is a sneaky thing that neither expects nor really wants. Clay is busy trying to get his new business off the ground and seeming to suffer setback after setback. And Charlie is dealing with the reappearance in her life of her mother, the famous ballerina, who has decided she now wants a relationship with Charlie.
This was an engaging and entertaining romance. Tanya Eby did an excellent job with the narration. She's great at male voices. She also did a great job portraying all the emotions that filled this story.
Clay Stryker has come home to Fool's Gold after a
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successful career as a model and movie butt double. He wants to start a farm and run Haycations to let city folk see what it is like to live on a farm. He also wants to be a volunteer for the local fire department.People in town have trouble seeing past Clay's past and accepting him for himself despite his physical attractiveness. Charlie is the exception and the two become friends.
When Charlie is looking for a man to help her get over her intimacy issues, she asks Clay to help her. Since Clay is still a heartbroken widower who hasn't gotten over the death of his wife Diane, he agrees never thinking that he could fall in love with Charlie. After all, he fell in love with Diane at first sight.
As the two get to know each other and get Charlie used to the idea of intimacy, they fall in love. But it is a sneaky thing that neither expects nor really wants. Clay is busy trying to get his new business off the ground and seeming to suffer setback after setback. And Charlie is dealing with the reappearance in her life of her mother, the famous ballerina, who has decided she now wants a relationship with Charlie.
This was an engaging and entertaining romance. Tanya Eby did an excellent job with the narration. She's great at male voices. She also did a great job portraying all the emotions that filled this story.
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LibraryThing member Courtney_Chance
OMG!
Charlie and Clay. I loved this book. I felt so great the whole time.
it was Emotional heavily emotional, yet still light and a great read.
I love everything leading up to their ending. I like how they didnt deny themselves eachother the whole book. I think I liked their friendship most of all
I also loved meeting Charlies mom. Boy was she a riot.
This book will not dissapoint
Charlie and Clay. I loved this book. I felt so great the whole time.
it was Emotional heavily emotional, yet still light and a great read.
I love everything leading up to their ending. I like how they didnt deny themselves eachother the whole book. I think I liked their friendship most of all
Show More
:)I also loved meeting Charlies mom. Boy was she a riot.
This book will not dissapoint
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LibraryThing member rhonda1111
Review: All Summer Long by Susan Mallery
3 STARS
It was nice to go back to Fool's Gold and visit old friends and meet new ones.
Charlie in collage was raped and no one believed her, even her mom. So Charlie has a hard time even being close to a guy. She wants a family or at least children and does
Clay wants to be close to his family and get them involved in a business plan for a haycation. Clay has made lots of money with his butt modeling and movie double work. Clay has even graduated collage but did not tell his family. He has bought 200 acres by his family's property. He wants to be part of a small town again. Even volunteer as a fireman.
Charlie gets the idea to have Clay help her to be normal and be able to have sex again. Plus as a fireman trainee help him get a fair shot and help him with his dream.
A lot of women stare at Clay and treat him like he is meat market. Clay was married once before and she died. He does not want serious relationship but he does not want one night stands. Clay takes Charlie serious and does look
up information how to help. So Clay starts to seduce her slowly getting her to trust him and tease her . Thier is a lot of sex talk and foreplay in this
story. Plus a lot of family drama Charlie's famous mother comes to town and now wants a relationship with her.
May mother of Clay,Rafe and Shane finally talks about her daughter and we get to meet her.
I was given this ebook to read in exchange of honest review by Netgalley.
07/24/2012 Harlequin HarlequinHQN
3 STARS
It was nice to go back to Fool's Gold and visit old friends and meet new ones.
Charlie in collage was raped and no one believed her, even her mom. So Charlie has a hard time even being close to a guy. She wants a family or at least children and does
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not want to pass on her fear of guys.Clay wants to be close to his family and get them involved in a business plan for a haycation. Clay has made lots of money with his butt modeling and movie double work. Clay has even graduated collage but did not tell his family. He has bought 200 acres by his family's property. He wants to be part of a small town again. Even volunteer as a fireman.
Charlie gets the idea to have Clay help her to be normal and be able to have sex again. Plus as a fireman trainee help him get a fair shot and help him with his dream.
A lot of women stare at Clay and treat him like he is meat market. Clay was married once before and she died. He does not want serious relationship but he does not want one night stands. Clay takes Charlie serious and does look
up information how to help. So Clay starts to seduce her slowly getting her to trust him and tease her . Thier is a lot of sex talk and foreplay in this
story. Plus a lot of family drama Charlie's famous mother comes to town and now wants a relationship with her.
May mother of Clay,Rafe and Shane finally talks about her daughter and we get to meet her.
I was given this ebook to read in exchange of honest review by Netgalley.
07/24/2012 Harlequin HarlequinHQN
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LibraryThing member Lauren2013
All Summer Long
4.5 Stars
A traumatic attack in her past has left firefighter Charlie Dixon wary of romantic relationships. But Charlie is determined to face her fears and Clay Styker is just the man to help her. A former underwear model, Clay has returned to Fool's Gold to start his own business.
One of the best installments so far.
Charlie's prickly exterior conceals huge capacity for love, and Clay's gorgeous exterior is a mirror for his caring nature and desire to give back to the community. Their chemistry is scorching and their relationship, both physical and emotional, is heartwarming.
While the townspeople of Fool's Gold can be affable and endearing at times, their attitude and behavior toward Clay in this book leaves much to be desired and is reminiscent of their treatment of Josh in the first book. Unlike that story, Charlie rightly calls them out on their inexcusable sexism and they come through in the end.
One minor caveat is the supposed redemption of Charlie's mother, Dominique. She is without a doubt one of the most selfish, narcissistic and thoughtless women to ever disgrace the pages of a romance novel. Her sudden change of attitude is dubious and unrealistic.
Overall, a charming read and I look forward to reading Dante and Evie's book next.
4.5 Stars
A traumatic attack in her past has left firefighter Charlie Dixon wary of romantic relationships. But Charlie is determined to face her fears and Clay Styker is just the man to help her. A former underwear model, Clay has returned to Fool's Gold to start his own business.
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Convinced that he will never love again after the death of his wife, Clay is nevertheless willing and able to give Charlie a hand with her predicament. Can these two lonely people overcome the obstacles of their past to have a future together?One of the best installments so far.
Charlie's prickly exterior conceals huge capacity for love, and Clay's gorgeous exterior is a mirror for his caring nature and desire to give back to the community. Their chemistry is scorching and their relationship, both physical and emotional, is heartwarming.
While the townspeople of Fool's Gold can be affable and endearing at times, their attitude and behavior toward Clay in this book leaves much to be desired and is reminiscent of their treatment of Josh in the first book. Unlike that story, Charlie rightly calls them out on their inexcusable sexism and they come through in the end.
One minor caveat is the supposed redemption of Charlie's mother, Dominique. She is without a doubt one of the most selfish, narcissistic and thoughtless women to ever disgrace the pages of a romance novel. Her sudden change of attitude is dubious and unrealistic.
Overall, a charming read and I look forward to reading Dante and Evie's book next.
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Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2012-07-31
Physical description
5.5 inches
ISBN
145589673X / 9781455896738