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NOLA Heart #3
Dare You To Love Me
I dare you to find me the perfect match, she said.
Luke O’Connor has never turned down a dare. Ever. But that was before his last deployment left the charming playboy a shell of his former self. Now he just wants to be left alone - no hookups, no relationships.
Single mother and the CEO of New Orleans’ hottest lingerie boutique, Anna Bryce has it all - except that a business can’t keep her warm at night. She’s determined to find Mr. Right, but can’t fight her attraction to Mr. All Wrong, the wounded veteran who says he's not into her.
I dare you to kiss me, she said.
I dare you to love me.
All Luke has to do is resist her dare - but for the first time in his life, he’s betting on losing.
Luke O’Connor has never turned down a dare. Ever. But that was before his last deployment left the charming playboy a shell of his former self. Now he just wants to be left alone - no hookups, no relationships.
Single mother and the CEO of New Orleans’ hottest lingerie boutique, Anna Bryce has it all - except that a business can’t keep her warm at night. She’s determined to find Mr. Right, but can’t fight her attraction to Mr. All Wrong, the wounded veteran who says he's not into her.
I dare you to kiss me, she said.
I dare you to love me.
All Luke has to do is resist her dare - but for the first time in his life, he’s betting on losing.
312 pages, Paperback
First published September 13, 2017
649 people are currently reading
931 people want to read
About the author
Maria Luis
41 books3,047 followersMaria Luis is an Amazon Top 25 Bestselling Author.
Historian by day and romance novelist by night, Maria lives in New Orleans, and loves bringing the city's cultural flair into her books. When Maria isn't frantically typing with hot chocolate in hand, she can be found binging on reality TV, going on adventures with her other half and two pups, or plotting her next flirty romance.
★ Looking for something quick, fun and sexy to read? Check out these freebies on Maria's website! (Available: Breathless, Undeniable, and The First Fix): https://www.marialuis.org/free-books
Stalk Maria in the wild at:
★ Facebook: facebook.com/marialuisauthor
★ Book Boyfriends Anonymous: http://bit.ly/MariaLuisBBA
★ Instagram: http://bit.ly/MariaLuisIG
★ TikTok: tiktok.com/@marialuisauthor
★ Website: www.marialuis.org
★ Bookbub: http://bit.ly/MariaLuisBB
Maria loves to hear from readers!
Historian by day and romance novelist by night, Maria lives in New Orleans, and loves bringing the city's cultural flair into her books. When Maria isn't frantically typing with hot chocolate in hand, she can be found binging on reality TV, going on adventures with her other half and two pups, or plotting her next flirty romance.
★ Looking for something quick, fun and sexy to read? Check out these freebies on Maria's website! (Available: Breathless, Undeniable, and The First Fix): https://www.marialuis.org/free-books
Stalk Maria in the wild at:
★ Facebook: facebook.com/marialuisauthor
★ Book Boyfriends Anonymous: http://bit.ly/MariaLuisBBA
★ Instagram: http://bit.ly/MariaLuisIG
★ TikTok: tiktok.com/@marialuisauthor
★ Website: www.marialuis.org
★ Bookbub: http://bit.ly/MariaLuisBB
Maria loves to hear from readers!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
February 3, 2022
I like the overall story. The problem with Dare You To Love Me is the length. I waited and waited and waited for Anne and Luke to fall into their chemistry/ attraction. And it takes Miss Luis forever to get them there.
I do not mind a slow burn/ long story. But I need something in the plot to kick up the steam. What I feel about Anne and Luke, Miss Luis investing too much into each of them and not highlighting the actual attraction between them.
Again, the story is cute. The banter between Anne and Julian is hilarious.
Overall this is OK read
3 stars
I do not mind a slow burn/ long story. But I need something in the plot to kick up the steam. What I feel about Anne and Luke, Miss Luis investing too much into each of them and not highlighting the actual attraction between them.
Again, the story is cute. The banter between Anne and Julian is hilarious.
Overall this is OK read
3 stars
November 19, 2017
Received an ARC for my fair review for Gimme Books..I love this book. I was waiting for Luke and Anna's story, and a little scared that it wouldn't measure up, not because of the Author, because she is great, but due to my expectations, and let me tell you that she surpassed them, this book was hilarious. The lol starts from the beginning, one OS my favorite parts was when Anna was on her first date and they have a blow up doll to be a party of four, too funny. Then there is Julian, this kid is awesome, he was a great secondary character. And it was fun to read about the previous characters from the previous books, if you haven't already read them, please do so, if not you will do yourself a disservice...Grab the book, my friend..Enjoy!!
September 5, 2017
Anna is a successful business woman and single mother of a fourteen year old son. Now that Julian is older, she thinks it may be time to jump back into the dating pool. After her first bizarre attempt gone horribly wrong, she’s sitting in a booth finishing her drink and who should walk up but Mr. Green Eyes, Luke O’Connor. If it’s not bad enough that she recently plowed him over and destroyed half of his mother’s herb shop, now he’s just witnessed the whole humiliating date debacle. Luke has no room to talk about dates gone awry, though. He’s never even had a relationship and wears anti-social like a suit of armor as he deals with rehabbing his shattered hip and returning to civilian life after thirteen years in the military. Still, he’s sure he can do better than Anna’s latest dating fiasco, so when she dares him to find her Mr. Right, his competitive nature won’t let him refuse her.
I have a confession to make. (Yes, I read an advance copy, but that’s not it.) Truth is, I was already in love with Luke and Anna from the previous books, but Luke and Anna’s together? They will own my heart forever! ❤ Their story is so fantastic I never wanted it to end, which explains how it’s possible to be both happy and sad after reading the last sentence. With her patented sass, sarcasm and sense of humor, Ms. Luis somehow manages to one-up herself with her best work yet! Not only do we get to revisit Shaelyn, Brady, Jade and Danvers, we get a loveable Great Dane and a big, endearing dose of a teenage Julian who’s even more smart mouthed and hilarious than ever.
The journey to Anna and Luke’s happily ever after is the most fun I’ve had in I don’t know how long! The dates Anna goes on as a result of her daring Luke to find her Mr. Right are side splitting, laugh-out-loud hysterical, and the book is worth reading just for those scenes. But then there are the more serious moments as they work through the issues keeping them apart that are so realistic and spot on, these two manage to work their way even deeper into the reader’s heart. And after the most tense, dangerous scene in the book that ends with the Luke and Anna’s epic, moving declaration of love, in jumps Danvers with the comic relief. The perfect construction of that scene, and throughout the book, is pure genius from a supremely talented writer. Ms. Luis writes with the voice of a seasoned author, with a gift for comedic timing that would make Carol Burnett and Melissa McCarthy proud. While I believe this is her best book to date, any book by Ms. Luis is a delightful, entertaining, feel-good romp, and you’re truly missing out if you don’t read her work!
I dare you to love this book. I know, I lose that dare. You'll thank me later. 😉
I have a confession to make. (Yes, I read an advance copy, but that’s not it.) Truth is, I was already in love with Luke and Anna from the previous books, but Luke and Anna’s together? They will own my heart forever! ❤ Their story is so fantastic I never wanted it to end, which explains how it’s possible to be both happy and sad after reading the last sentence. With her patented sass, sarcasm and sense of humor, Ms. Luis somehow manages to one-up herself with her best work yet! Not only do we get to revisit Shaelyn, Brady, Jade and Danvers, we get a loveable Great Dane and a big, endearing dose of a teenage Julian who’s even more smart mouthed and hilarious than ever.
The journey to Anna and Luke’s happily ever after is the most fun I’ve had in I don’t know how long! The dates Anna goes on as a result of her daring Luke to find her Mr. Right are side splitting, laugh-out-loud hysterical, and the book is worth reading just for those scenes. But then there are the more serious moments as they work through the issues keeping them apart that are so realistic and spot on, these two manage to work their way even deeper into the reader’s heart. And after the most tense, dangerous scene in the book that ends with the Luke and Anna’s epic, moving declaration of love, in jumps Danvers with the comic relief. The perfect construction of that scene, and throughout the book, is pure genius from a supremely talented writer. Ms. Luis writes with the voice of a seasoned author, with a gift for comedic timing that would make Carol Burnett and Melissa McCarthy proud. While I believe this is her best book to date, any book by Ms. Luis is a delightful, entertaining, feel-good romp, and you’re truly missing out if you don’t read her work!
I dare you to love this book. I know, I lose that dare. You'll thank me later. 😉
December 28, 2023
Petit disclaimer avant d'entrer dans le vif du sujet : bien que la couverture ne l'indique pas, Ose m'aimer ! est un tome 3, celui de la série NOLA heart, et même s'il pourrait se lire comme un one-shot, je trouve que c'est important de le préciser.
Les deux premières rencontres entre Anna et Luke ne manquent pas de sel, car entre une collision malencontreuse et un rencard absolument foireux, cela donne lieu à des moments assez drôles pour le lecteur, mais mortifiants pour les personnages ! S'ensuit alors une dynamique assez curieuse pour une romance, puisqu'elle le met au défi de lui trouver trois rencards parfaits, tandis qu'elle en aura trois de son côté, et ils devront se rencontrer à la fin pour décider de qui aura réussi à dénicher le meilleur jules pour Anna. Évidemment, on se doute bien que les choses ne vont pas se passer comme prévu ...
J'ai plutôt bien accroché au personnage de Luke, car les ex-soldats blessés et grincheux, c'est un de mes pêchés mignons. En effet, ils ont souvent une personnalité plus complexe qu'un type lambda, mais j'aurais aimé que ce soit plus creusé.
En revanche, j'ai eu plus de mal avec Anna, je ne saurais pas trop expliquer pourquoi, mais disons qu'elle ne m'a pas vraiment intéressée. C'est une femme indépendante, une bosseuse, qui réussit à la fois à mener une brillante carrière et à élever son fils désormais ado.
La romance ne m'a hélas ni intéressée ni conquise, la façon dont celle-ci se déroule n'a pas correspondu à mes attentes. Je n'ai pas eu l'impression qu'Anna et Luke avaient de réels sentiments l'un pour l'autre, une vraie envie d'être en couple, durant la majeure partie du roman. Les défis qu'ils se lancent (enfin à la réflexion, c'est quand même presque tout le temps Anna qui en est l'instigatrice) sont le moteur qui fait évoluer leur relation, et en cela le titre VF est plutôt bien trouvé ! Pour moi, c'est donc un coup manqué, je ne retrouve ni dans ce tome ni dans cette série la magie qui avait opéré avec la série "Put a ring on it", également dispo chez Alter Real, dommage donc !
Les personnages secondaires viennent apporter un plus au récit, notamment Julian, le fils d'Anna, qui est un jeune homme adorable comme tout. C'était sympa aussi de retrouver les héros des deux précédents tomes !
Je ne doute pas que ce roman saura trouver son public et que Luke en fera craquer plus d'une, seulement, cette fois, ça n'a pas fonctionné pour moi, mais ça ne peut pas marcher à tous les coups ! ^^
Les deux premières rencontres entre Anna et Luke ne manquent pas de sel, car entre une collision malencontreuse et un rencard absolument foireux, cela donne lieu à des moments assez drôles pour le lecteur, mais mortifiants pour les personnages ! S'ensuit alors une dynamique assez curieuse pour une romance, puisqu'elle le met au défi de lui trouver trois rencards parfaits, tandis qu'elle en aura trois de son côté, et ils devront se rencontrer à la fin pour décider de qui aura réussi à dénicher le meilleur jules pour Anna. Évidemment, on se doute bien que les choses ne vont pas se passer comme prévu ...
J'ai plutôt bien accroché au personnage de Luke, car les ex-soldats blessés et grincheux, c'est un de mes pêchés mignons. En effet, ils ont souvent une personnalité plus complexe qu'un type lambda, mais j'aurais aimé que ce soit plus creusé.
En revanche, j'ai eu plus de mal avec Anna, je ne saurais pas trop expliquer pourquoi, mais disons qu'elle ne m'a pas vraiment intéressée. C'est une femme indépendante, une bosseuse, qui réussit à la fois à mener une brillante carrière et à élever son fils désormais ado.
La romance ne m'a hélas ni intéressée ni conquise, la façon dont celle-ci se déroule n'a pas correspondu à mes attentes. Je n'ai pas eu l'impression qu'Anna et Luke avaient de réels sentiments l'un pour l'autre, une vraie envie d'être en couple, durant la majeure partie du roman. Les défis qu'ils se lancent (enfin à la réflexion, c'est quand même presque tout le temps Anna qui en est l'instigatrice) sont le moteur qui fait évoluer leur relation, et en cela le titre VF est plutôt bien trouvé ! Pour moi, c'est donc un coup manqué, je ne retrouve ni dans ce tome ni dans cette série la magie qui avait opéré avec la série "Put a ring on it", également dispo chez Alter Real, dommage donc !
Les personnages secondaires viennent apporter un plus au récit, notamment Julian, le fils d'Anna, qui est un jeune homme adorable comme tout. C'était sympa aussi de retrouver les héros des deux précédents tomes !
Je ne doute pas que ce roman saura trouver son public et que Luke en fera craquer plus d'une, seulement, cette fois, ça n'a pas fonctionné pour moi, mais ça ne peut pas marcher à tous les coups ! ^^
September 5, 2017
I Dare You To Love This Book!!
The previous two books were awesome, 5-star reads, absolutely no complaints at all. Even so, I think this one - Luke and Anna's story - is my favorite of the series. Luke is tough as nails on the outside, and he doesn't allow himself to be any less tough on the inside. Until he meets Anna, and pretty much has the choice taken away from him. Anna is one tough professional cookie herself - she's had to be, spending the last fourteen years as a single mom whose baby daddy is the worst kind of DNA source there is. But Anna is still young enough to want a life partner, and now that her son is older she's ready to start seeing what's out there. Besides Luke. Because he's made it clear he's not interested in her. At all. Yeah, I didn't believe him either. Nor does Anna, thankfully.
This story is beautifully written with a lot of heart, plenty of humor, smoking hot love scenes, and characters that feel like your new best friends. If you like to yell at your besties, that is, when they're acting like jerks and refusing to see the truth that's right in front of them. Is it wrong for me to say that Sassy - the dog - is my favorite character? Don't get me wrong, though - Luke is hot, hot, hot! I would marry him in an instant if he were real (and I were single) even though I want him to be Anna's forever guy, too. She deserves all the happiness he can give her.
I've already read through this book twice and it hasn't even been released yet. I love it that much. I'll probably read it (and the rest of the NOLA series) at least once a year just for the excuse to visit old friends. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
The previous two books were awesome, 5-star reads, absolutely no complaints at all. Even so, I think this one - Luke and Anna's story - is my favorite of the series. Luke is tough as nails on the outside, and he doesn't allow himself to be any less tough on the inside. Until he meets Anna, and pretty much has the choice taken away from him. Anna is one tough professional cookie herself - she's had to be, spending the last fourteen years as a single mom whose baby daddy is the worst kind of DNA source there is. But Anna is still young enough to want a life partner, and now that her son is older she's ready to start seeing what's out there. Besides Luke. Because he's made it clear he's not interested in her. At all. Yeah, I didn't believe him either. Nor does Anna, thankfully.
This story is beautifully written with a lot of heart, plenty of humor, smoking hot love scenes, and characters that feel like your new best friends. If you like to yell at your besties, that is, when they're acting like jerks and refusing to see the truth that's right in front of them. Is it wrong for me to say that Sassy - the dog - is my favorite character? Don't get me wrong, though - Luke is hot, hot, hot! I would marry him in an instant if he were real (and I were single) even though I want him to be Anna's forever guy, too. She deserves all the happiness he can give her.
I've already read through this book twice and it hasn't even been released yet. I love it that much. I'll probably read it (and the rest of the NOLA series) at least once a year just for the excuse to visit old friends. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
September 5, 2017
Maria Luis is one of my go-to authors.
What I liked:
Luke and Anna got their story
The writing style
The characters
The humor
Part of a series: A NOLA Heart Novel
Standalone
HEA
I have loved all of Maria Luis' books and look forward to reading her next one.
I voluntarily received an ARC from the author.
What I liked:
Luke and Anna got their story
The writing style
The characters
The humor
Part of a series: A NOLA Heart Novel
Standalone
HEA
I have loved all of Maria Luis' books and look forward to reading her next one.
I voluntarily received an ARC from the author.
February 8, 2021
This story is my favorite in the NOLA hearts series: Luke and Anna.
Luke is Brady’s childhood friend, a military man who sees how his career ends with an injury playing football.
Anna is Shaelyn’s cousi, Brady’s girlfriend, amd together they have a lingerie store that is becoming more and more successful. Also Anna is the mother of a 14 year old boy, Jules, who is super fun 😂.
Anna and Luke meet at Luke’s mother shop and their first meeting is a disaster. Later he saw each other again in a bar where Luke witnesses how bad Anna’s date is going. She and Luke start talking and Anna ends up daring him to find the perfect man for her as Luke claims that he is not interested in her.
And this is how they begin to spend time together: horrible dates, the adoption of a dog that will make Luke and Jules spend more time together and become friends, Brady and Shaelyn’s engagement... And many more things will do that these 2 get closer and closer.
But there is a big obstacle for them: Anna wants a family and Luke doesn’t, at least he doesn’t think he is the man that Anna deserves.
The attraction between these 2 can be seen as the story unfolds and the sex scenes between them are super 🔥🔥🔥.
“We shouldn’t be doing this,” she whispered, one hand wrapping around his thick wrist. “We agreed to make this just a one-time thing.” “Sweetheart, we threw that rule out the window when we did it in the courtyard. And in the shower, and on the—”
“Want me to leave you here to get ready? I’ll go pretend that I didn’t just make the owner’s day with an orgasm she’ll remember for the rest of her life.” She rolled her eyes. “Be happy if I remember it for another week.” He cupped her chin and kissed her square in the center of her forehead. A forehead kiss. Was he trying to make her fall hopelessly in love with him? “Forever,” he reiterated as he gathered his presents off the desk. “You’ll be old and gray and think back to this day and still feel me between your legs.”
Luke is Brady’s childhood friend, a military man who sees how his career ends with an injury playing football.
Anna is Shaelyn’s cousi, Brady’s girlfriend, amd together they have a lingerie store that is becoming more and more successful. Also Anna is the mother of a 14 year old boy, Jules, who is super fun 😂.
Anna and Luke meet at Luke’s mother shop and their first meeting is a disaster. Later he saw each other again in a bar where Luke witnesses how bad Anna’s date is going. She and Luke start talking and Anna ends up daring him to find the perfect man for her as Luke claims that he is not interested in her.
And this is how they begin to spend time together: horrible dates, the adoption of a dog that will make Luke and Jules spend more time together and become friends, Brady and Shaelyn’s engagement... And many more things will do that these 2 get closer and closer.
But there is a big obstacle for them: Anna wants a family and Luke doesn’t, at least he doesn’t think he is the man that Anna deserves.
The attraction between these 2 can be seen as the story unfolds and the sex scenes between them are super 🔥🔥🔥.
“We shouldn’t be doing this,” she whispered, one hand wrapping around his thick wrist. “We agreed to make this just a one-time thing.” “Sweetheart, we threw that rule out the window when we did it in the courtyard. And in the shower, and on the—”
“Want me to leave you here to get ready? I’ll go pretend that I didn’t just make the owner’s day with an orgasm she’ll remember for the rest of her life.” She rolled her eyes. “Be happy if I remember it for another week.” He cupped her chin and kissed her square in the center of her forehead. A forehead kiss. Was he trying to make her fall hopelessly in love with him? “Forever,” he reiterated as he gathered his presents off the desk. “You’ll be old and gray and think back to this day and still feel me between your legs.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2017
Received an ARC for my fair review for Gimme Books..I love this book. I was waiting for Luke and Anna's story, and I was a little scared that it wouldn't measure up, not because of the Author, because she is great, but due to my expectations, and let me tell you that she surpassed them, this book was hilarious. The lol starts from the beginning, one of my favorite parts was when Anna was on her first date and they have a blow up doll to be a party of four, too funny. Then there is Julian, this kid is awesome, he was a great secondary character. And it was fun to read about the previous characters from the previous books, if you haven't already read them, please do so, if not you will do yourself a disservice...Grab the book, my friend..Enjoy!!
September 5, 2017
This story kicks ass! The story goes off with a BaNg from the first page to the last! Luke (Hottty sergeant) has to get surgery for a broken hip bone (not going to spoil the story and write what happens) it has you feeling everything, hot, sexy, funny, witty and you can't seem to put the story down once uv started. Have been patiently waiting for Annas story and what a story it is. Even Jules has some great banter in it. Gaurenteed happy ending and I deff recommend
September 13, 2017
Dare You to Love Me is a great story. I was hooked from the beginning. I loved Luke and Anna's story. It was witty, laughable, loveable, drama and twist n turns. The connection between the characters was hot. I can't wait to see what Maria comes up with next.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC for this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC for this book.
February 13, 2022
Audiobook
Anna and Luke
This series is very similar.
All are women mad chasing men that don't want them.
There are minor differences, but the story is basically the same in each story.
All the women have endless compassion.
All the men are quick to jump to conclusions and judgy.
This was the best of the three, by far. IMHO.
Anna and Luke
This series is very similar.
All are women mad chasing men that don't want them.
There are minor differences, but the story is basically the same in each story.
All the women have endless compassion.
All the men are quick to jump to conclusions and judgy.
This was the best of the three, by far. IMHO.
November 25, 2017
4.5 Stars
My Goodness, Dare You To Love Me was my first book by Maria Luis and damn, that was great and yeah, I read book #3 first. Thankfully it could be read as a standalone.
Review to follow..
My Goodness, Dare You To Love Me was my first book by Maria Luis and damn, that was great and yeah, I read book #3 first. Thankfully it could be read as a standalone.
Review to follow..
February 19, 2019
Best NOLA book yet
This is my favorite so far of the NOLA heart series. I’m
not sure #4 can top it. Luke is perfect and Anna is such a realistic single mom.
This is my favorite so far of the NOLA heart series. I’m
not sure #4 can top it. Luke is perfect and Anna is such a realistic single mom.
February 19, 2020
I was so excited to get to Luke and Anna’s book. Right from book one I had hoped it would be them together. There were some surprises in the storyline that I definitely wasn’t expecting. That’s was a good thing. I was glad that Luke, Anna, and Julian found their pack. And Sassy of course.
March 28, 2018
When I first read about Luke and Anna in the previous NOLA books, I was hoping they would eventually end up together. Maria Luis made the wait well worth it. This book is a beautifully written love story that will have you flipping the pages as fast as you can. She pulls at our heartstrings and then has us laughing out loud.. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a fantastic read. If you haven't read any of Maria's books, then you're really missing out. She is at the top of my favorite authors and I can't wait to read her next book.
September 12, 2017
Luke is ex-military, having been discharged due to a life altering hip injury. Anna is a single mom and successful lingerie business owner. These two meet in his family's shop, where she literally runs right into him....that 1st meeting didn't go too well, lol. Their 2nd meeting consisted of her being on a date that didn't go well at all, he happened to be at the same place. She propositions him, he turns her down and they make a wager on if he can find her a good guy or she finds her own. Each pick 1 guy a week for 3 weeks. So normally this is not my thing since they clearly like each other, that she would be going on dates with other guys.....but the dates never go anywhere and always end badly. She's a good girl and he's not with anyone during this wager.
So, this is how the book progresses with a series of bad dates, the two having cute and sweet moments and a series of bad dates for her. She and Luke have quite a few of he same friends, her cousin and his best friend. Then her son, who is a total sweetheart, stars walking his dog. This book was just a well written, slow burn. Normally, I may not have liked this book or Luke, but the author did such a great job, that I really did adore it and him. Wish he would have pulled his out a little earlier on, but their chemistry was so damn good. But, he was a great friend to her and really good with her son too. Really hope she has books about the other couples in this book too, obviously I will be stalking....err following her to find out *winks*. Definitely a fan now.
So, this is how the book progresses with a series of bad dates, the two having cute and sweet moments and a series of bad dates for her. She and Luke have quite a few of he same friends, her cousin and his best friend. Then her son, who is a total sweetheart, stars walking his dog. This book was just a well written, slow burn. Normally, I may not have liked this book or Luke, but the author did such a great job, that I really did adore it and him. Wish he would have pulled his out a little earlier on, but their chemistry was so damn good. But, he was a great friend to her and really good with her son too. Really hope she has books about the other couples in this book too, obviously I will be stalking....err following her to find out *winks*. Definitely a fan now.
January 8, 2019
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I had a very good time with the previous novels and I was very curious to finally discover Anna’s story. It must be said that we had met this character from the first volume and I have to say that it’s finally my favorite book! I loved seeing Julian, Anna and Luke!
Anna has a successful lingerie store, yet she has no one in her life but her son. It’s not that she wouldn’t like to have someone, but it’s not that simple, especially when she knows that she and her son are a package. So when she meets the recalcitrant and sexy Luke, she doesn’t know exactly where to start. She is attracted to him, and he to her, but he doesn’t want a relationship, he doesn’t want something lasting, and even less with Anna who seems to be looking for exactly that. But in addition to that, Luke also has to adapt to his new life, trying to regain his strength to heal his injured leg.
I really liked this novel a lot. It was touching to see Anna and Luke hanging around, trying to deny how they feel about each other. Anna is so eager to find someone for her and a good father for her son. As for Luke, he wants to stay calm, alone and yet Anna awakens something in him that he doesn’t understand. It was a really nice story and I loved the freshness of Julian. The author always manages to carry me away with her romances and as always I am curious to read more!
My English review
I had a very good time with the previous novels and I was very curious to finally discover Anna’s story. It must be said that we had met this character from the first volume and I have to say that it’s finally my favorite book! I loved seeing Julian, Anna and Luke!
Anna has a successful lingerie store, yet she has no one in her life but her son. It’s not that she wouldn’t like to have someone, but it’s not that simple, especially when she knows that she and her son are a package. So when she meets the recalcitrant and sexy Luke, she doesn’t know exactly where to start. She is attracted to him, and he to her, but he doesn’t want a relationship, he doesn’t want something lasting, and even less with Anna who seems to be looking for exactly that. But in addition to that, Luke also has to adapt to his new life, trying to regain his strength to heal his injured leg.
I really liked this novel a lot. It was touching to see Anna and Luke hanging around, trying to deny how they feel about each other. Anna is so eager to find someone for her and a good father for her son. As for Luke, he wants to stay calm, alone and yet Anna awakens something in him that he doesn’t understand. It was a really nice story and I loved the freshness of Julian. The author always manages to carry me away with her romances and as always I am curious to read more!
September 9, 2017
Dare You to Love Me
Maria Luis
A NOLA heart Novel
Witty banter 5 Stars!
"...Luke O'Connor's smiles were exceedingly rare. If he hadn't proved their existence by bestowing two on her, she might have thought them an urban legend."
Maria Luis is the best at writing witty banter, her characters feel real and definitely have heart and humour.
Luke and Anna's story is like catching up with old friends that you hope will see the light and find each other. It was great to see Danvers, Brady, Jade and Shae back, and for Jules to come into his own to round out the cast.
Both Luke and Anna are strong characters with spunk and sass neither can back down from a challenge!
"Then, she said the words that sealed her fate: 'I dare you to prove it.'"
Dare You to Love Me is a stand alone from Maria's NOLA heart series. You don't have to read the 2 previous stories, but they are all really great so you should. The first 2 "Say You'll Be Mine" and "Take A Chance On Me" are rooted in the PD with main characters being police. In this instalment we have a former military lead, Luke is stronger than his limp suggests. Anna is much more than a business owner- successful single loving Mom and a kick-ass entrepreneur, she just hasn't had time to think of herself.
"Luke ... was moment by moment leaving her more unsteady in her stilettos."
If you enjoy Maria Luis you will NOT be disappointed! If you are new enjoy the ride! I happily received an ARC of this book to review and I loved it!
Maria Luis
A NOLA heart Novel
Witty banter 5 Stars!
"...Luke O'Connor's smiles were exceedingly rare. If he hadn't proved their existence by bestowing two on her, she might have thought them an urban legend."
Maria Luis is the best at writing witty banter, her characters feel real and definitely have heart and humour.
Luke and Anna's story is like catching up with old friends that you hope will see the light and find each other. It was great to see Danvers, Brady, Jade and Shae back, and for Jules to come into his own to round out the cast.
Both Luke and Anna are strong characters with spunk and sass neither can back down from a challenge!
"Then, she said the words that sealed her fate: 'I dare you to prove it.'"
Dare You to Love Me is a stand alone from Maria's NOLA heart series. You don't have to read the 2 previous stories, but they are all really great so you should. The first 2 "Say You'll Be Mine" and "Take A Chance On Me" are rooted in the PD with main characters being police. In this instalment we have a former military lead, Luke is stronger than his limp suggests. Anna is much more than a business owner- successful single loving Mom and a kick-ass entrepreneur, she just hasn't had time to think of herself.
"Luke ... was moment by moment leaving her more unsteady in her stilettos."
If you enjoy Maria Luis you will NOT be disappointed! If you are new enjoy the ride! I happily received an ARC of this book to review and I loved it!
September 15, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. When you no longer can have the only thing in life beside family you'll surely get a little gruff - exactly what happend to Luke... He ever thought himself allowed/able as conditionally as he would love Anna... A little dare was all it took for both of them to find their way towards each other... A very romantic and sweet romance with an unexpected twist at the end.
September 26, 2019
4 Hooah Stars!
Another great book in the series! I loved Luke and Anna, and their dynamic with Sassy and Julian. They were amazing together, and I wished I had more of them! My only problem with this book was not the slow burn technically, because I love slow burns, but the constant back and forth between them which was pretty much the whole story. Overall, great book, and I can't wait to start the next!
Another great book in the series! I loved Luke and Anna, and their dynamic with Sassy and Julian. They were amazing together, and I wished I had more of them! My only problem with this book was not the slow burn technically, because I love slow burns, but the constant back and forth between them which was pretty much the whole story. Overall, great book, and I can't wait to start the next!
June 21, 2020
4.5⭐
This time no crime but another unique, realistic and heartwarming story. Anna is my hero, she made it on her own, very self-confident and a great mother. Julian is perfect, he made me laugh so much, a little cheeky for his age but sooo adorable. As a family they did everything right. And Luke is the perfect addition 😍.
Another recommendation!
This time no crime but another unique, realistic and heartwarming story. Anna is my hero, she made it on her own, very self-confident and a great mother. Julian is perfect, he made me laugh so much, a little cheeky for his age but sooo adorable. As a family they did everything right. And Luke is the perfect addition 😍.
Another recommendation!
September 1, 2020
***standalone***
wow
this book defo hit my top 5 or even 3 most best romance reads that i would sooooo read again and i would go through that tornado of emotion all over again - oh so worth it ;)
this book was a massive turmoil of very deep and raw emotion and feelings that were put out there that was literally a punch in the throat for the reader and i will not forget the beautiful and very steamy make out sessions that made me sweat and fan myself and even i had to say "hooah!" ;)
when you read the book, it was really nice because there were a lot of hilarious and adorable jokes that were said that i couldn't stop laughing to. For instance when luke was at his pt session and robb was asking him how long it had been since he was in a relationship and robb said...
"Luke ground his teeth. “Jesus Christ, you’re worse than Amy when you want to know something.” “Ah.” Narrowing his eyes, Luke snapped, “Ah, what? What the hell does ‘ah’ mean unless you’re at the doctor’s office and they’re asking you to bend over and cough?”
i couldn't stop laughing at that
i also love the confessions of love, luke and anna made with each other despite all the difficult obstacles they went through fighting their past, but the best thing is they fought it together as a pack - anna luke jules and sammy <3
also i love how all the characters from the previous books in the series were mentioned and it was very nice to have that familiarity with them.
And how very imaginative and so shocking it was to find out that Mr Ajax was the guy to tell Tony everything! That bit was very interesting and I had to cover my mouth with my hand to stop from gasping any louder than I did! (lol ;))
i would defo recommend this book
xx
wow
this book defo hit my top 5 or even 3 most best romance reads that i would sooooo read again and i would go through that tornado of emotion all over again - oh so worth it ;)
this book was a massive turmoil of very deep and raw emotion and feelings that were put out there that was literally a punch in the throat for the reader and i will not forget the beautiful and very steamy make out sessions that made me sweat and fan myself and even i had to say "hooah!" ;)
when you read the book, it was really nice because there were a lot of hilarious and adorable jokes that were said that i couldn't stop laughing to. For instance when luke was at his pt session and robb was asking him how long it had been since he was in a relationship and robb said...
"Luke ground his teeth. “Jesus Christ, you’re worse than Amy when you want to know something.” “Ah.” Narrowing his eyes, Luke snapped, “Ah, what? What the hell does ‘ah’ mean unless you’re at the doctor’s office and they’re asking you to bend over and cough?”
i couldn't stop laughing at that
i also love the confessions of love, luke and anna made with each other despite all the difficult obstacles they went through fighting their past, but the best thing is they fought it together as a pack - anna luke jules and sammy <3
also i love how all the characters from the previous books in the series were mentioned and it was very nice to have that familiarity with them.
And how very imaginative and so shocking it was to find out that Mr Ajax was the guy to tell Tony everything! That bit was very interesting and I had to cover my mouth with my hand to stop from gasping any louder than I did! (lol ;))
i would defo recommend this book
xx
June 23, 2021
𝙳𝚘 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚊 𝚏𝚊𝚟𝚘𝚞𝚛𝚒𝚝𝚎 𝚌𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚖𝚘𝚍𝚎𝚕?
I have two and they're both thanks to Maria! Travis Samm and Zach Bradford who feature on the first two books in Maria's Broken Crown trilogy. I love spotting Zach Bradford on other covers but I'd never seen Travis Samm on another, until now! I was ecstatic when I saw she'd used him on this recover of Dare You To Love Me. I adore him as Saxon on the cover of Road to Fire but he also makes a perfect Luke on this cover 😍
We finally get Anna's story in Dare You To Love Me. We meet Anna back in book 1 as Shaelyn's cousin. Anna's a savvy business woman, owning her own lingerie boutique in town. She's successful juggling being a full-time mum with a full-time career and despite any worrries she has she's absolutely bossing it. That is until tough, anti-social Luke comes into her life. Luke has conditioned himself to be tough on the outside and tough on the inside and he's convinced himself he doesn't have feelings for Anna. He'd far more content living his single life and concentrating on rehabbing his shattered hip after leaving the military after 13 years. He's so adamant that he doesn't harbour feelings for Anna that they agree he will help her find her perfect man by setting her up on some dates. This just leads to some really funny bad dates interspersed with some really sweet moments between Anna and Luke and some off the charts chemistry.
Julian, Anna's teenage son is one of the standout characters for me. I adore his relationship with his mum but also his developing relationship with Luke. He, along with Danvers adds some perfect comedic relief, Maria's comedic timing in this story is phenomenal and this one probably made me laugh the most. Again this book has the perfect level of seriousness mixed with heart and soul.
I have two and they're both thanks to Maria! Travis Samm and Zach Bradford who feature on the first two books in Maria's Broken Crown trilogy. I love spotting Zach Bradford on other covers but I'd never seen Travis Samm on another, until now! I was ecstatic when I saw she'd used him on this recover of Dare You To Love Me. I adore him as Saxon on the cover of Road to Fire but he also makes a perfect Luke on this cover 😍
We finally get Anna's story in Dare You To Love Me. We meet Anna back in book 1 as Shaelyn's cousin. Anna's a savvy business woman, owning her own lingerie boutique in town. She's successful juggling being a full-time mum with a full-time career and despite any worrries she has she's absolutely bossing it. That is until tough, anti-social Luke comes into her life. Luke has conditioned himself to be tough on the outside and tough on the inside and he's convinced himself he doesn't have feelings for Anna. He'd far more content living his single life and concentrating on rehabbing his shattered hip after leaving the military after 13 years. He's so adamant that he doesn't harbour feelings for Anna that they agree he will help her find her perfect man by setting her up on some dates. This just leads to some really funny bad dates interspersed with some really sweet moments between Anna and Luke and some off the charts chemistry.
Julian, Anna's teenage son is one of the standout characters for me. I adore his relationship with his mum but also his developing relationship with Luke. He, along with Danvers adds some perfect comedic relief, Maria's comedic timing in this story is phenomenal and this one probably made me laugh the most. Again this book has the perfect level of seriousness mixed with heart and soul.
September 10, 2017
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
Maria Luis has surpassed my expectations in her NOLA Heart series. Dare You To Love Me is delightful and entertaining to say the least! If you are just now joining in this journey, I will say to begin with Say You’ll Be Mine as in this third book there are some crossovers with previous characters.
After a date gone wrong, an unexpected visitor shows up at Anna’s table, but none-other than Luke O’Connor. Luke has just witnessed the horrible debacle, but he can’t say too much as his dating life is none-existent. Anna propositions him to finding her Mr. Right since her son is older and she’s ready to get back to the sea of dating. Is Luke up for the challenge to help Anna? That means he must come out of his broody attitude persona, especially when she starts with “I dare you…”
In all three books, this is the one I think I laughed and swooned the most. The way Ms. Luis wrote the dialogue between Luke and Anna was just downright hysterical. She seriously has a talent for her comedy banter within her books. There are serious moments to be had and the feel good moments you get when both characters work through their issues was a joy to witness.
Ms. Luis is a genius in the way she can construct a serious scene but then, end it with humor and not have it corny and still have it hit home… that is TALENT!
4.5 Stars
Maria Luis has surpassed my expectations in her NOLA Heart series. Dare You To Love Me is delightful and entertaining to say the least! If you are just now joining in this journey, I will say to begin with Say You’ll Be Mine as in this third book there are some crossovers with previous characters.
After a date gone wrong, an unexpected visitor shows up at Anna’s table, but none-other than Luke O’Connor. Luke has just witnessed the horrible debacle, but he can’t say too much as his dating life is none-existent. Anna propositions him to finding her Mr. Right since her son is older and she’s ready to get back to the sea of dating. Is Luke up for the challenge to help Anna? That means he must come out of his broody attitude persona, especially when she starts with “I dare you…”
In all three books, this is the one I think I laughed and swooned the most. The way Ms. Luis wrote the dialogue between Luke and Anna was just downright hysterical. She seriously has a talent for her comedy banter within her books. There are serious moments to be had and the feel good moments you get when both characters work through their issues was a joy to witness.
Ms. Luis is a genius in the way she can construct a serious scene but then, end it with humor and not have it corny and still have it hit home… that is TALENT!
4.5 Stars
September 14, 2017
After the book hangover I had from Take A Chance On Me, I wasn’t sure if Maria would be able to meet my expectations with this 3rd book in the NOLA Hearts series, but I’m very pleased to announce she surpassed them and then some. Dare You To Love is Luke and Anna’s story. We first met these to in book one, Say You Love Me. Luke is Brady’s best friend and Anna is Shaelyn’s cousin. It was only natural that they would meet, but only after Anna crashes into Luke at his mom’s store, Herbal Heaven in search of some essential oils that would make men attracted to her. Never expecting to find a man in there, never mind ‘the one’. But find him she does.
But before she gets carried away, he lets her know he’s not interested in a relationship. Anna dares him to help her find a date instead. But deny it all he will, Luke knows he’s lying and only time with prove him wrong.
The attraction between them is too strong and even though they try to fight it, it’s a waste of time.
The banter they share along with a ton of tongue in mouth innuendos only proves it and leaves you smirking and telling them to hurry up and get a room. I could feel my kindle almost melting from the heat they were generating.
There’s some sad, touching moments in the story but it’s topped by the sexy as hell scenes when they do finally give in to the draw between them. Chemistry like that just can’t be ignored.
But before she gets carried away, he lets her know he’s not interested in a relationship. Anna dares him to help her find a date instead. But deny it all he will, Luke knows he’s lying and only time with prove him wrong.
The attraction between them is too strong and even though they try to fight it, it’s a waste of time.
The banter they share along with a ton of tongue in mouth innuendos only proves it and leaves you smirking and telling them to hurry up and get a room. I could feel my kindle almost melting from the heat they were generating.
There’s some sad, touching moments in the story but it’s topped by the sexy as hell scenes when they do finally give in to the draw between them. Chemistry like that just can’t be ignored.
September 20, 2017
So while I enjoyed the last 2 books, this one had to be the most frustrating one. The cat and mouse game they played almost the entire book. Anna and Luke both have issues. Anna's being her baby daddy isn't exactly the nicest person on the planet and how her life has revolved around her son/business. She's a strong woman who knows how to make things work but when it comes to dating that's a whole other story. Luke, just got out of serving 12 years in the army. He's battling a hip injury and life at the moment. He knows he doesn't want to date and isn't sure what to do with his life. Luke, I liked but I knew there was more to him then just the player like he was previously before the hip injury. Both of these characters were good but together(when they actually got together) were fabulous!
I did like how the author always put Anna where Luke would either see or hear her. It really helped moved their game along so that both of them could see how happy they were together. This was a great book and ended the series wonderfully. he only reason this wasn't a 5 star for me was because I felt the author dragged out the game a little too long, I mean it was almost the entire book. I like books when it's not right off the bat, they are sleeping together. For this one, I kept hearing my head against the wall, waiting for them to figure it out.
review by AMY
I did like how the author always put Anna where Luke would either see or hear her. It really helped moved their game along so that both of them could see how happy they were together. This was a great book and ended the series wonderfully. he only reason this wasn't a 5 star for me was because I felt the author dragged out the game a little too long, I mean it was almost the entire book. I like books when it's not right off the bat, they are sleeping together. For this one, I kept hearing my head against the wall, waiting for them to figure it out.
review by AMY
September 6, 2017
Maria Luis has done it again. I wondered, after reading Take A Chance On Me, just how she was going to top all the emotions that she pulled from the reader and now I have my answer. Dare You To Love Me, the third book in her NOLA Hearts Series, starts off with a bang and the hitd keep coming throughout the book.
The banter between Luke and Anna, at times, is so filled with innuendoes that you can't help but arch a brow at them and shake your head, wondering when they're both going to admit that they're into each other. The mutual attraction they feel s so intense you can't help but wonder if your kindle is going to burst into flames!
The foot-in-mouth moments that crop up, like the conversation between Anna, Shaelyn, andAnna's son, Julian during Thanksgiving, leave you wanting to knock some sense into both of them.
Dare You To Love Me will pull on your heart strings, it will make you squirm with the steamy scenes between Anna and Luke, and in the end, when they get their HEA, because you know that's Maria Luis rolls, she always gives her hero and heroine a happily ever after ending, you will simultaneously cheer, laugh, and wipe a few stray tears at the silliness and sweetness of it all!
The banter between Luke and Anna, at times, is so filled with innuendoes that you can't help but arch a brow at them and shake your head, wondering when they're both going to admit that they're into each other. The mutual attraction they feel s so intense you can't help but wonder if your kindle is going to burst into flames!
The foot-in-mouth moments that crop up, like the conversation between Anna, Shaelyn, andAnna's son, Julian during Thanksgiving, leave you wanting to knock some sense into both of them.
Dare You To Love Me will pull on your heart strings, it will make you squirm with the steamy scenes between Anna and Luke, and in the end, when they get their HEA, because you know that's Maria Luis rolls, she always gives her hero and heroine a happily ever after ending, you will simultaneously cheer, laugh, and wipe a few stray tears at the silliness and sweetness of it all!
January 2, 2019
This book was a wonderful, emotional read for me. Luke O’Connor was discharged from the Army after an injury and heads to his hometown of New Orleans. He is such a great guy, loyal to his country and his family, great sense of humor, and selfless when it comes to romance. He has a secret and it’s preventing him from being in a lasting relationship. That is until Anna wears him down!
He meets Anna by chance and doesn’t realize they went to high school together. She is a smart, driven, successful business owner, and a single mom, and is immediately smitten with Luke. The times they meet are very humorous and you will route for these two the entire time. I love Anna’s honesty and how she lets him know how she feels and that her goal is to be in a loving relationship.
You will need to read this story to find out their journey and it is so worth it. I loved his family, their friends, and her son, and was so happy when he finally opened up to her and allowed himself to be loved as well, and how they stood by each other. I admired them both so much and especially loved the epilogue. I am hoping to read more about this two in a future book!
This was my first book by Maria Luis and I am looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
He meets Anna by chance and doesn’t realize they went to high school together. She is a smart, driven, successful business owner, and a single mom, and is immediately smitten with Luke. The times they meet are very humorous and you will route for these two the entire time. I love Anna’s honesty and how she lets him know how she feels and that her goal is to be in a loving relationship.
You will need to read this story to find out their journey and it is so worth it. I loved his family, their friends, and her son, and was so happy when he finally opened up to her and allowed himself to be loved as well, and how they stood by each other. I admired them both so much and especially loved the epilogue. I am hoping to read more about this two in a future book!
This was my first book by Maria Luis and I am looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
September 12, 2017
When the first book in this series came out, I loved Luke and wanted his story. I knew he had a good one coming. I was not disappointed. Luke is a great character with a deep love of family and a strong sense of right and wrong. It was easy to imagine how his injury would throw him for a psychological loop, but he is so tough!
I also loved Anna in the first book, and I wanted her to have the HEA she deserved. I loved that she had worked just as hard for her family as Luke had and the respect Luke gives her for it. They really are a great match.
Also, this is one of my favorite tropes. I love it when the H/h know this is a bad idea but can't stay from each other. Add in a teenager and a massive dog, and it's even better. There was so much tension between Luke and Anna. Totally hot. The dares keep everything simmering along while Luke and Anna dance around one another.
In addition, there are loads of great one-liners in here, and we get to visit old friends again. (I might have been having Danvers snark withdrawal, just saying.) This one was worth waiting for!
I was given an ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to leave an honest review.
I also loved Anna in the first book, and I wanted her to have the HEA she deserved. I loved that she had worked just as hard for her family as Luke had and the respect Luke gives her for it. They really are a great match.
Also, this is one of my favorite tropes. I love it when the H/h know this is a bad idea but can't stay from each other. Add in a teenager and a massive dog, and it's even better. There was so much tension between Luke and Anna. Totally hot. The dares keep everything simmering along while Luke and Anna dance around one another.
In addition, there are loads of great one-liners in here, and we get to visit old friends again. (I might have been having Danvers snark withdrawal, just saying.) This one was worth waiting for!
I was given an ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to leave an honest review.
September 12, 2017
I loved it, it really went past my expectations!!
DARE YOU TO LOVE ME.
BY - MARIA LUIS.
A wonderful and hilarious story, continuing with the NOLA series, this time with Luke, Brady’s best friend and Anna, Shaelyn’s cousin and best friend.
Anna is the CEO of her very successful business, a single mom that has done her best with her 14 year old son Julian and wants to dive into the world again.
Luke is a military man that after 13 years of being deployed all over the world, is finally dismissed from the army, with a crushed hip due to an accident and returns to New Orleans with his mother and sister. There he works for his Mother in her shop, when Anna walks in to find an oil highly recommended for a love potion and crashes into Luke. Her son Julian helps Luke by dog walking his dog Sassy and they become good friends. Anna dares him to help her find a date knowing he only dates and has one-nighters.
After many ups and downs, denials and what-evers, there finally is a HEA. A five star story that hooks you from beginning to the end, because when you start reading, it’s impossible to stop until the last page (where you’ll stop and ask for more!).
DARE YOU TO LOVE ME.
BY - MARIA LUIS.
A wonderful and hilarious story, continuing with the NOLA series, this time with Luke, Brady’s best friend and Anna, Shaelyn’s cousin and best friend.
Anna is the CEO of her very successful business, a single mom that has done her best with her 14 year old son Julian and wants to dive into the world again.
Luke is a military man that after 13 years of being deployed all over the world, is finally dismissed from the army, with a crushed hip due to an accident and returns to New Orleans with his mother and sister. There he works for his Mother in her shop, when Anna walks in to find an oil highly recommended for a love potion and crashes into Luke. Her son Julian helps Luke by dog walking his dog Sassy and they become good friends. Anna dares him to help her find a date knowing he only dates and has one-nighters.
After many ups and downs, denials and what-evers, there finally is a HEA. A five star story that hooks you from beginning to the end, because when you start reading, it’s impossible to stop until the last page (where you’ll stop and ask for more!).
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