A review by happilyeveraudioobsessed
Tempting by Bella Matthews

fast-paced

5.0

 

Tempting is book one in the Red Lips and White Lies series and is the childhood crush/friends to lovers, fake dating, best friend’s brother, neighbours, spicy lessons, teammates sister, hockey romance of Mackenzie Hayes and Nixon Sinclair. 

Mackenzie heads back to Kroyden Hills when she graduates from med school and secures a specialised midwifery position at the local hospital. Kenzie is an intelligent, hardworking woman who pushes herself to the max and doesn’t know what rest and relaxation or self-care is having spent so much of her life focusing on her studies and future career. Kenzie hasn’t really had time for anything else especially dating so her experience with dating and men in general is minimal, she’s also frightened to let anybody into her life for fear of losing them after the loss of her mother at such a young age, this loss took a huge toll on her despite her having being raised by the most amazing woman who took her on as her own. 

When Nixon is traded to his hometown of Kroyden Hills he is apprehensive due to not wanting to live in the shadow of his family, however, with his childhood crush Mac (Mackenzie) also moving back to Kroyden Hills, that apprehension begins to dissipate the more time they spend together. Nixon is very career focused so doesn’t really have the time for a serious relationship, yet when he notices Mac’s boss becoming handsy and seemingly not taking no for an answer, they decide to go to an event together, and one night, one fake date, only this night changes everything between them. What starts out as Nix giving her spicy lessons and being the perfect blend of hot sexy dirty talking alpha with a heart of gold who is always mindful of Mac’s needs both physically and emotionally, turns into them falling for each other and trying to navigate their busy careers whilst juggling a relationship and their interconnected families to get the HEA they both deserve. 

In summation, I couldn’t have loved this book more. Bella Matthews is such a talented writer and the interconnected world she has weaved throughout her series is fantastic. I have fallen in love with Kroyden Hills next generation and Nixon and Mackenzie are no exception. 

This book was the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and sexy, with a dirty talking hero that will have you begging for more…Ehem, did someone say three straight chapters of spice! I loved the fun and banter and dynamic between the families as always, plus I thought Bella tackled the loss of parent and how Kenzie was internalising her feelings was not only an accurate portrayal of losing a parent at a young age but was done so in a sensitive and respectful way. 

A perfect way to kick off a brand-new series, I love love loved it! 

****Updated to include Audio Review****
 

The audiobook production featuring Lance Greenfield, Erin Mallon, and Ava Erickson was exceptionally well-executed, with each voice actor bringing their characters to life in a compelling way. Greenfield's portrayal of Nixon struck the perfect balance between seriousness and charm, capturing the essence of the character's multifaceted personality. Mallon's performance as Kenzie embodied the innocence and sweetness that make the character endearing, adding depth to the narrative. Erickson's contribution as the voice of the news for the Kroydon Kronicles added an engaging and dynamic layer to the audiobook, enhancing the overall experience for listeners. The collaborative effort of these talented narrators elevated the story, making it a memorable and enjoyable listen.