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Grace Hamilton is the girl with a plan. She knows exactly where her life is going, and prides herself on always achieving her goals. She's never stepped outside the lines she draws for herself, and never considered what her heart truly wants. That is, until him.

Carson Stinger doesn't play by any rules except his own. Working in the adult entertainment industry, he doesn't care what others think of his choices, and takes each day as it comes. No direction, no plan. He knows what women want from him, and in his eyes, it's all he has to offer… until her.

When unexpected circumstances force them together, Grace and Carson are swept up into the electric chemistry between them, surrendering to a steamy weekend in each other's arms. But for two people whose worlds could never coexist, they know their time is short.

That is, until their hearts get involved without their permission…

432 pages, Paperback

First published September 23, 2013

About the author

Mia Sheridan

55 books29.4k followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,644 reviews
Profile Image for Christy.
4,269 reviews35.2k followers
April 20, 2015
5 ‘Life is Wild’ stars!

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I am so impressed with Mia Sheridan. Her writing is so fluid and beautiful and she knows how to tell a story. After reading and loving the Leo books, I decided to read Archer’s Voice and it quickly became my favorite book of the year. With the 3 books I’d read, her ‘A Sign of Love’ series had blown me away. So why did I skip book #3 (Stinger). I have no clue. This book was highly recommended to me by a friend so I jumped in. Better late than never. And I’m so glad I did. Stinger did not disappoint.

Carson Stinger and Grace Hamilton are both in Las Vegas for two very different conferences. Grace is in law school, and Carson is in the adult entertainment industry. Grace sees Carson in the lobby and is immediately attracted to him. That is, until she sees his name tag.
Carson Stinger, Straight Male Performer.

Carson is used to the judgmental looks and stares when people find out what he does, but for some reason, with Grace, it stings a little more. He jokes off her attitude towards him, figuring he’ll never see this beautiful blonde again.
“Let me guess, law student conference?” I started to walk around him, but stopped when I heard the clearly condescending nickname and the amusement in his voice. “Yes, actually. Is there something wrong with that?”
“No, not at all. Looks like we’re both here to learn how to be the best at getting people off.”

Unexpectedly, Grace and Carson get stuck in the hotel’s elevator. At first their banter is snarky and light, but with a little time, they actually start to have a meaningful conversation. Share things with each other that actually mean something to them both. They can’t deny the attraction they both feel towards each other so Carson decides to make a proposal. Just one weekend together. The straight laced law student and the handsome porn star.

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Grace never thought one weekend with Carson Stinger would change her. That she would develop real feelings for this man, but once she saw the real him, what was really inside of him, she couldn’t help herself. Carson has it bad for Grace. He can’t imagine being with his costars now and it puts him in a bit of a predicament.
“I really, really like how you make me feel – like if you looked at me every day, the way you’re looking at me right now, I could do anything, be anything, be more”

The second part of the story, I can’t really talk about. To do so would be to spoil some pretty important stuff and thats the last thing you will want while reading. Let me just say the second half wowed me. There were things I didn’t see coming, things that surprised me, but I was very happy with the way things turned out.


Carson Stinger. It is impossible not to love this man. Carson has a little bit of that damaged man that I love. He hides who he really is from the most of the world by his mask. He is confident and personable, but behind the mask, he doesn’t always feel that way. Grace changes the way Carson thinks. Makes him want to be better, be worthy of her.

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“All those years ago, I knew, I knew who you were. Thank you for proving me right.”

Grace Hamilton was a likable heroine. I know I just said that Grace changed the way Carson thought etc, but I’m going to also say that Carson did the same for her. Grace was a people pleaser. She was always doing whatever others wanted, not wanting to disappoint or let anyone down. Even if it meant sacrificing what she wanted and her own happiness. After that weekend with Carson, she changed. She made her own choices, lived life on her terms despite the wants of others.

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I loved Carson and Grace together. It was amazing the type of connection they were able to develop in just three days. But it was believable and beautiful. I also really enjoyed the direction the book took after those three days were over. I feel sometimes in life you are meant to meet certain people. These two were destined to meet.

This story captivated me from the start. I got lost while reading and had trouble putting it down. The characters, the story, the romance, the self discovery. I loved it all. Even though this is #3 in a series, please note that it in no way connects with books #1, #2, or #4 so it can be read as a standalone. I would recommend all 4 books. They are wonderful reads!

“Why do you call me Buttercup?”

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“In life, there are those who save us, both in big ways and in small. Sometimes that means being set free from a dark, windowless room, or being pulled out of a burning building. More often, it means being saved from yourself, and made to finally believe that letting someone love you, isn't just a big lie that you're unwilling to tell.”
Profile Image for Mo.
1,392 reviews2 followers
October 16, 2013

This book was good. Really, didn’t expect to be this good. Don’t know this author but will be checking out her work straight away


The book is told in three parts in alternating points of view from Carson and Grace.


Carson Stinger, Straight Male Performer


OK, when I read the blurb and it said it was about a would be lawyer and a Porn Star, I sort of thought to my self “What??” But it worked. It worked very well indeed.

"Why do you call me Buttercup?"



The banter and the wit between the two, especially in the beginning, was contagious …
"Why do you call me Buttercup?"



They met in Vegas and as they say …


…. Well, you know the rest of it.


It was flowing along nicely and then there came a part that I was not really expecting. I knew something would turn the book around but this one was a bit of a surprise and a nice surprise at that…. Won’t give too much away, just read the book.

In life, there are those who save us, both in big ways and in small. Sometimes that means being set free from a dark, windowless room, or being pulled out of a burning building. More often, it means being save from yourself, and made to finally believe that letting someone love you, isn’t just a big lie that you are unwilling to tell.



"Why do you call me Buttercup?"


When you read it, you will “get” it!


Some books, I lose interest in and sort of skim through them. There was not one part of this book that did not hold my attention. Loved every second of it.


"Why do you call me Buttercup?"

LOVED IT!


"Why do you call me Buttercup?"



Profile Image for Kristen.
842 reviews4,988 followers
February 20, 2015
4 Stars

description

Overall, I enjoyed this second chance at romance trope. Yet, I also felt like I was reading two different stories, with two different characters, and two different plots. The first half had a young, playful, and sexy feel to it, while the second half–which featured a plot twist and a time jump of 5 years–had a more traditional military romance vibe to it. I understand the reason for the plot twist; it was needed, but the transition was a bit jarring for me.

While I liked the tone of first half more than the second half, I still very much enjoyed reading this story.
Profile Image for Aestas Book Blog.
1,059 reviews75.2k followers
December 3, 2013


First, here's my casting for Carson:


What a wonderful read!! This book grabbed my attention from the first paragraph and kept me up all night flipping pages. It took me by surprise several times and I'm still smiling when I think back on it.

Before anything, I know that it says that this is a "Sign of Love" book and it is a part of that series but it is also a complete standalone and you do not have to read the other books in the series first.

The story starts out in Vegas, at a hotel hosting two very different types of conferences -- one was the International Law Students Association Conference, and the other was The Adult Entertainment Expo -- and this was where straight laced law student Grace Hamilton quite literally ran smack into Carson Stinger, Straight Male Performer. I have to share this hilarious little tidbit from the end of their first meeting:

"Have a good time… er, a nice time, um, enjoy," I gestured toward his name tag, "the show. Or rather, not the show, but the… well, enjoy the weekend…"

And that's when he burst out laughing… "I will, Buttercup. And you enjoy your weekend too. Let me guess, law student conference?"…

"Yes, actually. Is there something wrong with that?"


"No, not at all. Looks like we're both here to learn to be the best at getting people off."


Teehee!!

These two couldn't possibly have come from different worlds but when they got stuck in a broken elevator together for a few hours, they were forced to get to know each other a little better and to see past the preconceived notions they'd both formed. And then this happened...

“Lose control, baby. Just for a weekend. Let me take charge. I’ll take good care of you, I promise.”

One elevator chat turned into a passionate, whirlwind weekend where they connected on every possible level. I totally fell in love with the idea of them. But throughout it all was an undercurrent of worry. Time was running out because come Monday, she'd have to return to her high powered, meticulously planned life, and he'd have to head off to a shoot... fate was just not on their side.

As the precious hours of their weekend slipped by, I felt my heart beginning to break. I felt their connection -- it sizzled! -- and that sizzle made it hurt all the more because with the way their lives were set up, they were caught between a rock and a hard place, and there was no right answer or easy way out.

And then came the twist.

I will admit flat out that I did not see the twist coming. I totally thought I had this book figured out in my mind -- law student meets porn star, they connect, can't be together, separate, get back together -- I was so sure that was what was going to happen.

Welp, I should have remembered which author I was reading because she surprised me in her first book, Leo, and she pulled the rug out from under me again here. Have I mentioned how much I love books that can take me by surprise? My heart jumped right into my throat and I just couldn't flip the pages fast enough. I literally couldn't. I'm pretty sure I didn't even blink for the entire second half of the book.

I'm not going to say a word about it though because literally anything I mention about the second half of the book is a spoiler. I've tried to think of a million different things I could say but they all give away too much so I'm just going to let you discover it for yourselves :)

“Sometimes you don’t even realize anything is wrong until someone comes along and changes you, and makes you want more.”

*Sigh* I loved Carson. Throughout the book, I went from swooning, to fanning myself, to almost crying, to flat-out squeeing, and sometimes to sitting there in utter shock with my jaw dropped at the reveals.

What started out as just a fun "porn star meets lawyer" romance (which already had my attention even just at that) turned into a gorgeous, heart-felt journey that took me by surprise again and again. I truly loved it!

“Tell me you’re mine,” he whispered. 
“I’m yours. I’ve always been yours.”


4.5 stars

****************************

For more of my reviews, book news and updates:
Main blog: Aestas Book Blog
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Profile Image for NMmomof4.
1,665 reviews4,626 followers
July 27, 2017
5 Stars - (Original read on 12/18/2013)

5 Stars - (Reread 10/29/2016)

Overall Opinion: I really enjoyed re-reading this! But as some of the things came back to me, I realized that knowing what was going to happen took away some of the emotion for me. Don't get me wrong! I still loved it. I don't have anything that stands out as an issue for me, so this will stay at my original 5 stars and on my favorites shelf -- but it just lost that emotional connection that you get when you read a book for the first time (hopefully that makes sense). I think the whole porn star aspect will make lots of readers shy away from this story, but I truly feel like that's a shame -- because the H was sooo much more than just a porn star. Ms. Sheridan is one of my favorite authors because she often takes couples that have some type of odds against them and has them find their HEA regardless. I love it! I think it's definitely one of my absolute favorite second-chance romances out there :)

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Grace and Carson's story. They meet one weekend in Las Vegas when Grace is at a convention for law students and Carson is at a convention for porn stars. Their first few encounters are not that pleasant, but when they find themselves stuck in an elevator together they find that there is more to the other than their first impressions would suggest. They spend a hot weekend together, and develop some strong feelings pretty quickly. But the reality about their circumstances is too much to come up with a solution on how they can stay together, and they part ways. 5 years later, they reunite unexpectedly and their worlds are turned upside down. There are some personal and career issues, some sexy and sweet times, and also some suspenseful moments...but they do get a HEA ending.

POV: This alternated between Grace and Carson's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed, and I thought it flowed well.

Instalove: Kind of. They develop some strong feelings in a weekend. It wasn't the kind that was annoying to me, as I felt that it was believable.

H rating: 5 stars. Carson. I loved him. He was damaged from his past, and really lost when he first met Grace. I LOVE how he wanted to become a better man for her before pursuing her again -- and he did it!!

h rating: 4 stars. Grace. I liked her. She had a crummy childhood where she had to act as a parent to her sisters, so she became someone that needed to have everything planned out. I loved how she allowed herself to let go of that persona when she was with Carson.

Sadness level: Low/moderate. I didn't cry when I read it this time, but I do remember crying the first go-round.

Push/Pull: Yes

Heat level: Moderate. They have some hot chemistry and scenes, but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes.

Safe sex: Yes and no. Most of the time they use condoms, but one time they forget. They have a STD talk, but I don't remember any mention of past practices.

OW/OM drama: A little

Sex scene with OW or OM: Not really

Cheating: Yes

Separation: Yes

Possible Triggers: Yes

Closure: This had great closure with a jump ahead epilogue and a HEA.

How I got it: I paid $0.99 on Amazon for it back in 2013 (but it's on KU right now!)

Safety: I'd call this one either Safe with exception or Not Safe depending on personal preferences.
Profile Image for Alexis *Reality Bites*.
757 reviews3,662 followers
September 21, 2013
Mild SPOILERS (none will hinder your reading experience)
-mature content reader discretion is advised.

3.5 STARS out of 5
Genre:Contemporary Romance

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Let me be clear, you WILL FALL FOR CARSON STINGER.

‘Everyone was given one gift or another– mine was a smile women creamed their panties over and a body to match.’ -Carson

Uhh.. Yeah nuff said right?


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While on a trip to Vegas on business straight laced law student Grace Hamilton finds herself trapped inside an elevator with porn star Carson Stinger. The two have no choice but to hold a real conversation with one another to help pass time. It is then that all her presumptions get tossed out as she meets the real Carson and he sees the real Grace.

"I was practically born to do it, babe. Created in lust and sin. Destined to do the same."

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“..What's under your mask?" –Carson
I laughed out loud, over-doing it to show him how ridiculous he was.
"My mask? Please. Now you're just making stuff up to distract me. What you see is what you get here, Carson. I hardly wear a mask.…" –Grace

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Carson can’t deny his attraction towards Grace, the pull is so strong he makes a proposition, one she gladly accepts..Well not at first. In one weekend they manage to fill voids in one another that neither knew existed. And yes you will enjoy allll the filling in Carson does. That man is quite orgasmic.*Grins* Sorry, my dirty mind just got the best of me back to the review.

These two are vastly different yet they each make an impact on the others life; irrevocably altering one of their paths. I'm talking a complete 180.

Mmm, well I have to stop there because if I say anything else it would spoil the story.

Who is Grace Hamilton?
Grace is…in one word is a prude at least that is how she comes across. She is a career driven woman and a planner, with a set list of goals she must achieve and a time frame in which it is to be done, NO deviations. Carson is the only one she allows herself to make a minor detour with and trust me it was one HOT and STEAMY detour.

Who is Carson Stinger?
"Carson Stinger, Straight Male Performer, Adult Entertainment Expo."
Carson singer is a porn star he is wild and lives life according to his own rules. I have no doubt in my mind that readers will love Carson he is that irresistible.

My Thoughts
Why 3.5 STARS? I felt the writing was good however I did not connect to the heroine. For me personally Carson carried the book, I craved scenes with him in it. Also there are quite a few time jumps. Overall the story was good and it takes a turn I NEVER saw coming. It was not a bad turn however I felt like I was reading a new book around the 66% mark. Same characters, same HOT romance but there is a twist. And the twist brought a new feel to the story. I’m not even sure how to explain it.

Do I recommend this book? YES, I think Carson is welllll worth meeting. I truly believe this may be a case where I am in the minority rating wise.


My Ratings
Characters- Likeable
Writing Style- Good
Plot/Storyline- Unlikely pair fall for each other
Steam Factor- High/Very Steamy
Overall- I liked it!

Now go forth and read. Then come tell us about it on Goodreads!

For more reviews got to http://realitybites-letsgetlost.blogs...


*Copy kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Alba and Her Secrets..♥.
887 reviews1,150 followers
March 21, 2016
5 'Buttercup' Stars!
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After my last read left me with such bad sensations, I needed something I knew I would like to feel what I always feel when I finish a good book: satisfied. Many of you know I love Mia Sheridan so I decided to check out one of the books that still are on my TBR list. Obviously, and as expected, this was a great choice!

Stinger is another of Mia's stand-alone novels belonging to her A Sign of Love series and it tells the story of Carson Stinger (a smokin' hot straight male performer who, behind his cockiness, hides his real self and his mysterious past) and Grace Hamilton (a law student who meets this adult performer during a convention weekend in Vegas, they have an instant chemistry and it changes the perspective on both their lives).

I hadn't wanted anything in a really long time, longer than I could remember and I wanted her. Not just her body, but her.

I cannot say this enough times: I LOVE Mia's writing style!! She is outstanding at developing the plot and the characters' personalities and relationships. Carson and Grace are excellent protagonists and what I really enjoyed about Stinger is this humorous aspect that Mia's other books do not have (at least, not as much as this one). These two are so funny and super-sweet together! I really really love these characters!!

Oh God, I was being touched by Carson Stinger, Straight Male Performer! No! Yes! Yes! Yes! Three yes's to one no. Majority rules!

"Lose control, baby. Just for a weekend. Let me take charge. I'll take good care of you, I promise."


And related to that, what is always the best in this author's books is the love story. When Carson and Grace meet sparks fly, they start having this amazing back and forth moments and when they finally have sex, OH MY GOD. SO HOOOOOOT. I mean, Carson is an adult male performer after all, right? ;) He definitely knows what he does lol and he is cocky, funny and swoony-sweet as well! And Grace is a fantastic heroine too, so strong-minded and lovable!

Life is wild, Carson was right. Or it could be, if you let it. I was going to let it.

"Carson, I want..." she moaned.
"What Grace? What do you want," I choked out.
"Everything. I want everything," she panted. "Everything you have to give."

She was going to be my undoing, in ways I didn't want to consider.


I loved these two together!! As I said, the chemistry is off-the-charts, inside and outside the bedroom, and well.. it really gets to you when the weekend finishes and they have to separate.. It was so freaking sad! And it's impossible for both of them to forget about it, especially because what they felt was so fast but so real. It changes their lives completely and you only want for them to get back together! Of course, it was not easy but they do get a beautiful ending! I loved every single moment of this, thank God for Mia Sheridan!!! lol

"Why do you call me Buttercup?"

Sometimes, you don't even realize anything is wrong until someone comes along and changes you, and makes you want more. In my case, it was a beautiful girl with a plan who shattered the world I thought I knew.


So, my rating for Stinger is, obviously, 5 STARS because I just can get enough of Mia's awesomeness at everything! Another great love story, with fabulous and complex characters and crazy-hot chemistry! Find out why Carson calls Grace his 'Buttercup' ;) As I always say, if you haven't read this or any other of Mia Sheridan's books, please do, you will not regret it!! I highly recommend :)

CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
Profile Image for Patty ~ Wrapped Up In Reading Book Blog.
1,260 reviews10.2k followers
December 2, 2014
*****FIVE NEVER LET GO STARS*****
{BR with Mel and Dee}


Sometimes, you don't even realize anything is wrong until someone comes along and changes you, and makes you want more. In my case, it was a beautiful girl with a plan who shattered the world I thought I knew.


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I'm beginning to believe that Mia Sheridan can do no wrong, and I am NOT complaining!! After reading and falling madly in love with Archer's Voice , I declared Ms. Sheridan to be on my top fave authors list! I feel pretty secure in saying that when I pick up a book by this author, I'm going to experience all the FEELS that I love when I'm reading a truly amazing book!

Stinger was simply FABULOUS!!!!


Grace Hamilton and Carson Stinger are both spending the weekend at the Bellagio in Las Vegas for two VERY different conventions. Grace is attending a law student conference and Carson, "Straight Male Performer", is attending an Adult Entertainment Expo. These two come from different worlds and seem to be polar opposites. Their first meeting in the hotel lobby doesn't go off very well. Then fate lends a hand when they both get stuck in an elevator together for several hours. Grace learns that there's more to Carson than his occupation as a porn star, and that underneath his cocky exterior, there is a man whose been dealt a shitty hand during his childhood. Carson finds himself drawn to Grace. She gives off the impression that she is cold and uptight. She has her life plan all mapped out. She never does anything on a whim, but Carson sees a light in her that is itching to break free.



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When Grace reveals that she's only slept with one man, and that her plan is to have sex with one more before she gets married in a few years, Carson offers up his services for the weekend. Grace is apprehensive at first but after spending hours trapped in an elevator with Carson, she too finds herself drawn to him. What's not to like? The man is GORGEOUS and can fulfill all her sexual fantasies!!!


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You would think that these two would be having wild sex while swinging from a chandelier or in public bathrooms and alleyways, but that was not the case. While the sex to me, was incredibly HOT, it was also very intimate and beautiful. Grace and Carson were falling for each other. It is obvious to us readers, but these two are oblivious at the moment. They're both dreading when they will have to say goodbye and go their separate ways.



The time spent apart was what caused the unbearable angst for me. I was screaming with every passing chapter. Years were flying by and these two remained separated. Carson has been deeply affected by his time with Grace, and he ends up making a life changing decision which made him even sexier! He also has affected Grace and she ends up changing some of her life plans. I was sad though, over all that time they had spent apart, and one particular moment in D.C., had me in tears!!!



FOUR AND A HALF YEARS later, Grace and Carson see each other again in Vegas. Turns out they're both living there. Grace is an attorney and Carson is the head of Security at a casino. A murder investigation brings these two together. Grace and Carson are still very much into each other but there are circumstances that keep them from reuniting. You know that there will be challenges thrown their way but ultimately an HEA is on the horizon. I LOVED how it all came together and let's just say that 4 1/2 years of NO SEX means when these two get together there will be panties melting everywhere. I may have had to change a pair or two myself!! The Epilogue was perfection and had my heart doing somersaults!!


"Never let go, baby."


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Profile Image for Debra.
474 reviews2,446 followers
December 27, 2013
★★★★★ 5+ Life is Wild stars!



WOW. What an amazing book.



Yes, I pretty much loved everything about it.

From the moment I started reading it I could not put it down. The storyline was engaging, the characters beautifully flawed, the writing style was easy flowing and mesmerizing at the same time.

It had romance, passion, humor, drama, anguish a little bit of action, but most of all it was the story as a whole that really got to me and that will definitely stay with me for a very long time.

On paper, Carson and Grace seemed one of the most unlikely couples to ever work out, but in reality they couldn't have been more perfect and complementary to each other.

All in all, this book was


It was easily one of the best books I've read this year and I'm already looking forward to reading much more of this author's work!

"Sometimes, you don't even realize anything is wrong until someone comes along and changes you, and makes you want more."
Profile Image for Alex is The Romance Fox.
1,461 reviews1,203 followers
November 26, 2016
I'm a total Mia Sheridan fan!!!! I can't wait to get "stuck" into her books. I'm on a MS binge right now!!!!

Stinger was a fabulous surprise...........a law student meets porn star in Las Vegas.......but it's more than just that.

Two people who would probably have never met, who have a hot and incredible weekend fling that turns into something deeper and unexpected. How your life is changed without you ever expecting it...........
“In life, there are those who save us, both in big ways and in small. Sometimes that means being set free from a dark, windowless room, or being pulled out of a burning building. More often, it means being saved from yourself, and made to finally believe that letting someone love you, isn't just a big lie that you're unwilling to tell.”
I found Grace and Carson very engaging but Carson........geez...I fell in love with the guy..........he was the most unexpected hero ever...
“Sometimes, you don't even realize anything is wrong until someone comes along and changes you, and makes you want more. In my case, it was a beautiful girl with a plan who shattered the world I thought I knew.”

The banter between these two is so enjoyable......funny, witty.......
“Tell me, where did you get your clinical psychology degree from? Oh, that's right. The University of Bullshit.”

“Let me guess, law student conference?" I started to walk around him, but stopped when I heard the clearly condescending nickname and the amusement in his voice. “Yes, actually. Is there something wrong with that?”
“No, not at all. Looks like we’re both here to learn how to be the best at getting people off.”
The humour is off the charts.........
““She stared into my eyes. “Oh shit. You idiot. You totally did! You fell in love with the porn star!” She groaned, leaning back and sliding down in her chair. “Oh God, this is worse than I thought. When you let loose, you really go all out, don’t you girlfriend? Holy crapola.”
I must admit that the story took a turn that I was least expecting....loved the second chance aspect of the story.

Fantastic epilogue.

If you haven't discovered Mia Sheridan.........please go out there and start reading her books.
Profile Image for Val ⚓️ Shameless Handmaiden ⚓️.
1,976 reviews34.1k followers
October 5, 2014
So this has been on my kindle tbr for quite some time. Therefore, it's obviously been out awhile so there are probably a ton of well thought out, deeply written reviews out there on this book.

This is not one of those reviews.

In fact, my sole purpose in even writing this it to tell any other tbr holdouts out there to move this one up.

I went into this thinking it would be a cheesy-ish steamy short about a porn star and a prude. Well it might have started off that way (re: the porn star/prude thing NOT the cheese) but somewhere in there it flies high and right and I was like "Wow. That was unexpected."

It was like watching kids at a community pool. The little cute kid with no apparent swimming skills doing handstands and "look at me" in the shallow end? Well he suddenly takes off his arms floaties and dives into the deep end. Successfully.

I love it when I'm surprised.
Profile Image for Ramona Popescu.
411 reviews138 followers
December 3, 2016
When I first read the summary I was a little reticent about the plot.. I was thinking that there is going to be a lot of sex involved and not the kind that I enjoy, considering the author is refering to porn.. but guess what?? I was soooooooooo wrong..

I loved the book, the characters, loved that it mannaged to show me a little about this world, but not freaking me out. I loved the way the love story was created, the sweet lines between Grace and Carson.

I am not a believer in instant love, I prefer the slow burn version or the friend to lovers one. In this book, instant is on fast forward, the characters clicking from second 1.
The sex scenes were incredible and I think they were the most elaborated and intense from all of Mia's books. I liked how they see a then and now from Stinger and Grace, him being the one who evolved more from my point of view..

From a famous porn star, without any desired of falling in love or making a living in others ways, to a man that managed to make a difference with the actions that he took. I admired him and was swept away by his strength and courage, by the twist his life took and how he embraced it, along like an opportunity of redemption.

Grace way a lovely heroine to read about, a smart and determined girl, who never managed to forger the one that got away. Her love for Stinger still lingered in her heart, although their time together wasn't short, it was intense and could have lasted a lifetime.
Stingers's and Grace chemistry was off the charts, but most off all they had the emotional connection that made their love last through time.

I love that Mia is using the flower motives again ( who read her books knows what I'm saying) and I especially liked the educational motives that she used.. She always has a plot with some secret ingredient that manages to get the story off it's normal track and make it unique.
Have I mentioned that I love Mia Sheridan?? Maybe not as many times as she deserves.

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Profile Image for Arini.
857 reviews2,078 followers
April 25, 2021
4.5 stars

am i the only one who always gets *slightly* panicky every time i board an elevator because i worry that it’ll suddenly stop and i’ll get trapped inside??? 😰 even if it could mean that i got stuck there with my soulmate, i dont think i’d wanna experience it.

im ashamed to admit that i had been refraining myself from reading this book for the longest time because the H was a porn star, and that was just not my cuppa. im happy that in the end i decided to give it a try after seeing how well loved it was.

i was going to round down the rating because technically there was , but to hell with it cause im just sooo elated that i evidently still could love a romance that wasnt written by KA—though i shouldnt have been surprised because im a fan of MS too. ♥

(read as an audiobook)
Profile Image for *TANYA*.
1,002 reviews393 followers
April 18, 2017
Buttercups!!?! This book was "WILD!" I laughed and got choked up a few times, Mia Sheridan has done it again.
Profile Image for Maria Clara.
1,137 reviews636 followers
February 6, 2017
Siempre he dicho que me gustan los escritores valientes, los que arriesgan algo en sus historias, y Mia Sheridan se queda a las puertas, sin llegar a entrar. Es más, solo nos ofrece una novela plagada de clichés. De verdad, ¿qué necesidad había de convertirlo a él en un héroe? Es decir, ¿qué habría pasado si él hubiera continuado en el negocio que todos sabemos? ¿Si hubiera ganado lo suficiente como para hacer algo por sí mismo, o se hubiera hecho cargo de la productora? ¿Eso no sería arriesgar y mostrarnos otro tipo de héroe?
Profile Image for Lady Vigilante (Feifei).
632 reviews2,947 followers
September 5, 2014
3-3.5 stars!

[First half: 5 stars
Second half: 2 stars]

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Having loved the first two books in this series, I don’t know why I put off this book for so long. It may be because this book is totally unrelated to Leo and Leo’s Chance, but whatever the reason, I’m glad I gave it a go. This story is all about unpredictability, about an impulsive yet unforgettable romance, and in more ways than one, is a life story than just a straightforward romance. While I adored the first half of the book where the main focus was centered on Carson and Grace, the second half lost a lot of momentum and went down the cliché route. On top of that, there was this twist in the book that made me feel like I was reading two completely different books. It just didn’t sit well with me.

*************************

The book is split into three parts inspired by the Scorpio sign: The Scorpion, the Eagle, and the Dove. In the first part Scorpion, a twenty-three year old Grace Hamilton rushes to a law conference in Vegas and bumps into Carson Stinger, a successful and rising porn star who also happens to have his show in the same place as Grace’s law conference. They don’t have much in common but after a few bump-ins and getting to know each other a little, Grace and Carson agree to have a weekend fling. They just don’t expect their heart-to-heart chats and explosive chemistry to turn into something more.

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The book then goes to part 2, the Eagle. Though their time together was short, Grace and Carson know that each inspired something in one another. Grace finally has the courage to pursue the occupation she really wants and Carson realizes that his life has so much more potential than just being a porn star. The way they each pursue their goals is shown through multiple time gaps.

And finally the book switches to part 3, the Dove. Grace and Carson are at the pinnacle of each of their respective jobs. A very rare but fated encounter brings them together once more and the memories of what happened in Vegas all those years ago rushes back, tempting each other to give their relationship another try.

*************************

Up until the 50% mark, I was enjoying this book a lot. Sure there were too many coincidences and cheesy moments included but they became endearing in a way, and I loved both Grace and Carson’s characters enough to overlook that. I think the author did a fantastic job portraying their time together in Vegas just for those few days, and she handled the end of their brief relationship in a very realistic, believable manner. Part one was perfect for me.

Then part two started and that’s when I started to have major issues with the book. First, the story took a turn down The Notebook lane. Not a bad twist but it just felt SO out of place and out of the blue. I could accept it more if it were written in a convincing way but the author did something else that’s a huge pet peeve of mine: use time gaps. I’m talking about from a few weeks, to a few months, to a few years?!?! And I’m sorry to say but the author did a terrible job with the gaps too. I find it interesting that even though all that time passed and they both led busy lives, they still thought of each other like no time passed at all. Their few days together in Vegas did not warrant that kind of emotional devotion.

Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed this book overall but in the end, the story was too spontaneous and all over the place for me. Sure it’s fiction but there’s no way life serves up that many plates of coincidences so Carson and Grace’s paths collide again and again. The message behind the story and the romance itself is beautiful and meant to be meaningful and inspirational, but I’m just too cynical and jaded to fully appreciate it.

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Profile Image for Auntee.
1,342 reviews1,442 followers
March 13, 2016
Mia Sheridan, I fear you may have ruined me for all other authors!

How am I going to review this beautiful story (it has everything!) if I couldn't find the words for Archer's Voice--an equally compelling story? Ack! The only other time I've felt this way (recently) was after I read On Dublin Street. I am just at a loss...

I am now hooked on this great storyteller. How does she make it seem so effortless? Her heroes are so unusual and to die for. They're flawed, but they're so interesting and sexy, and so in need of love that you just want to hold them and protect them and cherish them. I thought I had it bad for Archer, but Carson Stinger? You just blew me away with your vulnerability and sweet sexiness!

I won't go into the plot much except to lay the groundwork. Grace Hamilton is a pretty blonde 23-year-old law student attending a legal convention in Las Vegas. Carson Stinger, also 23, is a 'straight male performer' (porn star) at an adult entertainment convention at the same luxury hotel (the Bellagio). Grace and Carson literally bump into each other, sparks fly, but when Grace realizes that Carson is a porn star, she is put off. Carson is dismayed that the uptight Grace makes him feel ashamed, and acts like an asshat to her. They end up stuck in a hotel elevator for 2 hours, and that's where Grace and Carson realize that you shouldn't judge a book by its cover...

Grace and Carson get to know each other in the elevator and reveal secrets to each other, and Carson makes an offer--after Grace admits she's only been with one man and he didn't exactly knock her socks off--would Grace spend the weekend with him? He'll make it worth her while (sexually) and then they could part friends. What harm could come of it? It's not like their feelings would get involved, right?

I'll say no more, except to say be ready for some twists and turns in this story (it spans 5 years and a lot happens during that time). To reveal more would be a major spoiler--just know that Carson and Grace's journey is filled with joy, tears, heartbreak, bravery, and such love and growth from the characters--I dare you not to fall in love with both of them!

Now, the rest will be told in pictures...

Carson Stinger, 'Straight Male Performer'...
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Grace Hamilton, law student with a life plan...
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"Why do you call me 'Buttercup'?"..."Hmm...maybe it's because you smell like a flower..."
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First 'date' at 'Pink's'...
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The fountain at the Bellagio...
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That weekend..."I'm going to take you hard, Grace. Tell me if it's too much, okay?"
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"Never let go, baby..."

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For the first time in my life, I felt like I had something to offer other than my body....
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"I'll always think of you when I get on an elevator or see a sunrise..."
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"...I want to do something worthwhile with my life."

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"And wait until you get a load of this guy.....but oh honey, this guy is H-O-T. Not to mention, he won a silver star for valor, which makes him even hotter."
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"Never let go, baby. I never did. I never let go."

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Carson's favorite dessert, Bananas Foster...
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Carson's big 'secret'...will Grace understand/help?
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Christmas..."A shot for a secret."..."That's where it all started"
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"When I asked her how the buttercup made a glow, she told me that anytime you liked something, or anytime you gave your heart away, its glow became a part of you and made you glow too. The very first time I saw you Grace, to me, you glowed. I thought I disliked you," he laughed softly, his expression tender, "but I couldn't deny that you glowed. To me, you shined. And you still do. All these years Buttercup, and you still do."
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Life is wild...
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Enough said. This was my favorite book of a year filled with many favorites. If you want to read an epic, hot, love story--one that will make you shed more than a few tears and starring a beautiful heroine and a sigh-worthy hero, then this is your book. 5 big stars Highly recommended
Profile Image for RoseBane (Jess).
213 reviews545 followers
January 13, 2021
4/5 stars. Review to come.

After loving Archer’s Voice, I’m really excited about this one.
Profile Image for Purrfect Novels.
95 reviews50 followers
November 3, 2024
2 ⭐️

Next time I should read the back of the books first before buying them.
Profile Image for Amy | Foxy Blogs.
1,704 reviews1,039 followers
December 30, 2014
STINGER is inspired by the Scorpio sign. My sign is Scorpio hence my piqued interest in reading this book. Here are a few things about Scorpions:

Scorpio Strength Keywords:
- Loyal
- Passionate
- Resourceful
- Observant
- Dynamic

Scorpios are fiercely independent. They are able to accomplish anything they put their mind to and they won't give up. They are perfectly suited to being on their own. They are not social butterflies like some other zodiac signs and some actually prefer to live on their own that way there is never any issue of who controls what at home, they like to be in control.

"Stinger" is broken into three parts. The first 40% covers 2 days in Vegas. Those 2 days were not wasted with idle chat but instead with a lot of sexy times. ”We were two people that had spent a weekend having… lots of sex… lots of great sex.” I actually had to stop reading and double check that Ms. Sheridan wrote this book because it's very different style from her other books. Stinger has a New Adult genre feel to it.

The next section of the book was a growth period for the couple as they transition through several years separate from each other. Both of them are now working in their chosen careers.

While the final section of the book brings them together, through a freaky circumstance, everything isn't roses for these two. Not only has a lot years gone by but one of them has moved on and is dating again.

“Stinger” caught my attention right away when I found out Carson Stinger works in the adult entertainment industry. Wham bam thank you ma’am! If you like second chance romances then this book is for you. Ms. Sheridan is a one-click author for me because I know when I read something by her it’s going to be a unique story.

Standalone

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Profile Image for Catarina.
896 reviews2,236 followers
January 1, 2015
5 Amazing Stars.

Carson and Grace met in Vegas and after a few crazy bumps with each other they agree on spending the weekend together. And you know, what happens in Vegas…
Grace has a perfect plan for her life, Carson as no plans at all.
She is a lawyer. He is a porn-star. They have everything to go wrong.

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They are completely different, their lives are worlds apart but somehow that weekend change them forever. It isn’t just a weekend fling anymore.

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But when you live in two different worlds, how can you hope for a future together in the same one?

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Rating: 5 Stars.
Storyline: Amazing. The book is divided in three different parts, the second one being the hardest of them. It was a completely unexpected journey, but no less wonderful for that. I wasn’t expecting this development for the story, it caught me completely by surprise and it was beautiful. I loved every single moment of this book, even the ones where I cried like a little baby.
Writing Style: Dual POV. First person. Completely addictive. Mia Sheridan has a magical way to write: she will grab you from page one and will not let you go until you finish it.
Character Development: I loved Stinger. He had a heart of gold, even when he covered it under some jackass attitudes. His transformation was wonderful to read. And I loved Grace as well and how she stick to her convictions. And the both of them together was something explosive.
The supportive characters were also pretty good, and I would love a book of some of them.
Steam: Hot.
HEA:
Profile Image for MELISSA *Mel Reader*.
1,420 reviews1,493 followers
November 6, 2014
5+ "I'm Yours. I've Always Been Yours" Stars!
(BR with Patty & Dee)

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Grace Hamilton aka Buttercup is a 23 yr. old woman who grew up in Ohio. She now lives in D.C. and is in law school at Georgetown. She heads to Las Vegas for the weekend to attend a law student convention at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino. When she arrives she notices there are two conventions that weekend. Hers & an Adult Entertainment Expo. As she heads up to her room she runs into a beautiful guy that is just perfection.

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-God, he's really sexy, like in a way that I had no idea even existed.

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This slice of yumminess has her insides fluttering until she spots his name tag. His name is Carson Stinger, & he's there for the Adult Entertainment Expo. Grace immediately decides even though he is sex on a stick delicious, he isn't for her. She is a judgmental, serious person who rarely has any fun. She craves structure & control, and is a rule follower who always plays it safe. She has a plan for her life, and works hard to achieve her dreams.

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Carson on the other hand is a live in the moment kind of guy. He is Grace's opposite in every way. He likes to go with the flow. He's open minded, layed back, and is a risk taker. He feels a spark instantly with Grace, and finds her intriguing. He continually hits on her without much success, until they end up in a situation where they are stuck together. Being forced to spend time together they laugh & enjoy each others company.

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Eventually Grace sees Carson's softer side & can't resist him. They spend an amazing unforgettable weekend together that changes both of their lives forever. It is to be a weekend of just pleasure, but hearts get involved & they realize they both feel something they've never experienced. Grace let's go with Carson and they both become a different person that weekend.

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Neither wanted the weekend to end, but they had to get back to their lives. Being with Grace really effected Carson, & made him want more for himself. He makes major changes to his life, & doesn't see Grace again for 4 1/2 years. When they reunite they still feel the same connection, but things are still complicated for them. They have to fight for each other.

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So WOW, this book was fabulous! I totally fell in love with Carson & just loved this book so much! It is one of those books that was just beautiful to me & will stay with me & reminds me why I love reading so much! Books like this give me joy :D & Mia Sheridan is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors!!! I know this is probably a stand alone, but boy would I love more of Josh & Dylan! Loved both of them! :))

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-I felt more connected to Grace than I ever had to anyone I had been with. Emotionally connected.

-I really, really like how you make feel- like if you looked at me every day, the way you're looking at me right now, I could do anything, be anything, be more.

-"I've never stopped wanting you."

-"I want everything."

-"Everything you have to give."

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-I wanted Carson. I knew it with a surety that gripped my heart like a vice. I had always wanted Carson.

-"No one has ever made me feel the way you do. Not even close."

-He was mine and I was his.

-He taught me to follow my heart. And I am, and he's my heart.

-Never let go.
Profile Image for Syndi.
3,313 reviews961 followers
October 23, 2020
Boy, it has been a while since I read Love Sign series. I have very fond memory of this series since Archer's Voice is my all time romance book. I actually hesitate picking up Stinger since I have high expectation from Miss Sheridan.

And Miss Sheridan delivers! Stinger is just like the zodiac itself. The transformation into scorpion into a dove to spread the love, conveys into the story. Especially into Carson. From a porn star he transformed into a real hero. Miss Sheridan writing style is just perfect for this story. I even can sympathetic with Grace. I understand what is it feel that your mind working 24/7 and causing you anxiety. I like how Carson can calm Grace. Just with few comforting words.

Overall I do enjoy this book very much.

4 stars
Profile Image for Alba Turunen.
767 reviews242 followers
January 7, 2017
5 Estrellas bien ganadísimas. ¡Qué gran libro me estaba perdiendo! No he podido dejar de compararlo con "La voz de Archer", que tanto revuelo provocó en su momento, y sí, Archer me gustó mucho, pero me gustó por él, no por el libro en sí. Lo que tiene "La decisión de Stinger" es que tiene buena historia, buen argumento, es un buen libro, y tiene aún mejores personajes.

Y es que lo que más me ha gustado del libro es que me ha ido sorprendiendo a cada página. Hay libros que cuando los lees más o menos esperas o sabes lo que va a ocurrir, pero no ha sido el caso de Stinger, a cada capítulo me enganchaba más y más.

Es un libro de personajes, un libro en primera persona, contado por los dos narradores y protagonistas, Grace y Carson. A través de su historia te cuentan cómo se conocieron, cómo se enamoraron, cómo vivieron su romance exprés y su posterior separación, su reencuentro. Pero lo mejor fue la madurez personal de cada uno de ellos, y cómo afrontaron su vida para mejorarla, sobre todo Carson. Si hay algo que aplaudo de Mia Sheridan, es que realmente sabe crear HOMBRES.

Otra de las cosas que me ha gustado, y he comparado con Archer (y el pobre ha salido mal parado), es que su libro fue excesívamente dramático. A mí me repatea en los higadillos que a la mayoría de escritoras americanas les guste el drama gratuito, las familias desestructuradas: para eso ya tengo los culebrones de domingo de Antena 3. Pero en Stinger NO encontramos eso, sí, ambos provienen de familias desestructuradas, pero no se hace demasiado hincapié dramático con ello, ni tampoco se crea un drama innecesario en cuanto a sus familias. Stinger es una historia que narra positivamente la vida de dos personas que se enamoran, y su crecimiento personal.

El libro se divide en tres partes, la primera cuando se conocen, que realmente me encantó. Esas primeras miradas, ésas frases y pullas que se dirigían, ése tórrido romance, ésas escenas tan hot, nada inusuales sabiendo a lo que se dedica Carson (sí, del libro sólo sabía la profesión a la que él se dedicaba). Un segunda parte algo durilla, pero necesaria, en la que los personajes cambian, y maduran para bien. Y una tercera que me ha emocionado más todavía, porque lo que empezó como una historia romántica, se le sumó cierta trama de suspense que me hizo acordarme de las novelas de Pamela Clare.

En resumen, que si aún no has conocido a Carson Stinger, debes conocerle.
Profile Image for Pikolina.
850 reviews279 followers
February 18, 2017
Realmente son 2,5 estrellas ....
No ha sido para nada lo que esperaba y aunque a ratos me pareció entretenido, otras veces me pareció aburrido y un demasiado peliculero ...
Desde luego, no es un libro que recomiende.
Profile Image for ✝✝ Ⓓaisy ❣ ✝✝ .
493 reviews275 followers
April 15, 2014

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TQ darling Kara for superb recommendation. Am so so in love with this book!!!

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From page one to the very last page, everything was perfect!!!
Stinger broke my heart and the same time I love him, too too much. His journey was so beautiful. And Grace is such a buttercup!

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That elevator scene HAWT!!!!!!!!!!! And the list goes on and on.....

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Now, what I need is an adventure to Vegas!!!!

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A must read book for me!!!

Happy reading

D xo
Profile Image for Wendy'sThoughts.
2,669 reviews3,277 followers
September 19, 2022
4.5 Things Are Not What We Think, No Judging
* * * * 1/2 Spoiler Free-A 2014 Review
I saw this all over the feed... it called out to me. HEY, no judging... just because it involves a porn star...

This was a delicious read for me.
The meeting was perfect and during the first banter between the main characters... I had that gut feeling when I knew this would be a happy read. It was quick, snappy, and smart... so I was set.

The blurb breaks it down perfectly. I am just going to say, although I could figure out a lot of this book, that wasn't a problem for me. This was due to a wonderful setup by the author...her putting the description of the astrology character before the first chapter set the tone. It held my hand during the read... and gave me the sense of where everything had to go to get to my end.

My involvement with the main characters was solid...each brought something to the table. Their journeys were real...and they became better through all of their trials..... plus the sexy times were friggin hot... hey... I said no judging...

I will be reading more from this series... also... there was a wonderful foundation for another series using the secondary characters... they were that interesting to me.

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Profile Image for * Meli Mel *.
856 reviews675 followers
November 22, 2013
*Finished review Nov 21, 2013*


♥♥♥ 4.5 STARS ♥♥♥



●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●

'Sometimes, you don't even realize anything is wrong until someone comes along and changes you, and makes you want more.'

●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●

Wow... this book was so awesome. I seriously don't know why I hadn't read it sooner.





Grace Hamilton has just arrived to Vegas to go to a law conference. Then she realizes that there is also a porn star convention happening that very same weekend. As she checks in, she happens to bump into a really good looking porn star named Carson Stinger. She didn't know what he did. She thought he was a fellow law student until she saw his name tag. She quickly decides to stay away from him, even if she is attracted to him. She has a plan and she isn't going to stray away from it. Everything is going according to plan so far. Then after getting stuck with him in an elevator, she realizes there is more to him than the cocky mask he wears as his pornstar persona. She wants to know more about him. And after they both confess things to each other while they were trapped, they both don't really want to stay away. Carson proposes they spend a weekend together, where he can give her three incredible nights with him, and learn a few tricks from him, for her future husband.

●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●

'I looked into his eyes, deciding that just for tonight, I was going to experience everything I could and enjoy every minute of it.
Life is wild, Carson was right. Or it could be, if you let it. I was going to let it.'

●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●  ●

I really liked Grace, but I would be lying if I said I didn't love Carson more. She never really annoyed me. She didn't really make me feel much about her, actually. But I still liked her, and how she started to stand up for herself and her wants. She was always pleasing others and leaving herself last. Carson taught her to live her life as she pleased and not how others dictated. There was a moment when I she made me nervous, though. I didn't know what decision she would make in the end. When their three days were up, I couldn't believe there was so much more of the book left. And I definitely didn't expect the events that took place in the remaining half of the book to go the way they went.



'Carson Stinger, Straight Male Performer' hides behind that mask so no one knows how he really feels inside. He feels worthless and doesn't think he has much to offer but his body. But one weekend with Grace was all it took for both their lives to completely change. He has never wanted a woman more, and more importantly, have her stay with him. But he wants that with Grace. She inspires him want to be a better man so that he he can deserve to be with her. Three days of her doesn't seem to be hardly enough for him, but he knows that is all he can ever give her at the moment. So they part ways after that.

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"No one else has ever made me feel the way you do. Not even close. It scared me, Grace, and I reacted. But it's because you are far from nothing to me. You are far from nothing to me."

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When I started this book, I didn't expect there to be such a long time of separation between these two. I meant the chemistry was crazy intese and I loved every single on of their interactions. I LOVED Carson. I think he was my favourite in this book. I kept wanting to read more and more of him and his thoughts. I couldn't believe the changed he made for himself. I don't want to reveal too much, because it's better if you just read what happens yourself. I really liked everything he did. He was gorgeous, yeah, but there was so much more to him. He made me swoon like crazy, and absolutely melted my panties. But it really hurt me to see how much it pained Carson to let Grace leave on the final day. I really wanted to hug him and console him.



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"I want you so much, Buttercup. I've never stopped wanting you."

"Me neither."

"Tell me you're mine."

"I'm yours. I've always been yours."

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Like I mentioned before, I was surprised the direction in which this book took. I never expected it. I loved it so much more than I thought I would. I loved that it was a second chance at love kind of a story because I really enjoy those. I loved the way these two characters would banter. They were really cute and funny. Like their ongoing reference to Titanic and the famous 'floating on a door' scene. It was really hilarious. This book also had plenty of steam. I was quite happy that the sex didn't overwhelm the story for me. I really liked how it was written, especially when showing both of their lives during the time they were apart. I loved it when they finally reunited after all those years and how much they had both changed for the better.Their connection never diminished. The ending was really lovely and I was really happy with it. But I absolutely LOVED the epilogue. It was really beautiful. I didn't think I would enjoy this book as much as I did. I really liked Mia Sheridan's Leo and Leo's Chance, but this is totally different from those books. Still, this one was equally as good. It was a really awesome read and one you should read because of Carson alone. I loved him! I definitely think you should give this a try.


Profile Image for *J* Too Many Books Too Little Time.
1,921 reviews3,718 followers
October 16, 2013
4.5--Life is Wild--Stars!!!

Why did I wait so long to read this book?? WHY??? It was SO good, and SO unexpected, and made me feel SO many emotions. I LOVED it!

Stinger is Grace and Carson's story. There are three parts to their story, told in alernating POVS. I fell in love with Carson and Grace, my heart broke for Carson and Grace. It was so hard for me to read their story and not skip to the end and see how their story played out!

The Scorpion:

Carson Stinger, Straight Male Performer meets Grace "I've got a plan" Hamilton in Las Vegas. She's there for a law expo he's there for an adult entertainment expo.

“Let me guess, law student conference?” I started to walk around him, but stopped when I heard the clearly condescending nickname and the amusement in his voice. “Yes, actually. Is there something wrong with that?”
“No, not at all. Looks like we’re both here to learn how to be the best at getting people off.”


They get stuck in an elevator and Grace agrees to spend the weekend with Carson. A weekend that will change Carson and Grace forever. Grace agrees to give herself to Carson for the weekend. To throw her carefully made plans out the window. To do something for herself for a change.

But it can only be for a weekend. Afterall, how could it ever work between a porn star and a law student living completely different lives in cities miles apart?? By the end of the weekend, Carson would give it all up if it meant more time with Grace. But Carson wants Grace to be proud of him...he wants to be able to provide for her. He doesn't want to be Carson Stinger, Straight Male Performer.

I loved the banter between Carson and Grace. I loved their sexual chemistry....they were incredibly HOT together. Their weekend was so unexpected for the both of them....if only they had met at another time, under different circumstances.



The Eagle:

I can't say too much here without spoiling the story. During this part of Grace and Carson's story we see how much that weekend really did impact both of their lives. Through their jobs, their friends, their families, their relationship. And how one weekend can change your life in ways that you never expected. How one look, one event, one moment....can be just the thing to bring you out of a dark place, or get you through a difficult time.



The Dove:

Again, I can't say too much here. Experiencing their story as it unfolds makes it that much better. It also takes on a twist, that was so unexpected.



Carson and Grace's story was one of the most emotional, heart-breaking yet heart-warming stories I've ever read. Mia Sheridan kept me guessing throughout the whole book. And I couldn't wait to see where life would take them. Who would Grace "I've got a plan" Hamilton and Carson Stinger, Straight Male Performer be at the end of their journey?

I cannot even begin to tell you how much I loved Carson Stinger. Every time he called Grace "Buttercup" my heart melted a little bit more. I laughed, I cried, I sighed, I smiled....I LOVED! I didn't want it to end....I wanted to re-live it all over again.

"Yeah, life can change on a dime." I grinned. "Wild, isn't it?"
Profile Image for Jen .
808 reviews614 followers
July 27, 2014
4.5 Why the Hell Did It Take Me So Long To Read this Stars

In life, there are those who save us, both in big ways and in small. Sometimes that means being set free from a dark, windowless room, or being pulled out of a burning building. More often, it means being saved from yourself, and made to finally believe that letting someone love you, isn’t just a big lie you’re unwilling to tell.

I finally popped my Mia Sheridan cherry and couldn’t be happier about it! I loved this book. Carson Stinger has managed to add himself to my very favorite, hot as hell book boyfriend list. When Carson Stinger, Straight Male Performer (yep, that's what it says on his porn convention name tag) meets Grace, uptight law student, in Las Vegas sparks fly and you just know the coming together is going to be hot as hell. Carson’s mom made her living in the adult entertainment business and Carson’s dad’s identity has always been unknown. It could be one of several hired dicks, to use Carson’s oh so eloquent thought on the matter. Grace was raised, along with her two sisters, by a single father who had to suffer both the loss of his only son to a childhood disease then his wife checking out on her family due to “grief”. To say these two both have their issues firmly in place by the time they meet at twenty three during that fateful weekend in Vegas is an understatement. Grace has no plans of being a disappointment to her father and thus follows a safe, boring path to ensure she doesn’t mess ANYTHING up. Carson figures he’s twenty three, good looking and “equipped” to handle the job of adult entertainment star. It worked for his mother, right? Except it never really worked for her and Carson is all kinds of messed up due to his upbringing. Cue these two crazy kids meeting, getting trapped in an elevator together for a few hours and turning each other lives way the fuck around.

I was going to clear my mind and soak in the beauty around me – the location, the food, the man sitting across from me. I was going to live for all of the years I had rejected relationships that might have come naturally if I hadn’t been overly focused on other things, and for all the years I had made choices I thought would make other people happy, never considering what would make me happy. Carson had infected me, it was true, but maybe his looks weren’t the only part of his poison. Maybe it was his spirit, too. And maybe when it came to Carson, just like a vaccine, a little poison was the cure, not the disease.

When they part ways after that weekend, neither one of them could ever guess how the other completely altered not only their life but the way they felt about themselves. And more importantly, what they could accomplish if they set their minds to it. When they finally meet again and reconnect later, the results are not only hot but heartwarming. I loved the journey these two took to finally get to each other. I can’t recommend this book enough and I can’t wait to devour everything Ms. Sheridan has to offer.
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